MINUTES OF THE
CITY OF SAN RAMON – COUNCIL MEETING

A regular meeting of the City Council of the City of San Ramon was held January 23, 2007 at 7:03 p.m. in the City Council Chamber at City Hall, 2222 Camino Ramon, Vice Mayor Perkins presiding.

PRESENT: Councilmembers Hudson, Livingstone, Rowley, Vice Mayor Perkins.

ABSENT: Mayor Wilson.

STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Herb Moniz, Acting City Attorney Bob Saxe, Police Captain Joe Gorton, Transportation Division Manager Lisa Bobadilla, Parks and Community Services Director Jeff Eorio, Finance Division Manager Eva Howard, Finance Director Greg Rogers, Emergency Preparedness Manager Ray Riordan, and City Clerk Patricia Edwards.

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The City Council led the staff and the audience in the pledge of allegiance.

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Vice Mayor Perkins asked if there were any changes or additions to the agenda. The City Clerk noted there were none.

Vice Mayor Perkins asked if there were changes or additions to the schedule of Boards, Committee and Commission meetings. The City Clerk noted that there were none.

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Vice Mayor Perkins presented the proclamation to Patty O’Malley, California High School Counselor. Ms. O’Malley thanked the Council and community for their support.

Janna Thompson, President of the Dublin/San Ramon Women’s Club, presented a check for $12,375 to Pat Boom, San Ramon Historic foundation Board Member. An equal amount will be presented to the Dublin Heritage Foundation. Mrs. Boom noted that the money will be spent to furnish one room of the David Glass House. She thanked the Dublin/San Ramon Women’s Club and recognized their community achievements.

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Transportation Division Manager Lisa Bobadilla gave the report. The two candidates being considered to represent San Ramon are Patty Hoyt and Phillip Cox.

Cm. Rowley highly recommended the appointment of Ms. Hoyt and Mr. Cox.

Cm. Hudson’s motion to appoint Ms. Hoyt and Mr. Cox was seconded by Cm. Rowley and passed 4-0. Mayor Wilson was absent.

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The City Clerk noted that there was one request for public comment.

Carol Lopez, representing the San Ramon Historic Foundation, invited residents to attend the annual Crab Feed on February 3, 2007 at the Dougherty Station Community Center. Social Hour is at 6:00 p.m. with dinner at 7:00 p.m. Tickets cost $35.00 per person.

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Cm. Livingstone’s motion to approve the January 9, 2007 minutes was seconded by Cm. Hudson and passed 4-0. Mayor Wilson was absent.

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Cm. Hudson and Cm. Livingstone requested that item 8.3 be removed from the Consent Calendar for discussion. The City Clerk noted that two emails were received addressing item 8.6.

(#8.2) Resolution No. 2007-08 – Ordering the District Engineer to Prepare and File an

Engineer's Report for the Annexation of Old Ranch Summit (Subdivision 8702) into the

Geologic Hazard Abatement District No. 1990-01.

(#8.4 A) Resolution No. 2007-10 – Accepting Certain Roadway and Stormdrain Dedications and Improvements in RA 1138 (South Monarch Road) for Maintenance (Shapell Industries - Rose Garden/Villa Paseo at Gale Ranch).

(#8.4 B) Resolution No. 2007-11 – Accepting Certain Roadway and Stormdrain Dedications and Improvements in RA 1139 (Stoneleaf Road) for Maintenance (Shapell Industries - Rose Garden/Villa Paseo at Gale Ranch).

(#8.5) Resolution No. 2007-12 – Accepting Certain Roadway and Stormdrain Dedications and Improvements in RA 1135 (North Monarch Road) for Maintenance (Shapell Industries - Gallery at Gale Ranch).

Cm. Livingstone’s motion to approve consent calendar items 8.1, 8.2, 8.4 and 8.5 was seconded by Cm. Hudson and passed 4-0. Mayor Wilson was absent.

(#8.3) Resolution No. 2007- 09 – Approving a City of San Ramon Honorary Street Name Policy.

Transportation Division Manager Lisa Bobadilla gave the report.

Cm. Livingstone requested the definition of "an individual of local significance".

Ms. Bobadilla stated that the Policy Committee defined this person as a person who has made significant nonpolitical contributions to the San Ramon community.

There was one request from the public to address this item.

Bill Gregory objected to the criteria which limited the honoree to a current or former San Ramon resident. He did not want to wait until a person was dead before they could be recognized. He urged the Council to remove the restrictive wording so that living and renowned citizens can be honored.

Cm. Hudson asked if the "significant contribution" was limited to the City of San Ramon or to the San Ramon Valley.

Ms. Bobadilla responded that it would be exclusively to the City of San Ramon.

Cm. Hudson stated that the public hearing should be held before the Zoning Administrator rather than the Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC) since sign issues were under the purview of the Zoning Ordinance.

City Manager Herb Moniz clarified that street naming is not a necessary regulatory action but rather an ornamental designation. It is a zoning issue, not a transportation issue.

Cm. Hudson’s motion to adopt Resolution No. 2007-09 with the amendment that the public hearing before the Zoning Administrator (instead of the TAC) was not seconded. Cm. Hudson removed the motion.

Cm. Rowley asked if people could be nominated who have not lived in San Ramon but have made a significant contribution to the City. She also questioned the City’s cost of putting up, removing, and maintaining the honorary street signs.

Ms. Bobadilla responded that the $500 cash deposit will cover the cost, installation, and administrative costs for one sign. Public Services will do the maintenance.

Cm. Hudson expressed concerns about the number of signs which could be requested and the restrictive requirement that the honoree be a resident of San Ramon.

Vice Mayor Perkins noted that the Policy states "should be or have been" a San Ramon resident. This is only a guideline not an absolute requirement. The Policy provides guidelines to recognize those who are significant in the development, growth, and culture of San Ramon. The final decision belongs to the Zoning Administrator.

Cm. Hudson’s made a motion to adopt Resolution No. 2007-09 with an amendment replacing the Transportation Advisory Committee with the Zoning Administrator for public hearings. Cm. Rowley seconded the motion and requested that the Policy be evaluated in one year and returned to the Policy Committee. The motion passed 3-1, Cm. Livingstone dissenting. Mayor Wilson was absent.

(#8.6) Ordinance No. 388 – Approving the Faria Preserve Development Agreement (DA 06-850-001).

The City Clerk summarized an email from Stuart Flashman who represents the Sierra Club. They contend that: the project’s environmental review is defective; the project is inconsistent with Ordinance 197 and with the General Plan; and the project’s approval is invalid. Approval of the Development Agreement is invalid and violates CEQA, Ordinance 197, and the General Plan.

Leslie Mague questioned the reason for approving Ordinance No. 388 at this time. She wants to know what the contract means so that they can understand the issues.

Vice Mayor Perkins stated that a lawsuit has been filed against the City regarding the Faria Preserve which contests the entitlements and the environmental impacts. There is no current lawsuit regarding the Development Agreement.

Cm. Hudson’s motion to approve consent calendar items 8.6 and waive the reading of the ordinance was seconded by Cm. Livingstone and passed 4-0. Mayor Wilson was absent.

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Parks and Community Services Director Jeff Eorio introduced Will Doerlich, Arts Advisory Committee (AAC) Chair. Mr. Doerlich reviewed the purpose of the AAC, their accomplishments and actions, and their 2007 goals and objectives for 2007.

Vice Mayor Perkins stated that he is impressed with the AAC’s accomplishments.

Cm. Rowley’s motion to accept the report was seconded by Cm. Hudson and passed 4-0. Mayor Wilson was absent.

Lisa Bobadilla, Transportation Division Manager, reviewed the City’s Permit Parking Program. She summarized the history of the Permit Parking request for Weymouth Court including the petition, the Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC) meetings and public hearings, and reviewed the issues and concerns. Staff recommends approval of the Weymouth Court Permit Parking extension with a termination date to coincide with the completion of the California High construction project and/or Parking Study.

Cm. Hudson asked if every Weymouth Court homeowner supports the extension.

Ms. Bobadilla responded that they do. She stated that the Permit Parking extension would be effective from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., seven days a week.

Cm. Rowley asked if the Ensenada, Mangos and DeAnza streets would be included.

Cm. Livingstone questioned how the Cal High Construction and Parking Study are related to this issue. He stated that the parking problem is not related to ongoing construction. It is a convenience issue.

Ms. Bobadilla stated that parking is available in the evenings at the high school but that it is not utilized.

Cm. Livingstone noted that the other streets are not impacted by pool parking, or after school activities.

Ms. Bobadilla responded that the recommendation is made only for Weymouth Court.

Vice Mayor Perkins opened the public hearing.

Nicole Arndt thanked City staff for researching the request to extend the Weymouth Court Permit Parking from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., seven days a week (the 7/7/7 Plan). Weymouth Court residents unanimously support the petition request. She noted that Weymouth Court parking is utilized even when parking is available at California High School or on other streets. She is concerned that safety issues may arise due to the narrowness of the Court and cars trying to turn around.

Wayne Narr supports the 7/7/7 Plan. He reviewed the unique character of Weymouth Court: its proximity to tennis courts, it is a cul de sac and is about five feet narrower than a standard City street. The 7/7/7 Plan is simple, immediate, cheap, and effective.

Siegfried Arndt expressed his support for the 7/7/7 Plan. It solves the problem and does not negatively impact neighboring streets and community activities. The high school construction issues are not relevant. The problem is the result of increased facility use during after school hours. Weymouth Court residents use 8 of the Court’s 21 available parking spaces. He noted that Weymouth Court residents unanimously support the Plan.

Cm. Hudson noted that the Council is aware of the problem.

Vice Mayor Perkins asked if the mitigation plan which was implemented last summer provided any relief. Ms. Arndt responded no.

Roz Rogoff stated her support for the 7/7/7 plan. It will not affect Mangos Drive.

Robert Whitlock supports the 7/7/7 Plan.

Donna Kerger commented that the people bought their homes without anticipating the addition of the tennis courts and pools across the street. She supports the 7/7/7 Plan and recommended that it be retained after the Cal High construction is completed.

Sandy Narr supports the 7/7/7 Plan.

Harvey Riggs, a member of the Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC), supports the staff and resident’s 7/7/7 Plan proposal. The split TAC decision centered on how long the restriction should last. He recommended that the parking permit extension include a sunset feature and that a comprehensive study of the high school’s circulation and parking be conducted to develop a long term solution.

Bruno Jahn submitted a letter stating his support for the 7/7/7 Plan.

Weymouth Court residents Dennis and Tersa Darwell, Pete and Jean Turturice, and Rosemarie Arndt, support the 7/7/7 Plan.

Ben Chamberlin noted that the problem is not a lack of parking at the high school but the proximity of Weymouth Court parking to the pool and tennis courts. He supports the 7/7/7 Plan.

The City Clerk read an email from Susan and Steve Taylor opposing the extension of permit parking hours on any City streets. They are concerned that once the precedent is set, it will be extended to all permit parking areas.

Vice Mayor Perkins closed the public hearing.

Cm. Hudson noted that parking permits influence real estate sales. The two primary issues are to change people’s patterns and to ensure safety. He supports staff’s recommendation.

Cm. Livingstone stated that he does not support staff’s recommendations concerning the high school construction. He does not believe that it impacts the parking on Weymouth Court. He supports the 7/7/7 Plan because it is unanimously supported by the homeowners. Cm. Rowley concurred with Cm. Livingstone’s comments.

Vice Mayor Perkins commented on the impact of swim events on Weymouth Court parking. He does not believe that 24/7 restrictions are warranted. He commented that the parking problems will not be mitigated with the end of the high school construction. He supports the 7/7/7 Plan.

Cm. Livingstone’s motion to approve the parking permit extension on Weymouth Court from 7:00 am to 7:00 p.m., seven days a week was seconded by Cm. Hudson and passed 4-0. Mayor Wilson was absent.

Cm. Hudson noted that habits are difficult to break and suggested that police patrols of the area might be beneficial.

Vice Mayor Perkins directed staff to inform the Police Department as soon as the new signs are installed. He suggested that the Parks Department notify pool and tennis courts users of the new parking restrictions.

Finance Division Manager Eva Howard introduced Kathryn Beseau with Moreland and Associates, Inc. who presented the report. Ms. Beseau thanked City staff for their assistance and preparedness. She reviewed the audit procedures. There were no deficiencies or weaknesses in the City’s internal controls. She noted that the City’s overall financial health is very positive. There is a $22.7 million increase in total net assets and the General Fund has increased by $4.4 million. She noted that the City implemented Other Post Employment Benefits in 2006 prior to the 2009 mandate.

Vice Mayor Perkins thanked Moreland and Associates for their expertise and analysis of the City’s fiscal health. He acknowledged the work of the Finance Department staff.

Cm. Hudson’s motion to accept the report was seconded by Cm. Livingstone and passed 4-0. Mayor Wilson was absent.

The report was presented by Finance Director Greg Rogers. Resolution No. 2007-13 is required by CALPERS to amend the City’s contract to authorize the Pre-Retirement Optional Settlement 2 Death Benefit. The Finance Committee reviewed the Death Benefit option at its September 13, 2006 meeting and directed staff to present the proposed contract amendment to the Council. The estimated cost to the City is 0.197% of salaries which is $22,615 for the first year.

There were no questions from the Council.

Cm. Hudson’s motion to approve Resolution No. 2007-13 was seconded by Cm. Rowley and passed 4-0. Mayor Wilson was absent.

Finance Director Greg Rogers reported that, after adoption of Resolution No. 2007-13, the City is required to conduct a public hearing and approve the introduction of an ordinance that would authorize an amendment to the City’s CALPERS contract to add the Pre-Retirement Optional Settlement 2 Death Benefit.

There were no questions from the Council.

Vice Mayor Perkins opened the public hearing. There were no requests to address this item. Vice Mayor Perkins closed the public hearing.

Cm. Hudson’s motion to introduce the ordinance, waive the reading, and conduct the public hearing was seconded by Cm. Rowley and passed 4-0. Mayor Wilson was absent.

Ray Riordan, Emergency Preparedness Manager, reviewed the City’s emergency preparedness efforts which includes adopting plans, securing supplies and equipment, hiring staff, and providing emergency training. Activities in 2006 included adopting an Emergency Operations Plan, initiating the Citizen Emergency Response Training program, and conducting local and regional training exercises, etc. He outlined the tasks facing the City’s Office of Emergency Services. Future tasks will include: developing a Disaster Mitigation Plan; evaluating the status of mutual aid and assistance programs; and developing a City communications plan and a public information program. The City’s Disaster Ordinance should include a Disaster Council, an Emergency Planning Team, and an Emergency Preparedness Strategic Plan.

Cm. Livingstone requested an update on communications interoperability.

Mr. Riordan replied that Alameda and Contra Costa counties are individually working on a study. He estimates that it will take two years to install the infrastructure for the system, enter into a Joint Powers Agreement to manage the two county system, and purchase equipment. Mr. Riordan added that San Ramon is looking into an AM emergency broadcast radio system.

Mr. Riordan informed the Council that the California Specialized Training Institute is conducting a four day training at the end of January for San Ramon, Danville, the Fire Protection District, and the School District. Vice Mayor Perkins encouraged the multi-agency emergency training.

Cm. Hudson’s motion to accept the report was seconded by Cm. Livingstone and passed 4-0. Mayor Wilson was absent.

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City Manager Herb Moniz had no comment.

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Cm. Hudson noted that several new trails and parks are being considered by the East Bay Regional Parks District and that they are improving their web site. The County’s Hazardous Materials Commission is reviewing their priorities and assembling a list of Brownfields. He reported that the Central Contra Costa Transit Authority contract will expire soon and they are considering a potential strike vote

Vice Mayor Perkins reminded San Ramon residents that they will have three opportunities to provide their input to the Parks and Community Services Master Plan on January 24, January 25 and February 3, 2007. He encouraged residents to get involved and serve on one of the City’s Committees. Additional information is available on the City’s web site and applications are due to the City Clerk by February 15, 2007. The San Ramon Historic Foundation’s Crab Feed will be held on February 3, 2007. He noted that the Chamber of Commerce, Contra Costa County Workforce Development Board and the City are is sponsoring a symposium entitled "Taking Your Business to the Next Level" on January 24, 2007. He reminded residents that the deadline for RV registration is February 28, 2007.

At 9:37 p.m., the Council convened to Closed Session pursuant to Government Code §54957 to meet with its labor negotiators, Jeff Eorio, Greg Rogers, and Cheryl Mitchell Wade – SEIU Local 790. At 10:23 p.m. Vice Mayor Perkins reconvened the meeting and reported that no action was taken by the Council.

There being no further business, Vice Mayor Perkins adjourned the meeting at 10:24 p.m.

Signed:
Scott Perkins, Vice Mayor
Patricia Edwards, City Clerk

Approved at the February 13, 2007 City Council meeting, 4-0; Wilson abstain.