1 May 1, 2024 Town Council Meeting Minutes
Fairfax Town Council Minutes
Special and Regular Meeting
Women’s Club, 46 Park Road, Fairfax
and via teleconference
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
Call to Order/Roll Call:
Mayor Coler called the Special Meeting to order at 4:30 p.m.
COUNCILMEMBERS PRESENT: Bruce Ackerman
Lisel Blash, Vice Mayor
Barbara Coler, Mayor
Chance Cutrano
Stephanie Hellman
STAFF MEMBERS PRESENT: Heather Abrams, Town Manager
Christine Foster, Deputy Town Clerk
Janet Coleson, Town Attorney
Jeff Beiswenger, Planning Director
Loren Umbertis, Public Works Director
Special Closed Session at 4:30 p.m.
Fairfax Town Hall, 142 Bolinas Road, Fairfax, CA
Approval of Agenda
M/S, Cutrano/Hellman, Motion to approve the agenda.
AYES: Ackerman, Hellman, Cutrano, Vice Mayor Blash, Mayor Coler NOES: None
Public Comment:
None.
ADJOURN TO CLOSED SESSION ON THE FOLLOWING MATTERS:
1. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS
Govt Code Section 54957.6
Employee Organization: Fairfax Police Officers Association, Service Employees Union International (‘SEIU’) Local 1021; Unrepresented Employee Units Agency Representatives: Town Manager, Town Finance Director, Town Attorney
2. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – ANTICIPATED LITIGATION Govt Code Section 54956.9(d)(2) & (e)(1)
One Case
Reconvene In Open Session – 6:00 p.m.
Special Meeting to Conduct Interviews and Consider Appointments at 6:00 p.m. 2 May 1, 2024 Town Council Meeting Minutes
Fairfax Women’s Club
1. Interview and consider appointments for the Parks and Recreation Commission — Deputy Town Clerk Christine Foster
M/S, Cutrano/Blash, Motion to appoint Chis Arnold and Susan Efros to the Parks and Recreation Commission.
AYES: Ackerman, Cutrano, Hellman, Vice Mayor Blash, Mayor Coler NOES: None
Regular Meeting at 6:30 p.m.
Hybrid meeting at the Fairfax Women’s Club and via Zoom Call To Order: Mayor Coler called the Regular Meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance: Mayor Coler led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Approval of Agenda
M/S, Cutrano/Hellman, Motion to approve the agenda.
AYES: Ackerman, Cutrano, Hellman, Vice Mayor Blash, Mayor Coler NOES: None
Report out on Closed Session: Mayor Coler announced no reportable action was taken in Closed Session.
Presentations:
1. Police Department Presentations — Mayor Coler and Police Chief Rico Tabaranza a. Oath of Office for Police Service Technician Patterson-Burch b. Oath of Office for Officer Malik Carter
c. Promotion of Lieutenant William Cade
d. Appointment of Detective Shelby Jones
e. Commendations for Detective Jones and Officer Carter f. Adopt National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week Proclamation Police Chief Rico Tabaranza expressed his gratitude for those being honored tonight and read the Police Department’s Mission Statement. As employees were introduced, Chief Tabaranza provided an overview of each employee’s professional and personal background.
Deputy Town Clerk Christine Foster administered the Oaths of Office to Police Service Technician Patterson-Burch and Officer Malik Carter.
Police Service Technician Patterson-Burch’s mother, Elizabeth Burch, pinned her daughter, and Officer Malik Carter’s wife, Nishka Carter pinned her husband, with each providing brief comments.
Police Chief Tabaranza then recognized the appointment of Detective Shelby Jones, who was pinned by her mother, Kendra Pollard, recognized the promotion of Lieutenant William Cade, who was pinned by his grandmother Chineta Cade, with each providing brief comments. 3 May 1, 2024 Town Council Meeting Minutes
Mayor Coler presented, read, and distributed commendations to Detective Jones and Officer Carter for their actions during a police incident and for demonstrating remarkable restraint, excellent judgement, and teamwork.
Chief Tabaranza recognized the Department’s Dispatch team in recognition of National Public Safety Telecommunications Week.
Mayor Coler then read the Proclamation recognizing National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.
Public Comments
Michael Mackintosh expressed gratitude for the Fairfax Police Department.
BREAK
Mayor Coler called for a brief break at 6:47 p.m. to allow police families and representatives to leave the chambers and, thereafter, reconvened the meeting at 7:07 p.m.
Mayor Coler asked speakers to refrain from using profanity and/or disparaging people based on race, religion, orientation, or country of origin, spoke about protocols on hate speech. She stated comments not under the Council’s subject matter jurisdiction or not germane to the topic or matter will not be discussed and she would disconnect the microphone and calls for those who do not adhere to Council policies.
Open Time:
Wendy spoke about the murder of Steve Carter in 2015, his wife’s new book, and her work in changing the name of the trail from the Gunshot Fire Road to the Sunrise Fire Road.
Bob Middlestead, E-Bike Access, spoke about high accident rates for children riding Super 73 E-bikes, his efforts to have them removed from stores, asked for education and for Fairfax to correct its newsletter of March 19th.
The following speakers voiced opposition to the Council agendizing a resolution/proclamation regarding the Israeli-Hamas conflict:
Rachel Kertz, San Rafael Councilmember Stephanie, San Rafael resident Dianna, San Anselmo, resident Mary Meachum, Fairfax resident George Landau, Fairfax resident Lily Padar, Marin resident Four (4) unidentified speakers Cindy Ross, Fairfax resident Scott LeFranchi, Fairfax resident, asked the Town to install hazard signs to alert drivers of pedestrians crossing on Bolinas, and spoke of an incident on March 14th.
Brian, Fairfax, asked to change the speaker time bell and suggested a harmony hush bell.
Regular Agenda
2. Receive Update on Housing Element Program Implementation – Housing Specialist/Associate Planner Bryn McKillop
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Associate Planner Bryn McKillop presented the staff report, PowerPoint presentation, and update on the Housing Element Program implementation. She described which programs have been completed, those not yet completed, and those yet to be undertaken in 2024.
Staff answered questions from the Council regarding the remainder of goals to be completed and their timeframes; the 4-County ADU Center; suggestion for website links to items; tenant protections and future development of petition forms (Item 3.F); the role of the Housing Specialist; a link for disavowal of racially restricted covenants; and workshop videos on the Town’s website.
Mayor Coler opened the meeting to public comments.
Rick Hamer asked calrifying questions about Item 3.F, specifically regarding the $1,000 fee.
Frank Egger spoke about Dyett & Bhatia’s preparation of the Town’s Housing Element EIR. [BRIEF INTERUPTION DUE TO LOSS OF INTERNET BETWEEN 1:28:22 to 1:38:32] Todd Greenberg spoke about California’s rental ordinances, ADU production, and asked the Council to re-examine its policies.
Michael Mackintosh asked to keep Forest Avenue on the opportunity site, asked about road impact fees, opposed just-cause laws, and expressed concern for seniors.
Emoji Salin agreed with previous speakers, cited the cost of housing since COVID, building in fire zones, and lack of Town infrastructure.
P.J. Feffer spoke about tenant protections and housing facts, AFFH laws in the Housing Element process, and State mandates.
Kay referred to the racially restricted covenant, asked ADU and short-term rental programs.
Michael Sexton spoke about rent control policies, ADUs and the Housing Element.
Frank Egger spoke again noting the microphone did not work earlier. He commented regarding Dyett and Bhatia’s and the Housing Element Update EIR.
Todd Greenberg spoke again due to the microphone not working regarding the Housing Element relating to ADU production, housing rental policies, and seniors.
Mayor Coler replied to questions relating the ordinance and petition process and she confirmed the language is clear that the landlord pays the hearing deposit. Regarding racially restrictive convenances, these are in a number of people’s deeds and can be redacted by contacting the County Assessor.
Regarding ADU production, she said this can be caused by many factors other than Town rent stabilization and just cause eviction, such as increases in construction and material costs and interest rates.
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Vice Mayor Blash referred to the wording in the just-cause ordinance about who qualifies for relocation fees, and she agreed to follow-up on this for Kay. She then spoke about home sharing and tenant matching, and would like to see technical assistance for those becoming landlords for ADUs. She is happy to see Item 3-H and 4-A where the City is actively reaching out to affordable housing developers as they are serious that real affordable housing happens. Regarding 3-F for tenant protections, she said they will continue to look at ways of facilitating the housing market, subsidies, and other programs that would assist in creating rental of units.
Councilmember Cutrano asked about the number of permits pulled for ADUs in the last fiscal year.
Planning and Building Services Director Beiswenger said he was unsure as there has been a change in the methodology in how ADUs are counted. Staff now collects information on when the unit is occupied or complete with all inspections, which is the news metric for counting ADUs. The former method was used as to when the building permit was pulled, so it is impossible to know based on one year’s worth of data.
He added that staff will be working on programs such as pre-approved floor plans this year, as well as other streamlining and economical methods. He also emphasized that ADUs are not going to be the “silver bullet” to resolve the affordable housing crisis as a region.
Vice Mayor Blash asked and confirmed that the salary identified by Mr. Greenberg is not the correct salary for the Housing Specialist position.
Mayor Coler thanked staff for their presentation and response to questions.
3. Introduce, Waive First Reading, and Read by Title Only an Ordinance Adding a Chapter Called "Electronic Filing System," to the Town of Fairfax Municipal Code Approving Electronic and Paper Methods of Filing Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements –Deputy Town Clerk Christine Foster Deputy Town Clerk Christine Foster gave the staff report and overview of the ordinance which proposes adding a new chapter to the Town Code to establish an electronic filing system that supports both electronic and paper filing methods for Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements, as well as Form 700 Statement of Economic Interest. The NetFile system also integrates AB 1234 Ethics Training for local officials.
If the Council chooses to move forward and adopts the ordinance, staff will do its best to get it up and running by this upcoming election. However, there are time constraints in filing paperwork with the FPPC and getting everyone trained and familiar with the system.
Staff answered questions from the Council regarding how the electronic system works, retention and the ability to paper-file, the firm cost estimate for 35 plus 10 filers using NetFile, the availability of the electronic system for campaign filers and an updated letter if the ordinance is approved, ethics training included in the price of the proposal, the reference to FPPC 87200 filers which Ms. Foster clarified are the Form 700 filers of the Council and Planning Commission, tracking of general anti-harassment training which is conducted under another platform and is free, and the ability to add additional boards and commissions which integrates into the NetFile system.
Mayor Coler opened the meeting to public comments.
Todd Greenberg voiced support of the product.
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A speaker asked for uniformity between the paper and electronic filing, asked to make the filing requirements retroactive upon adoption of the ordinance and NetFile system.
A speaker referred to the Town Clerk Elections website link and noted the filing date for the quarter is today.
In response to questions, Mayor Coler said the timely filing is something required by State law; that this will not be retroactive and forms already filed will be used and not redone, and she asked the Deputy Town Clerk to ensure the Form 700’s are located on the website.
M/S, Blash/Cutrano, Motion to Introduce, Waive First Reading, and Read by Title Only an Ordinance Adding a Chapter Called "Electronic Filing System," to the Town of Fairfax Municipal Code Approving Electronic and Paper Methods of Filing Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements.
AYES: Ackerman, Cutrano, Hellman, Vice Mayor Blash, Mayor Coler
4. Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the Display of Rainbow Flags during Pride Month June 2024 and Authorize Staff to Maintain the Rainbow Crosswalk – Town Manager Heather Abrams Town Manager Heather Abrams gave the staff report and overview of the request for the Council to adopt a Resolution authorizing the display of Rainbow Banners and Pride Flags during Pride Month in June, and to authorize staff to repaint/maintain annually the Rainbow Crosswalk which began last year, as it has faded.
Mayor Coler opened the meeting to public comments.
Scott LeFranc expressed concerns about pedestrian safety on Bolinas Road, voiced concerns with spending money on decorating a crosswalk, and suggested the Town only fly a Pride Flag at Town Hall for the month of June.
A speaker voiced concerns with the use of plastics in the crosswalk coating.
Rick Hamer voiced support of the Pride celebration, questioned use of plastic coatings, suggested using an asphalt mix that has color in it, suggested converting the tennis court to Pickleball, and using rainbow striping on it rather than a crosswalk.
Cindy Ross spoke about her chemical sensitivities and falling in a crosswalk. Expressed support for making crosswalks safe and cost-effective.
Todd Greenberg spoke of a need to repaint other crosswalks, voiced concerns about town DEI expenditures.
Michael Mackintosh opposed the item and encouraged allocating the funds to sidewalks for safety.
Mark Bell expressed concern regarding potentially slippery coatings, the cost of the flag display.
Frank Egger expressed budget concerns, asked to get the Town’s boom truck fixed, and to use in-house crews.
Kay voiced support of Pride Flags but does not support the item noting her concern regarding Town’s budget and current road condition. Suggested mini–Pride Flags for crossing in crosswalks. 7 May 1, 2024 Town Council Meeting Minutes
Debra Benson opposed the expenditure of monies. She supports Pride but was opposed to the use of plastics.
Emoji Salin opposed the expenditure. Suggested private fundraising or community.
Mallory Geitheim agreed with all previous speakers, said she is for honoring LGBTQ, but costs plastics concerned her.
Michael supported comments from previous speakers. He supports the LGBTQ, but thinks there are more cost-effective solutions, and asked to focus on the safety and quality of life of residents.
In response to Council questions, Director Umbertis described the Street Bond manufacturer and mixture, the ability to change its grittiness versus a strip of plastic melted into the asphalt, community projects, and traffic calming.
The Mayor reviewed the 10:00 p.m. rule.
M/S, Cutrano/Blash, Motion to keep going with the agenda.
AYES: Ackerman, Cutrano, Hellman, Vice Mayor Blash, Mayor Coler NOES: None
Council questions and response by Director Umbertis continued regarding the lifespan of thermoplastic and warranties.
Mayor Coler clarified the Town does not have a budget deficit but a 25% reserve. The bucket truck cost to repair is $30,000 to $35,000 and the Town is looking at options to share San Anselmo’s.
BREAK
Mayor Coler called for a brief break at 10:10 p.m. and, thereafter, reconvened the regular meeting.
Councilmember Ackerman supported a motion to adopt the resolution for display of Rainbow Flags and staff doing more research on the lower-cost crosswalk application. He asked and confirmed a third-party contractor had painted the crosswalk with regular paint in the past, and he asked if there is an option to use street paint for that which is used for other crosswalks.
Director Umbertis said he can conduct more research on finding a street paint color for the crosswalk. If he found more durable paint, the application costs will be the same given the need for traffic control and labor.
Mayor Coler spoke about the importance of celebrating Pride Month, stated the pole banners were donated and the Town has the Flag, voiced opposition of moving forward with the crosswalk, and recommended getting sidewalks in town re-painted that are faded. She also suggested bifurcating the recommendation in two and asked for a motion to adopt the resolution for the Rainbow Flags and banners during Pride Month in June 2024.
M/S, Ackerman/Hellman, Motion to Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the Display of Rainbow Flags during Pride Month throughout June 2024.
AYES: Ackerman, Cutrano, Hellman, Vice Mayor Blash, Mayor Coler Councilmember Ackerman and Mayor Coler suggested leaving the crosswalk as is through Pride Month and afterwards, Town staff can change it back to a normal crosswalk. 8 May 1, 2024 Town Council Meeting Minutes
Councilmember Cutrano thinks it is important to have community art, cited its vibrancy to the community, and supported finding creative traffic calming solutions and community belonging. He cited homophobic emails and rhetoric related to Pride Month and opposition of the flags and crosswalk as well a support, and thinks it is important to continue this artistic expression and to see something more durable for the crosswalk.
Vice Mayor Blash said there are many people who have not felt very safe in Town for a long time. She said there were 510 laws passed last year against LGBTQ people in the U.S., not even taking into account physical and other attacks, and cited prejudices. The flags in the crosswalk provided a message that everyone is welcome, and the Rainbow is inclusive and a fitting sentiment. She then read letters she received in support of the Pride month, flying of the Pride Flag, said the Town is not in a budget crisis, and cited the cost for Chamber banners, Veterans flags, a mural painted, and these things are not mutually exclusive.
Councilmember Hellman said she agrees with all comments, and they can paint the regular sidewalks and maintain what is an incredible symbol of acceptance and community. As someone who has queer people in her immediate and extended family, it matters in Fairfax and beyond. She wondered if the Town could provide direction to staff to cap the expense and leave it up to them.
Mayor Coler said the Council has received many different figures and asked if Director Umbertis could look into using street paint to make it last longer while not choosing the most expensive option, and for staff to return at the next meeting.
Director Umbertis said staff can look to find less expensive materials options. He noted working in the street, especially Broadway, as dangerous, stating staff cannot simply show up and work in the street while not maintaining the safety of employees. The cost associated with working in the streets is to ensure safety of staff and there must be appropriate protocols in place. He can look at alternatives, heard comments, can research applications, and can return.
Vice Mayor Bash said she would prefer this not returning and recommended staff make a decision not to exceed $10,000. Director Umbertis said he can use that as a benchmark to see what can be done within that amount, and Councilmembers agreed.
Mayor Coler confirmed direction and asked staff to also work on getting remaining crosswalks refreshed.
She thanked staff and public speakers for their comments.
Consent Calendar:
Mayor Coler asked if Councilmembers wished to remove an item from the Consent Calendar.
Councilmember Ackerman congratulated Deputy Town Clerk Christine Foster and recognized the upcoming Professional Municipal Clerks Week.
Mayor Coler opened the meeting to public comments.
A speaker voiced concerns with how the minutes are prepared and said they do not reflect comments of speakers.
A speaker spoke about hateful comments, fear, and devaluation, and thanked Fairfax Councilmembers for honoring Jewish-American Heritage Month.
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A speaker said she is grateful for Fairfax honoring Jewish-American Heritage Month.
Rick Hamer referred to Item 6 and thinks the content of the minutes is incomplete.
Todd Greenberg objected to 2-minute speaker rule, requested the Council pull items 5, 6, 7, 8, 11, 12, 16 and 18, spoke of DEI, and echoed comments on the meeting minutes.
Mark Bell asked that Arab-American Heritage Month be recognized, and voiced concerns regarding speaker’s comments in the minutes.
Nia Solomon noted the importance of Jewish-American Heritage Month and recognitions for all groups.
P.J. Feffer praised proclamation of Jewish-American Heritage Month, and supports expanding the Town’s use of proclamations to all other ethnic and diverse backgrounds.
Cindy Ross supported the Jewish-American Heritage Month proclamation and the Asian Pacific American Heritage Month proclamation.
Eva thanked the Council for the two proclamations.
Emoji Salin asked the Council to continue public open time after this, said he agrees with preious comments about the minutes and the Consent Calendar.
Mallory Geitheim agreed with previous speakers and values both a video and written minutes.
Val supported the adoption of Jewish-American Heritage Month.
A speaker asked the Council not to call the conflict the Israeli conflict and to call it the Occupied Palestinian Territory Conflict, asked to de-militarize the police, said the Council needs to learn a paradox of tolerance.
Holly supported the Jewish-American Heritage Month proclamation. She applauded the Council for acknowledging diversity in Fairfax and Marin County, and for their tenacity.
Mayor Coler provided responses, stating the minutes of the meeting are not intended to be a recordation of every word spoken. Given the transition, the proper way that minutes are done is deliberative comments of the Council which is what is intended here. She thinks there were more summary items in the previous minutes done by the former minutes clerk and people can always go back to the recordings.
In order to get more of a flavor of the discussion, she would prefer going middle ground.
She also stated there are four proclamations on the Consent Calendar. She thanked Vice Mayor Blash for doing research and drafting the Affordable Housing Month Proclamation and said if a speaker knows of something that is not correct, she asked to contact staff to capture things correctly.
She also acknowledged Anne Mannes and Marie Baird for their work in Recreation, and thanked Kristin Amlie for her interest in being reappointed to the Marin County Commission on Aging.
Vice Mayor Blash was open to proclaiming Arab-American Heritage Month and discussed whether that would be a good idea next year. She also said she does not take the minutes and edit them, and noted the Town has a new minute-taker which the Town Clerk can work with. 10 May 1, 2024 Town Council Meeting Minutes
Councilmember Cutrano echoed the Mayor’s comments. Regarding minutes, there has been a change and there are certain areas in the minutes such as 80 Crest Road where it makes sense to group a number of speakers under a particular position, which he thinks is fine and what other agencies currently do. There are other areas in the minutes which could be expanded upon.
Additionally, there was an error under Future Agenda Items section in the minutes which should have read Councilmember Cutrano and Councilmember Hellman, and not Vice Mayor Blash.
Mayor Coler said he had a couple of corrections and one where she was referred to as Mayor Coleson.
Regarding Council goals under Item 8, the Council goals are fine but the actual presentation under the City Clerk goals, one of the missing items should be inclusion of the fact the Town is holding an Election on November 5th and so she asked that this be included.
Under Item 11; the Citizens Disaster Council, Mayor Coler had asked for two representatives from Fire Safe Marin and the list only shows one, so she asked the Clerk to correct this.
Councilmember Cutrano said at the TAM meeting, he did not capture this at the time, but they had applied last year for funding for EV Fleet Readiness which many communities had applied to MTC for. The Town just received word back that they received $100,000 for EV Fleet Readiness for Fairfax.
Councilmember Ackerman said he concurs with comments on the minutes. He would be in favor of adopting these minutes tonight and moving forward to request adding more summary content of speakers.
5. Financial Statement and Disbursement Reports for March 2024 – Finance Director, Michael Vivrette
6. Approve minutes for the March 29 and April 1, 2024, Town Council meetings – Deputy Town Clerk Christine Foster
7. Receive written report on Councilmembers’ assignments, committees, and activities in April 2024 – Deputy Town Clerk Christine Foster
8. Adopt Town Council Goals and Objectives for Fiscal Year 2024-25 – Town Manager Heather Abrams
9. Receive Quarterly Treasurer’s Report – Town Treasurer Janet Garvin
10. Receive Quarterly Recreation Report – Recreation Manager Anne Mannes
11. Notification of Citizens Disaster Council Meeting for 2024 and Consent of Attendee List – Town Manager Heather Abrams
12. Adoption of Resolution amending the Flag Display Policy to specifically include the display of banners on Town light poles – Town Attorney Janet Coleson
13. Adopt a Resolution Approving and Sponsoring Street Closure Fairfax Festival Street – Deputy Town Clerk Christine Foster
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14. Renew Ordinance No. 862 Authorizing the Special or Military Equipment Use Policy and Equipment Inventory for the Fairfax Police Department, and Accept the Annual Report on Use of Military Equipment in 2022, Pursuant to California Assembly Bill 481 – Police Chief Rico Tabaranza
15. Reappoint Kristen Amlie to the Marin County Commission on Aging – Deputy Town Clerk Christine Foster
16. Adopt Jewish American Heritage Month Proclamation – Mayor Coler
17. Adopt Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Proclamation – Mayor Coler
18. Adopt Affordable Housing Month Proclamation – Vice Mayor Blash
19. Adopt Professional Municipal Clerks Week Proclamation – Town Manager Heather Abrams M/S, Cutrano/Blash, Motion to Adopt the Consent Calendar, with changes and recommendations voiced at this meeting.
AYES: Ackerman, Cutrano, Hellman, Vice Mayor Blash, Mayor Coler Council Reports and Comments:
Mayor Coler announced that all reports and comments are in writing in the packet, with the addition that Councilmember Cutrano brought up.
Future Agenda Items
Mayor Coler said she had asked that staff include an overview of what the Town is doing on the stormwater program in May, as well as a future agenda item for an overview of where they are on all the bridges. She asked the Public Works Director to bring these to the Council soon on two different agendas.
Town Manager Report
Town Manager Abrams reported a successful take-back day this past weekend, thanks to having former Fairfax Councilmember and current Marin Sanitary Service employee Renee Goddard organizing this event. The event collected over 1,200 pounds of e-waste, more than 2,000 pounds of paper shredding, composting, and information was provided, as well. The Police Department also attended the event and took back unused medications, with a record number of over 73 pounds.
The Mayor and Town Manager will be at a table at the Farmers’ Market from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. on May 15th and they will be joined by Police who will be displaying Police equipment. It has been publicized on the website and in a special newsletter item.
Staff member Bryn McKillop will also be there to talk about ADUs and other housing options.
May 19th at 771 Center is the Ride and Drive Clean event, which was very successful last year, and she has flyers for this.
The Countywide Memorial Day celebration is occurring in San Rafael at the County Civic Center on May 27th. Music starts at 9:00 a.m. and the event will also be mentioned in the newsletter.
Open Time:
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Mayor Coler continued Open Time from earlier, and reminded speakers to be civil and refrain from disparaging comments.
Mark Bell spoke regarding a United Nations resolution for a ceasefire in Palestine, described the conflict’s impacts, and cited the billions of dollars that has gone to Israel.
A speaker addressed the Council about being censored on the Zoom earlier in the meeting and mentioned the Brown Act. She spoke of Book Beat before it was Gestalt Haus, attending the Alley Cats Music School, said Zionists are a case of the oppressed becoming the oppressor, described Islamophobia, and thinks people live here in an oligarchy.
P.J. Feffer expressed support for International Workers Day and echoed the call for a ceasefire resolution, shared concerns about family members serving in conflict zones and the broader impact of ongoing wars on regional stability and global economic conditions, the violence at the City of the University of New York and hopes the Town and Marin County will not support any violent repressions.
Todd Greenberg felt the Council’s actions were out of scale and a need to address the basics, asked the Council to listen to the people, said his comments are not reflected in the record, and there is no discussion of the failures of the Town Council and no cost-consciousness.
Michael Mackintosh commented about the Mayor’s conduct when speakers disagree with her, the First Amendment and being allowed to disparage her, share their frustrations, questioned some Councilmembers’ actions, said people take time to speak and have different points of view, and felt the Council is not listening.
Eva addressed the Council regarding an incident where she felt she was prematurely cut off by the Mayor during her previous comments, expressed concern that her comments related to Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month were not given the same respect as those made by another speaker, highlighted the need for consistent and fair treatment of all speakers, and brought up the historical context of conflicts involving Asian countries and requested the Council to address the perceived disparity in handling speakers.
Emoji Salin addressed the Council about Open Time, dismissing speakers, people trying to make the world a better place, the challenging role of the Council, how decisions are made, being accused of being off topic and suggested broadening the scope, clapping at meetings, Councilmembers talk of affordable housing and needing to do more for the homeless.
Val requested the Council not to bring up the Israeli-Hamas war on the agenda or anything else relating to the war.
Michael Sexton spoke about the House of Representatives recently passing a bill recognizing the IHRA definition of Anti-Semitism, with Congressman Jared Huffman voting in favor, he cautioned that any Council resolution concerning the Israel-Hamas conflict could provoke comments that may cross into anti-Semitism, citing previous meetings where such discussions led to heightened tensions. He suggested that matters related to the Israel-Hamas war should be addressed by federal representatives and urged the Council not to include such resolutions on their agenda.
Esther addressed the Council about their jurisdiction on international affairs. She asked not to agendize any proclamation about foreign affairs, and asked the Council to consider proclamations considering the Global Slavery Index numbers and statistics.
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Holly thanked the Council for their work, raised concerns about the divisiveness a resolution would create, has heard people do not feel safe in this room or in Fairfax, said she has been to other jurisdictions where comments have gone on for over 7 hours leading to divided communities. She thinks there is a way to work towards what the Council is trying to accomplish and opposes bringing it before the Council.
Mark emphasized the importance of cultural experiences, expressed concern about the language used in the Richmond City Council meeting, and urged the Council to table any related resolution. Mark urged the Council to focus on local issues and leave international affairs to Senators and the federal government.
Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 11:38 p.m. In memory of Kevin Carroll, Allen Louis Bernes, Rick Addicks, and Roy Giorgi Sr., and Dave Jeffries of the Marin Emergency Radio Authority.