pages: CityCouncil/2022-06-07.pdf, 6
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CityCouncil | 2022-06-07 | 6 | for the program being moved to the City Attorney's office; stated the switch will be clean: Laura Woodard, Alameda Renters Coalition. Councilmember Daysog stated the rent program should be under the AHA; the program subject matter is a natural fit for AHA; he is confident that the City Attorney's office will perform well; however, he feels AHA is a better fit for the rent program. Councilmember Knox White moved approval of the staff recommendation [including adoption of the resolution]. Vice Mayor Vella seconded the motion. Under discussion, Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated that she has concerns about moving the program from AHA; noted that she is a renter; inquired whether the City staff handling the program will be located at City Hall West. The City Attorney responded in the affirmative; stated there is not enough space to house the program and staff at City Hall. Councilmember Herrera Spencer inquired the hours of business for City Hall West. The City Attorney responded that his intent is to have the rent program staff operate on Friday's for critical matters; stated that he will work with the Human Resources Director to ensure intake opportunities on Fridays. Councilmember Herrera Spencer expressed support for services being offered on Fridays; expressed concern about the process being adversarial since attorneys will be involved; stated moving away from mediation will be more adversarial between tenants and landlords; the City Attorney currently takes action against landlords; inquired whether the City Attorney offers serves both sides, representing landlords and tenants. The City Attorney responded that he does not represent landlords or tenants; stated enforcement actions are on behalf of the State of California; the City Attorney's office represents the people of the State of California; mediation services have been taken over from Centro Legal de la Raza at half the cost; staff is engaging in mediation and question and answer sessions; staff looks forward to expanding the area of work in collaboration with the rent team; mediation is an important part of the landlord and tenant relationship; enforcement actions are viewed as a last resort; the goal is to provide education and mediation efforts first and take enforcement actions only when necessary. Councilmember Herrera Spencer inquired whether there will be any change to salaries or benefits for employees. The City Attorney responded staff has found parallel tracks for compensation and classifications; stated the goal is to keep things the same. The Human Resources Director stated staff obtained employment information from the AHA and aligned the positions with City salaries and job descriptions; Human Resources will do recruitments; the goal is to bring employees over. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council June 7, 2022 4 | CityCouncil/2022-06-07.pdf |