Wednesday, June 19, 2019

6.18.19 Meeting Summary

There were a few significant items discussed at last night's meeting.  A brief summary as follows:

  • PGE gave a presentation about their overall Community Wildfire Safety Program, including efforts to reduce incidence and magnitudes of wildfires and conditions for when they would execute a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS)
  • Onsite parking waiver extension was passed after the 2nd reading
  • Two incumbent Planning Commissioners were re-appointed for an additional 2 year term
  • The preferential parking program for certain affected areas near Regency Gate on a pilot basis was approved.
  • I asked for a future agenda item to discuss relaxing animal control ordinances regarding backyard chickens

More detailed thoughts below:

I appreciated hearing about PG&E's plans for reducing wildfire risk.  Especially given recent events it's especially important that everyone is aware of potential risks, steps for mitigation, and preparedness in the event of a fire.  PG&E mentioned that they at times have difficulty in gaining access to certain properties to do their tree and vegetation maintenance.   I would encourage everyone to provide access when requested to facilitate needed maintenance.

I'm very glad that we were able to get the pilot parking program approved.  The intent was always to strike a balance between quality of life of the residents, accessible parking for all, and resource constraints of the city.  I'm hopeful that this pilot does that and after we gather more information we'll learn more about what works and what doesn't.

One of the things that came out last night regarding backyard chickens is that of the 19 cities in Contra Costa County, all but three (including Clayton) allow chickens in some fashion. Contra Costa County recently passed (Jun-18) an ordinance allowing backyard chickens with certain guidelines.  Since many cities simply adopt the County rules and the County allows them, then those cities allows them. We'll have more discussion around this item when it comes back as an agenda item.