Tuesday, March 28, 2017

Presiding: Mayor Tom Butt · Called to order: 6:30 p.m. · 9 items · 9 public comments · View official: Minutes

Attendance

Ben Choi(Present)
Eduardo Martinez(Present)
Gayle McLaughlin(Present)
Melvin Willis(Present)
Jovanka Beckles(Present)
Jael Myrick(Absent)
Tom Butt(Present)
9 substantive items

Proclamation(3 items)

Honor retiring Emergency Services Manager Kathryn Gerk with proclamation

City Workers Recognition

In Plain English

Kathryn Gerk is retiring from her role managing emergency services for the Richmond Fire Department. The city recognizes her years of service with a formal proclamation. Emergency services include coordinating responses to fires, medical emergencies, and disasters throughout Richmond.

Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.

Proclaim March as March for Meals Month to recognize Meals on Wheels

Meals on Wheels

In Plain English

Meals on Wheels delivers food to homebound seniors and disabled residents throughout Contra Costa County. The organization relies on volunteers and donations to serve thousands of people who cannot shop or cook for themselves. This proclamation celebrates their work and encourages community support during their annual awareness campaign.

Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.

Postpone presentation recognizing International Women's Day and Women's History Month

Political Statements

In Plain English

The Sisters in Solidarity Planning Committee was scheduled to present about International Women's Day and Women's History Month. The committee withdrew their presentation from this meeting. If approved, the presentation moves to the April 25, 2017 council meeting instead.

Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.

Personnel(1 item)

Review Community Services Department staffing and management structure

Labor & City Workers

In Plain English

An outside consultant studied how the Community Services Department operates and found staffing shortages and maintenance backlogs. The department runs parks, recreation programs, and the Richmond Auditorium. Council members want to hire a grant writer to bring in more funding and improve marketing for the auditorium.

Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.

Budget(1 item)

Receive presentation on city's 2015-16 annual financial audit results

Annual Financial Audit

In Plain English

The city's independent auditor presents findings from the annual review of Richmond's finances for the fiscal year ending June 2016. This audit examines whether the city properly managed taxpayer money and followed accounting rules. The report shows the city's financial health and identifies any problems with spending or record-keeping.

Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.

Miscellaneous(4 items)

Receive annual report from Visit Richmond tourism bureau

Visit Richmond Bureau

In Plain English

The Richmond Convention Visitor's Bureau changed its name to Visit Richmond CA and presented its yearly update to the city council. The bureau promotes Richmond as a tourist destination and works to bring visitors and events to the city. Executive Director Matt Lewis shared the organization's activities and progress through a presentation.

Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.

Receive update from nonprofit serving adults with developmental disabilities

NIAD Art Programs

In Plain English

NIAD helps adults with developmental disabilities create art and build independence through community programs. The organization received city funding in 2016-17 and is reporting back on how those programs impacted participants. The presentation includes a video showing the results of the city's investment.

Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.

Receive presentation on East Bay Center for Performing Arts programs

Youth & Community Programs

In Plain English

The East Bay Center for Performing Arts operates a landmark downtown venue that serves Richmond youth and hosts arts and community events. Center staff presented updates on their current programs and activities. The presentation included a video showcasing how the center supports local youth through performing arts education.

Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.

Receive presentation on Rosie the Riveter National Historical Park conditions

Rosie the Riveter Park

In Plain English

Park Superintendent Tom Leatherman will update the city council on the current state of the national park. The park preserves Richmond's World War II shipbuilding history and attracts thousands of visitors annually. The presentation covers park operations, visitor programs, and facility conditions.

Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.