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HomeMy WebLinkAbout04.24.00 Minutes CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO SPECIAL JOINT PLANNING COMMISSION / CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES MUNICIPAL SERVICES BUILDING 33 ARROYO DRIVE April 24, 2000 CALL TO ORDER / PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE The meeting was called to order at 7:39 p.m. ROLL CALL / CHAIR COMMENTS MEMBERS PRESENT: Commissioners Baldocchi, Commissioner D'Angelo, Commissioner Honan, Commissioner Teglia, Vice Chair Meloni and Chair Sim MEMBERS ABSENT: Commissioner Romero STAFF PRESENT: Planning Division: Thomas C. Sparks, Chief Planner Susy Kalkin, Senior Planner Marty Van Duyn ECD Director: 1. Joint Meeting with City Council (AS APPROVED BY CITY COUNCIL) · Council covered the following areas with the Planning Commission: * Customer service aspect of City employees Council discussed its concern regarding the Commission working uncooperatively with staff and developers. Commission members felt they demand the best product and that this may be taken negatively by developers. The Commission stated its support for staff and discussed staffs workload. Council/Commission entered into a discussion regarding the applicant process, recurring problems, and how it can be improved. It was suggested that a measurable standard be adopted that would guide applicants, make the process uniform and less frustrating for the Commission, staff and applicants. Mayor Matsumoto reiterated her concern that staff is treated with respect in public and if there are problems they be dealt with privately. · Relationships among Commission members Council discussed its concern that factions have formed on the Commission and personalities have become an issue. Commissioners felt that there are strong differences of opinion that are questioned by one another, but overall appreciated. It was suggested that retreats be conducted for Commissioners to discuss issues and strengthen inter-personal skills. Council felt it would be beneficial to: - have a session on the Statement of Economic Interest Form 700; - have department heads conduct a presentation for new Commissioners; - take new Commissioners on a tour of the City; - provide Commissioners with an information packet, and - have newly appointed Commissioners sit-in on a meeting before actually serving. G:\File Cabinet\Old PC\working\rninutes\2000\042400 SPC.doc Page 1 of 2 . General process questions The Commission agreed that the Chairperson speaks for the Commission and that this is now in the Commission by-laws. Mayor Matsumoto explained Council protocol. The Council/Commission discussed individual rights, how the public perceives a Commissioner even when speaking as an individual, and how the press may misrepresent an individual's opinion. . Relationships between Council and Commission Commissioners felt communication with Council was important and felt joint meetings should be held more often. Council and Commissioners working on subcommittees together is also helpful. It was stressed that the Commission needs to know what Council's vision is, and it will also provide direction to staff. Council/Commission discussed the possibility of hostility between the two bodies and it was agreed that communication and interaction on land use subcommittees will be beneficial. (Cassette Tape No.3) Council briefly discussed its vision for a transit and pedestrian oriented development for the EI Camino Corridor and downtown core areas, and maintaining open space. . Decision making activities Council further discussed meeting semi-annually, and for the Commission to focus on quality public art in developments. Council/Commission discussed the Desai development and how it was presented to the Commission. Council stated that this project will be further explored when the applicant returns from abroad. Mayor Matsumoto concluded the meeting, stated her concern that the Commission hold themselves to a higher standard, another joint meeting will be scheduled, and Council will look at subcommittee assignments. Information regarding the recent Council study session on housing will be forwarded to the Commission by staff. Motion-MullinlSecond-Fernekes: To adjourn the City Council meeting at 9: 18 p.m. Approved by voice vote. (END OF APPROVED CITY COUNCIL MINUTES) 2 Adjournment Carlton Rowlands, commented on Terrabay and City Attorney Mattas advised that the comments be discussed at a regular meeting and not in a study session. Motion Te~dia /Second Honan: To adjourn the Planning Co Thomas C. Sparks Secretary to the Planning Commission City of South San Francisco NEXT MEETING: Regular Meeting June 1,2000, Municipal Services Building, 33 Anoyo Drive, South San Francisco, CA. G:\File Cabinet\Old PC\working\l1linutes\2000\042400 SPC.doc Page 2 of 2