HomeMy WebLinkAbout2013-10-07 City Council Summary MinutesCITY OF PALO ALTO CITY COUNCIL
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Special Meeting
October 7, 2013
The City Council of the City of Palo Alto met on this date in the Council
Conference Room at 6:05 P.M.
Present: Berman, Burt, Holman, Klein arrived at 7:10 P.M., Kniss arrived
at 6:10 P.M., Price arrived at 6:15 P.M., Schmid, Shepherd
Absent: Scharff
Commissioners Present: Bacchetti, Chen, Ezran, Morin arrived at 6:10
P.M., O’Nan, Savage, Stone
Commissioners Absent:
STUDY SESSION
1. Potential List of Topics for the Joint Meeting with the Human Relations
Commission.
Chair O’Nan reviewed the role and Mission of the Human Relations
Commission (HRC). Three primary responsibilities were outlined in the
HRC's Charter: the Human Services Resource Allocation Program (HSRAP),
the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, and the Palo
Alto Mediation (PAM) Program. Key accomplishments during the previous
year included evaluation of emerging needs in the City; simplification of the
HSRAP application process; funding allocation recommendations for HSRAP
and CDBG; and advocacy for additional HSRAP funding in the next fiscal
year. In addition, the HRC approved the appointment of new mediators to
the PAM Program; attended Question, Persuade and Refer (QPR) Suicide
Prevention Training; hosted the first regional breakfast for all HRCs in Santa
Clara County (County); and provided liaisons to Project Safety Net and the
Palo Alto Police Department Citizens Advisory Group. In order to become
more aware of and educated about community issues, the HRC instituted a
learning series on affordable housing; received a briefing from the Palo Alto
Police Department regarding crisis intervention training; co-sponsored Made
Into America; and recommended the Council endorse a Constitutional
amendment titled Corporations Are Not People and Money is Not Speech.
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The HRC held a Retreat in September 2013, which resulted in HRC Priorities
of advocacy for increased HSRAP funding; learning about and advocacy for
more affordable housing; and collaboration with strategic City and County
partners. In addition, the HRC wished to increase its profile within the City.
Vice Chair Bacchetti reported the HRC was interested in increasing the
visibility and the community value of the HRC through sponsorship of
community events with other HRC organizations. The HRC wished to serve
as the principle resource to the Council regarding matters within the HRC
charge. The HRC sought a role and function in the foreground of significant
human relations issues.
Chair O’Nan indicated the HRC wished to create a two-way dialog with the
Council in order to provide advice and resources to the Council and to inform
the Council regarding community issues. In the future, the HRC could align
with a Council Subcommittee to enable the HRC to respond to the Council
more efficiently and to inform the Council regarding needs in the community.
Norman Carroll noted the HRC's list of strategic relationships did not include
a relationship with those not currently being served. Without that
relationship, the HRC was not aware of many problems.
Cybele agreed with the prior speaker's comments.
Council Member Kniss commented that identifying which jurisdictions were
responsible for different aspects of human relations issues was difficult.
Much of the HRC's work depended on County programs. She inquired about
the HRC's contact with the County and knowledge of the resources that the
County could provide.
Chair O'Nan indicated the HRC began working with the County in the past
few months. Speakers from County programs addressed the learning series
and mentioned programs in which Palo Alto did not participate. The HRC
wanted to facilitate a conversation with the City, developers and the County
regarding programs available to Palo Alto.
Vice Chair Bacchetti added that the HRC was also working with other
agencies that had relationships with County programs.
Council Member Kniss suggested the HRC meet with Supervisor Simitian or
his staff to learn about County resources.
Chair O’Nan reported the assistant to the County HRC invited Palo Alto's HRC
to participate in County subcommittees.
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Council Member Holman asked if the HRC identified viable prospects for
additional HSRAP funding. Partnering with other HRCs in the County would
be helpful. She suggested the HRC should place events on the City Council
online calendar to reach a broader audience. One concern was a method to
raise issues with the Council.
Chair O’Nan was conducting research into methods used in other
communities to provide sustainable revenues for HSRAP. Potential revenue
streams were a portion of some taxes and Stanford University Medical
Center Development Agreement funds. The HRC hoped the City would
commit to programs and ensure funding into the future. She was intrigued
by the possibility of aligning the HRC with a Council Committee. The HRC
did not have a clearly defined process for communicating with the Council.
Commissioner Savage Council reported Commissioners were assigned
Council Members as buddies; however, busy schedules often prevented the
two from meeting.
Vice Chair Bacchetti added that the HRC was also interested in receiving
communication from the Council.
Commissioner Chen requested suggestions for communicating with the
County and other government agencies, and inquired whether
Commissioners could approach managers directly.
Council Member Kniss reiterated that meeting with Supervisor Simitian
would be the best avenue.
Vice Mayor Shepherd noted the Council scheduled a Study Session with
Supervisor Simitian for later in the year.
Commissioner Morin felt the learning curve for new Commissioners was
steep; therefore, she was very interested in communicating with
experienced Commissioners and Council Members.
Council Member Burt did not know whether the Council made a practice of
aligning Standing Committees with Boards or Commissions. The Finance
Committee worked with the HRC regarding HSRAP funding. The Policy and
Services Committee would have the most alignment with HRC policy issues.
By its Charter, the HRC had authority to initiate conversations with the
Council. He encouraged the HRC to develop processes for addressing the
Council regarding the HRC's recommendations and possible roles the HRC
could play in Council discussions. He was not aware of the learning series,
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and suggested the City could assist in promoting the series. He inquired
whether there was a continuing role for HRC representatives on the
Homeless Services Task Force.
Vice Chair Bacchetti believed there was a continuing role for the life of the
Task Force. He hoped the Task Force could implement long-term strategies
without becoming a permanent group.
Council Member Burt indicated that HRC representatives should have an
ongoing role with the Task Force at a minimum. Perhaps the Council could
consider a structure between the Task Force and the Council.
Chair O’Nan acknowledged Commissioner Ezran's suggestion for
Commissioners to serve on committees as HRC representatives rather than
private citizens.
Council Member Schmid remarked that the key question was how to
enhance the HRC's interaction with the Council. The HSRAP process was an
opportunity for the HRC to define the range of social services being delivered
in the City. A second opportunity for interaction with the Council was the
Housing Element. The HRC could provide information regarding populations
in need and services associated with housing. The County census on
homelessness and the annual City survey of the population were
opportunities for the HRC to provide the pertinent information contained in
those surveys. He suggested the HRC provide the Council with a report
between the annual Study Sessions.
Council Member Price inquired about the time period between each Human
Needs Assessment.
Chair O’Nan reported the HRC was planning to conduct a supplemental
needs assessment, because community needs and demographics changed
often. A full City-wide assessment was difficult to perform annually with no
budget. A full Human Needs Assessment could be conducted every four to
five years with a supplemental assessment in the interim.
Council Member Price stated human relations issues were not new and would
continue into the future. She concurred with Council Member Burt's
comments regarding organizing a process between the Council and the Task
Force. Because the City relied on community-based organizations to deliver
services, the HRC's role in coordinating services and understanding
implications was critical.
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Vice Chair Bacchetti felt Palo Alto was in a position to do something
important in terms of homelessness. The Task Force brought together many
agencies in an attempt to implement long-term strategies to help homeless
people rebuild their lives and achieve independence.
Council Member Price remarked that that jurisdictions, governmental entities
and boundaries were inconvenient with respect to homelessness.
Chair O’Nan indicated issues such as homelessness recurred because the
underlying problems were chronic. A sustainable funding source for services
was needed, because people within the community would always be at risk.
Council Member Berman requested Commissioners contact him directly with
concerns. He suggested the HRC collaborate with San Mateo County as well
as Santa Clara County. The recent focus on homelessness was an
opportunity to make strides in providing services.
Vice Mayor Shepherd recommended the HRC consult with Staff regarding the
technicalities of Commissioners meeting with Council Members in order to
maintain independence of thought. She agreed with Council Member Schmid
that the HRC should report changes in the community. The HSRAP service
report provided context for discussion of other topics. She wanted to
understand the cases presented for mediation to provide further context.
The City Council adjourned to the Council Chambers at 7:10 P.M.
AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS, AND DELETIONS
None
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS
Pamela Antil, Assistant City Manager, announced Bike Palo Alto 2013 was
scheduled for Sunday, October 13, 2013 from 1:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. The
Art Center would host an opening celebration of the fall exhibit Bibliophilia
on Friday, October 11, 2013. The 2013-2014 Children's Theatre school
outreach productions were underway at Juana Briones Elementary, El
Carmelo Elementary and Hoover Elementary. The Palo Alto Art Center
Foundation received a grant from the Creative Work Fund to support a
residency project. Landscape contractors were scheduled to renovate King
Plaza on Tuesday, October 15, 2013. October 6-12, 2013 was Public Power
Week and Public Natural Gas Week.
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COUNCIL MEMBER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
Vice Mayor Shepherd reported that she attended the Terman Middle School
Walk and Roll to School Event and that she was aware that several other
Council Members attended as well.
Council Member Price announced that the Santa Clara Valley Transportation
Authority Board unanimously voted on October 3, 2013 to hire Nuria I.
Fernandez as the new General Manager. Ms. Fernandez will be the first
female and minority to serve in that position.
Council Member Holman announced that she attended the Committee for
Green Foothills 51st anniversary event.
Jaime Rodriguez, Chief Transportation Official said that Santa Clara County
was undergoing an expressway study. The study was designed to make
sure the expressway needs of the community would be assessed prior to the
Valley Transportation Authority Plan Update. He served on the Technical
Advisory Board representing Palo Alto and Mayor Scharff represented Palo
Alto on the Advisory Board.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Grady Maggard could save money on his monthly water bill; however, Staff
required a $220 fee to replace a good meter. Meter replacements were
covered by the monthly water charge. Staff used faulty logic to justify the
meter fee.
Doris Dahlgren reported that the United Nations observed World Mental
Health Day on October 10, 2013. She donated her paintings to events that
benefited mental health research and programs.
Joseph Hirsch felt Mayor Scharff's editorial regarding Measure D contained
incorrect information, because lots were not large enough to support a single
dwelling under existing zoning. The development would be incredibly dense
and out of character with the surrounding neighborhood. The Maybell
Avenue Project allowed high density rezoning in residential neighborhoods.
Robert Moss believed Council Members were reluctant to question
discrepancies in consultant reports and Staff Reports over the past few
months. One example was the 2008 transportation model utilized in the
Maybell Avenue Project. The Council should question insufficient background
information in Staff Reports.
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Stephanie Munoz felt the rules favored the fortunate and penalized the less
fortunate. Because of the lack of housing and jobs, people were homeless.
The showers at Cubberley were taken away from homeless people for no
reason.
Cybele asked if the Council identified one area where the homeless
population at Cubberley could move to. The State of California required
each city to identify zoning for a shelter. She asked if a shelter was
identified and did citizens know about it.
Wayne Douglass remembered Willie Branch, who overcame homelessness
through Palo Alto's generosity.
CONSENT CALENDAR
MOTION: Council Member Holman moved, seconded by Council Member
Schmid to pull Agenda Item Number 8.
MOTION FAILED DUE TO LACK OF A THIRD
MOTION: Council Member Kniss moved, seconded by Council Member
Berman to approve Agenda Item Numbers 3-11.
Council Member Holman registered a No vote on Agenda Item Number 8.
Council Member Schmid registered a No vote on Agenda Item Number 8.
Pamela Antil, Assistant City Manager, noted that responses to Council
Member Holman’s questions regarding Agenda Item Number 8 had not been
provided to Council prior the meeting and were being distributed.
Art Liberman requested Agenda Item Number 2 be removed from the
Consent Calendar. The City Auditor should investigate whether funds paid to
Palo Alto Housing Corporation (PAHC) were used for projects not approved
by the Council, and investigate Staff's relationship with PAHC.
Trina Lovercheck noted the contract between PAHC and the Council was
longstanding. PAHC was no different from Avenidas and Palo Alto
Community Childcare with regard to receiving City funding.
Stephanie Munoz did not believe the City should sell zoning; however, Palo
Alto needed housing. She suggested PAHC fulfill senior housing needs.
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Robert Moss expressed concerns regarding the 10 percent increase in the
contract amount, the high rate of turnover in PAHC managers, the lack of
adequate maintenance of units, and the lack of oversight of vacant units.
The Council should ask these questions.
Council Member Berman inquired about the timing of the contract with
PAHC.
Cara Silver, Senior Assistant City Attorney, understood the contract with
PAHC expired July 31, 2013. Because of scheduling issues, approval of a
new contract was delayed to the current time. PAHC could not be paid for
services provided since July 31 until a new contract was executed.
Council Member Berman asked if PAHC provided services without being paid
for them.
Ms. Silver answered yes.
Council Member Berman asked if the contract contained assurances that
PAHC would use funds only to manage the Below Market Rate (BMR)
Housing Program.
Ms. Silver reported all City contracts contained a specific scope of services.
The scope of services attached to the PAHC contract itemized services PAHC
was to provide and for which PAHC would receive payment.
Council Member Berman inquired whether payment would be lump-sum or
periodic.
Ms. Silver indicated PAHC would provide services and submit a monthly
invoice to the City for those services. PAHC would receive payment for the
actual hours worked, up to the maximum amount of the contract.
Council Member Berman requested a brief history of the City's partnership
with PAHC and the program.
Council Member Burt referenced Mr. Liberman's insinuations, and asked if
Staff had any concern regarding the appropriate use of funds, whether over
the entire history of the program or in recent history.
Ms. Silver reported PAHC was a well-qualified provider of services. The City
had a longstanding partnership with PAHC. To Staff's knowledge, PAHC had
not expended public funds in violation of the contract or City grants issued to
PAHC. An attorney representing PAHC informed Ms. Silver that PAHC was
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forming a political action committee. The attorney advised PAHC that all
funds raised for the political action committee would be from donations. He
assured Ms. Silver that no City funds would be used for any political activity.
2. Approval of Agreement with PAHC Housing Services, LLC for
Administration and Consulting Services for Up to Two Years in an
Amount Not to Exceed $175,000 Per Year for the Below Market Rate
Housing Program.
3. Approval of a Contract with D & D Pipelines, Inc. in the Amount of
$675,700 for Clara Drive Storm Drain Improvements, Capital
Improvement Program Project SD 06104.
4. Approval of a Purchase Order with Priority One Public Safety
Equipment in the Amount of $287,782.65 for the Purchase of Six Fully-
Outfitted Police Patrol Cars.
5. Submittal of Mitchell Park Library and Community Center Bi-Monthly
Construction Contract Report.
6. Rejections of Bids for the Administration Building Electrical Systems
Upgrade Project at Regional Water Quality Control Plant - Capital
Improvement Program Project WQ-80021.
7. Approval of a Three Year SAP Software Maintenance Contract in the
Amount of $258,260.66 per year, Not To Exceed $774,781.98 for the
Support and Maintenance of SAP, Including Industry-Specific Solution
for Utilities (IS-U), SAP Enterprise Central Component (ECC 6.0),
Customer Relationship Management System (CRM), Business
Intelligence System (BI), Utilities Customer Electronic Services
(UCES), and Business Software, Inc. (BSI) U.S. Payroll Tax (IT).
8. Approval of Contract for the Downtown Development CAP to Dyett &
Bhatia Urban & Regional Planners in the Amount Not to Exceed
$200,000.
9. Approval of Amendment Number Two to Contract S13149314 with
TruePoint Solutions, LLC in the Amount of $495,000, to Provide
Deployment and Transition Support for Accela Citizen Access and
Future Blueprint Enhancements, for a Total Contract Amount not to
Exceed $652,800.
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10. Nomination of Council Member Gail Price to Seek Appointment as the
Northwest Cities Group 2 Representative to the VTA Board of
Directors.
11. Finance Committee Recommendation to Approve Fiscal Year 2013
Reappropriation Requests to be Carried Forward into Fiscal Year 2014.
MOTION PASSED to approve Agenda Item Numbers 2-7 and 9-11: 8-
0 Scharff absent
MOTION PASSED to approve Agenda Item Number 8: 6-2 Holman,
Schmid no, Scharff absent
Council Member Holman voted no because scoping for the Downtown
Development CAP should have been presented to the Council. She was
concerned that the 27 University Avenue Project was not included in the
area and that the study gathered data on only existing conditions. A full
analysis of data should include the impacts of previous projects in the area.
The Council needed to understand whether it was successful in evaluating
the impacts of projects.
Council Member Schmid recalled that in prior Council discussions regarding
the Downtown Development CAP and the 27 University Avenue Project, Staff
promised to present a scope of services for the Request for Proposal (RFP) to
the Council for review prior to releasing the RFP. Agenda Item Number 8
purposely excluded a Council discussion on the scope of services.
Development was a critical issue before the Council. To use the Consent
Calendar to exclude Council review of the scope of services was a major
preemption of Council policy.
Council Member Burt requested a reconsideration of the vote on the Consent
Calendar. He wished to support removing Agenda Item Number 8 from the
Consent Calendar. Council received responses to Council Member Holman's
questions after consideration of the Consent Calendar, which did not follow
normal procedure.
Molly Stump, City Attorney, reported a Motion to Reconsider could be made
at any time during the meeting in which the action was taken. The Motion
must be made by a Council Member on the prevailing side of the vote, with a
second by any Council Member.
MOTION TO RECONSIDER THE CONSENT CALENDAR VOTE: Council
Member Burt moved, seconded by Council Member Schmid.
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Council Member Burt noted the Council did not have Staff responses to
Council Member questions prior to voting and did not hear the rationale of
Council Members opposing Agenda Item Number 8 prior to voting. It was
appropriate and in the best interests of the Council to hold additional
discussion regarding the item.
Council Member Schmid concurred with Council Member Burt. The item was
an important policy issue and worthy of discussion.
Council Member Kniss suggested discussion of Agenda Item Number 8
should be held at a later time as Staff was not present to participate in the
discussion.
MOTION TO RECONSIDER THE CONSENT CALENDAR VOTE PASSED:
7-1 Kniss no, Scharff Absent
MOTION: Council Member Burt moved, seconded by Council Members
Holman and Schmid to pull Agenda Item Number 8 from the Consent
Calendar.
Ms. Stump indicated the Vice Mayor had discretion to hold discussion on
Agenda Item Number 8 during the current meeting or at a later meeting.
Vice Mayor Shepherd announced that Agenda Item Number 8 would be
scheduled for the following Council Meeting.
MOTION: Council Member Berman moved, seconded by Council Member
Kniss to approve Agenda Item Numbers 2-7 and 9-11.
MOTION PASSED to approve Agenda Item Numbers 2-7 and 9-11: 8-
0 Scharff absent
ACTION ITEMS
12. Public Hearing: Adoption of (1) a Resolution 9374 entitled “Resolution
of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Certifying a Final Supplemental
Environmental Impact Report”; (2) an Ordinance Amending Section
18.08.040 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code to Approve an Amendment
to Planned Community (PC-5150) Mixed use Project to Allow
Reconstruction of One of Two Historic Eichler Retail Buildings (Building
1); and 3) Approval of a Final Map to Subdivide Two Commercial
Parcels Into Eleven Parcels to Include a Commercial Parcel with a
Public Park and Ten Single Family Properties, for a 3.58 Acre Site
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Located at 2080 Channing Avenue (Edgewood Plaza Mixed Use
Project). * Quasi-Judicial.
Elena Lee, Senior Planner, reported Staff returned to the Council with the
revised project and subsequent environmental clearance as directed by the
Council. The original project proposed rehabilitation of the existing shopping
center. A final Environmental Impact Report (EIR) was approved for the
project. Contrary to the City's approval requirements for the project,
Building Number 1 was demolished. Subsequently, the Council authorized
continuation of the project to include construction of Building Number 3,
rehabilitation of Building Number 2 subject to monitoring, and construction
of six single-family homes. The Council's authorization was subject to an
amendment to the Planned Community (PC) Zone and a Supplemental EIR.
Fresh Market now occupied Building Number 3 and was open for business.
Building Number 2 was under construction with close supervision by Staff
and the City's historic consultant. The historic sign was approved for
rehabilitation. Building Number 1 would be reconstructed as originally
approved but with all new materials. Other components of the project
remained the same. The applicant proposed to retain all the original public
benefits with the exception of Building Number 1. The Supplemental EIR
focused on the changes to Building Number 1 and the mitigation
requirement regarding windows. In order to certify the EIR, the Council
must adopt a statement of overriding considerations. The Historic Resources
Board (HRB) recommended certification of the final EIR and approval of the
PC Amendment. The Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC) also
recommended certification of the final EIR and the PC Amendment. With
respect to public benefits, the PTC recommended a penalty of $94,200 be
applied to future restoration of a public building or to sidewalk
improvements along West Bayshore Road. Staff recommended certification
of the final EIR and approval of the PC Amendment. Staff analyzed three
options for the penalty. The applicant's savings totaled $52,800; however,
Staff recommended a penalty of $94,200 in accordance with the PTC
recommendation.
Public Hearing Opened at 8:31 P.M.
John Tze, Applicant, had no intent to disregard a known public benefit. He
accepted responsibility for the demolition of Building Number 1. He agreed
to add expensive custom detailing to all wood storefronts. If the Council
deemed it fair to assess a further contribution, he would reluctantly accept
it. He requested the City's historic consultant provide background
information regarding the condition of the historic buildings.
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Charlie Duncan, Carey & Co. Architects, reported Building Number 1 was in
worse physical condition than Building Number 2. Wood beams in Building
Number 1 could not be saved due to the extent of deterioration. The only
effective loss from demolition of the building was the steel columns. After
rehabilitation, Building Number 2 was almost identical to its original state.
Gayle Olson supported the project. The shopping center was enhanced
through the project and provided services to nearby elderly residents.
Heather Rosmarin noted safety issues along West Bayshore Road. The
shopping center could increase pedestrian, bicycle and motorist traffic.
Forty Palo Alto residents signed a petition in support of sidewalks along
Bayshore Road.
Brenda Erwin supported a sidewalk or bicycle path along Bayshore Road.
Public Hearing Closed at 8:42 P.M.
Council Member Holman observed Building Number 1 being demolished
rather than deconstructed. The demolition violated the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the PC Zoning Ordinance, the project
approvals and the provision of public benefits. She inquired about the cost
of improvements along Bayshore Road and the person designing the
changes.
Jaime Rodriguez, Chief Planning Official, indicated Staff had not completed a
proposal to begin a design process. A rough estimate of the construction
cost was $250,000 to $300,000.
Council Member Holman asked what action Staff recommended the Council
take.
Mr. Rodriguez stated that Staff requested the Council accept the penalty
amount but not dedicate it. Staff would return with a recommendation for
use of the penalty amount in six months.
Council Member Holman noted the estimated construction cost of
improvements was $250,000, yet the penalty amount was only $94,200.
She inquired about potential sources for the remainder of funding for
improvements.
Mr. Rodriguez could identify funding sources when Staff returned to the
Council.
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Council Member Holman asked if the construction cost estimate could be
charged to the applicant as the penalty amount.
Mr. Rodriguez reported the Council could consider that.
Council Member Holman asked when Staff could provide a construction cost
for Bayshore Road improvements.
Mr. Rodriguez could provide an engineer's estimate within two to four
weeks.
Council Member Holman commented that the historic sign was to be moved
as part of the original application, and inquired whether it could be returned
to its original site.
Ms. Lee reported relocation of the sign allowed the reconfiguration of the
parking lot and provided improved visibility of the site. Returning the sign to
its original location would require reconfiguration of the site.
Council Member Klein noted the Agenda Item title did not mention the fine
or a use of the fine, and asked if the Council could consider those two items.
Molly Stump, City Attorney indicated the fine was incorporated into the
revision of the PC Ordinance.
Cara Silver, Senior Assistant City Attorney, explained that typically a fine
was levied at an administrative level and was not presented to the Council.
The proposed fine amount was equivalent to the community benefit as
described in the Staff Report, the Resolution and the PC Ordinance.
Council Member Klein felt the fine should have been mentioned in the title of
the Agenda Item as it was a concern to the community. The Council should
not decide how penalty funds would be used in the current discussion,
because little to no notice was given to the general public.
Ms. Stump anticipated the Council would want another policy discussion
regarding use of the fine. It was permissible under the item and its notice
for the Council to impose the fine and direct Staff to return with a future
policy discussion regarding use of the monies.
Council Member Klein believed the Council needed to decide whether to
discuss uses of the penalty amount at the current time.
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Vice Mayor Shepherd suggested a Council Member move to continue
discussion of the uses of the fine.
MOTION: Council Member Klein moved, seconded by Council Member Kniss
to limit discussion to everything but potential use of the fine and for Staff to
bring a recommendation back in 90 days.
Council Member Kniss felt the Council should decide the penalty amount,
and at another time decide the use of the penalty funds.
Ms. Stump understood that Staff identified the amount of a payment that
would be a component of the public benefit to replace the lost public benefit.
The Motion proposed to determine the amount of the penalty and continue
the policy discussion regarding use of the funds to a later time.
Council Member Kniss referenced public comments in favor of a sidewalk
along Bayshore Road. It would be unfair to vote on the penalty amount only
while allowing the public to believe the funds would be spent only on
sidewalks.
Ms. Stump indicated Council Member Kniss' description was the appropriate
way for the Council to proceed, and presumed the recommended penalty
amount was fair.
Council Member Holman inquired whether the Motion proposed future
Council discussion of the amount of the penalty.
Council Member Klein explained that the Council would discuss whether to
impose a fine and, if so, the amount of the fine.
Council Member Holman clarified that the Motion continued discussion of the
use of the monies.
MOTION PASSED: 8-0 Scharff absent
Council Member Schmid referenced the original valuation of the property of
$600,000 and the current valuation of approximately $942,000. He asked if
the value reflected a market value of the property to users.
Ms. Lee responded no. The value was the amount Staff anticipated the
applicant would utilize to generate a building permit fee.
Council Member Schmid inquired whether a statement that the reconstructed
building had an enhanced value was reasonable.
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Ms. Lee agreed there would be increased value. She understood the
applicant to indicate that the building needed new materials whether
constructed according to the original PC Ordinance or according to the
amended PC Ordinance.
Council Member Schmid felt it would be fair for the Council to share equally
in an enhanced value of the new building. With a difference in value of
$300,000, perhaps a penalty of $150,000 would be more appropriate.
Ms. Lee indicated the amount of the fine was within the Council's purview.
MOTION: Council Member Klein moved, seconded by Council Member Kniss
to approve: 1) the Resolution (Attachment A), certifying the Final
Supplemental Environmental Impact Report; 2) to adopt an Ordinance
(Attachment B), approving the amendment to the Planned Community
project to allow the reconstruction of Building number one with all new
materials, where installation of replicas of the original detailed wood window
frames; 3) to require the developer to pay the sum of $94,200 with respect
to the improper demolition of building number one; and 4) to approve the
Final Map. Furthermore, to direct Staff to make necessary corrections in the
resolution and ordinance.
Council Member Klein believed the applicant made a serious error in
demolishing the building. The project was an improvement over the derelict
shopping center. The key topic was the amount of the fine. The fine was
not a public benefit. The Council had no guidance with respect to setting the
amount of the fine. The $94,000 amount seemed reasonable. The fine was
large enough to discourage future developer mistakes; yet, not so large as
to be punitive.
Vice Mayor Shepherd requested the word contribution be replaced with the
word fine.
Ms. Silver assumed the Motion directed Staff to make necessary corrections
in the Resolution and the Ordinance.
Council Member Kniss agreed it was difficult to determine an amount for a
fine. She hoped a fine would discourage future contractors from doing the
same thing. The amount of $94,200 seemed to be fair.
Council Member Holman shared ways other communities determined
amounts of fines. Council Member Schmid mentioned a reasonable method
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to determine the amount of a fine. She was not convinced that $94,000
would deter a developer from taking similar action in the future.
AMENDMENT: Council Member Holman moved, seconded by Council
Member Schmid to assess a penalty of $170,000 instead of $94,200.
Council Member Schmid felt the historical resource was removed. A
replication of the building was not the same as the original building.
Because of an improved economy in Palo Alto, the property received an
increased valuation. Sharing the increased value was logical.
AMENDMENT TO MOTION FAILED: 2-6 Holman, Schmid yes, Scharff
absent
Council Member Price inquired whether the calculation for the penalty would
be codified as a means to assess future penalties.
Ms. Stump indicated that the structure was part of the PC Ordinance for the
project. There was not sufficient basis to generalize the calculation to other
potential penalties. The Council and Staff should have a broader discussion
regarding potential future penalties.
Council Member Price asked if the topic of that discussion should be the
whole issue of penalty and codifying approaches for the future.
Ms. Stump responded yes. In the case of this project, the existing Code
structures were inadequate. The Motion did not amend the Code; it was
specific to the project. The Council should have a broader discussion to
amend the Code.
Council Member Klein suggested the Motion be revised to add a new item
after Item Number 2: "3) to assess a fine against the developer of $94,200
with respect to the improper demolition of Building Number 1." He
requested the City Attorney's opinion regarding that language.
Ms. Silver reported an existing fee structure indicated the fee for demolition
of a historic structure was $500. In order to assess this as a fine, the
Council would need a corresponding amendment to the fee structure. The
Council could assess this as a payment in connection with the overall PC
Amendment.
Council Member Klein inquired whether the language "require the developer
to pay the sum of $94,200 with respect to the improper demolition of
Building Number 1" would be appropriate.
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Ms. Silver replied yes.
Vice Mayor Shepherd appreciated the improvements to the shopping center
and an adjacent property. Determining a payment for demolition of the
building was complicated. She was concerned about the method for
calculating the payment.
Council Member Berman did not doubt the applicant's statement that the
original materials in Building Number 1 needed to be replaced with new
materials. However, the City could not confirm that statement, because the
building was demolished. He preferred the amount of any future payment
remain within the Council's discretion.
MOTION PASSED: 7-1 Holman no, Scharff absent
13. Recommendation for One-Time Additional Allocation in the Amount of
$250,000 Over Two Years in Support of Intensive Case Management in
Connection with Housing Subsidies to be Provided by the County of
Santa Clara for Palo Alto’s Homeless.
Minka Van Der Zwaag, Community Services Senior Program Manager,
reported on August 13, 2013, the Policy and Services Committee discussed
additional expenditures for homeless services. The Committee discussed
approaches to address homeless issues Citywide with special consideration
of resolving issues at Cubberley Community Center. At the Policy and
Services Committee meeting, Staff presented two alternatives for a multi-
agency and service provider partnership. The first option was the concept of
a homeless outreach team utilizing a cross-functional group of providers to
move homeless people into housing. The second option was a funding
match for housing subsidies provided by the County of Santa Clara (County)
to support intensive case management. Service providers commented that
an outreach team was only one approach to addressing homelessness, and
was meant to open a multi-agency dialog on homelessness. A local
organization offered to convene a newly formed Homeless Services Task
Force to bring forth other ideas to the Council. The Policy and Services
Committee recommended that the full Council consider an investment in the
creation of a multi-agency homeless outreach program not to exceed
$250,000, and requested Staff return with a specific plan to address the
issue. Staff worked with the Homeless Services Task Force and the County
to present a recommendation for the Council's consideration. The County
would provide housing funds to assist individuals who had contact with the
criminal justice system, had a high chance of recidivism, significantly
impacted County, State or local resources and were currently homeless or at
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risk of becoming homeless. These factors were required by the County's
funding source for housing subsidies. Local service providers informed Staff
that the guidelines would not be a barrier to assist many of their clients.
The County subsidies could be utilized for permanent support of housing or
long-term transitional housing. With permanent support, an individual
would receive an ongoing rental subsidy, and an intensive case manager
would assist the individual to obtain services to remain housed. Long-term
transitional housing most often ended after a two-year period and was
targeted to individuals who needed assistance in leaving the streets. With
the assistance of a housing subsidy and an intensive case manager, it was
hoped individuals would transfer from the subsidy to a non-subsidized unit.
Staff expected to provide assistance to 20 individuals. The County budgeted
$518,000 for subsidies and administration costs over the next 24 months.
An intensive case manager would work with an individual to ensure the
client's needs were met in a variety of contexts. The County would require
the City to utilize a case management agency that was part or would agree
to be part of the Care Coordination Project of the Housing 1000 Campaign.
The Care Coordination Project was developed to ensure the effectiveness of
services for the homeless population by coordinating and monitoring
intensive case management services. The Care Coordination Project
required case management agencies establish data collection and
performance standards and required weekly meetings of all case managers.
The Project allowed the City to access security deposits, move-in assistance,
flexible housing funds and potentially other housing resources for chronically
homeless clients. InnVision Shelter Network, Downtown Streets Team and
Momentum for Mental Health were designated as part of the Care
Coordination Project. Staff recommended the City enter into an agreement
with the County's Mental Health Department to release the Request for
Proposal (RFP) and provide oversight of the intensive case management
agencies. The City would retain the ability to create and oversee the referral
process. The City and the County would oversee the project. Experts
indicated that access to housing was the most important aspect of solving
homelessness. The $250,000 one-time investment would leverage County
funds to support and house 20 individuals.
Chris Richardson, Downtown Streets Team, indicated the closing of
Cubberley facilities and the impending vehicle habitation ban created a
short-term crisis. Case managers would work on successful housing
retention strategies so that clients would remain in housing. The Homeless
Services Task Force planned to continue to develop a long-term plan for the
rest of the homeless and low-income individuals in the community.
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Cybele appreciated the Homeless Services Task Force's efforts. She
supported Mr. Richardson's request for additional time to create long-term
strategies.
Norman Carroll received housing through County homeless programs and
helped others receive housing. Homeless programs needed to be
implemented properly. The proposed funding amount was insufficient.
Edie Keating questioned actions that would be taken at the end of two years.
The proposal would not house the entire homeless population in Palo Alto.
Stephanie Munoz agreed with Ms. Keating's comments. The City's planning
was inadequate in that it did not consider housing for workers. Another
issue for the homeless population was mental illness.
Council Member Price indicated one highlight of the homeless discussion was
the opportunity to learn about homelessness. Clearly a comprehensive
approach was needed. Collaboration and communication would be critical to
achieving meaningful outcomes. Partnerships in seeking funds was also
important. With respect to the Care Coordination Project, the City would be
pushing the onus toward the County in terms of coordinating an RFP for
services. She inquired about periodic updates to the Council regarding
interim outcomes and performance measures.
Ms. Van Der Zwaag stated City Staff would be involved in choosing the
agencies to provide services and including specific items related to Palo Alto
in the RFP. The RFP could contain reporting structures to Staff and the
Council. The City's oversight of service providers should not be an issue.
Ky Le, Director of Homeless Systems for the County of Santa Clara,
explained that the Care Coordination Project identified several outcome
measures, primarily related to retention of housing, days to housing, and
connection to supplemental security and to health services. Those metrics
could be incorporated into the RFP and reported to City Staff.
Council Member Price asked if the process would consider outside peer
review of RFPs.
Mr. Le envisioned that the panel would include himself, City Staff, and
perhaps other community experts.
Council Member Price suggested the panel include experts from outside the
county to provide fresh insight.
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Mr. Le indicated the County could attempt to accommodate that request
from the Council.
MOTION: Council Member Kniss moved, seconded by Council Member Price
to approve a one-time City allocation of $250,000 to be disbursed over two
years for support of its homeless outreach and placement plan and that the
Fiscal Year 2014 allocation in the amount of $125,000 is authorized to be
paid from the City Council Contingency due to the urgency of providing this
service. The homeless outreach and placement plan will be comprised of
intensive case management in connection with housing subsidies for the
homeless to be provided by the County of Santa Clara (County). Further,
the City Council directs staff to bring forward a Budget Amendment
Ordinance in November to increase the City Council Contingency in the
amount of $125,000 with a corresponding decrease of the General Fund
Budget Stabilization Reserve and include funding of the Fiscal Year 2015
allocation in the amount of $125,000 in the FY 2015 Proposed Budget.
Council Member Kniss felt County involvement was important. Inherent
within the Motion was working with the County to provide housing subsidies.
The funding source for the allocation would be the Council Contingency
Fund. The program would be different from previous efforts and would
involve many groups.
Council Member Price concurred with Council Member Kniss' comments. The
collaboration component was critical and could not be accomplished by the
City alone. The Council was making a commitment for two years, and future
debate would include the issue of sustainable funding.
Council Member Schmid believed this was a follow-up discussion to the
Vehicle Habitation Ordinance and closure of community centers. He
supported spending $250,000 for the model of outreach teams. His
calculations indicated $1,250 would be available to each individual for a
monthly rent voucher. However, low-income housing was in short supply in
Palo Alto. He asked where individuals would find low-income housing. The
proposed program would not be a solution to the homeless problem, and the
Council could not determine a solution without working with the County.
Perhaps the Council should direct the Homeless Services Task Force to
examine County programs to determine reasons for the lack of shelters.
AMENDMENT: Council Member Schmid moved, seconded by Council
Member Holman to remove the words “one-time,” changing the Motion to
read “…to approve a City allocation of $250,000…”
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Council Member Kniss was comfortable with the allocation being one time,
because the Council agreed it would be a pilot program.
Council Member Schmid believed removing "one-time" would indicate the
Council's good faith efforts to resolve the homeless issue.
Council Member Holman supported removing "one-time" because it provided
no harm, and the message was more open and clear. She did not want to
send the message that the Council would only provide an allocation of
$250,000.
Council Member Burt felt the Council's intentions were to allocate $250,000
over two years at the present time, and in the future the Council would
determine an ongoing commitment. He preferred to remove "one-time."
Council Member Klein noted "one-time" was included in the recommendation
from the Policy and Services Committee. By removing it, the Council was
indicating that the program would continue.
Council Member Price concurred with Council Member Klein. The Council
wanted to see the results of the program before considering additional
funding. Including "one-time" placed pressure on stakeholders to consider
other funding models.
AMENDMENT TO MOTION FAILED: 3-5 Burt, Holman, Schmid yes,
Scharff Absent
Council Member Holman inquired whether the Homeless Services Task Force
would continue its efforts.
Ms. Van Der Zwaag replied yes.
Council Member Holman asked why the Sunnyvale Armory was closing.
Ms. Van Der Zwaag reported a long-term housing project would be
implemented at the site.
Mr. Le noted that the Cold Weather Shelter Program would operate in 2013.
Two affordable housing projects would be developed on the site of the
Sunnyvale Armory.
Council Member Holman inquired about the number of housing units that
would be developed at the site.
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Mr. Le indicated both projects would provide 118-120 units. The Sunnyvale
Armory's current capacity was 125 beds.
Ms. Van Der Zwaag stated a group was attempting to find other locations for
the shelter program.
Council Member Holman requested an update regarding the possibility of
expanding the Hotel de Zink Program. She suggested the Homeless
Services Task Force report twice a year to the Human Relations Commission
(HRC) to inform the Council and the public and to monitor the homeless
program.
Ms. Van Der Zwaag agreed that the Homeless Services Task Force could
report to the HRC; however, the Homeless Services Task Force would not
oversee the homeless program.
Council Member Holman intended for Staff to report on services being
provided through the homeless program.
Ms. Van Der Zwaag would provide the recommendation to the Homeless
Services Task Force.
AMENDMENT: Vice Mayor Shepherd moved, seconded by Council Member
Kniss to delete “Further, the City Council directs staff to bring forward a
Budget Amendment Ordinance in November to increase the City Council
Contingency in the amount of $125,000 with a corresponding decrease of
the General Fund Budget Stabilization Reserve and include funding of the
Fiscal Year 2015 allocation in the amount of $125,000 in the FY 2015
Proposed Budget.”
Vice Mayor Shepherd felt use of the Council Contingency Fund was
appropriate.
Council Member Kniss indicated use of Council Contingency Funds provided a
good message.
Council Member Klein explained that the Council Contingency Fund was used
to fund an initiative that was not included in the Budget. The homeless
program fit that category. He was unsure whether Council Member Kniss
included the language in the Motion.
Council Member Kniss did not include it.
Council Member Price seconded the Motion as written.
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Council Member Klein believed Staff's suggestion was consistent and
appropriate with the budgetary scheme; however, he did not understand
why it was included in the Motion. Unused monies in the Council
Contingency Fund reverted to the reserves.
Council Member Holman understood Council Member Klein to say the
language should not have been included in Staff's recommendation, and
asked if he agreed with the Amendment to delete the language.
Council Member Klein responded yes, but for different reasons.
AMENDMENT WITHDRAWN
Council Member Berman felt this was a good short-term program. It was
important for the Council to monitor the program to determine its success.
MOTION PASSED: 8-0 Scharff absent
ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 10:21 P.M.