pages: CityCouncil/2013-11-05.pdf, 3
This data as json
body | date | page | text | path |
---|---|---|---|---|
CityCouncil | 2013-11-05 | 3 | (13-501) Resolution No. 14869, "Amend Master Fee Resolution No. 12191 to Revise the Community Development Department, Public Works Department, and Fire Department Fee Schedules." Adopted. The Building Official gave a brief presentation; outlined proposed changes to the appeals fee. Councilmember Tam inquired why the Planning and Building Department's recommendation is still short of the full cost recovery. The Building Official responded there is not a full cost recovery because of the reduction in fees for solar permits and online permits. Councilmember Tam inquired why the Public Works and Fire Departments are also recommending less than full cost recovery. The Public Works Administrative Services Manager responded Public Works chose an 85% cost recovery and would move full cost recovery in phases fashion so the increases are not too steep; there is subsidy from other funds. Councilmember Tam inquired if the Fire Department would also phase cost recovery. The Fire Chief responded in the affirmative; stated the Department looked at the proposed fees and does not think the consultant's recommendation is appropriate; a majority of the Department's fees are direct costs on businesses; increasing inspection fees would impose an undue burden on businesses; the Department chose an appropriate 50% level, which is an industry standard and comparable to other cities. Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated the Fire Department charges a fine for reporting false fire alarms; she supports the idea of phasing; inquired whether Palo Alto was included in the fee comparison in order to raise the average. Greta Davis, NBS Consulting, responded there was a consensus between Planning and Building and Public Works staff to select the cities included in the fee comparison; stated selection of cities for the fee comparison is based on like-jurisdictions in terms of proximity, population, and land development issues, not whether a city is progressive or has high fees. Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired if staff selected Palo Alto, to which Ms. Davis responded in the affirmative. Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired if median income and median residential prices have been taken into account, to which Ms. Davis responded in the negative; stated specific demographic information was not considered. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 3 November 5, 2013 | CityCouncil/2013-11-05.pdf |