pages: CityCouncil/2018-12-04.pdf, 4
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CityCouncil | 2018-12-04 | 4 | Mr. Ulibarri responded that he would rather not say; stated there have been some challenges; the Army Corps, being newly involved, are going to want to take the project from zero and go over the whole project design again. Mr. Janes stated the process has been lengthy with transitions; the entire design of the project had to be reviewed with comments provided, and was finally accepted in 2017; the VA is working with utility companies through the permitting process; during the non- breeding season, the VA has provided licenses to law enforcement agencies to conduct annual Urban Shield exercises, as well as licenses to the Air Museum for the Doolittle Historic Walk; a contractor with U.S, Fish and Wildlife Service is working to install cameras around the least tern colony. Stated the project is fantastic; expressed concern over taking care of veterans and using the area for urban shield exercises: Richard Bangert, Alameda. Stated the Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC) permit with the VA has expired; suggested the VA return to BCDC to renew the permit: Irene Dieter, Alameda. Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft expressed disappointment with the opening date being pushed to 2026; stated construction delays will not coincide with surrounding development, leaving equipment present longer than desired; expressed concern for veterans and their families; stated that she wants to see the project proceed with as much speed as possible. Councilmember Matarrese stated that he would like Council to give direction to the City Manager to stay on top of the project; other projects have tight timelines that must be adhered to; if delays occur, a report back to the Council is needed; a promise was made by the VA to have a clinic and columbarium cemetery to serve veterans in Alameda; requested assistance from lobbyists to help expedite the project in any possible way. Vice Mayor Vella inquired if a letter should be sent to the Army Corps due to its substantial involvement in the project; stated if the site needs substantial changes, the Army Corps can provide more insight; that she would like direction given to also reach out to the Army Corps via a letter from the City's Mayor and City Manager; there is a level of concern from the public related to Urban Shield, about the agreement being out of compliance and the exercises being shocking; transparency is needed when exercises occur; expressed concern about the infrastructure timing being disruptive to other projects occurring in the area. Tim Graham, VA, stated that he agrees the VA can do a better job of being transparent; committed to promptly notifying the City of any upcoming Urban Shield activities; stated the exercises are permitted within the VA's legal interpretation of the environmental document during the off season for least tern breeding; Urban Shield exercises will not occur once the VA clinic is built. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 4 December 4, 2018 | CityCouncil/2018-12-04.pdf |