Day 1999.04.13CC
CITY OF VACAVILLE
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
April 13, 1999
A meeting of the City Council of the City of Vacaville was held at the
City Council Chambers, 650
Merchant Street, April 13, 1999. Mayor Fleming called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
1. ROLL CALL
Present: Council members Augustine, Clancy, Slade, Vice Mayor Wood, and Mayor Fleming
Absent: None
Others Present: Assistant City Manager David Van Kirk (served until arrival of City Manager at approximately 7:20 p.m.), City Manager John Thompson, City Attorney Charles O. Lamoree and Deputy City Clerk Carol Yount
2. Pastor Raleigh Galghan of Valley Church gave the Invocation and Council member Slade led the Pledge of Allegiance.
3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA – Mayor Fleming asked if there were any additions or deletions necessary for the agenda. The Assistant City Manager noted that Councilwoman Slade will be attending an STA meeting tomorrow concerning the reliever route and possible land use planning. She would like to make a brief presentation on what is being proposed and request guidance from the Council as to the City’ s response. He noted that a 4/5th vote is required to add the item to the agenda. A motion was made by Council member Clancy, seconded by Council member Slade, “ to add this item under Reports of City Manager and to approve the agenda as amended.” Motion unanimously approved.
4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Mayor Fleming made a motion “
to approve the minutes of the
March 23, 1999 City Council meeting.” Councilman Augustine asked that the minutes be revised
to
reflect his comments in total concerning the homeless situation. Motion unanimously
approved.
5. PRESENTATION – NATIONAL DISPATCHER WEEK
Police Chief Bob Harrison introduced Randi Clements, Communications Supervisor for the City’ s Dispatch Center. Chief Harrison noted that the City’ s dispatchers receive over 100,000 calls per year, with well over 35,000 dispatches. Mayor Fleming noted that Vacaville’ s dispatchers are also highly trained to deal with medical emergencies over the telephone. He presented a proclamation acknowledging the importance of their direct link to the community in times of need and declared the week of April 11, 1999 as “ National Dispatcher Week.”
6. CONSENT CALENDAR
Mayor Fleming asked if anyone on the Council or in the audience wanted to remove an item from the Consent Calendar for separate discussion. Vice Mayor Wood requested that items 6d and 6f be removed for separate discussion. Council member Slade, seconded by Council member Clancy, made a motion “ to adopt the resolutions on the Consent Calendar, with the exception of items 6d and 6f which were removed for separate discussion." Motion approved by the following vote:
AYES: Council members Augustine, Clancy, Slade, Vice Mayor Wood and Mayor Fleming
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
A. Resolution No. 1999-38 - RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS TO EMPLOY AN ENGINEERING FIRM FOR TOPOGRAPHIC SURVEYS FOR DESIGNS OF THE EAST MONTE VISTA AVENUE SEWER IMPROVEMENTS
B. Resolution No. 1999-39 - RESOLUTION ACCEPTING PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS AND AUTHORIZING FINAL PAYMENT TO CONTRACTOR – NORTH VINE STREET WATER SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS – NORTH VINE STREET WATER SYSTEM ASSESSMENT DISTRICT
C. Resolution No. 1999-40 - RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT WITH SOLANO COUNTY FOR THE MAINTENANCE AND OPERATION OF TRAFFIC SIGNALS AT THE INTERSECTIONS OF ALAMO DRIVE AND LEISURE TOWN ROAD AND LEISURE TOWN ROAD AND VANDEN ROAD
D. Pulled for Separate Discussion - RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS TO FILE APPLICATIONS FOR SURFACE TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM FUNDING FOR VARIOUS TRAFFIC SAFETY PROJECTS WITHIN THE CITY OF VACAVILLE
E. Resolution No.1999-42 - RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING A REFUSE COLLECTION RATE INCREASE
F. Pulled for Separate Discussion - RESOLUTION OF INTENT TO VACATE A PORTION OF MC CLELLAN STREET AND A PORTION OF STEVENSON STREET ADJACENT TO THE BASIC SITE
G. Resolution No. 1999-44, RESOLUTION APPROVING FINAL MAP – WESTGATE UNIT NO. 11A
Resolution No. 1999-45, RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING ANNEXATION INTO
THE CITY OF VACAVILLE LANDSCAPE AND LIGHTING MAINTENANCE
ASSESSMENT DISTRICT – WESTGATE UNIT NO. 11A
Resolution No. 1999-46, RESOLUTION APPROVING FINAL MAP –
WESTGATE UNIT NO. 11B
Resolution No. 1999-47, RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING ANNEXATION INTO
THE CITY OF VACAVILLE LANDSCAPE AND LIGHTING MAINTENANCE
ASSESSMENT DISTRICT – WESTGATE UNIT NO. 11B
Item 6d. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS TO
FILE APPLICATIONS FOR SURFACE TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM
FUNDING FOR VARIOUS TRAFFIC SAFETY PROJECTS WITHIN THE CITY
OF VACAVILLE
Vice Mayor Wood questioned whether grant funds could be used to pursue a study concerning the need for a traffic signal light in Browns Valley. Director of Public Works Dale Pfeiffer explained the process for setting priorities and noted that Browns Valley will be included in an upcoming review in preparation for the 1999/2000 budget. He noted that grant funds were not the only source of funding and that there are Traffic Impact Fees available to cover two additional traffic signals. Vice Mayor Wood, seconded by Mayor Fleming, made a motion “ to adopt the subject resolution.” Resolution No. 1999-41, “ Resolution Authorizing the Director of Public Works to File Applications for Surface Transportation Program Funding for Various Traffic Safety Projects Within the City of Vacaville,” was approved by the following vote:
AYES: Council members Augustine, Clancy, Slade, Vice Mayor Wood and Mayor Fleming
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
Item 6f. RESOLUTION OF INTENT TO VACATE A PORTION OF MC CLELLAN STREET AND A PORTION OF STEVENSON STREET ADJACENT TO THE BASIC SITE
Vice Mayor Wood questioned whether this action would affect property owner Mr. Cargill. Community Development Director Rowland responded that it would not affect Mr. Cargill’ s property. Vice Mayor Wood, seconded by Council member Clancy, made a motion “ to adopt the subject resolution.” Resolution No. 1999-43, “ Resolution of Intent to Vacate a Portion of McClellan Street and a Portion of Stevenson Street Adjacent to the Basic Site,” was approved by the following vote:
AYES: Council members Augustine, Clancy, Slade, Vice Mayor Wood and Mayor Fleming
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
7. BUSINESS FROM THE FLOOR
Vacaville resident Janine Jordan requested that the Council consider the possibility of a “ Pet Park” in Vacaville. She described the Pet Park as a fenced in area where dogs would not be required to be on a leash and could include a dog run, jumps, training, etc. ACM Van Kirk acknowledged that the idea of a Pet Park is being proposed as part of the Centennial Park or Lagoon Valley Park Master Plan. It was suggested that Ms. Jordan leave her name and number with the City Clerk so she can be contacted to become involved in the process. Mayor Fleming noted that such a venture would need the support of a lot of people to be successful since many residents may not be interested in using City funds for this purpose.
8. PUBLIC HEARINGS - None
9. BUSINESS
A. APPROVAL OF SITE FOR NORTH VACAVILLE RESERVOIR
Director Pfeiffer introduced the item and stated that staff and consultants would be addressing concerns raised by residents near the proposed site in regard to durability of the concrete reservoir, location and safety. He also referenced a reservoir failure in the City of Westminster and noted that staff would be making a presentation on the differences between the Westminster reservoir and the design proposed for Vacaville.
Deputy Director of Public Works (DDPW) Dave Tompkins made a thorough presentation concerning the
project history, criteria for site selection, need for a reservoir in the North Vacaville location,
benefits of
elevated vs. ground level storage tanks, and the differences between the Westminster and proposed
Vacaville reservoir. He also discussed the geologic stability of the recommended site (Site 4),
water
drainage patterns, and safety of steel reinforced concrete.
Mr. Tom Mingee of Nolte Associates showed slides of surrounding cities to illustrate the common practice
of locating reservoirs in elevated locations, near demand, and adjacent to residences. He also
noted most
cities are choosing concrete over steel construction. He reviewed the process of site identification,
selection, and/or rejection. He also summarized the safety features, reliability and 30-year successful
track
record of the proposed tank manufacturer DYK. He presented information on the performance of concrete
reservoirs in earthquakes and illustrated projected water flow patterns in the event of tank leakage.
Mr. Tom Ferrell of the Anderson Consulting Group made a presentation on the geologic stability of the
proposed site. His presentation included information on known earthquake faults as determined
by the
California Division of Mines and Geology.
DDPW Tompkins explained that the engineering firm of Montgomery Watson was hired by the City of
Westminster to perform a forensic structural engineering review of the failed reservoir in their
community. He introduced Mark Fordham who reviewed results of the study into the Westminster
reservoir failure. Mr. Fordham also pointed out the contrasts between the Westminster reservoir
and the
type proposed in North Vacaville in the areas of safety engineering, advanced design, proven technology
and structural integrity. He concluded that the proposed site in Browns Valley is an excellent
location.
Mayor Fleming asked for public comment.
Browns Valley resident Bob Dierkes expressed concerns about the safety of concrete construction, budget
for on-going maintenance, and unknown human failures. He reported on an incident of valve failure
in
St. Helena that resulted in significant damage. He also presented samples of sandstone taken from
the
area of Site 4 that crumbled easily and referenced the City’ s Youngsdahl Report that he felt concurred
with his findings in this regard.
Mr. J. D. Lynd, a resident of Browns Valley, raised questions concerning the strength of sandstone and
referenced a quote in this regard by Dr. Eldridge Morris of the U.C. Davis Geology Department. He
presented Council members with a book, The Quakes of ’ 92 by Cowan, Cooper and Cooper of
the U.C.
Davis Geology Department, and reviewed passages concerning earthquake potential in Vacaville.
Mr.
Lynd stated financial and safety concerns and expressed skepticism at the engineer’ s projected
water
flow. He also felt that the original 19 sites were reduced to one based on unrealistic selection
criteria. To
illustrate his concerns and the unpredictable occurrence and strength of Mother Nature, he showed a
video
of news coverage of the Westminster tank failure.
A break was taken from 9:15 – 9:25
Mr. Randal Biagi indicated that he lives directly south of the current tank and directly east of the
proposed
tank. He stated that he has video of actual water flow from the area above his home. He
expressed doubt
concerning the engineer’ s projected flow onto a segment of Vaca Valley Parkway which is not asphaulted
and probably would not withstand the pressure. Mr. Biagi questioned the compression studies
done on
the sandstone. Tom Ferrell of Anderson Technical Group reported on the testing process and results.
Mayor Fleming closed the public hearing.
Mayor Fleming restated the questions raised by the public and asked that staff or the appropriate
consultants respond. Issues discussed included the Youngsdahl Report, tank size, competitive bidding,
cost comparisons for ground level vs. underground tanks, water flow patterns, and blind thrust faults.
Council member Slade questioned Mr. Dierkes and Mr. Lynd as to the number of residents who have
signed the petition in opposition to the siting of the reservoir, noting that she has received very
few calls
regarding the issue and the number of people attending the hearings appears to be dwindling. Mr.
Dierkes responded that he and Mr. Lynd are representing numerous people in the neighborhood and chose
to do a combined presentation rather than have each resident reiterate the same concerns. They
also
expressed frustration at the numerous delays in the process and were certain that many residents were
not
aware of the hearing. Council member Clancy concurred that she has been contacted by Mr. Dierkes
on
numerous occasions concerning status of the issue and could only report that the item was listed under
“
future” on the list of pending agenda items. Council member Slade questioned staff concerning
noticing
requirements. Director Pfeiffer responded that Mr. Dierkes and Mr. Lynd were contacted directly
and that
890 notices were mailed to residents in the area in advance of the meeting.
Council member Slade commended Mr. Dierkes and Mr. Lynd on their thorough presentation. She
expressed that her concern over an unforeseen natural disaster was outweighed by her concern over
inadequate emergency water storage for the residents of Vacaville. She expressed some concern
that Vaca
Valley Parkway is not paved in the area designated as the path of the water flow.
Council member Augustine questioned whether all 19 potential sites were thoroughly examined and he
felt that Council should have been given comparisons in order to make an informed decision. Director
Pfeiffer reviewed the process that was followed since 1997 that resulted in the recommendation of Site
4.
Council member Augustine expressed concern over existing water pressure problems in northwest
Vacaville. He recommended that consideration be given to siting future reservoirs at higher elevations
which will not only increase storage but also enhance the present system. Staff explained the
limitations
of the City’ s production facilities and noted the absence of funding for improvements to existing
infrastructure. Council member Augustine concluded that he was not convinced that maintaining
existing
elevations was the best course to follow. He pointed out the inconsistency of precluding the building
of
homes on hillsides yet recommending the building of reservoirs on hillsides. He expressed concern
about
earthquake potential and noted that, though infrequent and unlikely, failure of a water reservoir in
a
residential neighborhood would be catastrophic.
Council member Clancy expressed concern over the potential dangers of locating a reservoir in a
residential area and, therefore, could not support the proposed site in Browns Valley.
Mayor Fleming expressed that, in terms of safety, he had never seen a better designed reservoir and
felt
the risk of potential danger was minimal.
Vice Mayor Wood expressed compassion for residents who may not want the reservoir located in their
neighborhood, but felt that location should be a secondary consideration over sound design. Vice Mayor
Wood requested an analysis concerning the creation of a Zone 2 system that could potentially resolve
pressure problems that exist in northwest Vacaville and at the same time relieve capacity from the current
Zone 1. He proposed tabling the item pending an analysis of the creation of a Zone 2 system and
research
into available resources.
Director Pfeiffer expressed serious concern about delaying the project due to the growing deficiency
of
emergency reserves and the continued growth in the Browns Valley area. He proposed constructing
the
reservoir on Site 4 while simultaneously researching a separate Zone 2 system.
Mayor Fleming clarified that the Browns Valley reservoir would be necessary with or without developing
a Zone 2 system. He noted that creating a Zone 2 system would require a pumping station, resulting
in
higher operation and maintenance costs, and that improvements to existing infrastructure would have
to
be paid for through rate increases.
A motion was made by Vice Mayor Wood, seconded by Council member Slade, “ to prepare an
analysis
concerning the creation of a Zone 2 system, potential benefits of the higher elevation on the current
Zone
1 system, and financing options.” Motion approved (4-1 – Fleming no). Mayor
Fleming commented
that he could see little connection between creating a Zone 2 system to benefit northwest Vacaville
and the
reservoir being presented in the northeast and, therefore, could not support the motion.
A break was taken from 10:50 to 11:00 p.m.
B. SUPPORT FOR FIESTA DAYS
The City Manager presented the item, recommending that the Council continue financial support of the Fiesta Days celebration at the same level as last year.
Mayor Fleming asked for public comment. No one in the audience spoke to this item.
Council member Slade, seconded by Council member Augustine, made a motion to approve the cash
contribution of $5,000 plus $1,000 worth of carnival tickets to be distributed to low income families.
Motion unanimously approved.
C. STRATEGIC PLAN
The City Manager stated that the modifications proposed during the special Study Session on March 16 have been incorporated into the Strategic Plan and a process will be developed for progressing on the five new areas of special emphasis identified by the Council. Council member Augustine commented on the importance of incorporating the five new areas into the Strategic Plan and made a motion, seconded by Council member Slade, “ to hold this item over to the meeting of April 27 to allow more time for discussion.“ Motion unanimously approved.
D. PUBLIC INFORMATION PLAN
The City Manager introduced the item and briefly explained the fact-finding process conducted by the City’ s Public Information Officer Earl Parker. Based on the research results, the proposed Public Information Plan was developed with the goal of improving publicity, community outreach and internal communication. The City Manager asked if Council members wished to pursue any of the suggestions listed under “ Alternative Processes for Discussing Public Issues.”
Council members expressed unanimous support and praise for the proposed plan. Council member Slade
strongly supported the idea of holding town hall type meetings to get feedback from the community.
Council member Augustine felt all of the ideas have merit and should be pursued and he requested an
opportunity to discuss this topic again at a future meeting. Council member Clancy encouraged
use of the
City’ s own resources rather than taking out expensive ads. She commented on her experience
with
neighborhood meetings which typically were not too successful. She also recommended that the goals
be
featured on the new television spot “ Vacaville Voices.” Vice Mayor Wood suggested
the idea of each
Council member becoming an ambassador on a particular topic. Council member Clancy concurred that
it may be helpful in light of time constraints to have each Council member choose an area of interest
or
expertise. Mayor Fleming expressed concern that limiting Council members to specific topics may
create
a perception that the Council is divided and he would rather see the Council support the goals as a
team.
Council member Augustine responded that the Strategic Plan is an excellent example of the Council’
s
commitment to common goals and, in the interest of time, stated his support for the suggestion of dividing
up the topics. Council member Slade indicated her willingness to be assigned a particular topic.
Mayor Fleming asked for public comment. Vacaville resident John Barnato encouraged the Council
to
increase focus on the Internet, i.e. providing agendas, meeting notices and staff reports via e-mail.
Although research indicates only about 10% of residents use the Internet, Mr. Barnato felt it would
be a
good tool for reaching out to the younger residents. The City Manager clarified that utilization
of the
Internet is included in the goals.
No action necessary.
E. RESOLUTION TO AUTHORIZE AND FUND THE RELOCATION AND EXPANSION OF THE POLICE DEPARTMENT’ S FAMILY INVESTIGATIVE RESPONSE AND SERVICE TEAM PROJECT
The City Manager noted that a priority of the new Police Chief was to focus on integration of the various entities within the Police Department. He briefly reviewed the proposal to consolidate the domestic violence, child abuse, elder abuse and school at-risk youth programs into one facility.
Mayor Fleming asked for public input. Teresa Hite of Summit Properties stated that she represents
the
property owner involved and offered to answer any questions.
Council member Clancy, seconded by Council member Slade, made a motion “ to approve the
subject
resolution.” Resolution No. 1999-48, “ Resolution authorizing and Funding the
Relocation and
Expansion of the Police Department’ s Family Investigative Response and Service Team Project,”
was approved by the following vote:
AYES: Council members Augustine, Clancy, Slade, Vice Mayor Wood and Mayor Fleming
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
10. REPORTS OF CITY MANAGER
The City Manager noted that Council member Slade is the Council’ s representative on the Solano Transportation Authority (STA). He explained that Supervisor Kromm is proposing language in a Memo of Understanding being developed by the STA for all of the agencies, i.e. Vacaville, Suisun, Fairfield and Solano County, that will be affected by the reliever route. He expressed concern that the MOU may be an attempt to involve the STA in land use planning. He synopsized a detailed response that he and Council member Slade drafted for Council approval that reiterates that the role of the STA is to coordinate transportation planning and that the agency should become not involved in land use issues.
Council members were unanimous in their concern over protecting land use control. They emphasized
that the letter be simple and direct in this regard, yet cautioned against imposing restrictions that
may
affect the rights of property owners in the affected area.
The City Manager announced the opening of the Vacaville Art Show on Wednesday, April 14, the Volunteer Recognition Luncheon at noon on Monday, April 19, and the joint meeting with the school district in the evening of the 19th at the Ulatis Community Center. He also questioned the need to hold a Study Session on April 20, and Council members unanimously agreed that it was not necessary.
11. REPORTS OF CITY COUNCIL
A. CITY COMMISSION APPOINTMENTS
Mayor Fleming recommended reappointment of incumbents on the Planning Commission. Vice Mayor Wood made a motion, seconded by Council member Augustine, “ to approve the recommended appointments to the Planning Commission.” Motion unanimously approved. Mayor Fleming recommended the reappointment of incumbents on the Housing and Redevelopment Commission. Vice Mayor Wood made a motion, seconded by Council member Slade, “ to approve the recommended appointments to the Housing and Redevelopment Commission.” Motion unanimously approved.
A motion was made by Mayor Fleming, seconded by Council member Clancy, “ to reappoint Mary
Ann
Thurmond to the Community Services Commission.” Motion unanimously approved. A motion was
made by Mayor Fleming, seconded by Council member Clancy, “ to appoint Brett Johnson to replace
Al
Banks on the Community Services Commission.” Motion unanimously approved. A motion
was made
by Mayor Fleming, seconded by Council member Slade, “ to appoint Inderjit Kallirai to replace Dennis
McCord on the Community Services Commission.” Motion unanimously approved. A motion was
made by Mayor Fleming, seconded by Rob Wood, “ to appoint Sue Garland to replace Gary Silveria
on the
Community Services Commission.” Motion unanimously approved.
B. APPOINTMENT OF ALTERNATE FOR ABAG GENERAL ASSEMBLY
Mayor Fleming made a motion, seconded by Council member Slade, to name Vice Mayor Wood as the Alternate for the ABAG General Assembly.” Motion unanimously approved.
Mayor Fleming informed the Council that he and his wife had just returned from a trip to Canada as
chaperones with the Will C. Wood High School Sylvan Singers. He commended the talented young
people who participated and felt they served as outstanding representatives of Vacaville. He also
announced the Concert Society Annual Dinner on April 30th to raise funds for youth concerts.
Council member Slade commented on the recent American Diabetes Association fundraising dinner, complimented staff involved with the youth employment element of the Counterforce Program, and updated Council on a meeting she attended with the Skate Board Park organizers.
Council member Augustine briefed the Council on his participation on the Sedcorp Executive Forum, noting that, in this capacity, he and Sedcorp Director Mary McCarthy met with General Roser at Travis concerning joint use of the base. General Roser expressed that he had experience with joint use at Charleston AFB and encouraged research into the possibility. As a result of this support, Sedcorp is now actively seeking potential users. He noted that such a venture could lead to employment opportunities for people trained in aircraft operation. Council member Augustine also reported that he was recently invited to a meeting at the County Airport to look at uses that may benefit the County. At that time, he became aware of the progress being made on a County proposal for an executive 9-hole golf course on airport property near Allison Parkway which he anticipates will be presented to the Council in the near future. He also announced an upcoming Sunrise Rotary Club fundraising activity at Lake Solano Park to raise funds for a fishing pond for the disabled. The event is on April 23rd and he encouraged anyone interested to contact him or other members of the Sunrise Rotary Club. Regarding the homeless issue in the community, he stated that he feels strongly that the problem needs to be addressed, but would like to look into alternatives in addition to the joint powers proposal presented at the last meeting.
Council member Clancy thanked the community for the respect and honor bestowed upon Sgt. Bob Lee.
She advised Council members that she and Fire Chief Moore would be meeting with officials at Travis
AFB to address the City’ s concerns over delays at the gate and to ensure that Vacaville ambulances
have
efficient access to the hospital. She also announced the Senior Fashion Show on April 30th
and the
opening of the Ice Skating Center on April 24th.
Vice Mayor Wood thanked everyone who applied to serve on Vacaville Commissions and the Council’
s
willingness to go through the process. He complimented the Star Recreation Center on their new
facilities
and thanked Mr. Sousa for bringing a new source of pride to the community.
12. PAYMENT OF CLAIMS – Council member Slade, seconded by Vice
Mayor Wood, made a motion
“ to order the payroll register dated March 31, 1999, and check register dated April 5, 1999, paid.”
Motion unanimously approved.
CLOSED SESSION – None
14. ADJOURNMENT – There being no further business before the
City Council, Mayor Fleming
adjourned the regular meeting of April 13, 1999, at 12:05 a.m., April 14, 1999.
Respectfully submitted,
Carol J. Yount
Deputy City Clerk