HomeMy Public PortalAbout20051220 - Agenda Packet - Board of Directors (BOD) Regional Open Space
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
Meeting 05-28
SPECIAL MEETING
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
7:00 p.m.
Tuesday,December 20, 2005
Skyline Field Office
21150 Skyline Boulevard
La Honda, CA 94020
AGENDA*
7:00 ROLL CALL
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS—Public
ADOPTION OF AGENDA—L. Hassett
ADOPTION OF CONSENT CALENDAR—L. Hassett
BOARD BUSINESS
7:05* 1. Adopt Attached Resolution Authorizing Purchase of POST(Rapley Ranch)property as an Addition
to Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve(Santa Mateo County Assessor's Parcel Numbers 078-210-
370 and 080-320-170); Determine Recommended Actions are Categorically Exempt from CEQA;
Adopt the Preliminary Use and Management Plan Recommendations;Name the Property as an
Addition to Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve; Indicate Intention to Dedicate Property as Public
Open Space—M. Williams
7:15* 2. Adopt Attached Resolution Authorizing Purchase of POST(Portola Lookout)Property as an Addition
to Long Ridge Open Space Preserve(Santa Mateo County Assessor's Parcel Number 085-130-050);
Determine Recommended Actions are Categorically Exempt from CEQA;Adopt the Preliminary Use
and Management Plan Recommendations;Name the Property as an Addition to Long Ridge Open
Space Preserve; Indicate Intention to Dedicate Property as Public Open Space—M. Williams
7:25* 3. Adopt the Attached Resolution Accepting the Gift of the Salzberg Property as an Addition to La
Honda Creek Open Space Preserve(San Mateo County Assessor's Parcel Number 072-334-020);
Determine Recommended Actions are Categorically Exempt from CEQA; Adopt the Preliminary
Use and Management Plan Recommendations;Name the Property as an Addition to La Honda
Creek Open Space Preserve; Indicate Intention to Dedicate Property as Public Open Space—M.
Reeves
*** REVISED CLAIMS
8:00* ADJOURNMENT
*Times are estimated and items may appear ear earlier or later than listed.
Meeting 05-28 Page 2
TO ADDRESS 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.
IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT, IF YOU NEED ASSISTANCE TO
PARTICIPATE IN THIS MATTERING,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.
Directions to Skyline Field Office, 21150 Skyline Blvd.
At the intersection of Page Mill and Skyline Blvd., from Page Mill Road, turn left (south) on
Skyline. The first driveway on your right (west) leads you to the field office. The driveway is
approximately 150 feet southeast of the intersection.
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LARRY HASSETT
PRESIDENT, BOARD OF DIRECTORS
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
I 330 DISTEL CIRCLE, Los ALTOS, CA 94022
650-691-1200
December 20, 2005
L. Craig Britton, General Manager
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
330 Distel Circle
Los Altos, CA 94022
Re: Call for a Special Meeting
Dear Craig:
I would like to call a Special Meeting of the Board of Directors of Midpeninsula Regional Open
Space District for Thursday, January 12, 2006 at 7:00 p.m. for the purpose of considering
purchase of the POST (Driscoll Ranch) property.
Please send a public notification for this meeting at your earliest convenience.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Larry Has It
President, Board of Directors
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
cc: Sally Thielfoldt, District Clerk
MROSD Board of Directors
Regional Open Space
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
R-05-130
Meeting 05-28
December 20, 2005
AGENDA ITEM I
AGENDA ITEM
Proposed Purchase of Peninsula Open Space Trust(Rapley;Ranch) Property as an Addition to Russian
Ridge Open Space Preserve (Santa Mateo County Assess 's Parcel Numbers 078-2I0-370 and
080-320-170)
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION �
1. Determine that the recommended actions are categorically exempt from the California
Environmental Quality Act(CEQA)as set out in this Report.
2. Adopt the attached Resolution authorizing purchase of the Peninsula Open Space Trust(Rapley
Ranch)property.
3. Adopt the Preliminary Use and Management Plan recommendations contained in this Report and
name the property as an addition to Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve.
4. Indicate your intention to dedicate the property as public open space.
DISCUSSION
The 15I.15-acre Peninsula Open Space Trust(POST)(Rapley Ranch) property, located adjacent to
Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve, is the third property to be considered for purchase within the
Coastside Protection Area, an area that was annexed into the District boundaries in 2004. As part of the
annexation process,the District prepared a Service Plan for the San Mateo Coastal Annexation Area and a
Final Environmental Impact Report that was approved by the Board of Directors on June 6, 2003. An
annexation application was then submitted to the San Mateo Local Agency Formation Commission
(LAFCO)and approved on April 7, 2004. The Coastside Protection Area, as the annexation area is
referred to, includes lands in the western portion of San Mateo County lying from south of the City of
Pacifica—generally between Skyline Boulevard and the Pacific Ocean—to the Santa Cruz County line.
i
As part of the annexation process,the Service Plan and subsequent conditions approved by LAFCO
established a number of policies and procedures for conducting the Coastside Protection Program.
Although the District would be authorized to purchase the POST(Rapley Ranch)property even if the
Coastside Protection Program had not been approved,that program now guides the District's purchase,
use, and management of open space land within the Coastside Protection Area. The proposed purchase of
the POST property described in this Report and the accompanying Preliminary Use and Management Plan
are consistent with the policies and procedures contained in the Coastside Protection Program. The
following Report presents a description of the POST property, future planning considerations,a
Preliminary Use and Management Plan,and environmental review of the project.
I
R-05-130 Page 2
A License and Management Agreement between the District and POST was approved at your
June 1, 2005 public meeting(see report R-05-06). Since that time,the District's field staff has managed
the property in a status quo, natural condition. The property has remained closed to public use with the
exception of very limited use by neighbors and docent led hikes. The property has been patrolled on a
regular basis.
In July 2005, grant funds in the amount of$500,000 were awarded by the state to the District from the
Habitat Conservation Fund Program to assist in purchasing the property. The grant funds are available in
the state's current fiscal year 2005-2006 budget.
DESCRIPTION (see attached map)
The 151.15-acre POST Rapley Ranch property sits high on the west-facing slopes of Russian Ridge and
overlooks scenic coastal hills and valleys, including the extinct volcanoes of Mindego Hill and Langley
Hill. Situated adjacent to the western boundary of the 1,822-acre Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve,
the property includes diverse terrain and plant communities; there are oak woodlands and open grasslands
on the gently rolling ridge tops, and mixed evergreen forest and riparian woodland on the steep slopes
above Mindego Creek and its tributaries. The ranch includes a densely forested canyon that makes up
part of the headwaters of Mindego Creek. This stream is important as a spawning and nursery area for the
federally threatened steelhead trout and is potential habitat for the endangered coho salmon,which
historically were present downstream in San Gregorio Creek. Mountain lion are present,and deer forage
and use resting sites on the property. Ranch roads on the property provide excellent opportunities for a
loop trail from the Bay Area Ridge Trail alignment across adjacent Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve.
The variety of rich habitats and trails make it desirable for the District to manage the property under the
terms of the License as an addition to the Preserve.
The property is approximately one mile south of Skyline Boulevard on Rapley Ranch Road. It adjoins
the western boundary of Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve. Private property that is largely
undeveloped lies to the west and south of the property. The property to the south is part of a large cattle
ranch. Langley Hill Quarry is a short distance to the west. A 14-acre, undeveloped private parcel, located
near the entrance to the Rapley Ranch property, is partially surrounded by the ranch and adjacent District
land. Access to the private parcel and Rapley Ranch is from an unsurfaced road that originates on Rapley
Ranch Road, approximately one mile south of Skyline Boulevard. There is a large parking pullout on
Rapley Ranch Road next to the gated entrance to the property. The entrance road leads to the former
ranch complex where a picturesque barn and several dilapidated outbuildings remain. Old ranch roads
branch through the property and provide trail access to Mindego Creek and the adjacent Preserve.
The property lies between Mindego and Langley Hills,two peaks that stand high on the landscape
because of their volcanic origin. Rapley Ranch's terrain is marked by gently rounded hilltops along a
north-south ridge that drop off into steeply sloped,v-shaped stream valleys. Elevations range from 2,045
feet atop a prominent knob, to 1,120 feet where Mindego Creek exits the southwest corner of the
property. Mindego Creek lies on the property's southern boundary and is a perennial creek fed both by
upstream springs on Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve and by springs originating on the property. The
western boundary is Rapley Creek, a tributary of Mindego Creek. There are two other unnamed
tributaries of Mindego Creek on the property that lie to the east of Rapley Creek. The north-facing slopes
above the entrance road drain into Woodruff Creek,which is also part of the San Gregorio Creek watershed.
Rapley Ranch's complex terrain results in diverse plant communities from streambed to ridgetop.
Riparian woodland vegetation lines the streams, and mixed evergreen forest is found on the steep slopes
above. Oak woodland and open grassland cover the gently rolling ridge tops. Steep hillsides support
mixed evergreen forest,with stands of coast live oak, canyon live oak, Douglas fir(including many tall
old-growth specimens), Pacific madrone,tan oak, and California bay laurel. The canyon bottoms are
commonly choked with dense riparian vegetation. California bay is probably the most common tree
I
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R-05-130 Page 3
directly next to the creek. Other trees include red alder, big leaf maple,arroyo willow, tan oak,coast
redwood, and creek dogwood.
Extensive edges between forest and grassland and numerous springs make Rapley Ranch especially
attractive to wildlife. Heavily used game trails lace its grassy ridges, oak woodlands and densely forested
canyons. Numerous badger diggings in the upper part of the property have been found as well as a badger
skeleton on the high grassy ridge above the barn. The large stick nests of the dusky footed wood rat are
common. Mountain lion tracks and deer kill are apparent throughout the Mindego Creek watershed. The
seeps and springs in the former homestead area provide suitable habitat for two special status species: the
California red-legged frog(federally threatened)and the San Francisco garter snake(federally
endangered). Both species have been found in the barn area and in the Mindego Creek riparian corridor.
Beginning in the 1870s,the land was owned and ranched by the Rapley family. Jim Rapley, known as
one of the original Skyline cowboys, bought the land from his parents in the 1930s and raised beef and
dairy cattle for 55 years. He lived on the property with his wife until their 125-year old,two-bedroom
cabin burned down after a lightning strike during a heavy storm in 2000. The Rapleys picked a secluded
spot for their homestead. Nestled in a south-facing bowl with springs at its head, the buildings catch the
sun and are well sheltered from wind. The barn and several small outbuildings in poor condition remain.
USE AND MANAGEMENT
Planning Considerations
the Coastal
' in the unincorporated area of San Mateo Cou
nty and outside
The property
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conformity with the San Mateo County General Plan. The property is comprised of one legal parcel and
has a potential density of eight residential sites. Development of the property for residential purposes
would be very feasible, as the property is accessible from Rapley Ranch Road and there are many
relatively level building sites along the upper central portion of the property and along the eastern
ridgetop.
' ace Stud shows potential regional trail connections in the vicinity
The District's 1998 Regional Open Sp y p g
of the property that would connect Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve to Pescadero Creek County Park
and La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve. Roads and trails on the property connect easily to the Bay
Area Ridge Trail located within one-quarter mile to the north.
The proposed Preliminary Use and Management Plan described below will remain in effect until a Final
Use and Management Plan is adopted. A substantially identical Plan was adopted on June 1, 2005 when
the License and Management Agreement was approved. The proposed plan is the same as the previous
plan with the exception of a recommendation to install a gate at the entrance to the property. Within the
Coastside Protection Area,the process for developing a Final Use and Management Plan involves
conducting more detailed resource inventories to be used in formulating resource management and public
access plans; consultation with interested government officials, agencies and organizations; and an
extensive public input process.
A provision to allow very limited public use in the form of permits for neighbors and docent-led hikes is
recommended to continue. This would not result in any expansion of the level of current use. Low-
intensity recreational trail use will be considered as the Final Use and Management Plan is being
developed. As part of the Final Plan, trailhead parking would not be available on this property,as the
only vehicular access is along a private road. It is also likely that as part of the Final Plan,the existing j
public trails on the adjacent Preserve would be extended to include trails on the Rapley Ranch property.
As part of POST's purchase of the property,the seller retained a 14-acre home site along the northwestern
boundary of the property. POST and the seller entered into an Access and Maintenance Agreement
ill
R-05-130 Page 4
pertaining to the access road from Rapley Ranch Road to the 14-acre parcel. This road also serves as the
primary access to the Rapley Ranch property. The access agreement provides for shared maintenance of
the access road at its current unpaved standard. If the owner of the 14-acre parcel desires to improve the
road to a higher standard all costs of the improvements and the maintenance and repair of an improved
road becomes the responsibility of the private landowner. The agreement also provides for the
installation of underground utility lines in the roadway or to existing utility poles(electricity and
telephone) located along the northwestern boundary of the Rapley Ranch property. The Easement
Agreement includes public trail access along the road, installation of a gate at the entrance from Rapley
Ranch Road(including trial stiles), and design review of any proposed road upgrades or gate installation
proposed by the private property owner.
The Coastside Protection Program requires that when land purchased by the District includes an existing
agricultural use, has prime agricultural soil,or is adjacent to lands in agricultural production,an
agricultural production plan will be developed as part of the Final Use and Management Plan. According
to the GIS database for San Mateo County(updated in 2000)and the California Department of
Conservation's Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program(FMMP), the property is not well suited to
the cultivation of agricultural crops. The property is not classified as Prime Agricultural Land,Unique
Farmland, or Farmlands of Statewide Importance as shown on the FMMP. As the land lying to the south
of the property is currently being grazed by cattle,the Final Use and Management Plan will include an
agricultural production element that will ensure compatibility of resource management and public access
with the adjacent cattle-grazing operation. In addition because the roe was once used for
plans J g g p property rh'
cattle grazing,re-establishing this land use will be investigated as part of the development of the Final
Use and Management Plan.
The Coastside Protection Program also requires consultation with interested public agencies,officials and
interested organizations to solicit input into the planning process prior to the Board's consideration of
purchasing the property. District staff has met and consulted with the Farm Bureau on the project and did
not receive any written comments. The project was agendized and generally supported by the San Mateo
County Agricultural Advisory Committee. The property has not been in an agricultural use for the past
twenty-five years. Since 1977, and until POST purchased the property in June of 2004,the property was
owned by a private party and held for its future-development potential. To date,no other comments have
been received.
The District's Real Property Committee,a standing committee of the Board of Directors, held a meeting
on the property in order to acquaint the three-member Board Committee, neighbors, and interested parties
with the property, and to receive public input into the proposed license agreement and potential
acquisition of the property. This meeting was held on May 17, 2005 after notice was distributed to
property owners of land located adjacent to or surrounding the subject property,coastside public officials,
community-interest groups, non-profit land trusts,conservation-oriented organizations, elected officials,
government agencies, and government-sponsored organizations within the Coastside Protection Area.
i
At the Real Property Committee meeting, staff described the property, explained how the property would
be a natural extension of the adjacent Preserve, and covered the terms of the proposed License for the
property. One neighbor attended the meeting and shared information about the property,the former
landowners, and past land uses. The neighbor expressed an interest in continuing pedestrian and
equestrian access to the property and the adjoining Preserve. Staff responded that until the property was
opened to the general public, neighbor access could be addressed through a permit issued by the District
on a case-by-case basis with individual neighbors. The neighbor expressed her pleasure and strong
support of the proposed License.
R-05-130 Page 5
PRELIMINARY USE AND MANAGEMENT PLAN
This Preliminary Use and Management Plan will take effect upon the close of escrow, and remain
effective until a Final Use and Management Plan for the property is developed. The Preliminary Use and
Management Plan represents a status quo approach to management and includes securing, posting,
patrolling and cleaning up the property. Limited continuation of current use in the form of permits
allowing access by neighbors and docent-led hikes will continue to be allowed. In the future,a Final Use
and Management Plan will be developed, including more detailed plans for resource management and
public access. The Final Plan will be subject to public input and further environmental assessment in
accordance with the Coastside Protection Program and to ensure that land use decisions are consistent
with ecological values. As part of the Final Plan,the property would be maintained in a natural condition
and is expected to be eventually open for low intensity recreational use.
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Public Access: Closed to public recreational access. A limited use-permit system will be continued for
neighbors and docent-led hikes to allow very limited access; natural resources, roads,and trails will be
further inventoried in anticipation of the property later being open to public use under a final Plan.
Signs: Install "Closed Area" signs and boundary plaques where appropriate.
Roads and Trails: Maintain existing roads and trails in accordance with the road and trail maintenance
practices set out in the Service Plan and in keeping with District-wide practices. A further detailed road
and trail assessment will be conducted as part of the process of developing a Final Use and Management
Plan.
Barriers: Gate to be installed at then entrance to the property, repair fences as necessary to prevent
trespass.
Patrol: Regularly patrol the property utilizing existing roads.
Resource Management: Conduct a detailed resource inventory as part of the process of developing a
Final Use and Management Plan.
Structures: Secure and maintain the barn; as part of developing a Final Use and Management Plan,
determine the final disposition of the barn.
Cleanup: Remove small animal sheds and storage sheds, as these outbuildings are in a state of disrepair
and not able to be restored or stabilized and do not have cultural or historic value.
Fuel Management: Conduct current District-wide fuel management practices; consult with San Mateo
County and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection(CDF) in developing a site-specific
fuel modification and management program as part of the process of developing a Final Use and
Management Plan.
Name: Name the property as an addition to Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve.
Service Plan: Maintain the property in conformity with the provisions of the Service Plan for the
Coastside Protection Program.
Dedication: Indicate your intention to dedicate the property as public open space.
Site Safety Inspection: An initial investigation was completed that identified minor amounts of solid
waste material in the form of animal pens and storage sheds that will be removed. The property is not
listed on any local, state, or federal list as a hazardous materials site.
N-05'130 Page
CEQA COMPLIANCE
Project Descdpfign
The projectoonmistaofDiotrict purchasing the l5\.\5'ucro Peninsula Open Space Trust(Ruo|ey Ranch)
property as an addition to the Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve and the concurrent adoption of a
Preliminary Use and Management Plan for the addition. The District has managed the property since
June 2005 under the terms of License and Management Agreement with Peninsula Open Space Trust
(PDST) and uo adopted Preliminary Use and Management Plan. The Preliminary Use and Management
Plan now being considered as part of the proposed land purchase is essentially the same as the plan
previously approved uu part of the License and Management Agreement. This plan provides for securing,
patrolling, and removing waste materials from the property. Very limited pubic use will continue to be
allowed in the form of permits for neighbors and docent-led hikes. The property will he included inthe
Final Use and Management Plan for Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve. The land will bepermanently
preserved us open space. Although closed tw the public during the planning process,the property iy
expected to he ultimately open to |o;v intensity recreational use, assuming that the planning process does
not reveal significant impediments to such use. The suitability of the land for potential compatible
agricultural use will also beevaluated.
CEQA Determination
A site-specific environmental evaluation has been completed concerning the resources on this property �
and how the resources could be affected if the property is purchased and opened tothe public. In
addition, the property is substantially similar tothe lands evaluated in the 9nogrunn Environmental lnopuoi
� Report for the Coastal Annexation Area and the environmental effects of District ownership and
management are determined to be consistent with the potential effects described in the EIR. The District �
concludes that this project vvil|nothuveauignificuntcffeuton1bconvironnucoL ltim categorically exempt �
OomCEO/\ (California Environmental Quality Act)under Sections |530\, )53l6` l5]|7, l5325` \533O,
and |506lof the CE[)A Guidelines umfollows:
Section 15301 exempts the operation, repair, maintenance, permitting, |eumiug` licensing, orminor
alteration of existing public or private mbociurcm, facilities, rncobunico| equipment,or topographical
features, involving negligible or no expansion of use beyond that existing at the time of the agencies
determination. The Preliminary Use and Management Plan specifies that a gate will be installed and
fencing will be repaired to secure the property, boundary plaques will be installed,and roads and trails
will he maintained using District-wide and Service Plan management practices. There will henoor
negligible expansion ufuse.
Section 15316 exempts the acquisition of land in order to create parks if tile site is in a natural condition
and the management plan proposes to keep the area inu natural condition. The Preliminary Use and
Management 9|un specifies that the land will not be developed and will remain in u natural condition.
Section 15317 exempts the acceptance of fee interests in order to maintain the open space character of an �
area. The District will purchase fee interest and maintain the open space character of the area. No new
development is proposed us part of this project.
Section 15325 exempts transfers of ownership of interests in land in order to preserve open space. This �
purchase will transfer fee ownership of the property to the District and ensure it will be preserved as
public open space by incorporating it into the Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve.
Section 15330 exempts minor cleanup actions taken to prevent, minimize, stabilize, mitigate,oreliminate �
the release or threat of release of a hazardous waste or substance which are small or medium removal
actions costing$l million orless. This purchase includes the removal o[animal sheds and storage sheds
in a state of disrepair, which ioudc ominimnia clean-up action within the scope ufSection 15330.
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R'05'130 Page
This acquisition io categoricallyexempt from C2OA under five sections of the CBUA Guidelines. The
actions proposed in the Preliminary Use and Management Plan are also exempt under Section 15061, as
there is no possibility the actions may have a significant effect on the environment.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
The 151.15-acre POST(Rapley Ranch) property is being purchased at a(matching gift) bargain sale
purchase price of$500,0OO, or approximately$3,308 per acre. The property has eight potential
� residential building sites umcalculated by San Mateo County. The{�iaU'iotsucccoufuUy obtained
�
$5OO,O00 grant from the state Habitat Conservation Fund. POST acquired the property in July uf20U4u1
u purchase price of$],450,000. That purchase price has been confirmed bya fair market appraisal of �
$3,475,000. The criteria ofthe Habitat Conservation Fund grant program requires local matching �
financial contribution. However, this match can he provided by the equal ur greater value ofu gift of
land, which is part of the approved grant project. In other words, POST is selling the property tothe
District atabargain uu|e price of$500,VO0. The balance oy$2,g75,0OO ia being gifted to the District 10
� provide for the grant matching requirement. The amount mf$500,OOOwill be fully reimbursed hythe
Habitat Conservation grant fund after the close ofescrow.
� The Purchase Agreement between POST and the Seller included ao unrecorded right of first offer to �
purchase the 14-ucrc ,ctuiucd puccc| in the event the pun:e| in offered for sale or the seller receives an
unsolicited purchase offer from u third party. Upon purchase of the |5).|5-acre property,the right offirst
�
offer will transfer to the District, as the successor owner of the property.
The Purchase Agreement with POST includes ucovenant that provides POST a period uf five years 0o �
recognize yignifiountdonors for specific areas,trails or land formations on the property inaccordance �
with the District's"Policies for Site Naming and Gift PLouognidou." When the District takes ownership
of the property, the License and Management Agreement entered into in June of 2005 will terminate in
�
accordance with the Purchase Agreement. �
Staff has conducted due diligence investigations and inspections of the property. Staff has reviewed all of
San Mateo County"u property records and fi|cm, and is so1imfiedthat no underground storage tanks, �
contamination ur hazardous conditions exist nn the property.
BUDGET CONSIDERATIONS
2OO5-2OO6 Budget for New Land Purchases
New Land* $19^755,120
New Land Purchased this year (5,400.000)
POST(0up|cy Ranch)Property (500,000)
POST(Ponu|u Lookout)Property �
Proposed later iu this Agenda 000
New Land Purchase Budget Remaining $13`255,120 �
*Reflects Mid-Year Budget Adjustment
Controller M. Foster was consulted on this proposed purchase and has indicated that, considering cash �
flow and account balances, funds are available for this property purchase.
Current Coastside Protection Area Fiscal Considerations
The 151.15-acre property is located in the Coastside Protection Area and is subject to the Agreement �
Between San Mateo County and the Miupenhmo/u Regional Open Space I}ixr/6:t Fire �
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| R-05'130 Page
Services) and the southerly l|6J5-acre portion of the property imsubject to an Agreement Between La
Honda—Pescadero [nifio School District and Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District. Ae part of
| the County Fire Agreement, the District will pay to Sun Mateo County Fire Department annual fees for
fire services that are not currently provided with the State Responsibility Area ofCDF. The Fire 3on/ioex
Fee will he $2,673.75 based upon the pro rutu share of the usucaacd value for this portion of the subject �
property. The fire services fee will increase 2Y6annually. Ae part ofthe School District Agreement,the
District will pay the School District un annual fee of$790.62. The School District services fee will �
inonuuac 296 annually. The remaining northerly 34.4-ucrn portion nf the property is not located in the La
Rmnda-Pcucudeoo School District. �
�
Staff has analyzed the conditions of the site and financial considerations associated with the proposed �
purchase and subsequent management of the property to ascertain whether the District has sufficient �
resources to sustain the project. The Protection Program includes Analysis conducted
�
.-" �
bv Economics Research Associates confirming the feasibility of implementing that Program. The �
proposed purchase, Preliminary Use and Management Plan,and expected long-term management strategy
�
are consistent with the Coastoidc Protection Program. The site assessment indicates that management �
costs associated with the proposed purchase are expected tohe consistent with those p ''ectcdiuthu
� �
Fi�co| /�nu|yaismndBosicScrvio� P\un. 8tuf�has rmviovvcdthe revenue undmtbercost p '�c�ionuiud`� �
� - �
� Fiscal Analysis and concluded that there have been no changes since the analysis was prepared that would �
affect its cooc|uaiony �tufTbuufur�b�rrcvi�n�ddmc��p�cicdnuana�cmn�n�co��min |igbtofthcDimU'io�`a �
� . �
� operating expenses and Controller's estimated tax revenue and cash flow projectionsfor the current fiscal
� year and for the next ten years. Based on this analysis, staff concludes that purchasing and managing this �
� property will not n*uu|t in any significant impact to the District's existing services. �
�
�
Furthermore, staff assessed the costs associated with this project undoo them to the Controller's
� ten-year projections ofcaahflow, yropedy tax revenue, and operating expenses. Using the assumptions
� established in the Basic Service Plan and pimoa| Analysis for staffing needs and land nnomogcuzcnt
� cspcnmoy, staff determined that the District has the resources to sustain this project over the long term.
Public Notification
Written notices of the proposal for the District topurchase this property and this Board meeting have been �
mailed/o property owners of land located adjacent tooc surrounding the subject property, and coumtaide �
public officials, community-interest groups, non-profit land trusts, conservation-oriented organizations, �
elected officials, government agencies �
� , �
� Protection Area ua well uo attendees ofthe May17, 2005 on-site public workshop. �
Prepared by: �
Del Woods, Senior Real Property Planner �
� Michael C. Williams, Real Property Manager �
Maps prepared by:
David Gagner, Planning Technician
Contact person: �
Michael C. Williams, Real Manager
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RESOLUTION
RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
AUTHORIZING ACCEPTANCE OF PURCHASE AGREEMENT,
AND GRANT DEED RESTRICTIONS, AUTHORIZING
GENERAL MANAGER OR OFFICER TO EXECUTE
CERTIFICATE OF ACCEPTANCE OF GRANT TO DISTRICT,
AND AUTHORIZING GENERAL MANAGER TO EXECUTE
ANY AND ALL OTHER DOCUMENTS NECESSARY OR
APPROPRIATE TO CLOSING OF THE TRANSACTION
(RUSSIAN RIDGE OPEN SPACE PRESERVE—LANDS OF
PENINSULA OPEN SPACE TRUST)
The Board of Directors of Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District does resolve as follows:
Section One. The Board of Directors of Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District does hereby accept
the offer contained in that certain Purchase Agreement—Bargain Sale between Peninsula Open Space
Trust, a California non-profit, public benefit corporation and Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District,
a California public agency, a copy of which is attached hereto and by reference made a part hereof, and
authorizes the President or appropriate officers to execute the Agreement on behalf of the District.
Section Two. The General Manager, President of the Board of Directors, or other appropriate officer is
authorized to execute a Certificate of Acceptance on behalf of the District.
Section Three. The General Manager of the District or the General Manager's designee shall cause to be
given appropriate notice of acceptance to the seller and to extend escrow if necessary. The General
Manager and General Counsel are further authorized to approve any technical revisions to the attached
Agreement and other transactional documents which do not involve any material change to any term of
the Agreement or other transactional documents which are necessary or appropriate to the closing or
implementation of this transaction.
Section Four. The General Manager of the District is authorized to expend up to$5,000 to cover the cost
of title insurance, escrow fees, and other miscellaneous costs related to this transaction.
Section Five. It is intended, reasonably expected, and hereby authorized that the District's general fund
will be reimbursed in the amount of$3,475,000 from the proceeds of the next long-term District note
issue. This Section of this Resolution is adopted by the Board of Directors of Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District solely for purposes of establishing compliance with the requirements of Section
1.103-18 of the Treasury Regulations. The reimbursement of this payment expenditure is consistent with
the District's budgetary and financial circumstances. There are no funds or sources of moneys of the
District that have been, or are reasonably expected to be, reserved or allocated on a long-term basis or
otherwise set aside to pay the costs of this open space land purchase project,which are to be paid or
reimbursed out of proceeds of indebtedness to be issued by the District. The Board of Directors hereby
declares the District's official intent to use proceeds of indebtedness to reimburse itself for this open space
land purchase project expenditure.
POS(#(Rapley Ranch) Pr )erty
Addition to Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve
AUCLUbo �Z�— �,T,�
SOCIO't �
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�ra �freserve .4,
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POST O en Space Prese
(Rapley Ranch)
Property
151 +/- ACRES
kyilne Ridge
G 0 0.25 0.5 1
Produced by Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, December 2005
Miles
Scale 1:24,000
Regional Open Space
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
R-05-131
Meeting 05-28
December 20, 2005
AGENDA ITEM 2
AGENDA ITEM
Proposed Purchase of Peninsula Open Space Trust(Portola Lookout)Property as an Addition to Long
Ridge Open Space Preserve(Santa Mateo County Assessor' Parcel Number 085-130-050)
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATIOI�fS -
1. Determine that the recommended actions are categorically exempt from the California
Environmental Quality Act(CEQA)as set out in this Report.
2. Adopt the attached Resolution authorizing purchase of the Peninsula Open Space Trust(POST)
(Portola Lookout)property.
3. Adopt the Preliminary Use and Management Plan recommendations contained in this Report and
name the property as an addition to Long Ridge Open Space Preserve.
4. Indicate your intention to dedicate the property as public open space.
DISCUSSION
The 50-acre Peninsula Open Space Trust(Portola Lookout) property, located adjacent to Long Ridge
Open Space Preserve, is the fourth property to be considered for purchase within the Coastside Protection
Area, an area that was annexed into the District boundaries in 2004. As part of the annexation process,
the District prepared a Service Plan for the San Mateo Coastal Annexation Area and a Final
Environmental Impact Report that was approved by the Board of Directors on June 6, 2003. An
annexation application was then submitted to the San Mateo Local Agency Formation Commission
(LAFCO)and approved on April 7, 2004. The Coastside Protection Area, as the annexation area is
referred to, includes lands in the western portion of San Mateo County lying from south of the City of
Pacifica—generally between Skyline Boulevard and the Pacific Ocean—to the San Santa Cruz County
line.
As part of the annexation process,the Service Plan and subsequent conditions approved by LAFCO
established a number of policies and procedures for conducting a Coastside Protection Program.
Although the District would be authorized to purchase the Peninsula Open Space Trust(POST)property
even if the Coastside Protection Program had not been approved,that program now guides the District's
purchase, use, and management of open space land within the Coastside Protection Area. The proposed
purchase of the POST property described in this Report and the accompanying Preliminary Use and
Management Plan are consistent with the policies and procedures contained in the Coastside Protection
Program. The following Report presents a description of the POST property, future planning
considerations, a Preliminary Use and Management Plan, and environmental review of the project.
_
R-05-131 Page
DESCRIPTION (see attached map)
�
The 50-uo,c POST property iu located adjacent to the western boundary of Long Ridge Open Space
�
Preserve. Situated above Devils Canyon on the top of Long Ridge and along Long Ridge Road,the �
property offers a panoramic coastal view as well as views of Portola Redwoods State Park and Skyline �
Ridge Open Space Preserve. Although mostly steep and densely wooded, un open grassland meadow ie �
located along u pronninuntddgctop near the middle of the property. The diverse landscape, including �
�
grassland, patches of scrub oak, and dense evergreen forest provide valuable wildlife habitat for uvariety
of species. Protection of the scenic and wildlife qualities of the property is important in terms of �
providing continuity in the open space character of the landscape along Long Ridge and enhancing
�
wildlife corridors through this sparsely developed community. �
The property is bounded by District land lying to the east and private properties to the north, west and
south. Another POST property lies u short distance to the south and io currently managed by the District.
Access to the subject property is provided from Long Ridge Road and Sorich Road; both are private
� unmurfbccdnnudm}ba1pnovidcucccmxtoronidendalproperticstothenmrthundv/omtofthopropurty. Both �
�
� of these roads originate from Portu|o Heights Road that intersects with Skyline Boulevard. /\third road �
� branches southward from Long Ridge Road and exits the property in the southerly direction. �
�
|
� The landscape is generally very steep and rugged with slopes descending sharply into the upper reaches of
the Peters Creek watershed. Long Ridge, udiatinctive ddge\incdba1 is highly visible from miles around,
� extends through the property both in the north-south direction and then extending westward top/uodo
� porto|u Redwoods State Park. Near the center of the property, u small grass-covered meadow located
� along a narrow section of the ridgetop, provides a diverse landscape that is attractive to wildlife and offers
� visitors u spectacular view towards the coast. A perennial creek originating on the property flows
nodbvvcmt«dy into Peters Creek, vvhinb is an important spawning and nursery area for the federally
� threatened stce\beudtrout. Dense mixed evergreen forest, largely comprised of large Douglas fir, is �
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� characteristic of the steeper slopes. �
�
� Outside of the network of roads, the property has no other improvements and has been kept in a natural
condition. The roads serve residential properties that are padofarural residential community lying tothe
�
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� north and west. Many neighboring properties have an casement right over Long Ridge Road but tend to
� use Sorich Road as their primary access due to the road's superior condition and directness to their
� individual ynupcnico. Long Ridge Road crosses private |uod before it enters the southern portion o[the
� property. Sorich Road enters the property from Long Ridge Open Space Preserve to the east and then
�
paaucm through private property immediately tothe uodb before re-entering the property in the northwest
� comer. A1hindcoudbranchemeouthvvurd �000Loo�fkid�cRondundaervcauuuna\tcnmadvcto[)obe�� �
� �
� Ridge Road in accessing a few private properties tothe south and west.
USE AND MANAGEMENT
�
�
� Planning Considerations �
7� �� i� �� n��� a���� �� o�����| �� �
� unincorporated ,vu".�,
� and inside the District's[ouutside Protection Area. & im zoned RM (Resource having
� single residential development unit per 40± acre parcel. The property has been determined iobein
� conformity with the Sun Mateo County Oenoxm| Plan. Residential development would not be difficult �
� given the easy access on Long Ridge Road and SoricbRoad. Development potential iasomewhat
� constrained hv the lack ofelectricity, but ia overcome 6v utilizing solar panels and/or generators. �
� Three roads cross the property: /) Long Ridge Road enters from the south and travels through the middle
of the property, 2) 3oricb Road crosses in and out ofthe property along the northern huundury, and 3>Cut �
�
Across Road connects Long Ridge Road to Doherty Ridge Road a1 the southwest corner of the property.
The Podo|u Park Heights community has easement rights bo each of the three roads. Since the property is
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R-15-131 Page
not upart of the Portola Park Heights subdivision,the property ie not subject toa road maintenance fee.
The Diablo community, located north and west of the property, has easement rights to Long Ridge Road,
� with the road-maintenance burden running with the land, and the individual property owner io responsible
for maintaining Long Ridge Road u1 its current uueurfacedstandard. Reportedly,the Diablo community
primarily uses 8odcb Road for access to Skyline Boulevard.
Very limited public use in the form of permits for neighbors and docent-led hikes is being recommended
n1 this time. This would not result io any expansion ofthe level of current use by the neighbors.
7heCouatmide Protection 9nognzmn requires that when land purchased by the District includes umexisting
agricultural use, has prime agricultural soil, oriu adjacent to lands in agricultural production, an
agricultural production plan will he developed uo part ofthe Final Use and Management Plan. According
to the(3lO database for San Mateo County(updated io20OO)and the California Department of
Conservation's Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program (FMMP),the property is not well suited to
the cultivation of agricultural crops. The property is not classified am Prime Agricultural Land, Unique �
� Farmland, or Farmlands of Statewide Importance um shown on the FMMP. The property has not had
agricultural use in the past and surrounding properties also do not have agricultural use.
The Coastside Protection Program also requires consultation with interested public agencies, officials and �
interested organizations to solicit input into the planning process prior to the Board's consideration of �
� purchasing the property. District staff sent invitations for consultation to the Farm Bureau and other
�
organizations, agencies and officials and has not received any written comments. The project wuy
agendized and generally supported by the San Mateo County Agricultural Advisory Committee. �
| �
� The District's Real Property Committee, standing committee of the Board ofDirectors, held umeeting
� on the property in order to acquaint the three-member Board Committee, neighbors, and interested parties �
� with the property, and to receive public input into the proposed purchase of the property. This meeting �
was held on November l6,2005 after notice was distributed to property owners of land located udiuc�u�'.~ �
� to or surrounding the au6icot property, coastaidc public uDiciudm,oonunouuity-intercsigroupo, non-profit �
land trusts, conservation-oriented organizations,elected officials, government agencies, and government-
sponsored orgunizudooavvithintbeCouoteidmProteotion /krcu.
� At the Real Property Committee meeting, staff described the property, explained how the property would �
� bcu natural extension mf the adjacent Preserve, and covered the terms of the proposed purchase for the �
� property. Four people, including three neighbors attended the meeting and shared information about the
� property, the former landowners, road agreements and past land uses. One neighbor expressed uninterest
�
� in working with the District in helping manage invasive plants. �
PRELIMINARY USE AND MANAGEMENT PLAN
� This Preliminary Use and Management Plan will take effect upon the close ofescrow, and remain
� effective until u Final Use and Management Plan for the property iudeveloped. The Preliminary Use and �
� Management Plan represents a status quo approach to management and includes securing, posting,
� patrolling the property. Limited continuation of current use in the form of permits allowing access 6v
� neighbors and docent-led hikes will heallowed. }n the future, u Final Use and Management Plan will hu
developed, including more detailed plans for resource management and public access. The Final Plan
� will be subject to public input and further environmental assessment in accordance with the Coumtyide �
� Protection Program and to ensure that land use decisions are consistent with ecological values. /km part o[
�
the Final Plan,the'property would be maintained in a natural condition and is expected to be eventually
open for low intensity recreational use. �
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R-05-131 Page 4
Public Access: Closed to public recreational access. A limited use-permit system will be developed for
neighbors and docent-led hikes to allow very limited access; natural resources, roads, and trails will be
further inventoried in anticipation of the property later being open to public use.
Signs: Install "Closed Area" signs and boundary plaques where appropriate.
Roads and Trails: Maintain existing roads with the road and trail maintenance practices set out in the
Service Plan and in keeping with District-wide practices. A further detailed road and trail assessment will
be conducted as part of the process of developing a Final Use and Management Plan.
Patrol: Regularly patrol the property utilizing existing roads.
Resource Management: Conduct a detailed resource inventory as part of the process of developing a
Final Use and Management Plan.
Fuel Management: Conduct current District-wide fuel management practices; consult with San Mateo
County and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CDF) in developing a site-specific
fuel modification and management program as part of the process of developing a Final Use and
Management Plan.
Name: Name the property as an addition to Long Ridge Open Space Preserve.
Service Plan: Maintain the property in conformity with the provisions of the Service Plan for the
Coastside Protection Program.
Dedication: Indicate your intention to dedicate the property as public open space at this time.
Site Safety Inspection: An initial investigation was conducted and there are no known safety hazards on
the site. The property is not listed on any local, state,or federal list as a hazardous materials site.
CEQA COMPLIANCE
Project Description
The project consists of District purchasing the 50-acre Peninsula Open Space Trust(Portola Lookout)
property as an addition to the Long Ridge Open Space Preserve and the concurrent adoption of a
Preliminary Use and Management Plan for the addition. The Preliminary Use and Management Plan
provides for securing, and patrolling the property. Very limited pubic use will be allowed in the form of
permits for neighbors and docent-led hikes. There will negligible or no increase in level of use. The
property will be included in the Final Use and Management Plan for Long Ridge Open Space Preserve.
The land will be permanently preserved as open space. Although closed to the public during the planning
process,the property is expected to be ultimately open to low intensity recreational use,assuming that the
planning process does not reveal significant impediments to such use.
CEQA Determination
A site-specific environmental evaluation has been completed concerning the resources on this property
and how the resources could be affected if the property is purchased and opened to the public. In
addition,the property is substantially similar to the lands evaluated in the Program Environmental Impact
Report for the Coastal Annexation Area and the environmental effects of District ownership and
management are determined to be consistent with the potential effects described in the EIR. The District
concludes that this project will not have a significant effect on the environment. It is categorically exempt
from CEQA(California Environmental Quality Act)under Sections 15316, 15317, 15325, and 15061 of
the CEQA Guidelines as follows:
R'05'131 Page
� Section |53|6 exempts the acquisition of land io order 10 create parks i[the site iaiva natural uondbknz
and the management plan proposes to keep the area inu natural condition. The Preliminary Use and
M anagement Plan specifies that the land will not be developed and will remain in a natural condition.
Section |53|7 exempts the acceptance of fee interests in order to maintain the open space character of an �
area. The District will purchase fee iutuncot and maintain the open space character ofthe area. No new
development iu proposed au part of this project.
�
Section |5325 exempts transfers of ownership of interests in land in order to preserve open space. This �
purchase will transfer fee ownership of the property tothe District and ensure it will be preserved as
� public open space 6vinuorpocdingit into the Long RLidge()pcuSpace Preserve.
� '
� This acquisition is categorically exempt from CEQA under three sections of the CEQA Guidelines. The �
actions proposed in the Preliminary Use and Management Plan are also exempt under Section 1506 1, as �
�
� there iono possibility the actions may have asignificant effect on the environment.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
The50-acre POST(Porto|u Lookout)property is being purchased at priceof$6OO,0O($l2,U
� on an all-cash basis at the close ofescrow. The property is considered amiog|e residential building site in
� San Mateo County and is,therefore, valued ona site basis. The purchase price ia considered fair and
reasonable in the Skyline market area. Two years ago POST purchased the property ut the list price uf �
� $599,000. &t that time,there was u competing purchase offer from a private party. The property im not u
part 9odo|u Park R�iuh�m subdivision, and not mubicu�0n any per road mnuint000uc� §:c
p ~ , ~ .
However, the District is responsible for maintaining Long Ridge Road through the property at its current �
�
unpaved standard. �
� The Purchase Agreement with POST includes a covenant to name the property the"Bill and Jean Lane
Meadow at9odo|uLookout" in accordance with the District's"Policies for Site Naming and Gift �
Qeuognidon." �
� Staff has conducted due diligence investigations and inspections of the property. Staff has reviewed all of
San Mateo Couuty`y property records and fi|eu, and iu satisfied that no underground storage tanks, �
�
contamination oc hazardous conditions exist ou the property. �
BUDGET CONSIDERATIONS
� 2005-20U6 Budget for New Land Purchases: �
� New Land* $19,755`I20
New Land Purchased this year (5,4O0"O0O) �
` �
POST�o�o��m�u� (0U�mm]
, ' '-r—� �
� POST(Ramlev Ranch) Property
Proposed earlier onthis Agenda (500,000)
� New Land Purchase Budget Remaining $13,255`120 �
�
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*Reflects Mid-Year Adjustment
� ~ --o-' �-"
Controller M Foster uudhuehxi�utedtbut cash
�
M. ,'`,~~-- r--'--- ' � �
� Omv and account balances, funds are available for this property �
purchase. �
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R'05'131 Page
Current Coastside Protection Area Fiscal Considerations
The 50-acre property is located in the Coastside Protection Area and is subject to the AgreementBetwmen
San Mateo County and the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Fire Services) and to
un Agreement Between Lu/6ondm—PeocuueruUnifi JSchoo/I)/x/r/o/und/Nidpoobvsm/uReo/oou/[�/yn
Space District. /\u part of the County Fire Agreement,the District will pay to San Mateo CouuiyFiro
Department annual fees for fire services that are not currently provided with the State Responsibility Area
ofCDF. The Fire Services Fee will be $473.51 based upon the pro rutu share of the assessed value for
this portion of the subject property. The fire services fee will increase 2 percent annually. 8s part ofthe
School District Agreement, the District will pay the School District un annual fee of$4l3.67. The School
District services fee will increase 2 percent annually.
� Staff has analyzed the conditions of the site and financial considerations associated with the proposed
�
purchase and subsequent management of the property to ascertain whether the District has sufficient
resources om sustain the project. The Cuuotmidc Protection Program includes uFiscal Analysis conducted
6v Economics Research Associates confirming the feasibility of implementing that Program. The
� proposed purchase, Preliminary Use and Management Plan, and expected long-term management strategy
are consistent with the Couo1eidc Protection Program. The site auuenummentindicates that management
�
� costs associated with the proposed purchase are expected tobe consistent with those p projected
� Fiscal /�uahmiaand Basic Service Plan. Staff has rcvicp/edthe revenue and other cost ` 'uotionoiothe
� Fiscal Analysis and concluded that there have been no changes since the analysis was prepared that would
� affect its conclusions. Staff has further reviewed the expected management costs in light of the District's
� operating expenses and Controller's estimated tax revenue and cash flow projections 6brthecuocut fiooa|
� y�ozundfhrth�oon1t�nycur� I�umcdon�hioonu)yoim staf�concludes that purchasing and xnunugiug this
� . ,
� property will not result in any significant impact bzthe District's existing services.
�
� Furthermore, staff assessed the costs associated with this project and compared them to the Controller's
� ten-year projections ufcuobOow, pvopedy1asn:vcouc,nndopeoting expenses. Using the assumptions
� established in the Basic Service Plan and Fiscal Analysis for staffing needs and land management
� expenses,mtufTdetermined that the District has the resources to sustain this projectoverthc long term.
�
�
Public Notification
� Written notices of the proposal for the District to purchase this property and this Board meeting have been
� mailed to property owners of land located adjacent to or surrounding the subject property, and coastside
� public officials, owrnrnuoity-intr,eatgrmupa, non-profit land trusts, conservation-oriented organizations,
� elected officials, government agencies and government-sponsored organizations within the Coastside
�
� Protection Area as well as attendees of the November 16, 2005 on-site public workshop.
� Prepared by:
Del Woods, Senior Real Property Planner
� K4iuhuo| C. Williams, Real Property Manager
� Maps prepared hv:.
David Gagner, Planning Technician
Contact person:
Micbuo| C. Williams, Real Manager �
�
I
RESOLUTION
RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF
MIDPENiNSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
AUTHORIZING ACCEPTANCE OF PURCHASE AGREEMENT,
AND GRANT DEED RESTRICTIONS, AUTHORIZING GENERAL
MANAGER OR OFFICER TO EXECUTE CERTIFICATE OF
ACCEPTANCE OF GRANT TO DISTRICT, AND AUTHORIZING
GENERAL MANAGER TO EXECUTE ANY AND ALL OTHER
DOCUMENTS NECESSARY OR APPROPRIATE TO CLOSING OF
THE TRANSACTION (LONG RIDGE OPEN SPACE PRESERVE—
LANDS OF PENINSULA OPEN SPACE TRUST)
The Board of Directors of Midpeninsula Regional
ional Open Space District does resolve as follows:
Section One. The Board of Directors of Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District does hereby accept
the offer contained in that certain Purchase Agreement between Peninsula Open Space Trust, a California
non-profit, public benefit corporation and Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, a California public
agency, a copy of which is attached hereto and by reference made a part hereof, and authorizes the
President or appropriate officers to execute the Agreement on behalf of the District.
Section Two. The General Manager, President of the Board of Directors, or other appropriate officer is
authorized to execute a Certificate of Acceptance on behalf of the District.
Section Three. The General Manager of the District or the General Manager's designee shall cause to be
given appropriate notice of acceptance to the seller and to extend escrow if necessary. The General
Manager and General Counsel are further authorized to approve any technical revisions to the attached
Agreement and other transactional documents which do not involve any material change to any term of
the Agreement or other transactional documents which are necessary or appropriate to the closing or
implementation of this transaction.
Section Four. The General Manager of the District is authorized to expend up to $2,500 to cover the cost
of title insurance, escrow fees, and other miscellaneous costs related to this transaction.
Section Five. It is intended, reasonably expected,and hereby authorized that the District's general fund
will be reimbursed in the amount of$600,000 from the proceeds of the next long-term District note issue.
This Section of this Resolution is adopted by the Board of Directors of Midpeninsula Regional Open
Space District solely for purposes of establishing compliance with the requirements of Section 1.103-18
of the Treasury Regulations. The reimbursement of this payment expenditure is consistent with the
District's budgetary and financial circumstances. There are no funds or sources of moneys of the District
that have been, or are reasonably expected to be, reserved or allocated on a long-term basis or otherwise
set aside to pay the costs of this open space land purchase project, which are to be paid or reimbursed out
of proceeds of indebtedness to be issued by the District. The Board of Directors hereby declares the
District's official intent to use proceeds of indebtedness to reimburse itself for this open space land
purchase project expenditure.
POST (Portoia Lookout) - - -
•
•
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u ;? Gate
SKYLINE RIDGE
OPEN SPACE! \ `' o00
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POST i �t.
(PORTOLA LOOKOUT)
50-ACRES
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04OPEN SPAtt
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-3/jt ' \ '.�, \ C-----PRESERVE - -�
!�.^�a,'�.'"••l r'_"-___�,.-..% i It; 'r�fC,, t�—} ��'`� `'�_�. , �/-�L/'�',`,\\\`•` �1 .i i1 � - / `\f,r
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/r-, `mot\I' __ � � / �--'fir( / f ��iQ"t�}"^•i J( `-`����\ ` �'
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Exhibit A• Site Map ® o 0.125 0.25 °.'
tiau+:s
Produced by Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, September 2005
Regional Open Space
� NNDPEN|N8ULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
�
� R'U5-\29
� Mecting05-28
� December 20, 2OU5
�
���l���U�� ����� �
'���"�^"="'= ° ���^," ~^
AGENDAITEM
Proposed Gift ofthe Salzberg Property as an Addition Preserve(San
Mateo County Assessor's Parcel Number 072-334-020)
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATM5----k�
|. Determine that the recommended actions are categorically exempt from the California
Envinuomocutu| Quality Act(CE()/t)aa set out io this report.
2. Adopt the attached Resolution accepting the gift ufthe Su|zbcrgpropc¢y.
3. Tentatively adopt the Preliminary Use and Management P|mo recommendations contained in this
report, including naming the property as an addition to La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve.
�
4. Indicate the District's intention to dedicate the property uo public open upuoc.
DESCRIPTION(see attached map)
The District has been offered uU.4W5-acrc gift mf land from the 8 Douik/. The property fronts on
Skyline Boulevard west of Skylonda and is otherwise surrounded by La Honda Creek Open Space �
Preserve. Situated on the south side o[Skv|innBou|�vard,thcpnnp���dropmo/�atccp|yintvuh�uvi|y- �
wooded drainage above Lu Honda Creek. /km the property iu largely surrounded bv District land,the
proposed addition will enhance the District's ability to manage the northerly portion of the Preserve. This �
land im most important intunnoofprotecting watershed and wildlife habitat and scenic views from the
adjacent state scenic highway.
The irregularly shaped property is bounded by District land to the south and by Skyline Boulevard �
sweeping around to the north; private property is located on the opposite side of Skyline Boulevard. �
Access to the property iu from Skyline Boulevard. �
The rugged terrain is characterized by dense evergreen forest, including large stands of redwoods and �
Douglas fir. The bi1|oidc descends steeply towards La Honda Creek, which passes within approximately �
]OO feet ofthe property on District land. The forested hillside is visible from trails located on the
�
Preserve. There are no improvements or roads located mn this steeply sloping property,and noevidence
of historic uuc �
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R-05-129 Page
USE AND MANAGEMENT PLANPlanning Considerations
The property is located vvdbin the unincorporated area of San Mateo County and outside the Coastal
� Zone. Uiu zoned 0N(ResourceManagement). The property is comprised of one legal parcel and has u
potential density mf one residential site. Development of the property for residential purposes would bu �
�
� difficult due to the steepness uf the terrain and the poor line ofsight from Skyline Boulevard.
The District's |998 Regional Open Space Study shows a potential regional trail connection in the vicinity �
of the property that would connect Cu Honda Creek and E| Corte de Madera Open Space Preserves,
The property is located up gradient and within 300 feet of La Honda Creek, and as such will be managed
within the context of sound watershed protection practices. The densely forested property also provides u �
�
visual buffer between Skyline Boulevard and La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve.
Preliminary Use and Management Recommendations
The Preliminary Use and Management Plan will take effect ut the close of escrow and remain effective
until the plan is amended or is incorporated into the Master Plan now under development for La Honda �
Creek Open Space Preserve. The property will bo maintained ina natural condition, and no changes 10
land use are anticipated. l[changes to \uod use are proposed in the future,the Plan nao|d be subject to
further environmental review and public input.
Public Access: Area to remain closed to public use a1 this time.
Signs: Install Preserve boundary signs where appropriate. �
Patrol: Patrol the property uu appropriate from Skyline Boulevard.
�
Name: Name the property oxun addition boLu Honda Creek Open Space Preserve. �
Dedication: Indicate the District's intention to dedicate the property ua public open space. �
�
Site Safety Inspection: Preliminary site safety inspection has been conducted and there are no known �
safety hazards wn the site.
�
� CEQA COMPLIANCE
Proiect Description
� The project consists*f the acceptance ofuO.485-ucrc giftof land uoun addition UmLa Honda Creek Open �
� Space Preserve, and the concurrent adoption of a Preliminary Use and Management Plan for the addition. �
� Ultimately,the property will be included in the Master Plan for the adjacent preserve. The land will be
� permanently preserved as public open space and maintained in a natural condition.CEQA Determination
�
�
� The District concludes that this project vviUnothuvcusiQuiOounteffectoothccnvioonmenL It is
cutm@pdco||v exempt from CE()A(California Environmental Quality Act) under Article |q, Sections �
� |53\6, |53l7, |5325, and |506| osfollows:
�
Section \53|6 exempts the acquisition of land in order to create parks if the site ioinu natural condition,
� and the ManagementPlan proposes to ke�d�u�uiuu��oJ��binn. T�O� m� � �
� P|uo specifies c |undvvU\oothu 'developed and v/Uirmmoain in uouturu| condition. - �
�
�
�
R-05-129 Page 3
Section 15317 exempts the acceptance of fee interests in order to maintain the open space character of an
area. The District will acquire fee interest and will maintain the open space character of the area. No new
development is proposed as part of this project.
Section 15325 exempts transfers of ownership of interests in land in order to preserve open space. This
acquisition will transfer fee ownership of the property to the District and will ensure that the land will be
preserved as public open space by incorporating it into La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve.
This acquisition qualifies under all three sections. The actions proposed in the Preliminary Use and
Management Plan are also exempt under section 15061, as there is no possibility the actions may have a
significant effect on the environment.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
The Salzberg family is donating the property to the District. The estimated value of the property is
$25,000 based upon a fair market appraisal commissioned by the property owner. The donation of
property will come to the District as separate gift deeds from the five beneficiaries of the Salzberg Trust.
Public Notification
Property owners of land located adjacent to or surrounding the subject property, including those on the
north side of Skyline Boulevard, have been mailed written notices of this proposed land purchase and this
meeting.
Prepared by:
Michael Reeves, Land Protection Specialist
Del Woods, Senior Acquisition Planner
Contact:
Michael Reeves, Land Protection Specialist
RESOLUTION . 05-
RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF
THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE
DISTRICT ACCEPTING GIFT OF REAL PROPERTY
AND AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF
CERTIFICATE OF ACCEPTANCE WITH RESPECT
THERETO(LA HONDA CREEK OPEN SPACE
PRESERVE—LANDS OF SALZBERG ET AL.)
The Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District does resolve as
follows:
Section One. The Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District does
hereby accept, with gratitude, the gift of the real property described in each of the Gift Deeds from the
five beneficiaries of the David A. Salzberg Trust of September 22, 1990, attached hereto and by this
reference made a part hereof.
Section Two, The General Manager or President of the Board or other appropriate officer is
authorized to execute a Certificate of Acceptance for each said Gift Deed conveying the title to the
property being donated to the District.
Section Three. The General Manager of the District shall cause to be given appropriate notice to
the donors of the acceptance of this gift. The General Manager is further authorized to execute any and
all other documents necessary to the closing of this transaction.
Salzberg Property
Addition to La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve
i'
r �
—�
01 .
_J
County Par
� . SalzbergProperty
0 465 +/- ACRE
X
0
�, � •-
,La Honda;itreek o - -
c Open Sp /"ebel
' Pre t�
-
�'�
f
oe' t
r I
0 250 500 1,000
Produced by Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, December 2005
Scale 1:11,000
Claims No 05-23
Meeting 05-28
Date 12/20/05
Revised
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
# Amount Name Description
3976 $25.83 Ace Fire Equipment&Service Fire Extinguisher Servicing
Company
3977 $234.74 Bay Area Yamaha District Motorcycle Service
3978 $538.46 Bay Hydraulics,Inc. Equipment Repair-Log Splitter
3979 $57.98 Beckman,Craig Reimbursement-Cell Phone
3980 $242.69 Big Creek Lumber Lumber Materials&Split Posts For Lower Purisima Creek
Parking Lot
3981 $145.00 Bill's Towing&Recovery Tow Truck Fees
3982 $72.08 Cal-Line Equipment,Inc. Chipper Parts
3983 $302.57 Clean Source Janitorial Supplies-AO
3984 $1,025.62 CMK Automotive Inc. Vehicle Maintenance&Repairs
3985 $252.50 Environmental And Occupational Risk Consulting Services-Air Quality Analysis At FFO
Management
3986 $648.01 Forestry Suppliers,Inc. Field Supplies
3987 $32.21 Foster Brothers Lock&Key Services
3988 $240.55 Guy Plumbing&Heating,Inc. Plumbing Repairs-La Honda Creek Rental Residence
3989 $465.00 Los Alto Town Crier Advertising-Good Neighbor Meeting
3990 $330.00 Lumenature Lighting Repairs-Replaced Ballasts At AO
3991 $600,000.00 ## Old Republic Title Company Portola Lookout Acquisition
3992 $500,000.00 ## Old Republic Title Company Rapley Ranch Acquisition
3993 $451.19 Pape' Material Handling Bobcat Parts&Tire
3994 $927.09 PT Armor,Inc. Uniform Expense-Body Armor
3995 $1,794.08 Roy's Repair Service Vehicle Repairs&Service
3996 $197.08 Safety Kleen Solvent Tank Service-FFO
3997 $34.91 San Jose Mercury News Quarterly Subscription
3998 $363.72 Summit Uniforms Uniform Expense
3999 $794.75 Tadco Supply Janitorial Supplies-Rancho San Antonio&Deer Hollow
Farm
4000 $635.66 Tires on the Go Tires
4001 $523.88 Tooland,Inc. Field Supplies
4002 $285.58 TriForce Solutions,Inc. Postage Meter Upgrade
4003 $597.56 United Rentals Highway Technologies Field Supplies
4004 $80.96 West Payment Center Monthly Legal Subscription
4005 R $22.36 CSK Auto Vehicle Supplies
4006 R $810.00 Del Rey Building Maintenance Install Exit Signs&Vapor Light
4007 R $75.00 East Bay Regional Park District Docent Coordinators Training
4008 R $300.00 Eflexgroup.com Non-Descrimination Testing For Pre-Tax 125 Plan
4009 R $1,726.20 Environmental&Occupational Risk Consulting Services-Air Quality Analysis At FFO
Management
4010 R $250.00 Geoinsite,Inc. Engineering Services-Pichetti Winery Seismic Upgrade
Project
4011 R $73.45 Lab Safety Supply Field Supplies
4012 R $29,418.88 LFR Levine Fricke Design&Engineering Services ECDM Staging Area
Project
4013 R $305.60 Monster Mechanical,Inc. Bimonthly HVAC Service-AO
4014 R $1,436.33 Pape'Material Handling Bobcat Repair
4015 R $12,987.00 PG&E Underground Power Lines-Purisima Creek Redwoods
Staging Area
4016 R $700.00 Roberta Wolfe Recording Services-Two Meetings
4017 R $1,269.03 Roberts&Brune Co. Dyer Property-Hydrant&Well Materials
4018 R $1,772.00 Santa Rosa Junior College New Recruitment Academy Training
4019 R $924.61 '1 Shell Credit Card Center Fuel
Page 1 of 2
Claims No 05-23
Meeting 05-28
Date 12/20/05
Revised
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
# Amount Name Description
4020 R $199.34 Vu,Douglas Reimbursement-Mileage
4021 R $81.01 West Coast Aggregates,Inc. Base Rock- Purisima Creek Parking Lot
4022 R $81.02 West Payment Center Monthly Legal Subscription
4023 R $116.00 Wickham,Elisa Reimbursement-Mileage
4024 R $92.18 Woodbury,Cathy Reimbursement-Mileage
Total $1,163,939.71
'1 Urgent Check Issued 12/16/05
## In The Event Agenda Item Is
Not Approved,This Claim Will
Not Be Processed
Page 2 of 2
Claims No 05-23
Meeting 05-28
Date 12/20/05
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
# Amount Name Description
3976 $25.83 Ace Fire Equipment&Service Fire Extinguisher Servicing
Company
3977 $234.74 Bay Area Yamaha District Motorcycle Service
3978 $538.46 Bay Hydraulics,Inc. Equipment Repair-Log Splitter
3979 $57.98 Beckman,Craig Reimbursement-Cell Phone
3980 $242.69 Big Creek Lumber Lumber Materials&Split Posts For Lower Purisima Creek
Parking Lot
3981 $145.00 Bill's Towing&Recovery Tow Truck Fees
3982 $72.08 Cal-Line Equipment, Inc. Chipper Parts
3983 $302.57 Clean Source Janitorial Supplies-AO
3984 $1,025.62 CMK Automotive Inc. Vehicle Maintenance&Repairs
3985 $252.50 Environmental And Occupational Risk Consulting Services-Air Quality Analysis At FFO
Management
3986 $648.01 Forestry Suppliers,Inc. Field Supplies
3987 $32.21 Foster Brothers Lock&Key Services
3988 $240.55 Guy Plumbing&Heating,Inc. Plumbing Repairs-La Honda Creek Rental Residence
3989 $465.00 Los Alto Town Crier Advertising-Good Neighbor Meeting
3990 $330.00 Lumenature Lighting Repairs-Replaced Ballasts At AO
3991 $600,000.00 ## Old Republic Title Company Portola Lookout Acquisition
3992 $500,000.00 ## Old Republic Title Company Rapley Ranch Acquisition
3993 $451.19 Pape' Material Handling Bobcat Parts&Tire
3994 $927.09 PT Armor,Inc. Uniform Expense-Body Armor
3995 $1,794.08 Roy's Repair Service Vehicle Repairs&Service
3996 $197.08 Safety Kleen Solvent Tank Service-FFO
3997 $34.91 San Jose Mercury News Quarterly Subscription
3998 $363.72 Summit Uniforms Uniform Expense
3999 $794.75 Tadco Supply Janitorial Supplies-Rancho San Antonio&Deer Hollow
Farm
4000 $635.66 Tires on the Go Tires
4001 $523.88 Tooland,Inc. Field Supplies
4002 $285.58 TriForce Solutions, Inc. Postage Meter Upgrade
4003 $597.56 United Rentals Highway Technologies Field Supplies
4004 $80.96 West Payment Center Monthly Legal Subscription
Total $1,111,299.70
## In The Event Agenda Item Is
Not Approved,This Claim Will
Not Be Processed
Page 1 of 1