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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - June 15, 2016LODI CITY COUNCIL REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING CARNEGIE FORUM, 305 WEST PINE STREET WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 2016 C-1 Call to Order / Roll Call The Closed Session meeting of June 15, 2016, was cancelled. C-2 Announcement of Closed Session - N/A a) Actual Litigation: Government Code �54956.9(a): One Case - Sheree Rene Coe v. City of Lodi, et al., U.S. District Court, Eastern District of California, Case No. 2:13-CV-00432- JKM-CKD (CA) C-3 Adjourn to Closed Session - N/A C-4 Return to Open Session / Disclosure of Action - N/A A. Call to Order / Roll Call The Regular City Council meeting of June 15, 2016, was called to order by Mayor Chandler at 7:01 p.m. Present: Council Member Johnson, Council Member Mounce, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne, and Mayor Chandler Absent: None Also Present: City Manager Schwabauer, City Attorney Magdich, and City Clerk Ferraiolo B. Presentations B-1 National Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month Proclamation (CLK Mayor Chandler presented a proclamation to Alzheimer's Association Board Member Mark McDonald proclaiming June 2016 as "National Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month" in the City of Lodi. Mr. McDonald reported there is currently a plan in Congress to discover ways to slow down the disease by the year 2025 and he asked that Council and the public share the facts of Alzheimer's to raise greater awareness of the illness. The "Longest Day" will take place on June 20, during which individuals are asked to wear the color purple to honor those touched by Alzheimer's, and on October 15, the Walk to End Alzheimer's will take place at Victory Park. Anyone wanting additional information was encouraged to visit the website: www.alz.org/abam. Additional attending Board members Jane Blacow and June Valentine were introduced. B-2 Parks Make Life Better Month Proclamation (PRCS Mayor Chandler presented a proclamation to Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Services Director Jeff Hood proclaiming July 2016 as "Parks Make Life Better Month" in the City of Lodi. Mr. Hood reported there are many summer activities planned including the Music in the Park series at Hutchins Street Square, movie night out at the Square, Taco Truck Cook -Off, Food Truck Mania, Celebrate America, and Fourth of July at the Lake. The Department will celebrate its 75th Anniversary on July 16 at Lodi Lake with live music and kids' activities. B-3 Presentation of Certificate of Recognition to Suzanne Mangum, Retiring Director of Lodi House (CLK) Mayor Chandler presented a Certificate of Recognition to Suzanne Mangum, retiring Director of Lodi House, in honor of her 16 years of service to the organization and the impact she made on the lives of nearly 1,000 women and children who passed through Lodi House. Ms. Mangum was instrumental in expanding the program to include the Enrichment Center, Transitional House, and Thrift Store, all of which provided additional tools for women to better their lives and generated revenue to continue to fund the program. Council Member Johnson stressed the important role that Lodi House has played in this community and recognized Ms. Mangum for her valiant efforts in aiding women through tough times, adding that the Enrichment Center was recently renamed in her honor. He was pleased to see that Ms. Mangum ensured a smooth transition between directors so that Lodi House continues to be a productive and valuable part of this community. Ms. Mangum stated she was honored to receive this recognition and that it would not be possible without the help, support, and participation of the City, community, and her support team of Shereen Hays, Richard Mahoney, and her husband, Hudson. She further encouraged the public to continue to shop at the Lodi House Thrift Store in support of women who benefit from the services offered at Lodi House. C. Consent Calendar (Readina: Comments by the Public: Council Action Council Member Mounce made a motion, second by Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne, to approve the following items hereinafter set forth, except those otherwise noted, in accordance with the report and recommendation of the City Manager. VOTE: The above motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Council Member Johnson, Council Member Mounce, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne, and Mayor Chandler Noes: None Absent: None C-1 Receive Register of Claims in the Amount of $4,075,417.14 (FIN Claims were approved in the amount of $4,075,417.14. C-2 Approve Minutes (CLK) The minutes of May 24, 2016 (Shirtsleeve Session), May 31, 2016 (Shirtsleeve Session), and June 1, 2016 (Regular Meeting) were approved as written. C-3 Adopt Resolution Authorizing City Manager to Execute a Contract for the Purchase of Five Dispatch Consoles with Motorola, Inc.; Approving and Executing Seven -Year Maintenance Service Agreement ($184,967.83): Approving Debt Financing with Holman Capital Corporation ($562,387): Authorizing City Manager and Deputy City Manager to Execute All Necessary Financing Documents: and Appropriating Funds ($562,387) (PD) Adopted Resolution No. 2016-92 authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract for the purchase of five dispatch consoles with Motorola, Inc.; approving and executing a seven-year Maintenance Service Agreement in the amount of $184,967.83; approving debt financing with Holman Capital Corporation in the amount of $562,387; authorizing the City Manager and Deputy City Manager to execute all necessary financing documents; and appropriating funds in the amount of $562,387. 2 C-4 Adopt Resolution Awarding Bid for the Purchase of 15 kV Distribution Cable from The Okonite Company, of San Ramon ($112,492.86) (EU) Adopted Resolution No. 2016-93 awarding bid for the purchase of 15 kV distribution cable from The Okonite Company, of San Ramon, in the amount of $112,492.86. C-5 Adopt Resolution Awarding Contract for 2016 GrapeLine Bus Stop Accessibility and Shelter Improvements to A. M. Stephens Construction Company, Inc., of Lodi ($396,088) (PW) This item was removed from the Consent Calendar at the request of Council Member Mounce for discussion purposes. Council Member Mounce stated she was pleased to see this project awarded to a local company and questioned the difference between contract items No. 10 and No. 13, particularly the wide range in cost to install shelters, trash cans, and associated amenities. Further, she expressed concern about the glass used on the shelters, using the bus stops on Locust and Stockton Streets and Stockton and Pine Streets as examples, because vandals are destroying the panels, leaving shattered glass and plastic around the areas. She stated she did not want to spend a substantial amount of money for shelters with materials that will continue to be damaged. In response, Public Works Director Charlie Swimley stated that, since 2006, shelters have been constructed with wire or metal mesh in place of the glass panels and he confirmed that the shelter on Stockton and Pine Streets was installed prior to 2006. Mr. Swimley provided photo demonstrations of the new shelter materials, adding that the broken glass panels are not replaced once they are damaged. In further response, Mr. Swimley explained that the difference between contract items No. 10 and No. 13 is that the proposal under No. 10 is for advertising -ready shelters; whereas, the shelters under No. 13 do not have advertising capability. He estimated the revenue generated by the advertising would be roughly $8,000 a year and stated that the advertising -ready shelters are located in commercial areas, while the regular shelters are reserved for residential areas. Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne made a motion, second by Council Member Johnson, to adopt Resolution No. 2016-107 awarding contract for 2016 GrapeLine Bus Stop Accessibility and Shelter Improvements to A. M. Stephens Construction Company, Inc., of Lodi, in the amount of $396,088. VOTE: The above motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Council Member Johnson, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne, and Mayor Chandler Noes: Council Member Mounce Absent: None C-6 Adopt Resolution Awarding Contract for 2016 Storm Drainage Improvements to Mozingo Construction, Inc., of Oakdale ($359,715) (PW) Adopted Resolution No. 2016-94 awarding the contract for 2016 Storm Drainage Improvements to Mozingo Construction, Inc., of Oakdale, in the amount of $359,715. C-7 Adopt Resolution Awarding Contract for 2016/17 Landscape Maintenance of Miscellaneous Areas and Lodi Consolidated Landscape Maintenance Assessment District No. 2003-1 to Odyssey Landscaping, of Lodi ($189,500), and Authorizing Public Works Director to Execute Extensions (PW) Adopted Resolution No. 2016-95 awarding the contract for 2016/17 Landscape Maintenance of Miscellaneous Areas and Lodi Consolidated Landscape Maintenance Assessment District No. 2003-1 to Odyssey Landscaping, of Lodi, in the amount of $189,500, and authorizing the Public Works Director to execute extensions. C-8 Adopt Resolution Awardinq Contract for White Slough Water Pollution Control Facility 2016 Improvements Corrosion Repair Project to Western Water Constructors, Inc., of Santa Rosa ($1,039,650) (PW) Adopted Resolution No. 2016-96 awarding the contract for White Slough Water Pollution Control Facility 2016 Improvements Corrosion Repair Project to Western Water Constructors, Inc., of Santa Rosa, in the amount of $1,039,650. C-9 Adopt Resolution Reiecting Lowest Non -Responsive Bidder and Awarding Contract for Shady Acres Stormwater Pump Replacement Project to the Lowest Responsive Bidder, TTS Construction Corporation, of Lodi ($148,702) (PW) Adopted Resolution No. 2016-97 rejecting lowest non-responsive bidder and awarding the contract for Shady Acres Stormwater Pump Replacement Project to the lowest responsive bidder, TTS Construction Corporation, of Lodi, in the amount of $148,702. C-10 Adopt Resolution Authorizing City Manager to Execute Contracts for Fiscal Year 2016/17 with United Cerebral Palsy of San Joaquin, Amador, and Calaveras Counties, of Stockton, for Downtown Cleaning ($58,614), Transit Facility Cleaning ($48,237), and Hutchins Street Square Landscape Maintenance ($20,236) (PW) Adopted Resolution No. 2016-98 authorizing the City Manager to execute contracts for Fiscal Year 2016/17 with United Cerebral Palsy of San Joaquin, Amador, and Calaveras Counties, of Stockton, for downtown cleaning in the amount of 58,614, Transit facility cleaning in the amount of $48,237, and Hutchins Street Square landscape maintenance in the amount of $20,236. C-11 Adopt Resolution Authorizing City Manager to Execute Amendment No. 1 to Professional Services Agreement with Lyons Security Services, Inc., of Orange, for Security Services at Hutchins Street Square and Appropriating Funds ($40,000) (PRCS) Adopted Resolution No. 2016-99 authorizing the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 1 to Professional Services Agreement with Lyons Security Services, Inc., of Orange, for security services at Hutchins Street Square and appropriating funds in the amount of $40,000. C-12 Adopt Resolution Authorizing City Manager to Execute Amendment No. 1 to Professional Services Agreement with Kratos Public Safety & Security Solutions, Inc., of San Diego, for Repairs and Maintenance of City Security Doors, Gates, and Access Control ($50,000) LEW-D Adopted Resolution No. 2016-100 authorizing the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 1 to Professional Services Agreement with Kratos Public Safety & Security Solutions, Inc., of San Diego, for repairs and maintenance of City security doors, gates, and access control in the amount of $50,000. C-13 Adopt Resolution Ratifying the San Joaquin Council of Governments' Annual Financial Plan for Fiscal Year 2016/17 (PW) This item was removed from the Consent Calendar at the request of Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne and Council Member Nakanishi for discussion purposes. Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne questioned how San Joaquin Council of Governments (SJCOG) will continue to operate with the significant reductions listed in its report, including an 800 percent reduction in the publication and legal notices fund and a $1 million decrease in the professional services category. Steve Dial, SJCOG Deputy Executive Director, stated that the organization is leaning more toward electronic and digital postings for public and legal notices and actual expenses are closer to the $3,000 level than to the $27,000 level. With regard to professional services, he stated the category fluctuates based on which projects are completed and which are on-going, adding that a couple of significant projects wrapped up recently. Mr. Dial stated that SJCOG depends on professional services to maintain its core staffing. 0 In response to Council Member Mounce, Mr. Dial stated that SJCOG continues to post and utilize the Lodi News -Sentinel for publication purposes because there are issues that require a physical public or legal notice, but staff feels there is greater benefit to going digital, particularly with issues relating to employment services and recruitments. Council Member Mounce stressed the need for transparency and notification to the public of issues affecting them, adding that not everyone is connected to the internet or reads local newspapers or specific publications. In response to Council Member Nakanishi, Mr. Dial stated that SJCOG receives funding from Measure K and Transportation funds, as well as from Regional Transportation Impact fees. He further explained that SJCOG programs funding to cities and the county for local street and road repairs, but he did not have an estimate on how much has been spent on roads county -wide. Council Member Mounce stated that the League of California Cities is working diligently on the Fix the Roads project and searching for ways to be creative in finding new money to repair streets, but she does not want that burden placed on taxpayers. Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne made a motion, second by Council Member Johnson, to adopt Resolution No. 2016-108 ratifying the San Joaquin Council of Governments' Annual Financial Plan for Fiscal Year 2016/17. VOTE: The above motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Council Member Johnson, Council Member Mounce, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne, and Mayor Chandler Noes: None Absent: None C-14 Adopt Resolution Authorizing City Manager to File Claim for 2015/16 Transportation Development Act Funds in the Amount of $3,547,687 from Local Transportation Fund and $192,216 from State Transit Assistance Fund (PW) Adopted Resolution No. 2016-101 authorizing the City Manager to file claim for 2015/16 Transportation Development Act Funds in the amount of $3,547,687 from Local Transportation Fund and $192,216 from State Transit Assistance Fund. C-15 Adopt Resolution Authorizing City Manager and Designee to Execute and File Grant Applications to Receive Federal Funds for Transit Projects with the Federal Transit Administration and to Execute Any Related Grant Applications, Certifications, Assurances, Forms, Agreements, and Associated Documents (PW) Adopted Resolution No. 2016-102 authorizing the City Manager and designee to execute and file grant applications to receive Federal funds for Transit projects with the Federal Transit Administration and to execute any related grant applications, certifications, assurances, forms, agreements, and associated documents. C-16 Adopt Resolution Approving Donation of Retired Rescue Ropes and Rescue Litter to the Lodi Unified School District Regional Occupation Fire Science Technology Program and Authorizing City Manager to Execute Hold Harmless Agreement (FDJ Adopted Resolution No. 2016-103 approving donation of retired rescue ropes and rescue litter to the Lodi Unified School District Regional Occupation Fire Science Technology Program and authorizing the City Manager to execute the Hold Harmless Agreement. C-17 Receive Update on Hutchins Street Square Pool (PRCS) This item was removed from the Consent Calendar at the request of Council Member Mounce for staff presentation. 5 Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Services Director Jeff Hood reported that the Recreation Commission met last week to receive comments from Hutchins Street Square pool users, who were supportive of the proposed schedule, and unanimously approved the plan. The boiler was out of commission from February 27, and the replacement will be installed next week by a subcontractor of the City's heating, ventilation, and air conditioning contractor. In addition, staff is fine-tuning the chlorine in the pool in preparation of renewed use of the pool and is preparing the lifeguard instructors to resume the schedule as soon as possible. Mr. Hood was hopeful the pool would return to active use by the end of the month. In addition to previous uses, the Department is adding year-round youth swim lessons, competitive swimming instruction, and adaptive aquatics programs for those with disabilities in order to make the pool more sustainable. Council Member Johnson questioned if there was any flexibility on the swimming hours at Lodi Lake, stating that it is often closed in the early evening at a time when people come home from work and want to swim during the hot hours or picnic at the beach. Mr. Hood stated there would be staff scheduling difficulties in adding additional swim days, but extending hours a couple nights a week may be possible and he would look into it. He stated that another suggestion he received was an annual family pass for the Lake and that he looks forward to receiving more ideas from the public in order to meet the demands. Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne stated that the boat launch facility is user friendly and provides phenomenal access to Lodi Lake and that the fee to get in is still very reasonable. Mr. Hood pointed out there is also an annual pass available for $50. Council Member Mounce made a motion, second by Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne, to accept update on Hutchins Street Square Pool. VOTE: The above motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Council Member Johnson, Council Member Mounce, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne, and Mayor Chandler Noes: None Absent: None C-18 Adopt Resolution Initiatina Proceedinas for the Levv and Collection of Assessments Resolution Approving the Annual Report, and Resolution Declaring Intention to Levy and Collect Assessments for the Lodi Consolidated Landscape Maintenance Assessment District No. 2003-1 for Fiscal Year 2016/17: and Set Public Hearina for July 20. 2016 (PW) Adopted Resolution No. 2016-104 initiating proceedings for the levy and collection of assessments, Resolution No. 2016-105 approving the Annual Report, and Resolution No. 2016- 106 declaring intention to levy and collect assessments for the Lodi Consolidated Landscape Maintenance Assessment District No. 2003-1 for Fiscal Year 2016/17; and set public hearing for July 20, 2016. D. Comments by the Public on Non -Agenda Items THE TIME ALLOWED PER NON -AGENDA ITEM FOR COMMENTS MADE BY THE PUBLIC IS LIMITED TO FIVE MINUTES. Public comment may only be made on matters within the Lodi City Council's jurisdiction (Government Code Section 54954.3, Lodi City Council Protocol Manual Section 6.31). The Council cannot take action or deliberate on items that are not on this agenda unless there is an emergency and the need to take action on that emergency arose after this agenda was posted (Government Code Section 54954.2(b)(2)). All other items may only be referred for review to staff or placement on a future Council agenda. Lodi Salvation Army Captains Martin and Tory Ross announced that they are being reassigned by Salvation Army headquarters and will be departing Lodi at the end of the month. Captain Ross expressed gratitude for how much Lodi has become a part of their lives and they a part of the City's life. The Salvation Army has existed for 150 years and serves communities in 127 countries, and he encouraged the City and citizens to continue to support the Lodi Salvation Army 3 to ensure Lodi remains liveable and loveable. He acknowledged many of the basic features of the Lodi branch including the shelter, food warehouse, social services, and utility assistance, as well as the programs that are unique to Lodi including the tutoring and mentoring programs, summer day camp, culinary arts training program, the Love Lodi event, committee on homelessness, the Friday homeless fairs, and the successful first annual Peace Walk. Majors Mark and Michelle Thielenhaus, along with their two teenage daughters, will be taking over the Lodi Salvation Army post, and he stated they will represent and lead Lodi well. Captain Ross reported that he and Tory have been tasked to the Salvation Army headquarters as Division Secretaries because the innovation shown in Lodi is needed at the headquarter level and he believed Lodi will serve as a great example of what can be accomplished in other communities. He thanked the Council, staff, and public for welcoming them into the community and allowing them to collaborate with leaders and citizens of the City. Captain Tory Ross expressed her appreciation for the support they received from the City and the community. Mayor Chandler thanked and congratulated Martin and Tory Ross, stating they had a positive impact on the community in such a short time, particularly their leadership on the homelessness issue. Council Member Mounce also thanked the Ross's and wished them luck in their new endeavors, adding that she will miss Captain Ross's steel drumming. Captain Ross stated they will be located in the Sacramento area, which includes Lodi and the San Joaquin valley, and will be forming a workforce development task force. He stated he has already recruited a number of individuals who have been driving forces in this area to assist in this undertaking. Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne expressed appreciation to Captains Martin and Tory Ross and their innovative approach toward bettering this community, adding he enjoyed participating in the Kettle Kick -Off event, golf tournaments, various fundraisers, and the recent Peace Walk. With regard to the homelessness situation, Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne stated that the San Joaquin Grand Jury recommended that cities within the county use Lodi as a template, which is directly related to Captain Ross's efforts through the Lodi Salvation Army. Council Member Nakanishi stated that the Ross's did a tremendous job in Lodi and that he will miss them. Council Member Johnson echoed the earlier comments about the tremendous achievements the Ross's accomplished in Lodi, adding that he would be glad to put the Ross's in touch with individuals at the San Joaquin Partnership, which focuses on job growth in San Joaquin county, who may be able to assist with their new goal in Sacramento. Mike Lusk encouraged Council to approve a sales tax measure for public safety, stating that the Lodi Police and Fire Departments still need to be brought up to full staff and the California Public Employees Retirement debt obligation, which continues to rise, will need to be covered. He expressed concern, however, that the budget does not include funding for two measures and that Council will postpone the public safety measure to the 2018 election cycle. Mr. Lusk further stated that the street lights on Lower Sacramento Road and Kettleman Lane continue to malfunction, adding that it is an extremely busy intersection with competing traffic and the City should look into the matter. Further, the excessive winds that day created a dust storm at the Harney Lane overpass construction site, and he suggested the City ensure a water truck be on site to mitigate the issue. City Manager Schwabauer reported that the ballot measure topic will be on the July 6, 2016 City Council agenda to discuss the two sales tax measures: one for public safety and one for parks. During the budget process, staff was unsure if there would be one or two measures, but he felt confident the budget could absorb the cost of a second measure. With regard to the street lights on Kettleman Lane, Mr. Schwabauer stated the City has no jurisdiction because it is a Caltrans signal. Further, he stated staff will look into having water trucks at the Harney Lane construction 7 site. Mr. Lusk stated he would prefer the ballot measures be separate, to which Mr. Schwabauer responded that it is proposed as two separate measures. E. Comments by the Citv Council Members on Non-Aaenda Items Council Member Mounce stated that over the past month she has driven by the Harney Lane overpass construction site several times at the request of citizens and based on comments she heard about signage and the ingress/egress areas. She reported she was in an accident at the location and requested that staff work with the contractor to block the left turn onto Wimbledon Drive, install additional signage, and ensure better communication. She stated that an individual approached her at the accident site and informed her there have been five accidents there to date. She asked staff to confirm how many accidents have occurred during the construction phase and stressed the area needs to be safer for citizens. Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne provided a report on his committees and activities: 1) The Local Agency Formation Commission discussed the sphere of influence for Lathrop and River Island, and he stated there is an issue regarding the 200 -year flood plan on the waterway, but there may be a way to overcome the obstacle; 2) The San Joaquin Council of Governments (SJCOG) threatened to pull the funding on the Turner Road widening project, from Woodbridge Irrigation District to 1-5, and he spoke against unfunding the project. He is hopeful the funding will remain; 3) SJCOG requested he participate in a conference in Salt Lake City in June and to moderate a discussion panel; and 4) At the Joint City/County Criminal Justice Task Force, Lodi was used as a model on addressing the homelessness issue, adding that the San Joaquin Board of Supervisors and the County Sheriff have also been greatly involved in dealing with the issue. Mayor Chandler stated the report today at the Criminal Justice Task Force was extremely interesting and that New York City's Doe Fund Program, which is a nine-month program for men to help them work and earn money, was also used as an example. He stated the participants are routinely checked for drugs, with only one in 1,000 testing positive; it has a higher success rate on child support payments; and includes culinary and custodial programs and contracts for cleaning major parks. In addition, San Joaquin County Sheriff Steve Moore spoke on repurposing the Honor Farm, which is an underutilized facility, into a temporary housing shelter and incorporating job training and counseling for drug abuse. All San Joaquin mayors attended the meeting and expressed support for the programs. Council Member Mounce congratulated Neighborhood Services Manager Joseph Wood on the groundbreaking ceremony for the Tienda Drive Affordable Housing Project. She explained the project will include 80 units for senior housing, 8 of which will be dedicated for previously homeless seniors. She further reported that Governor Brown dedicated $400 million dollars from the millionaire tax fund to build affordable housing and that Senator de Leon is working on the Housing First Project that will give funding to counties for housing for homeless. She stressed the importance of affordable housing because the salary that the homeless take from small jobs is not enough to afford homes in this market. F. Comments by the Citv Manaaer on Non-Aaenda Items None. G. Public Hearinas G-1 Continued Public Hearing to Consider Adopting Resolution Setting Pre -Approved Engineering News Record Adjustment Index for Wastewater Rates for Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Customers (PW) Notice thereof having been published according to law, an affidavit of which publication is on file in the office of the City Clerk, Mayor Chandler called for the continued public hearing to consider adopting resolution setting pre -approved Engineering News Record adjustment index for wastewater rates for residential, commercial, and industrial customers. 0 Public Works Director Charlie Swimley provided a PowerPoint presentation regarding setting pre - approved wastewater rates. Specific topics of discussion included background, rate adjustments, wastewater comparative rates, wastewater rate comparisons, and wastewater capital. Council Member Johnson questioned if many other communities are going to be faced with rate adjustments due to State mandates, to which Mr. Swimley stated that many entities will be forced to raise rates to address either capital needs or treatment regulations imposed by the State. Council Member Johnson stated Lodi has been dealing with and complaining about both issues for a number of years and wondered why other cities, such as Manteca, are only now feeling the burden. Mr. Swimley stated that the proximity to the Delta can be impactful and every agency and wastewater facility is different. Lodi has an older system that needs upgrades and continual maintenance to meet standards and it has also performed a substantial amount of work to improve the interior infrastructure and pipeline replacement, as well as constructing a state-of- the-art water plant facility. Mr. Swimley stated he believed other cities were only now working to catch up to where Lodi is. In response to Council Member Nakanishi, Mr. Swimley stated that the 2.5 percent rate increase this year and an anticipated 2.5 percent increase next year will fund the capital improvement projects; no money was borrowed. Council Member Mounce stated that the company, Schneider Electric, performed an engineering assessment and believes Lodi is underutilizing its facility. Schneider Electric has a proposal for upgrades that could make the facility run more efficiently and effectively and generate funding. The company believes that the cost to do the project would pay for itself with the savings from the upgrades. Council Member Mounce stated she would not support this item or any other upgrade until staff reviews Schneider Electric's proposal. Council Member Johnson reminded that Council discussed outsourcing the surface water treatment plant years ago, on which Council voted 3-2 to keep the operation in-house including Council Member Mounce. He suggested that, if she wants to revisit the subject of outsourcing, then it should apply to all departments to see if there would be savings. Council Member Mounce countered that she is not proposing to outsource any department and she stands by her original vote; rather, she would like to discuss a construction company that specializes in updating outdated facilities to 21st Century standards. She stated this is similar to any other construction project for which the City would hire a contractor. Mayor Chandler questioned if Schneider Electric could bid on the capital projects, to which City Manager Schwabauer replied that none of the projects are related to Schneider Electric's proposal. The company has proposed a coarse screen to prevent large items entering the wastewater system and causing damage, as well as value engineering suggestions relating to blowers, electricity, low pressure, and operating times. Mr. Schwabauer stated that Mr. Swimley is exploring possibilities with Schneider Electric. Mr. Swimley stated that he met with a representative of Schneider Electric months ago and informed him the City was interested in exploring this further, but at the moment priority projects reflected in the two-year budget cycle, which are not specific to Schneider's proposal, take priority. Mr. Swimley stated he agrees that the City's aeration process could be more efficient and he will continue to meet with the representative within the next six months. Council Member Mounce cautioned that the $4 million proposed for capital improvements should not be spent until it is determined whether or not Schneider Electric's proposal could save the City money and make the plant operate more efficiently. She stated she is generally opposed to rate increases and this minimal increase is a burden on every household because it compounds with other increases, such as electric rates, parking fees, and a potential sales tax increase. She suggested the City forego this year's increase and give citizens a break while the City investigates Schneider Electric's proposal. Mayor Chandler opened the public hearing for public comment. 0 Mike Lusk expressed his opposition to the proposed wastewater rate increase, stating the City also recently increased the water and solid waste rates, which compounds to a 7 to 9 percent increase annually, while those on Social Security have not received adequate increases to keep up with rates. He questioned where the water storage is presently, if it was new for additional capacity, if it was located on the White Slough property, and whether it is enterprise property or City property. With regard to the recycled water storage Proposition 84 grant, he questioned if the increase includes prepaying the money that will be reimbursed and refunded later. Further, he suggested the $3 million project be delayed until the 2017/18 budget year in order to prevent the rate increase this year. Mr. Schwabauer responded that the rate model does not include paying for the water storage plant project twice and then receiving a refund. The facility is funded as a grant project through the State to create water storage and pressure that would prevent salt intrusion into Lodi, as well as eliminating the need to discharge water. The above -ground facility would be located on the western boundary of the White Slough property and have a positive impact on groundwater and wastewater. There being no further public comments, Mayor Chandler closed the public hearing. Council Member Johnson expressed concern about the salt water intrusion project on the west side of the plant, pointing out that salt water will continue to enter the system from north and south of Lodi. He believed this was an expensive project that would not accomplish its goal. Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne made a motion, second by Council Member Johnson, to adopt Resolution No. 2016-109 setting pre -approved Engineering News Record adjustment index for wastewater rates for residential, commercial, and industrial customers. VOTE: The above motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Council Member Johnson, Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne, and Mayor Chandler Noes: Council Member Mounce, and Council Member Nakanishi Absent: None G-2 Public Hearing to Consider Adopting Resolution Approving Amendment No. 3 of the 2015/16 Community Development Block Grant Annual Action Plan (CD) Notice thereof having been published according to law, an affidavit of which publication is on file in the office of the City Clerk, Mayor Chandler called for the public hearing to consider adopting resolution approving Amendment No. 3 of the 2015/16 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Annual Action Plan. Neighborhood Services Manager Joseph Wood provided a PowerPoint presentation regarding 2015/16 CDBG Annual Action Plan Amendment No. 3. Specific topics of discussion included amendment required, project requiring additional funding, source of reallocation, and requested action. Mayor Chandler opened the public hearing for public comment. There being no public comments, Mayor Chandler closed the public hearing. Council Member Nakanishi made a motion, second by Council Member Mounce, to adopt Resolution No. 2016-110 approving Amendment No. 3 of the 2015/16 Community Development Block Grant Annual Action Plan. VOTE: The above motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Council Member Johnson, Council Member Mounce, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne, and Mayor Chandler 10 Noes: None Absent: None G-3 Public Hearing to Consider: 1) Introducing Ordinance Repealing and Re -Enacting Lodi Municipal Code Chapter 17.34 - Signs - in Its Entirety; 2) Introducing Ordinance Repealing Lodi Municipal Code Chapter 9.19 - Political Sign Regulations - in Its Entirety; and 3) Introducing Ordinance Repealing and Re -Enacting Lodi Municipal Code Section 10.44.040, "Parking for Certain Purposes Prohibited - Display of 'For Sale' Signs on Vehicles, Vessels or Trailers - Restrictions," in Its Entirety (CA) Notice thereof having been published according to law, an affidavit of which publication is on file in the office of the City Clerk, Mayor Chandler called for the public hearing to consider: 1) introducing ordinance repealing and re-enacting Lodi Municipal Code Chapter 17.34 - Signs - in its entirety; 2) introducing ordinance repealing Lodi Municipal Code Chapter 9.19 - Political Sign Regulations - in its entirety; and 3) introducing ordinance repealing and re-enacting Lodi Municipal Code Section 10.44.040, "Parking for Certain Purposes Prohibited - Display of 'For Sale' Signs on Vehicles, Vessels or Trailers - Restrictions," in its entirety. Deputy City Attorney John Fukasawa provided a presentation regarding the proposed ordinances. Specific topics of discussion included Supreme Court ruling regarding protected speech and signage; the need to amend City sign and political sign ordinances; temporary sign regulation amendments (i.e. expand the allowable number of signs in residential and commercial/industrial areas and increase allowable sign square footage in commercial/industrial areas); eliminate reference to signage as a penalty for parking to sell a vehicle on a public street; Planning Commission discussion and concerns that new restrictions were being imposed; outreach to concerned groups; and Planning Commission approval without public opposition. In response to Council Member Mounce, City Manager Schwabuaer stated that regulations for campaign signs would be the same as those in the current political sign ordinance. He explained that the size for commercial temporary signs was increased to match the political sign regulations in order to treat the signs the same and match candidate operations in the past. In response to Council Member Mounce, Mr. Fukasawa explained that the proposed regulations prohibit the ability to park a car on the public right of way for the purpose of selling the vehicle; it no longer references the "For Sale" signage. Mr. Schwabauer added this change reflects that speech (i.e. signage) cannot be addressed, but behavior can. In response to Council Member Nakanishi, Mr. Schwabauer explained that the proposal is to suspend the political sign ordinance and treat those signs under the temporary sign ordinance. Mayor Chandler opened the public hearing for public comment. There being no public comments, Mayor Chandler closed the public hearing. Council Member Mounce made a motion, second by Council Member Johnson, to introduce Ordinance No. 1922 repealing and re-enacting Lodi Municipal Code Chapter 17.34 - Signs - in its entirety. VOTE: The above motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Council Member Johnson, Council Member Mounce, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne, and Mayor Chandler Noes: None Absent: None Council Member Mounce made a motion, second by Council Member Johnson, to introduce Ordinance No. 1923 repealing Lodi Municipal Code Chapter 9.19 - Political Sign Regulations - in its entirety. 11 VOTE: The above motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Council Member Johnson, Council Member Mounce, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne, and Mayor Chandler Noes: None Absent: None Council Member Mounce made a motion, second by Council Member Johnson, to introduce Ordinance No. 1924 repealing and re-enacting Lodi Municipal Code Section 10.44.040, "Parking for Certain Purposes Prohibited - Display of 'For Sale' Signs on Vehicles, Vessels or Trailers - Restrictions," in its entirety. VOTE: The above motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Council Member Johnson, Council Member Mounce, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne, and Mayor Chandler Noes: None Absent: None H. Communications - None RECESS At 8:49 p.m., Mayor Chandler called for a recess, and the City Council meeting reconvened at 8:56 p.m. Regular Calendar 1-1 Adopt Resolution Amending Traffic Resolution No. 97-148, Section 6, "Permit Parking," to Increase Zone B Permit Fee from $15 to $54 per Quarter, Modify the Overtime Parking Fine from a Flat Fee of $45 to $45 for First Violation and an Additional $45 for Subsequent Violations, and Increase Fines for Miscellaneous Violations (PW) Public Works Director Charlie Swimley provided a PowerPoint presentation regarding the downtown permit parking fee and overtime parking fine increase. Specific topics of discussion included background of presentations and public meetings regarding parking revenues, costs, and fees; summary of 2014 Shirtsleeve Session presentation, parking fee comparison, alternatives, and recommendations; summary of 2016 Shirtsleeve Session Council feedback; and miscellaneous violation fine increase. Brian Synowicki, downtown business owner, stated that parking is an issue downtown and it is often difficult to find open parking spaces. He expressed support for retaining the current permit parking fee as it is affordable for him as a business owner because he purchases permits for his six employees. An increase as significant as the one proposed would make it difficult for him to cover his employees, let alone those businesses who have as many as 20 employees, and employees living on minimum wage cannot afford $54 permits. He stated that he has observed many cars in the permit parking lots without permits and expressed frustration that he pays for a permit but cannot park in the lot because it is full of vehicles who do not pay to park there. He stated that, if the fee is raised to $54, the City should ensure the lot is for permit parking only, eliminate public parking, and strictly monitor the lots with parking enforcement officers. Mr. Synowicki expressed support for a suggestion that Captain Chris Jacobson mentioned to him previously, which is to bring parking meters back to the downtown streets that would allow motorists to pay directly from their phones and control how long and how much they want to spend on parking. Katie Huipe, who works at a downtown salon, complained that the proposed permit parking fee is a 300 percent increase and a majority of the downtown workers, many of whom are part-time employees, would not be able to afford the increase. She stated that bank employees typically 12 take all of the permit parking spots because they arrive early in the morning, which leaves little to no available parking when salon and restaurant employees arrive for work. She explained that it is common for there to be no parking upon return from lunch and salon clients often leave in the middle of their appointments to check their cars so they are not ticketed. She stressed the need for parking limits that are longer than 90 minutes and stated she believed the parking garage is not a solution because it is dangerous, unsanitary, and inundated with homeless individuals. The employees at the salon feel uncomfortable walking the three to five blocks to the garage late at night. Ms. Huipe further pointed out that tourists tend to spend more time downtown than the 90 - minute parking allows, explaining that research shows visitors spend an average of 2.5 hours downtown at restaurants, shops, and the movies. She agreed with the suggestion of parking meters so motorists can determine how long to park on the street and further proposed the City improve the parking garage and charge a $2 fee that could pay for security guards and a safe, clean garage. Kerrie Kennedy, who owns a downtown salon, agreed with the previous speakers that the proposed fee increase is significant and that the 90 -minute parking limit is inadequate, adding that 3 -hour parking is preferable because employees would have ample time to move their cars and clients would not have to leave during their appointments to move cars. She stated that her salon loses many clients because of parking tickets; the salon employees are self-employed and work varying hours; the bank employees take most, if not all, of the parking spots in the early morning; and all of the salon employees feel unsafe walking to and into the parking garage. Ms. Kennedy showed a photograph of an individual who has been seen loitering downtown and known to carry a dagger. She expressed concern for the safety of her employees. Roslyn Woodhouse, who works at a downtown salon, stated she received six tickets in the last three months despite routinely checking her car to ensure she does not park longer than the 90 - minute limit. She too expressed fear about walking to the garage and parking in the structure. Ms. Woodhouse stated that the salon workers do not begin their shifts as early as the bank employees and cannot secure parking spots during the hours they work. She explained the parking situation is a struggle and is costing her in fines and in the loss of clients. Patrick Byron concurred that there is a safety concern about the downtown area, stating that the salon workers and clients do not feel secure walking to and from the salon or into the parking garage. He suggested any fee increase be small and incremental, which would be less of a burden, and stated that he believed the fines collected by the City would pay for a new parking lot over a 20 -year timeframe. Kathleen Thomas, downtown business owner, stated she relies on the permit parking lot to load and unload supplies for her store and that she has one employee who works on Saturdays only, explaining it would be too expensive to pay for a parking permit at the higher cost when the employee only works one day a week. She commented that the rate increases for water and wastewater were minimal and incremental, yet this proposal is a hefty fee increase. Residents from Hotel Lodi park in the permit parking lot and often have to deal with vandalism to their vehicles. She stated many of those individuals have very little money to pay the increased fee. She stated meters would be preferable over the current 90 -minute parking. Ms. Thomas hoped the City would instead find a more creative way to resolve the parking situation that would be less impactful on Lodi businesses. Geri Turfor, resident at Hotel Lodi, agreed there is a parking problem downtown and explained that some of the hotel residents leave their vehicles in the lots for several days, while others vacate their spots daily and experience difficulty finding spaces upon their return. She stated that her car has been vandalized multiple times. In response to Ms. Turfor, staff confirmed that Bank of America owns the parking lot at its bank location. Ms. Turfor thanked the Lodi Police Department for its assistance in taking care of her parking tickets because she forgot to display her handicapped parking placard. Council Member Mounce stated that Council held many meetings on this topic and received feedback from citizens via correspondence and public testimony and it was evident to her that more work is necessary because the proposed solution is not viable. She suggested the matter 13 be tabled, brought back to a Shirtsleeve Session, and that the same level of outreach occur to encourage the public to participate in the discussion. She believed that the City should make it more attractive for employees to park in the lots and that it improve the situation at the parking garage because it is greatly underutilized. She expressed interest in parking kiosks versus parking meters because the kiosks are spread out along a block, it allows for payment via a credit card, and it would eliminate the need for the 90 -minute parking signs. On -street parking that is more expensive than the permit parking lots may encourage downtown employees to park in the lots instead of on the street. Council Member Mounce agreed with the statement that permit parking lots should be only for permit parking, not public parking, so that those paying the fee are guaranteed a parking space. In response to Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne, Mr. Swimley stated that he did not believe the City was selling more permit parking stickers than there are available parking spaces. Deputy City Manager Jordan Ayers confirmed those permits are sold through the Finance Department and that he would provide Council with the figures. In response to Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne, Captain Jacobson stated he did not have specifics on the crime statistics at the parking garage but confirmed there were no major problems such as assaults; only petty crimes such as burglaries and vehicle damage. Mr. Schwabauer stated that there is video surveillance at the parking structure, but it is monitored by a security company, not the Police Department. Council Member Johnson stated that, at a prior Shirtsleeve Session, it was reported there were only 14 incidents at the garage over a 12 -month period and nothing was violent in nature; they were petty incidents including stolen license plates and damage to vehicles. Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne stated he would prefer parking kiosks over meters because users can pay directly from their smart phones; he is in favor of increasing the permit parking fee because it is less than $1 a day; and he has never felt uncomfortable in the parking garage, although he recognizes why some do. Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne stated he would not be in favor of increasing the permit fee if the parking lots and spaces are not monitored and he would like to hear back from Finance on how many permits are sold versus the number of available spots. Council Member Nakanishi stated he was opposed to the proposal and would not have supported the recommendation. Further, he is not in favor of parking kiosks and would rather have a parking fee; he heard the public loud and clear that it does not want the fee and fines increased; and further agreed that the parking garage needs improvement. He supported tabling the matter and bringing it back for further discussion. Council Member Johnson agreed that further discussion is necessary and suggested it be a 7 p.m. special meeting instead of an early morning Shirtsleeve Session. He stated Council discussed the condition of the parking garage at previous Shirtsleeve Sessions and that many of the incidents were non-violent and not life threatening, pointing out that the statistics do not appear to support the claims of a dangerous location. He questioned if the comments tonight were accurate that the streets of downtown Lodi are unsafe, and Captain Jacobson stated he would pull the information, but he has not heard of violent incidents such as strong arm robbery; it is primarily bar fights late at night. Council Member Johnson stated that reinforces his view that there is not a significant safety issue in the parking garage and the downtown area in general. He further suggested that, those who are concerned, walk with others to feel safer. He stated that a change to the current parking situation is still necessary, but he does not know at this time what those changes will be. Mayor Chandler agreed the matter needs to be brought back and he summarized the comments from the public, which include a potential parking garage fee, 90 -minute parking may not be adequate, and the City consider 3 -hour parking instead. Council Member Mounce stated that, despite the lack of documentable claims of major crimes downtown, many people are fearful because there are homeless individuals sleeping in doorways 14 in the mornings and walking around the streets at night, adding that on her drive to the meeting tonight she witnessed three homeless individuals who were clearly agitated and appeared to be yelling. It is understandable that people feel uneasy walking downtown or entering the parking garage. Council Member Mounce made a motion, second by Council Member Nakanishi, to table the matter relating to the increase in Zone B permit fee from $15 to $54 per quarter, modification of the overtime parking fine from a flat fee of $45 to $45 for first violation and an additional $45 for subsequent violations, and increase in fines for miscellaneous violations for a Special City Council meeting and that the downtown businesses be adequately notified of the meeting. VOTE: The above motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Council Member Johnson, Council Member Mounce, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne, and Mayor Chandler Noes: None Absent: None 1-2 Receive Electric Utility Strategic Planning Customer Survey Report by GreatBlue Research, Inc. (EU) Michael Vigeant, CEO of GreatBlue Research, provided a PowerPoint presentation regarding Lodi Electric Utility (LEU) customer satisfaction study conducted by GreatBlue Research, Inc. Specific topics of discussion included information about GreatBlue, project overview, key study findings, considerations, and aggregate data. Council Member Johnson questioned how the information relating to gas versus electric was differentiated since most of the gas companies are also electric providers in California, to which Mr. Vigeant stated it was a perception -driven question to encourage conversations with individuals participating in the survey and results were driven primarily by safety and price. In response to Council Member Nakanishi, Mr. Vigeant explained that it is unnecessary to survey all customers because the sample customer base was reflective and accurate to the overall population and the method has a 3.5 percent margin for error. GreatBlue surveyed 800 Lodi customers and stands by its result. The survey was done completely by telephone, as well as two focus groups. Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne stated he believed the perceptions on strengths and weaknesses in the system were reflected accurately in the survey. Mr. Vigeant stated it is good to confirm hunches, but it is also important to understand the real priorities and who is speaking the loudest from the customer base. Council Member Mounce stated it was a good report and apologized that she may have been responsible for many of the hang-up calls he experienced because she was unaware that the survey was taking place and told her constituents that she could not confirm if the call was valid or not. She requested that, in the future, Council be reminded when a survey on behalf of the City will take place so they can accurately respond to public concerns. In response to Council Member Mounce, Mr. Vigeant stated the average length of a survey call was seven minutes. Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne made a motion, second by Council Member Johnson, to accept the Electric Utility Strategic Planning Customer Survey Report by GreatBlue Research, Inc. VOTE: The above motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Council Member Johnson, Council Member Mounce, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne, and Mayor Chandler Noes: None Absent: None 15 1-3 Provide Direction Regarding City Council Representation for Electric Utility Strategic Planning (EU) Electric Utility Director Elizabeth Kirkley provided a presentation regarding City Council representation for Electric Utility strategic planning. Specific topics of discussion included facilitation by Hometown Connections staff; open and transparent public meetings; formation of an Advisory Team to include City Manager, Electric Utility Director, and some make-up of Council; policy and direction for a strategic plan; and direction from Council on formation of the Advisory Team. Council Member Nakanishi suggested Mayor Chandler represent the Council on the Advisory Team because he is the Council's representative on the Northern California Power Agency. Council Member Mounce suggested the Advisory Team be kept to two Council Members so as not to trigger the agenda and posting requirements. She concurred with the recommendation of Mayor Chandler and suggested she also serve as she can bring a different perspective to the matter. Council Member Johnson made a motion, second by Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne, to appoint Mayor Chandler and Council Member Mounce as representatives on the Electric Utility Strategic Planning Advisory Team. VOTE: The above motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Council Member Johnson, Council Member Mounce, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne, and Mayor Chandler Noes: None Absent: None 1-4 Provide Direction Regarding Electric Utility Customer Advisory Board (EU) Prior to the presentation, Council Member Mounce stated she would like those from the FaceBook group to be able to participate and express their views and input. Mayor Chandler stated the meeting was noticed per standard practice, pointing out that those interested in Item 1-1 were in attendance. Council Member Mounce countered that staff went door to door to make notification about Item 1-1. In addition, the late hour prevents many from remaining at the meeting to participate, and she suggested the item should be tabled to another date. Business Development Manager Adam Brucker provided a presentation regarding a potential Electric Utility customer advisory board. Specific topics of discussion included outreach to Northern California Power Agency and American Public Power Agency entities; five examples of varying types of boards; and request for further direction from Council. Council Member Nakanishi stated that an advisory board would require a significant level of education on the subject matter and that Council realistically serves as the advisory board. He felt that an advisory board was unnecessary, unless Council Member Mounce wanted a board that could provide information to her that can be relayed back to Council. Council Member Mounce stated she has a contact on the EI Centro Advisory Board and that, although it is a different community make-up than Lodi, it works well and further stated the Stockton advisory water group is addressing a struggling utility that is working to overcome a failed outsourcing. The purpose of a committee is to foster City input and provide education and transparency. She favored the example that members appointed to the board have terms that coincide with the Council Member who appointed them and stated such a board should mirror the Stockton advisory group. Council Member Mounce stated a board could advise Council on a 16 regular basis, such as quarterly or yearly, and would build camaraderie and trust in the utility. Mayor Pro Tempore Kuehne stated that, as a member of the advisory water group in Stockton, there was a two-year learning curve and a lot to learn about stormwater, wastewater, and drinking water; it took a long time to get up to speed on the subject. He believed the strategic report Council just received points out where weaknesses are regarding customer satisfaction and the City should address those issues and revisit the satisfaction level in a year or two before appointing an advisory group. Council Member Johnson added that many of the issues that were brought forward were customer service related and staff has already taken steps to address many of those. It is a work in progress that will continue on an on-going basis. He pointed out that there was previously a room full of people who were upset and demanded a review board, yet no one is in attendance for this discussion. He believed the major concern of billing was addressed and that the concerns were heard and steps were taken to address them. Mayor Johnson stated he was not in favor of a review board. Mayor Chandler stated that the strategic plan and survey point to areas where communication needs to improve. He agreed that it can take up to two years to get up to speed on complicated issues, using his appointment to the Northern California Power Agency as an example. Citizens have the opportunity to come to Council and voice their concerns and frustrations, but he believed it would be a burden on staff to service a committee. Council Member Mounce stated it was clear the advisory board would not move forward, but she stressed the point of such a committee is to build and foster community input. Council often asks for citizen participation and this is an opportunity for additional involvement that Council is ignoring. Instead of making citizens wait at a meeting for hours to voice their concerns to Council, they could express their views to an advisory board that could bring solutions to Council. Mike Lusk stated he was originally supportive of creating an advisory board to Council regarding the utility concerns, but he no longer feels the same because he believes Council will vote its own mind and the citizens do not have a strong enough guiding force to determine how Council votes. He pointed out that Council often votes 4-1 or 3-2 and citizens walk away frustrated. He believed citizens would be even more frustrated if there were an advisory board that put forth effort to no avail. Mr. Lusk further stated it was a waste of taxpayer dollars to hire a consultant to perform a study when there are competent administrators in Lodi who can perform the task. Ordinances - None K. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the City Council, the meeting was adjourned at 11:03 p.m. ATTEST: Jennifer M. Ferraiolo City Clerk 17