pages: CityCouncil/2020-06-16.pdf, 6
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CityCouncil | 2020-06-16 | 6 | The following public comment was read into the record: Expressed concern about the Alameda Sun's circulation; urged Council not to award the contract to the Sun: Erin Fraser, Alameda. Councilmember Daysog stated the circulation for Alameda Sun is distributed at roughly 4,000 which is below the 2019 audit; expressed support for staff's recommendation; stated a lower distribution is likely due to impacts from COVID-19 and that he hopes for a turnaround which brings the distribution higher than 4,000. Councilmember Oddie expressed support; stated the Alameda Sun is still publishing; he would like the Sun to stay and be successful; a discussion related to a different vendor may need to happen in the future; the Charter requires the City to have an official newspaper. Vice Mayor Knox White moved approval of the staff recommendation; inquired whether the item could return in six months for review; noted meetings still need to be properly noticed. The City Clerk responded the Charter requires a one year contract; suggested the City Attorney provide an opinion. Councilmember Vella stated that she would like more information related to how this matter ties into the special meeting discussion of properly noticed meetings; expressed support for input from staff. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated some residents are not online and are part of the digital divide; many receive news from the newspaper; expressed support for small local businesses and meeting noticing requirements. The City Attorney stated the Charter requires an annual contract award from Council; Council may request additional review; staff recommends the contract be awarded on an annual basis; the Charter allows for the City to mail notices, however the process is burdensome and is not recommended; the Charter may be amended if desired but is subject to Council direction and voter approval. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired the term expiration of the current contract, to which the City Clerk responded June 30. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired what would occur should Alameda Sun no longer exist or the business terminates. The City Attorney responded the contract will need to be revisited; stated the City Clerk would promptly select another designated newspaper while mailing notices until approved. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council June 16, 2020 4 | CityCouncil/2020-06-16.pdf |