HomeMy Public PortalAbout20231011 - Minutes - Board of Directors (BOD)
October 11, 2023
Board Meeting 23-29
* Approved by the Board of Directors on November 8, 2023.
SPECIAL AND REGULAR MEETING
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
Wednesday, October 11, 2023
The Board of Directors conducted this meeting in accordance with
California Government Code section 54953.
APPROVED MINUTES*
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA
REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT – STUDY SESSION
President Kishimoto called the special meeting of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space
District to order at 5:30 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Members Present: Jed Cyr, Craig Gleason, Karen Holman, Zoe Kersteen-Tucker, Yoriko
Kishimoto, Margaret MacNiven, and Curt Riffle
Members Absent: None
Staff Present: General Manager Ana Ruiz, General Counsel Hilary Stevenson, Assistant
General Manager Susanna Chan, Chief Financial Officer/Director of
Administrative Services Stefan Jaskulak, District Clerk/Assistant to the
General Manager Maria Soria, Executive Assistant/Deputy District Clerk
Loana Lumina-Hsu, Executive Assistant/Deputy District Clerk Shaylynn
Nelson, Planning Manager Jane Mark, Planner III Galli Basson, Natural
Resources Manager Kirk Lenington, Land & Facilities Manager Brandon
Stewart
President Kishimoto announced this meeting is being held in accordance with Government Code
section 54953. The public has the opportunity to comment on the agenda, and the opportunity to
listen to this meeting through the internet or via telephone. This information can be found on the
meeting agenda, which was physically posted at the District’s Administrative Office, and on the
District website.
1. SKYLINE FIELD OFFICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT REPORT (R-23-117)
Land & Facilities Manager Brandon Stewart provided context for the importance of the Skyline
Field Office remodel project to the District’s Land & Facility Department, especially since the
department has grown significantly since its inception, and will continue to grow to meet
Meeting 23-29 Page 2
demands. He spoke about three key growth drivers for the next few years that are influencing
the need for an updated facility: the adoption and expansion of the Wildland Fire Resiliency
Program, Climate Change, and fleet electrification.
Planner III Galli Basson presented the Skyline Field Office (SFO) Needs Assessment Report,
emphasizing the anticipated growth in acreage and facilities within the Skyline corridor. Ms.
Basson highlighted that the existing SFO is unable to support additional growth given limitations
in its current capacity and infrastructure. The assessment relied on staff interviews, online
surveys, and site tours to understand conditions and operational requirements. Ms. Basson
reviewed the proposed improvements to the SFO, drawing attention to the Foothills Field Office
(FFO) as an example of recommended enhancements.
Mr. Stewart stated that both the FFO and the South Area Office (SAO) staff all have the same
start time. The synchronized schedule provides supervisors with the flexibility to seamlessly
redistribute personnel in response to unforeseen circumstances, such as sick calls or vacations.
The ability to function as one unit enhances adaptability to daily or weekly needs. Moreover, the
synchronized start facilitates real-time communication, allowing for immediate knowledge
sharing. In contrast, at the SFO with three different shifts starting at various times, coordination
requires schedule adjustments, adding complexity for supervisors. Staggered shifts are necessary
at the SFO due to the limited physical space to host all SFO employees at the same time.
Director Riffle proposed adding another project goal to the list, emphasizing the importance of
time and expediency. Recognizing a decade-long delay for the project, he stressed the need for
expediency, suggesting even a phased approach to move forward swiftly.
Director Holman stated more exploration is needed to determine which facilities should be
separated from the rest and for staff privacy and break time. She noted that the stable at SFO has
a second story with around 700 square feet that should be explored for use. Furthermore, she
expressed a desire to assess existing structures, consider what can be changed, relocated,
retained, or rebuilt to maximize efficiency and enhance the site's uniqueness, making it more
facilitative for staff.
Ms. Ruiz commented on the two potential pathways for the project that are described in the staff
report, stating that considering Board interest in efficiencies, studying both options will take
additional time. She emphasized the challenge of exploring various approaches, highlighting the
likelihood of being unable to meet all needs by adapting existing structures, which would
potentially lead to the need for satellite workspace/storage areas.
Director Holman commented that speed may not always lead to the best approach, while
acknowledging the project's need. She expressed a preference for an expedient yet thoughtful
approach.
President Kishimoto suggested that one option for the Board to consider is forming an ad hoc
committee if there is enough project complexity and overall interest amongst the Board.
Director Kersteen-Tucker inquired if the Board chooses to study both options simultaneously,
would the scope of work for the assessment include an evaluation of which option most
effectively meet the projects goals, and include a timeline for meeting the goals, and cost.
Meeting 23-29 Page 3
Ms. Basson confirmed the scope of work will include all three items.
Director Holman commented on the 27-year-old office building, expressing concern about the
idea of removing the structure. She stressed the importance of a creative yet informed approach
that caters to staff needs and their fieldwork. She advocated for pursuing both avenues for a well-
informed decision.
Director Gleason suggested adding to the project goals the desire to have simultaneous shifts.
Director MacNiven stated that it would be best for staff to have a better layout and noted that a
new building would be the most efficient in terms of climate and fossil fuel usage due to the
advancements in utility and energy efficiency over the past 27 years. She proposed displaying
relics, including the chicken coop at the facility. She also stressed the importance of maintaining
a low-key entrance if situated on the scenic corridor.
Director Holman suggested adding to the project goals list enhanced cellular service.
Director Holman noted that there are two project pathways ahead and suggested a blending of
the two options, highlighting that the existing building is only 27 years old and seems adequate.
Director Holman proposed allowing experts to decide whether to reuse, relocate, or build
something new.
Director Kersteen-Tucker expressed her strong support for redeveloping the site. She proposed
the formation of an ad hoc committee to guide the process. She suggested that some historic
elements could be left or highlighted at the existing site without stalling the project. In terms of
the project goals, she expressed agreement with Director Gleason's addition and emphasized the
importance of making the project as expeditious as possible.
Director Holman emphasized it would be best to blend both recommendations and suggested that
it wouldn't necessarily take longer for the designers to decide which buildings stay or go as part
of the site design process.
President Kishimoto suggested that the recommendation could convey redevelopment without
explicitly mentioning demolition.
Director Gleason supported adding Goal 7 to enhance workplace interactions and efficiencies
and allow for standard work start times and space for large staff gatherings/meetings. Also, to
add “including back-up power and cell service” to project Goal number 2.
Director Gleason commented that it seems that the Board favors moving forward quickly with a
decisive action. However, he also expressed support for a hybrid approach, with a desire to do a
major redevelopment while identifying pieces worth keeping or reusing.
President Kishimoto suggested adding to the project goals: staff recruitment and retention;
support of the Wildland Fire Resiliency Program.
President Kishimoto commented that the consensus she hears from the Board is to allow a
holistic redevelopment of the site without necessarily mandating the demolition of all buildings.
Meeting 23-29 Page 4
Director Kersteen-Tucker suggested modifying the board report language to remove the phrase
"demolish all buildings" and starting with "reorganizing or rebuilding the site and facilities to
maximize efficiency." This adjustment would leave the option open for effectively repurposing
existing facilities if deemed feasible.
Director Cyr expressed the need for a blended approach, emphasizing flexibility as a key factor.
He highlighted the importance of designing for adaptability, considering the uncertainties and
challenges that may arise over the next 10 to 20 years.
Director Riffle inquired about the trail that goes through the site and whether there are
considerations for rerouting it. He suggested that separating public use from District operations
might be beneficial and should be factored into the site design.
Director Riffle expressed alignment with Director Kersteen-Tucker's perspective, emphasizing a
desire to provide the designers with a blank slate and allowing them to decide whether
demolition is necessary to meet the project goals or if something can be saved or repurposed.
Director Riffle suggested that instead of the Board creating an ad hoc committee, it would be
preferable for staff to propose one only if they think it would expedite the process.
President Kishimoto suggested that the ad hoc committee could also help consolidate and
confirm the project goals and bring them back to the Board on the consent calendar.
The Directors discussed and added Goal 10 to the project goals to incorporate “time and cost
efficiency.”
The Directors discussed the wording of the Proposed Scope of Work for Feasibility Analysis
under the topic of Redevelopment of the Site and proposed to delete the first sentence “Demolish
all the buildings and reorganize and rebuild the site and facilities to” and start the sentence as
“Maximize efficiency of the available buildable land and to locate as many of the uses at the
existing site as possible to centralize ranger and maintenance needs.” The Board agreed on the
proposed change.
President Kishimoto asked if the Board would like to defer to staff on the appropriate time to
form an ad hoc committee.
Ms. Ruiz stated that staff will consider the best time to form an ad hoc committee, which may be
during the feasibility phase when preliminary cost estimates are being developed.
Public comment opened at 7:01 p.m.
District Clerk/Assistant to the General Manager Maria Soria reported no public comments were
submitted for this item.
Public comment closed at 7:01 p.m.
President Kishimoto stated that the Board is supportive of staff returning to the Board when the
timing is right to form an ad hoc committee.
Meeting 23-29 Page 5
Motion: Director Kersteen-Tucker moved, and Director Riffle seconded the motion to approve
Amended Project Goals 1 through 11 with the following additions:
Amend Project Goal #2 to include: (including back-up power and cell service.)
Add Project Goal # 7: Enhance workplace interactions and efficiencies and allow for standard
work start times and space for large staff gatherings/meetings.
Add Project Goal #8: Create a workplace environment that attracts and retains staff.
Add Project Goal #9: Incorporate fire resiliency goals into the design and construction.
Add Project Goal # 10: Time and cost efficiency.
Add Project Goal #11: Maximize efficiency of the available buildable land and locate as many
of the uses at the existing site as possible to centralize ranger and maintenance needs.
In addition amended the proposed project scope of work under the Redevelopment of the Site: To
delete the first sentence of the paragraph “Demolish all the buildings and reorganize and rebuild
the site and facilities to” and start the sentence with “Maximize efficiency of the available
buildable land and to locate as many of the uses at the existing site as possible to centralize
ranger and maintenance needs.”
ROLL CALL VOTE: 7-0-0
ADJOURNMENT
President Kishimoto adjourned the special meeting of the Board of Directors of the
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District at 7:03 p.m.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA
REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
President Kishimoto called the regular meeting of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space
District to order at 7:12 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Members Present: Jed Cyr, Craig Gleason, Karen Holman, Zoe Kersteen-Tucker, Yoriko
Kishimoto, Margaret MacNiven, and Curt Riffle
Members Absent: None
Staff Present: General Manager Ana Ruiz, General Counsel Hilary Stevenson, Assistant
General Manager Susanna Chan, Chief Financial Officer/Director of
Administrative Services Stefan Jaskulak, District Clerk/Assistant to the
General Manager Maria Soria Executive Assistant/Deputy District Clerk
Loana Lumina-Hsu, Executive Assistant/Deputy District Clerk Shaylynn
Nelson, Natural Resources Manager Kirk Lenington, Human Resources
Manager Candice Basnight, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Specialist
Katie Gilmur, and Senior Resource Management Specialist Coty
Sifuentes-Winter
President Kishimoto announced this meeting is being held in accordance with Government Code
section 54953. The public has the opportunity to comment on the agenda, and the opportunity to
listen to this meeting through the internet or via telephone. This information can be found on the
Meeting 23-29 Page 6
meeting agenda, which was physically posted at the District’s Administrative Office, and on the
District website.
REPORT OUT OF CLOSED SESSION
General Counsel Hilary Stevenson reported the Board met in closed session on September 25,
2023 and no reportable action was taken.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Public comment opened at 7:13 p.m.
Ms. Soria reported there were no public speakers for this item.
Public comment closed at 7:13 p.m.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
Motion: Director Cyr moved, and Director Gleason seconded the motion to adopt the agenda.
ROLL CALL VOTE: 7-0-0
SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY
Introduction of Staff
• William Halleck, Field Resource Specialist
• Matthew Shapero, Resource Management Specialist III
• Miranda Shum, Finance Supervisor
• Shaylynn Nelson, Executive Assistant/Deputy District Clerk
CONSENT CALENDAR
Director MacNiven spoke on Agenda Item #3 and thanked staff for progressing with the newt
project and despite its high cost, believes the project will be worthwhile. In addition, she spoke
about Agenda Item #9, commending both the rangers and staff for reaching a four-year contract.
She expressed gratitude for their efforts and perseverance.
Director Riffle spoke on Agenda Item # 9 and complimented everyone involved for the approval
of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space
District and Midpeninsula Rangers Peace Officers Association (MRPOA).
Director Kersteen-Tucker spoke on Agenda Item #9, expressing gratitude and adding
appreciation for the Rangers' commitment and creativity during the negotiation process.
Director Holman supported the comments on Agenda Item #9. Additionally, echoed Director
MacNiven's remarks about the progress of the newts project.
Public comment opened at 7:29 p.m.
Merav Vonshak spoke on Agenda Item #3. She is the Volunteer Manager of the Newt Patrol
Community Science Group. She expressed hope that the Newt Crossing Project will make a
Meeting 23-29 Page 7
significant impact in saving newts and urged the Board to approve Phase I and to move to Phase
II of the project.
Dashiell Leeds, the Conservation Coordinator for the Sierra Club Loma Prieta Chapter, spoke on
behalf of Shani Kleinhaus from the Santa Clara Valley Audubon Society to express strong
support for Agenda Item #3. Both organizations endorse the General Manager's
recommendation, and extend sincere gratitude to staff, consultants, and volunteers, including Ms.
Vonshak, who has worked tirelessly on this important issue.
Alexander Hapke, President of the MRPOA, spoke on Agenda Item #9. He expressed the
MRPOA’s support for Board approval of this MOU and shared his appreciation for the effort
invested by both negotiating teams.
Public comment closed at 7:33 p.m.
President Kishimoto spoke on Agenda Item #9 and that the MOU is a breakthrough agreement,
and complimented all parties involved. Additionally, she spoke on Agenda Item #3, expressing
satisfaction that the newt project is progressing in the right direction and fully supportive of item
moving forward.
Motion: Director MacNiven moved, and Director Riffle seconded the motion to approve the
Consent Calendar.
ROLL CALL VOTE: 7-0-0
1. Approve the August 9, 2023, August 23, 2023, and September 12, 2023 meeting
minutes
2. Approve Claims Report
3. Actions Related to the Alma Bridge Road Newt Passage Project (R-23-109)
General Manager’s Recommendation:
1. Accept the final Alternatives Analysis and Basis of Design Report for the Alma Bridge Road
Newt Passage Project.
2. Authorize the General Manager to amend the Cooperative Agreement with the County of
Santa Clara to include Phase II of the project and proceed with environmental studies and
clearance, 65% design and regulatory permitting.
3. Authorize the General Manager to amend the contract with AECOM Technical Services,
Inc., of Oakland, California to provide Phase II services, increasing the base amount by
$2,884,238 to bring the total not-to-exceed base contract amount to $3,202,496.
4. Authorize unused allowance and contingency funds from Phase I in the amount of $74,703
be used as Phase II contingency in the AECOM contract to cover unanticipated tasks that
may be deemed necessary, for a total not-to-exceed contract amount of $3,277,199.
5. Adopt a Resolution authorizing the General Manager to apply for $2,120,000 in funding
from the Wildlife Conservation Board, and if awarded, authorize the General Manager to
enter into a grant funding agreement to support Phase II of the Alma Bridge Road Newt
Passage Project.
Meeting 23-29 Page 8
4. Award of Contract to Ecological Concerns for Alpine (Road) Trail Plant
Installation & Maintenance (R-23-110)
General Manager’s Recommendations:
1. Authorize the General Manager to execute a one-year term contract with Ecological
Concerns of Santa Cruz, in the amount of $191,460 for plant installation and maintenance to
address permit conditions for the Alpine (Road) Regional Trail Improvement Project.
2. Authorize the General Manager to extend the contract for up to four additional one-year
terms and amend the scope of work to cover future plant installation and maintenance
services to ensure complete satisfaction of the permit conditions, for a base not-to-exceed
contract amount of $610,814 over the five-year term, based on contractor performance.
3. Authorize a 10% contingency of $61,081 over the five-year term to address unforeseen
issues, for a total not-to-exceed contract amount of $671,895 over the five-year term.
5. Award of Contract with Timothy C. Best, CEG for Trail Design, Permitting and
Construction Administration Services for the Purisima-to-the-Sea Trail in Purisima Creek
Redwoods Open Space Preserve (R-23-111)
General Manager’s Recommendations:
1. Authorize the General Manager to enter into a multi-year professional services contract with
Timothy C. Best, CEG to complete design, engineering, permitting, and construction
administration services for the multi-use Purisima-to-the-Sea Trail project, for a base contract
amount not-to-exceed $102,540.
2. Authorize a 15% contingency of $15,381 to be reserved for unanticipated issues, bringing the
total not-to-exceed amount to $117,921.
6. Award of Contract for Design and Engineering Services for the Purisima-to-the-Sea
Parking Area Project (R-23-112)
General Manager’s Recommendations:
1. Award a contract to CSW/ST2 of Redwood City, California, to complete the design,
engineering, permitting, and construction administration for the Purisima-to-the-Sea Parking
Area Project for a not-to-exceed base contract amount of $356,913.
2. Authorize a 15% contingency of $53,537 to cover unforeseen tasks beyond the current scope.
3. Authorize a separate contract allowance of $40,000 for additional traffic design, engineering,
and permitting support to avoid potential implementation delays, if needed, bringing the total
not-to-exceed contract amount to $450,450.
7. Contract Amendment with Questa Engineering for Expanded Construction
Administration Services for the Bear Creek Redwoods Phase II Trails Project at Bear
Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (R-23-113)
General Manager’s Recommendations: Authorize the General Manager to amend the existing
contract with Questa Engineering to increase the compensation by $60,000, bringing the total
not-to-exceed contract amount to $796,460, to complete construction administration and
biological monitoring for the Bear Creek Redwoods Phase II Trails Project.
8. Addition of Post-tax Contribution Option (“Roth”) to the Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District’s IRS Section 457 Deferred Compensation Plans (R-23-114)
Meeting 23-29 Page 9
General Manager’s Recommendations: Adopt a Resolution authorizing the addition of a post-tax
contribution option (Roth) to the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District’s IRS Section 457
deferred compensation plans and affirm the General Manager’s authority to approve
administrative changes to the District’s IRS Section 457 deferred compensation plans on behalf
of the District.
9. Approval of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District and Midpeninsula Rangers Peace Officers Association (R-23-115)
General Manager’s Recommendations: Adopt a resolution approving the Memorandum of
Understanding with the Midpeninsula Rangers Peace Officers Association, for a term of July 1,
2023, through June 30, 2027, and adopting the corresponding changes to the Classification and
Compensation Plan.
BOARD BUSINESS
10. Preliminary Report on the Financial and Operational Sustainability Model (FOSM)
Refresh (R-23-116)
Chief Financial Officer/Director of Administrative Services Stefan Jaskulak introduced
Managing Partner Nancy Hetrick and Managing Director Andy Belknap from Baker Tilly who
are working on the FOSM refresh. The presentation focused on the steps the consultants took to
learn the current status of the District, their findings, and preliminary recommendations.
Director Riffle inquired whether the assessment looked at the Board's function and role and if
there are any suggested changes or areas for improvement.
Mr. Belknap responded that they will be commenting on the Board’s role, noting that there isn't
any significant dysfunction in terms of governance. One area they may touch on is the
organization's ability to operate with less regulation from the counties. The District may have the
ability to streamline processes by using blanket permits.
Ms. Hetrick stated that they will also address the importance of clear roles between the Board
and the organization, emphasizing the need for a distinction.
Director Riffle expressed interest in any feedback on the Board’s planning process in their
recommendations, noting that the current process may need some adjustments.
Ms. Hetrick stated that the Board's planning process was not initially included in their scope, but
they will take a look at it and see where they can provide some guidance.
Director Kersteen-Tucker expressed satisfaction with the shift toward a rural and urban focus.
Reflecting on the development of the Agricultural Policy, she contemplated the need for a more
centralized approach in working with the agricultural community and managing land holdings
with agriculture. Additionally, she emphasized the importance of becoming allies with coastal
communities as more lands are opened. Managing increased visitors with surrounding limited
transportation infrastructure will require thoughtful collaboration with local communities. Lastly,
she highlighted the need to enhance messaging around agriculture, emphasizing its
environmental benefits and contribution to local food systems, suggesting a more comprehensive
approach to public communication.
Meeting 23-29 Page 10
Director Holman suggested linking recommendations to specific areas outlined in the FOSM
refresh scope of work. This will allow for easy tracking and ensure that all aspects covered in the
scope of work are adequately addressed in the recommendations. She also raised a question
about the recommendation related to Human Resources being a greater partner and strategic
resource for departments. While expressing no issue with the suggestion, she sought clarification
on how this recommendation aligns with the points outlined in the FOSM refresh scope of work.
Director Holman requested a definition of "urban facing" or suggested finding a different term.
In addition, she requested an organizational chart that includes the Board. She requested clarity
on the section related to increase community engagement. She requested that in the November
presentation, details be provided on how the recommendations will be funded and whether
adequate funding is available. Lastly, she pointed out the fourth bullet under preliminary
recommendations, emphasizing that the need to address staffing gaps in facilities within field
operations should be further elaborated in the final report.
President Kishimoto expressed her concern about the challenge of managing a geographically
sprawling organization. She highlighted existing challenges related to coordination and
communication and is seeking more discussion and strategies for building stronger
communication and organizational culture at the November meeting.
President Kishimoto stated that there is a request for a copy of the PowerPoint slides to be
provided to the Board.
Public comment opened at 8:49 p.m.
Ms. Soria reported there were no public speakers for this item.
Public comment closed at 8:49 p.m.
President Kishimoto called for a recess at 8:50 p.m.
President Kishimoto resumed the meeting at 8:53 p.m. All Board Directors present.
11. Award of Contract for Services to Further Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Goals,
including Preparation of a Baseline Assessment, Action Plan, Staff Training, and External
Reporting (R-23-118)
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Specialist Katie Gilmur provided the staff presentation for the
award of contract to ReadySet for services to further Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) goals.
Ms. Gilmur highlighted the importance of DEI for serving diverse communities, improving
organizational performance, fostering creativity, attracting diverse staff, and ensuring equitable
outdoor access. She provided a historical overview, noting the adoption of diversity goals in the
2011 strategic plan, discussions at a 2015 Board Retreat, and the formal adoption of a DEI policy
in 2016.
Director Riffle acknowledged the progress made so far and raised concerns about bringing in an
organization that may suggest a complete overhaul, as he has experienced in a past organization,
and inquired about the readiness of the team, about potential recommendations and their impact.
Meeting 23-29 Page 11
Ms. Gilmur expressed confidence in the strong foundation of the District and highlighted her
personal background, particularly in tech conducting internal organizational assessments. She
emphasized the value of such assessments for obtaining measurable data and views the
assessment as something positive for the District.
Human Resources Manager Candice Basnight explained that their focus was on choosing a firm
that not only could fulfill the work requirements but also capture data for measurable outcomes.
Understanding the District’s unique identity and ensuring that the consultant aligns with our
values and objectives were deemed crucial in the selection process.
Ms. Ruiz highlighted her commitment to following the DEI assessment carefully and working
closely with the consultant. She emphasized the importance of ensuring that the assessments,
findings, and recommendations align with the District's values while also celebrating what the
District has done so far.
Public comment opened at 9:18 p.m.
Ms. Soria stated there are no public comments.
Public comment closed at 9:18 p.m.
Motion: Director Riffle moved, and Director Kersteen-Tucker seconded the motion to:
1. Authorize the General Manager to enter into a contract with ReadySet of Oakland, CA for a
base amount of $156,125.
2. Authorize an allowance of $75,000 specifically for DEI training services, for a total contract
of $231,125.
3. Authorize a 15% contingency of $34,669 to cover unforeseen tasks beyond the current scope
for a total not to exceed contract amount of $265,794.
ROLL CALL VOTE: 7-0-0
INFORMATIONAL REPORTS
A. Committee Reports
Director Cyr provided an update of the September 19, 2023 Planning and Natural Resources
Committee meeting regarding the review of the existing conditions, site opportunity and
constraints analysis and conceptual design alternatives for the proposed Bear Creek Redwoods
North Parking Area.
B. Staff Reports
General Manager Ana Ruiz reported the District had a great gathering with Peninsula Open
Space Trust (POST). POST hosted the event with 30 to 40 District staff and a sizable group from
POST. It was an excellent opportunity for both organizations to connect, discuss their work,
explore ongoing partnerships, and consider future opportunities. The District will be hosting
POST in the near future.
Meeting 23-29 Page 12
C. Director Reports
Director Riffle reported he attended the September 24, Green Foothills Nature's Inspiration event
at Sanborn Park, and it was a nice send off for outgoing Executive Director, Megan Fluke and a
welcoming of Julie Hutcheson, the new Executive Director. He expressed appreciation for the
send-off for Mike Williams, thanking Assistant General Manager Susanna Chan and all involved
and appreciated seeing retirees and former staff. Lastly, he extended gratitude to Human
Resources Manager Candace Basnight and Human Resources Supervisor Rebecca Wolfe for
their assistance with the BAE Committee.
Director Holman echoed appreciation for Mike Williams' retirement event, thanked Ms. Chan
and all who organized the function. She reported that she attended the October 6, Sierra Club
Guardians of Nature Award Ceremony where Florence LaRiviere was honored for her
impressive contributions. She also attended the October 6, San Francsico Bay Restoration
Authority walking tour with other community-based organizations, the public and non-profits to
learn about projects in the West Bay.
Director Kersteen-Tucker thanked Ms. Chan and Ms. Basson for the tour of the Skyline Field
Office.
Director Gleason reported he too attended the September 24, Green Foothills Nature's Inspiration
and had the opportunity to meet Lenny Roberts and Alice Kaufman. He expressed that Mike
Williams' retirement was a fantastic, well attended event. He met with staff on October 3 with
Ms. Chan who presented the Trailer Explorer Dashboard to him and Director Cyr, which will be
an upcoming tool for trail users.
Director Cyr reported he attended the October 3 Trailer Explorer Dashboard meeting with
District staff, and that the intent is to release this dashboard on November 15, which is IT Day.
He expressed his gratitude to staff for the tremendous effort put into this dashboard and stated
that is will be a tremendous value to the public.
Director MacNiven reported that she attended the September 24, Green Foothills Nature's
Inspiration event, the October 6, Sierra Club Guardians of Nature award ceremony, and a Farm
Bureau meeting in which she represented the District.
President Kishimoto reported that she will be attending a meeting next week with CALAFCo
where she will be on a panel for the fire service study.
ADJOURNMENT
President Kishimoto adjourned the regular meeting of the Board of Directors of the
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District meeting at 9:29 p.m.
Maria Soria, MMC
District Clerk