HomeMy Public PortalAbout19761124 - Minutes - Board of Directors (BOD) ,eeting 76-32
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*446 OF
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
Regular Meeting
Board of Directors
M I N U T E S
November 24 , 1976 745 Distel Drive
Los Altos , CA
I. ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order by President Hanko at 7 : 34 P.M.
Members Present : Katherine Duffy, Barbara Green, Nonette Hanko,
George Seager, Edward Shelley, Harry Turner and Daniel Wendin.
Personnel Present : Herbert Grench, Edward Jaynes, Jon Olson,
Anne Crosley, Carroll Harrington, Bradley Clifford, Phyllis Lee
and Del Woods.
II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. Minutes of November 10 , 1976
N. Hanko stated the consensus that the minutes of November 24 ,
1976 be approved as presented.
III. WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
N. Hanko referred the Board to a letter dated November 11, 1976
from the City Clerk of Mountain View enclosing the Mountain
View City Council's Resolution No. 11225 , which opposes the
detachment of Los Altos Hills from the District.
A. Crosley referred the Board to a letter dated November 19 ,
1976 from Mr. Robert F. Beyer, City Manager of Saratoga, advising
that John Terry has been named Saratoga's representative to
serve on any advisory committees formed to assist the District
in developing site use and management plans within the Sphere
of Influence of Saratoga.
IV. ADOPTION OF AGENDA
H. Grench said G. Seager wished to make an introduction under
Special Orders of the Day.
H. Grench advised that Mr. Art Ogilvie would be attending the
meeting to discuss the disposition of artifacts located on
the Picchetti property. N. Hanko suggested the item be con-
sidered under New Business With No Action Requested.
A. Minutes of November 24 , 1976
K. Duffy referred the Board to page four, second paragraph, line
eight, and suggested the phrase "box springs" be changed to read
"the boxing of springs. "
N. Hanko stated the consensus that the minutes of November 24 ,
1976 be approved with the above change.
Meeting 76-31 Page two
N. Hanko stated the consensus that the agenda be adopted with
the above additions.
V. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
There were no oral communications at this time.
VI . PUBLIC HEARING
A. Proposed Addition to North Foothills Open Space Preserve
(a Portion of the Dahl Property)
H. Grench introduced his report (R-76-31) dated November 18,
1976 , regarding the Proposed Addition to North Foothills Open
Space Preserve (a Portion of the Dahl Property) . He said the
District had an opportunity to purchase 274 acres of foothills
land located between Page Mill Road and Palo Alto Foothills Park,
of which approximately 100 acres is within San Mateo County.
He noted that the acquisition of property located in more than
one county is precisely the type of activity which the District
can easily implement compared with other agencies .
J. Olson described the proposed addition as grassland with
varying slopes , located less than a quarter of a mile south
of the existing North Foothills Open Space Preserve. The
headwaters of the Los Trancos Creek run through the site from
the southeast corner. Acquisition of the site would be a major
step in maintaining Page Mill Road as a scenic arterial route.
He described the vegetation on the property, which includes
coast live oak and madrone, grassland and chaparral. A variety
of plants , animals, wildflowers and birds may be observed on
the site. Currently, the land is being used by a tenant who
grazes varying numbers of cattle on the site. There is a
well-maintained unsurfaced road within the site, and the only
structures include a metal barn, a wooden shack and a teepee.
J. Olson said the District's proposed acquisition and use of
the site would be consistent with other jurisdictions ' plans
for the area, which designate the property for Open Space or
Resource Management zoning. The District's Master Plan shows
the site in a medium to high priority resource category. Past
use of the property has included grazing, horse breeding, and
cultivation of a walnut grove and vineyards.
J. Olson said there was a good potential for two or more trails
on the property, and the site should attract hikers , picnickers ,
photographers, equestrians , environmental education groups and
motorists. He recommended that the Board adopt the broad policy
recommendations for the North Foothills Open Space Preserve
contained on pages five and six of the Use and Management Plan
for that site in report R-76-32 (dated November 17 , 1976) which
will be considered by the Board later in the meeting. He
further recommended that the Board adopt the following general
Meeting 76-31 Page three
use and management recommendations for the new site : (1) that a
parking area with a 30-car capacity be constructed off Page
Mill Road at the southern end of the site, delineated by a
wood rail fence; (2) that a trail system be established and
posted, which would include a loop trail at the parking lot
area and a second trail connecting the loop trail with the
northern end of the property; (3) that no permits be required
for individual users of the Preserve, but that groups of
15 people or more should be required to have a permit; (4) that
items (1) , (2) and (3) above be implemented within six months
of acquisition; (5) that the corridor along the western bound-
ary of the site be designated a "Natural Area;" (6) that cat-
tle grazing be discontinued for the present time; (7) that
all structures be removed for aesthetic and safety reasons;
(8) that signing, fencing, gates and stiles be installed as
indicated in the report; (9) that cleanup and revegetation
be completed by rangers as needed; (10) that the site be pa- ,
trolled on a regular basis and (11) that the site by known
by the unofficial name of North Foothills Open Space Preserve.
J. Olson mentioned that a site brochure for the Preserve is
currently being developed by staff, and will be available
within six months. He added that staff had determined that
the use and management plans for the site would have no sig-
nificant adverse impact on the environment.
In response to a question from E. Shelley, J. Olson advised
that the District would be working on joint use and management
of the entire area with Palo Alto staff. Presently, the
Palo Alto Foothills Park staff is tolerant of non-resident
hikers who stray into the Park, since they are generally
serious hikers who are unlikely to damage the environment.
H. Grench invited Board and audience members to submit poten-
tial names for the North Foothills Open Space Preserve, since
the recent annexation of south San Mateo made the name obso-
lete.
In response to a question from N. Hanko, J. Olson said staff
had no plans to interfere with the shallow turnouts that are
presently being used by motorists to view the scenery, except
when a dangerous traffic situation requires attention.
H. Grench explained that the entire 274 acres are being offered
to the District for a total purchase price of $782 ,000. An
initial downpayment of $182 ,000 would be made, with the $600 ,000
balance payable in five equal annual installments of $120 ,000
at 5 . 75% interest. He advised the Board that Mrs. Dahl , owner
of the property, had agreed that the District could, at its
option, pay the entire remaining balance during 1977 if it
chose to do so. Since a recent independent appraisal of the
Meeting 76-31 Page four
property places its fair market value at about $1,000,000 , he
felt the offer was a very generous one which should be accepted
by the District. He recommended that the Board adopt a resolu-
tion to acquire the property, that it approve the Negative
Declaration for the Use and Management Plan contained in the
report and that it adopt the Use and Management Plan.
Mr. Robert Mark, 725 Cowper , Palo Alto, said he supported this
significant acquisition. He expressed concern that any fencing
be attractive, and that overgrazing not be permitted so that
oak seedlings are protected. J. Olson advised that staff would
attempt to balance the ecology of the site with grazing, which
is important in reducing the fire hazard and maintaining the
agricultural viability of the site. He said there may be some
requirements regarding fencing, box springs and the number of
cattle allowed per acre before permission is given for grazing.
He further explained that old barbed wire fencing would be replaced
with new barbed wire in places for the present time. Split rail
fencing, although it is much more attractive, is also very
expensive and will have to be phased into District properties
as budget permits .
Mrs. Dorothy Jennings, 441 East Meadow, Palo Alto, asked why the
plan for the site includes a hiking stile, which would effec-
tively eliminate equestrians . J. Olson replied that the site
was somewhat limited, and equestrian use would be more appro-
priate on other District sites , although it would be allowed here.
Mr. David Jansson, 27440 Sherlock Court, Los Altos , said he was
pleased that the Dahl property would be preserved in open
space as the Blair and Crocker sites have been. He said he
felt the great majority of Los Altos and Los Altos Hills resi-
dents supported the District, and he urged the acquisition of
the site.
H. Grench advised the Board that Kenneth Kaye, 350 Edlee, Palo
Alto, and Wallace and Mary Stegner, 13456 South Fork Lane, Los
Altos Hills , had telephoned the office to express their support
for the acquisition.
Motion: H. Turner moved adoption of Resolution No. 76-28 , a
Resolution of the Board of Directors of the Midpenin-
sula Regional Park District Authorizing Exercise of
Option Agreement to Purchase Real Property, Authorizing
Officer to Execute Certificate of Acceptance of Grant
to District, and Authorizing General Manager to Execute
Any and All Other Documents Necessary or Appropriate
to Closing of the Transaction (North Foothills Open
Space Preserve Addition - Dahl Property) . N. Hanko
seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
Meeting 76-31 Page five
Motion: B. Green moved that the Board approve the Negative
Declaration for the Use and Management Plan as set
forth in report R-76-31 dated November 18, 1976 .
D. Wendin seconded the motion. The motion passed
unanimously.
Motion: E. Shelley moved that the Board adopt the recommen-
dations contained in the Use and Management Plan as
set forth in report R-76-31 dated November 18 , 1976 .
G. Seager seconded the motion. The motion passed
unanimously.
E. Jaynes advised that the District may become the owner of the
property within ten days .
N. Hanko said she was happy that the use and management plan in-
corporated many of the ideas expressed by the Board during the
February, 1976 Land Management Workshop.
In response to a question from G. Seager, J. Olson said that
4-H members had participated in the day camp held at Permanente
Creek Park this past summer. Although the District does hope
to establish a working farm on one of its sites , it may or may
not be feasible to involve the 4-H, since its members generally
provide daily care and feeding of animals, which could present
an access problem.
VII. NEW BUSINESS WITH ACTION REQUESTED
A. Annual Review of Use and Management Plan for North Foothills
Open Space Preserve
H. Grench introduced his memorandum (M-76-175) dated November
18, 1976 , which recommends adoption by the Board of the recom-
mendations contained in the Annual Review of the Use and Manage-
ment Plan for North Foothills Open Space Preserve as set forth
in the Land Manager's report (R-76-32) dated November 17 , 1976 .
J. Olson advised that the Board had adopted a Use and Management
Plan for the North Foothills Open Space Preserve on January 28 ,
1976 . The annual review for that plan is being presented at
this time so that future reviews of all the sites included in
the North Foothills Open Space Preserve will be considered at
the same time. He said that not all of the recommendations
approved by the Board in January have been accomplished due to
budget and other site priorities. A site brochure for the Pre-
serve is being developed and should be available for distribu-
tion within six months.
J. Olson made the following recommendations for the North Foot-
hills Open Space Preserve for 1977 : (1) that existing recom-
Meeting 76-31 Page six
mendations continue to apply to the site; (2) that the natural
amenities of the area be protected; (3) that staff continue to
work with the City of Palo Alto and Foothills Park on use and
management plans; (4) that the District cooperate with efforts
to establish regional trails in the area and maintain Page Mill
Road as a scenic route; (5) that the Preserve be allowed to
evolve in a natural succession; (6) that a long term vegetation
monitoring program be initiated; (7) that small signs be placed
on the site as appropriate; (8) that regular patrol be maintained
and (9) that a No Parking sign be installed at Turnout No. 4 for
safety reasons.
Motion: B. Green moved adoption of the use and management recom-
mendations for North Foothills Open Space Preserve as
set forth by the Land Manager in report R-76-32 , dated
November 17, 1976. D. Wendin seconded the motion.
Discussion: G. Seager asked about the possibility of
the District discussing with Palo Alto the appearance
of Page Mill Road, especially with regard to No Parking
signs. J. Olson replied that both the District staff
and the City of Palo Alto staff have had conversations
on this subject. N. Hanko said she felt it was appro-
priate that staff handle this particular matter. The
motion passed unanimously.
B. Master Plan Extension
(1) Progress Report. H. Grench introduced his memorandum
dated November 18 , 1976 (M-76-176) regarding the Progress
Report on the Extension of the Master Plan into the recently
annexed area, to be presented by Larz Anderson of William
Spangle and Associates, Inc. , consultants to the District.
L. Anderson referred to his memorandum dated November 18 , 1976 ,
which discusses the current status of work on the Master Plan
extension. He advised the Board that current land use plans
and other data have been received from cities within the
annexed area, and a memorandum summarizing the materials
received has been prepared as an informational item for the
Board. He noted that the text of the Master Plan has been
reviewed and revised by a Board Subcommittee and will be
considered by the full Board this evening. He said that
data concerning lands in the annexed area has been mapped,
and a set of 305 land units has been established based on
landscape provinces assigned to the area. Scores for each
of the land units have been assigned based on thirteen
weighted land use categories , and the scores have been pre-
pared for key-punching. The scores will be used with a
computer program to evaluate the suitability of each land
unit for a variety of open space uses.
Meeting 76-31 Page seven
L. Anderson advised that maps of various institutional and
public lands , streams and agency boundaries have been pre-
pared for the District by the firm of Aqua-Velop. These
maps are being checked for accuracy and completeness. He
said that major work which remains to be done includes run-
ning a computer program to calculate open space scores for
each land unit; reviewing the scores for validity and for
compatibility with scores for northwestern Santa Clara County;
and preparing the map and text of the Master Plan for publi-
cation. He mentioned that the revised map and text would
be folded differently, and the same print style would be used.
N. Hanko suggested the Board could meet in the annexed area
when the scores are considered.
(2) Open Space Policies of San Mateo County and Cities Within
the MRPD. Ms. Martha Blair of William Spangle and Associates,
Inc. presented a memorandum dated November 5, 1976 regarding
a summary of the Open Space Policies of San Mateo County and
Cities Within the MRPD. She explained that the planning staffs
of the cities within the annexed area had been contacted re-
garding the open space policies of their jurisdictions. Copies
of the most recently adopted and proposed general plans and
open space elements were obtained, and meetings were held
with some planners. The information received was assembled
onto maps to provide an overview of existing and proposed open
space areas in the District and to identify potential inter-
jurisdictional conflicts. Sphere of Influence boundaries were
obtained from San Mateo County LAFCO and mapped. A draft of
M. Blair' s memorandum was sent to the planning staffs of
the above mentioned cities and San Mateo County for comment.
M. Blair said all the planning staffs were very helpful and
courteous. She noted that Redwood C ty did not feel it would
be appropriate to respond at this time. The Atherton Town
Manager pointed out that his Town schools have park areas.
San Mateo County staff suggested the "General Open Space"
category referred to on page six of the memorandum might more
accurately be named "Lands Within Resource Management. "
In response to a question from K. Duffy, M. Blair said the
working maps would be available to MRPD Board and staff if
they wanted to review them.
(3) Review of Draft Revised Text. D. Wendin introduced a
memorandum (M-76-174) dated November 18, 1976 from himself,
G. Seager and H. Turner regarding the results of their Review
of the Draft Revised Text of the MRPD Master Plan. He said
most changes were of a non-policy nature and simply reflect
the inclusion of another county. He pointed out that one
change under "Open Space for Guiding Urban Form" had been
made in response to a suggestion by the Cupertino City Council.
He said staff and the consultants might make minor editorial
changes before printing.
Meeting 76-31 Page eight
The Board agreed to change the words "the County" to "its
county" in the tenth line of the replacement paragraph under
Open Space For Guiding Urban Form on page 4 of the draft
revised text.
D. Wendin pointed out that the definition of Urban Open Space
of Regional Significance had been altered and shortened as
set forth on page 8 of the draft revised text. He also
pointed out that a paragraph referring to the California
Coastal Zone Commission had been added to the State Agencies
category as shown on page 13a of the draft revised text.
Motion: D. Wendin moved that the Board of Directors adopt
the draft revised text for the MRPD Master Plan as
set forth in memorandum M-76-174 , dated November
18 , 1976 , and as amended by the Board at this meet-
ing, subject to minor editorial revisions by staff
and consultants. K. Duffy seconded the motion.
The motion passed unanimously.
The Board recessed at 9 : 38 P.M. and reconvened at 9 :50 P.M.
C. Application for Grant from National Endowment for the Arts
H. Grench introduced his memorandum (M-76-178) dated November
19 , 1976 , regarding a proposed District Application for a Grant
from the National Endowment for the Arts. He said he had become
acquainted with a representative from the NEA while attending
the National Park and Recreation Society Conference in Boston
this fall , and learned of a grant program applicable to the MRPD.
C. Harrington introduced her memorandum (M-76-177) dated Novemb-
ber 18 , 1976 regarding the proposed Application for a Grant from
the National Endowment for the Arts. She advised that the Dis-
trict was eligible to apply for a grant in the Public Education
and Awareness category of the NEA Architecture and Environmental
Arts Program. The District would use funds to develop a compre-
hensive program to develop public awareness of the need to pre-
serve open space and of the aesthetic, spiritual , environmental
and recreational amenities open space provides . The program
would be coordinated by the District, which would work closely
with other public agencies , private organizations and citizens.
Materials produced under the program would include brochures ,
films and/or video presentations , and portable displays, which
would be used by environmental education groups , schools, park
and recreation departments, private organizations and the District.
C. Harrington advised that one requirement for application for
NEA funds is that the public agency provide matching funds.
She said the District could expect to provide $25 ,000 for the
Public Communications and the Governmental Liaison Programs
in the 1977-78 budget, which is the same amount provided in
Meeting 76-31 Page nine
the 1976-77 budget. She recommended that the Board authorize
application by the District for a grant from the National Endow-
ment for the Arts under the Public Education and Awareness cate-
gory.
In response to a question from E. Shelley, H. Grench advised that
no additional staff person would be need to implement the pro-
gram, but additional consulting services would probably be used.
D. Wendin said he supported the application -for production of
materials, but he wanted it to be clear that the Board must still
decide on the degree of implementation the District wants to pursue.
Motion: B. Green moved that the District apply for a grant from
the National Endowment for the Arts under the Public
Education and Awareness category. H. Turner seconded
the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
VIII. NEW BUSINESS WITH NO ACTION REQUESTED
A. Artifacts on the Picchetti Property
N. Hanko said if this was not an emergency item, the Board should
place it on a meeting agenda if it wishes to take action.
H. Grench pointed out that staff had contacted Mr . Art Ogilvie
to see if any historical organizations were interested in the
preservation of historical artifacts on the Picchetti property.
Based on a number of conversations with A. Ogilvie and the
Picchettis, staff recommended that the District contribute up
to $4 ,000 toward the purchase of a representative sample of
historical artifacts , based on the assumption that local histor-
ical groups would contribute the remaining share of $3 ,000 .
The Board of Directors approved the $4 ,000 expenditure at its
November 10 , 1976 meeting. However, he said it now appeared
that there was a problem regarding funding of the $3 ,000.
A. Ogilvie stated that there may have been a misunderstand-
ing regarding the financial capabilities of the El Camino Trust
and the Friends of the Winemakers historical organizations . The
two organizations were interested in preventing the sale of the
artifacts at a public auction. He said an evaluation of the
artifacts placed their value at far above the $7 ,000 figure,
and there were a number of valuable redwood and oak vats related
to the winery operation. He said it appeared to him there were
three alternatives : (1) the District could pay the entire $7 ,000;
(2) the District could pay only $4 ,000 and purchase a portion
of the artifact list, with the expectation that the historical
groups would be able to raise the additional money; or (3) if
the District decides that no funds should be allocated, Mr.
Picchetti should be advised so that he could arrange for public
auction of the artifacts.
Meeting 76-31 Page ten
A. Ogilvie said the boards of the historical organizations will
not be meeting until January, and do not feel they can raise the
additional $3 ,000. He recommended that the District Board author-
ize the expenditure of $7 ,000 to purchase all the artifacts on the
list presented to them at the November 10 , 1976 meeting.
In response to a question from G. Seager, A. Ogilvie said that
any historical artifacts bought by the historical organizations
would probably be removed from the site and exhibited.
E. Jaynes said the Picchettis are concerned with disposing of the
personal property. If no one is able to purchase them soon, they
may have to wait until spring for an auction.
G. Seager asked A. Ogilvie if the equipment would be most signi-
ficant in its present location and if the historical groups would
be able to contribute towards its purchase and/or maintenance at
a later date. A. Ogilvie replied that the equipment is most sig-
nificant in its present location, but that people he,,has consulted
have differing opinions about contributing to acquisition or main-
tenance, since they have other commitments to consider.
H. Grench said it was his judgment that an adequate representative
sampling of artifacts could be purchased for $4 ,000 , if the entire
collection was bought as a lot.
J. Olson advised that staff would probably store the artifacts
until a suitable display could be arranged, with proper patrol
and/or a resident caretaker.
K. Duffy said she favored purchasing all of the artifacts.
D. Wendin said the District ' s policy does not even address the
question of purchasing historical artifacts. He quoted the
second acquisition policy regarding preservation of historical
and archeological resources as set forth in the draft Master
Plan: "The availability of cooperation from other public agen-
cies or private institutions in meeting the costs of preserving
and operating historic structures and facilities will be an
important factor in considering acquisition. " He reminded the
Board that the District' s purpose is to acquire open space.
N. Hanko suggested the Board could either leave the issue as
it stands, arrange to view the artifacts, or place the item on
a future meeting agenda.
Motion: E. Shelley moved that the Board of Directors consider
the disposition of artifacts on the Picchetti property
as an emergency item because of the time factor. K.
Duffy seconded the motion. The motion passed unani-
mously.
Meeting 76-31 Page eleven
Motion: E. Shelley moved that the Board of Directors approve the
expenditure of up to $7 ,000 for the preservation of the
historic artifacts on the list presented to the Board
at its November 10 , 1976 meeting. K. Duffy seconded the
motion.
Discussion: In answer to a question from D. Wendin, J.
Olson said there would be nominal costs associated with
moving the artifacts into storage; establishing an
exhibit and maintaining it would cost more. He expressed
concern about where the money would come from, since the
land management budget is already allocated in other
ways. H. Grench said the money might ultimately come
from potential land acquisition funds and that the
Board should make the policy interpretation of amounts
to be spent on historic preservation.
Motion to Amend: D. Wendin moved to amend the motion to
state that the Board approve the expenditure of up to
$7 ,000 for the preservation of a representative sample
of the artifacts. H. Turner seconded the motion. The
amendment failed on the following vote: AYES - N. Hanko
and D. Wendin; NOES - K. Duffy, B. Green, E. Shelley,
G. Seager and H. Turner.
Discussion: Mrs. Dorothy Jennings said she felt the
District should purchase all the artifacts. In response
to a question from H. Turner, J. Olson said any unwanted
artifacts could be sold to an interested historical
organization or sold at a public auction. K. Duffy
added that they could be exchanged or given away. D.
Wendin called the question. The motion passed unani-
mously.
IX. INFORMATIONAL REPORTS
A. Detachment Reports
G. Seager advised that H. Turner, H. Grench and he had attended
the November 23 meeting of the Woodside Town Council at which
the Council unanimously agreed to send a letter to Santa Clara
County LAFCO expressing opposition to the proposed detachments .
D. Wendin advised that the Cupertino City Council took no action
on this subject, but the Los Altos City Council voted to oppose
the Los Altos Hills ' detachment petition specifically and also
voted to oppose the withdrawal of any city from the District
without a District-wide vote.
X. CLAIMS
Motion : E. Shelley moved approval of the revised claims (C-76-
21) dated November 24 , 1976. H. Turner seconded the
motion. The motion passed unanimously.
Meeting 76-31 Page twelve
D. Wendin suggested it might be appropriate to re-evaluate the
District's policies regarding reimbursement of Directors ' ex-
penses.
N. Hanko recommended that she appoint a Subcommittee to re-examine
the policy. She said she would present a report on the matter
at the next Board meeting.
XI. EXECUTIVE SESSION
The Board recessed to Executive Session at 10 :55 P.M. to discuss
land negotiations.
XII . ADJOURNMENT
The Board reconvened to adjourn at 12 :11 A.M.
Anne Cathcart Crosley
District Clerk
I
Meeting 76-32
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
Regular Meeting
Board of Directors
M I N U T E S
December 8, 1976 745 Distel Drive
Los Altos, CA
I . ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order at 7 : 35 P.M. by President Hanko.
Members Present: Katherine Duffy, Barbara Green, Nonette Hanko,
George Seager, Edward Shelley, Harry Turner and Daniel Wendin.
Personnel Present: Herbert Grench, Edward Jaynes, Jon Olson,
Anne Crosley, Carroll Harrington, Bradley Clifford, Stanley
Norton and John Melton.
II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. Minutes of November 24 , 1976
K. Duffy referred the Board to page four, second paragraph, line
eight, and suggested the phrase "box springs" be changed to read
"the boxing of springs . "
N. Hanko stated the consensus that the minutes of November 24 ,
1976 be approved with the above change.
III. WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
There were no written communications.
IV. ADOPTION OF AGENDA
N. Hanko stated the consensus that the agenda be adopted as pre-
sented.
V. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
There were no oral communications at this time.
i
A. Minutes of December 8, 1976
N. Hanko referred to page six, first paragraph, line six,
and pointed out that since the December 8, 1976 meeting
she had learned that there had been one letter in support
of a Los Altos Hills detachment election, sent to LAFCO
from a Los Altos Hills resident, and all the other letters
were in opposition.
N. Hanko stated the consensus that the minutes of December
8, 1976 be approved with the above addition.
Meeting 76-32 Page two
VI. NEW BUSINESS WITH ACTION REQUESTED
A. Plan to Borrow Money to Finance Land Acquisition
J. Melton introduced his memorandum (M-76-190) dated December
3, 1976 , regarding a proposed Plan to Borrow Money to Finance
Land Acquisition. He noted that the Board of Directors had
approved the purchase of property from Ina R. Dahl for $782 ,000
at its November 24 , 1976 meeting. Under the terms of the con-
tract, the District will make a down payment of $182 ,000 and
give a note secured by a deed of trust for the $600 ,000 balance,
r payable over five years at 5 3/4% interest, or the entire amount
of the note may be paid during 1977 at the District' s option.
He said he had been investigating the possibility of borrowing
up to $782 ,000 from various lending institutions, since the
District would not receive any potential federal grant toward
this project until the full amount was paid to Mrs. Dahl.
Should the District choose to pay the entire $600 ,000 during
1977, this would severely reduce the amount of cash available
for land acquisition opportunities, and therefore it might
be to the District' s advantage to borrow the money so its cash
resources remain adequate.
J. Melton explained that the Board members had three borrowing
alternatives, some of which depend upon requirements of lending
institutions next year, or upon the approval or denial of the
grant application. He summarized the contacts he had made
with various banks in the area. He introduced Mr. Gary W.
Kalbach, Vice President of Union Bank, 400 University Avenue,
Palo Alto, who had submitted a letter and proposed resolution
for Board consideration, confirming the availability of a loan
up to $782 ,000 to the District for a period of four years at
the rate of 5 1/2% . J. Melton stated that the Board had until
February 28, 1977 to take advantage of the loan opportunity as
set forth in the letter. He added that the District would
save approximately $5 ,000 by utilizing this alternative.
H. Grench said that he had recently had discussions with State
officials regarding the District' s grant application, and it
appeared doubtful that the District would be funded this year.
He said the District would not be able to use the gift portion
of the Dahl property as matching funds for another grant appli-
cation.
Mr. Kalbach advised that there would be no prepayment penalty
on the loan to the District.
J. Melton pointed out that unless the market situation changes ,
the District may not be able to get a loan at these terms next
year. He added that the District must have a specific purpose
for the use of any funds it borrows.
Meeting 76-32 Page three
In response to a question from E. Shelley, J. Melton advised
that if the Board takes no action this evening, the $182 ,000
down payment will be made from the District's treasury as
authorized in Resolution No. 76-28 which was approved on Novem-
ber 24 . He also stated that the terms and conditions agreed
upon for a loan from Union Bank were consistent with the Public
Resources Code, and that loan agreement is only valid when
approved and signed by 4/5 of the members of the Board.
Motion: N. Hanko moved that the Board of Directors acknowledge
acceptance of the terms and conditions set forth in
the December 8 , 1976 letter from Union Bank in the
event the Board chooses to borrow funds from that
institution prior to February 28 , 1977. B. Green
seconded the motion.
Discussion: In response to questions from D. Wendin
and S. Norton regarding inconsistencies of the letter
and the resolution, G. Kalbach said the letter could
be referred to in the loan agreement. He added, in
response to a question from G. Seager, that the inter-
est rate was fixed, and that the loan was related to
Union Bank 's municipal portfolio at this particular
time. H. Turner pointed out that the District would
also be expected to establish a relationship with the
bank, e.g. , maintain ,,a checking account there. He
observed that the District was not assured of loan
possibilities in the future. S . Norton said the
Board might not want to borrow at this time to pay
for the Dahl property if it is anticipated that
larger amounts may be needed next year. H. Turner
expressed his appreciation for the efforts of J.
Melton in investigating the availability of borrow-
ing power for the District. The motion passed
unanimously.
B. Annual Review of Use and Management Plan for Costanoan Way
Open Space Preserve
H. Grench introduced his memorandum (M-76-186) dated December
2 , 1976 , regarding the Annual Review of the Use and Management
Plan for the Costanoan Way Open Space Preserve. The memo referred
to the use and management plan adopted for the site by the Board
on November 26 , 1975 , and recommended that the Board approve
the annual review of the plan as set forth in the Land Manager' s
report (R-76-33) dated December 1, 1976.
J. Olson said Costanoan Way Open Space Preserve , a 2.1 acre
parcel of land located along Highway 9 , two miles west of the
City of Saratoga, is part of a scenic and recreational corri-
dor which links the urbanized area with the Skyline corridor.
The site supports dense shrubs and woodland communities which
Meeting 76-32 Page four
severely restrict recreational access. He advised that areas
of major debris on the property had been cleared, and the
District's rangers have patrolled the site approximately 150
times during the past year and have occasionally walked through
it. He recommended that all policy, improvement and manage-
ment recommendations incorporated in the Use and Management
Plan for Costanoan Way Open Space Preserve that were adopted
in 1976 be continued for 1977.
Motion: N. Hanko moved that the Board adopt the recommenda-
tions, contained in the Land Manager's report R-76-33
dated December 1 , 1976 , for the use and management
of Costanoan Way Open Space Preserve. H. Turner
seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
C. Agreement with Santa Clara Valley Water District for
Stevens Creek Bayland Area Planning
H. Grench introduced his memorandum (M-76-187) dated December
2 , 1976 , regarding a proposed Agreement with Santa Clara Valley
Water District for Stevens Creek Bayland Area Planning. The memo
recommended that the Board adopt the recommendations contained
in the Land Manager's report (R-76-34) dated December 1, 1976 ,
and approve the participation of the District in the joint
study with a commitment of $2 ,500 for the District' s share of
expenses if the other agencies also decide to participate,
and authorize the General Manager to execute the agreement on
behalf of the District.
J. Olson pointed out that the budget adopted for the 1976-77
fiscal year includes funds for participation by the District
in a joint study with the Santa Clara Valley Water District
and the City of Mountain View reqardinq the environmental
protection, flood control and recreational potential of a por-
tion of Stevens Creek. The District's area of interest is limited
to a 2 1/2 mile stretch from the point where the Creek enters
the Bay, past the 54 acre baylands parcel which the District is
interested in acquiring and up to the Bayshore Freeway. The Plan-
ning Collaborative of San Francisco has been chosen to make the
study at an approximate cost of $38 ,000 , of which the Dis-
trict' s share would be $2 ,500 . For the District, the subjects
to be studied are (1) incorporation of recreational trails for
hikers , bicyclists and equestrians on the levees adjacent to
the right-of-way and coordinating them with trails of the
City of Mountain View and Santa Clara County; (2) providing
staging area access to the trail system and the 54 acre par-
cel; and (3) ensuring that the environmental design of the
levees and and other construction is consistent with maintain-
ing a wildlife habitat and the aesthetics of the area. He
said the study would be considered by the Mountain View City
Meeting 76-32 Page five
Council on December 11 and by the Santa Clara Valley Water
District on December 21. He recommended that the Board
approve participation of the District in the study, approve
the concept as outlined in his report and allocate $2 ,500
as the District' s share of the cost. He added that a minimum
of staff time would be involved in the study.
Motion: H. Turner moved approval of the recommendations con-
tained in the Land Manager's report R-76-34 dated
December 1, 1976 regarding participation by the
District in a joint study with the City of Mountain
View and the Santa Clara Valley Water District , and
that the General Manager be authorized to execute
the agreement on behalf of the District. G. Seager
seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
D. Appointment of a Subcommittee to Review Policy on Reim-
bursement of Directors ' Expenses
N. Hanko introduced her memorandum (M-76-188) dated December
2, 1976,, regarding Appointment of a Subcommittee to Review
Policy on Reimbursement of Directors ' Expenses . She suggested
that the addition of two Board members and questions raised
on the administration of the policies seemed to indicate the
need to review the policies. She recommended that a sub-
committee consisting of B. Green, G. Seager and herself be
appointed to review the policies and report to the Board by
February, 1977 on any proposed changes.
Motion: N. Hanko moved that a subcommittee composed of B.
Green, G. Seager and N. Hanko be appointed to review
current policies on reimbursement of directors '
expenses and report back to the Board in February,
1977. B. Green seconded the motion.
Discussion: D. Wendin said he would vote against
the motion because he did not feel the policies
should be reviewed with the intention of revising
them. The motion passed on the following vote:
AYES - B. Green, K. Duffy, N. Hanko, G. Seager, E.
Shelley and H. Turner; NOES - D. Wendin.
E. Possible Rescheduling or Cancellation of Second Meeting
in December
H. Grench referred the Board to his memorandum (M-76-189)
dated November 22 , 1976 , regarding the Possible Rescheduling
or Cancellation of the Second Meeting in December. He said
the only items which might be presented to the Board were
the Use and Management Plan for Black Mountain Open Space
Preserve and the acceptance of the 2. 1 acre former Claitor,
Inc. property.
Meeting 76-32 Page six
After discussion, the Board agreed that the second Regular
Meeting in December would be held on December 22 , 1976.
VII. INFORMATIONAL REPORTS
A. Detachment Report
N. Hanko advised that Santa Clara County LAFCO, at its December
1, 1976 meeting, rejected the application of Los Altos Hills
to detach from the District. She said about 300 people either
wrote letters or called LAFCO to oppose Los Altos Hills ' re-
quest, and five cities within the District opposed the request.
She said there were no communications received in support of
Los Altos Hills, even though all taxpayers of that area had
been notified. She added that LAFCO also rejected the request
of the cities of Atherton, Redwood City and San Carlos to
transfer jurisdiction to San Mateo County LAFCO. Six cities
within the District opposed the request. She said LAFCO has
scheduled a February 2 , 1977 hearing to consider an application
from the three cities to detach from the District. The cities
must publish notice of the hearing, but were granted a waiver
of notice exempting LAFCO from mailing individual notices to
affected residents.
In response to questions from D. Wendin, S. Norton advised
that LAFCO would be considering the question of whether or
not the three cities may detach; in the event the answer is
affirmative, additional questions which would be addressed
might include (1) should there be an election, (2) where would
the election be held, (3) is modification of the boundaries
required, and if so, (4) should additional public hearings be
held.
D. Wendin said he wished the minutes to reflect that John S.
Crosley had recently passed the bar of the State of California.
VIII. CLAIMS
Motion: E. Shelley moved approval of the revised claims (C-
76-22) dated December 8 , 1976 as presented. D. Wendin
seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
IX. EXECUTIVE SESSION
The Board recessed to Executive Session at 8 :55 P.M. to discuss
land negotiations.
X. ADJOURNMENT
The Board reconvened to adjourn at 10 :57 P.M.
Anne Cathcart Crosley
District Clerk