Tuesday, October 21, 2008

The council voted down a proposal to give city employees up to 5 hours of monthly paid leave to volunteer in Richmond schools. The measure failed with Bates, McLaughlin, and Viramontes voting no, while Butt and Rogers abstained.

The council approved 12 routine items on consent, including a $309,055 contract with California Skateparks to design and build a new skatepark at Nicholl Park. Other notable approvals included a $228,000 emergency generator installation and $47,757 for BKF Engineers to manage Safe Route to School projects.

Several measures passed to address foreclosed and vacant properties that banks abandon without maintenance. The council approved civil fines up to $1,000 per day for unmaintained foreclosed homes and expanded city enforcement powers over vacant properties. Updated property maintenance laws will clarify what conditions count as public nuisances.

The council approved strengthened financial oversight with expanded audits and purchase reviews, with only Butt voting no. The council also condemned a police union mailer and supported a community peace group, and approved guidelines for a new Emergency Grant Program for residents during crises.

A gift basket business permit with wine sales at 1099 Essex Avenue was upheld after a resident appeal, passing 5-2 with McLaughlin and Thurmond voting no. The council also approved creating a Safer Schools Program with local school districts and directed staff to prioritize Richmond construction companies as general contractors on city projects.