Day 1999.10.26CC Jt Mtg RA/CC

Month 1999.10 October.

JOINT MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL

AND THE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF THE CITY OF VACAVILLE

MINUTES

October 26, 1999

A joint meeting of the Redevelopment Agency and the City Council of the City of Vacaville was held at the City Council Chambers, 650 Merchant Street, October 26, 1999. Mayor Fleming called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m.

1. ROLL CALL

Present: Agency/Council members Augustine, Clancy, Slade, Vice Chairman/Vice Mayor Wood, and Chairman/Mayor Fleming

Absent: None

Others Present: City Manager John Thompson, City Attorney Charles Lamoree, and City Clerk Kathy Andronico

2. Pastor Milton Steck, Trinity Baptist Church gave the INVOCATION and Council member Clancy led the PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA - Mayor Fleming asked if there were any additions or deletions to the agenda. Vice Mayor Wood, seconded by Council member Slade made a motion “ to approve the agenda as written.” Motion unanimously approved.

4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Council member Slade, seconded by Council member Clancy made a motion “ to approve the minutes of the special meeting of September 30, 1999, and the regular meeting of October 12, 1999, as submitted.” Motion unanimously approved.

5. PRESENTATION - RED RIBBON WEEK OCTOBER 23-31, 1999

Chief of Police Bob Harrison explained the value and importance of observing Red Ribbon Week. Mayor Fleming read the proclamation and presented it to Chief Harrison.

Council member Clancy asked that the meeting be adjourned in remembrance of Mrs. Marianna Pokorny and Jim Jones.

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 Council member Clancy, seconded by Vice Mayor Wood, made a motion “ to adopt the ordinance and resolutions." Motion approved by the following vote:

AYES: Council members Augustine, Clancy, Slade, Vice Mayor Wood and Mayor Fleming

NOES: None

ABSENT: None

A. Ordinance No. 1627 - ORDINANCE ADOPTING THE SOLANO COMMUNITY COLLEGE DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT FOR THE VACAVILLE HIGHER EDUCATION CENTER (SECOND READING)

B. Resolution No. 1999-132 - RESOLUTION APPROVING FINAL MAP – WESTGATE VILLAGE UNIT NO. 1

C. Resolution No. 1999-133 - RESOLUTION INITIATING PROCEEDINGS, PROVIDING INTENTION TO LEVY ASSESSMENTS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2000-01, AND NOTICE OF HEARING FOR THE ANNEXATION OF VINEYARD HILLS ESTATES TO ANDREWS NEIGHBORHOOD PARK ASSESSMENT DISTRICT

D. Resolution No. 1999-134 - RESOLUTION AMENDING THE CITY OF VACAVILLE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 1999/2000

E. Resolution No. 1999-135 - RESOLUTION TO AWARD CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT - EASTERLY WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT INTERIM IMPROVENTS PROJECT

F. Resolution No. 1999-136 - RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF VACAVILLE ADOPTING FEES FOR COUNTER FORCE DIVERSION SERVICES

G. Resolution No. 1999-137 - RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE SUBMITTAL OF AN APPLICATION TO THE CALIFORNIA STATE DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT FOR FUNDING UNDER THE HOME INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIPS PROGRAM; THE EXECUTION OF A STANDARD AGREEMENT IF SELECTED FOR SUCH FUNDING AND ANY AMENDMENTS THERETO; AND ANY RELATED DOCUMENTS NECESSARY TO PARTICIPATE IN THE HOME INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM

7. BUSINESS FROM THE FLOOR

Frank Trinkle talked about the recent fire in the Browns Valley area and the fear of it spreading to the Gibson Canyon area where his home is located. He stated that it was difficult to get good information regarding the fire and noted that the local emergency broadcast station, KUIC95, did not give periodic updates. He suggested that the Fire Department contact the radio station regarding this issue. Mayor Fleming encouraged Mr. Trinkle to also approach the Vacaville Fire Protection District governing board about his concern and the City Manager stated that staff would follow up with KUIC95 as well. Mr. Trinkle complained about a school board candidate who had recently placed a large sign on his private property without permission and asked the City to review its ordinance and perhaps incorporate language concerning private property placement of signs and a requirement to obtain written permission from the property owner prior to installation. The City Attorney stated he would review the ordinance. Mr. Trinkle suggested the City consider purchasing the Cypress Lakes Golf Course from Travis AFB for a municipal course, which would provide benefit to the City, as well as the Base. And lastly, Mr. Trinkle talked about Long’ s Drug Store and its policy which prohibits students from entering the store during school lunchtime.

Larry Killen, owner of Harmony Framing, noted that his business is located downtown, and while walking to work, he has noticed that some of the sidewalk cracks have been filled in with asphalt, which he did not feel was the proper way to handle the repairs. Mr. Killen also talked about trees that he felt were improperly pruned. Staff explained that asphalt is used as a temporary patch pending notification to the property owner. If it is not repaired in a reasonable amount of time, the City contracts the repairs and bills the property owner.

8. PUBLIC HEARINGS

A. RESOLUTION APPROVING BATARSE SALES AGREEMENT – AUTO CENTER (Redevelopment Agency) – continued to meeting of November 9, 1999

9. BUSINESS

A. REVIEW OF THE LAGOON VALLEY LAKE MANAGEMENT PLAN AND PARK MASTER PLAN PROCESS TO FACILITATE A REVISION OF THE CITY’ S PARK, RECREATION, AND OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN AND A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO IMPLEMENT THE PROPOSED LAGOON VALLEY PARK IMPROVEMENTS

Director of Community Services Linda Celestre explained that the preliminary Lagoon Valley Park Master Plan and Lake Management Plan have been reviewed at three public forums, three Community Services Commission meetings, and the October 19 Planning Commission meeting. She advised that comments and recommendations from the public meetings have been incorporated into the draft plans. She introduced Landscape Architect Bob Farrington to give a detailed report regarding the plans.

Landscape Architect Farrington stated that the conceptual master plan for the Lagoon Valley Park identifies possible recreational improvements, which he enumerated. He also provided information regarding implementation of the 10-year four-phase Lake Management Plan which will complement the Lagoon Valley Park Master Plan. He reviewed the phasing, explaining the goals, the problems and challenges, the potential revenue and funding sources, and annual maintenance costs.

The Council complemented staff on the thoroughness of the plans. They encouraged the planting of trees and native grasses, enhanced grass planting in picnicking areas, the preservation of open space and its natural habitats, private-public partnerships for recreational venues, the collection of park fees (including consideration of a non-resident fee), and increased patrolling of the park itself. It was suggested that police mounted-patrol be reconsidered for patrolling equestrian and bike trails, and other areas that are not easily accessed by vehicle. The City Council expressed concern about dogs running at-large in the park and causing damage to property and other animals, security, waterfowl excrement along the shoreline of the lake, and protection of the park from vandalism.

Mayor Fleming asked for public comment.

Adrian Meldrom asked what modifications would be made to Pena Adobe Park and noted that it was originally developed, in part, by her grandfather and advised that she has specific documentation which states what can and cannot be done with the land. She commented on the historic value of this park. Staff indicated that the buildings and historic monuments will remain at Pena Adobe, but some of the picnic furniture may be moved to the Lagoon Valley Park area. The City Attorney requested that Ms. Meldrom provide copies of the documents to which she referred.

Lou Derfuss talked about cattle grazing and did not feel taxpayers should be assessed to use open space when it was public money that purchased it. He supported using fish to help eliminate algae.

The City Attorney advised that he would need to review the acquisition documents regarding the park before commenting on the City’ s ability to charge a non-resident fee for usage because of the State funding that led to acquisition of the property many years ago.

Council member Augustine, seconded by Council member Clancy made a motion “ to direct staff to proceed with implementing the Lagoon Valley Park Master Plan (including the Lake Management Plan) by revising the City’ s Park, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan and obtaining a Conditional Use Permit.” Mayor Fleming asked that the motion be amended to try to tie in the ABAG Bay Trail system, however the motion-maker declined. Motion unanimously approved.

B. DOWNTOWN STRATEGY UPDATE

Director of Housing and Redevelopment Charles Learned indicated that one of the Strategic Plan items is to update the vision for the downtown Vacaville area in preparation for a new Redevelopment Bond sale in late 1999 or early 2000. He stated that staff developed a list of issues and strategies and conducted a citizen participation process. He reviewed the 15 strategies that emerged following the process and stated that a new bond sale project list would be based on these strategies. In addition to the strategies, the citizen participation process included much discussion about the appropriateness of governmental, institutional and church land uses in the downtown area, which Director Learned advised would first be discussed by the Planning Commission.

Council member Slade asked about the potential for apartments in the downtown area. Director Learned stated that the concept is not addressed within the strategies, however that has been an option all along, but no one has opted for that type of development.

Mayor Fleming asked for public comment.

Adrian Meldrom, resident on the 100 block of Main Street, stated that many residents in the outlying area of the downtown are becoming concerned about development’ s encroachment on the residential areas. She asked the Council to pay particular attention to whatever is developed by providing adequate parking to support the project. She questioned the City’ s procedures for advising area residents of public meetings and stated that she was not aware of some of the meetings, nor were her neighbors, and felt that notices should have been mailed to all the homeowners.

The City Council discussed the strategies presented by staff. It was acknowledged that downtown parking is a primary concern for many people, and that there is a need to provide more public education regarding the availability of parking which currently exists. It was noted that the City Council has focused on the downtown’ s vitality for many years as evidenced by the many capital improvement projects that have been completed, those that are currently underway, and others under consideration, like the Town Square. Council member Augustine felt it may be prudent to have more public forums before proceeding with the strategies and noted the importance of looking at the “ big picture” of all the proposed development. There was discussion concerning a larger Town Square concept vs. something smaller and more intimate. The opportunity to use Vacaville’ s heritage as a venue for attracting visitors utilizing better freeway signage was also talked about.

Vice Chairman Wood, seconded by Agency member Augustine made a motion “ that the Redevelopment Agency adopt the concepts described as the strategy for downtown Vacaville.” Motion unanimously approved.

C. RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE CITY GATEWAYS PLAN

Deputy City Manager (DCM) Gregg Werner explained that the City Gateways Project was initiated as part of the City Council’ s 1998 Strategic Plan. He noted that the Council appointed a nine-member committee to develop a plan to improve the way the City is perceived from the freeway. He stated that the plan is broad-based and suggests ways to create a unique and memorable visual experience along the freeway. DCM Werner reviewed the design elements specified in the plan which include landscaping, public art, interchanges and overcrossings, public signing, billboard removal, and undergrounding of utilities. He noted that the plan assigns responsibility for a series of implementation and follow-up steps, the first of which would be a Design Masterplan that would include development of a prioritized funding plan.

Council member Slade applauded the plan and noted that creating an appealing visual appearance along the freeway would influence potential businesses to locate in Vacaville. She also mentioned the apparent visual deterioration of some of the business parks. The City Manager advised that staff is meeting with some of the major businesses in order to gain voluntary compliance concerning landscape requirements.

Council member Augustine commented that the plan was good and felt it was important to establish some priorities to implement the plan. He suggested that partnerships be developed with business, not just for money, but for artwork and designs.

Mayor Fleming asked for public comment.

Frank Trinkle agreed that the aesthetics of landscaping along a freeway is very important, and relayed his experiences associated with the city of Santa Barbara. He also talked about various planting materials that should and should not be utilized.

Merle Nesbitt offered her professional opinion as an arts management consultant. She was glad that public art is being considered in the plan, but cautioned that the artwork and/or landscaping must make its own statement because it takes less than 10 minutes to pass Vacaville on the freeway. She did not feel that art which currently exists in Vacaville should be placed in landscaped areas and reiterated that if the City is going to invest in public art, then it must make its own statement, be a “ quick read,” and not be part of the landscaping – it must stand alone. She suggested creating a consistent image that would welcome people to Vacaville.

Council member Clancy commented that many areas around Vacaville are beginning to look better and neighborhoods seem to be taking more pride in their surroundings. She stated that she likes urban forests, and to keep in mind that Vacaville is still a “ blue collar” city and that she did not want to create the atmosphere of “ uppity or snobbish.”

Richard Gideon, Chairman of the Cultural Arts Advisory Committee, was delighted to hear that the Council was considering public art and paintings in its plan. He advised that the Committee is organizing an art show to display the City’ s purchased art that currently hangs in the City’ s public buildings. John Pierson, resident of the Cherry Glen area, commented on the Cherry Glen/Lagoon Valley overcrossing. He stated that he did not oppose the plan, but was concerned about the affects it may have on his family’ s property. He felt widening the overpass would have impacts on their quality of life. He asked to go on record “ requesting notification of any meeting concerning gateways to Vacaville or any road or interchange modifications.” The City Manager addressed Mr. Pierson’ s concerns, stating that most of the work being done has to do with decreasing land uses in the area and the current planning recommends not increasing Cherry Glen overcrossing to six lanes. Donna Harr stated she was excited and elated over the plan and felt that it fits in with the planning for the Lagoon Valley Park area. She supported the plan and stated it would create a “ sense of place.”

Council member Slade, seconded by Council member Clancy made a motion “ to adopt the subject resolution.” Resolution No. 1999-138, “ Resolution Adopting the City Gateways Plan,” was approved by the following vote:

AYES: Council members Augustine, Clancy, Slade, Vice Mayor Wood and Mayor Fleming

NOES: None

ABSENT: None

D. MILLENNIUM-SESQUICENTENNIAL PROJECTS

The City Manager described two projects that are currently being planned to celebrate the Millennium, as well as the City’ s 150-year anniversary of its founding. He commented on the earlier demonstration of the Carillon electronic bell system, which, if approved, could be installed in time to bring in the New Year. He stated that a history production is being developed and asked that the City Council consider contributing approximately $2,000 (not to exceed $4,000) to pay for video taping a production and making copies of the tape for use at all the local schools. Mayor Fleming asked for public comment and none was noted. Council member Augustine, seconded by Council member Slade made a motion “ that the City Council authorize a $2,000 General Fund contribution to the history production event (not to exceed $4,000) and that the Redevelopment Agency authorize $20,000 (Redevelopment funds) to install the Carillon system. Motion unanimously approved.

E. PUBLIC OPINION SURVEY

Director of Administrative Services Pat Moreno briefly reviewed the staff report noting that the survey will focus on City services and that the information would be used to guide future policy decisions promoting effective and efficient City services. She stated that staff has been interviewing potential consultants who would develop the survey questions and perform the actual survey. The City Council discussed the contents of the survey and suggested that it be expanded to benefit other businesses and gain more information regarding things like shopping opportunities, health care for elderly, affordable housing, etc. Council member Clancy suggested that the Commission on Aging investigate the health care suggestion. The City Manager stated that the consultant would develop the questions in order to obtain the best data. He advised that consideration must be given to how long a person would be willing to answer questions and that normally 15-20 minutes is the maximum. Director Moreno suggested that, once the survey questions have been developed, the Council may choose to review them. She felt that the survey may be available in December. Mayor Fleming asked for public comment. Merle Nesbitt suggested that questions concerning the Vacaville Performing Arts Theater be included. There was no further public comment.

F. UPDATE ON STRATEGIC PLAN

Council member Augustine noted that it is important to keep the citizens advised on the status of the Strategic Plan projects and, due to the lateness of the hour, he felt it would be prudent to table discussion to the next meeting. Council member Augustine, seconded by Council member Slade made a motion “ to table the discussion to a time certain.” Motion unanimously approved.

10. REPORTS OF CITY MANAGER - None

11. REPORTS OF CITY COUNCIL

Mayor Fleming asked that each Council member consider appointing one person to a Sesquicentennial Celebration Committee at the next Council meeting.

12. PAYMENT OF CLAIMS – Council member Clancy, seconded by Vice Mayor Wood made a motion “ to order the payroll register dated 10/15/99, and check register dated 10/20/99 paid.” Motion unanimously approved.

CLOSED SESSION – There being no further regular business, the City Council adjourned to Closed Session at 11:37 p.m., October 26, 1999, pursuant to Government Code Section 54950 et. Seq. Conference with Labor Negotiator: John P. Thompson and Pat Moreno; Employee Organization – Vacaville Managers Organization. The closed session was adjourned at 12:40 a.m., October 27, 1999 with no announcements made.

14. ADJOURNMENT – There being no further business before the City Council, Mayor Fleming adjourned the meeting at 12:41 a.m., October 27, 1999, in memory of Jim Jones and Marianna Pokorny.

Respectfully submitted,

Kathleen M. Andronico, City Clerk