MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL

SAN JOSÉ, CALIFORNIA

TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 7, 1999

 

The Council of the City of San Jose convened in regular session at 9:30 a. m. in Council Chambers at City Hall.

 

Present: Council Members:       Chavez, Dando, Diaz, Diquisto, Fiscalini, LeZotte, Matthews, Powers, Shirakawa, Jr., Woody; Gonzales

 

           Absent: Council Members:  None.

 

Upon motion unanimously adopted, the City Council recessed to Closed Session at 9:32 a.m. in Room 600 to (A) confer with Legal Counsel pertaining to existing litigation pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9 Subsection (a) to consider the cases of City of San José v. Banuelos, et al.; and MHC Operating Limited Partnership v. City of San José, et al.; (B) to confer with Legal Counsel regarding anticipated litigation where there is significant exposure to litigation pursuant to subsection (b) of Section 54956.9 of the Government Code, to discuss one matter; and to discuss three matters regarding the initiation of litigation pursuant to Subsection (c) of Section 54956.9 of the Government Code; and (C) to confer with Labor Negotiator pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6 involving City Negotiator–City Manager designee Mark Nelson—and the Confidential Employees Organization.

 

           By unanimous consent, Council reconvened from the Closed Session and recessed at 11:30 a.m. and reconvened at 1:32 p.m. in Council Chambers, City Hall.

 

Present: Council Members:       Chavez, Dando, Diaz, Diquisto, Fiscalini, LeZotte, Matthews, Powers, Shirakawa, Jr., Woody; Gonzales

 

                              Absent: Council Members:  None.

 

INVOCATION

 

            Jetin Grewal of Global Cultures & Arts, Inc. presented historical information on the origin of the Afribbean Performers and presented to the Mayor and each Council Member a T-shirt with a packet of materials on the dance troupe. (District 8)

 

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

 

            Mayor Gonzales led in the Pledge of Allegiance.

 

ORDERS OF THE DAY

 

            Upon motion by Vice Mayor Fiscalini, seconded by Council Member Powers and unanimously carried, the Orders of the Day and the Amended Agenda were approved with additional deferrals of Item 5a to the evening session and Item 6f(1) to September 14, 1999. Vote: 11-0-0-0.

 

 

CONSENT CALENDAR

 

         Upon motion by Vice Mayor Fiscalini, seconded by Council Member Powers and unanimously carried, the Consent Calendar was approved and the below listed actions were taken as indicated. Vote: 11-0-0-0.

 

Ordinances for Final Adoption

 

6b(1)    ORD. NO. 25939 – Prezones certain real property situated at the east side of Capitol Avenue, between Riverrun Drive and Gay Avenue. PDC 99-01-003

 

Documents Filed: Proof of publication of the title of Ordinance No. 25939 executed on August 13, 1999, submitted by the City Clerk.

Discussion/Action: Ordinance No. 25939 was adopted. Vote: 9-2-0-0. Noes: LeZotte; Gonzales.

 

6b(2)    ORD. NO. 25938 – Rezones certain real property situated at the west side of Hostetter Road, 120 feet southerly of Silver Tree Drive.  C 99-06-050

 

Documents Filed: Proof of publication of the title of Ordinance No. 25938 executed on August 24, 1999, submitted by the City Clerk.

Discussion/Action: Ordinance No. 25938 was adopted. Vote: 11-0-0-0.

 

Public Hearings Set by Council

 

6c(1)    Adoption of a resolution initiating proceedings on an ordinance of the City of San José amending Chapter 20.24 of Title 20 of the San José Municipal Code relating to “development standards for the R-1 Residence Districts” by amending Section 20.24.040 to reduce the allowable height to 2 stories and 30 feet and to establish a maximum floor area ratio, and setting a public hearing on November 2, 1999 at 7:00 p.m. and referring the ordinance to the Planning Commission for its recommendations and comments.  (Planning, Building and Code Enforcement)

            (Rules Committee referral 9/1/99)

 

Documents Filed: Memorandum from the Planning Commission, dated August 26, 1999, recommending the adoption of said resolution to be placed on the City Council Agenda of September 7, 1999.

Discussion/Action: Vice Mayor Fiscalini stated the proposed changes to the ordinance have increased in scope with respect to the proposed floor area ratios, and that special attention should be given to how extensively the new ordinance would be applied. Noting the number of inquiries received from various community groups interested in the policy, he urged Staff to ensure public outreach efforts include the real estate industry, developers and homebuilders, residents and contractors, as well as those stakeholders concerned with impacts resulting from enactment of the ordinance. As a point of information, City Attorney Joan R. Gallo stated the adoption of the resolution initiates the process and proceedings, and that modifications can be made up to and including final adoption of the ordinance relating to the development standards for the R-1 Residence Districts. Resolution No. 69097, entitled: “A Resolution of the Council of the City of San José Initiating Proceedings on an Ordinance of the City of San José Amending Chapter 20.24 of Title 20 of the San José Municipal Code Relating to Development Standards for the R-1 Residence Districts By Amending Section 20.24.040 to Reduce the Allowable Height to 2 Stories and 30 Feet and to Establish a Maximum Floor Area Ratio and Setting a Public Hearing for November 2, 1999 at 7:00 p.m. and Referring Said Ordinance to the Planning Commission for Its Review and Comments”, was adopted. Vote: 11-0-0-0.

 

Contracts/Agreements

 

6e(1)    Approval of a continuation agreement with CDI Communication Consultants for the preparation of the San José International Airport Information Technology Master Plan, extending the term of the agreement to November 1, 1999, at no additional cost to the City.  (Airport)

 

Documents Filed: Memorandum from Director of Aviation, Ralph G. Tonseth, dated August 19, 1999, recommending Council approve said continuation agreement with CDI Communication Consultants.

Discussion/Action: William J. Garbett spoke against the proposed action. The continuation agreement with CDI Communication Consultants was approved and its execution authorized. Vote: 11-0-0-0.

 

6e(2)    Approval of an agreement with the Prusch Park Farm and Cultural Arts Foundation for the support of capital improvements, events, and programs at Emma Prusch Memorial Park.  (Conventions, Arts and Entertainment)

 

Documents Filed: Memorandum from Director of Conventions, Arts and Entertainment, Nancy Johnson, dated August 25, 1999, recommending Council approve said agreement.

Discussion/Action: The agreement with the Prusch Park Farm and Cultural Arts Foundation was approved and its execution authorized. Vote: 11-0-0-0.

 

6e(3)    Approval of award of open purchase orders for supplies, materials, equipment, and services for FY 1999-2000 #9, and authorization for the Director of General Services to execute the purchase orders. (General Services)

Documents Filed: Memorandum from Director of General Services, Steve S. Yoshino, dated August 19, 1999, recommending Council approve said open purchase orders list, and authorize the Director of General Services to execute the purchase orders.

Discussion/Action: The award of open purchase orders List No. 9 for FY 1999-2000 was approved and execution of the purchase orders authorized. Vote: 11-0-0-0.

 

6e(4)    Approval of a third amendment to the agreement with Media Connections Group for assistance in developing a Telecommunications Master Plan, extending the term by 12 months, from July 1, 1999 to June 30, 2000, at no additional cost to the City. (Information Technology)

            [Deferred from 8/31/99 – Item 6e(3)]

 

Documents Filed: None.

Discussion/Action: This item was deferred to September 14, 1999.

 

6e(5)    Approval of a first amendment to the agreement with Orloff/Williams & Company for advertising and public outreach services for South Bay Water Recycling, increasing the amount by $75,000, from $75,000 to $150,000, and extending the term by 12 months, from August 31, 1999 to August 30, 2000.  (Environmental Services)

            [Deferred from 8/24/99 – Item 6e(5) and 8/31/99 – Item 6e(5)]

 

Documents Filed: None.

Discussion/Action: This item was deferred to September 21, 1999.

 

Routine Legislation

 

6f(1)    Adoption of appropriation ordinance and funding sources resolution amendments in the Services for Redevelopment Capital Projects Fund, with a net impact to the fund in the amount of $2,500,000 for the Tennant Avenue Bridge – Phase II Project.  (City Manager’s Office)

 

Documents Filed: None.

Discussion/Action: This item was deferred to September 14, 1999.

 

6f(2)    Adoption of a resolution accepting a monetary donation of approximately $20,000 to $30,000 from the Silicon Valley Capital Club for use by the Police Department to purchase and upgrade trauma kits.  (Police)

Documents Filed: Memorandum from Chief of Police William M. Lansdowne, dated August 19, 1999, recommending Council adopt said resolution.

 

Discussion/Action: Resolution No. 69098, entitled: “A Resolution of the Council of the City of San José Accepting a Donation of Approximately $20,000 to $30,000 From the Silicon Valley Capital Club to be Used By the Police Department in the Purchase and Upgrade of Trauma Kits”, was adopted. Vote: 11-0-0-0.

 

6f(3)    (a)        Approval of recommended changes to the City of San José Bail Schedule and direction to the City Attorney to submit the recommended changes in the Bail Schedule to the Superior Court Bail Committee.

            (b)        Approval of an ordinance amending Section 1.08.020 of Chapter 1.08 of Title 1 of the San José Municipal Code to update the list of infractions.

            (c)        Approval of an ordinance repealing Chapter 11.68 of Title 11 of the San José Municipal Code, ambulance regulations.

            (City Attorney’s Office)

            [Deferred from 8/31/99 – Item 6f(2)]

 

Documents Filed: (1) Memorandum from City Attorney, Joan R. Gallo, dated September 3, 1999, recommending Council approve repeal of Ambulance Regulations Ordinance. (2) Memorandum from City Attorney, Joan R. Gallo, dated August 18, 1999, recommending Council approve the recommended changes to the Bail Schedule and direct the City Attorney to submit same to the Superior Court Bail Committee, and approve said ordinance.

 

Discussion/Action: The recommended changes to the City of San José Bail Schedule were approved; Ordinance No. 25940, entitled: “An Ordinance of the City of San José Amending Section 1.08.020 of Chapter 1.08 of Title 1 of the San José Municipal Code, Which Lists All Infractions, to Make Technical Corrections to the List of Infractions"; and Ordinance No. 25941, entitled: “An Ordinance of the City of San José Repealing Chapter 11.68 of Title 11 of the San José Municipal Code to Repeal Ambulance Regulations”, were passed for publication. Vote: 11-0-0-0.

 

6f(4)    Adoption of appropriation ordinance and funding sources resolution amendments in the Services for Redevelopment Capital Projects Fund, with a net impact to the fund in the amount of $576,023.  (City Manager’s Office)

            [Deferred from 8/31/99 – Item 6f(3)]

 

Documents Filed: None.

 

Discussion/Action: This item was deferred to September 14, 1999.

 

 

END OF CONSENT CALENDAR

 

COMMISSION, COMMITTEE, AND STANDING REPORTS

 

7b        Report of the Rules Committee – August 25, 1999

 

Documents Filed: Rules Committee Report of the meeting on August 25, 1999.

 

(1)        Review September 7, 1999 Agenda

 

The Committee approved the September 7, 1999 Council Agenda with no changes.

 

            (2)        Add New Items to August 31, 1999 Amended Agenda

 

The Committee recommended five additions to the August 31, 1999 City Council Agenda.

 

            (3)        Meeting Schedules

 

None Presented.

 

            (4)        The Public Record

 

No Public Record filed.

 

(5)   Boards and Commissions. Attachment: Memorandum from City Clerk, Patricia L. O’Hearn, dated August 20, 1999, recommending approval of a one-year leave of absence for Senior Citizens Commission Al Yahanda.

 

(a)                Request for Leave of Absence from Senior Citizens Commissioner

The Committee recommended approving a leave of absence from July 1, 1999 to June 30, 2000 for Senior Citizens Commissioner Al Yahanda to serve on the Santa Clara County Grand Jury.

 

            (6)        Council Referrals for Assignment to Appropriate Committee, Administration, or Council Appointee. Attachment: Memorandum from Director of Conventions, Arts and Entertainment, Nancy Johnson, dated August 20, 1999, recommending the Rules Committee discuss the request by Air Systems and determine whether the request and options should be forwarded to the City Council for consideration.

                        (a)        Request for waiver of the parking fee at the Central Service Yard by Air Systems Shows

 

The Committee recommended denial of the Air Systems request to waive parking charges at the Central Service Yard on September 11, 1999 and directed the Administration to study the possibility of granting fee waivers in the future.

 

            (7)        Oral communications

 

None Presented.

 

            (8)        Adjournment

 

The meeting was adjourned at 2:10 p.m.

 

Discussion/Action: Upon motion by Vice Mayor Fiscalini, seconded by Council Member Powers and unanimously carried, the Rules Committee Report and actions of August 25, 1999 were accepted. Vote: 11-0-0-0.

 

7c        Report of the Finance and Technology Committee – August 25, 1999

 

Documents Filed: Finance and Technology Committee Report of the meeting on

August 25, 1999.

 

            (1)        Remarketing Agent Replacement

            (2)        Monthly Financial Statements for July 1999

            (3)        Capital Cost Report for July 1999

            (4)        Cash Flow Projection

 

            Items 1-4 were referred to the Redevelopment Agency Board for consideration.

 

            (5)        Investment Committee Review of Report on Refinancing of Convention Center Debt. Attachment: Memorandum from Director of Finance John V. Guthrie, and Redevelopment Agency Director of Finance and Budget David Baum, dated June 17, 1999, recommending approval of the concept of utilizing a synthetic refunding for the refinancing of the Convention Center Debt with direction to Staff to develop a financing plan for City Council/Agency Board/Financing Authority Board approval later in 1999.

 

The Committee accepted the Staff report with the direction that should Staff decide to recommend another investment option in the future, Staff will present a report to the Finance and Technology Committee for further discussion.

 

            (6)        Confirmation of Auditor’s Workplan for 1999-2000 Continued Discussion on Redevelopment Agency Operating Expenditures. Attachment: Letter from City Auditor, Gerald A. Silva, dated August 16, 1999, summarizing the action the Finance and Technology Committee has taken regarding the City Auditor’s 1999-2000 Workplan.

 

The Committee accepted the Workplan with the addition of the operating expenditures. Noes: Fiscalini, on Redevelopment Agency Operating Expenditures.

 

            (7)        June 1999 Investment Committee Minutes. Attachment: Memorandum from Director of Finance, John V. Guthrie, dated August 16, 1999, submitting as information the minutes to the June 30, 1999 meeting.

 

The Committee recommended approval of the minutes.

 

            (8)        Fire Fleet Condition Report. Memorandum from Director of General Services, Steve S. Yoshino, dated August 2, 1999, submitting the semi-annual assessment report on the mechanical condition of the City’s Fire Fleet.

 

The Committee accepted the Staff report with the direction that further status reports on the Fire Department’s Master Plan be presented to the Finance and Technology Committee.

 

            (9)        Review of Contract between the City and Municipal Resource Consultant

 

The Committee deferred this item to the September 8, 1999 Finance and Technology Committee meeting.

 

            (10)      June/July Monthly Report. Letter from City Auditor, Gerald A. Silva, dated August 19, 1999, transmitting a written report of The Office of the City Auditor’s Activities for the month of June 15 through August 15, 1999 and the schedule of audit costs for June and July, 1999.

 

The Committee accepted the reports.

 

            (11)      Sewer Fund Expenditures Audit

 

The Committee deferred this item to the September 8, 1999 Finance and Technology Committee meeting.

 

            (12)      Multiple Housing Inspection Program Audit. Attachment: City Auditor’s Executive Summary of An Audit Of The Multiple Housing Inspection Program, from the Office of the City Auditor, dated August 1999; and the Administration’s Response to the same, dated August 13, 1999, from Director of Planning, Building and Code Enforcement, James R. Derryberry.

 

The Committee accepted the report.

 

            (13)      Sales and Business Tax for Quarter ending March 31, 1999. Attachments: Letter from City Auditor, Gerald A. Silva, dated June 30, 1999, transmitting a report on the Sales and Business Tax Audit Results For The Quarter Ended March 31, 1999.

 

The Committee accepted the report.

 

            (14)      Report on Unfunded Projects: Attachment: Memorandum from Director of Public Works, Ralph A. Qualls, Jr., dated August 9, 1999, attaching a report on unfunded capital project staff costs for the period July 1, 1998 through June 30, 1999.

 

The Committee accepted the report.

 

            (15)      Oral petitions

 

None Presented.

 

            (16)      Adjournment

 

The meeting was adjourned at 10:50 a.m.

 

Discussion/Action: Upon motion by Council Member Woody, seconded by Council Member LeZotte and unanimously carried, the Finance and Technology Committee Report and actions of August 25, 1999 were accepted. Vote: 11-0-0-0.

 

7e        Report of the Transportation and Environment Committee – August 26, 1999

 

Documents Filed: Transportation and Environment Committee Report of the meeting on August 26, 1999.

 

            (1)        Consent Calendar. Attachment: Status Report on the Senate Constitutional Amendment 3 (SCA 3), for August 1999.

                        (a)        Informational Report on Senate Constitutional Amendment 3 (SCA 3).

 

The Committee recommended approval of the informational report.

 

            (2)        Additional Noise Monitoring Sites Status Report. Attachment: Memorandum from Director of Aviation, Ralph G. Tonseth, dated August 12, 1999, recommending acceptance of the status report on the addition of two new aircraft noise monitoring system locations.

 

The Committee accepted the status report – No further action required.

 

            (3)        Clean Bay Strategy Report Update. Attachments: (1) Memorandum from Director of Environmental Services, Carl W. Mosher, dated August 12, 1999, submitting additional information on all programs related to implementation of the Plant’s National Pollution Discharge Elimination (NPDES) permit for protection of South San Francisco Bay. (2) Bound document entitled Clean Bay Strategy (South Bay Watershed Activities) Status Report, July 1999, administered by the Environmental Services Department.

 

            (4)        Annual Report on the Urban Runoff Management Plan. Attachment: Memorandum from Director of Environmental Services, Carl W. Mosher, dated August 12, 1999, recommending Council authorize the City Manager to submit the Annual Report and certification for the Urban Runoff Management Plan to the San Francisco Bay Regional Board in conformance with the City’s Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit requirements, pursuant to the Federal Clean Water Act.

 

The Committee discussed simultaneously the Clean Bay Strategy and the Urban Runoff Management Plan and recommended acceptance of both reports.

 

            (5)        Parkland Dedication and Park Impact Ordinance – 1 Yr. Review.

 

The Committee deferred action on this item to September 23, 1999 Transportation and Environment Committee meeting to allow time for Staff to provide an update on and to respond to questions raised in a letter received by the Home Builders Association.

 

            (6)        Oral petitions

 

                        None Presented.

 

            (7)        Adjournment

 

                        The meeting was adjourned at 3:20 p.m.

 

Discussion/Action: Upon motion by Council Member Powers, seconded by Vice Mayor Fiscalini and unanimously carried, the Transportation and Environment Committee Report and actions of August 26, 1999 were accepted. Vote: 11-0-0-0.

 

Mayor Gonzales introduced special guests Ms. Subbish Ma’Ani, Senator in the Jordanian Government; Mr. Suhail Janjua, Pakistan Information Officer in the Punjabi Government; Mr. Bobby Yap, General Manager of the Singapore Community Development Council; and United Democratic Party Leader, Mr. John Cheyo, Tanzania Parliament Member. The dignitaries were asked to stand and be recognized.

 

GENERAL GOVERNMENT

 

9a        Interview applicants for appointment to the Campaign Finance Review and Ethics Board for an unexpired term ending February 29, 2000.  (City Clerk)

            (Deferred from 5/4/99 – Item 9a et al., and 8/24/99 – Item 9d)

 

Documents Filed: (1) Memorandum from City Clerk, Patricia L. O’Hearn, dated September 1, 1999, noting the withdrawal of two applicants, and submitting the names of the two remaining applicants selected to be interviewed for the Campaign Finance Review and Ethics Board to fill an unexpired term ending February 29, 2000. (2) Memorandum from City Attorney, Joan R. Gallo, dated August 27, 1999, highlighting major areas of potential conflict that may be disclosed by the applications. (3) Memorandum from City Clerk, Patricia L. O’Hearn, dated April 30, 1999, submitting the names of the five applicants selected to be interviewed for the Campaign Finance Review and Ethics Board to fill an unexpired term ending February 29, 2000. (4) Memorandum from City Attorney, Joan R. Gallo, dated April 27, 1999, highlighting major areas of potential conflict that may be disclosed by the applications.

 

Discussion/Action: As a point of information, Mayor Gonzales stated two of the four candidates have withdrawn their applications from consideration, and that ballots will be provided each Council Member, immediately following the interviews of the two remaining candidates. The applicant receiving two-thirds vote of the City Council will be appointed to serve on the Ethics Board. Mary Alice Callahan and Stephen Sanger were interviewed, and on the first ballot the City Council appointed Mary Alice Callahan to fill an unexpired term on the Campaign Finance Review and Ethics Board.

 

9b        Recommendation of the Arts Commission to name the complex at Alum Rock Avenue and King Road the “Mexican Heritage Plaza – Centro Cultural de San José.”

(City Clerk)

 

Documents Filed: Memorandum from City Clerk, Patricia L. O’Hearn, dated August 23, 1999, recommending Council consider the recommendation of the Arts Commission to name said complex.

 

Discussion/Action: Upon motion by Council Member Diaz, seconded by Council Member Matthews and unanimously carried, the Arts Commission recommendation to name the complex at Alum Rock Avenue and King Road the “Mexican Heritage Plaza – Centro Cultural de San José”, was approved. Vote: 11-0-0-0.

 

9c        Adoption of a resolution:

            (1)        Increasing the fund reservation from $2,940,473 to $3,501,228 to Community Home Builders and Associates, or its designated partnership, for the development of a 75-unit housing project affordable to low- and very low-income households on a 3.2-acre site located on the west side of King Road, northerly of Mabury Road.

            (2)        Approving business terms for an acquisition and predevelopment loan of up to $3,501,228 for the project.

            (3)        Authorizing the Director of Housing to negotiate and execute all necessary documents on behalf of the City.

            (Housing)

 

Documents Filed: Memorandum from Director of Housing, Alex Sanchez, dated August 19, 1999, recommending Council adopt said resolution.

 

Discussion/Action: Upon motion by Council Member Matthews, seconded by Vice Mayor Fiscalini and unanimously carried, Resolution No. 69099, entitled: “A Resolution of the Council of the City of San José (i) Increasing the Fund Reservation From $2,940,473 to $3,510,228 for Community Home Builders and Associates, or Its Designated Partnership, for the Development of a 75-Unit Housing Project Affordable to Low- and Very Low-Income Households on a 3.2 Acre Site Located on the West Side of King Road, Northerly of Mabury Road; (ii) Approving Business Terms For an Acquisition and Predevelopment Loan of Up to $3,501,228 to Community Home Builders and Associates, or Its Designated Partnership For the Project (iii) Authorizing the Director of Housing to Negotiate and Execute All Necessary Documents on Behalf of the City”, was adopted. Vote: 11-0-0-0.

 

Items 9d and 9e were considered together.

 

9d        Adoption of a resolution setting population limits for purpose of calculating the Voluntary Expenditure Limits for the Year 2000 Municipal Election Cycle.

(City Clerk)

            (Deferred from 6/8/99 – Item 9b et al., and 8/31/99 – Item 9a)

 

9e        Adoption of an urgency ordinance amending Chapter 2.08 of Title 2 of the San José Municipal Code to change the terms of office for Ethics Board members and amending Chapter 12.06 of Title 12 to amend the City of San José Campaign Contribution Ordinance. (City Attorney’s Office)

            (Continued from 8/31/99 – Item 9c)

 

Documents Filed: (1) Memorandum from City Attorney, Joan R. Gallo, dated September 7, 1999, submitting the proposed resolution setting expenditure limits for the Voluntary Expenditure Limits Program component of the Campaign Ordinance. (2) Memorandum from City Clerk, Patricia L. O’Hearn, dated May 19, 1999, recommending adoption of the Voluntary Expenditure Limits Resolution pursuant to the Municipal Code of the City of San José. (3) Memorandum from Mayor Gonzales, dated September 3, 1999, recommending Council approve language as drafted by the City Attorney. (4) Memorandum from Council Member Chavez, dated September 7, 1999, recommending Council refer several specific items to the Campaign Finance Review and Ethics Board for recommendations. (5) Memorandum from City Attorney, Joan R. Gallo, dated September 2, 1999, summarizing the City Attorney’s Office analysis of various concepts raised by the Mayor and City Council at the August 31, 1999 Council meeting.

 

Discussion/Action: William J. Garbett spoke against the proposed action. Referencing his August 26, 1999 Biennial Ethics Review Report and Recommendation to the City Council, Mayor Gonzales stated the City Charter provides that the Mayor, on an biennial basis, conduct a review of the City’s Code of Ethics and ethic standards and make recommendations to the City Council for amendments or changes. He stated the proposed measures are intended to clarify, simply, and create a more accurate Campaign Contribution system; and predicated upon Council approval, the proposals would then be referred to the Ethics Board for review and recommendation back to Council within a specified timeframe. He requested that the City Clerk provide the Ethics Board with the proposals and referrals from the hearing on August 31, 1999, as well as those from today’s discussion related to campaign reforms. With respect to Item 9d, he stated the City Attorney has provided information on the adjusted population formula for the purposes of calculating the voluntary expenditure limits, which is based on the 1990 Census data and adjusted by the percentage increase in residents as determined by population data provided by the State of California, Department of Finance, and that those limits would again be adjusted when the 2000-Year Census data becomes available. As outlined in her September 7, 1999 memorandum on Campaign Reforms, Council Member Chavez reviewed the recommendations for referral to the Campaign Finance Review and Ethics Board for subsequent action by the City Council, which included (1) contracting of an independent professional staff for the Ethics Board; (2) inclusion of a $20,000 loan payback cap in the voluntary campaign finance program; (3) conducting post-campaign audits to validate compliance; and (4) to encourage compliance with the City’s campaign reform and ethics requirements, explore feasibility of public financing of candidate compliance. In addition to the review of the voluntary spending limits of the ordinance, she suggested the issue of the $20,000 loan payback cap should be considered in conjunction with the expenditures and a timeline, and that the Ethics Board should review best practices on a national level. With regard to the September 3, 1999 memorandum from Mayor Gonzales, Council Members Dando, LeZotte and Woody preferred the language in Item B2 to be changed to allow for the rollover of surplus funds from primary to general elections into the voluntary spending limits; expressed concern regarding Item A5 and the creation of incentives for campaigns to obtain professional assistance for compliance services; and with respect to the campaign reforms proposed by Council Member Chavez, expressed opposition to Item #3, the proposal that the Ethics Board conduct post-campaign audits to validate compliance or noncompliance. Vice Mayor Fiscalini expressed philosophical opposition to public financing of elections, noting officials should be responsible for their own funding activity. City Attorney Joan R. Gallo expressed concern with the number of suggested changes and the effect which one change will have on various sections of the Campaign Ordinance. With general direction from Council, she stated the City Attorney’s Office can draft new language to either prevent or permit the rollover of surplus funds from primary to general elections; however, if specific levels of funding are to be addressed in the ordinance, Council should remove the entire Expenditures section of the urgency ordinance and direct the City Attorney’s Office to rewrite the provision and return it to Council for consideration. In the interim, she suggested Council approve the urgency ordinance with direction to the City Attorney’s Office to look at those areas of concern and report back with appropriate modifications. Given the complex nature of Campaign finance and compliance and the significance of Council discussion generated by the biennial report and recommendations, Mayor Gonzales requested Council’s support to accomplish the following: (1) Approval of Items A1 through A7 as recommended in the Mayor’s memorandum of September 3, 1999; (2) Approval to change the language in B2 to allow the rollover of surplus funds from primary election to general election with specific language to be brought back by the City Attorney; (3) Referral of Items A5, B1, B2 and B3 to the Ethics Board for report and recommendation back to the Council; (4) Approval to delete from the Urgency Ordinance, on page 4 of the attachment to the City Attorney’s memorandum of September 2, 1999, the entire Section 12.06.815 – Expenditures; and (5) to refer to the Ethics Board for review and a report back to Council the issues presented in the September 7, 1999 memorandum from Council Member Chavez. Upon motion by Vice Mayor Fiscalini, seconded by Council Member Chavez and unanimously carried, Resolution No. 69100, entitled: “A Resolution of the Council of the City of San José Setting Population Limits For Purposes of Calculating the Voluntary Expenditure Limits for the 2000 Municipal Election Cycle”, was adopted. Vote: 11-0-0-0. Urgency Ordinance No. 25942, entitled: “An Urgency Ordinance of the City of San José Amending Section 2.08.1620 of Chapter 2.08 of Title 12 to Provide That Expiration of Terms for the Members of the Ethics Board Shall Expire Non-Election Years; Amending the Following Sections of Chapter 12: Section 12.06.340 of Chapter 12.06 With Regard to the Campaign Contribution Collection Period and Return of Contributions During the Blackout Period; and to Amend the Voluntary Campaign Expenditure Limits Program Chapter 12.06 Including Section 12.06.810 So That Non-Monetary Contributions Shall Be Counted as Expenditures and Amending Section 12.06.820 of Chapter 12.06 of Title 12 to Provide For Use of Data From the Finance Department of the State of California and Setting Forth the Facts Constituting Such Urgency”, was adopted with recommendations contained in memoranda from Mayor Gonzales, dated September 3, 1999, and from Council Member Chavez, dated September 7, 1999, approved as modified with Ethics Board responses and recommendations due to Council within 120 days.  Vote: 11-0-0-0.

 

JOINT CITY COUNCIL/REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ITEMS

 

11a      Approval of a cooperation agreement between the City and The Redevelopment Agency regarding the Civic Plaza Redevelopment Area.

(City Manager’s Office/Redevelopment Agency)

            (Deferred from 8/31/99 – Item 11a)

 

Documents Filed: None.

Discussion/Action: This item was deferred to September  14, 1999.

 

ORAL COMMUNICATIONS

 

            Cathy S. Brandhorst addressed the City Council.

 

RECESS/RECONVENE

 

            Following Oral Communications, Council recessed at 3:35 p.m. and reconvened at 7:05 p.m., Council Chambers, City Hall.

 

Present: Council Members:          Chavez, Dando, Diaz, Diquisto, LeZotte, Matthews, Powers, Shirakawa, Jr., Woody; Gonzales

 

            Absent: Council Members:           Vice Mayor Fiscalini (excused)

 

CEREMONIAL ITEMS

 

5a        Presentation of commendations to the winners of the Northern California Lifeguard Games. (Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services)

 

Documents Filed: None.

 

Discussion/Action: Joining Mayor Gonzales and Council Member Diquisto at the Podium, Director of Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services Mark Linder, introduced Aquatics Coordinator and Recreations Supervisor, Camden Life Center, Tricia Hall, who presented commendations to Northern California Lifeguard Games First Place Team Winners Matt Enamy, Jenna Martarano, Michael Masuda, and Lori Shoemaker. The City Council joined Mayor Gonzales in congratulating the team for placing First Place – Overall in the Thirteenth Annual Northern California Lifeguard Games.

 

Assistant City Clerk Nancy Alford read the requests for continuances of applications and other actions as recommended. Upon motion by Council Member Powers, seconded by Council Member Matthews and unanimously carried, the below noted continuances and other actions were granted. Vote 10-0-1-0. Absent: Fiscalini.

 

PUBLIC HEARINGS

 

15a      PUBLIC HEARING and adoption of a resolution authorizing the reorganization of territory designated as Monterey Park #103, which involves the annexation to the City of San José of 60.55 acres of land, located on the south side of Curtner Avenue, opposite Stone Avenue, and the detachment of the same from the Central Fire Protection District, Santa Clara County Library Service District, and the Santa Clara Valley Water District. CEQA: Resolution No. 65459.

(Planning, Building, and Code Enforcement).

            (Continued from 2/16/99 – Item 15b et al., and 8/3/99 – Item 15a)

 

Documents Filed: None.

 

Discussion/Action: This item was continued to October 5, 1999.

 

15b      PUBLIC HEARING and approval of an ordinance amending Sections 20.44.310 and 20.44.810 of Chapter 20.44 of Title 20 of the San José Municipal Code to specify the circumstances under which a Site Development Permit is required for single family homes.  CEQA:  Exempt.  (Planning, Building, and Code Enforcement)

            (Continued from 6/15/99 – Item 15d and 8/3/99 – Item 15c)

 

Documents Filed: None.

 

Discussion/Action: This item was continued to November 2, 1999.

 

15i       PUBLIC HEARING ON CONFORMING REZONING of the property located at the east side of South Fifth Street, 140 feet northerly of East San Fernando Street, from R-4 Residence Zoning District to C Commercial Zoning District, on 0.56 gross acre (First Christian Church, Owner/Developer).  CEQA:  Exempt.

            C 99-08-068 - District 3

 

Documents Filed: None.

 

Discussion/Action: This item was continued to September 21, 1999.

 

15j       PUBLIC HEARING ON CONFORMING REZONING of the property located at the west side of South First Street, approximately 110 feet northerly of Goodyear Street (1037 South First Street), from M-1 Manufacturing Zoning District to C-2 Commercial Zoning District, to allow a hotel on 0.33 gross acres (Vinod Patel, Owner; Sharad Lal, Developer). CEQA: Resolution No. 65459. Director of Planning, Building, and Code Enforcement recommends approval. No Planning Commission action required.

            C 99-06-047 - District 3

 

Documents Filed: None.

 

Discussion/Action: This item was continued to September 21, 1999.

 

15c      PUBLIC HEARING and adoption of a resolution approving the vacation of:

            (1)        West Old Julian Street between Pleasant Street and Highway 87 and Pleasant Street between Bassett Street and West Julian Street.

            (2)        A portion of a public utility easement on the west side of Route 87 between West Old Julian Street and West Julian Street.

            (3)        And reserving a public utility easement over both areas.

            CEQA:  Resolution No. 60198.  (Public Works)

 

Documents Filed: (1) Memorandum from Director of Public Works, Ralph A. Qualls, Jr., dated August 19, 1999, recommending Council adopt said resolution of intention. (2) Affidavit of Posting of the Notices of Vacation for said areas, dated August 19, 1999. (3) Proof of Publication of Resolution No. 69065, executed on August 27, 1999, submitted by the City Clerk.

Discussion/Action: Mayor Gonzales opened the public hearing on the proposed street vacations. There was no discussion from the Floor. Upon motion by Council Member Chavez, seconded by Council Member Shirakawa, Jr., and unanimously carried, the public hearing was closed, and Resolution No. 69101, entitled: “Resolution of the Council of the City of San José Vacating Portions of West Julian Street and Pleasant Street and a Portion of a Public Utility Easement”, was adopted. Vote 10-0-1-0. Absent: Fiscalini.

 

15d      PUBLIC HEARING ON PLANNED DEVELOPMENT REZONING of the property located at the northwest corner of Almaden Expressway and Rajkovich Way, from A(PD) Planned Development Zoning District to A(PD) Planned Development Zoning District, to allow six single-family detached residences on 0.82 gross acre (Robert Longinetti, Owner/Developer).  CEQA:  Negative Declaration. Director of Planning, Building and Code Enforcement recommends approval. Planning Commission recommends approval (7-0-0).

            PDC 98-11-086 - District 10

            (Continued from 8/17/99 – Item 15d)

 

Documents Filed: (1) Memorandum from the Planning Commission, dated August 19, 1999, recommending Council adopt an ordinance approving the subject rezoning. (2) Public Hearing Notice to consider a change in Zoning for PDC 98-11-086, dated July 7, 1999, and Proof of Publication executed on July 16, 1999, submitted by the City Clerk.

Discussion/Action: Mayor Gonzales opened the public hearing on the planned development rezoning of the subject property. There was no discussion from the Floor. Upon motion by Council Member Dando, seconded by Council Member LeZotte and unanimously carried, the public hearing was closed, the Planning Commission recommendation approved, and Ordinance No. 25943, entitled: “Ordinance of the City of San José Rezoning Certain Real Property Situated at the Northwest Corner of Almaden Expressway and Rajkovich Way”, was passed for publication. Vote 10-0-1-0. Absent: Fiscalini.

 

15e      PUBLIC HEARING ON PLANNED DEVELOPMENT REZONING of the property located at the west side of Jackson Avenue, 350 feet south of Alum Rock Avenue, from R-1:B-6 Residence Zoning District and I-Industrial Zoning District to A(PD) Planned Development, to allow 74 single-family detached residences on 7.36 acres (Mayfair Nurseries, Owner; Charles Davidson, Developer).  CEQA:  Negative Declaration. Director of Planning, Building and Code Enforcement recommends approval. Planning commission recommends approval (6-0-0).

            PDC 99-03-020 and PDC 99-03-021 - District 5

 

Documents Filed: (1) Memorandum from the Planning Commission, dated August 26, 1999, recommending Council adopt an ordinance approving the subject rezoning. (2) Public Hearing Notice to consider a change in Zoning for PDC 99-03-020 and PDC 99-03-021 dated July 15, 1999, and Proof of Publication executed on July 30, 1999, submitted by the City Clerk.

Discussion/Action: Mayor Gonzales opened the public hearing on the planned development rezoning of the subject property. There was no discussion from the Floor. Upon motion by Council Member Diaz, seconded by Council Member Woody and unanimously carried, the public hearing was closed, the Planning Commission recommendation approved, and Ordinance No. 25944, entitled: “An Ordinance of the City of San José Rezoning Certain Real Property Situated at the West Side of Jackson Avenue, 350 Feet South of Alum Rock Avenue” (PDC 99-03-020); and Ordinance No. 25945, entitled: “Ordinance of the City of San José Rezoning Certain Real Property Situated at the West Side of Jackson Avenue 200 Feet North of San Antonio Street” (PDC 99-03-021, were passed for publication. Vote 10-0-1-0. Absent: Fiscalini.

 

15f       PUBLIC HEARING ON CITY COUNCIL-INITIATED PLANNED DEVELOP-MENT REZONING of certain properties consisting of approximately 3.6 gross acres on the west side of Saratoga Avenue between Blackford Avenue and Doyle Road, from R-1 Residence and A(PD) Planned Development to the A(PD) Planned Development Zoning District, to allow existing uses and future development of the area in conformance to the General Plan Land Use/Transportation Diagram Designation of Combined Residential Commercial (Various, Owners; City of San José, Developer). CEQA: Negative Declaration. Director of Planning, Building, and Code Enforcement recommends approval. Planning Commission recommends approval (7-0-0).

            PDCC 98-12-101 - District 1

 

Documents Filed: (1) Memorandum from the Planning Commission, dated August 19, 1999, recommending Council adopt an ordinance approving the subject rezoning. (2) Public Hearing Notice to consider a change in Zoning for PDCC 98-12-101 dated July 21, 1999, and Proof of Publication executed on July 30, 1999, submitted by the City Clerk.

Discussion/Action: Mayor Gonzales opened the public hearing on the City Council-initiated planned development rezoning of the subject properties. There was no discussion from the Floor. Upon motion by Council Member LeZotte, seconded by Council Member Woody and unanimously carried, the public hearing was closed, the Planning Commission recommendation approved, and Ordinance No. 25946, entitled: “Ordinance of the City of San José Rezoning Certain Real Property Situated at the West Side of Saratoga Avenue Between Blackford Avenue and Doyle Road”, was passed for publication. Vote 10-0-1-0. Absent: Fiscalini.

 

15g      PUBLIC HEARING ON PLANNED DEVELOPMENT REZONING of the property located at the east side of Camden Avenue, 119 feet northwesterly of Kooser Road, from A(PD) Planned Development Zoning District to A(PD) Planned Development Zoning District, to allow the addition of a 24,866 square foot building enclosing a new swimming pool and tennis court lighting to an existing athletic club complex on 4.5 gross acres (James R. Theiring, Owner; Almaden Valley Athletic Club, Developer). CEQA: Negative Declaration. Director of Planning, Building, and Code Enforcement recommends approval.  Planning Commission recommends approval with direction for staff and applicant to develop conditions at Planned Development Permit stage on community coordination, noticing of tournaments, disturbance coordinator, etc. (7-0-0).

            PDC 99-05-042 - District 9

 

Documents Filed: (1) Memorandum from the Planning Commission, dated August 19, 1999, recommending Council adopt an ordinance approving the subject rezoning. (2) Public Hearing Notice to consider a change in Zoning for PDC 99-05-042 dated July 21, 1999, and Proof of Publication executed on July 30, 1999, submitted by the City Clerk.

Discussion/Action: Mayor Gonzales opened the public hearing on the planned development rezoning of the subject property. Project architect Rex E. Morton spoke in support of the proposed rezoning. Upon motion by Council Member Diquisto, seconded by Council Member Chavez and unanimously carried, the public hearing was closed, the Planning Commission recommendation approved, and Ordinance No. 25947, entitled: “Ordinance of the City of San José Rezoning Certain Real Property Situated at the East Side of Camden Avenue, 119 Feet Northwesterly of Kooser Road”, was passed for publication. Vote 10-0-1-0. Absent: Fiscalini.

 

15h      PUBLIC HEARING ON PLANNED DEVELOPMENT REZONING of the property located at the southeast corner of Lewis Road and Wall Street, from A(PD) Planned Development Zoning District to A(PD) Planned Development Zoning District, to allow up to 24 single-family detached residential units on 2.18 gross acres (Chan Yong and Yung-Hi Pak, Owner: Core Development, Developer).  CEQA: Negative Declaration. Director of Planning, Building and Code Enforcement recommends approval. Planning Commission recommends approval (6-0-0).

            PDC 99-06-046 - District 7

 

Documents Filed: (1) Memorandum from the Planning Commission, dated August 26. 1999, recommending Council adopt an ordinance approving the subject rezoning. (2) Public Hearing Notice to consider a change in Zoning for PDC 99-06-046 dated August 3, 1999, and Proof of Publication executed on August 13, 1999, submitted by the City Clerk.

Discussion/Action: Mayor Gonzales opened the public hearing on the planned development rezoning of the subject property. There was no discussion from the Floor. Upon motion by Council Member Shirakawa, Jr., seconded by Council Member Matthews and unanimously carried, the public hearing was closed, the Planning Commission recommendation approved, and Ordinance No. 25948, entitled: “Ordinance of the City of San José Rezoning Certain Real Property Situated at the Southeast Corner of Lewis Road and Wall Street”, was passed for publication. Vote 10-0-1-0. Absent: Fiscalini.

 

CLOSED SESSION REPORT

 

Disclosure of Closed Session Actions of September 7, 1999 submitted by City Attorney, Joan R. Gallo:

 

A.        Authority to Seek Appellate Review in A Litigation Case:

 

            1.         Case Name:     MHC Operating Limited Partnership v. City of

                                                San José et al

 

Adverse Party or Parties:    MHC Operating Limited Partnership

                        Substance of Litigation: Writ Proceeding to Review Mobilehome Park Rent Decision.

            Council Vote:            Ayes:          Chavez, Dando, Diaz, Diquisto, Fiscalini, LeZotte, Matthews, Powers, Shirakawa, Jr., Woody; Gonzales.

                                                Noes:      None.

                                              Absent:      None.

                                       Disqualified:      None.

 

B.        Authority to Enter Litigation Case as Amicus Curiae:

 

            1.         Case Name:     AT&T Corp. Telecommunications, Inc., et al. v. City of Portland, et al.

 

Adverse Party or Parties:  AT&T Corp. Telecommunications, Inc.

                        Substance of Litigation: This action challenges the City of Portland’s cable television regulations.

            Council Vote:            Ayes:          Chavez, Dando, Diaz, Diquisto, Fiscalini, LeZotte, Matthews, Powers, Shirakawa, Jr., Woody; Gonzales.

                                                Noes:      None.

                                              Absent:      None.

                                       Disqualified:      None.

 

            2.         Case Name:     Griset v. FPPC

 

Adverse Party or Parties: Griset

                        Substance of Litigation: This action challenges the validity of the State’s mass mailing law with regard to campaign literature.

            Council Vote:            Ayes:          Chavez, Dando, Diaz, Diquisto, Fiscalini, LeZotte, Matthews, Powers, Shirakawa, Jr., Woody; Gonzales.

                                                Noes:      None.

                                              Absent:      None.

                                       Disqualified:      None.

 

            3.         Case Name:     Apartment Association of Los Angeles County, Inc., et al. v. City of Los Angeles

 

Adverse Party or Parties: Apartment Association of Los Angeles County, Inc., et al.

            Substance of Litigation: This action challenges the validity of a service fee adopted by the City of Los Angeles to fund inspection and enforcement of a program to identify and remedy substandard residential rental property.

            Council Vote:            Ayes:          Chavez, Dando, Diaz, Diquisto, Fiscalini, LeZotte, Matthews, Powers, Shirakawa, Jr., Woody; Gonzales.

                                                Noes:      None.

                                              Absent:      None.

                                       Disqualified:      None.

 

ADJOURNMENT

 

            The Council of the City of San José adjourned at 7:15 p.m.

 

 

RON GONZALES, MAYOR

 

ATTEST:

PATRICIA L. O’HEARN, CITY CLERK

 

By: NANCY ALFORD, ASSISTANT CITY CLERK