Tuesday, January 20, 2009

The council approved increasing public funding for candidates running for city office, passing 5-2 with Lopez and Viramontes voting no. This change raises the amount of public money available to help qualified candidates run for mayor and city council.

A new policy allowing board and commission members to serve up to 90 extra days after their terms expire was approved 5-1, with Viramontes voting no and Lopez abstaining. The extension gives the city more time to find replacements while letting current members continue serving.

The council unanimously approved hiring Malcolm Pirnie to complete a required storm water pollution study. This study fulfills part of a legal settlement with environmental group Baykeeper and will analyze pollution sources while recommending solutions.

Several governance changes passed unanimously, including new policy direction for the Design Review and Planning Commission, electing a vice mayor for 2025, and creating a new graffiti removal process. The council also moved public comment to earlier in meetings so residents can speak before major hearings instead of waiting until late.

Other unanimous approvals included developing a 3-to-5 year plan to prevent Richmond school closures and creating a pilot rebate program for solar water heating systems. Discussion of amending city rules for cell towers and wireless equipment was continued to a future meeting.