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BURLINGAME CITY COUNCIL
Approved Minutes
Regular Meeting on April 5, 2021
6:00 P.M STUDY SESSION
a. PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION OF FUTURE WIRELESS ORDINANCE UPDATE
Interim City Attorney Spansail explained that on February 6, 2012, the Burlingame City Council adopted
Ordinance Number 1870, the City's Wireless Communications Ordinance. The ordinance was designed to
"establish policy, standards and procedures related to the siting of wireless communications facilities in a
fair, equitable and rational manner."
Interim City Attorney Spansail explained that in order to ensure compliance with new state and federal
regulations, the City needs to amend the ordinance.
Interim City Attorney Spansail stated that on June 10, 2020, the City hosted a "Wireless Workshop" to
discuss small cellular technology in Burlingame. This presentation was designed to educate the public and
start a conversation about potential changes to the wireless infrastructure in the city.
Interim City Attorney Spansail explained that the City is currently working with Best, Best and Krieger LLP
attorney Gail Karish to amend the Burlingame Municipal Code regarding wireless communications facilities.
He stated that Ms. Karish has extensive knowledge of the changing laws and regulations that limit a
municipality's ability to regulate wireless activity.
Ms. Karish reviewed the City's current regulations regarding wireless facilities. She explained that the
City's regulations apply to private property, public property, and public rights -of -way. She added that there
are two permits available: administrative and conditional. She reviewed the locations of the wireless
facilities in the city:
• Six installations located on utility poles (none on City -owned poles)
• Washington Park baseball field light pole
• Approximately 32 facilities on the rooftops of 23 buildings
Ms. Karish gave a summary of federal and state regulations. She explained that the principal limitation on
the City's authority to govern wireless communication facilities is federal law 47 U.S.0 332(c)(7), which
imposes the following limits:
• Action must be within a reasonable period of time
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• May not prohibit or effectively prohibit provision of personal wireless services
• Denials must be in writing and supported by substantial evidence
• No consideration of radio frequency emissions if applicant meets FCC standards
• No unreasonable discrimination among providers of functionally equivalent services
• Expedited appeals to court
Ms. Karish discussed 47 U.S.0 1455(a), which governs eligible facilities requests ("BFRs"). This law states
that EFRs are certain modifications to existing structures with an existing wireless facility. She explained
that an EFR can entail collocation of new transmission equipment; removal of transmission equipment; or
replacement of transmission equipment. She noted that the City has no discretion to deny an EFR.
However, she explained that a factor that can be used in determining the qualification of a facility as an EFR
is whether the proposed work defeats the concealment elements of existing "stealth" structures. She stated
that a "stealth facility" is one that is designed to look like something other than a wireless tower or base
station.
Ms. Karish outlined key FCC orders:
• 2009 - Adopted two wireless application "shot clocks"
• 2014 - Adopted rules for eligible facilities requests and another shot clock
• 2018 - Adopted shorter shot clocks for small wireless facilities and put limits on local aesthetic rules
and fees for permits and use of City -owned poles in public right-of-way
• 2019 - Interpreted scope of cable franchise grant to include wireless devices
• 2019 - Issued order re -affirming existing radio frequency emissions standards
• 2020 - Issued clarification of rules for eligible facilities requests
• 2020 - Issued modification to rules for eligible facilities requests
Ms. Karish discussed key provisions of California state law and noted that the California Legislature is
particularly focused on wireless facilities in the public right-of-way. She reviewed the following Sections of
the California Public Utility Code:
• Section 7901 - grants state franchise to telephone companies to use public right-of-way, subject to
limitations (may not "incommode the public use")
• Section 7901.1— reasonable control as to the time, place, and manner in which roads are accessed by
telephone company
• Section 2902 — preserves local regulation of use and repair of public streets, location of the poles,
wires, mains, or conduits of any public utility on, under, or above any public streets where not
preempted by CPUC
Ms. Karish noted that AB 556, which is pending, would mandate the use of City light and traffic poles at an
annual rental rate of $270.
Ms. Karish also reviewed key provisions of the California Government Code including:
• Section 65860.6 allows: discretionary permit to approve base facilities that may later add collocation
facilities and no discretionary review of facilities collocated on base facilities
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• Section 65964 prohibits: escrow deposits for removal of a facility, permits of less than 10 years
(unless for "public safety" or "land use" reasons), and requiring all facilities to be located on sites
owned by particular parties
• Section 65850.75 (AB 2421) temporarily imposes shot clock and mandatory approval of qualifying
emergency generators at macro cell sites; does not apply to small cells, distributed antenna systems,
or rooftop facilities
Ms. Karish reviewed shot clocks in reference to wireless facilities. She explained that a shot clock is the
specific time period in which a city must take final action on an application and all related authorizations to
install or modify a wireless facility. She noted that this includes appeals. She stated that the shot clock may
be reset or tolled for two reasons:
• By issuing a timely notice of incompleteness or
• By agreement with the applicant
She explained that the longest shot clock period is 150 days. She stated that the FCC reviews in depth the
various shot clocks and their applicable categories. She added that the most frequent shot clocks are between
60 and 90 days in length.
Ms. Karish discussed notice of incompleteness. She stated that the most common length is 30 days followed
by a 10-day resubmission period to determine if the application is complete or not. She explained that the
clock resets when the application is resubmitted.
Ms. Karish reviewed shot clock remedies:
• 60-day and 90-day small cell shot clocks
o No federal or state deemed granted remedy
o Enhanced remedy (if you missed the shot clock) — presumed to be an illegal effective
prohibition
• 60-day EFR shot clock
o Federal deemed granted remedy — applicant send notice to exercise it
• 60-day California emergency generator shot clock
o State deemed granted remedy
• 90-day and 150-day collocation and other wireless shot clock
o State deemed granted remedy (California Government Code Section 95964.1)
Ms. Karish next discussed the legal limits on aesthetic regulations. She noted that generally, local
governments can regulate aesthetics. However, EFR rules may override aesthetics in some situations. She
explained that aesthetic regulations for personal wireless facilities must not prohibit or effectively prohibit
the provisions of personal wireless services. She noted that aesthetic regulations for small cells must be
reasonable such that they are "technically feasible and reasonably directed to avoiding or remedying the
intangible public harm of unsightly or out -of -character deployments." Additionally, aesthetic regulations
must be published in advance.
Ms. Karish stated that under state law, wireless carriers and telecommunication providers have a right to
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install wireless facilities in the public right-of-way, so long as the placement does not inconvenience the
public use of the right-of-way.
Ms. Karish gave an overview of the changes that would need to be made to the City's wireless ordinance.
She added that the City would also need to create standards for the implementation of wireless facilities
through resolution, update the process by which to get a permit, and adopt a master license agreement.
Ms. Karish explained that one of the major policy issues is balancing public input with the need to streamline
the process due to shot clocks. She stated that another major policy issue is updating location and
installation preferences and design standards.
Ms. Karish reviewed areas of the wireless ordinance that would need to be amended including:
• Design criteria for wireless communication facilities
• General requirements including:
o Locations within non-residential zoning districts, which are more than 500 feet from
residential zoning districts or the Burlingame Downtown Districts
o Non-residential zoning districts within 500 feet of residential zoning districts or the
Burlingame Downtown Districts
o Residential zoning districts
Ms. Karish discussed City light poles. She stated that there are 1,130 City -owned steel light poles, with
1,050 being standard and 80 decorative. She mentioned that PG&E also provides lighting service.
Vice Mayor Ortiz asked if any nearby cities have adopted resolutions that the City could utilize. Ms. Karish
replied in the affirmative.
Vice Mayor Ortiz asked about creating a standardized look for the wireless facilities to address aesthetic
concerns and thereby streamlining the process. Ms. Karish replied in the affirmative. She explained that
some cities have samples of approved designs that they give companies. However, she noted that different
carriers have different facilities, so the approved design has to be able to work with all carriers.
Mayor O'Brien Keighran asked about a citizen appealing a Planning Commission approval and whether the
Council would have time to address the appeal within the shot clock period. Ms. Karish replied that under
the current ordinance, an individual has 21 days to appeal a Planning Commission decision. She noted that
this makes it difficult for the Council and staff to handle the appeal within the shot clock period. She added
that as a result, some cities have shortened the time in which an individual can file an appeal.
Councilmember Brownrigg stated that he believed it would be hard to limit where the wireless facilities are
installed. However, he noted that he was worried about the power sources that would be needed. He asked
if the City can restrict companies to use shorter wavelengths as that will require fewer facilities. Ms. Karish
replied in the negative. She explained that local governments cannot regulate the technology that carriers
use. She stated that in terms of power sources, smart meters can be used, and for metal poles, equipment can
be hidden within the pole.
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Councilmember Colson stated that the City needed to figure out a way to convey this information to the
public so that they understand what role the City plays in the installation of wireless facilities. She added
that the City should work with Caltrans on its El Camino Real corridor plans to see if new facilities can be
integrated into the plan.
Councilmember Beach asked if any studies had been undertaken at the federal level on the effect of
cumulative radio frequency exposure. Ms. Karish stated that when the FCC reaffirmed their rules, it looked
at current research and found it was acceptable. However, she noted that she expects this will be an ongoing
issue.
Mayor O'Brien Keighran adjourned the study session.
1. CALL TO ORDER
A duly noticed meeting of the Burlingame City Council was held on the above date via Zoom Webinar at
7:00 p.m.
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG
The pledge of allegiance was led by Councilmember Colson.
3. ROLL CALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Beach, Brownrigg, Colson, O'Brien Keighran, Ortiz
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
4. REPORT OUT FROM CLOSED SESSION
There was no closed session.
5. UPCOMING EVENTS
Mayor O'Brien Keighran reviewed the upcoming events taking place in the city.
6. PRESENTATIONS
a. ABILITY PATH PRESENTATION
AbilityPath representative Bryan Neider stated that the organization serves around 1,500 individuals every
week and offers 180 online classes for people with disabilities. He explained that their programs are offered
on a quarterly schedule and are held both virtually and in -person. He added that AbilityPath is restarting
limited in -person therapy and early intervention services mid -April. He stated that a hybrid model provides
more parental choice and ensures quality therapeutic outcomes.
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Mr. Neider discussed the Learning Links Preschool. He explained that enrollment is slowly starting to
increase, and the school is operating at 60% capacity due to State and County guidelines. He stated that they
have been operating the preschool at a loss during the pandemic, and that they have not had any incidents of
COVID-19 at any of the preschools. He added that there has been significant challenge in hiring preschool
teachers.
Mr. Neider stated that they have not had to furlough any of their staff due to the pandemic. He added that he
is excited to return to normal operations.
Councilmember Brownrigg thanked the Mayor for inviting Mr. Neider to give an update. He asked what do
communities need to be thinking about in relation to older adults with disabilities. Mr. Neider responded that
AbilityPath has an Aging Well Committee made up of parents and people in their seventies to discuss how to
take care of their aging children and older citizens.
Councilmember Colson asked if the students coming back to the preschool are new students. Mr. Neider
responded that it is a mix. He stated that there are a lot of new families starting at the preschool, but a lot of
returning families. He mentioned he can get more precise numbers to report to Council.
Mayor O'Brien Keighran thanked Mr. Neider for his presentation.
b. OAK GROVE/CAROLAN AVENUE TRAFFIC SIGNAL PROJECT UPDATE
DPW Murtuza introduced Steve Fitzsimons from W-Trans to give an update on the Oak Grove/Carolan
Avenue traffic signal project.
Mr. Fitzsimons stated that W-Trans came up with three solutions for the Oak Grove/Carolan Avenue traffic
signal project.
1. No build — traffic control will stay similar to current conditions but with signal and pedestrian
upgrades.
2. Build Option 1 (East-West Split) — similar operations to existing conditions at California Drive but
with longer cycle and stopped delay because of coordination delay
3. Build Option 2 (East-West with Flashing Yellow Arrows) — uses Flashing Yellow Arrow ("FYA")
operation and has slightly lower average delays compared with Build Option 1
Mr. Fitzsimons noted that both build options include:
• Signalization at Carolan Avenue to improve safety
• Compatibility with Caltrain current operations
• Anticipation of planned increased train operations from electrification
Mr. Fitzsimons explained that an FYA is an additional arrow on the signal fixture. This arrow lets traffic
know that it should yield to oncoming vehicles, bicyclists, and pedestrians, then turn left with caution. He
stated that additional signage would be activated when trains are approaching.
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Mr. Fitzsimons explained that FYAs are slowly being installed around the Bay Area, including one in
Belmont.
Mr. Fitzsimons summarized that benefits of FYAs:
• Improve safety, clarify right-of-way assignments
• Anticipation of increased train operations from electrification project
• Enhanced lighting at Carolan Avenue
• Timing can be adjusted to optimize operations
• Striping enhancements (high visibility crosswalks, southbound bike box at Carolan Avenue)
Mr. Fitzsimons discussed additional enhancements that could be implemented on Carolan Avenue including:
• Bulb -outs
• An island on the north leg
• No U-Turn signs
Mr. Fitzsimons explained the tentative schedule:
• November 2020 — Pre -final design
• February 2021 — TSPC
• March 2021 — JPB/Caltrain and PGE
• May 2021 — Final Design
• Winter 2021 or Spring 2021 — Start construction
Vice Mayor Ortiz asked if there is a way to do signaling specific to the high volume in the mornings. Mr.
Fitzsimons replied in the affirmative. He explained that it is common to coordinate the signals during peak
hours.
Councilmember Brownrigg asked if the City undertakes a road diet of California Drive, would this project
change. He asked if this makes the proposed changes at the Carolan/Oak Grove intersection better, or would
it create more delays. DPW Murtuza stated that the City hasn't finalized the study for road diets. He added
that before this project is undertaken, staff would review the road diet study. Mr. Fitzsimons stated that it
would be an independent issue. He added that the number of lanes would stay the same and therefore
wouldn't affect this project.
Councilmember Brownrigg asked if the City makes the intersection a quiet zone, would it change the design
of the intersection. DPW Murtuza replied in the negative. He explained that quiet zones are an independent
issue. He added that the quiet zone would require the installation of quad -gates and more safety
improvements around the tracks.
Mayor O'Brien Keighran asked about the cost of the project. DPW Murtuza stated that the estimated
construction cost is roughly $900,000. However, he noted that the City hopes to obtain approximately
$650,000 from a federal grant.
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Councilmember Colson asked if the build options were to satisfy a safety objective or a traffic flow
objective. DPW Murtuza replied that the project's goal is to improve the safety of the intersection. He noted
that the tradeoff for improved safety would be increased wait times.
Mayor O'Brien Keighran opened the item up for public comment.
TSP Commissioner Adrienne Leigh commented that the intersection is confusing, but it works. She stated
that there have been no pedestrians hit in the last five years. She commented that the FYA might distract
drivers. She added that the Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee is in favor of bulb -outs on Carolan
Avenue, a pedestrian island on California Drive, and no U-turn signs.
Mayor O'Brien Keighran closed public comment.
Councilmember Brownrigg asked what the TSPC recommended for the intersection. DPW Murtuza
responded that they recommended the YFA option. He added that there would be further discussions at
TSPC about bulb -outs and other improvements at future meetings.
Mayor O'Brien Keighran asked if it would be better to incorporate all the improvements at once than to do
them one by one. DPW Murtuza responded that the bulb -outs and other related improvements are ancillary
improvements and don't address the core issue of the right-of-way.
Vice Mayor Ortiz asked if drivers get distracted by the Flashing Yellow Arrow. Mr. Fitzsimons replied that
he would need to get back to Council with more information. However, he noted the positive feedback that
W-Trans had received on FYA installations.
Councilmember Beach commented that the goal is to improve safety. She noted if the traffic engineers are
recommending installing an FYA, then she is in favor of it.
Councilmember Colson commented that the changes to the intersection will increase wait times, and the
increase might make drivers more impatient or distracted. She explained that she wants to make sure the
public is aware of what is going on and that the City can make changes as more feedback comes in. DPW
Murtuza responded that the timing of the signal can be tweaked as needed and that more technical options
can be explored.
Councilmember Colson made a motion to endorse the TSPC recommendation of installing an FYA, bulb -
outs, improved lighting, no U-Turn signage, a pedestrian island, and a bike box; seconded by Vice -Mayor
Ortiz.
Councilmember Brownrigg voiced his concern that adding an island might confuse drivers.
Councilmember Colson made a new motion to endorse the TSPC recommendation of FYA, including if
needed bulb -outs, improved lighting, no U-Turn signage, a pedestrian island, and a bike box; seconded by
Vice -Mayor Ortiz.
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Mayor O'Brien Keighran stated that she wouldn't be supporting the motion. She explained that she agreed
with TSP Commissioner Leigh that the intersection is already confusing and the additional improvements
will make queuing longer and lead to more problems.
Councilmember Beach asked if the intersection will be safer or less safe with the additional improvements.
Mr. Fitzsimons responded that there were 14 reported collisions at the Carolan intersection between 2012
and 2018. He stated that this is not enough to warrant a signal, but that 40% of the accidents could have
been avoided if there was a signal. He stated that adding improvements would benefit the intersection.
Mayor O'Brien Keighran asked that if the intersection doesn't meet all the criteria to warrant adding the
signal, then why was the project moving forward. She noted that when the City installs a stop sign, they are
very strict about meeting the necessary requirements. DPW Murtuza replied that the Council can go beyond
the minimum requirements that warrant an installation if they deem it necessary for public safety.
The motion passed by roll call vote: 4-1. (Mayor O'Brien Keighran voted against)
7. PUBLIC COMMENT
Jennifer Pfaff from the Burlingame Historical Society commented that the new Bay Trail Road by the
Oculus campus should have a commemorative plaque to remember the history of the old Burlingame drive-
in theater. (comment received via publiccomment&burlin a�g).
8. CONSENT CALENDAR
Mayor O'Brien Keighran asked the Councilmembers and the public if they wished to remove any item from
the Consent Calendar. Councilmember Brownrigg pulled item 8e.
Vice Mayor Ortiz made a motion to adopt items 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d, and 8f, seconded by Councilmember
Brownrigg. The motion passed unanimously by roll call vote, 5-0.
a. APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FOR THE JANUARY 23RD. 2021
ANNUAL GOAL SETTING SESSION
City Clerk Hassel -Shearer requested Council approve the City Council Meeting Minutes of the January 23ra,
2021 Annual Goal Setting Session.
b. APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FOR THE MARCH 10, 2021 FY
2020-21 MID -YEAR BUDGET STUDY SESSION
City Clerk Hassel -Shearer requested Council approve the City Council Meeting Minutes of the March 1 Otn,
2021 FY 2020-21 Mid -Year Budget Study Session.
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c. APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FOR THE MARCH 151H, 2021
COUNCIL MEETING
City Clerk Hassel -Shearer requested Council approve the City Council Meeting Minutes of the March 151h
Council Meeting.
d. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE DELETION OF ONE VACANT
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT I, THE ADDITION OF ONE MANAGEMENT ANALYST,
AND THE RECLASSIFICATION OF THREE INCUMBENT MANAGEMENT ANALYST
POSITIONS
HR Director Morrison requested Council adopt Resolution Number 034-2021.
e. ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION ACCEPTING THE LYON HOAG AND NEIGHBORHOOD
TRAFFIC CALMING IMPROVEMENTS, PHASE 1, CITY PROJECT NO. 85950, BY
SIERRA TRAFFIC MARKINGS, INC
Councilmember Brownrigg asked that the Council receive an update in a year about how these
improvements have impacted the Lyon Hoag neighborhood.
Mayor O'Brien Keighran concurred with Councilmember Brownrigg.
Mayor O'Brien Keighran opened the item up for public comment. No one spoke.
Councilmember Brownrigg made a motion to adopt Resolution Number 035-2021; seconded by Mayor
O'Brien Keighran. The motion passed unanimously by roll call vote, 5-0.
f. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION OF INTENT TO AMEND THE CITY OF BURLINGAME
MASTER FEE SCHEDULE FOR THE 2021-22 FISCAL YEAR, SET THE PUBLIC
HEARING FOR SUCH AMENDMENT FOR MAY 3", 2021
Finance Director Augustine requested Council Adopt Resolution number 036-2021.
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9. PUBLIC HEARINGS
a. PUBLIC HEARING AND RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
BURLINGAME ADJUSTING THE STORM DRAINAGE FEE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2021-22
BY 3.6%
Finance Director Augustine explained that the storm drainage fee was established to provide funding for
storm drain improvement projects.
Finance Director Augustine explained that staff recommends that the fee be increased by 3.6% for FY 2021-
22. She stated that 3.6% is the added total of the 2.0% annual increase and the accumulated CPI increase of
1.6%. She noted that the 3.6% increase will equate to less than $10 annually for the average single-family
residential lot.
Mayor O'Brien Keighran opened the item up for public comment. No one spoke.
Councilmember Beach made a motion to adopt Resolution Number 037-2021; seconded by Vice -Mayor
Ortiz. The motion passed by unanimously by roll call vote, 5-0.
10. STAFF REPORTS
a. CONSIDERATION OF ONE APPOINTMENT TO THE BEAUTIFICATION COMMISSION
City Manager Goldman stated that there is one vacancy on the Beautification Commission due to the
resignation of Commission Qiva Dinuri, who moved out of state. The Council interviewed Sean Chu and
Carol Batte on March 23, 2021.
City Manager Goldman stated that the Council may choose to appoint one of the applicants to fill the
remainder of the former Commissioner's term that ends on October 7, 2022. However, she noted that the
press release advertising the vacancy noted that the Council may choose to appoint the candidate for a three-
year term ending October 7, 2024.
City Manager Goldman asked that the Council vote for one of the two applicants and vote for the length of
the term.
Councilmember Colson expressed support for having the selected applicant fill the remainder of the former
Commissioner's term in order to maintain the current appointment schedule.
Mayor O'Brien Keighran opened the item up for public comment. No one spoke.
The Council submitted their ballots to the City Clerk via text message. City Clerk Hassel -Shearer read the
ballots.
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Congratulations to Carol Batte, who was appointed to the Beautification Commission to serve the remainder
of the former Commissioner's term ending October 2022.
The Council thanked all the candidates for applying.
b. CONSIDERATION OF TWO FULL TERM APPOINTMENTS TO THE PLANNING
COMMISSION
City Manager Goldman explained that there are two expiring terms on the Planning Commission: Sandy
Comaroto and John Schmid. She stated that Council interviewed Sandy Comaroto and John Schmid on
March 23, 2021. She noted that if appointed, the terms would be for four years, ending on April 7, 2025.
Mayor O'Brien Keighran opened the item up for public comment. No one spoke.
The Council submitted their ballots to the City Clerk via text message. City Clerk Hassel -Shearer read the
ballots.
Congratulations to Sandy Comaroto and John Schmid, who were reappointed to the Planning Commission.
c. CONSIDERATION OF ONE APPOINTMENT TO THE PLANNING COMMISSION TO
FILL THE REMAINDER OF A TERM
City Manager Goldman explained that there is a vacancy on the Planning Commission due to the resignation
of Commissioner Richard Sargent. She stated that three applications were received: Ray Larios, Marie
McDonald, and Robert Wehmeyer by the March 12, 2021 deadline. She noted that Robert Wehmeyer
withdrew his application.
Mayor O'Brien Keighran voiced concern about the notice of the vacancy and the technical aspects of the
Planning Commission. She noted that the applicants that were interviewed didn't have the technical skills
nor experience that previous applicants had. She asked if Council would be receptive to re -opening the
application process.
Vice Mayor Ortiz commented that he shares some of the same concerns, but he noted that some previous
Commission members have lacked the technical skills, but that it had worked out. He stated that since this is
not a full term, he is comfortable with the current applicants.
Councilmember Colson concurred with Mayor O'Brien Keighran. She commented that the term would be
for three years. She believed that the application notice was somewhat confusing as there were two other
advertised seats, but those were seated by incumbents. She voiced support for extending the application
window.
Councilmember Beach stated that she believes there is value to having a member on the Planning
Commission that is not an industry professional. She commented that having one lay -person on the Planning
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Commission will add a different perspective, and it will be one less person to recuse themselves from certain
items.
Mayor O'Brien Keighran opened public comment.
Jon Kevranian voiced his support for Ray Larios. (comment submitted via
publiccomment(d),burlin ag me.org).
Mayor O'Brien Keighran closed public comment.
Vice Mayor Ortiz asked staff for a brief timeline of the notice of the vacancy. City Manager Goldman gave
an overview. She stated that there was an initial deadline of February 26, 2021. She noted that right before
this deadline, Commissioner Sargent gave notice that he was resigning. She explained that if an incumbent
decides not to reapply, then staff extends the deadline by two weeks.
Councilmember Brownrigg voiced support for voting on the applicants.
Councilmember Beach commented that the City's e-news had the advertisement for the vacant seat and
agreed with Councilmember Brownrigg.
Council submitted their votes via text message to the City Clerk. City Clerk Hassel -Shearer read the ballots.
Congratulations to Ray Larios for being appointed to the Planning Commission.
d. CONSIDERATION OF ONE APPOINTMENT TO THE TRAFFIC SAFETY AND PARKING
COMMISSION
City Manager Goldman explained that the vacancy on the Traffic Safety and Parking Commission was due
to the resignation of Commissioner Christopher Bush. She noted that Commissioner Bush's term was due to
expire at the end of this year.
City Manager Goldman stated that the following six individuals were interviewed via Zoom on March 23,
2021: Athan Rebelos, Eric Klein, Prentice Ng, James Haggarty, John Allan, and Christopher Beall.
City Manager Goldman stated that the Council may choose to appoint one of the applicants to fill the
remainder of the former Commissioner's term. However, she noted that the press release advertising the
vacancy noted that the Council may choose to appoint the candidate for a three-year term ending November
6, 2024.
City Manager Goldman asked that the Council vote for one of the applicants and vote for the length of the
term.
Mayor O'Brien Keighran opened the item up for public comment. No one spoke.
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Council submitted their ballots via text message to the City Clerk. City Clerk Hassel -Shearer read the
ballots. No applicant received a majority of the votes.
The Council discussed the applicants and re -submitted their ballots to the City Clerk via text message.
Congratulations to Athan Rebelos for being appointed to the Traffic Safety and Parking Commission for the
remainder of the former Commissioner's term.
Mayor O'Brien Keighran thanked all the applicants that applied.
e. REVIEW FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES STAFF'S INTENT TO SUBMIT TWO
COMMUNITY PROJECT FUNDING REQUESTS TO REPRESENTATIVE JACKIE
SPEIER AND PROVIDE FEEDBACK
City Manager Goldman explained that the U.S. House of Representatives has chosen to reinstate earmarks
for the federal fiscal year 2022 appropriations cycle. She stated that in March, each of the House
appropriations subcommittees released information on the accounts that are open to this Congressionally -
directed spending, along with specific guidance for project results. She noted that each House Member is
limited to a total of ten requests for his or her district.
City Manager Goldman explained that the City's consultant, The Ferguson Group, advised staff to submit no
more than two projects to Representative Speier's office. She stated that the first project the City will submit
is for photovoltaic (solar) panels on the Community Center. She commented that it is a $900,000 project,
and could be funded by the Housing and Urban Development Department's Economic Development
Initiative program. The second project is the Oak Grove Traffic Signal Project. She explained that this
project could be funded by the Department of Transportation's Local Transportation Priorities program. She
stated that the City is asking for $650,000 for this project.
City Manager Goldman explained that the Broadway Grade Separation project will be submitted to the
House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee's new surface transportation authorization bill.
Mayor O'Brien Keighran opened the item up for public comment. No one spoke.
Council approved of the projects that staff selected.
11. COUNCIL COMMITTEE AND ACTIVITIES REPORTS AND ANNOUNCMENTS
12. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Councilmember Beach asked staff for an update on the Burlingame Village affordable housing project.
Council agreed to agendize this item.
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13. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The agendas, packets, and meeting minutes for the Planning Commission, Traffic, Safety & Parking
Commission, Beautification Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission, and Library Board of Trustees
are available online at www.burlinizame.org.
14. ADJOURNMENT
Mayor O'Brien Keighran adjourned meeting at 9:04 p.m. in memory of Jimmy O'Connor and former
Assemblymember Gene Mullin.
Respectfully submitted,
/s/
Meaghan Hassel -Shearer
City Clerk
15
Burlingame City Council April 5, 2021
Approved Minutes