HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Minutes 04/05/197621.7
MINUTES OF MEETING
OF CITY COUNCIL
PETALUMA, CALIFORNIA
APRIL 5, 1
REGULAR MEETING The regular meeting of the City Council of the City
of Petaluma was called to order by Mayor Putnam at
the hour of 7:35 p.m.
ATTENDANCE Present: Councilmen Brunner, Cavanagh, Harberson,
Hilligoss *, Mattei, Perry, and Mayor Putnam.
Absent: None.
*Councilman Hilligoss arrived at 7:40 p.m.
INVOCATION The Reverend G. Roland Bond, Christian Church, gave
the invocation.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES The minutes of March 22, 1976, and March 26, 1976,
were approved as mailed.
CONSENT CALENDAR A motion was made by Councilman Brunner, seconded by
Councilman Perry, to file the ABC application and
approve resolutions for Items #2 through #7, and #9
through #10, on the. Consent Calendar, Item #8 having
been deleted. Motion carried unanimously.
Agenda. Item #1 ABC application for Petaluma Coffee Shop, 931 Peta-
ABC APPLICATION-- luma Boulevard South, for on sale beer and wine 3
PETALUMA COFFEE eating place new license was approved.
SHOP, 931
PETALUMA BLVD. SO.
Agenda Item #2 Resolution #7334 N.C.S. declaring that the weeds
DECLARE WEEDS A growing and the rubbish, refuse and dirt existing
NUISANCE- -CALL FOR upon the streets, parkways, sidewalks and parcels of �
PUBLIC HEARING private property, referred•to and described in this
APRIL 19, 1976 resolution, constitute and are a public nuisance was
RES #7334 NCS adopted by 6 affirmative and 1 absentee votes.
Agenda 'Item #3 Resolution #7335 N.C.S. endorsing AB 121 (Proposition (b 4 F
ENDORSE AB 121 3, the California Safe Drinking Water Bond Law) was
RES #7335 NCS adopted by 6 affirmative and 1 absentee votes.
Agenda Item #4 Resolution #7336 N.C.S. accepting completion of work
ACCEPT COMPLETION— on ' "Well Water Collection Tanks, Stations 1 and 9, 10 1 F
WELL WATER Project WD 1 - 76" was adopted by 6 affirmative and 1
COLLECTION TANKS absentee votes.
PROJECT WD 1 -76
RES #7336 NCS
Agenda Item #5 Resolution #7337 N.C.S. of the City Council of the
AUTHORIZE CITY City of Petaluma authorizing the filing of a claim to C /
MANAGER TO SIGN the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, in accord -
TDA CLAIM ance with the Transportation Development Act of 1971, 33 3
RES #7337 NCS as amended for Article 4 (Transit System) purposes,
fiscal year 1976 -77, was adopted by 6 affirmative and
1 absentee votes.
Agenda Item #6
CALL FOR BIDS- -
TWO SUB - COMPACT
CARS, OCJP GRANT
RES #7338 NCS
Agenda Item #7
CALL FOR BIDS--
TWO 12 -VOLT RADIOS
OCJP GRANT
RES #7339 NCS
Resolution #7338 N.C.S. authorizing the purchase of 6c� 9 �'"
two sub - compact sedans for the Police Department was //
adopted by 6 affirmative and 1 absentee votes.
Resolution #7339 N.C.S. authorizing the purchase of ���
two 2 -way radios for the Police Department was adopted
by 6 affirmative and 1 absentee votes.
2 1 8 April 5, 1976
Agenda Item #9 Resolution #7340 N.C.S. approving specifications and
CALL FOR BIDS -- calling for bids for traffic signal heads and pedes-
r TRAFFIC SIGNALS & trian signals was adopted by-6-affirmative and 1
I� PEDESTRIAN SIGNALS absentee.votes.
RES #7340 NCS
Agenda Item #10 Resolution #7341 N.C.S. authorizing.Mayor to sign a
WATER REFUND Water Main Refund Agreement with Roy C. and Alice
AGREEMENT -- Curtis - Lot No. 2, Gaultney Parcel Map No. 64, was
ROY CURTIS adopted by 6 affirmative and 1 absentee votes.
RES #7341 NCS
Agenda Item #11 Resolution #7342 N.C.S. authorizing the City Manager
AUTHORIZE AGREEMENT to execute a license agreement for the use of the
Ao� FOR FAIRGROUNDS, Fairgrounds facilities was adopted by 6 affirmative
APRIL 16, 1976 and 1 absentee votes.
-RES 97342 NCS
AWARD CONTRACT - -ONE Purchasing Officer C. D. Huffman reviewed the four
�C 2 -TON PAVEMENT'ROLLER bids which had been received and opened on March 31,
RES 97343 NCS 1976, for one vibrating roller for the Street Divi-
sion. A copy of the bid results is on file with the
City Clerk. Recommendation from the Public Works.
Superintendent was to award the contract to the low bidder, Bacon Western
Company located at 1977 Marina Boulevard, San Leandro, California, in the
amount of $5,890.00.
Resolution 97343 N.C.S. awarding the contract for the 2 -ton pavement roller
for the Street Division to Bacon Western Company, San Leandro, California, in
the amount $5,890.00 was introduced by Councilman Harberson, seconded by
Councilman Perry, and approved by 6 affirmative and 1 absentee votes.
AWARD CONTRACT- -TILE Purchasing Officer C. D. Huffman advised the City
FLOORING REPLACEMENT Council two bids had been received for the replace -
EAST - WING, CITY HALL ment of the the flooring in the east wing of City
RES 97344 NCS Hall. One bid was from Conklin Bros. in Santa Rosa,
the other one was from Groepel, Inc. of Rohnert'Park.
The Public Works Superintendent recommended the low
bidder, Conklin Bros., be awarded 'the bid on the
basis of Alternate No. 1, less Alternate No. 3, for a
total bid of $9,324.00.
Resolution #7344 N.C.S. awarding the contract for the purchase of replacement
tile flooring for East Wing Hall to Conklin Bros., 505 "B" Street, Santa
Rosa, California, the amount of ,$9,324.00, was introduced by Councilman.
Perry, seconded Councilman B'runner,.and adopted-by 6 affirmative and 1
negative votes. Councilman Harberson voted "No ".
REPORT TO COUNCIL BY Finance Director John.Scharer introduced Mr.'Comalli
SONOMA COUNTY to the Council and to the audience and stated,.he had
ASSESSOR - ERNEST L. invited Mr., Comalli to address the Council this
COMALLI evening to give a general presentation.on the assess-
ment practices and methods used in Sonoma County.
Mr. Scharer felt it would be an appropriate time to
hear Mr. Comalli's presentation before embarking on
the 1976 -77 fiscal year budget.
Mr. Comalli's topic was "Changing Sonoma County." He clarified his title by
stating change is really taking place in Sonoma County at a rapid pace, but
not in the same fashion in the various sections of the County. Mr.'Comalli
advised the Council as of January 31, 1976, his office had 9,570 to
look at on a maintenance basis and all building permits in Sonoma. County up
until that time totalled $130,000,000. The Assessor's function relates to
picking up the changes and new additions and the reappraisal of existing
properties within acceptable standards set forth by the State Board. The
Assessor's Office has to take inflation into account when assessing pro-
perties, and stated residential property is changing in Petaluma. 'A random
sampling of 900 homes selected for comparison in the City of Petaluma
J
April 5, 1976
REPORT TO COUNCIL
BY SONOMA COUNTY
ASSESSOR - ERNEST L.
COMALLI
(Continued)
indicated the rate of increase in 31 months on one
of the homes, where very little had been done to
improve the property except for painting and minor
landscaping, amounted -to 57% in the resale value.
Mr. Comalli further stated the average increase is
approximately I %+ per month. The Assessor's office
had reviewed 1 -7,000 transactions; however, there
were not•as -many change -overs in Petaluma as in
Santa Rosa.
Mr. Comalli stated land use in the peripheral areas is one of the most
difficult areas to deal with, because they are more or less under joint
powers. There are some smaller areas outside of the city limits of Petaluma
which are decreasing in value. Because of the restrictions imposed by the
Coastal Commission,, the County has lost approximately $5,000,000 base value.
The larger acreages have not been able to sell and no transactions are
taking place. In addition, the vineyards in the County have had a surge for
about four years and increased in value; however, in the last three years
they have leveled off and actually decreased.
The Assessor's Office is charged with placing a value on every property
every year. Physically, it is impossible for the staff to cover the entire
County, or even the City in -one year. He stated assessing is not an exact-
ing science, but a judgment science. Mr. Comalli is hopeful, however, to
cover the residential properties over a three -year cycle. With values
changing at the rate of 1% per month, it is not feasible to allow assess-
ments to go over two years, as they would be unacceptable to the State Board
of Equalization.
The Assessor's Office has now turned to a computer- assisted program to
provide assessors a tool with which to work. Not every property is entered
into the computer system; however, in most cities in the County, the input
is approximately 70 %. By using the computer system, Mr. stated
practically all of the .residential units in East Petaluma were completed in
1975 -76. About 1,200 were done in 1974 -76, and the remainder in 1975 -76.
In this fiscal year, 1976 -77, all property east of the river to the freeway
will be completed. This will include commercial, industrial and residential.
In addition, residential units north of .Western Avenue will be completed.
Mr. Comalli stated he is hopeful the area south of Western Avenue will be
completed in the following fiscal year. After all of the units have been
stored in the data processing center, hopefully all units can be reassessed
in one year. Their goal is to be able to use the data bank on a more
regular basis and in a more consistent manner.
Mr. Comalli then reviewed several graphs he had placed on the wall; one
showed the consumer price index for the Bay Area for the years 1971 through
1975. The second graph depicted the City's property tax rate from 1971
through 1975— These rates ranged as follows: $1.81, $1.89, $1.87, $1.82
and the final one, $1.59. The other .graph depicted the City's revenue from
property taxes. Mr. Comalli stated the taxes increased from $1,117,162.00
in 1971 to $1,461,551.00 in 1975, with some increases ranging from 15 to 3.2
percent. The assessment role increased over the years from $57.8 million
dollars to $92.2 million dollars, with the largest increase, 17 percent,
being realized in the last year. In accounting for the large increase in
the last year, Mr. Comalli stated it was due to the change in the personal
property where the Assessor's Office did not find any shortages in inven-
tory.. ,He then spoke briefly about shifting taxes for use in urban renewal
projects and suggested the Council very carefully control the shift of taxes
for such uses.
Mr.. Comalli then invited questions from the Council regarding assessment
practices and procedures. Councilman Brunner referred to Mr. Comalli's
remark regarding the decrease in the assessed value of land on the fringe
area in the western sector of the community and wondered if there had been a
substantial decrease in land values of the subdivision properties
on the eastern side of the community. Mr. Comalli answered by stating there
had been a few parcels which had sold f'or less;- however, the number was very
limited. He did see a trend toward the agricultural use-of these properties
becoming more evident in the transactions,. There has not been a decrease in
the large acreage, but the areas near the City limits have experienced some
downfall in prices.
220 / April 5, 1976
REPORT TO COUNCIL Councilman Mattei questioned whether all communities
BY SON.OMA,COUNTY in the County were being equally entered into the
ASSESSOR - ERNEST L. computer.services, and Mr. Comalli responded by
COMALLI stating it would be difficult to put some of the
(Continued) rural and commercial uses on the computers because
they were so varied. All areas which are similar
will be computerized, thus giving the Assessors more
time to devote to these unusual circumstances. In the case of the City of
Santa.Rosa, the Assessor's Office is somewhat behind and the computerization
will probably go into the fourth_ year, rather than the three year schedule-
they had anticipated.
In answer to Councilman Cavanagh's question whether or not Petaluma was
being given first priority on reevaluation of assessments, Mr. Comalli
indicated the City of Rohnert Park had been completely reassessed in the.
last year, and the year before.that Cotati had been completed.
City Manager Robert Meyer questioned why, if some-of. the areas had not been.
reevaluated, the owners had received increases in taxes of approximately 10%
one year and 15% the following year over the past two years. Mr. Comalli
stated the procedure is to.use some interim measures in order to keep -pace
with the market values. They use a sales ratio analysis of all transactions
in a certain area to apply in order to stay within the 15% tolerance which
the State.Board permits. Mr. Meyer then.asked the question regarding the
reassessments in the downtown area. It was.his understanding this had not
been done because.of the lack of sales in the commercial.area._ Mr. Comalli
stated the downtown area-had been reassessed,, using some of the procedures
mentioned, during the past year. During the present year, reappraisal.on
Washington Street in the commercial area is taking place, and the core area
will be reappraised during the 1977 -78 year.
Mayor Putnam asked Mr. Comalli. the types of things an appraiser might take:
into account when looking at an individual home. Mr. Comalli responded•by
stating they look first at zoning, what can the owner do with the property,
what are the purposes of purchase, and the condition of the house. They
also observe what would be needed to bring the home up to.market the value.
of other homes in the area, such.as replacing a roof, painting -- things of
this nature. Mayor Putnam then stated in general it would be safe to assume
citizens could expect the trend to continue upward, and Mr. Comalli re-
sponded by stating single- family residences are rising in price faster than
they ever have for two reasons; fewer units are being built., and there is a
greater demand for single - family residences. He does not. anticipate com-
mercial values changing as rapidly. In the rural areas, buyers are being
very cautious and there are fewer transactions.
The question was then asked of Mr. Comalli whether the communities in the
northern part of the County-reflected a lower assessed valuation.than in
Petaluma. Mr. Comalli responded by stating this was true in.the Cloverdale
and Healdsbrug areas, and, he also stated homes built by the same .developer
in Santa Rosa and Petaluma would.show a higher market value in Petaluma of
about $1,000.to $1,500 more.
At the conclusion of the discussion, Mayor Putnam thanked Mr. Comalli for
his presentation to the City Council.
DOWNTOWN MERCHANTS A letter dated March 22, 1976, addressed to the City
\ ASSOCIATION PURCHASE Clerk and the City Council from Mr. F. K. Schram,
OF PARKING METER TIME Manager of the Petaluma Area Chamber of Commerce,
RES #7345 NCS was read by the Clerk and ordered filed.
The Chamber was - requesting, on behalf of the Downtown Merchants' Associa-
tion, permission to purchase the parking meter fees for April 9, 1976 to
assist the Downtown Merchants' Association in promoting their Pre - Easter
Sale on April 9th and ;10th.
Resolution #7345 N.C.S. consenting to purchase of the parking meter fees on
Friday, April 9, 1976, by the Downtown Merchants' Association was introduced
by Councilman Harberson, seconded by Councilman Perry, and approved by 7
affirmative votes.
1
1
1
April 5, 1976
22 1
CHANGE -OF LANDSCAPE Letters dated March 19, 1976 to the City Manager
SUBCONTRACTOR-- from Lieb and Quaresma, signed by Richard S. Lieb, 6JI F
PETALUMA LIBRARY from Ralph E. . Palmberg, Inc. to the City Council,
PROJECT dated March 13, 1976;, and from B & K Landscaping
RES #7346 NCS add- res'sed to Ralph Palmberg, Inc. dated February 25,
1976 were submitted and filed. The letter from B &
K Landscaping was read by the City Clerk.
Mr. Richard S. Lieb spoke to the Council stating he had investigated the
request by B & K Landscaping to withdraw from the contract they had entered
into with Ralph Palmberg, Inc. to landscape the Petaluma Public Library.
Mr. Lieb stated the landscaping firm was not willing to adhere to the
specifications as written and on which they had based their bid, and the
contractor, Ralph Palmberg, had asked the firm to withdraw their contract.
It is the intention of Mr. Palmberg to award the contract to Wally Leiser of
Santa Rosa. City Attorney Matthew Hudson advised the Council the matter
before them was to consent to the change of contractor based on Mr. Palmberg`s
request. There would be no liability to the City.
Councilman Hilligoss questioned Mr. Lieb whether or not the requested 12%
increase had been written into the contract with.B & K Landscaping. Mr.
Lieb responded by stating the bid was for the job and there was no escal-
ation clause written into the contract. The award of the bid was for
completion within 400 days and there could, be no way the landscaping could
have been completed by the.end of 1975.
Upon conclusion of the discussion, Resolution #7346 N.C.S. consenting to
change of contractor for landscaping services for the new Petaluma Public
Library Project,, was introduced by Councilman Harberson, seconded by Coun-
cilman Hilligoss, and adopted by 7 affirmative votes.
After the adoption of the above resolution, there was some further dis-
cussion held regarding the landscaping on the Library project relating to
the water rationing program to be mandated by the City of Petaluma. Mr.
Lieb has discussed the matter with the contractor and he feels the odd -even
watering situation would suffice for the new landscaping. The landscaping
could be delayed;' however,..it would constitute an increase in the cost and
could not be accomplished until after the,contract'had' been completed. Mr.
Lieb further stated it possibly could constitute a change order to the
contract. Vice -Mayor Mat:tei remarked he felt.the.City would be placed in a
very awkward position if they proceeded with the landscaping project in view
of the anticipated water shortage over the summer months. City Manager
Robert Meyer responded by stating they had studied the problem and have
tried to treat this project the same as other contracts which were awarded
before the adoption of the ordinance. If the City were just going out to
bid.on the project, landscaping-would not, one of the requirements of the
contract. There was some further discussion regarding the building replacing
an area formerly used as the Little League ball park which required a great
deal more water to maintain than would be necessary for the landscaping of
the library property'. Mr. .Lieb also stated the library building itself will
use less water than would have been used to maintain the lawn area and
infield areas of the Little League park. Mayor Putnam asked Mr. Lieb to
explore the possibilities and study the cost for delaying the project and,
give the Council a report on whether or not the landscaping could be sus-
tained with a minimum amount of wa -ter.
LETTER OF A letter dated March 25, 1976, directed to the
APPRECIATION.FROM Petaluma City Council, by.Virginia Jonk, Secretary 3T�F
GOLDEN AGE CLUB of the Golden Age Club, expressing their appre-
ciation to the Council for establishing a $.10 fare
on the City buses for senior.citizens was read by
the City Clerk and ordered filed.
REQUEST FOR.BUS A letter dated March 24, 1976, forwarded to the
SERVICE -- LEISURE Petaluma City Council, by Mr.. Herbert L. Small, a
LAKE MOBILE HOME PARK resident,of the Leisure Lake Mobile Home Park was
ordered filed. Mayor Putnam discussed the main
topics of the letter with the City Council, and advised the Council Mr.
Small had contacted the City Clerk and was unable to be in attendance at the
meeting this evening._
222
�F
60
o (
1e. CAI
April 5, 1976
REQUEST.FOR BUS
SERVICE -- LEISURE
LAKE MOBILE
HOME PARK
(Continued)
incorporated into
Mobile Home Park.
Small's letter. - -.
A brief discussion was held on the matter- and it was
determined to continue with the 90 -day trial period
for the routes to determine whether or not it would
be possible to service this area at some future
time. Finance Director John Scharer stated the
Committee had looked at this area and there could be
a possibility at some future time for service to be
Alternate "B" Plan to provide service to Leisure Lake
The City Clerk was then directed to respond to Mr.
RESIGNATION - -J. E;.
A letter
directed
to Mayor Putnam from.Mr. J. E.
SWALLOW - -BOARD OF
Swallow;
who had
served as a
member of the.Petaluma
BUILDING REVIEW
Board of
Building
Review and
Board,of Appeals, was.
RES #7347 NCS
read by
the City
Clerk. Mr.
Swallow indicated he
was resigning
from the Board
as of March 25, 1976.
Resolution #7347 N.C.S. accepting the resignation of J. E. (Ezra.) Swallow
from the Board of Building Review was introduced by Councilman Perry,
seconded by Councilman Mattei,.and approved by 7 affirmative votes.
In light.of Mr. : Swallow's resignation, .Mayor :Putnam asked to -have sugges -'
tions for•Mr. Swa'llow's replacement ,submitted to her for a possible appoint-
ment. The City Clerk was to write a letter to Mr. Swallow advising
him the Council had accepted his resignation.
CLAIMS & B'ILLS Resolution #7348 N.C.S. approving claims and bills
RES #7348 NCS #7403 to. #7666, inclusive, General City; and, 4434
to #478, inclusive, approved by 7 affirmative votes.
SET HEARING-DATE Resolution #7349 N.C.S., setting a hearing date
RESCIND HOUSING April 19, - 1976,, at-7:30 p.m., for the purpose of
ALLOTMENTS considering the rescinding of certain housing
RES #7349 NCS allotments pursuant to Section VI -B of the Resi-
dential Development Control System, was int- roduced
by Councilman Perry, seconded by Councilman Harber-
son,.and adopted by 7 affirmative votes.
LEGISLATION AFFECTING City Attorney Matthew Hudson reviewed bills which
CITIES would be considered by the:Legislature at some
future date, and which the League of California
Cities recommended opposition. One was 'SB 164.4,
which would impose Statewide public officers'-pension standards, where
police officers would retire at the age of .50 with 20 years' service. Mr.
Hudson advised the Council no hearing date has been set for this bill.
The second bill discussed by Mr. Hudson was AB 3134 (Warnum), which would
require State licensing for construction inspectors. Mr. Hudson advised
this could include and effect City.employees. The League of California
Cities is opposed to the proposed legislation, The City Attorney advised
the Council he would like to have additional time to research the bill
before recommending any action.
AB 3269 Mr. Hudson advised the Council the League :of Cali
AGENCY SHOPS fornia Cities recommends opposition to this bill
IN CITIES which would require employees., who are in a classi-
RES #7350 NCS fication represented by a union,:either join the
union or pay a service fee to the union. At the
present time, this.is not a permitted agreement,T
If it became law a change would be needed to the Meyers - Milias -Brown Act.
Mr. Hudson stated there would be time -for the Council to give further consi-
deration, as the hearing was not scheduled until May 13th; however, City
Manager Robert Meyer asked the Council if they would goon record opposing
this bill..
At the conclusion of the discussion, Resolution #7350 N.C.S. opposing AB
3269 was introduced by Councilman Perry, seconded by Councilman Hilligoss,
and adopted by 7 affirmative votes.
z23
April 5, 1976
AB 3041
TAXING POWER
FROM BASSA TO
City Attorney Matthew Hudson explained this bill
would give ABAG taxing power and make it ex-
officio and executive board' of BASSA. Vice -Mayor
Mattei stated` he.,was under the impression the bill
would entirely eliminate the Bay Area Sewer Services
Agency, and transfer the responsibilities of the
Agency to the Association of Bay Area Governments.
Mr. Hudson advised BASSA would still remain as an
agency, but the Association of Bay Area Governments
would have control.
G64F
ABAG
RES #7351'NCS
Councilman Cavanagh, who represents the City on both the Executive Board of
the Association of Bay Area Governments, and the Executive Board of BASSA,
advised the Council when the matter came before the two Boards, he had voted
"No" on the bill. Councilman Brunner stated he had requested the resolution
opposing AB 3041 and read an editorial which had been published in the San
Rafael Independent Journal. Mr. Brunner stated he felt.this was another
ploy to institute regional government in the nine Bay Area counties.
After some deliberation, Resolution #7351 N.C.S. opposing AB 3041 was
introduced by Councilman Perry, seconded by Councilman Brunner, and adopted
by 7 affirmative votes.
EAST WASHINGTON CREEK
LINEAR PARKWAY
PHASE I
RES 47352 NCS
Recreation Director Jim Raymond reviewed his memoran-
dum'dated March 30, 1976 to the City Manager re- 657F
garding the East Washington Creek Linear Parkway.
In addition, a cost estimate for Phase I of the
project was submitted by.Public Works Superintendent
Roy Kelly; both documents are filed with the City
Clerk.
CALL FOR BIDS - -WATER City Engineer David Young stated when the City first
MAIN IMPROVEMENTS, purchased the water system from the California Water 8 5
WEST PETALUMA Company in 1959, it embarked on a.two -phase program
PROJECT WD 1 -73 of improving the existing system; Phase One included
RES X67353 NCS reservoirs, main transmission lines and pumping
stations in order to provide the necessary fire
storage and distribution of water throughout the
entire community. The second phase was to rehabilitate the older westside
distribution system, particularly in order to provide better fire flows. He
then outlined the projects to be undertaken. (1) Construction of a 12 -inch
main from the intersection of Fifth and "I ",Streets, along Fifth Street,
which then becomes Keller Street, to Washington Street. This would complete
the grid system for connecting the aqueduct. The second major improvement
would be the connection of the two extremities of Pressure Zone 2. This
zone is serviced by the Paula Lane and the Mountain View Tank, and the idea
is to have the capability of either of these tanks feeding the system in
case of fire demand.
The third project to be undertaken is on Lakeville Street, where a proposed
8 -inch main from Washington Street to Madison Street will complete the grid
system. This Vill provide f re'flow capabilities to service the entire
area. Mr. Young also stated is a small section on Petaluma Boulevard
Mr. Raymond advised the Council the proposal was to construct the asphalt
pathway - and fencing along the linear parkway from
McGregor Avenue to East
Washington Street. There would be no landscaping
done in Phase I.
A brief discussion was held regarding the project.
Mayor Putnam asked
whether the area was still being used extensively
as a walkway. Councilman
Harberson indicated the addition of the fencing in the area would add to the
safety.
At the conclusion of the discussion, Resolution X67352 N.C.S. authorizing
City staff to prepare specifications and call for
bids for Phase I con-
struction of East Washington Creek Linear Parkway
was introduced by Coun-
cilman Harberson, seconded by Councilman Brunner,
and approved by 5 affir-
mative, and 2 negative votes. Councilman Brunner
and Councilman Perry voted
11 no "
CALL FOR BIDS - -WATER City Engineer David Young stated when the City first
MAIN IMPROVEMENTS, purchased the water system from the California Water 8 5
WEST PETALUMA Company in 1959, it embarked on a.two -phase program
PROJECT WD 1 -73 of improving the existing system; Phase One included
RES X67353 NCS reservoirs, main transmission lines and pumping
stations in order to provide the necessary fire
storage and distribution of water throughout the
entire community. The second phase was to rehabilitate the older westside
distribution system, particularly in order to provide better fire flows. He
then outlined the projects to be undertaken. (1) Construction of a 12 -inch
main from the intersection of Fifth and "I ",Streets, along Fifth Street,
which then becomes Keller Street, to Washington Street. This would complete
the grid system for connecting the aqueduct. The second major improvement
would be the connection of the two extremities of Pressure Zone 2. This
zone is serviced by the Paula Lane and the Mountain View Tank, and the idea
is to have the capability of either of these tanks feeding the system in
case of fire demand.
The third project to be undertaken is on Lakeville Street, where a proposed
8 -inch main from Washington Street to Madison Street will complete the grid
system. This Vill provide f re'flow capabilities to service the entire
area. Mr. Young also stated is a small section on Petaluma Boulevard
22 4 April 5 -,. 1976
SUPPORT REIMPLEMEN- Police Chief Larry Higgins gave a report to the
TATION OF COUNTY Council regarding the Narcotics Enforcement Unit
�-� NARCOTIC ENFORCEMENT which had.been in effect in the County.under a
UNITS Federal Grant Program for a period of one year.
RES #7354 NCS
At the conclusion of the Federally funded program,
the Board.of. Supervisors determined not to continue
funding the program. Under Federally funded program, 10 people had_been
hired to deal primarily with the narcotics program, not only in the unin-
corpora -ted areas of the County, but in the cities as well. Chief Higgins
indicated 'the problem still, exists and after his presentation to the Mayors
and Councilmens Association last.November, Sheriff Striepke met with the
Police Chiefs of the County and ; proposed the implementation of a program
wherein a 1O.-man squad would be formed with each participating city sharing
in the cost. This proposal was unacceptable to the Police Chiefs. The
Sheriff then revised the proposal and indicated it was a problem which
should be borne by the County and wanted to know if the Chiefs would support
such a program if the County would provide the funds and a 10 -man squad.
The complexities of the problem demand specialists in the field to affect
this type of enforcement. Chief ,Hig -gins reported the Sheriff has asked each
city to pass a resolution indicating their support of this type of program.
CALL FOR BIDS- -WATER South where the Water Superintendent has -had a great
MAIN IMPROVEMENTS, deal'of difficulty maintaining over the past years.
WEST P-ETALUMA It is a 2 -inch service which is proposed to be
PROJECT WD 1 -73 replaced with a 4 -inch main. Another trouble area
RES #7353 NCS to be corrected is Hill Boulevard by replacing a 2-
(Continued) inch line with a 6 -inch main. In addition, Mr.
Young stated,all the deteriorating galvanized iron
water services which connect homes to the system
would be replaced. All of this is to be done under Schedule I of the
contract, at'an estimated cost of $473-,000.. Addendum No. 1 or Schedule 2 of
the project would provide for the replacement of all of the galvanized iron
water services throughout West Petaluma. This item is set up as an'addendum
to the contract, thus giving the Council the option of accepting bids on the
addendum or having City personnel accomplish the work. The estimate for
this phase of the project is $268,000.00, and the two schedules would come
td approximately $741,715.00.
Mr. Young was of the opinion with a contract of this size the Council
should receive some competitive bidding; however, the option to award
Schedule 2 would be up to the City Council if they felt it was more eco-
nomical to award it by contract or to use City forces over a longer period
of time.
The City Engineer then asked Frank Gray, the Community Development and
Services Coordinator to report on the environmental impact qualifications.
Mr. Gray stated he.had researched the matter and found a section under the
California Environmental Quality Act which would categorically exempt 'the
project from the requirements of an environmental impact report.
Mr. Young stated there is a critical time element.connected with the award
of the bid. 150 calendar days are requested'in order for the project to be
completed somewhere around October 15th. This would insure the streets
would not be torn up during the holiday season.
At the conclusion of the discussion, Resolution #7353 N.C.S. approving plans
and specifications and calling for bids on Water Main Improvements with
Addendum No. 1, West Petaluma, Project WD 1-73, was introduced by .Councilman
Cavanagh, seconded by Councilman Perry, aind" approved by 7 affirmative.votes.
Copies of the specifications and plans for the projects are on file with the
City Clerk.
Councilman Brunner asked Chief Higgins if the Chief's Association failed to
support the concept of using a man from each department because of budgetary
problems. Chief Higgins replied the only reason it failed to gain the
support of the Association was because of the requirement for financial
participation by the cities. The Chiefs' Association endorsed the
of the program and felt if the squad was made up of officers from various
agencies, it would be necessary to have a governing board consisting of
possibly the Sheriff, one police chief, a city manager and the district
attorney to supervise the squad. Under the organization the Sheriff is
proposing he will probably be the sole supervisor of the 10 -man squad be-
cause they would be working directly for the Sheriff.
April 5, 1976
SUPPORT RE'IMP.LEMEN- The matter-of-the cost of the additional manpower
TATION OF COUNTY was then discussed. Chief Higgins indicated the
NARCOTIC ENFORCEMENT cost would probably be considerable, as it would
UNITS mean adding six additional men to the four -man squad
RES 47354 NCS presently working on narcotics. City Manager Robert
(Continued) Meyer- also reminded the Council this resolution
would be sent . to the Board of Supervisors asking
them to add the additional manpower, and the Board
would probably ask the City to contribute some funds toward the squad.
Councilman Brunner then asked if Petaluma contributed one man to the nar-
cotics squad would this not, in fact, help to decrease the number of bur-
glaries in the City. Chief Higgins replied any time an agency is able to
decrease the of narcotics, the other crimes decrease at the same time.
City. :Manager Robert Meyer stated the City of Petaluma was the only city in y
the Count which had fewer.burglaries in 1975 than in 1974. He felt some
money should be going.into this type of enforcement; however, he felt
certain when the Board of Supervisors receives the resolution, they will ask
the cities for a contribution toward the program.
At the conclusion of the discussion, Resolution 47354 N.C.S. supporting
reimplementation of a County Narcotic Enforcement Unit was introduced by
Councilman Perry, seconded by Councilman Brunner, and adopted by 7 affir-
mative votes.
APPEAL- -LARRY PARKS Community Development and Services Coordinator Frank
DENIAL OF SIGN Gray outlined the circumstances regarding the appeal
VARIANCE, 829 EAST to' the decision of the Planning Commission wherein
WASHINGTON STREET they denied a variance to allow a free - standing sign
RES 47355 NCS at the property located at 829 East Washington
Street. Mr. Gray reported the applicant, Larry
Parks, is converting an older home to be used as a
real estate office, directly adjacent to the Jack -in- the -Box Restaurant.
The applicant had submitted plans for a 14 -foot 6 -inch free - -standing sign,
with approximate dimensions of 4' x 5' to be placed next to the sidewalk.
Mr. Gray stated the ordinance permits one free - standing sign not to: exceed
the height of the building; however, there is a 30 -foot setback requirement.
The applicant's proposed place of business is only 17 feet back from the
street right -of -way. It was his opinion, and that of the Planning-Com-
mission, a sign attached to the building would give adequate advertising for
the business. The Planning Commission denied the variance, and the appli-
cant has appealed the matter to the City Council.
City Attorney Matthew Hudson outlined the conditions necessary for granting
a variance as contained in Zoning Ordinance Sections 26- 303.1, 26- 303.2; 26-
303.3 and 26- 303.4. He advised the Council these would be the rules they
would have to apply in the matter before them.
The appellant, Larry Parks, addressed the Council in support-of his appeal.
He felt if the request had been made at some other time, he would have been
granted a variance. However, since the City was in the process of enforcing
the sign ordinance, he felt the Planning Commission..was overly cautious and
influenced by the recent enforcement proceedings.
After two motions to table the matter and forward on to the City Council
were made, one was withdrawn and the other died for lack of a second. The
third vote on the variance was denied by a three to two vote. Mr. Parks
felt if only the question on his variance had been addressed, without the
influence of upholding the sign ordinance, a variance would have been
granted.. He further stated although his property is 17 feet back from the
property line, .it is actually 29 feet away from the curb. Mr. Parks ex-
plained his property is somewhat unique on East Washington Street where he
is screened from both sides effectively. Approaching from the west, the
building,is not visible until you -are directly..in front of it. From the
east., the building is screened by the large row of trees and by the Jack -in-
the -Box building on the corner. Mr. Parks stated the situation does not
exist.on other properties along East Washington Street and other properties
in the area. He is attempting to convert an older building and retain the
flavor and pleasing appearance, and he does not feel a sign attached to the
building would be suitable, as it would detract from the building itself.
Another .problem Mr. Parks cited was the fact that .traffic travelling on East
Washington Street goes at a faster pace than in the downtown area, where
some of the signs are attached to the buildings.
22 5
574F
22 6 April 5, 1976
APPEAL- -LARRY PARKS In the following discussion, Vice -Mayor Mattei
DENIAL OF SIGN indicated he felt any person in business had to
VARIANCE, 829 EAST have some type of identification; however, grant -
WASHINGTON STREET ing permission for a free - standing sign in the
RES #7355 NCS area could cause a chain - reaction and he the
(Continued) Council should have some type of control. He had
no objection, per`se, to the free- standing sign;
however, he did a sign 14 -foot high should
be farther back from the property line than one
foot.
Community Development and Services Coordinator Frank Gray advised the Council
the height of the sign is within the limits of the ordinance'; however, the
problem still remains it is a'free - standing sign where it would not be
permitted because of the setback. It was the feeling of -the Commission and,
the Community Development and•Services Coordinator that adequate signing
could be-accomplished by attaching a sign to the building. Mr. Parks then
advised the Council he had changed his views regarding the type of sign to
be placed in front of the building. It is not his intention to have a
plastic faced sign, lighted from within. He is now of the opnion.he would
prefer to have a sign designed which would be more in keeping with the decor
and age of the building.
Mayor Putnam asked Reverend Roland Bond, a member of the Planning Commis-
sion, if he wished to make any comment regarding the matter. Reverend Bond
indicated at the Planning Commission level'he had voted "no" on the variance;
however, he was in sympathy with Mr. Parks and so stated at the Planning
Commission meeting. However, he felt, as a member of the Planning Commis-
sion, it was the duty of the Commission to uphold the Sign` Ordinance. The
-Commission wanted to be fair in administrating the Sign Ordinance, and the
sign in question does not conform to the requirements of the ordi"nance..
Mr. Bond the Council at what point in time do you start upholding
the Sign Ordinance and discontinue granting variances. Mr: Bond further
stated he felt the Planning Commission should receive some instruction from
the Council as to their intent regarding a strong administration of the Sign
Ordinance.
Some discusssion was then held regarding the Sign Ordinance which had been
adopted three years ago, and which was now being enforced: Community
Development and .Services Coordinator Frank Gray explained'to the-Council
letters had been sent to property owners who had nonconforming signs, giving
them a 90 -day period in which to'bring their signs into compliance.with the
ordinance. Various sectors of the City were being inventoried and notices
are being sent to the property owners.
Councilman Brunner stated in relation to the issue at hand, he felt the sign
proposed by Mr. Parks was relatively inoffensive compared to other signs
along East Washington Street. Mr. Gray also stated the proposal for any new
construction along Washington Street would need to meet the requirements of
the Sign Ordinance. He also stated with the widening of East Wasington
Street along this section, there may be a possibility some of the signs
would have to be moved, and although he had not checked with the legal
counsel on it, these signs may have to conform with the Sign Ordinance. - Mr.
Gray further stated all signs along East Washington Street from Petaluma
Boulevard to the Freeway are being photographed in order for the Planning
Department to have a record of the existing signs.
In speaking about trees along the thoroughfare, City Manager Robert Meyer
reminded the Council the E.I.R. which had been prepared for the East Wash-
ington Street Widening Project suggested trees be planted along the roadway
in order to eliminate some of the noise problems.
At the conclusion of the discussion, Resolution #7355 N.C.S. granting
variance for free - standing sign for property located at 829 East Washington
Street, subject to site design review, was introduced by Councilman Mattei,
seconded by Councilman Perry, and approved by 6 affirmative, and l negative
votes. Councilman Harberson voted "no" Mr. Parks indicated he would be
happy to sit down with the Planning staff or the Site Design Review Com-
mittee to determine if a compromise could be worked out.
April 5, 1976
APPEAL- -LARRY PARKS City Attorney Matthew Hudson advised the matter
DENIAL OF SIGN should go through the normal site design review
VARIANCE,? ;$29 EAST process, i.e.,,to the Planning staff, the Site
WASHINGTON STREET Design Review Committee.; and the Planning Commis -
RES #735.5 NCS sion. He also advised the Council he would incor-
(Continued) porate the findings of facts into the resolution.
Councilman Harberson clarified his "no" vote by
stating he did not feel the fourth criteria had been
met.
227
DENY OUTSIDE SEWER Community Development and Services Coordinator Frank
CONNECTION - -ACE Gray outlined the subject property and stated the Ol
MARCELLUS application for an outside sewer had been
RES #7356 NCS filed with the City but was delayed because of the
Bodega Avenue Area Study. ..The property in question
is immediately adjacent to the Petaluma City limits
and has one water connection at the present time. The sewer main ends in
the approximate vicinity of Paula Lane, which is adjacent to the Marcellus
property located at 986 Bodega Avenue.. Mr. Gray stated since the original
application had been filed the applicant, Mr. Marcellus, has filed an appli-
cation with the County to resplit the area into four 2 -acre lots, with a
1,080 foot long cul -de -sac to serve the four parcels.
In addition, the application states all of the lots will be served by septic
tanks and wells. Assuming the original application with the City is still
valid, the recommendation of the staff would'be to grant the sewer service,
but require annexation to conform with the City's policy. However, if the
area was to be annexed to the City, then a request for outside sewer would
not be required..
Mr. Ace Marcellus advised the Council-he had filed the latest application
for a lot split in this manner because it was not economically feasible for
him to conform to City standards for curbs, gutters and sidewalks, as had
been required on the previous application. He was of the opinion that since
the property he is applying for an outside sewer connection is within 200
feet of the sewer line, it wouldn't be necessary to have it extended.
Community Development and Services Coordinator Frank Gray spoke regarding .
the lot split stating, irregardless of the.outside sewer connection, this.
lot split would create one of the problems which had been anticipated and
which prompted the Bodega Avenue Study Plan. The split for the four parcels
involved a lot which is 1,400 feet in depth, to be.served by a cul -de -sac,
which would be 1,080 feet in length. The City standards for cul -de -sacs is
a maximum of 400 feet. The area in question is an area which is designated
for annexation to the City of Petaluma. Mr. Gray advised the Council the
matter would be taken Planning Commission the following evening-and
the staff's recommendation would be to note these problems for, the County's
review.
At the conclusion of the discussion, Resolution #7356. N.C.S. denying appli-
cation of Ace Marcellus for one outside residential sewer connection at
premises located at 986 Bodega Avenue was introduced by Councilman Brunner,
seconded by Councilman Harberson, and approved by 7 affirmative votes.
DESIGNATE SONOMA Community Development and Services Coordinator Frank
WATER AGENCY AS Gray explained to the Council the Federal Govern- � I OF
LEAD AGENCY -- ment, through the Environmental Protection Agency, V
ENVIRONMENTAL has declared each region,in the country will have to
MANAGEMENT PROGRAM have comprehensive plans drawn up with regard to
RES #7357 NCS environmental management in order to receive Federal
funds. The Federal Government has allocated funds
to do the regional planning study, more commonly
known as "Section 208 ". In the San Francisco Bay Area, the Association of
Bay Area Governments is recognized_ as the Federal-'Clearinghouse and the A -95
Review Agency for the disbursement of .Federal for sewer and water
projects. They have been given the task of preparing a.plan,for water
quality, solid and liquid waste control, and air quality. Sonoma County
already has an Air Quality Management Program, as well.as a Wastewater
Management Program. The primary need now is a report for surface water
runoff, which would not only include street drainage, but waste materials
from agricultural uses. The City of Petaluma looks-to the Sonoma County
Water Agency for control of water runoff through the Zone 2A Advisory Committee.
The staff is recommending the Sonoma County Water Agency be designated as
the lead agency in this program.
2 28 April 5, 1976
WATER AGENCY•AS
LEAD AGENCY- -
ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
RES #7357 NCS
(Continued)
DESIGNATE SONOMA
APPEAL BY
DR. LAWRENCE JO_NAS
TO CERTAIN
CONDITIONS- -JONAS
PARCEL MAP
(CONTINUED. FROM
3/22/76 MEETING)
RES #7358 NCS
RES #7359 NCS
Upon conclusion of Mr. Gray's explanation, Resolu-
tion #7357 N.C.S: of intent to participate in the
San Francisco Bay Area Environment Management
Program and recommending designation of'the Sonoma
County Water Agency as the City of Petaluma'�s
representative therefor;. and as the lead agency,
was introduced by Councilman Brunner,. seconded by
Councilman Perry, and adopted by 7 affirmative
votes.
At.the March 22, 1976 meeting, Mayor Putnam had
asked the City Attorney to determine whether or not
the City Council could legally waive the requirement
for a fire hydrant to serve Dr. Jonas' proposed
development. Mr. Hudson advised the Council they
could waive the requirement; however, there would be
consequences which could affect insurance ratings
and premiums for all taxpayers within the City of
Petaluma. The City does not have a legal respon-
sibility to conform to the rules and-regulations of
I.S.O. However, by not conforming to their stand-
ards, deficiency points could be assessed, which
would affect the entire City.
Mayor Putnam asked Dr. Jonas whether he had any new information he wished to
give to the City Council. Dr. Jonas referred to Condition No. 4 contained
in Planning Commission Resolution No. 5 -76, which deals with the fire hy-
drant placement and the gallon per minute flow. Dr. Jonas stated he had
asked his engineer, Burton Engineers, to calculate how far down Halsey
Avenue he would have to go to place an additional fire hydrant in order to
be able to service the two lots on the front of the property closest to-
Halsey Avenue with 500 GPM, and still be within 400 feet of the fire hy-
drant. Dr. Jonas stated Burton Engineers had submitted the proposal to the
City's Engineering Division.
City Engineer David Young reaffirmed his position on servicing the area with
a fire hydrant and advised the Council the best solution would be to loop
the water main. Fire Chief Joe Ellwood also stated regardless of where a
hydrant was placed on Halsey Avenue, it would still be necessary to use the
reverse method for fire protection to the Jonas Parcel Map. Chief Ellwood
also stated if the City permitted Dr. Jonas to build on this property and
not require the additional fire hydrant which would be serviced by an
adequate.water system, deficiency points would be`ncreased. Just by adding
a fire hydrant somewhere along Halsey Avenue would not correct the situation
but would, in fact, create the possibility of additional deficiencies.
Vice -Mayor Mattei. asked to have the matter of the cost for the placement of
the fire hydrant and the looped water main system clarified. Dr. Jonas
advised Mr. Mattei he had received an estimate from Soiland Company indi-
cating it would cost $10,000 for the hydrant and the loop system,. 'The
hydrant in itself would cost between $2,000 and $2,500, and-he was willing
to bear the cost for the hydrant. Dr. Jonas felt that since the definition
of on -site and off -site improvements had not been clearly defined., he was of
the opinion the City should share in the cost for looping the water main.
Vice -Mayor Mattei was of the opinion as Dr. Jonas sold the additional
properties in the area, the cost for the water main extension could be part
of the sale price for the acreage.
The matter of the cul -de -sac was then discussed, and Dr. Jonas still pre -
ferred the hammerhead type cul -de -sac, rather than the cirle type cul -de -sac
as required by the City. Both Mr. Gray and Chief Ellwood indicated the
hammerhead cul -de -sac would require fire engines to back up at a 90 degree
angle in order to turn around at the cul -de -sac.
At the conclusion of the discussion and the deliberation, a motion was made
by Councilman Harberson, seconded by Councilman Brunner, to uphold Items #1,
#3, X64 and #6 of the conditions of approval contained in Planning Commission
Resolution 5 -76. Motion carried unanimously. Confirmed by Resolution 47358
N.C.S.
1
220
April 5, 1976
APPEAL BY DR. Councilman Harberson then introduced a motion to
LAWRENCE JONAS override the Planning Commission's recommendation #5
TO in their reso.lut on No. 5 -76, which would permit the
CONDITIONS- -JONAS hamme "rhead type, rather than the circle cul -de -sac
PARCEL MAP at the end of Halsey Avenue. Motion was seconded by
CONTINUED FROM Councilman Brunner, and defeated by 3 affirmative
3/22/76 MEETING) and 4 negative votes. Councilmen_Hilligoss, Mattei,
(Continued) Perry and Mayor Putnam voted "no ". Confirmed by
Resolution 47359 N.C.S.
Item #2 of the Planning Commission's recommendations in Resolution No. 5 -76
had previously been resolved; however, it was to be noted for the record
that lots which required pumps for sewering should be so recorded with the
Sonoma County Recorder.
ADJOURNMENT There being no further business to come before the
Council, the meeting was adjourned at 11:40 p.m.
1 2
Mayor
Attest:
City Merk
L