pages: CityCouncil/2020-04-21.pdf, 21
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CityCouncil | 2020-04-21 | 21 | Public Comment Read Into Record: Urged Council to consider small businesses; stated six months is a very short time for people to get back up and running; expressed concern for large property owners being able to weather the virus better than average citizens: Joanne Martin, Hot Rod Shop. Vice Mayor Knox White moved approval of the staff recommendation as-written [adoption of the urgency ordinance]. Councilmember Vella seconded the motion. Under discussion, Councilmember Daysog stated the provision freezing rents for residential units until January 2021 is too onerous and unreasonable; a reasonable timeframe would be four months; outlined difficulties with the rent regime and rent formula; stated the allowable rent increase will be much less than 2.8% due to the downgrade in the economy; an eight month rent freeze will create a deep freeze instead; expressed support for a four month rent freeze instead. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft expressed support for the motion. On the call for the question, the motion carried by the following roll call vote: Councilmembers Daysog: Aye; Knox White: Aye; Oddie: Aye; Vella: Aye; and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft: Aye. Ayes: 5. (20-244) Recommendation to Consider Rent Relief for City of Alameda Commercial and Residential Tenants, Excluding Cell Phone Towers and Marinas. The Assistant Community Development Director gave a brief presentation. Councilmember Oddie stated if a business is able to get back up and running from day one, they should yield a lesser rebate than an alternate business which struggles more to return in need of extra assistance. The Assistant Community Development Director continued the presentation. Councilmember Oddie stated that he was hoping to have creative minds look at this item; discussions have been had with businesses showing that rent is the biggest worry; the City should lead by example where others can follow. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated rent is a concern, but also many are trying to retain as many employees as possible and are attempting to apply for grants; noted creative solutions should be considered during this time; ideas for re-opening should be discussed. Councilmember Vella inquired whether a business that is a business district anchor should be considered as value; questioned whether profit-splitting could be considered Special Meeting Alameda City Council April 21, 2020 11 | CityCouncil/2020-04-21.pdf |