Minutes 1996 0916 - Laserfiche WebLink

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• Minutes - City of San Leandro City Council and Page - 5 - Redevelopment Agency Meeting - September 16, 1996 4.5 Diana Compo, 26073 Hickory Avenue, Hayward, spoke on increasing taxes and gun control. She said she has a background in finance, and her concern relates to increasing taxes at any level for any reason. She said increased taxes drive businesses out of San Leandro. She said she opposes the tax ordinance. She said this takes away the right of a law- abiding citizen to buy guns; she wants to feel safe and follow the laws. She talked about the U.S. Constitution and a community in Florida where guns are readily available. 4.6 Mark Stromberg, 1340 Burkhart, a KSJS Radio Commentator, said there is a social contract between citizens and the policy makers. He said the people demand that the policy makers protect them. He said they have failed; they are taking away rights and freedoms. He said they are going after small business owners. He stated he is against the "tyranny" and urged the City Council to vote against the ordinance. 4.7 Sherry Larson, 555 Victoria Court, said she has been a resident for 35 years and thanked the Council for supporting the gun ordinances. She said gun violence is a public- health issue, and the costs to society are great. She recommended 5 -6% for guns and ammunition only, but 3% for all other items. 4.8 Mayor Shirley Dean, 2180 Milvia, Berkeley, Representing the Corridor Project and Partnership, said she is dedicated to finding solutions to gun violence, especially involving children. The issue can no longer be ignored, a regional approach is needed, and programs are needed. She noted that 30 -40% of juvenile crimes in Berkeley are conducted by juveniles from outside the City. She said this is why several counties are working together in an effort toward crime prevention. She said the gross- receipts tax is one of the four recommended ordinances used in other cities. She said the Legal Community Against Violence offers pro -bono legal services to cities in case of legal challenges. 4.9 Michael Curran, 19992 Anita Avenue, Castro Valley, said this was a desecration of the Constitution. He said Traders offers a chance to buy guns, and the Council should go after criminals instead. He said in "conceal- and - carry" states, crime is going down. 4.10 Tom Guarino, Chamber of Commerce, said the businesses are concerned about crime, as well as tax policies. He noted that an individual, special tax is discriminatory to small businesses. He suggested alternatives based upon the staff report, such as looking at other revenue sources for these programs. He noted that they support a school bond. He said the Chamber applauds the Council for their economic development work but asked them to oppose this tax.