SALINAS CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 6, 2007 MEETING MINUTES
Mayor Donohue convened the meeting at 4:05 p.m.
Present:
Mayor Dennis Donohue
Councilmember Janet Barnes
Councilmember Tony Barrera
Councilmember Gloria De La Rosa
Councilmember Jyl Lutes
Councilmember Sergio Sanchez
Councilmember Steve Villegas
Also Present:
City Manager Dave Mora
City Attorney Vanessa Vallarta
City Clerk Ann Camel
CITY OF CHAMPIONS
Mayor Donohue recognized Jose Ortiz and Richard Puckett, recipients of Monterey Arts Council’s 2007 Champions of the Arts Award.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Al Espindola stated that the Los Padres Park sign and two trees were removed and should be replaced. He offered to contribute to the cost
if necessary.
Hans Jongens suggested that Councilmembers’ and Executives’ names be included on the agenda.
Aurelia Flores asked the City to patrol the area when Alisal High School and La Paz Middle School students get out of school to protect the
elementary school children and to reduce vandalism. She asked for the City to assign someone who is responsive to their safety concerns.
Aurelia Hernandez stated that she has heard ice cream vendors are selling drugs to school children.
Marina Gomez requested additional security for students.
Hortencia Gabriel, Cesar Chavez Parent Control, stated that security has declined because there is no longer an officer assigned to
patrolling the school.
Teresa Sanchez stated that they do not want ice cream vendors in their area due to rumors and safety concerns.
Maria Frias stated that neighborhood clean ups are needed and City support is required.
Mayor Donohue accepted the speakers’ invitation to tour the subject area.
CONSENT RESOLUTION
Upon motion by Councilmember De La Rosa and second by Councilmember Villegas, Council voted unanimously to adopt the Consent Resolution.
The Consent Resolution contained the following items:
1. Approved minutes of meetings of January 23, 2007. Councilmember Barnes abstained as she was absent on January 23, 2007.
2. Accepted financial claims report.
3. Authorized the Mayor to send a letter to HUD supporting Housing Authority application to remove nine housing units from the public
housing stock.
CONSIDERATION
1. City Council Regular Meeting Time.
Ann Camel, City Clerk, stated that Councilmember Villegas recommended that City Council meetings begin at 5 p.m. both for the benefit of
the public and in deference to Councilmembers’ work schedules. The City Code reflects the current 4 p.m. regular meeting time, but allows
for a different meeting time as established in the posted agenda. Staff recommends that the ordinance not be amended to reflect any change
in the regular meeting time until after a trial period.
Councilmember Barnes expressed concern about the need for employee overtime and a later ending time. She suggested a 4:30 p.m. start time
as a compromise.
Councilmember Villegas expressed concern regarding Councilmembers’ busy schedules during the spring, and the 4 p.m. regular meeting time
could be reinstated later in the year. He hoped that a later start time would attract a bigger audience.
Councilmember Sanchez stated that he would prefer to begin the meeting at 6 p.m. for the public’s benefit, but he could support a 5 p.m.
start time for a six-month trial period.
Al Espindola supports changing the meeting time on a trial basis to assess whether the meetings are better attended. The Recreation-Park
Commission is considering moving their meeting time from
7 p.m. to 6 p.m. so that meetings end earlier.
Hans Jongens stated that starting meetings at 5 p.m. will result in a later ending time and will not be productive.
Unidentified speaker spoke in support of a later meeting time because it is difficult for field workers to attend at 4 p.m.
Councilmember Barrera stated that he is receptive to evening meetings but expressed concern about employee impacts.
Councilmember De La Rosa stated that she supports changing the time on a trial basis to determine if more people attend.
Councilmember Lutes stated that it is difficult for the public to attend at 4 p.m. during the time that public comments are taken. She
suggested a four-month trial period.
COUNCIL ACTION
Upon motion by Councilmember Sanchez and second by Councilmember De La Rosa, the City Council voted unanimously to begin regular City
Council meetings at 5 p.m. effective March 6, 2007 for a four-month trial period.
STUDY SESSION
1. A Sphere of Influence Amendment and an Annexation Applications incorporating the land located between San Juan Grade Road and
Williams Road designated as Future Growth Area into the City of Salinas for the future development of three Specific Plans implementing the
policies of the Salinas General Plan.
Deputy City Manager Rob Russell introduced the City’s contractor, Pat Saucedo, Saucedo Management Company.
Pat Saucedo stated that the General Plan designates Salinas’ northeast sector as the future growth area, which is organized into west,
central, and east specific plan areas. The land use plan allows for 12,000 residential units and 1.5 million square feet of mixed use
areas to be built over fifteen to twenty years. Compact, dense development will leverage maximum use of developable land and minimize loss
of farm land. The future growth area will rely on the principles of new urbanism and traditional neighborhood development. The City’s
Memorandum of Understanding with Monterey County calls for Monterey County to support the future growth area’s annexation, for the parties
to develop a County-wide traffic impact fee, and to work cooperatively to address impacts on the reclamation ditch.
Ms. Saucedo stated that additional environmental documentation would be required. Build out would result in one express, seven major
arterials, one minor arterial, and seven collector streets at an estimated total cost of $357 million. Over $8.5 million in sewer
infrastructure and $37 million in infrastructure would be needed. The City Engineer is obtaining a letter from the Salinas Valley Solid
Waste Authority certifying that Johnson Canyon Landfill has adequate capacity to serve the future growth area. Discussions are ongoing
with the school districts for the construction of twelve to thirteen schools. Monterey County produced a nexus study for a reclamation
ditch impact fee, and staff is working with water resources staff to refine the analysis and financing program.
The timeline calls for the submission of all technical studies to John Bridges in March for the environmental documentation. The draft
Environmental Impact Report would be circulated from mid-May to the end of June, and the final document would be prepared by the end of
July. The City Council would consider certifying the document to the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) in mid or late August in
anticipation of the LAFCO hearing taking place before the end of 2007.
Ms. Saucedo requests the City Council’s support in making this a priority for City staff and to advocate with regional agencies for the
future growth area. They are struggling to have the Association of Monterey Bay Area Governments (AMBAG) run their regional transportation
model, and they request the City Council to encourage AMBAG to make this a priority in order to complete the technical studies in March.
She would like to reinstitute the Council Committee for the future growth area to keep the Council apprised.
Mr. Russell stated that staff has been advised to use the AMBAG model. However, the results did not make sense and adjustments to the
model were required, which have not been accomplished because of other priorities. He hopes to have results by the end of this week,
which will result in a model that can then be used.
Councilmember Barnes stated that, as Salinas’ AMBAG representative, she will contact AMBAG immediately regarding adjusting the model.
In response to Councilmember Lutes, Ms. Saucedo stated that they have a school district representative that meets with the working group.
Additionally, the current property owners are in discussion with the schools.
In response to Councilmember Sanchez, Ms. Saucedo stated that she is aware of the City’s concerns regarding Alco Water Company. Deputy
City Manager Rob Russell stated that both Salinas’ water companies’ assessment responses state that they believe they can serve the new
growth areas. The PUC will make the determination.
Ms. Vallarta stated that the City may still have some determination as to whether it wants Alco to serve the area. The City has submitted
its concerns to the PUC, and that matter is scheduled for decision on February 15. Regarding the future growth area, the documents analyze
the area as a whole and consider current resources, including the two water companies. A third possibility is that the City could choose
to enter the field, which staff has not been tasked with at this time.
Ms. Saucedo stated that as of right now, the plan is to utilize the two water systems. They have met with Monterey Salinas Transit. The
priority for the project is to prepare the LAFCO application, following which the specific plans will be the primary focus. Strategically,
the management team will consider when and how to communicate with the community. She has met with Kate McKenna at LAFCO, and the City has
met with Monterey County staff regarding roadways and transportation, and they will continue meeting with them. She will provide agendas
to the City Council of the working group’s meeting, so that they may advocate for the project.
Mr. Russell stated the focus has been on the Transportation Agency for Monterey County and Caltrans so there is less discussion at the end
of the project. They have been reaching out to Monterey County staff, but it is premature to have discussions with the Board of
Supervisors.
In response to Councilmember Sanchez, City Attorney Vanessa Vallarta stated that the Monterey County ballot measures should not have an
impact on the City’s ability to annex land adjacent to the City.
Mayor Donohue stated that the Future Growth Area Council Committee is prepared to meet with the working group.
Hans Jongens stated that most residents do not support Salinas’ General Plan, which destroys 2,400 acres of farmland and eliminates jobs.
He expressed concern regarding water and transportation.
Brian Finegan stated that the development costs are borne by the development. He asked the City Council to support the City’s consultants,
and to advocate with the regional agencies.
Eric Petersen stated that he is a member of an organization that partners with Landwatch. Landwatch participated actively on the Salinas
General Plan and is in favor of the policies for the future growth area. He suggested that Landwatch be invited to clarify their position
at future meetings on this subject.
Councilmember Lutes stated that she has been apprised of the group’s progress. There were dozens of meetings on the City’s General Plan,
which has received accolades from the new urbanist and architectural groups. She is concerned that the future growth area truly must be
developed in accordance with new urbanist principles, i.e. be pedestrian friendly and compact, and meet the housing demands. She also
would like to talk about Salinas’ problems with Alco Water Company. Landwatch was supportive in the development of Salinas General Plan,
and there may little opposition to this responsible development.
Councilmember Sanchez stated that the Monterey County Board of Supervisors was unaware and is concerned about the developers working with
Alco Water Company. He asked the development group to work with the City Council on providing the Council with information for their
constituents.
Mayor Donohue stated that the agricultural community is not concerned about the loss of this farmland. Salinas’ agriculture is
overproducing. Salinas will preserve its agricultural heritage, and it will be the economic engine in the future. However, infrastructure
is urgently needed to economically diversify. A strong Salinas is critical to the entire region.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
1. National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Status Report.
Michael Ricker, Water Resources Planner, stated that the NPDES is far reaching in its scope. The Storm Water Management Plan, which is
over five hundred pages, was approved for submittal to the Regional Water Quality Pollution Control Board. It includes a water quality and
testing program. There is a water quality assurance plan that has also been submitted to the Regional Board. A development standards plan
will impact the future growth area. The plan would require low-impact development, so that no more water is discharging after development
than before. Examples include roof gardens that help absorb water runoff and which are utilized extensively in Europe and also on the East
coast.
Mr. Ricker stated that the Regional Board is contending the City has not met all permit requirements or done so timely. Salinas believes
it has submitted applications as required, but not always timely. Salinas is partnering to stretch City resources to maximize public
outreach and implementation. Construction site management is required to ensure there is no downstream degradation. Maintenance services
is being strained to take on additional challenges by using less chemicals and using more labor intensive management means as part of the
Best Management Practices for maintenance. Community education and enforcement will result in inspection of over four hundred businesses
in partnership with the Chamber, and will require a mid-year budget request for additional inspection staff. The City Attorney’s Office is
developing new ordinances, including a storm water ordinance for Council’s consideration that would also impact workload for enforcement
actions.
Mr. Ricker stated that the challenges include obtaining adequate resources to meet the NPDES requirements. Communication with the Regional
Water Quality Control Board has been a challenge. Many communities have been given considerably longer than Salinas was given to complete
the Storm Water Plan. Another challenge is that “maximum extent practicable” requirements imply that the City must be at the cutting edge
of what is the most current, effective, and costly practices. The City has been issued two notices of violation. The primary issue is the
missed timelines. The City has responded, and will present the City’s position at this week’s board meeting. Considerably in excess of $9
million would be required to comply with the requirements of the permit over its five year term. Salinas plans to fund approximately $6
million dollars in program related activities in fiscal years 2006-07 through 2008-09 through development fees, Gax Tax, General Fund, and
enterprise fees. The ideal solution would be to have a dedicated source of revenue, which would be difficult under the Proposition 218
restrictions.
Bridget Hoover, Director of Water Quality Program for the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary, presented a power point presentation on an
eighteen month water quality study on the reclamation ditch and Marina creek. She stated that Snapshot Day is a one-day event during the
end of May during which volunteers monitor rivers and streams along the Coast to analyze year-to-year trends in areas of concern. The
lower Salinas Valley and Pajaro watersheds include most areas of concern along the coast. They received a grant to perform water quality
monitoring, and are working with the City, Farm Bureau and Regional Board to improve water quality in Salinas’ surface waters and to
involve citizens in their local watersheds. They looked at what is coming into the cities. Turbid waters and sediment are being
transported in the Santa Rita Creek, as well as significant trash. When vegetation is removed from reclamation ditches, pollutants
increase. The reclamation ditches start at Moffett Street and flow through the city, exiting at Davis Road. There was algae and trash in
the ditch, and indications of a nearby homeless camp. Monterey County sprays herbicide to reduce vegetation on the banks, and the
herbicide sprays across the ditch into the water, which is a violation of the Clean Water Act.
Ms. Hoover stated that the Moffett Street outfall had considerable higher results for E. coli than the other outfalls, and warrants
upstream investigation. Metal concentrations were low for a large city. The creeks have potential for park like settings, but are being
used as dumping grounds. More education is required. Their grant involves high school and grade school students. Natividad Creek students
are picking up trash weekly. The Monterey County Water Resources Agency has a plan that they will present to assist Salinas in obtaining
Proposition 84 funding.
Robin Lee urged the City Council to become involved in the projects.
COUNCILMEMBER REPORTS/FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS/TRAVEL AND MEETING REPORTS
Councilmember Villegas appointed Jack Jella to the Airport Commission.
Councilmember Barnes asked the Maintenance Department to respond to Mr. Espindola’s request to replace the trees at Los Padres Park. She
commended the Police Department for their arrests and speedy response to a home invasion in her neighborhood. She appointed Michael Payne
to the Police Community Advisory Committee. She traveled to Sister City Cebu with non-City funds and met their Mayor, who is interested in
an exchange regarding economic development, hydroponics, and security. He would like to attend the Airshow, and he should be formally
invited.
Councilmember Lutes is traveling to Washington D.C. with the Transportation Agency for Monterey County for funding for the Caltrains
extension to Salinas and the Airport overpass.
Councilmember Barrera referenced the HUD letter on the annual community assessment report, and he congratulated Dave Swanson and staff.
Implementation of Salinas’ new performance system is serving as the model for other entitlement cities.
Councilmember De La Rosa reported on CHISPA’s celebration, that she and Councilmember Sanchez attended. She thanked Councilmember Barrera
on raising the issue regarding the homeless population behind Laurel Heights, and she thanked staff for responding rapidly. Neighbors
United will be conducting neighborhood clean ups and addressing the violence. Other service providers need to be involved, including
agencies that will address the whole wellness of the neighborhood, e.g. health and working with STEPS. She will participate on a Police
ride along on Friday.
Councilmember Sanchez appointed Jose Castaneda to the Planning Commission. At the National Association of Latino Elected Officials
conference, he learned that Redwood City calls a summit of public agencies including youth to address youth issues. He would like to call
a regional meeting. NALEO paid for the expenses and he paid half, and the City only paid some of the membership costs. He attended the
Board of Supervisors’ meeting to solicit their support regarding Alco Water Company. The Environmental Health Director stated that he
would like to facilitate a meeting to help. Councilmember Sanchez requested a report regarding comments to LUPE about their lease
expiration, because they have made a serious investment to the facility.
Mayor Donohue stated that he understands how important the water quality issues are. It is a serious, unfunded mandate that is troubling,
but they will seek the quality of life opportunities.
Mayor Donohue appointed Councilmembers Barnes, Barrera, and Donohue to the Downtown Hotel Committee; Councilmembers Lutes and Sanchez, and
himself to the Future Growth Area Committee; and Councilmember Lutes will replace him on the CDBG Public Service Committee.
The City Council recessed to closed session in at 7 p.m. pursuant to:
a. Government Code Section 54956.9(b), conference with legal counsel regarding anticipated litigation.
b. Government Code Section 54957.6 with its designated labor representatives Dave Mora, City Manager; Vanessa Vallarta, City Attorney;
Jorge Rifa, Deputy City Manager; Tom Kever, Finance Director; and Teri Silva, Human Resources Manager regarding labor relations with
Association of Management Personnel, Firefighters Association, Fire Supervisors Association, Police Officers Association, Police Management
Association, Confidential Employees, Confidential Management Employees, and Department Directors.
c. Government Code Section 54957.6 with its designated labor representatives Dave Mora, City Manager; Vanessa Vallarta, City Attorney;
Jorge Rifa, Deputy City Manager; Finance Director Tom Kever; and Teri Silva, Human Resources Manager regarding labor relations with Service
Employees International Union (SEIU), SEIU Supervisors, and Salinas Municipal Employees Association/SEIU. Councilmember Sanchez abstained
due to a potential conflict of interest because of his employment.
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