pages: CityCouncil/2021-03-30.pdf, 22
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CityCouncil | 2021-03-30 | 22 | The City Clerk presented the Park map. Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated the map was attached to the Recreation and Parks Commission agenda; there is no reference to the grant excluding the areas shown; there have been numerous meetings led by the Recreation and Parks Commission; the matter also came before Council and Council has discretion over changing the plan; the plan cannot be changed without Council approval; she strongly believes any discussion to change the plan should be held at the Council level to allow for public information. Discussed Union Pacific land being used as part of the Jean Sweeney Park; stated there have been many Closed Session agendas regarding Union Pacific; a report should be made to the public as to why the plans have been changed; she hopes there would be opportunity for public input on any Council decision before public participation of a redesign; it is unfortunate a decision has been made without public comment; many volunteers help in the Jean Sweeney Park: Dorothy Freeman, Alameda. Stated that he likes the Jean Sweeney Park; having different sections of the Park is good; expressed support for space for adults to exercise expressed concern about the end of streets not connecting to the Park: Benhamish Allen, Alameda. Inquired about a stimulus windfall of approximately $28 million and whether the City can use funds to acquire the remaining; the section has been included in the original plan; expressed support for seeking grant funds and using one area of the Park for pickle ball courts: Carmen Reid, Alameda. Councilmember Daysog stated that his understanding is the project encompass a lot of the green and orange areas of the map presented; the north side of the Jean Sweeney Park is contiguous to the Marina Village light industrial business park; the original vision of Jean Sweeney Park on the south side would be contiguous to the neighborhoods; the intent of the Referral is to take pause and involve the public about what might be happening on the south side and to understand what is to come with financial implications. Councilmember Knox White stated too much has been said; expressed concern about Councilmembers disclosing conversations which cause jumping to conclusions; stated the matter has been unfortunate and causes distrust; this is the second time since he has been on Council that Closed Session discussions have shown up in public comment; no land use decisions or changes have been made; Council cannot make said decisions behind closed doors; Council is in litigation; it is easy for some people to make allegations and bring matters forward which are inappropriate and illegal; Council needs to be careful. Councilmember Knox White moved approval of stopping the discussion and making a commitment to the public that when matters are available to discuss and deliberate on, Council will provide an opportunity to both have discussion about any conversations made in Closed Session and have conversations that can lead to future discussions about the park. Vice Mayor Vella seconded the motion. Continued March 16, 2021 Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 22 March 30, 2021 | CityCouncil/2021-03-30.pdf |