body,date,page,text,path
CivilServiceBoard,2013-07-24,1,"CITY
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE
CIVIL SERVICE BOARD OF THE CITY OF ALAMEDA
WEDNESDAY, JULY 24, 2013
1.
CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order at 5:02 p.m. by Board President Peter Horikoshi.
President Horikoshi called attention to the memo from the City Manager to the Civil Service Board
designating the Human Resources Manager to serve as Acting Human Resources Director and
Executive Secretary of the Civil Service Board. The FY 2013/2014 and FY 2014/2015 budget does
not include the Human Resources Director position.
Jill Kovacs, Acting Human Resources Director, stated that there is no longer a Human Resources
Director. Also, eventually there will be a recruitment and appointment to the Human Resources
Manager position but until that time; she will be serving as the Interim Human Resource Manager.
Member McHugh asked if the Human Resources Director position was eliminated. Acting Human
Resources Director Kovacs stated yes the position is eliminated but not the classification.
President Horikoshi asked that if sometime in the future they wanted to fund that position they could.
Acting Human Resources Director Kovacs stated yes.
2.
ROLL CALL:
PRESENT: President Peter Horikoshi, Vice President Dean Batchelor, Members Linda
McHugh, Marguerite Malloy and Zara Santos
Acting Human Resources Director Kovacs introduced Zara Santos who is the newly appointed
Civil Service Board Member.
ABSENT: Liz Warmerdam, Assistant City Manager
STAFF PRESENT: Jill Kovacs, Acting Human Resources Director and Executive Secretary to
the Board
Stephanie Sierra, Assistant City Attorney II
Fred Marsh, Finance Director
Chris Low, Senior Management Analyst
Tiffany llacqua, Human Resources Analyst I
Sharlene Shikhmuradova, Administrative Tech II
Beth Fritz, Administrative Assistant II
3.
MINUTES:",CivilServiceBoard/2013-07-24.pdf
CivilServiceBoard,2013-07-24,2,"City of Alameda
Page 2
Civil Service Board Minutes
Regular Meeting July 24, 2013
A.
Approval of Minutes of the Regular meeting of April 10, 2013.
Member McHugh moved that the April 10, 2013 Minutes be approved as written. Motion was
seconded by Vice President Batchelor which was passed by a 5-0 vote.
4.
CONSENT CALENDAR:
SUMMARY REPORT FOR EXAMINATION ELIGIBLE LISTS AND CLASSIFICATIONS FOR
JULY 24, 2013
4-A.i. ELIGIBLE LISTS ESTABLISHED
DATE ESTABLISHED
EXAM NO.
Administrative Management Analyst
06/04/2013
2013-13
(designated to Police Records Supervisor)
City Planner
01/10/2013
2013-02PR
Early Morning Street Sweeper Operator
04/30/2013
2013-18PR
Electrical Maintenance Technician
01/28/2013
2012-41
Fire Apparatus Operator
07/03/2013
2013-11PR
Human Resources Analyst I
06/27/2013
2013-21PR
Journey Lineworker
03/11/2013
2013-04
Maintenance Worker II
05/06/2013
2013-17PR
Paralegal
04/18/2013
2013-09
Police Captain
05/01/2013
2013-12PR
Supervising Civil Engineer
04/30/2013
2013-10
4-A.ii. ELIGIBLE LISTS EXTENDED
DATE ESTABLISHED
EXAM NO.
Administrative Technician Il
01/09/2013
2012-42
Public Works Coordinator
08/29/2012
2012-24
Supervising Librarian
05/24/2012
2012-18
Police Officer
02/19/2013
2013-05
Bal, Cameron
Pola, Danelle
Burnaugh, Michael
Renfield, Levin
Garcia, Marshall
Schlitt, Alyssa
Grubb, Joel
Schock, Lindsey
Horvath, Jason
Police Officer
4/16/2012
2012-05
Anderson, Jeffrey
Groh, Jay
Perdue, Dan
Viera, Jonathan
Asefi, Mostafa
Goyt, Shane
Rhodus, Steven
Viveros, Victor
Boyer, Coopy
Holmes, Benjamin
Rhoton, Kyle
Wagner, Justin
Concepcion, Pete
Houdashelt, Richard
Saffold, Darryl
Cote, Tyler
Howells, David
Sanjideh, Arvin
Deys, Jon
Huff, Jonathan
Sherman, Matthew
Elliot, Joseph
Lew, Eugene
Slater, Ari
Fuller, Christopher
Moore, Aaron
Stevenson, Bryce
Glaspy, Daniel
Mourdriak, Sergey
Tatarian, Vatche
Green, Andrew
Olsen, James
Vieira-Riberio, Alexander
F:\CSB - Human Resources\CSB\All Minutes/201: Minutes\2013-07-24 CSB Minutes-Final.doc",CivilServiceBoard/2013-07-24.pdf
CivilServiceBoard,2013-07-24,3,"City of Alameda
Page 3
Civil Service Board Minutes
Regular Meeting July 24, 2013
4-A.iii. ELIGIBLE LISTS EXPIREDICANCELLED/EXHAUSTED
DATE ESTABLISHED
EXAM NO.
Administrative Services Coordinator
01/23/2013
2012-43
(designated to Library Services Coordinator)
Administrative Management Analyst
06/04/2013
2013-13
(designated to Police Records Supervisor)
Assistant City Attorney II
11/05/2012
2012-26
Assistant Engineer
11/21/2012
2012-37PR
City Planner
01/10/2013
2013-02PR
Customer Services Supervisor
02/28/2013
2013-08PR
Electrical Maintenance Technician
01/28/2013
2012-41
Librarian
01/23/2013
2012-44
Line Working Supervisor
01/02/2013
2012-39
Maintenance Team Leader
10/29/2012
2012-30
Planner I
05/04/2011
2011-12
Police Officer
01/10/2013
2012-33
Senior Energy Resources Analyst
11/08/2012
2012-35
Senior Fire Code Compliance Officer
01/10/2013
2012-48PR
Senior Librarian
08/27/2012
2012-10
Senior Management Analyst
01/10/2013
2013-01PR
Utility Energy Analyst
05/24/2012
2012-14
4-A.iv. LIST OF SPECIFICATIONS
Existing Classification Specification Revision:
Division Chief
New Class Specifications:
Communications Engagement Specialist
Human Resources Analyst I
Police Records Supervisor
Member Malloy moved that the Consent Calendar items be approved. Motion was seconded
by Member McHugh which was passed by a 5-0 vote.
5.
REGULAR AGENDA ITEMS
5-A. Approval of Request for Lateral Transfer to New Classification
-
Senior Management Analyst to Fire Administrative Service Supervisor
Information was provided to Board. No action required.
Acting Human Resources Director Kovacs stated that at their last few meetings, the Board has been
discussing the shift in the City's approach in the classification structure. The City has had some
classifications that are very generic in general and used in multiple departments. With advances in
technology and special technical skills required in different areas, the City has found that it would be
better served to have position specific classifications in many cases. Over time, staff will be working
to make those changes. As is in all cases, while work is done to develop new classifications and
specifications, City operations must continue and as Secretary to the Civil Service Board, the Human
F:\CSB - Human Resources\CSB\AI Minutes/2013 Minutes/2013-0 CSB Minutes-Final.doc",CivilServiceBoard/2013-07-24.pdf
CivilServiceBoard,2013-07-24,4,"City of Alameda
Page 4
Civil Service Board Minutes
Regular Meeting July 24, 2013
Resources Director has the authority approve certain actions such as lateral transfers or designation
of eligible lists.
Member Santos asked if this means that the transfer is done on an incumbent basis. Acting Human
Resources Director Kovacs stated yes. Member Santos stated, so the idea is that if there are other
incumbents in the Senior Management Analyst classification, they would subsequently be moved to a
more specific classification. Acting Human Resources Director Kovacs stated that is correct. For
instance, this Senior Management Analyst is moving to the Fire Administrative Services Supervisor
classification. In Human Resources, there is another Senior Management Analyst and sometime in
the future the Board will be presented with a Senior Human Resources Analyst job specification to
approve and be advised of a lateral transfer of an incumbent from the general Senior Management
Analyst classification to the specialized Senior Human Resources Management Analyst classification.
Member Santos stated the idea being, the incumbent is already qualified and it is just a cleanup of the
classification. Acting Human Resources Director Kovacs stated yes.
President Horikoshi asked if this person was already working in the Fire Department. Acting Human
Resources Director Kovacs stated yes.
Vice President Batchelor asked if this person who was a Senior Management Analyst, has met the
majority of the examples of duties of the new Fire Administrative Services Supervisor job
specification. He further stated, that the Senior Management Analyst job specification establishes
that incumbents are to supervise assigned staff, and asked if this particular individual possessed the
skills to be able to supervise this new group. Acting Human Resources Director Kovacs stated, yes,
and added that this is not a new group of employees that will be supervised. The
Senior
Management Analyst assigned to the Fire Department currently supervises these employees.
Member McHugh asked if there was change in duties. Acting Human Resources Director Kovacs
stated no.
President Horikoshi stated that it sounds like what is being stated is that the Senior Management
Analyst classification has been used in more than one department. And now Human Resources is
working to make the positions more specific, and that it does not necessarily mean that that part of
the organization will change or that the structure will change. The title will be more reflective of the
actual duties of that particular position. Acting Human Resources Director Kovacs stated that is
correct and further stated that the job specification supports that title.
Vice President Batchelor asked if the Senior Management Analyst classification stays open, can other
people be assigned to it? Acting Human Resources Director Kovacs stated that the classification will
probably be retained. There may be instances where the City would want a general position.
Vice President Batchelor asked if the City has made the decision to get rid of the Senior Management
Analyst positions and move folks into other more specific classifications, but will retain the general
classification as well. Acting Human Resources Director Kovacs stated that the City will still retain the
general classification to possibly use at a later date. But, in those unique circumstances where there
is a certain specialized expertise or skill set required, specialized classifications will be used as
opposed to a general classification. Member Santos stated, for clarification, the position is not open
but the classification is still there.
F:\CSB - Human Resources\CSB\AII Minutes/2013 Minutes\2013-07-2 CSB Minutes-Final.doc",CivilServiceBoard/2013-07-24.pdf
CivilServiceBoard,2013-07-24,5,"City of Alameda
Page 5
Civil Service Board Minutes
Regular Meeting July 24, 2013
Member Santos asked if creating these new classifications is based on the actual job duties as well
as duties that are a goal down the road for career development and promotions. She also asked if
the process for this is basically looking at the incumbent's current duties or were there additional
duties listed for what the needs of that position might be in the future. Acting Human Resources
Director Kovacs stated that whenever a classification and the corresponding job specification is
developed, the intent is that it is fluid and flexible, so that the job specification does not have to be
reviewed and reapproved by the Civil Service Board every few months. Acting Human Resources
Director Kovacs further stated that this is why job specifications say ""Example of Duties."" An
incumbent might not necessarily perform every single duty that is listed in the specification at a given
time. However, operational needs and employee duties may change in the department and the job
specification is designed to accommodate such shifts.
5-B. Designation of Eligible List
-
Administrative Management Analyst, 2013-13 for Police Records Supervisor
vacancy. PD. 4065.001
Information was provided to the Board. No action required.
Member McHugh asked if there was not a big response to the recruitment. Acting Human Resources
Director Kovacs stated yes and that it is difficult to attract candidates for this position. There was only
one candidate and when the position was offered to the individual they declined the position. The
Police Department is also looking at other alternatives.
Member Malloy asked how long the prior person had been in the position. Acting Human Resources
Director Kovacs stated approximately three to four years.
5-D. Activity Report - Period of March 1, 2013 through May 31, 2013.
FULL-TIME HIRES
DATE
DEPARTMENT
JOB CLASSIFICATION
03/18/13
Police
Police Officers (2)
03/18/13
Police
Intermediate Clerk
03/18/13
Police
Public Safety Dispatchers (2)
04/08/13
Library
Library Circulation Coordinator
04/16/13
Police
Police Officers (2)
04/29/13
Alameda Municipal Power
Journey Line Worker
05/01/13
Library
Librarian
05/06/13
Alameda Municipal Power
Electrical Maintenance Technician
05/28/13
City Attorney's Office
Paralegal
RECERTIFICATION TO FULL TIME
DATE
DEPARTMENT
JOB CLASSIFICATION
05/13/13
Community Development
Supervising Planner
PROMOTIONS
F:\CSB - Human Resources\CSB\All Minutes/2013 Minutes\2013-07-24 CSB Minutes-Final.doc",CivilServiceBoard/2013-07-24.pdf
CivilServiceBoard,2013-07-24,6,"City of Alameda
Page 6
Civil Service Board Minutes
Regular Meeting July 24, 2013
DATE
DEPARTMENT
JOB CLASSIFICATION
03/10/13
Alameda Municipal Power
Customer Service Supervisor
03/24/13
Police
Police Sergeant
05/13/13
Public Works
Early Morning Street Sweeper
JOB CLASS TITLE CHANGED
DATE
DEPARTMENT
JOB CLASSIFICATION
03/24/13
Fire
to Fire Administrative Svcs Coordinator
LATERAL TRANSFER
DATE
DEPARTMENT
JOB CLASSIFICATION
04/10/13
Fire
Administrative Technician I
From City Attorney
RETIREMENTS
DATE
DEPARTMENT
JOB CLASSIFICATION
03/29/13
Fire
Administrative Technician III
04/01/13
Community Development
Senior Combination Bldg Inspector
05/31/13
Police
Chief of Police
SEPARATIONS
DATE
DEPARTMENT
JOB CLASSIFICATION
03/21/13
Police
Administrative Management Analyst
03/23/13
Police
Police Officer
04/01/13
Community Development
Planning Services Manager
04/19/13
Community Development
Community Development Director
05/29/13
Police
Public Safety Dispatcher
Acting Human Resources Director Kovacs stated that on the Activity Report, staff has divided out the
categories more to show which separations are retirements. She further stated that under
Separations, there were three people who resigned to accept employment elsewhere.
Member Santos asked if the Separations include resignations and terminations. Acting Human
Resources Director Kovacs stated yes.
Member McHugh asked if those going elsewhere went to other municipalities. Acting Human
Resources Director Kovacs stated yes.
Activity Report accepted by the Board.
6.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS, NON-AGENDA (PUBLIC COMMENT)
None.
F:\CSB - Human Resources\CSB\All Minutes\2013 Minutes\2013-07-24 CSB Minutes-Final.do",CivilServiceBoard/2013-07-24.pdf
CivilServiceBoard,2013-07-24,7,"City of Alameda
Page 7
Civil Service Board Minutes
Regular Meeting July 24, 2013
7.
CIVIL SERVICE BOARD COMMUNICATIONS (COMMUNICATIONS FROM BOARD)
President Horikoshi welcomed Zara Santos to the Civil Service Board.
8.
CIVIL SERVICE BOARD COMMUNICATIONS (COMMUNICATIONS FROM STAFF)
Acting Human Resources Director Kovacs stated that Chris Low, Human Resources Senior
Management Analyst, is now officially in AMP and no long with the Human Resources Department.
Also, Emily Hung is no long with the City of Alameda. She accepted a position with the City of San
Leandro.
Acting Human Resources Director Kovacs introduced the new Human Resources Analyst I, Tiffany
llacqua, to the Civil Service Board.
9.
CONFIRMATION OF NEXT CIVIL SERVICE BOARD MEETING
Next Civil Service Board Meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 2, 2013.
10.
ADJOURNMENT
Meeting was adjourned at 5:26 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jill Koyacs
Acting Human Resources Director and
Executive Secretary to the Civil Service Board
F:\CSB - Human Resources\CSB\All Minutes/2013 Minutes/2013-07-24 CSB Minutes-Final.doc",CivilServiceBoard/2013-07-24.pdf
SubcommitteeoftheCityCouncilandSchoolBoard,2013-07-24,1,"CITY COUNCIL/AUSD SCHOOL BOARD SUBCOMMITTEE
SPECIAL MEETING
July 24, 2013
Alamaeda Unified School District
Marina Conference Room
2060 Challenger Drive,
Alameda, CA 94501
UNADOPTED MINUTES
SPECIAL SUB-COMMITTEE MEETING: The special sub-committee meeting of the Alameda
Unified School District (AUSD) City/School joint sub-committee was held on the date and place
mentioned above.
CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order by Mayor Marie Gilmore at 11:04 AM.
ATTENDANCE:
Marie Gilmore - Mayor, City of Alameda
Kirsten Vital - Superintendent, Alameda USD
Lena Tam - Member, Alameda City Council
Barbara Kahn - Member, Alameda USD Board of Education
Neil Tam - Member, Alameda USD Board of Education
Robert Shemwell - CBO, Alameda USD
Dennis McDaniels - Alameda Recreation & Park Department
Amy Wooldridge - Director, Alameda Recreation & Park Department
Alex Nguyen - Assistant City Manager, City of Alameda
Dennis Berkshire - Consultant, Aquatic Design
A. CALL TO ORDER:
1. CALL TO ORDER / GENERAL INTRODUCTION: City Council Members, Board Members and
their respective staff introduced themselves.
2. Purpose of Subcommittee and Meeting Schedule:
Mayor Gilmore stated the purpose of the meeting: to have a breakout discussion between the City of
Alameda and AUSD School Board and bring these discussions back to each respective board.
The Subcommittee agreed to have staff come together and arrange a schedule for upcoming meetings.
B. REVIEW AND DISCUSS:
1. Discussion of possible long-term solution for Emma Hood and Encinal High Swim Centers.
The Subcommittee discussed the pools, with staff noting that one 50 meter pool costs about $5M. This
size allows for 17 lanes and would require about 7 acres (3-4 for the pool and another 3-4 for parking).
Alameda High School does not have 7 acres available to accommodate such a swim center. One idea is to",SubcommitteeoftheCityCouncilandSchoolBoard/2013-07-24.pdf
SubcommitteeoftheCityCouncilandSchoolBoard,2013-07-24,2,"have satellite parking with a shuttle to the pool if adequate acreage is not available. The Subcommittee
clarified that the pool at Alameda High School is on school district property and does not belong to the
City.
The Subcommittee discussed the possibility of locating a pool on the former naval base and the
difficulties in transporting/shuttling students for physical education classes.
The Subcommittee discussed the possibility of hosting meets, noting that parking will be an issue
when considering at least 2 spectators per swimmer at such events. The Subcommittee discussed
the possibility of building a small hotel to accommodate out-of-area swimmers and families
2. Discussion of Alameda Little League donation to City of Alameda and Alameda Unified School
District to install lights at Rittler and Wood Baseball fields.
The Subcommittee noted interest in Kofman Auditorium is a separate issue and not part of the pools
discussion. The Subcommittee noted that in the event of a major earthquake, only the Kofman lobby and
auditorium have been retrofitted aside from the student classrooms. District staff has been directed to look
for interim space for the District Office but vacating the site will require fencing around the area. The
Board plans to hold larger public meetings to discuss the cost of retrofitting VS. tear down costs.
A member of the public noted that a single swim center would have to figure out how to accommodate
students at both comprehensive public high schools.
Report on Redevelopment
With the dismantling of redevelopment agencies, the Subcommittee discussed the City as a successor
entity with 80% economic development and 20% affordable housing with the Housing Authority serving
as a separate entity. The City will be putting together an oversight Board of 7 members.
The Subcommittee noted the school board has nominated Board Member McMahon to serve on the
oversight Board. The District and the City will discuss two agreements - Mastick and the pass through
($4M) before the oversight Board meetings. Staff will meet at the end of the month to discuss these issues
further and are working jointly on a resolution.
Tidelands, Eagle Avenue, Next Steps
The Subcommittee noted the redevelopment agreement between the City and the District is an unusual
one and required more engagement and discussion of options.",SubcommitteeoftheCityCouncilandSchoolBoard/2013-07-24.pdf
SubcommitteeoftheCityCouncilandSchoolBoard,2013-07-24,3,"A member of the public asked about the proposed Project Leaf community garden idea for the former
Island High School site on Eagle Avenue. The Subcommittee noted staff is waiting to hear back from the
state regarding a $2.5M grant to develop the property.
The Subcommittee noted that the District must follow the law in terms of how surplus property is
disposed of and the District has little control over who owns the property and no discretion to prefer one
project over another.
Alameda Point Next Steps
The Subcommittee noted that the disposition strategy will be going before the Planning Board in 12-18
months and that City staff will be consulting with the District to discuss where the District would like
acreage. Currently the set aside site is near the proposed business park, and the District may prefer to be
located closer to the residential areas. The Subcommittee noted prior to going before the Planning Board,
staff will work with the District on the location of the 12 acres; this project is at least 4 years away.
Rollover MOU for Pools for 2012-13
The Subcommittee noted the MOU expired in June and suggested a rollover. The Subcommittee noted
that lead abatement is not part of the agreement and added that staff is hopeful some nonprofit and/or
community organization would be willing to help support the lead abatement fix.
New Business
None at this time.
Adjournment
Mayor Gilmore adjourned the meeting at 12:08 p.m.",SubcommitteeoftheCityCouncilandSchoolBoard/2013-07-24.pdf
SubcommitteeoftheCityCouncilandSchoolBoard,2013-07-24,4,"THIS MEETING WAS RECORDED (AUDIO ONLY) AND IS AVAILABLE ON THE CITY'S
WEBSITE AT http://www.cityofalamedaca.gov/City-Hall/Document-Archives.",SubcommitteeoftheCityCouncilandSchoolBoard/2013-07-24.pdf
TransportationCommission,2013-07-24,1,"Transportation Commission Minutes: Wednesday, July 24, 2013
Commissioner Jesus Vargas called the Transportation Commission to order at 7:05 p.m.
1.
Roll Call
Roll was called and the following was recorded:
Members Present:
Jesus Vargas (Chair)
Christopher Miley (Vice Chair)
Michele Bellows
Thomas G. Bertken
Sandy Wong
Eric Schatmeier
Staff Present:
Staff Gail Payne, Transportation Coordinator
Staff Alan Ta, Public Works Assistant Engineer
Staff Heba El Guendy, Public Works Supervising Civil Engineer
2.
Agenda Changes
None.
3.
Announcements / Public Comments
Commissioner Vargas attended the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) and
Associated Bay Area Governments (ABAG) meeting on July 19th regarding the One Bay Area
Plan and the adoption of the Regional Transportation Plan (RTP). Ultimately, he was glad to see
land use and transportation planning coming together.
Alex Nguyen, Alameda City Manager, introduced Heba El Guendy, Supervising Civil Engineer,
who is in charge of the City's transportation unit.
Staff El Guendy said that she joined the City's Public Works Department a month ago and her
24-years of experience centers on traffic engineering, roadway design and transportation
planning. She explained that she has experience as a consultant and has worked for several years
in the public sector. Additionally, she said she is passionate about the implementation of
complete streets.
4.
Consent Calendar
4A.
Meeting Minutes - June 26, 2013
Page 1 of 10",TransportationCommission/2013-07-24.pdf
TransportationCommission,2013-07-24,2,"Commissioner Vargas called for a motion to approve the Consent Calendar.
Commissioner Miley moved to approve the Consent Calendar. Commissioner Bellows seconded
the motion. The motion was approved 5-0; 1 abstention.
5.
New Business
5A. Resident Appeal of Public Works Staff's Decision to Not Install the No Parking Street
Sweeping Signs on the 2600 Block of La Jolla Drive
Staff Ta gave an overview of the item.
Commissioner Schatmeier clarified with staff that their recommendation was to not recommend
the signs.
Staff Ta replied staff is recommending the signs not be installed.
Commissioner Schatmeier asked if the installation of the signs have any influence on the number
of times the streets are swept.
Staff Ta explained that the residential streets have a set schedule and they are swept on a weekly
basis.
Commissioner Schatmeier asked if the signs are not installed, then occasionally cars will be in
the way.
Staff Ta replied yes.
Commissioner Vargas said he spoke with a City sergeant about the fact that his street was swept
across the street where there are signs and later into the day they swept the other side without
signs. He then asked about the safety implications if the signs are not added.
Staff Ta replied he is not aware of any safety impacts with the signs being present or not.
Commissioner Vargas opened the floor to public comments.
Ann Leonardo, resident of La Jolla Drive, created the petition because the street cleaner comes
up Broadway, enters into the La Jolla and attempts to get into the cul-de-sac, which is 125 feet
long, and cannot because of the parked cars. Consequently, the street cleaner continues up
Broadway. She apologized to the staff and Commission for the amount of time that it has taken
to review the issue. When she decided to execute the petition, she attempted to notify her
neighbors by knocking on their doors. She felt the street around the cul-de-sac is used as a kind
of catch all for parking.
Robert Erdmann, resident of La Jolla Drive, reviewed the staff report, public comments and
appeal. He stated that all opposing comments were address in Staff Ta's notes during his field
Page 2 of 10",TransportationCommission/2013-07-24.pdf
TransportationCommission,2013-07-24,3,"visit on October 22nd. He sent an email the next day and thanked Staff Ta for coming out and
made it clear that he was against the no parking street sweeping signs and parking restrictions on
the 2600 La Jolla Drive block.
Commissioner Miley asked the residents if the gutters and curbs are generally clean on their
block.
Ann Leonardo replied that she hired a gardener to clean the 80-foot strip in front of her house.
The gardener clears the gutter and he blows underneath cars. However, she felt the residents
should not have to do it if there is a street cleaning vehicle going up and down the streets.
Robert Erdmann replied that he grew up on the block and his continued duty is to pick up some
occasional leaves and soda cans. He stated tall trees are not present on their block and the wind
blows some leaves from the other block, but he sweeps them up because it is not a huge issue.
Periodically, on Thursdays, there are not many cars on the street so they could get into the street.
Commissioner Schatmeier confirmed with Robert Erdmann that at times the street sweeper is
unable to clean the gutter area.
Robert Erdmann said he is usually at work, but his wife does occasionally see the street sweeper
unable to get into the gutter area.
Commissioner Wong referred to page 5 of the staff report where there are two pictures of a
typical Thursday street cleaning morning compared to a non-street sweeping morning. Overall,
the snap shots look like there are more cars. So, she asked if staff could look into moving the
street sweeping day to a time when it is not as heavily used.
Staff Ta replied staff has spoken to the maintenance department and asked if they could move the
time, but the City's street sweeping schedule is a complicated matrix and to change it for a 125-
foot cul-de-sac is not a reasonable use of staff time.
Commissioner Wong asked staff what are the scheduled street sweeping dates for Broadway.
Staff Ta replied the days are Monday and Thursday.
Commissioner Wong explained since the opposite side of Broadway is on Monday then the street
sweeper could go down the cul-de-sac since it is a non-street sweeping day. Additionally, based
on the photo from the presentation the cul-de-sac would be less impacted by cars.
Staff Ta replied that there would still be an impact of parked cars regardless of the day.
Commissioner Miley asked if the City is required to sweep 100 percent of City streets.
Staff Ta replied that the City has a schedule to sweep all the public streets, but he is not certain of
City policy.
Commissioner Bellows said her street contained signs on one side because it was needed to
Page 3 of 10",TransportationCommission/2013-07-24.pdf
TransportationCommission,2013-07-24,4,"maintain the overflow and water quality of the Bay from the affluent running off during storms.
She went on to say residents could request the signs, but 50 percent or more residents must agree
with the need to erect signs and restrict parking. Ultimately, the City is meeting and exceeding
the requirement to sweep the streets and the City does not have to sweep every street because the
outflow to the Bay is far less.
Commissioner Miley replied that the City has a broader standard and not just a block-by-block
policy.
Commissioner Miley moved to accept staff recommendations. Commissioner Bellows seconded
the motion. The motion was approved 6-0.
5B. Encinal High School Improvements - Phase II
Staff Ta presented the report.
Commissioner Bellows asked if Taylor Avenue would still be two-way.
Staff Ta replied yes.
Commissioner Vargas asked staff based on the improvements initially there were 20 movements
and in Phase II would there be far fewer movements.
Staff Ta replied yes.
Commissioner Vargas asked staff if there are warrants to be checked regarding the stop signs.
Staff Ta replied that there are, but they are reviewing them qualitatively. Also, based on the
geometry and the layout of the five-way intersection, if three cars appear it is hard to see which
car goes first. Consequently, the intersection would not be a great candidate for an all-way stop
sign.
Commissioner Miley asked about the peak-hour traffic volumes and how many cars are coming
from Central Avenue or Third Street and turning onto Taylor Avenue.
Staff Ta said that the counts are found in the presentation.
Commissioner Wong said that she understood the bus stop relocation, which makes sense.
However, on the opposite side found on Figure 15, ""Passenger Loading Zone"", there is
significant congestion in the morning compared to the afternoon. So, if they put the Passenger
Loading Zone 4 right there, then that block or create congestion even though cars are pulling to
the side. She felt one of the main issues are drivers who are coming from Central Avenue
towards the high school stop in the middle of the intersection when students are entering the
crosswalk from Third Street across Central Avenue instead of stopping by Central Avenue and
Taylor Avenue. She went on to explain that all motorists should stop where they are supposed to
stop because cars on Central Avenue would line up until they almost touched the kids. Third
Street becomes backed up and drivers going down Central Avenue cannot pass the traffic and
Page 4 of 10",TransportationCommission/2013-07-24.pdf
TransportationCommission,2013-07-24,5,"make sweeping turns onto Taylor Avenue.
Staff Ta replied that they reviewed it and were thinking of a few other options, but their priorities
were to improve pedestrian and bicycle access.
Commissioner Wong asked staff to move the drop off point down to the corner near the student
parking driveway and access to the bay because it is less congested. She emphasized not at the
five-way intersection but nearby so only one crosswalk would be moved.
Staff Ta replied that staff could review the benefits of relocating the passenger-loading zone to
possibly two locations. Also, he noted they have been working with Encinal High School and
Alameda Unified School District on the improvements.
Staff Payne referred to Exhibit 3 in the staff report and asked Staff Ta if they were still working
with the school district or is it on hold. She just wanted clarification because that passenger
loading zone is east of the driveway.
Staff Ta replied that it is still a recommendation.
Commissioner Wong stated she understood that, but on the opposite side there are near misses
when cars approach on Central Avenue going westbound from Taylor Avenue and Third Street.
Commissioner Bellows stated that she supported Commissioner Wong's comments and asked
staff with the projected future growth and warrant for the flashing beacon are these proposed
improvements compatible with this structure.
Staff Ta replied that he does not see them as being incompatible.
Commissioner Bertken asked staff based on the illustration presented if the street narrows down
as it approaches the other crosswalk at Lincoln Avenue.
Staff Ta replied that the street opens at the crosswalk.
Commissioner Vargas opened the floor to public comments.
Jerry Juhala said for part of last year he helped Officer Yakas conduct crosswalk duties at the
school in the mornings. He fully supported the Public Work proposal. He urged the Commission
to do at least some of the items proposed before the school year begins. He recommended that
they erect the portable signage that says ""No left turn from Central onto Third Street"" and ""No
left turn from Taylor Avenue onto Third Street."" The signs would make it significantly safer for
students to cross going to school and the signage has limited cost. He felt any change would
require an educational period for the students and parents. Furthermore, he thought that the
loading zones are a good idea, and would help stop parents dropping kids in the middle of the
intersection.
Karen Greaves, Taylor Avenue resident, said her biggest issue is the restriction of turning onto
Taylor Avenue from Central Avenue and Third Street. She felt Taylor Avenue is not the issue,
Page 5 of 10",TransportationCommission/2013-07-24.pdf
TransportationCommission,2013-07-24,6,"but it is the parents that are in a hurry and want to drop their children off at the most convenient
place. This recommendation is not the right solution.
Kurt Peterson, Block Captain of 200 Santa Clara Avenue, said they had two community
meetings and he attended the last meeting. He noted that the congestion problem is one hour of
every weekday and the overwhelming issue is speeding cars headed towards Third Street. He
found over 90 percent of the residents did not want to see Taylor Avenue closed, but the staff
wants to recommend partially closing Taylor Avenue. Police presence of one hour of every day
would help. He complained that the City did not provide an email with the community
comments after the meeting.
Debbie Jennings, Taylor Avenue resident, created the petition and obtained the signatures to
object to the change. She said that the intersection does not meet the qualification for traffic
signals, but does that mean that the state of California would not allow the City to install the
lights or does that mean if the City installed the lights then the City must pay the bill. She
recommended having a no left turn at anytime during the AM and PM school rush, but closing
Taylor Avenue is not going to solve the problem.
Wendell Stewart, Santa Clara Avenue resident, said he supported Kurt Peterson's comments, and
that only one hour each day is a problem.
Sonja Christianson considered herself an expert because she has lived in the area for over 18
years and walked across that crosswalk to take her child to Paden Elementary every morning.
She felt that the traffic speed is one of the biggest issues and it is not addressed in the
presentation. Also, occasionally she crossed the intersection going on a walk, and they have not
addressed the most dangerous intersection is Lincoln Avenue and Central Avenue due to the
curves and the speeding. She requested a traffic signal.
Harold Jennings, disagreed with blocking entry onto Taylor Avenue and during the school
hours, he supported a crossing guard or a police presence. Overall, he recommended that the City
spend more time looking at the intersection.
Susan Hodges said she does not live in Alameda, but her grandson goes to Encinal High School,
and she attended all of the public meetings. The majority of the attendees wanted an on-demand
stop light. She supported moving the bus stop, the crosswalk, but the stop light would help.
Jon Spangler, Alameda resident and a League of American Cycling Instructor, explained that he
has ridden through this intersection before and he is glad that the intersection is getting attention.
The previous speaker mentioned an on-demand stop light, and he suggested that there be an on
demand, all direction stop pedestrian signal. The action would demonstrate the Commission and
City's belief in a pedestrian friendly City. Also, a uniform no left turn during the peak periods
similar to San Francisco's policy would help.
Commissioner Miley asked staff if other warrants besides traffic counts could help erect the
traffic signal.
Staff El Guendy replied that the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) provide
Page 6 of 10",TransportationCommission/2013-07-24.pdf
TransportationCommission,2013-07-24,7,"for eight warrants that are needed to erect a traffic signal. However, even if all eight warrants are
met, the final approval is subject to engineering judgment. She stated that staff provided
significant information in the report with two alternatives to address the communities' concerns.
She also explained the cost for a full signal at the five-legged intersection would equal to
$500,000 or more, and the City would be responsible for the bill. Also, if they were to install
signals that are not warranted that would subject the City to liability if a collision were to occur.
Unwarranted stop signals increase certain types of collisions such as car rear and right angle
collisions.
Commissioner Schatmeier referred to Jon Spangler's comments about restricting left turn
movements during peak hours and that is already done on Park Street. He asked staff if it could
be considered an alternative rather than closing Taylor Avenue.
Staff Ta replied that some of the signage already has been addressed, and staff wanted to
maintain the westbound Central Avenue left turn for people who live east of the school to access
the back of the school. Also, staff wanted to allow motorists coming down Third Street to bypass
congestion at the crosswalk on Central Avenue.
Commissioner Schatmeier said he was sympathetic to the sweeping turns that were presented in
the report. However, he understood the residents' concerns of closing off the street. Ultimately,
he was looking to find an alternative to address both issues and restricting access during peak
periods on Central Avenue coming from the base onto Taylor Avenue might help.
Staff Ta explained that the improvement provided a refuge and visibility to the motorist and
allowed them to creep out without concerns of the sweeping movements. Staff addressed Taylor
Avenue residents' concerns in the alternative proposal.
Alex Nguyen asked Staff Ta to go over the alternative proposal with the Commission.
Commissioner Vargas asked staff to go over the public's response of the alternative proposal.
Staff Ta explained that based on the community's input with a permanent limitation onto Taylor
Avenue staff developed this alternative, which is very similar in design, but maintains the
movement inbound so during off peak hours there is no change to the intersection, but peak
hours they could not turn from Central onto Taylor Avenues. However, motorists would be able
to enter onto Taylor Avenue from Third Street and there would be signage located within the
vicinity of Encinal High School to restrict left turns.
Commissioner Vargas asked Debbie Jennings if her group reviewed staff's alternative proposal
Debbie Jennings replied that there is some support from the residents.
Kurt Peterson stated that you need a raised barrier in the red area illustrated in the presentation.
Also, the unsafe turn from Central Avenue onto Third Street is needed to be addressed.
Commissioner Miley wondered if the Safe Routes to School program could provide funding
opportunities.
Page 7 of 10",TransportationCommission/2013-07-24.pdf
TransportationCommission,2013-07-24,8,"Staff El Guendy replied that high schools are eligible for federal Safe Routes to School grants.
Also, there might be some regional funds available.
Staff Payne stated that Measure B does not have a competitive grant program.
Commissioner Miley felt that the best thing was to have physical presence to oversee activity, but
that requires funding. He supported the alternative to the recommendation and staff should
identify grant opportunities.
Commissioner Bertken stated that if they are forming the motion that they should include
recommendation two.
Commissioner Wong asked staff how long would they study affects after implementation and
would the study look at the population increases.
Staff El Guendy replied that the study would be dictated by the school season and staff could
conduct additional observations for the stop control.
Commissioner Schatmeier said the concern is the left hand turn from eastbound Central Avenue
onto Taylor Avenue and staff presented it as a sweeping turn that caused safety concerns. So,
signs limiting the turn during peak hours would be erected, but he did not hear about a stop sign
being installed in that direction.
Staff El Guendy replied installing a stop sign for Central Avenue would require both directions.
Thus, warrants would have to be evaluated for the overall intersection for all approaches.
Commissioner Schatmeier asked if staff was proposing a stop sign on Central Avenue.
Staff El Guendy said no.
Alex Nguyen asked for clarification before the Commission made a motion. He asked the
Commission if staff should not go ahead with the big loading zone until they studied the
possibility of moving it down across the other loading zone.
Commissioner Wong recommended the alternative to staff's recommendation with further study
of moving the loading zone.
Commissioner Bertken said Donald Lum Elementary School has yield markings located before
the crosswalk where motorists are supposed to stop and wondered if that could be included in
this proposal.
Staff Ta replied they are ""Yield here for pedestrian"" markings with triangles across the street like
shark teeth and they could review adding them to the proposal.
Commissioner Miley made a motion to accept the alternative to the recommendation one with
staff to review Commissioner Wong's recommendation to shift the loading zone # 4 from its
Page 8 of 10",TransportationCommission/2013-07-24.pdf
TransportationCommission,2013-07-24,9,"current location further down to Lincoln and Central Avenue. He also added that staff should
review Commissioner Bertken's comment to add ""Yield to pedestrian"" markings painted on
Central Avenue.
Commissioner Schatmeier commented that staff should study the traffic volumes for the
sweeping turn, which was one of the differences between staff's recommendation and the
alternate.
Commissioner Vargas asked Sergeant Simmons his opinion about staff's recommendation one
and the alternate based on a safety perspective.
Sergeant Ron Simmons, Alameda Police Traffic Section Supervisor, felt the first
recommendation was the safest recommendation based on pedestrian and bicycle movements,
and he appreciated alternative two, but he would like to see ""No stopping anytime"" signs on the
curve of the sweeping turn from westbound Central Avenue to eastbound Taylor Avenue
because he noticed when painted red the parents stop at that intersection to drop-off their kids.
Commissioner Miley moved to approve the alternative to staff's recommendation and review
Commissioners Wong, Bertken, and Shatmeier's comments as well as exploring future funding.
Commissioner Bertken seconded the motion. The motion was approved 6-0.
5C. Quarterly Report on Activities Related to Transportation Policies and Plans
Staff Payne presented the report.
Commissioner Bertken asked staff about the conclusion of Neptune Park pathway after they
approved the IN and Out Burger development.
Staff Payne stated that is under Alameda Landing Remnant Parcel Updates under item #6.
6.
Staff Communications
Changed Date for Next Regular Transportation Commission Meeting
- Tuesday, September 24 at 7 p.m., City Council Chambers
Special Transportation Commission Meeting with the Planning Board on Monday,
September 30 at 7 p.m., City Council Chambers (Main Item of Discussion - Revised
Draft Regional Transit Access Study)
Alameda Landing Remnant Parcel Updates
-
Went to the Planning Board on Monday, July 22. The use permit for the Chase Bank,
In and Out Burger driver thru aisle, and Safeway Gas station with exception with
wine and beer was approved. On August 12, the project is headed for the site design
and landscaping. Approval is subject to the provision of the crosswalk on Stargell
Avenue and Webster Street, which is in the state right-of-way. Now, staff is
communicating with Caltrans to get approval of the crosswalk. There will be a
meeting with Caltrans next week to get feedback on the alternatives to the design.
Additionally, staff will apply for an encroachment permit for the installation of a
Page 9 of 10",TransportationCommission/2013-07-24.pdf
TransportationCommission,2013-07-24,10,"pedestrian signal at that leg and the establishment of the crosswalk. Overall, the site
plan has been revised and a fence in the center median on Stargell Avenue was
included to prevent jaywalking and mid-block crossing.
AC Transit Line OX - Opening to Local Riders
BART Strike Updates and Lessons Learned
-
There may be a BART Strike on Monday, August 5.
-
Commissioner Bellows said she received positive comments on how the City handled
the BART strike because residents said it went smoothly.
-
Commissioner Shatmeier said that two days ago, he was catching the bus towards the
coliseum and usually he takes the Harbor Bay Ferry. He saw a sign that says City of
Alameda shuttle to the ferry and he was not aware of it. He would like to know how
the City is getting the word out about the service.
-
Staff Payne replied that she sent out an announcement to the Commission email list
serv about the shuttle and staff set up a City webpage about the BART strike, which
included information about the shuttle. Moreover, she linked the shuttle to the
511.org website.
Posey and Webster Tube Rehabilitation Project - Next Steps
Potential Future Meeting Agenda Items
-
Revised Draft Regional Transit Access Study
-
AC Transit Line 51A Performance Initiative Grant
-
Alameda Point Planning Document
-
AC Transit Comprehensive Operations Analysis
-
Alameda Ferry Terminal Station Access Plan
-
City of Alameda Transit Disruption Plan
-
Port of Oakland's Ron Cowan Parkway Proposed Class I Path
-
Traffic Control and Contingency Plan during Construction for I-880/29th Ave./23rd
Ave. Interchange Improvement Plan in Oakland: Public Information Program and
Transit Impacts
7.
Announcements/ Public Comments
Jon Spangler wanted to say the BART Pilot project looks good, but the July BART strike did
slow things down because it took away their first 5-days. Yet, they are working on getting the
bikes through and the BART Board is scheduled to evaluate the outcome in October.
8.
Adjournment
9:04 pm
Page 10 of 10",TransportationCommission/2013-07-24.pdf