Tuesday, February 7, 2006

The council approved a $1.56 million contract with Moore Iacofano Goltsman to update the city's General Plan, which guides all development and land use decisions. The vote passed 5-1, with Bates voting no.

The council passed new rules requiring special permits for medical marijuana dispensaries in commercial zones. The ordinance limits where dispensaries can operate and requires them to get city approval first, passing 5-1 with McLaughlin voting no.

A $75,000 contract with the Richmond Art Center was approved unanimously to distribute neighborhood public art mini-grants. The program will help residents and community groups create murals, sculptures, and other public art projects throughout the city.

The council unanimously approved increasing a special counsel contract with attorney Mary A. Renfro by $50,000. The contract handles specialized legal matters that require outside expertise.

The council approved 1 routine item on consent, including support for AC Transit's request for more equitable transportation funding. The council also unanimously supported the Green Wave Economic Development Roundtable scheduled for February 24.