CC MIN 2014-10-30 Special Town Hall

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I 3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - Alicia C. Aguirre, Council Member Mayor Gee welcomed everyone and reviewed a few items related to the simultaneous translation, recording of the meeting, protocols for speakers and other matters. He also added that the goal for the evening is to elicit community participation, and the Council's role is to listen. Mayor Gee reminded those present that earlier this year the Mayor and Vice Mayor were at this Center and presented the State of the City Address. He shared his enthusiasm regarding the attendance tonight and elaborated on the six Strategic Initiatives. Mayor Gee asked Dr. Bell to provide a brief overview on each of the Strategic Initiatives and some of the programs and initiatives the Council has embraced. Dr. Bell covered each of the Strategic Initiatives highlighting various actions under each one. In particular, he mentioned that the City received a letter from HUD (Housing and Urban Development) today that highlights the way in which the City has demonstrated its commitment to affordable housing and leadership by making this a priority as well supporting shelters that assist the homeless population. He focused on housing for all income levels, and highlighted the various programs the City is embracing to make this a reality such as: Partnership Redwood City, the Downtown Precise Plan, the Stanford Project, Fire Safety Program, the Y Partnership, Loan Programs and the support the City has provided to the School Districts over the last 10 years. He congratulated the City Council on all these accomplishments. Lastly, he spoke about specific programs for aging adults to provide resources and opportunities and the various initiatives which will come forth in the near future under the Community for All Ages Strategic Initiative. Dr. Bell provided details about an upcoming Senior Affairs Commission meeting where the matter will be discussed. Dr. Bell added that the City Council has offered more housing in the last two years then in the previous ten. He also spoke about the 101/Woodside Road Interchange Redesign and he asked the public to stay involved. Mayor Gee thanked Dr. Bell for the summary of accomplishments and noted that he had received 20 speaker cards. 4. TOWN HALL MEETING — There are no formal agenda items, direction to staff, or action items. This is an opportunity to address the City Council, and answer questions regarding City business. You are invited to come and engage your City leaders. Public Comment Francisco Estrella Delgado shared concerns with sharing the Fair Oaks Community Center as he opined that it is a valuable resource for older adults. He spoke about the helpfulness of staff and how he likes to socialize and feels at home at the Center. He opined that sometimes family members are not that understanding so it is important to have a place where one can go and feel happy. Catalina Martinez requested assistance with the high cost of rents and she was very appreciative of the Council's presence here at Fair Oaks Community Center. She noted that sometimes property owners raise the rent twice a year and that can be very hard for renters. She hopes the Council can help because sometimes the situation requires SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL TOWN HALL October 30, 2014 MEETING MINUTES PAGE 2 MINUTE BOOK NO. 65 Page No. 263