pages: CityCouncil/2021-10-05.pdf, 7
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CityCouncil | 2021-10-05 | 7 | to the Transportation Commission. Councilmember Knox White responded a lot of transportation conversations are not focused on the City's set goals; stated that he would rather the matter return to Council for guidance before it goes to the Transportation Commission. Vice Mayor Vella stated perhaps the direction on the transportation corridors could be removed; there should be a broader conversation about goals and the efficacy of what has been done; she would like to see the City exploring different infrastructure options; WiFi does not exist without infrastructure; where money comes from is separate; there could be other grants; it could be difficult for staff to go after funding if there is not a policy in place; staff needs to understand the direction from Council; she would like to hear more from her colleagues and understand how they want to address infrastructure. Councilmember Herrera Spencer inquired whether staff thinks more funding is needed to support the Library hot spots; stated that she would like to break the direction down into parts; expressed support for WiFi across the Island. The Assistant City Manager responded staff has the funding needed; the ARPA discussions will be back in December to get formal authorization to spend the funds; specific amounts for projects are being fleshed out; $50,000 seems adequate for the program and timeframe; more information will return in December. Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated that she looks forward to the conversation returning in December; regarding the rest of the Plan, she agrees with Councilmember Knox White and thinks more time should be spent on the specific items; she is not ready to proceed with committing $6 million and does not see ARPA as the appropriate funding source. Councilmember Daysog stated staff put together and provided costs for 10 recommendations to meet Smart City goals; the Council is raising questions which will come back; his question is about better understanding the ISP business model; Councilmember Knox White is focused on transit; staff provided an envelope of recommendations; Council has follow up question for certain areas; Councilmember Herrera Spencer raised questions about the digital divide; staff will come back, which might result in some things falling off; staff provided a starting point for Council to have a conversation and get the Smart City program going; having ARPA funds is great; perhaps other funds will be available in the future. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft concurred with Councilmember Daysog; discussed ARPA funds; stated the way people work has changed dramatically; a Chamber of Commerce speaker indicated it will take a few years for people to return to offices; infrastructure is needed to support people working from home; discussed telemedicine; stated that she has questions about the additional staffing; she wants estimates and funding sources; ARPA is for one-time expenditures; concurred with Councilmember Knox White's request for information on where programs have been used successfully; stated the Regular Meeting Alameda City Council October 5, 2021 6 | CityCouncil/2021-10-05.pdf |