HomeMy Public PortalAbout20010101 - Agenda Packet - Board of Directors (BOD) d Wild IR
Pacific Gas and
- ,Electric Company"
WHY The Nature Restoration Trust is collaboration between PG&E and the NFWF that
brings together public and private resources to restore,conserve,and enhance
wetlands,riparian, and coastal habitat in California. Major funding for the program
comes from PG&E,which in 2008 committed$1million over three years to support
projects throughout the company's Northern and Central California service areas.
CONTACT Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Contact: Leigh Ann Maze,
(650)691-1200
NFWF Contact: Claire Thorp,(415)341-5943
PG&E Contact: Matt Nauman,(415)308-7498
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wi/c/
Pacific Gas and
0 - Electric Company'
* * MEDIA ADVISORY
LA HONDA POND RESTORATION TO IMPROVE HABITAT
FOR THREATENED RED-LEGGED FROG,ENDANGERED GARTER SNAKE
WHAT A site visit and project overview of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District's
efforts to repair a pond and plant native vegetation at the La Honda Creek Open
Space Preserve. This work will create breeding habitat for the threatened California
red-legged frog,a food source for the endangered San Francisco garter snake,and
prevent sedimentation in downstream habitat for endangered fish. Currently,the pond
dries too early for the frogs to successfully reproduce.The pond is located in the San
Gregorio Watershed,a Critical Coast Area that drains into a marine reserve.This
restoration is funded in part by a$40,000 grant from the Nature Restoration Trust,
collaboration between Pacific Gas and Electric Company and the National Fish and
Wildlife Foundation(NFWF).PG&E committed$1 million from 2008 to 2010 to
support similar projects throughout the company's Northern and Central California
service territory.
VISUALS/ The NFWF will present a check to the Open Space District and attendees can tour the
AUDIO restoration project site.The pond is surrounded by rolling grasslands of a working
ranch with sweeping views of surrounding area.
WHEN Friday, August 20,2010 1:00 p.m. -3:00 p.m. (Please arrive on time to be shuttled to
the pond. Late arrivals can not be accommodated.)
WHERE La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve.
Parking: La Honda Elementary School,450 Sears Ranch Road,La Honda.
Directions from 280 or 101: Highway 84 West to La Honda.Right on Sears Ranch
Road,across from Applejacks Saloon. Continue to the school on your right.
Directions from Highway 1: Highway 84 East to La Honda.Left on Sears Ranch
Road,across from Applejacks Saloon.Continue to the school on your right.
Shuttle: The pond is located in a closed area of the Preserve.Attendees will be
shuttled in and walk up a short hill to the pond. Please wear appropriate shoes.
WHO Claire Thorp,assistant director, Southwestern Partnership Office,National Fish and
Wildlife Foundation
Julie Anderson,resource planner, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
Leah Casey,Community Relations,PG&E
Members of the board of directors,Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
Similarly, we believe that the Parkland Acquisition Plan should position the County to
take appropriate ro riate conservation actions, which may include land acquisition, to preserve
critical wildlife habitat
degree linkages that maintain some de of genetic flow between
g g
viable wildlife breeding populations in the Santa Cruz Mountains and the adjacent Diablo
and Gavilan Ranges. The necessary synergy of land acquisition, infrastructure planning,
and regulation to preserve these critical habitat linkages can only be spearheaded by
Santa Clara County, due to its wide ranging governmental role.
For these reasons, we encourage County Parks to continue to focus on acquiring new
regional greenbelt lands, leveraging open space partnership opportunities, and preserving
seamless trail and habitat linkages. In this way, the sum of our collective efforts to
preserve, restore and connect open space lands can be far greater than their individual
parts.
Sincerely,
Stephen E. Abbors
General Manager
SEA:sgs
Cc: MROSD Board of Directors
Tim Heffington, Senior Real Estate Agent, Santa Clara Co. Parks and Recreation
Department
t
GENERAL MANAGER
Stephen E Abhors
Regional
OpenSpace I MICApeninsula Regional Open Space District BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Pete Siemens
Mary Davey
Jed Cyr
August 12, 2010 Curt Riffle
Nonette Hanko
Larry Hassett
Cecily Harris
The Honorable Board of Supervisors
Santa Clara County
70 West Hedding St.
San Jose, CA 95110
RE: Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation Department
Parkland Acquisition Plan
Dear Supervisors;
On behalf of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District(District), I would like to
convey our appreciation for the work of the Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation
Department (County Parks). We have partnered on numerous successful partnership
projects over the years, and together, these open space preservation efforts have improved
the quality of life for County residents as well as the entire Bay Area. We were pleased at
the 2006 renewal of the Park Charter Fund, and would like to offer our thoughts on the
Parkland Acquisition Plan currently under development.
The most important strength of Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation Department
(County Parks) may also be the most obvious—it is the only public parks agency whose
jurisdiction covers the whole county. This big picture overview is critical in leading and
uniting the collective open space acquisition efforts of the other public and nonprofit
conservation organizations in the area, including Midpeninsula Regional Open Space
District, towards work that is of countywide significance. Directly purchasing new
regional parks, expanding existing County park boundaries, and leveraging opportunities
by contributing Parks Charter funds towards partnership acquisition projects are an
important part of this leadership. We believe that criteria supporting a strong County role
in this realm should continue to receive strong emphasis in the Parkland Acquisition Plan.
Other criteria that we believe worthy of strong emphasis in the Plan are those that relate
to linkages—trail, public open space, and habitat linkages. Countywide trails can link
urban parks to regional open space, providing healthful ways to access and interconnect
park facilities. Current Board approved plans identify several significant trail linkages
still in need of completion, for example, extending the Stevens Creek Trail to Lower and
Upper Stevens Creek County Parks, as well as the District's Monte Bello and Saratoga
Gap Open Space Preserves.
330 Distel Circle Los Altos,CA 94022 1 6=;06yT 1200 1 6;0 6910485 � www openspace org
i
Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District
To: Board of Directors
f,
From: Stephen E. Abbors
Date: August 30, 2010
Re: FYIs
I
R-10-100 Page 3
CEQA COMPLIANCE
Issuing this contract amendment for construction services for the Pond DR06 repair project is
consistent with the Mitigated Negative Declaration(MND) and Mitigation Monitoring Plan for
the Pond DR06 Repair project that was approved by the Board on September 23, 2009 (see
Report R-09-108). The changes reflected in the revised plans prepared by BAGG Engineers are
consistent with the project description in the MND and regulatory permits issued for the project.
NEXT STEPS
Following Board approval, staff will issue a change order to amend the contract agreement with
TKO to authorize completion of the pond repair project according to the revised plan set. Once
the contractor has completed the work, BAGG Engineers will inspect the work and provide final
project sign off. District staff will work with BAGG Engineers to seek reimbursement for the
increased project costs resulting from engineering plan inaccuracies.
Prepared by:
Julie Andersen, Resource Planner
Contact person:
Julie Andersen, Resource Planner
R-10-100 Page 2
5. Re-build the eroding earthen berm to provide long-term berm stability;
6. Re-contour the pond to provide improved habitat for the California red legged frog;
7. Remove non-native, invasive vegetation and re-vegetate disturbed areas after construction.
For this project, the Board originally authorized a bid amount of$44,500 plus a 20%
contingency for a total amount not to exceed $53,400.
During initial project construction on August 3, 2010, TKO discovered that site conditions did
not match plan specifications and that there appeared to be an excess amount of fill not
accounted for in the original plan set. District staff worked with BAGG Engineers to provide a
revised engineering plan set to address the excess fill with a modification to the original design.
Upon review of the revised plans provided by BAGG Engineers on August 12, 2010, TKO
observed that the scale of the revised plans appeared to be incorrect. Field measurements taken
by District staff on August 13, 2010, confirmed that the scale of the revised plan set was indeed
incorrect.
A meeting was held with the District project team and BAGG Engineers on August 16, 2010. At
this meeting, BAGG Engineers confirmed the error and agreed to revise the entire project plan
set to address the scale error. TKO originally bid on the project assuming a 1:10 scale as
indicated on the original and revised plans (one inch equaling 10 feet) whereas the actual scale is
1:20 (one inch equaling twenty feet). Due to this error, the project size and scope for most
project components have increased by roughly double. To compensate for this change in size
and scope of the project, TKO has asked for a contract change order in an additional amount not
to exceed $24,500, an increase of$15.600 over the contingency amount allocated for the project.
Although the District anticipates recouping these costs from BAGG Engineers, Board
authorization of this contract amendment is needed in order for TKO to finish the project within
the regulatory, permit-imposed deadlines.
Staff therefore requests Board authorization to amend the contract with TKO for an additional
$24,500 for a total contract amount not to exceed $69,000 to complete the pond repair.
FISCAL IMPACT
The Fiscal Year 2010-11 Budget includes $86,000 for the Pond DR06 Repair Project, of which
approximately $85,000 remain to date. Remaining budgeted funds are sufficient to complete the
repair project. Moreover, two grants for a total amount of$83,000 have been awarded to this
project (Note: one grant source is dependent upon successful passage of the California State
Budget). The District will work to recover the additional costs resulting from the engineering
error from BAGG Engineers.
PUBLIC NOTICE
Public notice for the award of bid was provided as required by the Brown Act. No additional
notice is required.
r i
Midpeninsula Regional
' Open Space District
R-10-100
Meeting 10-21
August 30, 2010
AGENDA ITEM S
AGENDA ITEM
Contract Amendment with TKO General Engineering and Construction, Inc., (TKO) for the
Pond DR06 Repair Project at La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve for an Additional Amount
Not to Exceed $24.500.GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATIONS W-7C01 JT4
Authorize the General Manager to amend the contract with TKO General Engineering and
Construction, Inc. for an additional amount not to exceed $24,500, to adjust the project scope of
work to be consistent with revised engineering plans to complete the repairs to Pond DR06.
SUMMARY
During initial project construction, the project contractor, TKO, and District staff discovered a
significant design error on the engineering plans provided by Bay Area Geotechnical Group
(BAGG Engineers). The District met with BAGG Engineers on August 16, 2010. BAGG
concurred that the design error had occurred and agreed to provide revised pond design plans
that include the necessary corrections. The revised engineering design will be implemented by
the project contractor. The resulting increase in the scope of work requires a corresponding
increase in the construction contract in an amount not to exceed $24,500, for a total project cost
not to exceed $69,000.
DISCUSSION
On June 9, 2010, the Board of Directors authorized the General Manager to execute a contract
with TKO for the Pond DR06 Repair project at La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve (see Board
Report R-10-67). The purpose of this project is to repair the failing earthen berm and improve
ponding duration for successful breeding by the California red-legged frog.
The repair project includes the following major tasks:
I. Replace the eroding spillway with a new outlet culvert and drop inlet structure to re-route
stormwater back into the primary drainage channel;
2. Improve the existing spillway to provide a secondary outlet for increased stormwater
discharge during extremely large storm events;
3. Install an energy dissipater at the end of the outlet culvert;
4. Install a clay liner in the pond to increase ponding duration;
than the County's nighttime noise standard of 50 dBA. Furthermore, MROSD has indicated that
nighttime construction would not occur at the Mount Thayer site, which is the portion of the project
site that is closest to the Leeson's property site, because the abatement work at the Thayer site
consists of only two buildings, and the work at this site will take place over a very short period of
time.Therefore, because nighttime abatement activities would primarily occur behind building
walls, and because no nighttime construction would occur in those areas of the project site closest
to the nearest off-site receptors(i.e. the Mount Thayer site), the conclusions in the IS/MND would
not change as a result of the comment. No additional mitigation is required.
Visual Impact
The Leeson letter raises issues related to visual impacts, especially impacts related to views from
local scenic roadways and impacts associated with light and glare.The MND addresses these issues.
On page 3-4,the MND addresses the project's potential to damage scenic resources, including, but
not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway.
Response: As described in the MND, the proposed project involves removal of hazardous materials
from existing structures and does not involve damage to trees, rock outcroppings, or historic
buildings (note that the MND also concludes that the on-site structures would not likely be
considered historic resources). It is important to note that the change in the visual setting resulting
from the proposed abatement would be very minor.
The MND describes impacts related to nighttime construction lighting. Page 3-5 indicates that
because most of the lighting would occur within building interiors and due to the remote location of
the site, impacts would be less-than-significant. As described above under"Noise Pollution," MROSD
has determined that nighttime construction would not be required on the Mount Thayer site,
because the abatement work at the Thayer site would take substantially less time than the rest of
the air force station. Note that the limited nighttime abatement work(occurring mostly inside
structures)on the other portions of the air force station would be located over one mile away from
the Leeson residence.Temporary nighttime lighting occurring over one mile away would not result
in substantial nighttime annoyance, including at the Leeson residence.Therefore,the conclusion in
the IS/MND remains less than significant and no mitigation measures are required.
Similar to its regulations for asbestos handling, CCR(Title 8, Section 1532.1) contains lead exposure
limits for employees engaged in abatement and remediation activities. These limits are based on the
number of hours worked per day.Also similar to its asbestos regulations, CCR requires employers to
prepare exposure assessments and exposure monitoring for lead exposure. CCR Section 1532.1 also
includes methods of compliance, including but not limited to the preparation of a compliance
program, use of mechanical ventilation, respiratory protection, protective clothing and equipment,
specific housekeeping practices, medical surveillance (including biological monitoring), temporary
removal of exposed employees, signage and postings,and appropriate record keeping. CCR Title 8,
Section 1532.1, is attached to this document as Appendix D; please refer to Appendix D for more
details about CCR Title 8, Section 1532.1 requirements.
As stated in the MND, handling of asbestos and lead is regulated by state law and BAAQMD rules.
These rules include guidelines to minimize exposure of remediation workers (including monitored
and enforceable exposure limits) and release of these substances into the environment.All of the
practices legally required to minimize and avoid exposure of toxic substances to remediation
workers would also prevent these substances from leaving the site in any uncontrolled manner and
therefore prevent airborne transport (or"drift")to any neighboring areas. Because the proposed
project would be required to comply with the CCR and BAAQMD rules, the proposed project would
not create a significant hazard to the public or environment.Therefore, this impact conclusion in the
MND remains less than significant.
Noise Pollution
The Leeson letter also raises issues associated with temporary construction noise generated by the
proposed abatement activities.The MND analyzes potential noise impacts resulting from the
project, and on page 3-36 states that the project's noise level would attenuate to 47.4 dBA at the
nearest sensitive receptor, which is more than 1,500 feet from the Mount Thayer portion of the site
and separated by vegetated ground cover that creates a "soft" noise environment. Additional
attenuation would likely occur due to intervening topography. The resultant noise level of 47.4 dBA
at the residence would be less than both the 60 dBA daytime standard and the 50 dBA nighttime
standard established by the Santa Clara County Noise Ordinance.
Response:The noise analysis in the IS/MND assumes that the noise sensitive receptors include both
residential structures and the associated outdoor activity areas, which is common practice for noise
impact analyses performed for CEQA. However, the commenter is correct to point out that the
Santa Clara County Noise Ordinance restricts noise to specific levels at the property line.Through
distance alone,worst-case noise levels from project-related abatement work would attenuate to
approximately 52.8 dBA at property line of the nearest residence, which is approximately 800 feet
away.This noise level would be less than the daytime standard of 60 dBA but would exceed the
County's nighttime standard noise of 50 dBA. However, as stated in the project description, most
nighttime abatement work would occur inside the buildings. An additional reduction of at least 5
h building walls.Thus th
e nighttime noise level experienced at the
I provided b the p dBA would be p y g g
property line of the nearest residential receptor would be approximately 47.8 dBA, which is less
BAAQMD standards, which include stringent requirements to minimize release of hazardous
materials into the environment.The proposed project would not violate any water quality standards
or waste discharge requirements; rather,the project would improve hazard conditions associated
with onsite, including the potential to transport lead and asbestos in runoff, which would improve
runoff water quality. (Hazardous materials are currently blowing off of building surfaces and onto
the soils surrounding the structures; the proposed abatement project would remove these
hazardous materials from both the structures and the surrounding soil surfaces.)
With respect to depletion of groundwater, the MND states(p. 3-31)that water for abatement
activities would most likely be hauled to the site by truck, but the District may work with adjacent
property owners to form an agreement for use of their water.The proposed project would not
require a substantial amount of water during construction and would not result in long-term use of
water because the project site would remain unoccupied after completion of the proposed
abatement.The proposed project would not deplete groundwater supplies.The "No Impact"
conclusion in the IS/MND is appropriate.
Air Pollution
The commenter raises issues related to the potential for unencapsulated hazardous materials to be
released into the air due to mishandling of these materials in an area sometimes exposed to high
winds, such as the project site.The IS/MND addresses issues associated with release of hazardous
materials on page 3-12, as well as 3-26 and 3-27.
Response: California Code of Regulations(CCR),Title 8, Section 1529 "Asbestos" is enforced by Cal
OSHA and sets very strict exposure limits for employees engaged in abatement and remediation
activities and requires employers to perform an initial exposure assessment as well as daily
monitoring of employee exposure. Section 1529 also includes a list of specific compliance measures
including but not limited to use of vacuum cleaners with HEPA filters, wet methods,ventilation
systems with HEPA filters, isolation/containment of asbestos dust-generating areas, as well as
prohibitions against use of compressed air to remove asbestos without a ventilation system, dry
sweeping/shoveling of asbestos, and use of high-speed abrasive disc saws without proper point of
cut ventilators. Additional, more stringent compliance measures are provided specific to Class I and
Class II asbestos removal. CCR Title 8,Section 1529 "Asbestos" is attached to the MND as Appendix
B.
Furthermore, BAAQMD Regulation 11, Rule 2 requires wet methods or use of HEPA filter-fitted
ventilation systems, use of leak-tight chutes for lowering materials to the ground, use of plastic
barriers and HEPA filter fitted ventilation systems to contain areas being stripped. Rule 2 also
requires an asbestos survey, including materials sampling and lab testing,to be performed by a
qualified, certified consultant prior to abatement activities to determine the category of asbestos.
Specific disposal methods are also required under Rule 2. BAAQMD's Regulation 11, Rule 2 is
attached to the MND as Appendix E.
fire.The comments reference a previous fire in the area, including the project site, and indicate that
parked trucks or equipment could obstruct evacuation.
Response: The MND addresses potential project impacts associated with wildland fire hazard, and
concludes that the proposed project would result in No Impact. Although the project area is located
in a high fire hazard area, the project will be taking place in the late fall and winter. In addition,the
work on site will be completed within fully developed areas, not in any unimproved open space
areas with heavy vegetation.The work will be completed within buildings and site set up for the
work will occur on large paved parking lot areas.The potential for wildland fire is much lower at the
project site, due to lack of substantial fuel sources where the work will take place and the low-fire
season within which it will be completed.The proposed structure abatement does not involve the
use of heavy equipment.Although there will likely be generators on site for electrical requirements
and some abatement activities may employ limited use of torches for removal of materials, these
activities will be governed by site safety requirements(fire watch & provision of fire extinguishers)
and will not pose any significant risk. Hazardous materials would be removed by hand using hand
tools or hand-held power tools within buildings and on building exteriors, and removal of asbestos
would involve substantial watering to prevent airborne dust. Aside from removal of abatement
materials from the soil surface surrounding the buildings (most likely removed by hand or HEPA-
filter-fitted vacuum),the abatement activities would occur in the immediate vicinity of the existing
structures, and not in more highly vegetated (higher fuel) areas. Prior to abatement activities
vegetation around structures would be heavily pruned,further reducing the fire fuel source. None of
the activities at the site include elements that would increase fire hazards over existing conditions,
and the active remediation activities, including wetting of buildings and soils and pruning of
vegetation, reduce fire hazards. Furthermore, the presence of the abatement crews at the site will
actually provide a safer environment. Historically,the presence of on-site personnel dissuades
potential trespassers and vandalism. In addition, the abatement crews will be readily available to
address any potential wildfire hazard, since they will be among the first to observe a fire and will
have communications and water on site to assist in first response.
Regarding obstruction of evacuation routes, the equipment and vehicle parking areas would be
located within existing parking lots at the air force station and not on Mount Umunhum Road, not
on the access routes through on within the site.The "No Impact" conclusion in the MND is
appropriate.
Water Pollution
The Leeson letter expresses concern that proposed abatement activities could pollute surface and
groundwater by removing existing hazardous materials that are currently contained within buildings
(and therefore not able to enter the environment).The letter also raises issues related to depletion
of groundwater levels.The MND addresses these issues.
Response: Regarding release of hazardous materials into surface and ground water, the MND states
(p. 3-31) that the proposed project would comply with federal and state OSHA standards, as well as
III
R-10-102
Meeting 10-21
August 30, 2010
Attachment 7
RESPONSE TO COMMENTS RECEIVED ON THE MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR THE STRUCTURE
ABATEMENT PROJECT AT THE FORMER ALMADDEN AIRF FORCE STATION
MROSD received two comment letters prior to the close of the 20-day public comment period for the
MND prepared for the AAFS Structure Abatement Project. Both letters were from nearby
residents/property owners. No comments were received from public agencies.
1. The first comment letter received was from David and Barbara Leeson, who reside at 15300 Soda
Springs Road, which is a property adjacent to the project site.The second comment letter is from
Kirsten M. Powell at Logan and Powell LLP, a law firm representing the McQueen family,who also
own property adjacent to the project site.
The comment letter from Logan and Powell raises issues associated with trespassing and access, and
does not raise issues pertaining to the project's potential to result in environmental impacts.These
comments, therefore, do not raise issues regarding the adequacy of the MND. However, issues
related to trespassing and access are important operational issues which MROSD will address by
preparing a work-plan in collaboration with, and approved by, the McQueen family.
2. The Leeson letter raises several issues. Most of the issues raised pertain to environmental impacts.
One comment addresses concerns over communication interference. Although this would not be
an environmental impact, the project nevertheless does not include any elements that would
interfere with communications. There are several communication facilities adjacent to the project
which are owned by the McQueen family. While the McQueen family has raised concerns about the
project(as described in Item 1 above), they are not concerned about communications interference.
The proposed project includes only temporary abatement activities (mostly performed by hand) and
does not include major equipment that could interfere with large communications systems,
therefore this issue is not addressed further.
The environmental issues raised by the Leesons are listed as headings below with a response
prepared by MROSD staff under each heading.
Fire Danger
The Leeson letter indicates that the "No Impact" conclusion in the MND is not accurate and that the
proposed abatement project could result in impacts to the environment associated with wildland
Attachment 6 (245 pages)
Mitigated Negative Declaration
is available on the District's website at
http://www openspace or l} about uslmeeting),s.asp
Instruction to view:
1. Go to the above web address
2. Click on August 30"' agenda
3. Scroll down and click on Item 4
Number Mitigation Timing Who Will Verify? Verification
(Date& Initials)
Mitigation BIO-2. Iffeasible, impacts to nesting birds shall be minimized by limiting Preconstruction MROSD Operations
in Section pruning o f trees and shrubs to the non-breeding season (October to &during Dept. (Resource
IV: February). construction Specialist)with
Planning PM
If pruning is scheduled to occur during the typical nesting season for
raptors and migratory birds (March to September), a qualified biologist
shall inspect vegetation to be removed to ensure that no nesting birds are
present. If active nests are present, no vegetation shall be removed that
would be likely to adversely affect the nest until the biologist confirms
that the young have fledged or that the nest is no longer active. If no
nests are found, no further mitigation is required
MITIGATION MEASURES MATRIX
The following mitigation measures will be incorporated into the project planning and execution:
Number Mitigation Timing Who Will Verify? Verification
(Date& Initials)
Mitigation BIO-1. Surveys for roosting bats on the project site will be conducted by a Preconstruction MROSD Operations
in Section qualified biologist. Surveys will consist of a daytime pedestrian survey and during (Resource
IV: looking for evidence of bat use (e.g., guano) andlor an evening construction Specialist)with
emergence survey to note the presence or absence of bats. The type of Planning PM
survey will depend on the condition of the buildings. If no bat roosts are
found, then no further studv is required. If evidence of bat use is
observed, the number and species of bats using the roost will be
determined Bat detectors may be used to supplement survey efforts, but
are not required.
If roosts of pallid or Townsend s big-eared bats are determined to be
present and must be removed, the bats will be excluded from the
roosting site before the facility is removed. A mitigation program
addressing compensation, exclusion methods, and roost removal
procedures will be developed in consultation with Department of Fish
& Game (DFG) before implementation. Exclusion methods may
include use of one-way doors at roost entrances (bats may leave but
not reenter), or sealing roost entrances when the site can be
confirmed to contain no bats. Exclusion efforts may be restricted
during periods of sensitive activity(e.g., during hibernation or while
females in niaternity colonies are nursing young). The loss of each
roost (if any) will be replaced in consultation with DFG and may
include construction and installation of bat boxes suitable to the bat
species and colony size excluded from the original roosting site. Roost
replacement will be implemented before bats are excluded from the
original roost sites. Once the replacement roosts are constructed and
it is confirmed that bats are not present in the original roost site, the
hazardous materials may be removed
7)
MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM CONTENTS
This mitigation monitoring program (MMP) includes a brief discussion of the legal basis and
purpose of the program, a key to understanding the monitoring matrix, discussion and direction
regarding noncompliance complaints, and the mitigation monitoring matrix itself.
LEGAL BASIS AND PURPOSE OF THE MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
Public Resources Code (PRC) 21081.6 requires public agencies to adopt mitigation monitoring
or reporting programs whenever certifying an environmental impact report or mitigated negative
declaration. This requirement facilitates implementation of all mitigation measures adopted
through the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) process.
MONITORING MATRIX
The following page provides a table identifying the mitigations incorporated into the Almaden
Air Force Station Structure Abatement Project (the project), These mitigations are reproduced
from the Mitigated Negative Declaration for the project. The columns within the tables have the
following meanings:
Number: The number in this column refers to the Initial Study section where the mitigation
is discussed.
Mitigation: This column lists the specific mitigation identified within the Mitigated Negative
Declaration.
Timing: This column identifies at what point in time, review process, or phase the
mitigation will be completed. The mitigations are organized by order in which
they appear in the Mitigated Negative Declaration.
Who will This column references the District department that will ensure implementation of
verify? the mitigation.
Verification: This column will be initialed and dated by the individual designated to confirm
implementation.
NONCOMPLIANCE COMPLAINTS
Any person or agency may file a complaint asserting noncompliance with the mitigation
measures associated with the project. The complaint shall be directed to the District's General
Manager in written form, providing specific information on the asserted violation. The General
Manager shall cause an investigation and determine the validity of the complaint; if
noncompliance with a mitigation measure has occurred, the General Manager shall cause
appropriate actions to remedy any violation. The complaint shall receive written confirmation
indicating the results of the investigation or the final action corresponding to the particular
noncompliance issue.
Attachment 5
MITIGATION MONITORING PLAN
Almaden Air Force Station Structure Abatement Project
Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve
Santa Clara County, CA
August 23, 2010
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
330 Distel Circle
Los Altos, CA 94022
650-691-1200
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portion of road
Fmmer Almaden
/ Ax FS(ce Base �� Wrra'r" zul
( Umunhum Area
Closed to public
beyond this pointIX
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Exhibit 2-2: Regional Map
Land Ownership Current Public Access Project Site Midpeninsula Regional
I
- MROSD Watershed Land — Hiking, Bicycling Mt. Umunhum Site Open Space District
Other Protected m Conservation June 2010
_ __ Hiking, Bicycling, � a
Park Lands Easement Mt.Thayer Site -�Mdes
Nonprofit Land Urban Equestrian ® 0 025 0.5 1
--- - ------- _ _ %�----ter-
San Jose 9i
Guadalupe
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Sierra Az
LeXin to Open Space Preserve
9 P P -�
Reservoir
..�.... Almaden auicksilver
County Park
ism
Mt, That' Almade
3,483' n hum ���� Resevoir
Redwood ! 1
Estates
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Exhibit 2-1: Site Vicinity Map Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District
_ MROSD Watershed Land Mt. Umunhum Site. 19.9 Acres
Other Protected Open Space Conservation or June 2010
or Park Lands ® Agricultural Easement MROSD Br Site,2.9Acres •
Nonprofit LandAgency
�— MROSD Boundary 0 0.5 t �
p her P i A n miles
Other ubl c ge. cy ���. MROSD Sphere of Influence e � e
4. The Board finds that, on the basis of the whole of the record before it, including the MND, Initial �
Study, and any comments received, that there is no substantial evidence that the Project will have a
significant effect on the environment.
5. The Board adopts the proposed MND and determines that it reflects the District's independent
judgment and analysis.
6. The Board adopts the Mitigation Monitoring Program attached to this Report and requires it to be
implemented as part of the Project.
7. The location and custodian of the documents or other material which constitute the record of
proceedings upon which this decision is based are located at the offices of the Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District, 330 Distel Circle, Los Altos,California 94022.
8. The Board authorizes the General Manager to execute a Right of Entry with the US Army Corps of
Engineers and its contractors, consultants, agents and employees to enter the District's Sierra Azul
Open Space Preserve, Santa Clara County, California to undertake and perform the Almaden Air
Force Station Structure Abatement Project("Project")and to authorize such other related actions and
execute such documents as are necessary for the Project to be undertaken and completed. The
General Manager and General Counsel are further authorized to approve and execute such documents
which are necessary or appropriate to enable the Project to be undertaken consistent with the
Mitigated Negative Declaration.
RESOLUTION N(l|O-XX
& RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD CF DIRECTORS OFTHE M|DPENlNSULAR6G0NAL
OPEN SPACE DISTRICT ADOPTING A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
INCLUDING /\ MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM IN CONNECTION WITH THE
STRUCTURE ABATEMENT PROJECT(^^PIlOJECT`)&T THE FORMER ALyW/\DEN
AIRFORCE STATION ATSlBR/\ &ZOLOPEN SPACE PRESERVE AND AUTHORIZING
THE GENERAL MANAGER T0 EXECUTE/\ RIGHT 0F ENTRY WITH THE USARMY
CORPS 0FENGINEERS AND TOTAKE SUCH OTHER ACTIONS &8 ARE NECESSARY
� T0 ENABLE THE PR0JBCTT08EUNDERTAKEN AND COMPLETED.
{. The Board of Directors of the Midponinsu|uRegional Open Space District("District") is
considering authorization of a Right of Entry to tile US Army Corps of Engineers and its
contractors, consultants, agents and employees to enter the District's Sierra /\zu| Open Space
9rrycrve, Santa Clara County, California to undertake and perform the &|muJcn Air Force
Station Structure /\hatcmoni Project("Pr jcut")und various rc|uHud actions.
l|. An Initial Study (|S), u|\uchcd to the Report, was prepared for tile Project pursuant to/hc
requirements oftile California Environmental Quality /\c{(CB(}A, Public |<caounoea Code
sections 2|OOOetueq.)and the C20& Guidelines(|4 Cal. Code. Regulations meudunm\5000et
seq.).
D|. The|S identified potentially significant adverse effects oil tile environment from tile proposed
Project but found that mitigation measures proposed for the Project and made a part of the Project
would avoid the effects or mitigate the effects tna point where clearly no significant effects
would occur.
IV. The IS and a notice of intent to adopt a Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) were circulated
for public review from July 27, 20|8, 0o August 20, 2O|O. The Mitigation Monitoring Program
was included in the Report distributed to tile Board and public oil August 25, 2010.
V. Oil August 30, 20 10,tile Board of Directors conducted a duly noticed public hearing on the
adequacy m[the NOND(including tile IS)u1 which oral and written comments and astaff
recommendation for approval of the K4ND were presented to tile Board ofDirectors. The Board
of Directors reviewed and considered the information in|ho IS and MND, administrative record,
and Staff Reports for completeness and compliance with CEQA and tile CEQA Guidelines.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT Q28()L\/E[) by the Dnnn] of Directors that, based upon Ulc Tnihu| Study,
Mitigated Negative Declaration, Mitigation Monitoring Program, all comments received, and all
substantial evidence in light n[the whole record presented,tile Board of Directors finds that:
|. Notice of the availability of tile Initial Study and proposed Mitigated Negative Declaration and all
hearings oil tile MND was given as required by law and the actions were conducted pursuant to
California Env i roil mental Quality Act([E[)/\)and tile CE0/\ Guidelines.
2. All interested parties desiring to comment oo the proposed MND were given tile opportunity to
submit oral and written comments on the adequacy ofthe NIND prior(o this action hy tile Board of
0irecinoand any onnonnon<m raised during the public omnment period and o1Ule public beuringaon
the NIND were responded toadequately.
3. Prior tnapproving the Project thutiatheeu|jcutofthepropoocdMND, theQourdooneide,cdthe
NINU along with unyconnmeuis received during the public review process.
R10-102 Page 7
mailed to property owners of land located adjacent to or in the vicinity of the former Almaden
Air Force Station and to other interested parties.
NEXT STEP
If adopted by the Board, staff will file a Notice of Determination with the Santa Clara County
Clerk and implement the Project.
Attachment(s)
1. Resolution
2. Vicinity Map
3. Regional Map
4. Study Area Map
5. Mitigation Monitoring Program
6. Initial Study and Proposed Mitigated Negative Declaration
7. Response to Comments
Prepared by: Gina Coony, Project Manager
Contact person: Gina Coony, Project Manager
Graphics prepared by: Casey Cleve, GIS Coordinator
RI0-102 Page 6
being completed (removal of hazardous materials) and the fact that the area of work is
taking place largely within a fully developed site.
• Create impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable, based on
project-specific factors that reduce these impacts to a less than significant level; and
• Create environmental effects that would cause substantial adverse effects on human
beings, either directly or indirectly, based on project-specific factors that reduce these
impacts to a less than significant level.
Mitigation Monitoring Program
In accordance with CEQA, the District has prepared the proposed Mitigation Monitoring
Program, which describes project-specific mitigation measure and monitoring process (refer to
Attachment 5). The proposed Mitigation Monitoring Program ensures that all adopted measures
intended to mitigate potentially significant environmental impacts will be implemented. The
project incorporates all of these mitigation measures.
CEQA Findings
Pursuant to CEQA, it is determined that the project will have no significant or cumulative effects
because of implementation and adherence to mitigation measures that will prevent substantial
impacts to environmental resources. It is also determined that project implementation will not
result in direct and indirect substantial adverse impacts or significant risk to human beings.
Detailed CEQA findings to be adopted by the Board are included in the Resolution attached to
this report.
FISCAL IMPACT
The Structure Abatement project is federally funded. It is anticipated that the hazardous
materials abatement can be completed on all structures under this first year's funding. However,
should the contractor proposals exceed the funding amount, the project has been broken out into
specific bid options to allow for phasing of the abatement work. The $3.2 million will also cover
all USACE costs, as well as most of the future project—related costs the District will incur,
including project management and third party monitoring. Previous studies completed by
Northgate ($205,000), the CEQA documentation prepared for the Structure Abatement project
($48,000), and the hazardous materials consultant services required to complete the bidding
documents ($25,000), cannot be reimbursed under the federal grant, and have been funded
directly by the District.
PUBLIC NOTICE
A Notice of Intent to Adopt a Mitigated Negative Declaration (Notice of Intent) was submitted to
the Santa Clara County Clerk on July 27, 2010 for posting, stating that the public review period
would end on August 20, 2010. The Notice was published in the San Jose Mercury News on
July 31, 2010 and on August 7, 2010 stating that the close of public review was August 20, 2010.
The Notice of Intent, the Mitigated Negative Declaration, and the Initial Study were made
available for public review at the District's Administrative Office and on the District's website.
Notices were directly mailed to the United States Army Corps of Engineers, Department of
Toxic Substances Control, Caltrans District 4, State Office of Historic Preservation, Native
American Heritage Commission, County of Santa Clara Planning Department, City of San Jose
Planning Department, City of Los Gatos Planning Department, Bay Area Air Quality
Management District, and the Regional Water Quality Control Board. Notice has also been
RI0-102 Page 5
Condition of the Site After Structure Abatement
Once the structure abatement is complete, the potential for wind-blown hazardous materials to be
transported off the site by wind or surface runoff would be eliminated. Since there has been
surface contamination of flaked materials around some of the buildings, future projects will test
soils, and determine whether further remediation is required. Therefore, there may be future
clean up activities required, either around or under building structures. This work, if needed,
would be completed under a separate, future project, which would be the subject of future
environmental review prior to approval.
MROSD anticipates the ultimate future use of the Mt. Umunhum site will be for public open
space. The nature and extent of future public recreational use is unknown at this time and will be
the subject of a planning and CEQA process. The federal funds to be used for this project are
intended solely to clean up hazardous waste, which is required irrespective of any future use.
The proposed project is a priority for the District to protect public health and the environment.
The proposed structure abatement is necessary whether or not the site is proposed for future open
space use.
CEQA Findings
Ascent Environmental prepared an Initial Study and proposed Mitigated Negative Declaration
for the Phase I Abatement Project. The public comment period commenced on July 27, 2010
and ended on August 20, 2010. The District received two comment letters from property owners
near Mount Umunhum. These comments and the District's responses are provided in
Attachment 7.
The Initial Study and proposed Mitigated Negative Declaration (refer to Attachment 6) conclude
that the project either avoids impacts or minimizes them to a less-than-significant level, due to
the specific nature of the project or because of mitigation measures that are incorporated into the
project. The District's responses set out in Attachment 7 corroborate that conclusion.
Most notably, the Initial Study and proposed Mitigated Negative Declaration found that due to
the nature of the work required to complete the structure abatement, the project will have no
adverse environmental impact on agricultural resources, mineral resources, population and
housing, land use and planning, recreation, and hydrology and water. Due to the short time
frame within which the project will take place, as well as other project specific factors which
reduce the potential for adverse impacts, the project will have a less than significant impact on
aesthetics, air quality, cultural resources, geology and soils, greenhouse gas emissions, hazards
and hazardous materials, noise, public services, transportation and traffic, utilities, and service
systems.
The project will require implementation of mitigation measures (refer to Attachment 5) to ensure
that there are no significant impacts to biological resources. In addition, the project will not:
• Create impacts that degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the
habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-
sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the number
or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal, or eliminate important
examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory, due to the type of work
RIO-102 Page 4
project site is on a mountain summit, winds are often very strong. Over time if the current
conditions are not remediated, there is the potential that these materials could be blown further
afield and possibly off the project site. Abatement of the hazardous materials associated with the
on-site structures is necessary to mitigate the potential for spreading of contamination.
The proposed project is intended to achieve the following primary objectives:
,A Protect public health by abatement of building materials that could pose a hazard to
the public and that are currently being released into the environment;
.A Protect the surrounding environment by removing loose hazardous materials on the
site that could be carried off site by wind or surface water runoff-, and
,A Protect wildlife by removing loose hazardous materials on the site that could be
internalized by local wildlife species and subsequent predators.
Description of Proposed Structure Abatement
The proposed project involves removing hazardous building materials from the interiors and
exteriors of on-site structures, as well as removal of pieces of exterior coating that have fallen to
the ground around the structures (refer to Attachment 4, Study Area, for an outline of the area of
impact, around the locations of the on-site structures requiring abatement). The following
building materials were found to contain asbestos, lead, or PCBs: floor tiles, adhesives &
mastics, exterior and interior wall panels, wallboard system (joint compound), window glazing,
exterior caulking, exterior sealants, roof mastic, exterior/interior paint, ceramic the glaze,
flashing, and lighting ballasts.
Removal of hazardous materials from the structures will be mostly accomplished manually with
hand-held tools or smaller machines/equipment and will not require heavy equipment (such as
bull dozers, excavators, or front loaders). Boom lifts, scissor lifts, and other types of lifts will
likely be utilized in lieu of scaffolding due to the high winds experienced on site. Hazardous
materials that have blown off the buildings onto the ground surface will be removed either by
hand or with an approved HEPA-filtered vacuum. All abatement activities will be performed
consistent with state and federal Occupation Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Bay
Area Air Quality Management District(BAAQMD) regulations.
The project would not involve ground disturbing construction activities (i.e. grading, excavating,
etc.). Substantial pruning and clearing of overgrown vegetation around the buildings will be
required to provide access around the buildings to complete the abatement work.
All hazardous materials removed from the buildings and the ground surface will be stored at the
project site consistent with OSHA and BAAQMD regulations. It is anticipated that
approximately four trucks per week will transport waste from the project site to approved
disposal facilities, depending on the type of material and level of hazard (either Kettleman City,
Alameda, or Forward Landfill in Stockton). Non- hazardous wastes will be transported to a
recycling facility or a local landfill.
The abatement project is anticipated to take approximately four to six months to complete with a
maximum on site presence of a 50-worker abatement crew. Most work will occur during
daylight hours, however, nighttime work may also occur, but primarily will take place inside the
buildings. Several of the existing paved parking areas on-site will serve as construction worker
parking areas and construction vehicle staging areas. There may also be some temporary worker
lodging on site.
RI0-102 Page 3
The station was established in July 1957, when the 682nd Aircraft Control and Warning
(AC&W) Squadron was assigned to the site. Almaden AFS subsequently became fully
operational in March 1958 as part of the San Francisco Air Defense Sector (Page & Turnbull
2010:23).
The official "inactivation" date of the facility was June _3 W, 1980. In June 1982, control of the
property and improvements was transferred to the General Services Administration (GSA). In
April 1986, MROSD purchased the base from the GSA (Page & Turnbull 2010:32).
The site is currently part of Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve. It is not open to the public mainly
because of the dangers presented by the existing condition of deteriorating buildings, which
contain hazardous materials. The USAGE has been performing remediation activities on the site
from 1994 to present under the FUDS program. The purview of the FUDS program is limited
primarily to petroleum-related contamination. The remaining scope of work under the FUDS
program, namely soil remediation at the former base fuel containment basin, was completed on
site during the summer of 2010. Final confirmation soil testing will be conducted in the fall of
2010.
Project Location
The project site, owned by MROSD, is located on the summits of Mount Umunhum and Mount
Thayer, both at approximately 3,480 feet above sea level. These two summits are part of a range
of mountains on the west side of the Santa Clara Valley (east of Monterey Bay) that, along with
numerous other ranges, comprise the northern Coast Ranges of California. The project site is
part of MROSD's 17,000-acre Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve (refer to Attachment 3,
Regional Map). The project site is accessed by Mt. Umunhum Road and is currently closed to
the public. Although the entire base consists of 43.72 acres, the project site is limited to the
immediate areas around the on-site structures; approximately 20 acres on Mount Umunhum and
approximately 3 acres on Mount Thayer.
Site Description
The project site consists of a complex of former military buildings and associated facilities
(driveways, parking lots, storage buildings, etc.), including a large concrete structure formerly
used as a podium supporting an 85-ton radar dish (which was removed before MROSD
purchased the property). The buildings have been abandoned for 30 years and over time, due to,
among other things, vandalism and extreme weather conditions, are currently severely
dilapidated. The site has become overgrown with vegetation (mostly ornamental landscaping
species), and interior roads, parking lots and infrastructure have deteriorated. The FUDS
Remediation Project was limited to petroleum-related contamination. Hazardous Materials
Investigations conducted in 1997 and 2010 have confirmed the existence of hazardous materials
in almost all structures on site including asbestos, lead based paints, and small amounts of PCB-
containing light fixture ballasts. Due to the current deteriorated state of the existing structures,
the hazardous materials are becoming an increasing hazard. For example, over time, asbestos
insulation on pipes has broken off and fallen to the ground creating friable asbestos-containing
dust, asbestos floor tiles and mastic have popped off the floor, and lead and asbestos laden
exterior coatings have begun to peel and fall to the ground.
Need for the Proposed Project
All of the major structures on the project site were constructed with asbestos- and lead-
containing materials. Many of these materials, including those on the soil surface, are currently
in a deteriorated, friable state and present an increasing environmental hazard. Because the
R10-102 Page 2
piping, transformers containing PCB's, and various other hazardous materials. However, the
FUDS program did not address the asbestos and lead-containing construction materials found in
most of the buildings on the site. Over time, with the aging of the structures and damage
sustained due to vandalism and weather, the building materials have deteriorated to the extent
that the potential for exposure to the hazardous materials has increased, and removal of the
materials has become a priority for the District.
Due in large part to legislative support, the District has secured $3.2 million in federal funding to
complete the hazardous materials removal work. These funds are considered "one-year" funds,
and must be "obligated" by September 30, 2010. For the onsite abatement work to commence,
the District must complete the environmental review as required under the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and enter into a Right of Entry with the USACE to allow
access to the site and permission to begin the abatement activities. Accordingly, approval of
Recommendation No. 2 set out in this report would authorize the General Manager to enter into a
Right of Entry with the USACE to conduct the project as set out in the Mitigated Negative
Declaration.
In addition, District staff will develop a work plan in collaboration with Mr. Scott McQueen of
Communications Controls to address comments received from Communications Controls'
counsel, Logan & Powell, LLP. The work plan will address non-CEQA-related concerns
including addressing site access to Mt. Thayer, and issues relating to potential trespassing, site
security, and vandalism.
CEQA COMPLIANCE
Project Description
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (MROSD) is proposing to abate hazardous-
containing materials from existing structures at the former Almaden Air Force Station site,
located in Los Gatos, CA (refer to Exhibit 2-1, Site Vicinity Map). This project follows
hazardous materials remediation completed by the USACE under the Formerly Used Defense
Sites, (FUDS) program. Under FUDS, petroleum-related contamination was remediated,
including removal of several large diesel storage tanks and associated piping. The FUDS
program did not address the presence of asbestos and lead-based paint, nor other hazardous
building materials, which in their current condition are potentially harmfiil to both people and the
environment. MROSD is proposing to remove hazardous materials from the interior and exterior
of existing structures at the former base. The proposed abatement actions will be conducted by
contractors under contract to the USACE. The District, as the owner of the property, must issue
a Right of Entry to the USACE. Therefore, the project involves a discretionary action and is
subject to CEQA. The project must also comply with NEPA because of the use of federal
funding. The USACE is the federal NEPA Lead Agency, while the District will continue to
serve as the CEQA Lead Agency. The USACE is conducting its NEPA review concurrently
with the District's CEQA process.
Project Background
Almaden Air Force Station was a U.S. Air Force early warning radar base that operated from
1958 to 1980. It was constructed as part of the North American Aerospace Defense Command
(NORAD) to keep watch over Northern California's airspace during the Cold War. In order to
develop the site, the U.S. Air Force acquired land between 1957 and 1962 from several private
individuals and the San Jose Water Works (SHWW), a public utility company.
0,
Midpeninsula Regional
9 open Space District
R-10-102
Meeting 10-21
August 30, 2010 AGENDA ITEM 4
AGENDA ITEM
Consider Adoption of a Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring Program for
the Removal of Hazardous Materials from Existing Structures at the Former Almaden Air Force
Station at Mount Umunhum in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve.
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATIONS )Wt)/ R-K
1. Approve the attached Resolution adopting the Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND)
and Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Structure Abatement Project at the Former
Almaden Air Force Station at Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve in accordance with the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
2. Approve the attached Resolution authorizing the General Manager to sign a Right of
Entry and project-related documents with the United States Army Corps of Engineers
(USACE) to perform the project as described in the MND.
SUMMARY
The District has received federal funding to remove and abate hazardous materials at the former
Almaden Air Force Station. These hazardous materials include asbestos-containing building
materials, lead-based paint, lead in ceramic tile, and a small amount of polychlorinated biphenyls
(PCB's) in light fixtures. These materials are found in the interior and exterior of most
buildings, as well as in limited areas on the ground surface around the base of buildings. The
abatement project ject (also known as Phase 1) will not include the demolition of structures, building
removal, or soil disruption (no grading or digging). The District continues to work
collaboratively with the USACE who are serving as the contracting arm for the abatement
project, which is expected to begin onsite in late fall 2010. For the onsite abatement work to
commence, the District must complete the environmental review as required under the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and enter into a Right of Entry with the USACE to allow
access to the site and permission to begin the abatement activities.
DISCUSSION
The existing Almaden Air Force Station, located at the peak Of Mount Urnunhurn in the Sierra
Azul Open Space Preserve above Los Gatos, California was purchased by the District in 1986.
Beginning in 1994, the Federal Government completed remediation work under the Formerly
Owned Defense Sites (FUDS) Program to remove underground and above-ground fuel tanks and
����
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I�
t• AUG' 1i2010
August, 2010
Board of Directors
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
330 Distel Circle
Los Altos, CA 94022
Dear Board:
We, the undersigned, are petitioning for a mid-level trail to be built on Windy Hill
connecting the Hamm's Gulch Trail to the Spring Ridge Trail. It is our
understanding that in the original agreement between the Town of Portola Valley
and MROSD this trail would eventually be built; without this connection, the Windy
Hill Preserve caters only to the strongest hikers.
We've been waiting a long time.
NAME ADDRESS
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ear
o .
GENERAL MANAGER
Stephen E.Abbors
Regional
0
penSpace I Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Pete Siemens
Mary Davey
Jed Cyr
Curt Riffle
Nanette Hanko
Larry Hassett
M.J. Walter Cecily Harris
20 Coyote Hill
Portola Valley, CA 94028
Dear Ms.Walter,
Thank you for your correspondence received by Midpeninsula Regional Open Space
District on August 11, 2010. Your correspondence will be included as a Public
Communication at the next available Board meeting. You will also receive a response
from the Board of Directors thereafter. If you have any questions,please call (650) 691-
1200. Thank you for your interest in the District.
Sincerely,
Michelle Radcliffe,CMC
District Clerk
33o Distel Circle LOS Altos,CA 94022 P 65o.69,-.:i2oo r650691.0485 www,openspace.org
2003 Constructed Lower Meadow Trail
2004 Realigned Upper Meadow Trail
2005 Opened connector trail between Spring Ridge and Upper Meadow Trails
Lastly, as clarification, the original trails plan developed for Windy Hill does identify additional
trails, including the Mid-Level Trail. The original trails plan maps out a long-term trails vision
for this property, for which the District has over the last three decades worked to implement.
However, this trails plan, like others, needs to remain flexible to adjust to new or shifting
priorities, including new property purchases, new focus areas, funding constraints, and legal
requirements. Given the variety of trail mileages, trail grades, and loop opportunities provided at
Windy Hill, we are confident that this Preserve provides good trail access for the general public
who possess a wide range of physical abilities. This is evident to us given the high use visitation
that this Preserve continues to receive as it remains our fifth most visited Preserve.
At which time the Midlevel Trail is identified as a Key Project in our annual Action Plan, we
would notify you and other interested parties about the opportunity to participate in the planning
process for this future project. We appreciate your continued interest in Windy Hill and thank
you for remaining a dedicated advocate for trail access in Portola Valley.
Sincerely,
Mary Davey, Board President
CC: MROSD Board of Directors
Stephen E. Abbors, General Manager
Ana Ruiz, Planning Manager
Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District
DRAFT RESPONSE
August 31, 2010 PREPARED BY STAFF
FOR BOARD CONIQl"'
Ms. Marilyn Walter
20 Coyote Hill
Portola Valley, CA 94028
RE: Woods Mid-Level Trail between Hamms Gulch and Spring Ridge Trail at Windy Hill Open
Space Preserve
Dear Ms. Walter,
On August 11, 2010, the District received a petition from you with numerous signatures to
request the completion of a Mid-Level Trail at Windy Hill Open Space Preserve to connect
Hamms Gulch and Spring Ridge Trails. We understand the desire for adding additional trail
mileage, as we receive numerous requests from many other constituents for new trails and
expanded trail access.
Each year, the District is faced with the need to prioritize these request along with other key
priorities, including high priority projects that are necessary to meet legal requirements, address
public safety issues, and are grant-funded and therefore subject to strict implementation
deadlines. Although we are unable to move forward at this time on the Windy Hill trail that you
mention, please know that this trail remains on the Planning Department's pending project list
for future consideration. Also, we would like to take this opportunity to remind you of the many
Windy Hill projects that the District has embarked on over the years to help improve the trail
experience at this Preserve, which to date offers more than 14 miles of trail and ample visitor
parking. These projects, many of which were completed in partnership with other organizations
and volunteers, include:
1980 Acquired I st Windy Hill property as protected public open space and
opened property to public trail use
1983 Constructed Hamms Gulch, Eagle, Razorback and Lost Trails (large loop)
1988 Constructed Anniversary Trail
1988 Improved and opened Spring Ridge Trail
1993 Completed Sausal Pond spillway improvements
1994 Expanded use of the summit launch site to include paragliding(in addition
to hang gliding)
1996 Opened select trails at Windy Hill to dogs on leash
1998 Constructed a new 50-car parking lot off Portola Road
1998 Upgraded the Spring Ridge picnic area (includes new restroom)
1999 Constructed the Betsy Crowder Trail
Midpeninsula Regional
' Open Space District
To: Board of Directors
From: Stephen E. Abbors
Date: August 30, 2010
Re: Written Communications
i
Claims No. 10-17
Meeting 10-21
Date 8/30/10
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
# Amount Name Description
13467 $178.73 California Water Service Company Water Service-AO
13468 $177.12 Office Team Office Temp-Receptionist
13469 $173.71 Summit Uniforms Uniform Expenses
13470 $173.51 Allied Waste Services Garbage Service-Rental Residences
13471 $168.97 Jackson-Hirsh Printing Supplies
13472 $95.47 Peninsula Open Space Trust Reimbursement-Electric Bill For Lobitos Ridge Agricultural Meter
13473 $75.21 Petrotek Fuel Pump Repair-SFO
13474 $73.07 Stevens Creek Quarry Base Rock For Trail Work At Fremont Older
13475 $73.01 R. E. Borrmann's Steel Company Steel Bars For Gates
13476 $71.00 Santa Clara County Sheriffs Office Fingerprinting Services
13477 $46.93 Staples Office Supplies
13478 $34.43 Forestry Suppliers Flagging Tape For Slender False Brome Surveys
i
13479 $25.25 `8 Rayne Of San Jose Water Conditioning Service
13480 $25.00 Dan Chamberlin Reimbursement-Pre-Employment Fingerprinting
13481 $23.59 Los Altos Hardware Field Supplies
13482 $21.75 Paterson, Loro Reimbursement-Uniform Expenses
13483 $20.69 United Parcel Service Parcel Shipping
13484 $15.00 Tires On The Go Tire Repair
Total $89,957.96
'1 Urgent check issued 8/24/10
'2 Urgent check issued 8/12/10
*3 Urgent check issued 8/18/10
'4 Urgent check issued 8/20/10
`5 Urgent check issued 8/12/10
'6 Urgent check issued 8/18/10
"7 Urgent check issued 8/17/10
`8 Urgent check issued 8/20/10
Page 2 of 2
Claims No. 10-17
Meeting 10-21
Date 8/30/10
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
i
# Amount Name Description l
13422 $18,280.00 Hazard Management Services Hazardous Materials Surveys&Updates At Mt. Umunhum
13423 $15,405.43 Macro Corporation Project Management Services-Implementation Of District's New
Radio System
13424 $7,400.78 *1 Darryl Scotti Events Balance For Volunteer Recognition Event-Consulting,Catering,
Entertainment&Set Up/Tear Down
13425 $4,143.82 *2 U.S. Postmaster Postage-Fall Newsletter
13426 $3,750.00 Go Native District Wide Vegetation Management
13427 $3,500.00 MCB Remodeling Window Replacement For Rental Residence
13428 $3,366.20 LFR Levine Fricke Engineer&Design Services-ECDM Staging Area Project
13429 $3,078.75 Page&Turnbull Architectural&Engineering Services-Folger House Remodel
13430 $2,264.11 Cresco Equipment Rental Equipment Rental-Excavator For Waste Removal At Sierra Azul
13431 $1,994.00 County Of Santa Clara-Department Hazardous Material Storage Permits-SFO
Of Environmental Health
13432 $1,966.50 Pacific Ag. Rentals Equipment Rental-Tractor For Discing&Mowing
13433 $1,929.33 CMK Automotive Vehicle Maintenance&Repairs
13434 $1,831.50 The Carpet Mart Carpet&Installation-Rental Residence
13435 $1,830.00 Lindsay Wasserman Emerson Balance-Catering For Staff Recognition Event
13436 $1,774.65 San Francisco Bay Bird Observatory Nest Surveys At Monte Bello Burn Area
13437 $1,570.29 Inside Source Storage& File Cabinets For AO
13438 $1,153.76 Sol's Mobile Service District Vehicle Maintenance&Repairs
13439 $1,115.00 Timothy C. Best,CEG Engineering Geologist Services-Mindego Hill Trail Project
13440 $1,000.00 *3 Neopost Replenish Postage In Postage Machine
13441 $858.81 Turf&Industrial Equipment Company Tractor&Sprayer Parts
13442 $696.92 Golden West Collision Center District Vehicle Auto Body Repairs
13443 $665.33 Reed&Graham Pallet Of Sandbags For Thornewood Trail Project
13444 $553.47 All Chemical Disposal Hazardous Waste Disposal
13445 $548.16 United Site Services Sanitation Services-Sierra Azul&Fremont Older
13446 $540,30 *4 California Water Service Company Water Service-FFO
13447 $529.30 McKowan, Paul Reimbursement-Volunteer Recognition Event Supplies
13448 $519.49 Americas Propane-Rental Residences
13449 $51035 Sanguinetti, David Reimbursement-Cell Phone/Digital Camera For Resource
Management Department
13450 $508.80 West Payment Center Legal Research&Books
13451 $500.30 Recology South Bay Dumpster-FFO
13452 $458.51 Sears Torque Wrench Tools/Neumatic Impact Wrench
13453 $450.00 Maze&Associates 2009/2010 Financial Statements
13454 $426.15 Tadco Supply Janitorial Supplies
13455 $365.00 *5 County Of Santa Clara Assessor's Mailing Address Database For Public Notification
Office
13456 $357.08 Gartside,Ellen Reimbursement-GPS Map&Memory Card For Slender False
Brome Project
13457 $334.05 *6 Metro Mobile Communications Radio Repairs
13458 $324.69 West Coast Aggregates Base Rock For Trail Work At Fremont Older
13459 $306.69 Continuing Education Of The Bar California Municipal Law Handbook
13460 $305.00 *7 County Of San Mateo Assessor's Mailing Address Database For Public Notification
Office
13461 $260.57 John Shelton Culvert Couplers
13462 $250.66 Ergo Works Reupholstered Chair&Armrests
13463 $245.74 Foster Brothers 12 Padlocks
13464 $215.22 Craftsmen Printing Printing Services-Business Cards
13465 $212.74 Lampson Tractor Tractor Repair
13466 $187.67 Green Waste Garbage Service-SFO
Page 1 of 2
Claims No. 10-17
Meeting 10-21
Date 8/30/10
Revised
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
I
# Amount Name Description
13467 $178.73 California Water Service Company Water Service-AO
13468 $177.12 Office Team Office Temp-Receptionist
13469 $173.71 Summit Uniforms Uniform Expenses
13470 $173.51 Allied Waste Services Garbage Service-Rental Residences
13471 $168.97 Jackson-Hirsh Printing Supplies
13472 $95.47 Peninsula Open Space Trust Reimbursement-Electric Bill For Lobitos Ridge Agricultural Meter
13473 $75.21 Petrotek Fuel Pump Repair-SFO
13474 $73.07 Stevens Creek Quarry Base Rock For Trail Work At Fremont Older
13475 $73.01 R. E. Borrmann's Steel Company Steel Bars For Gates
13476 $71.00 Santa Clara County Sheriffs Office Fingerprinting Services
13477 $46.93 Staples
es Office Supplie
s
13478 $34.43 Forestry Suppliers Flagging Tape For Slender False Brome Surveys
13479 $25.25 "8 Rayne Of San Jose Water Conditioning Service
13480 $25.00 Dan Chamberlin Reimbursement-Pre-Employment Fingerprinting
13481 $23.59 Los Altos Hardware Field Supplies
13482 $21.75 Paterson, Loro Reimbursement-Uniform Expenses
13483 $20.69 United Parcel Service Parcel Shipping
13484 $15.00 Tires On The Go Tire Repair
i
13485 R $5,000.00 '9 Old Republic Title Company Deposit-Land Acquisition
13486 R $4,000.00 EQ-Wine Covers Deposit For Storage Structure At FFO
13487 R $1,743.34 Farm Plan Mower Parts
13488 R $1,000.00 `10 C. J.Olson Cherries Cherry Jam For Volunteer Recognition Event Giveaways
13489 R $898.62 Commuter Check Services Commuter Check Program-Transit Passes
13490 R $100.00 *11 Yerba Buena Nursery Gift Card Giveaway For Volunteer Recognition Event
j 13491 R $100.00 San Francisco Zoo Presentation For Staff Recognition Event
13492 R $62.11 Maze Gessner, Leigh Ann Reimbursement-Volunteer Recognition Event Supplies/Pond
Event Supplies
13493 R $59.00 Gou,Vicky Reimbursement-Email Templates Upgrade
13494 R $36.08 Reed,Steve Reimbursement-Camera Case&Memory Card
13495 R $26.22 Trout Bach, Rebecca Reimbursement-Uniform Expenses
Total $102,983.33
'1 Urgent check issued 8/24/10
'2 Urgent check issued 8/12/10
'3 Urgent check issued 8118/10
`4 Urgent check issued 8/20/10
'5 Urgent check issued 8/12110
"6 Urgent check issued 8/18/10
`7 Urgent check issued 8/17/10
"8 Urgent check issued 8/20/10
'9 Urgent check issued 8/25/10
*10 Urgent check issued 8/25/10
*11 Urgent check issued 8/25/10
Page 2 of 2
Claims No. 10-17
Meeting 10-21
Date 8C30/10 �
Revised
�
� MidpeninsW]a Regional Open Space District �
# Amount Name Description
13422 $18.2e0�00 Hazard Management Services Hazardous Materials Surveys a Updates/uMt. umunxum
/3*23 m5.*05.43 Macro Corporation Project Management Services-Implementation cx District's New |
| Radio System |
/ 13424 $7.400.7e ~1 Darryl Scotti evnmo Balance For Volunteer Recognition Event Consulting,Catering, |
Entertainment&Q�u /T��,
p Down |
13425 **.1*3V2 ^o U.S. Postmaster Postage Fall Newsletter /
13426 $3.750.00 Go Native District Wide Vegetation Management
13427 $3.50000 monRomodoono Window Replacement For Rental Residence
13428 $3.366 zV LFR Levine r,icxn Engineer&Design Services-sCoM Staging Area Project
1342e $3.078.75 Page&Turnbull Architectural&Engineering Services Fn|ger House Remodel
13430 $2.26411 Cmsov Equipment Rental Equipment Rental'Excavator For Waste Removal At Sierra Azv|
13431 $1.994o0 County 0f Santa Clara Department nozamnuoxxotcna|SmmgoPcnnito-SFO
0,Environmental Health
/u^sa *1.96650 Panmu^e nunto|n Equipment Rental Tractor For oiucinn&Mowing
13433 $1.92e33 CMx*utnmnuvo Vehicle Maintenance uRepairs
13*34 $1.831 so The Carpet Mart Carpet&Installation Rental Residence
13435 $1.83000 Lindsay Wasserman Emerson Balance'Catering For Staff Recognition Event
13436 $1.774.65 San Francisco Bay Bird Observatory Nest Surveys at Monte Bello Burn Area
13437 $1.57029 Inside Source Storage&File Cabinets For AO
13438 $1.15376 so,s Mobile Service District Vehicle Maintenance&Repairs
13*39 $1.115o0 Timothy C. Best,osm Engineering Geologist Services-M|nucnn Hill Trail Project �
� 13440 $1.000.00 ^o woopoot Replenish Postage m Postage Machine �
13**1 $858.81 Turf a Industrial Equipment Company Tractor&Sprayer Parts
� /3442 $sosyu Golden West Collision Center District Vehicle Auto Body Repairs
/3443 $665.33 Reed&Graham Pallet[V Sandbags For Thumewpou Trail Project
1344* $553o7 All Chemical Disposal Hazardous vVaaou o|spnao| |
13*4e *54816 United Site Services Sanitation Services Sierra xav|a Fremont Older
|
/3440 $s*n.ao ^4 California Water Service Company Water Service-rF0
134*7 $52e.50 Mcnowan. puu| Reimbursement'Volunteer Recognition Event Supplies
13448 $519.49 AmeriGas Propane'Rental Residences
1344e $510.75 Sangvinett|. Duvm Reimbursement-Cell Phone/Digital Camera For Resource
Management Department
� 13450 $508.80 West Payment Center Legal Research&Books
�
13451 $500.30 necnlogy South Bay Dumpvte,'FFO
13*52 $*58,51 Goam Torque Wrench Tools/Neumatin Impact Wrench �
13453 $*SO.00 Maze&Associates 2Uoe/2O1O Financial Statements
� 1345* $426.15 radovSupp|y Janitorial Supplies �
13455� $aamOo ~o County 0/Santa o|a Clara Mailing*uu emsDatabase For Public Notification �
�
Office
� 13*56 $35708 Gart»iue. s||en nnimuu,nement-GpGMap&Memory Card For Slender False
� oromep,ojoct
� 13*57 $s0000 n Metro Mobile Communications Radio Repairs
/3458 $324,69 West Coast Aggregates Base Rock For Trail Work xo Fremont Older
1345e $306.69 Continuing Education[n The Bar California Municipal Law Handbook
13460 $snoVm 7 County Of son Mateo Assessor's Mailing Address Database For Public Notification
Office
13461 $26057 John Shelton Culvert Couplers
13462 $250 OU Ergo vvnrxo Reupholstered Chair&Armrests
13463 $245 74 Foster Brothers 12 Padlocks
13*6* $21522 Craftsmen Printing Printing Services Business Cards
134*e $212 7* LampounT,acto, Tractor Repair
13466 $187,67 Green Waste Garbage Service SrO
Page/of'
II
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act,if you need assistance to participate in this meeting,please contact
the District Clerk at(650)691-1200.Notification 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the District to make reasonable arrangements to ensure
accessibility to this meeting.
Written materials relating to an item on this Agenda that are considered to be a public record and are distributed to Board members less than 72 hours prior
to the meeting,will be available for public inspection at the District's Administrative Office located at 330 Distel Circle,Los Altos,California 94022.
CERTIFICA,r][ON OF POSTtNG OF AGENDA
1,Michelle Radcliffe,District Clerk for the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District(MROSD),declare that the foregoing agenda
for the Special Meeting of the MROSD Board of Directors was posted and available for review on August 25,2010,at the
Administrative Offices of MROSD,330 Distel Circle,Los Altos California,94022. The agenda is also available on the District's web site at
http://www.oLienspace.or
Signed this 25th day of August,at Los Altos,California.
District Clerk August 25,2010
Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District
Meeting 10-21
SPECIAL MEETING
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
Monday, August 30, 2010
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT BEGINS AT 7:00 P.M.
330 Distel Circle
Los Altos, California
AGENDA
SPECIAL MEETING
7:00* SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT-
PUBLIC SESSION
ROLL CALL
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS-PUBLIC
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
7:10* CONSENT CALENDAR
I Approve Minutes of the Regular and Special Board Meetings of July 14,2010 and July 28,2010
2. Approve Revised Claims Report
3. Approve Written Communications—M. Walter
4. Consider Adoption of a Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring Program for the
Hazardous Materials Abatement Project at the Former Almaden Air Force Station at Mount Umunhum in
Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve;and Authorize the General Manager to sign a Right of Entry with the
United States Army Corps of Engineers to perform the Project as described in the Mitigated Negative
Declaration—G. Coony
5. Approve Contract Amendment with TKO Construction in an amount not to exceed$24,500—J. Anderson
ADJOURNMENT
Times are estimated and items may appear earlier or later than listed.Agenda is subject to change of order.
TO ADDRESS THE BOARD: The Chair will invite public comment on agenda items at the time each item is considered by the Board oj'
Directors. You may address the Board concerning other matters during Oral Communications. Each speaker will ordinarily be
limited to three minutes.Alternately,you may comment to the Board by a written communication, which the Board appreciates.
Consent Calendar:All items on the Consent Calendar may be approved without discussion by one motion.Board members, the
General Manager,and members of the public may request that an item be removed from the Consent Calendar during consideration
of the Consent Calendar.