CC Min 2009-11-23 - Laserfiche WebLink

Browse Search

A. Proclamation: Recognizing November 18, 2009 as National "Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Day" Mayor Foust explained why this is being done tonight and the benefits of this valuable tool. B. Presentation: Overview and demonstration of the new Community GIS - Tom Passanisi, Principal Planner Tom Passanisi, Principal Planner, introduced the item and Michelle Tangunan, Project Planner, added some other advantages of the GIS tool. Stephen De Jong, GIS Analyst, provided a demonstration of the capabilities available for search. He explained that starting tomorrow this will be available online at www.redwoodcitv.org/qis 6. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS AND CONSENT CALENDAR Billy James expressed his appreciation and congratulations to staff for applying for and receiving funding for the redesign of the Grand Boulevard on EI Camino Real from Brewster to Broadway. Chris Mohr, Executive Director of HEART (Housing Endowment and Regional Trust of San Mateo) provided an update on their activities and gave a hand out for the Council to review. He explained that this is a good time for people to apply for assistance. He noted that all twenty cities of the County and the County itself are members of HEART. He thanked Vice Mayor Howard for her many years of dedication, noted that she received a commendation at the last HEART meeting, and expressed the hope that Redwood City would continue to have representation on their board as she leaves the Council. Vice Mayor Howard thanked Mr. Mohr and spoke about the position on the HEART board. She said that both she and Mr. Mohr would be willing to meet with any member who may wish more information. John Langbein, a Redwood City resident and from the Silicon Valley Bicycle Coalition, asked Council to consider the removal of agenda item 6.1.H regarding the Grand Boulevard. His concerns with the item included the level of public input, the need for more outreach by staff, lane width, cross sections, pedestrian safety, and more integration of bicyclists for complete streets. Vice Mayor Howard said that Mr. Langbein has spoken at a recent C/CAG meeting and that he had stated that he was on the original task force and that the current map has some discrepancies. She suggested staff work with Mr. Langbein on these concerns. Tom Mohr, President of Canada Community College, gave the Council an update on the college. He said their renovation for 60 housing units for teachers will be completed soon. He said there will be a 24 to 25 percent reduction in their budget, but at the same time, enrollment is increasing by 30 percent. He said most of the students want to transfer over to the California State Universities (CSUs), but most CSUs will not be accepting new applications. Mayor Foust thanked Mr. Mohr for his update and explained the value of these updates. Mayor Foust wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. She also reported on going to Peninsula Covenant Church and she was impressed with their desire to do something for JOINT CITY COUNCIL/PLANNING COMMISSION NOVEMBER 23, 2009 MEETING MINUTES PAGE 2 MINUTE BOOK NO. 62 Page 526