March 15, 2005 > Newark Council Meeting

by Susana Nuñez

Presentations and Proclamations
The meeting began with a presentation by Assemblyman, and former Newark Vice Mayor, Alberto Torrico. Torrico presented the Council with information on the status of the California state budget, as well as Governor Schwarzenegger's proposed cuts to schools, healthcare and transportation to reduce the deficit.

Public Hearings
The Council approved a hearing to consider property owners' objections to the 2005 Weed Abatement Program and instructions to the Superintendent of Streets to abate public nuisances.

City Manager Reports
All items were approved simultaneously. Plans and specifications for the 2005 Weed Abatement Program, and acceptance of bid and award of contract to Jensen Landscape Services, Inc. were approved. In addition, tentative Parcel Map 7225 for a commercial condominium project at 8450 Central Avenue was approved. An amendment to resolution No. 2505, Employee Classification Plan, to revise the Administrative Analyst classification passed. Finally, the Council gave their authorization to donate obsolete property to the Salvation Army.

City Attorney Reports
On Dec. 17, the city received a claim from Redgwick Construction Company, Inc. The claimant was awarded the contract for Asphalt Concrete Overlay, Project 713, but disputes arose regarding Redgwick's work on the project and the amounts remaining to be paid on the contract. The claim was reviewed by the city attorney and by special counsel and was denied. On Jan. 7, the city received a claim for $10,000 from Angelica Harp alleging bodily injury when she slipped on wet tile at the Silliman Aquatic Center. The claim and all relevant information were forwarded to the ABAG Plan, the city's insurance administrator, and was denied. On Jan. 3, the city received a claim for $100,000 from Thomas E. Mackall alleging a false claim of domestic violence by his wife resulting in his arrest and the denial of his claim. On Jan. 28, the city received a claim for $652 from Angela Montez alleging her car was broken into and personal property stolen while attending class at the Community Center. Her claim was also reviewed and denied.

Council Matters
Regina Gilroy, member of the Senior Citizens Standing Advisory Committee, has decided not to serve on the committee for another term after her term expires on April 14. Council proposed a notice of vacancy be posted for a two-year term in the committee. In other matters, Vice Mayor Alan Nagy wished his wife a happy 42nd anniversary. The Council also extended their condolences to the family of Francis Lorscheider, former Newark Public Works Superintendent, and adjourned in his memory.