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Councilmember Brown thanked staff for adding the across - the -state information and <br />understanding that we are part of the entire State. It is always nice to hear good news. <br />Mayor Thorne stated that he did not think that the southern California residents knew that we <br />were in a drought based upon a few visits he had made <br />MATTERS INITIATED BY COUNCIL <br />Mayor Thorne inquired whether the public should have consistent information regarding the cemetary. <br />There was unanimous Council consensus to agendize a report on an upcoming agenda. <br />Councilmember Brown inquired about the update for the Downtown Specific Plan. City Manager Fialho <br />planned the rollout of the effort for July 2016. Staff will report on whether that will be led by the Planning <br />Commission or a Task Force made up of members from the Planning Commission and City Council. <br />COUNCIL REPORTS <br />Mayor Thorne echoed the Supervisor's comments regarding the ACTC event at the Palm Pavilion and <br />invited the community to attend. He remembers that the extension of the Highway 680 has been <br />considered since the 1980's. He believes that we are closer to having that project completed than we <br />ever have been. <br />Councilmember Pentin and Olson attended the Local Government's Commission conference in <br />Yosemite which including topical meetings including those on water (service water). He spoke to some <br />of the related matters that were discussed to restore wet and dry lands. The best part is how it trickles <br />down to the local cities. It is important to recognize how the rest of the State is doing. <br />Councilmember Olson stated it was a surprise to him to know that California has operated without any <br />regulation of the watershed up north. The State has only recently decided that it has to be managed; a <br />management tool that has been used is trimming of the canopy so the snow can make it all the way to <br />the ground. He also spoke about the Groundwater Sustainability Act requires a Groundwater <br />Sustainability Plan to be in place by June 30, 2017. He inquired to the representatives of Zone 7 if they <br />are working on a GSA and what the City's role would be in that. These watertables need to be <br />managed and have plans in place. <br />Councilmember Pentin said these plans require the City to be responsible and plan with other cities like <br />Pleasanton. <br />Councilmember Narum participated in Read America at a local school. She spoke about the fact that <br />they are building a new library. The third graders were very interested and asked several questions. <br />They were very excited about the prospect of a new library. <br />Councilmember Brown stated that on March 22, 2016, 7pm, at the Operations Service Center, a public <br />meeting will be held to share ideas about concepts for the library, a community center, and a relocation <br />of the Police Department and a great amenity to the park. She stated that they are looking at about <br />$100 million dollars for the project, although the City is looking to self -fund. She spoke about LAFTA, <br />the Wheels bus, and that they are looking to change some of their routes. <br />Councilmember Pentin said that the funding would be for public - private partnerships. <br />Mayor Thorne stated that at the Alameda County Mayor's Conference stated that the MTC and ABAG <br />are working on their merger. MTC was formed legislatively by the State and is controlled by the State. <br />ABAG was formed by cities and represents cities around the Bay area. How they do business is going <br />City Council Minutes Page 9 of 10 March 15, 2016 <br />