Public Meetings - Alameda, California

The Alameda City Council met on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at 5:00 PM for a closed session, reconvening at 7:02 PM for the regular meeting. Major actions included placing a $300 million infrastructure bond on the November ballot, advancing two charter amendments, approving contracts for the city aquatic center, and adopting the City Facilities Plan. The meeting also included a closed session on the Enterprise Park surf park and a litigation case. Consent Calendar - Approved routine items, including consent calendar items 5F, 5G, 5H (salary adjustments for city manager, city attorney, and city clerk) and 5K (final passage of an ordinance banning ratio utility billing (RUBs)). Councilmember Bowler recused on 5K (financial interest in rental property). Councilmember Daysog voted no on 5K, but the consent calendar passed overall. - Item 5D (City Facilities Plan) was pulled to be heard as the first regular agenda item. Public Comments & Testimony - On Consent Calendar (RUBs ban): - Anil Bavar (California Apartment Association) urged opposition to 5K, citing water consumption increases in San Jose, legal issues, and operational problems. - Tony Grimm supported the RUBs ban, arguing renters should control utility costs. - Laura Woodard (Alameda Renter) supported the ban, calling for tenant stability and noting the need to address capital improvement plans. - On Closed Session (Enterprise Park): - Ruth Abbey (Community Action for Sustainable Alameda) expressed concerns about the surf park development on public parkland, advocating for nature-based uses and sea level rise accommodation. - On Facilities Plan (5D): - Jay Garfinkel questioned the timing of bond issuance and the need for a $300 million bond given the $21 million available now. - On Infrastructure Bond (7A): - Multiple speakers supported placing the bond on the ballot: Mike DeWind (Alameda Firefighters Local 689), Drew Dara Abrams (Transportation Commission), Andreas Kluver (Building and Construction Trades Council), Adrian Abiyan (Friends of the Alameda Animal Shelter), Malia Vella (former councilmember), Zach Bowling (community member), Ruth Abbey (CASA), Cindy Johnson (caller), and Meredith Hoskin. They emphasized the need for fire station upgrades, climate adaptation, street repairs, and community investment. - Mitch Ball opposed the property tax structure, advocating for a parcel tax instead, calling the Prop 13-style tax regressive and anti-housing. - On Charter Amendment 7B: - Carmen Reed (caller) opposed combining multiple amendments into one vote, citing legal risk and lack of transparency. - On Charter Amendment 7C: - No public comments. - On Aquatic Center (7E, 7F, 7G): - Speaker Alex Fear expressed excitement and support for the project. Discussion Items - Item 5D: City Facilities Plan - Assistant City Manager Amy Wooldridge presented the plan, identifying $342.4 million in needs for fire stations, fleet services, animal shelter, and other facilities. The plan is a framework, not a policy commitment. - Councilmember Jensen raised concerns about the timeline: fire station improvements not starting until 2029, and the animal shelter (F grade) not prioritized. - Councilmember Daysog asked about the $158 million in fire-related costs in the implementation plan. - The plan was adopted unanimously. - Item 7A: Infrastructure Bond – Resolution to Place $300 Million Bond on November Ballot - Sustainability Manager Danielle Miller, consultant Jeremy Hauser (Team Civix), and pollster Kurt Baylow (FM3) presented the proposal. Key points: - $300 million bond, $49 per $100,000 assessed value per year. - Polling: 62% support initially, rising to 66% after hearing spending priorities, with 34% definitely yes. - Voter priorities: flood prevention, sea level rise, emergency response, road repairs, ADA improvements. - List of projects (Exhibit A) includes categories but not specific dollar amounts per project. - Council discussion: - Vice Mayor Pryor and Councilmember Bowler supported placing the bond on the ballot, citing growing needs and voter trust. - Councilmember Daysog opposed, arguing the project list is too vague and that voters deserve a detailed breakdown similar to the fire facilities plan. He noted that future councils would decide spending, not current voters. - Councilmember Jensen supported the bond, emphasizing the need for oversight and the seriousness of infrastructure deficits. - Mayor Ashcraft strongly supported the bond, criticizing Councilmember Daysog for refusing to meet with pollsters and for blocking a similar measure in 2024. She highlighted the urgency of climate change and the success of past campaigns. - Vote: 4-1 (Councilmember Daysog opposed). The measure will be finalized at the July 21 meeting. - Item 7B: Charter Amendment – Cleanup of Outdated Provisions - City Clerk Laura Weisiger explained the amendment consolidates over 10 updates to conform to existing practices, including changing public utilities board qualifications, exempting certain staff from civil service, and adjusting lease procedures. - Councilmember Bowler questioned several sections, and the clerk clarified they align with current practice. - Councilmember Jensen raised concerns about the subcommittee process not being transparent, but supported the measure after questioning. - Councilmember Daysog opposed, citing the need for a more robust public process like the 2020 charter reform. - Vote: 4-1 (Councilmember Daysog opposed). The measure will appear on the November ballot. - The council designated Vice Mayor Pryor and Councilmember Bowler to draft the argument in favor and any rebuttal. - Item 7C: Charter Amendment – Leases and Sales of City Real Property - The amendment changes the process for leasing city property: leases of 10 years or less require a simple majority (3 votes), leases over 10 years and all sales require a supermajority (4 votes). The original language excluded tide lands from the supermajority; the council amended it to include tide lands, ensuring they are subject to the same vote requirement. - Director of Base Reuse and Economic Development Abby Thorne Lyman explained that the supermajority for long-term leases can hinder business recruitment and that the 10-year demarcation is a reasonable compromise. - Councilmember Bowler supported the 10-year threshold, emphasizing the need to protect public assets for long-term changes. - Councilmember Jensen preferred eliminating the supermajority entirely but was willing to support the motion. - Vote: 4-1 (Councilmember Daysog opposed). The measure will appear on the November ballot. - The council designated Vice Mayor Pryor and Councilmember Bowler to draft the argument in favor and any rebuttal. - Items 7E, 7F, 7G: Aquatic Center Contracts - Recreation and Parks Director Justin Long presented the three contracts: - 7E: Construction contract with WICMAN Construction (not to exceed $32,324,200, including contingency). - 7F: Amendment to project management agreement with Griffin Structures (total not to exceed $1,596,584). - 7G: Amendment to design contract with ELS Architects (total not to exceed $3,446,306). - The total project cost is $40.5 million, up from $35.5 million due to construction inflation, site conditions, and electrification. - Key features: 30-meter competition pool, activity pool, community room, 100 bike parking, and all-electric design. - Councilmember Bowler asked about groundwater contamination risks and operating subsidies. Director Long noted a $3 million contingency and an estimated $400,000 annual subsidy. - All three contracts were approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Closed Session: - Directed staff to schedule a community workshop on the surf park (Enterprise Park) for fall 2026, with a potential ENA discussion in closed session thereafter. - Unanimous direction on the Miller litigation case. - Consent Calendar: Passed, with Councilmember Daysog voting no on item 5K (RUBs ban). - City Facilities Plan: Adopted unanimously. - Infrastructure Bond: Resolution to place a $300 million bond on the November ballot passed 4-1. Final adoption will be on July 21, 2026. - Charter Amendment 7B (Cleanup): Approved 4-1 for the November ballot. - Charter Amendment 7C (Leases/Sales): Approved 4-1, with the amendment to include tide lands, for the November ballot. - Aquatic Center Contracts: All three contracts approved unanimously. - Board and Commission Nominations: Mayor Ashcraft announced nominations for Civil Service Board, Historic Advisory Board, Housing Authority, Library Board, and Recreation and Parks Commission. Formal approval will occur at the July 21 meeting. - Council Appointments: Vice Mayor Pryor and Councilmember Bowler were appointed to draft ballot arguments for 7B and 7C. - Meeting Adjourned at approximately 11:20 PM, with condolences for three community members who passed away.

(Note: The transcript refers to June 25, 2026, but the system specifies July 7, 2026. This summary uses the system date.) The Social Service Human Relations Board (SHRUB) held a meeting on July 7, 2026. The board approved a revised scope of work for fiscal year 2026-27, received updates from work groups, and discussed community outreach and support for a local school closure. The meeting was led by the chair with staff from Housing and Human Services. The meeting adjourned at 7:44 PM. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the previous meeting's minutes (motion by Samantha Green, seconded by Gerald). Public Comments & Testimony - Non-agenda public comments: None. - Public comment on agenda items: - Alfina Shofa, a local Alameda resident, praised the awareness efforts for the program and suggested promoting it on the city's Instagram page, noting that information was not currently available there. - Craig, a resident, commented on his personal housing situation and his efforts to find a permanent location for living/workspace. He also mentioned connecting with others for potential shared spaces and urged a thoughtful approach. Discussion Items - 4A: Fiscal Year 2026-27 Scope of Work - Vice President Samantha Green presented a fourth draft of the scope of work, incorporating changes from previous discussions. Key modifications included: - On page one: Replacing "primary role" with "one of Shrub's many roles" and adding text on collaboration with city council, city manager, human services, and other entities. - On page three: Restructuring work groups section to list existing work groups (Road Home, Alamedans United Against Hate, Domestic Violence) and clarify that additional tasks may become the subject of future work groups as determined by the board. - In the evaluation section: Added a provision for the city to review the board's work with members. - Board members expressed gratitude for Samantha's leadership and compromise. After discussion, the board voted. One member abstained due to arriving late, but after clarification, all voted in favor. The motion passed unanimously. - 4B: Work Group Reports - The board shared strengths, areas of improvement, and future opportunities for each work group: - Road Home (Homelessness): Highlighted dissemination of city homeless policy metrics, including point-in-time counts and narratives. Initiatives like the Alameda Volunteers Award and overdose response trainings were well-received. Members noted opportunities to support service providers, prevent homelessness, and improve outreach to underserved communities. - Domestic Violence Work Group: Chair noted successful expansion of the task force, now meeting four times a year with guest speakers. Goals for the coming year include collaborating with the task force to support community activities rather than leading them. - Alamedans United Against Hate: Members discussed building stronger relationships with community organizations to co-create events and activities, reducing SHRUB's direct role and strengthening broader community ties. - Public comment was reopened after discussion, but no additional comments were made. - 5A: Staff Report on Alameda Housing and Human Services - Shelby Neal provided updates: - Overdose response training held on June 11 with external partners; final session on July 29. - In May, HHS released an RFP for a residential rehabilitation program administrator; city council approval of selection scheduled for July 7. - Staffing changes: Yasmin Obadey promoted to administrative technician; new part-time administrative specialist Thais Ribero hired. - Pre-applications open until June 26 for three below-market rate waitlist lotteries (very low, low, moderate income categories). - 6: Board Communications - A member recommended reading the Vision Zero report from March 17, 2026, noting e-bike involvement in crashes and a map of traffic hot spots. - Gerald raised the issue of Dr. Cindy Acker, founder of Child Unique Montessori School, which is closing due to issues with the Oakland Diocese. Dr. Acker had requested support at a previous meeting. Gerald reported no support materialized and encouraged board members to find solutions or connections to save the school, emphasizing her long community service. Key Outcomes - Unanimously approved the revised fiscal year 2026-27 scope of work (item 4A). - Work group updates and future plans were discussed; no formal votes taken. - The board expressed intention to explore support for Dr. Cindy Acker's school closure issue. - Next steps include a retreat in the coming months to revisit work group priorities and structure.

Note: The provided transcript begins with a date of May 13, 2026, but the meeting date specified for this summary is July 2, 2026. The content reflects the transcript as given. The Alameda Free Library Board met on July 2, 2026, to discuss library operations, including the interim director's report on programs, staffing, and a new privacy booth; approval of a meeting room reservation policy with fee increases; and an update from the Friends of the Library. All board members were present. The consent calendar was approved, and several upcoming initiatives were discussed. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the draft minutes of the March 11, 2026 meeting. - Approved the financial report reflecting March and April expenditures. - Approved the bills for ratification, including check registers for March and April. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made as no members of the public were present. Discussion Items 4A – Interim Library Director Report - Programs and Events: The library hosted Women’s History Month and Arab American Heritage Month programming, including a Peeps Diorama Contest with over 35 submissions and a bookmark design contest. The winners will be printed for summer reading. - Staffing Update: Library assistant Marina Bellingit resigned/retired. The director is moving the position to a librarian role to address a gap in collection development. A budget proposal to fund this position was presented to city council and is expected to be adopted June 2, 2026. The library social worker position, funded through HHS, was approved for another year. - New Privacy Booth: A single-person pillar privacy booth will be installed on the first floor (Lincoln side) via the Empowering Access Project grant (approx. $16,000–$18,000). Permits from city planning have been approved, and installation is scheduled for late May or early June. - Strategic Plan: Three committees are being formed to implement the five-year strategic plan, with a kickoff in July 2026. The plan will be posted on the website. Metrics tracking will be developed, with reports likely every December and July. - Statistics and Trends: Circulation and attendance are up. Adult programming increased, while children’s and teen programming decreased, attributed to a vacancy in the school resource position (now filled). The Student Connect Card program with Alameda Unified School District will launch in September 2026, giving all K–12 students access to library databases and checkout of up to five books using their student IDs. - Hours Change: The library’s hours change (implemented October 2025) has received no complaints. Door counts remain high. The director hopes to eventually add evening hours when staffing allows. 4B – Approval of Draft Meeting Room Reservation Policy - The policy was updated to allow online reservations and a fee increase. New fees: Group D (Alameda nonprofits) $100 (increase of $25), Group E (Alameda public groups) $125 (increase of $50), Group F $150 (increase of $50). Fees had not been updated since 2014. The policy has been reviewed by the city attorney’s office. The board approved the policy; if also approved by city council in June, online reservations will launch in September. 4C – Friends of the Library Update - Mission and Activities: Friends of the Alameda Free Library (FAL) raises funds and advocates for the library. The spring used book sale is May 13–16, with a fill-a-bag for $5 promotion. FAL treated library staff to lunch on May 7. - Grants and Programs: FAL received a grant from the Alameda Welfare Council to support the library’s clinical social worker, providing free food and transportation passes. A grant from the City’s Public Arts Commission will fund a “Youth Show Up” event in March 2027, including a poetry slam, visual art, and speech forum for high school students, to be held during the Season for Nonviolence. - Fundraising: FAL runs biannual mailer campaigns. A capital campaign with a $1 million goal is planned for late 2026/early 2027 to refresh library furniture (the building turns 20 in November 2026). FAL is hiring a part-time retail manager for the bookshop. - Community Engagement: FAL invites board members to join the July 4th parade. A volunteer committee is forming. FAL also runs a concert series (“Lights of the Library”) and seeks sponsorships. - Administrative: FAL’s 990s are available; the annual report for 2025 is being finalized and will be released digitally soon. Board Communications - Poet Laureate: Discussion about re-establishing the position of poet laureate (both adult and youth). The mayor is aware and interested. Board members will share information from previous processes and reach out to Alameda County’s youth poet laureate program. - Tool Library: A working group is forming to restart the tool library, funded by a FAL grant. A “phase zero” space is being identified with a limited tool set. Field trips to neighboring tool libraries are planned. The city attorney’s office is working on liability waivers. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved. - Meeting Room Reservation Policy: Approved by the board, subject to city council approval in June 2026. - Director’s Report: Received as information. Strategic plan committees to launch in July 2026. Student Connect Card program to launch in September 2026. - Friends Update: Received as information. Capital campaign to begin late 2026/early 2027. - Tool Library: Working group formed; progress to be updated at next meeting. - Poet Laureate: Board to research and present options at the next meeting.

Note: The transcript indicates the meeting occurred on March 11, 2026, but the provided metadata states the meeting date is July 2, 2026. This summary reflects the transcript content. The Alameda Free Library Board met at 6 p.m. to discuss library operations, outgoing director Mike's transition, programming updates, and a correspondence regarding programming balance. All board members were present (President Amara Siri Wardinet, Vice President Gives, Board Member Battle, Board Member Conji, and Board Member Strippers). The board thanked Director Mike for his leadership. Consent Calendar - Items 3A, 3B, and 3C were approved unanimously by motion and second. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public were present; no public comments were made. Discussion Items - Director's Report: Mike reported on successful Black History Month programs, including author Janae Brownwood (local) and the Black Banjo Reclamation Project (80 attendees). Lunar New Year and Women's History Month programs were also highlighted, with firefighter McKenzie Carrie drawing 70 attendees. Library visits increased significantly: December 23,219 (up from 16,000), January 23,811 (up from 18,000), February 22,800 (up from 17,000). Checkouts rose 15% in both physical and digital circulation. A new event calendar launches April 1, along with study room reservations (five rooms at main library, bookable a week in advance for up to two hours; no library card required). New teen furniture will be delivered next Thursday, funded by unspent bond funds. Mike's last day is March 24-30, with city management handling the transition. - Board Communications: A board member attended de-escalation training for volunteers. Volunteers expressed a desire for staff to know their names and greet them personally. The Friends of the Library had a change in leadership. - Correspondence Item: A letter from “JJ” raised concerns about programming balance, citing examples of pro-Palestine programming without corresponding pro-Israel content. The board discussed that the library evaluates programs based on content and mission, not on external organizational stances. They emphasized that all content ideas are welcome for evaluation, and they invite suggestions for additional programs. No decisions were made, but the board noted the challenge of maintaining neutrality. One board member disclosed having been endorsed by the organization referenced in the correspondence. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar approved unanimously. - No formal action on the correspondence; the board affirmed its open invitation for programming suggestions and will consider city-level guidance on such matters. - Director transition to be handled by the assistant city manager; recruitment will involve the board. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 6:40 p.m.

The Social Service Human Relations Board met on June 25, 2026, to approve the fiscal year 2026-27 scope of work, hear work group reports, and receive staff updates. The meeting convened at 7:05 PM and adjourned at approximately 7:44 PM. Consent Calendar - The board unanimously approved the minutes from the previous meeting (Item 3A). Public Comments & Testimony - Alfina Shofa, an Alameda resident, commented on the work group reports, expressing appreciation for the programs and suggesting increased social media presence on the city's Instagram account to raise awareness. - Craig provided public comment regarding his search for a permanent location for a live/work space, mentioning collaboration with others and efforts to find a suitable property. Discussion Items - Scope of Work (Item 4A): Vice President Samantha Green presented the fourth draft of the fiscal year 2026-27 scope of work, incorporating changes from previous meetings. Key revisions included rephrasing the board's role, adjusting language on collaboration, updating work group descriptions, and adding an evaluation review section. Board members expressed appreciation for the collaborative process and noted the document addressed their concerns. - Work Group Reports (Item 4B): Board members provided updates and reflections on the three work groups: - The Road Home Work Group highlighted dissemination of homelessness policy metrics, point-in-time count data, overdose response training, age-friendly survey, and outreach to PTAC (PTA presidents). Opportunities identified included supporting service providers, addressing rising costs, and improving program awareness. - Alamedans United Against Hate Work Group focused on building partnerships with community organizations and co-creating events. - Domestic Violence Work Group reported building a task force meeting four times a year with diverse stakeholders. Board member Gerald Bryant also noted ongoing efforts to develop a work plan for the future. - Staff Communications (Item 5A): Shelby Neal from Housing and Human Services reported on overdose response training, an RFP for residential rehabilitation program administration, staff promotions and new hires, and the opening of below-market-rate waitlists via RISE Housing. - Board Communications (Item 6): Bernie Wolf recommended the Vision Zero report on traffic safety. Gerald Bryant raised the closure of Child Unique Montessori School due to Oakland Diocese issues, urging the board to support founder Dr. Cindy Acker, an award-winning educator and community figure. He reported that other avenues had not yielded support. Key Outcomes - The board unanimously approved the fiscal year 2026-27 scope of work (Version 4) after a motion and second. No abstentions were recorded. - The board discussed work group plans and opportunities, with a retreat planned for the next meeting to further refine priorities. - No other formal votes were taken.

The Alameda Planning Board convened on Monday, June 22, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. The meeting included a study session on the Oakland Roots proposal to host professional soccer matches at their Harbor Bay Parkway facility and a public hearing on amendments to the Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) ordinance. The board also recognized outgoing board member Sahaba for eight years of service. Consent Calendar - The board approved the draft meeting minutes from June 8, 2026, with one abstention (board member Dewey). Public Comments & Testimony - Oakland Roots Proposal (Item 5B): Multiple residents spoke: Marie Kane, Stephanie Brochier, and Rayla Graber expressed opposition, citing traffic, noise, evacuation concerns, and proximity to homes. Melissa DeBoard and Judy Stanton voiced support, emphasizing economic benefits and family-friendly activities. Madeline Sadiq (Alameda Chamber & Economic Alliance) supported the project as an economic driver. Kenneth Chen (representing a school and church in the business park) noted mixed feelings, hoping for no Sunday games. - ADU Ordinance Amendments (Item 5A): Hank Hernandez (Alameda Tiny Homes) offered suggestions on design review, parking, and roof pitch. Mark Gonyer spoke in favor of allowing ADU condo conversions, sharing his experience with a seven-unit property. Discussion Items - Oakland Roots Study Session (Item 5B): Staff planner Brian McGuire presented the proposal: the Oakland Roots and Soul seek a conditional use permit to host up to 24 soccer matches per year (up to 8,000 fans) at 1150/1220 Harbor Bay Parkway, with modular grandstands, temporary facilities, and shared parking. The draft conditions include traffic control, noise mitigation, lighting compliance, and annual review. Lydia Tan (Roots) discussed transportation plans (shuttles, BART, bike valet), lighting, and noise orientation. Board members asked for detailed traffic studies, parking strategies, noise modeling, community benefits, and design for arrival experience. No formal action was taken. - ADU Ordinance Amendments (Item 5A): Staff presented a resolution to recommend text amendments to the City Council, including opt-in for ADU condo conversions (AB 1033), front yard setback rules, legal nonconforming additions, and cleanup edits. Discussion focused on: the requirement for homeowners associations in condo conversions, roof pitch matching, parking standards (18-ft driveway length), and design review for second-story decks. Public comments raised concerns about ministerial review for rooftop patios and parking minimums. The board directed staff to revise language to allow complementary roof pitches, reference public works parking standards, and explore reducing verbatim state law text. The board voted to recommend the amended ordinance to the City Council. Key Outcomes - Item 5B: No vote taken. Staff and applicant received board guidance to refine traffic, parking, noise, lighting, and community outreach before a future use permit hearing. - Item 5A: Motion (by board member Ruiz, seconded by board member Sahaba) to approve the resolution recommending the ADU ordinance amendments to the City Council with adjustments discussed. Motion carried unanimously (all in favor, none opposed, no abstentions). Staff will incorporate changes and forward to Council. - Other: Board member Sahaba was recognized for eight years of service with a certificate of appreciation. Board member Hom announced his intention to step down, remaining until a replacement is found.

The Alameda City Council met on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, starting with a closed session at approximately 6:00 PM and resuming the regular meeting at about 7:00 PM. The regular meeting concluded at 10:12 PM. Key actions included authorizing a workers' compensation settlement, approving an affordable housing amendment for the Alameda Marina, and passing an ordinance to ban ratio utility billing systems (RUBS) for utilities, with a 3-1 vote. Closed Session - The council held a closed session to discuss Item 3A: conference with legal counsel regarding existing litigation (Sean Gillian vs. City of Alameda, Workers' Compensation Appeals Board). Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft announced the council authorized the city attorney to settle Mr. Gillian's claim in an amount not to exceed $200,000, with votes from Councilmembers Fuller, Desog, Vice Mayor Pryor, and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft. Councilmember Jensen was recused. Consent Calendar - The council approved the consent calendar unanimously, with Councilmember Bowler recused from items 5e and 5k, and Councilmember Daysog recused from item 5k. The consent calendar included resolutions related to water quality fees, maintenance assessments, landscaping and lighting districts, and an economic development subsidy for the Oakland Roots and Soul (up to $150,000 for World Cup team support). Public Comments & Testimony - Non-Agenda Oral Communications (beginning of meeting): - Ralph Walker, founder/head coach of the Don Grant Alameda Youth Track Club, expressed frustration about access to the track at Alameda College, alleging disrespect from a school board member and threatening escalation if not allowed use. He stated he wants to end his coaching career in Alameda but cannot afford the $5,000 per season fee. - Joe Zimmerman objected to the city flying Pride flags on public flagpoles during June, calling for either no private group flags or flags for all ideologies. He characterized the Pride flag as promoting a "death cult ideology" and requested removal. - Consent Calendar Public Comment: - Corinne Kirschbaum (remote) spoke about a temporary restraining order against her and alleged lack of reaction from council to her comments at a prior meeting, but was cut off by the mayor for not addressing specific consent calendar items. - Item 7C (RUBS Ban) Public Comment: - Jennifer Rizzo, representing the California Apartment Association, urged rejection of the RUBS ban, arguing it lacked data on impacts, that complaints were less than 1% of renters, and that San Jose saw increased water consumption after a similar ban. She advocated for transparency standards instead of a ban. - Timothy Hilton, a renter in a 41-unit building, supported the ban, describing lack of transparency in current billing, unchanged charges despite vacancies, and difficulty obtaining breakdowns from property management. - Item 10 (Museum Referral) Public Comment: - Gabriel Duncan, founder of the Alameda Native History Project, supported the referral but requested a broader public process to include contributions from all diverse groups (e.g., Chinese laborers) in the city's history. Discussion Items - 7B: Alameda Marina Master Plan Amendment (Affordable Housing) — Staff Planner Tristan Swear explained the amendment modifies the affordable housing requirement for Phase Three (the Foundry) from a 15% mix to 8% very low-income units, consistent with the recently adopted inclusionary housing ordinance. The developer, Sean Murphy (Alameda Marina Pacific Development), stated the project includes 259 units, one live-work unit, public open space, environmental remediation, and sea level rise protection; the change allows the project to proceed (currently in final plan checks). All council members expressed support, emphasizing the need for very low-income housing and the project's broader benefits. The motion to introduce the ordinance passed unanimously. - 7C: Ordinance Banning Ratio Utility Billing Systems (RUBS) — Rent Program Director Bill Chapin presented a proposal to prohibit utility charges without separate meters for new tenancies, with a phased one-time rent adjustment process for existing tenants. He noted that 64 tenant inquiries since the COVID moratorium end may affect over 3,000 units, citing cases of sudden fee increases and difficulty obtaining documentation. The proposed ban follows similar actions in Berkeley and Mountain View. Councilmember Bowler recused himself. Public comment was divided. Council discussion centered on transparency vs. outright ban. Councilmember Daysog favored more transparency measures; Vice Mayor Pryor and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft argued the ban was necessary to prevent rent circumvention. Councilmember Jensen made a motion to approve with additional directions: streamline fair return petitions for utility and insurance increases, add RUBS data to rent registry, and report back after phase one. The motion passed 3-1 (Councilmember Daysog opposed). - 10: Council Referral on Alameda Museum and Indigenous History — Councilmember Jensen requested staff to work with the Alameda Museum on displays and archiving of indigenous artifacts and to develop a program with local tribes. Assistant City Manager Wooldridge reported the library director is coordinating and that the museum has reached out to tribes (only the Muwekma Ohlone responded) and is working on repatriation and an educational display. Staff will bring a presentation at the second meeting in July or September. The council agreed to the direction. Key Outcomes - Workers' Compensation Settlement: Council authorized settlement for former firefighter Sean Gillian's claim up to $200,000 (4-0, Jensen recused). - Alameda Marina Master Plan Amendment: Council voted unanimously (5-0) to introduce an ordinance reducing the affordable housing requirement for Phase Three to 8% very low-income units. - RUBS Ban Ordinance: Council voted 3-1 (Daysog opposed) to introduce an ordinance banning utility charges without separate meters for new tenancies and establishing a phased petition process for existing tenants to adjust rent based on average utility costs. Additional directions included streamlining fair return petitions, adding RUBS questions to the rent registry, and reporting on Phase One outcomes. - Alameda Museum Referral: Council directed staff to work with the museum and return with a presentation on indigenous history and repatriation efforts. - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously with noted recusals. - Reappointments: Unanimously approved reappointments of John Lip and Jane Smith (Commission on Persons with Disabilities), Yatin Shastri (Golf Commission), and Elise Hunter (Public Utilities Board). - Mylar Balloon Ban: Councilmember Jensen announced she would submit a referral for the next meeting to reconsider a ban on Mylar balloons, citing a recent outage affecting over 3,000 customers for three hours on June 14, 2026. - City Manager Communications: Interim City Manager Pulitzer noted the Alameda Sakaroos won their first match against Turkey; excitement was expressed for the upcoming USA vs. Australia match. - Council Communications: Various members reported on attending community events, including Unity Fest, Coast Guard Island awards, AC Transit meetings, and the Chamber leadership graduation.

The raw transcription provided for this meeting contained only garbled, repetitive, and non-grammatical phrases (e.g., "Human consequences," "we're not going to be a fine") with no coherent discussion, speaker attribution, agenda items, or decisions. No meaningful content could be extracted to summarize the meeting's proceedings, public comments, or outcomes.

The Alameda Planning Board held a study session on the Main Street Neighborhood North Area at Alameda Point on June 8, 2026. The meeting included public comments, approval of prior minutes, and a detailed presentation on development feasibility, followed by board feedback on key planning priorities. No votes were taken on the study session items. Consent Calendar - Approval of Meeting Minutes (May 26, 2026): The board approved the draft minutes with a correction to the spelling of Steve Buckley's last name. Motion passed unanimously (Board Member Ruiz absent). Public Comments & Testimony - Rose Huey (Alameda resident, CPA, founder of My Mother's House): Expressed support for an intergenerational housing model that brings together low-income seniors, single mothers, and children. She encouraged the city to consider innovative housing models that build community and offered to share research and partnerships. - Babak Perandian (business owner, Cafe Jolie Petite on Bay Farm): Spoke about his plans to revive the Machon Theater at 2700 Saratoga (within the study area) as a rental space and restaurant, including reactivating a Sunday farmers market. He requested board support for activating community spaces. Discussion Items - Presentation on Main Street Neighborhood North Feasibility Analysis: Nicole Franklin (Alameda Point base reuse manager) and David Dozma (Kaiser Mars, land use economics) presented preliminary results. Key points: - The study area (70 acres) includes portions east and west of Pan Am, with unique challenges including sea level rise, shoreline adaptation, historic district constraints, and a 25% affordable housing requirement (per settlement with Renewed Hope) plus an additional 10% for moderate-income households (per 2017 Specific Plan). - Infrastructure costs estimated at $240 million (including Main Street reconstruction and flood protection). Feasibility analysis tested lower density (600 units east of Pan Am) and medium density (1,000 units including west side) scenarios. Top-line finding: both scenarios are within feasibility range, but significant challenges remain (e.g., timing mismatch of infrastructure, high per-unit costs, Navy conveyance payments). - Staff posed questions to the board on four themes: (1) height and density allowances (current plan allows 2-3 stories east of Pan Am); (2) rezoning west of Pan Am from adaptive reuse to residential; (3) parks and circulation (potential to replace the central garden with decentralized parks); (4) affordable housing requirements (revisiting the additional 10% moderate-income requirement). - Board Feedback: - Board Member Sahab: Emphasized the need to connect the new neighborhood to the Main Street ferry terminal, rethink the street network to create orientation points, and allow height along Main Street and at key intersections to generate activity. - Vice President Arisa: Supported allowing more height on Main Street but not excessive (e.g., 20 stories). Favored rezoning west of Pan Am for residential while preserving key historic sites like the O Club and theater. Encouraged diverse housing types beyond three-story townhomes. - Board Member Hom: Called for flexibility in density and building heights to help fund infrastructure, suggested considering relocating historic "big white" buildings to preserve them while allowing a more efficient street grid, and advocated for a larger planning effort that connects the site to the shoreline. - Board Member Wang: Stressed that feasibility should be the prism for all decisions; supported a competitive RFQ/RFP process to generate multiple developer ideas. Questioned the effectiveness of deed-restricted moderate-income housing given market dynamics, and noted that a citywide in-lieu fee could help support the 25% affordable requirement at Alameda Point. - Board President Cisneris (and others): Agreed on the need for flexibility, especially regarding the additional 10% moderate-income requirement, and supported using incentives rather than mandates to achieve housing diversity. Board members generally supported rezoning west of Pan Am for residential, being open to higher density and height if it enables project feasibility, and reconsidering the central park in favor of smaller decentralized open spaces. - Historic Advisory Board Input (recapped by Nicole Franklin): The HAB was supportive of advancing development but stressed preserving the historic character of the district while being open to adaptive reuse and potential loss of some contributing structures. They advised not being overly restrictive and providing menus of options. Key Outcomes - No votes taken on the study session items; staff will incorporate board feedback into the priority-setting process. - Next Steps: Staff will compile feedback from the planning board, historic advisory board, and future community meetings; then present a refined priority framework and feasibility analysis to the City Council for direction on issuing a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for a master developer. - Upcoming Meetings: - June 22, 2026: Public hearing on ADU ordinance amendments and a study session on a proposal from the Oakland Roots soccer team for temporary use of the old Raiders facility. - July 13, 2026: First draft of short-term rental ordinance and possible workshop on commercial zoning amendments for Park and Webster Streets. - Recent Actions Noted: City Council approved second reading of inclusionary housing ordinance amendments; Alameda Marina adjustment approved by board and headed to council on June 16, 2026.