Tuesday, January 8, 2008

The council approved an $828,000 equipment purchase for police and fire departments, including new 800 MHz radios ($479,670) and portable radios ($148,799). The equipment was part of an 11-item consent calendar that also included a $96,000 contract with Ameripride for uniform services.

A controversial Canyon Oaks II hillside housing project was formally approved despite concerns about steep terrain development. The project passed 5-2, with Mayor McLaughlin and Councilmember Butt voting against the hillside residential development that had been initially approved in 2007.

The council approved a mixed-use building at San Pablo Avenue containing 5 homes and commercial space after reviewing an appeal. The 9,000 square foot project with underground parking passed with only Mayor McLaughlin dissenting.

Staff was directed to find dock space for a maritime jobs training program called the Anchor Program. The program trains Richmond residents for maritime careers but needs city dock locations for a one-year trial to expand its services.

The council hired Psomas Dodson for a $300,000 stormwater study and purchased 7 thermal imaging cameras for the fire department at $65,231. Roberto Reyes was also appointed to the Police Commission to serve until 2011.