May 30 2016

PARK COMMISSION: Activities and Reports, June 1

Park Commission Agenda Wednesday, June 1, 2016, 5:30 p.m. City Council Chambers, 120 Vista Avenue, Piedmont. The meeting is open to the public and will be broadcast.

~~~~~~~~ AGENDA ~~~~~~~~

  1. Approval of Park Commission Meeting Minutes May 4, 2016*See below.
  2. Update on the CIP Committee Report to City Council May 21, 2016* See below.
  3. Update on Trident Maple Planting for Piedmont Park
  4. Update on the Hampton Park Master Plan
  5. Update on Linda Kingston Triangle
  6. Monthly Maintenance Report: Park, Open Space and Street Tree Update for the Month of May

Materials related to an item on this agenda submitted to the Park Commission are available for public inspection in the Public Works Department during normal business hours.

Update on the CIP Committee Report to City Council May 21, 2016

The CIP Committee is a committee appointed by the City Council and consists of four members from the general public, the chairs of the City’s Park and Recreation Commissions and the chair of Piedmont Beautification Foundation. At their first meeting, City Administrator Paul Benoit and Councilman Bob McBain discussed the current and future direction of the committee’s responsibilities and the committee’s outreach efforts to compile a list of new capital projects that would be considered by the Council as funding opportunities became available, whether through City funding sources or grants.

The Committee reconvened in February 2016 with Bobbe Stehr as the Chairperson and held (5) publicly noticed meetings with a tour of proposed CIP sites on May 7, 2016. The committee conducted extensive outreach process, inviting participation by individuals, citizen groups, commissioners and City staff. The process included an on-line proposal form on the City’s website. The Committee also developed a list of criteria used to evaluate all proposed projects and provide specific conclusions with recommendations for future planning.

The final report was presented to the City Council during their budget workshop on May 21, 2016.

The following is a brief summary of the project recommendations for the top five projects, listed in order of priority with estimated costs.

1. Coaches Field Master Plan $50,000:
• The goal of the master plan would be to assess the options for expanding the playfield area to include an under 14 -sized soccer field, study the options for artificial turf and the technical requirements for drainage, and research “dark sky” LED field lighting

2. Beach Tot Lot/ ADA Compliant Howard Ave. Entrance and Restroom Facilities: Master Plan $30,000.
• The goal of the master plan would be to review existing facilities, solicit community input and propose a new layout for improved recreational opportunities at the existing Tot Lot area, the unused area around the restroom facilities, and the space between the Oakland Ave. Bridge and Beach playfield.

3. Piedmont Community Hall: Entry Court Renovations $200,00-300,000
• New improvements would include enhancement to the entry court for ceremonial and civic events, improved event lighting, revised and expanded parking and ADA access.

4. Piedmont Community Hall: Rear Balcony and Amphitheater Architectural Master Plan $50,000
• The goal of the architectural master plan would be to study existing uses and recommend options for the building which would include expanding the terraces and rear balcony and renovating the amphitheater. Building and landscape renovations would improve the rental opportunities and expand options for community use.

5. Oakland Avenue Bridge- Complete the String of Lights $40,000.

  • A proposal was submitted by, Wm. Blackwell, to add two new light standards, matching existing light standards and infill the string of lights on both sides of the bridge.
  • The CIP committee also suggested that the safety issues on the bridge and pedestrian crossing be included in the future implementation of the Bike/Pedestrian Plan or as part of the Master Plan for the Beach Playfield project.

~~~~  DRAFT – ABBREVIATED PIEDMONT PARK COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES of Wednesday, May 4, 2016 ~~~~~~~~

Chairperson Totsubo called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.  Present: Chairperson Jamie Totsubo; Vice Chairperson Jonathan Levine; Commissioners Betsy Goodman, Jim Horner, John Lenahan, Brian Mahany and Patty Siskind

Staff Present: Parks and Project Manager Nancy Kent, Public Works Supervisor Dave Frankel and Public Works Director Chester Nakahara

Also Present: Councilmember Robert McBain

Alex Chueh, Senior at Piedmont High School requested there be 1 or 2 lights around the dog park, specifically around the softball field.

Samuel Cheng, Senior at Piedmont High School, echoed the previous speaker’s request and also suggested lights leading up to Wildwood Avenue, as there are many people coming back from sports and they must walk in darkness.

Kalen Davison, Senior at Piedmont High School spoke regarding the tennis courts at Beach School, specifically the nets. He said the nets are well below the regulation height and considering they are used by many people, he asked that they be checked every few months.

Kaelli Thiel and Madison Tenney proposed installing a drinking fountain at the dog run at Dracena Park.

Parks and Project Manager Nancy Kent presented a request from residents near Lorita Ave Tree Planting Request on Lorita Avenue to add additional street trees and remove acacia trees on the street. Ms Kent also provided information on a 2012 petition from a resident at 32 Lorita Avenue asking the City to plant street trees along the end of Lorita Avenue.

The Park Commission heard this request and also heard from adjacent neighbors. Originally in the strip there were American Elm trees planted and residents at 208 Ramona received permission to remove them, but there was significant sucker growth afterwards. The City in managing that created a hedge of elm suckers. Those suckers were damaging properties on Ramona and the City removed the elms and replaced the planting area with low Agapanthus.

In 2012, after review by Commissioners, the end results were that several Commissioners were going to research drought-tolerant shrubs in lieu of planting street trees or possibly a Bay Friendly landscape installation and at that point there was no additional action taken except that the Agapanthus were installed.

Since that time, the fence which residents did not like at the end of Lorita had been replaced and the Agapanthus has been watered by one of the adjacent neighbors. Before the Commission today is a petition to have the City review existing street trees which are Ginkgoes and determine whether they can infill as well as remove the Agapanthus and put street trees in that strip.

Staff was on site talking with neighbors and held an informal meeting with the owner of 36 Monticello who volunteered to pay for 5 new street trees on the Lorita frontage of his property. Even though the petition did not include this address, since it takes up half of that side of Lorita Avenue, the Commission can consider whether it wants to accept the donation of 5 street trees and install them.

Regarding the existing number of trees, Ms. Kent stated on the east side of the street approximately every home could handle 2 trees which is the existing pattern.

Staff has also received additional correspondence, one from a resident at 28 Lorita Avenue with a pledge to water anything that is planted in the non- irrigated replacement strip. Also in the packet are two resident letters whose rear yard borders on the end of Lorita and they sent comments with concerns that if street trees were planted at the end of the street, it would add shade to their rear yard. They asked that plant materials be installed that would only rise to the height of the fence.

Staff suggested a substitution in the packet and said several residents are present to speak.

Public testimony was received from:.

Maggie Spencer, Devan Joseph, Andrew Coleman, and Patricia Makinen voiced their support for the petition. They stated their belief that the addition of new trees and removal of acacia trees to Lorita Avenue will beautify the street and give it more of a neighborhood feeling.

Ann Hall, 208 Ramona Avenue, voiced concern about the planting of new trees due to issues with backyard sunlight and root infiltration. She stated her familiarity with a dwarf crape myrtle which would be great and believes they would be watered, but she asked that no trees be planted which would affect the integrity of their property.

The Commission discussed the request, focusing on whether ginkgos are the appropriate tree for the area and how the trees would grow. After discussion, the consensus was reached that Ginkgo was the appropriate tree for the area due to the existing ginkgos on the block and the propensity of this type of tree to remain small when planted in a confined space.

Through this discussion, the Commission came to a consensus that the developer would be allowed to purchase street trees with Ginkgo trees and replace the Agapanthus with dwarf Crepe Myrtles which is what residents want.

Resolved, that the Park Commission approves the request by the petitioners to plant new Ginkgo trees along the street in locations and quantities to be determined by staff and residents; that staff work with residents to determine what existing trees need replacement and that staff work with residents of Lorita and Ramona to determine what planting is appropriate for the fence at the end of the cul-de-sac as long as it is not a tall tree; and that the Commission accept the offer of the developer at 36 Monticello to donate 5 Ginkgo trees.  Moved by Levine, Seconded by Siskind Ayes: Goodman, Horner, Lenahan, Levine, Totsubo, Mahany and Siskind Noes: None

Linda Kingston Triangle Parks and Project Manager Nancy Kent gave the following update:

Trident Maple Planting in Piedmont Park

Hampton Park Master

  • Working drawings which include irrigation are now being reviewed by the City Engineer who is putting together the bid package. The drawings will go out to bid in mid-May.
  • The City has been working with its maintenance staff, as this is the City’s kick-off project for their first SMART controller and they are looking at switching as many controllers out as possible. The new controllers have rain sensors, relate to the evapo-transportation rate and also allow maintenance staff to have remote accessibility.  Public Works Director Chester Nakahara stated they expect to have the bid out in May giving the contractors 4 weeks for the bid period and then awarding the bid. The bulk of the construction work should be done before school starts and while they are beholden to EBMUD and PG&E, the idea is to get the hardscape done, traffic patterns established and striping done in the area by the start of school and thereafter begin with planting and infill.
  • Parks and Project Manager Nancy Kent gave the following update:

• East Bay Garden Club has made a donation to the City to offset the cost of a new Trident Maple tree planted in the Main Park. This will commemorate their 30th anniversary. They have secured the maple tree which is at the Corporation yard. The ceremony date is May 24th and ceremonial planting will be at 10AM.

Public Works Director Chester Nakahara provided the following update:   Plan Update [Hampton Field]:

At its meeting of April 18th, the City Council awarded the project to Suarez and Munoz out of Hayward and the total bid price was $1,573,435.50. He noted an incredible amount of private donations have been received which now exceed $350,000. There have been continued pledges from various people to continue fundraising through the construction period and afterwards.

  • The contractor has been responsive, they are scheduling a pre-construction meeting in the next couple of weeks with the goal to start on June 13th which is the Monday after school lets out.
  • Work around the Piedmont Playschool will start first with the idea that when school comes back in session on August 16th they will have access and use of their yard area.
  • Further updates can be provided once the work begins.

Commissioner Goodman provided the following update:

  • Arbor Day was celebrated on April 26th at the Piedmont Community Hall with 150-175 people in attendance.
  • The Piedmont High School Jazz Band performed and guest speaker Bill McNamara, Director of Quarry Hill Botanical Gardens in Glen Ellen, showed slides and spoke of his travels to China where he would look for seeds of endangered plants which were planted in Quarry Hill and they created one of the largest collections of wild collected Asian plants in the world.
  • Emily Phillips was honored as the winner of the Arbor Day Logo Contest by creating a logo using the Piedmont Etc.
  • The closing event of the evening was acknowledgement of the newly planted Japanese Maple tree at the Japanese Tea House. The tree was donated by the Anderson family in memory of late Pete Anderson.  Chair Totsubo thanked Commissioner Lenahan for his public relations work and recruiting the jazz band to play at the event.
  • Commissioner Siskind recognized the AP Environmental Science class which had 6 exhibits.
  • Councilmember McBain thanked everybody for their hard work to put on the Arbor Day celebration.
  • Former Park Commission members commented on how much this event has grown from a fairly modest kids related event to becoming a great community event, who think this event is very rewarding and speaks well for Piedmont.The Commission thanked all the volunteers and City Staff who worked to create such a wonderful event.Park, Open Space and Street Tree Update for the Month of April: Public Works Supervisor Dave Frankel provided the following highlights, Arbor Day and Monthly Maintenance Report
    • Preparing the park for Arbor Day took most of the efforts of their department this past month.
    • Staff trimmed all hedges that surround the Tea House and Community Center, trimmed up and dead wooded all trees, prepared the new Arbor Day tree planting site by excavating down deep enough to plan the new 6,000 lb., 5 foot box tree. There was a massive block of roots they discovered at the 3 foot level and they worked for one day to remove the rest of the stump by hand, with 3 wheel barrels worth of roots.’
    • They were lucky to have the crane work donated by Professional Tree to the City of Piedmont. It saved them thousands in cost but he also recognized the owner, Brian Fenske who was at the controls. He is one of the most experienced, qualified operators and is extremely good at his craft.
  • After the tree was safely in place, they began landscaping around it. Staff installed about 1 1⁄2 tons of boulders, making sure they were placed in such a way that the overall feel of the Tea House was maintained.
  • Staff planted over 100 plants which he briefly described and they topped off the entire Tea House area with 20 yards of fresh mulch.
  • They were extremely happy with the outcome and his staff received numerous compliments.
  • He thanked the Anderson family for their generous donation as a memorial for long-time resident Pete Anderson.
  • They have begun the street tree reforestation project on Warfield. Last month all diseased and over-matured trees were removed. All of the concrete sidewalks were removed adjacent to those trees and stumps which allowed them more access to grind them out.
  • Sidewalk scallops were formed around the tree planting sites to allow a wider planting space and the concrete sidewalk was just finished being poured back today so all concrete work is done.
  • They expect to follow with planting the crape myrtle trees by the end of the week and will report back next month with a follow-up on this project.
  • They are continuing to solicit bids for some large tree removals in their park system. At Crocker Park, 2 large Canary Island Pine trees need to be removed.
  • Dracena Park has a large half dead Monterey Pine tree that sits up by the quarry and there is also a group of Acacia trees that need to be removed.
  • Grand Avenue median has a big dead Monterey Pine tree in it and staff will solicit bids to have this work done shortly.
  • They are also in the process of vetting out their new SMART irrigation controllers. They will allow the City to use water much more efficiently and have the ability to react to real time weather data; they have rain sensors and the ability to manage the entire system through the Internet, IPads, phones and computers.
  • They have taken one supplier out in the field to evaluate the technical signal challenges that Piedmont’s topography can create. Another field trip is scheduled this Friday and they will report back on this at the next meeting.
  • Those with newly planted street trees in parking strips, now is the time to use gator bags to water the trees.
  • Commissioner Horner asked if after tree removals, was it routine for maintenance staff to replant trees. Mr. Frankel said they typically replant street trees. For larger street trees like those in Crocker Park, they most likely would consider a different species and bring the matter to the Park Commission.Ms. Kent confirmed that most removed trees are the result of the drought and Mr. Frankel agreed and said most are Monterey Pine and Canary Island Pine trees.

Due to a lack of quorum, the July 6th meeting would be cancelled. There being no further business, Chairperson Totsubo adjourned the meeting at 6:51 p.m.

Comments for the Park Commissioners can be sent via: nkent@piedmont.ci.ca.us

May 30 2016

CITY: Consideration of Financial Projections in FY 2016 2017 Budget

Budget Advisory & Financial Planning Committee (BAFPC) will meet on Wednesday, June 1, 2016 at 6:30 p.m. in the EOC Room – Police Department, 403 Highland Ave, Piedmont to act on:

Consideration of the Committee’s Report to the Council Regarding the Financial Projections Contained in the Proposed FY 16-17 Budget

The meeting is open to public participation and observation. Minutes and recordings are not kept of the meetings.  No broadcast is made of the meetings.  Meeting materials are not disseminated publicly prior to the meetings. 

The BAFPC is charged with advising the City Council on the budget and financial planning. 

Materials related to an item on the agenda submitted to the Budget Advisory and Financial Planning Committee are available for public inspection in the Finance Department during normal business hours.

For further information contact City Administrator, Paul Benoit at pbenoit@piedmont.ci.ca.us  or 420-3040. 

May 30 2016

SCHOOL: Budget Committee Deals with Controversy

Report on Budget Advisory Committee Meeting of May 19th 

Matters became heated at the Piedmont Unified School District’s (PUSD) Budget Advisory Committee meeting on May 19th. The Committee meets approximately once a month in the School District Offices.

The meeting started off with the Piedmont School District Business Services official, Song Chin­-Bendib reviewing the PUSD budget. When asked why she was there, she replied with a friendly, “It’s my job.”

Song was surprised that the tax revenue was less than projected to be in January. She showed her support for California Proposition 30.  She said that some areas of government do not support extending the proposition.

Song Chin­-Bendib expressed how important budget reports are. She noticed a trend in her reports where the ending balance is going down. When asked further about the budget, she said that 35% of the budget is paid by the Parent’s Club and Parcel Tax, and that 85% of the budget goes to personnel and staff, and 15% towards utilities.

Within the State budget, there are “rainy day funds”, which could be used to help school districts.  Song closed off her budget statement showing the trend changes the budget projections saying, “A lot of things can happen in 6 months.”

After Song Chin­-Bendib, the Committee transitioned to citizen statements; a Piedmont resident named William Blackwell spoke. He started off talking about the Piedmont school parcel tax, which is a flat tax of approximately $2,600 per year per parcel.   The school parcel tax, called Measure A, was passed three years ago by Piedmont voters.  The tax created no exemptions for Piedmont citizens to not pay the tax except for those on SSI.

Blackwell stated he noticed that 43 parcels in Piedmont were not paying the school tax, which he claimed is not legal. Out of 43 parcels, two are exempt from the tax under SSI.  Out of the remaining 41, 30 are double parcels. A double parcel means that there is one house on two parcels, and the property is taxed for only one parcel.

Blackwell further noted that the shocking thing is that 11 of the 43 are single parcels on individual properties not paying the Piedmont school parcel tax, some owned by religious entities.

“The Piedmont parcel tax issue is an ongoing issue.He was then cut off by a lady on the Committee who asked if he was a tax attorney. She then asked, “What’s keeping Piedmont from getting the money?”  Mr. Blackwell replied, “This issue is not being settled by who it should be settled by.” She did not believe his claim. Mr. Blackwell stated that she is supporting the parcel tax law being broken, which she answered with, “I’m offended you’re accusing me of breaking the law.”

The argument went forth for a couple of more minutes, until it was cut short by Song Chin­-Bendib. The meeting as a whole was then adjourned, but Mr. Blackwell stayed behind to talk a little more, with no interruptions. He said that exempting the church ­owned parcels may be a violation of the Separation of Church and State doctrine, that prohibits local government support for religion.

According to Blackwell, June 30th is the deadline for ending the unlawful exemptions to the school tax, and he is curious to see if there will be a change for next year. Terminating these “illegal exemptions” would add another $326,000 to the budget, which could be very impactful on the long term. When asked about how Mr. Blackwell came across this shocking trend, he said “I’m not a lawyer, but I can read.”

By Landon Campbell, Piedmont High School Senior

Editor’s Note: Opinions expressed are those of the author.

May 26 2016

NEW Options for VOTE BY MAIL – June 7 Voting – Ballot Drop Box Added in Piedmont

Drop your unstamped Ballot in the new Ballot Drop Box added to the center of Piedmont next to the mailboxes and library book drop box on Highland Way.

Ballot Drop Box

Ballot Drop Box on Highland Way in the Center of Piedmont

Ballot Drop Box

Ballot Drop Box on Highland Way

June 7, 2016 – Last Day to Vote

Submitting Stamped Ballots Through the US Postal Service:

Vote-by-Mail Ballots must be postmarked on or before Election Day and received by the Registrar of Voters office no later than 3 days after Election Day.

Submitting Ballots Without Postage:

Vote-by-Mail voters who do not want to mail in their ballot can DROP their voted ballots in the 24-hour outdoor Ballot  drop-off box in Piedmont behind the Wells Fargo Bank on Highland Way.  (Ballot Box is pictured in the photos above.)

Other 24-hour outdoor Ballot  drop-off boxes are in downtown Oakland at the corner of 12th Street and Oak Street or at the ramp at 1225 Fallon Street.  There is also a Ballot drop-off box inside the courthouse next to the Sheriff’s check-in station, Monday – Friday 8:30am – 5:00pm.

Deliver in Person:

On Election Day, June 7, Ballots may be dropped off at any polling place in Piedmont or Alameda County from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. 

Vote-by-Mail Ballots may currently be delivered in person to the Registrar of Voters Office 1225 Fallon Street during business hours; 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

May 26 2016

OPINION: Measure F is Like the Failed Sewer Tax

Councilmember Bob McBain and Vice Mayor Jeff Wieler in last week’s Piedmonter severely criticized former Councilmember Garrett Keating and Piedmont resident Rick Schiller’s opposition and analysis of the June 7 City parcel tax, Measure F, for concluding that a 30% parcel tax increase (never mentioned in the ballot summary or “impartial” City Attorney analysis) is unnecessary.   Just as Schiller had warned in 20­12 that the proposed $11 million Measure A Sewer Tax was unnecessary, he has once more informed voters of Measure F failings. 

Who should we believe?

The 2011 Municipal Tax Review Committee including the  Bob McBain­ and Ryan Gilbert, Sewer Sub­committee, recommended a $11 million Sewer Tax increase, but Gilbert withdrew his support when public documents disclosed no factual or legal justification for the tax.   However, McBain and Wieler remained fervent Sewer Tax supporters.

McBain signed the Sewer Tax ballot arguments and Wieler vigorously continued support for the Sewer Tax, however informed Piedmont voters soundly defeated the new Sewer Tax.

Wieler then predicted disaster, writing in The Piedmont Post, page 21, February 29, 2012: “Unfortunately, without the additional revenue that Measure A [Sewer Tax] would have provided, it is impossible to imagine how the remaining unimproved 40% of Piedmont’s sewer system can be rehabilitated in the next 10 years.”

McBain’s and Wieler’s predictions predictably crashed.     Schiller had been right.

On Oct. 6, 2014, the Piedmont City Council, with Councilmember McBain and Vice Mayor Wieler voting yes, loaned $800,000 from other City funds to the Sewer Fund to complete the sewer rehab. The failed Measure A Sewer Tax was needed only in McBain’s and Wieler’s thoughts.

While promoting a stunning 30% parcel tax increase in Measure F, the team of Wieler and McBain should provide a credible explanation for their past performance before denigrating Keating and Schiller.

Thomas D. Clark, Piedmont Resident

Editors’ Note:  Opinions expressed are those of the author.  PCA does not support or oppose ballot measures and accepts opinions both pro and con.

May 26 2016

Priorities: Coaches Field, Beach Tot Lot, Community Hall, Oakland Avenue Bridge, Highland Strip, Blair Park, Etc. Capital Improvement Projects – Committee Report for 2016 -17 Budget

Report listing priorities presented by the Capital Improvement Projects Review (CIP) Committee to the City Council at their Budget Workshop on May 21, 2016  for potential funding. –

2016-2017 Capital Improvement Projects Committee  – Bobbe Stehr, Chairman

The Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) committee reconvened in February 2016 to begin work on project recommendations to the City Council regarding community needs and desires for new capital projects for the 2016-2017 budget cycle. At our first meeting, City Manager Paul Benoit and Councilman Bob McBain discussed the current and future direction of the committee’s responsibilities and the committee’s outreach efforts to compile a list of new capital projects that would be considered by the Council as funding opportunities became available, whether through City funding sources or grants.

After considerable discussion by the committee members, we recognized that under the new direction of the City Council, our responsibility was to conduct an extensive outreach process, inviting participation by individuals, citizen groups, commissions and City staff. The process included an on- line proposal form on the City’s website. The Committee also developed a list of criteria to be used for evaluating all proposed projects and provide specific conclusions with recommendations for future planning.

Under this new direction, the committee reviewed all new proposals; projects submitted through the on-line proposal form as well as long standing projects that have remained on the list. We considered all public comments and staff evaluations. All of our meetings were noticed to the public and our on-site tour of the proposed project locations occurred on May 7, 2016.

Our criteria for evaluating and recommending potential projects included such factors as wide benefit to the community, public safety, broad public support, and protecting and enhancing community assets. The committee also considered whether projects had funding options from public and private partnerships, revenue generating potential, expanded recreational opportunities and/or tied into the Bike and Pedestrian Master Plan.

We have listed every proposed project in priority order. There were four proposals that we concluded were actually not CIP projects, which we referred to the proper departments and have included those in the addendum.

We would like to express our gratitude for the initial guidance provided by City Administrator, Paul Benoit and Councilman Bob McBain; vital assistance from Parks & Projects Manager, Nancy Kent; very thoughtful and perceptive understanding of Piedmont’s extensive recreation needs by Recreation Director, Sara Lillivand and insights provided by our City Council liaison, Jeff Wieler.

Project recommendations listed in order of priority with estimated costs:

1. Coaches Field Master Plan $50,000

The goal of the master plan would be to assess the possibility of expanding the playfield area to maximize the use where a larger field would meet more demand; define the technical needs associated with artificial turf; research “dark sky” directional lighting to extend use time; and address the serious parking shortage.

Believing that it is more efficient to work with an existing facility and because this field is heavily used by several sports, expansion to a regulation under 14-sized soccer field would allow concurrent practice by more than one team at a time.

This field does provide some revenue-generation and does have public interest for cooperative private funding. It would also allow for more “home team” use and spirit.

2. Beach Tot Lot/ADA Compliant Howard Ave Entrance and Restroom Facilities Master Plan $30,000

The goal of the master plan would be to review existing facilities, solicit community input and propose a new layout for improved recreational opportunities at the existing Tot Lot area and the unused space around the restroom facilities, and the space between the Oakland Ave Bridge and the Beach Playfield.

The current Tot Lot is used heavily by residents and the City recognizes the need to maintain tot lot facilities for the neighborhood. In its current location and configuration, the tot lot is unsafe with an unguarded retaining wall and outdated play equipment. An overall study of the most efficient use of the space now occupied by the Tot Lot and its situation with the tennis court, playfield and restrooms, plus access to and from each component would improve the flow and maximize the future use of the area.

The Recreation Director has requested that the Tot Lot not be looked at in isolation, but incorporated into an overall, long-range vision for the area, which may include relocation to the other side of the playfield. This would put the play area closer to the existing restrooms and eliminate the sand creep onto the tennis courts.

Additionally, with the completion of the new townhouses at 408 Linda Ave, it would be a great opportunity for the City to improve the use, aesthetics and functionality of the area between the Oakland Ave Bridge and Linda Beach Field.

In the current budget, Public Works is in the planning stage for the ADA access from Howard Ave and the City is currently reviewing all play structures in the City for safety compliance as well as a schedule for play equipment replacement. This is the time for a Master Plan for this area.

3. Piedmont Community Hall – Entry Court Renovation, $200,000 – $300,000

Parking and ADA access are the urgent needs for this facility and a top priority for the Recreation Department. The recommendation is to enhance the entry court for ceremonial and civic events with decorative paving and improved event lighting. The plan would redirect service vehicles to the edge of the turnaround and relocate the trash area, eliminating the need for heavy trucks to cross the entry court. 2

Currently the City Engineer is working on a survey of the parking possibilities and ADA access. If feasible, the committee recommends that the entry court be upgraded sooner rather than later.

4. Piedmont Community Hall – Rear Balcony and Amphitheater Architectural Master Plan $50,000

Because the Community Hall is in full use nearly daily, an architectural master plan would study and propose enhancements that would improve use, circulation and revenue generation.

Expanding the terraces and rear balcony of Community Hall over enlarged space beneath, would greatly improve the rental opportunities and community programs use with the inclusion of indoor/outdoor access.

Relocating the pre-school facilities to a more easily accessible location would free the lower level of the Hall and provide space for concurrent facility use, better storage and increased rental revenues.

The Amphitheater currently is over impacted and underutilized. An upgrade to permeable paving with current water catchment technology would be both environmentally smart and revitalize the overall area. Relocating the bleachers and access from both stories of the Hall to the amphitheater would connect this space to the interior spaces for better flow and function.

Community Hall is a perfect venue for public/private funding.

5. Oakland Avenue Bridge – Complete the String of Lights $40,000

This is a new proposal by William Blackwell who has done extensive research on both the engineering requirements to add two new light standards, suppliers for exact matches to the existing light standards and the infill string of lights. This definitely qualifies as a stand-alone project to revive what was once a stately entrance to the City of Piedmont.

This is a project that would attract private funding from several sources.

Both Mr. Blackwell and the CIP committee independently came to the same conclusion while on site at the bridge. The Oakland Avenue Bridge is in dire need of some safety improvements. Crossing Oakland Avenue at the crosswalks at both ends of the bridge on the way to or from the Beach playfield area is hazardous.

The CIP committee suggests that the safety issues be included in the future implementation of the Bike/Pedestrian Plan or as part of the Master Plan for the Beach Playfield project.

6. Highland Strip $200,000

Because of the recent wet winter, momentum has stalled for a drought tolerant and native garden to replace the lawn at the intersection of Sheridan Avenue and Highland Avenue. There were regional interests to fund parts of this project, however, much more education and outreach appears to be needed.

7. Dracena Park: Upper Park Master Plan, Ravine Lighting and Pathway improvements $30,000 – $75,000

Proposed by Garrett Keating, Daniel Stein and John Lambert, the three elements were considered individually.

A Master Plan for Upper Dracena Park, especially one that can be implemented incrementally, could be valuable, however, the CIP Committee would need further direction from the Park Commission and we suggested that the proposal be presented to the Park Commission.

Pathway lighting within City parks has been discussed over the years and current policy is not to have artificial lighting from dusk to dawn at most locations.

The request to repair the sidewalk along Dracena Avenue, add handrails and clearly marked crosswalk painting at the intersection of Park Way and Dracena Avenue have been referred to Public Works Maintenance Department.

8. Blair Park: Split Rail Fence, Additional Trees, Parking Lot $65,000 – $100,000

Two separate proposals were reviewed together: Marge Blackwell proposed a split-rail fence along Moraga Avenue for the length of the park and additional planting within the park; Melanie Robertson proposed new trees along Moraga Avenue and a small parking lot for park users.

A split rail fence could be a charming addition and more trees in a park would be wonderful. However, the site does not currently have any water supply that would be needed to irrigate new landscaping and the estimated cost of a new water meter is $65,000. In addition, the City is in the process of having the park’s boundaries surveyed and the CIP committee concluded that any project in Blair Park should be put on hold for the present and would likely need to be considered by the Park Commission at some future date.

ADDENDUM TO CIP RECOMMENDATIONS FOR 2016-2017:

Two proposals submitted by Paul Lettieri and Tom Gandesberg requested repaving for safety and bike access. These were referred to the Public Works Maintenance Department and are currently being implemented.

Tom Gandesberg also suggested better irrigation for the median in the 300 block of San Carlos Avenue. Again, this location is currently being upgraded to a more water efficient irrigation system as part of the City’s cyclical review of medians,

Bob Kunselman proposed a new License Plate Reader on Trestle Glen Road. Parks and Projects Manager, Nancy Kent contacted Police Chief Rikki Goede for guidance on this. Chief Goede contacted Mr. Gandesberg and provided the CIP committee with her determination.

I wrote a thank you letter to each person who proposed a project, stating the CIP committee’s appreciation for their suggestions and informing them of the status of each proposal.

Bobbe Stehr, Chair of CIP Committee

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Recordings  and minutes of the CIP meetings are not available, as no recordings or minutes were produced.

Residents interested in providing input to the Council on Budget priorities may send emails to John Tulloch, City Clerk:

jtulloch@piedmont.ci.ca.us

Next Council consideration of the 2016-17 Budget is June 6, 2016, at 7:30 p.m. City Hall.  The Council meeting will be recorded and broadcast.

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Members of the CIP Committee are:

Michael Henn

Susan Herrick

Bobbe Stehr, Chair

Jamie Totsubo

PBF (Piedmont Beautification Foundation)      Representative – Deborah Van Nest

Representative of Recreation Commission

Representative of Park Commission 

Council Liaison: Jeff Wieler (H) 428-1648
Staff Liaisons: Chester Nakahara (W) 420-3061 & Nancy Kent (W) 420-3064

May 24 2016

OPINION: Check the Facts and Vote NO on Measure F

Councilmembers Wieler and McBain accuse Measure F opponents of misrepresenting the facts and direct voters go to the city website for more information.

We encourage voters to do so as well, and we provide the following references to help voters learn the facts.  We summarize Wieler and McBain’s arguments and hope voters will visit the links to determine what information is accurate.

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1.    Wieler and McBain claim that the 2007, 2011 Municipal Tax Review Committee (MTRC)and 2015 Budget Advisory and Financial Planning Committee (BAFPC) recommend that the City establish reserves.  True. But MTRC 2007 and 2011 did not advocate for a tax increase like the BAFPC does.  Rather these committees recommend spending controls – 2007 MTRC proposed a trigger mechanism to NOT levy the parcel tax based on property and transfer tax revenues (http://www.ci.piedmont.ca.us/wp-content/uploads/2007/10/mtrc-report.pdf, p.46) and the 2011 MTRC proposed a cap on employee benefit levels (http://www.ci.piedmont.ca.us/html/govern/staffreports/09-06-11/mtrc.pdf, p.6).
Rather than propose to raise taxes, these committees saw that the City could budget conservatively and put away reserves when the real estate market was good.  Since 2012, Council has followed this sound advice by transferring $3M to the facility maintenance fund.
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2.    Wieler and McBain claim the recommendations of the 2011 MTRC have been accomplished.  False.  The MTRC recommended a cap of employee benefit levels (pension and health benefits), a “mission critical” analysis of City services and staffing levels and establishment of a facility maintenance fund (http://www.ci.piedmont.ca.us/html/govern/staffreports/09-06-11/mtrc.pdf, p. 7, 28, 42). Since 2013, the City has reduced the growth rate of its annual pension payments by requiring that employees share increases in CalPERS rates.   To cap health benefits, the 2015 BAFPC proposes a “cafeteria” benefits plan (http://www.ci.piedmont.ca.us/html/govern/staffreports/2015-12-07/parceltaxreport.pdf, p.5). Council has yet to act on that. The facility maintenance fund has been established and $1M has been spent on projects like electrical upgrades and there’s $2M in reserve for leaky roofs  (http://www.ci.piedmont.ca.us/html/govern/staffreports/2016-02-16/midyearfiscal.pdf, p.7).  The analysis of City services and staffing levels has not been undertaken.
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3.    Wieler and McBain claim the cafeteria benefits plan is “irrelevant”.  False.  Adoption of such a plan for City employees is recommended by the 2015 BAFPC (2015 BAFPC, p.5) and the substantial savings that would be achieved are documented in the report. Wieler and McBain claim such savings will help control personnel costs but can’t be used for facility maintenance; this assertion ignores the fungible characteristic of the City budget. Annual savings in employee benefits costs will be available for transfer to facility and equipment reserves – this is in part how the current facility maintenance fund has grown to $2M.  The current contract with city employees expires in June 2017 and now is the time for Council to adopt the cafeteria plan in the next contract.
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4.    Wieler and McBain claim the Athletic Facilities Maintenance Fund (AFMF) and SchoolMates Fund can’t be used for facility maintenance. False.  The AFMF was used for the resurfacing of Linda Beach Field and just last month $200,000 was allocated from this fund for Hampton Field maintenance (http://www.ci.piedmont.ca.us/html/govern/staffreports/2016-04-18/hamptonpark.pdf, p.5).  The SchoolMates Fund has always been used for upkeep of those buildings.
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5.    Wieler and McBain claim $450K is insufficient for annual facility maintenance. False. This is the average level of facility maintenance spending determined by the 2011 MTRC and 2015 BAFPC.  Costs for long-term deferred maintenance are currently being refined by City staff (2105 BAFPC, p. 24).  When finished, there likely will be a need to allocate more funds for facility maintenance but the extent to which the parcel tax needs to be raised will depend on whether the cost saving recommendations of the MTRC and BAFPC are implemented.
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6.    Wieler and McBain claim the $11M pension surplus shouldn’t be used for facility maintenance. True, but that’s a claim opponents never made (http://www.piedmontcivic.org/2016/05/15/election-opinion-piedmont-voters-should-not-approve-an-increase-in-the-parcel-tax/).  Opponents said these funds could be used for the increasing CalPERS pension obligation that the City faces.  Instead, Wieler and McBain claim these funds should be used to pay for long-term underfunded retiree health benefits. Either way, upcoming negotiations that cap benefit levels will add to the growing surplus.
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7.    Beyond our analysis of cost, we have always maintained that City revenues are more than sufficient and enjoy regional upward pressure on a continued robust revenue stream. Wieler and McBain are entirely mute on this important half of the tax equation.  The 2015 BAFPC Report (p.11) uses a 15 year time frame for the Transfer Tax, going from $2,287,982 to $3,901,252 and the Report states a 4.3% compound annual increase.  Proponents then state the erratic nature of the Property Transfer Tax yet ignore the 35 year history of the transfer tax. 1980 – 2015 the compounded annual rise is 6.45% annually.  We estimated the transfer tax in five years at $3.8 Million and we use Proponents conservative $2.8M estimate as a starting point rather than the last five-year $3.3M average.  No one can question the robust nature of the ever growing Property Tax. From 2001 to 2015 the tax grew at a compound rate of 5.1% with no down years. We estimate property tax revenue at $13.9M in five years. Proponents make no comment.
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8.   Critically, Wieler and McBain fail to mention the $1.3M additional available funds coming online in 2020 when the Pension Side Fund debt ends.
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Wieler and McBain accuse Measure F opponents of inaccuracies and misinformation, but voters can judge for themselves by reading the reports.  These reports call for two basic actions by City Council – the capping of benefit levels and the establishment of facility maintenance reserves.  The extent to which a parcel tax increase is needed will depend on whether the City adopts the cost-saving measures recommended by the MTRC and BAFPC. 

Garrett Keating, Former Piedmont Councilmember 

 Rick Schiller, Piedmont Resident
Editors’ Note: Opinions expressed are those of the authors.  PCA does not support or oppose ballot measures and accepts both pro and con opinions.
May 24 2016

OPINION: Reject Measure F Now, Put Two Measures on the November Ballot

Piedmont’s taxpayers have paid over $2 Million in excessive costs for City projects due to poor management ($1.3 M from the Undergrounding fiasco, $400,000 from Blair Park’s so-called “gift,” $340,000 from purchasing police radios that are incompatible with Alameda County).

While the City has some new senior-level employees, the consequence of past incompetence requires greater disclosure and transparency to re-establish taxpayer confidence that Measure F’s increase in taxation is really necessary.  Measure F asks for a 30% tax increase without specifying what exactly would be done, while  underestimating property tax revenues in spite of a 25-year trend of increasing revenue.

Approval from two-thirds of the electorate should require two ballot measures, one to maintain service at the current tax rate, and another to increase service with specific projects at an increased tax rate.

If Piedmont voters reject Measure F now, the pair of measures could be placed on the November ballot without danger of current services being interrupted, because the existing tax doesn’t expire until June, 2017.

Bruce Joffe, Piedmont Resident

Editors’ Note: Opinions expressed are those of the author.  PCA does not support or oppose ballot measures.
May 24 2016

Betts Selected as 2016 Civic Volunteer of the Year

City Announces the Volunteer of the Year –

On May 19, 2016, at the City’s annual Volunteer Reception, Carla Betts was presented with the 2016 Civic Volunteer of the Year Award by Mayor Margaret Fujioka. The award is given to a Piedmonter who has made significant cultural, political, health, safety, environmental, recreational, and/or social contributions that have enriched the community.

For nearly 20 years, Carla Betts has been instrumental in organizing Piedmont’s 4th of July parade and the Celebration in the Park, serving as chair of the 4th of July Committee since the year 2000. Annually, thousands of residents come together to celebrate our nation’s independence. Mrs. Betts and her team of dedicated volunteers work tirelessly each year to ensure that the 4th of July celebration is a high quality event, enjoyed by residents of all ages. Carla’s attention to detail and organizational acumen are evident in the parade each year, with a wide variety of neighborhood floats, entries from local groups, and parade favorites such as the Balloon Platoon and the Zenith New Orleans Parade Band participating. Carla was instrumental in organizing the fiftieth anniversary of the 4th of July parade and deserves credit for the phenomenal success of this landmark event.

“Carla Betts exemplifies the spirit of Piedmont, volunteering countless hours each year to ensure that the 4th of July celebration is a success,” said Mayor Margaret Fujioka. “It is my hope that Carla’s example of service and selection as Civil Volunteer of the Year will inspire others to volunteer for the greater good of our community now and in the future.”

Mrs. Betts works behind the scenes each year with the 4th of July Committee to recruit judges and parade participants, ensure the budget for the celebration is managed well, and coordinate with City staff and the press. In addition to her service on the 4th of July Committee, Mrs. Betts, a long time resident of our community, has generously given of her talents over the years including service on the Recreation Commission, as a Scrip Volunteer for the Piedmont Educational Foundation, and in countess other ways.

May 23 2016

Schools Facilities Master Plan, P.E. Program, Elementary Instructional Design, Teacher Contract: School Board, Wed May 25

                   Piedmont School Board REGULAR MEETING  –     Wednesday, May 25, 2016, 7:00 p.m.
Council Chambers, City Hall 120 Vista Avenue, Piedmont Regular Session: 7:00 p.m. Public Meeting – Broadcast live on Cable Channel 27 and on City website under online videos – School Board

>>>AGENDA INCLUDES:
VI.A. Facilities Master Plan Steering Committee – The PUSD Facilities Steering Committee (comprised of community members and staff) will present its recommendation regarding the scope and prioritization of the facilities master plan, as well as the amount the Board should seek in a Facilities Bond for the November 2016 election.

Background on Steering Committee Recommendations
Steering Committee Recommendation
VI.B. Board Policy and Administrative Regulation 6158.1 – Physical Education Independent Study

1. Background PE Independent Study
2. BP 6158.1 Physical Education Independent Study Program
3. AR 6158.1 Physical Education Independent Study Program
VI.C. Elementary Instructional Program Design

The Board is asked to adopt the following contract language and bell schedule change that will enable the development of a new daily instructional schedule for the three elementary schools.

Contract Language
Article VI – Hours and Professional Responsibility
A.3. Professional Day
At the elementary level, a full-time teaching position shall consist of direct instruction based on state mandated instructional levels with an average of 3040 minutes of preparation time per day.

Bell Schedule

Early start (8:00am) for the elementary Instrumental Music Program.
Background on Elementary Program Design
VI.D. Approve Contract Agreement Between the District and the Association of Piedmont Teachers (APT) 2016-17

The Board will review the tentative agreement for the contract between the District and APT from July 1, 2016 through June 30, 2017. The community will have an opportunity to comment prior to Board action. It is recommended that Board approve the contract as presented and ratified by APT.

Attachments:
Background APT contract
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