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CityCouncil,2014-05-06,1,"MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING
TUESDAY- - -MAY 6, 2014- -6:00 P.M.
Mayor Gilmore convened the meeting at 6:03 p.m.
Roll Call -
Present:
Councilmembers Chen, Daysog, Ezzy Ashcraft, Tam and
Mayor Gilmore - 5.
[Note: Councilmember Daysog arrived at 6:04 p.m.]
Absent:
None.
The meeting was adjourned to Closed Session to consider:
(14-156) Public Employees Performance Evaluations; Pursuant to Government Code
$54957; Positions Evaluated: City Attorney - Janet Kern and City Manager - John
Russo
***
Mayor Gilmore called a recess at 7:05 p.m. and reconvened the meeting at 12:45 a.m.
***
Following the closed session, the meeting was reconvened and Mayor Gilmore
announced no action was taken.
Adjournment
There being no further business, Mayor Gilmore adjourned the meeting at 1:30 a.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
May 6, 2014",CityCouncil/2014-05-06.pdf
CityCouncil,2014-05-06,2,"MINUTES OF THE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
TUESDAY- - -MAY 6, 2014- -7:00 P.M.
Mayor Gilmore convened the meeting at 7:11 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
None.
PROCLAMATIONS, SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY & ANNOUNCEMENTS
(14-157) Proclamation Declaring May 5 to May 9, 2014 as Saint Joseph Notre Dame
High School Pilots Cross Country Week.
Mayor Gilmore read and presented the proclamation to Simon Chiu, Chis Pondok, Tony
Fong and the Cross Country Team from Saint Joseph Notre Dame High School.
(14-158) Proclamation Declaring May 8, 2014 as Bike-to-Work Day.
Mayor Gilmore read and presented the proclamation to Patty St. Louis and Jeff Cambra,
Bike Walk Alameda.
Ms. St. Louis made brief comments.
In response to Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft's inquiry, Ms. St. Louis announced the five
locations.
(14-159) Proclamation Declaring May 9 to May 18, 2014 as the 18th Annual East Bay
Affordable Housing Week: ""East Bay Housing Organization (EBHO) at 30: Built to Last.""
Mayor Gilmore read and presented the proclamation to Darin Lounds and Liz Barella,
EBHO, and Dian Lichtenstein and Patricia Young, Alameda Home Team.
Ms. Lichtenstein submitted information; made brief comments.
Ms. Young made brief comments.
Mr. Lounds submitted information; made brief comments.
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CityCouncil,2014-05-06,3,"(14-160) Alameda Museum Annual Report on the Meyers House and Garden.
Judith Lynch, Alameda Museum President, gave a Power Point presentation and
submitted information.
(14-161) Greenway Golf 2014 Annual Report for the Chuck Corica Golf Complex.
George Kelley and Marc Logan, Greenway Golf, gave a Power Point presentation.
Mayor Gilmore stated the feedback from the golf community has been positive; inquired
about work on the slough.
Mr. Logn responded only preliminary work has been done.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she volunteered at the 87th Commuters
tournament; the Golf Course is a wonderful resource.
Councilmember Tam commended Greenway for the design innovations that have
resulted in using almost 100% recycled water and a 40% reduction in water use;
inquired whether there are any challenges that require the City's assistance.
Mr. Logan responded City staff has been responsive whenever anything arises;
Greenway believes the next phase will be completed without any hiccups.
(14-162) The City Attorney introduced the newly hired Assistant City Attorney.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS, NON-AGENDA
(14-163) Peter Fletcher, Harbor Bay Neighbors, submitted information; expressed
opposition to Harbor Bay Isle Associates plans to build a new club.
(14-164) Bob Shannon, Harbor Bay Club Member and Alameda resident, spoke in
support of relocating the Harbor Bay Club.
(14-165) Catherine Veerwidth, Harbor Bay Club Member and Alameda resident,
discussed changes at the Harbor Bay Club; stated the space has been outgrown and
needs to be updated.
(14-166) Kathy Moehring, Harbor Bay Group of Companies, read from a letter Harbor
Bay's Legal Counsel wrote dated April 24, 2014 discussing the Harbor Bay Isle Project.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Mayor Gilmore announced that the Resolution regarding Island City Landscaping and
Lighting District [paragraph no. 14-170]; the Resolution regarding Leydecker Park
[paragraph no. 14-173]; and the Ordinance [paragraph no. 14-174 were removed from
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CityCouncil,2014-05-06,4,"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.]
(*14-167) Minutes of the Special and Regular Council Meeting of April 1, 2014.
Approved.
(*14-168) Ratified bills in the amount of $3,219,345.36.
(*14-169) Recommendation to Authorize Call for Bids for Legal Advertising for the
Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2015. Approved.
(*14-170) Resolution No. 14914, ""Preliminarily Approving the Annual Report Declaring
the City's Intention to Order the Levy and Collection of Assessments, and Providing for
Notice of Public Hearing on June 17, 2014 - Island City Landscaping and Lighting
District 84-2."" Adopted.
The City Clerk announced a random drawing was done since three Councilmembers
have a conflict and Councilmember Chen was chosen to participate.
Mayor Gilmore and Councilmember Daysog recused themselves and left the dais.
The Public Works Administrative Services Manager gave a brief presentation.
Councilmember Chen inquired how long the City has been levying the assessment, to
which the Public Works Administrative Services Manager responded 30 years.
Councilmember Chen inquired whether the levy will be passed on to tenants, to which
the Public Works Administrative Services Manager responded in the affirmative.
In response to Councilmember Chen's inquiry, the Public Works Administrative Services
Manager stated the three maintenance areas are sidewalk cleaning, litter cans, and
landscape.
Councilmember Chen inquired whether the City gives the business association the
assessment funds.
The Public Works Administrative Services Manager responded the assessment revenue
is in a segregated account separated by seven zones which funds a maintenance
services contract.
Councilmember Tam moved adoption of the resolution.
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May 6, 2014",CityCouncil/2014-05-06.pdf
CityCouncil,2014-05-06,5,"Councilmember Chen seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 3.
[Absent: Councilmember Daysog and Mayor Gilmore - 2.]
(*14-171) Resolution No. 14915, ""Preliminarily Approving the Annual Report Declaring
the City's Intention to Order the Levy and Collection of Assessments and Providing for
Notice of Public Hearing on June 17, 2014 - Maintenance Assessment District 01-01
(Marina Cove). Adopted.
(*14-172) Resolution No. 14916, ""Authorizing the City Manager to Sign a Cooperative
Agreement with the Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District Concerning Improvements
for the Line 51 Corridor."" Adopted.
(*14-173) Resolution No. 14917, ""Authorize the Under Armour Logo and Stephen Curry
Signature on the Leydecker Park Outdoor Basketball Court. Adopted.
The Recreation and Parks Director gave a Power Point presentation.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether funds for other Alameda parks can be
obtained.
The Recreation and Parks Director responded the Under Armour grant funds are
allotted one per City; stated obtaining grant funds from another sponsor is possible; cell
tower revenues are available for one-time park projects; Washington Park may be next
project.
Councilmember Tam moved adoption of the resolution.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote
- 5.
(*14-174) Summary: Adopt an Ordinance Amending the Alameda Municipal Code by
Revising the Webster Street Business Improvement Area (BIA) Boundaries and Setting
a new Surcharge for Large, Single Stand Alone Retail Stores within the BIA Boundaries
and Determining that Adoption of the Ordinance is not a ""Project"" under California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
Ordinance No. 3095, ""Amending Alameda Municipal Code Chapter VI, Sections 6-
7.2(a), 6-7.2(b), and 6-7.5(j), and Adding Sections 6-7.5(a)6 and 6-7.5(e) to Revise the
Webster Street Business Improvement Area (BIA) Boundaries and Setting a New BIA
Surcharge Fee for Large, Single, Stand-Alone Retail Stores; Action is not a Project
Under CEQA because it is Organizational or Administrative Activities of Government
that will not Result in Direct or Indirect Physical Changes to the Environment."" Finally
passed.
Councilmembers Chen and Daysog recused themselves and left the dais.
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May 6, 2014",CityCouncil/2014-05-06.pdf
CityCouncil,2014-05-06,6,"Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft moved final passage of the ordinance.
Councilmember Tam seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 3.
[Absent: Councilmembers Chen and Daysog - 2.]
Councilmember Tam left the dais at 8:35 p.m. and returned at 8:37 p.m.
***
REGULAR AGENDA ITEMS
(14-175) Receive an Update on the City of Alameda's Disaster Preparedness Program
and the Community Emergency Response Team's (CERT) Activities.
The Deputy Fire Chief and Assistant Fire Marshall for Disaster Preparedness and Fire
Prevention gave a Power Point presentation.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired how citizens would subscribe to Nixel 360.
The Assistant City Manager responded the City will launch a campaign to get residents
to sign up.
Councilmember Tam inquired what types of unified response would be planned in the
future.
The Deputy Fire Chief responded an Incident Action Plan can be used for day-to-day
events; stated table-top exercises are conducted to create incidents in a controlled
environment and to discuss efficient operation and communication plans.
Councilmember Tam inquired whether CERT volunteers can handle bilingual issues
during a disaster.
The Assistant Fire Marshall responded interpreters can be hired with grant funds; stated
the website has bilingual links and volunteers are vetted for their bilingual skills during
training.
Councilmember Daysog inquired if there are youth volunteers, to which the Deputy Fire
Chief responded in the affirmative; stated the youngest volunteers can be trained at 14
with an accompanying adult; youths from the Boys and Girls Club and Scouting are
involved.
Councilmember Chen stated his son has signed up for the next CERT training; inquired
how the City's 1,400 volunteers are coordinated during a disaster.
The City Manager clarified 1,400 citizens have been trained to know what to do in the
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May 6, 2014",CityCouncil/2014-05-06.pdf
CityCouncil,2014-05-06,7,"event of a disaster; there are only 114 CERT trained citizens; stated the goal is to have
1,000 CERT trained volunteers in five years.
In response to Councilmember Tam's inquiry, Jerry Jarhala, Alameda CERT Executive
Committee (ACEC), stated ACEC provides advice and structure for volunteers; team
leaders teach 15 to 20 classes per year in disaster preparedness; team exercises are
also conducted throughout the year.
Mayor Gilmore recognized and thanked the volunteers for their time and effort; including
the HAM radio operators.
***
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft left the dais at 9:04 p.m. and returned at 9:07 p.m.
(14-176) Public Hearing to Consider Adoption of the Fiscal Year 2014-15 Community
Development Block Grant/HOME Partnership Investment Program Action Plan and
Authorize the City Manager to Negotiate and Execute Related Documents, Agreements,
and Modifications.
The Housing and Community Development Director gave a Power Point presentation.
Stated seniors found Alameda Family Services; case management services are being
applied to a new population; discussed funding: Irene Couracas, Alameda Family
Services.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired if Legal Assistance for Seniors has a service cap of
45, to which Ms. Dandrea responded in the negative; stated Legal Assistance for
Seniors always exceeds goals; clients are screened by age, not by income; the number
of clients is based on an average within a year.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired if the agency is based in Alameda, to which Ms.
Dandrea responded in the negative; stated Legal Assistance for Seniors is based in
Oakland but is a County Agency and provides service to all cities in Alameda County.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether citizens have to go to Oakland for legal
services, to which Ms. Dandrea responded in the negative; stated the agency provides
home-visit services.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether the agency has made a presentation at
Mastick Senior Center, to which Ms. Dandrea responded in the affirmative; stated an
attorney provides private client meetings once a month at Mastick; the agency provides
community education wherever asked.
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May 6, 2014",CityCouncil/2014-05-06.pdf
CityCouncil,2014-05-06,8,"Councilmember Daysog inquired whether the Alameda Food Bank sacrificed funds to
allow other crucial safety-net providers better access to funding.
The Housing and Community Development Director responded the Food Bank received
a substantial cash donation from another source and is not cash strapped this year;
stated staff met with the Food Bank and determined the smaller award would not
compromise service levels.
Councilmember Tam stated the fund allocation for the Food Bank was cut by 84%; that
she appreciates their generosity in requesting a lesser amount; inquired how increasing
needs can be addressed with the reallocation of funds to other programs.
Steve Sokil, Food Bank volunteer, responded other associations need more funding;
that he is not privy to specific details of the allocations.
Councilmember Tam inquired whether Alameda Family Services (AFS) overlap with
other service programs.
The Housing and Community Development Director responded AFS's proposal is to
provide social work case management services; stated there is some overlap of legal
service needs, but AFS provides more individual case management.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft commended the Food Bank and Alameda community for their
generosity; stated she supports the $5,000 recommendation for the Food Bank.
Councilmember Chen inquired whether the scoring matrix was created in collaboration
with the SSHRB and the needs assessment.
The Housing and Community Development Director responded in the affirmative, stated
the matrix was presented as part of the application, which was circulated to the SSHRB
and agreed to as format.
Councilmember Chen inquired how staff determined AFS would not receive additional
funding.
The Housing and Community Development Director responded the scores were
generally in the 34 to 35 range with a maximum of 38; stated AFS scored 28; staff made
the decision to fund all of the higher scoring applicants with the objective to be impartial.
Councilmember Chen inquired why staff did not follow the SSRHB recommendation.
The Housing and Community Development Director responded staff developed the
recommendation independently and forwarded the information to the SSRHB; when the
SSHRB presented alternative scoring, staff felt that changing the recommendation
would compromise the process and undermine the intent to use the scoring matrix as
an objective measure; staff and SSHRB recommendations are equally valid and Council
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CityCouncil,2014-05-06,9,"can decide to allocate funds.
Councilmember Chen stated that he did not see ECHO funded through the public
service portion of CDBG in any prior years.
The Housing and Community Development Director responded the Fair Housing
Program is a Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requirement; stated Fair Housing
was funded from the CDBG Administration line item until last year; in prior years, staff
was funded using other city resources, primarily the redevelopment agency; the end of
redevelopment, and greater administration costs, leave no room to pay for service
programs from administration.
Councilmember Chen inquired whether there is another source of revenue to
supplement the $25,000 shortfall if Council selects the SSHRB recommendation.
The Housing and Community Development Director responded she is not aware of any
other funding source.
In response to Councilmember Chen's inquiry, the Housing and Community
Development Director stated HUD requires a fair housing provider within every city; it is
customary for the funding source to come from general funds, CDBG, and other funding
sources, including the County.
Councilmember Chen inquired what would happen if the HUD mandate to provide fair
housing is not maintained.
Mayor Gilmore responded electing the SSHRB recommendation would satisfy the HUD
requirement for fair housing, but it will not fund tenant-landlord services; funding for
ECHO Landlord/Tenant Services was supplemented by the administrative fund and
remained consistent until FY11/12 through 12/14; the staff recommendation seeks
program funding instead of from the administrative funds; the SSHRB recommendation
is consistent with the level of funding for last ten years.
Councilmember Chen inquired what services would be compromised if Council selects
the SSHRB recommendation.
The Housing and Community Development Director responded HUD requires reports to
track performance, stated all applicants are required to state the number of households
they intend to serve; reduced funding means reduced commitment.
Councilmember Chen inquired how program services would be sustained if the Food
Bank applies for an increased amount next year.
The Housing and Community Development Director responded the primary reason the
AFS scored lower is because they did not have a past funding, nor a clear future
funding source; staff is seeking to apply the dollars in a way where it is most clear that
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May 6, 2014",CityCouncil/2014-05-06.pdf
CityCouncil,2014-05-06,10,"the performance would be strong based on past performance and based on outside
sources.
Outlined Alameda Family Services (AFS) case management services, including
expansion to seniors; provided an example: Ebony Brown, AFS.
Mayor Gilmore inquired how many seniors were served through the AFS program, to
which Ms. Brown responded approximately 60 seniors.
Mayor Gilmore inquired whether AFS's requested funding is just for the senior
component, to which Ms. Brown responded in the affirmative; stated the funding would
extend the existing program to include a dedicated case manager just for seniors.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired how many hours per week would the case worker
provide, to which Ms. Brown responded 20 hours: 16 hours for case management
services and four hours for outreach.
In response to Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft's inquiry, Ms. Brown stated the case worker
would not be a licensed social worker.
Councilmember Daysog stated AFS seems to be youth-focused, inquired whether AFS
has experience assisting the elderly.
Ms. Brown responded providing direct service to the elderly is a new focus for AFS;
stated AFS developed a partnership with Mastick Senior Center after learning about
seniors' needs.
Councilmember Chen inquired whether other agencies can help seniors apply for the
services AFS provides.
Ms. Brown responded that she is not aware of any other agency providing the in-home
support services in Alameda.
Councilmember Chen inquired without similar services, the case manager is much
needed; inquired what would happen if AFS loses income next year.
Ms. Brown responded sustainability is an on-going issue; AFS is always looking for
funding streams; even if AFS only provides the service for one year, seniors can
connect to the family support center.
Councilmember Chen inquired whether AFS would lose the family support center if
there is no funding.
Ms. Brown responded in the negative; stated AFS has provided services in Alameda for
34 years; if the new senior case management program is not funded, AFS still has other
programs.
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May 6, 2014",CityCouncil/2014-05-06.pdf
CityCouncil,2014-05-06,11,"Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired how AFS plans to market their services.
Ms. Brown responded AFS will provide community teach-ins, maximize relationships
with other organizations and community groups including Mastick Senior Center,
churches, Food Bank, medical centers, and the adult schools; AFS has an open door
policy; people know how to access AFS.
Councilmember Tam inquired how other communities provide similar services and what
are their funding sources.
Ms. Brown responded senior programs are always first to have funding cut; stated the
City of Oakland has very few senior services and certain limitations to access services;
Alameda would be unique in prioritizing case management services for the senior
population.
In response to Councilmember Tam's inquiry, Ms. Brown stated resources for seniors
are often less than those allocated for youth; there are not many services that provide a
similar type of case management.
Stated AFS is not looking to change its mission; AFS did not seek out the senior
population; seniors found AFS because there were no other resources; AFS was not
aware of the scoring matrix; clarification on how proposals are reviewed would have
been helpful for agencies; sustainability is an issue for all agencies; getting funding
without a track record is more difficult: Irene Kudarauskus, AFS Executive Director,
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether AFS tried referring seniors to other
agencies, to which Ms. Kudarauskus responded in the affirmative; stated AFS would not
be asking for funding if there were other agencies providing the services.
Stated Alameda Family Services is a trusted organization which would like to help
seniors: Kathy Moehring, AFS.
Stated Legal Assistance for Seniors (LAS)does not provide case management services;
LAS is a County agency but is not fully funded by the County; outlined funding;
discussed potential service impacts: Francel Dandrea, LAS.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether LAS refers clients to other agencies, to
which Ms. Dandrea responded in the affirmative; stated LAS has a huge referral base
for when they are unable to assist with cases.
Outlined the needs statement; discussed ratings and proposals: Doug Biggs, Social
Service Human Relations Board (SSHRB).
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether cases are documented, to which Mr. Biggs
responded in the affirmative; stated as a CDBG agency, AFS is required to document.
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May 6, 2014",CityCouncil/2014-05-06.pdf
CityCouncil,2014-05-06,12,"In response to Councilmember Chen's inquiry, Mr. Biggs stated other agencies also feel
the loss of redevelopment agency funds; the SSHRB chose to fund the agencies
identified as having the most critical needs and housing counseling is not a critical need.
(14-177) Councilmember Daysog moved approval of considering the Park Street
Business Improvement Area Report [paragraph no. 14-179 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.
Stated ECHO would be facing a 32% cut in fair housing and no funding for
Tenant/Landlord Services if the SSHRB recommendation is adopted; discussed
services: Mary Anne Reno and Angie Hajjem, ECHO.
In response to Mayor Gilmore's inquiry, Ms. Hajjem stated ECHO served 190 tenants,
13 of which were resolved successfully.
Councilmember Tam inquired how many seniors did ECHO serve, to which Ms. Hajjem
responded she does not have an exact number at the moment but would provide the
information later.
Councilmember Tam inquired whether ECHO has seen a large increase in seniors
needing services, to which Ms. Hajjem responded in the affirmative; stated there is in an
increase in the number of seniors who have lived in Alameda for a long time.
In response to Councilmember Tam's inquiry, Ms. Hajjem stated ECHO provides
services to help seniors reach stability, including rent increase mediation and referrals
to the Rent Review Advisory Commission (RRAC).
Councilmember Chen inquired why ECHO does not just refer seniors to the RRAC, to
which Ms. Hajjem responded the RRAC only handles rent increases; stated the RRAC
does not deal with habitability issues, lease violations, unlawful entry or harassment, all
of which ECHO does.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired what was the outcome of the remainder 177 tenants
served.
Ms. Hajjem responded the other 177 tenants were either referred to other agencies or
they just needed questions answered.
Safety net services for seniors has been identified as a need; outlined the review
process: Michael Radding, SSHRB.
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May 6, 2014",CityCouncil/2014-05-06.pdf
CityCouncil,2014-05-06,13,"Stated the Midway Shelter has the highest outcomes in the County; outlined program
activities and funding; stated the San Leandro shelter would be closing due to State
funding cuts: Liz Varela, Building Futures for Women and Children.
Stated that she submitted a letter in support of ECHO; discussed rental issues; urged
approval of the staff recommendation: Laura Thomas, Renewed Hope.
Explained the past Countywide process used to establish the funds allocated to Eden
I&R; discussed the services provided by Eden I & R: Alison DeJung, Eden I&R and 211.
***
(14-178) 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: Councilmember Chen, Daysog, Ezzy Ashcraft and Mayor Gilmore - 4.
Councilmember Tam - 1.
***
Councilmember Tam stated a comment from a speaker made an impression; there is so
much discussion over $25,000 out of a $2 million budget; that she supports the SSHRB
recommendation and recommends finding the $25,000 shortfall from the Housing
Authority (HA) budget to restore the funding cut from Eden I&R and ECHO.
Councilmember Chen concurred with Councilmember Tam; stated AFS has not proven
a need for a part time case manager; AFS needs a track record in a year or two that
shows the need; supports the SSRHB recommendation but suggested AFS funding be
reduced to $20,000 and $5,000 should go to ECHO, and the HA should match the
$5,000 for a total of $10,000 to ECHO.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated the AFS proposal is new and more broadbased; the
duplication of services could be resolved with more effective referrals; she cannot vote
to take money away from ECHO or Eden I&R; that she supports the staff
recommendation and checking to see if there is money from the HA for AFS.
Councilmember Daysog stated his approach to the CDBG process is to look at gap
funding for organizations that have an existing history with other funding streams, not
funding new programs; the City has an affirmative obligation to fair housing; that he
supports the staff recommendation.
Mayor Gilmore stated that she would like the scoring process clarified, made
transparent to applicants, and be a collaboration between the HA and SSHRB; there
was no close collaboration between staff and SSHRB to arrive at a single
recommendation; inquired whether the Council can direct the HA to find funds to fill the
gap.
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May 6, 2014",CityCouncil/2014-05-06.pdf
CityCouncil,2014-05-06,14,"The City Attorney responded in the negative; stated the HA is a separate entity and the
City Council cannot direct the HA to find additional funding; in the staffing services
agreement, the HA agreed to administer and implement programs formerly done by the
City, including CDBG program funds; the administrative fees category in the CDBG
budget may allow flexibility; Council makes final decisions about how CDBG allocations
are made.
Mayor Gilmore inquired whether Council has authority to collaborate with the SSHRB; to
which the City Attorney responded in the affirmative.
The Housing Authority Executive Director concurred with the City Attorney; stated the
services agreement with the City is to operate the CDBG; the HA makes
recommendations and the City Council makes decisions; CDBG is City funds, not HA
funds; other funding sources need to be reviewed and evaluated to determine whether
they can be reallocated; the sources include Affordable Housing Funds and In-lieu fees
the City receives for development.
Mayor Gilmore stated the timeframe is very tight; if the HA does not have the
information tonight, it needs to brought back.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated additional CDBG funds are not available any more
than last year.
The Housing Authority Executive Director concurred; stated the end of redevelopment
was the reason for funds diminishing this year; hard decisions have to be made.
Councilmember Tam inquired whether there is flexibility this year to fund the $25,000
from the CDBG administrative fund.
The Housing Authority Executive Director responded there are not any savings in this
year's fund because the FY starts July 1, 2014; stated if money from other program
funds can supplant the administrative fund, then the administrative fund could be
allocated to the public services.
Councilmember Chen stated the City is mandated by HUD to fund fair housing; inquired
whether the HA is compliant if ECHO is not completely funded.
The City Attorney responded the City must fund fair housing as a recipient of CDBG
funds; the landlord/tenant portion of ECHO's program is not mandated.
Councilmember Tam inquired whether the fair housing requirement can come out of the
administrative fund and the landlord/tenant portion come out of a different pool.
The City Attorney responded in the affirmative; stated administrative fund cuts could
impact the HA's ability to implement the CDBG program.
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May 6, 2014",CityCouncil/2014-05-06.pdf
CityCouncil,2014-05-06,15,"The Housing Authority Executive Director stated $170,000 of the $250,000 in the
administrative fund is for staff and the balance is for operating costs; shifting
administrative costs to other programs may be possible.
Councilmember Chen inquired how much of the administrative costs can be spared
without impacting the HA's level of service, to which the Housing Authority Executive
Director responded he cannot answer.
The City Manager inquired whether there are any staff vacancy savings that can be
applied to FY14/15 appropriations, to which the Housing and Community Development
Director responded in the negative; stated the HA is overextended and there are no
surplus funds; the HA needs direction on how to amend the action.
The Housing Authority Executive Director stated Council can adopt either
recommendation or a hybrid of both and the HA will make it work.
Councilmember Chen inquired whether the HA would add $5,000 for ECHO.
The City Attorney responded Council cannot ask the HA to come up with funds.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired what would the HA do if the Food Bank requests
$31,500 next year.
The Housing Authority Executive Director responded the issue would be addressed next
year; stated there will be less money next year; an additional $31,000 request would
mean something else will get cut; the HA would fulfill the direction from the City Council.
The City Manager added the HA will follow Council's direction without increasing the
total allocation of $191,058.
In response to Councilmember Chen's comment, the City Manager stated if the door to
the General Fund is opened, there will be no end; the solution is more aggressive
partnership between public agencies and the private sector for fund raising.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft moved approval of following the staff recommendation with
the proviso that if the HA locates any additional funding within their organization this
year, it can go toward the AFS proposal; added funding next year is not a guarantee.
Mayor Gilmore stated the motion would not be within the $191,000 allocation; it would
be $191,000 plus additional funding.
The City Manager concurred, stated any additional funds found by the HA would not be
CDBG funds.
The Housing Authority Executive Director clarified the Affordable Housing Funds and In
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CityCouncil,2014-05-06,16,"Lieu funds would be used, which are mostly for development.
In response to Mayor Gilmore's inquiry, the Housing Authority Executive Director stated
Target is an example of in lieu funds; Target pays an in-lieu fee for affordable housing.
Councilmember Daysog inquired whether money would be taken from funds that would
go toward purchasing an asset to provide for services' to which the Housing Authority
Executive Director responded in the affirmative; stated it may or may not be allowable.
The City Attorney added there could be legal restrictions.
Mayor Gilmore stated using other funding sources would need Council approval.
The City Manager stated one motion would take care of the HUD requirement; another
motion is needed to direct the City Manager to work with the HA to find funds for the
SSHRB recommendation.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft moved approval of the staff recommendation.
Councilmember Daysog seconded the motion, which FAILED by the following voice
vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Daysog and Ezzy Ashcraft - 2. Noes: Councilmembers
Chen, Tam and Mayor Gilmore - 3.
***
Councilmember Tam left the dais at 12:01 p.m. returned at 12:03 and Councilmember
Daysog left the dais at 12:02 and returned at 12:03 p.m.
Councilmember Chen suggested ECHO and AFS share the burden; stated the risk is
the same for both agencies if the HA can come up with remaining balance.
Councilmember Daysog stated that he would not support Councilmember Chen's
recommendation; the obligation is for fair housing and he does not want to shift the
allocation.
Councilmember Tam stated that she supports Councilmember Chen's recommendation;
the mandated programs should come out of the agency's budget, not from a pool where
other services are competing,
Councilmember Chen moved approval of the SSHRB recommendation with
modifications: 1) reducing AFS to $12,711, 2) increasing ECHO to $30,028, and 3)
waiting for the HA to find the remaining $12,000 for AFS.
Mayor Gilmore stated the areas that differ significantly between the two
recommendations are AFS, Eden I&R, Legal Assistance for Seniors, and ECHO.
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CityCouncil,2014-05-06,17,"Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated there will be negative implications if Eden I&R is cut
further.
Councilmember Daysog stated that he is concerned about making budget numbers on
the fly independent of the organizational capacity to achieve the social safety net; the
staff recommendation is anchored to a certain level of service.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated cutting important services that address different needs
is a shame, inquired what the Mayor's objections are to the staff recommendation.
Mayor Gilmore responded not all agencies competing for funds had equal footing;
stated two agencies providing mandated service were put in the same pool and should
have been taken off the top instead.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she agrees with the Mayor about clarifying the
scoring, but the people who would pay for the misstep are the end users who would
benefit from the service.
Mayor Gilmore stated there are not enough funds and it is a struggle for everyone.
Councilmember Chen moved approval of the staff recommendation, with reducing
ECHO to $17,173, allocating $13,877 to AFS, and waiting for the HA to come up with
available funds to fill the gap.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether ECHO could be restored to $31,050 if the
HA finds available funding.
Councilmember Tam seconded the motion.
In response to Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft's inquiry, Councilmember Tam stated Council
is not arguing the merits of the services; the discussion is about allocation and directing
staff to seek out $25,711 to allocate between ECHO and AFS.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she would rather the cut to ECHO not be so
drastic; it sends the wrong message.
Councilmember Daysog made a substitute motion to approve the staff recommendation
for all public services except AFS and ECHO.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft seconded the substitute motion, which carried by unanimous
voice vote - 5.
Councilmember Chen moved approval of $13,877 being allocated to AFS and $17,173
being allocated to ECHO.
Councilmember Tam seconded the motion.
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CityCouncil,2014-05-06,18,"Under discussion, Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether the $17,173 for ECHO
was for the fair housing portion, to which the City Attorney responded in the affirmative.
Councilmember Chen clarified his motion is approval of $13,877 being allocated to AFS
and $17,173 being allocated to ECHO for fair housing.
Councilmember Tam seconded the motion which carried by the following voice vote:
Ayes: Councilmembers Chen, Tam and Mayor Gilmore - 3. Noes: Councilmembers
Daysog and Ezzy Ashcraft.
Councilmember Tam moved approval of directing the City Manager to work with the
Housing Authority and staff to seek $25,711 in funding sources and return with a
proposal to the Council on how to distribute the funds between ECHO and AFS.
Councilmember Chen seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
Councilmember Daysog moved approval of the staff recommendation for the remaining
funds.
Councilmember Tam seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
***
Mayor Gilmore called a recess at 12:23 a.m. and reconvened the meeting at 12:30 a.m.
***
(14-179) Public Hearing to Consider Resolution No. 14918, ""Confirming the Park Street
Business Improvement Area (BIA) Report for FY2014-15 and Levying an Annual
Assessment on the Park Street BIA."" Adopted.
Councilmember Chen recused himself and left the dais.
The Economic Development Manager gave a brief presentation.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired why the Park Street Landing mall is not part of the
BIA.
The Economic Development Manager responded the mall would have to go through a
process similar to the WABA BIA amendment.
Stated PSBA is reviewing the matter and would be making a recommendation: Donna
Layburn, PSBA President
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft moved approval of the staff recommendation.
Councilmember Daysog seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote
-
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CityCouncil,2014-05-06,19,"4. [Absent: Councilmember Chen - 1.]
CITY MANAGER COMMUNICATIONS
(14-180) The City Manager provided a flyer and announced the upcoming broker event.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS, NON-AGENDA
(14-181) Irma Garcia, Alameda, discussed the transport of hazardous material in the
Tube.
COUNCIL REFERRALS
None.
COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS
(14-182) Consideration of Mayor's Nomination for Appointment to the Golf Commission.
Mayor Gilmore nominated Cheryl Saxton for appointment to the Golf Commission.
(14-183) Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she attended the Association of Bay
Area Governments Assembly; suggested that Alameda submit Jack Capon Villa for an
award next year.
(14-184) Councilmember Tam stated that she attended the League of California Cities
Advocacy Days; the League is seeking support regarding massage parlors.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Mayor Gilmore adjourned the meeting at 12:41 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Lara Weisiger
City Clerk
The agenda for this meeting was posted in accordance with the Sunshine Ordinance.
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