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The last neighborhood meeting for the General Plan occurs at 7:00 p.m. on February 15 at the library. C. Parks for the Future — Vice Mayor Pierce Vice Mayor Pierce stated that a series of meetings with City officials from throughout the County looking at a potential parks district that would include both County parks and a dedicated source of funding for local city parks. She stated that some initial surveying has occurred to gauge support for a sales tax, parcel tax or assessment district tax. The final recommendation was that there might be support for an 8% sales tax. The difficulties are the amount of funding needing to be raised, finding the price tag that voters would support and determining how much benefit would be generated for each of the member agencies. Governance was discussed, the types being directly elected boards, appointed boards, supervision by existing boards and a hybrid type. The concern by agencies is that there be a minimal amount of government as possible and if the funding is raised, it is determined exactly how it is to be spent in each of the jurisdictions. Each Council Member was to poll their respective Councils to determine feasibility of participation and discuss community needs. Council comments included concern about other jurisdictions' experience with how a sales tax increase might impact location selection for sales centers; the least bureaucratic process is in place; and public policymakers directly involved but not spending much time. The impact on our City parks system is of concern and whether the tax would directly benefit the City's parks. Vice Mayor Pierce answered questions and stated she would provide additional information for Council Members. She further stated that there is more study to be done, enabling State legislation, support from throughout the County from all cities and the concept is in its initial phases. Public Comment: Nita Spangler urged consideration on a regional basis and that much of parkland is unbuildable land for the County and is saving us money. She stated that the parks are saving the San Francisco watershed, the hills beyond and the creeks. She further stated that there is great economic advantage to every taxpayer from parks because it adds to the property and living. D. Council Member Hartnett — stated that Council adjourned the last meeting in memory of Frank Guida. He announced that a Celebration of Life for Frank Guida will be held on Saturday, February 26 from 1:00 -4:00 p.m. at the Community Activities Building, 1400 Roosevelt Avenue in Redwood City. JOINT CITY COUNCIL AND FEBRUARY 14, 2005 REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY MEETING MINUTES PAGE 6 MINUTES BOOK NO. 60 Paae No. 408