HomeMy Public PortalAbout20240327 - Agenda Packet - Board of Directors (BOD) - 24-08Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Page 1 of 5
AGENDA
Wednesday, March 27, 2024
Special Meeting starts at 5:30 PM
Regular Meeting starts at 7:00 PM*
The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (Midpen) Board meetings are held in person at the
District’s Administrative Office, and by teleconference pursuant to Government Code Section 54953.
PUBLIC ATTENDANCE OPTIONS
1. In person at the Midpen Administrative Office: the Board Room is open to the public during
meetings of the Board of Directors.
2. Remotely via Zoom: Join the meeting conference by clicking this link:
https://openspace.zoom.us/j/87085554713
3. By phone: dial (669) 900-6833 or (346) 248-7799 and enter the Meeting ID: 870 8555 4713
SUBMITTAL OF PUBLIC COMMENTS
Members of the public may submit written comments to be provided to the Board, or register to
make oral comments, as follows:
Written comments may be submitted via the public comment form
at: https://www.openspace.org/public-comment.
Requests to provide oral comment must be submitted prior to the time when public
comment on the agenda item is closed as follows:
o In-person attendance: submit a request via the paper-based public comment form at
the meeting.
o Remote attendance: submit a request through the public comment form
at: https://www.openspace.org/public-comment.
Any comments received after the deadline will be provided to the Board after the meeting.
5:30 SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA
REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT – CLOSED SESSION
ROLL CALL
1. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS (Government Code
Section 54956.8)
Property: Santa Clara County APN(s): 544-03-001, 544-06-001 and 544-06-002
Agency Negotiator: Allen Ishibashi, Real Property Manager
Negotiating Party: Scott Hoffman, San Jose Water Company
Under Negotiation: Easement and Purchase Terms
NOTICE OF SPECIAL AND REGULAR
BOARD MEETING
Meeting 24-08
Board Room of the Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District Administrative Office
5050 El Camino Real, Los Altos, CA 94022
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Page 2 of 5
ADJOURNMENT
7:00 REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA
REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
ROLL CALL
ANNOUNCE OUT OF CLOSED SESSION
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
This portion of the agenda is for members of the public to comment on items not on the agenda;
however, the Brown Act (Open Meeting Law) does not allow action by the Board of Directors on
items not on the agenda. Individuals are limited to one comment during this section.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
CONSENT CALENDAR
All items on the Consent Calendar may be approved without discussion by one motion. Board
members, the General Manager, and members of the public may request that an item be removed
from the Consent Calendar during consideration of the Consent Calendar.
1. Approve the March 6, 2024 and March 13, 2024 meeting minutes
2. Claims Report
3. Report from the Bond Oversight Committee to the Board of Directors for the
review period from July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023
District Contact: Brian Cilker, Measure AA Bond Oversight Committee Chair and
Rafaela Oceguera, Budget and Finance Manager, Budget and Finance Department
Bond Oversight Committee’s Recommendation: The Bond Oversight Committee
recommends that the Board of Directors accept this report.
4. Award of Contract for Detail Design and Engineering Services for the Highway 35
Multi-use Trail Crossing and Parking Area Project at Purisima Creek Redwoods
Open Space Preserve (R-24-36)
Staff Contact: Alex Harker, Capital Project Manager II, Construction & Engineering
Department
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 Highway 35 Multi-
use Trail Crossing and Parking Area Project for a not-to-exceed base contract amount
of $331,204.
2. Authorize a 15% contingency of $49,681 to cover unforeseen tasks beyond the
current scope.
3. Authorize a separate contract allowance of $30,000 for additional traffic design,
engineering, and permitting services that may be required after reaching 35% design
plans to avoid potential implementation delays, bringing the total not-to-exceed
contract amount to $410,885.
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Page 3 of 5
5. Award of Contract with MIG, Inc., to provide biological/cultural and permitting
services and mitigation planning for the Purisima-to-the-Sea Trail Project (R-24-37)
Staff Contact: Bryan Apple, Capital Projects Field Manager, Land & Facilities
Department
General Manager’s Recommendations:
1. Authorize the General Manager to enter into a contract with MIG, Inc., to provide
consulting services in support of the Purisima-to-the-Sea Trail project for a base
amount not to exceed $78,947.
2. Authorize a 15% contingency of $11,842 to cover unforeseen conditions, for a total
contract amount not-to-exceed $90,789.
6. Award of Contract to Complete Repairs to a Ranger Residence in Sierra Azul Open
Space Preserve (R-24-38)
Staff Contact: Leigh Guggemos, Capital Project Manager III, Engineering and
Construction Department
General Manager’s Recommendations:
1. Authorize an award of contract to SAE Consulting Engineering of San Jose, CA for a
not-to-exceed base contract amount of $575,000.
2. Authorize a contingency of 15% in the amount of $86,250 to be reserved for
unanticipated issues, bringing the total not-to-exceed contract to $661,250.
7. Award of Contract for Botanical Survey Services at Purisima Creek Redwoods
Open Space Preserve (R-24-39)
Staff Contact: Matthew Shapero, Resource Management Specialist III, Land &
Facilities Department
General Manager’s Recommendations:
1. Authorize the General Manager to execute a contract with AECOM Technical
Services, Inc., of Oakland, California to provide botanical survey services to inform
future actions in support of the Conservation Grazing Program for a base amount not
to exceed $90,144.
2. Authorize a 15% contingency of $13,522 to cover unforeseen issues, for a total
contract amount not-to-exceed $103,666.
8. Award of Contract for Marbled Murrelet Habitat Assessment and Breeding
Surveys for the Long Ridge Forest Health Project (R-24-40)
Staff Contact: Karine Tokatlian, Resource Management Specialist II, Natural Resources
Department
General Manager’s Recommendations:
1. Authorize the General Manager to execute a contract with Nomad Ecology, LLC to
complete a marbled murrelet habitat assessment and breeding surveys in Long Ridge
Open Space Preserve, for a base contract amount not-to-exceed $83,101.
2. Authorize a separate contract allowance of $39,918 to complete breeding surveys, if
needed, bringing the not-to-exceed contract amount to $123,019.
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Page 4 of 5
BOARD BUSINESS/PUBLIC HEARING
Public comment on agenda items is received at the time each item is considered by the Board of
Directors.
9. First Reading of the Board Compensation Ordinance (R-24-41)
Staff Contact: Hilary Stevenson, General Counsel, General Counsel’s Office
General Manager’s Recommendation:
1. Waive reading and introduce an ordinance increasing Board compensation from
$115.50 to $121.28 per meeting day, pursuant to Public Resources Code section
5536.
2. Hold a public hearing on the proposed ordinance.
3. Direct the General Manager and General Counsel to prepare the ordinance for second
reading/adoption at the April 10, 2024 Board meeting.
10. Informational Presentation on the Geographic Information System (GIS) Strategic
Plan Project (R-24-42)
Staff Contacts: Jamie Hawk, GIS Program Administrator, Information Systems &
Technology Department
General Manager’s Recommendation: Receive an informational presentation on the GIS
Strategic Plan Project and provide feedback to help prioritize GIS technology services
and offerings. No Board action required.
INFORMATIONAL REPORTS – Reports on compensable meetings attended. Brief reports or
announcements concerning activities of District Directors and staff; opportunity to refer public or
Board questions to staff for information; request staff to report to the Board on a matter at a
future meeting; or direct staff to place a matter on a future agenda. Items in this category are for
discussion and direction to staff only. No final policy action will be taken by the Board.
A. Committee Reports
B. Staff Reports
C. Director Reports
ADJOURNMENT
*Times are estimated and items may appear earlier or later than listed. The Agenda is subject to a
change of order.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need assistance to participate in this
meeting, please contact the District Clerk at (650) 691-1200. Notification 48 hours prior to the meeting
will enable the District to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting.
Written materials relating to an item on this Agenda that are considered to be a public record and are
distributed to Board members less than 72 hours prior to the meeting, will be available for public
inspection at the District’s Administrative Office located at 5050 El Camino Real, Los Altos, California
94022.
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Page 5 of 5
CERTIFICATION OF POSTING OF AGENDA
I, Maria Soria, District Clerk for the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (MROSD), declare that
the foregoing agenda for the special and regular meetings of the MROSD Board of Directors was posted
and available for review on March 21, 2024, at the Administrative Offices of MROSD, 5050 El Camino
Real, Los Altos, California, 94022. The agenda and any additional written materials are also available on
the District’s website at http://www.openspace.org.
Maria Soria, MMC, CPMC
District Clerk
March 6, 2024
Board Meeting 24-06
SPECIAL MEETING
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
Wednesday, March 6, 2024
The Board of Directors conducted this meeting in accordance with
California Government Code section 54953.
DRAFT MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA
REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
President MacNiven called the regular meeting of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space
District to order at 9:30 a.m.
ROLL CALL
Members Present: Jed Cyr, Craig Gleason, Yoriko Kishimoto, Margaret MacNiven, and Curt
Riffle
Members Absent: Karen Holman and Zoe Kersteen-Tucker
Staff Present: General Manager Ana Ruiz, General Counsel Hilary Stevenson, Controller
Mike Foster, Assistant General Manager Susanna Chan, Assistant General
Manager Brian Malone, Chief Financial Officer/Director of
Administrative Services Stefan Jaskulak, District Clerk/Assistant to the
General Manager Maria Soria, Executive Assistant/Deputy District Clerk
Shaylynn Nelson, Executive Assistant/Deputy District Clerk Loana Hsu,
Budget & Finance Manager Rafaela Oceguera, Engineering and
Construction Manager Jason Lin, Human Resources Manager Candice
Basnight, Information Services & Technology Manager Casey Hiatt, Land
& Facilities Manager Brandon Stewart, Natural Resources Manager Kirk
Lenington, Planning Manager Jane Mark, Real Property Manager Allen
Ishibashi, Visitor Services Manager Matthew Anderson, Management
Analyst I Jordan McDaniel, Management Analyst II Elissa Martinez,
Procurement Program Manager Sarah Araya, Grants Management Analyst
II Daniel Morrison
President MacNiven announced 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
Meeting 24-06 Page 2
can be found on the meeting agenda, which was physically posted at the District’s
Administrative Office, and on the District website.
REMOTE PARTICIPATION UNDER AB2449
Director Holman joined the meeting at 10:25 a.m. Pursuant to AB2449, Director Holman
provided notice she is participating in the Special Meeting using video teleconference under the
just cause exemption of illness.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
Motion: Director Kishimoto moved, and Director Cyr seconded the motion to adopt the agenda.
ROLL CALL VOTE: 5-0-0 (Absent Directors Holman and Kersteen-Tucker)
BOARD BUSINESS
1. Fiscal Year 2024-25 through Fiscal Year 2026-27 Capital Improvement and Action
Plan Review (R-24-27)
General Manager Ana Ruiz provided opening remarks and provided an overview of the two-part
retreat. The first part was held in December, focused on setting the direction for the upcoming
fiscal year based on the organization's strategic plan, goals, objectives, and environmental scan.
She stated that today's presentation will cover the proposed projects and programs, as well as
discuss potential big priorities known as "Big Rocks" for the coming year.
Chief Financial Officer/Director of Administrative Services Stefan Jaskulak reviewed the budget
planning cycle, provided a recap of the December 5, 2023 Strategic Plan Retreat, and described
the preliminary fiscal year 2025 (FY25) budget by funds and areas of interest. He reviewed the
five categories as the Big Rocks for next fiscal year, Climate Resilience and Biodiversity,
Purisima Creek Redwoods, Public Access and Trails, Asset Management, and FOSM
Implementation.
Director Riffle noted that the budget allocation for FY25 agriculture seemed lower than in
previous years and requested additional information on the reduction. This question was deferred
later for further discussion.
Director Kishimoto voiced her concern regarding the lack of emphasis on Regional Leadership,
especially given the many new state and federal representatives. She commented on the need for
education and leadership. Additionally, she inquired why the science/biodiversity symposium
was not listed for the next fiscal year nor the following three years.
Natural Resources Manager Kirk Lenington reported that the science/biodiversity symposium
was not scheduled to focus instead on the science panel work.
Director Riffle acknowledged the significance of the topics brought up by Director Kishimoto
and suggested adding them to the "parking lot list" for further discussion along with the
agriculture inquiry he had earlier.
Meeting 24-06 Page 3
Director Kishimoto commented that the regional leadership and the science/biodiversity
symposium would fall under Goal 1 Objective 3, Goal 2 Objective 1, and Goal 3 Objective 1 of
the Strategic Goals and Objectives.
Assistant General Manager Susanna Chan reviewed 11 projects in the land acquisition and
preservation program, which includes one new project and ten continuing projects. The budget
request for FY25 is $637,000. Ms. Chan clarified that land acquisition costs are not included in
the budget requests due to their speculative nature at the time of budget adoption. Instead, the
Board approves budget adjustments when land acquisitions are approved. The budget requested
includes costs for due diligence, such as surveys and technical studies necessary before
purchasing the property.
Director Kishimoto requested an update on adding a potential parking area along Kings
Mountain Road to access Teague Hill Open Space Preserve.
Assistant General Manager Brian Malone stated that currently the only access to Teague Hill is
via the Skyline Trail and is managed by San Mateo County Parks, and there is minimal roadside
parking available. He commented that Teague Hill has been designated as a District Leadership
Academy project to explore interim management strategies for the area. However, addressing
long-term access and parking issues would require comprehensive planning.
Director Kishimoto commented that the project is not scheduled for the next three years, and she
encouraged pursuing the project.
Mr. Malone clarified that the project is not part of the Vision Plan or Measure AA goals. As a
result, it does not receive priority status when creating the CIAP plan.
Director Holman joined the meeting at 10:25 a.m.
Mr. Malone reviewed the Natural Resources Protection and Restoration Projects that also
includes agricultural work. He addressed the proportion of agricultural projects to the wildland
fire and diversity projects. He noted that there has not been any significant change in agricultural
projects, which has remained consistent over the past two years. The type of projects that run
through the agriculture program typically involve activities like pond repairs and fencing, with
costs typically ranging from $100,000 to $200,000. On the other hand, diversity projects include
high-dollar public access initiatives, and the District has been investing more in wildland fire
programs, particularly in fuels management, forestry, and restoration. There are a robust number
of agriculture projects, and the District has recently hired a new conservation grazing manager.
Mr. Malone proceeded with his overview of the program, highlighting that it encompasses a total
of 39 projects, consisting of 10 new and 29 continuing projects with a total budget of $9.9M.
Director Riffle requested an update on the schedule for prescribed burns and the budget impact.
Mr. Malone stressed that the budget impact of prescribed burns primarily involves developing
the burn plan, contracting Cal Fire, and hiring a contractor to prepare for the burn. Staffing is
also a key concern for both the District and supporting agencies like Cal Fire.
Land & Facilities Manager Brandon Stewart stated that staff were unable to secure permits for
prescribed burns this spring due to challenges with the Air Resource Board. Instead, staff will
Meeting 24-06 Page 4
focus on pile burns at Rancho de Guadalupe this spring. However, the plan is to conduct a
prescribed fire in the fall, possibly at Russian Ridge.
Director Kishimoto expressed the need for the District to become more proficient in conducting
prescribed burns, and that having only one prescribed burn a year is too slow of a pace and asked
about other obstacles besides permitting.
Mr. Malone stated that the Air Quality Control Board imposes strict regulations to ensure clean
air, which is a priority for both the Board and the District. As the District becomes more
experienced and regulatory agencies become accustomed to prescribed burns, the potential for
more frequent burns may increase. Additionally, aligning burn timing with resource availability
poses another challenge. He stated that developing an in-house fire program in the future could
offer more flexibility, currently the District's fire program focuses on partnering with agencies
like Cal Fire. Furthermore, staff has reviewed the District’s Suppression Program and will be
looking to add additional staff from the maintenance program to this program, as well as
pursuing Burn Boss certification.
Director Kishimoto asked if any staff members are currently certified as Burn Bosses.
Mr. Stewart stated that Conservation Grazing Program Manager Matthew Shapero is one class
away from attaining his Burn Boss certification.
Director Kishimoto recommends having more than one Burn Boss and encourages ramping up
the program.
Director Riffle requested an update in the fall on the progress of the prescribed burns.
Additionally, he suggested it might be worth exploring ways to address these issues, such as
advocating for changes in how agencies perceive and regulate prescribed burns.
Mr. Malone commented that overall, the support for prescribed burns is quite positive. In
particular, Cal Fire has adopted having a burn program as a major component of reducing
wildfire risk in California.
Director Kishimoto commented that the science symposium would be a great way to bring
partners together and educate the public.
Mr. Malone stated that if the Board decides to add the science symposium as a project, it will
take a concerted effort, and will involve a lot of staff time. The CIAP would need to be reviewed
to consider what other projects could be removed.
Director Kishimoto expressed her disappointed for not including a regional biodiversity/science
symposium. She commented that such events not only educate the public but also garner
attention and support from various stakeholders. This includes initiatives like prescribed burns.
Mr. Malone stated that leadership work for landscape management is ongoing through various
venues, notably the Santa Cruz Mountain Stewardship Network. While organizing a symposium
is a valuable endeavor, it would require Board discussion and potentially reallocating resources
from other projects in the CIAP, and it would draw significant staff resources from the Natural
Resources Department.
Meeting 24-06 Page 5
Ms. Chan continued the presentation and presented on the Public Access, Education and
Outreach Projects program that consist of 39 projects with 5 new projects and 34 continuing
projects with a budget of $7.3M. She highlighted the key projects within the program.
Director Kishimoto inquired if the Bear Creek Stables Repair Project budget amount is
approximately $5M.
Ms. Chan stated that she will need to return to the Board and confirm the next steps for this
Project. The Board approved additional funds in 2021. However, as the project progresses
through the permitting process, the scope must be expanded to meet permit requirements. Staff
will need to reassess the current scope and present this information to the Board for
confirmation. Additionally, negotiations with the County are ongoing, particularly regarding
exemptions to avoid road widening, which would entail significant costs and environmental
impacts, including the removal of approximately 30 trees.
Director Kishimoto voiced her discomfort with approving the amount of money without
additional information at this time.
Mr. Jaskulak noted that the Board would not be approving the budget amounts at today’s
meeting but rather the projects to include in the CIAP. The final proposed budget will be
presented first to the Action Plan and Budget Committee (APBC) and then to the Board in June.
Ms. Chan assured the Board that staff will be returning to the Board before June, so that Board
has all the information before approving this year’s Project budget.
Director Riffle left at 11:33 a.m. and returned at 11:35 a.m.
Director Gleason shared that he recently received a briefing from Ms. Chan on the ADA barrier
removal project, including the ADA improvements at Pulgas Ridge and the two trails at Skyline Ridge. He suggests shifting the focus towards identifying opportunities for accessibility and
incorporating them into trail designs, emphasizing that each accessible feature adds significant
value to the overall trail experience. He provided examples for potential opportunities on Pulgas
Ridge and Skyline Ridge. He encourages this approach as a way to create more valuable and
inclusive trails for all users.
Mr. Malone reviewed the Assets and Organizational Support Projects. There are 30 projects in this
program, seven are new projects and there are 23 continuing projects with a budget of $7.4M. Mr.
Malone highlighted the key projects under this program.
Public comment opened at 12:15 p.m.
Ms. Soria reported there were no public speakers for this item.
Public comment closed at 12:15 p.m.
The Board convened into a recess at 12:18 p.m.
The Board reconvened the meeting at 12:45 p.m. with all six Directors present.
Meeting 24-06 Page 6
Ms. Ruiz provide an overview of the proposed FY25 CIAP “Big Rocks.” The five themes are
Climate Resilience & Biodiversity, Purisima Creek Redwoods, Public Access and Trails, Asset
Management, and FOSM Refresh Implementation. She continued to review specific projects
under each theme.
President MacNiven asked if there is staff capacity for the “big rocks” projects.
Ms. Ruiz confirmed these projects are built into the proposed CIAP and are resource loaded.
Director Kishimoto suggested that Bear Creek Stables Repair does not need to be listed in the
“big rocks” category. Instead, she would list the Bear Creek Redwoods Parking Area or Rancho
San Antonio access improvements as it is the most visited preserve.
Director Riffle suggested narrowing the “big rocks” list down to 4 to 5 items if it is helpful to
staff. He recommended keeping Bear Creek Stables Repair on the list since it is challenging,
requires big decisions to be made, and has already been deferred for decades.
Director Gleason inquired what percentage of staff capacity would be utilized performing these
projects and if there is flexibility to accommodate emergent projects.
Ms. Ruiz responded she would confirm the percentage but many of the projects require
coordination and consultation with multiple departments. The purpose of the list is to identify
which projects proceed regardless of issues that may arise and she believes there is enough
flexibility to ensure these projects keep going.
Ms. Ruiz suggested bringing the big rocks to the APBC for review and then return the item to the
Board with any future changes. She noted that the list helps staff focus on the projects the Board
identifies as a priority since not every project can be a priority one.
Director Riffle asked how the General Manager would score the projects at the end of the year
and noted the big rocks category adds an additional criterion to evaluate performance.
Ms. Ruiz responded that projects would be scored by analyzing if staff had accomplished the
predetermined scope by the end of the fiscal year.
Director Riffle inquired how the District’s mission to protect and preserve is incorporated as a
big rock. He expressed concern that the big rocks list does not identify a category which support
that part of the mission to pursue, for example, an opportunity for a property transaction.
Ms. Ruiz explained the big rocks projects were ones which staff had a level of certainty in
accomplishing and that land acquisitions are generally speculative. She suggested an asterisk for
land acquisition work since it is hard to establish a timeline for milestones but assured that land
acquisition projects will move forward.
President MacNiven suggested a category for projects which do not allow for a predetermined
timeline, such as land acquisitions and climate-related emergencies.
Director Holman noted preservation is also about fires and habitat restoration and expressed
concern that the category was not included.
Meeting 24-06 Page 7
Ms. Ruiz requested to refine the big rocks concept and present it to APBC before presenting
again to the Board.
Director Gleason requested that the big rocks list allow for enough flexibility for staff to pivot to
unforeseen projects, which may arise, such as land acquisitions.
Director Cyr noted this is a first draft for establishing a framework for staff to make quick,
independent decisions. He requested staff to share with the Board in the future if the
prioritizations were helpful.
Director Riffle noted that strengthening the District’s regional presence was not listed in the big
rocks list and inquired how it can be incorporated to aid the District in becoming a regional
leader. He expressed concern that the District will not progress in having a regional impact if it is
not listed as a priority.
Ms. Ruiz noted the District is a leader in many ways, such as with the mountain lion research and
GIS applications work. Many agencies, for example, come to the District for data to help make
land management decisions.
Mr. Lenington explained every Natural Resources project has a partnership with other land
management agencies or academic researchers. He proposed creating a page in the budget book
highlighting projects which a regional impact.
Director Gleason inquired if the District could partner with local agencies and provide funding to
organize a biodiversity symposium to reduce staff time.
Mr. Malone explained there are agencies the District could contact to partner with but noted it
would likely require a significant funding effort and considerable staff time.
Public comment opened at 1:39 p.m.
Ms. Soria reported there were no public speakers for this item.
Public comment closed at 1:39 p.m.
Director Riffle inquired and received confirmation that the refined big rocks list would be
presented to APBC and returned to the Board for affirmation.
Mr. Malone noted that the Board should provide direction on whether to add the
biodiversity/science symposium. He also explained that there is not any capacity to add a Teague
Hill parking project without moving major projects off the CIAP list.
Director Kishimoto requested that staff consider the possibility of adding a biodiversity/science
symposium into the CIAP within the next few years.
Director Cyr stated he is not in favor of adding a biodiversity/science symposium because of the
amount of staff effort it would require.
Meeting 24-06 Page 8
President MacNiven concurred with Director Cyr.
Director Riffle moved and Director Cyr seconded the motion to approve the General Manager’s
recommendation as it was presented to the Board.
Director Kishimoto presented a substitute motion and Director Gleason seconded the motion to
add to the General Manager’s recommendation the inclusion of the biodiversity/science
symposium to the CIAP within the next 3 years.
Director Riffle requested staff explain how adding the symposium would impact other projects.
Mr. Malone explained the science panel would likely be removed and there would possibly be
further reaching impacts to other projects, in particular to the projects that the natural resources
department support.
Ms. Ruiz clarified that the symposium likely could not be added until either years 2 or 3 of the
CIAP.
Director Riffle asked Mr. Lenington to clarify how the addition of the symposium would affect
the natural resources department and which projects would be removed.
Mr. Lenington noted that the restoration project at Russian Ridge may be delayed, or the scope
may be reduced, and stated that it would be beneficial if staff can partner with other agencies.
Motion: Director Kishimoto moved, and Director Gleason seconded the substitute motion to:
1. Review and affirm the proposed Fiscal Year 24-25 through Fiscal Year 2026-27 Capital
Improvement and Action Plan and amend to add a project to add a biodiversity/science
symposium within the next three years.
2. Direct the General Manager to reevaluate staff and resource capacity and, if needed,
return to the full Board with any additional recommendations for further discussion and
direction.
3. Direct the General Manager to refine the “Big Rocks” list and bring it to the Action Plan
and Budget Committee for their review and recommendation to the full Board for
affirmation.
ROLL CALL VOTE: 4-2-0 (President MacNiven and Director Cyr opposed)
(Director Kersteen-Tucker absent)
Public comment opened at 2:16 p.m.
Ms. Soria reported there were no public speakers for this item.
Public comment closed at 2:16 p.m.
2. Receive implementation plan of the recommendations of the Financial and
Operational Sustainability Model Refresh Report (R-24-28)
Mr. Jaskulak presented on the implementation plan for the recommendations from the Financial
Operational Sustainability Model Refresh Report. He outlined that the 49 recommendations
Meeting 24-06 Page 9
would be executed in phases, with some already underway since the beginning of the year, and
the final ones set to start implementation in fiscal year 2027. He provided an overview of the
implementation schedule across three trimesters per fiscal year and the assigned lead staff for
each recommendation.
Director Riffle asked whether it would be beneficial to expedite the conversion of the halftime
Human Resources Tech and halftime Accounting Tech position into full-time roles sooner than
waiting for the second half of the timeline. Also adding the salary to the job descriptions, which
is slated at the end of FY25 make it easier to hire.
Mr. Jaskulak stated that the salaries are already included in each advertisement. It is the job
descriptions that are on the District’s website that do not have the salaries. However, there is a
table that has all the classification along with the salaries. The recommendation is to combine
both documents or have the salaries on each job description.
Human Resources Manager Candice Basnight explained recruitment has begun for the Human
Resources Management Analyst and believes she can accomplish the goals set out without
having to expedite of the conversation of Human Resources Tech and halftime Accounting Tech
position.
Director Riffle asked how staff will report back to the Board about any challenges.
Mr. Jaskulak stated historically he reports back to the Board at the December Board Retreat but
staff would return to the Board sooner if there were roadblocks that require Board assistance.
Public comment opened at 2:32 p.m.
Ms. Soria reported there were no public speakers for this item.
Public comment closed at 2:32 p.m.
No Board action required.
ADJOURNMENT
President MacNiven adjourned the regular meeting of the Board of Directors of the
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District meeting at 2:35 p.m.
Maria Soria, MMC
District Clerk
March 13, 2024
Board Meeting 24-07
SPECIAL AND REGULAR MEETING
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
Wednesday, March 13, 2024
The Board of Directors conducted this meeting in accordance with
California Government Code section 54953.
DRAFT MINUTES
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA
REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT – CLOSED SESSION
President MacNiven called the special meeting of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space
District to order at 5:31 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Members Present: Jed Cyr, Craig Gleason, Karen Holman, Zoe Kersteen-Tucker, Yoriko
Kishimoto, and Margaret MacNiven
Members Absent: Curt Riffle
Staff Present: General Manager Ana Ruiz, General Counsel Hilary Stevenson, Assistant
General Manager Susanna Chan, District Clerk/Assistant to the General
Manager Maria Soria, Executive Assistant/Deputy District Clerk Loana
Lumina-Hsu, Real Property Manager Allen Ishibashi, Planner III Aaron
Peth, Real Property Specialist I Jasmine Leong
President MacNiven announced this meeting is being held in person at the District’s
Administrative Office, and by teleconference. 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. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS (Government Code
Section 54956.8)
Property: San Mateo County APN: 083-351-010
Agency Negotiator: Aaron Peth, Real Property Planner III
Negotiating Party: David Cline, Coldwell Banker
Under Negotiation: Purchase Terms
Public comment opened at 5:33 p.m.
Meeting 24-07 Page 2
Executive Assistant/Deputy District Clerk Loana Lumina-Hsu reported no public comments
were submitted for the closed session.
Public comment closed at 5:33 p.m.
The Board convened into closed session.
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA
REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT – STUDY SESSION
President MacNiven called the special meeting of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space
District to order at 6:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Members Present: Jed Cyr, Craig Gleason, Karen Holman, Zoe Kersteen-Tucker, Yoriko
Kishimoto, and Margaret MacNiven
Members Absent: Curt Riffle
Staff Present: General Manager Ana Ruiz, General Counsel Hilary Stevenson, Assistant
General Manager Susanna Chan, Assistant General Manager Brian
Malone, District Clerk/Assistant to the General Manager Maria Soria,
Executive Assistant/Deputy District Clerk Loana Lumina-Hsu
1. Study Session to Receive Early Feedback on Parking Area Design Guidelines (R-24-
30)
Assistant General Manager Susanna Chan provided the staff presentation on the draft Parking
Area Design Guidelines. She provided background information and stated that the goal of the
effort is to develop a framework for incorporating an appropriate open space and natural/rural
aesthetic design character to District preserve parking areas. The design guidelines will be
centered on the District’s two mission statements and align with the five Board-approved Vision
Plan Goals. The design guidelines will go beyond basic technical design principles and focus on
the character qualities that reflects the District’s open space lands and conservation values. Ms.
Chan went into detail of topics and items to be included in the parking area design guidelines:
values, design approach and typologies, and design guidelines for numerous elements.
Additionally, feedback from the Board will be incorporated as appropriate and staff along with
the consultant will continue to develop the guidelines. Ms. Chan plans to return to the Board for
review and approval of design guidelines in April 2024.
Director Holman expressed her concerns about the tone and focus of the current draft of the
Parking Area Values and compared it to the National Park Service’s “A Sense of Place: Design
Guidelines for Yosemite National Park”. She emphasized the importance of starting with clear
goals and constraints, focusing on maintaining the existing ethos and place setting of the natural
environment. She provided a redrafted version of the Parking Area Values that reflects the
emphasis on natural features and aesthetics compatible with the surroundings. She requested that
her document be shared with the Board for their consideration.
Meeting 24-07 Page 3
General Manager Ana Ruiz stated that the designs and selection of materials, textures, and colors
for parking lots are intended to complement and reflect the aesthetic of the surrounding natural
environment. In addition, consideration would be given to the quality and longevity of materials
and maintenance requirements. She asked Director Holman for an example of place setting to
help clarify her request.
Director Holman provided an example of adding a “no parking sign” and the choice to install
either an urban sign or a wooden post. While the wooden post may have a shorter lifespan, it
aligns better with the natural environment. She commented that in reading through the guidelines
that focus is not present.
Ms. Ruiz explained the District will be adding more parking areas in number and size to meet the
demand. As the number of parking areas increases, more resources are needed for operation,
management, and maintenance. Balancing the aesthetic qualities desired in these areas with the
need for fewer overhead and operational needs is essential.
Director Holman commented the size and number of parking lots would be a matter of policy
related to access and suggested having a separate discussion on that topic.
Director Kishimoto provided comments for staff to consider. First, the scale of the parking lots.
She expressed a preference to continue with the parking lots that staff has presented to the Board
that break up the footprint of the lot rather than seeing one large continuous lot. Second, whether
or not the parking lots should be visible from the road. The visibility could aid in finding the
parking lot and the potential for enhanced safety, but the preference is that they not be
prominent. Lastly, she suggested adding bicycle parking and brushes for cleaning shoes and
bikes of invasive plant materials to the list of design guideline elements.
Director Holman further explained why she reprioritized the values on the redrafted Parking
Area Values she submitted for consideration.
Director Gleason emphasized that the discussion can also extend beyond parking lots to include
roads, trails, and other things that can be built or changed in the open space. He stressed the
importance of setting goals and cited the Bear Creek North Parking lot as an example where staff
provided a creative solution and when the Board’s goals aligned with the design. He echoed
Director Holman’s point about the Yosemite design guidelines and how it sets a tone.
Additionally, he emphasized the need to consider costs and longevity and suggested exploring
best practices from other agencies.
Director Kersteen-Tucker expressed support for the Parking Area Values statements as
presented, because they acknowledge the District's diverse landscapes, highlighting that it is not
a single park like Yosemite but rather a variety of landscapes that need to be celebrated, which
she believes the consultants have captured with the typologies. While she understands Director
Holman’s perspective, she is comfortable with direction taken by the consultants. Additionally,
she emphasized the importance of the District developing its own unique best practices to
distinguish its parking areas and create a unique signature.
President MacNiven suggested removing the following items from the design guideline
elements: picnic tables, benches, kiosks, EV charging stations as they would detract from the
natural setting of the parking areas, and maintenance buildings. She commended the District on
Meeting 24-07 Page 4
the parking areas developed thus far and emphasized the importance of maintaining these
standards to preserve the quality of the parking areas.
Ms. Chan stated the Board received a written public comment suggesting adding equestrian
amenities to the design guidelines elements and asked the Board if they are open to add
equestrian amenities to the list.
The Board agreed to add the equestrian amenities.
Public comment opened at 6:47 p.m.
Shani Kleinhaus from the Santa Clara Valley Audubon Society urged the Board to approach the
development of parking lots and access roads from a wildlife point of view. She pointed out that
the District’s mission does not mandate parking lots in every preserve, and that asphalt is not
environmentally friendly. She expressed concern that many of the design elements are urban
elements such as EV charging, and that parking lots should not require new electric connections,
lighting, or parking digital counters. She hopes that the Board directs staff to address wildlife
movement, shade trees, and other elements of ecological design, noting a lack of discussion on
these items.
Public comment closed at 6:50 p.m.
Director Holman suggested adding wildlife movement to the list of design guidelines elements
and agrees with President MacNiven to remove EV charging stations for the list.
Director Holman addressed that the Parking Area Values that she revised contained an error on
the second value “Establish a Transition Zone”. She inadvertently added the wrong language to
that section. She also stressed the importance of prioritizing the natural environment over
maintenance. Additionally, she added aesthetics and sensory impact of parking areas to the
values. She spoke on the changes she made to transition stating that she updated the language to
read “Parking areas serves the public's transition spaces between the surrounding natural open
space preserves and areas outside the preserves.” She expressed that for the next iteration, her
focus will be on aesthetics, sensory experience, sense of place, and conservation aspects as
priorities.
President MacNiven confirmed agricultural landscape is part of cultural landscape typography
and suggested that the draft guidelines include consideration of the ranchers or farmers if a
parking lot is to be designed in the agricultural land.
Director Holman suggested that number 26. Planting and Irrigation of the Design Guidelines
Elements include trees and take in consideration heat island effects. Additionally, she spoke on
the creative solution used on the Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve North Parking lot
and how the elevations and typography was used to create two parking lots versus on large lot.
She requested that somehow that solution be captured in the Design Guidelines Elements.
Director Holman commented that the inclusion of number 32. Use of Environmentally Friendly
(“Green”) Elements implies the District will only use those materials, when in practice the
parking lot may not use those materials.
Meeting 24-07 Page 5
No Board action required.
ADJOURNMENT
President MacNiven adjourned the special meeting of the Board of Directors of the
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District at 6:59 p.m.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA
REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
President MacNiven called the regular meeting of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space
District to order at 7:05 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Members Present: Jed Cyr, Craig Gleason, Karen Holman, Zoe Kersteen-Tucker, Yoriko
Kishimoto, and Margaret MacNiven
Members Absent: Curt Riffle
Staff Present: General Manager Ana Ruiz, General Counsel Hilary Stevenson, Assistant
General Manager Susanna Chan, Assistant General Manager Brian
Malone, District Clerk/Assistant to the General Manager Maria Soria
Executive Assistant/Deputy District Clerk Loana Lumina-Hsu, Natural
Resources Manager Kirk Lenington, Resource Management Specialist II
Matthew Sharp Chaney, Resource Management Specialist III Hannah
Wallis, Public Affairs Specialist III Leigh Ann Gessner, Governmental
Affairs Program Manager Joshua Hugg
President MacNiven announced this meeting is being held in person at the District’s
Administrative Office, and by teleconference. This information can be found on the meeting
agenda, which was physically posted at the District’s Administrative Office, and on the District
website.
REPORT OUT OF CLOSED SESSION
President MacNiven reported the Board met in closed session, and no reportable action was
taken.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Public comment opened at 7:07 p.m.
Ms. Lumina-Hsu reported there were no public speakers for this item.
Public comment closed at 7:07 p.m.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
Meeting 24-07 Page 6
Motion: Director Kishimoto moved, and Director Gleason seconded the motion to adopt the
agenda.
ROLL CALL VOTE: 6-0-0 (Director Riffle absent)
SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY
Introduction of Staff
• Hannah Wallis, Resource Management Specialist III
CONSENT CALENDAR
Public comment opened at 7:11 p.m.
Ms. Lumina-Hsu reported there were no public speakers for this item.
Public comment closed at 7:11 p.m.
Motion: Director Cyr moved, and Director Gleason seconded the motion to approve the Consent
Calendar.
ROLL CALL VOTE: 6-0-0 (Director Riffle absent)
1. Approve the February 28, 2024 Board meeting minutes
2. Approve Claims Report
3. Award of Contract to All Earth Geotechnical Engineering Inc., for Geotechnical
Investigations and Engineering Design Services for the Pescadero Watershed
Sediment Reduction Implementation Project, focused on Alpine Pond, within the
Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve (R-24-31)
General Manager’s Recommendations:
1. Authorize the General Manager to execute a contract with All Earth Geotechnical
Engineering Inc., for the Pescadero Watershed Sediment Reduction Implementation
Project for a base contract amount not-to-exceed $372,814 to complete geotechnical
investigations, three dam concept plans, one road-stream crossing concept plan, and
two final design plans suitable for bidding (dam and road-stream crossing).
2. Authorize a 10% contingency of $37,281 to be reserved for unanticipated issues,
bringing the total not-to-exceed contract amount to $410,095.
4. Mitigation Cooperative Agreement at Miramontes Ridge Open Space Preserve with
the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) (R-24-32)
General Manager’s Recommendations: Approve the proposed third-party compensatory
mitigation project at Miramontes Ridge Open Space Preserve to restore 1.66 acres (953
linear feet) of riparian habitat along Madonna Creek and authorize the General Manager
to negotiate a mitigation agreement with Caltrans who will supply the necessary funding
to complete this work (estimated at $300,000 to $400,000 over 10 years).
Meeting 24-07 Page 7
5. Exchange of Real Property Interests between Hicks Land LLC (“Hicks Land”) and
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (District) Related to Access Easements -
District to receive an Access Easement through Hicks Land property (portion of
Santa Clara County APNs 575-11-009 and 575-11-024) in Exchange for Granting an
Access Easement to Hicks Land through Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve (portion
of Santa Clara County APN 575-11-008) (R-24-33)
General Manager’s Recommendations:
1. Determine that the recommended actions are categorically exempt from the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), as set out in the report.
2. Adopt a resolution authorizing the exchange of interests in real property between the
District and Hicks Land, at no cost to either party.
3. Amend the Use and Management Plan to include the exchanged interest in real
property.
4. Withhold dedication of the exchanged property as public open space at this time.
BOARD BUSINESS
6. Human-Mountain Lion Interaction Study and Management Plan Annual Update
(Year 3) (R-24-34)
Resource Management Specialist II Matthew Sharp Chaney introduced John Morgan from the
University of California Santa Cruz Puma Project to present on Year 3 of the Human-Mountain
Lion Interaction Study and Management Plan Update. Mr. Morgan reviewed the study
objectives: estimate the local mountain lion population size, compare mountain-lion home range
sizes withing the study area to other parts of the Santa Cruz Mountains, assess factors
influencing human mountain lion interactions, and determine efficacy of management strategies
and their potential for reducing human mountain lion conflict. Mr. Morgan reported the third
year of the project has focused on safely and humanely collaring mountain lion adults and
kittens, data collection, and preliminary data analyses and collection of a total of 21 mountain
lions (10 adults and 11 kittens from 4 litters) and 29 unique adults since the project began.
Mr. Morgan described interpretation of GPS data to identify feeding events and den sites, and
described the relationship between habitat selection, survival rate, and population growth rate.
He further expanded on Objective 1 explaining how researchers are estimating local mountain
lion population size; Objective 2 comparing home range sizes near District preserve to other
areas; Objective 3 assessing factors influencing human – mountain lion interactions in outdoor
recreation; and Objective 4 reducing human-mountain lion conflict – using two methods:
behavior modification and vegetation management. Mr. Morgan concluded the presentation with
the project’s next steps: continue testing effect management strategies, shift focus to data
analysis, publish results later in 2024, and begin population size estimate.
The members of the Board asked clarifying questions and received additional information
regarding mountain lion behavior, the mountain lion study, and study results to date.
Public comment opened at 7:57 p.m.
Ms. Lumina-Hsu reported there were no public speakers for this item.
Meeting 24-07 Page 8
Public comment closed at 7:57 p.m.
No Board action required.
7. Legislative Position Recommendations (R-24-35)
Governmental Affairs Program Manager Joshua Hugg provided the staff presentation on the
District Legislative Positions for the 2024 State Legislation. Mr. Hugg stated that this year there
were 2,124 bills released by the February 16, 2024 deadline for new bills by California State
Assemblymembers and Senators. District legislative consultants reviewed every bill submitted to
determine whether the bill had the potential to affect District interests and submitted a list,
including recommendations of initial positions and priorities. Based on the list of identified
legislation, department managers assisted with a review of all the potential bills of interest and
provided their recommended position and priority for each bill. Approximately 100 bills are
currently tracked. Two bills were identified as Priority 1, eleven bills are Priority 2, and
approximately 100 bills are Priority 3.
Director Holman inquired why Assembly Bill (AB) 1889 is assigned as Priority 2.
Mr. Hugg explained AB 1889 can be moved to Priority 1 based on the Board’s discussion as the
bill will include a requirement to include a wildlife connectivity element in a City general plan.
Director Holman requested for AB 1889 to be elevated to Priority 1.
Discussion ensued for AB 2344 which created a collaboration between Caltrans and California
Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDWF) to address wildlife impact from transportation
infrastructure. Mr. Hugg stated last year State of California’s budget included hiring 8 additional
staff in CDFW to address AB 2344 and increase collaboration between Caltrans and CDFW.
Discussion ensued for AB 2552 for the prohibition of rodenticides and the inclusion of first-
generation anticoagulant rodenticides. Mr. Hugg explained the history of anticoagulants (AB
1788) and rodenticides (AB 2332), and how AB 2552 will also expand the list of prohibitions
and expand the definition of wildlife habitat to open space. Discussion ensued on the expanded
definition of wildlife habitat to open space for the Santa Cruz Mountains, creeks, and smaller
local open spaces. He stated Rancho San Antonion Open Space Preserve will benefit from the
expanded 1-mile radius definition.
Director Kishimoto inquired on the District’s outreach efforts regarding rodenticides for Rancho
San Antonio Open Space Preserve.
Mr. Hugg stated in Fall 2023, staff used a public notification tool to identify a 500-foot perimeter
around Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve and sent postcards to neighbors to consider
alternatives to rodenticides. Additionally, staff, including Chinese-speaking staff, held several
outreach tabling events at Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve for engagement with
visitors to deliver messages regarding rodenticides and alternatives.
Director Kishimoto requested for AB 2552 to be elevated to Priority 1.
A majority of the Directors expressed support to elevate AB 2552 to Priority 1.
Meeting 24-07 Page 9
Public comment opened at 8:20 p.m.
Ms. Lumina-Hsu reported there were no public speakers for this item.
Public comment closed at 8:20 p.m.
Direction Gleason inquired if the elevation of two bills to Priority 1 would be manageable.
Mr. Hugg stated in previous years there have been five to six Priority 1 bills, and that this year’s
four Priority 1 bills is manageable.
Motion: Director Kishimoto moved, and Director Holman seconded the motion to approve the
recommended list of legislative positions for the 2024 state legislative session and elevate
Assembly Bill 1889 and Assembly Bill 2552 to Priority 1.
ROLL CALL VOTE: 6-0-0 (Director Riffle absent)
INFORMATIONAL REPORTS
A. Committee Reports
Director Holman reported that the Hawthorns Historic Complex Ad Hoc Committee met on
March 7, 2024 and provided an update.
Director Gleason reported the Legislative, Funding, and Public Affairs Committee met on March
12, 2024 where the Committee reviewed proposed updates to Board Policy 5.02 - Good
Neighbor Policy.
B. Staff Reports
None
C. Director Reports
Director Gleason reported he attended the Santa Clara County Special District Association on
March 4 and there is an interest in a presentation of the District’s Wildland Fire Resiliency
Program.
Director Holman requested forwarding to the Board the District's comments submitted to the
City of Palo Alto regarding their Stream Corridor Protection Ordinance.
Director Kishimoto reported she plans to attend the California Council of Land Trusts during the
week of March 18.
President MacNiven reported the Hawthorns Public Access Working Group held a meeting on
February 29 and the next meeting will be held on March 24 on site.
ADJOURNMENT
Meeting 24-07 Page 10
President MacNiven adjourned the regular meeting of the Board of Directors of the
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District meeting at 8:33 p.m.
Loana Lumina-Hsu
Executive Assistant/Deputy District Clerk
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
CLAIMS REPORT
MEETING # 24-08
MEETING DATE: March 27, 2024 Fiscal Year 22-23 EFT:59.72%
Fiscal Year 23-24 EFT:59.08%
Payment
Number
Payment
Type
Payment Date Notes Vendor Name/Number Blank Invoice Description Blank2 Payment Amount
8367 T - EFT 03/14/2024 15040 - Gordon N. Ball, Inc.Bear Creek Redwoods Phase II Trails Project 91,230.03
8359 T - EFT 03/14/2024 12224 - CSW-Stuber-Stroeh Engineering Group Inc.P2S Parking, Hawthorns Access Easement Jan-Feb 2024 42,817.13
8385 T - EFT 03/14/2024 10112 - Timothy C Best Purisima Creek Trail Failure Analysis 1/22/24-2/29/24 38,857.50
8368 T - EFT 03/14/2024 10005 - Grassroots Ecology Comm Engagement & Native Plant Maint., Native Plant purchase 29,041.60
8350 P - Printed 03/14/2024 15073 - United Builders Corp.AO-Admin Layout Modifications 25,931.88
8331 P - Printed 03/14/2024 12218 - Cotton, Shires and Associates, Inc.Ridgeline Easement Monitoring 8/28/23-2/16/24 23,608.73
8357 T - EFT 03/14/2024 12216 - Cape Romain Solutions, Inc.Firewall Support Contract Renewal 1 yr.18,458.50
8347 P - Printed 03/14/2024 11125 - SAN MATEO COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR, SANDIE ARNOTT Prop. Tax FY Jul 23- Jun 24 South Cowell & Cloverdale 18,057.48
8362 T - EFT 03/14/2024 10546 - Ecological Concerns, Inc.Alpine Rd Plant Install & Maint, Valley Water Grant at FOOSP Jan 2024 14,044.00
8353 P - Printed 03/14/2024 11856 - West Coast Arborists, Inc.Pulgas Parking Lot Tree Removal 13,500.00
8361 T - EFT 03/14/2024 10032 - Del Rey Building Maintenance CAO, FFO, RSACP, SAO Janitorial Services Feb 2024 13,219.82
8363 T - EFT 03/14/2024 11748 - Environmental & Energy Consulting Legislative Consult & Lobbying Svcs (PA) 12/15/23-02/15/24 12,920.00
8375 T - EFT 03/14/2024 11859 - Montrose Environmental Solutions, Inc.Programmatic Environmental Consulting Jan 2024 11,996.16
8338 P - Printed 03/14/2024 12200 - Granite Data Solutions New laptops x 5 9,606.97
8377 T - EFT 03/14/2024 12188 - Parametrix, Inc.Hawthorns Area Transportation Study 1/1/24-2/3/24 8,865.00
8373 T - EFT 03/14/2024 10058 - Liebert Cassidy Whitmore Leadership Academy 11/15/2023, 1/31/24, Legal services Jan24 7,178.50
8369 T - EFT 03/14/2024 11593 - H.T. Harvey & Associates RV Bay Trail Environ Consult & Biomonitorg Sept-23, Dec-23, Jan-24 7,139.37
8370 T - EFT 03/14/2024 10555 - Knapp Architects Hawthorn Secondary Struct Memo 12/1/23-1/31/24 6,346.44
8376 T - EFT 03/14/2024 12235 - Pacific Office Automation Copy Machines Usage Charge (8 machines) 5/19/22-8/19/23 6,024.15
8356 T - EFT 03/14/2024 10616 - BKF Engineers NE Trailhead Crossg Proj, Propect Rd Culvert replacmnt Jan 2024 5,938.50
8344 P - Printed 03/14/2024 15059 - Robert Half International, Inc Temp Front Desk Admin Supprt wk end 2/16, 2/23/24 4,783.68
8352 P - Printed 03/14/2024 15033 - Wade and Son Electric, Inc.SFO Electrical car charging station install, FFO Shop electrical repair 4,576.00
8371 T - EFT 03/14/2024 12179 - Law Office of Peter J. Kiel Cloverdale Ranch Legal Fees 5/9/2023, Jun-23, Nov-23 3,922.00
8346 P - Printed 03/14/2024 12194 - Royston Hanamoto Alley & Abey La Honda Creek Feasibility Study Nov 2023 3,889.35
8384 T - EFT 03/14/2024 10143 - Summit Uniforms, LLC Ranger body armor - Rogers, Bruder, Fraser 3,770.16
8387 T - EFT 03/14/2024 11990 - ZFA Structural Engineers Hawthorns Mansion Assessment 1/21/24-2/17/24 3,600.00
8360 T - EFT 03/14/2024 11699 - Dakota Press Print FOOSP & LT Maps, Print & Mail Ravenswood Trail Postcards 3,241.02
8372 T - EFT 03/14/2024 11906 - Law Offices of Gary M. Baum Legal Counsel Services Jan 2024 2,976.00
8348 P - Printed 03/14/2024 10102 - Shute, Mihaly & Weinberger LLP Johnston Ranch Legal Svcs Jun 2023, Cloverdale transaction Jan 2024 2,860.88
8335 P - Printed 03/14/2024 11359 - Garavaglia Architecture Inc McKannay Historic Resource Eval 12/1/23-1/31/24 2,842.50
8374 T - EFT 03/14/2024 11989 - Modiv Design, Inc.Design & Production "Views" Qtrly Newsletter - Spring 2004 2,750.00
8378 T - EFT 03/14/2024 10140 - Pine Cone Lumber Co Inc Lumber for Split Rail Fencing 2,581.48
8327 P - Printed 03/14/2024 15124 - Boys and Girls Club of the Coastside Boys and Girls Club one time funding youth hike 2,500.00
8355 T - EFT 03/14/2024 10128 - American Tower Corporation Coyote Peak radio tower lease Mar 2024 2,240.01
8328 P - Printed 03/14/2024 15117 - Buena Vista Services La Honda Forest Health Proj Feb 2024 2,240.00
8366 T - EFT 03/14/2024 11612 - Goodwin Consulting Group, Inc.GO Bond and FY23 Continuing Disclosure Services Jan 24 2,050.00
8383 T - EFT 03/14/2024 10136 - San Jose Water Company SAO & BCR Water Service 12/05/23-12/07/24 1,941.08
8337 P - Printed 03/14/2024 15084 - Geographic Technologies Group, Inc GIS needs assessmnt, & 3-yr strategic plan Jan 24, Feb 24 1,900.00
8351 P - Printed 03/14/2024 10403 - United Site Services Inc SA-K, FOOSP Portable Restroom Rental 2/24/24-3/22/24 1,739.35
8364 T - EFT 03/14/2024 11701 - Eric Gouldsberry Art Direction Graphic Design Services for PAFR and ACFR FY23 1,732.50
8334 P - Printed 03/14/2024 11927 - Forrest Telecom Engineering, Inc.Radio Comm. Sys Assessmnt & Master Plan Jan-Feb 24 1,632.00
8382 T - EFT 03/14/2024 11479 - Rootid, LLC Web Maintenance and Strategic Support MAR 24 1,500.00
8386 T - EFT 03/14/2024 11388 - Wagner & Bonsignore Water rights srvcs BCR, CL, TR, SGreg 1/22/24, 1/29/24 1,435.00
8339 P - Printed 03/14/2024 12222 - GV Land Surveying Deed review of Vidovich for legal description confirmation 1,200.00
8341 P - Printed 03/14/2024 11924 - Nomad Ecology LH-Plant id & specimen collection; TH-Botanical Surveys Dec 23 998.70
Electronic funds transfer (EFT) for accounts payable
disbursements to reduce check printing and mailing, increase
payment security, and ensure quicker receipt by vendors
page 1 of 2
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
CLAIMS REPORT
MEETING # 24-08
MEETING DATE: March 27, 2024 Fiscal Year 22-23 EFT:59.72%
Fiscal Year 23-24 EFT:59.08%
Payment
Number
Payment
Type
Payment Date Notes Vendor Name/Number Blank Invoice Description Blank2 Payment Amount
Electronic funds transfer (EFT) for accounts payable
disbursements to reduce check printing and mailing, increase
payment security, and ensure quicker receipt by vendors
8342 P - Printed 03/14/2024 11129 - Peterson Trucks, Inc.M207 Standard Maintenance Service 866.12
8329 P - Printed 03/14/2024 10454 - California Water Service-949 FFO Water Service #7883755555 Jan 24 821.54
8340 P - Printed 03/14/2024 11141 - Jarvis Fay LLP Legal Srvcs Agreemnt-Contract & Constructn Jan 24 790.00
8349 P - Printed 03/14/2024 10775 - Tyler Technologies Inc FY24 PO - Tyler Tech - ERP Migration 12/11/23 652.00
8365 T - EFT 03/14/2024 10187 - Gardenland Power Equipment Chainsaw Parts & Fuel 415.04
8343 P - Printed 03/14/2024 10176 - RE Borrmann's Steel Co RSACP Steel for Gate, Bat Habitat Repairs 405.20
8332 P - Printed 03/14/2024 11054 - County of San Mateo Human Resources Dept.4 trainings Jan 24 395.00
8345 P - Printed 03/14/2024 10182 - Royal Brass Inc FFO Pressure Washer Parts 386.17
8333 P - Printed 03/14/2024 15128 - County of Santa Cruz Planning Department Permit Extension - Skyline Blvd Los Gatos 361.60
8330 P - Printed 03/14/2024 11156 - Clean Earth Environmental Services LLC FFO HazMat Disposal Drop off: 01/10/2024 256.79
8354 T - EFT 03/14/2024 10357 - A-Total Fire Protection Company FFO Quarterly Inspect Fire Sprinkler System 200.00
8379 T - EFT 03/14/2024 12060 - Preferred Alliance, Inc.Drug Testing 15 off site participants Feb 2023 172.35
8380 T - EFT 03/14/2024 11519 - Price, Postel & Parma LLP Legal Services - Highway 17 Crossing 1/26/24 156.00
8358 T - EFT 03/14/2024 11042 - County of Santa Clara Office of the Sheriff Livescan Jan 2024 104.00
8336 P - Printed 03/14/2024 10509 - Geocon Consultants Inc Lower Turtle Pond Phase II -01/23/24 75.00
8381 T - EFT 03/14/2024 12031 - Ray & Jan's Mobile Truck Service FFO BIT Parts 32.63
Total of Payments:475,772.91
-
A### = Admin Office Vehicle HC = Hendry's Creek P### = Patrol Vehicle SCNT = Stevens Creek Nature Trail
BCR = Bear Creek Redwoods HR = Human Resources P2S= Purisima to the Sea Trail SCS = Stevens Creek Nature Area
BMTB = Bear Meadow Trail Bridge JR = Johnston Ranch PCR = Purisima Creek Redwoods SFO = Skyline Field Office
CAO = Coastal Area Office IPM = Invasive Plant Maintenance PIC= Picchetti Ranch SG = Saratoga Gap
CC = Coal Creek ISM = Invasive Species Manageme PR = Pulgas Ridge SJH = Saint Joseph's Hill
CL = Cloverdale LH = La Honda Creek RR = Russian Ridge SR= Skyline Ridge
DR = Driscoll Ranch LM = Lone Madrone RR/MIN = Mindego Hill T### = Tractor or Trailer
DHF = Dear Hollow Farm LR = Long Ridge RSA = Rancho San Antonio TC = Tunitas Creek
ECdM = El Corte de Madera LT = Los Trancos RV = Ravenswood TH = Teague Hill
ES = El Sereno M### = Maintenance Vehicle SA = Sierra Azul TR = Toto Ranch
FFO = Foothills Field Office MB = Monte Bello SAO = South Area Office TW = Thornewood
Abbreviations
page 2 of 2
BOND OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE – MEASURE AA
March 27, 2024
AGENDA ITEM 3
AGENDA ITEM
Report from the Bond Oversight Committee to the Board of Directors for the review period from
July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Bond Oversight Committee recommends that the Board of Directors accept this report.
SUMMARY
In the opinion of the Bond Oversight Committee (BOC), the Schedule of Program Expenditures
as presented in the Measure AA Bond Annual Accountability Report covering the period from
July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 conforms with the Measure AA Expenditure Plan. Midpeninsula
Regional Open Space District (District) staff compiled the Measure AA Bond Annual
Accountability Report for BOC review.
In coming to this opinion, the BOC reviewed the Annual Accountability Report, sampled
transactions representing 86% ($19 million over $22 million) of the Fiscal Year ending June 30,
2023 (FY23) expenditures, and requested and reviewed additional documentation as needed.
The BOC met three times. During those meetings, it reviewed its Agreed-Upon Procedures
(confirmed annually) for conducting its review of FY23 Measure AA expenditures, sampled and
reviewed selected transactions, heard a verbal report from the District’s outside independent
auditor, and developed its report to the Board of Directors on the BOC’s findings and
recommendations.
Paul Pham from the District’s external auditor, Chavan & Associates LLP, outlined the
processes, procedures, and sampling method for the District’s total fiscal year expenditures that
included the Measure AA expenditures. Chavan & Associates reported that in its opinion, the
Schedule of Program Expenditures for the Measure AA Bond Program is fairly stated, in all
material respects, in relation to the basic financial statements as a whole.
Prior to the end of FY23, the BOC reviewed the proposal to amend the Expenditure Plan by
closing Portfolios 18 and 23 and reallocating the remaining funds to Portfolio 3. There are
currently no proposed amendments to the Measure AA Expenditure Plan for the BOC to review.
Page 2
DISCUSSION
Committee Formation
The Measure AA ballot included a section to establish the BOC:
“An independent Citizen Oversight Committee will be formed to verify expenditures of bond
proceeds. The independent citizen oversight committee, consisting of seven at-large
members, all of whom shall be District residents. The Citizen Oversight Committee will be
selected by the Board of Directors and interviewed and approved in open session, and will be
subject to the conflict of interest constraints of the California Political Reform Act.”
(NOTE: the independent Citizen Oversight Committee was established as the Bond
Oversight Committee.)
As an integral part of the implementation of Measure AA, the Board adopted, as part of the
Board Policy Manual, the Measure AA Oversight Committee Bylaws. Policy 1.10 states the
BOC’s purpose as follows:
The Measure AA Bond Oversight Committee (Committee) is appointed by the Board of
Directors (Board) for the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (District) in order to
promote transparency, and ensure oversight and accountability for all funds collected and
allocated under Measure AA.
Committee Responsibilities
The Bond Oversight Committee has the following three responsibilities for each of the years the
Measure AA general obligation tax is collected or revenues expended:
1. Review Plan expenditures on an annual basis to verify conformity with the Expenditure Plan.
2. Review the District’s Annual Audit and Annual Accountability Report and present the
BOC’s findings to the Board at a public meeting.
3. Review any proposed amendments to the Expenditure Plan.
Committee Composition
The Board formed the BOC in accordance with Measure AA in 2016. The BOC’s present
members and their terms are as follows:
Paul Betlem (term expiring 2024)
Brian Cilker (term expiring 2024)
Curtis Cole (term expiring 2026)
David Emery (term expiring 2024)
Kit Gordon (term expiring 2026)
Steven Permut (term expiring 2026)
Bruce Tolley (term expiring 2024)
Committee Activity
June 6, 2023 meeting
The BOC met to review and provide an advisory opinion on the closure of completed Measure
AA Portfolios 18 and 23 and the reallocation of the remaining $6,357,920 funds to Portfolio 3.
Page 3
The BOC supported the General Manager’s recommendation to close the two portfolios and
reallocate the remaining funds. The Board of Directors adopted a resolution amending the
Expenditure Plan for Measure AA on June 14, 2023.
January 16, 2024 meeting
The BOC elected Brian Cilker as Chair and David Emery as Vice-Chair.
Staff presented the MAA webpage, which the BOC reviewed and discussed.
Staff presented the FY23 Annual Accountability Report (see Attachment 1). The report includes
the following chapters:
- Executive Summary
- Priority Portfolio Actions by Region (from the Measure AA Expenditure Plan)
- Portfolio Expenditure Summary (Numerically by Portfolio Number)
- Financial Report by Project
Measure AA Bond Program Schedule of Program Expenditures.
The Accountability Report includes a reference to the ACFR posted on the District’s website
(https://www.openspace.org/sites/default/files/ACFR-FY23.pdf).
The BOC discussed the Annual Accountability Report and received answers to its questions
from District staff. The BOC reaffirmed that it would perform its duties in accordance with its
Agreed-Upon Procedures.
District staff provided the BOC with a complete list of all transactions charged as Measure AA
expenditures in FY23. The BOC requested back-up documentation for the following FY23
transactions:
- All expenses associated with three land acquisitions
- Top ten non-land expenditures from the top 25 transactions with the highest dollar
amount with no vendor duplication
- Each committee member selected an expenditure to be reviewed as representative of
various types of expenditures coded as Measure AA expenditures
The 3 land purchase expenditures cover 79% of the total Measure AA expenditures and the other
selected expenditures cover 7%, for a combined coverage of 86% of the FY23 expenditures.
February 13, 2024 meeting
The BOC reviewed the sample of 20 transactions and supporting documentation as selected in
the January meeting. The invoices were discussed, staff provided additional narrative and detail
regarding the purpose of each. The BOC determined all transactions to be appropriate for
Measure AA expenditures and projects.
Paul Pham from Chavan & Associates was present and discussed the audit procedures and level
of testing on Measure AA expenditures with the BOC. Mr. Pham reported that the audit found no
instances where funds were inappropriately charged to Measure AA and that approximately 90%
of total Measure AA expenditures were tested as part of the FY23 audit.
Page 4
Mr. Pham reported that the audit found no findings or modifications to their opinion on the
Schedule of Program Expenditures.
The BOC thanked staff for their professionalism and thoroughness in supporting the work of the
BOC, including preparation of the documentation for the selected transactions. The BOC
appointed a three-member ad-hoc committee to draft the annual report to the Board.
March 5, 2024 meeting
The Committee reviewed, discussed and approved the annual report of the BOC to be forwarded
to the Board.
Staff provided a preview of expected portfolio progress during FY24 and beyond.
FISCAL IMPACT
None
PUBLIC NOTICE
Public notice was provided as required by the Brown Act.
CEQA COMPLIANCE
This item is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act.
NEXT STEPS
After the Annual Audit and Accountability Report for the Fiscal Year 2023-24 is completed, the
BOC will reconvene to review the transactions during that fiscal year and report their findings
and/or recommendations to the Board in 2025.
Attachments:
1. Materials provided to the Measure AA Bond Oversight Committee may be viewed on the
Committee’s web page: http://www.openspace.org/our-work/measure-aa/oversight
Responsible Department Head / Prepared by:
Stefan Jaskulak, Chief Financial Officer/Director of Administrative Services
Bond Oversight Committee
Contact:
Brian Cilker, Measure AA Bond Oversight Committee Chair
Rafaela Oceguera, Budget and Finance Manager
Rev. 3/15/21
R-24-36
Meeting 24-08
March 27, 2024
AGENDA ITEM 4
AGENDA ITEM
Award of Contract for Detail Design and Engineering Services for the Highway 35 Multi-use
Trail Crossing and Parking Area Project at Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve
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 Highway 35 Multi-use Trail
Crossing and Parking Area Project for a not-to-exceed base contract amount of $331,204.
2. Authorize a 15% contingency of $49,681 to cover unforeseen tasks beyond the current scope.
3. Authorize a separate contract allowance of $30,000 for additional traffic design, engineering,
and permitting services that may be required after reaching 35% design plans to avoid
potential implementation delays, bringing the total not-to-exceed contract amount to
$410,885.
SUMMARY
The Highway 35 Multi-use Trail Crossing and Parking Area Project (Project) aims to expand the
existing North Ridge Parking Area at Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Preserve)
and introduce a multi-use trail crossing at Highway 35 for eventual connections to regional trails.
On November 8, 2023, the Board of Directors (Board) directed staff to move forward with the
project’s selected conceptual design and retain a consultant for the detailed design and
engineering work (R-23-137). Following a competitive consultant selection process, the General
Manager recommends awarding the contract to CSW/ST2 for a total not-to-exceed contract
amount of $410,885. There is insufficient funding in the current budget to cover the cost of the
recommendation. If approved, funding will be shifted from other unspent project funds during
the quarterly budget amendment process. Funds for future year costs will be recommended in
future fiscal year budgets as a part of the annual Budget and Action Plan process. If this contract
is approved, the Parking Area Design Guidelines, which are under development and expected to
be approved by the Board in April/May, will be incorporated into the detailed design and
engineering plans for the Project.
DISCUSSION
The Project is an outcome of the Highway 35 Multi-Use Trail Crossing and Parking Feasibility
Study (Study), which explored public access improvements at the Preserve’s North Ridge
R-24-36 Page 2
Parking Area in support of the Bay Area Ridge Trail extension that is occurring adjacent to the
Preserve. This Study was pursued in partnership with the San Francisco Public Utilities
Commission (SFPUC), Bay Area Ridge Trail Council (Ridge Trail Council) and Peninsula Open
Space Trust (POST). The Project would expand the existing North Ridge parking area and
establish a new multi-use trail crossing over Highway 35 leading to a spur trail that connects to
the new Bay Area Ridge Trail segment on SFPUC land.
Contract Scope of Work
The Project aims to expand and improve the existing 41 standard vehicle spaces within the North
Ridge Parking Area with an additional 33 new standard vehicle spaces and two designated
equestrian trailer parking spaces. The Project also includes access control and wayfinding
improvements. The concept program and project description for the parking area expansion and
trail crossing were accepted by the Board on November 8, 2023. The District is now preparing
to move these concept plans forward and prepare detailed designs and engineering plans to
eventually pursue permits and prepare the Project for bidding. To proceed with next steps, the
services of a consultant team that includes a civil engineer, landscape architect, and surveyor are
needed to complete the following tasks:
• Review Existing Information/ Site Assessment to inform detailed designs
• Complete 35% Conceptual Design Plans
• Complete 65% Design Development Plans, Specifications & Estimates (PS&E)
• Complete 100% Final PS&E
• Secure Building/Jurisdictional Permits
• Provide assistance with Bidding, Construction Administration and Project Closeout
Consultant Selection
On December 18, 2023, staff issued a Request for Proposals and Qualifications (RFPQ) via
Periscope and sent direct emails to a list of qualified firms. Mandatory pre-proposal site tours
were held on January 16 and 18, 2024, attended by representatives from 10 firms. The following
4 teams submitted proposals by the January 26, 2024 deadline.
Firm Location Proposed Fee
Aliquot/John Northmore Roberts Walnut Creek/Berkeley $312,816
BKF/RHAA Redwood City/San Francisco $323,655
CSW/ST2 Redwood City $331,204
Sherwood/PGA Santa Cruz/Oakland $343,630
The proposals were evaluated based on criteria outlined in the RFPQ, including quality of the
proposal, implementation approach, implementation expertise. In addition, the consultants were
asked at the mandatory site walk to describe in the proposal their approach for creating a ‘sense
of place’ as part of their designs. Interviews were held with two teams on February 5, 2024. The
panel deemed CSW/ST2 as the most qualified and best suited for the project at a fair and
reasonable price. CSW/ST2 is also the consultant on the Purisima-to-the-Sea Parking Area
Project, which is tracking on a similar schedule to support efficiencies as their team works in
tandem on both Preserve projects.
R-24-36 Page 3
Contingency and Allowance
A 15% contingency is recommended to support unforeseen tasks beyond the current scope of
work. During a multi-year contract, there may be changing jurisdictional standards or
unanticipated requests from jurisdictions that require additional work and coordination. This may
include additional requests related to the State’s Skyline Boulevard scenic corridor. Moreover,
due to high public interest in the Project, ongoing coordination with the public, neighbors,
stakeholders and partners may trigger additional meetings, preparation of new exhibits, and other
considerations.
A $30,000 allowance is also recommended to cover the potential need for additional technical
tasks after reaching 35% design. The complexities of the project may require additional analysis,
technical reports, and exhibits from geotechnical, structural, and landscape architect consultants
as the design plans progress and move closer to 100% final designs, including additional reports
beyond the norm that may be requested by permitting agencies. For example, Caltrans may
require additional traffic analyses beyond the standard submittals to permit the multi-use trail
crossing.
Incorporation of new Parking Area Design Guidelines
As the Board is aware, the District is in the processes of establishing parking area design
guidelines (Guidelines) for new and reconfigured parking areas. Draft final guidelines are
scheduled to be brought to the Board for review and consideration in April/May. If this contract
is awarded, the Board-approved Guidelines will be incorporated into the Purisima Highway 35
parking area design.
FISCAL IMPACT
This Project is moving into detailed designs much faster than originally scheduled, consistent
with Board direction received in November 2023 to expedite the project schedule (R-23-137,
Minutes). As a result, the FY24 budget does not include any budget for this phase of work. If the
proposed contract is approved, funding will be requested during the quarterly budget amendment
process to cover the costs of the work that is planned through June 2024. Funds for future year
costs will be recommended in future fiscal year budgets as a part of the annual Budget and
Action Plan process.
MAA03-013 Hwy 35 Multi-Use Trail
Crossing and Parking Implementation
Prior
Year
Actuals
FY24
Adopted
FY25
Projected
FY26
Projected
Estimated
Future
Years
TOTAL
District Funded (Fund 30): $0 $0 $230,000 $160,000 $4,122,370 $4,512,370
Grant Amount: $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Total Budget: $0 $0 $230,000 $160,000 $4,122,370 $4,512,370
Spent-to-Date (as of 03/04/24): $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Encumbrances: $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
CSW/ST2 Contract: $0 ($50,000) ($150,000) ($100,000) ($31,204) ($331,204)
CSW/ST2 15% Contingency: $0 $0 ($10,000) ($30,000) ($9,681) ($49,681)
CSW/ST2 Allowance: $0 $0 ($15,000) ($15,000) $0 ($30,000)
Budget Remaining (Proposed): $0 ($50,000) $55,000 $15,000 $4,081,485 $4,101,485
R-24-36 Page 4
The following table outlines the Measure AA Portfolio 03 Purisima Creek Redwoods —
Purisima-to-the-Sea Trail, Watershed Protection and Conservation Grazing allocation, costs-to-
date, projected future project expenditures and projected portfolio balance remaining. On June
14, 2023 (R-23-67), the Board reallocated $6.4 million to Measure AA Portfolio #03 from other
completed portfolios to reduce the funding gap to about $1 million. Staff will continue to seek
outside grant funds to fill the remaining funding gap.
MAA03 Purisima Creek Redwoods — Purisima-to-the-Sea Trail,
Watershed Protection and Conservation Grazing Portfolio Allocation: $13,965,920
Grant Income (through FY27): $318,312
Interest Income Allocation: $450,000
Total Portfolio Allocation: $14,734,232
Spent-to-Date (as of 03/04/24): (8,260,224)
Encumbrances: (272,470)
Remaining FY24 Project Budgets: (109,966)
Future MAA03 project costs (projected through FY27): ($7,162,481)
Total Portfolio Expenditures: ($15,805,141)
Portfolio Balance Remaining (Proposed): ($1,070,909)
The following table outlines the Measure AA Portfolio 03 allocation, projected life of project
expenditures and projected portfolio balance remaining.
MAA03 Purisima Creek Redwoods — Purisima-to-the-Sea Trail,
Watershed Protection and Conservation Grazing Portfolio Allocation: $13,965,920
Grant Income (through FY27): $318,312
Interest Income Allocation: $450,000
Fund 40 Allocation: $0
Total Portfolio Allocation: $14,734,232
Projected Project Expenditures (life of project):
03-001 Purisima Uplands Lot Line Adjustment and Property Transfer ($425,113)
03-002 Purisima Upland Site Clean up and Soil Remediation ($873,145)
03-003 Purisima Creek Fence Construction ($169,190)
03-004 Harkins Bridge Replacement ($516,917)
03-005 Purisima-to-the-Sea Trail and Parking Area - Phase I Feasibility
Study ($594,340)
03-006 South Cowell Upland Land Conservation ($6,209,935)
03-007 Purisima-to-the-Sea Habitat Enhancement and Water Supply
Improvement Plan ($295,000)
03-008 Rieser-Nelson Land Purchase ($16,715)
03-009 Purisima-to-the-Sea Parking ($4,682,350)
03-010 Purisima-to-the-Sea Trail ($1,278,436)
03-011 Lobitos Creek Fisheries Restoration ($654,000)
03-012 Purisima-to-the-Sea Comprehensive Use and Management Plan ($90,000)
Total Portfolio Expenditures: ($15,805,141)
Portfolio Balance Remaining (Proposed): ($1,070,909)
R-24-36 Page 5
PRIOR BOARD AND COMMITTEE REVIEW
September 29, 2020: The Legislative, Funding and Public Affairs Committee (LFPAC)
reviewed a partnership agreement and recommended Board adoption of a resolution
authorizing the General Manager to accept $114,000 in grant funding from the SFPUC for
the Project.
o Board Report (R-20-101)
o Minutes
October 28, 2020: The Board adopted a resolution authorizing the General Manager to
accept grant funding for the Project.
o Board Report (Res. 20-32)
o Minutes
April 4, 2023: The Planning and Natural Resources Committee (PNR) received a
presentation on the Project and provided feedback on the Project goals, technical studies,
opportunities and constraints analysis, and preliminary considerations for parking expansion.
o Board Report (R-23-38)
o Minutes
July 25, 2023: PNR provided feedback on conceptual parking design options and
Transportation Demand Management strategies to consider at the Purisima North Ridge
parking area. PNR selected a preferred parking design option to forward to the Board.
o Board Report (R-23-87)
o Minutes
November 8, 2023: The Board accepted a conceptual design option as the project description
and scope to initiate environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act
for the Highway 35 Multi-use Trail Crossing and Parking Project (Project) and directed staff
to return with the feasibility of advancing the Project ahead of other Preserve projects.
o Board Report (R-23-137)
o Minutes
January 10, 2024: The Board received the Hwy 35 Trail Crossing and Parking Expansion
Project Delivery Streamlining Informational Memoranda.
o Board Report (Hwy 35 Trail Crossing and Parking Expansion Project Delivery
Streamlining Informational Memoranda)
o Minutes
PUBLIC NOTICE
Public notice was provided as required by the Brown Act.
CEQA COMPLIANCE
The award of contract for design work and engineering services is not a project under CEQA.
The environmental review of the Highway 35 Multi-Use Trail Crossing and Parking Project will
R-24-36 Page 6
occur as part of the Purisima Comprehensive Use and Management Plan CEQA document. This
contract’s design work will inform the environmental review process by providing project details
necessary to analysis the potential environmental impacts associated with the project.
NEXT STEPS
Following Board approval, the General Manager will execute a contract with CSW/ST2 to begin
the design, construction documentation and permitting work for the Project.
Attachments
1. Regional Context Map
2. Preferred Conceptual Design Option
Responsible Department Head:
Jason Lin, Engineering & Construction
Prepared by / Contact person:
Alex Harker, Capital Project Manager II, Construction & Engineering
Graphics prepared by:
Scott Reeves, (former) Senior Capital Project Manager, Construction & Engineering
Alex Harker, Capital Project Manager II, Construction & Engineering
P u r i s i ma Cr e e k
Mills Creek
Ar r o y o L e o n
W h i t t e m o r e G u l c h
We s t Uni o n C r e e k
North Ridge Tra il
Richards Road
Hark ins R idge Tra il
ChrisMa cI n to sh Trail
M ount
R
e
dondoTrail
P u risima Creek Tra il
Lonely Trail
C raigBritton Trail
Ra ymund o Trail
Whittemore Gulch Trail
ÄÆ35
ÄÆ35
MIRAMONTES
RIDGE OPEN
SPACE PRESERVE
PURISIMA CREEK
REDWOODS OPEN
SPACE PRESERVE
Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District
(Midpen)
Revised 9/19/2023
Highway 35 Multi-use Trail Crossing and Parking Area Location
Pa
t
h
:
G
:
\
P
r
o
j
e
c
t
s
\
P
u
r
i
s
i
m
a
_
C
r
e
e
k
_
R
e
d
w
o
o
d
s
\
S
F
P
U
C
H
w
y
3
5
C
r
o
s
s
i
n
g
\
P
r
o
j
e
c
t
_
L
o
c
a
t
i
o
n
_
M
a
p
_
2
0
2
0
0
9
0
2
.
m
x
d
Cr
e
a
t
e
d
B
y
:
a
p
e
t
h
0 0.50.25
MilesI
MROSD Preserves
Private Property
While the District strives to use the best available digital data, these data do not represent a legal survey and are merely a graphic illustration of geographic features.
Watershed Land Project Location
Area of
Detail ÄÆ84
ÄÆ82
ÄÆ280
ÄÆ84
ÄÆ35ÄÆ9
ÄÆ236
ÄÆ35
ÄÆ17
ÄÆ1 ÄÆ101
ÄÆ35ÄÆ92
ÄÆ280
ÄÆ1
ÄÆ85
Half
Moon Bay
Redwood City
San Carlos
East
Palo
Alto
Mountain View
Palo Alto
Cupertino
Saratoga
Sunnyvale
Other Protected Lands Land Trust
Other Public Agency
Watershed Land
(SFPUC)
Phleger Estate
(GGNRA)
Project Location
^*
^*
Attachment 1 - Regional Context Map
HWY 35 MULTI-USE TR AIL CROSSING AND PARKING AREA PREFERRED CONCEPT PL AN
PURISIMA CREEK REDWOODS OPEN SPACE PRESERVE
NORTH RIDGE PARKING LOT
GRAPHIC LEGEND
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 ADA PATH OF TRAVEL
� � � � � � � � EQUESTRIAN CIRCULATION 9 VEHICULAR CIRCULA110N/+tN \IJSUALSCREEN
o0CD0i RESTROOM &
�,, ,'1 TRAILHEAD AIIENl11ES vouv , .... , I • I EXIS11NG TREE TO BE
',-� REMOVED (?_6• DBHJ
, -, \...' (; C1
Oa
PARKING AREA EXISTIN G A.1 A.2 8.1 8.2
TOTALS Cars Equest Cars Equest Cars Equest Cars Equest Cars Equest
EXI STIN G L OT+ UPPER 26 41 2 Q EXPA NSI ON AREA or o r
LOWER EXPA NSI ON AREA 0
HWY 35 SHOULDER 10
0
0 so 0
3
TOTAL 36 or 51 2 or O 53
IMPERVIOUS AREA
4
0
0
4
74
0
3
77
0
2
0
2
41
0
3
44
4
0
0
4
61
0
3
64
0
2
0
2
Notto scale
NOVEMBER 8, 2023
Attachment 2 - Preferred Conceptual Design Option
HWY 35 MULTI-USE TRAIL CROSSING AND PARKING AREA PREFERRED CONCEPT PL AN ..... .-PURISIMA CREEK REDWOODS OPEN SPACE PRESERVE
NORTH RIDGE PARKING LOT Notto scale
12'-0" 17'-0" 12'-0" 36'-0" 18'-0" 20'-0" --r 18'-0" 26'-0" 18'-0" 12'-0" 24'-0" I I
VEGETATED EQUESTRIAN EQUESTRIAN (E)VEGETATED PARKING DRIVE PARKING TWO-WAY PARKING (E)VEGETATED SHOULDER HIGHWAY
SCREENING FOR PARKING & DRIVE STAGING AREA HILLSIDE AISLE DRIVE AISLE BUFFER PARKING 35
ADJACENT AISLE TO REMAIN
RESIDENCE
AT TACHMENT 4 CONCEPTUAL DESIGN OPTION A.2 SECTION 1 NOVEMBER 8, 2023
Addendum #1
Rev. 3/15/21
PROCUREMENT AGENDA ITEM
R-24-37
Meeting 24-08
March 27, 2024
AGENDA ITEM 5
AGENDA ITEM
Award of Contract with MIG, Inc., to provide biological/cultural and permitting services and
mitigation planning for the Purisima-to-the-Sea Trail Project
GENERAL MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Authorize the General Manager to enter into a contract with MIG, Inc., to provide consulting
services in support of the Purisima-to-the-Sea Trail project for a base amount not to exceed
$78,947.
2. Authorize a 15% contingency of $11,842 to cover unforeseen conditions, for a total contract
amount not-to-exceed $90,789.
DISCUSSION
On May 24, 2023, the Board of Directors (Board) accepted a recommended trail alignment,
including associated trail connectors and crossings, for the Purisima-to-the-Sea Trail Project
(Project) (MAA03-010). The Project will implement a new, regional, multiuse trail alignment
that links between trails in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Preserve) and the
existing Cowell-Purisima Coastal Trail. This trail alignment will create a critical east-west
connection in the regional trail network between the Bay Area Ridge Trail and the California
Coastal Trail and is intended to be a contributing segment of the longer, conceptual Bay-to-Sea
Trail. To support the next implementation steps, the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
(District) seeks assistance from a qualified consultant team to review existing biological and
cultural reports, complete additional technical studies, and prepare permit applications and a
project mitigation plan to secure the necessary permits. Permits will be required from, but not
limited to, the United States Army Corps of Engineers, Regional Water Quality Control Board,
and California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Based on the results of a Request for
Qualifications and Proposals (RFQP) issued on February 13, 2024., the General Manager
recommends awarding the contract to MIG, Inc. The contract work is anticipated to cover
multiple fiscal years.
BUDGET / FISCAL IMPACT
The current fiscal year budget contains:
☒ sufficient funds.
☐ insufficient funds; the next quarterly budget update will include a reallocation of unspent
funds from other project budgets to cover for this expenditure.
R-24-37 Page 2
☐ insufficient funds; approval of this item requires a fiscal year budget augmentation.
☒ future fiscal year budgets will include additional funds to complete the contracted work.
Measure AA
☐ No, this contract is not part of a Measure AA project.
☒ Yes, this contract is part of a Measure AA project.
Measure AA Portfolio #03: Purisima Creek Redwoods — Purisima-to-the-Sea
Trail, Watershed Protection and Conservation Grazing
Portfolio Allocation: $13,965,920
Grant Income (through FY27): $318,312
Interest Income Allocation: $450,000
Total Portfolio Allocation: $14,734,232
03-001 Purisima Uplands Lot Line Adjustment and Property Transfer ($425,113)
03-002 Purisima Upland Site Cleanup and Soil Remediation ($873,145)
03-003 Purisima Creek Fence Construction ($169,190)
03-004 Harkins Bridge Replacement ($516,917)
03-005 Purisima-to-the-Sea Trail and Parking Area - Phase I Feasibility Study ($594,340)
03-006 South Cowell Upland Land Conservation ($6,209,935)
03-007 Purisima-to-the-Sea Habitat Enhancement & Water Supply Improvement Plan ($295,000)
03-008 Rieser-Nelson Land Purchase ($16,715)
03-009 Purisima-to-the-Sea Parking ($4,682,350)
03-010 Purisima-to-the-Sea Trail ($1,278,436)
03-011 Lobitos Creek Fisheries Restoration ($654,000)
03-012 Purisima-to-the-Sea Comprehensive Use and Management Plan ($90,000)
Total Projected Expenditures (life of project): ($15,805,141)
Portfolio Balance Remaining (proposed): ($1,070,909)
PROCURMENT PROCESS AND SELECTION
On February 13, 2024, an RFQP was released on Periscope – Bid Sync. Staff conducted an
optional virtual pre-proposal conference on February 27 with five consulting firms represented.
Three proposals were received by the deadline of March 12 as follows:
Consultant Location Proposed Fee
MIG, Inc San Jose $61,705
LSA Point Richmond $97,675
SWCA Half Moon Bay $167,884
The District reviewed and ranked the proposals and identified MIG, Inc., as the most qualified
proposer offering the required services at a fair and reasonable price, and best suited for the
project based on their response to the RFQP.
R-24-37 Page 3
PRIOR BOARD ACTION SUPPORTING THE PROJECT
• October 11, 2022: The Planning and Natural Resources Committee forwarded the
recommended trail alignment, including associated trail connectors and crossings to the
full Board of Directors (R-22-111, meeting minutes).
• May 24, 2023: The Board accepted the recommended trail alignment, including
associated trail connectors and crossings. (R-23-52, meeting minutes)
• June 14, 2023: The Board closed the completed portfolios MAA #18 and MAA #23 and
reallocated the remaining portfolio funds to MAA #03 (R-23-67, meeting minutes)
• October 11, 2023: The Board approved the award of contract with Timothy C. Best,
CEG for Trail Design, Permitting and Construction Administration Services (R-23-111,
meeting minutes)
PUBLIC NOTICE
Public notice was provided as required by the Brown Act.
CEQA COMPLIANCE
Staff will perform the appropriate California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review for the
Purisima-to-the-Sea Trail Project during the upcoming design phase. The environmental
analysis will be incorporated into the Purisima Preserve Comprehensive Use and Management
Plan (MAA03-012), which will be brought to the full Board for consideration of CEQA
Certification and final project approval later this year.
NEXT STEPS
Following Board approval, the General Manager will execute a multi-year contract with MIG,
Inc.
Attachment(s)
1. Map of Board-approved Purisima-to-the-Sea Trail Alignment
Responsible Department Head:
Brandon Stewart, Land & Facilities Department Manager
Prepared by & Contact Person:
Bryan Apple, Capital Projects Field Manager, Land & Facilities Department
æ
æ
Purisima-to-the-Sea Trail
Lobi t os Cr eek
Tuni t as
Cr eek
Pu r i s i ma Cr e e k
Lobi t os Cr e e k
Tunitas CreekRd
TunitasCreek Rd
Purisi m a Creek Rd
IrishRidge Trail
L obitos Creek Trail
Ver
d
e
R
d
Lob
i
t
o
s
C
r
e
e
k
R
d
ÄÆ1
Chorus
Frog Pond
October Pond
Pacific
Ocean TC01
South Cowell
Upland Upper
South Cowell
Upland Lower
TUNITAS CREEK
OPEN SPACE
PRESERVE
PURISIMA CREEK
REDWOODS OPEN
SPACE PRESERVE
Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District
(Midpen)
Pa
t
h
:
G
:
\
P
r
o
j
e
c
t
s
\
P
u
r
i
s
i
m
a
_
C
r
e
e
k
_
R
e
d
w
o
o
d
s
\
P
u
r
i
s
i
m
a
_
t
o
_
t
h
e
_
S
e
a
\
C
r
e
w
_
S
c
o
u
t
i
n
g
\
P
2
S
_
B
o
a
r
d
T
r
a
i
l
s
M
a
p
_
2
0
2
1
1
2
0
1
.
m
x
d
Cre
a
t
e
d
B
y
:
b
a
p
p
l
e
0 0.450.225
Miles
I
While the District strives to use the best available digital data, these data do not represent a legal survey and are merely a graphic illustration of geographic features.
Area of
Detail
Redwood City
Belmont
Los
Altos
Palo Alto
Menlo Park
Cupertino
Saratoga
Los Gatos
Milpitas
Santa Clara
Purisima-to-the-Sea
Trail Alignment
POST Tra
i
l
E
a
s
e
m
e
n
t
(by others
)
Future connection
to Cowell-Purisima Trail
(by others)
Proposed Purisima-to-the-Sea
Trail Alignment
New Trail Construction
Improve Existing Road/Trail
POST Trail Easement
(by others)
Future connection
to existing trail
network
Proposed Parking Area
(by others)
æ
Coastal Trail Parking Area
Connection to Existing Trail
(by others)
!f
!?
!?
!f
!?!?
!?
!f Bridge Crossing!?
!?
!?
Minor Crossing
Estimated 65-foot
Trail Bridge
Estimated 40-foot
Trail Bridge
ATTACHMENT 1
Rev. 3/15/21
R-24-38
Meeting 24-08
March 27, 2024
AGENDA ITEM 6
AGENDA ITEM
Award of Contract to Complete Repairs to a Ranger Residence in Sierra Azul Open Space
Preserve
GENERAL MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Authorize an award of contract to SAE Consulting Engineering of San Jose, CA for a not-to-
exceed base contract amount of $575,000.
2. Authorize a contingency of 15% in the amount of $86,250 to be reserved for unanticipated
issues, bringing the total not-to-exceed contract to $661,250.
SUMMARY
The Sierra Azul Ranger Housing Project (Project) will complete repairs to a ranger residential
structure located at 18171 Pheasant Road in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve (Preserve) and
make other site improvements to bring the structure up to the current Santa Clara County
(County) building code. The Project will demolish two existing unpermitted additions,
reconfigure the interior of the 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom dwelling, make repairs to the foundation,
electrical, plumbing and heating systems, siding, and roof, and improve fire suppression for the
site.
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (District) staff issued a Request for Bids on
February 6, 2024 and received five (5) bids on March 6, 2024 with SAE Consulting Engineering
identified as the lowest responsive and responsible bidder. The General Manager recommends
awarding a contract to SAE Consulting Engineering for a base contract amount of $575,000 with
a 15% contingency in the amount of $86,250 for a total not-to-exceed contract amount of
$661,250. The Fiscal Year 2023-24 (FY24) budget includes sufficient funds to cover the
recommended action and expenditures through the end of the fiscal year. Funding in FY25 to
complete the work will be requested as part of the annual Budget and Action Plan process. Work
is scheduled to begin in May 2024 and conclude in August 2024.
DISCUSSION
The property at 18171 Pheasant Road, which was purchased by the District in 2010 (R-10-114),
includes two residential structures. One structure is currently used as maintenance employee
housing and the other structure was temporarily repurposed and used as the South Area Outpost.
In 2021, the District completed the South Area Office in Campbell, CA, and field operations
were moved from 18171 Pheasant Road to the new Campbell location. Since the move, the
R-24-38 Page 2
District has been preparing to return the former site of the South Area Office to be reused for
ranger housing and reestablish off-hours ranger presence for the Preserve.
In November 2020 (R-20-126), the District selected Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc.,
(WJE) to complete a structural and architectural assessment for the residential building, and a
report detailing repair recommendations for residential reuse. WJE completed the draft
assessment and recommendations in April 2021. Between April 2021 and November 2022, the
District and WJE consulted early with County Planning and Building Departments to understand
the repairs necessary to address code requirements for reoccupation. Based on these discussions,
the County determined the need to demolish unpermitted additions to the building, which will
allow the structure to be officially permitted as an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) to the other
preexisting residence. The mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems also need to be brought
up to current building code. WJE finalized their report by including the County’s direction in
January of 2023.
In April of 2023, the District selected Hawk Design & Consulting to provide design and
permitting support services after soliciting proposals from qualified consultants. The design and
construction documents were completed in August 2023 and submitted to the County for a
building permit in September 2023. Although the building permit is still under review, the
District anticipates receiving the building permit in time to start construction in May 2024. The
anticipated conditions of approval for the permit include installation of a wharf hydrant and
dedicated water storage for fire suppression.
Scope of Work
The project includes the demolition of two previously unpermitted additions; foundation repairs;
re-roofing; relocation of interior walls; new ceiling; new electrical, plumbing, and HVAC; new
siding and exterior paint; new doors and windows; new exterior stairs; framing repairs; and the
installation of a new water tank and dwarf hydrant for fire protection.
Contractor Selection
A Request for Bids was issued on February 6, 2024 via Periscope and released to three builders’
exchanges. Legal notices were posted in the San Jose Mercury News, and a link to the
solicitation was posted on the District website. Two mandatory pre-bid site walks were held on
February 16 and February 22, 2024 with ten total contractors in attendance.
The District publicly opened the bids on March 6, 2024 and announced SAE Consulting
Engineering as the apparent low bidder. The detailed breakdown of bids received is as follows.
Bidder Location Total Bid
Percent +/- from
Engineers Estimate
($560,000)
SAE Consulting Engineering San Jose, CA $575,000 +1.02%
One Day Installation & Repairs San Juan Bautista, CA $581,150 +1.04%
Flashback Electric & Construction Morgan Hill, CA $599,120 +1.07%
Integra Construction Services Pleasanton, CA $620,000 +1.11%
Shellco General Contractors, Inc. Patterson, CA $683,498 +1.22%
R-24-38 Page 3
The General Manager recommends awarding the contract to SAE Consulting Engineering as the
lowest responsible and responsive bidder.
FISCAL IMPACT
The FY24 adopted budget includes $589,000 for the 35004 - Sierra Azul Ranger Residence
project. There are sufficient funds in the project budget to cover the recommended action and
expenditures. Funds for future year costs will be recommended in future fiscal year budgets as a
part of the annual Budget and Action Plan process.
35004 - Sierra Azul Ranger Residence Prior Year
Actuals
FY24
Adopted
FY25
Projected
FY26
Projected
Estimated
Future
Years
TOTAL
District Funded (Fund 40): $127,612 $589,000 $278,000 $0 $0 $994,612
Grant Amount: $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Total Budget: $127,612 $589,000 $278,000 $0 $0 $994,612
Spent-to-Date (as of 03/07/24): ($127,612) ($41,838) $0 $0 $0 ($169,450)
Encumbrances: $0 ($6,770) $0 $0 $0 ($6,770)
SAE Consulting Engineering Contract: $0 ($350,000) ($225,000) $0 $0 ($575,000)
15% Contingency: $0 ($52,500) ($33,750) $0 $0 ($86,250)
Budget Remaining (Proposed): $0 $137,892 $19,250 $0 $0 $157,142
This recommended action is not funded by Measure AA.
PRIOR BOARD AND COMMITTEE REVIEW
The assessment of the structure at 18171 Pheasant Road came before the Board at the following
public meeting:
• November 18, 2020: Board review of a contract with Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates,
Inc. (WJE) to complete a structural and architectural assessment and repair
recommendations for the former South Area Outpost structure located at 18171 Pheasant
Road for residential use. (R-20-126, meeting minutes)
PUBLIC NOTICE
Public notice was provided as required by the Brown Act.
CEQA COMPLIANCE
Repairs and renovations to the existing single-family home located at 18171 Pheasant Road in
Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve is exempt in accordance with State CEQA Guidelines section
15301 (Existing Facilities) and section 15302 (Replacement or Reconstruction).
NEXT STEPS
If approved, the General Manager will enter into a contract with SAE Consulting Engineering.
Final contract signature is subject to meeting all District requirements, such as having all
R-24-38 Page 4
required insurance and bonding in place. Work is scheduled to begin in May 2024 and conclude
in August 2024.
Attachment(s)
1. 18171 Pheasant Road Area Map
2. 18171 Pheasant Road Site Map
Responsible Department Head:
Jason Lin, Engineering and Construction Manager
Prepared by / Contact person:
Leigh Guggemos, Capital Project Manager III, Engineering and Construction Department
Guadalu
p
e
C
r
e
e
k
Guad
a
l
u
p
e
C
r
e
e
k
Gua
d
a
l
u
p
e
C
r
e
e
k
Guada
l
u
p
e
C
r
e
e
k
Cherry Spr
i
n
g
s
C
r
e
e
k
Phe
a
s
a
n
t
C
r
e
e
k
Phe
a
s
a
n
t
C
r
e
e
k
Phe
a
s
a
n
t
C
r
e
e
k
Min
e
H
i
l
l
T
r
a
i
l
Reynolds RoadEq
u
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
L
o
o
p
Gua
d
a
l
u
p
e
T
r
a
i
l
Phe
a
s
a
n
t
R
o
a
d
Phe
a
s
a
n
t
R
o
a
d
Pheas
a
n
t
R
o
a
d
Ph
e
a
s
a
n
t
R
o
a
d
Pheas
a
n
t
R
o
a
d
Est Ri
d
g
e
T
r
a
i
l
Wa
g
n
e
r
R
o
a
d
Ne
w
A
l
m
a
d
e
n
T
r
a
i
l
Sena
d
o
r
M
i
n
e
Sen
a
d
o
r
M
i
n
e
Pheasan
t
R
o
a
d
Shannon Rd
Hic
k
s
R
d
Hick
s
R
d
Shan
n
o
n
R
d
Kenne
d
y
R
d
Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District
(MROSD)
11/21/2023
0 0.40.2
miI
While the District strives to use the best available digital data, these data do not represent a legal survey and are merely a graphic illustration of geographic features.
1 - SA Rang er Ho using Area Map
Paved Road
Unpaved Seasonal Road
Trail
Arterial
Preserve Boundary
Da
t
a
S
o
u
r
c
e
(
s
)
:
S
o
u
r
c
e
s
:
E
s
r
i
,
A
i
r
b
u
s
D
S
,
U
S
G
S
,
N
G
A
,
N
A
S
A
,
C
G
I
A
R
,
N
R
o
b
i
n
s
o
n
,
N
C
E
A
S
,
N
L
S
,
O
S
,
N
M
A
,
G
e
o
d
a
t
a
s
t
y
r
e
l
s
e
n
,
R
i
j
k
s
w
a
t
e
r
s
t
a
a
t
,
G
S
A
,
G
e
o
l
a
n
d
,
F
E
M
A
,
I
n
t
e
r
m
a
p
a
n
d
t
h
e
G
I
S
u
s
e
r
c
o
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
Web AppBuilder for ArcGIS
ÄÆ17
ÄÆ82
ÄÆ101
ÄÆ9
ÄÆ84
ÄÆ1
ÄÆ35
ÄÆ280
ÄÆ236
ÄÆ85
Campbell
Redwood City
East
Palo Alto
Los Altos
Mountain View
Palo Alto
Menlo Park
Cupertino
Saratoga
Los Gatos
Milpitas
Santa ClaraSunnyvale
San Jose
Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District
(MROSD)
11/21/2023
0 14070
ftI
While the District strives to use the best available digital data, these data do not represent a legal survey and are merely a graphic illustration of geographic features.
2 - SA Rang er Ho using Proj ect Map
Da
t
a
S
o
u
r
c
e
(
s
)
:
S
o
u
r
c
e
s
:
E
s
r
i
,
A
i
r
b
u
s
D
S
,
U
S
G
S
,
N
G
A
,
N
A
S
A
,
C
G
I
A
R
,
N
R
o
b
i
n
s
o
n
,
N
C
E
A
S
,
N
L
S
,
O
S
,
N
M
A
,
G
e
o
d
a
t
a
s
t
y
r
e
l
s
e
n
,
R
i
j
k
s
w
a
t
e
r
s
t
a
a
t
,
G
S
A
,
G
e
o
l
a
n
d
,
F
E
M
A
,
I
n
t
e
r
m
a
p
a
n
d
t
h
e
G
I
S
u
s
e
r
c
o
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
Web AppBuilder for ArcGIS
Rev. 3/15/21
R-24-39
Meeting 24-08
March 27, 2024
AGENDA ITEM 7
AGENDA ITEM
Award of Contract for Botanical Survey Services at Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space
Preserve
GENERAL MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Authorize the General Manager to execute a contract with AECOM Technical Services, Inc.,
of Oakland, California to provide botanical survey services to inform future actions in
support of the Conservation Grazing Program for a base amount not to exceed $90,144.
2. Authorize a 15% contingency of $13,522 to cover unforeseen issues, for a total contract
amount not-to-exceed $103,666.
SUMMARY
In January 2024, the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (District) solicited three
proposals for botanical survey services at Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve
(Preserve). Based on the proposals received, the General Manager recommends awarding a
contract to AECOM Technical Services, Inc., (AECOM) for a base amount not to exceed
$90,144 and authorizing a 15% contingency amount of $13,522, for a total not-to-exceed
contract amount of $103,666. There are sufficient funds in the Fiscal Year 2023-24 (FY24)
budget to cover the recommended action and expenditures through the end of the fiscal year.
Funds to continue the second year of contract work would be proposed as part of the FY25
annual budget and action plan process.
BACKGROUND
The conservation of special-status native plants and their habitats, as well as sensitive natural
communities, is integral to maintaining biological diversity. Protocol botanical surveys ensure a
consistent and systematic approach for surveying, locating, assessing, and mapping special status
plants and sensitive natural communities to protect and steward these land resources properly.
This work is also critical to ensure that future projects are properly designed to avoid and/or
reduce impacts to these resources.
The recommended contract would provide the necessary botanical survey services for future
Conservation Grazing Program projects at the Preserve, including:
• Installation of water infrastructure
• Targeted treatment of scrub encroachment into priority grasslands
R-24-39 Page 2
• Construction of new perimeter and cross-fencing to improve the grazing distribution
• Expansion of conservation grazing into new areas
DISCUSSION
The Natural Resources Department issued a Request for Proposals and Qualifications (RFPQ) in
2022 to develop a broad list of qualified biological services consultants for various on-call
services, including botanical surveys. A total of 24 firms were determined to be qualified, and
the District has entered into various contracts with prequalified firms beginning in 2022. For this
project, three prequalified firms specializing in botanical surveys were solicited for proposals in
January 2024. The requirements for this project included the following, which are consistent
with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) guidelines for botanical surveys:
• Knowledge of plant taxonomy and natural community ecology;
• Familiarity with the plants of the area, including special status species;
• Familiarity with natural communities of the area, including special status natural
communities;
• Experience conducting floristic field surveys or experience with floristic surveys
conducted under the direction of an experienced surveyor;
• Familiarity with appropriate state and federal statutes related to plants and plant
collecting; and
• Experience with analyzing impacts of development on native plant species and natural
communities.
The following proposals were received and evaluated.
Firm Location Proposed Fees (over 2 years)
AECOM Technical Services, Inc. Oakland, CA $90,144
BioMaAS, Inc./Avila & Associates San Francisco, CA $129,852
After carefully reviewing all proposals, AECOM was deemed the most qualified and best suited
for the project at a fair and reasonable price. AECOM’s Project Manager and Senior Botanist
bring 15 years of experience in rare plant surveys within the District’s region.
The base contract includes three rounds of botanical surveys (as required by CDFW) and a final
botanical survey report.
Botanical field surveys are conducted in the field at the times of year when plants will be both
evident and identifiable. Usually, this is during flowering or fruiting. The timing and number of
visits necessary to determine if special status plants are present are determined by geographic
location, the natural communities present, and the weather patterns of the year(s) in which
botanical field surveys are conducted. Of the 1,205 acres to be surveyed, over 35% (~440 acres)
is classified as difficult terrain and roughly 55% (~660 acres) as thick vegetation. This may result
in survey delays. A 15% contingency is requested due to the complex nature and extent of the
project, which will span multiple years.
R-24-39 Page 3
FISCAL IMPACT
There is sufficient funding in the FY24 budget to cover the cost of the recommendation. Funds
for future year costs will be recommended in future fiscal year budgets as a part of the annual
Budget and Action Plan process.
PRIOR BOARD AND COMMITTEE REVIEW
On November 10, 2010, the Board adopted an Amendment to the Preliminary Use and
Management Plan for the Lobitos Ridge and Elkus Ranch Uplands additions to Purisima Creek
Open Space Preserve to incorporate a Rangeland Management Plan (RMP) for the Lobitos
Ridge/Elkus Ranch Grazing Unit (R-10-99, Minutes). This proposed contract would support the
implementation of actions in the RMP.
On October 28, 2020, the Board adopted a Preliminary Use and Management Plan for the South
Cowell partial purchase as an addition to Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve, with
direction for staff to prepare an amendment to the Lobitos/Elkus Rangeland Management Plan
(RMP) to incorporate the new property addition into the existing Grazing Unit (R-20-122,
Minutes). Staff completed the amendment and will bring it to the Board for approval in the
Spring of 2025. This proposed contract would support the implementation of actions in the
amended RMP.
PUBLIC NOTICE
Public notice was provided as required by the Brown Act.
CEQA COMPLIANCE
Award of this contract is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act.
Additionally, the proposed botanical surveys are categorically exempt from the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under Article 19, Section 15306:
Section 15306 exempts basic data collection, research, experimental management, and
resource evaluation activities which do not result in a serious or major disturbance to an
environmental resource. These may be strictly for information gathering purposes, or as
part of a study leading to an action which a public agency has not yet approved, adopted,
or funded.
NEXT STEPS
Following Board approval, the General Manager will execute a contract with AECOM Technical
Services, Inc., for a two-year period beginning in FY24.
Attachment
1. Map: Biological Study Area
Responsible Department Head:
Kirk Lenington, Natural Resources
Brandon Stewart, Land and Facilities
R-24-39 Page 4
Prepared by (including graphics):
Coty Sifuentes-Winter, Senior Resource Management Specialist, Natural Resources
Contact person:
Matthew Shapero, Resource Management Specialist III, Land & Facilities
fa;
•
31%
`moo
•
•
170 ft
C eek
709 ft
•
PURISIMAc C
REDWOODS OP
SPACE PRESER
EK
Rings
GUIEh--
s
`fUNiTAS
CREEK OPEN
SPACE PRESERVE
Attachment 1:
Biological Study Area
California State Parks, Esri, TomTom, Garmin, SafeGraph, GeoTechnologies, Inc, METI/NASA,
USGS, Bureau of Land Management, EPA, NPS, US Census Bureau, USDA, USFWS, California State
Parks, Esri, TomTom, Garmin, FAO, NOAA, USGS, Bureau of Land Management, EPA, NPS,
USFWS, Esri, NASA, NGA, USGS, Esti, CGIAR, USGS
2024
Coordinate System: NAD 1983 StatePlane California III PIPS 0403 Feet
0 0.28 n55
\li
0
0.5
k n
Rev. 3/15/21
R-24-40
Meeting 24-08
March 27, 2024
AGENDA ITEM 8
AGENDA ITEM
Award of Contract for Marbled Murrelet Habitat Assessment and Breeding Surveys for the Long
Ridge Forest Health Project
GENERAL MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Authorize the General Manager to execute a contract with Nomad Ecology, LLC to complete
a marbled murrelet habitat assessment and breeding surveys in Long Ridge Open Space
Preserve, for a base contract amount not-to-exceed $83,101.
2. Authorize a separate contract allowance of $39,918 to complete additional breeding surveys,
if needed, bringing the not-to-exceed contract amount to $123,019.
SUMMARY
A qualified biological team is needed to perform a habitat assessment and protocol-level surveys
to determine whether marbled murrelets are currently using a forest health project site in Long
Ridge Open Space Preserve. Based on the results of a Request for Proposals (RFP) process, the
General Manager recommends awarding a professional services contract to Nomad Ecology for a
base contract amount not to exceed $83,101. Board authorization for an allowance of $39,918 is
also requested to allow for additional breeding surveys, if required, bringing the total not-to-
exceed contract amount to $123,019. There is sufficient funding in the Fiscal Year 2023-24
(FY24) budget to cover the cost of the recommendation through the end of June. Funds for future
year costs will be recommended in future fiscal year budgets as a part of the annual Budget and
Action Plan process.
BACKGROUND
Forest health activities help restore ecosystems through fuel load reductions (e.g., removing dead
vegetation, thinning artificially overstocked forests, and treating invasive species). Before the
20th century, lightning-ignited fires or Native American burning practices kept fuel loads low.
Today, with the absence of regularly occurring fire on the landscape, forested areas have become
unnaturally dense with vegetation growth, considerably raising fire risk that can impact local
communities and damage the sensitive natural resources within open space lands.
The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District’s (District) Wildland Fire Resiliency Program
(WFRP) was approved by the Board of Directors (Board) in 2021 to accelerate efforts for
addressing fire risk areas within District lands. The WFRP includes Fuel Reduction Areas
R-24-40 Page 2
(FRAs) for reducing fuel ladders and surface fuels to separate overstory and understory
vegetation in order to prevent ground fires from turning into damaging crown fires.
Using the prioritization criteria discussed in the WFRP, an FRA was identified in Long Ridge
Open Space Preserve, resulting in the Long Ridge Forest Health Project (Project). The Project
will focus on addressing the impacts of historic fire suppression by thinning fuels (including
Douglas fir) and prioritizing the removal of encroaching and overtopping conifers within
established oak woodlands. As part of the proposed Forest Health Project, the District is
evaluating the potential for reusing and converting the resulting biomass into biochar to transfer
the stored carbon within the felled trees into the soil to support carbon sequestration goals.
DISCUSSION
Murrelet Considerations
The marbled murrelet is a federally and state protected species under state and federal
Endangered Species Acts. Marbled murrelets are seabirds that rely on redwood and Douglas-fir
forests to breed, nesting selectively in very large, typically old-growth trees with complex crown
structures. Marbled murrelets and their habitat are protected by regulatory agencies, and any
work that may cause adverse impacts is regulated through project consultation and review. The
Project is located in an area considered potentially suitable for marbled murrelet and requires
surveys to assess the habitat quality and presence or absence of marbled murrelets during the
breeding season.
Staff met with representatives of the California Department of Fish (CDFW) and Wildlife and
US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) at the project site to view the habitat conditions and
identify an approach that considers the marginal quality of the habitat for marbled murrelets at
the Project site. USFWS determined that there is no Federal nexus for the Project and therefore
did not provide a formal letter of consultation. USFWS and CDFW recommended a modified
survey protocol approach, coordinating with District staff, that will save time and effort without
compromising the ability of the surveys to determine whether, and to what extent, marbled
murrelets may be using this habitat.
Scope of Work
Under the recommended contract, the biological consultant would provide the following
biological services specific to marbled murrelet monitoring and agency consultation:
• Consultation and coordination with CDFW and USFWS
• Habitat assessment using spatial data
• Habitat assessment using ground truthing
• Audio-visual survey station planning and placement
• Acoustic recording unit placement, maintenance, and retrieval
• Audio-visual surveys for one primary survey site
• Audio-visual surveys for a secondary survey site (optional task if deemed necessary)
• Final report
The habitat assessment will include a one-quarter mile buffer around the Project area (see
Attachment 1) to identify suitable nesting trees. Surveys will focus on individual suitable nesting
trees within the assessed area. Depending on the number of suitable nesting trees found during
the habitat assessment, a secondary survey site area may be necessary. Survey results will inform
R-24-40 Page 3
the Project, including refining work areas for Douglas-fir removal, and may dictate site-
appropriate Best Management Practices and avoidance and minimization measures.
Consultant Selection
The Natural Resources Department issued an RFPQ in 2022 to develop a list of qualified
biological services consultants for on-call services including marbled murrelet surveys. A total of
24 firms were determined to be qualified, and the District has entered into various contracts with
prequalified firms beginning in 2022. For this project, four of these prequalified firms
specializing in murrelet surveys were solicited for proposals. Proposals from the four firms are
summarized in the table below:
Proposer Firm Location Proposed Fee
(over 2 Fiscal Years)
1. SummitWest Environmental, Inc. San Jose, CA $93,996.00
2. Nomad Ecology Martinez, CA $83,101.00*
3. Biosearch Environmental
Consulting
Santa Cruz, CA $26,000.00
4. BioMaAS, Inc. San Francisco, CA $85,450.80
*The proposal provided an optional task that covers additional work for a second site if the habitat assessment
demonstrates a need. The total cost with the optional task would be $123,019.
Three staff members evaluated the proposals. One proposal (Firm 3) was rejected due to an
apparent misunderstanding of the scope of the required work and associated costs. Nomad
Ecology was selected from the remaining three proposers as the most qualified consultant at a
fair and reasonable price because it demonstrated the best understanding of the unique approach
needed to assess and survey an area where the murrelet habitat is of marginal quality.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is sufficient funding in the FY24 budget to cover the cost of the recommendation through
the end of June. Funds for future year costs will be recommended in future fiscal year budgets as
a part of the annual Budget and Action Plan process.
PRIOR BOARD AND COMMITTEE REVIEW
None
PUBLIC NOTICE
Public notice was provided as required by the Brown Act.
CEQA COMPLIANCE
The award of this contract is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act.
Additionally, the proposed surveys to be provided by the consultant are categorically exempt
from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under Article 19, Section 15306:
R-24-40 Page 4
Section 15306 exempts basic data collection, research, experimental management, and
resource evaluation activities which do not result in a serious or major disturbance to an
environmental resource. These may be strictly for information gathering purposes, or as
part of a study leading to an action which a public agency has not yet approved, adopted,
or funded.
NEXT STEPS
If approved, the General Manager will enter into a contract with Nomad Ecology. Biological
surveys are estimated to begin in April 2024 and continue for two years.
Attachment(s)
1. Project Site Map
Responsible Department Head:
Kirk Lenington, Natural Resources Department Manager
Prepared by:
Karine Tokatlian, Resource Management Specialist II, Natural Resources Department
Sophie Christel, Management Analyst I, Natural Resources Department
Contact person:
Karine Tokatlian, Resource Management Specialist II, Natural Resources Department
ATTACHMENT 1
R-24-41
Meeting 24-08
March 27, 2024
AGENDA ITEM 9
AGENDA ITEM
First Reading of the Board Compensation Ordinance
GENERAL MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Waive reading and introduce an ordinance increasing Board compensation from $115.50 to
$121.28 per meeting day, pursuant to Public Resources Code section 5536.
2. Hold a public hearing on the proposed ordinance.
3. Direct the General Manager and General Counsel to prepare the ordinance for second
reading/adoption at the April 10, 2024 Board meeting.
SUMMARY
State law allows the Board of Directors (Board) to increase the per meeting compensation for
Board members by up to 5% annually, by ordinance. The last increase was adopted by the Board
in February, which became effective on April 10, 2023. One year has elapsed since the last
increase. This item consists of the first reading of an ordinance to increase the per meeting
compensation by 5%, from $115.50 to $121.28. The proposed increase is expected to fall within
the Board-approved current Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) budget.
DISCUSSION
Prior to January 1, 2019, California Public Resources Code section 5536 set the compensation
for Board members at $100 per meeting with a maximum of $500 or five meeting days per
month. This level of Board compensation had not changed since 1984. Based on US inflation
calculators, the cumulative rate of inflation during this timeframe had been approximately 150%.
Meanwhile, the scope of Board member responsibilities and the complexity of policy oversight
substantially increased during that period of time:
• Since 1984, the District’s budget grew from $13.9 million to $81 million.
• The District secured a substantial second funding source for capital projects in the form
of a $300 million general obligation bond passed by voters in 2014.
• Acres of land preserved by the District grew from 18,300 acres to over 65,000 acres.
• The District’s jurisdiction expanded into three counties, including the coastal areas of San
Mateo County, while it previously had operated in only two counties and was limited in
San Mateo County to the southern bayside area.
• The District’s constituent population grew from 570,000 to 770,000.
R-24-41 Page 2
In June 2018, the District supported AB 2329 (Obernolte), the purpose of which was to provide
Board members with enhanced latitude in increasing the number of compensable meetings and
the per meeting compensation amount. Assemblymember Obernolte expressed the intent of the
legislation as follows:
"This bill puts special districts on the same playing field. Many special districts are operated
with small boards of directors that work diligently to make their special district as useful to
the community as possible. This important work takes board members' time. Allowing
special districts to be allowed the same amount of meetings a month will help level the
playing field for those districts that currently have lower limits. Additionally, allowing
districts the authority to slightly adjust their compensation annually will help districts assess
for themselves what is fair and what their district can handle, rather than raising the
compensation statewide."
The law, which went into effect on January 1, 2019, enables Board members to increase the per
meeting compensation by up to 5% annually. The ordinance must be adopted pursuant to the
procedure used by water districts (Water Code section 20200 et seq), which includes multiple
opportunities for the public to provide input through a public hearing and a petition process. The
procedure for adopting a compensation increase is:
• Publish a notice of the public hearing in the local newspaper once per week for two
consecutive weeks.
• Hold a public hearing (first reading), and adopt the ordinance at a subsequent meeting
(second reading)
• Within 60 days after adoption, the public may petition for reconsideration of the
ordinance. In this case, the Board must reconsider the ordinance before enacting it.
The Board adopted its first increase pursuant to this legislation from $100 to $105 per meeting in
December 2020, which went into effect in February 2021. In February 2023, the Board adopted
a 10% increase (5% each year for two elapsed calendar years) to $115.50.
Elected official compensation for local agencies varies, as not all local agencies are subject to the
same statutory scheme for compensation. By way of example, the City of Palo Alto’s city
charter and ordinances allow for monthly compensation of $1,600. In 2023, Valley Water’s
enabling legislation allows Board members to receive $365.87 per meeting. In 2022, East Bay
Regional Park District increased its Board compensation to $121.26 per compensable meeting.
FISCAL IMPACT
The FY24 budget provides up to $47,000 for Board meeting compensation. Board Policy 6.06,
Meeting Compensation, allows Board members to be compensated for up to six compensable
meeting days per month. If the per-meeting compensation is increased up to 5%, this amount
should be sufficient to compensate Board members for the remainder of the fiscal year and is
contingent upon the number of compensable meetings held per month. If it is later determined
that additional funds are required, a budget adjustment may be requested.
PRIOR BOARD OR COMMITTEE REVIEW
None
R-24-41 Page 3
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice of the Public Hearing on this proposed ordinance was published in the newspaper once a
week for two weeks leading up to this first reading in accordance with Public Resources Code
section 5536 and Water Code section 20203.
Public notice was also provided pursuant to the Brown Act.
CEQA COMPLIANCE
This item is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act.
NEXT STEPS
If approved by the Board, the Ordinance will undergo a second reading at the April 10, 2024
meeting. If adopted upon second reading, the Ordinance will go into effect 60 days after
adoption.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Proposed Ordinance
Responsible Department Head:
Ana Ruiz, General Manager
Prepared by:
Hilary Stevenson, General Counsel
ATTACHMENT 1
Ordinances/2024/24-XX_BoardCompensation 1
ORDINANCE NO. 24-XX
ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT INCREASING
THE COMPENSATION AMOUNT FOR BOARD MEMBER MEETING
ATTENDANCE TO $121.28 PER DAY
WHEREAS, the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (“District”) is a special
district duly organized and existing under and pursuant to California Public Resources Code
section 5500 et seq.; and
WHEREAS, California Public Resources Code section 5536 sets forth the authority for
establishing compensation for members of the District’s Board of Directors (Board); and
WHEREAS, the current Board member compensation is one hundred and fifteen dollars
and fifty cents ($115.50) per day for attendance at a meeting of the Board, up to a maximum of
six (6) days per calendar month; and
WHEREAS, the per meeting compensation of one hundred and fifteen dollars and fifty
cents ($115.50) per day was last increased in 2023 and may be increased up to five percent for
each calendar year since the last increase; and
WHEREAS, the Board wishes to increase the compensation by 5% from $115.50 per
meeting to one hundred twenty-one dollars and twenty-eight cents ($121.28); and
WHEREAS, in accordance with California Water Code section 20203 and California
Government Code section 6066, a public hearing was held on March 27, 2024, at 7:00 pm, and a
notice of said hearing was duly published in the newspaper once a week for two weeks prior to
the public hearing.
NOW THEREFORE, The Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional Open
Space District does ordain as follows:
SECTION 1.
A. The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District desires to compensate members of the
Board of Directors for attendance at its meetings, in accordance with California law and
Board policy.
B. The amount of compensation to be received by the Board of Directors for each day’s
attendance at a meeting of the Board shall be increased five percent (5%) from one
hundred and fifteen dollars and fifty cents ($115.50) per day to one hundred twenty-one
dollars and twenty-eight cents ($121.28).
SECTION 2. Upon adoption of this Ordinance, Board Policy 6.06 (Meeting Compensation,
Reimbursement of Authorized Necessary Expenses for Performance of Official Duties, and
Adoption of Ethics Training Requirements Pursuant to Government Code Section 53232 et seq.
(AB 1234)) shall be amended to reflect this increase.
ATTACHMENT 1
Ordinances/2024/24-XX_BoardCompensation 2
SECTION 3. This Ordinance shall be published once within thirty (30) days after adoption in a
newspaper of general circulation printed, published, and circulated in the Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District.
SECTION 4. Pursuant to Water Code section 20204, this Ordinance shall become effective 60
days from the date of its adoption.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Adopted by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Board of Directors on April 10,
2024, at a regular meeting thereof, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN
ABSENT:
ATTEST: APPROVED:
Curt Riffle, Secretary
Board of Directors
Margaret MacNiven, President
Board of Directors
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Hilary Stevenson, General Counsel
I, the District Clerk of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, hereby certify
that the above is a true and correct copy of an ordinance duly adopted by the Board of Directors
of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District by the above vote at a meeting thereof duly
held and called on the above day.
Maria Soria, District Clerk
Rev. 3/15/21
R-24-42
Meeting 24-08
March 27, 2024
AGENDA ITEM 10
AGENDA ITEM
Informational Presentation on the Geographic Information System (GIS) Strategic Plan Project
GENERAL MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION(S)
Receive an informational presentation on the GIS Strategic Plan Project and provide feedback to
help prioritize GIS technology services and offerings. No Board action required.
SUMMARY
The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (District) is conducting a comprehensive needs
assessment and developing a three-year strategic plan for the District’s Geographic Information
Systems (GIS) Program, a unit within the Information Systems and Technology (IST)
Department. This project aims to evaluate existing GIS technology utilization at the District,
gather needs of internal and external stakeholders, and make recommendations to improve the
sustainability, endurance, and enterprise of the GIS Program. In fall 2023, the General Manager
awarded a contract to Geographic Technologies Group (GTG) to support the District in carrying
out the project. GTG is completing a three-phase, eight-step GIS Needs Assessment to inform
the development of a Three-Year Strategic Plan (see Attachment 2 for an overview of their scope
of work).
DISCUSSION
Background
The 2015 IT Master Plan recommended the District develop a GIS Master Plan as one of nine
initiatives to improve GIS technology, data, processes, and access for staff and the public. In
2017, the District completed an Enterprise GIS Planning and Implementation Project that
modernized GIS operations and service delivery. Through investment in IT hardware and
software licensing, the District deployed ArcGIS Enterprise, a robust geospatial platform that
provides staff access to a secure database repository of more than 200 layers and over 100 self-
service web mapping applications. In 2018, the District implemented Cityworks, a work order
and asset management system, for Land & Facilities Department staff to log service requests,
schedule work tasks, and track asset history. In 2023, the GIS Program launched Open Data
Midpen, an ArcGIS Hub site used to share data and web mapping applications with the public.
Today, these platforms are critical business systems that streamline workflows, enhance
understanding, and improve decision-making for the District activities.
R-24-42 Page 2
As the District continues to enhance GIS technology, it is increasingly vital to ensure resources
are directed towards the most impactful and relevant mapping applications. Moreover, new
demands and opportunities are emerging on the already-full GIS Program work plan, including:
• Various District programs, such as Wildland Fire Resiliency, Conservation Grazing, and
Grants, require substantial GIS Program support for planning, tracking, reporting,
decision-making, and/or communications.
• District land holdings are rapidly expanding on the San Mateo County coast where real
property transactions are increasingly complex, requiring frequent coordination with the
GIS Program.
• Technology advancements are rapidly changing the GIS industry, with drones, artificial
intelligence, and big data emerging as the next chapter.
• Public engagement is increasing for District projects and initiatives, with diversity, equity
and inclusion at the forefront of these efforts. Web-based GIS solutions like Story Maps
can play a pivotal role, but these immersive, media-driven tools are time-consuming to
plan, design, develop, launch and promote.
The GIS Strategic Plan aims to provide a three-year road map for addressing these demands and
identified gaps. This well-defined plan will enable the IST Department to prioritize and focus its
resources on the highest, most critical needs. The plan is guided by a Six Pillar framework of
GIS Sustainability that gauges the health and maturity of an organization’s GIS operations. This
framework is the foundation of a successful, strategic, and innovative GIS Program. Definitions
of these pillars are provided in Attachment 1.
Public Engagement Strategy
The internal needs assessment phase of the GIS Strategic Plan is nearing completion. To gather
the ideas and needs of external stakeholders, the District shared an online survey with the public,
including partner organizations and District volunteers, through direct email and notices posted
on the District’s website, eNews, and social media platforms beginning on March 1. The survey
will remain open until 11:59 pm Sunday March 31.
Board Engagement
As part of this Agenda Item, the Board will receive an overview of the GIS Strategic Plan Project
and have the opportunity to provide feedback on the direction of the GIS Program. This feedback
will be incorporated into the GIS Strategic Plan’s needs assessment phase and help prioritize GIS
technology services and offerings.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact associated with the recommendations at this time. Funding for future
years budgets will be requested as part of the annual Budget and Action Plan process.
PRIOR BOARD AND COMMITTEE REVIEW
None
R-24-42 Page 3
PUBLIC NOTICE
Public notice was provided as required by the Brown Act. Furthermore, an online survey was
shared with the general public through the District website, eNews, and social media throughout
March 2024.
CEQA COMPLIANCE
This item is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act.
NEXT STEPS
Feedback received by the Board will be incorporated into the needs assessment phase of the
project. During summer 2024, an Executive Summary Report will be presented to the Board
with the final recommendations of the GIS Strategic Plan.
Attachment(s)
1. Six Pillars of GIS Sustainability Framework Definitions
2. Scope of Work
Responsible Department Head:
Casey Hiatt, Information Systems & Technology Department
Prepared by / Contact person:
Jamie Hawk, GIS Program Administrator, Information Systems & Technology Department
The Six Pillars of GIS Sustainability
GTG uses its philosophy, the Six Pillars of GIS Sustainability, to build Midpen’s GIS Strategic
Plan. These pillars cover the critical components that must be planned for and work well to
have an effective GIS. Any weak pillar poses a risk to the stability of the entire GIS program.
1.GIS Governance – A review of governance principles, definitions, concepts, enterprise
organizational models and options, assessment of current GIS staff levels, departmental and
GIS staff responsibilities, and description of how the GIS staffing structure and job descriptions
compare to organizations of similar size and characteristics.
2.GIS Digital Data and Databases – A thorough documentation and evaluation of data and data
structure, database design, data stewards/custodians, and data security.
3.Procedures, Workflow, and Integration – Documentation and recommendations on how GIS
integrates with existing IT systems.
4.GIS Software Solutions – Determining the best software solutions to meet the needs of the
organization and constituents, including the potential benefits of new and emerging
technologies.
5.IT Infrastructure – An examination of the underlying IT systems that are essential to the
performance of the GIS data and software.
6.GIS Training, Education, and Knowledge Transfer—A detailed look at the organization's
training and education needs. A detailed training plan is key for local government
organizations to sustain an effective and enduring GIS program. Training plans include training
options, specialized training opportunities, GIS conferences, and educational seminars.
ATTACHMENT 1
GIS Needs Assessment and Strategic Plan | 1
Attachment 2: Scope of Work Overview
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (Midpen) has approximately 200 employees in
13 departments and has a mature enterprise GIS program. Midpen requires an experienced
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Strategic Planning consultant to conduct a GIS Needs
Assessment and develop a Three-Year GIS Strategic Roadmap.
The following proposed scope of services includes three phases and eight steps:
Phase I: GIS Needs Assessment
Step 1: Online Questionnaire
Step 2: Kick-Off Presentation and Technology Seminar
Step 3: Stakeholder Interviews, Benchmarking, GAP, and SWOT Analysis
Step 4: GIS Needs Assessment Report
Phase II: System Design and Governance Model Development
Step 5: Proposed System Design
Phase III: Implementation Plan
Step 6: Return on Investment (ROI) Analysis
o Costs and benefits of a Drone Program Analysis
Step 7: Three-Year GIS Strategic Plan
Step 8: Presentation of GIS Strategic Plan to Stakeholders
Documents in this packet
include:
•Board Questions and Staff Responses
•Written Comments from Members of the
Public to the Board of Directors
1
March 27, 2024 – Board Questions
Meeting 24-08
Director MacNiven Questions:
Agenda Item # 5: Award of Contract with MIG, Inc., to provide biological/cultural and
permitting services and mitigation planning for the Purisima-to-the-Sea Trail Project (R-24-37)
Question:
I notice a huge spread in bids for this project. The highest, SWCA, is almost three times that of
the lowest, MIG. I also noticed that SWCA is a local firm right down the road from the Purisima
project. Professional services contracts are not necessarily awarded to the lowest bidder. Based
on a Google search, that MIG appears to mostly work on urban projects, LSA covers a very wide
variety of permitting projects, while SWCA works on government and land development
projects. Can you explain what criteria led staff to recommend a contract with MIG? Can MIG
complete the scope of work for $60K with travel costs included?
Response:
Staff convened a team of five staff to review the three proposals received for this project. This
included two staff from Land & Facilities, and a representative from Natural Resources,
Planning and Engineering & Construction, all of whom are familiar with the Purisima-to-the-Sea
(P2S) parking and trail projects. The proposals were evaluated against six categories including
Quality of Proposal, Demonstrated experience and qualifications with project, Proposed
approach, and Services at a fair and reasonable price. SWCA consistently scored lower than the
other two firms that submitted, especially in the category of Services at a fair and reasonable
price. Also, SWCA completed the feasibility study for the P2S Project and did not demonstrate
any cost savings given their site experience and existing documentation that they produced
during that phase of the project. Per discussions with our Natural Resources department, SWCA
consistently has a fee that is significantly higher than their competitors. For their proposal,
SWCA submitted higher hourly rates for their staff (e.g. >30% for their higher paid positions)
and allocated a greater number of hours in total for their higher paid positions as compared to
MIG whereas MIG has higher hours at the mid to lower range. The level of expertise and type of
work we need is appropriate for mid to lower range positions.
As for the merits of MIG, they completed the following relevant projects:
• Protocol-level botanical surveys for the P2S Trail alignment (District Project)
• Wetland delineations, other waters, and tree surveys for the Purisima Uplands Demo and
Site Cleanup Project (District Project)
• Esplanade Avenue Infrastructure Preservation (Seawall Construction) – Pacifica, San
Mateo County – MIG prepared technical reports and permit applications for the project,
as well as a blufftop revegetation plan and a long-term monitoring plan in line with
permits
2
• Cordilleras Health System Replacement Project – Biological Constraints Analysis, Rare
Plan Survey, Wetland Delineation, EIR, Resource Agency Permits, Restoration Design,
and Construction Monitoring – Redwood City, San Mateo County
District staff have worked with members of the MIG project team on other projects as well with
positive results. The cost for MIG staff travel time to drive from their San Jose office to Half
Moon Bay is minor compared to the overall cost of the project. The proposal review team is
confident in MIG’s ability to deliver the scope of services required to support the successful
implementation of the P2S project.
From: Public Comment Form
To: Clerk. web
Subject: 3/27 - Board of Directors: To be provided to the board of directors. (no limit)- Cass 1 e- bikes -Mark Anderson -
Date: Tuesday, March 26, 2024 4:05:11 PM
EXTERNAL
Meeting Date ,. 3/27 - Board of Directors
Is this a comment about a specific No
board item?
Subject N Cass 1 e- bikes
Please check one: ° In Favor
Where did you hear about this • Midpen website
meeting? (check all that apply) :.
Name Mark Anderson
City of Residence * Sunnyvale
Email w
Comment Type
To be provided to the board of directors. (no limit)
Comments to be provided to the board of directors
Hello, My name is Mark. I have been hiking the hills in the south bay area since 1962. Because of
various age related ailments, I need the help of an electric power assisted mount bike. This allows
me access and the ability to enjoy these beautiful hills.
Can you please give me one logical reason why class one power assisted mountain bikes are not
allowed in the open space areas? I understand from talking to a really nice ranger today that the
open space has done numerous studies to try to justify a reason why these innocuous vehicles can't
be allowed especially by senior citizens to enjoy the park like everyone else.
I hope this is just a lack of understanding or incomplete information. Thank you for your response.
I'm looking forward to hearing from you.
Please provide your phone number so
we can identify you if you use the call -
in number. '