Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Presiding: Mayor Gayle McLaughlin · Called to order: 6:34 p.m. · 5 items · 2 votes · 28 public comments
What happened
- Approved law allowing neighborhoods to ban new chain restaurants with 4 votes and 2 abstentions.
- Approved 9 routine items including $596,226 federal grant for new police boat and dock.
- Approved 3.19% garbage collection rate increase to match inflation.
- Heard report on Richmond Natatorium repairs without taking action.
- Approved process to increase public input on Chevron oil refinery permits.
Auto-generated summary from agenda items and vote records
View official: MinutesAttendance
Governance(5 items)
Change rules for Building Code Appeals Board appointments and appeal deadlines
In Plain English
The city's Building Code Appeals Board hears disputes when property owners disagree with building inspectors' decisions. Current rules create problems with board appointments and appeal filing deadlines. The emergency ordinance fixes these procedural issues to keep the appeals process working properly.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Extend Business Opportunity Ordinance through December 2016
In Plain English
The city's Business Opportunity Ordinance currently expires before December 2016. This law requires city contractors to hire local workers and businesses when possible. If approved, the ordinance continues operating through December 31, 2016 with minor technical updates.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Votes
Introduce ordinance for first reading
Increase garbage collection rates by 3.19% to match inflation
In Plain English
The city adjusts garbage collection rates annually based on the Consumer Price Index to account for inflation. This year's increase matches the 3.19% rise in consumer prices. If approved, your monthly garbage bill increases by roughly $1 to $2 depending on your service level.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Votes
Introduce ordinance for first reading
Direct staff to create law allowing neighborhoods to ban new chain restaurants
In Plain English
Point Richmond and other commercial districts could block new chain restaurants if residents support the policy. The city currently allows chain restaurants anywhere in commercial zones. If approved, staff creates a law letting neighborhoods vote to prohibit additional formula restaurants like McDonald's or Starbucks.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Votes
Adopt Resolution No. 128-12
4 to 0
Create process to boost public input on Chevron oil refinery permit
In Plain English
Chevron seeks a permit to replace equipment at its Richmond refinery. The city currently has limited formal ways for residents to comment on industrial permits. If approved, the city creates new opportunities for public meetings and community input before the permit decision.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Votes
Direct staff to hold the necessary meetings and come back to the City Council with a final report
Direct the city manager to adopt a process to increase public participation in the Chevron crude unit replacement permit
Infrastructure(1 item)
Receive report on repairs at the Richmond Natatorium
In Plain English
The Richmond Natatorium is the city's public swimming pool complex that has been undergoing repairs. Staff will update the council on the status of these repairs. The report covers what work has been completed and any remaining issues at the facility.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Approved as a group without individual discussion.