Minutes 1996 0903 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

Minutes - City of San Leandro City Council and Page - 9 - Redevelopment Agency Meeting - September 3, 1996 7. OPEN FORUM Open Forum is limited to 3 minutes maximum per speaker, 15 minutes total. 7.1 Candace Knight, 720 Dutton Avenue, said she has been active throughout the community and served on several Boards. She cited an incident on Victoria Circle regarding youths trying to obtain liquor. She said children do not have much to do in the area and the rink was a benefit to children. She asked that they give the rink a chance for a second year. 7.2 Dana Johnson disagreed with the Council's decision regarding the ice rink. He said there was a great benefit to the children. He said this was not a profit issue and that it gained great identity for the entire community. He said $60,000 is not much to spend for the benefit. He encouraged them not to close their minds and to open the rink. 7.3 Tom Guarino, Chamber of Commerce, noted that the Council had a good discussion about the ice rink. He said it involves both civic pride and fiscal responsibility. He noted that other areas could be used, such as the old Costco site. In reference to the Network Conference Center, he is in support of the project and said the benefits outweigh the risks. He said he had sign -up sheets for the Business Walk. 7.4 Lou Filipovich, 15376 Laverne Drive, mentioned the liability- and physical- injury issues about the ice rink, as well as self insurance vs. insurance. He cited the Raiders and the Oakland Coliseum. 7.5 Dan Ruff suggested the old Costco site be used for inside soccer leagues -- the sport is very popular. Council Member Galvan commented that the City Council is extremely committed to youth. They are interested in looking for permanent solutions for youth, not just for two months of the year. Last year's decision was based on economic development. The rink was not necessarily good for economic development but was a great benefit to the youth. Council Member Glaze agreed with the comments and noted the commitment to long- range, youth activities. He emphasized long -term solutions with corporate support. He wants community support for youths. Council Member Loeffler noted the Council's commitment to youth. He said they are awaiting the Parks Master Plan and other plans. He said he was encouraged by the suggestion of turning old buildings into sports facilities.