pages: CityCouncil/2020-09-01.pdf, 17
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CityCouncil | 2020-09-01 | 17 | 489 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; expressed support for the program expanding into the evening hours; stated the hotline for the program is: (510) 522-HOME; people can call for resources for the unhoused; expressed concern about the limited program hours, which do not capture the needs that occur on weekends and after-hours for businesses and restaurants, which provide service in evenings; expressed concern about the cost of expanding services; stated that she supports the proposal; there is nothing preventing Council from dipping into reserves in the future; other budget allocations are being presented in October; expressed support for knowing costs to expand the program; stated the limited hours only allow the surface to be scratched; many issues and needs do not arise until the weekend or after-hours; it is important to bring this matter forward; expressed support for a focus on bike parking and not car parking; noted Bike Walk Alameda (BWA) provided suggestions; stated that she would like staff to work closely with BWA to ensure business districts are as safe as possible in line with Vision Zero and goals for safe access for pedestrians and those on bicycles; future Council discussions will circle around pick-up and parking; expressed support for focusing on compliance within business associations; stated as business associations provide funding, compliance information and updates are provided to businesses; there is a focus on restaurants; however, there are a number of businesses within the districts; expressed concern about outside shared space being taken by neighboring businesses; as the program progresses, there needs to be a focus on enough communal space for all to operate; expressed concern about having a first come first served basis. Councilmember Oddie noted the referral includes a suggestion which allows for parklets in front of vacant properties to allow space for retailers. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether the matter requires two votes. The City Attorney responded in the affirmative; stated Council may vote on the staff recommendation first and the Council Referral second. Councilmember Oddie moved approval of the staff recommendation allocations [adoption of the resolution]: $250,000 reimbursement [of the General Fund], $250,000 non-reimbursable, $300,000 economic development relief as grants to the [business] associations per the referral and taking out parking as deferred to another time and $203,970 for homeless assistance, etcetera. Councilmember Daysog inquired whether Council is remaining silent on the $900,000 from reserves and is only considering State funds, to which Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft responded in the affirmative. Councilmember Vella seconded the motion. Under discussion, Vice Mayor Knox White stated that Council is missing an opportunity to take money received and look at providing grants to businesses which are struggling; expressed support for considering providing grants in the motion. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated Council is off to a good start; more data can be collected. Councilmember Oddie inquired how much the Block by Block program would cost. The Community Development Director responded running the pilot program between now and December would cost $100,000; requested clarification of whether the Block by Block program or Village of Love program would be considered. Councilmember Oddie stated $100,000 of the $250,000 General Fund reimbursement could be left open until more information is provided regarding Block by Block and Village of Love; expressed Regular Meeting Alameda City Council September 1, 2020 | CityCouncil/2020-09-01.pdf |