pages: CityCouncil/2022-06-07.pdf, 11
This data as json
body | date | page | text | path |
---|---|---|---|---|
CityCouncil | 2022-06-07 | 11 | Councilmember Herrera Spencer inquired whether the referenced letter falls under the legislative agenda. Councilmember Knox White responded the letter is not a part of the referral; stated the letter aligns with the City's Vision Zero safety legislation. The City Attorney stated Council may provide brief direction for staff to look at its legislative policy and consider whether or not to act with existing Council authority without debating whether or not to provide staff direction. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft requested clarification about the content of the letter of support. Councilmember Knox White stated the letter addresses safe vehicle design; vehicles are being designed for higher speeds than legal on City streets; the letter is three pages long. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether the letter will be directed at auto manufacturers or federal law makers. Councilmember Knox White responded the letter will be submitted as part of the rule-making call for comments, which closes tomorrow; the letter will go directly to the National Highway Safety Transportation Agency. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether Council is being asked to develop a City ordinance versus supporting State or federal legislation; how the process works due to federal preemption for commercial vehicles not meeting federal design standards; stated that she would like to know where the City fits into the matter. The City Attorney responded there are a number of preemption concerns; stated staff will need to perform significant legal analysis to see whether there is a way to get around the preemptions; staff will devote significant effort if Council so directs. Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated that she will not be supporting the referral; the matter is preemptive and there are more pressing City issues for Council to address. Vice Mayor Vella stated the matter is worth looking into; expressed support for staff looking into legislation or other options; stated the City is preempted from taking actions; Council can direct staff to perform brief legal research and provide legislative alternatives; the issue should be looked into; vehicles are causing serious injuries. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft discussed meetings lobbying for federal funding; stated lobbying includes safety matters; the referral is relevant; she has concerns about how to approach the matter at a local level; questioned whether the topic can be brought to the Alameda County Transportation Commission (ACTC); stated the topic seems like more than a quick review of federal law. Vice Mayor Vella questioned whether Council can limit the research performed; stated the City could raise the matter with lobbyists and obtain feedback to see whether pending legislation exists versus legislating at a local level; expressed support for bringing the matter to ACTC and other representatives. Councilmember Knox White stated the topic is already part of the City's legislative agenda; Regular Meeting Alameda City Council June 7, 2022 9 | CityCouncil/2022-06-07.pdf |