Tuesday, February 21, 2012

The council approved loan agreements with PG&E for city building and streetlight energy upgrades. The financing allows the city to repay the costs through monthly utility bills instead of upfront payments. Councilmember Butt recused himself from the vote.

The council approved 5 routine items on consent, including a $58,000 trencher for Parks and Landscape Division and rejecting all bids for Via Verdi road repair worth $6.7 million. A $39,500 contract was approved to hire a consulting firm to create firefighter trainee exams.

The council unanimously approved a formal resolution welcoming Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory to Richmond. The lab recently decided to establish operations in the city, and the resolution creates a commemorative gift for the announcement ceremony.

The council unanimously passed a resolution opposing toxic rodent poisons that harm children, pets, and wildlife. The city took a formal stance against certain rat and mouse poisons sold in Richmond stores.

The council approved $5,000 from the city budget for the 3rd annual Native American Pow Wow happening June 23, 2012. The council also agreed to send a letter supporting the local school district's request for independence from state oversight.

Discussion of a contract with Precision Concrete Cutting for sidewalk repairs and changes to meeting procedures was continued to a future meeting.