Alex DeCarli

The meeting reconvened from a closed session concerning public employee annual performance evaluations, with no report out provided. A proclamation was made for Small Business Saturday, encouraging support for local businesses, and an update was provided on related community kickoff events. The Council received a presentation from Recology regarding their services, including solid waste collection, street sweeping, and waste zero outreach. Key discussions included the status of landfill diversion rates, noting a 10% tonnage reduction between 2019 and 2024, and compliance with state solid waste laws such as mandatory composting (SP 1383) and mandatory recycling (AB341). Recology detailed process improvements, such as reduced call wait times, enhanced driver safety training, and restructuring routes, noting they exceed contractual requirements for year-round weekly street sweeping. They also presented on testing a fully electric collection truck. Furthermore, updates were provided on community involvement, specifically regarding Lisa Moore's work with schools and businesses on diversion programs, and Recology's sponsorship and 'greening' efforts at numerous local events.

The meeting focused primarily on a presentation celebrating the commercial operation of the floating solar project at the Ellis Creek Water Recycling Facility. The presentation detailed project goals, covered the array's specifications (10 acres, 6 MW DC system), projected annual energy production (9,780,000 kWh), and expected annual savings ($300,000 this year, up to $1 million over 20 years). Details on the four-year development process, including design, negotiation of the Energy Services Agreement (PPA), and the one-year construction timeline involving 11,000 solar panels and 26,000 floats, were provided. The presentation also covered technical aspects like grounding anchors, combiner boxes, inverters, and the process of connecting array sections. Initial technical difficulties with the camera system caused a brief delay before the meeting commenced.

The meeting included a roll call and pledge of allegiance. The council honored Paul Heavenidge, a Sonoma County Library Commission appointee. There was no reportable action from the closed session. The public was invited to comment on items of public interest, with time limits set. Public comments addressed concerns about racism, support for socioeconomic policy related to air quality, the impact of regulations on the community, and issues related to mobile park residents.

The webinar provided background on the city's Landscape Assessment District (LAD) program, explained how it affects the Southgate District, and gathered community input. The Southgate LAD, formed in 2005, includes 242 parcels and is responsible for maintaining specific frontages, landscape medians, and areas at Southgate Park. The district's budget covers landscaping contracts, water and sewer costs, city administration fees, and a reserve for maintenance. An assessment increase to $381.02 per parcel is planned for fiscal year 2627 to maintain current service levels. Residents were encouraged to participate in a community survey to help shape the district's future.

The City Council meeting included discussions and proclamations for Native American Heritage Month and Veterans Day. The council also received an economic development presentation, including goals, policies, and programs focused on creating a robust and vibrant economy. Discussions included land use and zoning, the permitting process, financing and infrastructure, housing, and coalition building and business partnerships. Emerging themes such as the Amazon Prime effect and sales and transit occupancy tax were also addressed.