Minutes 1996 0401 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Minutes - San Leandro City Council Meeting - April 1, 1996 Page - 4 - PUBLIC COMMENTS (continued) B. Rick Richards, 335 Peralta Avenue, said Friends of San Leandro Creek (Friends) is looking forward to the reopening and rededication of Root Park on April 27th, the same day as the Friends festival. He said the park improvements will benefit students studying science. He said he would be presenting an American flag for the park on behalf of Friends and Congressman Stark. He said today was the first day of the food drive for the San Leandro and Davis Street shelters and noted the organizations participating in the drive. Mr. Richards also spoke regarding Target Stores' "Good Neighbor" program. He said, on April 13th, Target Stores' employees and City employees will volunteer in a program to clean up yards at the home of a 100- year -old San Leandro resident. The store will donate flowers; and the Davis Street transfer station will donate toters, compost, and soil amendments. The cleanup will be followed by a barbecue sponsored by the City. C. James Begier, Begier Buick, said his company has been doing business in San Leandro for 66 years. He said $500,000 for a $1.6 million project is outrageous. He asked on what basis taxes would be assessed. The City Manager explained that tax assessment is a function of the Alameda County Assessor's Office; the Finance Director prepares a tax estimate for the full amount. Mr. Begier said $500,000 is less than one -third of what the project is worth. He said he was not allowed to go on Marina Boulevard, and his business may be in jeopardy. He said the project will only bring in $120,000 per year. The City Manager said City staff contacted every auto dealer in San Leandro, including Mr. Begier, and discussed their relocation or improvement plans. He said Mr. Batarse is personally guaranteeing $20 million in sales; his current sales are $40 million per year. He will make up the difference if revenue is below $200,000 per year. Mr. Oliver said the City has encouraged other auto dealers in San Leandro to stay in touch with staff regarding their plans and will continue to extend a hand. He said a letter was received from Mr. Begier requesting an opportunity to bid on the properties, and the City indicated if the current letter of intent does not come to fruition, Mr. Begier would be able to participate. Council Member Myers noted that a minimum of $200,000 revenue to the City is guaranteed, not $125,000. Vice Mayor Kerr asked if the Redevelopment Agency has plans to do more auto mall -type businesses on Marina Boulevard. The City Manager said the City does not target vacant parcels for particular uses, but responds to interested businesses. The City is open to any business that expresses interest in locating on Marina Boulevard. No interest other than Mr. Begier's has been expressed for Marina Boulevard at this time.