Maybe Eric Lucan but definately not Madeline Kellner or Jeanne MacLeamy if we want to see positvie changes for Novato!

It is difficult to understand the Novato Chamber of Commerce throwing their support behind Kellner and MacLeamy when nearly every business downtown is completely against both of these coucnil member's plan to build downtown offices.

The Chamber, correct me if I am wrong, is in large part financed by membership dues and downtown events. The chamber is also charged with representing what is best for its members who pay annual dues, many of whom are downtown.

Why does the Novato Chamber of Commerce have an agenda that is contrary to that of its due paying constituents?

Good call by the chamber!

It is important to note that these Chamber endorsements---all three basically said they would oppose housing on Hanna Ranch. Hanna Ranch will be building service jobs which will require housing from ABAG. Our RHNA numbers (more affordable housing requirements) will go up because of this development, so where is the high density low-income housing state mandates going to go?
"If not housing at Hanna Ranch, then where"? asked Leslie Peterson Schwarze. You guessed it--high density housing will be proposed and mandated, in existing single family neighborhoods.

I am still disturbed that McCleamy and Kellner have not done anything to help abate the constant and consistant crime at The Wyndover Apartments. Why haven't they at least written a letter as private citizen's to the state? Why haven't they as a council demanded that Fairfield Residential (owners of Wyndover) be held accountable....All at the Wyndover Apts: In June there was a gang beating of a 15 year old which resulted in an arrest. This month there was an arrest of a 54 year old son abusing his 90 year old mother. There is repeated domestic violence, fraud, warrants, drugs etc. etc. Fairfield Residential does not pay any real estate taxes as they are a "non-profit", yet make upwards toward 2 million a year.

It's time for a change. It's time for critical thinking, It's time for a storng moral center.
It's time for a candidate that will fight for the people:
LESLIE PETERSON SCHWARZE FOR CITY COUNCIL!!!

Cont:

Why would The Novato Chamber of Commerce endorse two incumbents that deliberately did not follow The Brown Act on July 26 2011, which resulted in the Marin District Attorney’s Office involvement?

Thank goodness Leslie wasn't endorsed by The Chamber!

LESLIE PETERSON SCHWARZE FOR CITY COUNCIL!! VOTE NOVEMBER 8TH

Due to high demand, I have run out of lawn signs for LPS, but I can get more of them by Monday.

Does endorsing Mc Leamy, Kellner, and Lucan mean that the Chamber expects these three to vote for more high-density housing and metropolitan classification? Does this lobby group favor building larger buildings and tearing down the small downtown? Does this mean that the Chamber does not support a parking lot near the theater and is not supporting the theater? Does it mean that the Chamber wants reductions in personnel and women’s pensions and increases in administrative benefits? Does this mean that the Chamber supports building 50-100 units in any neighborhood? Does it think about the effects on the city’s thin cash flow for 20 years for Novato? How does this endorsement help our neighborhoods and schools? Does the Chamber think about effects on schools and lack of resources to handle more children with learning problems? I think this means that those endorsed will be beholden to the Chamber and their plans and not help valued long established neighborhoods.
Instead, the next four years should be council and community working together, which respects neighborhoods and small businesses, (which want the theater, a parking lot and not to spend $15,000,000 for an office building, when there other options to spend less)

It took about 10 + years to change high performing schools in Richmond, Oakland, and East Palo Alto to low scores because the districts did not have the resources to assist the children or parents in providing a learning atmosphere so they could reach their potential. Those districts continue to need funds. In many towns, this is true, along with pockets of poverty and lack of training for new jobs. Novato needs to be careful in order to preserve its long-standing values of support for our youth and seniors. Neighborhood density needs respect from the city council. I have campaigned before 2011 and continue to campaign for the public first . My experience will foster a new public-oriented council in strategic planning and goal setting. See www.eleanorsluisnovato.com

I think everyone neglects how difficult a political postion is these days. I don't like making comments here, but I have to say I would agree that the two incumbents mentioned have tried to vote thier hearts based on their own experience and information given them and that the new candidate is coming from a similar place - one of sincere interest in the Novato community. I haven't always agreed with council decisions made recently, but I'd like to see anyone of the above "negative commenters" do better. Good luck to ALL candidates, I hope to hear more about how you all intend to move Novato forward - as a unified force - from where we are today.

Leslie Peterson Schwarze for City Council
"Our council needs to listen to the citizens and not to special interest groups who realize financial gains at a cost to our community. Ten years into the new century, Novato has changed significantly. Our governance needs to change accordingly. More than ever, we need to fight for our future while protecting the legacy and spirit of our neighborhoods."
http://www.leslie4novato.com

Leslie Peterson Schwarze, Eleanor sluis and Jerome Ghigliotti for city council.
We can trust that they will represent the people of Novato. Please vote for change.

The council has ignored the will of Novato. They are catering to 2 ex-Novato city council members who have FAILED FOR 30 YEARS TO GET A CITY CAMPUS DOWNTOWN. 30 yrs!! Let me repeat.. THESE INDIVIDUALS HAVE MADE MULTIPLE ATTEMPTS TO BUILD THIS TAJ MAHAL CITY OFFICE COMPLEX DOWNTOWN.. THEY HAVE FAILED EACH TIME!!!! This group, a city manager, and the city council keep repeating it "we have tried for 30 years" and we must get it done now?!?

"We must get it done now!!!" This is their rally cry. This statement despite a $5 mil dollar annual budget deficit. This statement despite laying off 30% of city workers. This push to build 23,000 sq ft for 50 employees working 4 days a week with more layoffs possibly ahead. This claim despite many vital city services being reduced due to the budget issues. They "must get it done now" because they state an average of 6-8 people per hour will visit city offices! That is 6-8 people per hour for $15 mil (plus $30 mil more in interest payments)! This must be built because their own parking study says there will be drastic parking issues due to this project. A parking study that DOES not include the four large Grant Avenue projects that are in the works and will potentially bring hundreds and hundreds more people downtown daily.

The council says Novato "wants and needs" offices downtown. 30 years of attempts to build their Taj Mahal for the council. Turned back every time! Does this not say something to you??

How the Citizens of Novato vote this November will decided if it will be business as usual run by special interest groups, or run by the Citizen of Novato. Will Novato's Citizens stand-up and be heard by voting out J. MacLeamy and M. Kellner. Also by not voting for the candidates endorsed by Novato Chambers. I would rather vote for a candidate who won't take contributions or endorsements from any one group, so that no favors are owned or implied. I want someone who fully understands what the issues are and has been involved with them for over a year. So I for one will be voting for
LESLIE PETERSON SCHWARZE FOR CITY COUNCIL.

If you care about the City of Novato, then we need to do two things as voting block:

1. Send letters, emails a phone calls to the Novato Chamber of Commerce and strongly protest their city council endorsements.

2. This is stinger. BOYCOTT every business in the City of Novato that is a member of the Novato Chamber of Commerce and tell them why. When the membship is boycotted, they will get the message. Never forget that economics drives the politics.

3. Vote for Leslie Peterson Schwartz, Eleanor Sluis and Jerome Ghigliotti for city council.

If you do not follow these action points, you can guarantee that McCleamy and Kellner will remain on the City Council more powerful than ever.

Two years ago when we started experiencing significant problems from the tenants at Wyndover, our neighborhood wrote letters to the city council requesting help. With the exception of Pat Ecklund the other board members did not even reply. This complete lack of disregard characterizes the tenure of Kellner and McCleamy. They could care a less that our neighborhood was being destroyed. Well now is our chance to say adios to apathy, laziness and perhaps back door deals. We will be voting for Leslie Peterson Schwartz and Jerome Ghiglotti.

Don't forget to also vote for Eleanor Sluis for City Council.

I have to say, I have never heard Eric Lucan share his thoughts at Council meetings. I hear plenty from a few select candidates. Nothing from Manny Fernandez. I support Council member candidates who have been passionate about the issues affecting our town. These candidates don't show up at the last minute to be heard. Despite what some SUNN members may say, Leslie Peterson Schwartz is a solid candidate for Novato.

Eric Lucan is a "body of glass canditate" Which means he is driven by which way his campaign donations blow and how he can get away with simpelton positions. He has never made his position on affordable housing clear. But he has argued how cameras at stop lights can bring in more money to the "city." A common sense citizen wants less revenue to the city because drivers are more responsible. All in All, Eric Lucan is a pathetic political GRFITER. Do NOT vote for him!

I am disappointed that the chamber would support incumbents who do not have the fiscal integrity to challenge the downtown civic center plan. If the chamber truly supports small business here in Novato then they must recognize that a $15 million dollar building that sits empty three days a week and every evening is a useless waste of space and money. Merchants and shoppers have for years been promised a parking structure that would encourage the development of more businesses downtown. Just look at the city's website and the previous drawings that incorporated parking as a primary aspect of any development.

Instead we are building a monument to nostalgia. It doesn't matter that we have had to cut back city staff by 20%; it doesn't matter that we need to hire at least two more police officers in order to address the growing gang problem; it doesn't matter that we could purchase an existing property for half the cost of the current civic center project; and most important, it doesn't matter than only five residents made the decision to spend $15 million dollars on offices without giving Novato residents a chance to vote for themselves. The council knows how controversial this decision is and yet they didn't give us a voice.
It's time for change. The chamber may not care about Novato or the businesses on Grant but the people of Novato care. Pass the word. Vote for change. No incumbents.

Where is Lucan on the Affordable Housing issue? It is one of the big issues in this town, and he seems to have been missing in action when all the busy Council hearings were happening. The other candidates were in the room voicing opinions and working the issue. I know where they stand. Not him. He won't get my vote by not being active. Civil service is like a lot of other jobs....90% is just about showing up. For example, I see Leslie via TV at a lot of Council meetings on many diverse issues.

Definitely don't vote for Leslie, Jerome or Eleanore if you care about this city. They are all divisive people with blatant disregard for our city. Jerome is suing us, costing us precious dollars that could be better spent on community services, and he uses offensive language to describe our hard-working public officials. Eleanore cannot keep a thought straight and says outlandish, non-sensical offensive and discriminatory things at a whim. Leslie is the most dangerous of all, out-of-touch, divisive and intolerant, she even opposed anti-bullying efforts recommended by the Novato Unified School District's diversity committee, commented publicly she wants Novato to stay boring and has no real-world experience to deal with the financial crisis our local businesses are facing. Not only that, but she put her campaign literature in my mailbox, which is a FEDERAL Offense punishable by jail time. Either Leslie is ignorant of laws or willingly disobeys them, either way that doesn't bode well for us. Go with the Chamber of Commerce's recommendation for Madeleine Kellner, Eric Lucan and Jeanne MacLeamy as they know what is best for Novato's future.

Homer

I say no incumbents in the city council race due to the decision on the downtown civic center offices. If Madeline and/or Jeanne would step back and let Novato vote on this issue I would feel far more comfortable supporting their re-election campaign. It is too big a decision to be made by 5 people. My complaint is not against them personally but against this decision.

I am supporting Marianni and Peters in the Sanitary District race. Marianni was appointed after Fritz retired and has yet to run and Peters is running for the first time. I think these are the two races I have focused on so far. I do like Long and DiGeorgio but they are not up for reelection. I think you are referring to the Veolia issue which Novato did vote on and which I believe we need to put to rest.

Homer, please consider posting under your full name. It is difficult to respond to someone who frequently criticizes and won't be clear about who they are. It would also help if you focused on issues instead of individuals. If you knew me you would realize that most of my comments are aimed at supporting fiscally sound management of the city. These are troubled times. I think it will take many of us working together to overcome the budget deficits and other obstacles. I am not sure what I have done personally to offend you. Perhaps we could give it another try.

Leslie, I also got one of your mailers. I live in San Marin, though not near you (for the record, I don’t know who T. Allen is). Though I was not contacted/apologized to, my bigger concern is that of the content of your mailer. I’m extremely disturbed by what I see as an over-focus on crime, particularly gang crime. Of course we need to address crime, including gang activity (and we do agree on the need to bring back SROs), but an over-focus on gang crime (data indicates that our serious crime, including gang crime, is down) is not productive. Among other things, it creates unnecessary fear and leads us to under focus on our more significant crime related issue: alcohol use/abuse. You and I have agreed to disagree on many issues (inclusive diversity education certainly among them), yours being a decidedly conservative mindset, mine a liberal one – however, I’m quite upset w/ the climate in our city and your and Toni’s contribution to it – unintentional though it might be. Statements on your mailer like: “This is your town – don’t let the gangs think its theirs!” creates an exaggerated picture of Novato’s gang problem and potentially foments unwarranted fear. Also, other bullet points, such as: “High density apartments do not belong in Novato,” unfairly suggests tall and dense apartment buildings, when in fact, all the affordable housing being built and promoted is two stories high (occasionally three), with shared open-space, etc.

To finish the above. I once was one of those ‘dreaded’ working single mothers living in subsidized housing, thankfully, this safety net was there for me at a time when I/my baby had a significant need for such support. I do understand people's concerns, many which are legitimate and need addressing, but equating affordable housing with crime as you and Toni have is about the rare exception - an exception that needs to be dealt with and learned from - but should not be unfairly used to define what is the rule: AH provides an opportunity for some seniors, disabled and those already working in a community to safely live in that community. AH housing does not bring in crime or gangs. In fact, due to the strict policies used by the non-profits (as opposed to the exceptions: Wyndover and Bay Vista), AH can be safer than that of market rate housing.

I’m fairly certain you’ll win in November and know you'll work hard on the CC, but I don’t believe you'll win because the majority actually supports your conservative agenda -- though I'm sure most on the Patch (a conservative group of folks, regardless of their party affiliation), will tell me I'm absolutely wrong!

Hi Lynne,
Thank you for engaging. As a life-long Democrat I fully endorse Leslie Peterson Schwarze for City Council. I find her a moderate, and fiscally responsible.
Late Tuesday night Novato was hit hard with Gang Graffiti of the West Side Winos (WSW), Sureno 13th Street gang. Parkhaven, Novato Blvd, Hamann Field and a business on Grant Avenue were tagged. The police have photos. Fortunately, our volunteer, "strike team" was able to abate very quickly before most people saw it.
We have 55 sworn police officers down from 67 for a city that the state of California is mandating more and more low-income housing which will include more people without paying for our police services as non-profit housing does not pay any real estate taxes. The average household income, per MHA, is 61,000 in Novato, yet the state is mandating the people of Novato to pay for housing for people that make over 90,000. Is that fair?
I agree with you, we do need our SRO's back. I would like 4. One for each high school and middle school. Perhaps we can all work together to see this vision take place.
There has been an overwhelming support and appreciation for Leslie running for City Council. That being said,I am optimistic for the future of Novato!
Best,
Toni
I

PS: Per Jared Huffman's Office, there is no link for accountibility for the investor/non-profit and crime. It is up to the police department to deal with any crime in low-income housing, which of course does not pay for any police services due to their 55 year tax exemptions.
Sad to say, we don't live in a perfect world. We need to have laws that protect the people that life in affordable/low-income housing so they can live safely. I believe and support safe housing. I have asked Jared Huffman to propose such laws for safe affordable housing, and he has chosen not to do that. If Jared supports AH, then at least he could use his influence to assure safe affordable housing. Again, he has chosen not to do that and it is election year!

T Allen

I am surprised that your focus is not on the issues. I would have made the same mistake had I not learned from a problem on my Mom's street that you can't put mail in a mailbox without a stamp.

We are just regular people trying to get the word out about a viable candidate for city council. Instead of being threatened by Leslie running try focusing on the issues. Let people decide for themselves whom to vote for.

Tina,I respect your opinion a lot. You seem to know all the details. Very factual. Of the two existing council women running in this election, which one deserves to be pushed out the most?

To T Allen:
We continue to "harp on the density" as you put it because the council's recommendation for 20 units per acre is simply that, a recommendation. If HCD, ABAG, MCF, the developer or Katie Crecelius etal take issue with the less than 30 (40) per acre, the city will cave and comply.

The question has not changed; As a homeowner, do you want a 40 unit per acre/ affordable housing building next to your largest investment?

Roger

Continued

I am wary of supporting anyone who has political ambitions. I see both Leslie and Eleanor as stepping up at a time of crisis, because they genuinely care about the future of Novato. They each have backgrounds in education. Leslie served on the school board for 12 years and Eleanor is a retired teacher. They each want Novato to thrive as a result of decisions made with attention to lifestyle and spending. Sounds like common sense to me.

I think in the end we all do our best and follow the issues and see where we end up.

Ms. MacLeamy
Ms. Kellner
Why have you ignored the very serious problems emanating out of the Wyndover apartments? No comments, no help. When the same developer wants to build more housing you even agree to finance their project. Do you demand some responsibility when you had the leverage-NO you dont. The voters of Novato better ask why,,,There are two conclusions to be drawn either you are in cahoots with the developer, Katie Crecelius and Marla or your just plain apathetic and stupid. The truth will eventually come out. I say repeal the entire city council.

T.Allen...Your rude comments don't help what ever your cause is. It only makes you look like a person full vinegar. You should use a different approach other than attacking to voice your opinion, then maybe people will respect your comments!

T Allen

Wouldn't it be wonderful if each candidate could write their response to each issue and we wouldn't know anything more about them other than their position on the issues? We wouldn't know their age, their gender, their ethnicity, their politics; all we would know was their stance on the issues and how they proposed to solve the problems we face. Under those circumstances comments like "ultra-conservative" would seem more like name calling than descriptive.

I am a lifelong registered democrat. I consider myself a "blue dog" democrat in that I am focused on responsible spending. I also see myself as independent in that I vote the issues not the individuals. I like and respect Jeanne and Madeline. I just don't agree with how they have handled specific issues including police staffing, density as it relates to affordable housing, the downtown civic center and the lack of inclusion of the residents of Novato in decisions that require the expenditure of significant funds. That is why I am looking elsewhere this election.

Continued

You have brought up the Eden House development across from Wyndover. Had I known Eden house would use 55 as the base age for senior housing with additional tenants in the same unit, of any age, I would not have called the current project senior housing. Nova Ro is senior housing. These units have a base age of 62 with no additional tenants. Eden House by their own rules is developing multigenerational housing, not explicitly senior housing. I am relieved that they have an excellent reputation because if they drop the ball as it has been at Wyndover we are really in trouble in the long run. These are not mistakes we can afford to make with taxpayer dollars. We have given Eden House $1.5 million dollars toward this development. Let us hope they intend to create the kind of community housing that will bring safe and reliable neighbors to Novato.

T. Allen, Marla, whoever.. Here is some very serious advice for you.. You should focus your efforts on getting Kellner and MacLeamy re elected. Schwartz is a shoe in for the open seat. It won't even be close. In fact she will probably get more votes than Kellner and MacLeamy combined. MacLeamy & Kellner are at serious risk to removed by Jerome and Eleanor. If this sounds crazy remember Lucan almost took out Eklund last election.. Lucan! A first timer who nearly rode the his good looks and "rookie of the year" in to office. This time 'round he has exposed himself as the "more of the same" candidate.

Folks, unfortunately, it is time to "take off the gloves" this year. No one wants to hear that crime is up and driven by city council sponsored housing projects, it is difficult to understand how the council would waste $15-30 million of tax payer's dollars after firing 30% of city workers, urging us to finance another sales tax increase to cover their $5 million annual budget shortfall.

It is time to be upset. "Angry Novato"? Yes angry and looking to make things better.

Leslie Peterson Schwarze will represent you fairly, no label necessary. She tells you where she stands. Comments on the issues are SO much more helpful than labels. Thank you all for the many insightful comments made on the Council race. The reason labels like liberal, conservative, Democrat, and Republican are so pernicious here is that they trigger reactions based on things beyond the local. Yes, the local relates to the world beyond, but this race can be mostly about our daily experience of living here. We know many of the people running and what they stand for. Vote for the person who will represent you, not for an ideology.

Travis, the Chamber doesn't support mixed use for affordable housing. If I as a homeowner need to accept it next to me, then I feel business can take a little AH also...eg, Hanna Ranch or next to Trader Joes. Does Lucan agree with me or the Chamber? I want to know
...to help me decide my vote.

I am glad the decision for you is a simple one. For me it's not. If you can live with the cost of the downtown civic center then supporting the incumbents makes sense. I can't. I see cities throughout California struggling to make ends meet. I know Novato is a low wealth district which means our schools are even more severely compromised by budget deficits than those in southern Marin. Affordable housing is housing without property taxes. How do we balance the lost revenue? Where do we find the money? The current council cut back city staff by 20% and Park and Rec staff by 50%. When my children were young Park and Rec was our child care program for the summer. It was wonderful and very reasonably priced for a family of four with both parents self employed and working full time. Park and Rec gutted, reduced services to the elderly, reduced police, reduced hours. City offices are only open four days a week, yet they feel comfortable building new offices for fewer than 70 employees at a cost of $700 a square foot. How is that justified? If you dig a little deeper there are reasons to change from the status quo. Lucan may be more of the same. I am waiting to hear where he stands on the financial issues affecting our community. The Chamber's support of Eric made me question his position. So far the chamber has not been an advocate for Novato small business or residents. I don't want more of the same. Not now. Not when so much is at stake.

Marla, when you say Eden Housing 'has given' Novato 2.5 million in fees are you speaking of impact fees, that is $114,000 per unit? If you are speaking of impact fees, you are then probably aware that our impact fees do not fully cover the costs of new housing, correct? When Tina MacMillan said "We have given Eden House $1.5 million dollars toward this development." she refers to the 55 year loan which is subordinated to B of A's interest and that of the state, regional, and county's interest or some similar line up. As I recall we are 5th in line. Is the interest simple or compound and what is the rate? The leniency of the terms amazed me at the time, as I recall. These terms are probably necessary in order for these projects to get built but somebody has to pay and usually that somebody ends up being the taxpayer, if something goes wrong. You are quite right to point out that different projects have different set ups or exemptions as to property tax or loan costs or land costs. The fact remains that these units, small one bedrooms are being built at a cost of $400, 000 each.

Eden has a stellar record and has never defaulted on any loan and got a AAA rating from B of A. Here are the fees Eden Housing has already paid Novato in addition to the $166,000 in property taxes:
Novato Senior Housing 4% HUD MHP New Construction
LOCAL IMPACT FEES 9/12/2011
Category Number per unit TOTAL Date Comments
Confirmed
Public Facilities Fees
Rec/Cultural 61 $ 5,633 $ 343,613
Civic Facilities 61 $ 1,010 $ 61,610
General Government Systems 61 $ 438 $ 26,718
Open Space 61 $ 1,218 $ 74,298
Drainage 61 $ 692 $ 42,212
Traffic Impact Fees
Streets and Intersections 61 $ 3,552 $ 216,672
Transit Facilities 61 $ 123 $ 7,503
Corp. Yard 61 $ 77 $ 4,697
Fire Facilities 61 $ 729 $ 44,469
Park In-Lieu Fees 61 $ -
County Development Impact Fees 61 $ -
School Fees
Novato Unified School District res rate $ 18,660 Based on commercial rate of $0.42 per sf.
North Marin Water District Fees 61 $ 881,473
Sanitary Sewer Fees 62 $ 8,110 $ 502,820
Subtotal fees $ 2,224,745
Contingency 5% $ 1 11,237
Automation Fee 2.5% $ 5 8,400
GRAND TOTAL $ 2,394,382
per unit $ 39,252 continued

Novato Senior Housing 4% New Construction 9/12/2011
LOCAL PERMITS AND BUILDING FEES
Building Valuation Sq. Ft. Cost per SF Valuation
Residential Building 42,193 $0 Type V-1HR
Planning Fees
$ 12,577 $ 0 .21 $ 206
$ 13,898 $ 0 .23 $ 228
$ 5,671 $ 0 .09 $ 93
$ 804 $ 0 .01 $ 13
$ 3 4 $ 0 .00 $ 1
$ 2,781 $ 46
$ 1,569 $ 26
$ 756 $ 12
Subtotal $ 38,090 $ 0 .63 $ 624
Building - Residential $ -
General Plan Surcharge $ 3,476 $ 0 .09 $ 57 10%
Automation Surcharge $ 3,475 $ 0 .09 $ 57 10%
Training Surcharge $ 348 $ 0 .01 $ 6 1%
Seismic Residential $ 762 $ 0 .02 $ 12 $0.035
Residential Dev. Tax - Each additional bedroom $ 9,520 $ 0 .24 $ 156
Residential Dev. Tax - Five bedrooms $ 1,240 $ 0 .03 $ 20
Plan Storage 8.5 x 11 page $ 1 5 $ 0 .00 $ 0
Plan Storage large page $ 3 1 $ 0 .00 $ 1
Building Plan Check Fee $ 691 $ 0 .02 $ 11 65%
Building Plan Check Consultant Fee $ 23,668 $ 0 .59 $ 388 15%
Building Plan Check third party $ 10,427 $ 0 .26 $ 171
Consultant Plan Check Dept overhead $ 3,550 $ 0 .09 $ 58
Title 24 Compliance Energy Fee $ 8,689 $ 0 .22 $ 142 25%
Building Permit $ 22,750 $ 0 .57 $ 373
Electrical Permit $ 4,906 $ 0 .12 $ 80 $0.10
Mechanical Permit $ 2,707
Plumbing Permit $ 4,393 $ 0 .11 $ 72
Planning Site Inspections $ 100 $ 0 .00 $ 2
Green Building Standards $ 305 $ 0 .01 $ 5
Subtotal $ 101,051 $ 2.53 $ 1,657

Public Works & Engineering $ -
$ 3,500 $ 0 .06 $ 57
$ 9,492 $ 0 .16 $ 156
$ 3,380 $ 0 .06 $ 55
$ 3,081 $ 0 .05 $ 51
$ 1,000 $ 0 .02 $ 16
Infrastructure & Landsc Deposit $ 2,000 $ 0 .03 $ 33
Legal & Admin Deposit $ 2,000 $ 0 .03 $ 33
Mud & Dust Deposit $ 4,000 $ 0 .07 $ 66
Encroachment Eng. Automation Surcharge $ 154 $ 0 .00 $ 3
Encroachment Permit $ 1,540 $ 0 .03 $ 25
Encroachment Inspections $ 2,156 $ 0 .04 $ 35
Grading Engineering Automation Surcharge $ 274 $ 0 .00 $ 4
Grading Permit $ 2,740 $ 0 .05 $ 45
Grading Inspection Flat Fee up to 10K cubic yards $ 2,740 $ 0 .05 $ 45
Cost recovery deposit $ 600 $ 0 .01 $ 10
Subtotal $ 38,657 $ 0 .64 $ 634
SUBTOTAL CITY FEES $ 177,798 $ 2 .92 $ 2,915
Utility Fees
PG&E - construction $ 14,000 $ 0 .23 $ 230 estimate
Other Utilities (SBC, Cable) $ - $ - $ - estimate
Subtotal $ 14,000 $ 0 .23 $ 230
SUBTOTAL City and Utility Fees $ 191,798 $ 3 .15 $ 3,144
Contingency @ 10% $ 19,180 $ 0.32 $ 314
GRAND TOTAL Permit fees $ 210,978 $ 3 .47 $ 3,459

This is the kind of well managed and well designed affordable housing we should be supporting as it provides a real community benefit for our seniors who wish to stay near their families despite being on a fixed income or failing health and high medical bills. I wish you could get behind it.

I DO favor senior housing. Building Werner Creek also favorably affects our performance standing with ABAG. I am simply concerned at the staggering cost of everything when we are in the midst of this recession. I do also think that one must continually assess the overall cost of any government program so that one can use one resources wisely. Eden Housing's reputation by far eclipses Fairfield Wyndover. Pointing out the cost of Eden's Werner Creek Housing does not in any way make me against it. I was also for the city offices downtown until I faced the cost of providing a 100-year Class A building designed for a use which is likely to be outgrown in 30-40 years. I admit hearing Michael defend dedicated podium parking for each staff member when we, the proles, are supposed to be abandoning our vehicles for mass transit affected my perspective as well. I think some of that money should go into remodeling the Square. We can't afford another Paradise Market there but a little design flair and a small market would be quite welcome.

Based on what I heard and saw at the debate, I support the Chamber's endorsements 100%. Although I don't agree with every stance of the 3 endorsed, I found Kellner, Lucan and MacLeamy clear, thoughtful and reasonable. They each displayed an understanding of the complex issues facing our city, and had done their homework. Our elected officials have to make tough decisions that are best for the public good and keep our city solvent. The other 2 candidates at the forum, with
2 no shows, did not have the depth of knowledge Kellner, Lucan and MacLeamy displayed with clarity and respect. The debate will be televised shortly and I urge readers to watch the candidates in action.

Sylvia, I think you are correct...the Chamber opposes mixed use in only a certain area near Trader Joes.

And Mission Lodge. And Hanna Ranch.

To clarify. The Chamber evaluates each project on a case by case basis. We support mixed use in the North Redwood corridor (we stated that in our report in 2010 and would be happy to provide a copy to you) . An official project has not been presented for the Mission lodge, so we have no position on that site at this time.

We have not taken an official position on Hanna Ranch yet, we are evaluating more information. We take a position at a future time.

We do not support high density affordable housing as we have been accused.

Kudos to Leslie Peterson Schwarze and Eleanor Sluis for even showing up to the Debate at the Smokehouse. Unless a non-baised group holds another Debate, I will have to judge Eric Lucan on his speaking merits at Council Meetings. I will not be viewing the televised Debate. The more I read, the more I can't help but suspect that all three Candidates being endorsed by the Chamber had the upperhand at the Debate.

Pro AH advocates and the IJ editor say Novato is full of way too many angry citizens. If they are correct, then that the 2 incumbent woman are at risk...even if they are good public speakers. Perhaps unfair...but SUNN and IJ say there is much anger. Voters start believing that repeated "anger" message and fence-sitting voters begin to feel there is a need for leadership change just to calm down all that anger.

I encourage readers to watch the debate on Novato Public Access Television (NPAT). Kellner, Lucan and MacLeamy answer complex questions with an understanding of our budget and the many issues ahead of us in the next 4 years. Seeing the candidates together answering questions really showed the differences between them. Business is part of our community, with locally owned businesses and larger employers who hire our residents as well as others who dine and shop here. Sales tax is a vital part of our city revenue which pays for things like our police and parks. Thus, supporting Novato businesses is an important part of supporting our residents. I don't always agree with the Chamber, but I value what they bring to Novato in supporting our local economy and leadership in our city.

Annan,
Who told you it is live ? and what good will it do anyone ? The debate is October 12 th . Peoples minds are made up by voting time. Yes you will have your ballot on that day. VOTE THEM ALL OUT , ANY RACE CHANGE NOVATO

Homer- The Chamber of Commerce hosted debate was held on September 9 and was taped for television. It will be shown on Novato Public Access Television.

I have been asked by many who are running for various seats (not just city council) to endorse them, including Eric Lucan.
I am endorsing only one candidate for this election and that is LESLIE PETERSON SCHWARZE.
As a mother with children of color in the Novato Public Schools,I can personally state that Leslie embraces diversity. I also appreciate Leslie's steadfast support of the much needed School Resource Officers that the city has cut, yet hires consultant after consultant where funds could be spent more wisely.
Leslie has always been professional at council meetings. She's a great candidate as she will ask the hard questions. I have been at many meetings, so I can attest to that.
I appreciate the good people of Novato's support for Leslie and I have run out of lawn signs to give out again!

Ryan, you mention lack of diversity in Novato schools. I was in Kentfield this weekend and the public K-8 school had a huge fundraiser going on. I have never seen such a sea of pure white people at a school event. Why are AH advocates so act in Novato while other towns in Marin that need AH much more get no advocate attention? Those high tax revenue towns could afford it and the diversity would enrich their kids' learning and prepare them for the real world.

Hey, T. Allen, if I win a 20 dollar football bet from you ,put it in a plain envelope and drop it in my brass slot on the front of my house. Its probably a FEDERAL offense! No stamp needed! With all the junk that comes through that same slot the 20 dollars won't get thrown out. It wont get blown down the street. No one needs to snivel and cry over a piece of paper going in a slot on my wall. Now you probably didn't tell the teacher, but WOW!

Hey Annan Paterson - Is there anything you disagree with Kellner and MacLeamy on? You're ALL part of the problem! And I'm a radical, liberal who believes in gov't regulation. I say hold developers to the fire. You are all namby-pamby psuedo liberals out to make a buck on being "politically correct."

Annan

I wouldn't describe parking in Old Town as a "false start". Every other plan for that campus included a parking structure. The funds being used to build from scratch could have been ear marked for purchase of an existing campus that included a revenue generating portion but the city used a particular kind of non taxable bond that may preclude the purchase of an existing building that has additional space like 75 Rowland. Either the city never intended to negotiate with the owner of Rowland or they erred in issuing tax free bonds with strings attached. That doesn't mean we can't buy a smaller more modest building, specifically for offices and use the extra money to rehabilitate the community house and build parking but we won't even get a chance to choose if the current council makes the decision for us.

continued

The idea that we "need" a civic center when we can't afford to keep staff or maintain city services is an example of poor fiscal planning. We don't have to pay $650,000 a year if we purchase now and sublet out our existing space. At the last city council meeting Michael Frank indicated subletting shouldn't be a problem. The new civic center won't even break ground till fall of 2012 and if it goes without a hitch it may be built by fall 2013. When was the last time that any project of this size went without a hitch? In order to have a contingency plan in case there are delays in the projects progress we have to sign a new lease with the current landlord by next June and pay an additional $30,000 just for the opportunity to lease back 75 Rowland in 6 month increments and at a higher cost.

Don't tell me this plan makes good fiscal sense. If you want to support Jeanne and Madeline talk about the work that they have accomplished that does makes sense. Don't try and defend the downtown civic center until you've looked at the actual costs. We don't need a monument to Novato city staff; we just need modest offices for the fewer than 70 people that are still employed.

The current plan to build is another false start.

When asked about the viability of 20 year old wood framed buildings, which were excluded by the City as viable options because they are half way through their life, the vice chair of the Design Review Commission said that wood framed buildings designed with modern structural standards would far out last the 100 year old wood framed buildings we have in existence today.

My comment was regarding the 30+ years of false starts for the Civic Center idea, not parking. We just disagree - I think our residents, who will do business in and be served by the new building, and our public servants, deserve a Civic Center that will be cost effective and functional over the long term- a symbol of our community. We have the funding- let's do it right There is plenty of data and research which I found at http://www.cityofnovato.org/Index.aspx?page=1534

Before I sign off from this thread, I again urge readers to watch the Chamber debate on Novato Public Access Television.
The reason for the Chamber's endorsements will become clear for many.

Dennis
This stinks to high heaven!...If you are explaining it correctly (which I believe you are)...there were simply NO other options on the table, and the City simply had to build. Either Council did know this or they did not. If they did, they are being deceptive (to put it mildly), and if they did not they have either been duped by the City Manager, or were lacking the desire/intellectual curiousity to understand the numbers. Either way is not good.

Annan, You made this comment yesterday: "The parking lot will be available after hours for public night and weekend use". This is a complete falsehood. The city office plan includes 60-64 parking spots. They currently have 60 employees and plan on increasing that number to 67 (according to the city). They also indicate 1-23 visitors to offices per hour during business hours. Amazingly, during the day they WILL NOT EVEN HAVE ENOUGH PARKING TO ACCOMODATE CITY OFFICES NEEDS. Pushing city vehicles and visitors in to public parking spots further impacting parking for citizens. At night the city has made it very clear that they will park their city vehicles there, as well as utilize the space for police department parking. Simply put there will be no regular parking during off hours for the citizens of Novato.

Annan it is, at the very minimum, disingenuous of you (and the city) to lead people to believe that parking is being provided for the public with this project.

Tina, this is perfectly stated. Thank you.

Likes Facts

Wait a minute. You do realize that some people who live in unincorporated parts of Novato are still residents of Novato even though they cannot run in or vote in elections here. These families pay sales tax in Novato, have children in Novato schools and like Toni Shroyer, contribute to the community through volunteer efforts and the support of city services like "Pennies for Police Dogs". If you do in fact, like facts, then this is an unnecessary maligning of character. Please focus on the issues.
http://novato.patch.com/articles/novato-expands-canine-police-force-from-2-dogs-to-3
"Toni Shroyer, a 4-H Club volunteer and one of the forces behind the police dog fundraising effort, said volunteers such as Dinah Mattos and Linda Riedel have “literally been out there shaking cans” for donations. She said people have donated 20 years’ worth of pennies, sold fresh eggs, redeemed recyclables, held bake sales and sold items on the Internet to help the canine program."

Unlike many who do not use their real names on Patch blogs, I put my name and picture on the blogs and don't hide behind any masks.
It is common knowledge where I live. My address is put on my speaker card when I speak at City Council Meetings. Unlike many who come from out of town and out of county from the high density low-income housing industry, I don't get paid to voice my opinions.
Our public schools are Novato Public Schools. I have a Novato address. I pay for Novato Fire and Water services. I also am a loyal shopper of Novato businesses. Everything the city of Novato does affects my family and my personal safety.
I am terminating my participation on this blog as I am volunteering to paint over some Gang Graffiti of the Surenos and collecting money for the Novato Police Dogs---all part of the city of Novato which I continue to help and support.
BTW Coy Smith, head of The Chamber lives in Petaluma, not in Novato and not in our county of Marin. So are you saying his opinions don't count either?

Like's Facts

Your comments are petty. I don't consider my neighbors in unincorporated parts of Novato as any less a part of the fabric of our community. Toni can support anyone she wants for city council. Leslie happens to be an outstanding candidate. Kudos to Toni!

Toni, it is by your example that so many of us (no matter where we live), have maybe for the first time since living in Novato, begun to participate in Civic matters that directly impact our community. I'm hopeful that more and more will get involved. The question that has not been answered as of yet is Chamber's response to the New City Offices. I find this disconcerting.

Marla
Good points. Just last weekend, I was called a "bully", "ignorant", and something about wishing I was homeless, etc....and then there was all the "tea party" mantra getting spewed last week, so it really does cut both ways. Decency and respect should be afforded to all...

The info from Dennis is explosive! How do we get an answer from the City on the bond restrictions? As Dennis pointed out, it's either deliberate misrepresentation or willful ignorance. Either way, it's telling and the question as to the bond restrictions and timing needs to be answered by both City Council and City Manager. (My money is on Frank gaming the system.)

It is a folly to suggest that one of the few persons who is recognized by sight because of her articulate and spirited participation at council meetings and service to the city should be discredited because she lives beyond the city limits. Novatoans pay attention to Toni Shroyer because she has something to say and because she cares about Novato. When were residency requirements passed to limit leadership and free speech?

Is input from Robert Hickey, Whitney Marchant, or Katie Lamont from outside Novato O.K. because they work in "the industry"? What defines an outsider? Is an outsider someone who doesn't know the town intimately but who interjects his arguments to bring about a particular outcome re a local issue? Is an outsider someone who does not put the town's interests first and applies pressure from the outside? Does that definition fit any number of people working to channel funds or know how from associations organized beyond the city and the county and bringing forward a litany of outsiders' complaints? Whatever the definition of outsider or how contrived, Toni Shroyer is certainly not one. She lives within Novato's sphere of influence and knows and loves the town and its people. She speaks from the heart and her destiny and future are inseparably bound up in the fortunes of the town.

Let us be perfectly clear that advocating for low-income housing in today's climate under today's statutes in Novato is very nearly tantamount to advocating for "high density" housing. Of course, technically, it depends on your definition of high density. Since there are presently two different densities of low-income housing required of cities of metropolitan designated counties and nonmetropolitan designated counties as in 30 units per acre versus 20 units per acre, as in, for instance, Novato and Petaluma, the Housing Working Group, generally referred to the former as high density and the latter as a density more characteristic of suburban surroundings. Marla and every other local housing advocate knows this. It is ingenuous at best, to say you never advocated for high density housing. Certainly when the sentiments of the town and particularly the town council became evident, it was much more prudent to never have advocated for high density housing. The one exception that I can think of is that one can advocate for low-income housing through second units although the numbers likely to be allowed to count toward the housing allocation in Novato are very small because of the historically low numbers creating a precedent which is hard to set aside. Everyone should remember that 30 units per acre becomes 40-45 units with density bonuses, so the initial densities themselves are misleading, let alone the technical definitions of "high density".

Marla, learning from our past and setting a good example requires due diligence to avoid creating an environment that you're actually trying to prevent. When we set out to make ourselves victimized and attach powerful language such as; hate, antagonized, threatened, etc.,it can have a negative impact. Strange distructive allegiances can be born. Arson has already been committed on one of the Candidate's oversized signs. So I applaud the message of eliminating hate crimes, but question the delivery.

Tina wrote:
It would be far better to describe the accomplishments of your candidates than to lambaste the opposition. Each candidate has different strengths. Let's look at their platform. Wouldn't it be wonderful if Patch could do an article with each candidate being asked the same questions regarding relevant topics? Then we could vote based on issues instead of individuals.

I will be writing to Brent with this specifci request. I really have troub;e discerning who is for what from thereds like this, when people on all sides have various agendas.

Thanks,
<L>

Lou, I like your idea.

Lou

Thank you for moving this forward with Brent! It will be wonderful to read what the candidates think about specific issues. I agree about the signs. It's unfortunate but incumbents have a greater chance of reelection unless you can get the word out about actual issues. Perhaps we could even submit questions to Brent to help him hone in on what we want to better understand.

Excuse me move foreword . Last week you were saying one thing and now you are saying you are confused. and want Brent to help you make up your mind Your postings at 1 am we think are the truth. . We only have one question . What brand is it ?

Homer
I think Tina was using the royal "we", aka the editorial we...but she could answer that best. I do think it would be a good idea to have all the candidates put forth answers to specific questions, you?.

Novato campaign sign torched- is this who we want to be? Interesting this is what the IJ is featuring on Novato...
http://www.marinij.com/novato/ci_18956428

Donna did you see this mentioned in the IJ? Can you let me know please, thanks.

Yes, click the link and you will get the IJ article.

T. Allen,

Your comment re my opinion that advocacy for low-income housing in Novato is nearly tantamount to advocacy of high density housing in regard to low-income units illustrates perfectly one idea that I have been mulling over. I believe much trouble is caused by modern day carpetbaggers---people who come in to steer any honest discussion of a specific local focus to fit their broader concerns or interests---in your case low-income housing in the county of Marin versus low-income housing in Novato. I very carefully limited my remarks to low-income housing in Novato. You just as carefully generalized those remarks to include all of Marin. My limited remarks do not generalize to Marin because the density for low-income housing that is required of Novato is only matched in San Rafael, not in any other city or town in Marin.

Misinformation indeed causes confusion. Congratulations. Posing as the injured party while stirring a sprinkling of mischief and a dollop of propaganda into the mix is a wannabe Rovian ploy that has been used so much as to become thoroughly boring, but when you put the puerile "Shame on you" finishing touch, it can only be considered sophomoric.

T. Allen, cont'd
Quoting your post: "Neither one (referring to similar phrases) makes sense and is just put out there to attempt to discredit and dehumanize people with different viewpoints. Shame on you Pam. SUNN reps have repeatedly mentioned…." "Please don't continue this unnecessary divisiveness with rhethoric that is clearly harmful."

Let's count the hot button words and idea twisting in the boilerplate above:

There is a reference to two propositions which supposedly do not make sense. Certainly they don't make sense. YOU made them both, one as a stand in for something I wrote.

"Discredit", "dehumanize", "different", "shame", "unnecessary divisiveness", "harmful"

All of these words dramatize a non-event. It didn't happen.

Rhetoric is the art of effective or persuasive speaking or writing. It is an art form, T.

I'm voting for whoever puts PUBLIC SAFETY FIRST. Be careful where you place campaign signs into the ground.There needs to be much larger setbacks from main gas lines, especially with dense housing or it shouldn't be built at all. See Brent's Op-Ed on 9/21 regarding the GAS LEAK at Redwood/San Marin which is taking over a week to "fix". PG&E "inspected" the pipes a year ago. That's not the same as tested. The north Redwood Blvd/San Marin Drive gas transmission line is/was #8 & #9 on PG&E's Worst 100 list. This list became public after the San Bruno explosion. I believe the Redwood/San Marin pipes pressure was reduced months ago to possibly get off the "Worst" list. However, that's like taking blood pressure medication for a failing heart. You can still have a heart attack, leaks or "explosion" at any time. Hopefully our Governor will sign into law this month requirements for PG&E to replace and/or repair these old, corroded pipes, and not wait until a leak (or worse) happens. Ironically, the City of Novato still wants to build high density housing extremely close to faulty gas transmission lines along the most northern part of Redwood Blvd. The City must change their planning codes and ensure tighter restrictions are in place before building in the vicinity of a gas transmission line. This info needs to be included in the Housing General Plan. Read this article from the Advance: http://marinscope.com/articles/2011/06/29/novato_advance/opinion/doc4e0b7f21caf31483674189.txt

Baxter, very interesting. I saw the bright lights and PG&E trucks tonight at Redwood & San Marin. It scares me to think that it tooks the actual smell of gas before PG&E gets out there and maintains their big transmission lines. Condos are real close by. Also, housing prices were hurt in San Bruno when the explosion happened there a few years ago. We don't need a big fire like that in Novato. We don't want potential homes buyers to feel Novato is unsafe.