Extra

This Tuesday, February 8, the Berkeley City Council will continue its public hearing on the West Berkeley Plan, carried over from the January 25^th meeting when dozens of commentators lined up to speak. Plan changes and accompanying zoning changes are supposed to be aimed at increasing the amount of economic activity in West Berkeley, especially industrial production. Backers say they are focused on the reuse of existing buildings, the development of large multi-parcel sites, and start-up of new types of industrial activities. Public commentators have expressed concern about the proposed 75-foot height limit for buildings and the preservation of the arts in the area. 

The Council's agenda also returns to the labor dispute between the KPFA union and Pacifica Radio. There is a resolution to call on the management of Pacifica Radio to “negotiate in good faith” with Communication Workers of America Local 9415. The resolution also offers mediation assistance to the disputing parties. 

Council is considering a resolution supporting California State Assemblymember Nancy Skinner's bill (153) requiring online-only out-of-state retailers to apply California's sales tax when selling in California. 

Councilmembers are going to pledge money to celebrations of the Persian New Year and Black History Month. Each Councilmember's office can pledge up to $1,000 for the Persian New Year Festival and up to $250 to the Harriet Tubman Terrace Resident Tenant Council for their Black History Month Celebration.