HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015-01-05 City Council Summary Minutes
Regular Meeting
January 5, 2015
6. City Manager Year in Review. ..........................................................282
Special Orders of the Day ........................................................................284
1. Election of the Mayor for 2015. ........................................................284
2. Election of the Vice Mayor for 2015. .................................................285
3. Resolution 9482 entitled “Resolution of the Council of the City of Palo
Alto Expressing Appreciation for Outstanding Public Service to Nancy
Shepherd as Council Member and Mayor. ..........................................287
4. Resolution 9483 entitled “Resolution of the Council of the City of Palo
Alto Expressing Appreciation for Outstanding Public Service to Gail Price as Council Member.” ...............................................................288
5. Resolution 9484 entitled “Resolution of the Council of the City of Palo
Alto Expressing Appreciation for Outstanding Public Service to Larry
Klein as Council Member and Mayor. .................................................289
Oral Communications ..............................................................................291
Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 9:30 P.M. .............................291
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The City Council of the City of Palo Alto met on this date in the Council
Chambers at 6:15 P.M.
Present: Berman, Burt, Holman, Klein, Kniss, Price, Scharff, Schmid,
Shepherd
Absent:
Mayor Shepherd suggested the Council hear Agenda Item Number 6- City
Manager Year in Review, prior to Agenda Item Number 1.
MOTION: Council Member Holman moved, seconded by Council Member
Burt to move Agenda Item 6 - City Manager Year in Review - to be heard
before Agenda Item 1.
MOTION PASSED: 6-0
6. City Manager Year in Review.
James Keene, City Manager, was surprised by the number of issues the
Council addressed in 2014. In 2014, the Council had a bias towards action
and community engagement, which was symbolized by the Our Palo Alto
initiative. Due to strong tax growth, the General Fund ended 2014 with an
$8.7 million surplus, $4 million of which was transferred to the Infrastructure
Reserve. The City made changes to employee healthcare costs and
maintained its AAA bond rating. Near-term projections demonstrated the
City had a solid economic and fiscal foundation through 2016. The National
Citizens Survey again rated the City and City services highly. The
Comprehensive Plan process was reset in 2014 and coupled with the Our
Palo Alto initiative to obtain broader and deeper community engagement.
The 2015-2023 Housing Element was approved and adopted by the Council.
The Council adopted a Citywide framework for Residential Permit Parking
Programs and a specific program for the Downtown area. The first phase of
analysis for the Downtown CAP Study would inform Council policy decisions
regarding development. The Council approved $2 million for smart traffic
signals. Retail preservation surfaced as an important issue in 2014. The
Council approved development of a Sustainability and Climate Action Plan.
The Council expanded shuttle service, made improvements to parking
garages, identified potential locations for a new parking garage, and analyzed public-private partnerships for parking garages. Transportation
Demand Management (TDM) was discussed in 2014, and creation of a
Transportation Management Agency (TMA) would be a topic for 2015.
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The Council reviewed the Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) and
Final Environmental Impact Report (FEIR) for Caltrain's Electrification
Project. The Council directed Staff to create a Business Registry. Planned
Community (PC) Zoning reform continued to be a topic in 2014. Staff
supported the termination process for Buena Vista Mobile Home Park. The
Council completed a hazards analysis of the CPI plating facility and laid
groundwork for an amortization study and schedule. In 2014, the Council
approved an Infrastructure Funding Plan totaling $126 million. Residents
approved an increase in the Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) to provide some
funding for the Infrastructure Funding Plan. The Mitchell Park Library and
Community Center formally opened in 2014. Money saved from the Mitchell
Park Library and Community Center project supported remodeling of
Rinconada Library. Preparation of the Bike and Pedestrian Master Plan
began with 16 community meetings. Construction of the Magical Bridge
Playground began in 2014. With accelerated funding, the Pavement
Condition Index of City streets advanced to 78. The California Avenue
Streetscape Project began in 2014 and was scheduled for completion in
March 2015. The City took over the Airport and received a Federal grant to
make improvements at the Airport. The City submitted an offer to purchase
the Downtown Post Office Building. The City reached an agreement with the
Palo Alto Unified School District (PAUSD) concerning Cubberley Community
Center. The San Francisquito Creek Flood Project remained in limbo. A
design competition was underway for the Highway 101 Pedestrian Bike
Bridge in the Baylands. Capping of the landfill was completed in 2014.
Funding was included in the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for
improvements at the Lucy Evans Nature Center. Fiber to the Premise
remained a City objective and could become a reality in the near future.
Staff continued to expand free Wi-Fi around the City. The first Palo Alto
Apps Challenge occurred in 2014. Staff expanded the City's 311 app. The
new tri-city virtual dispatch center allowed more responses and faster
responses from different agencies. The City funded and installed automated
external defibrillators (AED) and deployed the related Pulse Point app. 85
percent of street lights were converted to LED. The City was utilizing more social media outlets. Residents approved the Utility Users Tax (UUT) ballot
measure. The City Attorney's Office prevailed on an $8 million Below Market
Rate (BMR) case. The Council concluded negotiations with the Service
Employees International Union (SEIU), adopted the Management and
Professional Compensation Plan, and adopted a formal Ethics Policy. The Utilities Department instituted a local community solar program. The Palo
Alto Green Gas Program replaced the Palo Alto Green Program. The Council
rescinded the Living in Vehicle Ordinance. The City dedicated 7.7 acres of
parkland and developed an integrated budget system.
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A project to remodel City Hall was underway. The recycled water program
was reporting lower salinity numbers. The City received awards from the
League of California Cities, Solar Electric Power Association, Silicon Valley
Water Conservation Awards Consortium, U.S. Solar Congress, Urban
Libraries Council, and livability.com. 2015 would bring the opening of
Rinconada Library, selection of a Public Safety Building site, potential closure
of Buena Vista Mobile Home Park, Comprehensive Plan Update discussions,
preservation of retail, implementation of TDM and TMA, PC Zone reforms,
discussion of continued use of SAP, labor negotiations with all labor groups,
and renewed focus on Project Safety Net and Youth Well Being.
Mayor Shepherd recognized Senator Jerry Hill, Supervisor Joe Simitian,
former City Mayors, former Council Members, Jim Thurber from Los Altos,
Mayor Jim Griffin from Sunnyvale, Julia Miller from Sunnyvale, Walt Hays
from San Jose, Mary Gustav Larsen of East Palo Alto, Ken Rosenberg, Palo
Alto Unified School District Board Members, and City Board and Commission
Members.
Beth Minor, Acting City Clerk, administered the oath of office to the new
Council Members Tom DuBois, Eric Filseth, Cory Wolbach, Karen Holman,
and Greg Scharff.
Special Orders of the Day
1. Election of the Mayor for 2015.
Vice Mayor Kniss announced the procedure for election of Mayor and Vice
Mayor. While the Council election had been divisive, now was the time for
the community to come together.
NOMINATION: Vice Mayor Kniss nominated Council Member Holman for
Mayor for 2015.
Vice Mayor Kniss felt Council Member Holman could be an effective Mayor.
Vice Mayor Kniss briefly related Council Member Holman's service to the City
and personal history.
Council Member Burt had worked with Council Member Holman on civic
activities for the past 20 years. She steadfastly held to an approach of
fairness, integrity, and inclusiveness. While serving as Chairman of the
Planning and Transportation Commission, she received respect for leading colleagues and engaging the public. She believed the primary role of City
government was to work on behalf of residents to maintain the community
environment and exceptional services. She was respected for her courage to
abide by her principles and her hard work.
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Council Member Schmid stated Council Member Holman advocated for open,
transparent government and valued the City.
Jill O’Nan was impressed with Council Member Holman's concern for the City
and incisive approach to solving City problems.
Sea Reddy indicated Council Member Holman demonstrated integrity, which
would serve her well as Mayor.
Kip Husty expressed concern that Council Member Holman supported the
Living in Vehicles Ordinance, which violated individuals' civil liberties.
Eric Rosenblum appreciated Council Member Holman's work on the Planning
and Transportation Commission.
Council Member Wolbach supported Council Member Holman for Mayor,
because she showed exceptional moral leadership in opposing the ban on
sleeping in vehicles.
NOMINATION PASSED: 9-0
2. Election of the Vice Mayor for 2015.
Mayor Holman appreciated the opportunity to serve the City. While the City
had many reasons to be proud, it should not forget its less fortunate
residents. She invited and welcomed community engagement. Her
guidepost would be the public's best interest. She would immediately
engage Council Members in developing initiatives such as architectural
review reform, improvement of Staff Reports, strengthening neighborhoods,
increasing retail opportunities and protecting local independent retail, a
concept plan for the California Avenue area, and general office allowances.
Prioritizing the many initiatives before the Council would be a challenge.
She requested the public to ask questions and join in civic discussion. She
opened the floor to nominations for Vice Mayor.
NOMINATION: Council Member Scharff nominated Council Member
Schmid for Vice Mayor for 2015.
Council Member Scharff advised that Council Member Schmid had been an
excellent Council Member and would make an excellent Vice Mayor. He was
impressed by Council Member Schmid's attention to detail, desire for data,
commitment to transparency, and work ethic. The community thought well
of Council Member Schmid. Council Member Schmid provided leadership when chairing Council Committees and would provide leadership as Vice
Mayor.
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NOMINATION: Council Member Filseth nominated Council Member Burt for
Vice Mayor for 2015.
Council Member Filseth remarked that Council Member Burt was an
exceptional public servant with a strong grasp of policy, long experience with
City issues, deep ties to the community, and the energy and passion to be
an outstanding Vice Mayor.
Vice Mayor Kniss would support Council Member Schmid for Vice Mayor.
Council Member Schmid had a deep background in the community.
Council Member Berman would support Council Member Schmid for Vice
Mayor. Council Member Schmid was capable and deserving of a leadership
role.
Mayor Holman held the highest regard for Council Member Schmid's
intellect, integrity, and ability to analyze data. However, she had strong
allegiances to Council Member Burt. Council Member Burt's experience with
the South of Forest Avenue (SOFA) 1 and 2 groups, on the Planning and
Transportation Commission, and in leadership roles on Council Committees
would serve the Council well in the coming year. She would support Council
Member Burt as Vice Mayor.
Council Member Schmid advised that elected officials were responsible for
policy decisions. The role of Council officials was to facilitate the process.
That was best done by placing important policy decisions on the Council's
action calendar; making sure appropriate data was available for discussion;
welcoming active, public participation; and assuring discussions were open
and transparent.
Council Member Burt commented that there was a great need to build
consensus after a contentious election period. The Council achieved a great
deal of positive action, a sense of accomplishment, and a great deal of
consensus building during his term on the Council and as Mayor. The Vice
Mayor's role was to support the Mayor and the new City Council and to work
constructively and collaboratively with Staff and the community.
Sea Reddy supported Council Member Schmid for Vice Mayor. The City
needed Council Member Schmid as Vice Mayor.
Beth Minor, Acting City Clerk, read the vote results.
NOMINATION FOR COUNCIL MEMBER SCHMID FOR VICE MAYOR
PASSED: 5-4 Berman, Kniss, Scharff, Schmid, Wolbach yes
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NOMINATION FOR COUNCIL MEMBER BURT FOR VICE MAYOR
FAILED: 4-5 Burt, DuBois, Filseth, Holman yes
3. Resolution 9482 entitled “Resolution of the Council of the City of Palo
Alto Expressing Appreciation for Outstanding Public Service to Nancy
Shepherd as Council Member and Mayor.
Council Member Berman read the Resolution into the record.
MOTION: Council Member Berman moved, seconded by Vice Mayor Schmid
to adopt the Resolution expressing appreciation for Outstanding Public
Service to Nancy Shepherd as Council Member and Mayor.
Nancy Shepherd thanked each Council Member for his/her Committee work
during her term as Mayor, as well as the City Clerk's Office, the City
Manager's Office, and the community. Perhaps Palo Alto could discuss being
a global "it" spot.
Council Member Kniss recalled Ms. Shepherd's enthusiasm for Transportation
Demand Management, trenching of Caltrain tracks, and the Our Palo Alto
initiative.
Council Member Berman related Ms. Shepherd's support for him through the
years. He modeled his behavior after her drive, energy, and caring.
Council Member Scharff enjoyed working with Ms. Shepherd. Ms. Shepherd
cared deeply about the community and worked hard.
Mayor Holman thanked Ms. Shepherd for her passion, compassion, and
commitment.
Jerry Hill, California State Senator, felt Palo Alto was an extraordinary city,
and Ms. Shepherd was a perfect example of an extraordinary Council
Member. He presented Ms. Shepherd with a Resolution from the State
Legislature.
Joe Simitian, County of Santa Clara Supervisor, presented a commendation
from the County of Santa Clara Board of Supervisors. He thanked Ms.
Shepherd for her dedication and service to the City.
Nana Spiridow felt Ms. Shepherd had been a great Mayor. Ms. Shepherd
believed in and listened to people. She appreciated Ms. Shepherd's
achievements.
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Samina Sundas challenged the community to obtain the title of Most
Compassionate City for Palo Alto. Access to public officials was critical for
minorities. Ms. Shepherd had made her feel a part of the City.
Holly Ward noted Ms. Shepherd's passion, integrity, grace under pressure,
and devotion to the best for Palo Alto. She hoped Council Members would
continue to prioritize Youth Well Being.
Mark Weiss shared the story of his first meeting Ms. Shepherd. Ms.
Shepherd's strong suit was her heart and concern.
Mark Shepherd related three instances that demonstrated Ms. Shepherd's
high level of ethics and professionalism.
Stephanie Munoz viewed all Council Members as having passion for and
dedication to the City. No one could have been a better Mayor than Ms.
Shepherd.
MOTION PASSED: 9-0
4. Resolution 9483 entitled “Resolution of the Council of the City of Palo
Alto Expressing Appreciation for Outstanding Public Service to Gail
Price as Council Member.”
Council Member Kniss read the Resolution into the record.
MOTION: Council Member Kniss moved, seconded by Council Member
Scharff to adopt the Resolution expressing appreciation for Outstanding
Public Service to Gail Price as Council Member.
Council Member Berman enjoyed getting to know Ms. Price while serving on
the Council. Everyone should attempt to emulate Ms. Price's passion for
those less fortunate.
Vice Mayor Schmid concurred with Council Member Berman's comments.
Ms. Price consistently reminded the Council to pay attention to those who
needed help the most.
Council Member Scharff appreciated Ms. Price's perspective and consistency.
Ms. Price never wavered from her beliefs.
Vice Mayor Kniss would miss Ms. Price on the Council.
Mayor Holman often agreed with Ms. Price's viewpoint regarding social
justice, the underprivileged, and art.
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Jerry Hill, California State Senator, enjoyed Ms. Price's planning professional
expertise. He presented Ms. Price with a Resolution from the State
Legislature.
Joe Simitian, County of Santa Clara Supervisor, explained that Ms. Price's
service on the Palo Alto Unified School District Board made her voice
important to the Council. Ms. Price spoke on behalf of children, and the
community was better for it.
Sheena Chin, Library Advisory Commission, advised that Ms. Price, as liaison
to the Library Advisory Commission, was always present to support the
Commission.
MOTION PASSED: 9-0
Gail Price believed the Resolution clearly outlined her values, beliefs,
accomplishments, and concerns as a Council Member. She appreciated the
support provided by citizens and City employees. She had been consistent
and steadfast in attempting to balance local needs with regional needs.
Council Members needed to communicate better and model respectful
behavior to encourage civility, flexibility, and creativity.
5. Resolution 9484 entitled “Resolution of the Council of the City of Palo
Alto Expressing Appreciation for Outstanding Public Service to Larry
Klein as Council Member and Mayor.
Council Member Burt read the Resolution into the record.
MOTION: Council Member Burt moved, seconded by Council Member
Berman to adopt the Resolution expressing appreciation for Outstanding
Public Service to Larry Klein as Council Member and Mayor.
Council Member Wolbach felt Ms. Shepherd, Ms. Price, and Mr. Klein based
their decisions on what they thought was best for the community as a whole.
All three were statesmen. He appreciated their example.
Council Member Berman requested a seat next to Mr. Klein, because he
respected and trusted Mr. Klein. He thanked Mr. Klein for working with the
Council in the 1980s and 2000s to make Palo Alto a great place to live.
Council Member Kniss wondered which Council Member would replace Mr.
Klein as the Council grump and as the Council Member who changed other
Council Members' opinions. Persuading Council Members to change their opinion was a powerful ability.
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Council Member Scharff stated serving with Mr. Klein was a pleasure. Mr.
Klein had the unique ability to alter the course of Council discussion.
Vice Mayor Schmid thanked Mr. Klein for sharing ideas, history, stories, and
precedents for 16 years.
Mayor Holman would miss Mr. Klein's grammar, editing, and spelling skills.
Jerry Hill, California State Senator, believed everyone learned from Mr.
Klein. Mr. Klein would continue to work for a High Speed Rail system that
did not harm the community. He presented Mr. Klein with a Resolution from
the State Legislature.
Joe Simitian, County of Santa Clara Supervisor, noted Mr. Klein's
extraordinary 30 years of service to the community. Mr. Klein's opinion
always added value to the discussion.
Karen Harwell expressed gratitude to Mr. Klein for his dedication and
outstanding service to the community. Mr. Klein's ability to approach
problems with real, creative solutions benefited the City.
Stephanie Munoz often did not agree with Mr. Klein's view, but she admired
him.
Sandra Slater expressed appreciation for Mr. Klein's service on the Council
on behalf of the environmental community. Mr. Klein could be counted on to
raise environmental aspects of issues.
Lisa Van Dusen had enjoyed seeing Mr. Klein's perspective as well as her
own perspective evolve over 30 years. Mr. Klein had consistently been the
voice of the environment and sustainability.
Tony Klein stated Mr. Klein's passion for Palo Alto and the environment was
unparalleled. Mr. Klein always considered Palo Alto's interests and was
always willing to speak out.
MOTION PASSED: 9-0
Larry Klein acknowledged his family and their support. Palo Alto was a
superb place to live as evidenced by the awards presented to the City and by
market forces. The City employed good people, and he appreciated them.
The Council should continue to address infrastructure needs and climate
change. Serving on the Council was an honor and privilege.
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Oral Communications
Ken Horowitz requested assistance with retaining a recreational facility at
the site of the Page Mill Road YMCA. The owner had not returned his phone
calls.
Faith Brigel thanked the Council for their time and efforts in working through
various issues.
Judy Kleinberg congratulated the Mayor, Vice Mayor, and reelected Council
Members. She thanked outgoing Council Members for serving on the
Council. She related her experiences with Ms. Shepherd, Ms. Price, and Mr.
Klein.
Sea Reddy recognized Lydia Kou's grace while votes were being counted.
Stephanie Munoz advised that the $4,400 cost of conditional use permits for
Heart and Home was unconscionable.
Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 9:30 P.M.
ATTEST: APPROVED:
City Clerk Mayor
NOTE: Sense minutes (synopsis) are prepared in accordance with Palo Alto
Municipal Code Sections 2.04.180(a) and (b). The City Council and Standing Committee meeting tapes are made solely for the purpose of facilitating the
preparation of the minutes of the meetings. City Council and Standing Committee
meeting tapes are recycled 90 days from the date of the meeting. The tapes are
available for members of the public to listen to during regular office hours.
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