City of Santa Cruz
809 Center Street
Santa Cruz, California 95060
MINUTES OF A CITY COUNCIL MEETING
June 14, 2022
9:30 AM
Mayor Brunner opened the City Council Closed Session at 9:30 a.m. in a public meeting via Zoom, for the purpose of announcing the agenda, and receiving public testimony.
Roll Call
Present: Councilmembers Kalantari-Johnson (via Zoom), Golder (via Zoom), Cummings (via Zoom), Brown (via Zoom), Meyers (via Zoom); Vice Mayor Watkins (arrived at 9:38 a.m. via Zoom); Mayor Brunner (via Zoom).
Absent: None.
Staff: City Manager M. Huffaker (via Zoom), Assistant City Manager L. Schmidt (via Zoom), Director of Planning and Community Development L. Butler (via Zoom), Director of Parks and Recreation T. Elliot (via Zoom), Human Resources Director L. Murphy (via Zoom), City Attorney T. Condotti (via Zoom), Deputy City Clerk Administrator J. Wood, City Clerk Administrator B. Bush (via Zoom).
Public Comment
Mayor Brunner opened the public comment period at 9:34 a.m. There were no speakers. Mayor Brunner closed the public comment period at 9:35 a.m.
June 14, 2022 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 6118
Closed Session
1. Conference with Labor Negotiators (Government Code §54957.6) SEIU Temporary Employees
SEIU Service Employees
Mid Managers, OE3
Supervisors, OE3
Fire Management
Fire, IAFF
Police Management
Police Officers Association
Executives
City Negotiator - Lisa Murphy
2. Public Employee Performance Evaluation (Government Code §54957) City Attorney
3. Conference with Legal Counsel - Existing Litigation (Government Code §54956.9(d)(1))
Regents of the University of California, et al. v. City of Santa Cruz (Santa Cruz County Superior Court Case No. 20CV02152)
4. Conference with Legal Counsel - Anticipated Litigation (Government Code §54956.9(d)(4))
Initiation of litigation (one potential case)
At this time, the meeting was closed to the public. (See pages 6120—6121 for a report on Closed Session.)
June 14, 2022 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 6119
City of Santa Cruz
809 Center Street
Santa Cruz, California 95060
MINUTES OF A CITY COUNCIL MEETING
June 14, 2022
11:30 AM
Call to Order – Mayor Brunner called the meeting to order at 11:38 a.m. via Zoom.
Roll Call
Present: Councilmembers Kalantari-Johnson (via Zoom), Golder (via Zoom), Cummings (via Zoom), Brown (via Zoom), Meyers (via Zoom); Vice Mayor Watkins (arrived at 11:45 a.m. via Zoom); Mayor Brunner (via Zoom).
Absent: None.
Staff: City Manager M. Huffaker (via Zoom), Assistant City Manager L. Schmidt (via Zoom), City Attorney T. Condotti (via Zoom), Chief of Police B.
Escalante (via Zoom), Interim Finance Director B. Magee (via Zoom), Director of Economic Development B. Lipscomb (via Zoom), Deputy Water Director H. Luckenbach (via Zoom), Director of Information Technology K. Morgan (via Zoom), Director of Planning and Community Development L. Butler (via Zoom), Director of Human Resources L.
Murphy (via Zoom), Director of Public Works M. Dettle (via Zoom), Fire Chief R. Oatey (via Zoom), Director of Parks and Recreation T. Elliot (via Zoom), Assistant Director of Public Works/City Engineer N. Nguyen (via Zoom), Transportation Planner C. Gallogly (via Zoom), Homelessness Response Manager L. Imwalle (via Zoom), Senior Professional Engineer J. Spangrud (via Zoom), Customer Service Manager K. Petersen (via Zoom), Senior Planner K. Donovan (via Zoom), Principal Planner M.
VanHua (via Zoom), Deputy City Clerk Administrator J. Wood, City Clerk Administrator B. Bush (via Zoom).
Presentations
5. Mayoral Proclamation Declaring June 15, 2022 as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
Whitney Barnes, Senior Social Worker with Adult Protective Services of Santa Cruz County, spoke and Mayor Brunner read from a Proclamation declaring June 15, 2022 as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
June 14, 2022 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 6120
Presiding Officer's Announcements
Statements of Disqualification – Mayor Brunner announced that she will be recusing herself from voting on items 24, 25, and 30 in an abundance of caution as these items all have an impact on her employer, the Downtown Association.
Additions and Deletions – None.
City Attorney Report on Closed Session
Conference with Labor Negotiators (Government Code §54957.6) SEIU Temporary Employees
SEIU Service Employees
Mid Managers, OE3
Supervisors, OE3
Fire Management
Fire, IAFF
Police Management
Police Officers Association
Executives
City Negotiator - Lisa Murphy
Council received a status report from the City Negotiator, and took no reportable action.
Public Employee Performance Evaluation (Government Code §54957) City Attorney
Council discussed, and took no reportable action.
Conference with Legal Counsel - Existing Litigation (Government Code §54956.9(d)(1))
Regents of the University of California, et al. v. City of Santa Cruz (Santa Cruz County Superior Court Case No. 20CV02152)
Council received a report, and took no reportable action.
June 14, 2022 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 6121
City Attorney Report on Closed Session (continued)
Conference with Legal Counsel - Anticipated Litigation (Government Code §54956.9(d)(4))
Initiation of litigation (one potential case)
Council received a report, and took no reportable action.
City Manager Report
6. The City Manager provided a report and updates on the City's business and events of interest.
City Manager M. Huffaker provided updates on the Murray Street Bridge, anticipated election results for Measures E and F, the upcoming Benchlands encampment closure, and vandalism at the Parks and Recreation Yard, and responded to Councilmember questions.
Council Meeting Calendar
7. The City Council reviewed and did not revise the meeting calendar attached to the agenda.
Consent Agenda
Councilmember Cummings pulled items 13 and 21 for further discussion.
Director of Economic Development B. Lipscomb responded to Councilmember Cummings’ question on item 14.
Interim Finance Director B. Magee responded to Councilmember Cummings’ question on item 17.
Assistant Director of Public Works/City Engineer N. Nguyen and Transportation Planner C. Gallogly responded to Councilmembers Brown and Cummings’ questions on items 18 and 20.
June 14, 2022 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 6122
Consent Agenda (continued)
Mayor Brunner opened the public comment period. The following people spoke via teleconference:
Pablo Velasquez spoke regarding item 11.
Unidentified person spoke regarding item 17.
Mayor Brunner closed the public comment period.
MOTION: Vice Mayor Watkins moved, seconded by Councilmember Golder, to approve the remaining Consent Agenda.
ACTION: The motion carried unanimously with the following vote.
AYES: Councilmembers Kalantari-Johnson, Golder, Cummings, Brown, Meyers; Vice Mayor Watkins; Mayor Brunner.
NOES: None.
ABSENT: None.
DISQUALIFIED: None.
8. Resolution Authorizing the City to Continue Teleconferenced Public Meetings Pursuant to Assembly Bill 361 (CA)
Resolution No. NS-29,994 was adopted authorizing legislative bodies of the City of Santa Cruz to continue the use of teleconferenced meetings pursuant to Assembly Bill 361.
9. Minutes of the May 24, 2022 City Council Meeting (CC) Motion carried to approve as submitted.
10. Minutes of the May 25, 2022 City Council Special Meeting (CC) Motion carried to approve as submitted.
11. Santa Cruz County Latino Affairs Commission Nomination (CC) Motion carried to nominate Pablo Velasquez as a Santa Cruz County Latino Affairs Commissioner.
June 14, 2022 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 6123
Consent Agenda (continued)
12. Library Financing Authority Joint Powers Agreement (CM) Motion carried to approve the Fourth Amendment to the Joint Exercise of Powers Agreement establishing the Santa Cruz County Library Financing Authority, and authorize the City Manager to sign the amendment, in a form to be approved by the City Attorney.
13. Contract for Operation of the Safe Parking Tier 3 Program (CM) Mayor Brunner opened the public comment period. The following person spoke.
SPEAKING VIA TELECONFERENCE:
Joseph Jacobs
Mayor Brunner closed the public comment period.
Homelessness Response Manager L. Imwalle responded to Councilmember questions.
MOTION: Councilmember Cummings moved, seconded by Councilmember Kalantari-Johnson, to authorize and direct the City Manager to execute a contract, in a form approved by the City Attorney, with the Association of Faith Communities for Safe Parking Tier 3 operation and direct staff to schedule a community meeting prior to initiating the Safe Parking Program at the Armory to provide updates and discuss any program concerns with the surrounding community.
ACTION: The motion carried unanimously with the following vote.
AYES: Councilmembers Kalantari-Johnson, Golder, Cummings, Brown, Meyers; Vice Mayor Watkins; Mayor Brunner.
NOES: None.
ABSENT: None.
DISQUALIFIED: None.
Staff Assignments:
Councilmember Cummings requested elected representatives be invited/informed when the meeting is scheduled so they can attend.
June 14, 2022 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 6124
Consent Agenda (continued)
14. Award Contract for Graffiti Abatement Services (ED) Motion carried to accept the bid from Graffiti Protective Coatings, Inc. for graffiti abatement services in the amount of $125,000 and authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement, in a form approved by the City Attorney, with Graffiti Protective Coatings, Inc.
15. Equitable Community Revitalization Grant Program – Authorization to Apply for and Accept Grant Awards for the Pacific Station South, Jessie Street Marsh, and Lower Main Meadow, Pogonip Open Space Projects (ED) Resolution No. NS-29,995 was adopted authorizing and directing staff to apply for and accept grant funds for three separate applications to the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) for the Equitable Community Revitalization Grant (ECRG) Program to assist with soils investigation and/or hazardous materials remediation for each of the Pacific Station South, Jessie Street Marsh, and the Lower Main Meadow, Pogonip Open Space project sites (Attachments 1-3), and authorizing the City Manager to execute any agreements or documents necessary for acceptance and implementation of the grant(s).
16. Contractor Living Wage Rate Annual Prescription for 2022 (FN) Resolution No. NS-29,996 was adopted upwardly indexing the prescribed minimum living wage rate for contract workers where the contractor employer provides minimum vacation leave, sick leave, and health insurance benefits for its employees, and an alternate higher minimum living wage to be paid where the contractor employer does not provide each of those minimum benefits for its employees, along with other conditions/definitions related to value of the contract, trainee status, etc. by 5.20%, the amount which corresponds to San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward Area Consumer Price Index (CPI) for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers, for the period ending October 31, 2021, to become effective July 1, 2022; and rescinding Resolution No. NS-29,772.
17. General Obligation Refunding Bonds – Tax Rate Authorization (FN) Resolution No. NS-29,997 was adopted setting the tax rate for FY 2023 with respect to the City’s General Obligation Refunding Bonds.
June 14, 2022 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 6125
Consent Agenda (continued)
18. FY 2023 Funding for Senate Bill 1 Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account (RMRA) (PW)
Motion carried to:
Adopt Resolution No. NS-29,998 approving the FY 2023 allocation of SB 1 Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account funds and authorizing the City Manager to submit the project list to the California Transportation Commission; and
Adopt Resolution No. NS-29,999 transferring and appropriating funds in the amount of $566,449 from the Gas Tax Fund (Fund 221) to reflect anticipated RMRA revenues.
19. Citywide Vegetation Management – Change Order (PW)
Motion carried to approve a change order for Citywide Vegetation Management with Lewis Tree Service (Santa Cruz, CA) in the amount of $24,000.
20. Measure D Expenditure Plan: FY 2023-2027 (PW)
Motion carried to approve the proposed Measure D Five-Year Expenditure Plan for FY 2023-2027.
21. Murray Street Bridge Seismic Retrofit and Barrier Rail Replacement (c409321) – Approval of Plans and Specifications and Authorization to Advertise and Award; Approval of Request for Proposals for Construction Management Services and Authorization to Advertise and Award Contract (PW) Senior Professional Engineer J. Spangrud responded to Councilmember questions.
Mayor Brunner opened the public comment period. There were no speakers.
Mayor Brunner closed the public comment period.
June 14, 2022 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 6126
Consent Agenda (continued)
21. Murray Street Bridge Seismic Retrofit and Barrier Rail Replacement (c409321) – Approval of Plans and Specifications and Authorization to Advertise and Award; Approval of Request for Proposals for Construction Management Services and Authorization to Advertise and Award Contract (PW) (continued) MOTION: Councilmember Cummings moved, seconded by Councilmember Brown, to:
Approve the plans and specifications for the Murray Street Seismic Retrofit and Barrier Rail Replacement Project (c409321) and authorize staff to advertise for bids and award the contract. The City Manager is hereby authorized and directed to execute the contract in a form approved by the City Attorney. The Public Works Director is authorized to execute change orders within the approved project budget; and
Approve the Request for Proposals for Construction Management Services and authorize staff to advertise for proposals and award the contract. The City Manager is hereby authorized and directed to execute the contract in a form approved by the City Attorney. The Public Works Director is authorized to execute change orders within the approved project budget. Direct staff to hold a neighborhood meeting in the area at least one month prior to breaking ground to make neighbors aware of the traffic flow plans and take input prior to construction.
ACTION: The motion carried unanimously with the following vote.
AYES: Councilmembers Kalantari-Johnson, Golder, Cummings, Brown, Meyers; Vice Mayor Watkins; Mayor Brunner.
NOES: None.
ABSENT: None.
DISQUALIFIED: None.
22. Senate Bill 743 Implementation - Analysis of Transportation Impacts (PW) Motion carried to adopt the updates to the City of Santa Cruz SB 743 Implementation Guidelines to reflect changes supporting a range of residential development types.
June 14, 2022 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 6127
Consent Agenda (continued)
23. West Cliff Stairs Rehabilitation (m401402) - Approve Change Order (PW) Motion carried to approve a change order with Tom Ralston Concrete (Santa Cruz, CA), to improve ocean access at Steamer Lane. The City Manager is hereby authorized and directed to execute the contract in a form approved by the City Attorney. The Public Works Director is authorized to execute change orders within the approved project budget.
End Consent Agenda
At this time, Mayor Brunner recused herself and left the meeting.
Consent Public Hearings
Vice Mayor Watkins opened the public comment period. There were no speakers. Vice Mayor Watkins closed the public comment period.
MOTION: Councilmember Meyers moved, seconded by Councilmember Golder, to approve the Consent Public Hearing Agenda.
ACTION: The motion carried with the following vote.
AYES: Councilmembers Kalantari-Johnson, Golder, Cummings, Brown, Meyers; Vice Mayor Watkins.
NOES: None.
ABSENT: None.
DISQUALIFIED: Mayor Brunner.
24. Cooperative Retail Management Business Real Property Improvement District Assessments for FY 2023 (ED)
Resolution No. NS-30,000 was adopted confirming the Cooperative Retail Management Business Real Property Improvement District Annual Plan FY 2023 and levying Cooperative Retail Management Business Real Property Improvement District Assessments for FY 2023.
25. Downtown Association: Parking and Business Improvement Area Assessments for FY 2023 (ED)
Resolution No. NS-30,001 was adopted confirming the Parking and Business Improvement Area FY 2023 Plan prepared by the Downtown Association and levying the Parking and Business Improvement Area Assessments for FY 2023.
June 14, 2022 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 6128
At this time, Mayor Brunner returned to the meeting.
General Business
26. Parks and Recreation Commission Appointment (CC)
Mayor Brunner opened the public comment period. There were no speakers.
Mayor Brunner closed the public comment period.
Councilmember Kalantari-Johnson nominated Bradley Angell.
Councilmember Brown nominated Jorge Leonardo Cruz.
Voting for Bradley Angell: Councilmembers Kalantari-Johnson, Golder, Meyers; Vice Mayor Watkins; Mayor Brunner.
Voting for Jorge Leonardo Cruz: Councilmembers Cummings, Brown.
Bradley Angell was appointed to the Parks and Recreation Commission, with a term ending January 31, 2023.
27. Fiscal Year 2023 Proposed Budget Adoption (FN)
Interim Director of Finance B. Magee gave a presentation and responded to Councilmember questions.
City Manager M. Huffaker responded to Councilmember questions.
Mayor Brunner opened the public comment period. The following people spoke.
SPEAKING VIA TELECONFERENCE:
TreZhon Spinner
Sarah Leonard
Lily
Blair Bareiszis
Steve Ronzono
Leah Samuels
Unidentified person
Helen Bradley
Unidentified person
Mayor Brunner closed the public comment period.
June 14, 2022 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 6129
General Business (continued)
27. Fiscal Year 2023 Proposed Budget Adoption (FN) (continued) MOTION: Councilmember Cummings moved, seconded by Councilmember Brown, to continue the budget discussion to June 28th to coincide with discussion around programs that didn’t receive CORE funding and to better understand the outcome and impacts of Measure F.
SUBSTITUTE MOTION: Vice Mayor Watkins moved, seconded by Councilmember Meyers, to:
Adopt Resolution No. NS-30,002 adopting the Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget including the Capital Investment Program (CIP), effective July 1, 2022; authorizing the City Manager to allocate within the applicable Funds the FY 2023 Budget Schedule of Budget Changes to the appropriate accounting classifications and to approve related and applicable transfer in/out between funds; and authorizing the Finance Director to create additional appropriations to provide for commitments carried over from the prior fiscal year, including contract and purchase order encumbrances and unexpended project balances, so long as there is a sufficient fund balance to finance these commitments; and
Adopt Resolution No. NS-30,003 amending the Classification and Compensation Plans for the new FY 2023 Budget Personnel Complement by implementing the approved FY 2023 Budget/Position changes in several departments; and
Approve and appropriate funds for the FY 2023 Priority 1 Capital Investment Program projects as funding becomes available; and
Accept the Water Commission’s recommendations regarding the Water Department’s FY 2023 Operating and Capital Investment Program (CIP). Direct staff to bring back Core Funding for conversation at the June 28th Council meeting.
ACTION: The substitute motion was accepted with the following vote.
AYES: Councilmembers Kalantari-Johnson, Golder, Meyers; Vice Mayor Watkins.
NOES: Councilmembers Cummings, Brown; Mayor Brunner.
ABSENT: None.
DISQUALIFIED: None.
June 14, 2022 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 6130
General Business (continued)
27. Fiscal Year 2023 Proposed Budget Adoption (FN) (continued) AMENDMENT: Councilmember Brown moved, seconded by
Councilmember Cummings, to:
Include an additional $500,000 to restore funding to assist with the CORE transition, including support for previously funded critical safety net services;
Fully fund the Parks and Recreation Department temporary staff positions for teen and youth programs;
To fund these additions, explore cuts in the following areas:
Consultant budgets
Reduce management to line staff ratios to pre COVID levels Place an embargo on new military equipment purchases
Place an embargo on purchase of gas-powered vehicles.
ACTION: The amendment failed with the following vote.
AYES: Councilmembers Cummings, Brown.
NOES: Councilmembers Kalantari-Johnson, Golder, Meyers; Vice Mayor Watkins; Mayor Brunner.
ABSENT: None.
DISQUALIFIED: None.
ACTION: The substitute motion carried with the following vote.
AYES: Councilmembers Kalantari-Johnson, Golder, Meyers; Vice Mayor Watkins; Mayor Brunner.
NOES: Councilmembers Cummings, Brown.
ABSENT: None.
DISQUALIFIED: None.
Councilmember Cummings stated for the record that the City should be making budget and CORE funding decisions at the same time.
Councilmember Brown stated for the record that the City should be reconsidering its priorities.
June 14, 2022 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 6131
General Business (continued)
28. Emergency Ordinance Amending Chapter 16.02 (Water Conservation) of the Santa Cruz Municipal Code (WT)
Deputy Water Director H. Luckenbach introduced the item and responded to Councilmember questions.
Customer Service Manager K. Petersen gave a presentation and responded to Councilmember questions.
Mayor Brunner opened the public comment period. There were no speakers.
Mayor Brunner closed the public comment period.
MOTION: Councilmember Meyers moved, seconded by Councilmember Brown, to adopt Ordinance No. 2022-10 prohibiting and regulating certain uses of water from the City water supply system not essential to the public health and safety and for water conservation purposes.
ACTION: The motion carried unanimously with the following vote.
AYES: Councilmembers Kalantari-Johnson, Golder, Cummings, Brown, Meyers; Vice Mayor Watkins; Mayor Brunner.
NOES: None.
ABSENT: None.
DISQUALIFIED: None.
29. Housing Element
Senior Planner K. Donovan gave a presentation and responded to Councilmember questions.
Mayor Brunner and Councilmembers Meyers and Kalantari-Johnson gave a presentation and responded to Councilmember questions.
Director of Planning and Community Development L. Butler responded to Councilmember questions.
Principal Planner M. VanHua responded to Councilmember questions.
June 14, 2022 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 6132
General Business (continued)
29. Housing Element (continued)
Mayor Brunner opened the public comment period. The following people spoke.
SPEAKING VIA TELECONFERENCE:
Unidentified person
Carol Polhamus
Elise Casby
Kyle Kelley
Mayor Brunner closed the public comment period.
29.1. Approval of a Contract with Kimley-Horn and Associates for Consultant Services for the 6th Cycle Housing Element Update (PL)
MOTION: Vice Mayor Watkins moved, seconded by Councilmember Cummings, to direct the City Manager to execute the contract, in a form approved by the City Attorney, with Kimley-Horn and Associates in the amount of $260,769 to procure consultant services to complete the 6th Cycle Housing Element Update.
ACTION: The motion carried unanimously with the following vote.
AYES: Councilmembers Kalantari-Johnson, Golder, Cummings, Brown, Meyers; Vice Mayor Watkins; Mayor Brunner.
NOES: None.
ABSENT: None.
DISQUALIFIED: None.
June 14, 2022 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 6133
General Business (continued)
29. Housing Element (continued)
29.2. Resolution Providing Guidance to the City’s 6th Cycle Housing Element (CN) MOTION: Councilmember Meyers moved, seconded by Councilmember Kalantari-Johnson, to adopt Resolution No. NS-30,004 providing guidance to the City’s 6th Cycle Housing Element Update process.
FRIENDLY AMENDMENT: Councilmember Cummings requested to make the following changes to the resolution.
Add:
“WHEREAS, the City of Santa Cruz is one of the least affordable communities in the country and is experiencing a severe housing crisis for moderate, low, and very low income residents.”
“WHEREAS, a significant percentage of the state’s target of RHNA numbers to the City are for housing units to serve low and very low income residents, which are the most difficult to construct.”
“WHEREAS, the City can’t rely on 100% affordable developments to attain the low and very low income housing unit targets under RHNA, and must increase the percentage of inclusionary affordable housing units required in private developments.”
“WHEREAS, increased densities need to be balanced by the consideration of the high-density development impact on neighborhood, the City residents’ quality of life, and other community values.” Add to “NOW THEREFORE…”:
11)“Consider the creation of policies that would facilitate the production of affordable workforce housing.”
Delete from “NOW THEREFORE…”:
5) “Consider allowing 100% affordable residential development to be considered “by-right” use that only requires ministerial Planning approval and Building Permits be constructed.”
June 14, 2022 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 6134
General Business (continued)
29. Housing Element (continued)
29.2. Resolution Providing Guidance to the City’s 6th Cycle Housing Element (CN) (continued)
MOTION (continued):
REPLACE:
6) “Evaluate whether alternative inclusionary approaches may produce more affordable housing or deeper levels of affordability. Options to consider could include alternative inclusionary percentages based on differing levels of affordability or incentivizing land dedication versus provision of units on-site. Following this evaluation, consider whether changes to the inclusionary regulations should be proposed.” WITH:
6) “Increase the affordable housing requirements in higher density housing developments both for regular and density bonus projects both before and during the Housing Element process.”
Councilmember Meyers accepted the first and second “WHEREAS” additions, but not the remaining amendment.
MOTION TO AMEND: Councilmember Cummings moved, seconded by Councilmember Brown, to apply the following changes to Resolution No. NS30-004:
Add:
“WHEREAS, the City can’t rely on 100% affordable developments to attain the low and very low income housing unit targets under RHNA, and must increase the percentage of inclusionary affordable housing units required in private developments.”
“WHEREAS, increased densities need to be balanced by the consideration of the high-density development impact on neighborhood, the City residents’ quality of life, and other community values.” June 14, 2022 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 6135
General Business (continued)
29. Housing Element (continued)
29.2. Resolution Providing Guidance to the City’s 6th Cycle Housing Element (CN) (continued)
MOTION TO AMEND (continued):
Add to “NOW THEREFORE…”:
11)“Consider the creation of policies that would facilitate the production of affordable workforce housing.”
Delete from “NOW THEREFORE…”:
5) “Consider allowing 100% affordable residential development to be considered “by-right” use that only requires ministerial Planning approval and Building Permits be constructed.”
REPLACE:
6) “Evaluate whether alternative inclusionary approaches may produce more affordable housing or deeper levels of affordability. Options to consider could include alternative inclusionary percentages based on differing levels of affordability or incentivizing land dedication versus provision of units on-site. Following this evaluation, consider whether changes to the inclusionary regulations should be proposed.” WITH:
6) “Increase the affordable housing requirements in higher density housing developments both for regular and density bonus projects both before and during the Housing Element process.”
ACTION: The motion to amend was not accepted with the following vote.
AYES: Councilmembers Cummings, Brown.
NOES: Councilmembers Kalantari-Johnson, Golder, Meyers; Vice Mayor Watkins; Mayor Brunner.
ABSENT: None.
DISQUALIFIED: None.
June 14, 2022 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 6136
General Business (continued)
29. Housing Element (continued)
29.2. Resolution Providing Guidance to the City’s 6th Cycle Housing Element (CN) (continued)
ACTION: The original motion, as amended, carried with the following vote.
AYES: Councilmembers Kalantari-Johnson, Golder, Meyers; Vice Mayor Watkins; Mayor Brunner.
NOES: Councilmembers Cummings, Brown.
ABSENT: None.
DISQUALIFIED: None.
Recess - The City Council recessed at 5:05 p.m. to the 6:00 p.m. session.
June 14, 2022 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 6137
City Council
6:00 PM
Call to Order – Mayor Brunner called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. via Zoom.
Roll Call
Present: Councilmembers Kalantari-Johnson (via Zoom), Golder (via Zoom), Cummings (via Zoom), Brown (via Zoom), Meyers (arrived at 6:03 p.m. via Zoom); Vice Mayor Watkins (via Zoom); Mayor Brunner (via Zoom, left at 6:09 p.m.).
Absent: None.
Staff: City Manager M. Huffaker (via Zoom), City Attorney T. Condotti (via Zoom), Director of Planning and Community Development L. Butler (via Zoom), Fire Chief R. Oatey (via Zoom), Senior Planner S. Neuse (via Zoom), Principal Planner M. VanHua (via Zoom), Deputy City Clerk Administrator J. Wood, City Clerk Administrator B. Bush (via Zoom).
Oral Communications Announcement - The Mayor provided a brief announcement about Oral Communications.
Oral Communications
At 6:04 p.m. Mayor Brunner opened Oral Communications for members of the public who wished to speak regarding items not listed on the City Council agenda.
Elise Casby spoke regarding the primary election, democracy, and community involvement.
Don Wiberg spoke, providing his suggestions for the Downtown Expansion Plan.
At 6:09 p.m. Mayor Brunner closed Oral Communications.
At this time, Mayor Brunner recused herself and left the meeting.
June 14, 2022 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 6138
General Business
30. Downtown Plan Expansion, Preferred Development Scenario for Study under
CEQA (PL)
Director of Planning and Community Development L. Butler introduced the item and responded to Councilmember questions.
Senior Planner S. Neuse and Bill Wiseman, Planning Practice Leader with Kimley-Horn, gave a presentation and responded to Councilmember questions.
Principal Planner M. VanHua and City Attorney T. Condotti responded to Councilmember questions.
Vice Mayor Watkins opened the public comment period. The following people spoke.
SPEAKING VIA TELECONFERENCE:
Chris Murphy, Santa Cruz Warriors
Kris Munro
Unidentified person
Zachary Davis
Elise Casby
Casey Beyer
Jesse Bristow
Judi Grunstra
Carolyn
Don Lane
Natalie
Danny Keith
Hilary Bryant
Angela Chandler
Linda Burroughs
Unidentified person
Unidentified person
Matt Wetstein
Keisha Browder
Darius Mohsenin
Ron Pomerantz
Gillian Greensite
Richelle Noroyan
Vice Mayor Watkins closed the public comment period.
June 14, 2022 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 6139
General Business (continued)
30. Downtown Plan Expansion, Preferred Development Scenario for Study under CEQA (PL) (continued)
MOTION: Councilmember Meyers moved, seconded by Councilmember Golder, to direct staff to initiate work on an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) relating to the area identified for expansion of the boundary of the Downtown Plan, and provide that the preferred development scenario include the following: a minimum of 1,800 housing units; maximum heights not to exceed on one taller building of 165 feet and not to exceed 150 feet on remaining, with each height being inclusive of anticipated height increases associated with a 50% density bonus and with the taller building elements comprising only a portion of shorter podium building forms; an option for auto circulation including the permanent closure of Spruce Street east of Pacific Avenue; the creation of new civic space in the closed Spruce Street right of way; enhanced pedestrian connections between the Downtown and the beach; and options for the location of a permanent arena facility for the Santa Cruz Warriors, with a preferred location being on the south side of Spruce Street between Pacific Avenue and Front Street.
MOTION TO AMEND: Councilmember Cummings moved, seconded by Councilmember Brown, to direct staff to initiate work on an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) relating to the area identified for expansion of the boundary of the Downtown Plan, and provide that the design align with development scenario 2 include the following:
A maximum of 1,800 housing units; maximum heights not to exceed on one taller building of 165 feet and not to exceed 150 feet on remaining, with each height being inclusive of anticipated height increases associated with a 50% density bonus and with the taller building elements comprising only a portion of shorter podium building forms; An option for auto circulation including the permanent closure of Spruce Street east of Pacific Avenue;
The creation of new civic space in the closed Spruce Street right of way; Enhanced pedestrian connections between the Downtown and the beach;
Options for the location of a permanent arena facility for the Santa Cruz Warriors, with a preferred location being on the south side of Spruce Street between Pacific Avenue and Front Street;
At least one third of the total new higher density housing units in the expansion area shall be affordable to low- and very-low income households, and the inclusionary requirement for individual projects shall be 25% with a 30% requirement for projects with density bonuses; June 14, 2022 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 6140
General Business (continued)
30. Downtown Plan Expansion, Preferred Development Scenario for Study under CEQA (PL) (continued)
MOTION TO AMEND (continued):
In order to minimize the potential impact of the proposed Plan on additional displacement of affordable housing within the plan area and in surrounding areas, particularly the beach south of Laurel and Lower Ocean, an advisory committee of residents and affordable housing experts shall be formed to study and recommend effective impact mitigation measures, in coordination with the Planning Commission.
ACTION: The motion to amend was not accepted with the following vote.
AYES: Councilmembers Cummings, Brown.
NOES: Councilmembers Kalantari-Johnson, Golder, Meyers; Vice Mayor Watkins.
ABSENT: None.
DISQUALIFIED: Mayor Brunner.
After further discussion, Councilmember Meyers edited her motion:
Direct staff to initiate work on an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) relating to the area identified for expansion of the boundary of the Downtown Plan, and provide that the design align with development Scenario 2 to include the following:
A minimum of 1600 housing units;
Maximum heights not to exceed on one taller building of 175 feet and not to exceed 150 feet on remaining, with each height being inclusive of anticipated height increases associated with a 50% density bonus and with the taller building elements comprising only a portion of shorter podium building forms;
An option for auto circulation including the permanent closure of Spruce Street east of Pacific Avenue;
The creation of new civic space in the closed Spruce Street right of way; Enhanced pedestrian connections between the Downtown and the beach; Options for the location of a permanent arena facility for the Santa Cruz Warriors, with a preferred location being on the south side of Spruce Street between Pacific Avenue and Front Street.
June 14, 2022 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 6141
General Business (continued)
30. Downtown Plan Expansion, Preferred Development Scenario for Study under CEQA (PL) (continued)
ACTION: The motion carried with the following vote.
AYES: Councilmembers Kalantari-Johnson, Golder, Meyers; Vice Mayor Watkins.
NOES: Councilmembers Cummings, Brown.
ABSENT: None.
DISQUALIFIED: Mayor Brunner.
Councilmember Cummings stated for the record that he is supportive of the Warriors and keeping them in the community, but without having a commitment to affordable housing, he can’t support this.
Councilmember Brown stated for the record that this is about having a meaningful commitment to affordable housing.
Councilmember Meyers stated for the record to recognize that Council did not vote to not support affordable housing.
Vice Mayor Watkins stated for the record that she agrees with Councilmember Meyers.
Adjournment - The City Council adjourned at 10:07 p.m.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED: ss/Julia Wood, Deputy City Clerk Administrator, ATTEST: ss/Bonnie Bush, City Clerk Administrator, APPROVED: ss/Sonja Brunner, Mayor.