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HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-21-2000 Adopted CC Minutes REGULAR MEETING - November 21, 2000 A regular meeting of the Dublin City Council was held on Tuesday, November 21, 2000, in the Council Chambers of the Dublin Civic Center. The meeting was called to order at 7:10 p.m., by Mayor Houston. ROLL CALL PRESENT: Councilmembers Howard, McCormick, Zika, Vice Mayor Lockhart and Mayor Houston. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Mayor Houston led the Council, Staff and those present in the pledge of allegiance to the flag. CLOSED SESSION 10.1 (640N30) Mayor Houston announced that the previously scheduled closed session was canceled. INTRODUCTION OF NEW EMPLOYEES 7:11 p.m. 3.1 (700-10) Police Chief Gary Thuman introduced new Dublin Police Services Deputy Abbie Marconi and Deputy Peter Slaughter. Deputy Slaughter said he is excited about working for the City of Dublin. He grew up in Livermore and enjoys being a part of the TriNValley community. Deputy Martoni thanked Captain Thuman for this opportunity and gave a brief history of her background. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 19 REGULAR MEETING November 21, 2000 PAGE 458 ACCEPTANCE OF GIFTS TO CITY FROM 2000 PASTA FESTIVAL SPONSORS p.m. 3.2 (150-70) The 2000 Dublin Pasta Festival was held the weekend of October 7 and 8, 2000. The City received $17,500 in sponsorships this year for the Dublin Pasta Festival. In addition, the City received support in the form of in-kind donations of goods and services from local businesses. In recognition of their contributions, these sponsors will be presented with certificates of appreciation, as well as festival t-shirts and glassware for their support of 2000 Dublin Pasta Festival. Recreation Supervisor Paul McCreary presented the Staff Report and named each of the sponsors that contributed toward the festival. He stated that the sponsors would be recognized with a girl and certificate of appreciation. Mayor Houston thanked the participants for contributing to the Pasta Festival and presented the gifts and certificates. On motion of Cm. Zika seconded by Cm. Lockhart and by unanimous vote, the Council accepted gifts and formally recognized the donors for their contributions. ADDITIONAL APPOINTMENTS TO THE ART SELECTION COMMITFEE FREEWAY UNDERPASS ART PROJECT 7:20 p.m. 3.3 (110-30) The City Council will consider expanding the number of Community at Large Representatives to the Freeway Art Selection Committee from two to four and will consider the Mayor's recommended appointments to the Committee. Mayor Houston recommended Barbara Luna and Kathleen Robinson Parks & Community Services Director Diane Lowart stated a request for qualifications for an artist was sent out and the information will be presented at a future Council meeting. Mayor Houston was concerned the underpass sidewalk work currently underway would need to be redone after the artwork was installed. He hoped it could be done in conjunction with the art project. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 19 REGULAR MEETING November 21, 2000 PAGE 459 Mr. Ambrose stated that it would ultimately depend on the art design; however, the sidewalk work needed to be done now because the sidewalk was not safe. Cm. McCormick indicated that CulTruns asked her for a project status update; they are ready and waiting. Mayor Houston reiterated his concern that the sidewalk would need to be reinstailed. He felt the Council would like the whole sidewalk to look uniform. Mr. Ambrose slated that the sidewalk was being replaced by the Alameda County Transportation Authority; the City is not actually doing the work. He recognized that the sidewalk may need additional work later. On motion of Cm. McCormick seconded by Cm. Lockhart and by unanimous vote, the Council approved the expansion the Committee and confirmed the Mayor's appointments of Barbara Luna and Kathleen Robinson to the Committee. PROCLAMATION 7:24 p.m. 3.4 (610-50) Mayor Houston read and presented a Proclamation to Kay Keck, City Clerk, in recognition of her attainment of Second Level Membership in the IIMC Master Municipal Clerk Academy. Ms. Keck is one of only 35 Municipal Clerks in the United States to reach this certification level. He thanked her for all she has done for the City and all she will do in the future. CONSENT CALENDAR 7:26 p.m. Items 4.1 through 4.14 On motion of Cm. Lockhart, seconded by Cm. Howard and 'by unanimous vote, the Council took the following actions: Approved (4.1) Minutes of Regular Meeting of November 8, 2000; Adopted (4.2 600~30) CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 19 REGULAR MEETING November 21 , 2000 PAGE 460 RESOLUTION NO. 191 -00 APPROVING AMENDMENT TO AGREEMENT WITH HOE, INCORPORATED FOR ENGINEERING SERVICES authorized the Mayor to execute Amendment No. 1 to the Agreement; and approved the Budget Change. Adopted (4.3 600-40) RESOLUTION NO. 192- 00 AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF AMENDMENT 2 (2000) TO LIVERMORE-AMADOR VALLEY TRANSIT AUTHORITY JOINT EXERCISE OF POWERS AGREEMENT and authorized the Mayor to execute the Agreement; Adopted (4.4 600-40) RESOLUTION NO. 193- 00 APPROVING AMENDMENT TO AGREEMENT FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF ALAMEDA COUNTY CLEAN WATER PROGRAM and authorized the Mayor to execute the Agreement; Adopted (4.5 600-35) RESOLUTION NO. 194- 00 AWARDING CONTRACT NO. 00-t5 DOUGHERTY ROAD TREE PLANTING TO GREENLINE LANDSCAPING ($21,453) and approved a budget increase ($3,358) from unallocated General Fund Reserves; CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 19 REGULAR MEETING November 21, 2000 PAGE 461 Authorized (4.6 820~35) new Capital Improvement Project in the amount of $34,800 from unallocated gas tax reserves and $122,920 from new revenue and authorized Staff to solicit bids for purchase of green LED (Light Emitting Diode) Traffic Signal Modules; Adopted (4.7 350-20) RESOLUTION NO. t95 - 00 DECLARING 2000 FORD CROWN VICTORIA AS SURPLUS PROPERTY AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO SELL IT TO A SALVAGE COMPANY and RESOLUTION NO. 196- 00 WAIVING THE COMPETITIVE BID PROCESS AND AUTHORIZING STAFF TO PURCHASE ONE (1) POLICE PATROL VEHICLE and approved the Budget Change; Adopted (4.8 350~20) RESOLUTION NO. 197- 00 AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF THE AGREEMENT WITH HARLEY DAVIDSON OF VALLEJO FOR PARTICIPATION IN THE BUY BACK PROGRAM and authorized the City Manager to execute the agreement; Adopted (4.9 COO0- 30) RESOLUTION NO. 198- 00 SELECTION OF CONSULTANTS FOR THE DOWNTOWN STREETSCAPE IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM FOR THE DOWNTOWN SPECIFIC PLANS (FREEDMAN TUNG & BOTTOMLEY - NOT TO EXCEED $45,000) and authorized the City Manager to execute the agreement; CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 19 REGULAR MEETING November 21, 2000 PAGE 462 Adopted (4.10 600- 30) RESOLUTION NO. 199- 00 APPROVING AGREEMENT WITH PERMCO ENGINEERING & MANAGEMENT FOR CONSULTING SERVICES and authorized the Mayor to execute the agreement; Received (4.11 3 30~ 50) the Preliminary Financial Reports for the Month of October 2000; Approved (4.12. 600~30) Consultant Services Agreement for Construction Management of the Civic Center Library with Pacific Program Management ($439,235, authorized the Mayor to execute the agreement, and approved the Budget Change; Adopted (4.13 600~30) RESOLUTION NO. 200 - 00 APPROVING AGREEMENT WITH HENRY MEYER & ASSOCIATES FOR ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL CONSULTING SERVICES NOT TO EXCEED $30,000 and authorized the Mayor to execute the agreement; Approved (4.14 300N40) the Warrant Register in the amount of $1,752,063.82. PUBLIC HEARING NO~PARKING ZONES ON TAMARACK DRIVE, BRIGHTON DRIVE, AND DAVONA DRIVE RELATED TO VILLAGE PARKWAY TRAFFIC SIGNAL PROJECT 7:27 p.m. 6.1 (570~20) Mayor Houston opened the public hearing. Public Works Director Lee Thomson presented the Staff Report and advised that the proposed no~parking zones are to be installed so that vehicles will not be parked on the traffic signal detector loops. With the exception of one 75' no-parking zone on Brighton Drive at Dublin High School, the proposed no~parking zones are small 20' to 25' areas. Much of the no~parking zones will be located on curb returns, where parking is not allowed. The signals are expected to be operational by the end of December. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 19 REGULAR MEETING November 21, 2000 PAGE 463 Mayor Houston closed the public hearing. Cm. McCormick asked if vehicles currently park in these areas. Mr. Thompson responded generally no, except at the high school. The high school parking zone will be longer because there will be right turn lane placed there.. The other no~parking zones are very short. In fact, one no~parking zone has a fire hydrant, so it will not affect parking there. He reiterated that vehicles are not allowed to park at curb returns, where the majority of no~parking zones will occur. Cm. McCormick asked if any cars would be displaced. Mr. Thompson responded approximately three cars would be displaced. Cm. Lockhart asked if any of the proposed no-parking zones run in front of or next to houses. Mr. Thompson explained that these are corner houses that face the side streets. They may lose 10' of parking, but not full car lengths because part of the no-parking zone goes around the curb return. On motion by Cm. Lockhart, seconded by Cm. McCormick and by unanimous vote, the Council adopted RESOLUTION NO. 201 -00 APPROVING NO-PARKING ZONES ON TAMARACK DRIVE, BRIGHTON DRIVE, AND DAVONA DRIVE PUBLIC HEARING ~ PA 99~064 QUARRY LANE SCHOOL, PLANNED DEVELOPMENT PREZONE AND ANNEXATION 7:30 p.m. 6.2 (620~20) Mayor Houston opened the public hearing. Associate Planner Anne Kinney stated the Quarry Lane Applicant has requested their item be continued to the December 5, 2000 City Council meeting. Mayor Houston stated this item would be continued to the December 5th City Council meeting. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 19 REGULAR MEETING November 21, 2000 PAGE 464 PUBLIC HEARING WEST DUBLIN BART SPECIFIC PLAN (PA 99~056); DOWNTOWN CORE SPECIFIC PLAN (PA 99~055); AND VILLAGE PARKWAY SPECIFIC PLAN (PA 99~054) 7:30 p.m. 6.3 (410~55) Community Development Director Eddie Peabody Jr., presented the Staff Report and advised that the City Council will consider adoption of three Specific Plans which will provide a framework for revitalizing and improving the downtown area of Dublin, General Plan Amendments to add a Mixed Use designation category to redesignate some land uses, and to modify the maximum allowable Floor Area Ratios (F.A.R.s) for the West Dublin BART and Downtown Core Specific Plan areas, and repealing portions of the existing Downtown Dublin Specific Plan. Mr. Peabody stated the presentation will briefly review the plans. Staff would then receive comments from the Public and Council. Staff will then prepare the final resolutions, based on Council direction, and return on December 19th City Council meeting. He introduced Staff member Janet Harbin. Ms. Harbin began with a PowerPoint presentation detailing the three Specific Plan Areas. She explained that in developing the plans, Staff conducted a detailed economic analysis, which included a market assessment of each of the properties within the Plan Areas. Staff then developed a land use scenario which reflected the economic analysis and how much development could be put on each property. Based on that, Staff tested it by using the land use scenarios with traffic numbers to see if those land use scenarios would work given the traffic situation and any improvements that could be made. Cm. Lockhart asked to see the boundary map again and asked if the plans extended to I~680. Ms. Harbin responded yes. She went on to explain that one of the goals of the DownDW~ Specific Plan, where economically feasible, is to encourage a mix of land uses on a single or adjoining parcel. Another goal is to provide for residential development in downtown area and provide senior housing. The plan would create a more pedestrian friendly environment and area enhancement. She explained the existing land use and the land use concept plan, and indicated that land use categories include commercial, retail/office and retail/auto, residential. She showed the possible building designs and a gateway diagram. The major issues which the Council needs to decide on in the core downtown area are the change in land use to high density for senior housing and providing a defined access way through the parking area of the Dublin Place Shopping Center. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 19 REGULAR MEETING November 21, 2000 PAGE 465 Ms. Harbin discussed the West Dublin BART Specific Han Area, indicating there will be a BART Station at the end of Golden Gate Drive. The goal of the plan is to promote a transit-oriented area, enhance the area and encourage an appropriate mix of land uses, and to create a more pedestrian friendly area. She indicated that Jones Lang LaSalle will be building a parking structure for BART ranging in height to 6 - 8 stories, and an adjacent hotel which could be as high as 8~ 10 stories. Ms. Harbin indicated that Crown Chevrolet submitted a letter requesting a land use change to retail/office; however, Staff recommends the land use remain as retail/automotive. She indicated the major issues Council will need to make decisions on are Crown Chevrolet's request for land use change; land use change proposed for the Corovan Warehouse property; acceptability of maximum building height of 10 stories; the inclusion of the Enea property in plan, at Robert Enea's request; and the widening of Golden Gate Drive, Regional Street and Amador Plaza Road. Ms. Harbin discussed the Village Parkway Specific Plan Area, stating that it was a unique area because a Task Force was created to work on the plan. There aren't any land uses changes proposed. The Task Force recommended the City revitalize and enhance the appearance of the area, protect nearby residential areas, create a more pedestrian~ friendly environment, and control traffic volume and speed. The existing roadway configuration is two lanes of traffic in each direction and parking is a problem. The Task Force recommended changing the road to one lane in each direction with streetscape improvements, diagonal parking, two new crosswalks, and a reduced median. Staff recommends maintaining the existing roadway and parking, create a Parking Authority, and improve parking access to the rear of properties by working with property owners to the remove barriers/fences between properties. Ms. Harbin indicated that if a major portion of the block was redeveloped by a property owner(s), Staff would re~evaluate diagonal parking at that time. She showed Staff's recommendation for angled parking, if it were to occur. Mr. Ambrose asked if four lanes would be maintained. Ms. Harbin stated yes. Cm. Zika asked if maintaining four lanes and having diagonal parking would require taking of property on each side of the street. Ms. Harbin indicated yes. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 19 REGULAR MEETING November 21, 2000 PAGE 466 Cm. Zika asked if the plan considered reducing the median or maintaining the width of the existing median. Ms. Harbin stated the median would be reduced by two feet. If more of the median was taken out, we might not have to take as much property from either side of the roadway. She indicated the Police Department temporarily closed off an area of Village Parkway to video record the affects of diagonal parking. She introduced Sgt. Phillips, Dublin's Traffic Sergeant. Sgt. Phillips presented the video, which was filmed on Tuesday, November 15th at 12:15 p.m. The view looked south on Village Parkway, just south of the post office. He stated there was a problem with stacking of vehicles. Cm. Zika stated stacking is also a problem on Monday and Friday. Sgt. Phillips stated that cars were placed on Village Parkway to simulate diagonal parking. The video was shot from the passenger side of the vehicle to simulate what the driver would see if he were trying to back out of the parking space. Cm. Zika asked for clarification of time of day. Sgt. Phillips responded approximately 12:15 p.m. Chief Thuman stated Dublin has two arterials that provide a north/south flow of traffic and a response to emergency services: Village Parkway and San Ramon Road. He expressed concern that emergency service response time would increase if Village Parkway were changed to one lane. Ms. Harbin summarized that Staff recommended maintaining the roadway. She indicated that the major Village Parkway issues Council needs to make a determination on are roadway alignment, diagonal parking, provide direction on physical and streetscape improvements, and direction on building fa¢ade treatment recommendations. Cm. Lockhart asked Staffs opinion on placing mid~block crosswalks. Mr. Thompson responded that Staff was concerned that it would slow down traffic and would also be dangerous. There is only one mid-block crossing in the downtown area, which is on Amador Valley Boulevard. Cm. Zika clarified that Staffs recommendation is to have Golden Gate Drive, Amador Plaza Road and Village Parkway either expand to or remain four lanes. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 19 REGULAR MEETING November 21, 2000 PAGE 467 Ms. Harbin responded yes. Cm. Zika asked if the amount of commercial 'square footage and residential units recommended was the maximum. Ms. Harbin responded yes, it was the maximum that area could handle with the traffic improvements. Cm. Zika asked if there was any consideration of forgiving building fees for property owners to encourage them to enhance their store fronts? Ms. Harbin stated that is a possibility if the Council wishes. Mayor Houston opened the public hearing. Tom Odam, owner of Laurence Gallery on Village Parkway, stated that he was a member of the Task Force. The Task Force felt that speed of traffic was a major concern. He had heard that the average speed in that area is 37 miles per hour. The Task Force did not recommend two lanes in each direction because of the cost of acquiring additional tight~ of-way. The traffic needs to slow down. In order to have a revitalized downtown, Staff need to find a way to slow the traffic down and create an area that is appealing to the community. Bob Russell, representing Jones Lang LaSalle for West Dublin BART, stated they hope to have the draft EIR out next week for review and comments. He indicated that the parking structure will be approximately 5~6 stories. Some constraints they are facing are close to building code limits on one side and at a Calltans future easement on other side. He acknowledged the Specific Plan's desire to have retail on ground floor, which may be difficult without making the structure higher. The hotel is proposed at about 6~8 stories, and the dwelling units will probably be 40/acre. Staff report does not indicate widening St. Patrick Way from Golden Gate to BART station. Jones Lang LaSalle would like to suggest two lanes with center turn pocket and with two bike lanes in that area. MTC has a grant opportunity for plazas and similar amenities around transit center of up to $500,000. They would like to work with city staff to apply for the grant to create a plaza at the BART station. Mayor clarified that the City can apply for the grant, but applicant could not. Mr. Russell contimed, and indicated they he could supply the City with all the necessary information. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 19 REGULAR MEETING November 21, 2000 PAGE 468 Cm. Zika asked how tall residence building would be. Bob Russell responded four stories above podium parking a half~level under and oriented towards the street with parking in the back. Cm. Zika was happy to hear 5N6 story garage rather than 6~8 stories. Larry Dover, with the Hampton Group, spoke about the Crown Chevrolet. He asked Council to consider the best and highest use for Crown Chevy property. He felt the opportunity in this area was incredible and the Crown Chevy location could be the new showcase of the new downtown. He asked the Council to consider changing the land use to office/retail and increase the F.A.R.. Erin Kavistad, representing PFRS Dublin Corp, indicated that PFRS owns almost 50% of the entire Downtown Core Specific Plan Area, including most of the property in Dublin Place Shopping Center. She discussed the background of the shopping center and indicated that the original CC&Rs restricted the use of the shopping center to retail use only. Ms. Kavistad indicated that all the property owners in the center were in opposition of the Commission's recommendation of senior housing at the Copeland site. She suggested that rather than targeting this particular site for senior housing, the Council consider alternative sites for senior housing in the downtown area. She indicated that her clients are willing to work with Staff on the redevelopment of the shopping center, and are considering partnering with the City on other possible locations for senior housing. Dave Gold, representing Morrison & Forrester on behalf of AMB (prospective buyer of Corevan site), indicated that he submitted a letter to Council earlier today with minor comments regarding the specific plan. He indicated that his client's property was split between mixed use and office designations. They may be interested in exploring opportunities which would exceed 1 .O F.A.R. in the mixed use, and at a minimum, hopes to raise the office F.A.R. to one, so both land use F.A.R.s are the same. Secondly, because the site is split, his clients hoped they would not need to process a future specific plan amendment is, for example, a portion of the mixed use residential would dip into a portion of the office use. They encourage the City to look at language that would indicate that where a site is under common ownership, and has two different designations, that there would be additional flexibility on the boundaries between the two land use designations. Proposed language was attached to their letter. Finally, they would recommend a one sentence clarification that pertains to the mixed use residential policy, also included in their letter. They are very supportive in the City's direction and will be back on December 19th. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 19 REGULAR MEETING November 21, 2000 PAGE 469 Karen Basting, Hampton Group, spoke regarding the Crown Chevrolet site, indicating this location is the key to new downtown. She stated that the City has a tremendous opportunity with this site and would like Council to consider changing Crown Chevrolet's land use to retail office and direct Staff to perform additional traffic studies to increase the F.A.R. to support that land use. In order to support pedestrian-friendly development, the F.A.R. would need to be increased. Phyllis Sutton, Village Parkway property owner, stated that her property is 35 years old. She estimated that the remaining life on the tilt-ups on her property were 5 -7 years. She expressed concern about spending a lot of money into buildings that would not last much longer; however, was willing to put up awnings and spruce the buildings up. She also stated that the property owners did not receive any notices from the City, then recently she received 5 certified notices for the same meeting. Redic Thomas, Task Force committee member, expressed concern with safety of the redevelopment of Village Parkway. He felt that reducing the size of the street was very unsafe. He felt City should purchase vacant property to turn into diagonal parking, while keeping the street at four lanes. He suggested creating a partnership with business owners, forgiving building fees so they maintain their property. He felt the key to all the redevelopment was phasing. He suggested mid-street crossing with traffic lights, no just crosswalks alone. Rick Camacho, Task Force member, stated that during the presentation Staff discussed a private/public partnership. He is hopeful that the City would be involved in helping property owners fund improvements. He also felt that, as a Task Force member, the recommendation of Village Parkway being a single lane was actually not a high priority. The Task Force was in favor of two lane, and adding crosswalks with signals. Mike Woodward, representing the current property owner of 6700 Golden Gate Drive, stated that he has not been able to review the plan in detail. He expressed concerned about the existing industrial property at the site. The plan would render them a non~ conforming use. He asked what the restrictions of an M~ 1 uses that are in existence now and will be there through 2005, per their lease. Mr. Peabody stated that if the land use was adopted, the current M-1 uses would be allowed to remain as non-conforming uses. They would not be allowed to expand under our ordinance, but can remain as long as they are operational. Mr. Woodward asked about parking. A street going through the area may affect some of the parking for the existing industrial users. How will it be handled in the specific plan and the zoning? CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 19 REGULAR MEETING November 21, 2000 PAGE 470 Mr. Peabody responded that at such time the property is redeveloped, the necessity to put St. Patrick's Way through will become apparent. It has been designated as a roadway that needs to be completed and a precise alignment has been defined. Mr. Woodward asked when plans will happen? Mayor Houston responded hopefully next year. Mr. Woodward asked about the funding mechanism of the plans? Mr. Ambrose responded that the City has collected traffic impact fees and project mitigation funds as various developments throughout the Dublin have developed. We have continually been collecting and reserving funds for improvements such as the extension of St. Patrick's Way. It is in the capital improvement program. Charlotte Fernandez, Task Force member and property owner, stated that the City did a good job presenting and gathering information. However, she pointed out that the Task Force did not approve any one plan. She is confused as a property owner and Task Force member. She felt that much more studying needed to be done and too many issues, such as the median, diagonal parking and funding, needed to be clarified. She asked if it was true that the median cost the City $5 million to be installed. Mr. Ambrose responded that the median did not cost $5 million. Mayor Houston stated the Task Force and staff were requested to come up with different ideas. Council will make decision on all issues presented. If no money is available, improvements or changes won't happen. She asked if property owners and the City will discuss the changes. Mayor stated those who wish to participate are welcome to do so. Cm. Lockhart stated that this is a plan which is not expected to happen overnight. These are guidelines. Council will not demand property owners to spend money. As changes take place, property owners will have a plan to follow. Ms. Fernandez stated that many property owners and tenants worried that the City is going to take their property. As a Task Force member, she received the information. As a property owner, she received no information. The recent property owners' meeting was a first step to open communication. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 19 REGULAR MEETING November 21, 2000 PAGE 471 Mayor Houston stated we were unable to form a redevelopment agency, which would be the only way the City could "take" property. Ms. Fernandez reiterated that many tenants on Village Parkway were worried about the City taking property. They were also worried that their rent will go up. Mayor Houston stated she was responsible for educating her tenants and the City had no control over raising rents. Mr. Woodward asked if an assessment district was proposed. Staff responded no. Mayor Houston asked if Staff wanted guidance now or wait to December 19th meeting Mr. Peabody stated that guidance could be given tonight if the Council wishes to give staff some direction. Mayor Houston stated they do not need to go into tremendous amount of detail, but it would be interesting for Council to give some comments tonight. Cm. Lockhart stated that, regarding West BART area and issues of height, what makes the Valley unique is the fact that you can see the hills. She does not support buildings higher than 6~8 stories. She thought Mr. Russell had interesting comments on the widening of Golden Gate Drive, and keeping it pedestrian friendly. She would like to know how critical traffic~wise it is to widen it. She does not have a problem including the Enea property in the planning process. She is a strong advocate of senior housing in our downtown area. It doesn't have to go in the Copeland site; it seemed a good idea at the time. Senior housing needs to be at top of list. She would like to see senior housing next to senior center, and also felt the Starward Drive area has opportunities for senior housing. She does support the concept of an additional road through to Amador Plaza through the shopping center. It will open up avenues and will help improve signage. She is not interested in tall signs seen from the freeway. Cm. McCormick complimented staff on their reports and thanked the audience speakers for their great ideas, especially keeping Golden Gate Drive two lanes. She agreed with Cm. Lockhart in keeping height limit to maintain view corridor. Public art is just as important as streetscape improvements and requested that Staff add public art to their list of goals. She also suggested thinking about a shopper shuttle to connect people to BART and other shopping areas. It is a service the City could provide. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 19 REGULAR MEETING November 21, 2000 PAGE 472 Cm. Howard also agreed on the six story height limit. She felt that Village Parkway should remain two lanes in each direction because of safety issues and emergency response time. Cm. Zika also agreed with 6-8 story building height limit. He would hate to see a parking garage taller than any of the buildings. He does not want to give up on Village Parkway as far as making it pedestrian-friendly. He felt diagonal parking wouldn't be any easier with two lanes as opposed to one lane. He felt the City should consider forgiving building fees for property owners doing fa¢ade improvements. Cm. Zika expressed concern about increasing the F.A.R. on the Enea, Crown Chevrolet and Corevan properties at this time because it will dump a significant amount of traffic on existing streets. We don't have a study that will tell us what will happen. He is encouraged that the property owner of Dublin Place shopping center is willing to work with City regarding senior housing and felt they would had good ideas. He likes the mid~ street crosswalks on Village Parkway, but traffic needs to slow down. He would like to see a traffic study first. Cm. Zika appreciates the work staff and the Task Force has done. He concluded by reassuring property owners that nothing was set in concrete, it was a work in progress. Mayor Houston stated that in regards to the height to the buildings, the shorter the buildings the more land covered. We should not shut our eyes as to what the possibilities are. The overriding theme is that traffic has to work. Nothing will be done until the F.A.R.s are known and what can work. We have an opportunity to create more plazas and walkways. Traffic studies will indicate what can be done. Senior housing should be encouraged everywhere in the downtown. We will be able to work with property owners and developers that build senior housing after the first of the year when the inclusionary housing study done. He is not in favor of making an obviously retail area into housing, but we should allow senior housing in the entire downtown and take advantage of the inclusionary monies city has. When the current library is transferred into the senior center, we will need more parking. We will need to work with property owners to provide the additional parking. He felt Crown Chevrolet and the Enea property should be looked at to be included in the study. He would like to see the barbed wire fencing come down at Crown; it does not add to the quality of the property. Regarding Village Parkway, he would like to keep two lanes in each direction. There are possible options for property owners to participate in, while working within the rules and regulations of current laws. The proposed changes to the downtown are very exciting. He thanked everyone here for participating. Mr. Ambrose stated that Staff was to respond to comments received. Some of the comments require major additions in development square footage. Is it the Council's expectation that Staff does traffic analyses on those requests? If so, Staff will not have it CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 19 REGULAR MEETING November 21, 2000 PAGE 473 done by the December 19th City Council meeting. Changing the F.A.R.s will require a traffic study, which is not something staff anticipated. Mayor Houston requested Staff go forward with the proposed plan, and initiate a separate study, at the appropriate time, to include Enea Properties and rezone/increase F.A.R.s for Crown Chewolet. Cm. Lockhart stated that the Crown Chevrolet site is presently used as auto site and remain as is until they come up with another plan. She stated that we may be only be 2/3 the way through the study. She would like to see the study include the Mervyns' site through San Ramon Road. There are businesses and centers in transition and the next logical step is to take rest of that area and include it in a plan to complete the downtown. Mayor Houston agreed with Cm. Lockhart. He also felt that we need to tell the Crown Chevrolet and Robert Enea that their additional requests will be looked into at the appropriate time, possibly after the first of the year. Cm. Zika asked if Crown and Enea properties are critical enough to be included? Should we wait and include these two properties when we do the other half of the downtown area? Mayor Houston stated that the Mervyns' portion was a whole other study. He felt that because Crown and Enea were already within the current study area, their requests are more of a revision and need to be included in this planning area. The other study would take too long to finalize. Cm. Zika asked if Enea is included in the present study area. Mr. Ambrose stated for clarification, Enea is not included in the scope of this proposed plan. He indicated that Crown is included within this study area; however, the increase in F.A.R. they're requesting is too great to include in this study. Mayor Houston stated that staff did a fantastic job on the presentation. Mayor Houston closed the public hearing. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 19 REGULAR MEETING November 2'i, 2000 PAGE 474 RECESS At 9:32 p.m, Mayor Houston called for a short recess. At 9:40 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened with all Councilmembers present. Maria Carrasco, Secretary, left the meeting and the remainder of the minutes were prepared by Kay Keck, City Clerk. HERITAGE AND CULTURAL ARTS COMMUNITY WORKSHOP 9:40 p.m. 7.1 (910-80) Parks & Community Services Director Diane Lowart presented the Staff Report and advised that in order to proceed with development of implementation strategies for the long-range plan for heritage and cultural arts, a professionally facilitated Heritage and Cultural Arts workshop has been approve& After conferring with consultants and checking room availability, Staff recommends that the workshop be held from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., on Saturday, January 20, 2001. The workshop would include a working lunch. Cm. McCormick indicated she will be out of town that day. Mayor Houston requested that Staff check and see if January 2 7th works with the facilitator and then report back to the City Council. POLICY FOR STREET NAMING TO BENEFIT NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS 9:42 p.m. 8.1 (820-80) Public Works Director Lee Thompson presented the Staff Report and advised that Staff had developed a policy which would create a procedure for non-profit organizations to raise money through the ability to name a public street in Dublin. The proceeds must benefit Dublin residents. Mr. Thompson stated because of the potential inconvenience to residents or businesses if established street names are changed, it is proposed to allow this program only for streets with no addresses on them, or if the names can be chosen prior to Final Map. approval. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 19 REGULAR MEETING November 21, 2000 PAGE 475 Cm. McCormick asked how the organizations will be notified of this opportunity available. Cm. Zika stated we have many good non~profit organizations throughout the valley area. One benefits Dublin only - DPIE, and he suggested they be the designated non~profit at this time. Cm. McCormick felt Friends of the Dublin Library helps Dublin residents also. She stated she felt other organizations should be included. We can get as much diversity as possible. Mayor Houston agreed and stated this is just a fun thing that has some basic rules and regulations. We should have fun with it and let it go. Frankly, it doesn't happen that much. Let it be open to all good groups in the City. This isn't something the City manages or really even is involved. Cm. McCormick asked how the Soroptimist or Lions Club would even know how to do this. Should we just let chaos prevail? Mr. Thompson stated we could send a letter out to all the non~profit groups in the City. Mr. Ambrose stated they could contact the City and proceed that way. On motion of Vice Mayor Lockhart, seconded by Cm. Zika, and by unanimous vote, the Council adopted the Policy for Street Naming by or for Benefit of Non~Profit Organizations. APPROVAL OF THE 2000 UPDATE TO THE TRI~VALLEY TRANSPORTATION PLAN/ ACTION PLAN FOR ROUTES OF REGIONAL SIGNIFICANCE 9:49 p.m. 8.2 (1060-40) Public Works Director Lee Thompson presented the Staff Report and advised that an Update to the 1995 Tri-Valley Transportation/Action Plan had been prepared. This is a multi-jurisdictional planning process to reduce the cumulative regional traffic impacts. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 19 REGULAR MEETING November 2t, 2000 PAGE 476 ' Mr. Thompson advised that there is no cost to the City associated with the development of the 2000 Update to the Plan. Similar to the original Plan adopted in 1995, the 2000 Update is consistent with the City of Dublifts General Plan, Specific Plans, and Capital Improvement Program. Because of the time needed to reach agreement between the 7 member jurisdictions, and the many Plan drafts, there were a few minor discrepancies that Staff would request be resolved in the next Plan update. These discrepancies were outlined in a drafted letter to the chairman of the TVTC Technical Advisory Committee. Cm. Zika stated it is interesting to get this group roger'her all at one time because you have to have a unanimous decision. On motion of Cm. Zika, seconded by Cm. McCormick, and by unanimous vote, the Council adopted RESOLUTION NO. 202- 00 APPROVING THE 2000 UPDATE TO THE TRI-VALLEY TRANSPORTATION PLAN/ACTION PLAN FOR ROUTES OF REGIONAL SIGNIFICANCE and authorized the Public Works Director to send the letter to the Chairman of the Technical Advisory committee of the Tri-Valley Transportation Council. TRANSITION OF COUNCIL FOLLOWING ELECTION 9:49 p.m. 8.3 (630~10) City Clerk Kay Keck presented the Staff Report and advised that following each City Council election, the timing of several logistical issues must be addressed. Staff proposed that the Council hold a special meeting on Monday, December 4th to certify the results of the November 7th election, and discuss holding receptions for outgoing Councilmember Howard, the new elected Council, and Commissioners/Committee Members whose terms expire in December 2000. Mayor Houston stated and the Council agreed that the December 4th reception should be for Cm. Howard only. The meeting should start at 6 p.m., and then adjourn to the Regional Meeting Room for the reception. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 19 REGULAR MEETING November 21, 2000 PAGE 477 Ms. Keck confirmed that Commissioners/Committee Members with terms expiring in December, 2000 will be recognized at a future date. EVALUATION OF 2000 DUBLIN PASTA FESTIVAL 9:56 p.m. 8.4 (950~40) Parks & Community Services Director Diane Lowart presented the Staff Report related to the City's annual Pasta Festival which was held the weekend of October 7 and 8. The Festival included art and craft vendors, commercial vendors, restaurant vendors, entertainment and children's attractions. Although the final financial statement has not yet been submitted by the Production Company, it appears that the net cost of the Festival to the City exceeded the FY 2000-2001 Budget by approximately $13,000. A budget change will be brought before the City Council once the final costs are reconciled. Ms. Lowart stated the City began using production companies to plan and operate the City's festivals in 1998. Since that time, Staff has worked with three different production companies. The original intent in using a production company was to increase the scale of City festivals and to reduce the impact on Staff time. It was also anticipated that using a professional production company would reduce the cost of the events to the City. Over the past three years, Staff has found that production companies have excelled at securing sponsorships and in generally improving the quality of the art and craft vendors. However, they have not provided the level of customer service the City demands nor been effective at meeting timelines established by the City. Ms. Lowart discussed the fact that the Dublin Pasta Festival is a struggling event that has undergone significant changes over the past three years, including two changes in location and one change in production companies. The poor performance of this year's festival, combined with those changes, may have a negative impact on future events. In summary, if the Council chooses to continue the City's sponsorship of the Pasta Festival, Staff recommended that the City not continue to contract with Eckerstrom Productions. While they have a reputation for producing successful art and wine festivals in other communities, their approach to festival management is not compatible with the needs of the Pasta Festival, particularly in the areas of restaurant participation, layout, beverage sales and volunteer management. Staff also did not recommend soliciting another production company and discussed the various reasons. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 19 REGULAR MEETING November 21, 2000 PAGE 478 Staff recommended that the City recruit a temporary, part~time Community Events Coordinator to assist the Recreation Supervisor for Special Events with the planning and operation of the Pasta Festival. Staff would find independent contractors to coordinate the sales and management of the art and craft booths and to secure sponsors for the festival. With regard to the 2000 Festival, the City Council was requested to provide input. Mayor Houston stated he wants to keep it going. The big deal lacking this year was publicity. Even the banner over San Ramon Road didn't happen this year. Vice Mayor Lockhart stated she felt basically we started this to begin with to attract people to the downtown. The businesses then complained. She would like to reconsider where we are doing it. She doesn't like Amador Valley Boulevard as we are literally putting it in someone's front door. She felt Amador Plaza Road was the best location and this was the most successful, but we got nothing but complaints from the business people. We have a brand new park and maybe instead of it being music, wine and food oriented, we could do something more family oriented and gear it toward the kids and families and get the new families in town involved. She would like to see us do something in the park and keep with September or October. Restaurants don't seem to want to do pasta. Businesses don't want us downtown. The timing just seemed a good balance from the March St. Patrick's Day Festival. We should look at new resources. The opening of Emerald Glen Park showed the excitement. Cm. Zika felt the festival suffered for some other reasons with conflicting things. He stated he agreed that this location won't work in the future. Do a day at the park event. Just give away hot dogs and hire a couple of bands and let the skateboarders do their thing. Cm. McCormick asked if we intended to make money off this. She's not ready to give up on this yet. We do need a new theme to make it ours. Staff should come back with a new plan. Mayor Houston felt we should look at fixing the banner poles. Vice Mayor Lockhart stated she felt it is a good idea to take it in house and contract out parts of it. Ms. Lowart offered a suggestion "A Day on the Glen" at Emerald Glen Park. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 19 REGULAR MEETING November 21, 2000 PAGE 479 OTHER BUSINESS 10:14 p.m. Mr. Ambrose reminded everyone that the annual holiday tree lighting ceremony will be held Thursday evening, November 30th from 7 to 8 p.m. Mr. Ambrose advised that the City Council asked Staff to look into changing the special clean up dates from March to April and September to October. He stated this would move Dublin Pride week back one month. Cm. McCormick reported she heard from an artist who has been commissioned to do an art piece in front of the new Home Expo Design Center. He is coming up to this area from Southern California and they will take him around and show him the area. Mr. Peabody discussed the status of the Home Expo project. There are delays due to PG&E requirements. Cm. Howard invited everyone to the Hope Hospice Tree Lighting Ceremony which is being held at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, November 28tn. The tree is located in front of DSRSD's offices on Dublin Boulevard. Mr. Ambrose asked the Council about the schedule for the first January City Council meeting. The meeting would normally be held on Tuesday, January 2'~a, but because of the way the holidays fall this year, this will be a City holiday. Mayor Houston directed that the first January meeting be canceled. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 19 REGULAR MEETING November 21, 2000 PAGE 480 Vice Mayor Lockhad reported that she had received 2 phone calls from people on Amador Valley Boulevard who were concerned about a boat trailer parked in the street in the bicycle lane. It is near the house trailer sitting up on blocks. She requested that Staff take a look at this. Vice Mayor Lockhart advised that she had a lady call her and state she has vision problems and really appreciates the audible signals on Amador Valley Boulevard. She requested that we look at Golden Gate Drive @ Dublin Boulevard. There are major bus stops on both sides of the street. Another possibility would be at San Ramon Road and Dublin Boulevard. There are just 2 crosswalks there. Vice Mayor Lockhart reported that she recently at-tended 2 events in place of the Mayor. She went to Jim Rose's retirement dinner and it was quite enjoyable. The other is she artended and congratulated Maxine Jennings for being installed as President of the National Womens Council of Realtors. This was in San Francisco. It was interesting to see what Maxine means to the rest of the United States and it was fun to see her recognized by the rest of the U.S. Mayor Houston stated we announced today another big tenant, Sun MicroSystems coming into Dublin near the Eastern BART Station. They should be under construction in 2001. He welcomed Sun MicroSystems. Cm. Zika congratulated Jason Behrmann for the brochure he recently published and stated he would like to see this done twice a year. It was excellent. Mayor Houston stated they could discuss adding funding for this to the budget next year. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 19 REGULAR MEETING November 21, 2000 PAGE 481 ADJOURNMENT 11.1 There being no further business to come before the Council, the meeting was adjourned at 10:24 p.m. ATYEST: CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 19 REGULAR MEETING November 21, 2000 PAGE 482