Tuesday, October 4, 2005

The council approved $962,000 to replace sewers and repave streets at the Easter Hill housing project. The funding includes $867,000 from sewer bonds for new sewer lines and $95,000 in gas tax money to repave portions of 29th and 30th streets.

The council passed two major zoning changes despite some opposition. A ban on most ground-floor businesses except retail in three shopping areas was approved 6-2, with Butt and McLaughlin voting no. The council also required special permits for large retail stores and major developments, passing 8-1 with Bates dissenting.

Two employment laws were extended through April 2006 over Councilmember Butt's objections. The Business Opportunity Ordinance requiring equal hiring and contracting opportunities passed 7-1. The local hiring requirement for city contractors also passed by the same margin.

The council approved 4 routine items on consent, including a $111,192 job training program for Richmond residents and a $65,000 youth education agreement with the school district. Traffic safety improvements for Chanslor Avenue at 8th Street were approved unanimously, including stop signs, crosswalks, and speed bumps.