pages: CityCouncil/2013-03-05.pdf, 7
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CityCouncil | 2013-03-05 | 7 | USF&WS could not move forward; then, the Navy started working with the VA. Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether the VA objects to designating an area as a wildlife refuge. Mr. Jaynes responded the VA has no intent of creating a national wildlife refuge at Alameda Point; the matter is out the VA's control. Mayor Gilmore stated the VA is negotiating with USF&WS to maintain the undeveloped land; inquired what the VA's stance would be if USF&WS decides designating the property as a national wildlife refuge is appropriate. Mr. Jaynes responded that he is not sure; the matter has not come up before; the VA does not intend to ask USF&WS to do so. Mayor Gilmore stated Alameda residents and the City Council could lobby USF&WS to make the area a wildlife refuge; the matter might be worth internal discussion at the VA. Mr. Jaynes concurred; stated the matter should be discussed with USF&WS. Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether there is a reason a wildlife refuge would not be a good neighbor to the VA, to which Mr. Jaynes responded the appearance would be similar to current conditions. In response to Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft's further inquiry, Mr. Jaynes stated that he believes there are reasons USF&WS never designated the area a national wildlife refuge; the City should ask USF&WS said question. Councilmember Chen stated that he likes the proposed map; however, there is no guarantee the map will remain the same after 10, 20 or 50 years; noted that he is proposing a resolution designating the undeveloped area as a wildlife refuge; inquired whether the VA would object to the resolution. Mr. Jaynes stated the VA is not here to support a wildlife refuge; supporting a wildlife refuge is not the VA's purpose; stated the comments are valid and would be better addressed as part of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Environmental Assessment (EA); noted experts would be present to answer questions. Councilmember Chen requested staff to explain the staff report mentioning that the non- binding term sheet is an agreement to take actions with regard to: infrastructure, site access and transit. The Chief Operating Officer - Alameda Point stated the term sheet contemplates future agreements that the City and VA would enter into, which would most likely be easements; provided examples of potential future access and utility easements. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 7 March 5, 2013 | CityCouncil/2013-03-05.pdf |