WCCTAC

West Contra Costa Transportation Advisory Committee

Minutes

January, 26 2007

The regular meeting of the West Contra Costa Transportation Advisory Committee was called to order at 7:35 A.M. on Friday, January 26, 2007 by Chair Sharon Brown in the City Council Chambers of the City of San Pablo, 13831 San Pablo Avenue, San Pablo, California, 94806.

1. Call to order /Self introductions

PRESENT: Sharon Brown, Chair (San Pablo), Maria Viramontes, Vice Chair (Richmond), Janet Abelson (El Cerrito), Maria Alegria (Pinole), Ed Balico (Hercules), Tom Butt (Richmond), Bob Franklin (BART), John Gioia (Contra Costa County), Gayle McLaughlin (Richmond), Jerrold Parsons (WestCAT), Joe Wallace (AC Transit)

ABSENT: None

STAFF: Lisa Hammon, WCCTAC Managing Director

Linda Young, WCCTAC Transportation Project Manager

John Rudolph, WCCTAC Management Assistant Nancy Cuneo, WCCTAC Administrative Analyst

Jeremy Hughes, WCCTAC Administrative Clerk

Hisham Noeimi, CCTA

Bryan Otake, WCCTAC Counsel

2. Recognition of Outgoing Board Members

The members of the WCCTAC Board thanked former Mayor of Richmond, Irma Anderson for her service on the WCCTAC Board.

Irma Anderson thanked the Board and commended them for their contribution to West County.

Two “retiring” alternates were also thanked – Trevor Evans-Young from Hercules and Bill Jones from El Cerrito.

3. Public Comment

Nancy Baer of Injury Prevention and Physical Activity Promotion Projects for Contra Costa Health Services informed the WCCTAC Board of an April 6th forum which will be an interconnection between health, transportation and land use planning collaborations between WCCTAC, MIG, and representatives from Contra Costa Health Services. She urged the Board to attend and provide their input. She noted that the forum would take place from 8:30 A.M. until around 3:00 P.M. at Maple Hall, at San Pablo City Hall.

CONSENT CALENDAR

On motion by Joe Wallace, seconded by Ed Balico, and carried unanimously the WCCTAC Board adopted the Consent Calendar as follows:

4. Approved minutes, Sign-In Sheet, and Meeting Summary from the December 8, 2006 Meeting.

5. Approved Staff Reports.

6. Received list of Contra Costa Mayors Conference Appointments.

7. Received the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) 2009 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) Approach and Schedule.

8. Received the Measure J Model Growth Management Element –Circulation Draft.

9. Received the 2006 State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) Augmentation.

10. Approved the FY 07-08 Transportation Fund for Clean Air (TFCA) Projects.

11. Approved Resolution 07-01 for the Lifeline Transportation Program Project (Low-Income Middle School Bus Pass Program) Grant.

12. Approved the letter to the City of San Pablo regarding the loan interest rate for CALPERS Unfunded Liability.

13. Received information on the State Infrastructure Bond Projects- Corridor Mobility Improvement Account (CMIA) –Update on the I-80 Integrated Corridor Mobility Project.

14. Received information on the Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan and Action Plan for Routes of Regional Significance Updates.

15. Approved Upcoming Agenda Items as follows:

· Caltrans and local jurisdiction communication during freeway incidents; and management of the local arterials (primarily San Pablo Avenue) during freeway incidents.

REGULAR CALENDAR

16. Board Member Comments and Announcements

Joe Wallace expressed his view that there should be bus shelters all throughout the region. He further stated that they should be located not just on main streets, but also along major transit corridors.

Lisa Hammon noted that action is currently being taken to remedy the need for bus shelters throughout West County.

John Gioia stated there is a possibility that under the new transportation bond measure there may be regional projects that will greatly increase rail traffic through West County. He noted that the local impact may be severe and should be addressed. The railroads are considering expanding the Oakland/Martinez track to get more goods out of the Port of Oakland. Lisa Hammon, the City of San Pablo, the Air District, MTC, and CCTA have discussed forming a working group comprised of West County delegates to monitor the project.

17. Legal Comment

Bryan Otake made note of Form 700 or a “Statement of Economic Interests” which must be filed annually by incoming and resuming board members. He noted that a different form must be submitted for each agency the member is acting in. Mr. Otake noted that the forms will go out via email.

Maria Alegria asked if they are as well monitoring the AB 1234.

In response, Mr. Otake noted that they are tracking Board Members' AB 1234.

18. Election of the Following Officers and Representatives: (a) WCCTAC Chair; (b) WCCTAC Vice Chair; (c) CCTA Representative (odd-year term); and (d) CCTA Alternate – Staff and Chair.

On motion by John Gioia, seconded by Janet Abelson, and carried unanimously, the WCCTAC Board voted to re-elect Sharon Brown as Chair of the WCCTAC Board.

On motion by Ed Balico seconded by Maria Alegria, and carried unanimously, the WCCTAC Board voted to re-elect Maria Viramontes as Vice-Chair of the WCCTAC Board.

Chair Brown reminded the WCCTAC Board regarding the CCTA positions, that there are rules in the bylaws about who can vote for that position. Only 6 are allowed to vote; Richmond has one vote and the transit opperators cannot vote on this issue.

On motion by Maria Alegria, seconded by Ed Balico, and carried unanimously, Maria Viramontes was elected as the CCTA Representative.

On motion by Ed Balico, seconded by Janet Abelson, and carried unanimously Maria Alegria was elected as the CCTA Alternate.

19. (A) Update on the I-580/Western Drive Bicycle Accident

John Rudolph directed the Board’s attention to photographs contained in the meeting packet of wayfaring signage used to indicate to bicyclists where to access the bicycle route along I-580 and Western Drive. He noted that Caltrans has installed rumble strips and Bots Dots to distinguish between the highway and the bike lane. He stated that there is no plan to install a physical barrier as had been discussed previously by the WCCTAC Board.

Mr. Rudolph also stated that Chevron had expressed interest in finding a comprehensive solution to the use of Western Drive as a bike trail. Mr. Rudolph suggested that moving forward the Board should consider a whole package of comprehensive solutions.

Tom Butt expressed his view that Caltrans' solution of installing more signage has in a sense made the situation worse by making the area more appealing to cyclists when in fact the conditions are quite dangerous still. He expressed hope that WCCTAC would write another letter to Caltrans stating that a lack of physical separation is not acceptable.

Mr. Rudolph noted that the goal of the signage is to prevent cyclists from riding into the westbound shoulder in trying to access the trail as was the case when the accident occurred.

Lisa Hammon noted that previously there was virtually no signage.

Mr. Rudolph emphasized that the new signage is wayfaring signage. He noted that there has however been no signage posted which indicates to motorists that they should be on the look out for bicyclists. Caltrans has stated that the latter type of signage will be put into place sometime in February.

Lisa Hammon noted that the overall goal is a comprehensive solution rather than a temporary fix if in fact the bike lane is going to stay where it is at along the freeway.

Vice Chair Viramontes voiced that the Board should perhaps be cautious in its proceedings as CCTA was recently sued by the family of the victims based solely on the existence of planning documents.

Tom Butt noted that the bike lane was installed as mitigation by Caltrans. He stated that the notion held by Caltrans that freeways can be shared with bicyclists is without sound judgment. This as well should be communicated to Caltrans.

Janet Abelson asked if taking a position on this issue creates any kind of liability.

Bryan Otake answered by stating that it depends on the claim; as public entities, such as the WCCTAC Board, have what is called design immunity which protects against injuries resulting from shear negligence.

John Gioia asked to what extent WCCTAC been working with the East Bay Bicycle Coalition on this issue and inquired as to what their view is about signage in the interim.

Mr. Rudolph stated that the EBBC liked the three tier signage proposed by WCCTAC.

In response to Mr. Butt’s concerns, Mr. Gioia expressed apprehension with refraining from installing additional signage because it may confuse people.

Mr. Butt clarified that his motion was to urge Caltrans to install a physical barrier.

Mr. Gioia asked Mr. Rudolph how things are proceeding regarding access for bicyclists on the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge.

Mr. Rudolph stated that he could not answer that at this time but will report back at a later date.

Ed Balico stated that the WCCTAC Board should go on record as urging Caltrans to fix their mitigation as it is not working.

On motion by Tom Butt, seconded by Maria Alegria, and carried unanimously, the WCCTAC Board voted to approve a letter urging Caltrans to install a physical barrier between the bike lane and I-580/ Western Drive.

(b) San Pablo Avenue Visioning Project

John Rudolph began by informing the Board that the San Pablo Working Group has been discussing Smart Growth and how affordable, infill development might be encouraged through the use of housing, infrastructure bonds, and the enticing of developers. He directed the Board’s attention to a diagram depicting what the Visioning Project might look like.

Mr. Rudolph noted that the project seeks to make use of a vacant parcel near San Pablo Avenue, and would feature less than minimum parking requirements with City Car Share and/or transit passes worked into the mortgage. The housing would also be equipped with a backyard for children to encourage young families to live there.

Mr. Rudolph stated that WCCTAC staff has met with representatives from the City of El Cerrito who stated that they have several, viable parcels and developers who are now working with architects to get projects into the design review stage.

Mr. Rudolph noted that another task of the working group has been working to involve young people in the planning process. This is being accomplished through inclusion of high school students through Ma’at Academy and UC Berkeley Graduate Students through the “Y Plan”, in development of a Smart Growth strategy.

Lisa Hammon voiced that there had been some misconception that WCCTAC was going to purchase land, and proceed with this project as a landowner. She emphasized that this notion is entirely false. WCCTAC does not make local land use decisions however; WCCTAC is working with the local jurisdictions to move forward with the Visioning Project.

Joe Wallace expressed satisfaction with West County’s decision to develop housing that does not require cars.

Tom Butt stated that the Adachi parcel in Richmond might be a good candidate for development of this type.

Lisa Hammon stated that she will talk with Richmond and CDHC about the parcel put forward by Mr. Butt.

Vice Chair Viramontes noted that they suggested to Loni Hancock that location of “the old Albertsons” could be a viable option as it could make it possible to receive state funding as priority is given to parcels which are in close proximity to BART stations.

Ed Balico vocalized his view that this is a good idea.

Janet Abelson expressed satisfaction with the project but asked about the reasoning behind providing a specific number of units in the housing diagram.

Mr. Rudolph responded by stating that the working group wanted to impress upon developers that they were seeking to create small scale developments which make use of infill parcels.

Maria Alegria requested that Mr. Rudolph: clarify who is taking part in the working group and; does it include all the cities along San Pablo Ave.

Mr. Rudolph responded by stating that the steering committee is made up of WCCTAC, ABAG, staff from Loni Hancock’s office, DOT, AC Transit, and BART.

Lisa Hammon noted that from time to time the cities do take part in the planning.

Maria Alegria stated that San Pablo Avenue goes all the way to Crockett; during this span there exists a great many potential sites. She expressed her view that it would be nice if every city could be part of this working group and expressed her desire to bring Pinole into the working group.

Gayle McLaughlin voiced her enthusiasm about the proposed project and noted that Richmond City Council had recently voted to approve a similar project.

Jerrold Parsons stated that there are areas within the WestCAT service area that would work for the proposed development and requested clarification as to whether or not the working group is lacking representation in some of the outlying jurisdictions.

John Gioia stated that the City of Crocket and the Rodeo Redevelopment Agency would be good candidates for the working group.

Vice Chair Viramontes stated that it is important to have a dialog with Foundations to obtain access to private funding.

She also stated that there were two ways in which funding could be obtained: First, Loni Hancock could carry a state bill to fund this project for the region through redevelopment tax increment funds. As well, language could be written into the bill that would provide jurisdictions along San Pablo Avenue access to the funds.

Second, Torlakson and Perata were carrying a housing and transportation plan which provided funds for development within a half-mile radius around any mass transit center.

Maria Viramontes stated that Ms. Hancock should work on targeting this initiative. She noted that Alameda County has access to statewide funding but West County lacked representation to obtain these same funds.

John Gioia stated that the San Pablo Visioning Project would be a good project for a TLC Grant.

Joe Wallace suggested pushing for federal funding.

Lisa Hammon expressed appreciation for the Board's input and stated that the steering committee had discussed the creation of a subcommittee to work on these kinds of projects which would then include all of the jurisdictions along San Pablo Ave. She noted that Assemblywoman Hancock is working on AB29, which is a trailer bill to the Prop I-C infrastructure bond; she is currently seeking input on this legislation.

20. Letter to Caltrans District Director Regarding Willow Avenue Stoplight and Access to Park and Ride Lots/WestCAT Bus Stop

Lisa Hammon directed the Board's attention to a letter to Caltrans District Director from discussions about the Willow Avenue off-ramp as discussed with WestCAT and Caltrans. The letter is intended to provide Caltrans with potential solutions for the issues associated with safe access to transit at this location.

Janet Abelson stated that this is a safety issue; she suggested that when dealing with Caltrans, if the matter is expressed as a safety issue it aids in circumventing the bureaucracy.

Lisa Hammon thanked Ms. Abelson and said WCCTAC will address the matter as a safety issue.

On motion by Ed Balico, seconded by Janet Abelson, and carried unanimously, the WCCTAC Board approved Chair authorization and dispersion of the letter to Caltrans District Director about the Willow Avenue Stoplight and Access to Park and Ride Lots/WestCAT Bus Stop.

21. Subregional Transportation Mitigation Fee Program (STMP) Strategic Plan Update

Lisa Hammon began by providing a synopsis of the project sponsors’ proposed spending which would lead to the program operating on a pay-as-you-go basis.

She noted that several informal meetings have been set up with bond underwriting firms to obtain their initial thoughts on some financing options; it is likely WCCTAC will issue a focused Request for Proposals to receive responses in a more formal manner. She noted that WCCTAC has created a short summary of the STMP Program containing amount of the fees and how revenue is expected to come in.

Ms. Hammon continued by stating that there are many issues to resolve. An interim Strategic Plan is to be brought to the Board within the next couple of months. Ms. Hammon will be initiating a weekly Managing Directors report to be sent to member agencies, WCCTAC Board Members, City Managers, and Executive Directors.

Mike Sakamoto of Hercules noted that he met Lisa at a CCTA meeting at which he expressed that there are a number of agencies which can help to obtain funding. He suggested bringing underwriters in to give WCCTAC ideas about how funding can be structured, formulate an RFQ and distribute it to firms to be bid on.

John Gioia reinforced the notion that pay-as-you-go will not work and asked to what extent has there been discussion with the County Transportation Authority on this issue; as they, in addition to agencies like ABAG, have access to alternate and effective forms of financing

Ms. Hammon noted that WCCTAC has had several discussions with CCTA about this issue.

Vice Chair Viramontes inquired as to why this body as a Joint Powers Authority with state law granted ability to issue debt and an agreement to advance 20 years of developer’s fees why can’t we do conventional bonds through WCCTAC.

Mr. Sakamoto reiterated that it is a good idea to talk to underwriters to try and receive the best rate possible and avoid selling debt without the ability to get it rated resulting in decreased monies.

Vice Chair Viramontes noted that East County uses the finance authority with debt done in phasing, exercising revenue over time with the small gap picked up by CCTA. She expressed a stance that held, if they can do it why can't we?

Janet Abelson requested clarification regarding, whether or not the next phase will be a presentation of various proposals to which Lisa Hammon replied “yes” with information in between being addressed in the weekly Managing Director reports.

On motion by John Gioia, seconded by Ed Balico, and carried unanimously the WCCTAC Board voted to approve exploration of Option 3 which will seek a means by which financing can be obtained so that all projects may be funded within the timeframe requested by the Project Sponsors in the Project Fact Sheets.

22. New Item: West County Transportation Resource Foundation

Lisa Hammon directed the Board’s attention to a new item; a staff report addressing the proposed formulation of a non-profit organization entitled The West County Transportation Resource Foundation. This organization would allow access to funds not accessible by a public agency. Ms. Hammon noted that the structuring could be similar to a redevelopment agency in that some members of the Board would sit on the committee as well as citizens, directors of other non-profits, business leaders, etc.

The WCTRF will deal exclusively with transportation related issues: school transportation; transportation for employee new hires reentering the workforce who have difficulty accessing work due to the costs of transportation; accessible taxi cabs; and transportation and land use projects. Ms. Hammon noted that what is needed on the part of WCCTAC Board is the possibility of some members serving on the non-profit committee, participation in fund raising events, and doing outreach.

Regarding the cost of setting up a non-profit Bryan Otake noted that the fee for filing for non-profit status is around $1,000 in addition to roughly 10-50 hours total in staff and attorney time. Mr. Otake noted that Meyers Nave will handle the legal issues pro bono.

Ms. Hammon presented the draft WCTRF mission statement: The mission of the West County Transportation Resource Foundation is to improve the quality of life for low income disabled or disadvantaged West Contra Costa residents, students, and employees by providing financial assistance for their transportation needs.

Ms. Hammon welcomed feedback from the WCCTAC Board.

Joe Wallace expressed desire to be on the board of the non-profit agency.

Janet Abelson asked if there would be a different group of people on the non-profit board; she also inquired as to whether or not the WCCTAC Board would be putting up the costs associated with non-profit accounting. If so, why the non-profit isn’t board the same as the WCCTAC Board and if they are two separate entities, why is this being discussed at this venue.

Ms. Hammon stated that staff is entirely open to suggestions on how to structure the non-profit.

Ms. Abelson continued by stating that if the goal of the non profit is to obtain funds not accessible by WCCTAC then she is in favor of it however it should not be in competition with the community organizations.

John Gioia left at 8:50.

Joe Wallace noted that AC Transit makes use of a non-profit wing; Tom Butt said that it would be good for regional projects and Jerrold Parsons noted that he wants to be on the non-profit board and stated that it could bring equity beyond Hercules into areas without adequate representation.

Ed Balico noted that private vestiges require a great deal of maintenance; however, there are inherent benefits to them. Maria Alegria stated that she supports the concept and expressed a desire to volunteer for the ad hoc committee.

Vice Chair Viramontes voiced excitement about the concept and expressed that a non-profit is a powerful fundraising tool; she as well requested a generalized list of the main ideas and reinforced Ms. Abelson’s desire to avoid conflict with community based initiatives.

On motion by Jerrold Parsons, seconded by Tom Butt and carried unanimously the WCCTAC Board voted to proceed with setting up the West County Transportation Resource Foundation.

23. Correspondence/ Other Information

With no further business to come before the WCCTAC Board, Chair Sharon Brown adjourned the meeting at 9:01 A.M., until the next meeting of the WCCTAC Board on March 30, 2007 at 7:30 A.M. at the City of San Pablo Council Chambers, 13831 San Pablo, CA 94806.

Respectfully submitted,

Jeremy Hughes