AgdaPkt 2008-04-28 - Laserfiche WebLink

Browse Search

Mayor Foust provided an overview of what has already been accomplished in Redwood City. She focused on areas such as economic development, sustainability, environmental stewardship, public safety, code enforcement and overall government operations. Regarding the latter issue of governmental operations, the Mayor focused on the need for succession planning and building a great community together. In this overview, it was stated that the Council also sits on many regional bodies (committees) that set policy that influences Redwood City. Mayor Foust spoke about how responsive Council and staff are to the needs of the community and how this brings her great pride. Regarding the Priority Setting Session tonight, Mayor Foust, acknowledged how far this community has come in recent years. She reiterated that things that are worthwhile "take time" and so she sees the priority setting session as a strategic plan process that stays committed and focused to the big picture goals. She asked for consistency and thoughtfulness from Council as it reviews each of the priorities. Her goal is to provide clarity and direction to staff. Mayor Foust introduced the Department Heads present and the consultant team, which included the facilitator for the evening, Dr. Manning. Dr. Manning outlined the agenda for the evening. It included the following items: objectives, background information to be provided by staff, input from various sources, discussion and deliberation by Council. Brian Ponty, Finance Director, provided an overview of the General Fund Financials (presentation on file). Council asked questions regarding expenditures and assumptions. Mr. Ponty responded and clarified that he is conservative in his projections for the benefit of the City. Certain projects were discussed, like the Pacific Shores Park Development. Council shared concerns with recent news about cities in the Bay Area having to file for bankruptcy. The issue of reserves was discussed. Mr. Ponty, provided details on the City policy on reserves and how Redwood City has reserves to withstand an economic situation that is less than positive. Mr. Ingram, Interim City Manager, addressed the Council and provided a "situation status". He explained that staff will be proposing a "status quo" budget and he reiterated the various steps taken leading to tonight's discussion. Mr. Ingram spoke about the add-backs and the current priorities and each initiative already being enacted under each category. He also provided a summary of the UUT (Utility User Tax) survey from May 2007. Mr. Ingram provided summaries from the two Community Priority Sessions that were held in January of 2008. Council asked questions about the specific items listed on the priorities matrix. Department Heads provided clarifications on various items i.e. more detailed descriptions, status of certain items, and history on particular issues. Public Comment Celia Lauren, speaking on behalf of Redwood City Cool Cities, requested that Council enact a green building ordinance. She provided details on what items she would like to see incorporated in such ordinance. She outlined the various initiatives she would like the City to pursue and in particular she requested that the Council: 1) adopt the US Green Building Council's LEED checklists for all non-residential and mixed-use buildings, 2) require a complete "Built It Green Greenpoint Checklist" for planning/building permits for remodels JOINT CITY COUNCIUREDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD MEETING MINUTES FEBRUARY 25, 2008 PAGE 6