Tuesday, February 21, 2023

The council unanimously approved a 45-day freeze on new building permits requiring sewer connections at Keller Beach due to capacity problems. 14 residents spoke about the sewer system, raising concerns about transparency, alternative solutions, and health impacts from noxious gases. The emergency pause stops new construction that would strain the already overloaded system.

A fence encroachment agreement for 130 E. Scenic Avenue was approved 6-1, with Bana voting no. 9 residents commented on the homeowner's request to build a fence extending into city property. The city had previously required removal of an earlier fence built without permission.

The council unanimously authorized staff to negotiate details for creating a shared public bank with Berkeley and Oakland. Richmond joined the other cities in 2022 as founding members of the planned 3-city bank. A retired banker has created business plans and is ready to work on financing details.

The council approved 22 routine items on consent, including a $250,000 increase for fire department protective equipment and a $55,000 increase for affordable housing legal work. Several items were continued to future meetings, including installing 30 automated license plate reading cameras throughout the city.