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MEETING OPEN TO THE PUBLIC 12. Acceptance of a donation from the Pleasanton Cultural Arts Foundation and presentation of the Firehouse Arts Center's inaugural season Bill Butler, President, PCAF, noted that the goal of the Foundation has been to raise $2 million for the project and that to date over $1.9 million has been raised in direct contributions, stock transfers, bequests, and multi -year gifts. Approximately $500,000 has already been donated to the City. On behalf of the Foundation he presented the Council an additional $250,000, noting that while the campaign is concluding over the next several months, they are hoping to present additional donations. He discussed the ongoing opportunities to donate. The Council accepted the donations and recognized the contributions, donations and efforts of the Foundation. Rob Host, Theater Supervisor, discussed the transformation of the 1920's brick firehouse into the Arts Center. He described the 227 -seat theater and the diverse range of scheduled musical performances, acting workshops, fine art programs, and the partnerships with Museum on Main, Pleasanton Library, and Livermore Valley Opera. 13. Public Comment Kathy Dowding read the names of 1 American soldier killed in Iraq and 45 American soldiers killed in Afghanistan since the last regular Council meeting. She invited the Council and the public to join Pleasantonians for Peace at the next peaceful vigil. Karla Brown announced that she will be running for City Council November 2 stating that she made the decision based upon support from the public. Kay Ayala addressed the Council regarding the Lin family's third lawsuit against the City, concerning the referendum for the Oak Grove projects; and the amount of the deposit for submitting a candidates statement for the November election, noting that the amount was $1,100, which she felt was exorbitant, and she asked that this be reconsidered in the future. Councilmember Sullivan noted that he will be raising the issue under Matters Initiated by the Council. John Carroll congratulated the Council on the PUD items slated to be passed tonight and recognized support in the audience of those wearing yellow tee shirts. He referred to recent newspaper article stating the project was delayed due to obstructionist, which he believes to be incorrect. He suggested that everybody look at the public record, of February 24 and see what happened and why the development took so long. Les Layer said he is a general contractor, and reported visiting Pleasanton Gardens today. He said there is controversy on whether to demolish it or add more units and he sees no reason to demolish it, as he believes the buildings are in good shape, tenants are happy, and there are fairly inexpensive products available to retrofit older buildings to comply more with the disabled. Mayor Hosterman noted there has been a task force looking at this project for years, and she said more information can be obtained in the staff report at the time the task force presented its findings. City Council Minutes Page 3 of 15 September 7, 2010