HomeMy WebLinkAbout1980-02-19 City Council Summary MinutesRegular Meeting
February 19, 1980
ITEM PAGE
Oral Communications
1. Curtis Van Vllet, 455 Forest Avenue 453
Consent Calenda - Action Items
Sol Park: Park Improvement - Ordinance Fer 453
Bridge Platform
Ordinance Re Citation Authority and Setting 453
Penalties for Violation
Ordinance Re Contributions During City Elections 454
Public Hearing: 433-435 Romer Avenue - Approval of 454
Tentative Subdivision Map of Danforth E. Apker
Adult Crossing Guard Warrants 455
Amendments to Zoning Ordinance 455
2180 El Camino Real - Appeal from Decision of Zoning 456
Administrator by Andrew Ring III
760-750 Webster Street - Appeal from Decision of Zoning 457
to Grant a Variance by Laurence Spitters
Ordinance Re S kin; 459
Municipal Golf Course _ Interim Coffee Slop and Golf 460
Pro Agreements
Noise Issues - _ ._ _ - _. -- 463
. �.. e.s.�ar�a
�y���. i of Ir.lc
Report City Lien; Re Advisory Ballot Measure For 46S
Special Elections: Amts and Impartial Analysis
Request of CouncilCouncilmember Witherspoon Re Increase in 466
Council Compensation
CitV MaralielMr Tani,- Om writ al r . ai a ....1,4 vM ! J ! 5-C Icpi9T si,
Request of Meyer Henderson Re ni r p $: ; and Sale of
Drug Paraphernalia
Mayor Henderson Re Planning !ssioft Ieterviews
Method of Correcting Council Minutes
Adjournment
467
�!Y
467
466
468
452
U19/80
February 19, 1980
Regular Meeting
The City Council met on this date at the City /Hall, 250 Hamilton, at
7:42 p.m., Mayor Henderson presiding.
PRESENT: Brenner, Eyerly, Fazzino, Fletcher, Henderson, Levy, Renzel,
Sher, Witherspoon
ABSENT: None
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
I. Curtis Van Vliet, 455 Forest Avenue, spoke of possessing psychic
powers that enabled him to bring together both past and future. He
asked that Council confirm those powers so that he could get a loan
of money "...and T do need help right away."
Mayor Henderson asked that he leave his phone number with the City
Clerk.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Referral Items
None
Action Items
Council tuber Fletcher asked that the ratters on the smoking ordinance
and appeal on zoning change for property at 2180 El Camino Real be
removed from the consent calendar.
Councilmember Witherspoon asked that the matter concerning the property
at 740-750 Webster Street be removed from the Consent calendar.
Councilor Renzel asked that the matter concerning amendments to the
zoning ordinance be removed from the consent calendar,
Councilors Witherspoon, Fazzino and Eyerly asked that their votes on
the matter concerning contributions during elections be recorded as "no."
The following items reAa i ned on the consent ca l ego r :
BOL PARK: PARK IMPROVEMENT
(c 144:n)
Staff recommends that Council approve the foi oilserEg ordinance for first
readi ng :
ORDINANCE OF THE COMM OF THE CITY OF
- �19f\AIAa{s+►aia AND ADOPTING t PLAN FOR THE
-"PALO-ALTO APPROVING ii r T ING af°t rL rOR t HE
--CONSTRUCTION-Of-NEW BROICE-DECKING---AND-nSIILLATION
OF no BENCHES ALONG EXISTING BIKE PATH IN DOL PARK -
L IN E RE CITATION AUTHORITY
This ordinance for second reading provides citation authority to certain
designated employees and also gives provision for penalties to the
uniform code, sign code and for public nuisance.
453
Z/19/80
ORDINANCE 3184 entitled "ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL
4F THE CITY OF PALO ALTO ADDING CERTAIN SECTIONS
TO THE PALO ALTO MUNICIPAL C0IE TO PROVIDE CITATION
AUTHORITY TO CERTAIN DESIGNATED EMPLOYEE POSITIONS
AND ALSO SETTING FORTH PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS
OF THE UNIFORM CODES, SIGN CODE AND FOR PUBLIC
NUISANCES." (First reading 2/4/80)
ORDINANCE RE CONTRIBUTIONS
This ordinance, for first reading, deals with contributions for candidates
for City offices, so that names of those contributing $50 or more will
be made public.
ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
PALO ALTO AMENDING SECTION 2.40.040 AND ADDING
SECTION 2.40.050 TO THE PALO ALTO MUNICIPAL CODE
REGARDING THE PUBLICATION OF CONTRIBUTIONS AND
CONTRIBUTORS TO CANDIDATES IN CITY ELECTIONS AND
REGARDING THE LIMITATION OF ANONYMOUS CONTRIBUTIONS
IN SAID ELECTIONS
MOTION: Councilmen- er Witherspoon mover, seconded by Fazzino, that
Council approve the Consent Calendar. The motion passed on a unanimous
vote, with Counciln tubers Eyerly, Fazzino and Witherspoon voting no on
the matter concerning contributors to candidates for City elections.
PUBLIC HEARING:
41 RITIVENUE
XPPINIMATArrit SUBDIVISION
The Planning Commission by a vote of 5-1 (Commissioner Gordon dissenting)
recommends approval of the application of Danforth E. Apker for approval
of a tentative subdivision map for property located at 433-445 Homer
Avenue, subject to conditions in the January 25, 1980, staff report.
Mayor Henderson declared the public hearing open. Hearing no one tut
wished to speak, he declared the public meting closed.
MOTION1 Councilmember Witherspoon moved, seconded by Fletcher, that
Council approve the Planning Commission recommendation to approve the
application for tentative subdivision map, and said that it did not have
a significant impact on the environment and was in conformance to the
Coevreheesive Plan.
Councilmember Brenner said ehe did too_ went . to yot apprnvkl witturtut
having more information.
Ken Schreiber, Assistant Director of Planning, said that only the map,
which C-ouncimembers had before them needed approval; it had already been
approved by the Architectural Review ford. -
Councilmember Renzel said s had trouble finding where the ingress and
egress to.the subdivision were --she could not find it had no significant
environmental impact without that basic information, and so would abstain.
MOTION PASSED: The motion passed on the following vote.
AYES: Eyerly, Fazzino, Fletcher, Henderson, Sher, Witherspoon
HOES: Brenner.
ABSTAIN: Levy, Renzel
454
2/ WOO
ADULT CROSSING GUARD WARRANTS (CHR:145:0)
Chairman Fazzino, representing the City/School Liaison Committee, said
he thought the warrants developed by City staff along with the Palo Alto
School District staff were adequate. Council had approved money for the
traffic guard program some months back.
MOTION: Councilmember Fazzino moved, seconded by Renzel, that Council
approve the committee's recommendation to adopt the warrants for adult
crossing guards.
Councilmember Fletcher said she thought the reasons for the need for
crossing guards were good.
Councilmember Levy praised the cooperation between the City and School
Liaison committee members.
MOTION PASSED: The motion approving warrants for adult crossing guards
passed on a unanimous vote.
AMENDMENTS TO THE ZONING ORDINANCE
Corrected
See Pg. 513
3/24/80
Councilmember Renzel said she had removed the matter from the consent
calendar because she had concerns about the daylight plane for both side
and front yards. The daylight plane requirement provided open space for
the streetscape in that t kept buildings from looking too massive in a
given area. The earlier ordinance had required a three -feet setback per
story; she thought there might not have been adequate discussion of the
other purposes of the daylight plane and she thought any recent bonus
should be connected to the affordable housing.
MOTION: Councilmember Renzel Moved, seconded by Sher, that Council refer
the daylight plane aspect of the recommendation back to the Planning
Commission for further discussion, and approve the remainder of the
ordinance for first reading.
ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALO ALTO
AMENDING CERTAIN SECTIONS TO ZONING ORDINANCE MAKING
MINOR CHANGE TO EXCEPTIONS TO NONCONFORMING USE SECTIONS
Councilmember Renzel amplified that she meant all sections relating to the
daylight plane, including those areas which abutted, that is, sections
1-15.
george Zimmerman said that _C.owtc11 . r Renzel had said that in zones
ilet-3 to 1-5 a building could be 50 feet high, and right now it could
nne Wr; !ie'! n said h rk.s .-c.. that
-
,..d.�........,.o.. said :w� wstvibs�116 LfW� Yi t!e'_daylight elAstqe irmr.o►
eliminated :_ -
_. .._ , 4�d f = o_ !treat/side y os in the lower density zones it would
not have much effect. Did Councilmember Renzel went all of the zones
considered?
Councilmember Renzel said she did want all the zone considered --when the
matter returned to Co Vi sue# - -- She '�_ ....�:� ..�....,. - .+.c discussed. ��.itaaC'7u: _ .i�Y� feared
blanket application night result in a kind of development t of onsistervt
with Palo Alto's wishes.
C,..acilmember u;euner asked if there was -a restriction of the percentage
of a wall that could be used for a bay window. She had thought it was
limited to about 50 percent. She thought there should be a parallel
limitation en encroachment of a he window --were the limit set, the
addition of a bay window would not be an 'encroachment.'
Mr. Zimmerman said a limitation could be added; that matter did not have
to qv to the Planning Commission since the intent was not changed.
455
2119/80
i
i
Vice Mayor Sher explained that he had seconded Councilmawnber Renzel's
notion because there had been very little in the Planning Commission
minutes explaining why the daylight plan consideration had been deleted --
he daylight plane was to have been an important part of the zoning
ordinance. He thought Council should see why setbacks might be adequate
without daylight plane requirements, since daylight plane requirements
had been thought important.
Councilor Eyerly ascertained the amount of information staff gave
the Planning Commission which it based its opinions. Mr. Zimmerman said
that the background material given to the Planning Commission had inad-
vertently beer omitted from the Council packet,
Councilor Renzel asked that the daylight plane in relation to private Corrected
streets also be included. See Pg. 513
3/24/80
Robert Moss, 4010 fie, recalled the lengthy discussions held about the
daylight plane during talks preceding the adoption of the zoning ordinance.
The daylight plane was thought to hold promise and he did not think the
principle had been discussed adequately and he thought it should be
given a chance to operate. He added that technically "3.0 meters"
should be listed as "3.3 meters" to equat 10 feet.
The motion that sections 1.5 of the proposed ordinance be referred back
to the Planning Commission for further discussion of the daylight plane
and that the remainder of the ordinance be approved for first reading
passed on a unanimous vote.
Mayor Henderson added that language proposed to amplify ify limitations
regarding bay windows should also return to Council.
2180 EL CAMIhO REAL
OF
niFfinalffEMMITIT
The Planning Commission unanimously recommends approval of the appeal of
Ring 111 from the decision of the zoning administrator to grant a use
petit for property located at 2180 El Camino Real, subject to conditions
listed in the January 30, 1980, mai nu tes .
Councilmember Fletcher said she wanted to oppose the Planning Commission
recommendation that the decision to have a drive -op wires be permitted
She said that some time back she had submitted a report by.a. San Jose
ol9r.:eft.sivs id!owlee ient b uiid p of toxic rumes at drive_ue Wind S posed
a significant health hazard, particularly when there were enclosing walls
on two sides. She said that the existence of a roof along with the two
walls meant fumes would be sucked into the bank itself. Cupertino end
Saratoga had Wired drive -up windows. There were too m sny e'nv i ronmm enta l
hazards in connection with use of drive -up windows -
Mayor Henderson a s►certa i nd that queuing shortcomings had .led __to the
zoning administrator's denial of the reevesti Mayor Henderson said he
did not went to deny to one bank **at other banks already had.
455
2/19/
Councilmember Renzel said the specific design was especially hazardous.
Councilmember Fazzine said that though he shared the health concerns he
did not want to single out one bank for being unable to have a drive -up
window.
MOTION: Councilmember Fazzino moved, seconded by Eyerly, that Council
uphold the Planning Commission recommendation and approve the appeal of
Andrew Ring III, and grant a use permit for property located at 2180 El
Camino Real .
Councilmember Fazzino said he would to willing to hear a proposal prohibiting
drive -up w i ndows in general.
Councilmember Renzel noted that the use permit process meant that permission
world be selectively applied --it was not automatically granted. The
zoning administrator had recognized that space for the stacking lane for
the drive -up wirer had been drawn from landscape reserve set aside for
future parking spaces. She would vote against the motion to approve.
Helene Wheeler, Planning Commissioner, rated that the Planning Commission
had reviewed the hazards Counc11eer Fletcher had alluded to. A
review of the banking facts had led the Commission to conclude that the
proposed use at the specific site would be apropriate. She said that a
little -used long stretch of available parking space at the sidewalk was
thought to provide needed parking space.
Councilmember Brenner agreed that the design posed a health hazard for
bank workers. She was not so sure that parking would always be permitted
on El Camino Real since there Was additional development taking place
along that corridor. She thought it might be a good time to start
thinking about phasing oot drive -up windows either by design approval or
through a general ordinance.
Councilmember Eyerly noted that local workers and residents used drive -
up windows, as did handicapped people. He would support the recommendation.
Councilmember Fletcher asked if permission to have a drive -up window
would change if the !wilding tenant changed.
Roy Abram, City Attorney, said that use permits ran with the land and
therefore would be transferable.
Vice Mayor Sher ascertained with Mr. Sanchez that had the changes made
hu Oikaa P1ann4nn Ceseamieefn,r knan 4n Affesrt__WfiAM lfr_ S' -k, rowlowold thog
application, he would probably have granted the cse permit.
MOTION PASSED: The aTotiorn, that Council uphold the Planing Commission
recommendation and grant tile use permit passed on the following vote:
AYES: Eyerly, Fazzino, Henderson, Levy, Sher, Wit erspoon
Via; Branner, r E lions . Renzel
740-750 WEZSi"a.R` STREET
Z0 ING
MILMCCIPITTEPT-'
The Planning Commission unanimously recommends partial approval of the
appeal of Laurence Spitters for a variance at 740-750 Webster.
457
2/ 19180
• e
Councilmember Witherspoon said that both the Planning Commission and the
zoning administrator appeared to have overlooked the existence of a
number of illegal units at the site. Was the lot a combined lot?
Mario Sanchez, zoning administrator, said the lots were not combined;
they could be combined if property lines were eliminated or if cross -
easements were issued. Two units per parcel were allowable. At present
740 Webster had four units, three of which would have been permitted by
the old ordinance --e search of the records was underway to see how the
fourth unit was permitted.
Councilor Witherspoon said the area was now crowded; she proposed
allowing a new garage in the front of 750 Webster, with access to an
existing garage to be granted with a combined easement. The existing
garage at the back of 740 should be demolished and a new two -car carport
should be added: How could other needed parking be attained?
Mr. Sanchez said the applicant could return for permission for additional
parking; the zoning administration could make it conditional that the
applicant either ask for a tentative parcel map to eliminate lot lines,
or he could ask for cross easement.
Council ber Fletcher added that enclosed parking for a bicycle also be
required where there were no closed garages.
MOTION: Councilmember Witherspoon moved. seconded by Fletcher, that
Council approve the Planning Omission recommendation that there be
partial approval of the appeal of Laurence Spitters from the decision of
the Zoning Administrator to grant a variance at 740-750 Webster Street,
subject to conditions.
AMENDMENT: Counci lmember Fletcher- moved, seconded by Renzel, that
parking for bicycles meet legal requirements.
Councilmember Brenner said she was still unclear about the number of
illegal units on the subject pn pem; tv. She asked if, by Council's
action of eliminating the garage in hack, the units would be legalized.
Mr. Sanchez said that technically that would be true.
Mr. tarchez explained that the solid concrete now in front of the house
on the subject property wound be subject to ARB approval. The Building
Department would enforce ARB decisions within a reasonable length of
times --perhaps six months.
Laurence 5 -Otters clarified with Coinrdisa. r Fletcher the i fic
� of
her oro s i a __t that rent i {i� the cu _
a Fletcher
for iultiple dwellings be provided. He continued, saying the building
at 740 Webster was constructed about 50-60 ,years ago, and there was no
record as to when it was converted to multiple. The building housed two
units and he intended to reconvert, eliminating the third unit now in a
converted garage, and that would make the rear- yard acceptable. Ne did
eot jt to have unclosed garages, which the bicycle parking requirement
_mould suc st. Aleenities, bicycle parking, trash containers and the
like, voilld be provided by a carport that would be commodious. He read
a. letter to Council in which he appealed the conditions saying that in
the rear yarn he intended to landscape so that cars could back out of
the carport. He said a rv®fgaarden patio was proposed for the top of the
carport at 740 Webster. He itemized current backing -out hazards to
438
2/29180
substantiate the need for the back -out portion of the yard. He asked
that the conditions be modified by language which he had proposed. He:
thought about 150 square feet would be required.
Mayor Henderson said he would like to have more information before he
voted.
l4OTI01: Councilmember Brenner moved, seconded by Levy, that the matter
be referred back to the Planning Ccan i scion.
Roy Abrams, City Attorney, said Council could move to continue the
matter and obtain further information from the Planning Commission.
Mayor Henderson explained to Mr. Spitters that, in view of the fact that
the drawings Mr. Spitters had submitted to Council had not been available
to the Planning Commission, he did not want to make a decision without
the commission seeing then.
Ken Schreiber, Assistant Director of Planning and Community Environment,
said the only question undecided was the required turning radius of the
drive.
SUBSTITUTE MOTION TO CONTINUE: Mayor Henderson roved, seconded by
Brenner, that the matter be continued to Feburary 25, 1980. `
Council ber Witherspoon said she would like staff to ascertain how
many of the units at 740 Webster were legal. She said that when the
matter returned she would move that the lot lines be eliminated for the
common driveway which she thought was key to the entire project.
Pir. Spitters said he had strong feelings about not merging would Council -
member Witherspoon approve a cross -easement? He thought there was
. . .sufficient comity benefit to what's being proposed here. .
61
Councilr ber Brenner said she would like to know the legal number of
units if the lot lines were eliminated and if there were two separate
lots.
11
Mr. Abrams said that there was a 30 -day period in which Council had to
act from the time the recommendation was received on an appeal.
SUBSTITUTE MOTION PASSED: The motion to continue the matter one week
passed on a unanimous vote.
ORDINANCE RE SMOKING
Mayor person said that the change in the ordinance which had had
first readirlg was a`u "eedw e r .gailred set -aside space in restaurants and
eating establis is fro S0 to 33 percent for non smokers.
Charles Olson, 110 Crothers Hall, Stanford University, said he was a
molecular biologist and also candidate for assembly for the 21st Assembly
District, and a Libertarian. Mr. Olson opposed the ordinance because
"...arbitrary gava?'s�son rr`�riAtinne invAriiR'. lam. ity-duce,.--.,,rasa i-��a,� -... sul" w
T7�. .. � .. -. __.. .. .. .ter �, �rvs. „Yr.�v Y,Yti' � Tee7Y� 4.7.
Ne
e r ted reasons behind that assertion, sizing that the restaurant
rimer was wed from doing business. He alito held that it ems immral
for government to impose laws on peaceful indi ldtals who were not
violating the rights of others.
Mayor Henderson explained that public health was the issue underlying
the requirement for non-smoking sections.
id O'Dwyer, 5992 Cahalan Avenue, San Jose, �iid he was president of
S.A.S.P., a non-smoking group. He thanker Council for reaching the;
compromise leading to the first reading of the ordinance.
i
1
469
2/19/90
MOTION: Councilmember Fletcher introduced the following ordinance and,
seconded by Fazzino, moved its adoption for second reading:
ORDINANCE 3185 entitled "ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL
0 THE WY OF PALO ALTO AMENDING CHAPTER 9.14 OF
THE PALO ALTO MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING SMOKING."
(First reading February 4, 1980 --passed as amended 9-0)
Vice Mayor Sher said he wanted to. identify himself also as the candidate
from the 21st District --he agreed with Mr. O'Dwyer of G. A1. S. P. He reminded
Mr. Olson that restaurant owners had said they would voluntarily provide
non-smoking areas five years ago but only a few had done so.
MOTION PASSED: The motion passed on a unanimous vote.
A discussion ensued about smoking in public restrooms. Councilmember
Fletcher said she would like the Policy and Procedures Committee to
discuss the matter. Mr. Abrams said that smoking was now prohibited in
restrooms; lobbies were excepted. William Zaner, City Manager, said the
City could notify theater owners that restrooms were included in the
non-smoking prohibitions.
MUNICIPAL GOLF COURSE
O
GOLF PROA ETAVf (M:143:0)
The staff report stated that the coffee shop contract had been terminated
September, 1979; no new bidder had been selected. At the time staff was
ready to make a recommendation on a coffee shop contract the golf pro,
Bill Hartley, resigned, giving 180 days' notice.
Nancy Ann Andronico, 705 Forest Avenue, supported Robert Graves, Bill
Hartley's assistant, for golf pro.
Roger Ehrman, Palo Alto, praised the work of Bill Hartley, the pro who
had resigned. Mr Ehrman supported his assistant, Roger Graves, to be
the next golf pro.
Ray Witt, 769 Allen Court, said hat -a grand opening celebrated improvements
made last year to the extent of $1.8 million at the golf course; he said
the promise of that grand opening had been dogged by bad luck --poor
newspaper coverage, polluted water killing off some areas of grass, loss
of a coffee shop operator, and the resignation of the new golf pro.
Demoralized golfers peed help from City staff. Golfers present in the
Council car that evening were asked to raise ehaie hands- if thA
itipported the staff recommendations, as -:±iti .. WFtd.
Barbara Bride„ 1125 University Aver, listed her activities and
various offices at the golf course and in state golfing, emphasizing
that she spoke that evening not for the groups she participated in but
as a golfer who liked the Palo Alto comae. Sheobjected-to the -pressure
ac t�-z-is��s►1�-1 Yt �w w��..L �i� '�-- -
_� _he club cutet t Grave in as gort pro fo leving Mr. Hartley's
leavetaking; though she thought hi* competent she felt other patent#al
candidates deed a hearing for the job --she did not want to close
that opportunity to others for an entire year. She said she would like
to have a proewho would encourage junior golfers.
460
2/19/80
George Hartley, 3388 St. Michael Drive, (no relation to the outgoing
pro) favored the appointment of Mir. Graves on an interim basis, so that
momentum at the golf course would not be lost. He thought patronage at
the golf course :tad suffered because there was a substitute coffee shop
operator who had not attempted a full-scale operation. He wanted the
City to give the new coffee shop operator a break so that a firm business
could be established.
Drew Lawrence, 1031 Harker, said he supported staff recommendations for
both golf pro and coffee shop operator.
Rev. Clement A. Davenport, 210 Oak Grave, Menlo Park, said he was a
semi-serious golfer, and he liked Palo Alto because he liked the other
golfers and the staff. He liked Roger Graves and favored his appointment
as golf pro. In response to a question fro Councilor Eyerly he said
he found the Palo Alto fees to be reasonable for out -of -tours.
John 11. Strong, 1005 University Avenue, said he was president of the
Senior Men's golf club. He praised both staff and the course. He said
that since the coffee house closed at 3 p.m? "...it effectively closes
the whole clubhouse." ;He endorsed the staff recommendations,
Charles A. Arnold, 3779 Middlefield, said he was president of the Golf
Course Advisory Committee. Me thought that the appointment of Mr.
Graves would hake for a smooth transition. His group was unanimous in
its endorsement of the staff reco ndations.
Pat Smith, 2415 South Court, was a der of three groups at the golf
course. She agreed with one speaker (Ms. McBride) that the job as golf
pro should be placed in the open market, so others could be candidates
for the job.
Don Roedean said he thought Palo Alto course had high potential to be
one of the finest courses if there were good organization and top management,
not "...sue ha,yburner' or an inadequate restaurant operator.
Councilmember Brenner said that the $ .5 million for golf course improvements
in the capital improvements program had come as a shock to al'! Councilmembers.
She knew of no disagreement about the need to select a coffee shop
operator. She thought "...it is absolutely necessary to open up the
process to select a new pro." She did not went to lease the golf course
to a private operator, and she wanted to eliminate that option.
@ I ONs Cou is 11 g r ! o ed 3, sew+. wW bY :tea e 7 , that Cuwic i 1i
approve the staff rec i at4oT s, eliminating the options that the City
could lease the en tii S e go3 f course ta arelvate
gyrator, and appointing
an interim golf pro for nine rather than twelve months.
Cerleeat BedMei l , Director of Social Services, pointed out that locally a
number of municipally owned golf courses were being leased to private
swaratata with economic advantage to those localities. She thought it
wOuld be wise for staff to mime that option, particularly since it
ghee the C i t;y an opportunity to have the golf pro ogee the a a i ntenance
staff of the golf course, desirability of which had been awaiting a
std for same time. She thought at least a year would permit that
study. both the proposed golf pro and coffee shop operators had been
appraised of the possibility of staff doing that. --they could t'!hen enter
with other candidates for the normal bid and selectioae process at the
end of the year. Both candidates assumed that they would have a year's
contract.
461
#i9/80
Councilmember Brenner said she mould use nine months in her motion, and
make clear in that way that the contract was interim for the golf pro.
She ascertained that Mr. Hartley's contract obligation ran to July 2,
1980. She learned from Mr. Arnold that golf club membership was about
50 percent non-resident, and among senior golfers residents made up 60
percent. Barbara McBride stated that in her group 74 golfers were non-
resident and 41 were residents with a waiting list of 25.
William Zane'', City Manager, said that he favored appointing an interim
golf pro for a one-year period because with open candidating about three
months were needed for the golf pro to take over the operation.
Councilmember Brenner said she would agree to retaining that staff
recommendation that the golf pro be appointed for one year.
Mayor Henderson said that he would rule that elimination of the option
of leasing the golf course was to be an amendment. Countilnumbers would
then speak to that as in amendment, apart from the motion that Council
approve the staff reconseendations.
Councilor Levy said he supported the recommendation to include the
option of possible leasing to a private operator. He thought it was
good to leave operation of the course to staff. Losses of money and
services to golfers were major problems, he thought. He favored all the
staff recommendations; he added that he thought it night be good to
encourage the public to use the coffee shop facility --the area had a
fine envirorrRnt.
Councilmember Witherspoon review some discussions on the pros and cons
of leasing to a private contractor --she thought it might be worth con-
sidering. She asked if the revenues had been sufficient to pay off the
bonds.
Scott Catlett, Director of Recreation, said there were sufficient funds
'to make the bond payments. Other costs had first to be identified, then
sufficiency of funds could be better known.
Councilmember Witherspoon said that she assumed that Council was putting
into effect a study on cost effectiveness.
Mr. Catlett said that effectiveness of method of operation would also be
studied. He said that 21 cities had gone to running their golf courses
through contracting them out.
Councilrr rber Eyerly recalled Counrcilmembers' surprise at the F{nnce
and Public Works co rri _te meting at the need for $500,000 for improvements
to the golf course. He said that golf course funds over the years had
been transferred to general funds, and the maintenance had not been as
high as it should perhaps have been to keep the course in good repair.
He said he thought it would be a good idea to have the coffee shop open
to the public.
Vice Mayor Sher emphasized that the option to consider the possibility
of leasing the entire golf course to a private operator should be only
one of several options to be reviewed —there had seed to be some
favoring of that option in the discussion thus far. He did not want
people to make up their minds yet about favoring that option. He supported
the staff report and he liked that the public speakers had supported
it also.
462
2/19/80
Corrected Councilmember Renzel said she thought.the ability of the golf course to
See Pg. 513 raise revenues sufficient to cover costs of improvements might have been
3/24/80 misjudged. She thought that clubs made up of golfers played a large
part in the operating decisions at the golf course, and she thought
there might be some emphasis on making the Palo Alto golf course more
like a private club--but-it was a municipal public golf course: available
to the general public. She thought that point of view might be lost if
the operation was leased out. She would not support leasing.
Mayor Henderson said he supported the etaf f eecommendations.
MOTION DIV/DEB: A recommendation that option 4, "Lease entire Golf
course to private operator," be eliOnated, failed on the following vote:
AYES: Brenner, Frenzel
NOES: Eyerly, Fazzino, Fletcher, Henderson, Levy, Sher, w.therspoon
MAIN MOTION PASSED: The amain motion, that Council approve the staff
recommerdaations to 1) Enter into a one-year interim contract with Mr.
Larry Kramer to operate the coffeeshov; 2) enter into a one-year contract
with Mr. Roger Graves to serve as golf professional; 3) study options
regarding long-range course operation from an economic and managenent
point of view, study to be completed within the year. Scope and imple-
mentation of the study was to be done in consultation with representatives
of the Golf Advisory Committee, and may include the use of a consultant
passed on a unanimous vote.
NOISE ISSUES (CMR:128:0)
Mayor Henderson said that Counci l bers had before them the staff
report and recommendations of February 14, 1980, proposing mitigation
measures and ordinance changes.
Councilmember Fazzino recalled that he had visited the area behind
Varian aixut-thy years ago, in a personal follow-up relating to a
citizen complaint; he acknooledge4 there had been a severe noise problem.
The noise was both constant and episodic. Council discussion had led to
contracting for a noise study by EarthMetrics, and that staff study the
noise ordinance for passible improvements.
MOTION: Councilmember Fazzino moved, seconded by Renzel, that Council
approve staff recommendations that the suggestions made in EarthMetrics'
Barron Park Noise Study be implemented, with ordinance changes and
mitigation measures.
Councilmember Fazzino asked for assurance from staff that it had sufficient
agreement with the noise -producing industries to obtain their cooperation
in implementing mitigation measures.
Sergeant Harvey, Palo Alto Police Department, said that in the last two
years citizens and industry had been willing to work together on the
taking of sounihreadings and the like. He said that both Lockheed and
Watkins-Joinson, who were not in violation, had taken steps to cut down
on possible noisemakers. He thought that industries which were producing
noise could be brought into compliance with the ordinance willingly.
Councilmember Fazzino said he understood that Varian had constructed an
8 -foot high masonry sound barrier at its own expense.
Sergeant Harvey said that no such negotiations had yet been entered
into: he was speaking only of past evidences of good -neighborliness.
463
2/19/80
Councilmember Fazzino asked if any question about paying for the mitigations
might be raised --if so, Council should discuss it.
Sergeant Harvey said he had not entered into any negotiations because
quite possibly proposed changes in the ordinance might become more
restrictive.
AMENDMENT: Councilmember Fazzino rasve4, seconded by Henderson, that
staff report back to Council within one month of the outset of negotia-
tions with industry for implementing the three specific mitigation
measures suggested for Zone 1.
Councilmember- Fletcher asked if a tire limit had been placed on garbage
pickup and loading dock activities at Varian.
Sergeant Harvey said that garbage pickup Wee problems errs had been solved
some time back.
Bernice DiGiovanni! 632 Chimalus Drive, said a sound reading on the
front porch of her residence had been 60 dec ibele, and it was 50 decibels
in the bedroom. She said early garbage pt kup had changed. Barrels
stored in Varian's lot made resonating Wm as they cooled at night.
She said Varian had been in violation of both zoning and noise for at
least 20 years. She read passages from the zoning grdinance that stated
that operations in the area were to be "...clean and quiet," to bear out
her assertion. She wanted some time limit to the proble+r--it got worse
every year; "...I just can't wait to see tit wall go up."}
Aldo Faccagnini, 830 :himalus Drive, confirmed that the noise wAs getting
worse every day. He could not call police when it was noisy, because
the noise had ended by the time the police arrived
Will Kranzthor, 880 North California Avenue, said he spoke for Varian
Associates. Varian had reviewed the EarthMetrics report and "...has
adopted an energetic program to reduce noise levels.'' He listed steps
in their program, from requesting that there be no loud talking near the
adjacent properties to purchase of noise recording equipmeit to gather
inforTaation on its own raise history. He said thet the EarthMetrics'
recd ndatians would be expensive to implement, costing perhaps up to
$200,000. Ile thought Varian would like to z»dify sone of Eart etrics
proposals. Varian wanted to cooperate.
Jack Schoenhair, 10367 Vista Knoll Soulevard, Cupprtino, s#id he represented
Lockheed, and tl t Lockheed, in Zone , 0,4 not been in violation, but
EarthMetrics had asked to take some readings of the beryl itam exheust
stack; the noise was within limits, but the tone range had been found to
be about SOO Hz, an annoying amend. Lack ..A pad token steps since, to
mitigate that noise. A new fan and a sores muff* maid be installed
soon.
AMENDMENT PASSED The amendment, that ;toff report to Council wi thi n
one month of the. outset of negotiations with industry for implementing
the three specific mitigation measures suggested for Zone 1 passed on a
unanimous votc.
Councilmember Fazzino noted that Mrs. Digiovanni had asked what was
stored in the tanks near her home and had not had a reply. He asked
staff if it would follow up on her request.
464
2/19/80
MOTION AS AMENDED PASSED: The motion that Council approve staff recom-
mendations that the suggestions made in EarthMe►trics' Noise Study be
implementeda along with ordinance changes and mitigation measures, as
amended, passed on a unanimous vote.
Mayor Henderson observed that at present noise producers such as leaf
blowers and the like were not going to be discussed, with the hope that
manufacturers would respond to public demand for more sound muffling.
Councilmember Fletcher said she found leaf blowers especially objectionable.
She noted that the East Meadow industrial buildings also were adjacent
to residential.
MOTION: Councilmer Fletcher moved, seconded by Renzel, that the
setter of the noise ordinance be referred to the Policy and Procedures
Committee for exploration of possible additional changes. The motion
passed on a unanimous vote.
REPORT OF CITY CLERK RE ADVISORY
1 ?TION: Councilmember Fazzino introduced the following resolution and,
seconded by Sher, moved its adoption by Council, along with the staff
recommendations that 1) Council adopt the resolution calling for a
Special Election for June 3, 1980, requesting the services of the Registrar
of Voters and ordering consolidation of the election with the direct
primary election; 2) direct the City Attorney to prepare an impartial
analysis on the matter of sales tax revenue distribution; and 3) indicate
that the Council wishes to file a Direct Argument supporting the measure,
and, designate the City Manager to prepare said Direct Argument for
Council's signature.
RESOLUTION 5722 entitled "RESOLT ION OF THE
C€ IL `R —CITY OF PALO ALTO CALLING A
SPECIAL ELECTION FOR JUNE 3, 1980, FOR SUBMITTAL
OF AM ADVISORY PLAStRE REGARDING DISTRIBUTION
OF SALES TAX TO THE ELECTORATE, REQUESTING THE
SERVICES OF THE REGISTRAR OF VOTERS FOR SAID
ELECTION. AND ORDERING THE CONSOLIDATION
Of SAID ELECTION."
Cowicilmember Fazzino said that Council had approved the idea of putting
the matter oa the ballot and so it should draft an argument in support
of the measure. Perhaps the City Manager would be the one to do so.
AMENDMENT: Councilmember Levy moved, seconded by Fazzino that the
ballot question in the ordinance be amended by the words "...so that 2t
rather than the present l# be a l l ocated to cities and counties for l oca i
services, rather than to the state, for state services," and replace a
parallel phrase in the ballot measure.
MAIN MOTION AND AMENDMENT PASSED: The main motion and the amendment
passed on a unanimous vote.
Vice Mayor Sher ascertained that the language change had been drafted
for the League of California Cities by the City of San Diego, and some
modifications had been made in that also.
465
2/19/00
RE EST Of COUNCILPIMPER WITHERSPOON
-7. i 1 Cd4PrRSATION
MOTION: Councilmember Witherspoon moved seconded by Fazzino, that
Council submit to the Finance and Public Works Committee the question of
increased compensation for Councilmrmbers.
Councilmember Renzel noted that present compensation did not pay, Council -
members for the number of hours they put in and was clearly intended to
compensate for expenses Councllr bers incurred in discharging their
duties, for which purpose it was adequate. For that reason sj ,mould
oppose sending it to committee.
Vice Mayor Sher said he -did not favor increased compensation at this
point, and so he did not favor sending the utter to committee. He
thought Council*rs did not seek election to City Council for com-
pensation.
Councilmember Brenner said the proposed increase was inadequate for
salary. and she thought that perhaps salaries might be considered rather
than expenses if, as she.recoemeoded, the subject were put to public
vote. Cour,c11 r 8ren*r said she thought it would be good if the
committee were to core present amounts paid Councilmembers with
a unts paid in other charter cities, as Palo Alto is. The present •
amount was based upon `general law' cities, in which council€ ers did
not carry the same responsibilities.
Mayor Henderson said one reason for sending the matter to committee
would be to discuss the possibility of putting the question on the ballot.
Councilmember Fazzino observed that up to now Councilors had been
rather affluent, and if the salary were raised others less affluent
could serve on the Council. He said $250 did not cover his expenses. He
was glad the matter had been brought to Council., he hoped Council ruled
favorably on it.
Councilmember Fletcher said that if $250 was considered reasonable
cc epensa tion in 1969, wten thte t amount had been decided upon, it was now
time to reexamine the matter.
Councilmember Levy said he would rote to refer the matter to committee
but he found it repugnant, be said, for public officials to set their
own salaries; he favored having the public vote on it and in that way
starting confidence in its public officials.
MOTION PASSED: The motion that the matter of increased co stiw for
Counci l®em ers be referred to the Finance and Public Works Committee
passed on the following rote:
Corrected
See Pq. 513
3/24/80
Corrected
See Pg. 513
3/24/80
AYES: Brenner, Eyerly, Fazzino, Fletcher, Henderson, Levy, Witherspoon
NOES: Renzel , Sher
CITY MANAGER 2R RE
William Zanier, City Manager, advised Councilmemters that the staff
report on Surplus School Sites was completed and now being reviewed
by senior staff and would be stetted to Counc11mea+bers February 25..
Councilmembers could then review it and it could be discus the
regular Council meeting March 10.
4 6 6 ��''qqjj
2/19/BO
RE l'EST OF rriirt XOR HENDERSON RE DISPLAY
Mayor Henderson Said he did not want to legislate on adult activities
that were matters of personal choice but other cities had legislated
against display and sale of drug paraphernalia! and Palo Alto had not; he
did not want to wait for the situation to increase here.
MOTION: Mayor Henderson moved, secoeded by Renzel, that Council direct
staff to recommend to Council whether or not Palo Alto should enact an
ordinance governing display and sale of drug paraphernalia in Palo Alto,
and if so, to return with a draft ordinance to that end.
Kay Schauer, 546 Jackson Drive, commended the foresightedness of the
nation. She urged that, since more children at younger ages entered
into use of drugs, Palo Alto pass an ordinance.
Ann Davis, 3370 St. Michael Drive, said she was liaison from the PTA to
the City Council. The executive board of the PTA had asked that she
appear at Council informing it that the state PTA had passed a resolution
urging passage of such ordinances, while the local PTA did not press for
such an ordinance because it had been thought not to be a problem locally.
If, because of other cities passing such ordinances purveyors of the
paraphernalia moved to Palo Alto the PTA would press for adoption of
such an ordinance.
Councilor Fletcher said she preferred taking action after some
similar suits in near " cities had been settled; she had also heard that
suits were pending in uoth federal and state courts. One question to be
studied was the definition for 'paraphernalia.'
Councilor Levy said he did not want to make legislation unless it
was needed —he would leave to the PTA the question of deciding if there
was need.
Counelliner Fazzino said that he did not like to legislate to regulate
matters of personal choice but he would support sending the matter to
staff for exploration since the issue wes receiving more attention locally.
Councileaer Renzel said she would support the matter for inquiry; the
City could be ready if the legislation appeared to be needed.
The auction that Council direct staff to rem to Council whether or
not Palo Alto shod d enact an ordl nav a and to return with a draft
ordinance prohibiting display and sale of drug paraphernalia in Palo
frito passed on the following vote:
AYES: Brenner, Eyerly, Fazzino, Henderson, Renzel, Sher
NOES: Fletcher, Levy, Witherspoon
MAYOR HENDERSON RE PLANNING
clog MMUS
Councilor Fazzino suggested that Council interview the eleven candidates
for. Planning Commission on March 6.
A discussion ensued on favorable meeting times. Councilrnember Fazzino
suggested that candidates be interviewed about 6 p.m. on Council meeting
nights. Perhaps March 4 would be a good date.
It was concluded that interviews would be set for March 4, with candidates
order of appearance to be set by drawing by the City Clerk, and interviews
to run 12 minutes each.
METHOD OF CORRECTING COUNCIL MINUTES
lyor Henderson announced that per a suggestion by the City Clerk, Ann
Tanner, Councilmembers could report to her, prior" to the meeting, corrections
they wished to make, thus saving meeting time. Corrections could still
be made onthe night of the meeting.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
None
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION!: Mayor Henderson moved, seconded by Sher, that Council adjourn,
The motion passed on a unanimous voice vote.
468
Z/19/80