Minutes 1997 0616 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

Minutes - City of San Leandro City Council, Page - 6 - San Leandro Economic Development Agency, San Leandro Industrial Development Authority, San Leandro Parking Authority, San Leandro Public Financing Authority, and San Leandro Redevelopment Agency Joint Meeting - June 16, 1997 The Mayor commented that this Council takes the issue of a possible earthquake in San Leandro very seriously. She noted, in recognition of that, the Home Strengthening Program, which is a "do-it-yourself" program, was .instituted on the very good advice of staff. She also acknowledged there is not enough money in the City budget to do all the retrofitting; but, the thought was to have a program to allow people to take advantage of doing some of the work themselves and making it a cost-effective measure. City Manager John Jermanis responded that staff is aware of the issue, and the Building Department has been working with the County Assessor's Office to identify properties of concern. The City is working first with unreinforced masonry buildings and soft-story structure apartment buildings, but the City does recognize the importance of the housing issues, as well. Staff will continue to review options that might be available to homeowners. Mr. Rosenga expressed further that there should be more publicity on the issue for homeowners. Vice Mayor Loeffler commented that, the issue is: Does the City have a plan? He suggested we come back with a systematic plan over time. He referenced problems experienced by the Northridge community. The City Manager assured the Council that staff is working on elements of such a plan. Council Member Glaze said he agreed with Vice Mayor Loeffler and Mr. Rosenga in that there is a need to set this issue as a priority. He suggested that, as Council looks at Block Grant funding, it is important to look at those properties and citizens that might be in need. He added that it is important to give more than just encouragement to those in need. He also asked if there are people available to give residents advice. He concluded by stating that the money invested today, if there is a disaster, will look like peanuts. Mayor Corbett interjected that there is a need to tie in the issue of mobile homes and how they are bolted into their foundations. Carey Walker, 471 Santa Monica, Mission Bay Mobilehomeowners` Association, addressed the Council, stating the budget will pose trouble down the line with fees, assessments, taxes, and, especially, the Clean Water Act. He feels the Clean Water Act is "taxation without ~~ representation. He added that many of the merchants will not vote for new fees and assessments. He also commented that he does not think the water run-off tax will pass. Mr. Walker expressed concern that Congressman Stark could not find the City of San Leandro anywhere in the Clean Water Act. He concluded by stating there is only one city in the United States that cleans the rainwater runoff and that is Boston.