Okay. Good evening. Let's uh I will call to order this uh Bavadier City Bader
city council meeting for Monday, June the 8th, 2026. Um can I get a roll call,
please? Beth. >> Council member Cooper here.
» Council member Burke here. >> Mayor Wilkinson present.
» Council member Mark here. Council member Carropia here.
» Okay, we will be moving to close session. Before we move, can I ask
whether there's any public comment on the close session agenda item?
» There are no public present. >> Okay, perfect. In that case, we will
adjourn. Thanks.
Okay, I will uh reopen our um public session. There is nothing to report out
from our close session today. Um Beth, I don't need to take a roll call again.
No. Okay, perfect. So, we are going to move on to item number three, which is
reports and presentations 3A, city council reports. Does any city council
member have any updates? Um I attended the um remotely attended
the uh May RBR meeting and uh want to report that uh the RBR um received grant
approval from the EPA um for funds to um proceed with
additional um eel grass plantings. That's it. Anybody else? Jane.
» Yes. Um, as the mayor's proxy, I attended the last um, MCCMC
city selection committee made up of mayors, marine county mayors, and city
council people. And I wanted to proudly announce that um, the group elected
council member Cara Pietette as the alternate representative to Abag, which
is the Bay Area Housing Group. Um, and as our legislative representative, I
will be attending the annual Abag meeting on June 18th. And as um, Council
Member Caret is the alternate, she will be attending with me. We'll both find
out what's going on there. Um, I did also want to remind residents
that while we haven't seen many coyotes for the past few months, this is the
time of year that if there were any parents um with pups that they would
begin the pups would begin to be investigating their surroundings around
this time for the next couple of months. So, please pay attention to your pets.
Our website offers many articles and suggestions and I recommend reviewing it
and to contact Marinhumane if we have if you have any concerns or want to report
an incident. Um lastly, I attended the meet and greet
for the Malard Point coordinator um Eric Sebrook. Um I was very pleased
that the get together happened. We had a great turnout. uh wonderful community
comments. But um one thing that surprised uh all
of us, including me, was that um the their company was not going to begin any
oversight until the demolition phase uh began.
So, um, I'm assuming that we all misread the April breeze when it said that they
would be organizing project submitts, tracking conditions, ensuring
compliance, and serving as a liaison between the city residents, applicants,
contractors, and engineers. Um, we may have been reading more into
it than what was intended. Um but I also found um the proposal that
was submitted by Philip Cbrook Associates and um it did mention ensure
conditions of approval are adhered to. So I think we may have all assumed that
they were going to be involved with the conditions of approval. Um, and I just
wonder if we perhaps should review the scope of work so that it can be
clarified to everyone what the actual expectations should be um on this
position. I think we all thought it would be more than that. So that was a
surprise. Thank you. >> Anybody else?
» I do. Uh I attended the uh monthly um sea level rise meeting um also known as
Baywave. Two things to report uh they just hired chief climate officer Dr.
Nadia Satarim uh who started about two weeks ago. Um so that was an exciting
development there. And uh we also discussed um how the different
municipalities in our county will be uh preparing for um SB272 which is a
requirement by state law that we submit an adaptation plan for sea level rise by
January 1st of 2034. Um there is a grant writing process that's underway right
now. Some of the municipalities are deciding to do it independently, meaning
they'll apply on their own, whereas others are considering to do it doing it
in collaboration with other municipalities, so multi-jurisdictional.
Um, and we will be in the process of evaluating which is the best path for
Belvadier, and we'll report back.
» No. Okay. I don't have anything to report either, so we will um open that
to public comment. Anybody in the room? I don't see
anybody. Is there anybody online? >> Out of the 13 attendees, there are no
hands raised. Okay, great. Thanks, Beth. Okay, so we'll move on to 3B, which is
our city. Oh, I'm so sorry. Come up. >> What you just said?
» Yes. >> I just wanted to say that.
» Do you mind if you don't mind? Can you just announce name and Jill Barnett, 50
Peninsula Road? I just wanted to agree with uh Jane that uh about Eric Seabol
and that I think you should review uh where his the their contract starts
because he is the project manager and everything before demolition is part of
the project. So I agree with uh reviewing his contract.
» Thank you. >> Okay. Unless there's anything else,
we'll move to 3B, our city manager report.
» Yes. Thank you, Mayor Wilkinson. I'll go ahead and start off with an update on
the police department staffing matter. As you know, the city council has
established a subcommittee of the city council to consider short and long-term
strategies to address staffing matters within the police department. This topic
was discussed during February's council retreat as well. Uh first, I'm glad to
report that the decision has been made to refill the vacant sergeant position.
This position was left open following officer Sabida's retirement last year.
This week, Chief Will will be restarting the internal interview and hiring
process that began earlier this year. Uh, more significantly, the proposed
budget before you this evening also includes three years of funding to
temporar temporarily restore the previously deferred seventh officer
position. Recruitment as expected to begin immediately following tonight's
adoption of the budget. This additional position will help will help bring back
staffing resiliency within the department and give Jason's team the
opportunity to focus on more proactive and diverse police work like parking and
even some code enforcement matters that we're looking into. Uh looking towards
the future, the budget also includes $30,000 for the development of a mid and
long-term strategic plan for the department. The subcommittee is drafting
an RFP and has identified several qualified firms to assist with this
effort. The selected consultant will evaluate
the department's staffing and operational model, review succession
plans for when key staff retires, and assess alternative service delivery
options appropriate for a small agency such as Belvadier. Staff anticipates
that this analysis will take approximately four to six months
following consultant selection. Onto other topics, uh rodents,
specifically rat activity, has been on the rise in Marin. I have personally
heard from several residents who've experienced costly vehicle damage and
other property dam damage this year from rats. Staff is developing a pilot
mitigation program that we that we expect will run approximately 3 to six
months uh in lie of toxic poisons. The pilot will focus on deploying
contraceptive bait stations uh that can also track usage around the city. Other
cities in and around the Bay Area are using this similar method with success.
Uh the initial look will help us understand the extent and concentration
of that rodent activity. Uh evaluate the bait's effectiveness and inform any
longer term strategy. We plan to return to the city council with datadriven
findings and recommendations following completion of the pilot. Staff has also
coordinated with Marine Humane and Wildcare to develop a frequently asked
questions FAQ document for the residents and anformational page will be available
where folks can find details about the pilot and the best practices for rodent
med mitigation as well as the FAQ. More to come. And then finally,
beginning with the July city council meeting, the agenda will include a new
standing item titled council member request for future agenda items. This
item will provide council members with a formal opportunity to request future
agenda topics. They're outside of the annual goal setting process. Requested
items may be scheduled for future council consideration or referred to
staff for preliminary review subject to the support of a majority of the council
members present. And that's all I have for now. I'm happy to take questions.
» Thank you, Robert. Do council members have questions?
Jane, go ahead. When do we get to start requesting?
» Uh, I think the earliest we put this on the agenda is next month, but could be
August. Yeah. >> Okay. Fine. Thank you.
» Okay. Let's open this for public comment. Is there anybody in the room
that wishes to make public comment? Seeing none, I will open that to online
comment. >> Mary Wilkinson, there are no hands
raised. >> Okay, great. In that case, we will close
item 3B and move on to 3C, which is an update on the Marin Sonoma Mosquito and
Vector Board presented by Peter Bonrude. I hope I pronounced that correctly,
who's a district manager and our representative, Richard Snyder, um,
who's here to present as well. So, welcome to both of you.
» Hi, Richard Snyder Ten Commander Walk. I've been a member of the board since
you appointed me back in 2018. And of those several years, I've served four
years on the executive committee and I was president for the year of 2023
and currently serve on the nominating committee trying to shape the future.
I'd like to introduce Peter Bonura who is our general manager and who has a
presentation for you. >> Thank you. Thank you. Thank you for your
service. >> Great.
» Thank you, Richard. Um, yes, my name is Peter Bon. I am the district manager at
Marinoma Mosquito and Vector Control and we're going to go through a little bit
of what we do at our district and try to focus a little bit on uh the city of
Belvadier as well. So, just a quick overview. Oh, is it?
Oh, there we go. Um we are an independent special district. So,
similar to like a fire district or a water district, we have our own tax
base. We have our own governing body. Um and basically our role is protecting
public health uh from mosquitoes and other vectorbor diseases in both Marin
and Sonoma County. Uh we have a board that's governed by 24 different members.
Some of those from incorporated cities and as as well as from Shasta County,
I'm sorry, from Marin and Sonoma County at large.
Our tax base is um within the property assessments and our authority is under
the California Health and Safety Code. We cover two different counties, 2200
square miles. We are the largest largest district in California. um just under a
million residents and over 25 species of mosquitoes are monitored.
Interesting history for Marinoma mosquito and vector control. We are one
of the the earliest mosquito and vector control districts in California. Uh the
San Rafale Improvement Club, which was a women's club uh in San Rafale, raised
money early in the 1900s to try to reduce nuisance-causing mosquitoes in
the area. it was uh impossible to live during certain parts of the time of the
year from largely u salt marsh mosquitoes. Uh so the Sanfell Women's
Club came together and they raised a bunch of money and they were actually
able to hire an animologist from UC Berkeley that then trained the first
mosquito inspectors in California uh to try to reduce those mosquito
populations. Then not too far after that, California passed legislation that
allowed the creation of mosquito and vector control districts and ours was
one of the first. Uh so the marin mosquito abatement district was created
not too long after the vector control law was passed in 1915 and we've been
around ever since. So we've added new districts, we've consolidated um but
ultimately we've included now both Marin, all of Marin and all of Sonoma
County within our boundaries as you can see. So from 1976 to 2004 and then we
continued to annex um some of the outer areas within northern Sonoma County and
western Marin County. Uh today we are a modern uh organization that covers as
mentioned 2200 square miles. We follow what's called integrative vector
management which is a form of integrated pest management which basically is
looking at the toolbox and finding the right tool for each job that you have.
Um no specific position or no specific outcome is expected. We use our
surveillance to guide our control interventions and ultimately whichever
um control intervention we need to use for each situation.
Okay, here are some of the programs that we offer. Uh, everything is driven by
our surveillance and monitoring. So, we're running close to 100 mosquito
traps across the the 2count district every week. Um, we also add additional
traps as part of that, but our regular trapping is 100 plus. Um, in addition to
that, we're also doing our rodent uh rodent issues. Uh, so we're out there
looking for uh homes and helping out with exclusion. Um, we're also working
on tick surveillance. So both in Marin and Soma County, we're out looking in
the areas where ticks are the most prevalent. We're collecting those ticks
and then we're testing them for disease, mostly bellia burgdorfry, which is lyme
disease. Um and then some other bellas, which are akin to belly burgdorfry,
which can cause relapsing fever. In addition to our surveillance and
monitoring, obviously we have the control element. Most of our focus for
mosquito control is on the immature stages of mosquitoes. So while they're
in their water, um we find that we have a lot more options when we're dealing
with mosquitoes in the water versus while they're on the wing. And we have
um it's a lot easier to find, right? We can find these different mosquito
sources. We can treat them before they ever become adults. Um our goal as a
public health agency is disease prevention. So we're always focused on
those mosquitoes that can cause disease and we're focused on trying to reduce
the transmission of those diseases to people. The main diseases that we're
concerned about here in both Marin and Sonoma County right now is Westnau virus
is still the main main player in our area. Um however, we are keeping an eye
out and testing for western ecoin and sephilitis as well as St. Louis and
sephilitis which have been in California but at different times of the um over
the last 50 60 years. Service requests do drive our operations to some degree.
Um last year we had over 12,000 service requests. Uh this year hopefully we'll
have a few a few less um because it was quite a few. Most of those were on
yellow jackets. U public education as well. So we have an education specialist
that goes into the schools, teaches kids at all different age levels, different
curriculums that are approved by California for whatever that that age
group is. So, we try to target not only the information that we're trying to put
out there, but also what the teachers are trying to teach to each grade level.
Plus, we also have our um outreach or our PIO who will do a variety of
different events. If there's events in Belvadier that people are interested in
us attending, let us know. We're always happy to add things to the list. Um and
then obviously all of our different outreach, our websites, um our social
media. So, districtwide, um last year, like I
said, we completed over 10,000 service requests. We tested over 17,000
different mosquitoes. Uh we inspected 40,000 different locations for potential
mosquito breeding and of those treated around 16,000. And we did have one
Westnau virus positive incident last year which was a positive dead bird in
the city of Sonoma area.
Districtwide trends overall our mosquito numbers were down last year which is a
positive thing. Even though we did see um that Westnau virus incident um
overall in comparison to previous years, last year was a lower year. Uh we're
sort of seeing similar uh at this point this year both locally and statewide and
we're hoping that continues. Um and ultimately, you know, those are the
things that will drive our operations. I I took a a small little smattering of
the different mosquito species. Like I said, we're dealing with 26 plus. Those
are the ones that we're looking at pretty regularly. Um and most of those
are disease causitive or very nuisance. um positive mosquitoes.
Let's look a little bit at Sylvia Belvadier. So, as you can see, all these
are locations that um we have done control activity. So, we have close to
on both Tibberon and Belvadier property to roughly 6,000 different locations
that we inspect regularly for uh for treatment. And of those, you know, on
average, we're inspecting 3 to 4,000 each year and treating around 2,200 uh
year dependent. Um, in addition to our mosquito control elements, uh, we did
over 24 rodent inspections on the island and then, um, we did 156 yellow jacket
treatments.
This is kind of what the work looks like. Our technicians go out every
morning. Uh, they're identifying those sources that we've already previously
identified as potential mosquito breeding habitats. They're checking
those habitats to see if they're breeding immature mosquitoes and then
finding the best control strategy and hopefully the most long lasting control
strategy for each one of those situations. And that could conclude
everything from source reduction to public education to chemical control to
biological control. Uh we have a variety of different tools that are pretty
habitat dependent and species dependent. You can see up on the the screen here.
Um we're dealing with marsh habitats, we're dealing with wetland habitats,
we're dealing with urban habitats. We do have a very uh wide variety of different
types of mosquito breeding habitats throughout both Marin and Sonoma
counties. Um on the right hand corner you can see one of our mosquito traps.
Um I probably should have put one. Our biologist, our main lab director, Dr.
Fury, actually created a whole new trap using our 3D printing, which is really
exciting. That's actually out catching uh the trap that is typically used for
mosquito surveillance. So, we're pretty proud of the fact that she designed a
new trap that's doing better than the existing industry standard trap and it's
costing us a lot less money and we can put a lot more traps out there to look
to see what's going on from a mosquito standpoint. And then the last one is one
of our technicians, our rodent specialist looking for exclusion options
for a property owner. Um, so one of the things to keep an eye
on is this emerging threat for 80s egypti. We refer to them as invasive
80s. Uh, basically these mosquitoes don't belong in California. Um there's
more than just 80s egypti but 80s egypti has been the one that's spread the best.
Uh there's also 80s noiscriptis and 80s albapictus that's moved from the LA uh
area all the way up to shasta county and so far we have been able to avoid 80s
egypti and either mariner or Sonoma County but we are slowly getting uh
surrounded. So they're now been found in Solano, Santa Clara, Alamita, Santa
Cruz, um Yolo, still not in Napa, still not in Marin, still not in Soma, still
not in Sonteo. So we got a little bit of a boundary, but not by much. So we're
keeping an eye out for those mosquitoes. Uh why do we care? It's just another
mosquito. Well, we care because these mosquitoes um can transmit diseases that
up until the last three years were not transmitted in California. So deni,
chicken, zika virus. Um and unfortunately now we have had locally
transmitted denge in southern California where 80s egypti is pretty well
established and the concern is that where this mosquito can be established
those diseases could also be transmitted. Denge chicken gona and zika
are different than westnile in the sense that humans are the host for those
diseases. So in West Nile's case it's a bird. So it's a bird human I'm sorry
bird mosquito disease. For deni chicken and zika it's a human mosquito disease.
So somebody could travel to an area where one of those diseases endemic,
come back, get bit by that mosquito, and then ultimately transmit it on. So
that's why it's a concern. Um we have traps out that are specific for those
mosquitoes, and we are looking for them regularly to make sure uh if we do get
them, we have a good response plan put into place.
Um just a quick little financial snapshot. So as I mentioned, we are
covered by largely property taxes as well as some additional benefit
assessments. Um that accounts for just under $13 million for our revenue uh
basically each year. Um and with that we cover 38 uh technicians and staff
members as well as a fully funded capital program and uh we are currently
looking to do some facility improvements. So, one of our big
projects in the next two years uh is going to be the uh the construction of a
new admin building as well as the expansion of a new shop and vehicle
storage. Um which is exciting. We haven't done any expansion since the
late 90s. Uh and we're we're busting at the seams a little bit. So, we're
excited to have some some expansion there on the same footprint uh the same
uh boundaries. And with that, I'll talk quickly about
uh beyond. So, technology modernization is our goal. Uh we just rolled out uh a
new grant that we were able to take advantage of through the state that we
were able to completely reorganize all of our digital infrastructure. We're
going to take that and continue to build on it with this new uh facility
improvement that we're looking at. Um additionally, climate resilience is on
our minds. Um, when you're talking about climate, vectors tend to be the canary
in the coal mine. Meaning, we know that emerging diseases and the diseases that
or the mosquitoes that are carrying them often are coming ahead of some of the
other larger climate changeoriented um indicators that are out there. Uh, we
know that the expansion of these mosquitoes and these diseases is likely
due to climate change. And so we're always trying to identify where the next
emerging disease or emerging mosquito issue is going to come based on that uh
change in in an overall climate. Um we're also looking at enhancing our
surveillance. So finding new traps, new techniques, um looking into things like
remote modeling, looking into things like identifying our old data set and
utilizing it to inform future decisions. So big data questions. Um, uh, we just
hired a new data system specialist that's going to be working through a lot
of that old historical data on the mosquito side of things. We're very good
at collecting it. We're not as good at making it operationally relevant. So,
that's the next goal. Um, and then the last one is community engagement, doing
exactly what we're doing here today, getting people to know that we exist and
we can help you with your rodent issues if you have questions is we have a rat a
rodent specialist and we do this all over Marin and Sonoma County. Um, so
we're always happy to partner partner with cities, counties, anybody that's
interested in making things better for them from a mosquito and vector control
standpoint. With that, I'll open it up to any
questions if there's time.
» Peter, thank you for that very interesting presentation and all the
work that you do, which is which is super important. Um, I do have
questions, but I'll open up to other council members first.
» So, yes, thank you for your presentation. It's very informative and
I have to say I personally have used your service. Um, but the question I did
have that um is sort of relevant or soon to become relevant to the city
is um addressing our uh uh rodent problem. And I'm not sure what your
program is about and and and the steps all that are going to take place. um but
you are available that the city can reach out to you and see if there's
something that you can help us with. Um whether it's a service or just advice on
um um addressing that problem. Is that um possibility?
» Yeah, we can do exactly what has already been discussed and and lend hopefully an
additional voice to that information. So our rodentborn disease program is
focused on exclusion largely. So our rodent specialists will get called
through a service request. will go out to the property and then we'll provide
an exclusion report. So they'll do a full inspection of the property,
identify areas that are either um entry points or potential harbridge areas or
food sources and they basically will give a laundry list to the property
owner of things they can do to improve their um the rodents that either are on
the property or potentially even in the home itself. Uh they can then take that
report and they can either hire a pest control company to do the work for them
or they can do some of that exclusion work themselves. So we don't actually do
any of the rodent control. We just provide consultation on the road. So, it
sounds perfect for what you guys are working on. We can work with you on your
FAQs. We already have a whole lot of that on our website. Um, and it's going
to be just as relevant for Belvier as it is for any other part of Marin County.
» And that service is free. >> That service is already paid for through
your property taxes. >> Thank you.
» Yeah. >> Any other questions?
» No. Just one I guess it you mentioned ticks and we have a little party favor
here. Did you? >> That's right. I I am not super liked at
parties because I bring some of the strangest party favors. But um yes, what
you have is a ticky. Uh so what that is is a tick remover. Um great to throw in
your your vehicle or your purse or your bag or whatever you use to go hiking. Um
and it's to remove ticks. It's a nice easy way to uh cleanly remove the tick.
Um that's the main thing. If you find a tick, getting as much of that tick off
as you can, getting as much of the hypostome out or the head parts out as
you can is going to prevent any kind of secondary infection from like bacterial
infection or something. So, uh, really key to have with you. It was
» Thank you. Well, >> and then it was married with hopefully a
tick card that will let you know the in our area and the concerns, uh, of
certain species in our area. Well, I I just wanted to check so that I could
thank you for this nice gift and also thank you for the presentation.
» Well, and to the public, I'll let them know that those are available to them as
well. So, if you need anything for tick surveillance or for tick removal, just
give us a call. We're happy to make those available.
» I would very much like to thank you for this key because my husband has removed
two ticks out of his leg in the past week associated with mountain biking and
it's never quite sure whether he's got them out completely. So, so thank you
for that. One of my questions was um in relation to ticks, what's the data
showing in terms of the prevalence of of lime? So, whatever the the the latin is
for that, but what what what are you seeing in terms of the data?
» Sure. So, in general, our Lyme disease numbers are lower than Midwest and East
Coast. Uh but Marin County does have some of the highest rates of Lyme
disease within our ticks in terms of California counties. So, if we're
looking in California, Marin does have a higher uh risk than other counties, but
it's still very low. Four to 5% is the infection rate that we typically see in
most of our ticks that we collect. Um, you know, we can see microhabitats where
we'll have higher infection rates. Uh, but in general, those numbers are fairly
low. Um, and there's a couple different reasons. One is our temperature. One is
that we have a slightly different species of tick. So, we have Exodius
Pacificus here on the Midwest and East Coast. It's Exodus scapularis behavior
slightly different. Um, and then also we have uh a really interesting um
biological environment here where if the tick feeds on a lizard that is endemic
here to California, it will actually kill the the burrellia. It'll it's a
bellioidal effect. It'll kill the Lyme disease bacteria in the tick. Um, and
that'll also reduce our overall infection rates uh in California. So,
not bad if you compare it to Midwest and East Coast, but definitely something in
Marin County you want to be aware of. Do your tick checks. Make sure you're
wearing um you know some sort of insect repellent uh when you're out and about.
Make sure you're wearing light colored clothing if you're going to be in areas
where you know ticks are going to be. Uh and ultimately making sure that you
remove those ticks as quickly as possible. If you're worried, you can
always hold on to it. Um we can always ID it. We won't test ticks for people,
but both public health labs, I believe, will test for ticks. Uh we only test the
ticks we collect. Uh it's the same as the state. If you go to CDPH, they won't
test ticks that are collected off of people. And that's because we don't want
to give people a false sense of either security or um you know the other end
that it did test positive that doesn't mean you have Lyme disease and vice
versa. So we really work on the medical side of things informing uh doctors as
to what our risks are for Lyme disease, knowing uh the signs of Lyme disease and
then hopefully treating the Lyme disease quickly and effectively for those people
that have gotten bitten. >> Thank you very much. And I'm sure the
city will be reaching out in relation to our um our rap question. So, thank you
for that offer. Um, unless there's other questions, I will open this up for
public comment. >> I just have one comment I wanted to
make. I wanted to thank Richard Snider for his service on the um mosquito
vector board and representing the city. So, well, that's all.
» You're very welcome. >> My pleasure.
» Uh, okay. Let's Is there anybody in the room that would like to make public
comment? Seeing none, I will open this to
» I see none. Seeing none. Okay. In that case, we will um close item 3C. And
again, thank you to Peter and Richard for everything that you both do.
» Thank you so much. Appreciate it. >> Okay. We'll be moving on to item 3D,
which is interviews um for applicants for appointment to the to the planning
commission and the Belvadier Tibron Library Agency board. Is there a staff
report before we go to interviews? >> I'm happy to give you a summary of the
staff report or you can jump right into it, whichever you prefer. Do you want to
give a quick summary of the of the positions that we're interviewing for?
» Yeah. So, we have two vacancies currently on the planning commission.
Uh, one four-year term currently held by Commissioner Oslay J, who is seeking
reappoint, and one partial term created by Commissioner Butros's reg
resignation. We received one application from Jason Jacob Laneski, who is present
this evening for an interview. We also have an opening on the Belvadier
Tibbrron Library Agency board. Incumbent Tony Hooker is seeking reappoint and one
additional applicant Andrea Barish has been has applied uh and is here this
evening to interview as well. And then finally, two finance committee uh
members terms are expiring. Both incumbents Bob McKascal and Patrick
Feder have requested reappoints. Um no additional applications were received
for those open positions. Um that's all. >> Thank you very much. Um, in that case,
can I ask Jacob, who I see over there, come and introduce himself um to the
city council. >> Uh, good afternoon, Madame Mayor,
members of the city council. My name is Jacob Lanitki. Uh, I'm applying for the
vacant uh seat on the planning commission. I do have to reflect that
going after the mosquito presentation, which was actually quite interesting, is
not an easy task. Uh however, I'll try not to bite and hopefully uh the buzzing
in your ear will be very very minimal. Um just uh by uh by just sheer back
introduction, you know, I moved to uh Belvadier um last February. It's a
fascinating town. It's a beautiful town. There's a sense of history. There's a
sense of aesthetics. Um there's a kind of a charm and appeal that's almost
indescribable and makes it unique. And uh one of the reasons I want to be on
the planning commission is because it dovetales with my interest in preserving
this town and making sure it can continue and grow in an intelligent way.
Um but also dovetales with my professional background. Uh just on a
day job I oversee the real estate transactions for a large technology
company in Silicon Valley. Um always have been professionally in real estate
all my life. My first job was as a real estate attorney, then went to business
school and then um served in various other real estate functions since then.
I'd like not to make this long, but rather open up to Q&A. As I said, very,
very interested in this town, very interested in the history. Um, but also
just making sure that the people here can continue to thrive and whoever moves
in can also just live up to their full potential and how they see their
residences. Open up the questions.
» Jacob, thanks so much. Who would like to start with questions?
» Kevin. >> Oh, I don't have many questions. we we
had the opportunity to um spend some time on the phone and uh I was very
impressed with your background. I think uh I can definitely see how you could
leverage some of those or many of those experiences for the work that you're
doing, I guess. I mean, given that you are working at such a a large
high-profile technology company in Silicon Valley, how do you imagine sort
of balancing the demands of that with the demands of the planning commission?
uh especially, you know, given um I think your travel schedule, which seems
like it's uh pretty uh interesting to say the least.
» Yeah, I'll just get Claude to do my other job.
» Um I think the the answer to your question is I can devote the time to
this as long as I know how to schedule it, right? And the beauty of this
position is that you know when the meetings are, you know what has to take
take place before the meeting, the kind of the due diligence that has to happen.
So that becomes much more schedulable. It's the issue of where you know I have
to have a meeting in three hours that becomes much more problematic. So to the
extent that there's visibility and the time commitment it becomes a much more
manageable task. >> Thank you.
» Hi Jacob. Uh like like Kevin we spent some time on the phone so I'll be brief.
Uh something that I think has evolved in
the planning commissioner's responsibilities is some of the longer
term planning perspectives and policy related to housing elements and general
plans. And uh I think I think someone can really step
into that the longer they've been involved with the city and going
forward. I just wanted to gauge your your interest and your openness to being
involved in that long-term planning aspect for our city both from a
municipal code perspective and as I mentioned um housing policy and general
plans as well. Um you know I worked uh in Berkeley, California for five years
as a practicing real estate attorney um helping them with their housing element
helping working with their zoning board with their planning commission as well.
I it's been an interest of mine. The question I think you're asking is how do
we balance this intelligently? Like the city is not a straight jacket. It's the
question of how do we accommodate the growth of the city but do it in a way
that still preserves that which makes it special. And it's not an easy answer,
right? It's a question of you have to delve into the code. You have to delve
into the legal requirements, but moreover, you also have to delve into
what can be built in a way that doesn't infringe and impinge upon the lifestyle
of the existing residents.
» Pat, do you have any questions? two. Hi, thank you. We've not had a chance to
chat, so this will be our first chat. Um, so, uh, one question I always have
and I believe I know the answer because I've seen you, but have you had an
opportunity to attend any planning commission, um, meetings?
» I have. I've attended the last two meetings.
» And what have you learned from that? Um,
what I've learned from it is that there is a question of how do you balance some
of the growth. There's a question of also how do you balance some of the
improvements that people want to make to their homes, legitimately want to make
to their homes with the concerns of the neighbors, with the aesthetic concerns
that various members have expressed. Uh what I've learned it's that it's an
interesting job but and it's one that I think to the extent that there is a
legal perspective the commission could benefit as well. The kind of the
structured thinking that a that a law school teaches you or being a lawyer
teaches you I think could enrich the discussion.
» Okay. And um thank you for that. And um this is a little bit kind of connecting
a question that Kevin had and that Peter had. And um I I think for for me it's
talking about you know your your work life balance schedule. And um and for me
it's it's um
not only you know your your expertise and and and and what you bring to the
commission um as far as working on municipal code and housing element and
general plan, but also um you know there's subcommittees, task force,
things like that that come up and they are not three-hour notice meetings. Is
there more, you know, in advance? Are you available to help? And so the
question is is is would you be able to carve out more time if um you were to uh
serve on one of those committees or task force um to um develop new new codes,
new approaches, new new the new housing um element and and the revision of our
general plan that's going to be coming up. Uh the answer is yes because it's
can be schedulable. It is can be scheduled ahead of time. The answer is
absolutely yes. >> Yeah. Okay. I have something but it's a
comment so I can't I it's question time. Um let's see. Um here's a question. Um
would you feel comfortable um offering constructive feedback or
suggestion on improvements to a plan? Um especially if it's the applicant is is
someone that you know, a friend um not necessarily a neighbor within 500
ft, but maybe a neighbor, you know, 600 feet away and you're allowed to
participate in that um project. would would you be able to give, you know,
constructive criticism, your your honest opinion and and and not feel you needed
to hold back because you might hurt their feelings or
» um so as part of my job, I negotiate for a living.
» And when you negotiate with the other side, there is a part of it that is
about the feedback. Now, you could do it in a very unconstructive fashion. You
could call them names. You could say they're stupid. You could do a lot of
things and you've insulted them. you've affected their ego and you've gotten
nowhere in whatever view you're trying to convey. And then there's a way of
doing it in a way that is actually kind of not just constructive but in a way
that takes their views and unites yours. And moreover, what you find is these
conversations are not debates, they're discussions. The goal is to actually
find common ground rather to score than to score a point. So absolutely, I mean
this is what I do for a living. >> Okay. Um,
let's see. Um, oh, here's one. Um,
I was a planning commissioner for 10 years. So, sometimes I would I'll do my
own my own life experience here. So, sometimes I would have a project visit,
do all my homework, everything else. And though you're not supposed to make your
final decision on how you feel about the project, you kind of come in and kind of
have a feeling how you feel about this project, like you know, I'm really for
it or I'm kind of got some issues with certain things or I'm not really, you
know, this is needs a whole lot more work. So, um, but then I also learned
that as you listen to other commissioners and you listen to other
viewpoints and their ideas and their opinions that you can change your mind
and say, "Wait a minute, I didn't think about that." And that does make sense.
And so for a project that maybe I wasn't going to vote for, I might change my
mind and vote for it. Or a project I was going to vote for that I'm going to vote
for it to be continued so they can do further work. Do you feel that you have
that kind of open mind analysis that you know you would be open to other people's
viewpoints and being able to change your mind?
» Uh I hope I can learn. >> Okay.
» I hope I can learn from my fellow commissioners. That's part of the
experience, right? >> Okay.
» Nobody nobody has a monopoly on wisdom or a monopoly on good ideas. So you have
to absolutely listen to others. And um
do you um believe that um uh as as a planning commissioner that
your role is to
balance the municipal code with the interest and wants of a applicant
against what's best for the entire community.
I believe that the job of the commission is often a balancing of factors. That is
absolutely true. It is also one where you cannot disregard the law. So the law
may set a bright line in which case you have to follow it and if the law is not
as exact then of course you have discretion.
» Okay. Thank you. And then I guess my last question is is that when
we we all have our um
careers, jobs, interests, specialties that we bring to whatever
we're doing in our volunteer um life. And um as a planning commissioner, you
know, we're going to be looking at you to be um making your your
approach to being a planning commissioner and your decisions and
everything else as more as a citizen um versus a um as a role as a lawyer.
And so do you see yourself having a problem with that?
No, not at all. Okay. I think lawyers can be good citizens.
» Okay. All right. Okay. Well, those are all my questions. Thank you,
» Jane. I think I skipped you. Do you have questions?
» You didn't skip. >> Oh, we didn't skip you. I'm sorry.
» It's my turn now. That's all. >> Go ahead.
» Hi. Nice to meet you. >> Likewise.
» Uh, I was not on the planning commission, but I've attended many of
the meetings over the last four or five years, so I've learned a lot. Um, and my
qu a lot of my questions have already been asked and answered. So, thank you,
fellow commissioners. Um, I I think you said you've only lived here for four
months. >> No, no, no. Uh, February of 2025.
» Oh, okay. Great. Um, I was going to say, wow, you're really jump jumping in. You
fell in love fast. Um, okay. So, I'm assuming, you know, one of the things
that um can come up is that where you live, you know everything intimately
about that neighborhood, but we do have um three to four different types of
zoning here based on um if you live on the water, if you're living on a small
hill, larger island, whatever. So, um I I just wondered if you were familiar
with all the different um physical areas and that they may have zoning
differences and that you would be representing all of the areas equally,
not just the one that you live in because you're most familiar with it.
» Yeah. So, uh two-part answer. The first is I've tried to walk pretty much every
street in the town. I think it's just beautiful. It's also good exercise given
the slopes. Um, but the second part of your question is there's going to be
aspects of the code that I'll need to learn, but it's not like I represent one
particular block and that has to triumph over everything else. Absolutely not.
» Yeah. Yeah, you're right. The code is uh complex at first, but then it gets
easier as as you learn it. At least that's what I've heard. Um, I wondered
if you'd had any chance to speak with any of our planning commissioners that
sit there now. Uh I have not other than just observing
that. Okay. >> And I've spoken to Marshall Aski. She's
an alternate. >> Yes. And a previous planning
commissioner. And have you had an opportunity to meet with our planning
director, Rebecca? >> Just briefly.
» Briefly. >> During the meetings.
» Okay. So, um although um the the monthly meetings are scheduled in advance as you
said, you've also responded to questions about um perhaps smaller subcommittees
or additional small task force that might have to do with housing element or
general plan review and update etc. Um, but there's also we have a requirement
of training of going to training. Although that's again you it's set up in
advance for just one time. It's not ongoing training so that shouldn't be an
issue. Um, but something that is ongoing is the communication back and forth from
our planning director. And um, uh, I'm assuming that when you're doing all your
traveling, you have email availability. and get back could would be able to get
back to her for whatever it is she needs from you at least within 24 hours. That
is correct. >> Does that seem reasonable?
» That is correct. >> Okay, good. That's
» If I didn't have that, I'd probably be fired. So, yes.
» Yes, probably. Um but um uh yeah, otherwise my other questions
have been answered. So, thank you. Thank you for offering to serve.
» Thank you, >> Jacob. I have no questions of you. we've
met and had a nice coffee together and I learned a lot about you so I think I had
my questions answered. Um so um with that shall I open for public comment in
relation to this first or shall I do the other or should we proceed with the
other interview first? >> You could just do one round after we
complete the interviews. >> Okay, perfect. So Jacob, you're not
required to stay on. The decision won't be made until the end of the meeting and
it could be a long meeting. So it's entirely up to you whether you wish to
stay or not. >> That's fine. Thank you very much.
» Thank you so much. Thanks for your time. Okay. So, we'll move on to our um second
position which is for the Belvadier Tibbron Library Agency Board of
Trustees. And this is for Andrea Barish who I believe is here.
» Andrea, welcome. Um please just uh introduce yourself, where you live, and
your interest in serving on the uh the agency board.
» Yes, thank you so much for having me here. I'm really happy to be here. Um I
live in Belvadier, just on San Avenue. I actually grew up here. I my family moved
here in 1968 and we promptly all became members of the Belier Tibbron Library
when it was based in the same building where the post office is now. Um my
family was very much engaged in the library. My father was very involved in
the fundraising to help move it to the new I say new location but the newer
location where it is now. And my mom at the age of 90 last year was working as a
volunteer at corner books and she did that for several years. So the library
has been a very big part of my family's life. I had moved away after college and
came back every year to spend time at the library when I was home. And as soon
as I moved back nine years ago, I became I got my library card renewed. Um so
it's been a really big part of my life and um libraries in general have been.
So I when this position opened up, I actually misread it in the tip in the
arc and I applied for it and the last cycle and it was actually for the
Tibbron position and so I said we're not doing Tibbron now, but Belvadier's
coming up. So I um waited and waited until it opened up and wanted to take
the opportunity. But um I've been doing a lot I do a lot of research and reading
about where the library is now and was really engaged with reading and I have
been reading about it for a couple years now. But the strategic plan and the um
let's connect theme really resonated with me. I that's who I am as a person
was connections are really important to me but also in my career in
communications. I worked for a large PR agency for decades um in strategy and
communications and then now I work for the American Heart Association in
communications um VP communications. So um most of my job has been about finding
ways to connect communities with either a brand or a product or a service and um
that's what I do. I look at the data, I interpret it, I find an idea, and then I
inst implement it. Um, as part of my role in the American Canc right now, I'm
very integrated with the development team with our event planning and
fundraising. I do a lot of work with that team to help them um meet their
goals as well. So, I'm sort of a horizontal position that works on all
sorts of things. I have to know everything about everything and not just
one part of the channel. But I'm really excited about this position because I
feel like it's a lot of opportunity to really help connect the community to the
library. Um I'm not you know and looking at the I see the plan goes till 2026. So
I'm a little bit excited that there's a new plan in place hopefully or there's
going to be some strategy around putting one together. Love to be part of that
plan. Um because that's sort of what I do. I love putting strategy together and
seeing it come to life. Um, and then I've just just a personal note, just
watching the library when I first walked in a couple years ago and had been
rebuilt, I felt I walked into a cathedral, I was like, "This is
amazing." And I was so proud of what the community had done and just some of the
programs and services now just blow me away. So, um, I'd love to be more of a
part of that and bring it to life. And as a side note, I'm retiring in nine
days, but who's counting? After 40 years, and I'm looking forward to
spending time and investing in my more in my community. Thank you,
» Andrea. Thank you very much for that introduction. I'll go to council members
with questions. Jane, >> um I uh welcome. Thank you so much for
your interest in this position. Um I just do do you understand that there is
another candidate and um he's not here tonight because we had already
interviewed him before he took his position.
» So um uh just I wasn't sure if you understood that. I I learned that when I
got the packet and I saw that he was coming back and I understand how
important people who have been in that role are and have that continuity. But
I'd love to bring a different perspective and different ideas and
» but I do understand it because I've served on boards myself and know that
» that's important. So, >> so, um, whatever decision gets made
tonight, um, I I'm really impressed with a lot of the things that you mentioned,
such as connecting the community to the library and that you have this
background in communication and um, community engagement, marketing, etc.
And, um, I wondered if you were familiar with other opportunities at the library.
They have an extremely active uh foundation board which actually sounds
like a very wonderful match >> um as a possibility if you would be open
to that. Um, I served for a year or so as the representative to the library
board from our city council and the um, foundation board representatives attend
every board meeting, are very involved in everything the board does, but they
actually are the arm that connects the community to the library, much more so
than the board does. And so, um, I I'm just putting that out there in case
you're, um, at all interested in that that I think would be a great
opportunity for you. But otherwise, I think you're, um, very prepared for, uh,
joining the library at any on any position there.
» Thank you. Well, you know, I've never been a really a title person. I'm more
about the work and the job. So, if the job is somewhere else, that's fine. I'm
open to that for sure. Okay, great. I'm glad you're open to it.
Thanks. >> But Jenny, are you saying there's a
position on the foundation available right now? Okay. Thanks,
» Kevin. >> And I'm happy to connect you if
» Thank you. >> if you needed that.
» Um, thanks for your interest and congratulations on your impending
retirement. The water is fine. You will enjoy it. I promise. Um, just maybe
quickly if you could share some of your lessons learned from your board service
um with the American uh Cancer Society, I think it was. Yeah. Um, yeah, sure. I
worked for the American Cancer Society for a few years and when as an employee
and then when I moved to New York um to take a new position um I wanted to stay
engaged so I joined the board and um I did a lot of work through fundraising. I
did a lot of work with um going to see um prospective donors and um creating
stories and really understanding connecting them to our mission. Um I was
also I'm a cancer survivor. So one of the things I did I did a lot of patient
outreach. Um so that was really important to me and I just stayed really
engaged throughout I did lobbying on the hill in in Washington and that was
really amazing opportunity. And then when I moved back to California um nine
years ago, um I was still really connected to my American Cancer Society
team and they approached me and they said, "Would you like to be on the board
here?" And I said, "Well, I love it." They said, "Well, how would you like to
be the chair?" And I was like, "Okay, that's a little bit different." So, um
but I did take that on and um I really enjoyed it. I loved we sort of built
that board um for the Bay Area. Um so I uh was in part of my job was to go out
and meet people and ask them to be part of that team. Um also develop programs
and services for our board and and really I navigated
you know I well I managed the board meetings and came up with the strategies
and the um the overall agenda. But the best part was you know we were talking
earlier about you know being open to ideas and that to me is like the best
part. I mean, I always feel like the best idea can come from anywhere. It
doesn't matter who you are. If you have an idea, I'm open to it and I think
that's part of my creative job that I had. You know, the good idea comes from
anywhere. So, I really appreciate that. >> Uh, thank you. And I I'm just very
inspired by the work you're doing. I mean, all of these organizations that
you're helping with um such important purposes. So, thank you for all that
work. >> Peter,
» hi. Thanks, Andrew. I don't really have a question. Um, I really loved your
letter and I and I really applaud and thank you for your interest. Um, and I
think your engagement and your community focus
is is right up um, exactly what our representative to the board would um,
require and I think um, you know, pending our deliberation, you'd be an
asset to that library representing Beladier. So, I just thank you for your
for your >> for your um, involvement.
So, thank you very much for coming forward and um I really um
feel um inspired by your enthusiasm. It really comes across and I just sit here
like Council Member Jane Cooper sitting there going, "Wait a minute. She would
be great here. She would be great there. So, we probably should all connect later
because I think there's a lot of great opportunities for you out there." Um but
the one question I did have for you above and beyond this role um is that
have you attended any of the library board meetings? Have you had an
opportunity to just spend time in the library um and that you know and I have
to say part of the hard part is that because I work full-time so many of the
programs are during the day. Yeah. And you know, my mom attended many of them.
So I knew from her what she was doing in her Spanish and her, you know, how to
redraw, you know, iPad, all those kind of things she was taking I thought was
great. But I haven't really t been able to take advantage of too many things. I
go every I I work in the library sometimes, do my I bring my computer and
work out of the library. Um and then but I haven't really been at the board
meeting. So >> Okay. Will you have the opportunity in
nine days to be able to >> expand your time? But um it's always
very difficult for us when there's so many great people that come forward to
volunteer because this town runs on volunteer. I mean other than our staff,
we're all volunteers for everything that happens here and there's so many great
opportunities, multiple opportunities that could use
your talent. So, um I just hope that um whatever the decision is tonight that
there's many more opportunities that you would fit in so perfectly with um that I
think that you know we we'll be taking up some of your retirement time and
taking advantage of all your talent in one form or fashion as uh our future
unfolds. >> I would love that. Thank you so much.
» You're welcome. Thank you for applying. >> Thank you. Um, Andrew, I don't have any
additional questions. You're obviously incredibly qualified for this role. So,
we will be deliberating at the end of the council meeting. So, again, you're
welcome to stay. You do not have to stay. Um, and we can
» I don't know if I have a higher self-esteem for that.
» Um, but thank you for for your application. As I say, you're incredibly
qualified and talented and we look forward to connecting with you.
» Thank you so much. >> Thank you.
» Thank you. >> Um, okay, let's open this for public
comment. Is there any public comment in the room?
Not seeing any. >> I see no hands.
» Okay, perfect. In that case, we will close item 3D um and move on to the
consent calendar, which is item four. The consent calendar consists of items
that the city council considers to be routine or council has discussed
previously and do not require further discussion. Unless any item is
specifically removed by any member of the city council, the consent calendar
will be adopted by one motion. Council will take public comment on all items on
the consent calendar when the calendar is called. Can I first ask council
members whether anybody wishes to remove any of the items from the consent
calendar? Seeing none, um I will open the consent
calendar 4 A to 4 C up to public comment. Is there any inbody in the
room? Seeing none, is there anybody online?
» I see none. >> Perfect. In that case, can I get a
motion for the for approval of 4 A through 4C? I can make a motion to
approve the consent calendar as um written 4 A through 4C.
» Second. >> All in favor?
» I. >> Motion passes. Okay. We're going to move
on to the individual consent calendar. Um I guess I will read out the verbiage.
Um, the individual consent calendar consists of items that the city council
considers to be routine or council has discussed previously and do not require
further discussion but are separately listed because a council member or
members have a conflict of interest which require them to recuse themselves
from participation in this decision. Um, I will identify myself as being one of
the council members recused from item 5A as I live within 500 ft of the property
through Belvadier Way. I likewise will recuse myself because I also live within
500 ft of the subject property >> and I will hand over to vice mayor.
» Thank you.
» I'll ask just so the public can hear too. Do we have a staff report?
» No staff report. >> Okay. Um so I'll bring it back to the
council. Do we have questions from the council?
» I do have a question. I don't know if it needs to be pulled or if I could just
ask ask a question. Um I know what's before us tonight is the
vocal. Did do you want to say something? >> Do you want us to pull it or not? I mean
essentially just pull it. >> Just pull it.
» It doesn't matter as a practical matter. So please go ahead.
» Okay. All right. So, um I know what's before us is the revocable license for
three Belvadier Way and that last month um there was also a second revocable
license for the lane portion. So, my question has to do with the lane
portion. I asked the question before the meeting. I don't know if the answer
was able to be researched and answered, but there were are existing several
PVC drainage pipes that are coming out onto
our property and into I guess the drainage that's along the
lane. So the question is is were we able to ascertain if those are a public drain
or if they're private improvements? >> A clarification from our council,
please. Can we be discussing something that's not been agenderized?
We're only the RL is for Belvadier Way, not the lane.
» Right. But I believe the council member, vice mayor, I believe the council member
is asking just a little bit more context and asking a factual question.
» Okay. So, I think staff can go ahead and answer if they have that information.
» I was able to reach out to um Tony Boyd and um currently we have no record of
these pipes and they are not city-owned. So, my guess is with this building and I
quickly look through our um the building permit submitt for comments from
engineering. I assume a more robust drainage plan has
to be submitted and approved. And I'm not sure I would guess that these might
go away as part I I don't know. Okay. I don't know what
» the drainage may come later. So it may prove that when they submit their
building plan with their drainage included if they are doing any kind of
tape extension across our property, they would then have to come back and get an
RL for that portion. >> Yes, they would.
» Okay. All right. That was my question. Any
other questions? >> Well, I I had a lot of problems with
this. Um, but um I've been reviewing it a little
bit more and I guess I'll just ask some for clarification
purposes. Um, there was some statement that public benefit would be because
some of the road was being repaved to make it easier to drive on. And I think
there were in the staff report and um something about easier maneuverability
for the public when they drive on Belvadier Way. Um, but we actually have
signs on Belvadier Way that say there is no turning on Belvadier Way at the top.
So, I don't think um easier maneuverability is going to work as a as
a public benefit, but I um recognize that
the actual driveway as it is now is uh over city property and the property line
is in from where the driveway would go. So, by um redoing that area, that would
benefit the city property because it would take care of the roadway there for
their entry into their home. Is that correct?
» Yeah, that that's correct. >> Okay. And then also
um all the planting that already exists going up Belvadier Way, that's also
currently on city property. And so the RL would take care of them providing the
maintenance for all those plants. >> Correct.
» Okay. So I do then see that there's a benefit to the public based on those two
things, not necessarily on what was written in the staff report. So um just
to clarify that. And then um uh I also um
uh had a little I have a concern um because I know that the RL was pulled
for along the lane and I think in the um uh
planning commission condition of approval there's a statement that says
if any of the construction impacts the retention ion wall or that area of land
that the owner will have to provide the repairs for everything there. But um it
seemed when I read it, I mean I I don't have it in front of me. Sorry. Um, I it
did it seemed like it went something like we'll talk about it, but I would
what I would like to ask if there was a way that we could make that more
definitive and make it more um that I would like the public works to actually
go out and and look at the wall that's there, measure its angle
because I have a hard time believing that a foundation for a huge pool which
is going to be built 10 feet from that wall is not going to have any
um construction vehicles that are going to
impact that area. And since that is in the planning commission
uh condition and unfortunately I was very disappointed. We usually have our
our residents are usually really great neighbors of the lanes and they usually
are very generous in wanting to work with the city and figure out a way to um
improve what's next to them. So, it was disappointing to me that that didn't
happen. And I just want to make sure that if there's any way we can
strengthen that uh condition by um having the actual measurement of the
angle of that retention wall so that we once any construction demolition begins
we'd be able to show that it was related to that not simply time or weather. So
it is that's my request. Uh, if I may, Vice Mayor, just briefly, uh, just to
clarify, the procedural posture here, Council Member Cooper, uh, the planning
commission resolution and the condition of approval that you mentioned is not
currently before the city council. Um, I can certainly understand your concerns
and I'm sure those concerns could also be shared with the planning commission.
So, they may bear in mind in the future, but that has not been appealed to the
council. What is before the council is the real license, but we will certainly
pass it along. >> Okay. Thanks.
» Thank you, council member.
That's it. >> Thank you. Uh, so we'll now open it up
to the public for any public comment. Anyone in the room that's on the phone?
» I see none. >> Thank you. So, we'll bring it back to
the council for deliberation and or decision. Any discussion?
» Uh, do I hear a motion? >> Oh, yes. Hold on one second.
» I'm listening. I can make a motion to approve the revocable license for
existing private improvements in the public right of way for the property at
three Belvadier Way. >> James faster with the trigger. Yeah. Do
I hear a second? >> That's just second.
» All those in favor? >> I I motion carries.
» We can now invite our Sally and Mark back in uh Peter. Sally and Peter back
into the room.
Okay. All right. We are going to be moving on
to item six, which is our um our public hearings. Item 6A, discussion and
approval of a request for an extension of the tentative subdivision map for the
Malad Point project located at 1 to 22 Malad Road. Um I think if we can ask the
applicant and his team to come to the front, that would be helpful. Um and on
the staff side, I'm going to identify everybody who I think we have available
if that would be helpful to begin. Um we have um our city engineer is is
available online, John Mo, is that correct? Yes, he is. Uh
» Brian is here somewhere. >> Brian, our city building official is
here. Rebecca obviously is here, our director of of planning. Um and we have
our specialist attorney, Barbara Keltz, is present as well, along with our city
attorney, Andrew Shen. Um, okay. I think we are going to do this a little bit
differently, which is we're going to start with the um the staff report from
Rebecca and then if that's okay with the um with the applicant, we'd like to go
over to you to give an update on where you are with the project and then we
will take it back to city council questions for um for both our
representatives and also from the Mallet Point team as well. So, Rebecca, do you
want to kick off with um this specific item?
» Yes, I do. Thank you, mayor, and good evening, council members. Um, as you
mentioned, the item before you tonight includes discussion of a request for an
extension of a tenative subdivision map for the Malard Point project, which is
located at 1 to22 Malard Road. On March 19th, 2024, planning commission approved
demolition and design review for the demolition of 22 units and construction
of 14 units located on Malard Road. On May 13, 2024, the city council approved
the tenative subdivision map and revocable license for the project.
Pursuant to this resolution, the tenative map was set to expire on May
13, 2026. On February 2nd, 2026, the planning
commission considered the applicant's request for amendments to the planning
commission and demolition resolutions. At that meeting, the planning commission
made several changes. extensions of design review approvals. Um, additional
time of 75 days for demolition, adjustments to lots 1 and 12 to remove
one unit from the forplex on lot 12 and add one unit to the apartment building
and clarification of the timing regarding construction of the apartment
building so that it receives a certificate of occupancy or final
inspection as applicable applicable prior to or at the same time as issuance
of the certificate of occupancy or final inspection as applicable. able
for any other dwelling unit on the project
or in the project. Um in April of 2026, the applicant applied for a three-year
extension for the tenative map um until May 13, 2029.
The applicant's reasoning behind the extension includes need for additional
uh requests while continuing to navigate the ongoing permitting, utility
coordination, tenant noticing requirements, and sequencing issues
associated with the project, including coordination relating to the existing
PG& easements, demolition permitting, outside agency approvals, and final map
processing. uh state and local law govern the
subdivision of property dividing it into larger par larger parcels into smaller
parcels and under that subdivision map act and the Belvadier municipal code a
tenative map expires 24 months after its approval. Local law states that an
applicant can seek an extension for up to three years. New or revised
conditions cannot be attached to a request for an extension, but the city
council may determine the length of the extension.
So long as a request for an extension was made before the tenative map
expired, the extension may be approved even after the automatic 60-day
extension expires. Uh Belvadier Municipal Code section provides that
planning commission considers extension of tenative maps. However, the
subdivision map act provides that either the legislative body like the city
council or an advisory agency like the planning commission may approve an
extension. Here the applicant has requested that
the council considered the extension. And since council approved the final
resolution regarding the tenative map, staff believes it appropriate that the
council consider this pending request for the extension.
The project is an important part of the city's site inventory and the recently
approved housing element. The applicant has submitted applications for
demolition, infrastructure, and bulkhead replacement and is continuing to address
all of the final map conditions. The applicant has submitted a request
for a three-year extension of that tenative map. Based on the applicant's
explanation for the three-year extension, staff can recommend a shorter
two-year extension for the tenative map through May 13, 2028.
Staff estimates that a two-year extension would be sufficient to
complete the conditions required for the final map approval. Ultimately, the
duration of this extension is at the council's discretion. And I'm here for a
question should you have any. >> Thank you. Um Bruce, do you want to
introduce your team? And um I believe you have a update on the status of the
project. If you'd like to give that now
the question is where do I find
This is
aologies.
No worries. Oh, good.
Good evening, mayor and city council members. I'm Bruce Dorfman with Malard
Point. Uh joining me tonight are Jayli, our project manager, and Riley Herd, our
council. Um I wanted to give a quick overview of why we are where we are
relative to the extension request for our tenative map.
So, um needless to say, there's been a lot of actions taken by the city council
as well as the planning commission over the years. Um, but since uh 2024, we've
been working diligently uh to process a number of items in order
to get to a point where we could get the final map approved. Um,
but basically uh relative to getting the final map approved, we put together this
development sequencing milestones that not just reviews uh getting to the final
map but also to some of the other elements of the project. Uh, but a key
first step is to get the demo permit and walking you through this process. Once
we've received the demo permit, then that starts a 60-day then we can provide
a 60-day notice to our residents to vacate, which is statutory. Um, and
after they vacate, then we can demolish the project. Demolishing the project is
important relative to the final map. And I'll go to the lowest line which is it
allows us then to abandon the utilities um which can't be done uh on a
conditional basis. Uh we then record new utility easements and at that point in
time we can record the final map or or get the final map approved. uh relative
to the demo permit, it's also important relative to other aspects of the project
as it allows for the bulkhead construction to commence. Um allows us
to access sites that are currently inaccessible to do additional
geotechnical exploration which lead to foundation design and ultimately to
building permits allowing for the construction of the single family and
multifamily homes. Um, and it also allows us to move forward with
infrastructure.
Went too quick. So, this is what we've been dealing with over the past two
years. Uh, above the five permits are the various agencies and departments
we've been working with in order to get the various uh permits approved. Um,
there it's probably close to a couple dozen uh that we've been involved with
in total. And then down below are is our team that responds to the various or is
developing the design as well as responding to the various questions uh
that have come up. What I want to mention is that this um is just for
permitting and it excludes all the thirdparty attorneys. Uh excludes our
marketing and our finance teams and also um should be noted that several of these
agencies are federal agencies and were impacted by the government shutdown at
the end of last year. So that slowed us down.
So, the status of the current reviews, we have gone through multiple uh
iterations of these and I think that staff would agree. We're um on the
fourth revision of the bulkhead permit. We're on our fourth revision of the
infrastructure permit. Uh we're on our fourth re revision of the final map.
We're on our fifth and um revision of both the affordable housing agreement
and the regulatory agreement and the third revision of the SIA
and that's a lot. Um finally um relative to the sequencing of our construction
activities once we get to um vertical uh we are starting with the apartment
building which is lot one and then effectively building counterclockwise or
sorry building clockwise uh on the site uh until we get to lot 12 which is the
lot right across from uh city hall. So with that, that provides a quick
overview and um here to answer any questions. I don't know if there's
anything you want to add.
» Good evening. Uh my name is Riley Herd. I'm a local land use attorney. I
specialize in state housing laws and I was also part of the project team that
got Malard Point uh approved. Uh, in the last five years, I've personally
entitled over 3,000 housing units in Maring County. And I can guarantee you
that no one wants delay less than a developer. I read some of the comments,
you know, like let's get them going and all this. They are trying that. Um, that
is our goal to get to get these things across the finish line. But it's very
hard out there right now. What's being asked for tonight is not uncommon across
the county and the state. Interest rates are holding back investment.
Construction costs are particularly high and Marin has a very special problem of
no local workforce because there is no local housing. So, it's this kind of um
cycle that is making things take a little longer uh right now. But the only
thing before you tonight is uh extending the tenative map. But I did understand
why you wanted to hear about the project. I wanted to let you know that I
wrote a letter to the city. It was dated May 12th, 2026. If you haven't read it,
I suggest you get a copy, take a look. And what this letter is about is post
entitlement permits. So the legislature, as you know, has been chipping away at
local control. like it or not, that's what's happening. And you know, they got
builder's remedy, they've got objective standards only, and they're moving into
kind of what I call the final frontiers because um the permitting, the projects,
they're getting approved. But what they were seeing is this phase that Malard
Point is in right now was hanging them up. And remember, most of these are
4,000 unit developments in the Central Valley, and this is just a microcosm of
it. But the improvement agreements, the building permits, demo permits, they
were taking forever to get out of cities. So basically, they mirrored the
permit streamlining act and said, "We're going to make these rules apply to those
postit permits as well." So, what my letter does is kind of explains and you
know, we're trying to work collaboratively and educate um as all
these new laws come down, but it's basically explains that um all of these
permits that are keeping us from moving forward on the map um should have been
issued quite some time ago here in Belvadier and a number of dates have
passed. We're still just kind again trying to work in partnership and and
get those issued. But that's one of the reasons for the request before you
tonight is we're waiting on these permits and we must get the demo permit.
So, you know, as you heard, this site is the cornerstone of the housing element
and there is something coming up called the midcycle review and it's where HD
goes to the cities and says, "Okay, you're halfway through the planning
cycle. How are you doing? What have you approved and what has gotten built?"
because if we're not seeing good progress, you know, we may have to take
another look at things. And um for Belvadier's um uh purposes, this project
will will really be under the microscope for HD. So, we're hoping that we can um
move forward as quickly as possible, but we need this extra time that Roarshock
test that Bruce put on the screen. you know, the people that care about housing
are ringing their hands and saying, "Why don't why aren't we getting more
housing? Where is it?" Well, that diagram is is why besides the
construction costs and interest rates, it just takes more time and it takes
more money. So, you know, the only thing before you tonight is extending the
tenative map. It's not rehashing the whole project and you know what what
other things would we like to have changed or done differently, but we hope
that that you can extend the map so that we can keep working with staff and and
get something going. Um, and we're all here for any questions. Thank you.
» Thank you very much for that. Okay, I'm going to open to council for comments,
questions. Sorry. Start with you, Peter. >> Sure. Thank you. Uh
we've received a lot of letters and uh I just wanted to a couple questions both
to our staff and perhaps the applicant as well. Um
relating to the de demolition per the bulkhead permanent infrastructure. Um
among the existing um conditions of approval, there's there's there's two
two that are are of of particular interest relating to those. One is the
demolition permit as a requirement to um be issued along with the um demolition
permit at the same time. Um I think it's condition 12 of the as you mentioned in
the staff report. The second relates to the affordable housing agreement which
requires among other things that the affordable units be built and completed
prior to CO of um any other property in in the development. Can you just confirm
that those conditions won't change with any potential extension? I assume it
isn't, but I just wanted a clear confirmation.
» All they're asking for is an extension of the ten of the tenative map. None of
the conditions change. >> Okay.
» Neither they can change. They would have to make a new application for a tenative
map to change the conditions which they have not done.
» And and on as as you mentioned that what's before us tonight is this simple
extension >> exactly
» to to this um tenative map. And can you likewise um confirm as the staff report
identified is that any real consideration of of um what's before us
is really just a length of a consideration. Um new terms and
conditions really are off the table um short of
um a significant change other than we're seeing tonight. We don't really have
much discretion to change anything other than the length that they're asking for.
» That's the only thing you have discretion. There have been a number of
court cases that say that no new conditions can be attached to a to a
tenative map extension. >> Thank you. Um I'm also um Rebecca, you
mentioned the February uh 26 planning commission review of a number of um
alterations to the program to to the to the to the
entitlements. I know this is not before, but I'm just hypothetically or I'm just
I'm just throwing out there um if and when that one and if there are new
alterations um that come before the planning commissioner or ultimate city
council, they follow the same um non-discretionary review associated with
multi-unit housing and affordable housing law as well. Meaning it's it's
it's any alteration to the existing permits would follow the same
limitations that our original approvals were to begin with.
» Correct.
» Yes. Yes. >> Okay.
» Yeah. >> And and and finally, uh perhaps um Bruce
or Riley, you could comment on this. I know you talked about the uh 60-day
notice. Um I wonder if you could confirm or or describe the tenant um
notification and and um eviction process and timeline a little bit.
» Sure. Um we've been providing regular updates to all of our residents as to
the status of the project. Um in February we did provide a 180day notice
that's required under um the affordable housing agreement. Um, and we're
prepared to provide the 60-day notice, but uh, one of the requirements is that
we have the demo permit in hand. So, as soon as we get the demo permit in hand,
then we would issue the 60-day notices. And, um, you know, our objective would
be to start demolition in August, uh, which would allow us to, uh, complete
the bulkhead this um, uh, summer season. >> And you've got the same um, water
moratorum. Is it June to October 31st? >> I think it's October 15th.
» October 15th. >> October 15th. October 15th is the
» same as ours or is yours April? Because ours was June, I thought.
» Yeah, it's different waters. It's the same waters, but it's different
conditions. >> But ours wasn't April. I guess different
waters. The bay is is June >> because was it wasn't isn't ours isn't
ours June. June 1st. >> Yeah, it's yours. It's October 15th
through April. I believe it's the 15th or or early April is when there's no
work in water. >> Got it.
» Okay. Um, thank you. I appreciate that.
» Okay. Uh, Kevin, I'll go to you next. >> Sure. Uh, thanks. Uh, so one of the
questions was one that Peter asked, so I'll skip past that. Um, I guess another
question for our attorney would be, and these are questions that have come up
through the community. Um, so regardless of what we're considering tonight, uh,
our job is to represent the community and provide a voice for them. So, I will
do that. Uh, can the extension resolution include language to clarify
that all existing conditions in resolution 202416 remain in full force?
Do you think that's necessary or
» um, it's certainly not necessary? Um
but I mean yeah I I think they I think you could say that but the I mean that's
they're they're asking for an extension of the tenative map and the conditions
as they've already been approved. >> Got it.
» Yeah. Um, and then maybe one last thing for our attorney is, uh, if we can't add
an extension condition, which you've been very clear that legally we cannot,
um, uh, do existing demolition, design review, final map building, etc., public
improvement conditions, um, allow staff to coordinate or withhold permit
issuance for, um, infrastructure, uh, bulkhead, etc. I mean can you make
» the staff can only do the coordination basically that's allowed by the
conditions. So for instance in the demolition permit requires that the
bulkhead permit be um issued at the same time that the bulkhead construction go
along with the demolition permit. There's not a condition that requires
that the final map and the final map improvements be built um uh at the same
time as the demolition. >> Got it. Okay. Thank you. Um then moving
on to staff. A question for staff is uh and this is different than what the
attorney had stated or implied I think is I think based on your report 30 of
the 80 conditions are still outstanding. Is that correct?
» Yeah. I have uh John Mo is a panelist. He's tracking those through a
spreadsheet. So, um I John, can you answer this one?
» Um sure, I can answer that. There are um in my count, there were about half of
the um conditions still remaining for the for the demo permit, but um several
of them are minor, very minor items. Um so um it's it's closer probably about
85% of the demo permit items have been answered or can very easily be answered.
It's just a matter of a complete application. And so if you had to
estimate so in terms of those last 15% are those um significant issues are they
minor issues? Are they easy to answer? They're timely to answer.
um they are integral to the improvement, some of which relate to the the
bulkhead. Um some relate to noise mitigation. Um there's uh permitting
issues. Um it's just a matter of whether or not they've got their uh paperwork in
order. It's just a matter of if they've got it submitted.
» Um and there's also geotechnical peer review that have they have to answer
those questions relating to the bulkhead.
» And so why don't we what's the mediest one? Is it the geotechnical um condition
that's outstanding? I I also I thought I heard that there was something related
to storm water drain. >> There there is uh timing of drain. There
is a major um public storm drain that goes through the site. Um it's just the
timing of when that storm drain is replaced. It must be in place remain in
place until the new um storm drain that will route it around the new
construction is installed. So in other words, we have to maintain drainage
through the site during construction and and certainly through demo.
» So if 85% of the conditions have already been met or nearly been met, I think is
what you said. Correct. So the other 15% you would say are um things that can be
easily addressed within the next 30 to 60 days or
» I'm just trying to get a sense. It's there was an implication that it's
basically the city's slow. um and everything's done and uh based on the
status report that we've seen or what I understand there's still a number of
issues. It's actually more than what you had suggested. So maybe the status
report has been updated since the last time I saw it.
» Um um to answer the amount of time is
difficult to say if their plans are complete. Um you know we typically try
to re uh complete our review within two weeks and the city in general is within
30 days right all departments. >> Okay. So again going my question though
is of the remaining like what is your assessment in terms of how long should
that take to you know if we're meeting our deadlines and doing things according
to the process what type of time is required to get this to 100%.
It depends on the completeness of the of the submitt honestly.
» Yeah, it's difficult to say. >> And your experience and the completeness
of these submitts has been what? >> Um generally they've been good. They've
been responsive. U they made good progress. Um it's just hard to say what
that last 15% might take. Um I I just don't have that before us to to be able
to tell you that question. So if you're thinking that this 15% is
it's sounding I again I just want to make sure I'm clear it's it's very
manageable then then why is why would three years and certainly even two years
be required or needed for this? I mean it sounds like this could get done in
months not in years. >> Uh I think for the demo permit that's
correct. There may be some other outstanding issues that the developer
may be aware of that I'm I'm not aware of. Um I I don't know.
» Okay. Yeah. And you were talking about the
tenative map when I asked the questions. >> Uh 85% or you were talking about the
demo. >> I was talking about demo, but both the
the the tenative map, excuse me, the final map in particular is probably uh
closer to 90% or above. Um they have there's a couple of easement issues on
the final map. >> So they're very close. The improvement
plans are very close as well. >> Got it. So I guess they made they've
made good progress. >> Okay. Uh
» demolition dependencies. >> Right. Right. Right right. Uh
yeah, I think that's it for right now, but I'll have others.
» Okay. >> Thank you.
» Okay. Jane, do you want to go next? >> I'll try.
» I'll try. Um,
so let's see. Um, we we learned about how much is
left. I I guess I'm just going to jump into how uh asking the um developer, how
do you anticipate um demolishing
in August, which would require you to
um let the tenants or have them be evicted in June for 60 days. And then
you need the demo permit. But are are you h are you assuming that the
last 15% which has to do with the bulkheads noise and geotech from what
we've been told that that can be um submitted, reviewed and responded to in
two weeks or three weeks.
effectively correct. Um everything that um uh John just referred to are things
that we've that he has seen before or the staff has seen before. And frankly
um the one new item in April we received a um uh uh a geotechnical review uh that
was uh completed by staff. So that's relatively new uh that we're in the
process of responding to. as it relates to the bulkhead specifically and to the
demolition. Um we think that uh we'll have a response here this week.
» Okay. And um I I agree with uh Council Member
Burke that um
it seems that you were saying that the city is causing you to be late on
several different reasons throughout this report, but according to uh our
engineer, he does his best to get back to you within two weeks. And I've been
reading the post entitlement section on uh the California
uh housing website and certainly they are talking about more like 30 and even
60 days would be considered adequate to get back to um after reviewing. So I I
am also assuming that since you've submitted
I don't know how many three or four reports four times and a few five times
and one three three times um that I guess my question is or my assumption
has to be that what you're sending into the city is not really responding to
what they need and so it has to keep going back and forth. I don't know, but
I don't really see how this is a city issue. Uh it sounds to me that it's uh
the developers submissions that are causing any issue here. Um, and I think
um, but if you're planning on demoing in the next two months and the final map is
90% complete,
uh, again the question is why would you need three years for this um, tenative
map extension? >> So let me go back. What I said was
there's a lot of agencies that are involved with this permitting process
and there's a lot of coordination that's required amongst those agencies. We do
get new comments um coming from various agencies including the departments that
we probably shouldn't be getting under the new permit streamlining act.
Nevertheless, we are responding to those. Um, as it relates to the reason
for the MAP extension, the map is independent of the demo permit. It's
independent or it's uh incumbent upon the demo permit being issued. It's
incumbent upon easements being removed. There's a process with various utilities
to get those easements removed and replaced. And frankly, we don't control
those utilities either. Stuff comes up all the time. We didn't see last year um
going into the fourth quarter that the government was going to shut down and
frankly agency review of various permits uh did delay our project. So
consequently there are just things that are out there and we're not naive to say
yes we control everything. So
after you demo, let's say in August, you're saying that to actually
complete the final map with all the agency requirements
would take up to three years. could I mean
» okay >> part of this is frankly one of the next
steps is to get um PG& to vacate their existing easements and then to place new
easements on the site and working with PG& right now is that the most
streamlined uh organization >> yes we've heard that
um okay so let's see what else do I have
Um,
» can I jump in with a question while you're reviewing the others just to
because we're on this topic. >> Um, if for whatever reason you um
you don't get the demo permit until September, October, and that runs you up
against a wall in terms of uh the work that you can do on the bulkhead.
» Um, that presumably therefore pushes work out into potentially beginning next
April. >> Affirmative. So the question there is
would you therefore delay the eviction notices as well or is your intention to
issue the uh eviction notices as soon as you get the demo permit and I was
wondering from a legal perspective also whether there's any constraints on that
meaning does is can there be how long can the gap be between when they issue
the eviction notice and when they start to demo if there's a legal constraint
and I'd love to understand from Bruce what your intention is. Our intention is
um to issue the eviction notices when we get the demo permit.
» So even if you can't demo for another six months because of the bulkheads,
» we haven't contemplated that scenario necessarily.
» But in that scenario, is there a reason why you'd want to lose that income
because you have other other conditions that you
» just so that you can deal with um or you don't have to deal with it at some
future time. >> Okay. So you can't really provide us
with any clarity on that. You're just saying it will depend on the
circumstances at the time. >> Affirmative.
» Okay. Thank you. Sorry, Jane. Back to you.
» Okay. Um I noticed on one of your slides that there was a mention of um when you
drew that picture and it said demo um evict um bring that up.
» Demo permit evict and then actual demo. And then after that it said additional
geotech after demo. I just wondered what kind of geotech is that that would
be different from the geotech that's required
in the demo permit. >> See
» it was all the little arrows, >> right? The chevron.
» The chevron. >> Chevron. Thank you.
» Here we are. >> Yeah, this one.
» Yeah. So in row two it said additional geotech exploration
» right. So we did uh the initial phase of geotech work was specifically for the
bulkhead. Uh the bulkhead is not a structural element. It's primarily there
to prevent erosion. Uh the geotechnical work that we're going to be doing on the
go forward um is for the foundation design of the buildings themselves. And
so that can be only we can only get a rig in there once we remove some of the
homes uh that are on the property. >> Okay. So it's for foundation work.
» Foundation work for the homes that are along the lagoon. That is correct.
» Okay. Thank you. >> Sure.
Um, so, um,
Andrew, everybody else is busy.
» That's okay. I didn't want to start um interfering with your conversation.
Um, I unfortunately have tried to memorize all these things, but um, I
haven't quite mastered it entirely, and I realize I left my important piece of
paper at home. So, I need your help. And that is um listed on the um demo permit.
I think it's number 17 was Geotech
um as I recall. And so what what were the um listed were there any listed
components of what that geotech was covering? It says that the uh engineer
shall provide a letter stating that the pro proposed structural construction of
the structures and uh storm water drainage is in
compliance with the geotech report. probably I would think this refers to
the bulkhead which is you know associated with the demo permit and
» and you're talking about wait you said structures and wait
» it and proposed site storm water drainage
» before that one sorry >> um
the geotechnical do you want me to read you the condition again
» uh the geotechnical engineer shall provide a letter stating that the
proposed structural construction of the structures
which are somewhat unspecified >> and the proposed drainage is in
compliance. >> So we have no way I mean how would
anyone make the determination that the use of the word structures only refers
to the bulkhead and not to buildings since buildings are structures
that are going to be there. And so my question is if they're not
doing geotech for the buildings during the demo
permit, which is what's listed there in the condition, um I guess I have a
concern that we're not doing this properly or that it should be done that
the foundation and structures that are going to go on the property that's
quite a bit of water borders this property not it's not landlocked and so
there are a lot of differences potentially in weight and size of
structure etc and how it's going to work and all that is geotech and I question
why why you think it's only bulkhead >> well the I mean they have submitted I
you know probably John Mosha it would might be better to Sure.
» Describe, but they have des they did submit a geotechn sorry a geotech report
for the original approval which had fairly um which had a lot of borings. Uh
talked about the bay mud and the kind of treatment they would need to do um in
order to safely brought up in the peer review also and that they need to still
respond to. So all that was all that was done I these are the uh detailed
foundation designs for each structure >> right
» and for that they probably need a vacant site
» because their ability to >> we don't know that
» yeah this is where this is where John Mo should Yeah exactly
» should >> he might have an idea to
» Sure sure be happy to chime in um it would be for both the bulkhead and the
structure it's the foundation for the residences themselves.
» That's what I would assume. Thank you. Um,
» so that is required in the demo permit >> noted in number 17.
» Well, no, no. Um, that was No, no, that was they were noting that they needed
access for additional geotechnical work to assess the uh
» geotechnical uh conditions for the residential the homes, the structures of
the homes, their foundations, but they needed access to get to those locations
on site.
So, you're saying they need to demo to be able to determine the ground
underneath. Is that it? >> Yeah, I believe that's what Bruce just
explained. >> Oh, okay.
» That I I >> Okay,
» that's what I understood him to say. >> Okay.
And you agree with that? that they need to be.
» That sounds correct in that uh those that location is unique uh relative to
the water and they I don't believe they do have access to that location.
» You don't believe they have access to their own rental property?
» Well, for a drill rig to drill into this >> Oh, a drill rig. Yeah. Okay.
» Correct. >> Okay. I don't know what a drill rig is.
Okay. Thank you. Thanks. >> Okay.
Can I are you I'm sorry. I just wanted to jump in with one one related
question. Um >> Barbara on the on the post entitlement
uh permit provisions and laws that Riley mentioned and we've been talking about a
little bit. Uh are those applicable to all permits or
only permits that were in place that are subsequently in place? because it you
know these these entitlements were made of 24. Are subsequent um post-p permit
um streamlining provisions applicable to a May 24 entitlement?
» Um by post entitlement permits they're meaning all the permits that they
required after after you. >> So it is applicable to the current
» based on those application dates. >> Yes. the building permits the this uh
the statute went into effect I think either certainly in 2025 and perhaps in
2024. >> So those are pegged to those particular
post entitlement permits not the entitlement itself.
» Correct. Correct. They're they're it's the demolition permit. Um the final map
has separate uh separate timelines. Um the building permits.
» Wonderful. Thank you. >> Yeah.
» Let's move down to you, Pat. If you've got questions,
» I didn't save the best for last. >> No, no, not yet.
» Oh, not yet. Um so
um since we're talking about extending
based on the um final map requirements, um
we're also waiting for certain conditions of approval for that to go
forward, but it sounds like we're close. although I don't know what things are
outstanding so it's hard to judge um how much time might be necessary for them.
Um
so uh do you does are you still there John?
» John yes I am. Okay. Sorry. Um, uh, do you feel like I was trying to review
some of the information on the website and I saw that a sense technical
report review had been submitted in 22 and 23 and then resubmitted and then
revised? Or do you feel that um from what you're saying with the 90% that
most of these submissions and reviews are have been completed?
» I couldn't tell if there was a a final version that was totally complete or
not. >> Well, um yeah, their final map final map
is well along uh um in the review process. Almost all items are complete.
One of the big items is the uh P Gen easement as uh Bruce has noted.
» Um and um >> the other element of that is the
improvement plans. So it's it's a package of both final map and
improvement plans along with the subdivision improvement agreement goes
to council for approval and all of those elements. So it's not just the final
map, but they're integrated or it's it involves both uh final map and
improvement plans. So um so it's >> and then are there sorry sorry
» so it's not just one you know it's not just one element even though the final
map is well along uh the review process um
» it's uh there are there are more items that need to be completed. So
» okay and then are there I understand that you're an authority on this are
there um separate subdivision map act uh requirements as well? Um they've all of
this governed by the subdivision map act. The final map is and they've met
all of those requirements and one of the requirements is to identify the needed
easements and uh that's one of the final steps.
» Okay. Okay. Thanks. And um I did have a question based on I I think it was um
council member Mark's question about the adjustments
from the February 20 uh February 2nd, 2026
planning commission meeting. There were some adjustments. I think it was lots 1
and 12. Um, it it seemed to me that our
municipal code Oh, and and I think if I recall correctly, that
some of the footprints of those two buildings did change. Is that correct?
Or was it just merely an exchange of a per of um
of numbers of apartments? But I thought the footprint changed. I
remember seeing something about more open space in between or something like
that. >> The footprint of the apartment building
did not change. There was one forplex and one triplex. The forplex became a
triplex and I believe there's a little bit more space in between the two.
» Okay. >> Those two structures.
» And I was just wondering, I know it seems minor, but I would like to ask uh
that our municipal code 18.24 24.060
uh states that what was approved in the tenative map must not have changed, but
you're just saying there was a change. And I wondered if that needed to be
amended or if that needed any any review or discussion or
and if that was part of the need to extend out is that
» it was approved by the planning commission.
» Correct. But the tenative map is approved by us.
» Yeah, >> it's a good question.
» Okay. >> So,
» we'll dig into that one. Okay. You keep going.
» Okay. Um, >> it's a clean
answer. >> Okay. I think I think it's your turn,
» Pat. No change.
» All right. I'll try and be somewhat organized here with all my questions.
Um, have they responded to the um third city response back to the applicant?
Have we received their response yet? >> No.
» Okay. Um
the same question on the tenative map if it needed to be adjusted at this point.
Um and then um just um well that's more of
a comment than a question. Um
So, I think that's what I have for staff. Um, the rest of my questions are
for the applicant.
So, um,
Hi, how are you? Good. Uh, so you've made a comment and I just want to make
sure I understood it. Um, it had to do around
Sorry, please go ahead. I just want >> It's distracting. Um, it has to do
around um P Gen. >> Yes.
» And you said that something about a conditional basis for the utilities.
Um that
I guess in the demo and that you had to wait for the final map.
» Yes. To clarify, uh a final map cannot be approved on a conditional basis. So,
you can't look at at the easements and say we'll approve it with the easements
as is, but um conditional conditional recording. Am I saying conditionally
record it once the easements have been replaced?
» Okay. And so, um, that brings up the question, um, regarding your, um,
easement agreement with PG&
» So, does that when when you ask them for an easement, does that require like an
application with a permit number with P Gen or is it like a different
» So, you actually have a permit number? >> We
Yeah, come on up.
Yeah, we've been communicating with PG through our joint trench consultant
Jackaloney Design. Um, we have a project manager and have gone through their
going through their process. >> And does the city have a
» um the city? U final design from PG&
forthcoming. >> Okay.
» The permit number is very important. I've learned.
» Yes. Yes. >> Dealing with PG. So that's a good thing.
Um, so the other question has to go back to
your your little display and it was um where you had the uh clockwise.
» Yes. >> On the sequencing and you're starting
with the apartment building, then you're going to those condos in lot number
three, two and three. Um and and you show the sequence as it goes around and
all the way back to lot number 12. So, the question is, is that the single
family homes? >> Mhm.
» Um, you're going to be selling the lots. I mean, you've been very honest about
that from day one. >> Oh, okay.
» Okay. Right. Am I correct? >> Well, we're selling homes.
» So, you're going to be building the homes.
» That is our current thinking. That is correct. So that's different from when
you came before us in planning that you were going to sell the lots and let the
people >> build their homes. It I think we may be
getting a little bit into the semantics of it of when we close relative to
construction, but our objective is to try and build this all in one fell
swoop. >> Okay. Even if you don't sell the lots.
» Well, I guess our current sense is that we're going to sell all the lots as
well. Okay. All right. Um
so, um another question was um well that has to do um with the demo that um
why originally you didn't sequence it with just the demo and the um bulkhead
but rather you also did the um infrastructure. So it was just a
question why it took to this point to realize that you should have separated
out that process >> because we weren't well
I don't know John if you want to respond to that.
Oh,
» that that's up to the developers discretion to decide what their sequence
might be
» relative to the demo and the improvement plans. They were included together for
» they worked together. Correct. >> And it was recently where uh staff
requested that we separate it. >> Staff requested you separate it.
» Affirmative. So, but you chose in what my question, sorry if I wasn't clear.
You who told you to do the demo and the improvement together.
» We've submitted the demo and improvement plans together,
» right? >> And uh they've been processed together,
albeit with separate permits have been filed for each and uh recently we have
been requested and it's fine request to pull out the demo plans. So, we are
doing so. Okay, Rebecca, can you confirm if that's correct?
» Yeah, I don't remember that's how I remember being in a meeting with John
and Brian and you guys asked if we could separate them out and Brian said yes,
they could be separated. >> That was the suggestion in order to
process the demo plans separately. >> But what's what's changed? I guess the
question is what's changed to in your thinking that requires those two to
separate? Is it the PG& issue or what is the reason to separate the two? uh just
in order to get the demo permit prior to the improvement plan permit.
» Okay.
» Pat, do you have more questions? Um
no, most of my questions um uh oh let well let me ask this question
of John Mo. Thank you very much. So um it is my understanding that the both the
geotech and the hydraology
reports from the applicant and the peer review reports
um have the have to the peer review um has to approve of what the geotech and
the hydraology report finally is um that they both have to agree on what that is
before anything is going to be approved for the geotech or the hydraology.
» Is that correct? >> Yeah, that that's correct. There's a
peer review for both the hydrarology and hydraulics and for the geotechnical
review and they have some comments um regarding those reviews to you know
better summarize the conditions of the site. Okay. Okay.
All right. I think that's those are my questions. Everything else
has been asked. Thank you. >> I'll follow
» Bruce and company on the uh the the separation of the infrastructure from
the from the demo permit. Um I I know that this doesn't necessarily mean a
whole lot necessarily for the extension, but just from an understanding
perspective, uh you seem to indicate and it makes perfect sense that that you
need to have um um abandoned easements and then convert it to to final new
easements for the various services with PG& let alone other service providers.
» Correct. >> Um in order to fill out the the full
requirements for the final map. That seems to be how you presented it, which
seems to be a dependency, not just an option to split split the two apart,
» right? >> So maybe it's semantics or splitting
hairs, but I don't think, you know, you saying the city requested it, why would
the city request it if in fact it's a dependency that just seems a little odd
and squirly. Um well again um the these plans have gone
through a process and it's just a mechanics sort of thing. But then to say
that there isn't a demo permit on file or a demo plan on file. The city has
already reviewed the demo plans. They're fine. We're going to separate them and
then we'll resubmit those independently with some of the other elements or some
of the other uh responses that have been asked for such as the Herzog uh peer
review letter response to that as it relates to the bulkheads.
» Okay. Can I follow follow up to the same just so Bruce doesn't have to keep
jumping back up is so I think maybe just to put it out there I think one of the
concerns from the community is that you demo and then it just sits there for
ever >> uh it's just a big black hole um before
you when and if you do the infrastructure and so I guess maybe I
mean there's there's not a condition that we can apply to obviously extending
the tenative map deadline but can you just talk about your thinking or how you
you envision this happening. Um that gives the community some reassurance or
some peace of mind to know how this is all going to play out.
» Sure. Um our objective is to get it done as
quickly as possible. As I previously stated, uh this is a 150 million to $200
million project once it's fully built. and consequently between my partners,
lenders and just you know general economics
um this isn't going to sit follow provided we can get this going
» so I had another question >> no
» just somewhat related and again this is going beyond the scope necessarily of
why we're here today but I'm just curious
» because everybody's concerned about whether you actually develop this whole
project. Can you give some background on where you are on the financing?
» Meaning um is the bulkhead and demolition one separate part of the
financing, the infrastructure the second and and where are you on that? Um and
what contingencies and so forth are associated with that that you can share
with us? >> Sure. Um no, actually uh we are working
with a lender right now that uh is financing all of the infrastructure as
well as all the vertical improvements. of a single source and um uh we hope to
make an announcement about that in the next several weeks.
» Okay, that's clear. Thank you. And then in terms of the demo, you've already got
that funded and ready to go. >> The demo is also part of that package.
» That's part of the package. Okay, thank you. That was one of my questions.
» Okay. >> Okay. So, the next last question I think
I have is you're going to be demoing. >> Okay. You're going to be demoing
» affirmative. >> Yeah. Yeah. and get your permit. And
what exactly are you going to be demoing? Are you gonna be taking out all
the infrastructure, you know, the stuff in the road? Are you taking the road
out? Are you just taking the vertical housing down or what? What what what
what exactly are you demoing? What we're demoing is the residences so
that we can get um as mentioned the boring rig to do the geotechnical and
also get access to the bulkhead to replace the um uh or access to the
lagoon so we can replace the bulkhead. >> Okay. So you're not going to rip up the
road right now? Not to some degree we'd like to use the road and keep dust down
um to the extent possible but eventually the roads being replaced the
configuration of Malard road changes. >> So um so this you know all the fun stuff
underneath the road is going to stay there till you get ready to demo the
road >> effectively.
» Effectively you'll cap off all the utilities cap it off and some may be
abandoned in place. >> Yeah. Okay, then that brings me to a
question on the demo that they have 75 days to demo, which if you're just doing
the vertical, you're going to get that done way in advance. But do they then
need to is is the demoing deconstructing of the road and
the infrastructure under the road, is that considered part of demo? And you
know, would they then need to ask for an extension because you have 75 days and
maybe you need 90 days to get to the, you know, whatever 120 days or would
that be part of the um improvement the infrastructure improvement permit
thing.
U Brian Vanson is on the call. >> I think he can answer that better than
me.
Hello everyone. How are we? How are we tonight?
» Good. >> Fantastic. Um,
» in terms of the the timing of the demolition, we would have to review some
of the statutes. Um, it sounds like the application or the new application that
will be submitted by the applicant um would be just for the vertical elements
at that point. Um, and so whatever listed whatever is listed on the
application as a scope of work would be what the permit would be valid for.
» So they're going to be submitting for a new application for demo just for and so
that it's not including everything like it did before. And he's they're going to
do you he's going to they're going to submit a new demo application.
Is that correct? >> According to the applicant, that is what
I understand. Yes. >> Is that correct, Mr. Dorfman? We are
submitting a separate demo application. >> Okay. Thank you. And does that
» and I do want to clarify. So everything that's included in the demo application
is what's going to be demoed in 75 days that uh we are allowed. So to the extent
that it specifically shows foundations or roadway improvements being removed,
then that's the scope of what we will be doing during that period of time.
» Okay. All right. And then does the new application
require another um application fee? >> Yes.
» Okay. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. >> Sure.
» No, no, you ahead, Jane. Go ahead. Um I'm about the um new application.
I'm not I'm not sure. I thought I heard you say you were submitting two new
applications because this is one application. So would you be submitting
a demo application and a infrastructure application?
» Improvement application. >> I mean improvement application
» effectively I mean we're in the process of new iterations of documents but
effectively we're going to remove the demo um the demo pages from the uh
current set of plans issue those and then issue the improvement plans.
» Okay. And then do you anticipate that they will be identical applications to
what is written there except they'll just be on two separate or will they
change? >> No, they are effectively the same but
updated uh responding to the last set of comments.
» Okay.
» But the conditions don't change. I guess that's what I'm asking. the conditions
that the planning commission that nothing
nothing along that would change. Okay. >> Okay. I don't have questions because so
many have been asked, but I just wanted to ask staff before we go to public
comment. Is there anything extra that you want to add uh from legal or from
Rebecca that we've sort of skated over at all?
» Not at this point. >> Okay. So, um I'm going to open it for um
public comment. Um anybody's free to speak for 3 minutes. Um, please come
when you come to the podium if you wouldn't mind identifying yourself and
where you live. You don't have an obligation to do that, but if you're
willing to do that, that certainly helps us. Um, we won't be addressing any
questions that might get asked during public comment. Um, it will come back to
the council afterwards and they may decide to uh to ask questions that have
been brought up through public comment and that's at the discretion of the um
of the city council. Again, I would just remind everybody that the item that is
here tonight is a discussion of uh what level of extension we want to give to
the tentative um map, but you are welcome to comment on malad point
related uh uh comments, but this is what we're here tonight to deliberate on. So,
I'll invite the first person up to >> um Thank you very much. My name is Susan
Kluff and everybody always says go first, so I'm going to go first here. Uh
Peninsula Road. I'll be brief. I'll try. I know many of you and I know how hard
this job is. I you're volunteers and you're handling a lot of competing
pressures and you're trying to write. So, I appreciate the time and I wanted
to thank you right off the bat for that because this is a very complicated
project. On paper and certainly in the noticing, tonight's item looked routine,
just more time for the applicant to meet project conditions of approval. But I
don't think it's routine because what we understand now is the applicant plans to
try and decouple the parts of the project starting with the demolition
while holding on to the entitlements through a patchwork of agreements and
bonds and deferring the real hard work. Geotech and soil structural design,
grading, cut and fill plans and a final survey maybe even until later. That's
not just a few technical details. That's what determines feasibility, public
safety, and community impacts. This large subdivision project was approved
as one integrated hole. It should stay as one integrated hole. So if you grant
an extension, please keep it tightly aligned with the other expirations that
this map depends on. Push it out only to the March 2027 when the design review
and demolition approvals run out and then if needed look at everything al
together again. Second, I think it's important that you
know really know where there's a where this project stands. There is no written
status report. There is no written compliance. This is the same map. And I
think that's really important. What permits are complete and ready for
review of you review and approval. What's still pending? Which agencies
have signed off? Have any of those expired? Have any of those got
conditions that might affect this suggestion that came through and what
remains outstanding, particularly storm water, drainage, bulkheads, floodplane
compliance, and core site improvements. Right now, it's genuinely hard for
residents and probably city council as well to understand where things stand.
Third, please state clearly that any proposal to defer, phase, resequence key
components of this project must return to the planning commission or city
council for discretionary review in a noticed public hearing, a well-noticed
public hearing. If project plans or timing or conditions change in a real
way, which it kind of sounds like it was what's that's what's been talking about
tonight, it should come back to be discussed and decided in public.
Lastly, the applicant has already had two years to complete their
applications. So, please ask them what the critical path is to the final map
and improvement plans and what the applicant is committing to accomplish
during the period they're asking for. If current tenants there are being
displaced this summer, but there's no clear timeline or certainty the full
project will be built as approved. That just feels wrong to me. Thank you.
» Thank you, Susan. Would anybody else like to make public comment in the room?
» Good evening. Uh David Kenneth Smith at 7 Leeward Road. I thank the city council
and the city engineer for their careful review of the proposed Malard Point
development plan. I speak tonight only as a Leeward road neighbor to Malard
Point with considerable time spent reviewing the geotechnical aspects of
the soil water interface as well as the sites winter storm water drainage.
I currently hold a license from the state of California Department of
Consumer Affairs as a registered professional geologist number 5689.
Tonight we are deliberating about the timing and sequencing of the project. In
this context, I applaud the city for taking the vital steps of contracting
for expert independent third-party peer review of what continues to be the most
delicate and technical aspects of the project. The performance of the geology
beneath the Malard Point site as a foundation for the vertical
infrastructure as well as the flow of peak winter storm water drainage from
Belvadier Island to discharge in the Belvadier Lagoon. The contracted peer
reviews are objective and provide a comprehensive evaluation of engineering
reports supporting the project application. They also frame criteria
for the project to go forward with full confidence. There are many technical
issues here that are the the domain of engineers, geologists, and construction
specialists. However, I will focus on one topic that
is easy to understand and conceptualize particularly in the project of timing
and sequence and that is storm water drainage.
The lagoon functions as the downstream boundary condition for the entire mallet
point drainage system. In the absence of an implemented drainage infrastructure
plan, demolition of existing
structures would alter site conditions in ways that could materially affect
runoff behavior. Specifically, changes in the timing, volume, and peak flow of
storm water could discharge directly into the lagoon in an unexpected ways
without adequate engineering controls to moderate or attenuate flow. Demolition
activities could also expose soils and disturb existing surfaces, increasing
the likelihood of sediment transport. Temporary or disrupted drainage pathways
may further alter hydraulic conveyance to the lagoon. In addition, fine
sediments and residual materials from structural demolition could be mobilized
during storm events, contributing to turbidity, localized sediment deposition
near lagoon margins or outfalls, and potential impacts to adjacent bulkhead
structures. Importantly, the peer review also
highlights that system performance under a mandated 100-year maximum of storm
event has not yet been adequately evaluated.
If demolition proceeds immediately after the site is vacated in August 2026
and by agency requirement, further construction work must be suspended
before the next winter rains commence. Drainage analysis does not appear to
provide defensible mitigation strategies for these conditions should demolition
and construction phases not be sequenced properly. I urge the city and its
engineering staff to proceed in a sequenced and deliberative manner to
answer questions posed by their own third-party experts which raise issues
essential to the success of the project. Thank you.
» Thank you, David. Is there any other public comment in the room?
Ken, come on up.
Good evening, Ken Johnson. Um, uh, we've worked with the BLPA is I'm
president of the BLPOA. We've worked with Bruce and Jay and, um, our
subcommittee of the board of directors and I think we're gaining a lot of
traction. Um, but I think that we're in a position here and I have no
recommendation regarding the time for an extension. I think it should be given.
Um the time is is really um you know in my opinion personally um um a little bit
of a um side issue. Um I think it should be given but I think we have to look at
the consequences of the demolition. Uh and perhaps this is in the city
engineers bivwok but we've got two peer reviews uh one in February of this year,
the other one in April of this year. Uh the BPA has um written its own
evaluation in April of this year. Um and um here we are tonight. Um you know we
don't have any documentation or response to those peer reviews. And what worries
me from a practical standpoint, and it's not Bruce's fault that um the economic
situation has changed so much, uh thank you Riley. Um the uh
city nor um Bruce have been responsible the city nor Bruce have been responsible
for the economic situation of our country. Um the issue we have here and
my worry is simply um we go forward without accounting for the potential of
uh having a demolition um and just empty dirt um without a
mitigation um as to what would happen when the storm
comes up this winter. Um, and we all know there's an October
15th date set by the state of California that the bulkhead must be completed. No,
I'm sorry. They have until October 15th to do work on the bulkhead. There is no
um, in my understanding of that permit requirement that they complete it. um we
could end up with a situation if people are forced into it. We have demolition
and we have no bulkhead. Um those are the worries that uh concern
the BLPA. We're continuing to work with Bruce and his team. Um but somehow in
this mixture of things uh it's just kind of human nature uh we need deadlines to
uh get things done. But so far the deadlines in terms of responses are not
complete. Um I'm sure they'll be done soon, but then what happens if those
responses have an issue? What happens if the city um engineer finds them not
completely 100%. Um so those are the concerns that we
have and we asked for the city's help in helping resolve them. Thank you.
Thank you, Ken. Is there anybody else? Jill coming up.
» Uh Jill Barnett, 50 Peninsula Road. Okay. So, I agree with all the other
comments from the residents and just to add to it, the Malard project was
approved as one whole project. All approvals and expiration dates must
align so that the project moves forward as one project just as it was approved.
So if you grant an extension, because that's what I understand we were
supposed to be discussing tonight, not demolition permits, etc. If you do grant
an extension, make it a 9-month extension so that the project lines up
with the other approvals, design review, and demolition expirations. Then you can
look at everything together. I believe that that would be the most organized
and clear direction to take. And speaking of being organized, uh you must
I feel you must require a written status report of items that are pending in
process where they are in the process. Have they started? Are they almost
finished? I asked this same question the last time I spoke to the council. It was
a request to have a swim lane diagram, which is common in construction
projects. So, I think that should be uh made available.
And the city's latest incompleteness letters and peerreview comments show
that the developer is still far from providing a complete permit approval
ready package, especially on the key technical items like geotechnical and
drainage and storm water. So anyhow, that's my comments. Thanks.
» Thank you. Any other comments in the room? Yes. Come on up, Andy.
Andrew Barnett, 50 Peninsula Road. Um, I'm a surgeon and we frequently go into
the operating room um, planning to remove or to change
things. And we always go in with an A, B, and a C plan. What'll happen if the
best happens? What we'll do if it's more difficult, and what we're going to do if
it's a disaster. And I think that SP 330 is designed to
make sure that there's no net loss. There's no reason that we can't expect
rather than decoupling these two things, the demo and and the replacement that
the developer provide an AB and C plan and how they're going to respond based
on what the geotechnical studies show after the demolition is
concerned. What are they going to do if it's B or C? Are they going to be
equipped or able to do their construction? So, I think it's
reasonable for to expect that they provide multiple scenarios and how
they're going to satisfy the no net loss requirement of SP330
to replace those things. And that includes financing as a major part of it
because you can build almost anything if you can get the financing. And we don't
know that this developer can. So I I request that the uh council consider
requiring that the developer provide comprehensive solutions to the various
potential responses to the geotechnical
studies that were will be done after the demolition
but prior to issuing the demolition permit.
Thank you. Any other comments in the room?
Okay, seeing none, we're going to go to public comment online. Beth, can you
invite the p first person in? >> Yes, Mayor Wilkinson, we have uh Delhi
Woodring.
Deli, you should be able to speak.
Hi everybody. Uh Deli Woodring. I live on Peninsula Road. Following up on what
Andrew Barnett just said, um should financing for the whole project be
approved, what guarantee do we have that funding will be available after
demolition if there should be some geotechnical problem that involves
completing the project. I think this is really a loophole that needs to be
tightened before anything is even thought of being started. Thank you.
» Apologies. We have Ruben Gelvin.
» Ruben, welcome. >> Hi. Uh, good evening, mayor, council
members, staff, members of the community. My name is Ruben Galvan. I'm
a field representative of the North Coast State's Carpers Union Locosa 51
» which covers Ring County. As we discuss development and growth in
Velvir, we know housing is needed, but it's important the new projects don't
just add units. We must also set standards to protect the workers who
build them. That's why I'm here asking, will there be strong labor standards on
this project?
When I say labor standards, strong labor standards, I mean contractors that pay
fair wages, that support working families, access to health care, so
workers don't have to choose between going to work or taking their kids to
the doctor. Giving real opportunities to apprentices
from state accredited programs who want to the apprentices who want to learn a
trade and build a career and meaningful labor compliance.
real enforcement to make sure contractors follow labor laws, pay
workers properly, and provide safe working conditions. These protections
don't just help workers, they also help the community as a whole. When workers
earn fair wages and get health care, they can better support their families
and contribute to our local economy. Apprenticeships train the next
generation of skilled workers who will keep our city growing strong for years
to come. On the other hand, when labor standards
are ignored, we leave the door wide open to irresponsible contractors.
The kind who pay low wages and offer no benefits, mclassify workers to avoid
paying those benefits, and even uh worst cases wage theft. These bad actors don't
just hurt or workers, they hurt the community by lowering the quality of
work and putting safety at risk. Velier deserves projects built by responsible
developers and contractors who will treat our working families with respect
and dignity. I urge the council to encourage strong labor standards on this
project to make sure the development benefits everyone, not just the
developer. Thank you for your time. >> Ruben, thank you for your comment. Beth,
is there anybody else? >> Yes, we have Jim Hornthal. Evening Jim.
Hi, can you hear me? Okay, >> we can hear you.
» Perfect. Perfect. I'm going to be very brief. I think that, you know, this is
by my count almost six years since this project began and rather than getting
into issues of microeconomics or macroeconomics, I think the city needs a
developer who's solvent. I think that working on financing six years into it,
I don't know why the council wouldn't just require this financing being in
place before any demolition's done. The risks seem too high. And I'm also very
disturbed by the way the developer said tonight that the that the staff asked
for the permits to be split when it's my understanding that quite the opposite.
The staff was reluctantly willing to allow it because they thought they
didn't have a choice and that it came from the developer. And a sense of
honesty would be really nice and transparency I think is essential and
six years into a project to not have the financing in place is not the city's
problem. The laws in Sacramento do not guarantee developer profitability. We do
need more housing. We do need more low-income housing. And how we get there
is the question of if we get there. So, I'm troubled by that depositioning and
disinformation statement that's fundamental to the trust that the city
and the residents are looking to have with a developer who's got such a big
responsibility to improve the area. That's all.
» Thank you. >> Anybody else?
» Mayor Wilkinson, there are no other hands raised.
» Okay. We will bring this back to um the city council um essentially for
deliberation, but I do have a few follow-up questions if that's okay from
things that have been uh mentioned by through public comment and others might
also have questions as well. I'm going to start.
Um the first is obviously we've heard um concerns about um potentially some
demolition happening the bulkheads being partially done before we we go into the
the winter season and the and the issues associated with that. I wonder if our
building official or John can comment about the sequencing of that and who
makes those determinations to make sure that it is safe.
Rebecca, is that a Brian question or is that a John question?
» Well, let me read the condition of approval or just summarize it quickly um
to refresh Brian's memory. Um and then I think he can comment on it. Um so it
says the demolition permit shall be the demo permit application shall be
accompanied by a permit application to replace the lagoon bulkheads along the
entire length of each property adjacent to the lagoon. Bulkhead shall be
replaced as soon as reasonably possible in conjunction with demolition of the
existing buildings based on recommendations from the city building
official and city engineer. So Brian, would you like to um comment
on that condition in terms of the time frame and
when that will happen? Uh yeah. So again, as as per the
developer statement, um it's going to be far easier to install the bulkhead
um once the structures are removed due to
the length of the bulkhead that the uh that is intended to be replaced.
Um in terms of the timing,
we could have both permits issued. Um however it would be up to the the
applicant or the developer at the time to install the bulkhead on in a timely
manner. Um
per per the conditions um
we we could not limit issuing the permits. Um, however, we would be able
to follow up with the developer um and make sure the installation of a bulkhead
is is timely with um the demolition work.
If that answers your question, mayor, >> I guess it's just there's no condition
in which during the winter season we're going to leave a half removed, half
built bulkhead.
» Yeah. I mean, the building off Go ahead, Rebecca. Go ahead. I'm sorry. the
building official and the city engineer will work on the sequencing of issuing
the demolition permit and the bulkhead replacement only when it is permitted
which is >> so are you
» not between October and April. >> So you're saying you wouldn't issue a
demo permit in in October or November because they can't do the bulkhead till
April. >> I don't know.
» I'm not saying that. That's something the engineer and the building official
need to >> Okay. So the other thing is is that
there's also a condition 23 that addresses I think the same subject about
if the bulk if the demo is done and the bulkhead is not complete or isn't
started that I think condition of approval number 23 addresses that. And
so that brings the question of um having a robust site protection and
mitigation uh for that in place in case it's not done.
So, could Brian or John Mo address that item
number uh condition of approval number 23 that would give
» the sweat plan and the replan? Uh it's it's well no it's not it's a um
» if it disturbs more than an acre number 23 it's not the storm it's
» right the plan if it disturbs more than an acre then it's required to have
staging and scheduling component um indicating when facilities must be
installed and when they may removed a separate rain event action plan shall be
required and prepared as part of the sweat plan the storm water pollution
prevention plan >> yeah So that will be also be required as
part of the demolition. And would that would that um
» John Mo we have here um the expert um would would you put in place would that
properly address any issue and who if it doesn't who's
responsible in case there is a uh incident in the water that will bring in
the um agencies >> right there's a it's a storm water
pollution pre prevention plan and that's required ired before the uh
» before the permit would be issued. So they'd have to have that in place and
they would uh um submit that to the state water board which issues the
permit for that that SWIP reviews that and there's
um a process for the submitting of that. Um and they as along with that they have
to monitor um the rainfall events and monitor uh storm water discharge on
site. Um, >> and that that's included in condition of
approval 23. >> That correct?
» So, does that storm water um prevention plan carry all the way through while
it's still a muddy lot before anything gets added in? Meaning, if if for some
reason the developer decides to sit on an empty lot, does that plan still apply
and they still have to follow those conditions?
» That is correct. Yes. And it it and it can change. It can change as the site
conditions change as they phase their work. um that plan is to be updated uh
to meet the site conditions as they progress through the project.
Okay, that's >> and are there protections there that um
you know taking a worstc case scenario that you know things don't get build for
three four years and you know then the developer needs to do a new kind of uh
improvement because of the situation and they choose not to do it. What what are
the resources the city has to make sure that whatever is required um will be
done? >> I um are we talking about just the demo?
Are we talking about improvement plans there? No, we're talking we're talking
about um if we have a dirt lot >> or a partial dirt lot, you know, part of
it gets built and then part of it not. Um you know, worst case scenario and
we're left with a dirt pile and over the years the conditions change and this and
that and you go to the developer and of course he wouldn't do that. Um but you
go to the developer and you say, "Okay, now you need to do XYZ." And he goes,
"I'm not paying XYZ. I'm not doing it." What what protections do the city does
the city have to make sure that that is always protected?
» Yeah, they they they have to stabilize the site um and um in whatever condition
it's in. Um so whether it be for a month or two months, what whatever it is, 3
months or more, that site's required to be stabilized. And so um no, um muddy
water runs off the site. They have to have best management practices in place,
that sort of thing. But beyond that uh you know fines for you know clean water
from the you know uh monitoring by the state um that's the limit I think of the
SWIP um there's no other teeth in that to say oh you must develop further
regarding that particular condition and that that storm water pollution
prevention plan >> and if the B bla is forced with
additional costs for um cleanup the uh I yeah I believe there's
» property owner is responsible. >> I I correct.
» Thank you. >> Um I had one additional just a
confirmation. So obviously there's been lots of requests around us somehow
imposing some financing conditions or financing certainty and just to stress
again and confirm with legal we have no ability to attach any additional
conditions to the extension of this permit.
Barbara Andrew, >> I apologize.
» Do you need me to ask the question again?
» Question. >> Sure. The question was um there's been
requests for us to attach certainty around financing and financing
conditions to confirm again. We have no legal authority to apply any any
conditions to this extension. >> No.
» And at no point in the future will we have any ability to attach new
conditions to this project. >> That's correct. unless the applicant,
you know, requests changes in the conditions already adopted.
» Okay. Thank you. >> Okay. I will go to Peter next in terms
of any follow-up questions you might have.
» Uh I'm not sure where I come out on this from a from a from a correlating various
uh ex um extensions and uh expiration dates of various entitlements. But
Rebecca, do you know what the demo expiration date is as it was extended?
and the and the design I don't think demo was extended. Design review was
extended recently. Do you know what those were?
» I do. The um design review will expire on March 19th, 2027
unless the city has issued both a demo permit for all required demolition and a
permit for all subdivision improvements >> and a demo.
» Well, the demo the design review is contingent on the demo. If the city has
issued the demo permit, all of these entitlements are contingent
on us issuing the demo. >> But does demo expire itself?
» I don't know if there's an expiration for the demoired
appear to be an expiration date for the demo permit. Um the condition on the
demo permit is that the demo has to be completed within 75 days after after
it's issued. Yeah. >> Okay. Um and then the design review if
the demo had been had not been issued by then it it expires on March of 2027.
» Both the demo and effectively the final map because the public improvements go
along with the final map. >> Got it.
» Yeah. >> And uh and the final map was is the May
of 26. I understand that. Um, and John, uh, there's been a lot of questions and
and and I think the, uh, storm water pollution prevention plan you talk about
goes a long way towards this, but it's my understanding and my experience
that all the technical requirements,
geotechnical, storm water, and so forth for the demolition plan are handled for
the demolition permit. And likewise the infrastructure improvement requirements
are handled in the in the review and and subsequent issuance of that permit and
subsequent building permits. One of many perhaps the infrastructure um sorry the
uh uh uh geotechnical storm water and any other structural requirements are
resident in that review as well. only mention that because I want I'm I'm
curious, you know, the the discussion about the
whole project being being being being being being uh uh reviewed in its
entirety. I don't know that that can really be the
case because without this a a a segmented approach to some degree. Um, I
mean certainly you could have a demolition permit that's complete and
final and put it on a shelf and then do your infrastructure review and analysis
assuming you can get access with your rig to to do those various various um um
investigations and do the subsequent review and analysis associated with the
building permits. But it would seem logical to do it in a stepped fashion.
And I'm just want to confirm whether whether that's true or whether you think
we have some some resident assertions that it should be held all together as
one and the applicant is saying that they can't do that physically not only
with the requirements of their easements but that's not not the practical way to
do it. I just wanted your comments on that please. Yeah, I I don't think this
is unusual in that uh many times people or developers rather come forward with u
demo permits prior to um to improvement plans um and final maps being complete.
Um a lot of times it's timing. They also want to um potentially get rough grading
done. Um this is unique site next to the lagoon. Um but it it's not unusual for
uh applicants to come in with rough grading and demo permits in this
fashion. >> And do you have any uh with the the um
the various um prevention plans which are state regulated and fines associated
with lack of lack of upkeep and maintenance with those whether it's
three months or three years. Uh do you have any concerns about our city's
ability or your ability uh with your um uh support to to adequately review the
geotechnical and um structure requirements of the subsequent
infrastructure plans and building permit plans beyond the demolition?
Uh yeah, we we've reviewed almost all of the improvement plans to date and we did
get assistance for um the geotechnical peer review and the hydraology and
hydraulic peer review for the drain uh for the drainage system. Um
structural review is is separate as well. So, um um
yes, we're we we feel like we have the resources that we are needed that are
needed rather uh for the imp improvement plan review. If there if there's if
we're not then, um you know, we would certainly u seek outside help for that.
But but I think we do uh we've got that those u those consultants in place to
provide that support. >> Thank you.
Um so I have a question on um actually two. So
they submitted a letter for the extension which allowed an automatic
60-day administratively approved extension which brings us to
this evening. So when we give the extension whatever the amount of time is
we give does it include that 60 days or is it
from like today? >> It's from the uh it's from the date of
expir that it would otherwise that it would have otherwise expired.
» Okay. Yeah. >> And then I had a follow-up question
because you made a comment and said that uh regarding that we can't put any new
conditions on any of the conditions of approval for anything that all of that
is set in stone right now. As long as the applicant doesn't ask for
a revision. If the applicant asks for a revision on a condition, then the door
would be open for us to add more conditions.
» I think let's see. I did say that. Um >> yeah, you did say that.
» Gotcha. >> I mean, I think you would need to um I
think they would need to be related to what the applicant was requesting the
additional conditions. So whatever the condition was, it would kind of have to
be related to that. Yes. And not to something over here in left field.
» Something over here or you suddenly say uh the building has to be moved or you
know something like that that has no relationship.
» But it does request. It does give a crack in the door.
» It's a small crack in the door. Yeah. >> Okay. Thank you. Those were my followup
questions. Anybody else have follow-up questions?
I was wondering um I know there was a question about the agency letters and if
they had all been submitted if they were reviewed and if they were still valid
given the number of years that uh they may have um been already submitted to
the city. who who reviews those agency letters and determines whether they need
to be resubmitted or redone. >> Brian and John review those letters.
Um,
I think my other questions, um,
I mean, John, I guess I think I know how you're going to answer this, but, um, it
is nerve-wracking to to, uh, one of the questions I asked Mr. Dorfman was even
after demo and the requesting of the three years um more time that he agreed
that it could take a while uh to get what is necessary for the final map um
and things could sit there for a while empty. Um is it your belief that
when um the geotech can be done the second parts of the geotech after the
demolishing um is it your belief that
these type of structures can actually be built in this location without so that I
think the fear is from many people in the community. The demolish will occur
and then they'll do the geoteex study to see if the land actually could support
um what's being uh proposed there or what was in the application and do you
have any um concerns along those lines or can
anything be built anywhere? Uh, no, no. I think that's why we need
the geotechnical evaluation to determine, you know, um, what that
foundation >> Yeah. But they're demolishing first. So
then if it turns out that, oh, oops, these things can't be built here, then
what happens? >> Well, I think it's the the type of
foundation that we're talking about. >> Okay.
» Yeah. >> Okay. Thanks.
» Okay. If all questions have been asked and answered, I'm going to see if a
council member wants to uh open the discussion around the actual extension
of the map. Kevin, would you like to go first?
» Sure. Okay. So, there's two issues and the one that we're here to answer or
address is the timing, which unfortunately I'm going to make you wait
till the second half of my conversation. Um, for fear that you'll tune out on the
first part. Um, no seriously is I think that um all of the context that we're
talking about and the concerns that have been raised by um the community like
Susan, David, Ken, Jill, Andy, Deli, um Jim, Jimh, uh the folks who had sent in
letters uh are really valid. We had a meeting uh a week ago where um some of
those individuals and other community members also voiced their concerns. And
so while this may not be a popular opinion um among some people, I do feel
like many of the concerns or a number of the concerns are things that we the city
we the city council as a governing body can do a better job at communicating. I
think that this the community has sort of raised the bar in terms of what they
want to hear about this project, how informed they want to be about this
project, the things that they are most concerned about this project. And I
think we have to find a way of upping our game too um to rise and meet that
standard. And I know that's going to require more work of staff and I
apologize for that. I'm hoping the consultant can be further engaged to do
that. I'm certainly willing to jump in and help wherever I can to do that as
well. Um but some of the comments, especially the ones made by the public
today, um during the open forum were things that could be better managed or
better addressed with just more transparency and more detail and more um
you know telegraphic communications as to where things stand, what's
outstanding, to what degree are we near completion and so forth. So that's one
part. Um so I think that's on us. Um, I do think that we have to continue to
work with the developer to um move this project along quickly. Uh, because I
think at this point in time now, it's really about getting it done. Um, that's
the most important thing and get it getting it done uh even more importantly
based on all of the conditions that we all agreed to. Um, and we've heard many
times tonight we can't add any more conditions, but I think it's super
important for us to ensure that every single one of those conditions is met to
its fullest extent. Um, and I know that I have the city's commitment that they
will do that. We will not issue any permits unless every single condition
has been met to the fullest extent that it requires or it needs to be um, met.
And nobody's nodding their head, but I'm sure you're nodding it inside your
» you're envisioning what it would look like to nod your head, but go ahead. Um,
so I think that's another thing that um we all need to just, you know, put in
the public record that we're we're all agreeing that that's in true and and I I
saw actually Bruce not his head um and he is agreeing that those conditions
need to be met. Um and in the details is where the challenge will be. But again,
I think that's uh on us to make sure that they're met to the standard that we
agree to. Um I do think though that uh the
you know some of the things that are most concerning um are are covered by
many of the conditions the storm water drain the geotech um you know obviously
the peer reviews I think there's you know condition 10 17 18 23 I mean
there's there's a number of conditions again I think we just need to make sure
that those are delivered on fully and completely. Um the sequencing is more
troubling because I don't think there's really um much we can do about that. Um
again we'd have to impose a condition to order a sequence that we prefer and we
are being told by legal we can't we can't um require that um uh in the
context of offering an extension to the tenative map resolution. Um that would
be the only way of doing it. I mean, I'm I'm taking the developer, Bruce, at at
his word that they want to get this done and get it done quickly. Um, I do know
based on what we have in our conditions that the sequencing between the demo and
the bulkhead are things that we can heavily influence. I mean, that permit
requires that the uh building official and the engineer um provide a
recommendation as to when that bulkhead will be um replaced. Um, and so that's
part of the permit. At least that's the way I'm reading the condition is that
you know so we have the ability to ensure that the demo and the bulkhead
are um tied in a way that makes sense. Obviously you can't demo and then let it
sit there throughout the winter um with nothing happening. So again more work
for us to do on our part to ensure that all of this is delivered on. I mean in
terms of the timing. So now to part two what we are here to answer tonight. um
you know uh throughout my career I mean we often uh used a quote to bring focus
to some of these things and it was nothing makes a person more productive
than the phrase I needed tomorrow and so I very much agree that a shorter
timeline is a better timeline I know it's uh not uh an exciting prospect to
think about coming back to this meeting um uh in the near future but I think
given the complexity given the community's interest um given all of the
variables I that we should we we should take the time um even though it might
require a little bit more more work on everyone's part. So I actually like the
suggestion um March 19th to 27 um that we extend the tenative map uh until
then. Um it does co-terminate with the design review which uh is interesting
but again um I do think that in a shorter period of time I'd love to come
back and it just keeps the pressure on. Um, and it sounded like from my
questions earlier on that, you know, we were nearly there. A lot of the things
are just about to come in. Um, you know, we're at 85%, the 15%, again, John, I'm
using this all against you. I'm sorry. Um, but, uh, again, if it is true, if
that is in fact where we are, then, um, that seems reasonable. Uh, and if it
isn't, we'll know in a short order um, why it's not, and then we'll have to
make um, additional decisions. So, there you have it.
Um, okay. Who would like to go next?
So, um I um thank Vice Mayor Burke for a very eloquent explanation
on um our responsibility to our community and um I totally support and
stand behind what he says um about how we need to improve and hopefully with
this um project coordinator and an improved website that we will be
having more transparent communication to everybody. Um, but I want the community
to know not to feel bad because sometimes we don't know till the last
minute either. So, um uh but to um address what we're here tonight for the
final map, um I I also agree that um uh from what John Mo has said that we're
so close on the final map and the improvement plans that um 3 years seems
excessive. And um I think um if we had been able to
see their response, we might have been able to better understand exactly where
we're at. But the commission is pretty much in the same unknown space as the
rest of the community. And so I sat here and after asking my
question on does a 60-day improve, I was ready to give them till I believe it was
the May 13, 2027 date, which would be a year, but um I am also fine with giving
them to the March date. Um the tenative map always had a different date.
Everything was approved at the same planning commission meeting, but the
tenative map had to go to city council, and that's why it's got a two-month
later date. So, I mean, I I am fine with either the May or the March date. Um, I
would support either one of those dates um for an extension. And I just had one
more comment that I don't know who wrote it, but condition 17 on the demo is very
poorly worded. Um, I would never have said it would had to do with
the bulkhead or anything else. I would have thought that it had to do with the
structures of the building. So I would just say in the future um we
whoever does those conditions needs to be more um watch as I have said many
times words matter and using the correct words for specifically what you're
addressing is going to be very important going forward. Thank you.
Um, Peter, you want to go next? >> Uh, thank you. Uh, I agree, Kevin. I
think I think you you you highlighted it very well and using your same rubric. um
your first point I I agree we need to be do do better at communicating this and
and I was a bit um frustrated I think with with the community that um our
project manager consultant is not involved in the upfront which Jane
talked about in the early part of the meeting and
contract um scope notwithstanding we absolutely this definitively talked
about adding some of the permit um conditions and summaries
checklists, outstanding issues, key omissions to their responsibility to
help us document those and outline those for the community both online and so
forth. So, I would I would encourage us to uh
strong encouragement. I'd really like to ask us to uh uh better utilize that
resource because I don't know that we're um have the the the the bandwidth to do
that. um as Kevin said, um that we need to step up that scope of work. Uh
tying it to the um design review I'm okay with, but I think there's a
there's a complexity there in that the design review March 20 of 2027 moves
with the demolition permit. So, right, >> well, it's true. demo in. I think
» it has to it has to have actually both public improvements which basically is
the final map. >> Not necessarily. I mean I mean
» well you could hold off on the final map for as long as you really want to.
» Yes. It's in this case the the public improvements are running along with the
final map and the subdivision improvement agreement and the developer
has to post a bond. >> Okay. So you're you're okay with
understanding that the applicant can come back and extend them all. You're
you're okay with Lani with that um because because you presume that
that wouldn't move unless the final map were were subsequently approved.
» Yes. >> Okay, I understand. I'm okay with that.
I think it's shorter than the applicant wants. Um but I I I understand your
perspective relative to holding their feet to the fire. um and recognizing
that um if nothing else, it's a good opportunity to to readress this as we go
forward. >> Jane,
» hey. Um thanks. Um I I think at after this process, I also
agree that we have to pay uh close attention to what we're saying and
making sure it's what we mean. And so I'm going to hold Kevin here and say uh
I think it's a great idea to share as much information as possible with the
whole community and with the council on where where everything is on this
project, but I'd like to know how you propose that happening. So we don't just
say we want it, but how how a spreadsheet that's online? uh what what
how do we do this? >> So, Rebecca, can I sort of jump in there
because I know you're developing these Excel spreadsheets. Do you want to talk
a little bit more about that and how much you plan to share or can share with
the community?
» Sure. Yes, we have um we're almost complete on two spreadsheets. One for um
that lists each condition of the demolition, one that um lists all the
conditions of the tenative map. and we will make one for the design review and
it's has the condition listed a column that says check done or pending and then
notes. So um we are planning on getting making those public once they're
complete. >> So what do you how long is that two
weeks away? How long you think until >> No, by next week.
» And you will update those whenever something changes and how will you let
the community know? Will there be a date that sort of states when it was last
updated so that >> because it's a constantly sort of living
document and so we need to people need to know.
» We can do that. We can do that. >> Okay.
» So as things change they need to indicate what's changed so the community
can can see that visually. >> I might suggest that we consider the
Belvadier breeze. We put it in that. Well that's not frequent enough
actually. You'd want to do it more often than that. The other thing and we should
talk I mean it's the I think in those spreadsheets it would be very helpful if
then there's a live link that you can get then click through to the section of
the website that has the supporting material. So if you're talking about
condition 31 and it's the storm water drain yada yada yada well then you can
go and look at >> you know the sub whatever I mean it's
most recent. >> Yeah. Yeah. It's it's it's easy to do
and happy to help in that regard. But I think that kind of dashboarding approach
would be very helpful at giving people a telegraphic view as to where things are
and then if they choose to dig in deeper, they can then easily do that.
» Sure. >> And can we put it at the top of the
website? I know the website's going to get adjusted with the coordinator, but
he's going to take some time. >> Probably won't be ready by next week to
revise the website. So if you could put that at the top so it because it's
organized differently. So and it's a new thing. So I think if it was at the top
it would be really helpful. >> Sure.
» Okay. Jane, do you want to continue in your comments
» and then um thank you for that and I agree with the um March 19th, 2027. It's
fine. >> Okay. Um I have absolutely nothing to
add. I agree with what's been said so far. So would somebody like to make a
motion? >> I can read a resolution. Um I'd propose
a motion to approve the resolution of the city of Belvadier. City Council
approving an extension of the tenative subdivision map for the Malard Point
project at 1 through 22 Malard Point Road to March 19th, 2027.
» Second. All in favor? >> I I motion passes. Okay. Thank you to
everybody uh who's uh spoken. Thank you to the applicant. Um we'll take a five
minute uh recess so that people can leave if they would like to. Um and
we'll come back in five minutes. Thanks.
» I know. Jesus.
Which is discussion and approval of the city of Badir annual operating and
capital budget for fiscal year 2627 and 5year capital plan. Helga, I believe you
have a staff report.
» Good evening, Mayor Wilson. Good evening, Mayor Wilkinson and
council members. Since the proposed fiscal year 2627 budget was discussed in
detail at May, we will only focus on the changes since then and actually there
have been very few revisions. On the revenue side, based on the latest
estimate from Maring County, secured property tax revenues
are now projected to increase by 5.12% in fiscal year 2627.
higher than the 4.06 growth assumed in the proposed budget. This results in an
additional 73,277 in security secured property tax
revenue, increasing the fiscal year 2627 estimate from 7.06
million to 7.13 million with no changes to other property tax revenue
projections. The projected buyer tax revenue has been
increased by $14,416 based on updated state price and
population data. The preliminary budget assumed a 3% increase while the revised
estimate reflects an updated growth rate of 4.19%.
As a result of the higher fire tax revenues, the amount required to be
transferred from the general fund to support fire services will be reduced
accordingly. The city receives donations to support
the concerts in the park series, which help fund the program each summer.
Donations supporting the concert in the park series are now anticipated to
exceed 59,000 in fiscal year 2526 compared to the original estimate of
32,000. Based on this performance, the fiscical
year 2627 budget increases anticipated concert in the park donation revenue
from 32,000 to 50,000. In addition, a new revenue line item has been
established for the Belvadier Film Festival to separately account for
donation supporting that event. Based on fiscal year 2526 contributions, film
festival donation revenue is projected at approximately 18,000 in fiscal year
2627. And that brings us to the expenditures.
The wildlife mitigation funding included in the administration budget has
increased from 7,000 to 13,000 in fiscal year 2627 to support continued coyote
monitoring and the implementation of the contraceptionbased rat mitigation pilot
program. In the police department budget, vehicle maintenance expenditures
have been reduced by $30,124 from 41,263
to 11,139 to correct a budget entry and better
align the budget with actual expenditure levels. Under the non-dep departmental
budget, concerts in the park expenditures have been increased by
18,000 from 42,000 to 60,000 to better reflect anticipated program costs. In
addition, the Belvadier Film Festival expenditures have also been established
as a separate budget item with an appropriation of 22,000 based on prior
year spending. The majority of these costs are offset by donations received
by the city to support these community events. As a result of these revenue and
expenditure changes, an additional 120,000 has been allocated to the
long-term capital pling planning fund in fiscal year 2627,
increasing the transfer from 110 one, sorry, from 1.1 million to 1.22
million. This additional funding raises the projected fund balance at the end of
fiscal year 20 3031 to 2.42 million, an increase of 550,000
over the 1.87 million balance originally projected, further strengthening the
city's long-term capacity to fund future infrastructure needs.
When everything is said and done, this budget will exceed the general fund
reserve policy goal by 415,000, which is slightly less than the previous
version. However, it still projects that the city will meet its reserve goals for
the next five years. And with that, I'd be happy to take questions.
» Does anybody have any questions for Helga?
Any questions? >> I I just had one. Helga are it sounds
like you have to do a lot of work for all these donations that then turn
around and go out. Is that is that a huge impact on your time?
» Um usually our administrative tech takes most of it.
» Okay. So >> because I was thinking about the fun run
which also is adding to your workload. >> No, the admin tech will handle most of
that. >> Okay. Okay. Well, we don't care about
that. I'm just kidding. >> No, it's fine.
» Okay. Thanks. >> Okay. If there's no other questions,
let's open for public comment.
» You see none. Okay. Let's bring this back for um any discussion and a motion.
And I would just caveat that this has already been reviewed twice by the
finance committee. >> Uh once
» once by the finance committee. This is a second reading for the city council with
some minor amendments. So if anybody has any discussion, speak up. If not,
someone can make a uh a motion. Anybody want to comment or
» just motion? >> Uh we can make a motion to adopt the
attached resolution appropriating funds necessary for fiscal year 2026 through
2027. >> Second. All in favor?
» I. >> I. Motion passes. Move on to item 6 C
discuss discussion and approval of fire and emergency medical services special
tax rates for fiscal 2627. Helga, this is you again.
» Yes, thank you. In your packet this evening is a re resolution to levy the
previously approved special tax for fire protection and emergency medical
services. This is an annual item we need to pass to levy the tax that was
approved by voters in 2000. The fees per parcel for the upcoming fiscal year will
be $1,143.40
for residential dwelling units, $1,31.50 for commercial occupancies, and $228.94
for vacant parcels. The revenue received from this assessment is spent only on
fire services. However, it does not cover the full cost of fire services
budgeted at 2.67 67 million for fiscal year 2627
and will require a transfer from the general fund of 1.41 million to cover
the difference. And with that, I'd be happy to take questions.
Any questions for Helva? Sorry. >> Can I make a motion?
» Sure, I'll go for it. >> Oh, sorry. Can is there any public
comment? >> Okay, perfect. Jane.
» Okay. In that case, I make a motion to adopt the resolution levying previously
approved special tax for fire and emergency medical services and fixing
the rates thereof for the fiscal year 2026 2027.
» Second. >> All in favor?
» Motion passes. Moving to 6 D um introduction and first reading of
an ordinance amending Belvadier Municipal Code section 3.28.080
080 to implement annual update of fire and
emergency medical services special tax rates for fiscal 2627.
» Thank you. Uh this is the first reading of a proposed amendments to Belvadier
Municipal Code section 3.28.080. Chapter 3.28 28 of the municipal code
was enacted by voter initiative in 1980 to establish the city's fire and
emergency medical services tax with section 3.28080
setting the applicable parcel tax rates. The proposed administ amendments are
administrative in nature and update the ordinance to reflect the fiscal year
2627 tax rates approved by the council, ensuring the municipal code remains
current and improving clarity and transparency. Earlier this evening, the
council held a public hearing and adopted a resolution approving the
fiscal year 2627 fire and emergency medical service tax rates. The approved
flat fees per parcel are the $1,14340 for residential dwelling units, $1,30150
for commercial occupancies, and $228.94 for vacant parcels. Because the
associated tax revenues have already been incorporated into the fiscal year
2627 operating and capital budget, these ordinance amendments have no additional
in fiscal impact. Staff will present this annual ordinance update as part of
the June budget process to ensure the municipal code continues to accurately
reflect the rates being levied. We will bring this back to council for a second
reading at the July 13th meeting if approved tonight.
» Uh great. Any questions for Helga? Seeing none, is there Oh, Jane, hold on.
Is public comment? >> I see none. Jane.
» Uh, I move that we approve the first reading of ordinance 3.28.080.
» Can I get a second code? >> Can I get a second?
» Second. >> All in favor?
» Motion passes. Um, and I would just uh preview that at some point during this
year, we'll be bringing back some updates to all of this from what we're
learning through our uh conversations around annexation. And we've learned
some interesting things around our fire tax. And that will be coming uh in
future months. >> Correct.
» Also, Hog um I I appreciate I know we had this conversation last year because
we hadn't update updated our ordinance in a while while we had updated the
fees. I think it's great that we're keeping up on this so that the ordinance
itself has the transparency that you're you're you're intending.
» Thank you. Okay. I forgot to mention at the
beginning of the meeting that we have, if it's still on anyone's agenda, 6E,
which is around the introduction of a drone uh ordinance has been uh moved to
the next meeting. So, we will not be discussing that tonight. Okay. We'll
close the public hearings and moving on to other scheduled items. Uh 7A,
adoption of resolutions calling a general municipal election on November
3rd, 26 and requesting the Marine County Board of Supervisors consolidate this
election with the November 3rd, 2026 general election. Um is there a staff
report here and who's giving it? >> Uh thank you, Mayor Wilkinson and
council. Be really quick. Uh in December, the terms of office of council
member Jane Cooper and Peter Mark will expire. The city must notify the c the
marine county of registers the marine county register of voters of
the city's intention to conduct a general municipal election on November
3rd 2026 um for the purpose of electing two
members to council. The election the California elections code also requires
council to make several additional decisions after calling an election.
These routine matters are also addressed in the resolutions in front of you.
Staff recommends that council adopts the two resolutions for the November 3rd,
2026 general municipal election. >> Thank you. Any questions,
» can they be adopted together >> or separately?
» It's motion. >> It's one resolution.
» And I make a motion to adopt. >> Oh my god. Open for public comment.
» Oh yeah. Jeez, that's smart. Hurry up. >> Uh I see no hands raised. Okay, Jane, go
for it. Um,
» you're on a roll tonight. >> I know. I'm really into it. Uh, I make a
motion that we adopt two resolutions for the November 3rd, 2026 general municipal
election. >> Second.
» All in favor? >> Um, and we do have uh am I allowed to
ask whether our current sitting council members are intending to run again in
November or is that >> you're not allowed to ask.
» You should probably find another form for that announcement. Okay. Thank you,
mayor. Just out of curiosity,
» you're the secret. >> Okay, we are moving on to 7B. Uh, first
reading and >> we're going to have a balloon
announcement. What is that when you have a baby?
» We're going to have a gender reveal.
» 7B. We're going to get through this meeting if it kills me. 7B. First
reading and review of a resolution for period July 126 through June 3029
establishing salaries and benefits for miscellaneous non-represented employees
of the city of Balvadier. Helgar, is this you or is this Robert?
» I'll take this one. >> Okay, mayor. Uh item 7B is the first
reading of the resolution for employee salary. It's going to be what's proposed
as a three-year contract as you mentioned starting July 1st, 2026
through June 30th, 2029. The proposed resolution implements the results of the
city's recently completed classification and compensation study, which was the
first comprehensive review of this kind in more than a decade. Overall, the
study showed that Belier's compensation levels for some employees was low
compared to other Marin County agencies. The resolution seeks to realign these
low positions with a one-time salary adjustment across the board. The
agreement also includes a 2 and a.5% cost of living adjustment. That's a cola
affected with with the f within the first full pay period of uh July 2026.
Uh that percentage uh matches the consumer price index
inflationary data for the Bay Area. Uh and then for the second and third year
of the contract, CPI based cost of living adjustments will be applied with
a floor of 2% and a ceiling of 4%. benefits generally remain unchanged with
only minor housekeeping updates including a small increase in the boot
allowance for public works maintenance staff. Um bothus I'll mention the
miscellaneous and the police departments which we're about to hear as the next
item also include transitioning to a sevenstep salary or pay schedule system.
We're currently on a five-step um and that'll be effective July 1st and it
will only impact new employees hired after July 1st, 2026.
The estimated fiscal impact is approximately $84,000 annually over a
three-year term and has been assumed in in the proposed budget that was adopted.
That's all I have for now and open to questions.
» Questions from council? No. Seeing none, um the $84,000 is the
impact of the colas or the impact of the of the salary adjustments from the
compensation study. >> I believe it's all the above, right?
It was an average over three years that included both.
» It included both. Okay, perfect. Um Okay. Um any public comment, Beth?
» See none. >> Okay. Can I get a motion?
» I think it it I think we're just considering. Is there a motion to be
made on? >> It's not a first reading. It's just
» reading.
» Yeah. We we bring it back in July. So >> yeah.
» Oh, how does that work then?
» I think the council should approve it tonight. And it's sort of a
» requirement
because there two times. >> Thank you.
» To approve a resolution for the period of July 1st, 2026 through June 30th,
2029 establishing salaries and benefits for miscellaneous non-represented
employees of the city of Belvadier. >> Can I have a second? Second.
» Who wants it? >> Jane can have it.
» All in favor? >> I I um motion passes. Let's move on to
um uh 7 C, which is essentially identical, but Robert, do you want to
give a quick one sentence? >> Sure.
It's substantially the same as a previous item, but does apply to
employees represented by the Beloved Police Officers Association. The
agreement incorporates the same compensation study adjustments and cola
structure that was discussed under item 7B. Um the cost to this for the city is
approximately $30,000 annually. Uh as Helga mentioned, this includes both
items and it's averaged over a three-year period.
» Perfect. Um any questions? >> Nope.
» Public comment. Beth, >> can I get a motion? I can make a motion
to approve a resolution for the period of July 1st, 2026 through June 30th,
2029, establishing salaries and benefits for the Belvadier Police Officers Assoc
Association employees of the city of Belvadier.
» Second. >> All in favor?
» I. >> Motion passes. 7D. Um, this is the
discussion and approval of a resolution approving an amendment to the city
manager employment agreement. I believe Andrew that you wanted to take this.
» Yeah, thank you, mayor. Uh it seemed appropriate for me to briefly address
this one. Um so this would extend uh address the city manager salaries of the
next two fiscal years. In the first fiscal year there would be increase in
the salary of $29,200. In the second year there would be
increase according to a similar simp CPI mechanism than the other employees
basically adjusted for CPI with a ban of 2 to 4%. Thank you.
Um, I don't really have I will just add there that this was a conversation
between the city council during the performance review uh of Robert and then
a conversation um with Robert. Um I think we're very pleased to be offering
you um this package. Um and we look forward to the next two years of of work
with you. >> Thank you.
» Um does anybody have any questions before I move to public comment?
No. Any public comment? >> Mayor Wilkinson, there are no hands
raised. >> Great. Can I get a motion, please?
» We don't have anything to make. >> I don't have it in front of me.
» That's the resolution for the city manager's pay for the next two years.
» Second. >> All in favor? I
» I >> Okay, we're bringing it back to 7E,
which is a discussion of appointments the planning commission, the finance
committee, and the Belvadier Tibbron Libr.
Um, as we know for the finance committee, we've had we have our two
uh representatives who are currently on the
uh finance committee that are renewing. So, thank you to that. And that is Bob
McCascal and Patrick Federer that have renewed.
» Correct. >> Yes.
» And so, our only discussion tonight is around uh the appointment of Jacob
Lanetski to the planning commission. So, should we deal with that one first?
Would anybody like to uh Is there any discussion here? Would anybody like to
make a motion?
» Oh, go ahead. >> No, no, no. I'm saying we go in order. I
mean, I think I think Jacob being the only candidate is is our only choice. Um
I I see that with with the measure of Jess. No, I'm I'm I'm thrilled to to
have uh the opportunity to have Jacob join our planning commission. And I
think he brings uh not only the experience um but the uh temperament,
the the the communication ability and I think the um added depth that we uh have
come to expect on our funding commission and I think would be a wonderful
addition. >> Anybody else?
» I second that. >> Yeah,
» agree. Okay. And so we'll make one motion at the end. Is that okay for all
of these different appointments? >> Right. And then I I I'm sure the council
did not mean to gloss over it, but we did have to consider also a
reappointment to the planning commission.
» Yeah. >> Of
the >> there's
there's there's two motions, right? I mean I mean you have in the start should
make make a first motion to reappoint incumbents Bob Mcascal and Patrick
Federer to the respective seats on the finance committee.
» I was going to do it all at the end. >> Oh, you can do it all at the end. Okay.
» But I just didn't want to lose that lose sight of the reappointment. Thank you.
Got it. >> Sorry. Um and so we are now moving on to
the Balvadier Tibberon Library Agency board of trustees and we have two
applicants there for the position Tony Hooker and Andrea Barish. Um would
anybody like to go first on those deliberations?
» Well, I I would like to recommend that Tony continue in his role. I think the
consistency of someone doing this for four years and then having another
opportunity, a lot of learning experience and he brings a lot of
experience anyway. And I I do feel that Andrea would be perfect for the
foundation and it it just so happens that there is a position available
there. and um and uh in speaking with the library director uh she thinks that
some of the best way the best way to prepare to get on the actual library
board is to start at the library foundation. So, um I'm hoping that
Andrea would uh accept that idea and so that we can keep her involved. As Pat
said, we don't want to lose a great volunteer. And um I really think this
would be a terrific spot for her skills. So um maybe when we write her the
letter, can we put something in about that, Beth?
» Okay. >> Well, let's hold on and see where
everybody is. >> I meant if after the vote.
» Is is the foundation um under the director's crystal's responsibility or
is it >> I'm not sure. She said she would be
happy to um introduce her to the foundation board president.
» So someone would you two are you you were and you are the library, right?
You're not >> we're no longer doing covering the
librarian library >> because we have board members seem
redundant. >> It's like the ranch or anywhere else,
» but but someone someone should take someone should take the lead to
introduce Andrea. >> I'm happy if we go that route to take
the lead. >> I think that makes sense. Does anyone
else want to express their opinion? >> Yeah, I mean I think that um
Andrea um is exactly what we're looking for in
a volunteer in the city and it's just unfortunate we only have one position
because I think she's an excellent candidate. Um, but I agree with Jane
that um getting up to speed and being able to bring that um
expertise to the next four years is uh very beneficial for the library. Um and
I would encourage her to look at other committees that we have available.
um because I think her skills are things that um communication we could all um
benefit from. Um so it's just unfortunate we don't have another
position because I think she would be terrific. Uh and would like to encourage
her to seek other volunteer positions in the city. Um that's my feeling.
» Peter, do you have a differing opinion? I think she seems wonderful and as
everyone said, I hope we can find a place for her.
» Yeah, I mean my only additional comment there was I got feedback from um
existing library agency board members that Tony brings some financial skills
that others don't have. Um and so that might be an additional reason to keep
him on as our representative, but agree with everybody else that um Andrea seems
to be a great candidate and we should bring her into being involved. So, um,
with that, can I first, um, get a motion to reappoint incumbents Bob McKascal and
Patrick Federa to the, uh, two seats on the finance committee?
» Mayor Wilkinson. >> Oh, you want me to go public comment?
» Public comment. >> Any public comment?
» We have no public comment. >> Okay. So, can I get a motion to
reappoint incumbents Bob and Patrick to their respective seats on the finance
committee? >> I can make a motion to reappoint
incumbents Bob McCascal and Patrick Federer to their respective seats on the
finance committee. >> Second. All in favor?
» I >> I.
» And then can I get a motion to appoint who wants to make the to appoint Azel
and Jacob Lanetski to the planning commission
» and >> and Tony Hooker
» and Tony Hooker to the library agency. make a motion to appoint uh
starting with um Azel >> Jumai
» Jama um to complete for to her four-year term and
um I'm sorry um Jacob Lineski to the complete the two-year term uh on the
planning commission and appoint Tony Hooker to the library timber library
agency board of trust Second. All in favor?
» I. Motion passes. Um, okay. I think we are moving. Congratulations, Jacob.
» I'm shocked that you sat through the entire meeting. So, welcome to Welcome
to Public Service.
» Yeah, this is a short meeting.
» Okay, we are not done. We are moving to open forum.
» Oh, open. >> I'm not going to read it. Is there
anybody here that would like to make public comment during the open forum?
» Mayor Wilson, there are no hands raised. >> Okay, with that we are ajourned. Good
night everybody.
Here, this is