HomeMy WebLinkAbout06251974CITY
COUNCIL
MINUTES
June 25, 1974
CITY
or
PeiLQ
IMO
The City Council of the City of Palo Alto met on this date eat 7:40 p.m.
in the adjourned meeting of June 24, 1974, with Vice Mayor Pearson
presiding.
Present: Beahra, Berwald, Clay (arrived 8:50 p.m.), Henderson,
Norton (arrived 8:35 p.m.), Pearson, Rosenbaum,
Sher (arrived 1:42 p.m.)
Absent: Comstock
Announcement of Palo Alto Fun Fair
Vice Mayor Pearson announced that the Palo Alto Fun Fair would be
held on Saturday, June 29, from 10:00 to 3:00 at Lytton Plaza. It
is sponsored by Downtown Palo Alto, Inc. and the City of Palo Alto.
Children will be invited to participate in crafts projects and see a
puppet show.
Public Heari9: 1974-75 Annual Bud et (continued
Vice Xayor Pearson commented that some Council members Who were absent
at roll call were expected to arrive later, She suggested that as many
non -controversial items be handled as possible pending their arrival.
Councilman Henderson referred to item 1 (v) of the agenda regarding the
art in public places project. he stated that this item originally appeared
in the capital improvement budget as $50,000 for nem year and the
following year. At the time of the first consideration of the Capital
improvement Program, it was reduced to $10,000 for each year, and
at the time of considering the preliminary budget, the committee voted
to delete the item from the budget.
MOTION: Councilman Henderson moved, on behalf of the Finance and
Public Works Committee, to delete the art in public places project
($10,000) from the Capital Improvements Fund.
The motion passed on the following vote:
AYES: Beahre, H.erwald, Henderson, Pearson, Sher
NOES: Rosenbaum
Councilman 8eahra referred to item (w) on the agenda and commented
that be would be inclined to delete the entire amount. He asked what
the city expected to get for that *all sum.
Council* Henderson replied that the project for Alley 13 had already
been approved by Council. The reduction left enough to cover that
project.
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6/25/74
MOTION: Councilman Henderson moved, on behalf of the Finance and
Public Works Committee to amend the preliminary budget for 1974-75
by reducing the project appropriation for improvements to Downtown
Alleys and Parking Lots from $70,000 to $16,000.
The motion passed on a unanimous vote.
MOTION: ,Councilman Henderson moved, on behalf of the Finance and.
Public Works Committee, to amend the preliminary budget for 1974-75
by adding $10,000 to the Social Services Administration, Senior Adult
Services Subprogram budget to prov_de support for the senior task
force study.
Joan B. Johnston, 813 Cedro Way, Stanford, representing the League
of Women Voters, stated that the League endorsed the inclusion of
these funds for the senior task force in the budget.
Councilman Berwald stated he did not recall discussing this item in
committee.
Vice Mayor Pearson replied that this came as the result of the Senior
Citizens Task Force which the Policy and Procedures C'oczmlttee recommended
be established. One of the recommendations was that $10,000 be allocated
so that they could have a staff member to assist them.
Councilman Berwald asked how rany people are now working on senior
citizens smatters and how much roney is left in this year's budget
to carry on that work.
Clay Brown replied that there is one current position which is full-
time in the Social Services, Senior Activity Coordinator position.
There are also some funds in the recreation departme.,t for senior
recreational activities. The new Senior Services Center also has
one full-time clerical xoeition that goes with it.
Councilman Berwald stated he did not think this was & necessary position.
If the committee needs help, they have a ctpable person in Dana Steeples,
and Mr. Brown has said there are other funds in the budget. Council
was told last night about the increases in the budget, and Mr. Sipel
commented on the importance of the affirmative action program and
suggested cutting elsewhere. Councilman Berwald said he could support
a tangible capital investment for senior citizens, bt't it was all
going to salaries and administration, and he thought Council had to
start somewhere to speak up against the amount of money that goes
to studies and administration of government functions. With some
squeezing, the same amount of service could be obtained without this
additonal $10,000.
Councilman Henderson commented that Council had passed the program
and set the policy.
Councilman Berwald recalled that City Manager Sipel said the other
evening that Council passes programs and asks the City Manager to chop the
budget and objects when he w*uts to add people. After thinking about
it, Councilman Berwald felt the senior citizens program would get aloe
very well without this additional help.
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6/25/74
Councilman Beahrs stated that he distinctly recalled this being discussed
in committee, and Mrs. Bedwell indicated in her judgment the staff
could not give support to this committee. He said he did not disagree
with Councilman Berwald. Council has been too prone to give support
on things without thought of the aggregate effect or cost, He asked
Mir. Sipel to comment.
Mr. Sipel stated that generally in the past when faced with having
to give support to a task farce, it has been done with existing personnel.
He has found through experience that it is almost a full-time job
when these task forces get moving. For a limited period, he could
see no way to provide the staffing without additional help. Also,
staff is looking for someone with experience and skills in this area,
While present staff members are generally competent, we can probably
get better skills is the marketplace, Without the $14,000, he would
have to suggest the committee go on its own.
Assistant City Manager Charles Walker stated that the only way he
could think of to provide staff would be to close down the senior
services office while the study is under way. The day -to --day services;
would not be available. The money cannot be taken out of the budget
and still expect the same services.
Joe Sieve, 1478 Kings Lane, president of the Senior Coordinating Council,
stated that it is iterative that this money stay in the budget.
This task force is critical to establish propde priorities for those things
necessary for seniors.
See pg. 24
7/15/74
Councilman_Berwald stated that he would respectfully contend that
the moneys are already available for sufficient staffing of these
programs. He pointed out that the social services summary io.dicates
salaries and benefits of $1,825,000. That is salaries, not services.
It is not supplanting some of the things that private ci ieens are
doing so well with their own time. Re referred to page 83 of the
proposed budget and noted that Senior Adult Services proposed budget
is $69,648, which is quite an increase. When we get down to expenditure
by object, we find out that Social Saerv1cee Administration salaries
are $169,185, up 44.62, He felt there was sufficient administrative
personnel whoa were interested who could move over a little and do
this work.
Vice M yol Pearson disagreed. She felt Council was asking the task
force to do a tremendous job. They need some expertise. The $10,000
is a round number, and they want it there in case they need it. They
are willing to work hard for a short time in order to come forth with
a program to implement the things that are needed for senior citizens.
To say that the present social services staff can do everything we
ask them to do is unrealistic. They are run ragged. If Council wants
programs, they must face the fact that there has to be some money
put into the effort. She felt that staff was being candid in saying
that if there is going to be a task force, it is going to cost some
money. The Charter Review Committee used two secretaries the whole
time.
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6/25/74
Councilman Henderson pointed out that the $69,000 for senior adult
services includes only one staff member who could not devote full
time to this prog':am. The big increase in that budget comes from
the Senior Adult Center. It is not more people. He felt that Mrs.
Bedwell and Mr. Andrus were over their heads in obligations now.
Councilman Sher felt it was important to have a specialist with the
skills Mr. Sipel mentioned. There=are a number of agencies that provide
services to seniors, and there are a number of needs that are outlined
in the massive reports. Many of these needs can be met by existing
agencies. It is important to have a staff member who has that in
mind. Otherwise, Council may get a recommendation for the city to
undertake these tasks. It is important to use the other agencies
and will save the $10,000 in the long run.
Councilman Berwald commented that he would probably vote for it, but
he wanted to make some statements about it.
The motion passeal on a unanimous vote.
Councilman Henderson referred to item (aa) on the agenda regarding
appropriation for the purchase of communications equipment for the
paramedic vehicle. He noted that the van was approved, and this is
to equip it.
MOTION: Councilman Henderson moved, seconded by Berwald, to increase
the appropriation for the Paramedic Vehicle Project in the Capital
Improvement Fund by $12,800 to provide for the purchase of communications
equipment associated with the vehicle.
Councilman Beahrs asked if this communications equipment would be
compatible with the county system which is yet to be known. Mr. Sipel
responded affirmatively.
The motion passed on a unanimous vote.
MOTION: Councilman Henderson moved, seconded by Beahrs, to rebudget
$210,590 in Light and Power, $26,000 in Water, $35,700 in Gas, $11,678
in Sewer, and $11,200 in Refuse to provide funding for projects initiated
in 1973-74 but not completed.
The motion passed on a unanimous vote.
Councilman Henderson referred to item (cc) of the agenda and said
that the $207,000 was appropriated in the Capital. Improvement Fund
when consideration was being given to creating a lake on the golf
course. It has since been learned that that prljer_t is not feasible,
but staff is recommending the funds be retained, since golf course
improvements are being discussed. Staff is requesting a change in
the title, but no increase in funds.
?MOTION: Councilman Henderson moved, seconded by Sher, to change the
title of the existing Capital Improvement Fund project for the golf
course from the existing title of "Fairways Lake%Reservoir at Golf
Coursd' to "Golf Course Improv nts."
Ray Witt, 169 Allen Co;:rt, a member of the Golf Course Improvement
Committee, addressed Council in support of retentio.; of the fund.
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6/25/74
P
Councilman Berwald asked Mr. Witt if the committee has staff assistance.
Mr. Witt responded affirmatively and said that the committee consists
of six nonstaff people and four staff people. He commented that Council
has received a staff report. Some of the nonstaff members have some
disagreements with that report and are preparing a report of their
own which will be available to Council in a sjort time.
The motion passed on a unanimous vote.
(See page 627 for further consideration of 1974-75 budget.)
Resolution Re California Avenue Off -Street
agkin 71-63
MOT
be c
The
ION: Vice Mayor Pearson moved, seconded by Beahrs, that Item #6
onsidered out of order.
tion passed on a unanimous vote.
MOTION:
Item #6,
No. 71-6
Vice Mayor Pearson moved, seconded by Berwald, to continue
resolution re California Avenue Off -Street 'Parking Project
, for one week.
The motion
to continue passed on a unanimous vote,
Ordinance Re
MOTION: Vice
uirin Gasoline Price Siyan _ (Cheri:381 :4)
Mayor Pearson moved, seconded by Beahrs, that item #7
be considered o
ut of order at this time.
The motion paste
on a unanimous vote.
MOTION: Councilman_ Rosenbaum inf.raduced the following ordinance and
moved, duly aeconde
d, its approval for first reading:
"ORDINANCE OF THE
16.20 ,145 TO THE
PRICE SIGNS" (sec
COUNCIL OF THE CITY" OF PALO ALTO ADDING SECTION
PALO ALTO MUNICIPAL' CODE REQUIRING GASOLINE
and reading July 15, 1974)
Councilman Berwald state
did not participate in th
on it,
d he would like the record to show that he
e discussion on this matter and did not vote
Councilman Beahrs asked abou
Attorney Booth stated that th
state law. The city has inco
H.ia recollection was that the
than four inchea.
t the visibility of the signs, and City
e size of the sign is specified in the
porated those standards in the ordinance.
letters are .required to be not less
The ordinance was approved for fi
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6/25/74
rot reading on the following vote:
AYES: Beahrs, Henderson, Per
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: terwaid
son, Rosenbaum, Sher
Com1ensation Plan for Cit Employees (CHR:374:4)
MOTION: Vice :Mayor Pearson moved, seconded by Berwald, that Item
18 be considered out of order at this time.
The motion passed on a unanimous vote.
Councilman Henderson dented that tonight's activities involve a
total increase of $1,150,000 of which $970,000 is in salaries, and
$180,000 in retirement benefits. _This shows what happens when a percentage
like this is applied to salaries. It makes a significant increase
-in the budget.
MOTION: Councilman Henderson introduced the following resolution
and moved, seconded by Pearson, its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 4956 ENTITLED "RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF PALO ALIO AMENDING RESOLUTION 4628, AS AMENDED, ADOPTING
A COMPENSATION PLAN FOR FIRE DEPARTMENT PERSONNEL"
Councilman Berwald said that increasingly he reads Of problems in
public pension plans in terns of plans going broke. He asked for
information about this plan's retirement portion.
Mr. Sipel stated that to his knowledge, there is no problem with any
of the plans in the PERS. This plan is probably in as good a financial
shape as any retirement plan in khe country.
Councilman Berwald asked about projections as to the annual costs
as we move along in these: programs. Mr. Sipel said he had requested
that from the personnel director who informed him that the city is
close to being audited to fix the exact cost of the program. As soon
as that information is available, the cost over the next five years
can be predicted.
Councilman Bervald asked about the possibility of deferring action.
until Council can sei the effect on the city.
Mk. Sipel replied that Council is nest making a decision on retirement.
The decision on the fire department plan has already been made, and
the one on the police is yet to come. The city does not get the final
audit figures until it has entered into the system.
The motion passed on a unanimous vote.
MOTION: Councilman Henderson introduced the following resolution
and moved, seconded by Pearson, its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 4957 ENTITLED "RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF PALO ALTO AMENDING RESOLUTION 4814 ADOPTING A COMPENSATION PLAN
FOR COUNCIL -APPOINTED, NANACEMENT, AND CONFIDENTIAL PERSONNEL"
The resolution was adopted on a uuani t,us vote.
1
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6/25/74
MOTION: Councilman Henderson introduced the following resolution a_1d
moved,seconded by Pearson, its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 4958 ENTITLED "RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF PALO ALTO AMENDING RESOLUTION 4813 ADOPTING A COMPENSATION PLAN
FOR CLASSIFIED AND CASUA;, PERSONNEL"
The resolution was adopted on a unanimous vote.
MOTION: Councilman Henderson introduced the following resolution
and moved, seconded by Pearson, its adoption:
RESOLUTION NG. 4959 ENTITLED "RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF PALO ALTO AMENDING RESOLUTION 4800 ADOPTING A COMPENSATION PLAN
FOR POLICE NON -MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL"
The resolution was adopted on a unanimous vote.
Transit Develops nt'1Pro Dims
MOTION: Vice Mayor Pearson moved, seconded by Beshrs, that Item #9
be moved up on the agenda for consideration at this time.
The motion passed on a unanimous vote.
Counctiman Rosenbaum commented that he had the impression that some
misinformation had been passed along. He checked with the County
Engineer in San Yeteo County, and there is no plan for San Mateo County
to run buses; into San Jose. There has never been any thought that
when San Mateo County introduced bus service that it would provide
any excuse for SP to discontinue trait, service.
He suggested that no action be taken on this matter.
Vice Mayor Pearson stated that she was told by a Sierra Club member•
who is reviewing the alternatives that it was or'e of the alternatives.
Apparently it does not have any support.
Councilman Beahrs wondered how confident Council can be that an elaborate
bus system in San ?Mateo County would not position the SP to abandon
service. It would take away a huge percentage of their passengers.
Councilman Rosenbaum recalled that the buses were not going to run
to Stn Francisco. That is the main 'service SP is providing. Although
this alternative may havr- been suggested, it is not being seriously
considered.
Councilman Beahrs said ue was not so sure it did out contemplate a
service to San Francisco. As he remembered the news releases, it
was to be a county —wide service plus a service into San Francisco.
He asked if the County Transportation Commission had given any study
to this.
626
6/25/74
Councilman Rosenbaum replied that the Commission has a liaison. There
has been some effort to make sure the two bus systems do not overlap.
The Commission is aware of the plans for the San Mateo County buses.
There has been no mention that SP would consider the bus system an
excuse for seeking to discontinue service.
Councilman Beahrs stated that he was very jealous of preservation
of SP service and its Upgrading. He agreed that there was no need
for action, but he thought the Santa Clara County Transportation
Commission should be alert to developments.
MOTION: Vice Mayor Pearson moved, seconded by Beahrs, that the matter
be filed.
The motion passed on a unanimous vote.
Regueet for Resolu tirg,
Menlo Park's 100th Year
MOTION: Vice Mayor Pearson moved, duly aeccaded, that Item #10 be
considered out of order at this time.
The motion passed on a unanimous vote.
MOTION: Vice Liz}or Pearson moved, seconded by Beahrs, that staff
be directed to prepare a resolution commemorating Menlo Park's 100th
Year.
The moton passed on a unanimous vote.
1974--75 Budoeet icontine: d fro?" p ,ge 624„4
At this time Council returned to consideration of the budget.
Councilman Henderson referred to Item (u) of the agenda regarding
PACDAB's budget. PACDAB requested $158,295. The amount appearing
in the preliminary budget was $152,000. After the Finance and Public
Works Committee discussed the preliminary budget, the motion was made
to reduce the funding to a level of $135,539. This was based on computa-
tions of this year's salary level, plus 152 for salary increases and
$2,700 for additional rental coats. The additional rental is because
the building in which The Collective is located has been sold. It
appeared they would have to move, but it now appears a rental increase
is in order, and if it is accepted, Cteey will be able to stay there.
Councilman Henderson noted that failure to support this amendment
would result in the budget's reverting to $152,000 that is in the
preliminary budget.
MOTION: Councilman Henderson moved, on behalf of. the Finance and
Public Works Committee, to amend the 1974-75 preliminary budget by
setting funding for :PACDAB at last year's level of $120,430 plus 151
for salary increases ;$12,409) and $2,700 for additional rental costa
for a total funding level of $135,539.
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6/25/74
Councilman Beahrs asked for clarification regarding the staffing at
The Collective. He realized they operated as a nonhierarchical group,
but he could not see from the financial summary just how this is handled.
He said he has been somewhat critical of the operation and has always
insisted that the City Is not getting a full measure of value if it
is really interested in drug abuse services as compared to counseling
on all manner bf problems.
Councilman Henderson replied that they now have a staffing allocation
of ten. They have nine staff members plus a halftime person who is
secretary to the board. The salaries for those people have been set
at $625 per month from the beginning of the program. There has been
no increase. The request is to increase it to $750 ^ month< All
members of The Collective receive the same salary. here was alio
a request to increase the allocation for staff members to add two
more authorized'positions. The salary Increase request 13 a combination
of salary increases to existing staff and a request to add two positions.
Councilman Rosenbaum asked if the' Finance Committee recommendation
intended to provide sufficient money for the aalary increase but not
the additional staff. Councilman Henderson: replied that it was the
intent to provide a portion of the requested salary increase.
Councilmen Sher felt it would be helpful to him to see the impact
of these changes on particular items. He wo,sid like to see the difference
between $162,000 and $135,000.
Councilmn Henderson explained that after the budget was completed,
some additional costa became known, inc1.ding the rental increase.
Other items included education and training, recordkeeping, and a
recreation program. When Council adopts the budget, PACDAB can adjust
the figures within their budget and spend the oney however they wish.
The board has some discretion.
Clay Brown cemented that the notion from the Finance Committee places
an upper limit on the amount of salary increases, but it does not
deal with specific items; so PACDAB could make adjustments.
Councilman Sher commented that there are some constraints on the contract.
As a contract obligation, PACDAB has to meet the bookkeeping requirements.
He said he was trying to find out what the constraints are on PACDAB
when they get this money.
Councilman Henderson replied that they can shift the funds around,
but they must meet the responsibilities of the contract.
Councilman Sher continued to seek explanation of the differences between
the recommended and requested budget.
Jane Hiatt, 324 arson, representing PACDAB, said the first difference
would be the two nsv positions thet would net be funded; then there
is a 5X differencee bet een requested and recommended salary increases.
She said it gets ccmplicated, because there were categories that PACDAB
requested less for such as benefits and insurance, and there were
some minor requests for increases such as postage and gas and oil.
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6/25/74
In response to a question from Councilman Beahrs, City Manager Sipel
said that the money that mould result from the sale of Unity House
would go to the City's general fund.
Jane Hiatt made a presentation of the need for the two additional
people. She said they are necessary to expand outreach and work in
the schools. The prevention woek is almost impossible with present
staffing. The hours that go into keeping the building open, staff
meetings, board meetings, and detoxification come to a total of 267
hours divided by 40 gives 61 staff members. This leaves three people
who would be free to do prevention work and education work. She said
the assumption on the part of the Committee in recommending lowering
the budget from $152,000 to $135,000 is that the Collective staff is
spending a lot of time doing non -drug -related work. They consider
it all drug related.
Councilman Sher asked why the tenth authorized position had not been
filled.
Jane Hiatt responded that in February one staff member was asked, to
leave. They were in the process of determining their prioriti.eee.
Also, they poatpoued hiring because it became unclear whether or not
they were going to be around.
Councilman Sher coremented that when you add people, they are there,
and they are permanent, and it weans they are there the next time
around. Council has to be careful about building in new people and
expanding the budget that way,
Councilman Beahrs asked for a description of outreach. Ile hoped it
was not their intention to go beyond the geographical limits of Palo
Alto, as Palo Alto does not need to import problems.
Jane Hiatt said that outreach is the work within the school system
and trying to reach as many fourth-, fifth- and sixth -grade children
as possible. Other parts are speaking to community groups, church
groups, neighborhood groups, civic clubs, and drug education. It
also includes work with other agencies in the Palo Alto area.
Councilman Beahre'did not feel that PACDAB should have to travel all
over the countryside when the school system provides counselors.
He felt the counselors could come in a group and visit with PACDAB
at a seminar on PACDAB'a premises.
Jane Hiatt replied that PACDAB has met with all of the counselors
in Palo Alto. PACDAB has some epeci.iic skills and knowledge that
they do not have. She was under the impression that this was ore
of the things Council thought they should be doing.
Lincoln Mitchell, 285 Hamilton, member of PACDAB, asked if Councilman
Sher understood what the additional requests were for.
Councilman Sher said he thought it was as clear as it could be without
putting the whole budget before him showing what vent up and what
went down.
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6/25/74
Lincoln Mitchell commented that as he understood the rationale of
the Finance Committee, the reduction was mainly in two areas --
the requested increases in salaries and the two positions. He said
he is a lawyer and deals with people -oriented issues. There is no
problem that so affects the citizens of this community as the drug
abuse problem. He felt it would be short-sighted of Council to fund
other programs and short-change something that is much more critical
to all of the citizens of the corunity. Regarding the salary increases,
he said that the Collective staff members have been employed for two
years at $625 a month. The staff routinely works a fifty -hour week.
If you take the requested $750 per month and prorate it on an hourly
basis, it would be $3.00 an hour. Regarding additional staff members,
Jane had detailed the reasons they are needed. In order to go into
the schools, they will need the additional people. It is appalling
that the schools have not responded to the drug abuse need, and their
group is attempting to fill that void.
Ccuncilman Beahrs commehted that Council appreciates Mr. Mitchell's
enthusiasm and interest on the board. He felt the present board was
a vast improvement over some time ago. He felt the financing of PACDAB
was somewhat off the track. The originetil intention of the city was
to sponsor PACDAB and provide some of its financial needs, but this
does not preclude PACDAB from going out and securing gifts. He noted
that the child care group has secured commitments for charitable support.
He said the well is running dry, aad the charitable efforts with city
funds have to end somewhere, He also felt that when government continues
to support good ventures, they dehumanize them. In the case of older
people, he said neighbors and relatives should show some interest
and humanity for their relatives and friends.
Mr. Mitchell responded that he shared Councilman Beahrs' concern that
they don't have more concerned citizens who are willing to give of
their worldly goods to support worthwhile prcpoaitions. He said there
is a historical perspective in Palo Alto that the citizens have demanded
more of their government, and the government has responded by providing
it. He said that PACDAB has made grant applications and would like
to pursue it further.
Vice Mayor Pearson asked if PACDAB had to spend time going out and
making requests for grants and raising money, would they have enough
staff to do that presently.
Mr. Mitchell said the present staff is overcommitted. If they cannot
get the two additional' staff people, they have to do something to
relieve the load. Tey would have to cut something else out to pursue
grant applications. He Said he would hope to get some support from
the city staff in this respect.
Councilman Norton stated that the recommendation of the Finance Committee
was wade in the recollection that we had a large volunteer program
with the enthusiasm of volunteer people, admittethix underpaid, working
long hours, for which the city ought to be grateful. He senses it
is getting to be more like the city staff which is dedicated, well -
organised, willing annually to insist on an increase in pay with a
view to retiring in twenty years, and it is this aspect that is bothersome.
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6/25/74
1
1
He said he did not want to sway the enthusiasm of the people who are
working there, but he did not want to mislead them into thinking it
is a retirement program. The budget recommendation that has been
made is a compromise between the one extreme and the other. He said
he hoped Council would not lose sight of whet the committee had in
mind when it made the level of comitment that is before the Council.
He commented that the staff members are well -qualified and dedicated,
and he would not want to dampen their enthusiasm, but he felt that
the recommendation wan fair.
Councilman Beahrs further cotnented regarding outside financing and
said he hoped the board could give the staff people a hand. He said
he was not talking about government financing, but about charitable
financing. He thought sore thought should be given to board member
selection. There are some people who have this knack of fund raising.
Mr. Mitchell said it is a question of finding people who have the
time who are not otherwise committed.
Councilman Henderson referred to Councilman) Gorton's comments and
a.skeri if he were saying that the Collective staff should he considered
corbinaLion staff and volunteer positions. In looking at other city
employee salaries, $625 a month doesn't come close. There are a few
starting positions at $750.
Councilman Norton replied that hE did not want to get too far away
from the volunteer idea. Any ra_ige between $625 and $750 in volunteer,
and he wanted to keep it that way.
Councilman Sher stated that t `sere are two aspects to Council's approving
any program. Council went through one, which was evaluation, and
,fade the determination to go forward. There was a majority vote for
that. The other aspect is how big the program is going to be and
how much it is going to cost. He said he was pleased at the time
of the fiat stage that there were six people on the Council who voted
for the proposal. One later changed his vote because the RTC did
not go forward. He thought it was important to have a broad base
of support on the Council and in the community for the program. He
would hate to see some of the people who supported the concept lost
on the Council because of the feeling that the program is too big
or is expanding in a way they can't support in relation to other programs.
He would like to see a compromise. He would like to find a formula
that would allow one additional staff person for the coming year.
It has to be done with dollars, The addition of $9,000 is not accurate,
but it would show the intention to add one staff person.
SUBSTITUTE MOTION: Councilman Sher moved, seconded by Clay, that
the level of funding for PACDAB for 19;4-75 be amended to a total of
$144,539 instead of $152,000 in the preliminary budget.
Councilmar. Henderson said that adding t9,OOO to the Committee's recommended
figure of $135,539 would indicate a salary of $750. He asked if Councilman
Sher were suggesting the salary increases of the current staff be
at the $7S0 level.
Councilman Sher replied that his substitute motion did not contemplate
anything. The board will have to decide how they are going to spend
the money.
6 S,1
6/25/74
Councilman Henderson said that the committee's motion does take such a
position. It says 15%. Councilman Sher's substitute motion eliminates
the rest of the committee's motion. It throws out the increase for
rent and the increase for salary adjustments.
Councilman Sher said he understood the figures are not for specific
items. The board is free to spend the coney that is allocated. As
he reads the: motion, it is simply the rationale for the $13.5,539,
and not a requirement that $2,700 rust be spent for additional rental
costs.
Councilman Henderson replied that this is different from what is done
with other city departments. Every reduction the committee has made
has been specific. X number of dollars are deleted to cover such
and such. This does not tell PACDAB what part of the proposed budget
Council does not agree with. It is saying that we are cutting you
to $144,000. That is all you get. Now speed it as you like.
Councilman Sher said that if the motion is meant to be specific, the
rest can be left in. He di6 not wish to change the procedure. He
just wanted to communicate that what he had in mind was authorizing
one additional staff member.
Councilman Clay co:^.c:ented that having gone through two meetings of
rather intensive discussion and questioning, and having eventually
decided the contract would be approved, he would like to see at some
point a different type of contract. He would like to see a different
type of relationship so that PACDAB has more autonomy than it presently
has. Council is so close to it that it is difficult for Council to
measure the effectiveness of it. It is difficult to determine who
is at fault or if Council has interfered more than it should. Once
Council has approved the contract with PACDAB, Council should give
these the opportunity to succeed or fail. Once the agreement is approved,
Council should not tie their hands behind them to the point of making
it more difficult for therm to succeed. He said he supported the substitute
motion which gets somewhere between the committee's recommendation
and what PACDAB wanted, and they can choose to use the additional
funds in any fashion they please as long as they get the results they
have agreed to give. He wished to give the kind of support to the
program that he could come back a year from now and look at the results
and say they did well or they didn't and act accordingly.
Councilman Rosenbaum spoke in opposition to the substitute motion.
He said clearly there are no absolutes here. If you have more money,
you can do more. Mr. Mitchell has outlined a number of new areas
that are seeking money, and Councilman Rosenbaum thought it necessary
to be extremely careful how it is allocated. Council is telling PACDAB
to do the best it can within the amount of money it previously had,
plus a salary increase. Perhaps some activities will have to be cut
back. Perhaps a greater effort with the school district has to be
attested.
Councilman Beahre said that PACK is not in conformance with the
original intention that they should seek other support than the city's
100% financing. He opposed the substitute motion and hoped the need
for funds would be an inducement for PACDAB to go cut and see what it
can do.
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6/25/74
Vice Mayor Pearson stated that a reduction might be an inducement
to lose people who have been dedicated over two years and have worked
very hard. She thought they were doing a fantastic job. She supported
the substitute motion. She would prefer to aee.the whole $158,000
approved, but she was willing co support where She could see some
votes. She felt it was significant that the study and report said
there was a drug problem in Palo Alto reaching down into the fourth,
fifth, and sixth grades. It is important to realize the school district
is not doing the job. Her sixteen -year -old daughter said the teachers
do not talk about drugs, and she has not been involved in any aseeriblies
or gatherings 'regarding drugs. She would not feel negative about
this kind of education, but she did not want the teachers talking
about it. This Council has a responsibility to try to help with the
problem. The drug PrograM is trying to reach out to school children
and get the school board involved. She thought it was unrealistic
to say the schooI teachers and counselors should be doing this counseling.
They are there to teach subjects. They are not informed about drugs
and need assistance. Parents need to be reached. When they find
the drug problem exists in their family, parents sometimes flip out.
They need to be taught how to cope. It is time this Council gave
the drug program enough money to operate. She agreed that the board
should take a more active role in raising money.
Councilman Berwald stated that he wished to co^plirent Jane Hiatt
and Lincoln Mitchell as being excellent advocates for their program.
He thought it should be recognized that by passing the original motion,
Council is ii't turning its back on the drug program. It represents a
very generous increase to his way of thinking. He recalled that he
brought up the comment in the committee about increases. When you
get to the social services budgets, they are all up, which indicates
that we have been fairly generous in this city. Now the city is adding
paramedic services which will save lives. Chairman Henderson mentioned
that with the corrections to the current budget, PACDAB would be up
302. Councilman Berwald did not know if that was before or after
the motion that resulted in the committee recommendation, but he figured
out that if the original PACDAB reqoest were granted, the budget would
increase about 382. If this order or magnitude of increases were
continued, by mid -1977 the PACDAB budget would be pretty well back
up to what the entire program cost originally. $135,000 is a sizeable
chunk of money. There is some lessening of workload by the fact that
Unity House is not there. He also wondered how many Third World people
in the Collective could relate to the problems in East Palo Alto as
well as the people in East Palo Alto themselves. At the Finance Committee
meeting, he commented that the .Rage of PACDAB is improving. This
improved image will result in more cooperation from the public and
more volunteer*. Councilman Berwald said he would like the record
to show his comments on PACDAB which were made at the June 18, 1974,
Finance and Public Works Committee meeting but were not included in
the minutes of that meeting:
"Councilmen Berwald said he did appreciate the appeal made by
Mike Fox that the Collective staff is being asked to maintain
staffing Levels at incredible hardships, but he said his primary
concern withthe present PACDAB program is that there are a number
of thi hit;ack--are peripheral to the program which could be
cut out and that energies could be directed toward more productive
_areas. He said that acceptance of the Collective by the community
is increasing, and he felt they could look forward to more people
633
6/25/74
from the community getting actively involved. He said he was
pleased with the image PACDAB has built up and that he would
keep an open mind with regard to the Finance and Public 'corks
motion for the budget. When there is an integrated program in
Palo Alto, that is a prevention center and a*residential treatment
center, and essential drug abuse functions are being performed
at all levels, he will be open to a request for more funding
at a future date. He pruiaed the dedication and sensitivity
of the Collective staff."
Councilman Berwald continued that he respectfully disagreed mildly
with the statements that we can't expect teachers to do some of this
work. The skills that we have in PACDAB could be better utilized
by counseling and training school personnel Ulan by actually going
out iato the clasaroom. There are ways they can do an effective job.
He urged passage of the original motion.
The substitute motion failed en the following vote:
AYES: Clay, Henderson, Pearson, Sher
NOES: Beahrs, Berwald, Norton, Rosenbaum
The original motion to fund PACDAB at a level of $135,539 for 1974-75
passed on the follwirg vote:
AYES: Beahrs, Berwald, Clay, Norton, Rosenbaum
NOES: Henderson, Pearson, Sher
MOTION: Councilman Henderson moved, on behalf of the Finance and
Public Works Corini4;.tee, that the budget for Social Servicea Administration,
Drug Abuse Control Subprogram be increased by $1,500 to provide for
retaining an outside auditor to perform an annual financial audit.
The motion passed on the following vote:
AYES: Beahrs, Berwald, Clay, Henderson, Norton, Rosenbaum, Sher
NOES: Pearson
Councilman Henderson referred to Item (x) on the agenda relating to
deletion of the vehicle noise barrier and noise suppression from the
Capital Improvement Fund.
NOTION: Councilman Henderson moved, on behalf of the Finance and
Public Worke Committee, to delete the Vehicle Noise Barrier and Related
Noise Suppression project from the Capital Improvement Fund, in the
amount of 20,000,
Councilman Berwald commented that this was a motion everyone on Council
was involved with, and he was apologetic about voting to delete it,
but he thought what staff was saying was that the possibility of realizing
anything by leaving thie in the budget this year was aiim. He thought
perhaps Council eheuld let this go until more research is done on
noise amelioration barriers.
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6/25/74
1
1
1
Councilman Henderson reminded Council that in
taken in this city, the biggest complaint was
time to start removing the little bit that is
the problem.
the survey that was
noise. It is an odd
in the budget: to solve
Vice Mayor Pearson urged Council not to delete this from the budget.
Four Council members recommended that staff study the possibility
-of building a wall along Bayshore. This is not an unusual thing to
do along a freeway. The highway department now requires that barriers
be erected beside certain freeways. Palo Alto would be an ideal place
to have a noise barrier along Bayshore. She -would like the funds
left in the budget as a constant reminder that we are going to do
something about the noise barrier on Bayshore.
The motion failed on the following vote:
AYES: Beahra= Berwald, Clay, Norton
NOES: Henderson, Pearson, Rosenbaum, Sher
(Council recessed from 10:00 to 10:13 p.m. Councilman Norton did
not return to Council Chambers following•the recess.)
Vice Mayor Pearson stated that it would be appropriate to consider
committee recommendation (y) which would provide for a housing rehabilita-
tion survey and agenda item 2 regarding Fire Zone I Rehabilitation
Program and Financial Plan at the same time.
MOTION: Vice Mayor Pearson moved, duly seconded, that Item 2 be moved
up on the agenda for consideration at this time, together with 1 (y).
The motion passed on a unanimous vote.
Councilman Henderson stated that the Finance and Public Works Committee
voted unanimously to add $35,000 to the budget to allow for this survey.
The Policy and Procedures Committee still has under consideration
the criteria for those who qualify for housingassistance. Councilman
Henderson felt Item2 should be continued until that decision is made.
Council could agree to go on with the survey, the details of which
will be worked out shortly.
Councilman Beahrs-stated'that he was alarmed at the per -unit cost
of almost $400 for the survey.
Councilman Henderson replied that the survey cost is expected to be
on the order of $20,000, and $15,000 was felt needed to provide that,
If the survey comes out positively, staffing wil.l need to be started
near the and of the year to undertake the program itself.
Councilman Beahrs still felt the cost was too high. He
they are in Sacramento oe funding this type of programs.
have loaned the credit of the entire state to this type
and that is where he feels it should be.
aoked where
Some states
of effort,
6 3 5
6/2.5/74
Mr. Pawloski stated that in the past year, there was a bill passed
enabling cities over a population of 600,000 to undertake such revenue
bond financing. Additional legislation has been introduced to remove
the population restriction. In the opinion of the attorney who did
the work for Palo Alto, there was no such restriction with regard
to Palo Alto's involvement with revenue bonds.
Councilman Clay asked if $!5,000 is to actually begin impiementation.
Councilman Henderson responded that this in no way is a commitment
to implementation of the program. As is often done, staff recommended
some staffing to allow for a -rehabilitation specialist that might
be needed if the policy is adopted to go on with the program. If
a decision is made in February or March, there would be preliminary
work to be done before the end of the year. It is not a commitment
to any specific progra,
In response to Councilman Clay, Mr. Pawloski said that the $20,000
for consultant services would include estimating the cost of rehabilitation.
To date all of the estimates were sidewalk surveys. In this case,
someone would go into the house, mare an inspection, and cost out
the cost to correct deficiencies.
Councilman Clay asked if that would be useful to the owner when they
contracted to get the work done.
Mr. Pawloski replied that it is fundamental to a decision. The individusl
owner of the property has to make a decision whether or not to proceed
with rehabilitation and :gust know the cost. Some qualification work
has to be done regarding grants or loans and evaluation of the financial
situation.
Councilman Berwald urged Council to support the motion because the
survey is needed, and the amount is reasonable.
Joan Johnston, representing the League of Women Voters, stated that
the League is concerned about the inclusion of this money in the budget
for a survey. They would support inclusion if a program were developed
first. They like the program outlined in the CMR of May 30, and particu-
larly think rent limitation would be an important part of this program.
Dan Williams, 2450 W. Bayshore, representing MUM, spoke in opposition
to the motion. He said the Council directive was clear, The key
is subsidised loans and rent limitation. The proposed survey varies
from these instructional.
CourlcLlman Henderson asked if MC/1i is now opposed to the rehabilitation
program. Mr. Williams said that MCFH is not urging a rehabilitation
program that will preserve the housing stock without preserving it
for low --income families.
in resnonae to Councilman Sher and Councilman Berwaid, M. Williams
explained further that ifCFH's concern was that the survey would be
designed in a way that would allow people to participate .in a rehabilitation
program that would preserve the housing stook per se and riot to allow
people of lol--moderate income to continue residing there. If the
objective of the survey will be toward getting together information
the consequence of which may be a rehabilitation program in Fire Zone
1 for low -moderate income families, then they would support the expenditure
of the money.
6 3 5
6/25/74
Councilman Berwald asked if, in the eventuality Council decided it
wanted to separate the matter of low -moderate income housing from
the question of rehabilitation of housing, would MCFH actively oppose
spending money for low -coat loans unless it provided low -moderate
income housing.
Mr. Williams replied that they would not actively oppose it, but they
would be disappointed.
Mrs. Johnston stated that the position of the League of Women Voters
is similar to that of MCFH. They now see the survey as a delaying
tactic. If Council sees it as a first step toward the desired goal,
INV could be satisfied to include this sum in the budget.
Councilman Henderson remarked that perhaps "survey" is an unfortunate
word, but the 84 structures that would qualify have to be surveyed
in terms of work to be done: and financing. The survey is getting
into the program and determining who is going to. participate and the
dollars involved.
Mrs. Johnston said the League thought the survey would be more effective
if a program were developed first. The League could not support a
rehabilitation progra., that was not tied to low -moderate income people.
Councilman Berwald said that he could not understand that, because
his feeling is that no one on the committee was opposed to rent controls
for the 3% loans, but he feels it is reasonable for the city to provide
some kind of assistance to rehabilitate a house in the central core
of the city. That is a worthwhile goal by itself. He asked if the
membership had directed Mrs. Johnston to speak aieinst rehabilitation
programs per se.
Mrs. Johnston replied that the membership had been thoroughly educated
about the Fire Zone 1 recommendations, and they wanted her to speak
very strongly for a rehabilitation program with restrictions that
retain the low -moderate income housing in the downtown. area. -
The motion passed on the following vote:
AYES: Berwald, Clay, Henderson, Pearson, Rosenbaum, Sher
NOES: Beahrs
MOTION: Councilman Henderson moved, seconded by Rosenbaum, that the
Finance Committee recommendation regarding Fire Zone 1 survey be continued
until the Policy and Procedures Committee has made a recommendation
to Council on the qualifications for rental housing assistance.
The motion passed on a unanimous vote.
i
Councilman Henderson commented that the Finance and Public Works Committee
authorized a half-time position in Social Services Administration.
He felt they should have a full-time person. The argument that the
city is putting in too many programs, and the costs are going up is
not valid, because Council is putting in the programs and expecting
the staff to bear the burden.
MOTION: Councilman Henderson moved, seconded by Pearson, to increase
the position of Management Assistant in the Social Services Administration
from half-time to full-time with the corresponding budget increase.
Councilman Rosenbaum commented that it was his recommendation initially
to make it half --time. The basis for that action was the need which
existed for rental housing mediation service. Since then some other
needy have been suggested. He questioned going to a full --time position
on the basis of the reasons given in the memorandum. He did not agree
that it would be difficult to get a good person on a half-time basis.
Such positions are highly sought by people in the community. He opposed
the motion.
The motion failed on the following vote:
AYES: Henderson, Pearson
NOES: Beahrs, Berwa3d, Clay, Rosenbaum, Sher
Councilman Henderson commented that the Communications Division initially
recommended four additional positions, but it now stood at three.
He had a problem, because $100,000 worth of additional equipment was
approved with the understanding it would save communicators. The
two PEP positions will be available through December. With these
factory, he felt Council should authorize only two additional positions
rather than thee.
MOTION: Councilman Henderson moved, seconded by Pearson, to reduce
the number of communicator positions in the Communications Division
from twelve to eleven, with the corresponding budget decrease.
City Manager Sigel stated that he felt the additional position was
absolutely ne_essary to the functioning of the communications unit.
Clay Brown explained that the recommendation would give one more position
than there is currently, because there are two existing PEP positions.
The Communications Division is operating at approximately slightly
over the equivalent of -three positions understaffed. The original
proposal for four additional communicators would have given an excess
of about .4 of a position. With the reduction of the fourth position,
the department Ialls below the level indicated by work standards.
The equipment will have the main benefit to the police department.
It will have an impact on the communicators primarily in making them
more effective in providing services to the police and fire departments
in their dispatches.
Councilman Be*hrs felt the position should be prese,ved. 'Prom Mr.
Brown's statements, the productivity of expensive personnel will be
enhanced and improved.
Councilman Henderson noted that the statement on the equipment in
the GIP implies a considerable saving for the communicator; He did
not see how Council could approve both the equipment and the peraor..nel.
Mr. Sipel said that the problem is not Just how productive the people
are. it is having people available to answer the phone when it rings.
If enough people are not evailable, there will be problems. This
is the nerve center of the city. He pointed out that the volume of
cans received has been increasing every year at a substantial rate.
Councilman Beahrs asked why Palo Alto receives so many police calls
as compared to other jurisdictions.
Mr. Sipel replied that it is a level of service and level of expectation
on the part of homeowners. Palo Alto's response time on the nonpriority
calls is very good in comparison with most other cities. He said
some very good information will be available shortly from the SMS
study and community survey that will help to answer that question
more objectively.
The motion failed on the following vote:
AYES: Henderson
NOES: Beahrs, Berwald, Ciay, Pearson, Rosenbaum, Sher
Councilman Henderson referred to the additional parking monitor position
in the City Treasurer's office. This is in anticipation of :increasing
monitor needs because of the removal of the parking meters. He said
he would like tc know the results after this has taken place.
MOTION: Councilman Henderson moved, seconded by Pearson, to delete
the additional parking monitor under the City Treasurer's office with
a corresponding budget decrease.
Councilman Beahrs wondered how such revenue uouid be lost with this
reduction in expense.
Mr. Sipel said he did not know how much revenue would be lost, but
there would be a reduction in the level of enforcement. There is
a full staff of monitors' in the field with all positions filled.
The motion failed on the following vote:
AYES: Henderson, Pearson
NOES: Beahrs, Berwald, Clay, Rosenbaum, Sher
Councilman Henderson commented that there was considerable discussion
in committee about the so-called Alma corridor, and it was felt that
the trees between Alma Street and the railroad tracks do not look
good and need to be replaced. Other people felt it would be a mistake
to tamper with the trees. The committee wound up rather cautiously
by putting in $5,000 to start a long --range study of what might be
done along the Alma corridor. He did not agree that this was the
way to proceed.
MOTION: Councilmen HenndeYson mbved,- seconded by Pearson, ti delete
the $5,000 in the Capital Imprbvement Program for a coMprehensive
long-range study of beautification of Alma Street.
Councilman Beahra stated that he was inclined to support this motion.
He asked Mr. Sipel why Palo Alto does not enforce the weed abatement
ordinance against the SP. The area at the university Avenue station
is becoming atrocious.
Mk. Sipel replied that this is a continuing problem in trying to work
with the SP to get the to maintain the areas under their jurisdiction.
Staff will make some additional attempts. He noted that Councilman
Berwald has been involved with the League of California Cities to
try to put some collective pressure on the SP to improve their performance
in that area.
639
6/25/74
Councilman Rosenbaum commented that the Finance Committee pretty much
reached agreement With Firs. Cordon that shrubbery in the northern
part of the city was the best solution.
Councilman Berwald favored leaving the funds in the budget. He felt
that Alma Street could be made more attractive in both the northern
and southern ends of the city. He suggested the possibility of an
access road something like there is along part of El Camino. An ordinance
is forthcoming from the League of California Cities that will enable
cities to control the rights or way in urban areas. We should be
looking at our side of the street as well as getting an ordinance
that would require SP to beautify their side of the tracks.
Councilmen Henderson commented that when a study is set up, it results in
at least ten times that amount in a project. This program is not
that important to him and is not really needed.
The motion passed on the following vote:
AYES: Seahrs, Henderson, Pearson, Sher
NOES: Berwald, Clay, Rosenbaum
Councilman Henderson referred to the arts department budget and noted
that they have had a considerable increase, including 17% in salaries.
Council has fairly well accepted the new direction of the arts department
and has hired staff to better enable outside organizations to function.
MOTION: Councilman Henderson moved, seconded
$5,000 from planned equipment expenditures and
concerts and other performances under the arts
by Pearson, to delete
contract services for
department.
Councilman Beahrs asked what type of concerts would be eliminated,
and Mr. Walker replied that there would be a reduction of the number
of offezings rude in the Children's Theater and in support given to
community groups such as the Palo Alto Chamber Orchestra.
Councilman Berwaid spoke in opposition to the motion. He said the
arts community is unified in wanting to ztaintain the level of the
arts in the community. This motion was made in the Finance Committee,
and it failed for lack of a second. He noted that the 8-1/2Z increase
in the arts department budget is the exact amount the employees are
getting for inflation. He realized that a device was being sought
to reduce the budget, but he felt this was a poor place to stert.
Councilman Rosenbaum said he had at one time proposed a cut of $10,000
rather than $5,000, but it did not get through the Finance Committee.
He disagreed with soma of Councilman Berwald's conclusions and said
that it is difficult for the whole Council to take up these matters.
He supported the reduction and said there had been a considerable
increase in the arts department budget this year over last veer.
Councilman Henderson read the increases in the arts department budget
for the past five years and noted that the budget had gone up 125%.
He said he was not opposed to the arts, but this was almost a run-
away situation in term.e of increase.
6 4 0
6/25/74
Councilman Berwald said that as far as total increase is concerned,
as i ng as we are going to get into the last five years, he assumed
Council passed those budgets for good and sufficient reasons. He
said he would be willing to spend one-half hour documenting some of
the valid reasons for the increase. He again opposed the $5,000 reduction.
George Crane, 1852 Bret Harte, addressed Council in opposition to
the proposed reduction.
Ken Freiberg, 842 Clara Drive, addressed Council in opposition to
the proposed reduction.
Councilman Clay stated that he knows some of the work that is being
done there intimately. He'considers the youth recital program one
of the best programs he has seen for young performing artists. He
opposed the motion to delete.
Councilman Beahrs stated that this is probably one of .the most rewarding
and constructive service programs we have in the community, and it
is the only contribution Council makes to people who are normal and
productive. He feels it is time to give thoaght to the productive
citizens as well asIthose who are distressed because of their own
weaknesses. He finds it hard to accept a $76,000 deficit charged
to the general fund for servicing of dogs. Pet owners should carry
the burden and not the taxpayers.
Ayleen Lee, 38 ErstWila Court., addressed Council in opposition to
the proposed reduction,
The motion failed on the following vote:
AYES: Henderson, Yearscn, Rosenbaum
NOES: Beahrs, Berwald, Clay, Sher
Councilman Berwald commented that despite the fact that Councilman
Henderson was a harsh task master and made the Finance Committee work
long hours, and despite the fact thet they did not always agree on
every motion, he wanted to compliment the chairman of the Finance
and Public Works Committee, Alan Henderson, for the tremendous lob
he did. Councilman Berwald did not know of anyone who had ever worked
harder on the budget than Councilman Henderson has. Councilman Henderson
is interested in this area of operation of the Council and has real
skill in it. He.deserves a lot of credit.
Councilman Berwald said he had a question on the matter of the youth
center. He referred to the Finance and Public Works Committee minutes
of June 13 and noted that Mr. Sipel pointed out that Council had not
passed the youth center as a policy. Re asked for clarification on
this item and said he did not want a separate youth center. Youth
centers not connected with a church or civic activity or some volunteer
groups are not successful'as a rule. He felt it was desirable to
mix age groups. He said he would spend any reasonable amount to expand
facilities at the various community centers that exist, but he was
not interested in renting a building. A separate center causes more
problems than it is worth.
6 4 l
6/25/74
Mr. Sipel said that funds have been included in the preliminary budget
which is before Council tonight. If the funds are approved, he would
infer that as approval of the concept.
In response.' to Councilman Berwald, Mr. Brown said that the breakdown
of the. $30,796 is $15,600 for rent, $15,196 for salaarios for supervision.
Mr. Sipel noted that the $11,000 comes when you add this budget supplement
in with the existing recreation department program. It has nu relation
to this particular program;
Councilman Berwald Asked if the $15,196 in supervision would be necessary
if the center were not separate.
?fir. Walker said that the program was put together early in December
before the actual details could be formulated. There is now some
expectation that the total expenditure will still be $30,000, but
it might be in slightly different categories. Generally the supervision
wc:uld be needed. Right now we are using a church that has some of
the program, but it would not be the same program without a facility.
Councilman Berwald said this is based on the assumption that the youth
have no other place to go, and the city has to provide a place for
youth. He thought that was a delusion. There are several schools
and all kinds of acri dties, and he thought this was gilding the lily.
MOTION: Councilman Berwald moved, seconded by Beahrs, that the sum:
of $15,600 for rental of a facility for a youth center be -deleted
from the 1974--75 budget.
Councilman Rosenbaum'said he was not unaware of the concerns Councilman
Berwald expressed, but the key thing in his vote was that the city
had bean providing a facility that was no longer available, and it
was a successful oparation. The Creations Workshop would be part -
af the new operation. He would be willing to support it as a continuation
of a successful city activity.
Councilman Sher stated he found this a very poor way of dealing with
a new item that was a referral to committee, and Council has never
had a chance to discuss it. This obviously requires Council direction.
He objects to the notion that putting the :coney in the budget is approval
of the concept. He does not want to hear tonight from ten or fifteen
speakers, but on the other - hand, he is not about to give a policy
direction simply i4cduse it is budget time.
Vice Mayor Pearson suggested putting the money in the budget but continuing
the item for policy -direction.
Mi. Sipel said that he would have no problem If Council designates
that it wants the funds held until there is a full review by Council
of the program.
Councilman Sher said that he wants the whole topic reviewed in committee.
He is concerned that this is another new program that is going to
be an annual budget item. He was not prepared to vote for Councilman
Serweld's motion, but Council needs a motion that if this goes into
the budget, there is no authorization to spend it until there is a
complete review.
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6/25/74
Councilman Henderson said that the budget meeting did become a policy -
type meeting. All of the material is in the minutes; so it would
not be necessary to have another public hearing at the committee level.
He agreed that the money should be put in the budget and implementation
delayed until Council has heard from the public.
Councilman Sher hoped for a recommendation from the committee that
is more specific than $30,000 -- a discussion of location, etc.
Councilman Henderson replied that this type of information was developed,
but it did not get on to Council.
City Manager Sipe]. commented that staff took great pains to set apart
several programs in the budget and called them budget supplements
and prepared a substantial amount of material to describe those budget
supplements. In effect, they are policy decisions.
MOTION WITHDRAWN: With the convent of Councilman Beahrs, Councilman
Bet'vald withdrew his motion.
MOTION: Councilman Berwaid moved, seconded by Beahrs, that the $30,796
remain in the budget for the Youeh Center but no expenditures be mado
pending Council approval of the program.
Councilman Rosenbaum commented that the Finance Committee gave this
the sort of review that it gives any major item referred to it. The
problem is that Council has so many sets of minutes that they probably
haven't seen it. He requested that the minutes of the Finance Committee
relating to this be reproduced again and the item put on the Council's
agenda.
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Councilman Clay suggested that the Youth Center be considered by the
Policy and Procedures Committee. Vice Mayor Pearson said she would
rather have it before the Council. It has been through one committee.
rouncilman Henderson said he has eight pages of minutes from the Finance
and Public Works Co ttee and there will be no need to go back to
another committee.
Councilman Sher said that in the future when programa are put in for
the first time, they should come back to the Council for policy direction
and not wait until the budget is before Council..
The motion passed on a unanimous vote.
Mary Cottrell addressed Council regarding the youth who had sat through
two meetings waiting to address Council. She said they have been
working through the system and wanting to do things the right way,
and it is sad they are getting tossed back and forth. She asked Council
not to do that in the future.
Councilman Berwald said that earlier in the meeting, Council was talking
about the compensation plan. He considers it part of the budget discussion,
because it involves money, He referred to the resolution adopting
a coronation plan for Council -appointed, management, and confidential
personnel. He vas trying to recollect what Council had done some
months ago. He guessed it was August 20, 1973, when Council apparently
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voted to give management personnel and Council -appointed personnel
8.22 for cost of living increases. As he read this material, he found
himself appalled at the fact he probably voted to pay management an
automatic 8.22 cost of living increase. His feeling is that when
you give a percentage increase to the lower -salaried employees who
are represented, and you give the same percentage increase to the
higher -paid employees, s'ou widen the gap between the two. He would
have preferred to see a cost -of -living increase that would be voted
on each year as it comes up and would prefer a flat fee in order not
to increase the gap. Pe said that in the future he ie going to.look
carefully at across -the --~bard, in -advance commitments to this sort
of agreement. He asked if there is also, in addition, a 12 increase
for management personnel. -
Ht. Sigel replied that there has bean a 12 salary bonus adjustment
in the plan foie roughly ten years for all employees.
Councilman i3erwwld said he would like to take a look at that sometime.
,toe Sieve, 1478 Kings Lane, referred to the staff report on putting
in the Senior Services Center and asked Council's stand on it.
Vice Mayor Pearson replied ;hot the recommendation from Diane'Steeples
was that $25,375 be added for additional space to put the nutritional
cervices together with thA other services. It is her understanding
the church is willing to continue La Coraida, and she said she feels
strongly the two should be together, and that is related to Lytton
plan, where she would like to see it located. She said she was unwilling
to add the $25,000 to rent a facility if Council can wait for a report
from staff on Lytton Plaaa.
4r. Sipel said that in the report, staff merely identified some alternatives,
one of which was to include $25,375 in the budget for this. Another
was to continue along the same tack staff suggested earlier. If the
budget is adopted as presently proposed, it will not include funds
to encompass Le Com.ida.
In response to a gzestion from Vice Mayor Pearson about the Stern
Com ity Center Courtyard Development, Mr. Sigel said he had an agreement
with the Finance Committee that staff would come back with plans that
would be responsive to the coMments made.
Vice Mayor Pearson noted that -staff had added $5,000 to the Civic
Center Plaza project, and in the minutes of the Council meeting, there
was supposed to be added $5,000 plus $20,000. Mr. Sipel replied that
he would check it out.
MOTION: Councilman Henderson introduced the following ordinance and
moved, seconded by Beahrs, its adoption:
ORDINANCE NO. 2799 ENTITLED "ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF PALO ALTO ADOPTING A BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 197+-75 AND
AUTHORIZING THE CLOSING OF THE BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 1973-74"
The ordinance was adopted on a unanimous vote.
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Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 12:00 midnight.
ATTEST: APPROVE:
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C_,- ice' .� ' in. k -f�-A r e �[_ l�-.c�s B�-r.. _
Ann Tannc, City Clerk Vice Mayor Enid Pearson
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