HomeMy WebLinkAbout06031974CITY
COUNCIL
MINUTES
June 3, 1974
CITY
OF
PALO
ALTO
The City Council of the City of Palo Alto met an this date at 7:30
p.m. in a regular meeting with Mayor Comstock presiding.
Present: Beahra, Berwald, Clay (arrived 7:55 p.m.), Comstock,
Henderson, Norton, Pearson, Sher, Rosenbaum
Absent: None
Minutes of May 13 1974
Vice Mayor Pearson requested that the word "it", 9th line from the
bottom of the first paragraph of 21r. McCorquodale'e address to Council
be corrected to "if". She further requested that the typographical
error in the third line of the seventh paragraph on page 454 be corrected
to read "give".
Councilman Henderson requested that the last two words of the fourth
line, fourth paragraph, page 452 be corrected to read "season ticket".
MOTION: Mayor Comstock moved, seconded by Pearson, that the minutes
of the May 13 meeting be approved as revised.
The motion passed on a unanimous vote.
Minutes of Z�.ay 20, 1974
Vice Mayor Pearson requested that the word "several", third line,
bottom paragraph, page 459 be changed to "some"; and that after the
word ch.;een, "at city urging" should be inserted. She further asked
that the word ".n" be inserted between "see" and "this", ninth line
from the top, page 470. Vice Mayor Pearson referred to the fifth
paragraph, page 471, and asked that the words "could redesign" in
the first line be corrected to read "would be redesigning".
Councilman Henderson requested that the word "proceed" be deleted
from the third line, fourth paragraph from the bottom, page 473,
and the words "continue renting space after the first two years"
be inserted. He then referred to the last paragraph on page 474
and requested that the following words be added: "That means market
rates in the downtown area, not just in this one building".
Councilman Berwald requested that the last line of the fourth paragraph
on page 462 be corrected to read "reasonable length of time, and
he would bs in opposition to that element of the motion". He asked
that the sentence beginning on the sixth line from the bottom of
page 468 reed as follows; "lie .said until you got up the blocy: on
Vista some distance there", etc. Councilman Berwald noted that the
second line on page 469 should read as follows: "of a worthwhile
R-1 development on that piece of property", deleting the words "in
there".
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MOTION: Mayor Comstock moved, seconded by Pearson, that the minutes
of the May 20 meeting be approved as revised.
The motion passed on a unanimous vote.
Appointment of Peter Carpenter
to Planning Commission
wnwsrirwr.�rru n�i
Mayor Comstock noted that Council had met in Execunive Session to
review applicants for the Planning Commission, and they had approved
the appointment of Peter Carpenter, 425 Lowell Avenue, effective May 30,
1974, to f111 Lawrence Klein's unexpired term to July 31, 1974.
MOTION: Mayor Comstock moved, seconded by Beahrs, that Council approve
the appointment of Peter Carpenter to fill the unexpired term of
Lawrence Klein on the Planning Commission.
The motion passed on a unanimous vote.
vL.
Re.or.rement Bn of rire¢s Looey {CiR:320:4}ti
MOTION: Mayor Comstock introduced the following resolution and moved,
seconded by Pearson, its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 4950 entitled "MSOLUTION OF THE
COUNCIL Of THE CITY OF PALO ALTO EXPRESSING APPRECIA-
TION TO BRINES LOONEY UPON HIS RETIREMENT"
Mr. Fred {,doper stated that Mr. Looney was retiring after twenty-
one years of service with the city. He indicated staff's sincere
appreciation for Mr. Looney's dedicated service, and expressed good
wishes for a long and happy retirement.
The resolution wed adopted on a unanimous vote.
Setti.n4 of Date tu
rublic Hearing on 1974-75 Budget
MOTION: Councilman Henderson moved, seconded by Comstock, the Finance
b Public Works Committee's recommendation that June 24, 1974, 7:30
p.m., be the date and time for a public hearing on the 1974-75 budget.
The motion passed on a unanimous vote.
Finance and Public Works re Greer Park
Councilman Henderson wished to note that He. Dawes requested that
the oecond line, last paragraph, page 4 of the Finance and Public
Works Committee Meeting minutes of May 21, 1974 be corrected to read:
"Shit read a statement expressing support", etc.
Councilman Henderson stated that on the subject of Greer Park, a
very strong case had been made for an expanded Greer Park by members
of the staff and by a large group of residents from that area. He
explained that several factors are involved. First, there is a surge
in the use of the city's recreational facilities and a eeriaue shortage
of baseball, softball, and soccer facilities is developing. He noted
that the area around Greer Park Is one of the few locations remaining
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in the flatlands portion of Palo Alto for such facilities. Secondly,
this area is nearly two miles from the other district parks - Rinconada
and Mitchell, and major thoroughfares had to be crossed to get to
either one of the district parks from the Greer Park area. All data
from past studies of park needs in Palo Alto pointed to the desirability
of a district park in this location. Thirdly, thin area is one of
the more densely populated areas in the city with above average figures
for multiple housing units and low/moderate income units. Councilman
Henderson felt it was clear there was a need for more recreational
facilities to meet the needs of the residents, and there is also
a need to protect the neighborhood from a:. overbalance of high density
housing. The Committee recommended action close to what the staff
recommended to Council in April. Staff recommended purchase of all
of the 19,2 acres available, with up to 15 acres to be reserved for
park expansion. At the Committee meeting a representative from ONC
Company stated that his firm's desire was to add a second building
with parking that would cover four to five acres. Councilman Henderson
uoted this construction would provide a buffer between the park and
Bayshore, and the proposal appeared to meet with unanimous approval
of the residents attending the meeting. It also very conveniently
took care of the 4+ acres not needed for the park. One other change
from the staff recommendation concerned use of Housing Land Bank Funds
for pa t of the financing of the purchase. The Committee added $750,000
Ito the Capital. Improvements Program budget for next year, to be added
to the $500,000 already budgeted this year; thus the total budget
for purchase and associated costs would be $1,250,000 none of which
would be taken from the Housing Land Bank Fund. Councilman Henderson
added that simultaneously with negotiations for land purchase, staff
was directed to develop preliminary plans for the park, discuss the
uses for the four to five acres along West Bayshore, prepare a report
justifying the need for new recreational facilities, and prepare
a report showing that the drainage problems can be solved at a reasonable
cost. These reports would be studied and approved by Council prior
to any actual land purchases.
He noted that the Committee was making a number of budget changes
all of which would be approved oe disapproved by Council at the June
24 meeting. The Greer Park budget amount should be considered with
all the other budget items and not be acted upon at this meeting.
MOTION: Councilman Henderson moved the approval of the Finance and
Public Works Committee recommendation re Greer Park:
A. That the Council commit itself to acquisition of
approximately 15 acres of land around Greer Park
for park purposes, and direct staff to negotiate
for the purchase of same, specifically the drive-
in theater property, the ONC property (with the
exception cf the 4+ or - acres along the Bayshore),
the Pellegrini. and Nearon properties and the other
parcels noted on the nape;
B. That Council direct staff to develop preliminary plans
for 15 acres sufficient to fulfill the needs of a park,
such as softball and soccer fields, community tenter,
tennis courts, etc.;
C. That the staff discuss with owners of the propertiea
possible uses for the 4+ or - acres along West Bayshore
to Colorado; and
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D. That prior to actual purchase the staff should come back
to the Committee with justification for the need for
facilities, and show that drainage problems can be solved
at a reasonable cost.
Barbara Hopkins, 1040 Moffett Circle, representing West Bayshore
Rent Association, Greer Park Expansion Committee, spoke in favor
of the expansion to provide 41strict park type of facilities and improved
access. In this way, the residents of this particular area would be
able to enjoy the type of park facilities available to other Palo Alto
residents. She noted that increased need for athletic facilities had
changed the goal, from an improved neighborhood park to a third district
park serving all of Palo Alto. Ms. Hopkins stated that her committee
supported the recommendation of the Finance and Public Works Committee,
and that the Association looked forward to participating with the staff
in the development of the plans.
Councilman . ahrs asked what kind of time element wes involved in this
project. Mr_ Sipel responded that staff could probably have a final policy
decision and an acquisition sometime within six to nine months. It would
then be his proposal to proceed with completion of improvements so that
over approximately a two year period there would be the acquisition and
improvements, unless it were shown in some of staff's studies that part
of the land would not be needed at the early time.
Councilman Beahrs asked if staff were proceeding cn the assumption that
the land was readily available. Mr. Sipel replied that there was always
the possibility of the city having to condemn or threat to condemn, but
his guess was that the property owners were interested in selling.
Councilman Berwaald stated that he protested the method of going about
purchasing the property which he felt could add some dollars to the selling
price, so at the nesting he voted "no" on that part; however, later in
the meeting he voted for the budget item. He said he was reasonably happy
with the intent of the motion, but was not too pleased with the wording.
On the other hand, ho urged support for the motion because the main
thrust was to go ahead and purchase land for the enlargement and ieaprovement
of the park; and he was all for that.
The motion passed on a unanimous vote.
Revenue Sharing Expenditures
Councilman Henderson for the Finance and Public Works Committee reported
that Palo Alto's latest allocation of Federal Revenue Sharing Funds
was $762,250 for 1974-75. He said it was required that the city report
specific allocations by .June 24; however, he pointed out that these
allocatious would not be conaidered locked in, so that expenditures
could be made for other purposes and noted in a later report. Councilman
Henderson cemented that a staff report dated May 16, 1974 gave Council
a recap of what revenue funds may be used for, the staff's philosophy
on types of city expenditures best suited for use of such funds, a list
of previous revenue sharing allocations, and detailed information on
the operating and capital projects being recommended for this new allocation.
The Finance and Public Works Committee reviewed the four recommended projects
in detail and agreed unanimously with the staff proposals. The two
operating budget allocations are for a Senior Adult Service Center for
$49,220 which has been approved by the Finance and Public Works Committee
am a budget supplement, and for Senior Adult Services $25,230 which
covers the ongoivg administration of Senior Service activities and a
portion of the recreational activities for swains. The two capital
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projects are $145,000 for improvements at the heavily used El Camino
Park, and $42,800 for the vehicle and related equipment for the
proposed paramedic program.
MOTION: Councilman Henderson in behalf of the Finance & Public Works
Committee moved that Council approve the revenue sharing expenditures
for 1974-75 to include the Senior Adult Service Center for $49,220;
the Senior Adult Services and Recreation Activities for $25,230; the
El Camino Park Improvements for $145,000; and the Paramedic Vehicle
and Equipment for $42,800 for a total of $262,250.
Janet Owens, 863 Moreno Avenue, speaking for M.idpeninsula Citizens for
Fair Housing, stated that 45% of federal revenue sharing funds would
be used }.n ways that would benefit the elderly and 55% would be used
for park improvements which is the kind of expenditure that makes Palo
Alto desirable and leads to senior citizens being forced out by competition
from younger, more affluent people, MCFH wanted Council to recognize
that as the city continued to provide services making Palo Alto a desirable
place to live, it was also important to maintain a housing stock that
would enable people of limited incomes to continue living in Palo Alto.
Its. Owens pointed out that next year consideration should be given to
using federal revenue sharing funds for housing development.
Councilman Beahrs stated he would like to have staff describe the character
of improvements contemplated in El Camino Park and also what the remaining
term of the Stanford lease was on that property.
Mk. Sipel replied that he recalled the terry of lease as being about
forty years. The improvements relate to making better use of the land
that is currently there and mating moreeffective and efficient the
same kinds of facilities that are presently there such a,a the .improvement
of the existing ball field which is very substandard, probably some
modest relocation of it, improvements to lighting, fencing. +�stallatioa:
of sprinkler systems, and those kinds of things. He stated there had
been no substantial improvements to El Camino park for many years.
The motion passed on a unanimous vote.
Comprehensive PlaA fort e__
3 Senior Coordinating Council a Study of Seniors
Vice Mayor Pearson stated this was not the compilation of just a few
months work but really the compilation of twelve years work. The Policy
and Procedures Committee had the task of determining how to possibly
address itself to the monumental compilation of data on senior citizens
and what recommendations to give to the City Council that would reflect
the needs of the senior citizens. The Committee unanimously agreed
that the task was so formidable that a citizens committee should be
formed to analyze the report and make recommendaticns. Vice Mayor Pearson
said the report is titled "The Study of Palo Alto Area Residents Sixty
Years or Older - 1973", published be the Senior Coordinating Cos.ncil
of Palo Alto, Inc. The report includes an earlier Palo Alto Target
Area Report whlch was done for inclusion in the Santa Clara County plans
for the aged. She Stated that the City of Palo Alto and the County
of Santa Clara owed a great deal to the members of the committee who
were as follows: Mrs. Ralph Lowe, Chairperson, Senior Coordinating Council;
Clarence Anderson, Palo Alto Kiwanis Club; Mies Dorothy Boring, Retired
Teachers Association; Walter Boyce, Jr., M.B., Palo Alto Medical Clinic,
Thomas Cahill, Attorney, Palo Alto Jaycees; C. Arthur Casaday, D.D.,
First Congregational Church; Mrs. Emma Higgins, Senior Adult League;
Robert C. Lana, Stanford University School of Law Student; Mrs. Barrett
La.Bond, San Jose State University Department of Communications; Mrs.
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Leona McGann, Stanford University School of Medicine; Mrs. George Owens,
Midpeninsula Citizens for Fair Housing; Mrs. William E. Relier, Jr.
League of Palo Alto; Mrs. Diana Steeples, Senior Adult Resources Coordinator,
City of Palo Alto; Thomas Reese, President, Senior Ceordinatirg Council
of Palo Alto area. Also on the staff were Carol Bernhardt, Wendy Comstock,
Deirdre Poesch-Kote, Barrett LaBond, Edward Estes, and dozens of other
people who did 448 interviews. Vice Mayor Pearson thanked and complimented
them all for their outstanding job.
Vice Mayor Pearson continued saying that eight years -ago the final report
on the study of persons sixty-five years of age and over living in the
inner-city of Palo Alto was presented to the Council. The report had
been three years in the making and prepared entirely without the benefit
of a computer, and one of the incredible facts is that three of the
members of the 1963 committee still had the conviction and stamina to
serve on this recent committee. She reported that things were not too
much different today than they were twelve years ago, noting that the
problems are the same but more accentuated. Soave of the problems are
fear of medical crises, high coat and lack of housing, transportation,
low and fixed incomes, and loneliness. One signficant difference is
that in 1974 the number one fear is no longer medical crises, because
of Medicare, bue the escalating cost of housing and lack of housing
and the day--to-day living expenses. Vice Mayor Pearson stated that
her own personal view was that Lytton Gardens with its 220 unite would
be a disappointment because there would be a significant number of elderly
who would not and could not avail themselves of even this type of housing.
Another difference between the two reports is that the age of the elderly
has been lowered from sixty-five to si:tty. Further, a big difference
between twelve years ago and now was that senior citizens were no longer
considered just a cranky bunch of old people; but rather, they are a
political force that does net like what is being pushed on tt them.
They have forced recognition of a new "ism", which is ageism, and ranks
with sexism and racism. Some of the statistics were given by Vice Mayor
Pearson to give the public some idea what was contained in the comprehensive
document. In Palo Alto, Barron Park, and Stanford, California there
are 8,281 residents of this age group, with downtown Palo Alto having
the largest concentration of elderly in Santa Clara County. The elderly
population in this area is increasing, and the younger population is
decreasing. One out of every five respondents sixty years or older,
and one of every four, sixty-five years or older, has a poverty level
income of less than $3,000 per year. An additional twenty-five percent
are on the poverty borderline with incomes of $3,000 to $6,000 per year.
Most income is generally accompanied by low assets as well, frequently
mounting to leas than $1,200, Those persons who depend on Social Security
as their wain source of income tend to have very low incomes. Over
the past five years, the financial situation of one out of four respondents
has changed for the worst. Although 20X_ of the respondents report that
the situation has improved, these respondents still tend to be in the
poverty income level bracket; and the main reasons given for .tmproveasent
were increases in Social Security and Welfare benefits. Vice Mayor
Peeason went on to say that housing is one of the great crises for people
of this age. The 448 persons interviewed was composed of 63% hone owners,
25Z renters, and I2Z who have some other type of living arrangement.
The income level associated with those renting is most likely to be
less than $3,000. Ownera tend to be men sixty to sixty-four years old,
renters tend to be worsen sixty-five or older, and others are generally
women eighty-five years or older. An analysis reveals that 6ts percent
of the total sample are renters with incomes of less than $3,000 who
pay in excess of 40X of their income in rent. It is estimated that
538 persons sixty years or older in the community are in this situation.
Nearly half of the reported rent increases during the six months prior
to the survey were experienced by respondents paying in the $100 to
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$140 rent range. Respondents were predominantly seniors with very low
incomes. Clearly, a large proportion of low income seniors are paying
more than they can afford for housing. This implies they are doing
without other necessities such as food and clothing. Vice Mayor Pearson
reported that transportation for seniors was a great necessity twelve
years ago and that it had not improved too much. Fit y percent of all
the respondents are dependent upon others for transportation, and that
affects seniors of all income levels. This problem is particularly
acute among older women who are without spouses and who have lower incomes.
These people indicated approval of the proposed mini -buses or door-to-
door transportation system, and twenty percent of then said they would
use such an arrangement. Comreating on health, Vice Mayor Pearson said
that nearly all the respondents sixty-five or older are covered by some
form of health insurance, and nearly half of them have three or more
policies. Under present conditions it is necessary for aenior citizens
to have three carefully selected insurance policies, Medicare A, Medicare
B, and a supplementary policy in order to be covered as adequately as
possible. The study revealed that approximately half of the respondents
who are sixty-five or older are inadequately covered, and even those
who have three insurances may be liable for health care expenses of
one thousand dollars cr more in one year. Among the respondents sixty
to sixty-four years olds twelve percent had no health insurance. Vice
Mayor Pearson continued that there are also social and psychological
aspects of being a senior citizen. A situation which is unique to being
a senior citizen and sets the elderly apart from youth and middle-adulthocd
is not poverty or ill -health or lack of transportation, but is the loss
of important life roles in work and family. Slightly more than four
of ever) ten respondents have lived in Palo Alto twenty-five years or
longer, and another four out of ten have lived in the community ten
to twenty-four years. About 50% have children living in the immediate
area, and another 25% report children living elsewhere. Approximately
one out of every four respondents has relatives in the nearby area.
Fifty percent have relatives elsewhere, and one in five has no .living
relatives. About eighty-five percent reported that they rely on very
close friends. Seniors lose all of the important roles in their lives,
and they are in danger of becoming lonely and isolated; however, there
are many things a community can do to help prevent such isolation.
The study means that the groundwork has been completed and the next
step is for Palo Alto to determine that it will fulfil.] its obligation
to its senior citizens. Action taken to increase the dignity of the
lives of the elderly will enrich the entire community.
MOTION: Vice Mayor Pearson in behalf of the Policy and Procedures Committee
moved the following recommendations re the Comprehensive Plan for the
Aging and Senior Coordinating Council's Study of Seniors:
A. That there be a Council -appointed Committee of a
maximum number of 15 to be selected from the recom-
mendations made by the Senior Coordinating Council
and other appropriate groups and alao from public
applicants obteined through public advertising, and
these latter be screened by the Senior Coordinating
Council;
8. That that, Senior Coordinating Council should be consulted
and should participate in the selection of the City
staff member to work with the Task Force;
C. That the tasks of the citizens' committee will be as
specified on page 7 of the Nay 16, 1974, staff report
as follows:
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1) Familiarize itself with the Senior Study and
the Target Area Report,
2) Define problem situations,
3) Determine what is being done about the problem
situations and what should be done,
4) Translate the findings into courses of
action (short range and long range),
5) Recommend methods, structure and procedure
for. implementation.
Further, that in number 5, the following words be added:
"by agencies that presently serve seniors and by the City
either acting separately or jointly".
1). That $10,000 be appropriated by the Finance and Public
Works Committee in the budget to cover the cost of the
staff member who will be serving the proposed committee.
Tom Reese, 80 Kirby, stated that the Senior Coordinating Council was
most encouraged by the city's acceptance of the problem and it's assumption
of responsibility to deal with it. Also, the Senior Coordinating Council
is anxious to do all it can to implement the facts of the study and
would be pleased to respond to the trust and the charge that the City
Council was giving to then in the form of the structure of the Committee's
recommendation. He recalled for Council that the Senior Coordinating
Council is a voluntary organization, and their job has been to coordinate
agencies and services that are available for seniors. It was his feeling
that they were in couch with the experts in the area. Mr. Reese urged
that the study facts be acted upon, that Council move ahead in both
planning and implementation; and that consultant services from those
familiar with the problem be utilized. He thanked Cou.^.cil for their
trust in the sembere of the Senior Coordinating Council.
Mayor Comstock noted that letters had been received from Community Housing
Incorporated and Retirement Jobs, Inc. supporting this matter and Council
had copies of a letter from Janice Haefner originally addressed to Mrs.
Diana Steeples.
Councilman 8eahrs stated he did not want the community at large to believe
that Palo Alto's senior citizens are destitute. lie said he found from
his interpretation of the report that only 4% of the senior citizens
expressed discomfort with their circumstances. He felt this showed
a huge amount of toleration of many situations which would not be acceptable
to everyone. Councilman Beahrs said Councilman Clay made an excellent
arbservatioa when he said that our parents were prideful, are prideful,
and live with the tradition of giving and not receiving.
Councilman Berwald said that the wording "and other appropriate groups"
in part A of the motion bothered him. Further, he was puzzled by the
word "screened" in the same part of the motion. He stated that as 8
Councilman he would want to sec all of the applicants, and he would
not want any of them screened our: by anyone; on the other hand, he would
appreciate the counsel of the Senior Coordinating Council. Councilman
Barwald said he felt more strongly about part 8, in that he would not
want the City Manager to delegate any of his authority for selecting
city staff members.
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AMENDMENT: Councilman Berwald moved, seconded by Norton, that part
8 be amended to read as follows: "That the staff be encouraged to
consult with the Senior Coordinating Council in the City Manager's
selection of the city staff member to work with the Task Force."
Councilman Clay referred to part A and said he understood the Committee
was trying to get input from a number of citizens. However, in the
interest of time, he felt thin procees of selection of committee members
may be longer than what would be desirable to get the results.
He felt that the Senior Coordinating Council represented the segment
of the senior citizen population to whom this recommendation was
being addressed, and he had been inclined at the Committee meeting
to suggest that the Senior Coordinating Council be the body responsible
for carrying on with the study. Councilman Clay then commented
on part D which dealt with the $10,000 appropriated to cover the
cost of a staff member. Re felt that was a bit restrictive on the
committee to specify that the $10,400 be appropriated for that purpose,
and that the scope of that should be broadened a bit. Councilman. Claye
pointed out that other services as well would be needed.
Vice Mayor Pearson responded to Councilman Berwald'a comments and
said that when the Committee spoke about a committee being selected
from recommendations made by he Senior Coordinating Council and other
appropriate groups, she felt .:hat the Committee had in hind the fact
that very often recommendations are received from such groups as the
AALW, League of Women Voters, Downtown Palo Alto, Inc. As far as
applicants being screened by the Senior Coordinating Council was concerned,
she felt it was an attempt by the Committee to really get the Senior
Coordinating Council involved and to make use of the persons who have
been working on this problem for many years and really know what they
are doing. Vice Mayor Pearson said she would not object to having
the "screening" phrase removed because in the final analysis, it really
is the Council which will choose the committee. She asked Councilman
Berwald to reread his amendment.
Councilman Berwald read his amendment again. He felt the way the
motion read, the Senior Coordinating Council could participate in
the selection of the person, and his amendment had the same effect
as the motion except that iz softens the wording and perhaps will
avoid any misunderstanding about who would have the final say in the
selection.
Vice Mayor Pearson indicated the Committee felt that the Senior Coordinating
Council should be consulted because the staff member would be really
key in working with this committee. By participation in selection,
perhaps they would interview along with the City Manager and probably
narrow down the applicants to a field of two or three, with the final
selection being made by Mr. Sipel.
Councilman Berwald stated that with regard to A of the motion, he
would agree with Councilman Clay that the Senior Coordinating Council
should select the committee, but when it comes to selecting an employee
of the city then that is a different matter.
Tom Freese, B0 Kirby Street, commented that in regard to Councilman
Clay's proposed amendment concerning $10,000 being appropriated for
personnel, or coneuiting, or whatever the committee feels is appropriate
appeared to him to tie iu with Councilman Berwald's suggestion. It
was his suggestion that the Senior Coordinating Council would be very
happy to work with staff in the selection of proper personnel,
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Earl Ellis, 940 Colonial Lane, said that he knew one woman who lived
in Palo Alto several years ago on a $20 per month food budget. He
stated that he was in agreement with Councilman Clay's comments with
regard to the importance of the time element. He spoke in favor of
Council doing everything it could to aid the elderly in enjoying a
good life in Palo Alto.
Vice Mayor Pearson responded to Councilman Beahr's remarks about only
42 of the elderly expressing discomfort with their circumstances.
She painted out that because of the era these people come from, they
have learned to do without many things and they are proud people.
Sometimes, therefore, they refuse to acknowledge that they are in
trouble. These elderly citizens do without proper food, and they also
do without any new clothing for years. The 42 figure is really fictitious
since if you take the 568 people who are in the poverty level out
of the 8,000 people r that: is $3,000 per year or less -- that is 62
alone. If you add in the people who are in the $3,000 to $6,000 yearly
income bracket, then you have a still higher level. These persons
are doing without the comforts and amenities of life that most of
us simply take for granted. Vice Mayor Pearson felt that to say that
there is not a group of people in this area who are in dire need of
assistance is simply not right.
The amendment to the motion passed on the following vote:
AYES: Beahrs, Berwaid, Clay, Rosenbaum, Sher
NOES: Comstock, Henderson, Pearson
AM:NLNMENT: Councilman Clay moved,
D of the motion be amended to read
be included in the budget to cover
seconded by Berwald, that part
in the following way: "That $10,000
the attendant costs of the study".
The motion passed on a unanimous vote.
Councilman Beahrs stated that the large proportion of the city's elderly
people fit the situation as he had described it, and they did not
take any great comfort in some of the remarks that have been made.
They take pride and comfort in the fact that they have been self sufficient.
He explained that he did not mean that he and others on the Council
had no interest in helping those who many not realize that they need
help, but that he had great respect for people who had been reared
in a tradition of pride and in one of giving and not receiving
Mayor Comstock expressed his hope that when Council members approached
the Committee recommendation it would be in the spirit that there
is a great deal of respect for everyone in the community, and the
objective is to provide help where it is needed. He added that what
was being recognized was a severe problems for a segment of the city's
population, and running through that is an element of pride which
in some cases can get in the way of those who need help and in fact
carries some persons to the place where their difficulties are increased.
He expressed hope that all of the members of Council would support
the rec datiou with that understanding and spirit.
The complete motion as amended passed on a unanimous vote.
Ordinance re Csli€orni;
lo see Retirement Sstem
(Councilman Norton left the seating)
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MOTION: Mayor Comstock introduced the following ordinance and moved,
seconded by Pearson, its adoption:
ORDINANCE NO. 2791 entitled "ORDINANCE OF THE
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALO ALTO AUTHORIZING AN
AMENDMENT TO THE CONTRACT BETWEEN THE CITY COUNCIL
AND THE BOARD OF ADMINISTRATION OF THE CALIFORNIA
PUBLIC EMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT SYSTEM"
The ordinance was adopted on s unanimous vote. (Norton absent)
rrdinance re Expansion of 011.11almise
at the Palo Alto Lases. Bowling Green
MOTION: Mayor Comstock introduced the following ordinance and moved,
seconded by Pearson, its adoption:
ORDINANCE NO. 2792 entitled "ORDINANCE OF THE
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALO ALTO APPROVING AND
ADOPTING A PLAN FOR THE EXPANSION OF THE CLUBHOUSE
AT THE PALO ALTO LAWN BOWLING GREEN"
The ordinance was adopted on a unanimous vote. (Norton absent)
Ordinance re Improvements for Mitchell Park
MOTION: Mayor Comstock introduced the following ordinance and moved,
seconded by Berwald, its adoption:
ORDINANCE NO. 2793 entitled "ORDINANCE OF THE
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALO ALTO APPROVING AND
ADOPTING A PLAN FOR THE IMPROVEMENT OF MITCHELL
PARK (AKA J. PEARCE MITCHELL PARK)"
The ordinance was adopted on a unanimous vote. (Norton absent)
(fie rte Pres.:l;ool Plxyyard in
Roll ood Par C°11aa Terrace Librat►
MOTION: Mayor Comstock introduced the following ordinance and moved,
seconded by Henderson, its adoption:
ORDINANCE NO. 2794 entitled "ORDINANCE OF THE
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALO ALTO APPROVING AND
ADOPTING A PLAN FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF A PRESCHOOL
PLAYYARD WITHIN HOLLYWOOD PARK (AKA HAYFIELD PARK)
ADJACENT TO THE COLLEGE TERRACE LIBRARY"
The ordinance was adopted on a unanimous vote. (Norton absent)
Ordinance re Reatroam Facilities in
7Mi�f'�MNgi o.���nlru��ssR l
NOTION: Mayor Comstock introduced the following ordinance and moved,
secoadsd by Bervald, its adoption:
493
6/3/74
ORDINANCE NO. 2795 entitled "ORDINANCE OF THE
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALO ALTO APPROVING AN])
ADOPTING A PLAN FOR THE IMPROVEMENT OF RESTROOM
FACILITIES IN THE OAK GROVE AREA OF FOOTHILLS
PARK (AKA PALO ALTO FOOTHILLS PARK) "
The ordinance was adopted o:l a unanimous vote. (Norton absent)
(Councilman Norton returned at 8:48 p.m.)
Ordinance re Development
aanor Pardee Paj
foir.in.ir�rr+rr n.n...a®
Mayor Comstock reported this matter was discussed at length during
the first reading of the ordinance, and some of the members of Council
had been contacted by citizens of the community since then.
Councilman Berwald commented that probably each Council member had
been contacted by neighbors of the park, some of whom want an active
park and some of whom want a passive park. He stated that he was
sensitive to the fact that this had been discussed over a period of
many months, and the Council's vote on the matter was unanimous.
However, in the past three weeks, he had talked with various persons
with opposing viewpoints and had learned of the willingness of the
parties concerned to get together privately and discuss their differences.
He felt concern that if Council peristed in the adoption of the ordinance
there would be a lot of people who would be very unhappy and this
would not serve civic unity very weld, Councilman Berwald noted that
the one thing the interested persons had not done was to get together
privately, and if they could do this and reach a meeting of the minds
and come back to Council after perhaps working with staff, there may
be a solution for Eleanor Park that would be satisfactory to a majority
of residents, particularly those nearby. Perhaps this would chalk
up another mark for voluntary citizen participation in proving the
willingness and ability to get together and resolve a problem.
MOTION: Councilman Berwald moved, seconded by Beahrs, that the matter
be continued for three months and concurrently referred to staff.
Councilman Norton asked Councilman Berwald what reason he had to believe
that people would come back with a compromise in three months.
Councilman Berwald responded that it was due to a faith in the ability
of people to sit dawn privately and come to an agreement, something that
can be very difficult iu a more formal setting. He felt this was
a neighborhood issue, and it would be well if it could be solved within
the neighborhood.
Councilman Norton stated that he was sceptical about whether everyone
could be made happy in this case. He said that if he thought Councilman
berwald'a suggestion was likely to happen, he would be willing to
continue it indefinitely if necessary. However, he was very sceptical
about an agreement being reached.
Mr. Sipel said he was not sure about what staff's specific role would
be. He asked if staff were expected to be a facilitator to try and
get the two parties together and agree on something, and shoald staff
suggest compromises. Further, there was a clear policy of the Council
that there are not to be tennis courts in that areas, and he wondered
494
6/3/74
If staff was supposed to depart from that policy. Mr. Sipel said
he understood that tennis courts was one of the major points of contention.
He also wanted to know to what extent staff should support the neighborhood
discussion with landscape architecture plans and concepts. -
1
1
Councilman Henderson noted that one of the problems he had in hi,.s
mind had been the priority sequence of where tennis courts are needed
in the city. He could see a possible compromise in adding these courts
to the Capital Improvements Program somewhere in the fut+re, probably
in several years. If there were any possibility of compromise, then
he would be willing to support- the ninety day continuance. Councilman
Henderson felt there oeally was a willingness on the part of the neighbors
to get together and talk the matter over, and he was willing to give
that approach a try.
Councilman Clay said that when this was discussed at first reading
it appeared to him that what was voted on was tennis courts or no
tennis courts. He felt that it was apparent that in trying again,
if both sides are saying they do or do not want tennis courts, then
perhaps they are headed for another impasse. Secondly, he stated
that sometime ago when Council was discussing the development of land
along Embarcadero at the golf course, the tennis courts were then
a part of the package: giver to Council. He noted that not much time
was spent in discussing that posaibilft.y because there was no one
in support of tennis courts et the baylands. Councilman Clay felt
strongly that the main difference between the parties concerned was
whether or not there would be tennis courts. He asked why tennis courts
coo1d not be located someplace else if that is what is needed in the
city. He asked Councilman ger=wald whether in his talks with the persons
willing to discuss Eleanor Park he had any indication that the side
that opposed tennis courts agreed they would be willing to discuss
that possibility.
Councilman i;erwald responded that he preferred to not go any further
than he had in his comments because that would take the meaning out
of this group getting together to discuss the problem privately.
Councilman Sher stated he had talked with several people about Eleanor
Park also. He did not feel as optimistic as Councilman Serwald.
Councilman Sher recalled that at a previous meeting he had tried to
get a definition of "active" park, and whether that was synonymous
with tennis courts. He noted that he had made a motion for the exploration
of some activities in Eleanor Park other than tennis courts, but there
was no enthuw.asm for that either among Council members or among those
in the audience. Councilman Sher felt that if the ordinance were
adopted, there would be a citizens effort to collect signatures to
refereed it. Given the great attraction of tennis courts, it was
his opinion nbere would be no trouble at all to get the signatures
for such is referendum petition. This would mean that it would come
back to Council who would have to decide if the matter should go to
an election. He paid he did not think Council would want the tatter
to go to election because the question being asked is really not the
question at issue. The. whole park ordinance procedure is designed
to give the people of the city a chance to challenge intrusions into
parks, and of course what the proponents of the referendum would be
seeking would be a greater intrusion into Eleanor Park than the Council
has approved. He added that he supported the proposed concept out
of desperation.
Councils Beahrs spoke in favor of giving the two sides an opportunity
to discuss their differences.
s
4 9 5
6/3/74
AMENDMENT: Mayor Comstock moved, seconded by Berwald, that the staff
be directed to work on this assignment as a facilitator with the under-
standing that the matter of tennis courts is an open question for
purposes of discussion.
Councilman Rosenbaum felt that in past discussions of this matter
there were good and sufficient reasons why Eleanor Pardee Park was
not a good location for tennis courts. He wanted the people it the
audience to recognize that it would be reasonably difficult to convince
him that two tennis courts ought to be put in at that location.
Vice Mayor Pearson agreed that in her opinion the difference between
the two groups was whether or not they wanted tennis courts. She
said this reminded her of Hoover Park which was a passive park with
sandlots and a nice large lawn. However, they had a little bit of
trouble so the citizens suggested that the park be made a little more
adult oriented. Tennis courts were put an so that adults would use
the park, and that is what happened. She pointed out that Peers Park,
which is about seven acres, has tennis courts near the sandlot; and
this was one of the better used tennis courts in the area. Vice Mayor
Pearson felt it might be a possibility to say to people that perhaps
they could have tennis courts in 1975-76 or 1976--77, meanwhile doing
nothing with the five acres. She suggested that horseshoe areas might
be a good thought for the older persons who were beyond the tennis
stage. She commented on the point of the development of the park
and the ability of a group to referend the Council's action. It seemed
to her that when Council had the Charter Amendment and the Charter
Review, that one point made was that if the citizens of Palo Alto -
did not like the way Council was developing a park, they had the right
to referend it; and she understood that was what Council was hearing
at this meeting.
The amendment passed on the following vote:
AYES: Beahrs, Berwald, Comstock, Herdereon,
Pearson, Sher
NOES: Clay, Rosenbaum
The motion as amended passed on the following vote:
AYES: Bea:irs, Berwald, Comstock, Henderson,
Norton, Pearson, Rosenbaum, Sher
NOES: Clay
Ordinance re In rovemeat of Peers Park
.MOTION: Mayor Comstock introduced the following ordinance and moved,
seconded be Pearson, its adoption:
ORDINANCE NO. 2796 entitled "ORDINANCE OF THE
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALO ALTO APPROVING AND
ADOPTING A PLAN FOR THE IMPROVEMENT OF PEERS
PARK (AKA ALEXANDER PEERS PARK) "
The ordinance was adopted on a unanimous vote.
4 9 6
6/3/74
1
Old Felice/Fire Building:
tpproval of Floor Plans (CMR:344:4)
Mayor 'omstock noted that Council was in receipt of City Manager`s
report dated May 30 stating that the ARB reviewed the floor plans.
The recommended action was approval of the plans.
Mr. Richard Nieto made comments on the schematic projection of the
floor plans for El Palacio de Luz de Oro.
Councilman Clay asked if there were a doorway going from the community
use space into the rest of the building. M;. Nieto responded affirma-
tively,
Councilman Clay asked what kind of wall separated the shops from the
office space. Mr. Nieto replied that it would be a full floor to
ceiling wall, and it would be a solid wall.
Councilman Clay felt this was a rather awkward allocation of space
to take 1200 square feat out of that particular space and allocate
relatively small portions for the shop areas.
Mr. Nieto said the shop in question was 343 feet, and that was right
about the range that the shops should have. This shop also has the
advantage of having the only private entrance.
Vice Mayor Pearson a;,ked what kind of roof garden was being contemplated,
and whether there might be any expense involved that -might be attributable
to the community space; and if something should go wrong with the
roof garden --such as leaks --who would be responsible for the expense
of that.
Mr. Vogt replied that the ARB liked the idea of taking advantage of
the area for a roof garden since it is a vary attractive spot. He
felt that with a trellis over it to give some protection from the
sum that it could be a very pleasant addition to the building. He
added that Mr. Nieto was attempting to find an antique elevator to
service the second floor for persons who would not be able to climb
the stairs.
Vice Mayor Pearson expressed concern over the possibility of noise
from the roof garden area being heard in the community space. Mr.
Nieto responded that with the air conditioning and the droned ceiling,
there would be no problem.
Vice Mayor Pearson noted Chet these were not the final plans and that
new constructions and building modifications were being considered.
The plans were to be approved with the understanding that the final.
plans would come back to the ARB far review. She wanted to be sure
it wa,s correct thst nothing could be built until the final plans were
approved.
Mr. Philip Vogt, Member, Architectural Review Board, advised Mrs.
Pearson that she was correct in her understanding, and that the approval
of the ARB was strictly on the schematic proposal which Mr. Nieto
was showing at this meeting outlining his general philosophy of what
he intends to do with the building. This gave the ARB an opportunity
to comment on the plan before Mr. Nieto got into the final working
drawing stage.
497
6/3/74
Vice Mayor Pearson noted that she heard that some projects came before
the ARB, received approvalon final plans, and then between the time
than construction occurred and the approval of the ARB, changes were
made so that the final concept of what you approved was different
from what actually was done. She asked how applicants could be pre-
vented from changing their plans after ARB review because a carpenter
does not want to do something, for instance.
Ir. Vogt replied that the ARB is limited to approving a set of plans
which it sees. He said the APB does not always see final working drawings;
however, any significant changer that are made between the approval
of the ARB and the actual construction would fall under the responsibility
of the Building Department.
Mr. Sipel emphasized the words "significant changes". There are certain
very minor changes that take place on the job site that are very difficult
for the city staff to pick up. }e said he was sure they do miss a
few and do not really try to handle all the very minor things, but
anything significantly changed would have to then be done correctly
or the builder would be taken back through the ARB. In this particular
case, since it is in effect a city project, staff will be looking
at it very carefully. Ii there are instances where a member of Council
believes that there have been departures from what the ARB approved,
he would like to know about them so it r;ould be determined if there
were something that staff had missed, or whether it had been considered
and the decision vas made that it was not a significant item.
MOTION: Vice Mayor Pearson roved, seconded by Comstock, that City
Council approve the sehnc.atic plans as presented with the understanding
that the final plans of all new structures, building modifications,
and additions will be reviewed by the A.Q.B.
Councilman Sher asked what the walls of the roof garden would be and
how they would tie in with the building, and asked for Mr. Vogt's
opinion as to whether the Spanish style of the building would be interfered
with.
Mr. Vogt responded that the ABB was very much aware of the significance
of this building, and he felt it represented one of the finest examples
of classic Spanish architecture that has added so much to the color
and character o; Palo Alto. He said use would be wade of an open
air trellis, perhaps some old timbering, which he felt would add a
lot of character to the building. Further, he did not feel the roof
garden would detract from the building's Spanish philosophy at all.
The materials suggested for the walls are stone or scything similar
to adobe or brick in keeping with the Spanish style.
Councilman Sher asked if the roof garden would be rented out. Mr.
Nieto responded that he doubted that it could be rented out to any
one particular party.
Councilman Sher said the drawings demonstrated part of the problem
the city has had as far as the very high cost that fir. Nieto feels
any community space as well as any other space ought to command.
He felt sure Mr. Nieto thought that any space in the building was
as desirable as any other; on the other hand the beginning discussions
for community space were for it to be on the second floor where rental
would be less, and now it is located on the first floor in which appears
to be some of the groat desirable space in the building. He felt the
city had gotten itself into a box on this matter, and the solution,
was one which he was not too happy about.
The motion passed on a unanimous vote.
498
6/3/74
Squire House Renovation and Utilization (CMR:342:4)
MOTION: Mayor Comstock moved, seconded by Berwald, that Item 17 on
the agenda, Squire House Renovation and Utilization, be considered
out -of --order.
The motion passed on a unanimous vote.
Mayor Comstock acted that this matter had been continued from the
meeti•ag of May 20, and Council had received a report from the City
Manager dated May 30, 1974.
M.r. Paul F. Kerr, 360 Forest Avenue, stated that on April 9, 1973,
Council approved the acceptance of the Squire House or the money which
makes possible the acceptance of the Squire House, and it was agreed
that adequate measures would be taken to repair the building. One
of the things he pointed out was that a canvas had been made of the
five blocks around Squire House, and it was determined that 719 senior
citizens lived in that area. Because of delays he added, the price
of doing anything had escalated; nctwithstanding that Squire House
was supposed to be adequately repaired, there are termites causing
much destruction. He was concerned that there was no statement in
the report about the inflationary lapse that took place for about
nine months. Nr. Kerr spoke in favor of the proposals for the use
of Squire House as outlined by the staff. He felt this fcspo.^taut house
should be put to a good public use.
Fern Hunt, 522 Mayfield Avenue, Stanford, gave background which led
to the naming of Squire House as a National Landmark. Ms. Hunt spoke
in favor of using Squire House as a senior citizens center because
she knew there were lonesome elderly people on the north side of Palo
Alto in the vicinity of the house. She noted that the Garden Clubs
were interested in maintaining the garden, end there could be a place
where the blind could come and enjoy sweet smelling shrubs and fine
textured things. };s. Hunt especially tharked Scott Catlett for conducting
meetings between neighbors and the people who worked hard to raise
money.
Councilman R.oaenbaum stated that he had raised the possibility of
converting the house back to single family use, and he asked ?#s. Hunt
if this idea met with acceptance on her part.
Ms. Hunt responded that she did not feel the city had any right to
sell the house, but if they did, the money should go back to the donors.
Councilman Rosenbaum explained that he was interested in finding out
whether the resin interest was to preserve the horse or to provide public
uses within that home. MS. Hunt felt that uses should be provided.
Dorothy Wolff, 472 Selby Lane, Atherton, wade a plea to Council to
save the Squire House for uses that could be an,joyed by many of the
citizens. She felt everyone would agree that the house added a great
deal of beauty and digaity to University Avenue. She noted that one
tragic facet of our society was the loneliness of all age groups,
and she felt Squire House would be a great place for people to gather
to exchange ideas, enjoy lectures, etc.
David Baum, 909 Hamilton Avenue, stated that he lived just behind
Squire Hous and he had served on the Squire House Committee as the
representative of the neighborhood. He said on behalf of the neighborhood
that they all felt very positively about Squire House, not only as
a historical landmark bat as a place where the citizens could con
and pursue their various activities.
4 9 9
6/3/74
Gay Woolley, 1685 Mariposa, spoke in favor of using Squire House for
public purposes. However, 11 Council decided otherwise, she proposed
that it be referred to the Finance and Public Works Committee and
some other alternatives be studied. She suggested tying together
the Historic Preservation Ordinance with the utilization of Squire
House. Ms. Wool.ey pointed out that San Francisco has a preservation
ordinance which is a lot simpler in that it states that any house
under the preservation ordinance proposed for demolition must wait
one year. Then a private organization called Heritage steps in to
try to find a buyer, and if they do they impose on the house a facade
easement. The easement means that Heritage owns the facade and the
owner owns the rest of the house. She felt that it would be well
if Palo Alto adopted a simpler ordinance such as that of San Francisco.
Secondly, her recommendation would be that the Squire House be sold
to a private party and impose a facade easement. Thirdly, the proceeds
from the sale could be used to establish a non-profit private heritage
foundation for Palo Alto.
Councilman Beahrs stated the cost estimates seemed to him to be extreme.
He said he was very much impressed with the fact that in accepting
Squire House the city had created the impression to the donors that
the city had made a commitment to refurbish and utilize the property,
which apparentl! had been lost sight of as a commitment. He recommended
that staff and council members aright explore the possibility of undertaking
a large part of the refurbishing on a voluntary basis, it was his
opinion that contractors for instance, might be willing to donate
time to such a community project.
Councilman Henderson noted that at the Finance and Public Works Committee
meeting when the Squire House was being discussed, the Committee was
nearly overwhelmed by senior citizens stating that the house would
not be an appropriate facility for their center. There was not one
person in the audience of about forty persona who .3uupported Squire
house for a senior citizens center. He stated that the results in
the staff report were the kinds of things that led hint originally
to vote against the acquisition of the Squire House by the city, and
he had never expected, even in his pessimism, costs in the magnitude
cf $350,000 for renovation. Councilman Henderson said that once the
money for purchase was raised and even to the city he did support
acceptance of the property, but he did not make any commitments at
that time for expenditures of this magnitude. He commented that even
under the possibility of returning the building to a single family
dwelling and renting it out to another party, it would cost about
$230,000 for cost of renovation and that the fair market rent would
be about $750 monthly return. If the whole $750 could be applied to
the cost of the improvements, it would take twenty-five years just
to pay those off, Councilman Henderson `s feeling was that some solution
must be found that would cost far below the costs indicated in the
staff report, and if a solution could not be found he might agree
that the money should be returne4i to the donors.
MOTION: Councilman Henderson moved, seconded by Norton, that the
subject of Squire House renovation and utilization be referred to
the Finance and Public Works Committee.
Councilman Berwald said he would support the motion, He stated he
was disappointed with himself foe not taking more interest in the
aainteoence of the house in the intervening months, and it seemed
to hits ,hart regardless of any future plane, what Council should have
done then, axed certainly should do now, is to take the first steps
to get some competitive bids for necessary maintenance repairs to
take care of such things as termites and broken glass. It vas his
S 0 0
6/3/74
feeling that preventive maintenance should have been carried out as of
the first day the city took title to the property, and he guessed he had
assumed that staff would have done that.
AMENDMENT: Councilman Berwald moved, seconded by Norton, that the
referral motion be amended to add the following: "and concurrently
that Council instruct the staff to obtain competitive bids on essential
preventative maintenance, on the house and to provide this information
to the eommittee at the time it takes up the matter".
Councilman Norton asked staff if they felt competitive bicac ware the
right way to go in this matter.
Mr. Sipel responded that assuming he knew what preventive maintenance
is, he would suggest that it ought to be done by contract work. He
said he would like a little more precise definition on what Council
meant by preventive maintenance whether it goea beyond correction
of termite damage, which was cited. Mr. Sipel recalled that when
the house was first acquired by the city, staff advised Council that
it was their intent to do nothing to improve the facility or to allow
it to deteriorate, and that in fact is what they had done. The house
has not gone downhill, in the opinion of staff, since the termite
problems that are there today existed when the house was first acquired
by the city. Further, on at least one occasion, staff was specifically
directed by the Council not to do anything to the house. Mr. Sipel
said that he therefore found it difficult to be implicated in allowing
the house to deteriorate, by people in the audience and perhaps by
Councilman Berwald's comments.
Vice Mayor Pearson referred to the amendment to get competitive bids
on preventive maintenance, and she said she was not certain what that
meant. Did it mean maintaining the lawns to the standards of city
parks, does it mean having the windows washed periodically, having
the interior vacuumed and dusted, rebuilding the porch in front, etc -
She felt the competitive bide would be very high, but perhaps that
would be good because then it would be clear how much it was going
to cost to maintain the house. She felt, therefore, that she could
not support that. Her original feeling when it was requested that
the city purchase this house as an historical monument was that all
she could see was an old house that needed a tremendous amount of
upgrading, and that it would be at a weird end of town as far as having
it serve public needs. She recalled that she voted "no" on the house.
Vice Mayor Pearson wanted to know if this matter went to Committee,
would the staff be free to discuss the possibility of selling the
house. For example, in the report would Council hear what rights
the city had regarding the selling of the house, and what kind of
cost would be involved in the redesign of Seneca Avenue to accommodate
parking as had been proposed by Mrs. Hunt, what would be the minimum
cost to the city to bring the house up to a salable condition, and
whether or not the Historical Ordinance when it comes into being can
be applied to that house with deed restrictions written into it so
that the house could be sold with the facade retained.
Mr. Sigel reported that staff had just gone quickly through the list
of proposed improvements, and there were several that would fall into
the category of preventive maintenance. The first one would be the
elimination of termite infestation, then there would be painting of
the exterior, repairing end insulating of new roof, installing roof
and structural repairs to the first floor rear porch, and underpinning
the front porch columns. :hose items total in the neighborhood of
$50,000.
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6/3/74
Vice Mayor Pearson commented regarding the meeting place for the Senior
Citizens Downtown Center saying that she hoped the focal point of
that center would be more in the downtown area because the highest
concentration of the elderly is do areas 113 and 114, not discounting
those who are in 111 and 112. Also, it was hoped that whatever senior
citizens center that would be developed would be expandable to be
able to serve meals to 150 or more senior citizens. Vice Mayor Pearson
concluded that Squire House could never accept that load of people.
Councilman Norton felt the original commitment might be very hard
to back off from, no latter how Council tried to do it. In view of
the original commitment, perhaps we should go ahead and spend the
money now estimated by staff to repair the house and fire staff who
blew the original estimate, thus quickly making up the difference
in saved salaries. He said he would support the referral to Committee,
but he felt there was a real. problem.
Councilman Sher stated he supported the referral motion. He suggested
the possibility of getting the Historical. Society and others who had
participated in the fund raising drive together with the Senior Coordinating
Council to see if they could work out their views about the possibility
cf using Squire House in some way for senior citizens. Secondly, and
more seriously, he hoped that the Committee in ite deliberations would
review the matter of what commitments were in facr made.
Councilman Rosenbaum said that in defense of staff it seemed clear
to him that they opposed the buying of Squire House, and perhaps they
had greater foresight than the Council did. He pointed out that there
was a house sitting there empty, and there was always a danger of
something happening, and he was wondering if it really ought to be
sent off to committee. Originally, he had in mind referring this
ratter back to staff requesting that they work with the Squire House
Committee in en effort to come up with a lower cost solution to the
problem. Councilman Rosenbaum asked staff if they would take any
action between now and when the Finance and Public Works Committee
meeting was held.
Mr. Sipel replied that assuming the Committee would meet on this subject
possibly sometime in July, if staff had no specific direction, then
nothing further would be done. ?f there were some direction, staff
would follow it, meet with the Squire House Committee, and explore
other alternatives that might be available.
Mayor Comstock stated that Hr. Sipel responded with items which he
felt came under the term of "preventive maintenance", and he asked
Councilman Berwald if in making his amendment motion he had anticipated
encompassing the type of activities mentioned by Mr. Sipel.
Councilman Berwald responded affirmatively and said his definition
of preventive maintenance would be that maintenance and repair which
if not accomplished promptly would lead to further damage, deterioration,
and additional costs unless remedied; for example, that work which
would need to be done anyway prior to sale such as termite inspection,
and other problems each as broken windows which invited vandalism,
a roof that leaks, electrical wiring that is likely to cause fire,
and pipes that leak.
Councilman Beahrs asked if the house were insured. Hr. Sipel responded
that he assumed it fell under the city's overall blanket insurance
policy, and he would double check on that.
5 0 2
6/3/74
The amendment passed cn the following vote:
A`iES: Beahrs, Berwald, Comstock, Pearson,
Clay, Norton, Rosenbaum, Sher
NOES: Henderson
SUBSTITUTE MOTION: Councilman Rosenbaum moved, seconded by Beahrs,
that the Council state it is not willing to spend $360,000 on renovating
Squire House and that the subject be referred back to staff with direction
to work with the Squire House Committee to develop a considerably
lower cost approach to restoring the house.
Vice Mayor Pearson asked staff if they would not be answering these
same questions in the substitute motion if the matter were referred
to the Finance and Public Works Committee, and would they also not
be answering the questions relative to gelling the house, putting
it under the Historical Ordinance and the other questions which she
had asked earlier. She asked if there would not be a broader report
given to the Finance and Public Works Committee if it were simply
referred there,
Mr. Sigel responded that staff would try to deal with the questions
that have come up this evening about possible alternatives regardless
of whether this motion passed or whether the matter was referred to
the Finance and Public Works Committee. He felt perhaps more time
would be spent on the project under the substitute notion.
Vice Mayor Pearson felt that in the interest of time the matter should
be sent off to the Finance Committee, supporting that notion, and
answer all of the other questions that are involved because staff
will have to answer the questions of renovating, and different types
of renovating. She felt it was clear that Council did not want t�
spend $360,000 and that statement did not really have to be made.
It was her intention to support sending the matter to the Finance
Committee and hopefully receiving a broader report.
Councilman Clay stated that the sane efi er;t could be achieved, but
maybe with more expediency, if Councilman Berwald were to expand his
directive to staff to include staff's working with Squire House in
time for the Finance Committee deliberations.
Mayor Comstock explained that the substitute motion contemplated no
referral to the Finance Committee.
Councilman Berwald said he could support Councilman Rosenbaum's motion
ix he would make it as an amendment to the main motion simply saying
that in the interim the Squire House Committee and the staff try to
provide the Finance Committee with any lower cost alternatives.
Councilman Henderson Braid he did not know what was meant by a considerably
lower figure, and that probably each Council member had a different
idea on that. He expressed a desire fo>s a number of alternatives,
and he assumed they would be coming from staff and saw no need to
add that to the motion. Councilman Henderson felt certain that if
this motion passed, whatever came back from staff and the Squire House
Committee would not be satisfactory to be passed on immediately, requiring
referral to Finance Coatittee, and the whole thing would be delayed
that much longer. Therefore, he opposed the substitute motion.
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6/3/74
SUBSTITUTE MOTION WITHDRAWN: Councilman Rosenbaum said it was his
interest to try to get to work as soon as possible, and he would be
willing to withdraw his substitute motion and suggest the following
amendment.
AMENDMENT: Councilman Rosenbaum moved, seconded by Beahrs, that the
motion be further amended to add: "and in the interim the subject
be referred to the staff with direction to work with the Squire House
Committee to develop a considerably lower cost approach to restoring
the house".
The amendment passed on a unanimous vote.
The referral motion with the two amendments passed on a unanimous
vote.
Alley 13 Beautification ( t:314:4)
Mayor Comstock noted that a staff report dated May 31, 1974, had been
received on Alley 13 beautification.
Mr. Fred Loper, Acting Director of utilities, explained the four
zchesn:atic drawings which are possibilities for the beautification
of Alley 13; He stated that what is done with Alley 13 will be a
very individual kind of thing and will not be setting a precedent
for other alleys in the city.
Mr. Bill Busse, Architect, stated that this would be an effort to
upgrade the back of the buildings, and would be something that might
stimulate others to do the same kind of thing. One of the questions
within the four possibilities is how much of the space behind the
buildings should be pedestrian and how much should be for transportation.
Mr. Busse said that Scheme D is the one that was being proposed which
was essentially to make the area almost entirely one for pedestrians.
He noted that Palo Alto had considerable materials available such
as old poles, cross -arms from power poles, ten foot long four-by-fours,
sections of concrete pipe, etc. that could be made use of for planters,
elevation, lighting and that sort of thing to upgrade Ailey 13. He
added that it was his understanding that some members of staff were
willing to come in and donate their time on this project.
MOTION: Councilman Berwald moved, seconded by Comstock, that. Council
approve Scheme D with Alternative No. 2 and the five recommendations
as shown in the Staff Report as follows;
1. Council direct staff to proceed with a final design
for improving Alley 13 and that the design be reviewed
by the Planning Commission and the Architectural
Review Board.
2. Council refer the renaming of Alley 13 to the Finance
and Public Works Committee.
3, Council direct staff to include $16,000 in the 1974-75
budget for Alley 13 improvement.
4. Council find the Alley 13 improvement project to have no
significant environmental impact.
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6/3/74
5. Council direct staff to proceed with the electrical
undergrounding as described in Alternative No. 1.
Vice Mayor Pearson felt what is proposed was a rather intense develop-
ment of an alley. She noted the city would be paying $16,000 for the
beautification, and she wondered if the store owners would be doing
some beautification at their own expellee.
Councilman Clay asked how many alleys were being considered for such
upgrading. Mr. Busse replied that he could not directly answer that,
but the intent was to stimulate some interest. Each alley is different
and each one would be treated in a very different way.
Councilman Sher asked if there would be outside tables for eating
purposes for the customers of Baskin -Robbins and Round Table Pizza.
Mr. Busse responded that Baskin -Robbins did not have an exit to the
alley. Seating arrangements had been proposed, and there might be
soma use of that for eating purposes.
Councilman Sher said it was his understanding that the city would
be paying $16,000 in addition to the contributed materials, and he
wondered if the owners would be contributing anything.
Mr, Sipel stated these had been some discussion with the property
owners, and they ex?ressed soma interest in participating in the cost
if that is what Council wants them to do. He added that the idea
of a formal assessment was dropped because the project was not expensive
enough to justify going through the process. Whatever the property
owners do should be done on a voluntary basis.
AMENDMENT: Councilman Sher moved, seconded by Pearson, that the
motion be amended to add the following to No. 3 of the staff report:
"subject to exploring with adjacent property owners the poesibility
of sharing these costa".
Councilr en Dieahrs asked if there would be a harmonious color scheme
involved in the painting of the backs of the buildings. Mr. Busse
replied that the owners will work together to integrate the proper
colors,
.Councilmen Clay asked if certain businesses supported the improvement
of the alley financially, would they then expect to have special uses
of it.
Mt. Sipel replied that no sale of merchandise would be permitted in
the alley by the adjaent store owners, but someone could certainly
buy an ice cream cone .xd eat it at one of the tables, which would
be an appropriate use. He commented that the matter would require
careful scrutiny on the part of staff to be certain that no abuses
were made, and staff was willing to do that.
The amendment to the main recommendations was approved on a unanimous
vote.
(Councilman Rosenbaum left at 11:30 p.m. and did not return.)
Vice Mayor Pearson asked if the trees would be in pots or tubs. Mr.
Busse said they would be because the thought was it would be a good ,
idea to have them be mobile. He added that a final decision had not
been made since in the long run it may be more practical to plant
trees.
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6/3/74
Vice Mayor Pearson wanted to know who would be responsible for the
care of the trees. Mr. Looper replied that the Parks Department would
take care of the trees and shrubs.
Mr. Ed Ames, 665 Newell Road, expressed concern about the plans for
the beautification of Alley 13. He owns the building occupied by
the Round Table Pizza Parlor, and he was worried about trucks being
able to get in and out to make their deliveries.
Councilman Berwald stated he wanted to be assured that deliveries
could be made, and that Council would not be taking way any rights
of the businessmen. Mr. Busse said they have attempted to provide
direct truck delivery to the Round Table, and the matter perhaps rested
upon how many trucks would be backed up at one time.
Mr. Sipel volunteered that staff could study this situation.
Mr. Don Klages of Wideman's enthusiaaticaliy supported the plans for
the beautification of the alley and said his store was planning to
make some additional improvements. It was his opinion that Wideman's
gets as many truck deliveries as Round Table, and he say no problem.
whatsoever.
M.r. Richard Nieto spoke its favor of the improvements, saying he was
excited about the proposed design.
The motion as amended passed on a unanimous vote. (Rosenbaum absent)
Ad�o�ntatent to June 17 at 7:30 �,m.
6w�*.� .sYw..e.wrmar.raw�s.m . .nwb
MOTION: Mayor Comstock ,moved, seconded by Berwald, that items 15, 16,
18, 19, 20, 21 and 22 on the agenda be continued until June 17, at 7:30
p•m,
The motion to continue passed on a unanimous vote.
(Councilman Beahrs left the meeting.)
trogijat Reconvened
MOTION: Councilman Berwald moved, seconded by Norton, that the meeting
be reconvened for the consideration of of Item 16 on the agenda, the
F & M Aviation Center Final Plans -Palo Alto Airport.
The motion passed on the following vote:
AYES: Berwald, Comstock, Clay, Norton, Sher,
Henderson
NOES: Pearson
M Aviation. C 1 ante
P
Pale_ Al CMR:331:4
MOTION: Councilman Berwald moved, seconded by Norton, that Item 16 •-
F & 14 Aviation (Palo Alto Airport) be considered out of order at
this time,
506
6/3/74
The motion passed on the following vote:
AYES: Berwald, Comstock, Clay, Norton, Sher
Henderson
NOES: Pearson
MOTION: Councilman Berwald moved, seconded by Norton, that Council
find this project has no significant environmental impact and that
the submitted final plans be approved.
The motion passed on a unanimous vote.
Adjourxaser?t
Spy,�or..a...a o..ors.
The meeting adjourned at 11:40 p.m.
time Item 15, regarding closure of
first, followed by the rest of the
ATTEST:
to 7:30 p.m., June 17 at which
Scott Street will be considered
agenda,
APPROVE:
0 f),),,a) 0„„tA,
Mayor
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