pages: CityCouncil/2021-01-05.pdf, 7
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CityCouncil | 2021-01-05 | 7 | Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft expressed concern about Council performing actions that support serious violations of public health restrictions; stated there are competing interests. The City Manager stated that he has heard three concerns: 1) the health of the employees, as well as patrons to businesses, 2) actions which unintentionally hurt businesses by adding an extra provision causing a misinterpretation and subsequent revocation by either the City Attorney or the City Manager, and 3) providing funds to aid businesses; stated his recommendation, based on the concerns raised, is for Council to consider approving the leases at this meeting and should any business wish to revisit their lease, said lease can be brought back for Council consideration; in order to provide aid as soon as possible, staff can bring back a policy and further protections for businesses that make a request. Councilmember Spencer stated that she was not present for the first reading; from her perspective, the language included is too extreme; noted that she would not have supported the first reading language nor the previous leases; stated it is important to have a policy; it is not appropriate to place the burden of returning to Council on businesses; expressed support for finding a compromise. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she has heard the need for policy directive; noted that she has recommended an ad hoc committee of Councilmembers Knox White and Spencer to work with the City Manager and City Attorney to return with language which adds a safeguard to the lease agreements; stated doing so allows the matter to move forward, provides funds to businesses that have been waiting and creates a solution to address concerns; inquired whether Councilmember Spencer would consider being part of the ad hoc committee. Councilmember Spencer responded that she is not in a position to support the matter as-written; stated that she has recommended Council creating language and expedite the process when the matter returns. Councilmember Knox White expressed concern about different language being contained in different agreements; inquired whether Council direction can be provided to staff not to implement the clause until a policy clarifying the process is created and adopted; stated the recommendation allows for all adopted contracts to have the same language and protections giving clear Council-adopted direction about implementation; expressed concern about wordsmithing contracts at the current meeting; questioned whether Council can state that action will not be taken until a clear policy is in place. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she is willing to put together any Councilmember- combination ad hoc committee; Councilmember Spencer has been given the first opportunity based on concerns raised. Councilmember Spencer stated that she will not be able to support the contract without more information on the policy. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 5 January 5, 2021 | CityCouncil/2021-01-05.pdf |