Tuesday, March 3, 2015

The council updated city laws governing business signs and billboards, passing the changes 4-3 with Myrick, Beckles, and Bates voting no. The new rules modernize outdated regulations that affect how businesses can display signage.

A $389,660 final payment to NEMA Construction for completing Richmond Parkway lighting renovation was approved unanimously. This payment covers additional work beyond the original $680,000 contract to upgrade street lighting.

The council approved 11 routine items on consent, including a $615,000 agreement with San Pablo to redesign San Pablo Avenue for bikes and pedestrians. Other notable consent items included creating a new Deputy Fire Chief position and setting the City Clerk salary at $97,044 annually.

Several personnel salary ranges were established unanimously, including setting the Fire Chief monthly pay between $11,800 and $18,417 and raising the Crime Analysis Assistant range to $4,588-$5,413 per month. The council also approved the mid-year budget adjustment for fiscal year 2014-15.

The council voted 6-1 to support state bill SB 203, which would require more transparency in police misconduct cases, with only Bates opposing. A joint meeting with the school board was scheduled to discuss bond measures and district finances."}