Minutes 1998 0803 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Minutes -City of San Leandro City Council and Page 9 San Leandro Redevelopment Agency Joint Meeting -August 3, 1998 He further echoed Tom Guarino's concerns regarding the calculation of wastewater charges as they relate to small businesses. He added that he is in favor of being creative and trying to hold the price down. He would recommend tabling this issue because the people have not had ample time to respond to the mailouts that were received. Council Member Glaze commented that many of the Council have stated the same concerns that members of the public have voiced this evening. The notices should have been targeted. He indicated street sweeping and storm-water runoff service fees are not working. The process, itself, given the number of protests, speaks loudly. He feels there is a need to look at garbage and sewer being served by someone else, and the issue should be reviewed now and not later. Council Member Loeffler commented that salary costs drive the fees up. He echoed Council Member Glaze's comments. He added that the City has taken pride inbeing a fizll-service City but may now be faced with having to look at privatizing services. He indicated the dumping fees have increased dramatically. He further stated he believes the communication plan to the public regarding this issue was flawed. Council Member Grant commented on curbside service and asked how long it would be cost effective and if the rates would hold steady. She stated she feels the two issues need to be considered separately. There is also a need for input regarding street sweeping, given the comments made this evening. She indicated her concern with those that are on fixed incomes and stated she would like to review the privatization of services, as well. Council Member Lothrop stated some people who took it upon themselves to go out into the community regarding these issues should feel proud about raising awareness. She feels staff did not do their job in appropriately clarifying the issues and educating the public about the proposed increases. She also feels there is a need to look at the privatization of services. She also noted there is a need to be creative in looking at lowering costs. She further stated that people in Seagate and other condominiums should not be charged for street sweeping. She said the amount of money spent on these services does matter to her. She further commented on the inconvenience created when the sewer pipes crumbled on Marina Boulevard and stressed the need to invest in the sewers in this community. Mayor Young commented that very clear messages have been sent to staff this evening. She recognized the timeline, as it relates to putting these fees on the tax rolls, is crucial. She feels there is a need to look at alternative ways to hold costs down -perhaps privatization of services. She expressed concerns, also, with the aging pipes throughout the City. Mayor Young added that there is a need to be