1995 ADJ MIN MAY 24 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Councilmember Hutton inquired about adequate funding for the Planning Commissioners to attend conferences. Director Zamora responded the item was not budgeted this year and that he felt it was important for the Commissioners to remain updated. Brief discussion followed on this issue. Moved by Councilmember Hutton, seconded by Councilmember Sanders to add $3,000 to the Travel & Meetings account of the Planning budget. There was no objection. Moved by Councilmember Sandoval, seconded by Councilmember Sanders to approve the Planning budget as amended. Councilmember Sanders asked Director Zamora at what point will there be a complete review of the General Plan. Director Zamora responded this would be done at a later point in time when the City is in better financial condition. Discussion followed on what is mandated by the State and the timing requirements for the elements. Director Zamora said the various elements of the General Plan, such as, Housing and Circulation are specifically mandated to be updated. The Housing Element is due to be updated next year; therefore, the funding in request in this budget. The Circulation Element is required to be updated every five years and was last updated in 1992. The General Plan itself is a policy statement and is driven by the various "Planning" ordinances adopted. Director Zamora said at this point in time, the General Plan itself is okay. City Attorney Biggs explained the legal requirements for a General Plan and said that since there had not been a great number of development, there had not been a problem with the General Plan. Attorney Biggs explained it is when there is a lot of development activity that it behooves the City to make sure that the Zoning and General Plan are not in conflict and are where the City wants to be. She said that it is appropriate to have a comprehensive General Plan update every five years and this has not been done in the last five years. Councilmember Sandoval suggested bringing the General Plan issue back at mid -year review. Motion to tentatively approve the Planning budget as amended carried. Mayor Fulp voted "no". Councilmember Bennett abstained. Buildina Community Development Director Zamora presented the Building Division budget. Director Zamora reported that there is one employee, a Building Inspector II who will be retiring at the end of next month and he proposed that a Counter Technician be hired to address both Planning questions and have the ability to issue some simple Building permits such as room additions and block walls. Director Zamora said he felt this would address some of the issues