Tuesday, December 6, 2016

The council approved a tenant relocation assistance law requiring landlords to pay moving costs when they displace tenants for renovations or demolitions. The measure passed 4-2, with Mayor Butt and Pimplé voting no despite no organized opposition during public comment.

The council adopted the Richmond Bay Specific Plan to replace outdated development rules for the waterfront area. Martinez abstained from the vote, while the remaining six members approved the updated zoning and building requirements unanimously.

A resolution reaffirming sanctuary city policies and condemning hate crimes passed unanimously in response to the 2016 presidential election results. The council also approved a fair housing law requiring affordable housing providers to consider applicants with criminal records, with Pimplé abstaining.

The council approved 16 routine items on consent, including a $1.6 million contract for library books and catalog systems and hiring Reverend Donnell Jones to oversee the Richmond Ceasefire program for $60,000 per year. Other notable approvals included $100,000 to increase the Antea Group contract for Chevron project software.

Discussion of a neighborhood permit parking program and Personnel Board appointments was continued to a future meeting, along with first quarter budget performance reviews.