HomeMy Public PortalAbout20060614 - Agenda Packet - Board of Directors (BOD) - 06-15 *Regional Open Spact
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MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
Meeting 06-15
REGULAR AND SPECIAL MEETING
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
7:00 p.m.
Wednesday,June 14, 2006
330 Distel Circle, Los Altos,California
AGENDA*
Please Note: 7:00 p.m. Closed Session Special Meeting Start Time
7:30 p.m. Regular Meeting Start Time
7:00 ROLL CALL
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE
DISTRICT—CLOSED SESSION
The Closed Session will begin at 7:00 p.m. At the conclusion of the Closed Session,the Board will adjourn
the Special Meeting Closed Session to the Regular Meeting,and, at the conclusion of the Regular Meeting,
the Board may reconvene the Special Meeting Closed Session.
1. Conference with Labor Negotiators, Government Code § 54957.6
Agency Negotiators—Craig Britton, Sally Thielfoldt,John Maciel
Employee Organization—Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Field Employees Association
2. Conference with Labor Negotiators,California Government Code § 54957.6
Agency Negotiators—Craig Britton, Sally Thielfoldt
Unrepresented Employees—Office, Supervisory and Management Staff
REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE
DISTRICT
ROLL CALL
REPORT ON RETURN FROM CLOSED SESSION (The Board shall publicly report any action taken in Closed
Session pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.](a).)
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS—Public
ADOPTION OF AGENDA—J. Cyr
ADOPTION OF CONSENT CALENDAR—J. Cyr
APPROVAL OF MINUTES—April 26,2006 and May 31, 2006
APPROVAL OF WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
BOARD BUSINESS
7:40* 1 Presentation on Invasive Species by Deborah Gordon, Professor of Biological Sciences, Stanford
University(Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve)—D. Little
1:10* 2 Program Evaluation for the 1005-1006 Action Plan for the Implementation of the Basic Policy of
the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District—C. Britton
Meeting 06-15 Page 2
8:30* 3 Authorization for General Manager to Amend the Agreement with EDAW, Inc., for an Additional
Amount of$57,250 for a Total Amount Not to Exceed$265,250,to Provide Additional Master
Planning Services for the Sierra Azul and Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve—A. Ruiz
8:40* 4 Authorization to Award Contract to Ram Building Company for Structural Repairs and New
Decking at the Former Hayes Property, El Sereno Open Space Preserve for the Base Bid Amount of
$56,840 plus $6,080 for a Trex Decking Upgrade, $19,915 for a Wrought Iron Guardrail,and a
Contingency Amount of up to $8,200, for a Total Amount Not to Exceed $91,035; Determine that
the Recommended Actions are Categorically Exempt from CEQA—M. Williams
8:50* 5 Authorization for General Manager to Amend the Contract with LFR Levine-Fricke to Provide
Environmental Services For an Additional $36,000 for an Overall Amount Not to Exceed$80,475
for Petroleum Product Release Source Investigations at Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve;
Determine Recommended Actions are Categorically Exempt from CEQA—K. Lenington
6 Authorization to Amend the Contract with Richard Seymour and Associates for an additional
$13,250 for an Overall Amount Not to Exceed $41,450 to Survey and Assess the Presence of
Sensitive Aquatic Amphibians and Reptiles on District Lands; Determine Recommended Actions
are Categorically Exempt from CEQA—K. Lenington
7 Adoption of Resolution Supporting the Safe Drinking Water, Water Quality and Supply, Flood
Control, River and Coastal Protection Act of 2006—C. Britton
8 Adoption of Proposed Amendment to the District's Rules of Procedure to Conform Rule 2.12 to
Section 5532 of the Public Resources Code and Declare the Board's Policy Not to Permit
Unopposed Candidates to Have Their Names Appear on the Ballot—C. Britton
9 Call District Elections in Wards 1, 2, 5 and 6 for November 7, 2006; Adoption of Resolutions
Requesting for Election Consolidation Services from Santa Clara, San Mateo and Santa Cruz
Counties; Adoption of Resolution of the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional Open
Space District Authorizing Not Listing any Unopposed Candidate for Election on the November 7,
2006 Ballots of Santa Clara, San Mateo and Santa Cruz Counties—C. Britton
REVISED CLAIMS
9:00* INFORMATIONAL REPORTS—Reports on compensable meetings attended. Brief reports or
announcements concerning pertinent activities of District Directors and Staff; opportunity to refer public or
Board questions to Staff for factual information; request Staff to report back to the Board on a matter at a
future meeting;or direct Staff to place a matter on a future agenda.
CLOSED SESSION CONTINUED(if necessary)
REPORT ON RETURN FROM RECONVENED CLOSED SESSION(if necessary) —California Government
Code Section 54957.1(a).
9:15 ADJOURNMENT
Times are estimated and items may appear earlier or later than listed.Agenda is subject to change of order.
TO ADDRIMY THE BOARD: The Chair will invite public comment on agenda items at the time each item is considered by the Board of 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.
All items on the consent calendar may be approved without discussion by one motion. Board members,the General Manager,and members oj'the
public may request that an item be removed from the Consent Calendar during consideration of the Consent Calendar.
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.
Regional Open SpaCL
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
R-06-75
Meeting 06-15
June 14, 2006
AGENDA ITEM 1
AGENDA ITEM
Presentation by Deborah Gordon from the Departmen of Biological Sciences, Stanford
University (Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve) on Inv sive Specie
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMEND
No formal action is necessary.
DISCUSSION
Deborah Gordon, Professor of Biological Sciences at Stanford University, will make a
presentation and discuss the drastic ecological impacts of invasive species worldwide, The rate
at which invasive species are introduced has increased dramatically along with the increase in
global exchange and travel. Whether an invasive species succeeds depends on how it interacts
with local, native species. Ecological studies that track the interactions between invasive and
local species provide the information needed to manage the spread of the invader and maintain
native biodiversity. The Argentine ant, a familiar visitor to kitchens and bathrooms throughout
the Bay Area, provides an excellent model system to demonstrate the basics of invasion ecology.
f Contact person:
Deane Little, Board Member
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D M Gordon- I
Curriculum vitae
Deborah M. Gordon
Department of Biological Sciences
Stanford University
Stanford CA 94305-5020
Tel. (650)725 6364;email dmgordon@stanford.edu
Education: 1983 Ph.D., Zoology, Duke University
1977 M.S., Biology, Stanford University
1976 B.A., French, with high honors, Oberlin College
Employment: 2003 - Professor
1997 Associate Professor
1991 Assistant Professor, Stanford University
1989-91 Research Associate, Centre for Population Biology
Imperial College at Silwood Park, UK
College Research Fellow, Lady Margaret Hall
University of Oxford, UK
1987-88 Centre for Mathematical Biology, Oxford, UK
1984-87 Harvard Society of Fellows
Honors and Fellowships:
2001-02 J S Guggenheim Fellowship
2001-02 Fellow, Center for Advanced Study in the Behavioral Sciences, Stanford
2001 Walter J Gores Award for Excellence in Teaching, Stanford University
1997 Fellow, Center for Advanced Study in the Behavioral Sciences, Stanford
1995 Phi Beta Kappa Association of N. California, Excellence in Teaching Award
1993 MacNamara Fellow, Stanford
1989-91 E.P.A. Cephalosporin Research Fellowship, Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford
1987-88 NSF-NATO Postdoctoral Fellowship
1984-87 Junior Fellow, Harvard Society of Fellows
Regional Open Space
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
R-06-71
Meeting 06-15
June 14, 2006
AGENDA ITEM 2
AGENDA ITEM
Program Evaluation for the 2005-2006 Action Plan for the Implementation of the Basic Policy of
the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION
Comment on and accept staff s program evaluation report.
DISCUSSION
The attached program evaluation material covers the 2005-2006 fiscal year from April 1, 2005 to
March 31, 2006. Staff will brief you at your June 14, 2006 Regular Meeting on the status of key
projects, plus additional projects and activities not specifically included in the Action Plan that
required significant staff effort.
You adopted the new Action Plan for the 2006-2007 fiscal year at your March 22, 2006 meeting
(see Report R-06-24). Copies of both Action Plans are available at the District office for public
inspection.
Prepared by:
M. Williams, Real Property Manager
M. Freeman, Acting Planning Manager
J. Maciel, Operations Manager
R. Jurgensen, Public Affairs Manager
C. Britton, General Manager
S. Thielfoldt, Assistant General Manager
S. Schectman, General Counsel
Contact person:
C. Britton, General Manager
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ACTION PLAN
FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE
BASIC POLICY OF THE
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN
SPACE DISTRICT
FOR THE 2005-2006 FISCAL YEAR
I. REAL PROPERTY DEPARTMENT
A. Acquisition, Funding, and Negotiation
B. Property Management
C. Land Protection
II. OPEN SPACE PLANNING DEPARTMENT
A. Planning and Geographic Information
B. Public Access Improvements and Staff Facilities
III. OPERATIONS DEPARTMENT
A. Field Operations
B. Resource Management
IV. PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT
A. General Public Information and Outreach
B. Legislative, Funding and Organizational Relations
C. Community Programs
V. ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT
A. Administration
B. Human Resources
C. Legal Services
REAL PROPERTY DEPARTMENT
Programs
A. Acquisition, Funding, and Negotiation
B. Property Management
C. Land Protection
To Implement the
BASIC POLICY OBJECTIVE:
The District seeks to purchase or otherwise acquire interest in the maximum feasible area of
strategic open space land within the District planning areas, including bay lands and foothills.
The District seeks to link its open space lands with federal, state, county, city parklands, and
watershed lands.
General Department Emphasis for 2005-2006
The department's emphasis will be to acquire lands funded under the District's Financing
Authority which are critical to fill in and complete the open space greenbelt. Other open space
land purchases will be pursued through available grant funding, bargain sales, gifts and long term
options. The District will continue to work diligently with Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST)
to acquire land and to further the District's overall open space acquisition goals. The Property
Management Program will focus on maximizing rental income consistent with Open Space
Management policies; assess the economic viability of certain rental structures and on
maintaining and improving District rental structures, as needed. The Land Protection Program
will focus on conducting comprehensive land acquisition studies, monitoring land use planning
activities where interests in land may be enhanced, and protect District interests in land by
resolving conflicts arising from easement and encroachment issues. Continue to improve
communications with other Departments to enhance the District's work environment. As a result
of the approval of the Clean Water, Clean Air, Safe Neighborhood Parks, and Coastal Protection
Bond Act of 2002 (Proposition 40), the District will continue to apply for per-capita and
competitive grants to maximize available grant funding.
Staff Resources
(Regular, full-time positions, unless otherwise indicated)
Real Property Manager
Senior Acquisition Planner
Land Protection Specialist
Real Property Specialist
Administrative Assistant
Real Property Page 1
2005-2006
Acquisition Funding and Neizotiation
Objective
To provide for the acquisition of all real property rights necessary to secure an open space
greenbelt in the foothills and bay lands, including rounding out and improving public access to
existing preserves and connecting District preserves with other public lands.
Key Projects
1. New Land Commitments - Convert the budgeted funds in the New Land Commitments
budget category into open space lands, at desirable prices, focusing on properties which
are critical to protecting the greenbelt, including rounding out and improving public
access to existing preserves, connecting to other preserves and other public lands,
protecting the natural habitat and resources, and furthering the completion of the Bay
Area Ridge Trail and San Francisco Bay Trail. Pursue properties adjacent to Sierra Azul
and La Honda Creek Open Space Preserves, which provide potential for staging areas and
staff facilities. Balance the desirability of potential acquisitions with the availability of
budgeted funds, including, if possible, private financing with favorable terms.
Progress:
• Purchased or entered into Management Agreements for
approximately 1,201 acres of open space land, which included
the 676-acre POST ( Miramontes Ridge) property addition to Mills
Creek Open Space Preserve, the License and Management
Agreement for the 183-acre POST (Forde) property as an addition
to Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve, the .49-acre
Salzberg gift addition to La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve,
the 151-acre POST(Rapley Ranch) property addition to Russian
Ridge Open Space Preserve, the 50-acre POST (Portola Lookout)
property addition to Long Ridge Open Space Preserve, the 93.55-
acre Hall property addition to Monte Bello and Saratoga Gap
Open Space Preserves, and the 43-acre gift of the POST(Felton
Station) property.
• Entered into an agreement with POST to purchase the 3,681-acre
Driscoll Ranch property as an addition to the La Honda Creek
Open Space Preserve. The Driscoll Ranch is subject to a 50-year
grazing lease with Driscoll Ranches, LLC.
2. Acquisition Grant Projects—To augment acquisition funds, explore new grant
opportunities focusing on highly competitive acquisition projects for specific grant
programs. Seek new grant funds through existing grant programs such as Land and
Water Conservation Fund, Habitat Conservation Fund (HCF), Coastal Conservancy's
regular and San Francisco Bay Area Programs, Recreational Trails Program, Wildlife
Conservation Board, and Bay Area Ridge Trail grants. Complete Coastal Conservancy
San Francisco Program Grant for property addition to Mills Creek Open Space Preserve.
Real Property Page 2
Complete the Habitat Conservation Fund grant for property addition to Purisima Creek
Redwoods Open Space Preserve. Implement Proposition 40 Bond Act Per Capita and
Roberti-Z'Berg Grant projects and apply for related block grants and competitive grants
as they become available.
Progress:
• Completed the purchase of the 676-acre POST (Miramontes
Ridge) property addition to the Mills Creek Open Space Preserve
which included a $2,100,000 grant from the California Coastal
Conservancy with a matching gift from POST.
• Completed the grant process in the amount of $500,000 from the
Habitat Conservation Fund for the 151-acre POST (Rapley Ranch)
addition to Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve and a matching
gift from POST.
• Submitted a successful grant application to the California Coastal
Conservancy in the amount of $500,000 for the proposed
purchase of the POST (Stevens Canyon Ranch) property as a
future addition to Saratoga Gap Open Space Preserve.
• Collaborating with POST on a grant proposal to the Santa Clara
Valley Water District in the amount of $1,600,000 toward the
proposed purchase of the POST (Stevens Canyon Ranch) property
as a future addition to Saratoga Gap Open Space Preserve.
• Submitted a grant application to the Habitat Conservation Fund
for the purchase of the POST (Forde) property addition to
Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve. The State
Department of Parks and Recreation is recommending the grant
for approval in the maximum amount of $500,000 as part of
fiscal year 2006/2007.
3. Gifts, Bargain Sales, and Joint Acquisitions -To augment acquisition funds, explore
bargain sales, and/or gifts where possible. Complete joint acquisition projects with Santa
Clara County Parks in Stevens Creek Canyon, and the Moody Gulch property near Bear
Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve. Work closely with Peninsula Open Space Trust
(POST)to complete acquisition of the Stevens Creek Canyon property as an addition to
Saratoga Gap Open Space Preserve. Continue to pursue gifts of the "paper subdivision"
lots in the Redwood Park subdivision to round out the Purisima Creek Redwoods Open
Space Preserve and lots in the Hacienda Park subdivision to round out Sierra Azul Open
Space Preserve.
Progress:
• Jointly purchased the 93.55-acre Hall property with the County
of Santa Clara as an addition to Monte Bello and Saratoga Gap
Open Space Preserves. The County contributed $550,000, or
500/b of the total purchase price of $1,100,000.
Real Property Page 3
III
• Purchased the 676-acre POST (Miramontes Ridge) property
addition to Mills Creek Open Space Preserve on a Bargain Sale
basis utilizing grant funding and a matching gift with a total
value of over $4,200,000.
• Purchased the 151-acre POST (Rapley Ranch) property addition
to Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve on a Bargain Sale basis
utilizing grant funding and matching gift with a total value of
over $3,500,000.
• Received a gift of the 43-acre POST (Felton Station) Property
located between Bear Creek Redwoods and El Sereno Open Space
Preserves valued over $200,000.
• Received a gift of a .49-acre parcel from the Salzberg family as an
addition to La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve.
• Received gifts of Redwood Park "paper" subdivision parcels from
the O'Hair and Grinsfelder families as additions to Purisima
Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve.
4. Alternative Acquisition Methods - Obtain Board approval of appropriate options, at
market prices or less,to acquire desirable properties that might be affordable through
grant applications in future years. Explore various alternative terms of purchase
(installment purchases, defeasable fee, exchange of agricultural easements to preserve
open space lands, etc.) to offer advantages and incentives to landowners, as well as cost
savings to the District. Complete easement exchange on lands adjacent to Monte Bello
Open Space Preserve. To resolve encroachments on District lands, complete possible fee
and easement exchange of lands adjacent to Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve and
adjacent to Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve, as approved by the Board.
Progress:
• Worked with Legal Program to secure fee title through Quiet Title
Action in the 3.26-acre Dennis Martin Road as an addition to
Thornewood Open Space Preserve.
Other .Protects and Activities
l. Maintain a multi-year spending plan for open space acquisition which optimizes use of
cash and borrowed funds to accomplish acquisition goals within budget constraints.
2. Work closely with Legal Program to draft purchase agreements and related real estate
documents, to clear and perfect title on District open space lands including obtaining
quitclaims and completing the quiet title action on Dennis Martin Road at Thornewood
Open Space Preserve.
3. Assist Planning and Public Affairs Departments, where appropriate, with policy
development review as a result of the approved Coastal Protection Program.
4. Explore additional methods to protect open space lands for less than the total cost of fee
acquisition (open space easements, acquisition of development rights, development
Real Property Page 4
dedication, exchange or sale of development rights, cooperation with private individuals,
land trusts, groups, etc.).
5. Encourage other agencies to acquire through various means, including grants,park and
open space lands that are consistent with their goals and which compliment the District's
greenbelt program.
6. Initiate and maintain contacts with landowners, real estate appraisers and brokers,
developers, architects, engineers, zoning and planning officials, and financial institutions.
7. Maintain a relocation assistance program utilizing staff and consultants as necessary.
8. Compile current information on real estate market activity, including ordering
preliminary title reports on a timely basis for research into potentially available
properties.
9. Catalog information of special interest, such as deed restrictions, encumbrances,
financing and tax considerations. This activity includes the establishment and
continuation of a working relationship with title companies and other information
sources.
10. Review and organize District funding measure files and complete necessary
documentation required for past public refinancings.
11. Continue working with Legal Services and the Planning Department to pursue global
solutions to streamline the acquisition and planning processes, including: A
Memorandum of Agreement with Santa Clara County to identify acquisitions that are
exempt from the requirements of the Subdivision Map Act, and Memorandum of
Agreement with San Mateo County clarifying the consistency of acquisitions with
County planning requirements.
12. Work with Legal Services to oversee the operation and management of the Guadalupe
Land Co. at Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve.
13. Purchase the final two sections of the Bay Trail between Palo Alto Baylands and the
Ravenswood Open Space Preserve,
Real Property Page 5
2005-2006
Property Management Program
Objective
To manage all of the District's revenue-producing activities in such a way as to maximize income
from property management accounts consistent with Open Space Management policies,
incorporating compatible new programs when possible.
Key Projects
1. Property Management Accounts - Administer rental accounts, communication and
agricultural leases, consistent with open space management policies, to maintain and
enhance revenue stream through competitive and current rate structure, effective
maintenance programs and communication with tenants.
Progress:
• All property management accounts were 100% occupied
throughout the fiscal year with no delinquency.
• Completed drainage line replacement at the Administrative
Office including dismantling and reassembling an interior office
to remove the tree root blockage under the building. Winter
2005-06 was the first in many years that roof leaks were not
encountered.
• Installed energy-efficient lighting in the Kaidara lease space at
the Administrative office. Obtained a rebate of $2,399 from the
California Public Utilities Commission that covered 60% of cost
of the project. Cost to the District- $1,651.
2. Rental Structures - Carry out maintenance and improvements to rental houses to keep
buildings and grounds in a safe, sanitary, and attractive condition, and to increase net
rental income. Continue annual inspection of District rental and employee residences in
conjunction with Operations Department. Administer long term and recurring
maintenance priorities on rental properties.
Progress:
0 Real Property and Operations Staff inspected all properties.
Maintenance priorities and safety concerns were identified.
0 Completed restoration of the Water Tank and structural repairs
to the Tank House at the former Dyer property in La Honda
Creek Open Space Preserve, which included working with
Operations to install fire hookup to improve emergency fire
response capabilities.
0 Completed termite fumigation and re-roofing of Saratoga Gap
cabin.
0 Completed septic tank repairs and installed UV Water System at
the Stevens Canyon Ranch main residence.
Real Property Page 6
• After the heavy winter rains, Operations staff completed
emergency repairs to the landslide-damaged access roads at the
former Quam residence in Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve
and the residences in Saratoga Gap Open Space Preserve.
• Completed asbestos removal and installation of new air heating
ducts at the Skyline Ridge Ranger Residence.
3. Historic Leases - Oversee lease compliance and renovation requirements at the historic
Picchetti Winery, Thornewood estate, and Fremont Older house. Negotiate lease
extension with the lessee at the historic Picchetti Winery.
Progress
• Identified unauthorized construction of a parking lot and event
activities at the Picchetti Winery. Lessee has discontinued
unauthorized uses and staff has commenced parking lot
remediation discussions with the lessee.
• Completed restoration of the tower at the former Thornewood
estate. Identified the septic tank location and commenced
repairs. Completed emergency repairs to the access road.
• Repaired water system serving the Fremont Older residences.
4. Assess Economic Viability of Rental Properties—Evaluate and make recommendations
on the long-term feasibility of maintaining District residential structures at Sierra Azul,
Long Ridge and Russian Ridge Open Space Preserves.
Progress
• Prepared Structural Determination of the former North residence
at Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve and the former Landre
residence at Long Ridge Open Space Preserve. Contracted for
supplemental report of Historic Resource Evaluation of the
former North residence.
Other Projects and Activities
1. Prepare annual rental surveys on District rental houses and Ranger residences. Work with
Operations and Planning Departments to maintain and improve employee residence
structures.
2. Maximize communication lease income at existing PG&E tower at Pulgas Ridge Open
Space Preserve and Black Mountain at Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve.
3. Work with Operations and Planning to evaluate potential grazing lease for the Alpine
Road area of Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve in accordance with the use and
management process.
4. Investigate new property management proposals as initiated by other groups or
individuals that would be compatible with District goals and objectives.
5. Administer lease of additional office space at 330 Distel Circle. Work with
Administration and Planning Departments to re-roof the District occupied portion of
building, improve storm drainage system and install a fire sprinkler monitoring system.
Real Property Page 7
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6. Complete lease amendment to the Agricultural lease for the Christmas tree Farm at
Skyline Ridge and Monte Bello Open Space Preserves
7. Work with Operations Department to complete and implement a long-term seasonal
chestnut orchard lease arrangement at Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve.
8. Work with Planning and Administration Departments to begin evaluating future staff
office space needs for the tenant occupied portion of the Distel office building.
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Real Property Page 8
2005-2006
Land Protection Pros ram
Objective
To preserve and protect District open space lands by conducting land acquisition planning
activities to identify acquisition priorities and, once acquired, to further protect these public lands
from incompatible and encroaching land use activities.
Key Projects
1. Land Acquisition Planning- Provide comprehensive land acquisition studies to guide
the acquisition program, including reviewing and updating acquisition priorities.
Conduct sub-regional planning studies in the areas surrounding Bear Creek Redwoods,
Rancho San Antonio, Sierra Azul, Skyline Ridge, Mills Creek and La Honda Creek Open
Space Preserves, including the Stevens Creek Trail.
Progress:
* Investigated surrounding land use and potential public access for
additions to Mills Creek, Rancho San Antonio, Bear Creek
Redwoods and Sierra Azul Open Space Preserves.
0 Conducted subregional land use studies related to the pending
POST (Driscoll Ranch) addition to La Honda Creek Open Space
Preserve.
* Investigated potential property additions along the Stevens
Creek Trail corridor near Saratoga Gap and Monte Bello Open
Space Preserves.
0 Conducted subregional planning study in Portola Valley between
Palo Alto's Foothills Park and District's Windy Hill and Coal
Creek Open Space Preserves.
2. Encroachment Reduction - Protect open space lands from encroachments and preserve
District real property rights. Use a variety of techniques to resolve encroachment issues
including restoration, mitigation and boundary line adjustments to maximize open space
protection. Negotiate resolution of encroachments at Rancho San Antonio, Bear Creek
Redwoods and Sierra Azul Open Space Preserves.
Progress:
0 Investigated alternatives for a potential land exchange to resolve
property encroachment issue adjacent to Rancho San Antonio
Open Space Preserve.
* Resolved encroachment and land-use problems caused by
neighboring landowner at Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space
Preserve
9 Documented and monitored a significant grading and fencing
encroachment at Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve; worked with
Town of Los Gatos to obtain a commitment to pursue a
remediation plan for the grading violations.
Real Property Page 9
• Completed survey to determine extent and reach resolution of
encroachments in Mt. Umunhum Area of Sierra Azul Open Space
Preserve.
3. Conservation Easement Monitoring Program-Protect District-owned conservation
and open space easements where located on private and public lands. Oversee the
conservation easement-monitoring program, and prepare baseline reports for new
easements utilizing volunteers as appropriate.
Progress:
• Performed annual monitoring of conservation easements at
Rancho San Antonio and Long Ridge Open Space Preserves.
• Reviewed respective conservation easement monitoring programs
with POST and standardized monitoring and reporting
procedures; updated reciprocal easement monitoring agreement
with POST.
• Coordinated process and schedule for monitoring remaining
conservation easements needing completion by end of fiscal year.
4. Property Rights Protection-Work with Operations Department and Legal services to
defend District's property rights through resolution of property rights violations and
disputes. Negotiate resolutions at Coal Creek, Bear Creek Redwoods, Fremont Older and
Sierra Azul Open Space Preserves.
Progress:
• Defended action brought against District to perfect road access
rights across preserve land and a District-held conservation
easement at Coal Creek Open Space Preserve; action was
withdrawn.
• Made significant progress in resolving property boundary dispute
with Presentation Center adjacent to Bear Creek Redwoods Open
Space Preserve.
• Resolved pending litigation with adjacent property owner at
Fremont Older Open Space Preserve by agreeing to feasibility
study of relocating staging area and potential land exchange.
• Investigated boundary line dispute at Sierra Azul Open Space
Preserve in order to resolve dispute over annual closing of Ridge
Trail.
Other Projects and Activities
1. Update land acquisition and site dedication information. Implement the acquisition
database linking the historic and current Assessor's Parcel Numbers in Santa Clara, San
Mateo and Santa Cruz Counties with the Planning Department's GIS database.
2. Provide site-planning information for land negotiators to assist in developing terms and
p g
conditions for acquisition projects.
Real Property Page 10
3. Prepare acquisition reports and conduct due diligence investigations when necessary;
following an acquisition, collaborate with Planning and Operations Departments to
facilitate incorporation of newly acquired land into the District greenbelt, including
resolving property line disputes.
4. Incorporate into the conservation easement monitoring program new easement
agreements, including those at Sierra Azul, Coal Creek and Windy Hill Open Space
Preserves and any other easements acquired during the year.
5. Notify County recorder offices of District-held open space and conservation easement
rights in compliance with Assembly Bill 1011.
6. Assist the Operations and Planning Departments in preparing a resource management
plan for the Alpine Road area of Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve, and incorporate the
findings into a long-term resource management/grazing lease.
7. Work actively and regularly with District legal program to protect District property rights
where title to existing District land is threatened by claims of adverse rights, liens, or
other interference with District's real property rights.
8. Work with Operations Department in negotiating road agreements with adjoining
property owners to ensure District's real property rights are protected and minimize the
District's maintenance responsibilities where appropriate.
9. Protect public and private open space lands from negative impacts associated with
adjacent land development where there is a relationship to the District's land interests.
Complete acquisition of trail easement and fee ownership exchange at Rancho San
Antonio Open Space Preserve, and fee ownership exchange at Sierra Azul Open Space
Preserve. With advice from Planning and Operations Departments, monitor activity on
active developments adjacent to Ravenswood and Sierra Azul Open Space Preserves for
compliance with code requirements.
10. Initiate and maintain contacts with landowners, county code enforcement officers, zoning
and planning officials, surveyors, and various regulatory agencies.
11. Explore the feasibility of the District becoming a joint holder of the Town of Los Altos
Hills open space easements.
12. In coordination with Planning and Operations, establish the trail easement alignment
adjacent to St. Joseph's Hill Open Space Preserve.
Pa e 11
Real Property g
OPEN SPACE PLANNING DEPARTMENT
Programs
A. Planning and Geographic Information
B. Public Access Improvements and Staff Facilities
To Implement the
BASIC POLICY OBJECTIVES:
The District follows management policies that ensure proper care of the land, provide public
access appropriate to the nature of the land, and that are consistent with ecological values and
public safety.
The District works with, and encourages, public and private agencies to preserve, maintain, and
enhance open space.
The District protects and restores the natural diversity and integrity of its resources for their
value to the environment and the public, and provides for the use of the preserves consistent with
resource protection.
General Department Emphasis for 2005-2006
The Open Space Planning Department will take a broad-based approach to planning and project
implementation that emphasizes resource management. Planning efforts will focus on providing
public access while preserving and protecting the diversity and integrity of the District's
environmental and cultural resources. All projects and activities will include early analysis to
ensure compliance with environmental regulations. The work program will focus on completing
new public access improvements designed in the previous year and implementation of the second
year of the El Corte de Madera Creek Watershed Protection Program. Key planning efforts will
be directed toward implementing the policy revision process necessary as a part of the Coastside
Protection Program approval, completing the master plans for Sierra Azul/Bear Creek Redwoods
and La Honda Creek Open Space Preserves and continuing the Regional Resource Inventory.
Planning work will emphasize projects outlined in the third year of the Resource Management
Strategic Plan.
Staff Resources
Planning Manager
Senior Planner(1)
Open Space Planner 11 (2)
Open Space Planner 1 (2)
Planning Technician (2)
Administrative Assistant (1)
Resource Planner (1)
GIS Intern (1/2)
Planning Page 1
2005-2006
Planning and Geographic Information
Objective
To formulate plans, policies and procedures for the management and development of open space
preserves. Facilitate resource inventories and other scientific study of the District's lands. In
conjunction with the Resource Management Specialist, prepare environmental restoration,
habitat enhancement and resource management plans. Develop and maintain Geographic
Information System (GIS) data sets necessary to support projects throughout the District.
Key Projects
1. Coastside Protection Program-Begin development of Board Policies to implement the
Program. Work with the agricultural community to develop policies appropriate for
agricultural use on District lands. Work with the Public Affairs Department to prepare
updated information for the District's website. Continue to work with the coastal
community and actively participate in agricultural issues in San Mateo County.
Progress:
• Initiated development of grazing policy and met with
representatives from the Farm Bureau, Resource Conservation
District, and Natural Resources Conservation Service.
• Assisted Public Affairs Department in development of Good
Neighbor Policy by reviewing drafts and staffing public
workshops.
• Assisted Real Property Department with key land purchases by
staffing Real Property Committee tours, attending Agricultural
Advisory Committee meetings, and conducting site assessments.
• Provided assistance to Legal Services Department in response to
coastal litigation.
2. Master Plans-Work with stakeholders, Board and staff to complete master plans for the
two planning areas. Continue to seek grant funding for the planning effort. Work with
the Public Affairs Department on community outreach and media relations. Address
management and operational issues with the Operations Department.
0 La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve*
Progress:
Completed comprehensive environmental assessment of the
Driscoll Ranch property and prepared a Mitigated Negative
Declaration to support the property's purchase and addition to La
Honda Creek Open Space Preserve.
0 Sierra Azul/Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserves. Work with the Real
Property Department to identify properties that provide for potential staging areas and
Planning Page 2
staff facilities. Incorporate annexation of the south area District lands into the
planning Tannin process.
Pro ess•
Prepared GIS analysis and maps depicting the Preserves' natural
and cultural resources; completed a second public workshop
focusing on planning opportunities and constraints; facilitated an
identical workshop to involve District staff in the planning
process; led public site tours and facilitated focus group
meetings; completed historical analysis of the Alma College
buildings; and began process to evaluate role of Bear Creek
Stables in the master plan.
3. Resource Management Strategic Plan—Work with the Operations Department to
implement the third year of the Strategic Plan:
• Continue to prioritize resource management planning activities on District lands.
Progress:
Completed erosion inventory of the Pescadero and San Gregorio
Creek Watersheds and prepared GIS maps illustrating steelhead
trout distribution.
• Complete a grassland management policy for Board approval. Include grazing,
wildland fuel management and SODS.
Progress:
Policy development deferred; coordinated with Operations
Department to review work program related to SODS and slender
false brome as approved by the Board of Directors.
• Continue preparing or updating resource management policies
• Complete or update resource maps incorporating data collected with the vegetation
study, road and trail assessment, and master plan inventories.
Progress:
GIS updated to facilitate map production and resource analysis
on an as-needed basis. Coordinated with consultants to establish
GIS mapping standards.
• Continue updating geographic information for resource management projects
including mapping non-native invasive plant populations, Sudden Oak Death
occurrences, and feral pig rooting areas.
Progress:
Provided GPS training to Operations staff to facilitate field-based
collection of resource data.
Planning Page 3
• Work with consultants and the Resource Management Specialist on a recurring basis
to identify emerging resource problems and prioritize opportunities to resolve
resource issues District-wide.
Progress:
Resource Planner and Resource Management Specialist meet on a
regular basis to discuss ongoing and upcoming projects and to
confirm roles and responsibilities.
4. Regional Resource Inventory—Continue on-going studies and data collection to
complete a District-wide resource inventory that supports Resource Management and
Planning activities. Staff anticipates that this project will continue annually.
* District-wide Vegetation Classification. Using the methodology developed for Sierra
Azul and the La Honda regions, complete a detailed vegetation classification of
Purisima Creek, Mills Creek, Thomewood, and Teague Hill Open Space Preserves.
Progress: Project completed.
0 District-wide road and trail inventory and assessment. Focus work in the Pescadero
Creek and San Gregorio Creek Watersheds. Seek grant funding for implementation of
road and trail improvements.
Progress:
Project completed. Grant applications will be submitted during
FY 2006-07.
0 District-wide herpetological study of listed species. Complete study on Alpine Road
properties of Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve, La Honda Creek and El Corte de
Madera Creek Open Space Preserves.
Progress:
Project initiated and will be complete in August 2006.
9 Continue to compile and synthesize all known Rare/Threatened/Endangered species
and habitat locations into GIS.
5. District Resource Research Program - Develop a natural resources research program
for Board approval that facilitates use of District lands as an outdoor laboratory.
6. Water Quality Monitoring and Fisheries Assessment—Continue water quality
monitoring associated with the El Corte de Madera Creek Watershed Protection Program.
Pursue grant funding to begin a fisheries assessment of Preserves in the San Gregorio
Creek watershed.
Progress:
Completed second year of in-stream monitoring. Expanded program
to include sediment transport and stream flow monitoring and
trained Operations staff in the techniques.
Planning Page 4
7. Alpine Road Area of Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve Use and Management
Amendment—Incorporate the results of the grazing study, road and trail assessment and
herpetological studies to determine long-term use and management of the area, including
public access via a trail connection from Skyline Ridge to Portola State Park. Seek grant
funding to implement the plan.
Progress•
Completed herpetological inventory to identify California red-
legged frog occurrences and other sensitive species habitats; began
scoping options to restore the Old Page Mill Road connection to
Portola Redwoods State Park.
Other Projects and Activities
1. WEP Implementation—Continue efforts to integrate workplace enhancement methods into
the daily activities of the Planning Department.
2. Land Acquisition Support—Provide Planning support on acquisition projects as requested,
including pre-acquisition field studies, site assessments, and interim use recommendations.
Incorporate updated land acquisition and site dedication information into the District's GIS.
Progress•
Conducted a planning assessment of the Miramontes Ridge, Stevens
Creek Ranch, and Tunitas Creek properties and completed a plan for
docent-led access for Miramontes Ridge. For the Driscoll Ranch
property, conducted a Phase H hazardous materials/contaminants
investigation and a detailed inventory and assessment of the
property's natural resources. Completed and certified a Mitigated
Negative Declaration.
3. Land Protection Support—Provide Planning support to determine remediation and
restoration of land and resources damaged through encroachments.
4. Work with the Public Affairs Department to co-host the 2005 "Not So Annual"conference in
Spring, 2005 and the Special Parks District Forum in Spring, 2006.
5. Acquisition and Planning Processes—Continue working with the Legal Services Program
and Real Property Department to pursue global solutions to streamline the acquisition and
planning processes, including: a Memorandum of Agreement with Santa Clara County to
identify acquisitions that are exempt from the requirements of the Subdivision Map Act, and
a Memorandum of Agreement with San Mateo County clarifying the consistency of
acquisitions with County planning requirements.
6. Environmental Review and Permitting Processes—Continue working with appropriate
agencies to refine and streamline the environmental review and permitting process for
District projects. Begin preparing a Memorandum of Understanding with the California
Department of Fish & Game for routine maintenance and drainage facility improvements.
Cross-train representatives from the Operations Department in preparing and obtaining
Planning Page 5
permits for maintenance projects and small improvements that are not part of the Capital
Improvement Program.
7. Standard Details and Specifications—Work with the Operations Department to complete the
second phase of a handbook of technical standards for construction, repair, and maintenance
of roads, trails, and other improvements.
8. Permits to Enter—Review alterations to District land or installation of facilities proposed by
other agencies or private parties. Develop permit conditions to ensure protection,
preservation, or restoration of the affected lands. Work with Operations to monitor activities
to ensure compliance with conditions.
9. Stevens Creek Shoreline Nature Study Area Remediation and Restoration—Continue
working with the Legal Services Program to represent the District's interest in the U.S.
Navy proposed toxic cleanup of Moffett Air Field Site 25 to a standard permitting
restoration of the District's property to tidal wetlands.
10. Outside Project Review—Review agendas and minutes of Cities, Counties and Open
Space/Parks agencies. Comment on site-specific projects within close proximity to, or that
affects District lands. Review other agencies' policies and regional planning efforts, and
comment as necessary to ensure regional coordination and implementation of the District's
mission.
• Stanford Trail Plan Implementation
• Mid-Coast Local Coastal Program Update
• San Francisquito Creek Joint Powers Authority Activities
• Peninsula Corridor Study
• South Bay Salt Pond Restoration(Former Cargill lands)
• PG&E's Jefferson-Martin 230KV Transmission Line
0 Cooley Landing Plan
0 TMDL Process for San Gregorio Creek, Pescadero Creek and San Francisquito Creek
Watersheds
* Huddart-Wunderlich County Parks Master Plan
• Lexington Reservoir Low Water Pipeline Project
• Gate of Heaven headstone proposal
• Forest of Nisene Marks General Plan
• San Jose Water Company Timber Harvest Plan
• Santa Clara Valley Water District Fish Ladder
11. Unanticipated Projects— Provide research and planning for unanticipated projects that may
arise due to new acquisitions, resource agency actions, regional planning efforts, and other
activities.
Progress:
Mapped memorial redwood groves at Purisima Creek Redwoods Open
Space Preserve; facilitated neighborhood meeting in Woodside
regarding Dennis Martin Road after the rights were secured by the
District.
Planning Page 6
12. Guadalupe Watershed—Continue working with the Legal Services Program on the
completion of the Guadalupe Watershed NRDA process and to participate in the TMDL
process.
13. Continue working with the Real Property Department to implement the acquisition database
linking the historic and current Assessor's Parcel Numbers in Santa Clara, San Mateo and
Santa Cruz Counties with the GIS database.
Progress:
Developed methodology to link the GIS parcel database with the Real
Property Access database.
14. Prepare National Register nomination for the Red Barn to facilitate obtaining future grant
funding for building maintenance.
15. Prepare Use and Management Plan Amendments to designate use of trails that are currently
open on an interim basis.
Progress:
Completed Use and Management Plan amendments formalizing the
existing trail use of the Soda Gulch Trail at Purisima Creek Redwoods;
the Ridge Trail at Skyline Ridge; the Zinfandel Trail at Picchetti
Ranch; and the Black Mountain Trail at Rancho San Antonio Open
Space Preserve.
Other Progress:
• Updated in-house GIS to create comprehensive land ownership and
protected lands database.
* Updated District-wide Patrol Map Book
• Updated large-format wall maps for District Board room and conference
rooms at three office locations.
(All cartography and map production were handled by Planning staff.)
Planning Page 7
2005-2006
Public Access Improvements and Staff Facilities
Objectives
To emphasize preservation and enhancement of resources in Use and Management Plans and in
the design of public access improvements. To give the highest priority to resource protection
projects and construct projects funded by grants.
Public Access Improvements
1. El Corte de Madera Creek Watershed Protection Program —Implement the second phase
projects, secure the necessary permits, and continue water quality monitoring. Staff
anticipates this project will continue through fiscal year 2007-2008, and possibly beyond,
with Board approval.
Progress:
Coordinated with District crew to complete realignment of the
Crossover Trail and implemented numerous repairs and upgrades to
sections of Gordon Mill, Methuselah and Timberview trails. Continued
working with volunteers to repair priority trails. Completed design and
engineering of four bridge crossings, and applied for resource and
building permits for the 2006 construction season.
2. Pulgas Ridge Staging Area and Trails* - Complete construction of the staging area,
bridges and trails.
Progress:
Completed construction of the staging area, including the signboards
and restroom, and coordinated with Crew to complete the Sagebrush
Trail. Contractor initiated construction of the Dusky-Footed Woodrat
Trail (which will be completed summer 2006).
3. Windy Hill Improvements—Apply for building permits from the Town of Portola Valley to
construct an observation deck with interpretive signage at Sausal Pond and install fencing
around pond. Begin re-studying feasibility of alternate alignments for Spring Ridge Trail.
Progress:
Deck project deferred to FT 2006-07 Action Plan.
4. Picchetti Ranch Winery Building* - Complete seismic upgrade and access improvements
to the winery building.
Progress:
Due to permit delays, construction delayed until Spring 2006.
5. El Corte de Madera Creek Staging Area* - Complete Use and Management Amendment
planning process and prepare plans and specifications for the staging area and Bay Area
Ridge Trail segment. Pursue grant funding for construction.
Progress:
Planning Page 8
Completed draft plan for parking area, conducted alternatives analysis
for driveway locations, and completed preliminary traffic studies. Held
one neighborhood informational meeting and two Use and Management
Committee workshops.
6. Pulgas Ridge Soil Investigation-Complete subsurface investigation of potential
soil/groundwater contamination. Work with San Mateo County Environmental Health
Department to prepare and implement a remediation plan.
Progress:
Retained consultant and completed subsurface investigations to
identify source of oil; coordinated cleanup with County and removed
suspect section of pipe; identified additional section of pipe with
suspect contamination and will remove in Summer 2006.
7. La Honda Creek Bridge - Pending the outcome of the La Honda Creek Master Plan, and
subsequent Board approval, begin analysis and plans for improvements or replacement of the
lower bridge.
[Master Plan not completed.]
8. Miscellaneous Repair, Restoration and Other Projects
• Long Ridge Road Repairs-Pending further scoping, request engineering proposals to
begin preparing plans and specifications to replace drainage structures and road
segments along School Road.
• Fremont Older Road Repairs-Pending further scooping, request engineering
proposals to begin preparing plans and specifications for repairs to drainage structure
along Regnart Road.
Progress:
Preliminary engineering assessment and scoping completed.
Project will be completed per 5-year agreements with Resource
Agencies.
• Sierra Azul-Demolish structures on the former Benson property and restore site to
natural conditions.
Progress: Project complete.
• Purisima Creek Redwoods Staging Area-Underground power lines so that the
staging area can be used as a helicopter-landing site for public emergency service
providers.
Progress: Project complete.
• Work with the Real Property Department on any other structure demolitions that are
approved by the Board.
Other Progress:
Coordinated with FEMA in response to December 2006 storm
Russian Ridge.
damage the uam driveway at g
ag 9 y
Planning Page 9
9. Trailhead Signs - Year 4 of a 5-year program. Replace trailhead signs with the new and
improved prototype in conjunction with improvement projects at Pulgas Ridge and Picchetti
Ranch Open Space Preserves. Work with the Public Affairs Department to incorporate GIS
data in the District maps and brochures, including spot elevations at key locations, in
conjunction with the new trailhead signs. Update displays in the new trailhead signboards
with improved graphics.
Progress:
Installed Pulgas Ridge signs. Picchetti signs will be installed in
conjunction with seismic upgrades in 2006/2007 Action Plan.
Staff Facilities
1. La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve Ranch House—Pending the outcome of the La
Honda Creek Master Plan, and subsequent Board approval, begin preparing plans and
specifications to replace the ranch house with a possible "sustainable" building to serve as a
ranger residence. Research grant opportunities.
2. Skyline Field Office—Repair and relocate the HVAC for the office building and install an
electrical back-up system.
Progress: Project delayed until. FT 2006-07.
Denotes grant funded project.
Planning Page 10
OPERATIONS DEPARTMENT
Prosirams
A. Field Operations
B. Resource Management
To Implement the
BASIC POLICY OBJECTIVE:
The District follows management policies that ensure proper care of the land, that provide
Public access appropriate to the nature of the land, and that are consistent with ecological
values and public safety.
General Department Emphasis for 2005-2006
Continue to provide responsible stewardship of all District lands by furnishing those
public safety, maintenance, construction, and resource management activities necessary
to protect and enhance the natural resources and ensure safe and appropriate use of
District lands. Implementation of Board-adopted Resource Management Policies, Trail-
Use Policies and Guidelines, and implementation of the Field Operations Manual will
continue to be the primary focus of the Operations Department.
Staff Resources
Operations Manager
Area Superintendents (2)
Support Services Supervisor
Management Analyst
Resource Management Specialist
Supervising Rangers (4)
Maintenance/Construction Supervisors (2)
Maintenance/Resource Supervisors (2)
Administrative Assistant
Rangers (16)*
Equipment Mechanic-Operators (2)
Lead Open Space Technicians (4)
Open Space Technicians (10)
Farm Maintenance Worker
8,500 Seasonal Open Space Technician hours (Additional 1,000 hours)
3,500 Seasonal OST hours for resource management (Additional 1,000 hours)
1,400 hours for Resource Management Intern (Additional 700 hours)
Two new ranger positions budgeted for final 3 months of fiscal year only
Progress: Added two new positions to the Operations Department at
Mid-Year: I Ranger and I Resource Specialist I.
Operations Page 1
2005-2006
Field Operations Prozram
Key Projects
1. Provide orientation and training to staff on the use of the completed Ranger
Operations Manual. Begin use of the Manual as a tool for routine operational
activities.
Progress•
The final version of the Manual was published, with a copy being
provided to each patrol staff member. An orientation meeting
was held for all patrol staff members.
2. Implementation of Phase 11 of the El Corte de Madera Creek Watershed Protection
Plan-Assist the Planning Department in implementation of the second phase of the
El Corte de Madera Creek Watershed Protection Plan, as approved by the Board.
Progress•
Field staff, working with Planning, completed realignment of the
Crossover Trail and implemented numerous repairs and upgrades
to sections of Gordon Min, Methuselah and Timberview trails.
Field staff led the volunteer efforts to repair priority trans.
3. New Trail Construction and CIP Projects/Construction-Assist the Planning
Department in the construction or relocation of trails at Pulgas Ridge and El Corte de
Madera Creek Open Space Preserves.
Progress•
Operations staff, working with Planning, laid out and constructed
the South Canyon Trail at Pulgas and assisted on the alignment
of the Dusky-Footed Woodrat Trail.
4. Hire a radio consultant to evaluate the current radio system, and to provide needed
recommendations for current and future improvements, including needs for coastal
area coverage. Review the potential for acquiring new radio frequencies for District
use.
Progress•
A consultant was hired and a draft report was completed
suggesting areas for improvements in the radio system. The
report also made suggestions for necessary changes to the
District's radio system to ensure compliance with Federal
Communications Commission mandated changes which will be
effective in 2011. The final report will be brought before the
Board with recommendations as part of the 2006/2007 Action
Plan.
Operations Page 2
5. Begin the process of creating and outlining the structure for the Maintenance
Operations Manual and identify the team members who will write the contents for
this manual.
Progress:
Initial planning on the structure and outline for the Maintenance
Operations Manual was started as a cooperative effort between
field supervisors and the Operations Management Analyst.
6. Develop a Request for Proposals for a consultant to develop a land management cost
and effectiveness evaluation system, focused on operational issues, which includes
elements such as mapping of enforcement contacts and incidents and analysis of
effectiveness and workload.
Progress:
The Request for Proposals was written and published. Three
responses were received and staff is working on finalizing a
contract with the selected consultant.
Progress on Other Notable Projects and Activities:
0 Operations staff worked with Public Affairs staff to prepare for
and provide a District tour at the Special Parks District
Forum. In addition to the District's tour day, Operations staff
also provided support for conference registration and
conference sessions.
* Because of record-setting rains in March, 2006 much of the
field staffs attention was focused on keeping trails open and
clearing debris and hazards for the last month of the fiscal
year.
0 Completed the "undergrounding" of the power lines with PGE
at Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve to improve
safety at the designated emergency helicopter-landing zone.
0 Operations staff participated as part of the planning team for
the Sierra Azul/Bear Creek Redwoods Master Plan.
0 Operations field staff spent considerable time working on
Resource Management issues with the Resource Management
Specialist and staff from the Planning department.
Operations Page 3
2005-2006
Resource Management Program
Objective
Inventory and analyze the state of District natural resources, including the natural
resources of specific preserves to identify needs and priorities. Address immediate and
critical resource management issues utilizing District staff, volunteers, contractors and
consultants to maximize the District's responsiveness. Develop procedures and
implement the Resource Management Strategic Plan to address the resource management
needs of District land. Maintain regular contact and work with other agencies, local
authorities, researchers and specialists in the field to restore or manage the District's
natural resources.
Key Projects
1. Resource Management Strategic Plan—Work with the Planning Department to
Implement Third Year of the Resource Management Strategic Plan:
a. Update list of current restoration areas; protect rare plants affected by trail
maintenance and use.
b. Continue next phase of eucalyptus, acacia and broom removal at Mills Creek;
and continue implementation of the Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve
Habitat Restoration Plan by removing additional area of eucalyptus, and
controlling broom and other invasive plants. Notify interested parties and the
Board before any large eucalyptus trees are removed at Pulgas Ridge.
c. Design and begin installation of erosion protection measures in drainages of
the Christmas tree farm at Skyline Ridge Preserve that are no longer part of
the farm lease area.
d. Map location and condition of yellow starthistle on District preserves, and
recommend appropriate control methods (especially rust and mowing) in
accordance with Integrated Pest Management practices.
e. Work with the Planning Department to develop road-grading practices that do
not adversely affect natural resources.
f. Hire a consultant to evaluate current trail brushing practices and make
recommendations that would minimize impact to natural resources.
g. Continue to work with the Planning Department to develop a process and
specifications for, restoration planting, and for culvert removal and
replacement for routine maintenance.
Progress•
Most work ongoing. Additional area of acacia and broom
removed at Mills Creek. Public meeting held regarding next
phase of eucalyptus removal at Pulgas; awaiting County tree
removal permit. Completed additional planting at 4 restored
Operations Page 4
acres of Skyline tree farm; design of remaining acres delayed
until erosion control consultant hired to prepare design
required by County grading permit. GPS mapping of yellow
starthistle completed; 4,000 weevils released at 4 locations as
starthistle biocontrol agent; in addition, 31 locations were
checked for biocontrol weevils and flies and confirmed at 6
preserves. Study on best management practices delayed
during review of resource management at other land
management agencies.
Throughout the year 5,748 hours of field staff time was spent
on resource management. A new contract was negotiated for
an herbicide contractor to treat invasive plants, although
frequent rains delayed spring work. The California
Conservation Corps worked 1,515 hours on removing broom in
numerous preserves and planting and seeding at trail
relocation areas in El Corte de Madera Open Space Preserve.
2. Provide an Invasive Plant Tracking and Monitoring System-Work with the
Planning Department to continue updating invasive plant information, and utilize this
information to prioritize resource management efforts. Review invasive plant
outbreaks along property lines and determine if cooperation with adjacent landowners
is feasible, particularly along the California Department of Transportation's highway
right-of-ways.
Progress:
GPS mapping of yellow starthistle complete; preliminary GPS
data dictionary developed consistent with California Weed
Mapping standards; and Weed Information Management System
(developed by The Nature Conservancy) tested and under
consideration. On a project basis, new invasive plant locations
mapped with GPS and entered into GIS.
3. Wild Pig Population Control Program-Continue trapping program in the South
Skyline Area and expand to the Foothills area. Coordinate with local agencies as
necessary.
Progress:
Under renewed trapping contract, 46 pigs trapped at Bear Creek
Redwoods Open Space Preserve and one at Long Ridge Open
Space Preserve during the fiscal year.
Operations Page 5
4. Grassland Management
a. Control resprouts of Harding grass on north end of Russian Ridge Open Space
Preserve. Pursue renewal of bum plan with California Department of Forestry
and Fire Protection.
b. Continue different methods of yellow star thistle control and restoration of
native grasses in front meadow at Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve.
c. On an ongoing basis, review maintenance practices to discourage the
establishment of invasive plants.
d. Assist the Planning Department in the development of grassland management
plans as part of the resource management policy review.
e. Continue investigation of alternatives to burning (such as goats) for grassland
restoration.
Progress:
Burning with California Department of Forestry at Russian
Ridge not conducted in 2005/2006 but training burn under
consideration for 2006/2007; contractor will spray Harding
grass. Yellow starthistle nearly eradicated at Rancho San
Antonio front meadow and control area expanded easterly
toward tennis courts and to front entry. Treatment of yellow
starthistle at Los Trancos continued for second year;
treatment of small population of invasive goatgrass at Los
Trancos added this year. Review of maintenance practices
delayed during review of resource management at other land
management agencies. Resource management policies
regarding grazing and grassland management delayed, but
currently under development with Planning Department. Use
of goats to control invasive plants determined to be ineffective
unless multi-year funding can be assured.
S. Control of Slender False Brome-Map and remove all resprouts of slender false
brome at Thornewood Open Space Preserve. Pursue grant funding to assist adjacent
landowners and agencies in mapping and controlling slender false brome on their
lands.
Progress:
Slender false brome was one of the major focus areas of resource
management this year and resulted in some other projects being
delayed. Conducted series of workshops with Board and
developed ten-year work plan for eradication of slender false
brome in Woodside area. All locations of slender false brome
controlled within Thornewood, La Honda and El Corte de Madera
Operations Page 6
I
Open Space Preserves. Petition made to California Department of
Food & Agriculture regarding reclassification as Category A
noxious weed. Outreach to adjacent landowners conducted
through media (5 newspaper articles including front page
coverage in the San Jose Mercury News and one television news
report), presentations at garden clubs and homeowner association
meetings, and flyers and contacts at environmental fairs.
pro to vide more information and
website updated
District p
photographs. When invited onto private property, staff provided
information and determined the presence or absence of slender
false brome, and conducted GPS mapping. Continued to
coordinate with Oregon false brome working group and led tours
of Thornewood site for Portland State University geneticist (who
took samples for analysis), the California Department of Food &
Agriculture and California State Parks.
Other Projects and Activities
1. Resource inventory-Inventory and record observed flora, fauna, natural and
geologic features, and biotic communities, and contribute information to the natural
diversity database. Coordinate mapping and GIS database development with
Planning Department staff.
Progress: Newly discovered locations of rare leatherwood plants
added to GIS.
2. Seed increase program- Continue collection of local native seed for use on District
projects and for seed increase through seed contractors.
Progress:
Found and purchased locally derived source of native grass seed.
At El Corte de Madera, successfully transplanted wetland grasses
at trail relocation site.
3. Wildlife surveys-Conduct annual surveys of bluebird nesting and fall deer herd and
share information with regional groups. Track special wildlife sightings, especially
mountain lions, and share information with surrounding land agencies. Identify
marbled murrelet habitat in the Skyline area.
Progress: Annual surveys ongoing. With assistance from the
Planning Department, consultants conducted first phases of
amphibian populations of ponds and streams and marbled
murrelet habitats in Skyline area. Conducted a survey of
visitors' knowledge of mountain lions in Rancho San Antonio.
Operations Page 7
Provided all staff with training on local reptile and amphibian
species and conservation practices.
4. Assist the Planning Department in the phased implementation of grazing
infrastructure at the Alpine Road area of the Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve.
Progre
ss: Initial grazing studies completed; Use & Management
Plan delayed during development of grazing policy.
5. Continue monitoring Sudden Oak Death, map confirmed and suspected locations,
implement precautionary actions, and educate District visitors about Sudden Oak
Death. Participate in scientific symposiums and research.
Progress:
Sudden Oak Death (SOD) was the second major focus of resource
management this year and resulted in some other projects being
delayed. Continued SOD monitoring and best management
practices. Installed two boot/tire brushes. Staff participated in
board meetings of the California Oak Mortality Task Force,
attended the March 2006 SOD Management and Research Update,
and assisted in the formation of a statewide SOD Conservation
Committee to guide future SOD research. Contacted researchers
regarding research of potentially resistant trees and protection of
heritage trees. Conducted series of workshops with Board and
developed ten-year work plan for SOD research.
6. Continue to participate in regional resource groups like Santa Cruz Mountains
Bioregional Council, Weed Management Areas in both San Mateo and Santa Clara,
Sudden Oak Death Program and other Native Plant Organizations.
Progress•
C. Roessler, co-chair of the San Mateo County Weed Management
Area, made a presentation regarding invasive plant control at the
Bay Area Open Space annual meeting in May 2005; assisted the
California Native Plant Society in setting up a training on
vegetation mapping at Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve;
led a resource management discussion at the Not-So-Annual
Conference with K. Lenington.
7. Work with and encourage local research institutions, such as Stanford University and
San Jose State University, to conduct scientific studies which would be beneficial to
the District.
Progress•
Seven new research projects were conducted on District
preserves on turkey behavior, dams, rare plants, butterfly
distribution, mushroom diversity, and trout genetics, and seven
ongoing research projects were continued. Institutions
represented were: Mission College, College of San Mateo, and San
Operations Page 8
f
III
Jose State, Stanford, Sonoma State, San Francisco State, and
Yale universities. Staff also P
provided internships for several ark
management students from West Valley College.
8. Develop a Request for Proposals to research resource management programs which
are being conducted by other land management agencies.
Progress:
Consultant hired and 15 land management agencies interviewed.
Conducted workshop with 6 agencies, staff, Board and interested
members of the public to discuss organizational approaches to
common resource management issues. Participated in staff
discussions regarding lessons learned from other agencies.
Operations Page 9
III
PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT
ACTION PLAN STATUS/EVALUATION
Programs
A. General Public Information and Outreach
B. Legislative, Funding and Organizational Relations
C. Community Programs
To Implement the
BASIC POLICY OBJECTIVE:
The District educates and makes clearly visible to the public the purposes and actions of the
District, and actively encourages public input and involvement in the District's decision-making
process and other activities.
General Department Emphasis for 2005-2006
Maximize the general public's awareness and understanding of, and involvement with the
District, its goals, and its activities, employing a variety of means and methods to reach all
communities served and other target audiences. Implement the top priorities of the District's
legislative plan and protect the District's funding structure. Continue to offer a variety of
community programs which enhance visitors' experiences, provide opportunities to educate, and
involve people in the preservation, restoration and enjoyment of open space. Provide District
materials and information to community members and public officials, to ensure full knowledge
and understanding of the District, its programs and activities.
Staff Resources
(Regular, full-time positions, unless otherwise indicated)
Public Affairs Manager
Community Affairs Supervisor
Public Affairs Specialist
Volunteer Programs Coordinator
Docent Programs Coordinator
Administrative Assistant
Hired Community Programs Aide —August 2005
Public Affairs Page I
2005-2006
General Public Information and Outreach
Objective
To generate additional support among opinion leaders, key policyrnakers, and the general public
for District acquisition, preservation, restoration, and interpretive education projects, including
coastal protection, by increasing the positive perception and awareness of the District's mission,
objectives, accomplishments, programs, and effective management of public lands and financial
resources.
Key Projects
I. Coastside Protection Program —Develop new public information materials, and update
Coastside Protection Program section of the web site as needed. Proactively distribute
District materials and information to the San Mateo County coastside and current constituent
communities to increase their knowledge and understanding of the District, its programs, and
activities.
Progress:
• Updated the Coastside Web pages (included Good Neighbor
information, materials to support new Coastside purchases
including Mitigated Negative Declaration for Driscoll, media support
information about purchases).
• Created a revised District Fact Sheet and Spanish version of the
Fact Sheet that includes the Coastside Protection Area as part of
the District boundary.
• Organized and attended three meetings on the Coastside to solicit
input on the Good Neighbor Policy.
• Continued to mail the District's Open Space Views newsletter to
14,799 resident and business addresses on the coast.
2. Community Outreach—Plan and implement activities to increase the District's outreach and
involvement with community groups. Listen to community concerns and improve
constituents' knowledge of the District. Make presentations (for instance, talk to the Silicon
Valley Manufacturing Group about the District's mission), seek out partnerships, and attend
meetings with various groups and organizations, (for example, attend a Midcoast Community
Council meeting to discuss District policy and answer constituent questions). Outreach
opportunities and District presentations at community outreach events could involve
managers, Board members, District staff and volunteers and docents.
Progress:
* Attended South Skyline meeting, Midcoast Community Council,
Pescadero Community Council, Kings Mountain Meeting
0 Organized and attended four Good Neighbor Policy Community
meetings.
Public Affairs Page 2
• Prepared and aided Mary's presentation to Saratoga Rotary Club,
Larry's presentation to Palo Alto Kiwanis and Sally's presentation to
the San Jose Kiwanis.
3. Media-Enhance the District's reputation as a leader among open space districts locally and
statewide. Proactively promote regular media coverage of District activities and
accomplishments and quickly respond to media reports and inquiries. Conduct editorial
board visits and reporter briefings; place positive feature stories; and work to place editorials,
where appropriate.
Progress•
• Drafted and distributed over 20 press releases which led to over 100
articles. Positive articles, such as the samples below, were placed in
a variety of papers from the Chronicle, and the San Jose Mercury
News to the Half Moon Bay Review.
• Half Moon Bay Review, 11/23 "District close to largest preserve in
county."
• Los Gatos Weekly Times, 11/23 "Public Offers input as to how open
space land will be used."
• San Mateo County Times, 1.0/31 "Good Neighbor meetings slated"
• Met regularly with Resource Management Specialist on resource
issues to provide support and promote District issues in the media
and to stay abreast of regional/national issues.
• Provided article story ideas to the Planning Department for possible
insertion of articles in planning trade magazines.
4. Good Neighbor Policy- Take a leadership role in the public involvement process to develop
an enhanced Good Neighbor Policy, and produce a Good Neighbor brochure based upon the
amended policies. Design and provide public education follow-up activities after the process
is complete. Formulate a plan to educate and provide information on the District's Good
Neighbor Policy to constituents.
Progress:
• Scheduled and prepared LFPAC meetings.
• Organized four public meetings to collect input from the public
(November I in Pescadero, on November 3 on Skyline Blvd., on
November 17 in Half Moon Bay and on December I in Los Gatos).
• Held meetings with the Midcoast Community Council, Pescadero
Municipal Advisory Council, South Skyline Association and King's
Mountain Association.
5. New Events-Plan and conduct the Not-so-Annual Conference in partnership with Monterey
Peninsula Regional Park District, and plan for the 2006 Special Park Districts Forum in
partnership with East Bay Regional Park District.
Progress:
• 52 people attended the Not-so-Annual Conference - highest
attendance rate ever. More agencies represented than at any other
Not-so-Annual Conference.
Public Affairs Page 3
• Attended the 2005 Special Parks District Forum to plan the 2006
forum in California.
• Attended the 2005 NRPA Congress and Exposition in San
Antonio, Texas to present to attendees on the SPDF.
• Created an internal SPDF Team to organize the 2006 Special Park
Districts Forum.
6. Web Site Management-Continue to use the District Web site as a two-way communication
tool to reach out and communicate with the community and support the administration of the
Docent and Volunteer programs. Improve usability of the site to be an effective outreach
tool. Enhance the educational ability of the Web site by continuing to work with E-Nature to
implement the "e-nature" wildlife guides (customizable to District preserves), thus providing
a way for the public to research information on flora and fauna within District Preserves*.
Develop enhanced maintenance plan and posting protocol. Work with other departments to
ensure the Web site maintenance and revisions reflect current District messaging, provide
consistency, and maintain functionality and aesthetic integrity. Work with contractor to
update and maintain Web site pages.
(Providing"e-nature"wildlife guides is dependent upon the developing organization obtaining funding).
Progress:
• The following improvements have been made:
o Resolved critical issues with the Volunteer and Docent forms.
• Improved Board page design to include photo and created
maps of each ward.
• Improved Trail Conditions to make it more easily accessible
and added date stamp.
• Changed attachment types from Word documents to PDF.
• Created openspace.org email for each Board member.
• Improved ease and availability to District contact information.
• Added Ombudsperson page.
• Analyzed and posted the first web-based Visitor Satisfaction
survey.
• Made many preserve maps printer-friendly and easier to
download.
• Conducted two full site reviews to find outdated content and
correct errors.
• Created content pages on Not-So-Annual conference.
• Added project page for Picchetti Winery seismic upgrade.
o Posted additional information on Slender False Brome and
Sudden Oak Death.
o Used District site to promote Fremont Older House and
Garden Tours and promote book signing events.
o Replaced many preserve maps to be more current.
o Improved ease of use of activity postings.
Public Affairs Page 4
II
• In September 2005, the redesigned District Web site received an
acknowledgment by being featured in the prestigious Design
Interact industry trade publication.
• ENature Wildlife Guides: The National Wildlife Federation (NWF)
was successful in securing grant money for this project. The
District species lists have been created and were provided to NWF
for upload and beta review. Multiple list reviews were conducted
by Public Affairs staff, Resource Management Specialist and
resource interns, and District docents, including the two docents
who are the administrators of the Natural Resources DataBase.
Staff has been working with NWF to address issues that have been
identified as a result of list review; staff has been conducting beta
review of the eNature pages and working with NWF to develop a
project contract; staff has also been working with the Web site
consultant to design and implement the eNature jump off page.
Pending completion of a contract, the site is expected to go
'live" in June 2006. Staff will then seek and work with District
volunteers on District-specific customization of the species lists
and individual species guides.
Other Projects and Activities
l. Continue to promote the District's guidebook. Work with publisher to monitor and track
sales of the trail guidebook.
Progress:
• Began selling the book at the Daniels Nature Center in April 05.
• As of August 05, the book is available for sale at Picchetti Winery;
• Pitched book reviews which appeared in the October-December 2005
issue of Bay Nature Magazine and in the fall 2005 Committee for
Green Foothills Green Footnotes newsletter; advertisements
appeared in Bay Nature Magazine, the Loma Prietan, the Mountain
Network News, and the Wild Bird Center's newsletter (the Wild Bird
Center also ordered the book for their store);
• An advertisement for the book appeared in the summer 2006 issue
of Open Space Views;
• Number of books sold by the publisher by April 3, 2006: 4,746
copies (total printed: 6,500).
2. Continue efforts to integrate the Workplace Enhancement Plan methods into the daily
activities of the Public Affairs Department.
3. Continue to evaluate, research, and identify best delivery systems to ensure effective media
and organizational outreach/communications. Continue to update all records in media,
organizations, and government databases. Migrate the District's press release system to an
email distribution system.
II
Public Affairs Page 5
Progress:
The Department is continually updating its media records and is now
sending out all press releases via e-mail.
4. Continue to support the Planning Department in 1) raising public awareness of the Watershed
Protection Program, and gathering public use data as needed in support of the El Corte de
Madera Creek Preserve Trail realignments; 2) Provide media and other support, as needed, to
support District efforts to obtain a full clean-up of toxins to tidal restoration standards at the
Moffett/NASA property referred to by the Navy as "Site 25;" and 3) Continue to work with
Planning staff to provide media and community outreach activities, such as docent-led hikes,
resource management projects, and Web site section in support of the Sierra Azul/Bear Creek
Redwoods and La Honda Creek Preserve master planning projects.
Progress:
All four issues of Open Space Views included an update on the Sierra
Azul/Bear Creek Redwoods Master Planning processes, and two of the
issues provided an update on the La Honda Creek Master Plan. Also
provided significant input on the two Sierra Azul/Bear Creek Master
Plan project newsletters, and drafted/distributed two press releases
regarding the project. Three District newsletter issues also included an
update on the El Corte de Madera Creek Watershed Protection
Program. In July 2005, an article on the cleanup of Site 25 and the
District's position on the cleanup appeared in the Los Altos Town
Crier.
Regular updates were made to the District Web site on planning
projects.
5. There are major hurdles to overcome in connection with building an image library; in order
to be successful, the Department must first determine the architecture and cost of providing a
graphics/image library. Upon deciding an approach, create an implementation and
maintenance plan.
6. Compile and analyze the results from the Visitor Satisfaction survey and determine how the
results can be used most effectively.
Progress:
An article featuring the Visitor Survey and results appeared in the
2004-05 Annual Report (fall issue); survey results were presented to
LFPAC on August 3, 2005 and to the full Board on August 10, 2005.
Public Affairs Page 6
7. Assist the Planning and Operations Departments in educating the public regarding
appropriate preserve and trail use, and interacting with wildlife, modifying and updating
publications to reflect policy or rule changes, as needed, and responding to associated public
and media requests for information.
Progress:
e An article on mountain Bons (including information on safety and
living with wildlife) was featured in the spring 2005 issue of Open
Space Views.
* Revised and updated the Dog Access Guidelines brochure.
* Began the revision/update process for the Guide to Accessible Open
Space brochure.
8. Work with the Planning Department to create new site maps and pictures for preserve
brochures, and continue updating, producing, and distributing existing site maps, brochures,
and other collateral materials.
Progress:•
To date, 12 brochures have been revised/updated this fiscal year.
Staff has also been working with the District's graphic designer to
create print friendly versions of the trail maps for the Web site.
9. Produce the District's quarterly newsletter, Open Space Views, and continue to update its
mailing list; continue mailing four issues per year, including annual report, to coastside
residents. Publish the District's 2005-2006 Annual Report in the fall.
Progress:
Project completed.
10. Conduct District special ceremonies such as the 50,000-acre dedication, the Pulgas Ridge
Staging Area, and the celebration of other noteworthy events.
Progress:
• The 50,000-acre event was organized and hosted at Stevens Canyon
Ranch on Saturday, June 4, 2005. More than 200 people attended.
• The Pulgas Ridge Staging Area Dedication will occur in 2006; the
exact date has not yet been determined.
11. Evaluate District merchandising options, draft a plan for implementation, and potentially
produce and sell District merchandise.
12. Create a formal El Corte de Madera Creek OSP brochure. This is contingent on the
completion of the Trail Use and Management Plan for El Corte de Madera. Evaluate
need for a Monte Bello backpack camp brochure, a District History brochure, and a
coastside area brochure.
Progress:
• Created a formal El Corte de Madera Creek OSP trail brochure.
• A formal Backpack Camp brochure was created in February 2006.
Public Affairs Page 7
13. Continue to provide staff support to District Committees such as the sign committee,
"Fun"
committee and the Fun committee.
policy review ,
1.4. Develop and carry out a plan to estimate the number of visitors to representative District
sites. Data will support media outreach and other uses.
Progress:
• Staff determined the best initial approach to this project is to
collaborate with colleges.
• Staff has sent out a project letter to a half-dozen colleges in
Northern California. Due to timing with the college quarter/
semester schedules, this project may not be undertaken by a
program student until the summer or fall 2006 quarter/semester.
15. Work with Planning Department to produce an appropriate map showing District
preserves for posting on an exterior wall of Alice's Restaurant on Skyline Boulevard.
16. Work with Administration to determine the feasibility of integrating the "Public Affairs
Mailing List"with other District databases.
Progress:
Public Affairs has taken on a leadership role in working with
Administration to set up a District database.
17. Ensure that District gets recognized for its substantial contribution to the operation and
success of Deer Hollow Farm.
Progress:
• The District featured the partnership between Deer Hollow Farm,
the City of Mountain View, the County of Santa Clara Parks &
Rec., and the Friends of Deer Hollow Farm in the 2004-05 Annual
Report (fall) issue of Open Space Views.
• The District and its programs were featured in the City of
Mountain View's summer 2006 Recreation Guide.
18. Demonstrate care for the environment by using recycled materials and soy-based inks in
materials distributed by the District whenever possible.
Progress:
ne
The District's newsletter, trail brochures, and stationery are printed
on recycled (post consumer waste) paper. Soy-based ink is used.
ICI
Public Affairs Page 8
2005-2006
Legislative, Funding, and Organizational Relations
Objective
To carry out the high priority elements of the District's legislative plan and to inform other
public agencies and private organizations about the District's activities and goals.
Key Projects
1. Property Tax Funding—Work with the District's legislative delegation and Sacramento-
based lobbyist to maintain and protect the District's current percentage share of the local
property tax funding in light of the State's continuing budget shortfalls and the terms and
conditions of Proposition IA.
Progress•
• Wrote April 8, 2005 letter to Simon Salinas, Chair of the California
State Assembly Committee on Local Government to support AB
1590 which would, for the 2005-06 fiscal year, limit the amount of
reductions for a special district that performs both enterprise and
non-enterprise functions to an amount equal to the sum of ten
percent of the property tax revenues allocated to the District's non-
enterprise functions for the 2001-02 fiscal year and 100 percent of
the property tax revenues allocated to the district's enterprise
functions for the 2001-02 fiscal year.
• Wrote an April 21, 2005 letter to Simon Salinas to oppose AB 737, a
bill that breaks with existing property tax law to the severe
detriment of special districts.
• Wrote April 14, 2005 letter to Sally Lieber opposing AB 1259 which
would have given more property tax revenue to particular cities and
counties that exceed a specified percentage of their established
housing needs allocation and requires county auditors to equally
reduce special districts' property taxes by a like amount.
2. State Legislation—Work with the District's legislative advocate and with legislators and
their staff to sponsor and support the Board-approved Legislative Program. Seek
coordination and support from other special districts.
a. Clarify the issue of peace officer jurisdiction outside of District lands.
Current Public Resources Code language (Sections 5558, 5560.1, and 5561) appears
to limit the authority of District Rangers to lands within the District's Boundary.
Pursue District-sponsored legislation, and through the legislative author, seek an
opinion from the California Attorney General to clarify whether current Public
Resources Code language limits the authority of District Rangers to lands within the
District's boundary or within District parks and therefore hampers effective
management of District lands from an overall policy perspective. If the Attorney
General's Office so determines, move the bill through the legislative process in
Public Affairs Page 9
cooperation with the District's Peace Officer's Research Association of California
(PORAC) representatives.
Progress:
Ira Ruskin has agreed to carry language but the issue is on hold
because a case that could ultimately decide this issue is
currently pending before the California Supreme Court. Therefore
we have decided to wait for the outcome of this case before
trying to get an Attorney General's opinion or act legislatively.
b. Review State legislation and support, oppose, or seek amendments to those bills that
impact the District.
Progress:
• Wrote letter of support to Senator Simitian on August 26,
2005 to vote "aye" on AB 1234, a measure to provide reforms
in the areas of compensation and ethics training for local
governments.
• Contacted Don Perata, Chair, Senate Committee on Rules on
June 28, 2005 to ask him to oppose AB 458 because it would
break with existing property tag law to the severe detriment of
special districts.
• On April 8, 2005, wrote to Sally Lieber to support AB 1590
the bill she introduced in the Legislature last year on behalf of
the Santa Clara Valley Water District.
3. Seek Regional Funding-Work with the Bay Area Open Space Council to gain funding for
the San Francisco Bay Area Program of the State Coastal Conservancy. Because both AB
104 and AB 204 failed in recent years, generate new ideas and corresponding legislation and
seek passage.
Progress:
• Wrote to Ira Ruskin on July 20, 2005 to reiterate our support for SB
153, the California Clean Water, Safe Neighborhood Parks, and
Coastal Protection Act of 2006, thank him for his leadership role as
a coauthor, and ask him to support two critical amendments to the
bill.
• On July 20, 2005, wrote to Senator Wes Chesbro to urge support of
SB 153 and request an allocation of $100 million for the Bay Area
Conservancy Program administered by the Coastal Conservancy.
• On June 23, 2005 wrote to Assemblymember Johan Klehs, Chair, CA
Assembly Revenue & Taxation Committee, to support SB 203, which
would provide San Mateo County the ability to present voters with a
ballot measure increasing county sales tax by one-eighth percent
(1/8 %) and dedicating the generated revenue to parks and
recreation activities throughout San Mateo County.
• On June 20, 2005, wrote to Jenny Oropeza, Chair, CA Assembly
Committee on Transportation, to urge support of SB 658, Senator
Public Affairs Page 10
I
Kuehl's Coastal Environment Motor Vehicle Mitigation Program, in
her hearing on June 20, 2005.
County Board of
On August 22, 2005, wrote to the Santa Clara C
� y
Supervisors to urge support of a Resolution of Support for a Park
Charter Measure at the Board's August 23 meeting, to enable
continued dedicated funding for the acquisition and maintenance of
county parks.
• On October 26, 2005, adopted a Resolution Endorsing the Santa
Clara County Board of Supervisors Resolution to Place the County
Parks Charter on the June 2006 Ballot and Endorse Passage of the
Measure.
• The District has taken on an active role in Parks for the Future, an
effort to secure dedicated tag-based revenues to support the parks
and recreation-related activities of San Mateo County, the cities
located within the County, the Ladera and (Highlands recreation
districts, and Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District by placing
a measure to increase sales tag byl/8 cent on a future ballot.
4. Federal Legislation - Work with members of Congress and State and local agency leaders to
develop and implement a strategy to:
a. Seek Federal legislative assistance in securing funding for the clean up of the former
Almaden Air Force Station at Mt. Umunhum in the Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve,
which is a"Formerly Used Defense Site," or FUDS.
Progress:
Updated clean-up chronology and presented it to potential
project lobbyists. Continue to field calls from the public and to
add interested folks to the District's "Friends of Mt. Umunhum"
database for future project assistance.
b. Follow-up to ensure full funding of the stateside Land and Water Conservation
Funds.
Progress:
Requested Senator Boger on November 22, 2005 to fight for the
survival of the Land Water Conservation Fund, a very successful
and needed program that has provided millions of dollars for
critical park improvements across the country over a number of
years.
c. Seek Federal legislative assistance in dissolving the Guadalupe Land Co.
Progress:
We determined that federal legislative assistance is not needed to
dissolve the company.
d. Review specific pieces of Federal legislation and support, oppose, or seek
amendments to those bills that impact the District.
Public Affairs Page 11
Other Projects and Activities
1. Continually review and, working with legal counsel, analyze legislation, determine
recommended District positions on bills, and take appropriate action, if any, on bills.
2. Work with legislators, legislative committees, state and federal administrators, other
agencies, private organizations, and interested citizens to provide information and to lobby
regarding state legislation and specific local issues.
Progress:
0 Met with Senator Ira Ruskin on July 18, 2005.
0 Met in November 2005 with Deputy Chief of Staff Monica Smith of
Sally Lieber's office.
3. Support federal, state, or local legislation that will benefit the District.
4. Provide support and services for specific District projects requiring legislative support, such
as grant applications and regional and state awards. Obtain letters of support for grant
applications, such as Habitat Conservation Fund and Wildlife Conservation Board grants.
Progress:
• On May 25, 2005, wrote to Paul Romero, California Department of
Parks and Recreation to thank him for supporting a legislative
solution that would extend the $325,000 Habitat Conservation Fund
Grant for the "Lobitos Creek" project.
• Also on May 25, 2005, wrote to Senator Simitian to thank him for
ensuring that the extension of the $325,000 Habitat Conservation
Fund Grant for the "Lobitos Creek" project was included in the State
budget, thereby greatly increasing the chances of assuring a one-
year grant extension.
5. Plan and conduct V.I.P. tours of District preserves for Santa Clara County elected officials
and representatives.
Progress: Project delayed to 2006/2007 fiscal year.
6. Maintain contact, and exchange information with other organizations and agencies.
Cooperate on special projects with organizations such as the regional Bay Area Open Space
Council, and participate in special events, such as conferences and seminars, to keep District
staff and the Board informed of current issues.
7. Continue to provide staff support to the Legislative, Finance, and Public Affairs Committee,
and work as needed to develop District positions on and involvement in statewide open space
issues. Assist in the implementation of a Board-adopted, district-wide E-Communications
Policy.
Progress: Project completed.
8. Provide a District presence in key legislative activities, meetings, and conferences in
Sacramento, directly and/or with the District's legislative advocate.
Public Affairs Page 12
2005-2006
Community Prop-rams
Obiective
To engage and involve a diverse range of community members and District staff in meeting the
community needs of enjoying and understanding open space, and supporting District staff in
achieving the District's objectives by providing high quality, ecologically sensitive public
programs that involve community members as volunteers, inspire stewardship of open space, and
support the acquisition, preservation, and restoration objectives of the District.
Key Projects
I. Community Programs Vision —Take the input gathered from Board members and staff to
reevaluate the formal Community Programs Vision format. Integrate new Community
Affairs Supervisor and align functional responsibilities.
Progress:
Hired the Community Programs Aide in August 2005. Rather than
producing a formal Community Programs Vision, the program's
strategy will be formulated in the context of a broader District
outreach plan.
2. Coastside Expansion of Community Programs—Monitor and assess needs for new and/or
expanded volunteer and docent programs to incorporate and attract new District constituents
on the coast.
Progress:
The staff has increased participation by Coastside residents: five new
Volunteer Trail Patrol members were recruited from Montara, Half
Moon Bay and the La Honda areas and 23 Coastside residents now
receive Volunteer News, the District's volunteer newsletter.
3. Volunteer Handbook—Complete the writing, reproduction, and distribution of the Volunteer
Handbook.
Progress:
An updated and improved Volunteer Handbook was completed in time
for the April 2006 trainings, for new Volunteer Trail Patrol members
and the initiation of the new Outdoor Activity Training model.
4. Volunteer Leadership/Mgmt Training for Staff- Create and implement formal training
programs for staff on working with volunteers, leading volunteer projects, and provide
general orientation to the different volunteer programs.
Progress:
A formal Staff Management Training on Volunteer Leadership was
designed and conducted. The training coordinated speakers from
Community Programs and the Operations, and Administration
Departments to participate and present on various subjects.
Public Affairs Page 13
i
5. Trail Patrol Special Assignment- Explore various ways in which patrol volunteers can assist
in monitoring illegal trail use and construction and implement a system where volunteers and
staff work together to form organized group patrols.
Progress:
• Created a formal program information packet detailing goals,
procedures, and instructions for a pilot program involving one-on-
one orientation hikes and team patrols at ECdM. Worked with
Skyline Patrol staff to explore potential methods for additional
patrol support from trail patrol volunteers. Recruited approximately
10 veteran members who participated in area orientations and
performed 340 hours of individual and team patrols.
Ongoing Projects and Activities
Docent Program
l. Recruit, screen and train Outdoor Education Leaders,Nature Center Hosts and Outdoor
Activity Docents. Continue to offer enrichment opportunities for active docents.
2. Continue to offer a broad range of public interpretive outdoor activities on open space
preserves, encouraging docents to conduct new engaging activities at less-utilized preserves.
3. Maintain and operate the David C. Daniels Nature Center. Continue to implement the
District's Spaces and Species environmental education program. Explore how new
constituent groups can gain access to the Center.
Progress:
• Spaces & Species, Spring 2005: 1S Spaces & Species fieldtrips were
conducted this Spring at the Daniels Nature Center. Many teachers
commended the program saying for providing great field trips and
links to classroom learning.
• Docents completed special field trip requests for three school-age
children groups: School for the Deaf, Orthodox School, and
Washington Open Kindergarten at Picchetti.
• Created a joint Daniels Nature Center/Spaces & Spaces Program
brochure.
4. Arrange, publicize, reserve spaces for, and work with field staff to support the Fremont Older
House and Garden Tours (Spring 2005), Outdoor Activities, and Family Outdoor Discovery
(Year Round) programs.
Progress:
The Fremont Older House Tour was held on April 30 (tour for District
staff held on April 29).
5. Work with the Operations department to fill requests for occasional District ranger outreach
appearances at local schools by interested District rangers.
Page 14
Public Affairs
6. Research, evaluate and if possible, create a new Outdoor Activity Docent training model for
implementation in 2006.
Progress•
The Department researched and set up a training model for
implementation in 2006.
7. Provide program information for docents by producing two editions of the Docent
Connections newsletter per year.
Volunteer Program
I. Continue to provide volunteer support for resource management projects by working with
staff to schedule, conduct, and evaluate a sustainable number of resource management
volunteer projects. Identify and recruit individuals and/or groups that can become involved
with the District as new Preserve Partner volunteers.
Progress•
• Organized, coordinated, and planned over 30 resource management
projects this season.
• Recruited new individual Preserve Partners and new Special Groups
such as Coyote Point Museum Summer Youth program, Cisco
volunteers, Artemis volunteers, Soroptimist Int'l, MAS Youth Give,
Bay Area Orienteering, etc.
2. Coordinate safe, educational, and productive volunteer service projects-throughout the year at
various open space preserves.
Progress:
Organized and coordinated 61 volunteer service projects, including
trail construction and maintenance, habitat restoration, fence and
retaining wall construction and maintenance, and other preserve/trail
maintenance tasks.
3. Recruit, screen, and train new Trail Patrol, Crew Leader, Community Outreach and Special
Field Project volunteers to assist staff in maintaining and protecting District preserves. Offer
enrichment opportunities for active volunteers.
Progress•
• Recruitment, screening and training:
o 16 new Trail Patrol volunteers-recruited and completed training.
o 2 new Community Outreach Volunteers-recruited and completed
training.
o 8 new Crew Leaders-recruited (training postponed to May 2006).
o 8 Special Project Field Volunteers (including college interns and
eagle scout candidates.
• Updated both the Volunteer Trail Patrol and Crew Leader training
manuals and materials to fit the new Volunteer Handbook.
Public Affairs Page 15
4. Provide public information about volunteer programs, projects, and accomplishments by
producing four issues of Volunteer News.
5. Resume individual evaluation hikes and rides for Trail Patrol members. Create pre-
evaluation surveys utilizing the District's new online survey system to increase efficiency of
the time spent on the evaluation hike or ride.
6. Examine potential lunchtime enrichment presentations for volunteer outdoor service projects.
Identify appropriate speakers such as Board members, District docents. Coordinate logistics,
and schedule a number of trial presentations.
Progress•
Organized various speakers throughout the season, including Tales &
Trails Author David Weintraub, Docent Dick Gehrer, Director Larry
Hassett, Docent Coordinator Renee Fitzsimons, and POST Executive
Vice President Walter Moore for lunchtime presentations at Russian
Ridge, St. Joseph's Hill, Bear Creek Redwoods, Mills Creek, and La
Honda Creek.
7. Demonstrate to public and peer groups the innovative approach to volunteer management.
Refine and upgrade the 'High Tech Volunteer' presentation (presented at the CPRS
Conference) to reflect new methods and the District's new Web site and online forms.
Progress•
• Updated presentation and presented at the spring 2005 CPRS
Conference in Sacramento.
• Hosted a spring Volunteer Administrators Network meeting at the
District Admin Office. Led discussion of Web site/on-line form use
for 15+ peninsula volunteer coordinators.
• Gave High Tech Volunteer presentation to recreation and leisure
grad students at SF State.
• Worked w/ Area Superintendent Michael Newburn on integrating the
High Tech Volunteer info into his presentation at the Maintenance
Mgmt conference.
Other Projects and Activities
1. Conduct an annual Volunteer Recognition Event, and assess other recognition activities for
docents and volunteers that demonstrate the District's appreciation for the efforts of
volunteers and docents.
Progress:
Coordinated successful event at Rancho de Guadalupe. Over 165
volunteers, staff and Board members attended 'Fiesta de Guadalupe'.
2. Research new methods of sending group email notices to the various volunteer groups to
ensure that the most efficient system is being used and that current methods are not being
detected as SPAM and blocked by recipients' systems.
Public Affairs Page 16
3. Sustain effective communications between Community Programs staff and field staff
involved with Community Programs.
Progress:
• Worked with Skyline and Foothills to establish updated line of
communication/procedures for scheduling outdoor service projects
after the new Resource Management Supervisor positions were
created.
• Effective communication with Skyline staff in creating,
coordinating, and evaluating Trail Patrol Special Assignment pilot
program.
4. Conduct "Earth Day" and California Trail Day events that provide appropriate ways for the
community to be involved in projects or outdoor activities that celebrate the environment and
our natural resources during the period of time prior to and shortly after"Earth Day."
Progress•
• Organized four Outdoor Service Projects at Skyline Ridge, Long
Ridge, Picchetti Ranch, and La Honda Creek-Red Barn area.
• Staffed District Outreach Booth at Sunnyvale Earth Day Event.
5. Upgrade the system by which volunteers and docents evaluate training programs and events
by establishing on-line surveys utilizing the District's new survey account. Develop a self-
evaluation instrument for the docent program.
Progress•
Upgraded the following evaluation systems to on-line systems: Trail
Patrol Training Program for New Members, Community Outreach
Events, Volunteer Recognition Event, Individual Trail Patrol Member
Evaluations.
6. Analyze feasibility of developing comprehensive District Interpretive Plan.
Public Affairs Page 17
ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT
Programs
A. Administration
B. Human Resources
C. Legal Services
To Implement the
BASIC POLICY OBJECTIVE:
Administers the affairs of the District on behalf of the public so as to maximize accomplishment
of the goals and objectives of the District within existing financial, legal and other constraints.
General Program Emphasis for 2005-2006
Continue to support the District-wide efforts for improving supervisory, leadership, and
communication skills among all staff, including opportunities for employee input, in order to
enhance employee morale and the District's work environment. Foster staff participation in
carrying out the District's short and long-term goals and objectives. Maintain the District's
viability as an open space acquisition and management agency, and support the Coastal
Protection Program implementation.
Staff Resources
(Regular, full-time positions unless otherwise indicated)
General Manager
Assistant General Manager
General Counsel (80%time)
Controller(25%time)
At4emey-Assistant General Counsel
Management Analyst—Human Resources
Management Analyst—Administration
Senior Administrative Assistant
Senior Accounting Specialist
Administrative Assistant
Receptionist
Network Specialist
Accounting Clerk (80%time)Increased to 100% time 1/1/06
Administration Page 1
2005-2006
Administration Program
Objective
To provide overall coordination, direction and administrative foundation for all District activities
so as to maximize the accomplishment of the Board's policies and directives, to implement the
Action Plan, and to maintain the District's viability as an open space acquisition and
management agency.
Key Projects
1. Coastal Protection Program—Coordinate the efforts of the Board, consultants, and staff
to complete the Coastal Protection Program implementation. Work with all departments
to facilitate policy development to include the coastal annexation area, including the
Good Neighbor policy.
Progress:
Participated in all meetings related to the "Good Neighbor Policy"
including LFPAC, internal planning meetings and four public
meetings. Gave a presentation to the San Mateo County IAFCO
commissioners on our Coastal Protection Program progress to date.
Submitted reports to San Mateo County Fire and La Honda-
Pescadero Unified School District as required by agreements with
these agencies. Completed fiscal analysis for Coastside properties
acquired to date in accordance with Service Plan for Coastside
Protection Area.
2. State Budget Process —Continue to monitor state budget activities related to the District
as a result of the passage of Proposition I A by the voters.
Progress: No changes anticipated at this time.
3. District Funding—Continue to provide multi-year information/scenarios on District's
long-term finances, including bonded indebtedness and cash flow. Continue to monitor
the availability of grant funds for major land purchase and development projects.
Continue to pursue alternate sources of additional funding for land purchases throughout
the District, including the newly annexed Coastside Protection Area and open space
management needs.
4. Ombudsperson—Facilitate communication and staff assistance as needed to support the
Ombudsperson program.
Progress:
Facilitated renewal of Ombudsperson contract for 05/06. Worked
with and responded in a timely manner to questions (total of 9) from
the public directed to the Ombudsperson.
Administration Page 2
New Key Project on Resource Management:
Conducted RFP process and hired consultant to provide two resource
management workshops in March. One workshop for the Board and public
with panelists from other agencies, and one follow-up Board meeting/
workshop. Began to lead Management Team and resource management
staff through an analysis process to make recommendations to the Board
for expanding the District's Resource Management Program.
Other Proiects and Activities
1. Continue to foster a management team approach for overall management of the District's
activities.
2. Provide financial management and accounting services, including investment of
temporarily idle funds and compliance with new Government Accounting Standards.
Assure compliance with Purchasing Policies through review of all purchases and ongoing
education of staff. Prepare materials for annual audit.
3. Perform administrative and legal obligations as required by State law.
4. Oversee coordination of equipment/infrastructure needs at the main office.
5. Action Plan development and coordination of the program evaluation process.
6. Prepare, monitor, and revise annual budget, as necessary. Coordinate Administration and
Budget Committee meetings.
Progress:
Revised FY 2005-06 budget at mid-year; coordinated development of
FY 2006-07 budget.
7. Coordinate preparation and distribution of all materials for the Board's regular and
special meetings.
Progress:
Prepared agendas and packets for a total of 21 regular meetings and
10 special meetings and 32 committee meetings of the Board.
8. Involve Board of Directors in the planning of annual special Board meeting(s) to be held
as part of Board's Good Neighbor Policy; including coastal meetings.
9. Administer and update various risk management components, including training and
other proactive processes in conjunction with the CAJPIA.
Progress:
Provided (through the CAJPL%) specialized ergonomic training for
office and field employees for prevention of repetitive injuries.
10. Continue upgrades of the District's network computer system as needed to increase
efficiency and reliability; provide day-to-day technical support to both field offices; and
Administration Page 3
continue to assess system, develop resources and manage technological change and
improvements. Provide ongoing computer training to staff at all three offices.
Progress:
Completed Board and Administrative Policy for Electronics
Communication including policy review committee input.
11. Work with other departments to implement and fully utilize database elements that
contain information that is shared by multiple departments per consultant
recommendations.
12. Maintain Board and staff policy and procedure manuals.
13. Continue to use recycled products, whenever feasible, in accordance with the purchasing
policy.
14. Continue uploads of all Administrative Department documents, such as Board Meetings,
Agendas, Minutes and Reports to the Web Site.
15. Continue records management activities (permanent storage, record retention and/or
destruction) as required by law and designated by the District's Record's Management
Plan. Maintain the records management database.
16. Update the procedure manual for all administrative processes related to the District Clerk
responsibilities.
17. Coordinate and perform all activities required for maintenance of the newly-acquired
Guadalupe Land Corporation.
Progress:
Opened checking account for Guadalupe Land Corporation, paid bins
and held four (4) corporate meetings as required.
it
Administration Page 4
2005-2006
Human Resources Program
Objective
To provide coordination and direction for human resources activities so as to enhance the overall
quality and effectiveness of the District's work environment for all employees of the District.
Key Projects
1. Workplace Enhancement Plan—Continue to coordinate, monitor, and support the
Workplace Enhancement Plan activities. The Plan consists of methods for improving
communication among all employees and management staff, increasing employee input;
enhancing management, supervisory, leadership, and communication skills; and
establishing a greater emphasis on people management versus task management.
Progress:
Sent two new field supervisors to supervisory training. Provided 3
day "Influencing Skills" training to 15 new employees.
2. Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual—Complete the re-write of the Personnel
Policies and Procedures Manual for Board approval. Continue facilitation of an
employee input process with employees from each department. Write or revise
Administrative Policies and Procedures as needed, including employee input as part of
the process.
Progress:
Completed draft and employee review of 75% of the new manual.
3. Performance Standards—Assist all departments with timely and equitable evaluations.
Conduct meetings with staff and implement new performance evaluation forms,
including training of all supervisors.
4. Labor Negotiations —Conduct negotiations with the new field employees association
and implement any changes in salaries and benefits which may be the result of labor
negotiations.
Progress:
Substantial progress on important contract language changes,
(pending association ratification of entire contract and Board
approval. Negotiations continuing at this time).
Other Projects and Activities
1. Plan and conduct recruitment processes for all position vacancies in order to fill vacant
positions as soon as possible. Ensure consistency in hiring procedures. Provide a
comprehensive new employee orientation for all new employees.
Progress:
Completed eleven recruitments filling 15 positions, bringing the
District to full staffing for the first time in a number of years and
Administration Page 5
proposed the early filling of two positions to the Board of Directors,
which were approved.
2. Administer compensation and benefit programs for all employees.
3. Provide human resources support and employee or labor relations services to all
departments. Maintain positive and productive working relationships with represented
and non-represented employees.
4. Assess training needs, identify training resources and schedule in-house training
programs as needed to develop and improve leadership, management, supervisory,
communications skills and risk management skills.
5. Coordinate, plan, and organize the annual staff recognition event on behalf of the Board.
Oversee the staff activities ("Fun") committee. Coordinate and plan other staff events as
needed.
6. Promote and oversee the District's safety program including facilitating a Safety Fair.
Progress:
Facilitated a Safety/Health Fair in conjunction with the annual Staff
Recognition Event.
7. Continue expanded utilization of the new HRIS database system with applicable payroll
functions to eliminate duplicate processes.
Administration Page 6
2005-2006
Legal Services Program
Objective
To provide timely legal services to the Board and to all District Departments; to advise and assist
the Board and staff in developing and implementing District policies, regulations, and
ordinances, and in accomplishing District projects in accordance with law.
Key Projects
1. Real Property - Provide legal advice concerning District real property matters, including
acquisition, disposition, management, title and encroachment issues, easement issues,
leases, licenses, and permits to enter District land. Anticipated major projects include:
• Litigation - Continue and complete MROSD v. Portola Investment Company,quiet
title action to obtain title to Dennis Martin Road to address use and management
issues (Thomewood Open Space Preserve); pursue resolution of encroachment at
Bear Creek Open Space Preserve, MROSD v. Landi; Resolve property rights issues at
Fremont Older Open Space Preserve, Saratoga Country Club v. MROSD; and at Coal
Creek Open Space Preserve, Fogarty v. MROSD.
Progress:
Completed the Portola Investment Company litigation and
secured fee title to Dennis Martin Road by completion of a quiet
title lawsuit; achieved a satisfactory settlement of the Landi
litigation and received payment for damages due to
encroachment; entered into a mutually acceptable agreement
with the Saratoga Country Club to dismiss the litigation and
enter into a feasibility study to determine if a new staging area
can be constructed by means of a land exchange; defended the
Fogartx litigation to protect the District's conservation easement
and public property rights at Coal Creek Open Space Preserve.
• Encroachment and Property Rights Claims - Assist Real Property Department in
resolving encroachments at Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve and Rancho
San Antonio Open Space Preserve; assist in resolution of access easement claims at
Coal Creek Open Space Preserve, Bear Creek Open Space Preserve and Sierra Azul
Open Space Preserve; assist in preparation of new lease for Picchetti Winery.
Continue working with the Real Property and Operations Departments identifying
and resolving property rights issues on District land.
Progress:
Worked closely with Real Property to resolve an encroachment at
Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve by means of a potential
land exchange; worked with the Town of Los Gatos to begin
remediation of road grading in violation of a conservation
easement at Sierra AzuI Open Space Preserve and to remove
encroachment into District easement at Kennedy Trail.
Administration Page 7
• Acquisition —Assist Real Property Department in connection with District ongoing
operation and management of Guadalupe Land Company property as a corporate
asset (Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve); assist in transactional documents to
accomplish easement exchanges (Montebello Open Space Preserve and Rancho San
Antonio Open Space Preserve).
Progress:
o Provided legal advice and drafting of transactional documents
to enable District to purchase its first properties as part of the
Coastside Protection Program; assisted Real Property in
developing appropriate land purchase procedures to insure
compliance with the Coastside Service Plan and all applicable
LAFCO requirements; properties included Forde, Miramontes,
Rapley Ranch, Portola Lookout, and Driscoll Ranch; assisted
in preparation of Mitigated Negative Declaration for Driscoll
Ranch purchase.
• Provided legal advice on administration and operation of the
Guadalupe Land Company and secured continued pro bono
assistance from Wilson, Sonsini, Rosati and Goodrich for this
purpose; prepared and reviewed transactional documents for
potential land exchanges at Rancho San Antonio Open Space
Preserve and Montebello Open Space Preserve.
• Other Projects - Continue working with Real Property and Planning Departments to
pursue global solutions to streamline the acquisition and planning processes,
including a Memorandum of Agreement with Santa Clara County to identify
acquisitions that are exempt from the requirements of the Subdivision Map Act, and
Memorandum of Agreement with San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties clarifying the
consistency of acquisitions with County planning requirements.
Progress:
Provided draft MOA to identify acquisitions that may be exempt
from the Map Act; other streamlining solutions are under
discussion with the respective counties and these discussions are
expected to continue.
2. Risk Management—Provide advice and monitor current claims and litigation against the
District; represent the District's interests in insurance and CJPIA coverage matters;
provide oversight of matters handled by outside counsel; investigate and maximize
insurance coverage for claims filed against the District.
Progress:
Handled coverage issues including obtaining continued title
insurance coverage on covered matters; oversight and co-counsel
work with outside counsel is active on all pending litigation.
3. Human Resources - Assist in carrying out labor relations functions; provide legal advice
on personnel matters. Anticipated major projects: Continue to advise on update of
Administration Page 8
District's Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual; continue to assist in implementing
the legal aspects of the Workplace Enhancement Plan; assist in labor negotiations in
Fiscal Year 2005-2006 as needed.
Progress•
This is a continuing function.
4. Coastal Protection Program - Anticipated major projects: Continue to provide advice
concerning legal requirements applicable to implementing the Coastal Protection
Program; draft and review necessary Program documents; and assistance in litigation
challenging LAFCo's approval of the Program, Citizens for Responsible Open Space v.
MROSD.
Progress•
Advice concerning this Program is an ongoing function; active
participation with outside counsel in the pending litigation
challenging the Coastside Protection Program occurred throughout
the year.
5. Operations - Advise on the update of the Field Operations Manual; continue to assist in
the development of Cooperation Agreements for provision of law enforcement and
emergency services with sister agencies; work with Operations in resolving jurisdiction
issues to assist in developing such agreements.
Progress•
Work on the peace officer jurisdictional issue was not completed
due to ongoing litigation in the City of Del Mar concerning a similar
issue; this issue is a key project in 2006-2007.
6. Planning- Advise on the Navy remediation project at Site 25 (Ravenswood Open Space
Preserve); provide advice concerning resolution of mercury NRDA, TMDL and
remediation issues at the Rancho de Guadalupe property (Sierra Azul Open Space
Preserve).
Progress•
Work on Site 25 at the Stevens Creek Nature Study Area continued
as the Navy moved forward on its public planning process; NRDA
Consent Decree received final approval and Mercury TMDL process
will be ongoing.
7. Public Affairs— Work with Public Affairs and Administration to complete and
implement a revised Electronic Communications Policy.
Progress:
Electronic Communications Policy was completed and approved by
the Board.
Other Projects and Activities
1. Provide legal research concerning historic parcels and chains of title to assist in resolving
real property issues and in support of Planning and Real Property projects.
Administration Page 9
2. Provide advice concerning legal requirements applicable to the District such as the
Brown Act, conflict of interest laws, election law, and the California Environmental
Quality Act.
3. Assist Departments in bidding processes and contract administration for public works and
professional services contracts; update model public works contracts to reflect current
statutory requirements.
4. Prepare and review District legal documents such as contracts, easements, leases,
permits, regulations, and ordinances.
5. Represent the District's legal interests in matters involving other government agencies.
6. Advise the District on court rulings and legislation affecting the District and assist in
drafting and pursuing legislation proposed by the District.
Administration Page 10
Regional Open Space
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
R-06-73
Meeting 06-15
June 14, 2006
AGENDA ITEM 3
AGENDA ITEM
Authorization to Amend the Agreement with EDAW, Inc., for an Additional Amount of$57,250
for a Total Amount Not to Exceed $265,250, to Provide,,Additional Master Planning Services for
the Sierra Azul and Bear Creek Redwoods Open SpaQ6 Preserves
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMEND
Authorize the General Manager to amend the agreement with EDAW, Inc., of San Francisco for an
additional $57,250 for a total contract amount of$265,250 for master planning services at Sierra
Azul and Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserves.
DISCUSSION
The Sierra Azul/Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserves Master Plan will develop a
comprehensive and long-term use and management plan for the District's two southernmost
property areas, establish the framework to protect the natural, cultural, and historic resources in
these rural landscapes, provide opportunities for recreation access, interpretation, and education
that complement the protection of resources, and use a collaborative, community-based approach
to engage stakeholders and the public in the planning process.
On May 26, 2004,the Board of Directors authorized the General Manager to execute a contract
with EDAW, Inc. ("EDAW")to provide master planning services for Sierra Azul and Bear Creek
Redwoods Open Space Preserves for a sum not to exceed $170,000 (see Report R-04-52). On
April 13, 2005, the Board of Directors authorized a contract amendment for an extra $38,000 to
improve the exchan e of information with the Ad Hoc
to further
additional services fund adg
Committee and conduct a historical research and analysis of the Alma College site (see Report R-
05-42). EDAW initiated work on the Master Plan in October 2004 with the first phase of the
project focusing on data collection and data review. During the second phase of the project,
EDAW has assisted staff with the facilitation of two public workshops, numerous Ad Hoc
Committee Meetings, and one focus group meeting. The Master Plan project team is currently
preparing for a third public workshop that is tentatively scheduled for September to present draft
plan alternatives for public review and comment.
Given the pace and progress of the project and the hands-on and active participation of the public,
the Ad Hoc Committee, and fellow District staff, the Master Plan project team foresees the need
for additional consultant services to complement the work completed to date. Additional tasks
R-06-73 Page 2
proposed for the Master Plan development phase include: co-facilitation of two additional Ad Hoc
Committee meetings; preparation and facilitation of a District Staff Alternatives Workshop,
whereby staff will have the opportunity to develop draft plan alternatives for Ad Hoc Committee
review; and additional hours for Draft Plan preparation, review and edits. Staff also anticipates
the need for funding to cover consultant assistance to prepare for a fourth public workshop that
will focus on providing the public with a detailed summary of the Draft Master Plan and traffic
engineering services and analysis during the environmental review phase of the project.
The cost of the additional consultant services for the Master Plan total $44,650. Staff also
requests a contingency amount of$12,600, which accounts for approximately 5% of the new total
contract amount to cover the cost for additional services during Plan preparation and
environmental review beyond those that are currently expected. Staff believes these amounts to
be reasonable given the workload required to complete the additional Master Plan tasks.
Amending the consultant services agreement with EDAW in the amount of$57,250, which
includes a 5% contingency, would increase the contract amount to a not-to-exceed total of
$265,250.
Fundinp,
The Planning Department budget for fiscal year 2006-2007 includes $165,550 to complete the
Master Plan. There are sufficient funds in this current fiscal year budget to cover the cost for the
additional Master Planning services.
CEQA COMPLIANCE
Staff concludes that amending the consultant agreement for master planning services does not
constitute a project under California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Therefore, the
recommended action is exempt. Future action taken by the Board to implement the consultant's
work, such as adopting the Master Plan, is subject to CEQA review at that time.
Prepared by:
Ana Ruiz, AICP, Open Space Planner 11
Contact Person:
Same as above
i
i
Reginnal Open Space
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
R-06-69
Meeting-06-15
June 14,2006
AGENDA ITEM 4
AGENDA ITEM
Authorization to Award Contract to Ram Building Company r Structural Repairs and New Decking at
the Former Hayes Property, El Sereno Open Space Prese
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Determine that the recommended actions are categorically exempt from the California
Environmental Quality Act(CEQA) as set out in this report.
2. Authorize the General Manager to execute a contract with Ram Building Company of Campbell,
California for the base bid amount of$56,840 plus $6,080 for a Trex Decking upgrade, $1.9,915 for a
wrought iron guardrail, and a contingency amount of up to $8,200, for a total amount not to exceed
$91,035 for the structural repair and new decking to the house on the former Hayes Property, El
Sereno Open Space Preserve.
DISCUSSION
I
At your January 11, 2006 meeting, you authorized staff to solicit bids for structural and deck repairs for
the house at the former Hayes property at El Sereno Open Space Preserve (see Report R-06-06). The
project includes demolishing the existing main deck and lower-level deck and framing, installing, and
retrofittingthe new deck in compliance with state and count building requirements.
p Y g q
The Board of Directors requested that Trex decking be considered as an alternative to redwood
decking. For guardrails, staff requested bids for two options, redwood and pre-fabricated wrought
iron. Although he wrought iron railing and the Trex deck are more expensive alternatives, staff
the g g p
feels they are superior choices in terms of safety, durability, maintenance and, in the long run, cost
p
efficiency.
A mandatory pre-bid meeting was held at the project site on May 11, 2006, which was attended by two
interested contractors. Two sealed bids were received at the Bid Opening on May 25, 2006:
Total TOTAL
Base Bid Wrought
Bidder Location (redwood Redwood Iron Trex Contingency (Trex deck,
Guardrail wrought iron
deck, no Guardrail guardrail)
uardrail
Ram Building
Company Campbell $56,840 $14,570 $19,915 $6,080 $8,200 $91,035
Central Construction San Jose $86,302 $20,370 $16,580 $7,235 $11,011 $121,128
The original estimate made by the project engineer, Tom Jakaby of Jakaby Engineering, for a
(
redwood deck including a redwood guardrail was $48,250. Therefore, staff budgeted $50,000 for
I
I
i
F
Page 2
this project. However, both bids submitted to the District are higher than that amount. The Ram
Building Company's base bid of$56,840 plus $14,570 for redwood guardrail totals $71,410, which
is $21,410 above the project budget.
The reasons the project bids exceeded the Jakaby cost estimate are due to increased labor material
and costs. In addition, the contract, bonding and insurance requirements for public works projects
limit interested and qualified bidders to contractors experienced with public works projects.
Documents in the Bid Package state that the contract will be awarded to the lowest responsible and
responsive bidder if the bid is equal to or less than the Project Budget." None of the bids received were
equal to or less than the project budget of$50,000. Upon review of the Bid Proposals,the contractors'
qualifications, and discussions with the consulting architect (Jakaby Engineering), staff recommends
awarding the contract to Ram Building Company, the lowest responsive and responsible bidder for the
bid amount of$56,840, with the alternatives of Trex decking in an amount of$14,570 and a wrought
iron railing in an amount of$19,915, plus a contingency of$8,200, for a total contract amount not to
exceed $91,035.
Staff anticipates that the project will be completed by early August 2006. Notification of the project will
be posted on the District's website and signs will be installed on site at El Serena Open Space Preserve
to inform the public of this project. The existing District tenant will continue to reside in the home
during the course of construction and no trail closures are anticipated as a result of this project.
Funding
Real Property has budgeted $50,000 for the project. The additional project costs will come from
Department savings or, if necessary, as a mid-year budget adjustment.
CEQA COMPLIANCE
Project Description
The project consists of structural upgrades and repairs to the former Hayes House at El Sereno Open
Space Preserve. This includes demolition, structural repairs, and installation of new decking with a
wrought iron guardrail.
CEQA Determination
The District concludes that this project will not have a significant effect on the environment. It is
categorically exempt from the CEQA under Section 15301.
Categorical Exemption 15331 —Historical Resource Restoration/Rehabilitation
The minor alteration of an existing public or private structure (structural repair of an existing deck) that
involves negligible expansion of use.
Prepared by:
John P. Dickey, Real Property Specialist
Contact Person:
Michael C. Williams, Real Property Manager
t `
Regional Open Space
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
R-06-72
Meeting 06-15
June 14, 2006
AGENDA ITEM 5
AGENDA ITEM
Authorization to Amend the Contract with LFR Levine-Fricke to Provide Environmental
Services for an Additional $36,000 for an Overall Amount Not to Exceed $80,475 for Petroleum
Product Release Source Investigations at Pulgas Ridge Open,Space Preserve
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATIONS ---
1. Authorize the General Manager to amend the contract with LFR Levine-Fricke to provide
environmental services for an additional $36,000 in an overall amount not to exceed
$80,475 for petroleum product release source investigations at Pulgas Ridge Open Space
Preserve, and approve the additional expenditure therefor.
2. Determine that the recommended actions are categorically exempt from the California
Environmental Quality Act(CEQA) as set out in this report.
BACKGROUND
District staff has been investigating the source of petroleum product contamination and
conducting remediation of affected areas at Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve since the
P emerging Y
petroleum was first observed emer in at the site in February 2004. At that time, District staff
began working with the San Mateo County Environmental Health Division, Groundwater
Protection Program, which opened a file for the site, asserting their regulatory authority as the
overseeing agency for what is considered an unauthorized release of waste to waters and/or soil
of the State.
Suspecting the source of the petroleum to be an underground storage tank associated with the
former boiler house used to heat the former Hassler Health Home facility, the District contracted
with LFR Levine-Fricke in February 2005 to conduct a geophysical investigation of the site to
locate a possible source of the petroleum product (see report R-05-93). These investigations
failed to positively identify a likely underground storage tank or other source of the petroleum
product. However, an earthen storm drain was located which functioned as the conduit for the
petroleum product.
With the approval of San Mateo County Environmental Health, the District began excavating
and removing the storm drain, finding that the storm drain was contaminated with a tar-like
substance thought to be weathered fuel oil. Removal of the storm drain stopped at the location
where the pipe was observed to have no further contamination. However, on January 3, 2006,
R-06-72 Page 2
District staff again observed petroleum product emerging from the ground during heavy rains.
Storm drain removal activities were initiated again in March 2006, at which time additional
petroleum contamination of the storm drain was found (see report R-06-23). Excavation of the
storm drain was halted short of the complete removal of the entire pipe because of complications
with excessive water within the storm drain, at which point staff determined that removal of the
remaining section of pipe should proceed when the area dried out later in the year.
DISCUSSION
The site has sufficiently dried out at this time to permit the completion of the removal of the
storm drain. During the excavation, staff and the contractor will continue to carefully inspect the
pipe to determine if the petroleum contamination is entering the pipe from another location (e.g.
a smaller lateral line or cracks within the pipe) or if the contamination is resulting solely from
petroleum product within the storm drain.
FUNDING
The District will continue to use the services of LFR Levine-Fricke to prepare the necessary
work plan and reporting documents for submittal to San Mateo County as well as oversee the
subcontractor retained to remove the contaminated materials. The contract amount for services
with LFR Levine-Fricke is currently at $44,475. The additional services being provided by LFR
under this amendment are estimated at$36,000, which would bring the total contract amount for
services to $80,475. The Fiscal Year 2006-2007 Planning Department Budget includes only
$10,000 for these additional services. The additional services requested will require a mid-year
budget adjustment, however, they may be savings in the Watershed Protection Program to cover
this additional expense.
CEQA COMPLIANCE
This project involves limited earthwork for investigating subsurface soil conditions at Pulgas
Ridge Open Space Preserve.
The District concludes that the source investigations will not have a significant effect on the
environment. It is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act(CEQA)
under Section 15330 of the CEQA Guidelines as follows:
Section 15330 exempts minor actions to prevent, minimize, stabilize, mitigate, or
eliminate the release or threat of release of a hazardous waste or substances.
Prepared by:
Kirk Lenington, Resource Planner
Contact Person:
rRegional Open Space
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
R-06-74
Meeting 06-15
June 14, 2006
AGENDA ITEM 6
AGENDA ITEM
Authorization to Amend the Contract with Richard Seymour and Associates for an Additional
$13,250 for an Overall Amount Not to Exceed $41,450 to Survey and Assess the Presence of
Sensitive Aquatic Amphibians and Reptiles on District L ds �
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDAfiI6b1 ',d
1. Authorize the General Manager to amend the contract with Richard Seymour and Associates
to provide professional services in an overall amount not to exceed $41,450 to survey and
assess the aquatic amphibians and reptiles on District lands.
2. Determine that the recommended actions are categorically exempt from the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as set out in this report.
DISCUSSION
In January 2006 the District contracted with Richard Seymour and Associates to complete a
targeted survey of special status aquatic reptile and amphibian species occurring on District lands
(see report R-06-05). This study surveyed for the presence of California red-legged frog,
western pond turtle, and San Francisco garter snake populations and habitats in ponds and
streams of the District's lands. Because of the differing natural history of the target species, the
study period for this contract begins in the late winter or early spring and extends well into the
summer months. At the time that the contract was approved in January, funds were only
available to cover services through the end of the Fiscal Year 2005-2006.
Funds have been allocated in the Fiscal Year 2006-2007 budget to cover the additional surveys
for the presence of western pond turtle and San Francisco garter snake. Surveys will also be
conducted for California red-legged frog at creek sites more appropriate to survey during warmer
months.
FUNDING
The Fiscal Year 2006-2007 Planning Department Budget includes $15,000 for these additional
services. The contract amount for services with Richard Seymour and Associates is currently at
$28,200. The additional services being provided under this amendment at an amount of$13,250
will bring the total contract for services to $41,450.
i
R-Oe�-74 Page 2
CEOA COMPLIANCE
This project is a survey and assessment of habitat for sensitive aquatic reptile and amphibian
species on District lands.
The District concludes that the survey and assessment authorized under this contract will not
have a significance effect on the environment. It is categorically exempt from the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)under section 15306 of the CEQA Guidelines as follows:
Section 15306 exempts basic data collection, research, experimental management, and resource
evaluation activities that do not result in major disturbances to an environmental resource.
Prepared by:
Kirk Lenington, Resource Planner
Contact person:
Same as Above
4
Aegional Open Space
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
R-05-68
Meeting 06-15
June 14, 2006
AGENDA ITEM 7 �
AGENDA ITEM
Resolution Supporting the Safe Drinking Water, WaterQuality.and Supply, Flood Control, River
Pp g g ,
and Coastal Protection Act of 2006
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMEND
Adopt the attached Resolution supporting the Safe Drinking Water, Water Quality and Supply,
Flood Control, River and Coastal Protection Act of 2006 that will be placed on the November
2006 ballot.
DISCUSSION
Current funding for California's natural resource protection programs is critically low at less than
1%of the overall state budget and current bond funds will run out as early as 2006. The state will
experience an enormous population growth in coming years and will be left without funding for
critical new investments in safe drinking water, water quality and supply, flood control, state and
local parks, and protection of California's rivers, streams, bays and coastline.
In response to California's need for future investment in infrastructure, an initiative was
developed by a coalition of conservation groups in collaboration with water agencies and local
governments from across the state, as well as environmental, urban, and other public interest
organizations. The Safe Drinking Water, Water Quality and Supply, Flood Control, River and
Coastal Protection Act of 2006 is a$5.4 billion water and natural resources protection initiative.
Funds from this bond would ensure that all Californians have access to safe drinking water, be
better protected from floods, and will continue to have opportunities to enjoy California's parks,
1 landscapes, and magnificent coastline. The District would be able to participate in
natural p p
p � g
programs funded by this bond.
Prepared by:
Kristi AItieri Public Affairs Specialist
Contact person: Craig Britton, General Manager
i
i
RESOLUTION NO. 06-
A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
OF THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
TO SUPPORT THE SAFE DRINKING WATER, WATER QUALITY
AND SUPPLY, FLOOD CONTROL, RIVER AND COASTAL
PROTECTION ACT OF 2006
i
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District recognizes the
importance of protecting California's natural resources; and
WHEREAS, California is facing many challenges, including enormous population growth in the coming
years, with 25 million new residents expected by 2040, and this anticipated population growth outpacing
the state's investment in infrastructure; and
WHEREAS, current funding for natural resources and environmental protection programs is critically low
at less than I%of the overall state budget; and
WHEREAS, California's economic future and public health and safety depend on investments in clean
and safe drinking water, flood control, access to parks and open space, and protection of the state's rivers,
streams, bays, and coastline; and
WHEREAS, voters have passed a series of resource bond measures since 1996 to support critical program
areas, including water quality and supply, flood control, state and local parks projects,pollution control
projects, and air pollution mitigation to fill the enormous backlog of resource infrastructure needs in
California; and
WHEREAS, current bond funds will run out as early as 2006 and critical programs will go unfunded and, i
in order to keep pace with new challenges and a rapidly growing population, additional infrastructure
investments will be necessary; and
WHEREAS, further investments must be made now to ensure that all Californians will have access to safe
drinking water,be better protected from floods, and will continue to have opportunities to enjoy
California's parks, natural landscapes,bays, and magnificent coastline.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional Open
Space District supports The Safe Drinking Water, Water Quality and Supply, Flood Control, River and
Coastal Protection Act of 2006.
I
1
Regional Open Space
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
R-06-70
Meeting 06-15
June 14, 2006
AGENDA ITEM 8
AGENDA ITEM
Adoption of Proposed Amendment to the District's Rules of Procedure to Conform Rule 2.12 to
Section 5532 of the Public Resources Code and Declare the Board's Policy Not to Permit
Unopposed Candidates to Have Their Names Appear on the BaI of
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMEN
Adopt the attached amendment to Rule 2.12 of the District's Rules of Procedure.
DISCUSSION
Section 5532(e) of the Public Resources Code, District's enabling legislation, states in part that:
"The Board of Directors may permit the candidates running unopposed to have their names
appear on the ballot, at the Board's option." [Emphasis added.] Section 2.12 of your Rules of
Procedures (Unopposed Candidates and Candidates' Statements) does not incorporate the "at the
Board's option" language and reads, "In the case where there is a single candidate qualified to
appear on the ballot, such candidate shall be permitted to have his or her name on the ballot at no
cost to the candidate." [Emphasis added.] State statutes prevail over the District's internal Rules
of Procedure.
The General Manager recommends that the Board exercise its option not to permit unopposed
candidates to have their names appear on the ballot by adopting the attached amendment to Rule
of Procedure 2.12. This amendment would adopt a rule that unopposed candidates not be
permitted to have his or her name on the ballot.
This recommendation is based on the high cost of listing a candidate and the lack of real public
benefit in doing so. The cost of listing an unopposed candidate in San Mateo County is
approximately $1.50 per registered voter($80,000 for Ward 6) and in Santa Clara County
approximately $2.00 per registered voter($127,241 for Ward 1).
The District has an effective public outreach and notification process to ensure any interested
persons are aware of upcoming opportunities to run for the District's Board of Directors. This
includes a public Notice of Election advertised in the local newspapers, displayed at the District
Office and published on the District web site. Also a press release is generated from Public
Affairs. If only one candidate is running despite this public outreach, no significant public
purpose is served by expending tax dollars to list an unopposed candidate.
II l
R-06-70 Page 2
Technical amendments are also recommended to update the Rule to reflect that ballot materials
are now often required to be translated into languages other than Spanish. Therefore,the
General Manager recommends adopting the amendment below(deletions are shown in strike-
out; additions are shown in underscore):
2.12 Unopposed Candidates and CandidatesStatements
In the case where there is a single candidate qualified to appear on the ballot, such candidate
shall not be permitted to have his or her name on the ballot(Public Resources Code § 5532 (e))
at ne eest te the eandidate. If such unopposed candidate requests that his or her candidate's
statement be included in official election material distributed to voters, the District shall bill such
candidate for the cost thereof, including costs related to any required Spanish translation.
In those wards where two or more candidates have qualified to appear on the ballot, a candidate
may file acandidate's statement not exceeding 200 words. The District will pay for the cost of
the stateMent9-efjuaV4eatk)ns, (and, if Muired preyided by the respective county feF eeunty
eandidates, Spanish translations of candidates'statements fer these requesting them) up to a
max*rnum ef NO weFds, shall, if Fequested, be pFevided by the DiStFiet at its expense pursuant to
the Elections Code of the State of California, and that no such candidate shall be billed for
availing himself or herself of these services.
Prepared by:
L. Craig Britton, General Manager
Contact person:
Same as above
Regional Open Space.
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
R-06-64
Meeting 06-15 AMENDED
June 14, 2006
AGENDA ITEM 9
AGENDA ITEM
Calling of District Elections in Wards 1, 2, 5 and 6 for November 7, 2006; Requests for Election
Consolidation Services from Santa Clara, San Mateo and Santa Cruz Counties
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATIONS
I Adopt the attached Resolution of the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District calling an election and requesting election consolidation services—
Santa Clara County, Wards 1, 2 and 5.
2. Adopt the attached Resolution of the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District calling an election and requesting election consolidation services—
San Mateo County, Wards 5 and 6.
3. Adopt the attached Resolution of the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District calling an election and requesting election consolidation services—
Santa Cruz County, Ward 2.
4. Adopt the attached Resolution of the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District authorizing not listing any unopposed candidate for election on the
November 7, 2006 ballots of Santa Clara, San Mateo and Santa Cruz Counties.
DISCUSSION
Voters in four of the District's seven wards are scheduled to elect Directors this November.
These wards and their current Directors are:
WARD GENERAL DESCRIPTION INCUMBENT
I Cupertino,Los Gatos,Monte Sereno,Saratoga Pete Siemens
2 Cupertino,Sunnyvale,Los Altos,Los Altos Hills,Stanford Mary Davey
5 East Palo Alto,Menlo Park,Palo Alto,Stanford Nonette 14anko
6 Atherton,La Honda,Loma Mar,Menlo Park,Pescadero,Portola Larry Hassett
Valley,Redwood Ci!y,San Gregorio,Woodside
R-06-64 Page 2
The attached Exhibit A map shows the current ward boundaries.
Calling the Election—Requesting Consolidation Services. In preparation for the November 7,
2006 general election, it is necessary for you to call an election in the District and request
election consolidation services from Santa Clara, San Mateo and Santa Cruz Counties. The
nomination period for the election will open on Monday,July 17,2006 and close on Friday,
August 11, 2006.
Opting Not to List the Names of Any Unopposed Candidates on the November 7,2006
Ballot. In past election years,the Board has opted not to list unopposed candidates, due to the
expense involved (see Reports R-02-70, R-00-82 and R-98-74). Throughout the election
process, staff utilizes an effective public communication and outreach program that mitigates any
potential loss of public awareness that may be caused by not listing unopposed candidates on the
ballot. In the interest of financial conservancy, it is recommended that the Board exercise its
option not to list any unopposed candidates on the ballot for the November 2006 election, as it
has in the past.
District election costs for San Mateo County is approximately$1.50 per registered voter
($80,000 for Ward 6), for Santa Clara County approximately $2.00 per registered voter
($127,241 for Ward 1); and for Santa Cruz County (approximately six registered voters)
$200.00. The District's 2006-2007 budgeted amount for elections is $80,000,based upon a
history of either no contested seats or only one contested seat. In the event more than one seat is
contested, the Board will have to appropriate additional funds, as applicable to cover the election
costs.
Prepared by:
Margaret Reimche,Deputy District Clerk
Contact Person:
Sally Thielfoldt, Assistant General Manager
RESOLUTION No. 06-
RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL
OPEN SPACE DISTRICT CALLING AN ELECTION AND REQUESTING ELECTIONS
CONSOLIDATED SERVICES—SANTA CLARA COUNTY
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
) ss.
County of Santa Clara
WHEREAS, in accordance with Sections 5530 and 5533 of the Public Resources Code, a
Biennial Governing Board Member Election has been ordered to be held on Tuesday,November
7, 2006 in the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District of Santa Clara County for the purpose
of electing three Directors of the Governing Board of the District; and
WHEREAS,pursuant to Part 3 (commencing with Section 10400)of Division 10 of the
Elections Code, such election may be either completely or partially consolidated.
NOW, THEREFORE,the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space
District does resolve as follows:
I Pursuant to Public Resources Code Sections 5530 and 5533,the Board of Directors of the
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District does call an election in the District for the
election of three members of the Board of Directors of the District in Wards 1, 2 and 5 on
Tuesday,November 7, 2006.
2. That said election be consolidated with the statewide general election to be held in Santa
Clara County on said date.
3. That the election precincts,polling places, voting booths and election officials in each of
the precincts shall,to the extent practicable,be the same as provided for the statewide
election on said date, as prescribed by the ordinance, order,resolution, or notice of the
Board of Supervisors of said County calling,providing for,or giving notice of such other
election and which sets forth such precincts,voting booths,polling places and election
officials.
4. That the Board of Supervisors of Santa Clara County is hereby authorized and instructed
to canvass the returns of said election for the office of members of the Board of Directors
of the Midpeninsula,Regional Open Space District and is requested to certify the results
of said election to the Board of Directors of the District.
5. The Board of Directors further requests,pursuant to Election Code Section 10002,that
county elections official be authorized to render services to the District relating to the
conduct of said election. The services shall be of the type normally performed by such
county elections official in conducting elections including,but not limited to,checking
registrations,printing and mailing ballots,ballot arguments, candidates' statements,
hiring election officers and arranging for polling places, and providing and distributing
election supplies.
6. The General Manager of the District is hereby authorized to reimburse the county in full
for the services performed upon presentation of a bill to the District.
7. The District Clerk is hereby directed to submit a certified copy of this Resolution to the
Board of Supervisors of the County of Santa Clara, and to appropriate county elections
official of said county.
r
t
RESOLUTION No. 06-
RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL
OPEN SPACE DISTRICT CALLING AN ELECTION AND REQUESTING ELECTIONS
CONSOLIDATED SERVICES—SAN MATEO COUNTY
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
) ss.
County of San Mateo )
WHEREAS, in accordance with Sections 5530 and 5533 of the Public Resources Code, a
Biennial Governing Board Member Election has been ordered to be held on Tuesday,November
7, 2006 in the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District of San Mateo County for the purpose
of electing two Directors of the Governing Board of the District; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Part 3 (commencing with Section 10400)of Division 10 of the
Elections Code, such election may be either completely or partially consolidated.
NOW, THEREFORE, the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space
District does resolve as follows:
l. Pursuant to Public Resources Code Sections 5530 and 5533,the Board of Directors of the
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District does call an election in the District for the
election of two members of the Board of Directors of the District in Wards 5 and 6 on
Tuesday,November 7, 2006.
2. That said election be consolidated with the statewide general election to be held in San
Mateo County on said date.
3. That the election precincts,polling places,voting booths and election officials in each of
the precincts shall,to the extent practicable,be the same as provided for the statewide
election on said date, as prescribed by the ordinance,order,resolution,or notice of the
Board of Supervisors of said County calling,providing for, or giving notice of such other
election and which sets forth such precincts, voting booths,polling places and election
officials.
4. That the Board of Supervisors of San Mateo County is hereby authorized and instructed
to canvass the returns of said election for the office of members of the Board of Directors
of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District and is requested to certify the results
of said election to the Board of Directors of the District.
5. The Board of Directors further requests,pursuant to Election Code Section 10002, that
county elections official be authorized to render services to the District relating to the
conduct of said election. The services shall be of the type normally performed by such
county elections official in conducting elections including,but not limited to, checking
registrations,printing and mailing ballots, ballot arguments, candidates' statements,
hiring election officers and arranging for polling places,and providing and distributing
election supplies.
6. The General Manager of the District is hereby authorized to reimburse the county in full
for the services performed upon presentation of a bill to the District.
7. The District Clerk is hereby directed to submit a certified copy of this Resolution to the
Board of Supervisors of the County of San Mateo, and to appropriate county elections
official of said county.
RESOLUTION No. 06-
RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL
OPEN SPACE DISTRICT CALLING AN ELECTION AND REQUESTING ELECTIONS
CONSOLIDATED SERVICES—SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
) ss.
County of Santa Cruz
WHEREAS, in accordance with Sections 5530 and 5533 of the Public Resources Code, a
Biennial Governing Board Member Election has been ordered to be held on Tuesday,November
7,2006 in the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District for the purpose of electing one
Director of the Governing Board of the District; and
WHEREAS,pursuant to Part 3 (commencing with Section 10400)of Division 10 of the
Elections Code, such election may be either completely or partially consolidated.
NOW, THEREFORE,the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space
District does resolve as follows:
1. Pursuant to Public Resources Code Sections 5530 and 5533,the Board of Directors of the
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District does call an election in the District for the
election of one member of the Board of Directors of the District in Ward 2 on Tuesday,
November 7, 2006.
2. That said election be consolidated with the statewide general election to be held in Santa
Cruz County on said date.
3. That the election precincts,polling places,voting booths and election officials in each of
the precincts shall,to the extent practicable,be the same as provided for the statewide
election on said date, as prescribed by the ordinance, order,resolution, or notice of the
Board of Supervisors of said County calling, providing for, or giving notice of such other
election and which sets forth such precincts, voting booths,polling places and election
officials.
4. That the Board of Supervisors of Santa Cruz County is hereby authorized and instructed
to canvass the returns of said election for the office of members of the Board of Directors
of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District and is requested to certify the results
of said election to the Board of Directors of the District.
5. The Board of Directors further requests, pursuant to Election Code Section 10002,that
county elections official be authorized to render services to the District relating to the
conduct of said election. The services shall be of the type normally performed by such
county elections official in conducting elections including,but not limited to,checking
registrations,printing and mailing ballots, ballot arguments, candidates' statements,
hiring election officers and arranging for polling places, and providing and distributing
election supplies.
6. The General Manager of the District is hereby authorized to reimburse the county in full
for the services performed upon presentation of a bill to the District.
7. The District Clerk is hereby directed to submit a certified copy of this Resolution to the
Board of Supervisors of the County of Santa Cruz, and to appropriate county elections
official of said county.
RESOLUTION No. 06-
RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL
OPEN SPACE DISTRICT AUTHORIZING NOT LISTING ANY UNOPPOSED
CANDIDATES FOR ELECTION ON THE NovEMBER 7,2006 BALLOTS OF
SANTA CLARA COUNTY, SANTA CRUZ COUNTY AND SAN MATEO COUNTY
WHEREAS,the District's enabling legislation states that the Board of Directors may opt
not to permit candidates running unopposed to have their names appear on the ballot.
NOW, THEREFORE,the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space
District does hereby determine not to list the unopposed candidates for election on the November
7, 2006 ballots of Santa Clara, Santa Cruz and San Mateo Counties.
I
Regional Open Space
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
R-06-64
Meeting 06-15
June 14, 2006
AGENDA ITEM 9
AGENDA ITEM
for Election
2006• Requests o
' Wards 1 2 5 and 6 for November7
Callin of District Elections to
g , a q
Consolidation Services from Santa Clara, San Mateo and S nta Cruz Counties
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMEND
-
I Adopt the attached Resolution of the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District calling an election and requesting election consolidation services—
Santa Clara County, Wards I and 2.
2. Adopt the attached Resolution of the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District calling an election and requesting election consolidation services—
San Mateo County, Wards 5 and 6.
3. Adopt the attached Resolution of the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District calling an election and requesting election consolidation services—
Santa Cruz County, Ward 2.
4. Adopt the attached Resolution of the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District authorizing not listing any unopposed candidate for election on the
November 7, 2006 ballots of Santa Clara, Santa Cruz and San Mateo Counties.
DISCUSSION
Voters in four of the District's seven wards are scheduled to elect Directors this November.
These wards and their current Directors are:
WARD GENERAL DESCRIPTION INCUMBENT
1 Cupertino, Los Gatos, Monte Sereno, Saratoga Pete Siemens
2 Cupertino, Sunnyvale, Los Altos, Los Altos Hills, Stanford Mary Davey
5 East Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Palo Alto, Stanford Nonette Hanko
6 Atherton, La Honda,Loma Mar,Menlo Park,Pescadero,Portola Larry Hassett
Valley, edwood City, San Gre orio, Woodside
R-06-64 Page 2
The attached Exhibit A map shows the current ward boundaries.
Calling the Election—Requesting Consolidation Services. In preparation for the November 7,
2006 general election, it is necessary for you to call an election in the District and request
election consolidation services from Santa Clara, San Mateo and Santa Cruz Counties. The
nomination period for the election will open on Monday, July 17, 2006 and close on Friday,
August 11, 2006.
Opting Not to List the Names of Any Unopposed Candidates on the November 7,2006
Ballot. In past election years, the Board has opted not to list unopposed candidates, due to the
expense involved (see Reports R-02-70, R-00-82 and R-98-74). Throughout the election
process, staff utilizes an effective public communication and outreach program that mitigates any
potential loss of public awareness that may be caused by not listing unopposed candidates on the
ballot. In the interest of financial conservancy, it is recommended that the Board exercise its
option not to list any unopposed candidates on the ballot for the November 2006 election, as it
has in the past.
District election costs for San Mateo County is approximately $1.50 per registered voter
($80,000 for Ward 6), for Santa Clara County approximately $2.00 per registered voter
($127,241 for Ward 1); and for Santa Cruz County (approximately six registered voters)
$200.00. The District's 2006-2007 budgeted amount for elections is $80,000, based upon a
history of either no contested seats or only one contested seat. In the event more than one seat is
contested, the Board will have to appropriate additional funds, as applicable to cover the election
costs.
Prepared by:
Margaret Reimche, Deputy District Clerk
Contact Person:
Sally Thielfoldt, Assistant General Manager
i
I
RESOLUTION NO. 06-
RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL
OPEN SPACE DISTRICT AUTHORIZING NOT LISTING ANV UNOPPOSED
CANDIDATES FOR ELECTION ON THE NOVEMBER 7, 2006 BALLOTS OF
SANTA CLARA COUNTY, SANTA CRUZ COUNTY AND SAN MATEO COUNTY
WHEREAS, the District's enabling legislation states that the Board of Directors may opt
not to permit candidates running unopposed to have their names appear on the ballot.
NOW, THEREFORE, the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space
District does hereby determine not to list the unopposed candidates for election on the November
7, 2006 ballots of Santa Clara, Santa Cruz and San Mateo Counties.
VC?
! rle C/ 4
,e- / o ICJ o a r o�
a d 0,0,9 1 O Al C? `T h' Q
f o f / r o c e �`e
Current VROSD Ward B - undaries
Approved By Board Of Directors 11/06,-J04
_ r
~' San
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say
Pacif
Ocean
� ,�
w
WARDS r •ram ��yeg . ') ,r4
1 Pete Siemens
2 Mary Davey
f.y r 9 �r
�
3 Jed Cyr
4 Deane Little '
5 Nonette Hanko 8 ` =
6 Larry Hassett °
Milts
7 Ken Nitz �`�� --
RESOLUTION No. 06-
RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL
OPEN SPACE DISTRICT CALLING AN ELECTION AND REQUESTING ELECTIONS
CONSOLIDATED SERVICES—SANTA CLARA COUNTY
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
ss.
County of Santa Clara
WHEREAS, in accordance with Sections 5530 and 5533 of the Public Resources Code, a
Biennial Governing Board Member Election has been ordered to be held on Tuesday,November
7, 2006 in the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District of Santa Clara County for the purpose
of electing two (2) Directors of the Governing Board of the District; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Part 3 (commencing with Section 10400) of Division 10 of the
Elections Code, such election may be either completely or partially consolidated.
NOW, THEREFORE, the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space
District does resolve as follows:
1. Pursuant to Public Resources Code Sections 5530 and 5533, the Board of Directors of the
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District does call an election in the District for the
election of two (2) members of the Board of Directors of the District in Wards I and 2 on
Tuesday, November 7, 2006.
2. That said election be consolidated with the statewide general election to be held in Santa
Clara County on said date.
3. That the election precincts, polling places, voting booths and election officials in each of
the precincts shall, to the extent practicable, be the same as provided for the statewide
election on said date, as prescribed by the ordinance, order, resolution, or notice of the
Board of Supervisors of said County calling, providing for, or giving notice of such other
election and which sets forth such precincts, voting booths, polling places and election
officials.
4. That the Board of Supervisors of Santa Clara County is hereby authorized and instructed
to canvass the returns of said election for the office of members of the Board of Directors
of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District and is requested to certify the results
of said election to the Board of Directors of the District.
5. The Board of Directors further requests, pursuant to Election Code Section 10002, that
county elections official be authorized to render services to the District relating to the
conduct of said election. The services shall be of the type normally performed by such
county elections official in conducting elections including, but not limited to, checking
registrations,printing and mailing ballots, ballot arguments, candidates' statements,
hiring election officers and arranging for polling places, and providing and distributing
election supplies.
6. The General Manager of the District is hereby authorized to reimburse the county in full
for the services performed upon presentation of a bill to the District.
7. The District Clerk is hereby directed to submit a certified copy of this Resolution to the
Board of Supervisors of the County of Santa Clara, and to appropriate county elections
official of said county.
RESOLUTION No. 06-
RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL
OPEN SPACE DISTRICT CALLING AN ELECTION AND REQUESTING ELECTIONS
CONSOLIDATED SERVICES—SAN MATEO COUNTY
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
) ss.
County of San Mateo
WHEREAS, in accordance with Sections 5530 and 5533 of the Public Resources Code, a
Biennial Governing Board Member Election has been ordered to be held on Tuesday,November
7, 2006 in the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District of San Mateo County for the purpose
of electing two Directors of the Governing Board of the District; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Part 3 (commencing with Section 10400) of Division 10 of the
Elections Code, such election may be either completely or partially consolidated.
NOW, THEREFORE, the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space
District does resolve as follows:
1. Pursuant to Public Resources Code Sections 5530 and 5533, the Board of Directors of the
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District does call an election in the District for the
election of two members of the Board of Directors of the District in Wards 5 and 6 on
Tuesday, November 7, 2006.
2. That said election be consolidated with the statewide general election to be held in San
Mateo County on said date.
3. That the election precincts,polling places, voting booths and election officials in each of
the precincts shall, to the extent practicable, be the same as provided for the statewide
election on said date, as prescribed by the ordinance, order, resolution, or notice of the
Board of Supervisors of said County calling, providing for, or giving notice of such other
election and which sets forth such precincts, voting booths, polling places and election
officials.
4. That the Board of Supervisors of San Mateo County is hereby authorized and instructed
to canvass the returns of said election for the office of members of the Board of Directors
of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District and is requested to certify the results
of said election to the Board of Directors of the District.
5. The Board of Directors further requests, pursuant to Election Code Section 10002, that
county elections official be authorized to render services to the District relating to the
conduct of said election. The services shall be of the type normally performed by such
county elections official in conducting elections including, but not limited to, checking
registrations, printing and mailing ballots, ballot arguments, candidates' statements,
hiring election officers and arranging for polling places, and providing and distributing
election supplies.
6. The General Manager of the District is hereby authorized to reimburse the county in full
for the services performed upon presentation of a bill to the District.
7. The District Clerk is hereby directed to submit a certified copy of this Resolution to the
Board of Supervisors of the County of San Mateo, and to appropriate county elections
official of said county.
RESOLUTION NO. 06-
RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL
OPEN SPACE DISTRICT CALLING AN ELECTION AND REQUESTING ELECTIONS
CONSOLIDATED SERVICES—SANTA CLARA COUNTY
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
ss.
County of Santa Cruz )
WHEREAS, in accordance with Sections 5530 and 5533 of the Public Resources Code, a
Biennial Governing Board Member Election has been ordered to be held on Tuesday,November
7, 2006 in the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District of San Mateo County for the purpose
of electing one Director of the Governing Board of the District; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Part 3 (commencing with Section 10400) of Division 10 of the
Elections Code, such election may be either completely or partially consolidated.
NOW, THEREFORE, the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space
District does resolve as follows:
1. Pursuant to Public Resources Code Sections 5530 and 5533, the Board of Directors of the
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District does call an election in the District for the
election of one member of the Board of Directors of the District in Ward 2 on Tuesday,
November 7, 2006.
2. That said election be consolidated with the statewide general election to be held in Santa
Cruz County on said date.
3. That the election precincts, polling places, voting booths and election officials in each of
the precincts shall, to the extent practicable, be the same as provided for the statewide
election on said date, as prescribed by the ordinance, order, resolution, or notice of the
Board of Supervisors of said County calling, providing for, or giving notice of such other
election and which sets forth such precincts, voting booths, polling places and election
officials.
4. That the Board of Supervisors of Santa Cruz County is hereby authorized and instructed
to canvass the returns of said election for the office of members of the Board of Directors
of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District and is requested to certify the results
of said election to the Board of Directors of the District.
5. The Board of Directors further requests, pursuant to Election Code Section 10002, that
county elections official be authorized to render services to the District relating to the
conduct of said election. The services shall be of the type normally performed by such
county elections official in conducting elections including, but not limited to, checking
registrations, printing and mailing ballots, ballot arguments, candidates' statements,
hiring election officers and arranging for polling places, and providing and distributing
election supplies.
6. The General Manager of the District is hereby authorized to reimburse the county in full
for the services performed upon presentation of a bill to the District.
7. The District Clerk is hereby directed to submit a certified copy of this Resolution to the
Board of Supervisors of the County of Santa Cruz, and to appropriate county elections
official of said county.
Claims No. 06-11
Meeting 06-15
Date 6/14/06
Revised
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
# Amount Name Description
4979 $84.00 All Laser Service Office Printer Repair
4980 $37.00 Allen's Press Clipping Bureau Clipping Service
4981 $126.23 Allied Waste Services Garbage Service
4982 $102.20 American Red Cross Instructor Materials&Training Certificates
4983 $1,946.41 AT&T Telephone Service-AO,FFO&SFO/Alarm Service-
FFO
4984 $36.00 Baillie,Gordon Reimbursement-Pager Service
4985 $310.36 Bruce Barton Pump Service, Inc. Replace Pressure Pump-Ranger Residence
4986 $1,446,60 Cascade Fire Equipment Company Field Supplies&Fire Protection Uniforms
4987 $600.95 CMK Automotive Inc, Vehicle Maintenance&Repairs
4988 $119.00 Coastal Sierra,Inc. Internet Service-SFO
4989 $711,94 Costco Office,Field&SPD Forum Supplies
4990 $300.00 County Of San Mateo Assessors Assessor Roll(Secmaster)
Office
4991 $100.00 County Of San Mateo Public Works County GIS Data Subscription
Department
4992 $2,623.60 Cresco Equipment Rental Skiploader Rental-Road&Drainage Repairs At RSA
4993 $41.29 CSK Auto Vehicle Supplies
4994 $50.00 *1 Department Of Pesticide Regulation Pesticide Application Fee
4995 $7,148.00 Department Of Water Resources Rickey Dam Permit
4996 $9,562.11 Donald Hays Trail Contractor Construction Of Ridgetop Trail At Pulgas Ridge
4997 $393.24 Forestry Suppliers,Inc, Field Supplies
4998 $109.93 Foster Brothers Lock&Key Services
4999 $3,144.00 Frederic Knapp,AIA Construction Management Services-Picchetti Winery
Seismic Upgrade
5000 $106.80 Freeman, Matt Reimbursement-Mileage
5001 $60.28 G&K Service Shop Towel Service
5002 $871.27 Gardenland Power Equipment Field Supplies
5003 $63.05 Gempler's, Inc. Uniform Supplies
5004 $225.75 Goodco Press, Inc. Printing Services-Business Cards&Time Cards
5005 $312.00 Greg's Trucking Service, Inc. Rock Delivery-Mills Creek
5006 $125.00 Half Moon Bay Review Public Notice I Invitation To Bid-ECDM Bridges
5007 $28,574.89 Hoblit Motors Vehicle Purchase-A.O.-Ford Escape Hybrid
5008 $875.06 Home Depot Field Supplies&Equipment
5009 $2,250.00 IEDA, Inc. Quarterly Consulting Services-Labor Relations
5010 $668.82 Jakaby Engineering Design&Engineering Services/Topographic Surveys-
Pedestrian Bridges At ECDM
5011 $135.00 Jim Davis Auto Smog Checks
5012 $341.00 Lee Vierling Productions Video Overview Of District& 11 DVD Copies
5013 $442.37 LFR Levine Fricke Engineer&Design Services-ECDM
5014 $571.65 Los Altos Garbage Company Garbage Service-AO&FFO
5015 $800.00 Matt Mann Web Design Services
5016 $188.61 Metro Mobile Communications Radio Cases
5017 $211.53 Orchard Supply Hardware Field Equipment&Supplies
5018 $64,790.87 Pape' Machinery Landscape Loader Tractor&Forklift Hooks
5019 $56.30 Pape' Material Handling Excavator Training Video
5020 $1,205.00 Parking Products,Inc. Tire Spikes-RSA
5021 $426.66 Peninsula Digital Imaging Map Mounting,Scanning&Copying Service
5022 $8.64 Rancho Ace Hardware&Garden Shop Field Supply
5023 $438.19 Reed&Graham,Inc, Hay Bales-SPD Forum
5024 $107.78 Reed,Steve Reimbursement-Uniform Expense
Page I of 2
Claims No. 06-11
Meeting 06-15
Date 6/14/06
Revised
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
# Amount Name Description
5025 $53.37 Reneau, Frances Reimbursement-Uniform Expense
5026 $71,16 Roessler,Cindy Reimbursement-Mileage
5027 $544.75 Roy's Repair Service Vehicle Repairs&Service
5028 $379.16 San Jose Water Company Water Service-RSA
5029 $12,24 SBC/MCI Fax Machine Long Distance Charges-FFO
5030 $139.59 Smutnak,Greg Reimbursement-Vehicle Supply&Uniform Expense
5031 $773.99 Summit Uniforms Uniform Expenses
5032 $806.03 Tadco Supply Janitorial Supplies
5033 $64.00 Terminix Pest Control-A.D.
5034 $1,678.75 Timothy C. Best,CEG Engineering Services
5035 $2,241.49 Tires On The Go Tires
5036 $102.84 United Rentals Highway Technologies Two Bridge Signs
5037 $239.00 West Bay Electric Inc. Replace Ballasts-AD
5038 $259.84 West Payment Center 2006 Health&Safety Code Update
5039 $415.19 Woods, Del Reimbursement-4 Months-Mileage
5040 $101.69 Xpedite Systems,Inc, Fax Broadcast System Services
5041 R $427.81 AmeriGas Propane
5042 R $170.97 AT&T Telephone Service-AD&SFO
5043 R $115.38 Beckman,Craig Reimbursement-Cell Phone,Map Mounting&Employee
Residence Expense
5044 R $209.20 California Water Service Company Water Service-FFO
5045 R $1,000.00 Camino Medical Group Medical Services
5046 R $100.57 Cimino,Jim Reimbursement-Mileage
5047 R $156.00 County Of Santa Clara-Office Of The Fingerprinting Services
Sheriff
5048 R $211.74 Forestry Suppliers, Inc. Field Supplies
5049 R $374.97 Jed Cyr Reimbursement-SPD Forum Expenses
5050 R $89.31 Lab Safety Supply Field Supplies
5051 R $110.00 Monster Mechanical, Inc. HVAC Repair-AO
5052 R $223.81 Pacific Water Systems Water Filters-Rental Residence
5053 R $478.47 Patsons Media Group Maps-Monte Bello
5054 R $156.35 Petty Cash Parking&Mileage,Local/Out Of Town Business
Meetings,Postage, Book,Docent Supplies&Office
Supplies
5055 R $249.00 Protection One Quarterly Alarm Service-AD
5056 R $44.25 Rayne Of San Jose Water Conditioning Service
5057 R $63.31 San Jose Water Company Water Service-Hayes House
5058 R $189.01 Sanguinetti,David Reimbursement-Camera For Field Use
5059 R $38.51 Verizon Wireless Messaging Service Pager Service
5060 R $232.29 Williams,Michael Reimbursement-3 Months-Mileage
Total $146,373.42
1 Urgent Check Issued 6/11/06
Page 2 of 2
Claims No. 06-11
Meeting 06-15
Date 6114/06
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
# Amount Name Description
4979 $84.00 All Laser Service Office Printer Repair
4980 $37.00 Allen's Press Clipping Bureau Clipping Service
4981 $126.23 Allied Waste Services Garbage Service
4982 $102.20 American Red Cross Instructor Materials&Training Certificates
4983 $1,946.41 AT&T Telephone Service-AD, FFO&SFO/Alarm Service-
FFO
4984 $36.00 Baillie,Gordon Reimbursement-Pager Service
4985 $310.36 Bruce Barton Pump Service,Inc. Replace Pressure Pump-Ranger Residence
4986 $1,446.60 Cascade Fire Equipment Company Field Supplies&Fire Protection Uniforms
4987 $600.95 CMK Automotive Inc. Vehicle Maintenance&Repairs
4988 $119.00 Coastal Sierra,Inc. Internet Service-SFO
4989 $711.94 Costco Office, Field&SPD Forum Supplies
4990 $300.00 County Of San Mateo Assessor's Assessor Roll(Secmaster)
Office
4991 $100.00 County Of San Mateo Public Works County GIS Data Subscription
Department
4992 $2,623.60 Cresco Equipment Rental Skiploader Rental-Road&Drainage Repairs At RSA
4993 $41.29 CSK Auto Vehicle Supplies
4994 $50.00 *1 Department Of Pesticide Regulation Pesticide Application Fee
4995 $7,148.00 Department Of Water Resources Rickey Dam Permit
4996 $9,562.11 Donald Hays Trail Contractor Construction Of Ridgetop Trail At Pulgas Ridge
4997 $393.24 Forestry Suppliers, Inc. Field Supplies
4998 $109.93 Foster Brothers Lock&Key Services
4999 $3,144.00 Frederic Knapp,AIA Construction Management Services-Picchetti Winery
Seismic Upgrade
5000 $106.80 Freeman, Matt Reimbursement-Mileage
5001 $60.28 G&K Service Shop Towel Service
5002 $871.27 Gardenland Power Equipment Field Supplies
5003 $63.05 Gempler's, Inc. Uniform Supplies
5004 $225.75 Goodco Press, Inc. Printing Services-Business Cards&Time Cards
5005 $312,00 Greg's Trucking Service,Inc. Rock Delivery-Mills Creek
5006 $125.00 Half Moon Bay Review Public Notice/Invitation To Bid-ECDM Bridges
5007 $28,574.89 Hoblit Motors Vehicle Purchase-A.D.-Ford Escape Hybrid
5008 $875.06 Home Depot Field Supplies&Equipment
5009 $2,250.00 IEDA, Inc. Quarterly Consulting Services-Labor Relations
5010 $668.82 Jakaby Engineering Design&Engineering Services/Topographic Surveys-
Pedestrian Bridges At ECDM
5011 $135.00 Jim Davis Auto Smog Checks
5012 $341.00 Lee Vierling Productions Video Overview Of District& 11 DVD Copies
5013 $442.37 LFR Levine Fricke Engineer&Design Services-ECDM
5014 $571.65 Los Altos Garbage Company Garbage Service-AD&FFO
5015 $800.00 Matt Mann Web Design Services
5016 $188.61 Metro Mobile Communications Radio Cases
5017 $211.53 Orchard Supply Hardware Field Equipment&Supplies
5018 $64,790.87 Pape' Machinery Landscape Loader Tractor&Forklift Hooks
5019 $56.30 Pape' Material Handling Excavator Training Video
5020 $1,205.00 Parking Products,Inc. Tire Spikes-RSA
5021 $426.66 Peninsula Digital Imaging Map Mounting,Scanning&Copying Service
5022 $8.64 Rancho Ace Hardware&Garden Shop Field Supply
5023 $438.19 Reed&Graham, Inc. Hay Bales-SPD Forum
5024 $107.78 Reed,Steve Reimbursement-Uniform Expense
Page I of 2
Claims No. 06-11
Meeting 06-15
Date 6/14/06
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
# Amount Name Description
5025 $53.37 Reneau, Frances Reimbursement-Uniform Expense
5026 $71.16 Roessler,Cindy Reimbursement-Mileage
5027 $544.75 Roy's Repair Service Vehicle Repairs&Service
5028 $379.16 San Jose Water Company Water Service-RSA
5029 $12.24 SBC/MCI Fax Machine Long Distance Charges-FFO
5030 $139.59 Smutnak,Greg Reimbursement-Vehicle Supply&Uniform Expense
5031 $773.99 Summit Uniforms Uniform Expenses
5032 $806.03 Tadco Supply Janitorial Supplies
5033 $64.00 Terminix Pest Control-A.O.
5034 $1,678.75 Timothy C. Best,CEG Engineering Services
5035 $2,241,49 Tires On The Go Tires
5036 $102.84 United Rentals Highway Technologies Two Bridge Signs
5037 $239.00 West Bay Electric Inc. Replace Ballasts-AO
5038 $259,84 West Payment Center 2006 Health&Safety Code Update
5039 $415.19 Woods,Del Reimbursement-4 Months-Mileage
5040 $101.69 Xpedite Systems,Inc. Fax Broadcast System Services
Total $140,732.47
*1 Urgent Check Issued 6/1/06
Page 2 of 2
Regional Open S, Ice
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
TO: Board of Directors
FROM: L. Craig Britton, General Manager
DATE: June 9, 2006
RE: FYI's
�_w_r wc� 7:lPRFQ@�
4
:800 Watkins Lake Road •Waterford,Michig 1328-1917
248.858.0906 • Fax 248.858.1683 •TTY 248.858,1684 • 1.888.00PARKS
CAND www.oakgov.com/parksrec
f966 20o6 �O�eurr �f fxx
May 30, 2006
Mr. L. Craig Britton, General Manager
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
330 Distel Circle
Los Altos, CA 94022-1404
Dear Craig:
My thanks to you and your staff, volunteers, and partners for your efforts in
hosting the 2006 Special Park Districts Forum.
Your hospitality, the networking opportunities, and tours of your beautiful
parks and open space were of great benefit to me and those staff and
commissioners of the Oakland County Parks who attended this event.
Congratulations on a successful event! We look forward to seeing you in
Columbus, Ohio next year.
Sincerely,
Daniel J. Stencil, Executive Officer
Oakland County Parks and
Recreation Commission
Peck,D.Lewis,Jr.
Chairman DJS:kk
Richard Skarritt
Vice Chairman
J.David VanderVeen
Secretary
Hugh D.Crawford
Vincent Gregory
Martin J.Knollenberg
John P.McCulloch
Charles Palmer
John Richards
Suzette Vogt
Daniel J.Stencil
Executive Officer
0 ur mission is to provide recreational,leisure and learning experiences that enhance quality of life.
Regional Open Sj__4.-e
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
June 5, 2006
Mr. Rick Weissenborn
BRAC Environmental Coordinator
Former NAS Moffett Field
Base Realignment and Closure Program
Management Office West
1455 Frazee Road, Suite 900
San Diego, CA 92108
RE: Hanger I Engineering Evaluation/Cost Analysis
Dear Mr. Weissenborn:
The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District ("District"), as the landowner of
a portion of the property commonly referred to as Site 25,which has been contaminated,
in part,by a type of polychlorinated byphenyl (PCB)known as Aroclor-1268 that may
have originated from Hanger 1, respectfully submits the following comments on the
Hanger 1 Engineering Evaluation/Cost Analysis Report (EE/CA):
Controlling the Source of Contamination
The District has long been intent on the restoration of the District-owned portion
of Site 25, known as the Stevens Creek Shoreline Nature Study Area(SCNSA), to tidal
action. This property was acquired with the vision of restoring the levied pond to tidal
flow and providing public access and recreational use for a designated segment of the San
Francisco Bay Trail. In this regard, please refer to Stevens Creek: A Plan of
Opportunities (1980): Remediation of Site 25 is pending the cleanup action and final
resolution of the future of Hanger I since it has been identified as a source of the
contaminants. The District cannot stress enough the importance of selecting a remedial
action alternative that will ensure that no additional contamination to the SCNSA will
originate from Hanger 1. As a public agency, it is incumbent on the District to ensure that
public funds are prudently allocated and used. Without a guarantee that Hanger 1 will no
longer be a source of contamination the District cannot commit funding to restoration
activities if the possibility exists that contaminants may re-emerge or be re-introduced
into a tidal ecosystem and bay waters. The District fully understands the importance of
preserving historic landmarks and has actively preserved,rehabilitated, and now
maintains, a number of historic structures on District lands, to the great satisfaction of our
330 Distel Circle • Los Altos,CA 94022-1404 • Phone:650-691-1200
Fax:650-691-0485 • E-mail: infogopenspace.org • Web site: www.openspace.org
Mr.Rick Weissenborn
Base Realignment and Closure
June 5,2006
constituents. The District supports a remedial action alternative that ensures that Hanger
I will not be a source of future contamination,while preserving the historical significance
of the structure for the community.
Continued District Participation
Please continue to notify the District regarding the status and rernediation of
Hanger 1. The District, as a landowner in the subject area, will continue to stay abreast of
the project and to provide input throughout the process.
Thank you for your consideration of our comments. If you have any questions,
please contact Ana Ruiz, Open Space Planner 11, at (650) 691-1200.
Sinc ely,
L. Craig Britton, General Manager
LCB:ar:dms
cc: MROSD Board of Directors
Ms. Sandy 011iges,Deputy Director
National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Ames Research Center MS218-1
Moffett Field,CA 94035
-----Original Message--
From: EdAndrusiak [nna|ho:Ed.Amdrusia .bc.ca]
Sent: Tuesday, June O8, 2OO611:42AM
To: pobden@ebparks.org; Craig Britton
Subject: 5PDF
Pat and Cmmi0.
I've just returned from e couple of weeks R and R after SPDF and wanted bo take the opportunity
to thank both of you and your organizations for hosting an excellent GPOF. My staff has come
back informed, enthused and full of ideas onwhat GVRO can adapt oradopt.
Pat I'd also like to thank you for making your resource management staff available on Monday to
speak to my staff. The information gained will help shape implementation of a Resource
Management program inGVHDParks.
I hope both of you have a busy, safe and successful summer season. We're already experiencing
� high visitation and will likely bnaoh G million visits this year if this keeps up and we get some
�
added visitation from World Urban Forum participants gathering in the GVROinJune Thanks
�
� again.
Ed �
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|
-----Original Message-----
From: enews@ridgetrail.org [mailto:enews@ridgetrail.org]
Sent; Tuesday, June 06, 2006 7:32 PM
To: Craig Britton
Subject: Major Milestone Reached on Saturday!
We are pleased to announce that the 300th mile of the Bay Area Ridge Trail
was dedicated this Saturday at the new Crockett Hills Regional Park. Over 150
people attended the ceremony, and many stayed to try out the new trail. The
next issue of our RidgeLines newsletter, being mailed the end of the month,
will have the full story and a map of the new trail segment and park.
This dedication was a fitting farewell to Bob Power, our South and East Bay
Trail Director for the last six years. He has been a productive and valued
member of the Council' s staff, and we will miss his knowledge, expertise, and
sense of humor. All of us wish him well in his new post as Executive Director
of the Santa Clara Valley Audubon Society.
Saturday was also National Trails Day, and the Council had trail work crews
out at El Corte De Madera in San Mateo County, and Hood Mountain in Sonoma
County. Thank you to our volunteers and partners, REI and Midpeninsula
Regional Open Space District, for their efforts to build and maintain trails.
Volunteers Needed
The Council offers a wide range of volunteer opportunities. Robin Drysdale,
our new volunteer coordinator, is organizing this program. We are seeking
trail stewards for the Napa Solano Ridge Trail, which needs regular patrol
and maintenance. A volunteer who is thorough and organized is needed for
office work on a regular basis. Volunteer outings leaders are also needed.
Please contact Robin at volunteer@ridgetrail.org.
Coming this Weekend: Fernandez Ranch Celebration
On Saturday June 10, starting at 9 am, our partner, the Muir Heritage Land
Trust, will celebrate the acquisition of this beautiful 702-acre property.
Hikes, horse-drawn carriage rides, and refreshments are just a few of the
highlights of this special day. Learn more about the many restoration
projects under way for this great property as the Land Trust, the Bay Area
Ridge Trail Council, and Restoration Design Group share their plans.
This event is quite suitable for children. Please call the Land Trust office
at 925-228-5460 or email info@muirheritagelandtrust.org for more details. You
must reserve space to attend.
Happy Trails,
Connie Shapiro
Interim Executive Director
Bay Area Ridge Trail Council
http://ridgetrail.org
415.561.2595
1007 General Kennedy Avenue, Suite 3
San Francisco, CA 94129-1405
email alerts and notices: enews@ridgetrail.org
main office email: info@ridgetrail-org
Regional Open Spa% e
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF OPEN SPACE PRESERVATION
June 7, 2006
Elizabeth Soderstrom,Ph.D
Natural Heritage Institute
409 Spring Street
Nevada City, CA 95959
Dear Dr. Soderstrom:
I am writing on behalf of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (MROSD) in support of
the Consolidated Grant Program proposal entitled: San Gregorio Creek Watershed: Planning for
Restoration. The work proposed will greatly benefit the goal of improved ecosystem functioning
and water quality while protecting native species in the San Gregorio Watershed.
MROSD expects to be an integral participant on the diverse and expert project team that will
scientifically assess watershed conditions, identify restoration and management measures and
strategies to develop and promote the adoption of an Integrated Water Management Plan. This plan
will lead directly to restoration measures to protect anadromous fish habitat and reduce the amount
of Non-Point Source sediment pollution entering the San Gregorio Watershed.
Our most significant role will be to provide planning assistance on the project team composed of the
following members: the Natural Heritage Institute (NHI), the San Gregorio Environmental
Resource Center, Cuesta La Honda Guild, the Department of Natural Sciences at Notre Dame de
Namar University, the California Water Science Center(USGS), and Stillwater Sciences.
This is an innovative and well-conceived project that will put into motion a number of protective
and restorative efforts in this critically important watershed. The San Gregorio Creek Watershed
has been identified by the California Coastal Commission as a Critical Coastal Area,the California
Department of Fish and Game as one of nine creeks slated for Coho re-introduction, and is listed
under Clean Water Act 303(d) List as impaired by Sediment(SWRCB 2003).
I support this proposed project without reservation and look forward to realizing the benefits with
our project partners.
S''t cerely,
L. Craig Britton
General Manager
cc: MROSD Board of Directors
33o Distel Circle 650-691-12oo info@openspace.org BOARD OF DIRECTORS:Pete Siemens,Mary Davey,led Cyr, GENERAL MANAGER:
Los Altos CA 94022-1404 650-691-0485 fax www,openspace.org Deane Little,Nonette Hanko,Larry Hossett,Kenneth C.Nitz L.Craig Britton
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
For Immediate Release Contact: Rudy Jurgensen
June 7, 2006 Public Affairs Manager
(650)691-1200
' DISTRICT NEIGHBORS ASKED TO COMMENT ON
DRAFT "GOOD NEIGHBOR POLICY"
Online Survey Closes June 16, 2006
LOS ALTOS,CA [June 7,2006] —The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District(MROSD) is asking for public
input by June 16 on its amended draft"Good Neighbor Policy"that was developed with the extensive involvement of
neighbors and neighborhood groups and includes input collected at four facilitated public workshops.
Anyone interested can log on to the District's Web site(www.openspace.orgy)to review the Policy and provide
comments via a user-friendly online survey that will be available and posted until June 16, 2006.
Members of the public can also obtain copies of the Policy and provide comments by calling the District(650)69 1-
1200 or writing to the Districtat 330 Distel Circle, Los Altos, CA 94022.
After June 16,a final public workshop will be held in order to provide the public with an additional opportunity for
comments. The last step in the process will be a meeting of the full Board in a public session to discuss and vote on the
revised Policy.
The District's Good Neighbor Policy governs how MROSD interacts with its neighbors and was last revised in August
1996. The amended policy will cover a variety of topics from addressing neighbor privacy to natural resource
management issues such as controlling invasive species.
The public meetings and the amended policy, when completed, are designed to foster a spirit of cooperation between
the District and its constituents on whose behalf the agency manages over 50,000 acres of open space land.
A process to seek input from the public on issues constituents believe should be addressed in the Good Neighbor
Policy was initiated last year and included a number of interviews with constituents and several meetings with local
neighborhood organizations, including the Midcoast Community Council, Pescadero Municipal Advisory Council,the
South Skyline Association,and Kings Mountain Association.
In addition to four public meetings, District neighbors and constituents also provided suggestions through e-mail,the
District's Web site, and regular mail.
Created by voters more than 30 years ago, the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District has successfully protected
and managed over 50,000 acres of open space which the public enjoys 365 days a year. The District is an independent,
non-enterprise, California special district whose mission is to purchase and preserve a regional greenbelt of open
space land in perpetuity,protect and restore the natural environment, and provide opportunities for ecologically
sensitive public enjoyment and education. www.openspace.org
Regional Open r y we
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
TO: Board of Directors
FROM: L. Craig Britton, General Manager
DATE: June 14, 2006
I
RE: FYI's
Regional Open Si ce
1
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
June 9,2006
Donna J. Plunkett, ASLA
EDAW, Inc.
Design, Planning &Environments Worldwide
150 Chestnut Street
San Francisco, CA 94111
Dear Ms. Plunkett:
On behalf of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, I would like to thank EDAW for
partnering with the District to make the 2006 Special Parks District Forum a success! Without
EDAW's generous $500 donation, the District would not have been able to host 50 attendees of
the Forum in a tour of District lands to discuss the programs and endeavors that are unique to our
District within the bay area. I am glad to report that through EDAW's generosity and the
generosity of our other sponsors, the District was able to provide an excellent event.
The Special Parks District Forum, an annual, national conference that was co-hosted this year in
May by our District along with the East Bay Regional Park District. Participants of the Forum
consist of decision makers from park, recreation, and open space districts throughout the United
States and Canada.
EDAW's support of the Forum made a valuable contribution to the nation's most important
conference on new and continuing programs that benefit the users of the region's park,
recreation, and open space districts. Again, thank you for your support and generosity in making
this year's Forum a success!
Sin erely,
L. Craig Britton
General Manager
LCB/ec
cc: Board of Directors, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
Federal Tax Id: 94-2231873
33o Distel Circle 650-691-1200 info@openspace.org BOARD OF DIRECTORS:Pete Siemens,Mary Davey,Jed Cyr, GENERAL MANAGER:
Los Altos CA 94022-1404 650-6g1-o485 fax www.openspace.org Deane Little,Nonette Hanko,Larry Hossett,Kenneth C.Nitz L Craig Britton
€o wrx .rnwwwpawazn
Regional Open Si ce
----------------------
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
June 9, 2006
Robert Perez, Account Director
Fenton Communications
182 Second Street, Suite 400
San Francisco, CA 94015
Dear Mr. Perez:
On behalf of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, I would like to thank Fenton
Communications for partnering with the District to make the 2006 Special Parks District Forum
a success! Without Fenton's generous $1,000 donation,the District would not have been able to
host 50 attendees of the Forum on a tour of District lands to discuss the programs and endeavors
that are unique to our District within the bay area. I am glad to report that through Fenton's
generosity and the generosity of our other sponsors, the District was able to provide an excellent
event.
The Special Parks District Forum, an annual, national conference that was co-hosted this year in
May by our District along with the East Bay Regional Park District. Participants of the Forum
consist of decision makers from park, recreation, and open space districts throughout the United
States and Canada.
Fenton's support of the Forum made a valuable contribution to the nation's most important
conference on new and continuing programs that benefit the users of the region's park,
recreation, and open space districts. Again, thank you for your support and generosity in making
this year's Forum a success!
Sinc rel
L. Craig Britton
General Manager
LCB/ec
cc: Board of Directors, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
Federal Tax Id: 94-2231873
33o Distel Circle 650-691-1200 info@openspace.org BOARD OF DIRECTORS:Pete Siemens,Mary Davey,Jed Cyr, GENERAL MANAGER:
Los Altos CA 94022-1404 650-691-0485 fax www.openspace.org Deane Little,Nonette Hanko,Larry Hassett,Kenneth C Nitz L.Craig Britton
Regional Open Si ce
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
June 9, 2006
Sangeeta Goyal, Principal Engineer
LFR Inc.
1900 Powell Street
Emeryville, CA 94608
Dear Ms. Goyal:
On behalf of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, I would like to thank LFR for
partnering with the District to make the 2006 Special Parks District Forum a success! Without
LFR's generous $5,000 donation, the District would not have been able to host 50 attendees of
the Forum on a tour of District lands to discuss the programs and endeavors that are unique to
our District within the bay area. I am glad to report that through LFR's generosity and the
generosity of our other sponsors, the District was able to provide an excellent event.
The Special Parks District Forum, an annual,national conference that was co-hosted this year in
May by our District along with the East Bay Regional Park District. Participants of the Forum
consist of decision makers from park, recreation, and open space districts throughout the United
States and Canada.
The District would be honored if you would allow the Board of Directors to commend LFR for
this donation with the presentation of a framed photograph of one of your favorite District
preserves. Please contact Elaina Cuzick of our office at(650) 691-1200 at your earliest
convenience to let her know which preserve is your favorite, and to make arrangements for the
presentation of the photograph at one of our future Board meetings.
LFR's support of the Forum made a valuable contribution to the nation's most important
conference on new and continuing programs that benefit the users of the region's park,
recreation, and open space districts. Again, thank you for your support and generosity in making
this yea Forum a success!
Sincerely,
L. Craig Britton
General Manager
LCB/ec
cc: Board of Directors, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
Federal Tax Id: 94-2231873
33o Distel Circle 650-691-1200 info@openspace.org BOARD OF DIRECTORS:Pete Siemens,Mary Davey,Jed Cyr, GENERAL MANAGER:
Los Altos CA 94022-1404 650-691-0485 fax www.openspace.org Deane Little,Nonette Hanko,Larry Hossett,Kenneth C.Nitz L.Craig Britton
95 ea rra C:t:�e..er nror.as
Regional Open Si ce
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
June 9, 2006
Tom Lockard
Stone & Youngberg
50 California St., 35`h Floor
San Francisco, CA 94111
Dear Torn:
On behalf of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, I would like to thank Stone & Youngberg
for partnering with the District to make the 2006 Special Parks District Forum a success! Without Stone
' generous 5 000 donation the District would not have been able to host 50 attendees of
&Youn ber s $
g g g
the Forum on a tour of District lands to discuss the programs and endeavors that are unique to our District
within the bay area. I am glad to report that through LFR's generosity and the generosity of our other
sponsors, the District was able to provide an excellent event.
The Special Parks District Forum, an annual, national conference that was co-hosted this year in May by
our District along with the East Bay Regional Park District. Participants of the Forum consist of decision
makers from park, recreation, and open space districts throughout the United States and Canada.
The District would be honored if you would allow the Board of Directors to commend Stone &
Youngberg for this donation with the presentation of a framed photograph of one of your favorite District
preserves. Please contact Elaina Cuzick of our office at(650) 691-1200 at your earliest convenience to let
her know which preserve is your favorite, and to make arrangements for the presentation of the
photograph at one of our future Board meetings.
Stone & Youngberg's support of the Forum made a valuable contribution to the nation's most important
conference on new and continuing programs that benefit the users of the region's park, recreation, and
open space districts. Again, thank you for your support and generosity in making this year's Forum a
success!,,---,,,,
Sin c rely,
L. Craig Britton -----
General Manager
LCB/ec
cc: Board of Directors, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
Federal Tax Id: 94-2231873
33o Distel Circle 650-6gi-1200 info@openspace.org BOARD OF DIRECTORS:Pete Siemens,Mary Davey,Jed Cyr, GENERAL MANAGER:
Los Altos CA 94022-1404 650-691-0485 fax www.openspace.org Deane Little,Nonette Hanko,Larry Hassett,Kenneth C.Nitz L.Craig Britton
Regional Op I en Sftace
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
June 12, 2006
The Honorable Fran Pavley
State Capitol Building
Sacramento, CA 95814
Re: Assembly Bill 2838
Dear Assemblymember Pavley:
On behalf of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District,I am writing to thank you for your
leadership in working to establish the Coastal Environment Motor Vehicle Mitigation Program.
Assembly Bill 2838 holds the potential to significantly improve the quality of life throughout
coastal California by providing long-term funding for the protection and restoration of natural
resources and natural systems affected by motor vehicles and their associated infrastructure.
Specifically, this bill would support long-standing mitigation efforts and solutions that
consistently demonstrate conservation success in and along the coast that include:
• Providing natural filters for pollutants through wetlands restoration;
• Reducing,air pollution and peak storm water runoff rates through urban forestry;
• Securing conservation and agricultural easements' on impacted lands;
• Increasing non-motorized public access to the coast and scenic resources.
These conservation projects reduce air and noise pollution,protect water quality, and preserve
our natural resources and are critical elements to providing balance to California's mandate to
expedite transportation projects and facilities throughout the state.
AB 2838 provides a fair mechanism of mitigation against the adverse environmental impacts of the
20 million motor vehicles currently registered in California's 20 coastal counties. The District
strongly supports your efforts through AB 2838 to support critical resource conservation priorities
while s* eously providing much-needed transportation mitigation.
h / - i
il S* eo providing much,
Sin
in
L. Craig o
C 'ra v
General Manager
LCB/ec
cc: Board of Directors, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
Ralph Heim,Public Policy Advocates
33o Distel Circle 650-6gi-1200 info@openspace.org BOARD OF DIRECTORS:Pete Siemens,Mary Davey,Jed Cyr, GENERAL MANAGER:
Los Altos CA 94022-1404 650-69i-o485 fax www.openspace.org Deane Little,Nonette Hanko,Larry Hossett,Kenneth C Nitz L.Craig Britton
Regional OpenS,,.tce
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
June 12,2006
The Honorable Arnold Schwarzenegger
Governor of California
State Capitol Building
Sacramento, CA 95814
RE: Budget Item#2660-101-0183 —SUPPORT
Dear Governor Schwarzenegger:
The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District along with the California Council of Land Trusts and its
members strongly support the inclusion of the Environmental Enhancement and Mitigation Program (EEMP)
in the 2006-2007 State Budget. Bipartisan legislative action in the budget subcommittees have ensured this
item will not go to conference,but will be included in the final budget bill presented for your signature. The
companion budget line item for this issue is 2660-022-0042.
The EEMP is an immensely popular transportation mitigation tool that has been largely neglected over the last
few years,receiving only$10 million of the$30 million authorized by statute since 2003. Despite the fact that
EEMP projects provide tremendous financial leveraging for the State's investment,no funding was included in
the signed state budget for this invaluable resource last year. This action jeopardizes 47 projects
recommended for funding in 05-06 that would leverage state dollars on a 4.8 to I ratio.
While the EEMP provides funds to plant thousands of trees throughout California and provide additional
recreational opportunities for tourists and residents of the Golden State,the program has also been a key
conservation tool for land trusts statewide that have served as stewards of some of California's most precious
open.space lands.
Land trusts and other conservation entities throughout the state have completed multiple magnificent projects
that have provided tremendous mitigation for some of California's largest and most environmentally adverse
transportation projects. Stewards such as the Land Conservancy for Santa Barbara County,Fallbrook Land
Conservancy,American River Conservancy,Greenspace,and the Back Country Land Trust have protected
hundreds of acres of scenic and recreational open space that includes Pine Hill,Ostrich Farms, Strawberry
Canyon,Wright's Field, and the Arroyo Hondo Preserve.
The$10 * *on annual EEMP is a vital mitigation source that cannot go unfunded another year. Your support
The annual EEMP is arvital r is ss,�P I for
its u
for this c itica issue is essential for its success.
c ly
erely,
L. Craig Britton
General Manager
LCB/ec
cc: Board of Directors, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
Ralph Heim,Public Policy Advocates
33o Distel Circle 650-691-1200 info@openspace.org BOARD OF DIRECTORS:Pete Siemens,Mary Davey,Jed Cyr, GENERAL MANAGER:
Los Altos CA 94022-1404 650-6gi-0485 fax www.openspace.org Deane Little,Nonette Hanko,Lorry Hassett,Kenneth C.Nitz L.Craig Britton
Regional Open SpLe
June 12,2006 MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
The Honorable Wes Chesbro,Chair
Senate Budget and Fiscal Review Committee
State Capitol Building
Sacramento, CA 95814
Re: Tidelands Revenues and the Natural Resources Infrastructure Fund
Dear Senator Chesbro:
On behalf of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District,I am writing to thank you for your leadership
in working to renew the Resources Trust Fund through your Senate Bill 1125 and Budget trailer bill
language. The District is especially grateful for your continued support for investing tideland oil revenues
into the Natural Resources Infrastructure Fund within the Resources Trust Fund.
Funding to pay for resource conservation is in great demand,but short supply. As you know,the Department
of Fish and Game currently has neither the scientific nor the enforcement staff needed to meet its public trust
responsibilities. There is close to a$1 billon backlog in state parks deferred maintenance. Essential marine
conservation and wetlands restoration work remains years overdue.
Through your efforts and strong support for these programs,$50 million has been included in the May
Revise to address most of these critical needs. In addition,both Houses have proposed long-term support for
these programs through recent Subcommittee actions.
Unfortunately, only the Assembly subcommittee action captured all funding priorities addressed in Senate
Bill 1125, including the Natural Resources Infrastructure Fund. This piece of your priority legislation fills a
significant funding gap in dedicated conservation resources and provides the legislature with a special
mechanism that can be accessed throughout the budget process for conservation projects. NRIF
demonstrates the Legislature's continuing commitment to resource protection programs and, if properly
funded,would represent one of the most significant long-term funding sources to be established by the
Legislature for this purpose.
California's natural resources are important to the people and economy of our state. The revised '06-'07
budget begins to fill in the huge gaps in funding currently plaguing a number of our key conservation
programs,but does not maximize the critical need to capture tidelands revenues for both existing and future
conservation. The District appreciates your consistent leadership for preserving our state's most precious
resources and urge your support for retaining the Natural Resources Infrastructure Fund in both your budget
and
Sinc rely,
L. Craig ton
General Manager
LCB/ec
cc: Board of Directors,Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
Ralph Heim, Public Policy Advocates
33o Distel Circle 650-6g1-1200 info@openspace.org BOARD OF DIRECTORS:Pete Siemens,Mary Davey,Jed Cyr, GENERAL MANAGER:
Los Altos CA 94022-1404 650-6gi-0485 fax www.openspace.org Deane Little,Nanette Hanko,Larry Hassett,Kenneth C.Nitz L.Craig Britton
A
-----Origioal Message-----
From: Ralph Heim [mailto:RaIpb@ppallo.cmm] �
Sent: Wednesday, June 14, 2006 9:22 AM �
To: Craig Britton �
�
Subject: Resources Bond Certified for November Ballot �
�
| Yesterday, the Secretary of State certified the "Water Quality: Safety
| ^ and Supply, Flood Control, Natural Resources Protection, Park
| Improvements Bond for the November ballot. The $5,388,000, 000 bond
| will
� appear with the recently passed infrastructure bond package, |
1
Ralph /
Ralph A. Heim
Public Policy Advocates, LLC
1015 K Street, Suite 200
Sacramento, C8 95814
9I6-441-0702 �
9I6-44I-3549 (fax) �
�
ralpb@ppallo.onm �
� ^
�
|
�
| �
�
�
�
(
\
`
Regional Open Sl. ce
-------------------
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
June 15, 2006
Mr. Craig Dremman
P.O. Box 609
Redwood City, CA 94064
Dear Mr. Dremman:
The Board received your second email with additional questions about our weed
eradication program.
As we stated in our April 27 2006 letter to you,the District does not current) track the
P Y Y
budget for invasive plant removal specifically. It is, however, a significant part of the
District's total Resource Management budget, which is projected to be approximately $3
million in the current fiscal year.
In fiscal year 2005-2006, we worked on approximately 20 acres of yellow starthistle and
10 acres of Harding grass at the following preserves: Russian Ridge, Sierra Azul, Long
Ridge, Los Trancos, Monte Bello, Rancho San Antonio, Saratoga Gap and Skyline
Ridge.
In the past three ears we have substantial) reduced the cover of yellow starthistle at the
p years, Y
Front Meadow area(2 acres) of Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve by carefully
timed summer mowing, follow-up spot-spraying or hand removal of remaining thistle
plants, and seeding and planting of native bunch grasses. At the southern end of Los
Trancos Open Space Preserve, 5 acres of yellow starthistle have been sprayed with
herbicide and any remaining starthistle plants were removed by hand. We have reduced
the cover of Harding grass and increased the cover of the native purple needlegrass at the
Rancho de Guadalupe section of the Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve (2 acres) by
burning with follow-up spot-spraying.
It has been our experience that it takes multiple years to completely eradicate weeds from
an area, including the seed bank in the soil, therefore, we are not inclined to boast that
complete eradication has occurred in any one year. Furthermore, we understand that
human visitors and wildlife can inadvertently reintroduce weed seed into an area, so we
intend to continue monitoring these areas for new infestations and respond accordingly.
We do believe,however, that the invasive weed control program at these three locations
has been extremely successful in eliminating all the seed-producing yellow starthistle and
Harding grass plants, and that most of the seed bank in the soil has been exhausted as
evidenced by the small fraction of invasive plants that we currently see germinating at
these sites this spring, and the greater cover of native grasses.
I
33o Distel Circle 650-6gi-1200 info@openspace.org BOARD OF DIRECTORS:Pete Siemens,Mary Davey,Jed Cyr, GENERAL MANAGER:
Los Altos CA 94022-1404 650-6gi-0485 fax www.openspace.org Deane Little,Nonette Nanko,Larry Nassett,Kenneth C.Nitz L.Craig Britton
Mr. Craig Drernman
June 15,2006
Page Two
As we have developed effective methods to control invasive weeds at these sites, we have
slowly expanded our efforts into other areas and are starting to test other methods such as
the release of biocontrol insects, carefully timed brush cutting and spot-spraying of new
small outbreaks of yellow starthistle, and digging up new small outbreaks of Harding
grass.
We estimate that there are approximately 400 total acres of yellow starthistle and 110
total acres of Harding grass on District preserves. Overall, we estimate that this amount
will continue to decrease due to our expanding control efforts. We do not currently have
an estimate on how many years it will take to completely eradicate these two species
from District lands.
Sincerely,
Jed Cyr, President
Board of Directors
cc: MROSD Board of Directors
L. Craig Britton, General Manager
Jed Cyr, President, Board of Directors,
Midpnoiooula Regional Open Space District
via email to Margaret Koimobe and Julie Norton
Dear Mr. Cyr and the Board,
Thank you for your letter in response to my questions about the
District's weed and native ecosystem management emailed to the Board in
April.
Your letter brings up new details and in this email I/m submitting three
new questions at the end of this email that I would like a reply from
the Board on:
DISTRICT-WIDE, the NATIVE PLANT n0DERSTQBY is 70-90% GONE -- Every Board
member should kom* that all of the 50, 000 acres owned by the Midpeoisula
Open Space District (hereafter "District") , are "broken" ecosystems, in
| that the original native plant oodezotorioo were 70-90% catastrophically
removed 100-I50 years ago? Photos at bttp: //www.ecooeeda.00m/ioveot.btml.
THREE DECADES OF NEGLECT ALLOWED NEW WEEDS TO SPREAD -- Unfortunately,
�
34 years of neglect and the failure of the various District Boards to �
allocate sufficient annual funds for ecosystem restoration and management,
has allowed new weeds to move in and degrade the remaining 10-30% of the
native ecosystem uoderatozieo after 1972, like the Yellow Star Thistle and
the Harding Grass, and most recently, the False Bzome, �
DISTRICT NEEDS DOCTORS FOR IS8I AND HIS TRIBE - It is as if the native
�
plants were Zabi and his tribe living on the District's lands, and for
the last 150 years, the wild oats and ripgut grass were diseases and �
they've decimated 7O 9O� o� the tribe. Now two new diseases in �bo last
ey - ' �
]O years, the Yellow star thistle and Harding grass, have arrived and
are slowly finishing off the last of the tribe. Isn' t the District
going to hire some competent Land Doctors to get Iabi and his tribe, �
well again?
"PUBLIC DOMAIN" TECHNOLOGIES DO NOT WORK -- Your letter listed a number
of weed management techniques that the District is currently using or �
� trying to use, but each Board members abooId know by now, that none of �
| those "public domain" weed management technologies listed in your
| letter, including burning, has ever successfully slowed down the spread
� or ever significantly reduced the extent of the yellow star thistle that
| current infests the District' s lands.
� LICENSED ECOLOGICAL RESTORATION TECHNOLOGIES CAN WORK -- All the Board
� members should know, that at least since 2001, three different "Licensed
� Ecological Restoration technologies" (ECOLOGICAL RESTORATION journal
� 2001, V. 19, N. 2, Pages 70-71) have been available to permanently
� manage yellow star thistle?
�
� Why hasn't the Board contacted the professional Ecological Restoration
firms for oococasfuI weed management technologies, or looked into using
�
� �
� any of the professional Licensed methods that already exist, to
� permanently manage yellow star thistle within 90 days or less, to get
� rid of 99% of the infestation without using fire', mowing, tilling,
� pulling, insects, pathogenic fungi, or herbicides?
�
�
�
`
| .
|
WHEN IS THE BOARD GOING ID START INVESTING IN INVENTING SUCCESSFUL
TECHNOLOGIES -- If the Board doesn't want to purchase successful
Licensed Ecological Restoration technologies that already exist,
shouldn't the Board start this year, to make the necessary investment in
R&D to invent their own successful ecological restoration technologies?
Perhaps half of the I4, 000 volunteer hours that the District receives
annually for weed control, could be shifted into maybe 7, 000 hours of
testing and inventing successful ecological restoration methods? Maybe
an a000aI "Weed Prize" could be offered for the most successful method?
Shouldn't the Board either purchase eooceoofuI Licensed Ecological �
Restoration technologies to manage these weeds, or pay someone to invent �
�
the successful technologies that the District needs, to manage their |
various weeds that are continuing to spread and degrade the native
ecosystems? |
PUSHING the "YEARS OF NEGLECT" WEEDS, back to their pre-I970'a level of
ZERO ACRES - Regarding the weed species allowed to invade the District's
lands during the 34 years of neglect, like the yellow star thistle and
Harding grass---shouldn't the District immediately stop their spread,
and then purchase or invent the successful technologies necessary to
roll back these weeds in the next 5-I0 years, back to their pre-I970
level, of zero acres infested?
THEREFORE, Z have three new questions: �
� I. ) IN THE LAST FY, bm+ many dollars were spent on Weed Eradication and
Ecological Restoration by the District, and bow many total acres were
managed for that sum?
2. ) IN THE LAST FY, bm* many acres of Yellow star thistle and bow many
acres of Harding grass were successfully eradicated on District lands,
� either by District-paid persons or volunteers, on *bat Preserves were
� they eradicated, and what were the method(s) used? |
!
� .
3. > DISTRICT-WIDE in 2006, what is the TOTAL ACRES of Yellow star
thistle and Harding grass that still needing eradication---are those
acres INCREASING or DECREASING when compared to 2005, and by box much? �
� Is the District maintaining the status quo of the spread, decreasing �
� the spread, or letting the spread run wild, unabated? At the rate that
�
the District is currently managing these two species, within bow many
years will both be eradicated from District lands?
�
I will look forward to your reply. |
/
Sincerely, Craig Dremauu, Boo 609, Redwood City, C& 94064 i
(650) 225-7333
�
�
�
|
/
�
|
�
�
�
. Regional Open S,,-.dce
June 15, 2006 MIDPENINSULA RE C -
DRAF
T RESPONSE
PREPARED BY STAFF
FOR BOARD CONSIDERATION
RE: Portola Lookout (former Comas property) - Long Ridge Open Space Preserve
I
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Obermayer:
We are in receipt of your letter dated May 27, 2006 regarding the District's road maintenance
obligations associated with the former Comas property. The District Board has already stated its
position on this matter in previous letters in reply dated March 9 and April 27, 2006. We have
taken your concerns seriously and have researched this issue in depth. Our position is informed
by a careful reading of the road maintenance obligations contained in the grant deed from
Humphreys to Comas, and by discussions with the Comas' regarding the history of the
construction, maintenance and use of the roads across the Portola Lookout property, as well as
the creation of the easement in question. Our intention to maintain the Long Ridge Road
easement at the higher standard set by the previous owner remains unchanged. We accept that we
are in disagreement with you as to the historic use and maintenance of the roads across the
former Comas property, and as to the required level of improvement for your road easement.
Your negative portrayal of the District's efforts to preserve the rural and open space character of
the scenic Skyline corridor and Long Ridge areas is unfortunate. We are disappointed that you
have so greatly mischaracterized the District's motives and actions and have not accurately
stated the facts. The District Board, staff, volunteers and supporters share a commitment to
preserving the special landscapes that define and enhance the communities we live in and serve.
The District embraces a responsible and pragmatic approach to fulfilling this mission, one that
respects the rights of our neighbors, fully accepts all legal obligations, and takes seriously our
charge to manage public lands for public benefit.
The District Board had previously referred this matter to our Skyline Field Office, and any
further inquiry or concerns directed to the Board will be referred to Area Superintendent David
Sanguinetti for appropriate action.
Sincerely,
i
Jed Cyr
President, Board of Directors
cc: MROSD Board of Directors
David Sanguinetti, Skyline Area Superintendent
Portola Park Heights Property Owners Association
33o Distei Circle 650-691-1200 info@openspace.org BOARD OF DIRECTORS:Pete Siemens,Mary Davey,Jed Cyr, GENERAL MANAGER:
Los Altos CA 94022-1404 650-6gi-0485 fax www.openspace.org Deane Little,Nonette Hanko,Larry Hassett,Kenneth C.Nitz L.Craig Britton
AL FOxY HOLLOW Ak AL Ak
22400 Skyline Blvd #22 La Honda. Ca.94020
May 27, 2006 RED„/- IVE U
MR.O.S.D.
MAY 3 0 2006
330 Distel Circle ADPENINSULp,
Los Altos Ca 94020 '3EGIOWL(Di
SPACE 1 3TICT
Re: Portola Lookout(former Comas property) Long Ridge
To MR.O.S.D. Board of Directors and President Mr. Jed Cyr,
Thank you for your letter dated April 27 2006. However,the conclusion you
reach, "that the level of required improvement goes back to the condition and road
surface that existed when the easement was recorded" is clearly wrong. Your
wrong conclusion serves the Districts interests at the expense of the Portola Park
Heights community.
The original road was built to county specifications by Wally Lindsey in order to
sell the Portola Heights development properties. It was an oil surface road. Some
sections of the oiled road are still visible, for example,under the gravel starting
from Doherty Ridge Road going one hundred and fifty feet down the road, plus
there are visible remnants on the side of the road by the MacNiven property. So
even your interpretation would require improving the road to a point where one
need not worry about getting vehicles stranded.
But that's not the standard you, as owner of the former Comas property, are
required to follow. Under the clear terms of the agreement you are required,at
your expense,to maintain the road"in a condition equal to that of the condition"
of the road that provides access(parcel 2)to your property. Like it or not,that's
now paved.
Please remember that this was a real estate development that contemplated the
easement being improved over time. That's why the previous paragraph of the
agreement talks of"increased uses for increased traffic for ingress and egress, and
increased use for installation and maintenance of all public utilities." Under your
interpretation, no development could ever take place as you would only have to
maintain a simple dirt road that you can close in foul weather.
If you don't want to meet the deeded obligations of a development you shouldn't
buy properties in one.
In fact, you complain about having to pay your agreed share of the front road
saying your cost is "significantly disproportionate to [your] use." Who do you
think should pay your agreed share? Again, if you don't want the obligations you
shouldn't buy the properties. And we don't think it is so disproportionate. We see
many more 4-wheel drive ranger vehicles and bicycles than residents on the road
these days.
This isn't the first time you've complained about having to pay your road
maintenance obligations. Your letters regarding Portola Lookout are similar to
those received from then general manager Herb Grench after the District surprised
those of us living in the community by buying property. At the time the MROSD
wasn't even in our area or San Mateo County. Your agency stopped the
development of the front properties accessing the community even threatening the
owner of the first home built near the front of our community with
condemnation. We then received a letter from Mr.Grench claiming the District
should not have to pay any road maintenance expenses. When this letter was
received poorly by the community another letter was sent claiming the District's
road maintenance obligations should be greatly reduced.
Years later,at a public meeting regarding our gate on Skyline,Board Member
Betsy Crowder made the reason for your urgent acquisition known: It was to keep
power and other improvements from entering our community in order to keep
property values down so you could purchase our properties at a lesser value.
What better way to ftirther lower property values of a small group of property
owners than to insure the only deeded access road to their properties is impassable
when wet?
The Districts actions in Portola Heights are forcing a small group of property
owners in the District's acquisition area to pay a far greater price for open space
than an average member of the public. This practice is un-American. The
intentionally depressing of our land values amounts to a taking for which you
should compensate us. If you really want out of your road maintenance
agreements, ones that you freely entered into when you bought the propertie ,you
should offer to bargain with the community and agree to pay what these a
r
worth. Your current actions certainly make your agency out as anything b tta
good neighbor to property owners that just happen to be in your way.
Yours Sincerely,
William Obermayer,
Lesley Obermayer