Tuesday, March 17, 2015
Presiding: Mayor Tom Butt · Called to order: 6:30 p.m. · 9 items · 22 votes · 21 public comments
What happened
- Approved $50,000 annual budget for Richmond Youth Council 4-3 (Bates, Pimplé, Butt dissenting).
- Approved updated sign and billboard laws 5-2 (Beckles, Myrick dissenting).
- Approved reducing marijuana dispensary permits from 6 to 3 and creating 2 manufacturing permits.
- Approved 13 routine items including $120,000 Digital Health Literacy Project and new Deputy Fire Chief position.
Auto-generated summary from agenda items and vote records
View official: MinutesAttendance
Governance(2 items)
Update city laws governing signs and billboards
In Plain English
The city's current sign rules are found in 2 different sections of city law. These changes update both sections to make regulations clearer and more consistent. The updates affect rules for business signs, billboards, and other signage throughout the city.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Votes
Adopt Ordinance 12-15 N.S.
5 to 2
Reduce medical marijuana dispensary permits from 6 to 3 and create 2 manufacturing permits
In Plain English
Richmond currently allows 6 medical marijuana dispensaries to operate in the city. This law change cuts that number to 3 dispensaries. The new law also creates 2 permits for businesses that manufacture marijuana products like edibles and oils.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Votes
To allow six dispensaries and two manufacturing facilities
Reduce the number of dispensaries from six to three and establish three medical marijuana manufacturing locations
4 to 2
Budget(1 item)
Approve $50,000 annual budget for Richmond Youth Council
In Plain English
The Richmond Youth Council advises the City Council on issues affecting young residents. The group currently operates without a dedicated budget. If approved, the $50,000 covers meeting costs, training, events, and programs to help youth representatives engage with city government.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Votes
Allow the two youth from the public to speak after the speaker cards should have been submitted
4 to 2
Provide the $50,000 through the library budget and Measure U for FY 15/16
4 to 3
Infrastructure(1 item)
Fund restrooms in first phase of Shields Reid park renovation
In Plain English
The city plans to renovate Shields Reid park in multiple phases. The first phase currently excludes restrooms to save money. If approved, the city manager finds funding to add restrooms to phase one instead of waiting for a later phase.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Votes
Hold the item over until more information is obtained regarding the cost and the possibility of opening the community center for the use of the restrooms
Place restrooms in Shields Reid park
Have a port-a potty there in the meantime
5 to 2
Contracts(1 item)
Increase Malachi Paving contract by $130,000 for concrete repairs
In Plain English
The city has an existing contract with Malachi Paving for miscellaneous concrete repairs around town. The original contract amount proved insufficient to complete all needed work. If approved, the city pays an additional $130,000 to finish repairing sidewalks, curbs, and other concrete infrastructure.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Votes
To approve the contract amendment
6 to 1
Proclamation(1 item)
Install memorial bench at Nevin Community Center for Anthony C. Allen
In Plain English
The city wants to honor Anthony C. Allen by placing a memorial bench at the Nevin Community Center. Allen made significant contributions to the Richmond community during his lifetime. If approved, the bench provides a permanent tribute where residents can remember his impact on the city.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Votes
Purchase a bench and a plaque for a cost not to exceed $1,000
6 to 1
Appointments(1 item)
Appoint residents to 6 city boards and commissions
In Plain English
The city fills vacant seats on boards that advise the council on arts, housing, parks, police oversight, and development projects. These volunteer positions review proposals and make recommendations on city policies. Board members serve 2-4 year terms and meet monthly.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Zoning(1 item)
Review appeal of El Campesino restaurant's liquor license upgrade
In Plain English
Residents near El Campesino restaurant are challenging the Planning Commission's decision to let the business upgrade its liquor license. The restaurant currently has a Type 41 license that allows beer and wine sales. If the appeal fails, El Campesino can serve hard liquor with its Type 47 license.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Votes
Close the public hearing
7 to 0
Deny the appeal with inclusion of conditions listed in the report
7 to 0
Environment(1 item)
Adopt resolution opposing coal and petroleum coke transport on California waterways
In Plain English
The city would formally oppose shipping coal and petroleum coke through California's rivers, bays, and coastal waters. These materials can spill during transport and harm marine life and water quality. If approved, Richmond joins other cities taking a public stance against these shipments.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Approved as a group without individual discussion.