CCMIN050112 - Laserfiche WebLink

Councilmember McGovern referred to the Commission minutes, which indicated a difficulty in finding qualified applicants for Abode's programs. Mr. Erickson confirmed that it has been difficult, largely due to increasing rents. Councilmember McGovern noted that funding is recommended for the Pleasanton Community Band, despite the fact that no representative was present at the Commission meeting. She felt this was inappropriate and, if granted, the band should be required to make a retroactive presentation. She also noted that the Tri-Valley Repertory Theater did not submit supporting documentation by the deadline, nor had it provided complete budget info to date. She felt that this too set an inappropriate precedent and said she was a bit concerned about the lax process. Councilmember Cook-Kallio asked if there were extenuating circumstances in this instance. Community Services Manager Kathleen Yurchak confirmed but noted that she still had not received the information requested, despite extending their deadline. Councilmember McGovern noted that the Youth Commission felt strongly enough in favor of the 4H facility project to fund it at twice the requested amount. She asked, and staff confirmed, that the Council had the authority to assign the funds recommended for carryover by the Youth Commission to the project if it felt it necessary and appropriate to help complete the project. Mr. Erickson resumed his presentation, stating that staff recommends the Council adopt the resolution reflecting the composite recommendations of the four commissions. The Council may wish to consider one-time additional funding of $12,000 for the Tri-Valley Housing Scholarship program. Staff is also requesting formal approval to reallocate Housing Rehabilitation Program funds that might be repaid to the program. Councilmember Sullivan requested feedback, if available, on the revamped process in terms of identifying and addressing needs. Assistant City Manager Steve Bocian said staff has received positive feedback from both applicants and commissions. Staff believes the online grants application process has proven beneficial to the Human Services, Youth, and Civic Arts Commissions. Staff was able to use some of the preliminary findings of the needs assessment to formulate its outreach materials, though he thought the following year would provide even greater opportunity to incorporate the results of the completed study. Councilmember Cook-Kallio asked if by not granting the additional funding to Abode, the rent subsidy program would be crippled, as well. Mr. Erickson confirmed, explaining that the two prongs of the program are closely intertwined. Councilmember McGovern asked and staff confirmed that Tri-Valley Haven intends to focus its anti- bullying outreach to elementary schools. Ms. Yurchak explained that specific policies such as this would be stipulated in each agency's contract. Councilmember McGovern asked if the commissions had indentified any special project to recommend for the special funding discussed at the joint workshop with the Council. Ms. Yurchak explained that the Commission meets May 16`" to discuss the needs assessment and subsequent steps, a part of which revolves around this special fund. Staff's intent is to bring back a work plan for Council review and approval in June or early July. Mayor Hosterman opened the item for public comment. City Council Minutes Page 7 of 11 May 1,2012