CCMIN05012018 - Laserfiche WebLink

Mayor Thorne inquired whether there are other organizations beside 4H and the Master Gardener Program interested in running farms. Assistant City Manager Dolan noted Sunflower Hill is interested in participating and reported having a conversation with a local hops farmer who expressed interest in growing a "hop crop" and public access for historical purposes. He felt that interest will increase as the project moves forward. Mayor Thorne inquired regarding the purple pipe plans for that area and City Manager Fialho explained there is no funding at this time, and the plan is to bring recycled water to this area with the final destination being the golf course. Councilmember Brown inquired regarding plans to protect the aquifer from over-fertilization and Assistant City Manager Dolan reported the guidelines for use are stricter than those applied to City parks. He did not believe there will be a problem in this area. He added fencing will be added to protect crops and keep wild animals and the public out. Councilmember Brown referenced 4H and their involvement with farm animals and gardening and inquired whether they have lost interest. Assistant City Manager Dolan reported 4H has the intention of using the facility. He speculated there could ultimately be a non-profit organization that participates in managing and fundraising for the farm as it develops. Councilmember Brown inquired if there will be a Learning Center for students and noted the fee structure must be reasonable. Councilmember Olson inquired regarding neighborhood concerns and Assistant City Manager Dolan reported it started out very high, but there were not many neighborhood residents at the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting where this was considered and there are only a few in attendance this evening. Mayor Thorne opened public comments. Christina Nystrom Mantha, Chair of the Economic Vitality Committee, reported the group had a recent presentation from the Alameda County Fair about their project, "The Farm." She stated it sounds similar to the proposed Pleasanton Community Farm Master Plan and asked whether the City has interacted with the organization and inquired as to the level of demand for this type of use. Assistant City Manager Dolan reported staff is familiar with their livestock project but not "The Farm." Ms. Mantha distributed information regarding The Farm. Councilmember Brown noted "The Farm" would serve the entire Alameda County, not just Pleasanton. Mayor Thorne closed public comments. Councilmembers Brown and Pentin commented on the Pleasanton Community Farm Master Plan. Councilmember Pentin commented on "The Farm" facilitating the 4H Livestock Program and on the importance of understanding how this integrates with the Bernal Community Park. Mayor Thorne indicated he was glad to see the project move forward. MOTION: It was m/s by Brown/Olson to adopt the draft Pleasanton Community Farm Master Plan as amended and directed staff to prepare the final plan document incorporating the amendments. Motion passed by the following vote: City Council Minutes Page 7 of 8 May 1. 2018