Tuesday, June 2, 2009

The council approved a tenant protection ordinance that prevents evictions during foreclosure proceedings. The law protects renters when banks or new owners take over their buildings through foreclosure. Councilmember Bates abstained while all others voted yes.

The council hired North Star consulting to create a new city logo and branding for the city. The firm will hold community meetings to gather input on Richmond's identity. The vote was 4-0 with Rogers, Viramontes, and Lopez abstaining.

A solar-powered circulation system was approved for Hilltop Lake to reduce algae problems. Pond Solutions will install the system to improve water quality by circulating the lake water. The council also extended a contract with DP Security to monitor restrooms at 7 parks.

The council supported three state bills to reduce plastic waste, including one to ban polystyrene takeout containers statewide. Councilmember Bates abstained from this environmental vote. A new tax district was also created for Marina Bay property owners to fund neighborhood landscaping and lighting maintenance.

The council approved 1 routine item on consent, including directing staff on transferring $2 million from Chevron to the city. Discussion of developing unused land around Richmond BART station and changing city council meeting times was continued to a future meeting.