Tuesday, July 17, 2012

The council approved an $1.75 million contract increase with ENVIRON to prepare a revised environmental report for Chevron's hydrogen project. This was part of 10 routine items approved on consent, which also included a $250,000 contract with EBMUD for wastewater planning.

A proposal directing the city attorney to investigate possible violations of public speakers' civic rights at recent meetings passed 4-3, with McLaughlin and Butt voting no. The council wants a legal opinion on whether violations occurred during public comment periods.

The council created a Downtown Richmond Property and Business Improvement District where property owners will pay annual assessments to fund improvements beyond normal city services. The measure passed 6-1 with Boozé dissenting.

A $1.36 million federal grant from the Department of Homeland Security and FEMA was accepted unanimously to establish a Marine Response Program. The grant requires purchasing specialized boats from Moose Boats and jet drives for emergency response.

The council authorized the city to add unpaid fines for code violations and property maintenance problems as special property tax assessments on owners' tax bills. This revenue collection method passed 6-1 with Boozé voting no.