Minutes 1995 0905 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

Minutes - San Leandro City Council Meeting - September 5, 1995 Page - 8 - PUBLIC HEARINGS (continued) She said the City has an opportunity to respond to the crisis of domestic violence. She said when women and children are traumatized, having to stay in a 30-bed dormitory adds to the trauma. A safe house can provide a smaller, more intimate setting, which is safer and emotionally better. She said the State has provided $27 million Statewide to increase services for battered women. She discussed statistics provided by the Police Chief, indicating a dramatic increase in domestic violence calls, and said there is nowhere to send people. She said Group Residential is currently permitted in the RD and RM Districts, but the Shelter has been unable to find suitable property there. The property they have located is in the P District. She said this will be a hidden location, with 24-hour staff and an alarm system. She noted the existing, larger shelter has not caused any disruption to the neighborhood. Council Member Perry noted the closest shelters in Alameda County are in Oakland, Fremont, and the Tri Valley; and they are usually at capacity. Council Member Loeffler said these kinds of cases come to his attention through the school . He said this kind of use is not placed in a neighborhood without professional help and supervision. Harold Kitzmann said he is in favor of the proposal . He said he realizes the importance of keeping the location confidential and said there is a need in the community. There being no further comments from the public, on motion of Council Member Polvorosa, seconded by Council Member Loeffler, and carried by a majority vote (7) , the Public Hearing was closed. Council Member Galvan asked what type of conditions would be applied, since the location would be confidential and there would be no prior opportunity for people in the area to comment. Staff said the intention is to permit the use for a limited period of time, then review it, and address any problems. Council Member Galvan said the change did appear to be driven by a single application; Mr. Emslie said this is correct, but it has planning merit because the P District is farther away from residential areas. The City Council further discussed the types of conditions that could be placed on the use and recognized the need for a facility and the uniqueness of the need for confidentiality.