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HomeMy WebLinkAbout08201973CITY COUNCIL MINUTES The City Council of the City of Palo Alto met on this date at 7:40 p.m. in a regular meeting with Vice Mayor Pearson presiding. PA RIO August 20, 1973 Present: Beahrs, Clay,- Henderson, Norton, Pearson, Rosenbaum Absent: - Berwaid, Comstock, Sher M.tnute,s of Au st 6 1973 Councilman Clay referred to page 92, third sentence from the bottom where approaches" should be changed to ". . proac e s , " second paragraph from the end, it says ". . . does not want four . does not want all four ap- Vice Mayor Pearson referred to page 33, bottom of the page, arui said first sentence should be changed to read ". recommended unanimously by the Council Policy and Procedures Committee of which Councilman Berwald is a member." Then, in the same paragraph, fifth line up from the bottom where the sentence ends with "commission," ssion," add the sentence "She stated it should be also noted that the Policy and Procedures committee held two public hearings regarding this subject and no one from the public objected." On page 90, fourth paragraph, in the first sentence, the word "tentative" should be "timid." On page 91, fifth sentence from the bottom should read ". . . important the BCDC receive. . . " instead of " . . . important the BCDC give. . . " MOTION: Vice Mayor Pearson moved, seconded by Clay, that the minutes of August 6, 1973, be approved as corrected. The motion carried unanimously. Resolution Honorine Lee W. Rodgers Vice Mayor Pearson spoke of the death of Lee Rodgers last week, and noted that he was a foray Council member of the City of Palo Alto. She stated that she was probably one of the few Council meMbers who talked, worked, and debated with Mr. Rodgers on many subjects in the late 1954's and 1960's, and although they were often on opposite sides, he was always a gentleman and he honestly listened to all the public. She said she could rot reelmber any time when he was una'air or put down the public. He always maintained his professionalism, he gave Palo Alto twelve year of vigorous service, he was a good friend and the city will miss him. She then read into the record a resolution honoring Lee Rodgers. MOTION: Vice Mayor Pearson introduced the following resolution and moved, duly seconded, .it* adoption: 1 2 3 8/30/73 17 RESOLUTION NO. 4809 ENTITLED "RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PAIR ALTO EXPRESSING APPRECIATION FOR THE LONG AND FAITHFUL SERVICE P.ENDERED TO THIS COMMUNITY BY ere. W. RODGERS" WHEREAS, in recognition of the untimely death of LEE W. RODGERS it is fitting that this Coanoil record his long, faithful and devoted service to this community; and WHEREAS, LEE W. RODGERS served as Vice Mayor during two of the twelve years he was a member of the City Council. He was chairman of the Procedures, Finance and Recreation Commi..tees of the Council, and was a member of other council committees. He devoted extraordin- ary time and energy to many important governmental problems, during the formative years of the City's greatest growth, and particularly to the Hospital Committee; and WHEREAS, LEE W. RODGERS, an attorney by profession, beought to every decision a sense of fairness, legal wisdom, and belief in the governmentalprocess, acquired through his years of experience. Through his gentle manner he gained the respect and affection of all who knew him. He treated all who appeared before him with patience, consid- eration and empathy; and WHEREAS, LEE W. RODGeRS loved, served and supported the City of Palo Alto, where he was born, and the community has been enriched by his many contributions, both professional and personal. NOW, THEREFORE, the Council of the City of Palo Alto RESOLVE as follows: The Council of the City of Palo Alto hereby gratefully records its appreciation, as well as the appreciation of the citizens of this community for the long and faithful service of LEE W. RODGERS and expresses its sense of personal loss. The Council extends to the members of his family its expression of heartfelt sympathy and directs the City Clerk to transmit a copy of this resolution to Mrs. Rodgers and her family. The resolution was adopted on a unanimous vote. Downtown Beautification —Lighting Studies Vice Mayor Pearson read the Planning Commission's recommendation for approval of the configuration in downtown lighting Scheme I1 presented by Rockriee-Odernatt-Mou.ntjoy-Amis in their report of July 31, 1973 and lettez of August 8, 1973, and finds that no significant adverse environ entati impact will result from this project. Vice Mayor Pearson then asked for comments from staff. City Manager Sipel commented .that there are four basic decisions which he thought the Council should address itself to this evening. The first relater to the Planning Commission's recommendation regard- ing the lighting scheme —approval of the Planning Commission's recom- mended scheme or retention of the original scheme in the budget. He noted that either alternative has dollar implications. The second decision relates to the originally approved project and sane additional costs which will be nacessary to complete that work. The dollar i.nspli- 1 2 4 8/21V73 cations here are about $20,000. The third decision is approval of additional funds in order to replenish the contingency for the project. The fourth decision relates to how the added costs ought to be fi- nanced. The options are via city capital improvement funds or pos- sible assumption of 50% of the cost by the assessment district. With respect to the first decision area, he suggested Council eight wish to get a report from the Planning Commission. Mrs. Mary Gordon, Planning Commission chairman, stated that there are actually two sections to the Planning Commission report; one relates to the selection of Scheme 11 presented by the consultant Rocckrise-Odermatt-Mountjoy-Ariis in their report and then the subse- quent action which the Planning Commission took at their meeting of August 15. She read the Planning Commission's recommendation: "Planning Commission, by a vote of 5-1, recommends acceptance of the cube -shaped, cast aluminum 1un:inaire recommended by Rockrise- Oderr,att-Mountjoy-Amis with the stipulation that the consultants seek an elongation of the proportions of the luminaires these details, including alternates for the provision of amber, antique, and/or raindrop plastic surfaces to be returned to the Commission for final approval. Mrs. Gore -.:n reviewed the Planning Commission a.crion, noting that the Commission has expressed a desire to have a lighted atmosphere which encourages people to use the downtown area at night. The Commission felt it important to relate the light source to the pedestrian level, avoid glare in a cold or blue color and to choose a fixture that will add a pleasing design element to the streetscape whether at night or during the day. She stated the Planning Commission's final recommen- dation is Scheme 11, which incorporates =:,he twelve foot poles at midi block, twenty-four foot poles at intersections, will provide pedes- trian scale lighting, and the glare and blue color will be minimized by the choice of light source. The Commission recommendation is far a fixture enclosure that would either incorporate a raindrop texture to minimize .glare, or amber color to minimize glare. They also recom- mended incorporating an incandescent mimic type fixture that would again reduce the glare and at the s, e time improve the color of light transmitted. She said that of al/ the fixtures presented to the Com- mission, they felt the most satisfactory was the cube displayed tonight in the back of the chambers. The Commission -did feel this could be improved upon, and if the general procedure is approved this eve ine, the Commission asked the consultant to return to -it with a mock-up of an elongated proportion and perhaps an option in the enclosure, that is either utilizing amber or antique glass, etc. It was the Com- miesion's consensus that these fixtures would represent a very favor- able atmosphere on University Avenue and would more than warrant an increase in budget, and that the project should move ahead. Mrs. Gordon stated that since the Planning Commission minutes were not yet available to the Council, she would like to point out that Commissioner Prenner wanted to note that her vote against the pro- posal was based solely on her disapproval of the mercury/vapor as a light source and not the design of the fixture. Mrs. Gordon said that therefore, in that vein the Commission asked for examples of in- candescent fixtures to be presented and she noted that the consultant had presented some examples this evening of incandescent type fixtures as well as the mercury/vapor fixtures for the Council to view in the back of the chambers. 1 2 5 8/20/73 Councilman 8eahrs stated he was sure that the proposed lights are very efficient and effective from an illumination standpoint but he asked if it would not be possible to consider some standard or light that would be more in keeping with Palo Alto tradition, more or less in the Spanish vein and perhaps heavier than the proposed fixture. He said he could really see no architectural grace in these fixtures. He said he was a little disappointed that the textures do not have a marked character and he referred to other places as examples of light fixtures giving a definite grace and character to an area. He said the only justification he could see for this fixture is t1 .t it will not be seen most of the time except when lighted and in that sense will not detra:t from the architectural effects of individual merchants. Mrs. Gordon replied that she did not think anyone on the Commission felt this particular fixture was going to convey any particular kind of character to the area. She said the strong point of the fixture was in a way that it was more or leap noncommittal. Another main factor was cost and this particular fixture is made locally and it will be easier to get parts. At the request of VicVics Mayor Pearson, Mr, Rockrise lighted up the proposed fixture. :ors. Gordon drew attention to the mock-up of an elongated cube which she stated could be done without any major in- cre,a se in cost. Councilman Rosenbaum asked if there was a wide variety of cubes, a choice of different styles. He said it was his feeling that a rec- tangle is not too attractive and it seemed to him that if other people had the same reaction as his to that rectangle, the entire project might suffer. He asked if it would be possible to give the downtown people some choice, offer a number of style: with accompanying costs. He asked for comment on the possiblity of simply putting off final choice of the fixture. Mrs. Gordon 'replied that the Planning Commis- sion felt they had the resxnsthility to make a recommendation to the Council and all factors being considered, the Commission's final rec- ommendatioD was the cube seen at the rear of the Council Chambers. She said she was sure there are other ways to come to a choice of fixture and suggested that staff comment. Louis Fourcroy, project manager, stated that if the wish of the Coun- cil is strong enough, any of these things can be dare. He said how- ever, there are trade-offs. If, for example, the Council wishes to pat samples of different fixtures on the streets, there are two trade- offs involved. One, it will be expensive because the city does not have the facility for installing these readily --the fixtures cannot be plugged in or put onto existing fixtures as there are no existing fixtures. The second constraint is obtaining samples of these fix- tures from the manufacturers+. He said that perhaps the most serious problem is that in order to do that, and thus delay a decision, would delay the project. This would be a rather costly item, since it would take a minimum of four to six weeks simply to get the fixtures, then put them in and have people take a look at them, Staff's information is the construction costs are moving in an upward direction at 1.5% per month. Councilman Clay asked what consideration has been given to standard- izing fixtures along shopping districts or commercial districts or along residential areas. Mr. Fourcroy replied that basically the question of standardization among shopping areas has not been directly 1 2 6 6/20/73 considered,. He said that in the California Avenue area, it was his impression that the merchants would largely prefer to have their own character rather than standardizing along the same line, Councilman Clay stated that he was associating standardization with the cost of maintenance and in that vein one consideration is purchase and storage of fixtures. He said for that reason perhaps the city should think more cf standardization of fixtures, if not citywide at least in the shopping areas. Assistant City Manager Deverel stated that Councilman Clay's point about standardization and maintenance was well taken, He said one of staff's concerns has been the attractiveness of fixtures to van- dals. He directed attention to the samples of fixtures at the back of the chambers and noted that some would be more attractive to van- dals with a rock in their hands. He said that as a matter of fact the cube shaped fixtere is relatively simple to maintain. As far as standardization is concerned, he said if there ere many different types throughout the city, there are more problems in stocking re- placements and for this reason the city has attempted to standardize relatively few nodels for the residential areas. He said they must accede to the business areas and depart from standardization. In response to Co`incilran Henderson, Mrs. Gordon advised that what is before the Council this evening is the Planning Commission's recom- mendation for approval of a scheme which includes the twenty-four foot poles as presented and the twelve foot poles midblock. In addi- tion to that, the recc.rz encatiora includes a mercury/vapor light source with are incandescent nir.ic which would modify that light source to be more pleasant. MOTION: Councilman Henderson mo'►ed, seconded by : eahr ,, to approve the lighting scheme recommended by the Planning Commission for down- town beautification. Mr. Fourc}oy stated he needed clarification. He said it was his un- derstanding that the Planning Commission accepted basically the cube - shaped fixture with the stipulation the consultant was to return to the Planning Commission with a sample to see if it were possible for the cube -shape to be rectangu1at, and if this were possible and upon approval of the Planning Commission, that would be the final dcrcision, Mrs. Gordon replied that in addition to the shape, the Planning Commis- sion included a request to see the enclosing material. The Commission would like to see some possible modification of that, such as to an amber color, antique or raindrop plastic surfaces. This would achieve a minimizing view of the source of the light itself. Discussion continued on the style, aethestics, and cost of various types of fixtures with Councilman Rosenbaum asking if there is any reason why the Council cannot go along with the schedule, and postpone their final decision on the cube shape. Mr. Pourcroy referred to the development plans and the timing of this project when it goes to bid. He noted that the work of the consultant becomes important because if a decision is not made, he cannot proceed to develop precise plans and this means an extension of the consul- tant's contract. - Councilman Rosenbaum stated that he thinks of the cube fixturee as something "you screw on at the last minute." He said the major cost is going to be construction and those costs are not going to be known 1 2 7 8/20/73 until the project goes out to bid, while the cube fixtures he sees as standard items whose cost is in a catalog. If the Council waits to make a decision on those it was his thought they would have the globe costs still far in advance of final construction costs Mr. Fourcroy said he had misunderstood the question as to delaying the whole scheme. He said as far as actual selection of enclosures for the light, he thought there could be some delay in making that determination. As to the length of delay, he said he weeld like to ask the consultant to respond to that question. Councilman Norton said he would like to hear from the downtown people. He thought the Council should have some indication of the merchants' willingness to pay more if that is what it comes down to. Crystal Garage, representing Downtown Palo Alto, Inc., said that her personal preference is with the "crystal clear" globe. She commented that the original lighting scheme when presented was something that would include pedestrian lighting, but when it came down to money, there was not enough in the budget for both pedestrian and overhead lighting, so the consultant prepared a scher.e he thought was a happy choice between the two. Then at the request of the Planning Commis- sion, he ca:e up with the second scheme. She said there are a number of people downtown who do like the pedestrian lighting scheme and would prefer so -:e of the f ixteres that cost $500 as compared to $268, or some that cost even more than that. She said then, however, the replacement factor had to be cor.sideeed. She stated that some of the downtowners have sat in several tires in the discussions the Planning Commission had and there was so a consensus among the downtowners that for the aneunt of money involved, the fixture chosen by the Plan- ning Commission was a happy meeting of the minds and was architec- turally compatible with the different • arieties of fixture; downtown. She said when they talk about additional lighting and the project gets bigger, they are talking about larger fees for about half a dozen people. She said there are scree people downtown who are concerned about the cost and she thought at some point in time it was only fair to tell the downtowners how much of the amount over what the district is pledged to give Council would expect to contribute to improve the amenity of lighting downtown. She said if it is only a few dol- lars, that would be one thing, but if it were to go four tinges that amount, there would be concern and the downtoeners would like to know whether the Couuncil would like to make that additional contribution to the community at large to have what it feels is a better lighting scheme. Councilman Beahrs asked Mrs. Gamage if she knew for a fact that sixty or seventy percent of the property owners downtown were favorably disposed toward the proposed fixture. Mrs, Garage replied that she did not knee, that for a fact, but added that in speaking to the mer- chants and explaining the i:tantnirg Commission's recommendation she said she did not hear any great objections to this particular model. She said the merchants concentrated more on the :lighting scheme rather than the fixture and noted that you could ask sixty-four different people and get sixty-four different ideas. She said it was felt that if this light was tempered with the amber plastic and tNe raindrop, it would be very pleasing and would add an architectural detail that would not be incompatible with their nonstyle downtown. Downtown is no particular C'aign and they felt that the lighting and landsca- ping vas one way to tie it all tether. 1 2 8 8/20/73 Councilman Clay referred to the fixtures at the back of the room and asked if these were all of the alternatives and also if they are all in the same price range. Mr. Fourcroy responded that the fixtures at the back of the rotas are the range of alternatives that were pre- sented. He noted that additional alternatives were included in the report. The fixtures presented are within the budget range. Mr. Rockrise of the consulting firm •eviewed the background on ch e - sing the fixtures, noting that a presentation had been made to the downtown people prior to going to the Planning Commission. He said that what they had developed is a pleasant pattern that would not be irritating and would not wear on one. Also, that the light level and light source would be a pleasant combination with the hope that the merchants would keep their store front lighting on and thus gave a total effect that is inviting for people to cage downtown. He asked Dan Dibble, lighting consultant, to illuminate the fixture recommended by the Planning Commission. He continued that they need Council' advice and hopefully their consent in terms of budget. He added that what they are trying to do is attempt to give Council the reasons behind the budget increase and let them know exactly what the fixture will look like. He stated that they are not trying to confuse quality of design with expediency of time, and he urged the Council to con- sider the simplicity of the fixture. Discussion followed on the fixture with Council reth rs noting that: it wee more pleasing now that it was lighted. Councilman Norton re- ferred to the proposed rectangular shape and suggeted that perhaps it was too big. Mx. Rockrise responded that they would study the pro- portions again before returning it to the Planning Cennissinn. Mrs. Gordon advised that the Planning Commission has not seen the mock-up of the rectangular design as the Council is seeing this even- ing. All the Planning Commission says was the cube and she said this was why they had put in the recommendation "for further review." SUBSTITUTE MOTION: Councilman Henderson moved a substitute motion, seconded by Beahrs, that the Council approve the lighting scheme re- commended by the Planning Commission with the provision that the pre - posed specific fixture be presented to the Planning Commission for approval and recommendation to Council. The substitute motion carried unanimously. Vice Mayor Pearson noted that the next step for Council is approval of an increase in the construction budget of $46,410. Councilman Henderson noted that the ordinance before the Council will amend the: budget to bring the grand total for the beautification and lighting program up to 5822,865. He reviewed the changes that had taken place making the increase necessary, including an additional $5000 for the consultant to go through the lighting scheme a second time and in- creases in construction costs. He noted that the consultant receives certain percentage of the construction cost. He expressed concern that the Council had added S5000 to the consultant's fee for restudies on the lighting and now seemed to be computing on top of that an in- creased percentage. He asked if they are doubling nap in computing the consultant's fee. Hr. Fourcroy replied that the Council is not doubling up. The $5000 increase in the total fee being paid to the consultant was separate. He explained that the percentage is a declining percentage as the 1 2 8 8/30/73 construction budget goes up. He noted that in the figures presented that go from the present budget of $53,395 the percentage figure would have to take off $5000 which was a special fee and riot a percentage. In response to Councilman Rosenbaum, Mr. Sipel explained under the terms of the contract, the construction budget has to he fixed in or- der to proceed with the next section of the contract. Once the con- struction budget is fixed, then the consultant is required to come within 110% of thatconstruction budget when the project is put out to bid, and this legally fixes that limit. If the consultant cokes in over 110%, he can be requeste3 on option of the city to redesign the project. He said that is the only purpose for which this figure is set. Councilman Rosenbaum said he could not see why the Council should bother changing the budget at this time rather than waiting until the final figure is in. Mr. Sipel replied that the Council has the option of waiting. He said his only concern is that if the Council does not want to spend the additional money at this time, then the city could save considerable amount of staff time and dollars for consulting services if that was known now. He said what was wanted was some indication that the Council is generally in accord with the additional costs now rather than waiting until N3vember and finding at: that time that Council does net want to spend an additional $60- 65 thousand for the project. Councilman Rosenbaum said it seeped to him if Council goes along with the construction budget increase, that would be some indication and the ordinance would not be neces- sary. Mr. Rockrise stated he would like to clarify some things. He noted that Mr. Sipel, in reporting the budget, did not mention the extra thousand dollars which would be occasioned by the charge in propor- tion of the fixture. He noted however that this figure had only been received today for changing the proportion of the stock fixture. On the subject of whether or not the Council should change the budget, he pointed out that in their contract with the city there is a stip- ulated construction budget. He said they feel very strongly that they have worked together to produce a design that is responsive to the downtown group, but they have not been able to meet the cost es- timates in the budget and are saying so at the earliest possible time. He said if the contract budget were not amended, this evening would be an exer:ise in rhetoric because they would be compelled by the terms of their contract to reduce the budget. On the subject of the consultant's additional fee, he said he trusted the Council will re- member that they were authorized to do this special study to pursue further the quality of lighting f,r which they turned in a special report. He noted that this was not included in their original scope of work ami stated that is an additional fee and would not be deduc- ted from the basic computation of their services on a percentage basis. He pointed out that in their contract with the city there is a clear stipulation which says "extra services when authorized" and the extra lighting study cornea under that stipulation. Harvey Nixon, 430 X pling Street, stated that he has followed the downtown beautification since its inception, and there are a few points that he objects to. He said the consultants came up with a very good plan within the budget, and then the planning Commission decided upon a fixture that is going to cost a few thousand dollars more. He said if the City Council or the Planning Commission changed the 1 3 0 8/20/73 budget, then the city should pick up the difference in cost. He also objected to the boundaries of the assessment district. He said it was his understanding the lighting is going to be charged one third to University Avenue and two thirds to the rest of the district, and since the majority of the lighting changes are on the Avenue, then in his opinion the assessment should be the other way around. He stated that in his opinion, since the city carspend hundreds of thou- sands of dollars on minority groups' pet schemes, they could spend a little extra on downtown Palo Alto, MOTION: Councilman Henderson moved, seconded by Norton, that the Council approve an increase in the construction budget for the Down- town Beautification Project from $588,400 to $634,810. The motion carried on a unanimous vote. MOTION: Councilman Henderson moved, seconded by Norton, that the Council approve funding the total project budget in the amount of $823,865. In response to Councilman Rosenbaum, Mr. Sipel said he would read the motion as an expression of intent on the part of the Council. He said this motion does not change the budget. Vice Mayor Pearson advised that the motion is an expression by the Ccuncil that they are willing to go ahead and support the project in the future when the construction bids come in. The motion carried on a unanimous vote. MOTION: Councilman Henderson, introduced the following ordinance and moved, duly seconded, its adoption: "ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF TEE CITY CF PALO ALTO AMENDING THE BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 1973-74 TO APPROPRIATE $63,865 TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL FUNDING FOR THE DOWNTOWN T AUTfl'IC'►TION AND LIGHTING PROJECT, NO. 71-80" Councilman Rosenbaum commented that he thought the next recommend- ation would be that the district would pay for one half of the in- crease and this ordinance suggests increasing the budget to take care of the whole thing. He said it was his view that Council ought to wait on this ordinance until the final figures come in and then take care of the whole thing at once. He said he was not prepared to vote for the ordinance this even inq . Vice Mayor Pearson pointed out that the ordinance needs six votes in order to pass. Councilman Henderson stated that his :rain purpose in introducing the ordinance was: to get the contingency portion of the budget back up to a workable figure so that as additional trans- fers sight take place between now and November, t he funds will be available to take care of that regardless of how Council may divide the ultimate costa of the project. Mr. Sipel replied that it is a matter of preference at, this point. Staff was trying to keep the books straight and keep the Council ad- vised of what the cost is likely to be and this is why it was pre- sented to Council in that fashion. He said it is not absolutely nec- essary that Council take action on the budget change at this time, but he thought that Council should be aware it is very likely the See page 164 1 3 1 8/20/73 project is going to cost more coney than what is presently budgeted. He.noted that it may even be substantially more than the $62,000 staff is asking for. He suggested that staff bring it back the next time Council would normally see the contract which would be in November, when they will have the final cost estimate. Vice Mayor Pearson asked whether Council should set the policy as to who pays what portion. Mr. Sipel replied that that is the Coun- cil's option, but it is not necessary to decide at this point. How- ever, he said it will have to be determined within the near future in order to spread the assessment. Vice Mayor Pearson said she was in favor of deciding this matter this evening so the bond counsel will know how to operate. Mr. Rockrise said he would like to speak to the matter of contingen- cy and the 1.5% escalation being reported in the building industry. He said it was very fair when the budget was set up originally to have the ten percent contingency. He pointed out that no major or minor project is bid these days without a ten percent contingency and he wished to plead with Council to recognize this fact so the project will have elasticity when it goes to bid. MOTION WITHDRAWN: Councilman Henderson, with consent of his second, withdrew his motion regarding the ordinance. Sec Page 164 MOTIONS Councilman Henderson moved, seconded by Beahrs, that the increased cost for the Downtown Beautification Project be funded by an increase in the assessment of one half the amount for the assess- ment district and by a tran=sfer of funds from the unappropriated Cap- ital improvement Fund for the other half of the amount. In response to Councilman Norton, Mr. Rockrise advised that the thou- sand dollars is the consultant's estimate of what the vendor would in effect sell the fixture as changed to the city for. He said it has nothing to do with the consultant's fee. Mrs. Gage cemented that the motion to increase the budget and then in turn charge half the increase to the assessment district was one that was not debated to any great extent. She said it was indicated that if the bids cease in higher, it will proportionately increase the amount of money the downtown assessment district would be expected to pay. She asked if there was going to be a ceiling on this amount, now. Mr. Sipel replied that there was no ceiling, but it is hoped the bids will come in within ten percent of the total construction budget. He said that realistically there is no limitbut it is hoped that there would be a practical limit. lication of Dividend industries Inc. maxim Alma Street s Vice Yayor Pearson stated she would like Council to consider bringing item no. 10, the application of Dividend Industries, Inc., forward at this time for the purpose of continuing the matter to September 11 when a full. Council will be present. She noted that Council had received a letter from the Midpeninsula Citizens for pair Housing in which they point out that the federal government is expected 1 3 2 6/20/'73 make a pronouncement by September 7 which may have some impact on the low/moderate income housing proposed for this project and that it may be to the advantage of the city and the developer to wait and hear this pronouncement. Furthermore, Vice Mayor Pearson said it was her understanding that it takes five votes to move the ordinance be- fore the Council and also any amending of the P -.C.• She said she would not like to defeat the project with just a small amount of the Coun- cil present. MOTION: Vice Mayor Pearson moved, seconded by Henderson, that the item regarding the application of Dividend Industries, Inc., for reclassification of property at 4295 Alma Street be moved up on the agenda for consideration at this time. The motion carried on a unanimous vote. Vice Mayor Pearson read the Planning Commission recommendation to approve the application of Dividend Industries, Inc., for reclassifi- cation of property at 4295 Alma Street from R^ -1 -B -S -A to P -C (34 con- dominium units of which 8 shall be offered for sale to moderate in' - come rcuseholds in cooperation with the city, including the granting of a right of first refusal to the city) , and finds that no signifi- cant adverse environmental impact will result from this action. MOTION: Vice Mayor rilarson moved, duly seconded, that the matter of reclassification of property at 4295 Alma Street be continued un- til September 11. Councilman Rosenbaum stated that he was prepared to discuss the neat -- ter this evening, and, although there is some risk to the developer, he said it is his understanding that the Council is free to continue at the end of the meeting if it becomes obvious the Council is dead- lockEd. He asked City Attorney Booth if this was correct. Mr. Both responded that if a motion to approve the project were to fail because it did not receive five affirmative votes, a subsequent motion to con- tinue the item to a later date would be in order. In response to Councilman Clay, Vice !Mayor Pearson said that the possibility of a federal program is one of the reasons for continuing the item. She said also there are some questions as to whether the price of the units provided to moderate income owners is really low/ moderate, whether they are market priced, and whether there is a finan- cial burden on the persons involved. Councilman Clay said it appeared to him that would affect the total project from the financial aspect of it and therefore even possibly from the design. There could be en impact that would cause decisions to be made to refund it and completely throw the project back on the drawing board. Vice Mayor Pearson agreed that was pesaible and said sbe did not think that what is before Council now is in fact low/ a erate housing. She said she does not think it supports the Coun- cil resolution which was that when there is any major development in Palo Alto, a certain proportion would be low/moderate income housing. Councilman Seahrs said he could understand the concern, yet on the other hand, he said it was agonizing for him to see a very excellent project threatened with extinction by continued palaver of the Coun- cil. He said that even if the government comes up with some more half-- baked ideas, that does not guarantee that they will be available to the developer, and then the city will have the problem of buying one more piece of property for a public park. 1 3 3 8/70/73 Richard Oliver, representing the developer, said he would be happy to answer any questions from Council. Councilman Henderson asked Mr. Oliver if he mould anticipate use of federal programs if one were announced in September for example and became available. Mr. Oliver referred to a previous federal program he had worked with for over a year and a half, working with the Council and the Planning Commis- sion, that was ultimately turned down and soli to Mr. Eichler the next day. He recalled that in that year and a half they could not get a commitment out of the FHA, even though it was contingent upon the City Council approval. He noted that there are so many programs in the pipeline now thet by the time this project could be accepted, it would be at least a year to a year and a half down the road. He said as to this specific project, the owner would not be willing to extend an option for another year and a half and their plan would be gone. The motion to continue the item until September 11 was defeated on the following role call vote: AYES. Henderson, Pearson NOES: Beahrs, Clay, Norton, Rosenbaum Vice Mayor Pearson asked Planning Director Knox if he had anything to add to the staff report. Mx. Knox stated he would like to correct two errors in the staff report dated August ?66, 1973 (CMR:863:3). On page two, the third indented paragraph should read 'May 18, 1973 received from the Palo Alto Housing Corporation a letter indicating general interest aasd a willingness to cooperate in qualifying the applicants for moderate income housing that might be produced at this site. On May 30, 1973 received a letter from the Midpeninsula Citi- zens for Fair Housing recommending that the land be held vacant." The next correction is on page seven, in the second paragraph. He said that his statement teat dice vehicles would not routinely pa- trol on the private drives, etc., is not correct in the sense that police vehicles do patrol the private paved grounds. He said he talked with Chief Ztxrcher this evening who indicated, especially if there are problem areas, there is more than just a routine patrol and Where there are large paved areas of this kind, it is not uncom- mon to have police surveillance. Regarding the letter from the Midpeninsula Citizens for Fair Housing dated August 20 and their statement regarding a possible reinstate- ment of federal programs and hearir..g a pronouncement by September 7, Mr. Knox said he was not hopeful the city would find out on schedule. He commented that if the federal programs are thawed it would cer- tainly be a year and a half for this particular project. The units that are moderate income housing would have to be revised to whatever federal standard might come out. If the 236 or 235 programs are rein- stated as they were, there would have to be substantial redesign of the project. Another thing, he said he was not at all sure whether the federal government would approve any more projects along the San Antonio corridor of the city. He noted that there are several projects there now and the impact on the local are is a major consideration. In response to questions regarding dedication of streets, Mr. Booth replied that the Council may require the offer of dedication to re- main open indefinitely, as long as they obtain by other than solely on the subdivision neap, which is not before the Council. In other words, tonight if it is put on as a condition of zoning, it would remain open i.r efinitely and the Council, even if it fwmally rejects the offer, might reopen the scatter at a later tie and accept the street. 1 3 4 0/20/73 Councilman Henderson referred to the ordinance and noted that it is pretty specific and applies to Scheme A. He said his preference would be for Scheme B with same changes and he asked staff how Coun- cil might proceed. Mr. Booth replied that it would be all right to make changes in the plan and would also be appropriate to add an item regarding street dedication. In response to questions from Councilman Henderson, Mr. plained that the only change is on the low and moderate Five units are designated on Scheme B and six units are on Scheme A. He said any one of the features on Scheme on Scheme A or vice versa and whether the Council wants low income units is an option that they hh=re. Oliver ex' - income units. designated B coeld be six or eight Inresponse to questions from Councilman Rosenbaum, Mr. Oliver replied that they would attempt to shift the buildings just a little in order to get the twenty foot setback for eight moderate income unite. He said it would be a little tight but he did think they could accom- plish it. Councilman Rosenbaum asked Mx. Oliver to dasc:ribe where the subsidy lies it this project --hat contribution the developer is making. Mr. Oliver replied that the subsidy lies in not applying any land costs to those ei:iht _nits and that land cost represents tp- proximately $7-8000 per unit. Councilman Beahrs spoke of the escalation of costa and asked Mr. Oliver what does happen a year or two hence if someone comes in with a pro- ject of this character? Mx. Oliver replied this is a difficult ques- tion which faces developers and builders. 1;e referred to some houses which they had built in Los .'altos ar:d note& that in five to six months' time the costs had increased an average of $5000 per house or about seven percent. He said if it ccntnues at this rate, it will totally price people out of the housing market. He noted that there was an article in the San Francisco Chronicle in which they reported that from March, 1972 to March, 1973 the average increase on houses up to $35,000 was 15.6% and in the $40-60,000 bracket the increase was up about 135. Councilman Beahrs agreed that a lot of people would be priced out ofbouaing. He said there is one additional problem which should.ba touched upon and that is the fact that Palo Alto has put a high res- trictive policy on land use and the availability of land in Palo Alto. He spoke of the availability of federal subsidies and said one: should not overlook the fact that the federal government looks for the, best buy, ar4 he did not think Palo Alto is going to see any federal money even if some is available. Councilman Clay noted that Mr. Oliver h d said they could get either the six or eight units of moderate income. He asked how this is done and whether they are the same size. Mr. Oliver replied that the only difference between the sic and the eight are two one -bedroom, single story units stacked. He explained that these were added because on redesigning the traffic pattern at the suggestion of the staff and the Planning commission, the developer eliminated quite a bit of asphalt area and the units were shifted around in order to get the end walls next to Alma to cut down the noise. The six units remain the same on either scheme. He said there are four two--bedraoe units and four one -bedroom units. If there were only six, there would be four two -bedroom units ehe sae size and two one -bedroom units the same size. See Page 164 1 3 5 8/26/73 He said thai: the change is that the two extra singleebedroom units will help him defer some of the land improvement costs. He .added that he would prefer to have the eight moderate income units. Coun- cilman Clay commented that in the one case, the developer would be shifting a greater land cost to the market value units. Mr. Oliver replied the difference in land costs to the twenty-six market priced units does not change whether they are six or eight. however, the offsite improvement costs would be a little less for the market priced units because it is being shared by two more units. In response to Councilman Clay's questions regarding the amenities for the market price and the moderate income units, Mr. Oliver advised that on the outside they are identical. The market priced units will have an en- closed garage while the moderate priced units will have a carport. lnteriorwise, the difference will be that the market priced units will have self-cleaning ovine and exposed beam ceilings while the moderate priced units will have regular dropin ranges and sheet rock ceilings. Both units will have garbage disposals end dishwashers. In response to questions from Councilman Henderson regarding changes to the proposed ordinance, Mr. Booth explained that if charges are approved, :staff can have a corrected ordinance for the r.eeting of Sep- texrber 11 or second reading of the ordinance. MOTION: Councilman Henderson introduced the following ordinance and moved, seconded by Rosenbaum, its approval for first reading subject to the following changes: "ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALO ALTO AMENDING SECTION 18.08.040 OF THE PALO ALTO MUiN1.IPAI. CODE (THE zoNi?SC. MAP) TO CHANGE THE CLASSIFICATION CF PROPERTY KNOWN AS 4295 ALMA STREET FROM R -1 -B -8-A TO P -C, SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS" Changes as follows: Under Section 2, after the words "entitled development plan" add the words, "Scheme B." Under 8. • Improvesa ei ts, strike the second sentence and amend the next ;sentence to read, "An emergency vehicle entrance on Alma Street shall be provided in accordance with the require- ments of the Chief of the City of Palo Alto Fire Department. Then include the following provisions (he noted that these were merely statements and not exact wording of the code): that Hemlock' Court would be open, that the streets would be dedicated, to the city, curbs would be instal:ed on one side of the street running through; the project, that street widths of thirty feet would be permitted but otherwise built to city engineering requirements, that the detailed plans be returned to the Planning Cession for approval of architectural and landscaping plans, that the wall along San Antonio Way be set back three feet from the sidewalk to permie planting, and that along with curbs there would be a four -foot sidewalk along one side of the street. Councilman Norton asked if the developer would be willing to go along with the additional provisions. Mr. Oliver replied that they would be willing to agree to the provisions but would prefer twenty-four foot street width, except at the entrance and at the Hemlock Court 1 3 6 8/20/73 access. He said the only difference being that it comes out at the front yard and aesthetically they would prefer the twenty-four foot. He said that he would also prefer the eight moderate units. Councilman Norton commented that maybe the twenty-four foot street in half the area would be appropriate. He said when you trade pave- ment for front yards which are normally landscaped, it turns out to he a pretty good trade-off. Councilman Henderson said he would go along with street widths in conformaece with Scheme B if staff does not see any objection to the narrower portion. Mr. Knox replied that staff would be in agreement with the narrower portion as drawn on Scheme B which would be adequate. He asked for clarification on the provision regarding curbs and asked if it was for curb and sidewalk on one side only and not for curbs on the other side. CLARIFICATION: Councilman Henderson clarified two points in the pro- visions: that Council permit street width in accordance with Scheme B and otherwise built to city engineering requirements, and that curbs would be installed on one side of the street and curbs and a four - foot foot sidewalk on the other side of the street. in response to Councilman Clay's question regarding the impact of the provisions costwise on the project, Mx. Oliver replied it would amount to $2.50 per month per unit higher mortgage cost, but noted that there would be a savings of $2.50 a month on street maintenance itself. }:e cormented that it is a pretty good trade-off. AMENDMENT: Councilman Rosenbaum moved that another condition be added, the minimum setback for moderate income units to be twenty feet from the property line. In response to questions regarding the twenty -foot setback, Mr. Oliver said he was pretty sure they could do it. Councilman Beaters asked if the intention regarding the sidewalks is that they will only run in those areas where there is a housing unit facing an the street. Mr. Knox replied that the best place to run sidewalks would be where there is quite a continuous length of street. He said he could see no problem in the developers providing continuous sidewalks on one side and said it is a simple design matter. In response to questions from: Councilman Beaters regarding thi sr- ge ecy fire exit and the type of closure, Mr. Oliver replied that the See Page Fire Marshall is going to require a swinging gate which has a padlock 164 and chain on it which they can cut with their bow cutters and it will have to be designed so the fire department can readily go into it. Regarding the questions on sidewalks, he pointed out on the asap where the developer would envision the sidewalks. Mr. Knox noted that there is one additional walk that should be installed and that is extension of the Hemlock Court area toward Alma. He said that would keep one sidewalk in each area on all streets. Vice Mayor Pearson referred to page eight of the staff report and noted that in speaking about the three foot planting strip, it states that this additional planting strip would be on private property and would be maintained by the Homeowner's Association. She commented that that is really the public part of the street and said there slight be a problem with having people take care of it and maintain it pro- perly. 1 3 7 8/20/73 Mr. Oliver replied that the type of planting they had in mind was similar to what is there now. He noted that there are existing ole- anders there now which are maintained by the city by an existing sprink- ler system which is all the maintenance needed for oleanders. Their plan would be to plant oleanders on the other side so there would be oleanders on both sides of the sidewelk of that portion. ADDITION TO MOTION: Councilman Henderson with the consent of his second changed the wording of the condition regarding detailed plans to be returned to the Planning Commission to read: "detailed plans to be returned to the Planning Commission for approval of street lighting, architectural and landscaping plans, and to add to the mo- tion Councilman Rosenbaum's amendment that the minimum setback for moderate income units be twenty feet from the property line." The ordinance with the added provisions and changes was approved for first reading on a unanimous vote. Mr. Knox pointed out in the case of dedication of streets that the matter of naming of streets should go to committee. (The Council recessed from 10.00 p.m. to 10:20 p.m.) Application of Alpha Land Com Chairwoman Pearson noted that the Planning Commission is recommending to Council approval of the application of Alpha Land Company to build 140 condominium units, of which 14 will be leased under Section 23, on property at 777 San Antonio Avenue. She asked ,staff to report on this matter. Planning Director Knox stated this is a routine matter. Council has before it tonight the final subdivision map which is in precise con- formance with the tentative subdivision map already approved by the Planning Commission and the City Council, Chairwo+xan Pearson said she had one question looking at this map and that concerned building No. 8 which she believed should be twenty feet back from the lot line, whereas it is shown on the snap to be 18,5 feet back from the lot line. She asked if this was a mistake. Planning Director Knox replied that this was not a mistake, that the map before Council this evening is in conformance with the tentative map. He said there was some discussion pertaining to the distance that the roadway was to be located from the property line because of the concern a:bcut the possibility of any traffic noise on the in- ternal roadway as it relates to the neighbors. He did not think the discussion referred to building No. 8, however. Don Beardsley, civil engineer, Ruth and Going, said that his recol- lection was that the earlier discussion centered on the driveway and its distance of twenty feet from the property line, and did not con- cern building No. 8. He confirmed that this building is in the same position as it was when approved by the Planning Commission for the P -C sonira,g.and as it appeared on the tentative swaps approved by the Planning Commission and City Council.. 1 3 8 8/20/73 Chairwoman Pearson raised a second question concerning the eight -foot fence. She said she had received a telephone call directing her at- ten:.lon to this matter from someone who lived in this area. Mr. Beardsley recalled that there was considerable discussion about the fence by the Planning Commission. Be said the discussion cen- tered on the landscaping along the rear and the final result was that the developers were instructed to poll the residents in the area to discover whether or not they wanted the present landscaping re- moved. He said he thought that the developers had six months to come back and report on this survey. Chairwoman Poereon asked if this means that the fence will be up be- fore construction is started. Mr. Beardsley replied no. Planning Director Knox confirm that it was his understanding the developer was to case back in six naonthss time with an indication of what he intended to do with the fence. The original proposal was for a new six foot high fence along the property line. Then during the presentation to the Council it was revealed that the present fence was eo heavily covered with landscaping that to reeve it and build a new fence would destroy a lot of the green quality. He said there was never any discussion about anything higher than a six-foot fence. Chairwoman Pearson said that it was fine with her for the developer to come back in six months and confirm this. She asked a further question e ' to whey the Co me it was not requiring that this subdivi- sion have dedicated streets and sidewalks. Mr. Knox replied there is no precedent to make such a requirement. The Homeowners' Association was' set up to take care of this matter. C'haiawacsra.n Pearson said that she felt that perhaps in the future a developer with a project of the size of 140 units should be regiirsd to have dedicated streets and sidewalks. )tr. Xnox noted that the roadway was a_ proved when the P -C plan was approved by the .Cotancil, He said staff would be investigating a number of these kinds of things when they receivethe klamada report on condominiums and they will look further into driveavays and etroets, etc., at that time. MOTION: Councilman Baahrs moved, seconded by Rosenbaum, that Coun- cil approve the application of Alpha Land Company for a final Condo- minium Subdivision Map (140 emits of which 14 will be leased under Section 23) for property at 777 San Antonio Avenue, and finds that no significant adverse environmental impaot will resultfrom this ac- tion. Me motion was approved on a unanimous vote. Downtown Beautificatioe - initial Action oinItAte Assessment District (Project Ho. 71-80) 11��,,.. lows T Special Projects Manager, �,3 Council that . J.' croy, Special Projects Manager, advised _Council. the resolutions before them this evening represent the initial action to initiate an assessment district for the downtown beautification project. 1 3 9 8/20/73 MOTION: Chairwoman Pearson introduced the following resolution and moved, seconded by Henderson, its adoption: RESOLUTION NO. 4810 ENTITLED "A RESOLUT'ON OF PRELIMINARY DETER- hINATION UNDER DIVISION 4 OF THE STREETS AND HIGHWR!S CODE - D0i,,NTOWN BEAUTIFICATION AND LICHTING PROJECT NO. 71-80" The resolution was adopted on a unanimous voice vote. MOTION: Chairwoman Pearson introduced the following resolution. and moved, seconded by Beahcs, its adoption: RESOLUTION IO. 4811 ENTITLED "A RESOLUTION DIRECTING PREPARATION OP INVESTIGATION REPORT UNDER DIVISION 4 OF THE STREETS AND HIGH -- WAYS CODE - DOWNTOWN BEAUTIFICATION AND LIGHTING PROJECT NO. 71.80" The resolution was adopted on a unanimous voice vote. Harvey Nixon, 430 Kipling Street, Palo Alto, addressed Council and asked who sets the boundaries. fix. L. -3. Fourcroy responded to Mr. Nixon's question, noting that the City Council sets the boundaries. He attempted to respond to further questions from Mr. Nixon. 4OTIc)N: Chairwo an Pearson introduced the following resolution and moved, seconded by Norton, its adoption: RESOLUTION NO. 4812 ENTITLED "A RESOLUTION OF INTENTION TO CON- STRUCT IMPROVEKENTS - DOWNTOWN BEAUTIFICATION AND LIGHTING P R!XTECT 1:0. 71-80" The resolution was adopted on a unanimous voice vote. Ordinance to Define Various ....e c 1i8 ^_ s of *. e e* or = as Aome5. and Use is or Da Care Raaaove�Rscm�uresnt or ION: Councilman Beahrs introduced the following ordinance and moved, seconded by Henderson, its adoption: ORDINANCE NO. 2734 ENTITLED "ORDINANCE OF W€!: COUNCIL or THE CITY OF PALM) ALTO A ND/NG VARIOUS SECTIONS OF TITLE 18 (ZONING) OF THE PALO ALTO MUNCIPAL CODE TO DEFINE VARIOUS TYPES OF CHILD CARE FACILITIES, TO CHANGE THE FEE FOR A USE PERMIT FOR FAMILY DAY CARE HONES (7 TO 10 CHILDREN) , AND TO REMOV* TifE REQUIREMENT FOR A USE PERMIT FOR DAY CARE HOES (6 OR FEWLR CHILDREN) " (First reading August 6, 1973) The ordinance was adopted on a unanimous voice vote. Saler and Fringe Benefit Pr ram for rsrir:ne :862:3) MOTION: Councilman Beehrs introduced the following resolution and moved, seconded by Sanderson, its adoption: l 4 0 8/20/73 RESOLUTION NO. 4813 ENTITLED "RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALO ALTO ADOPTING A COMPENSATION PLAN FOR CLASSIFIED AND CASUAL PERSONNEL (EFFECTIVE JUNE 25, 197 3) FOR FISCAL YEARS 1973-1974 AND 1974-1975" The resolution was adopted on a unanimous voice vote. MOTION: Councilman 8e brs introduced the following ordnance and moved, seconded by Pearson, its adoption: ORDINANCE NO. 2735 ENTI'_r T ED "ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PAID ALTO AMENDING THE BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 1973-1974 TO CHANGE THE CLASSIFICATION OF SEVEN AUTHORIZED POSITIONS" The ordinance was adopted on a unanimous voice vote. Amendment to 5alery and Frin a Benefit MOTION: Chairwom n Pearson introduced the following revolution and moved, seconded by Clay, its &o. tiorn: RESOLUTION NO. 4814 ENTITLED "RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALO ALTO ADOPTING A COMPENSATION PLAN FOR COUNCIL -APPOINTED, MANAGEMENT AND CONFIDENTIAL PERSONNEL (EFFECTIVE JUNE 25, 1973) }'OR THE FISCAL YEARS 1973-1974 AND 1974-1975 AND RESCINDING RES- OLUTIONS 4782, 4783 AND 4808" The resolution was adopted on a unanirr'us voice vote. MOTION: Chairwoman Pearson introduced the following resolution and moved, seconded by Henderson, its adoption: RESOLUTION NO. 4815 ENTITLED *RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALO ALTO AMENDING SECTIONS 510, 607 AND 709 OF THE MERIT SYSTEM RULES AND PEGULATICNS AND ADDING CHAPTER 14 THERETO" The resolution was adopted on a unanimous voice vote. 1973-74 Tax Rate (()(R:865:3) Councilman Henderson asked what percentage of the sales tax went to the CIF in 1972-73 and what the percentage is expected to be for 1973-- 74. Mr. t.14 J. Mitchell, City Controller, replied that this figure would be substantially more than 50% and the revenues will just increase by that much more --essentially 50%. He said he would send further information on thin question to the Council next week. Councilman Henderson noted that this is the sixth consecutive year the tax rate in Palo Alto hes baen set at 740 per 5100 evaluation. Although it is true that SB 90 prohibited the city from raising the rate this year, :•;- noted that it was the intention to keep the rate at 744 anyway. Although there will be increasing fiscal pressures on the city in the future, he wished to assure the public that at this time Palo Alto is financially sound and in a position to meet these new financial pressures. 141 8/20/73 MOTION: Councilman Henderson introduced the following ordinance and moved, seconded by Beahr, its adoption: ORDINANCE NO. 2736 ENTITLED "ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALO ALTO FIXING THE TAX RATE FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 1973-1974 AT 740 PER $100 VALUATION" The ordinance was adopted on a unanimous voice vote. Traffic Signals - Report of Bids (CMR:O59:3) o 711-21 rcz-"raTr3 -ts Chairwoman Pearson noted that Proiect 72-62 resulted from the 1971 Olive -West Meadow traffic study and provided for a new traffic sig- nal installation and related roadwork at the intersection of E1 Camino Real and Curtner Avenue and modifications of existing signaiization at the intersection of El Camino Real at Hansen Way/Portage Avenue and at the intersection of i'1 Camino Real and Califonrria Avenue. She asked staff for their comenIs. M,r. W. - L? Davevel, Assistant City Manager, noted that as outlined in the report the rain problem- is the escalation of costs since the original conception of these projects. He said that staff felt that the city had been caught in between one state highway agency and an- other. The original estimate had been for the sum of $85,000 which was included in the 1972-73 CIP. The re:denign came to the city and it was apparent that an additional $45;000 would be required and this was s°ubsequently allocated. Now that the bids are coming in it has become obvious that an additional $15,000 will be needed for the El Camino Real traffic signal inprove;nents project. The first action that Council is requested to take this everting is to appropriate this additional $15,000. MOTION: Councilman Beahrs introduced the following ordinance and moved, seconded by Henderson, its adoption: ORDINANCE NO. 2737 ENTITLED "ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALO ALTO SING THE BUDGET FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 1973-74 TO APPROPRIATE $15,000 FOR "THE EL C_AMINO REAL TIA.FF I C SIGNAL IMPR'7,r'ENENTS" PROTECT" Councilman Norton asked the record to show that while he was in favor of the El Camino and Curtner Avenue traffic signal installation, he was opposed to the traffic signal modification at the El Camino Real and Hansen Way/Portage Avenue intersection, and while he would vote for both of these this evening, he wished to go on record as being in favor of only one. Tom Passeell, 3825 Lewis -Road, spoke in favor of the traffic sival installation and modifications at El Camino Real and Curtner and E1• Camino Real and Hansen/Portage. He said that his experience showed that these traffic signals are very mooch needed by those who use that area. Councilman Henderson expressed concern at the difference between the original and final cost, but said he felt the Council was helpless to do anything in this case other than accept the increase in coat. Corinne Brazier, 264 Fernando Avenue, speaking in behalf of the Olive - West Meadow Residents' Association, noted that the Association's ori- ginal petition to Council was to try to get the traffic out of that area. She commended the Council and the staff for a marvelous job ar:3 said the action that is being taken tonight is a aefet.y measure. She described the dangerous turns presently existing at Curtner and Portage. The ordinance was adopted on a unanimous voice vote. MOTION: Councilman Beahrs moved, seconded by Clay, that Council find that the 'El Camino Real Traffic Signal Improvements' project has no significant environmental impact. The motion passed on a unanimous voice vote. MOTION: Chairwoman Pearson moved, seconded by Henderson, that the Mayor be authorized to execute a contract with R. -Flatland Company, the low bidder, in the amount of $143,326 for the traffic signal work along El Camino Real at the California, Portage, and Curtner inter- sections. The motion passed on a unaniznoi s voice vote. MOTION: Councilman Norton moved, seconded by Henderson, that Council reject all bids received on the "University Avenue —E1 Camino Real Intersection Improvements" project, and rebid the project with a re- vised scope of work to include only the implementation of traffic signali7.atior, and associated roadwork. The motion passed on a unanimous voice vote. Addition of Signs to Cat orical ' `a lons:List,.` vironmenta dt' ci: ediire' MOTION: Councilman Norton moved, seconded by Seaters, take action to revise that section of the categorical under. 'Class 3: New Projects and Egoipesen t" to delete "e. Signs" reading "which are not illuminated and are tame feet above the ground," and to have the effect of exempting all signs from environmental assessment. The motion passed on a ur ni sus voice vote, Meetin of tember 4 Cancelled; li &ei+e . fouler ID WiI� Held ,Om ftesda. that Council exemptions list the words after less than fif= categorically MOTION: Councilman Rosenbaum moved, seconded by Norton, that Council take action to cancel the City Council sleeting of Tuesday, September 4, which is the day following the Labor Gay holiday. The emotion passed on a unanimous voice vote. • 'ION: Councilman Sea►hra moved, seconded by Clay, that the regu- larly _scheduled Council eating of September 10 take place on Tuesday, S e ptember 11, at 7:30 p.m. inasmuch as Monday, September 10, is a holiday for Admission Day, 1 4 3 9/20/73 The motion passed on a unanimous voice vote. Oral communications 1. John Willits, 2185 Waverly Street, Palo Alto, addressed Council and noted that on August 21, 1972, he first brought to their attention the situation existing in the Council Chambers when hers of the public gather in the back area and talk while a Council meeting is in progress. This makes it difficult for mews of the audience to hear the Council meeting. He read a statement outlining his contacts with the City Manager a year and again on August 13, 1973, on this matter. City Manager George Sipel responded to Mr. Willits' remarks and advised Councilthat in his opinion the problem could not be solved by erecting additional signs in the Council Chaffers. He said he did not feel this was sufficiently a problem to go to the length of hiring monitors to sit in the audience during Council meetings and advise certain persons when they might be disturbing others. He said he would speak further with Mr. Willits on this problem in private. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 11:05 p.m. P.'PR0 E): ATTESTS 144 8/20/73 y -- f Vice Mayor