pages: CityCouncil/2020-05-19.pdf, 17
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CityCouncil | 2020-05-19 | 17 | Councilmember Oddie inquired whether there is support to awarding more grant money. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft questioned whether Council could wait until the budget hearing to decide and whether the decision is needed to move the Alameda Strong item forward. Councilmember Oddie noted the item is not on the agenda for the budget; stated the awardees will be announced by the end of the week; expressed concern about a delay in getting money into the hands of businesses. The City Manager stated staff has provided options: 1) the item can be continued to follow the budget meeting scheduled for tomorrow; 2) staff can return on June 2 to discuss adding money to the Alameda Strong fund. Councilmember Oddie inquired whether it is possible to continue the discussion of augmenting the grant fund to the May 20th budget meeting, while moving forward with the Alameda Strong Community Relief Fund. The City Attorney responded Council may continue the agenda item; stated Council may provide direction at this meeting, but still continue the entire item to the May 20th budget meeting. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she would like to find a way to move forward on the Alameda Strong Community Relief Fund. Vice Mayor Knox White stated Council may provide direction tonight to move forward with the community fund and delay the action on funding relief until the May 20th budget meeting; the formal vote would occur May 20th. The City Attorney stated staff recommends not bifurcating the item into smaller pieces to continue the item; Council may take votes on the item at this meeting, but allow the option to reverse at the May 20th budget meeting. Councilmember Vella expressed support for taking up the conversation about potentially putting more money into the grant program with the budget discussion, and launching the project; stated the City can give money later, but would focus on getting others to contribute now, which might reduce the need for more funds from the General Fund; expressed concern about a complex administration process; stated that she will defer to staff about the number of funds; noted the option of one fund being earmarked by donors is a way to create less administrative complications; questioned whether different non-profits will only give to related entities; stated there is value to non-profits having their own fund; expressed support for an Alameda Business with experience in administering any public funds being considered to provide assistance. The Community Development Director stated staff is able to continue moving the project forward and incorporate any decision regarding funding provided at the May 20th budget meeting. Special Meeting Alameda City Council 8 May 19, 2020 | CityCouncil/2020-05-19.pdf |