pages: CityCouncil/2019-02-19.pdf, 13
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CityCouncil | 2019-02-19 | 13 | Councilmember Vella stated a public workshop should be held instead; expressed concern about the OGC being held to a different standard and a lack of transparency; outlined OGC agenda items and titles which were unclear about the topic to be discussed. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated there is a priority setting workshop scheduled in less than one month; the issue should be included in the workshop. Councilmember Vella stated many different issues have been raised by both Council and the public; having a workshop would be worthwhile. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she is looking to expedite the process; a workshop will take longer to schedule; a subcommittee would be a quicker option, but she is open to a workshop; inquired the next steps. Councilmember Vella responded that she would like staff to notice a public hearing concerning the replacement and/or repeal of the ordinances with the same or similar provisions to be heard at a future meeting; re-agendizing the item as a first reading will allow for public comment; requested holding off on any RFP until direction is clarified through direction of the Council; stated Council can repeal any ordinance. Councilmember Oddie stated a workshop is needed; finding a remedy is key and a decision needs to be made whether Council has authority to perform the remedy; inquired what Council may do at the workshop; stated if the guidance from the OGC is to not stray from the agenda content and title, then Council does not have authority to make any changes; expressed concern about setting a precedent for an unelected body to designate items as null and void and create political issues; outlined potential future conflicts; expressed concern about confusion related to Council's authority; expressed support of Option 1 and 3, respectively. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she would like the structure of the upcoming workshop thought out. Vice Mayor Knox White stated the issue is difficult; applicants have invested time and money and should have a response from Council as soon as possible; the OGC is appointed and empowered by Council to oversee decisions as a citizen voice; figuring out rules and process is key to ensure every issue is agendized appropriately and in the same way; suggested the City Clerk and City Attorney offices reach out to the OGC to find out how the Commission interprets the Sunshine Ordinance; inquired whether the risk of litigation is still present if no action is taken. The Interim City Attorney responded in the affirmative; stated if Council takes no action to implement the OGC's decision of last year, Ordinances 3227 and 3228 remain in full force and effect, leaving to the validity of the ordinances open to legal challenges. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 10 February 19, 2019 | CityCouncil/2019-02-19.pdf |