Tuesday, October 6, 2009

The council directed staff to seek input from the Design Review Board and Planning Commission on the Point Molate casino project before making final decisions. The measure passed 5-1, with Bates voting no.

The council approved a ban on public urination and defecation throughout the city, creating a new law where none existed before. Police will now be able to cite violators with fines under the new ordinance.

Several other public safety measures passed unanimously, including a ban on open alcohol containers on streets and sidewalks, though Mayor McLaughlin abstained from that vote. The council also set maximum fares that taxicab companies can charge passengers to protect riders from price gouging.

The council approved a contract with Malachi Construction for miscellaneous concrete repairs around the city over the next two years. They also hired a consultant to create a strategic action plan for the Recreation Department and granted city employees 2 additional years of retirement credit.

The council approved 1 routine item on consent, including sending a letter to the Governor supporting Senate Bill 406 on land use and environmental quality.