body,date,page,text,path
CityCouncil,2015-03-17,1,"MINUTES OF THE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
TUESDAY--MARCH - - 17, 2015- -7:00 P.M.
Mayor Spencer convened the meeting at 7:13 p.m.
ROLL CALL -
Present:
Councilmembers Daysog, Ezzy Ashcraft, Matarrese,
Oddie and Mayor Spencer - 5.
Absent:
None.
AGENDA CHANGES
(15-180) Mayor Spencer announced that the Site A Update [paragraph no. 15-193 was
withdrawn from the agenda by staff.
Councilmember Oddie stated Council should be informed sooner if an agenda item is
pulled.
The City Manager stated the decision to pull the item was made at 5:00 p.m. based on
meetings held with the development team today.
PROCLAMATIONS, SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
(15-181) Mayor Spencer read the Season of Non Violence daily reading on
disarmament.
(15-182) Proclamation Declaring the Week of March 22 through March 29, 2015 as
Boys and Girls Club Week.
Mayor Spencer read the proclamation and presented it to Marc Morales.
(15-183) Proclamation Declaring the Month of March as American Red Cross Month.
Mayor Spencer read the proclamation and presented it to members of Alameda's Red
Cross Leadership Council.
Harry Hartman, Leadership Council, made brief comments.
(15-184) Presentation on the Alameda Sister City Association Dumaguete, Philippines
Sister City Plan.
Karen Fong and Cynthia Bonta, Alameda Sister City Association (ASCA), gave a Power
Point presentation.
Councilmember Daysog thanked Ms. Bonta and Ms. Fong for the presentation; stated
that he looks forward to the sister city plan.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
March 17, 2015",CityCouncil/2015-03-17.pdf
CityCouncil,2015-03-17,2,"Councilmember Oddie stated Filipino Americans are the largest Asian Pacific Island
group in California; having a Filipino sister city is a good thing to commemorate heritage
of Filipino Americans in Alameda.
Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she appreciates the students in the audience
for coming.
Mayor Spencer suggested efforts be made to find another community within Sweden
since there is no active relationship.
Ms. Fong stated the ASCA is a small organization but definitely wants to reestablish
communication with Sweden; invited community members to join the ASCA.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS, NON-AGENDA
(15-185) Jim Hager, Alameda, discussed outdoor lighting; suggested the City address
outdoor lighting design, such as keeping lighting under two stories; gave the Council a
book: The End of Night.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Councilmember Oddie moved approval of the Consent Calendar.
Vice Mayor Matarrese seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote -
5. [Items so enacted or adopted are indicated by an asterisk preceding the paragraph
number.]
(*15-186) Minutes of the Special Joint City Council and Successor Agency to the
Community Improvement Commission Meeting and the Regular City Council Meeting
Held on February 17, 2015. Approved.
(*15-187) Ratified bills in the amount of $ $3,124,693.45.
(*15-188) Resolution No. 15009, ""Amending the Electric Utility Professionals of
Alameda (EUPA) Salary Schedule Establishing the Classifications of Utility Information
Technology Manager, Utility Information Technology Business Analyst, Utility Database
Analyst, Utility Geographic Information Systems Analyst, and Computer Service
Technician Alameda Municipal Power."" Adopted.
(*15-189) Ordinance No. 3121, ""Amending Alameda Municipal Power Code Chapter
XIX, Section 19 4 (Underground Utility Districts) to Approve the Redesigned
Underground Utility District Policy."" Finally passed.
REGULAR AGENDA ITEMS
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
March 17, 2015",CityCouncil/2015-03-17.pdf
CityCouncil,2015-03-17,3,"(15-190) Update on the Process Regarding Impact of Rising Rents in Alameda.
The Community Development Director gave a brief presentation.
In response to Councilmember Daysog's inquiry, the Community Development Director
stated the community group facilitator, Jeff Cambra, will present proposed changes to
the Rent Review Advisory Committee (RRAC) on April 6th.
In response to Councilmember Daysog's inquiry, Mr. Cambra stated the proposal from
the Alameda Renters Coalition (ARC) is going forward with some landlord support; the
process started as a collaborative process with two stakeholders: housing providers and
tenants; the City is a third stakeholder; enforcement and funding issues were not
addressed in the community process; discussion points brought to Council were
conceptual; viewing actual language ahead of time to work out small details would be
helpful; the ARC has 540 members; crisis situations are identified prior to RRAC
hearings with some issues being resolved before reaching the RRAC; Council has
ultimate decision to accept the ARC proposal.
Councilmember Oddie stated that he is concerned about adding more time to the
process; inquired what Council would get in 30 days that it does not have today.
The Community Development Director responded ARC thought it would beneficial to
have the proposal vetted prior to coming to Council; stated staff has been following the
process outlined in January and has been working on the draft ordinance to present
recommendations in May.
Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft concurred with Councilmember Oddie; stated renters
could provide input at the public meetings; the process began under a prior Council.
Mayor Spencer stated that she would be amenable to following Mr. Cambra's
recommendation since no one present is in opposition.
Mr. Cambra stated the 30-day extension did not go before the ARC as an official
request; he does not want to misrepresent ARC's intentions.
Mayor Spencer stated Ms. Hockabout has been very effective in representing the ARC
and would interpret that she would defer to Mr. Cambra's recommendation since she is
not present.
Mr. Cambra stated under the task force proposal, the recommendation was to come
back in May or early June; ARC has moved faster than initially anticipated and came
before the Council in January.
Mayor Spencer stated that she attended the last RRAC meeting and commended the
RRAC on resolving landlord/tenant issues; rent control would not address every tenant
issue.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
March 17, 2015",CityCouncil/2015-03-17.pdf
CityCouncil,2015-03-17,4,"The City Attorney stated rent control is not the issue tonight; the issue is strengthening
the RRAC committee; the sentiment is that the RRAC is not enough; rent issues are so
egregious; concurred with Mayor Spencer that adopting rent control is difficult and
limited in its application and how it is enforced.
Mayor Spencer stated that she supports strengthening the RRAC as the best solution to
support all the tenants in the City.
In response to Vice Mayor Matarrese's inquiry, the Community Development Director
stated staff committed to publishing the recommendations for the May 5th meeting.
Vice Mayor Matarrese inquired whether or not the 30-day extension would extend
beyond the May 5th meeting, to which the Community Development Director responded
the logistics could require more time.
Mr. Cambra stated ARC will not be able to go before the RRAC until April 5th
In response to Councilmember Daysog's inquiry, Mr. Cambra stated ARC cannot do
enforcement; ARC views City staff as a partner and stakeholder to do enforcement and
to deal with funding issues.
Councilmember Oddie stated ARC's original goal was to put together principles for
Council review; only Council can give direction to staff; strengthening the RRAC is
already being dragged out; if the ARC cannot decide, it is the job of the Council to
decide.
Mayor Spencer stated that she is concerned about Council doing enforcement; the
Council depends on the landlords, tenants and RRAC to solve rent problems; the
Council cannot get involved; the RRAC encourages landlords and tenants to work
together; that she supports the process.
Councilmember Oddie concurred with Mayor Spencer that the RRAC is a valuable
asset; stated Council is not trying to take away the RRAC's power, and is just trying to
strengthen the process which is beneficial to the community; the community voice and
analysis is the responsibility of the City Council; an extra layer of bureaucracy is being
added which is not necessary.
Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft concurred with Councilmember Oddie; stated that she
does not want to further delay giving the RRAC more teeth; she is ready to call for the
vote; she did not receive any emails from the public regarding the issue.
Angela Hockabout, ARC, stated that she is fully confident in process put forward by Mr.
Cambra, which is invaluable and allows the opportunity to hear landlord and tenant
concerns; there is more cooperation and willingness.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
March 17, 2015",CityCouncil/2015-03-17.pdf
CityCouncil,2015-03-17,5,"Councilmember Daysog stated that he has not heard a strong argument about why the
process cannot happen in time frame agreed to in January; on the other side, there is
no harm in extending the process; Council has to deal with several issues; at the end of
day, what matters is there is a substantive decision that makes sense; Council is always
delaying important issues.
Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft encouraged the group to continue having landlords and
tenants to work together.
In response to Vice Mayor Matarrese's inquiry, the City Attorney stated the Municipal
Code would be changed by ordinance; the City Attorney's office has been drafting
proposed revisions.
Vice Mayor Matarrese moved approval of sticking with current time period, with the
understanding that the groups will continue to meet, and that there are two additional
weeks between the first and second reading of the ordinance to adjust, tweak and
receive additional input.
Councilmember Oddie seconded the motion.
Under discussion, Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft clarified that Vice Mayor Mattarese's
motion is staying with staff proposal.
On the call for the question, the motion carried by the following voice vote: Ayes:
Councilmembers Daysog, Ezzy Ashcraft, Matarrese, and Oddie - 4. Noes: Mayor
Spencer - 1.
Mayor Spencer announced there is a vacancy on the RRAC with applications due to the
City Clerk by April 2nd
(15-191) Recommendation to Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Memorandum of
Understanding (MOU) between the City of Alameda and the Water Emergency
Transportation Authority (WETA) regarding the Construction of a Replacement Seal
Haul Out at Alameda Point; and
(15-191 A) Ordinance No. 3122, ""Approving a Lease and Authorizing the City Manager
to Execute Documents Necessary to Implement the Terms of a 60 Year Lease
Agreement and Approve a Temporary Right of Entry Permit with Water Emergency
Transportation Authority (WETA) for 0.73 Acres of Undeveloped Upland Real Property
and 3.4 Acres of Submerged Lands Located along West Hornet and Ferry Point Streets
at Alameda Point."" Finally passed.
The Economic Development Division Manager gave a brief presentation.
Councilmember Oddie clarified that the lease is for a maintenance facility, not a ferry
terminal.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
March 17, 2015",CityCouncil/2015-03-17.pdf
CityCouncil,2015-03-17,6,"Vice Mayor Matarrese inquired which part of the planning process would address use
permits regarding construction and operating noise.
The Economic Development Division Manager responded construction and operating
noise were addressed in the mitigated negative declaration.
Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft stated WETA and the Transportation Commission are
considering a range of solutions for parking at the Main Street and Harbor Bay ferry
terminals.
Mayor Spencer inquired whether four votes are required to approve the lease, to which
the City Attorney responded in the affirmative.
In response to Mayor Spencer's inquiry, the City Attorney stated two separate actions
items are being voted on tonight; the first is to consider approval of the MOU related to
the haul out which requires three votes; the second item to finally pass the ordinance
approving the lease which requires four votes.
Mayor Spencer inquired whether the location of the haul out requires three or four
votes.
The City Attorney responded the location does not have to come back to the Council, it
is included in the MOU; WETA is working on the location.
Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether consultants would be included in the
process regarding the haul out.
The Economic Development Division Manager responded in the affirmative; stated staff
wants to do the process right.
Mayor Spencer inquired whether approval of the MOU tonight means that the item will
not come back to the Council and the public can communicate directly with staff on the
issue, to which the City Attorney responded in the affirmative.
Mayor Spencer inquired whether the design of the building determined by the Planning
Board would come back to Council for approval, to which the Economic Development
Division Manager responded only if there is an appeal of the Planning Board decision.
Mayor Spencer inquired how many votes are required to approve the design of the
building, to which the City Attorney responded three votes are required.
Councilmember Daysog stated Planning Board appeals are costly; sometimes
Councilmembers request an appeal.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
March 17, 2015",CityCouncil/2015-03-17.pdf
CityCouncil,2015-03-17,7,"In response to Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft's inquiry, the Economic Development
Division Manager stated the lease documents specifically address fuel storage units.
In response to Councilmember Oddie's inquiry, the Economic Development Division
Manager stated the property is zoned as maritime/open space with limited uses; the
project is one of the uses permitted.
The Chief Operating Officer - Alameda Point clarified the zoning is an Enterprise
Zoning District; there is open space adjacent to enterprise park which is for maritime
businesses; the Enterprise 4 District is within State lands and the project is exactly the
type of use consistent with the zoning.
Mayor Spencer inquired whether the building and ferries would fall within the Enterprise
Zone.
The Chief Operating Officer - Alameda Point responded part of the piers is in the water;
the zoning for the building is within the open space district; the fueling station would be
in Enterprise 4.
Mayor Spencer inquired what are the differences in enforcement of an MOU versus a
lease.
The City Attorney responded the MOU provides that WETA would be required to put
$100,000 into an escrow account and be committed to getting permits to complete the
project by a deadline; if the City feels WETA failed to meet the deadline, the City can
""self-help"" to complete the project and utilize the $100,000 to enforce obligations; the
lease is a property right; ultimately the Council can terminate the lease, get the property
back, and pursue any remedies.
Mayor Spencer inquired what if the City's completion of the project by ""self-help"" takes
more than $100,000.
The Economic Development Division Manager responded the MOU does not have
language regarding costing more than $100,000; staff could negotiate the issue; if the
City is self-helping, that means WETA is not meeting their obligations; however, WETA
is committed to making the project work.
In response to Mayor Spencer's inquiry, the Economic Development Division Manager
stated finding a logical location for the haul out is first on the list.
The City Attorney clarified that WETA cannot begin construction without doing the haul
out.
Nina Reynolds, WETA, made a brief presentation.
Expressed support of the project which is a good investment for Alameda: Ray
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
March 17, 2015",CityCouncil/2015-03-17.pdf
CityCouncil,2015-03-17,8,"Shipway, Master Mates and Pilots.
Stated that he contacted the Marine Mammal Center for seal haul out information; urged
support of the project: Mark Klein, Alameda.
Stated the project is a good example of cooperative project management; urged moving
the project forward: Andy Slivka, Alameda Resident, Carpenters Union, and Building
Trades Council.
Expressed excitement for project which is good for business; urged approval of the
lease and MOU: Michael McDonough, Alameda Chamber of Commerce.
Expressed support for the project; stated there would be mutual benefit through regional
partnership: Alex Knox, Office of the City of Richmond Mayor.
Urged approval of the lease and MOU: Preston Dula on behalf of Marcel Parizal,
Carpenters Union.
Stated the project is critical to the expansion of the regional transit system; urged
Council to approve the lease and MOU: Chadrick Smalley, City of Richmond.
Stated there are lots of maritime focused programs in Alameda; that she is excited to
add WETA project; urged support of the project: Leslie Cameron, Bay Ship and Yacht.
Encouraged the Council to approve the project which would reduce traffic congestion:
Kari Thompson, Alameda
Expressed strong support for the WETA project; stated minimizing negative
environmental impacts is important: Phil Holt, Alameda.
Urged Council to review sections 2.4 and 3.1 of the MOU; stated that she supports the
project: Irene Dieter, Sierra Club.
Expressed support for the project; stated failing to execute the haul out is not an option:
Richard Bangert, Alameda.
Stated that she appreciates new union jobs at Alameda Point; the MOU language needs
improvement; recommended the public continue to be part of the process; stated that
she supports the project: Rachel Campos de Ivana, Alameda.
Expressed concerns about the seal haul out and whether the public feels the property is
worth preserving: Travis Wilson, Alameda.
Expressed support for the WETA project; stated that he honors environmental
concerns: Bobby Winston, Bay Crossings and Alameda Residents.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
March 17, 2015",CityCouncil/2015-03-17.pdf
CityCouncil,2015-03-17,9,"bypassed the Planning Board process: Therese Hall, Alameda.
Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she thinks the process has been
collaborative; there is never enough money to complete projects such as the Bay Trail
and parks; Alameda Point has some robust leases but bringing federal and State
funding for the project is exciting; Alameda is an island, water transit needs to be
supported; Council always needs to take competing efforts into consideration; that she
is prepared to support the project.
Councilmember Oddie stated the project is exciting and would help take advantage of
being an island; the maritime commercial use is perfect; having a Project Labor
Agreement is important; that he is glad it is a win-win situation.
Vice Mayor Matarrese stated time is of the essence to select a site; Council's judgment
on the lease is based on all interests for preserving the community and the eco system;
the project would bring jobs to Alameda Point which is a key priority; that he is prepared
to move forward.
Councilmember Daysog stated the project is important given the magnitude of jobs, the
regional transit network, and how Alameda Point will move forward with a built and
natural environment; Council deals with a lot of issues and is tasked with evaluating
threats and risks of projects, as well as opportunities; the right mitigation is needed; staff
has put together a proposal all should embrace; the project moves Alameda forward
economically and environmentally; staff and Council are willing to listen and modify
accordingly; unknowns are a valid question, but is there a framework in place to
address unknowns; Council has done due diligence to deal with whatever situations
arise.
Mayor Spencer stated that she appreciates the project and the work that has been done
to date; she is concerned that Council has not done due diligence in reaching out to the
community; meetings held in San Francisco are not advertised; she has questions
regarding the impact the operations will have on the ecosystem; the property is City
land; when a private developer owns the land, the Council has less input.
Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft moved approval of the MOU.
Councilmember Daysog seconded the motion.
Under discussion, Vice Mayor Matarrese proposed a friendly amendment for Council to
receive reports on the status of site location so progress could be tracked.
Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she does not think the request needs to be an
amendment to the MOU.
Vice Mayor Matarrese stated adding the report could be part of the motion.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
March 17, 2015",CityCouncil/2015-03-17.pdf
CityCouncil,2015-03-17,10,"Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft stated Council could give staff direction.
In response to Vice Mayor Matarrese's inquiry on what is timely, the City Manager
stated staff could provide a report every two months.
On the call for the question, the motion carried by the following voice vote: Ayes:
Councilmembers Daysog, Ezzy Ashcraft, Matarrese, and Oddie - 4. Noes: Mayor
Spencer - 1.
Vice Mayor moved approval to direct the City Manager to execute the lease.
Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft clarified the motion is final passage of the ordinance to
approve the lease.
Councilmember Oddie seconded the motion.
Under discussion, the City Attorney stated Vice Mayor Matarrese's motion is enacting
the ordinance.
On the call for the question, the motion carried by the following voice vote: Ayes:
Councilmembers Daysog, Ezzy Ashcraft, Matarrese, and Oddie - 4. Noes: Mayor
Spencer - 1.
(15-192) Introduction of Ordinance Approving a Lease and Authorizing the City
Manager to Execute Documents Necessary to Implement the Terms of a 24 Month
Lease with Advanced Roofing Services, a California Corporation, for Building 612
located at 1450 Viking Street at Alameda Point. Introduced.
***
Mayor Spencer called a recess at 10:06 p.m. and reconvened the meeting at 10:13 p.m.
***
The Economic Development Division Manager gave a brief presentation.
Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft moved introduction of the ordinance.
Vice Mayor Matarrese seconded the motion.
Under discussion, Vice Mayor Matarrese requested future leases include the number of
employees.
In response to Mayor Spencer's inquiry, the Economic Development Division Manager
stated a two year lease allows flexibility.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
March 17, 2015",CityCouncil/2015-03-17.pdf
CityCouncil,2015-03-17,11,"On the call for the question, the motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
(15-193) Status Report on Site A Development at Alameda Point, including Presentation
of Updated Development Plan, Approach to Transportation, and Disposition and
Development Agreement (DDA). Not heard.
(15-194) Recommendation to Approve the Operating and Capital Budget Calendar for
Fiscal Years 2015-16 and 2016-17.
The Assistant City Manager gave a brief presentation.
***
(15-195) Mayor Spencer stated a motion is needed to consider the remaining items:
recruitment process for new City Manager [paragraph no. 15-
and consider re-
establishing the Economic Development Commission [paragraph no. 15-
1.
.
Vice Mayor Matarrese moved approval [of considering the remaining items].
Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice
vote - 5.
The Assistant City Manager continued her presentation.
Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she is concerned about the schedule to
discuss Other Post Employment Benefits (OPEB) and Public Employee Retirement
System (PERS); inquired whether an hour for the open house is necessary.
Councilmember Daysog stated the OPEB/PERS discussion warrants a devoted
workshop.
Vice Mayor Matarrese proposed adopting the schedule as written; with OPEB/PERS
being moved to one of the special meetings as a priority, and the time needed for
OPEB/PERS be taken from the individual departments.
Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft stated April 7th might be early.
The Assistant City Manager stated OPEB/PERS could be discussed on April 7th
Vice Mayor Matarrese stated he objects to April 7th because it is a regular meeting.
Councilmember Oddie suggested having a special meeting on OPEB/PERS in addition
to the ones scheduled.
In response to Mayor Spencer's inquiry, the City Clerk stated the proposed start time for
the special budget meetings is 6:30 p.m.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
March 17, 2015",CityCouncil/2015-03-17.pdf
CityCouncil,2015-03-17,12,"Mayor Spencer stated that she would prefer the special meetings start at 6:00 p.m. if
possible.
Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft stated sometimes special closed sessions are
scheduled.
The City Manager urged council to have a special meeting for OPEB/PERS.
Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft concurred with the City Manager; suggested the open
house and department presentations be consolidated into one meeting.
The City Manager suggested devoting two hours for OPEB/PERS on April 7th; and
deferring introduction of the preliminary budget, the discussion of one time revenues
advancement loans and transfers and general fund reserves to the April 16th Special
meeting.
In response to Mayor Spencer, the Assistant City Manager stated the department
presentations will discuss changes; staff will give a broad overview; then, individual
departments will present information; final compilation will be presented on June 2nd
Mayor Spencer inquired whether the department presentations could include
information on past budget cuts, to which the Assistant City Manager responded in the
affirmative.
Mayor Spencer requested allowing time for the public to comment on June 2nd.
The Assistant City Manager stated community members could comment on June 2nd
when all the information is provided.
Vice Mayor Matarrese moved approval of having the OPEB/PERS discussion on April
7th and defer other budget items to a Special Meeting on April 16th, and consider a start
time of 6:00 p.m. for the special meetings.
Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft seconded the motion.
Under discussion, Mayor Spencer requested the motion be amended to include
direction that budget items be heard earlier on the agenda.
Vice Mayor Matarrese agreed to amend the motion.
On the call for the question, the motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
(15-196) Recommendation to Direct Staff to Establish a Process for Recruitment of a
New City Manager.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
March 17, 2015",CityCouncil/2015-03-17.pdf
CityCouncil,2015-03-17,13,"The Administrative Services Director gave a brief presentation.
Councilmember Daysog stated City Manager selection has been done by the Council in
the past, not by recruitment service.
In response to Councilmember Daysog's inquiry, the Administrative Services Director
stated it is not typical to put out a bid for recruitment services; all firms charge the same
and the cost is not great enough to require a bid process; a formal bidding process
would extend the timeline for two months.
Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft stated the City Manager position is a major recruitment;
that she supports following the staff recommendation.
Councilmember Oddie stated the City Manager recruitment is the most important
decision Council will make and he does not want to rush the process; Alameda has a lot
of challenges; he is worried that Alameda will get a cookie cutter City Manager because
that is what the search firms find; he likes the idea of interviewing potential search firms
to see if they understand Alameda's culture.
The Administrative Services Director stated if Human Resources recommends a search
firm, the next step would be to return to Council for guidance on what to look for in
candidates; the firm would communicate with Council in open session; their job is to
heed to the wishes of the Council; a bid process may not get a response due to the
nature of the public process.
Vice Mayor Matarrese inquired whether a search firm was used to hire a Finance
Director, to which the Administrative Services Director responded in the affirmative.
Vice Mayor Matarrese inquired whether a search firm was used to hire an Assistant City
Manager, to which the Administrative Services Director responded in the negative;
stated the major challenge is outreach; the executive search firms have a database for
City Managers; the firms have the networking capabilities and have candidates on line.
Councilmember Daysog inquired whether community members could work with the
search firms and have input in the selection process, to which the Administrative
Services Director responded in the affirmative; stated community members could be
included on an interview panel to do an initial screening of the most qualified
candidates.
(15-197) Mayor Spencer stated a motion is needed to continue the meeting past 11:00
p.m.
Councilmember Oddie moved approval [of continuing the meeting].
Vice Mayor Matarrese seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote -
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
March 17, 2015",CityCouncil/2015-03-17.pdf
CityCouncil,2015-03-17,14,"5.
***
Mayor Spencer concurred with Councilmember Oddie; stated selecting the City
Manager is an important decision that she would prefer be done internally.
The Administrative Services Director stated as an alternative, the firm could do the
outreach and Council could review everything the firm receives; City staff does not have
the capacity to do outreach.
Mayor Spencer stated outreach could be done on social media; that she would like the
Council to select who to interview, instead of the search firm.
Councilmember Oddie stated he would like to meet and talk with the firm that would be
doing the search; if that does not work out, Council could select another search firm, do
the process internally, or have a firm do a minimum amount of work; that he is
uncomfortable with just selecting a firm and then not hearing back for a couple of
months.
The Administrative Services Director stated the process would be contracting with a
search firm and the firm would immediately come back to engage in discussions with
Council on candidate profile.
Councilmember Oddie stated the weight of the responsibility is heavy and he wants to
do it right.
Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft stated staff does not have the wherewithal to do the
search; relying on social media for outreach would sell the City short; there are
competent firms out there; Council has the opportunity to find out what the potential is to
do what is best for the City.
Councilmember Daysog stated staff has outlined a process; a firm is needed because of
their professional capabilities to attract the right set of candidates; there would be
flexibility in how the firm engages with Council and the community once the City starts
working with the firm.
Vice Mayor Matarrese stated the Council should have the opportunity to vet all
applicants; Council establishing parameters for what is wanted is important; that he
does not think a $20,000 firm is needed; Human Resources does not have the capacity
to do the search; he is adamant that the firm does not screen the applicants for the
Council; screening should be done by the Council or a subcommittee.
Mayor Spencer stated that she would like to meet with more than one firm; brochures
are not necessary; Council should see applications; she would not support a
subcommittee.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
March 17, 2015",CityCouncil/2015-03-17.pdf
CityCouncil,2015-03-17,15,"Councilmember Oddie stated a search firm was not used last time and Alameda got
lucky; that he would like to hear from the firms and see what they have to offer before
making a commitment to use a firm.
Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft stated she thinks there is more than one good firm out
there; the Administrative Services Director is extremely capable; Council could consider
more than one firm if done timely.
The Administrative Services Director proposed asking two or three firms to come before
Council and talk about their experience; most search firms are based in Sacramento
and want to be compensated for their time.
In response to Councilmember Ashcraft's inquiry, the Administrative Services Director
stated she would like general direction from the Council on how to proceed.
The Assistant City Manager stated that she is concerned about excluding good firms by
limiting the pool to local firms.
Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft clarified that Council has agreed to go with an outside
search firm; contacting a few firms is a good first step; more information will be known
once Council hears back from the firms.
Councilmember Oddie concurred; stated that he does not want to close off any doors on
how the selection is done.
Mayor Spencer stated all are in agreement that the Council wants to be involved in the
selection process.
CITY MANAGER COMMUNICATIONS
(15-198) The City Manager announced that he will begin negotiations with the four
public safety bargaining units: Police Managers Association, the System Fire Chiefs
Association, the Alameda Police Officers Association, and the International Association
of Fire Fighters.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS, NON-AGENDA
None.
COUNCIL REFERRALS
(15-199) Consider Re-establishing an Economic Development Commission (EDC) for
the City of Alameda. (Vice Mayor Matarrese)
Vice Mayor Matarrese made brief comments on his referral.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
March 17, 2015",CityCouncil/2015-03-17.pdf
CityCouncil,2015-03-17,16,"Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft stated Council should consider waiting until the Assistant
City Manager Position, which was the liaison to the Boards and Commissions, is filled;
inquired which tasks and objectives staff is already pursuing.
Vice Mayor Matarrese responded the EDC could analyze the upcoming Alameda Point
projects as part of a strategic plan; the theater and parking garage were executed as
part of the 2000 Strategic Plan; executing a strategic plan is the kind of practice he
would like to emulate using tools available today.
Councilmember Oddie inquired how façade grants are done.
The Community Development Director stated the department is proposing to relaunch
the façade improvement program in the next two-year budget cycle and will access
boomerang funds to bring the program back.
Councilmember Oddie inquired whether the new EDC would be responsible for façade
improvements.
Vice Mayor Matarrese stated successful programs can be put on the table of the
Commission for Park and Webster Streets; there is a synergy with staff and a body to
help with intermediate work.
In response to Councilmember Oddie's inquiry, Vice Mayor Matarrese stated pursuing a
fiber loop at Alameda Point is a key economic development question which raises value
to land that the City owns.
Councilmember Oddie stated the EDC's impressive list of tasks and projects merits
moving forward.
Councilmember Daysog stated that he is not sure the Mayor's Economic Development
Committee was given enough time to do tasks.
Vice Mayor Matarrese inquired whether the task force was seated or met, to which the
Community Development Director responded in the negative; stated the Council
adopted an ordinance to disband the EDC in October 2013; the Council voted to look to
a different format to undertake the same type of economic development activities
outlined by the Vice Mayor via a Mayor's task force for economic development, a
structure more flexible and nimble; staff is recommending continuing to work with the
task force structure; a presentation on April 7th will give more information to move
forward with a strategy that reflects the best practice for undertaking economic
development.
Mayor Spencer inquired how staff proposes to address tasks if the Mayor's Economic
Development Committee is continued.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
March 17, 2015",CityCouncil/2015-03-17.pdf
CityCouncil,2015-03-17,17,"The Community Development Director responded issues include a combination of high
level policies where analysis and input is needed to advise Council, and more
operational issues which would not need to go to Council; staff is proposing to update
the 2008 Economic Development Strategic Plan as part of the budget.
Mayor Spencer stated that she would like to give the Mayor's Economic Development
Committee a chance; leveraging staff time is important.
Councilmember Daysog stated many cities have EDCs; value is added to a Mayor's
Economic Development Committee; a select group would be positioning economic
development implementation; a commission has a role in planning.
Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft stated Vice Mayor Matarrese has proposed interesting
ideas; it would make sense to hear the April 7th presentation; there might be overlap
with a traditional EDC and the Mayor's Economic Development Committee; inquired
whether there is action attached to the report on April 7th, to which the Community
Development Director responded in the negative; stated staff will do a power point
presentation for information only.
In response to Mayor Spencer's inquiry, the City Attorney stated staff could revise the
item to allow action be taken on April 7th.
Councilmember Oddie requested staff include analysis in the presentation.
Mayor Spencer requested including discussion of pros, cons, and recommendations
from staff.
The Community Development Director stated slides could be added to the presentation
to address the issues.
Vice Mayor Matarrese stated the item should be made actionable.
The City Attorney stated staff can do so; that she was trying not to overtask staff.
The Community Development Director stated staff will provide information and allow
direction to be given.
COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS
(15-200) Councilmember Daysog recommended the Community Development Director
to close the loop on the matter raised by Jim Hager.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Mayor Spencer adjourned the meeting at 11:52 p.m.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
March 17, 2015",CityCouncil/2015-03-17.pdf
CityCouncil,2015-03-17,18,"Respectfully submitted,
Lara Weisiger
City Clerk
The agenda for this meeting was posted in accordance with the Sunshine Ordinance.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
March 17, 2015",CityCouncil/2015-03-17.pdf
CityCouncil,2015-03-17,19,"MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING
TUESDAY- - MARCH 17, 2015- 5:00 P.M.
Mayor Spencer convened the meeting at 5:02 p.m.
Roll Call -
Present:
Councilmembers Daysog, Ezzy Ashcraft, Matarrese, Oddie
and Mayor Spencer - 5.
Absent:
None.
The meeting was adjourned to Closed Session to consider:
(15-178) Conference with Legal Counsel - Workers' Compensation Claim (54856.95);
Claimant: Darren Olson; Claim Against: City of Alameda
(15-179) Conference with Labor Negotiators (54957.6); City Negotiator: John Russo;
Employee Organizations: Public Safety Unions (International Association of Fire
Fighters (IAFF), Alameda Fire Chiefs Association (AFCA). Alameda Police Officers
Association (APOA) and Alameda Police Managers Association (APMA)); Issue Under
Negotiation: Post Employment Benefits
Following the Closed Session the meeting was reconvened and Mayor Spencer
announced that regarding the Workers' Compensation Claim and the Conference with
Labor Negotiators, the Council unanimously gave direction to staff.
Adjournment
There being no further business, Mayor Spencer adjourned the meeting at 7:03 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
March 17, 2015",CityCouncil/2015-03-17.pdf