pages: CityCouncil/2011-10-04.pdf, 4
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CityCouncil | 2011-10-04 | 4 | Councilmember Johnson stated people should be billed if Fire Department resources are abused. The City Manager stated all fees would be reviewed. The Assistant City Manager stated direction was given in 2008 and something was passed at that time; the matter would be reviewed. Proponent with Revision to the Second False Alarm Fee: Robb Ratto, Park Street Business Association. Vice Mayor Bonta stated staff should review fees charged by other cities that the City does not charge. Councilmember deHaan concurred with Vice Mayor Bonta; stated the $520 false alarm fee [for each additional false alarm after four] is very steep. Mayor Gilmore stated being hit with a steep fee would almost guarantee that such a situation would not happen again; that she is concerned that lowering the fee might be more digestible for a business owner and they might become lax. Councilmember deHaan questioned whether residents are aware of the false alarm fees and whether fees are enforced. The Interim Fire Chief stated fees are being enforced under the current schedule; the Fire Department would be out in the community this month, which would provide an opportunity to interact with businesses as well. In response to Councilmember deHaan's inquiry, the City Manager stated police fees have not been reviewed. Councilmember Johnson stated staff should distinguish between single family and small multi-family units versus certain size apartments; Alameda has quite a few large apartment complexes; having alarms work is important; a lot of false alarms have involved large apartment complexes; perhaps large apartment complexes should have a higher false alarm fee. The City Manager stated the issue would need to be brought back to Council because of noticing requirements or the issue could be revisited when the full fee schedule Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 4 October 4, 2011 | CityCouncil/2011-10-04.pdf |