HomeMy Public PortalAbout19751022 - Agendas Packet - Board of Directors (BOD) - 75-23 Meeting 75-23
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MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
Regular Meeting
Board of Directors
A G E N D A
October 22 , 1975 7 :30 P.M.
Midpeninsula Regional Park District
745 Distel Drive
Los Altos, CA
(7 :30) ROLL CALL
APPROVAL OF MINUTES - October 8 , 1975
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
WRITTEN C014MUNICATIONS
OLD BUSINESS NOT REQUIRING ACTION
(7 :45) 1. Master Plan of the Midpeninsula Regional Park District
L. Anderson
NEW BUSINESS NOT REQUIRING ACTION
(9 :00) 2 . Site Naming Policies - K. Duffy and D. Wendin
CLAIMS
(9 :30) EXECUTIVE SESSION Land Negotiations
ADJOURNMENT
Registrar of Voters Office
Department of Elections and Records
CountBerger Drive, P.O.Box 1147
y of Santa Clara 1555 B San Jose, California 95108
California
October 10, 1975
Board of Directors
Kid-Peninsula Regional Park District
745 Distel Drive
Los Altos, Ca. 94022
Members of the Board:
Enclosed for your information are copies of proposed new
sections of the Public Resources Code which we plan to
seek urgency legislation for in order to simplify the
Mid-Peninsula Regional Park District' s election procedures.
As indicated in the attached judtification, the present
procedures for the District mandate an election even
though no one or only one person is nominated. Other
jurisdictions do not have this requirement and may ap-
point the person nominated or any qualified person and
thus save considerable expense of conducting the election.
We hope your Board will support this effort and we invite
your comments on the subject.
Sincerely,
4S H. HARDER
Assistant Registrar
HMI:em
Enclosure
An Equal Opportunity Employer
Assembly Bill No.
Introduced by
1976
An act to add Sections 5532.1, 5532.2, 5532.3 and 5532.4 to the
Public Resources Code relating to election of directors.
The people of the State of California do enact as follows:
SECTION 1. Section 5532. 1 is added to the Public Resources Code,
to read:
5532.1. No more than 78 days nor less than 71 days
prior to the general district election the district
secretary shall publish a notice once in a newspaper
of general circulation published in the district or,
if no such newspaper is published in the district,
in a newspaper having general circulation in the
district published in any affected county in the
district, if any of the following conditions exist
at the time when the notice is submitted to such
newspaper for publication:
(a) only one person has been nominated for any
elective office to be filled at the general district
election.
(b) No person has been nominated for such office.
SECTION 2 . Section 5532. 2 is added to the Public Resources Code,
to read:
5532 . 2 . The notice required in Section 5532 .1 shall
state the following:
(a) That sucl� condition or conditions existed at
the time the notice was submitted to the newspaper
for publication;
(b) The elective offices for which there were no
nominees or an insufficient number of nominees at
the time the notice was submitted to the newspaper
for oublication; and
(c) That if
such condition or conditions relating
to such elective offices exist on the 60th day prior
to the day fixed for the general district election
and a petition signed by 5 percent of the voters in
the division, requesting that a general district
election be held for such offices has not been pre-
sented to the secretary of the district, appointment
will be made as prescribed by Section 5532.3 .
SECTION 3. Section 5532.3 is added to the Public Resources Code,
to read:
5532.3 . If, by 5 p.m. on the 60th day prior to the
day fixed for the general district election: only
one person has been nominated for any elective office
to be filled at that election; or no one has been
nominated for such office; and if a petition signed by
5 percent of the voters in the division, requesting
that the general district election be held has not
been presented to the governing body of the district,
the county clerk, upon receipt of the notice required
in Section 5532.4, shall submit a certificate of these
facts to the supervising authority and request that
the supervising authority, at a regular or special
meeting held prior to the last Monday before the last
Friday in November in which the election is held,
appoint to such office or offices the person or persons,
if any, who have been nominated. The supervising auth-
ority shall make such appointments. If no person has
been nominated for any office, the supervising author-
ity shall appoint any person to the office who is
qualified on the date when the election would have
been held. The person appointed shall qualify and take
office and serve exactly as if elected at a general dis-
trict election for such office.
Where a director must be appointed to represent a
division, all or most of which is not within the
county governed by the supervising authority, then
the board of supervisors of the county within which
all or most of that division is located shall be the
body to which request for appointment is made and
which shall make such appointment.
2
SECTION 4. Section 5532.4 is added to the Public Resources Code,
to read:
5532.4. On the 57th day prior to the day fixed for the
general district election the secretary shall deliver
to the county clerk a notice which shall contain the
title of each elective office of the district for which
a general district election is required to be held as
a result of a petition signed by 5 percent of the voters
in the division requesting an election be held for such
office having been presented to the governing body
-within the time provided for by Section 5532 .3. If no
such election is to be held, the notice shall contain
this fact.
3
•
Justification for revision of Public Resources Code
relating to insufficient nominees or no nominees for
a general district election.
Present laws which govern certain judicial elections,
School Governing Board Member elections and Uniform
District Elections allow for no election if there are
insufficient nominees or no nominees for elective
offices to be filled.
Public Resources Code sections do not provide for ap-
pointment in lieu of election in this situation and,
therefore, an election must be held if only one
individual is nominated to fill a vacancy.
An example is the Mid-Peninsula Regional Park District
of Santa Clara County. There are five wards for which
elections must be held with the General Elections.
The impact of having only one nominee for any of these
wards is to create a number of separate ballot styles.
and charge the district their prorated share of an
election which is, for the district, unnecessary since
appointment would conclude the matter.
The attached proposed sections are submitted in order
to bring the Public Resources Code on an equal basis
with other, similar, code sections.
M-75-151
(Meeting 75-23 ,
Agenda item No. 1)
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
MEMORANDUM
October 16 , 1975
TO: Board of Directors
FROM: H. Grench, General Manager
SUBJECT: Master Plan of the Midpeninsula Regional Park District
Introduction : A revised draft of the Master Plan of the Midpen-
insula Regional Park District was recently circulated to Board
members for review. Comments on the draft were considered by
the Master Plan Subcommittee (Directors Kay Duffy and Dan Wendin)
at a meeting held on October 15 , 1975. Attached to this memo-
randum is the reviewed draft of the Master Plan document.
Discussion: It is recommended that the Board approve the draft
of the Master Plan document after final changes made at this
meeting. Camera ready copy of the draft would then be prepared
for printing. The draft would be sent to governmental agencies,
private organizations, and members of the public for their
review and comment.
The Board may wish to hold one or more public hearings at a
later date before adoption of a final Master Plan document.
HG:acc
i
I
(front cover)
A
* 4'
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
00
�T
PIASTER PLAN
I. Open Space Acquisition Policies
II. Open Space Lands Evaluation
III. Implementation
k.
"a
y
October 1975
Comments, questions or suggestions
regarding this document should be submitted
to the Midpeninsula Regional Park District,
745 Distel Drive, Los Altos, CA 94022.
(inside front cover)
PAK DISTJaCT
a
as and i to . The iidpeninsula Regional Park District (MRPD) is
an independent, special-purpose district created by the voters in November
of 1972 for the purpose of preserving and acquiring open space lands in
the foothills, mountains, and baylands, outside the urbanized area.
Area Included: The MRPD encompasses the cities of Cupertino, Los Altos,
Los Altos Hills, Los Gatos, Monte Sereno, Mountain View, Palo Alto,
Saratoga, and Sunnyvale, and the unincorporated areas adjacent to these
cities, including Stanford university.
ove ink *: The District is governed, by a Board of Directors, consisting
of five aers, eadh of whom is elected from a separate ward within the District*
The Board has .regular meetings on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month at
7:30 pm in the District's office in Los Altos.
Powers: The MRPD is empowered, acting through its Board of
Directors, to spend its funds to acquire land, through pur-
chase or gift, for open space, park, and recreational purposes.
When necessary, the District has the power of eminent domain
to purchase lands for these purposes.
e District is also empowered to create and maintain recreational
facilities. In order to maximize the effectiveness of its open space
preservation efforts, however, it is the District's policy to allocate the
vast majority of its funds during the first years of the District's existence
to the acquisition of open space, rather than to the development and
maintanance of facilities.
The District does not have zoning or other regulatory powers with regard to
privately owned lands.
Finances: The District's primary source of revenue is a property tax of
per $100 assessed valuation of real and personal property within the
District. This, together with property tax relief payments from the State
of Californiad interest earned on District funds ds not yet committed to
land purchases or operating expenses, is expected tp provide approximately
$2,,000,000 in fiscal year 19' 5-7
The MRPD also seeks to supplement its regular revenues with state and federal
grants and donations from private individuals and organizations. To date, the
District has received 39351000 in grants and over $340,000 in gifts of land*
The District has the power to issue bonds , to borrow money,
and to enter into installment purchases.
Enabling Legislation: The MRPD was established and operates under provisions
of the Regional Park District Act, contained in Section 5500 and following
sections of the California Public Resources Code.
Lands Acquired: Although the District did not receive its first tax revenues
until December of 1973, it has already acquired almost 3,000 acres of open
space land, divided among seven sites within the District.
(inside title page)
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
WSTER PLAN
I. Open Space Acquisition Policies
II. Open Space Lands Evaluation
III. Implementation
'f/pf
PA
M q
A�
Approved by the Board of Directors as a draft to be
circulated for public review and comment on
1975.
Prepared by William Spangle & Associates, and the Board
of Directors and Staff of the Midpeninsula Regional Park
District, with the participation of the Santa Clara
County Planning Department.
Midpeninsula Regional Park District
745 Distel Drive
Los Altos, CA 94022
(415) 965-4717
1
1
(page opposite Table of Contents)
BOUNDARIES OF THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL PARK LISTRICT
PALO ALTO
District boundaries
.� Ward boundaries
MOUNTAIN
LOS
VIEW 3
ALTOS
HILLS SUNNYVALE
LOS Board of Directors
ALTOS
Ward 1 : Katherine Duffy
Ward 2: Daniel Wendin
' C ERTINO Ward 3: Barbara Green
Ward 4: Edward Shelley
Ward 5: Nonette Hanko
``- General Manager: Herbert Grench
SARATOGA
MONTE SERENO
LOS
GATOS
f TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
An Overview of the Master Plan • . . 1
The Functions of Open Space • . • • . 3
I. OPEN SPACE ACQUISITION POLICIES
Open Space for the PROTECTION OF NATURAL VEGETATION . 4
Open Space for the PROTECTION OF WILDLIFE 4
Open Space for OUTDOOR RECREATION . • . • 5
Open Space for GUIDING URBAN FORM . . • . . . . . • . • • • • • . • 8
Open Space for SCENIC PRESERVATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Open Space for the PRESERVATION OF UNDUE SITES . . . . . . . . . . 10
Open Space for the PROTECTION OF AGRICULTURE . . . . . . 11
Open Space for the PRODUCTION OF MINERALS . . • . . . . . • w . . w 11
Open Space for the PROTECTION OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY . . . . . 12
URBAN OPEN SPACE OF REGIONAL SIGNIFICANCE . . . . . . . . . 13
II. OPEN SPACE LANDS EVALUATION
Summary of Methodology . . . . . . . • . . • . w • • • . . . • . . 14
Study Area for the Open Space Lands Evaluation . . . . . . • . . • 16
Analysis of the "Open Space Lands Composite Evaluation Map" . . . . 17
III. IMPLEMENTATION
The Open Space Preservation Powers of the MRPD . • • . 18
The Open Space Preservation Powers of Other Agencies • 19
The Role of Private Organizations in Preserving Open Space 21
Factors Affecting MRPD Land Acquisition Decisions . . . . 22
i
I
a
i y
1
INTRODUCTION
An Overview of the Master Plan
Since its creation in November of 1972, the Midpeninsula Regional Park
District has been working primarily to acquire important open space lands.
It has also been working, however, to present to the public a clear and
detailed statement of the District's basic philosophy, policies, and
procedures.
One of the District's first efforts to achieve this latter objective was the
development of the District's "Basic Policy" (see brochure inside back cover) ,
which was adopted in March of 1974. The "Basic Policy" contains five basic
objectives to guide the MRPD in its efforts to preserve open space. Each of these
five objectives is accompanied by additional policy statements intended to
clarify and elaborate upon the objectives.
The District has adopted an "Action Plan" which sets forth the specific programs
and sub-programs the District intends to pursue to carry out each of the five
major objectives and their related basic policies. The Action Plan is
updated annually and is used as a guide for the preparation of the District's
annual budget.
Two of the District's objectives in its "Basic Policy" relate to acquisition
of open space lands by the District, and to working with other governmental
agencies and private organizations to preserve open space. The purpose of
the District's "Master Plan" is to aid the District in carrying out those
two objectives by providing guidance for the "Land Acquisition" and
"Governmental and Private Liaison" programs in the District's Action Plan.
(see diagram)
The Master Plan is organized into three major sections, whose purposes are
as follows:
I. Open Space Acquisition Policies
This section presents the policies which will help guide the
District in determining which open space lands to acquire.
II. Open Space Lands Evaluation
This will aid the District in identifying areas which have high
composite open space value, as well as those areas which have
high value for performing individual open space functions of
interest to the District. The ratings received in these evaluations
will be among a number of factors considered in the District's
land acquisition decisions.
III. Implementation
This section discusses the District's open space preservation powers
and identifies some of the factors which will enter into go the
District's land acquisition decisions. Also discussed are the open space
preservation powers and roles of other agencies and organizations whose
actions can help preserve open space within the District.
The technical appendices to the Master Plan have been published in a separate
report which is available from the District office.
RELATIONSHIP OF THE MASTER PLAN TO THE DISTRICT'S BASIC POLICY AND ACTION PLAN
See accompanying text for further explanation of the relationships
shown on this diagram. ((This diagram should he
re-typed in vertical
format so it can be read
without having to turn
the report.))
I
BASIC
OBJECTIVE #1 OBJECTIVE #2 OBJECTIVE #3 OBJECTIVE #4 OBJECTIVE #5
POLICIES The District will The District will The District will The District will The staff will
purchase or other- work with and follow a land educate and make administer the
wise acquire encourage private management policy clearly visible to affairs of the
interest in the and other public w that provides the public the District in
maximum amount of agencies to fines proper care of purposes and behalf of the
strategic open preserve, maintain open space land, actions of the public so as to
space land within and enhance open allowing public District, and will maximize
the District, space. access appropriate actively encourage accomplishment of
including baylands to the nature of public communication the goals of the
and foothills. the land and and involvement in District within
consistent with District activities. ex .sting financial
ecological values. constraints.
MASTER
PLAN MASTER PLAN
ACTION LAND AC(J)'ISITICN GOVLRNMINTAL AND OPEN SPACE PUBLIC GENERAL
PROGRAM PRIVATE LIAISON RESOURCE; .PROGRAM COM11UNICATI(,NS ADMINISTRATIciN
PLAN PROGRAM GROGRAM PROGRAM
N �
3.
The Functions of Open Space
"Open space" is generally defined as land or water arp-W'" `which remains
their natural state, 4r4 used for agriculty-- water area essentially
undeveloped, Not all open space areas . "" 41a d or ys otherwise
however; nor are they all neces Gnitwce same characteristics
tee
One way to difa„-�;c, rs1'" dew ° s $ ' 1 �... yeas is to
.
exa—; e" ;� g to, ie ace ar of -- .,.,e erf orm or have the
paw sta en sp r,ly y perform,
pc"Open natural tall °p 1 necessa functions include providing opportunities
fQ•j t1 �S eu- Igo they al. a t3 , NM providing scenic
0
un�eve rp nor are_.,.. "' for wi dliteo iding urban form and preventing
v
e
hhawe � . and prot+ectig than public from natural or manmade hazards.
both Us ' n Space Acquisitionpolicies" and the "Open Space Lance
Evaluation" included in this Master Plan are organized according to the
various beneficial functions performed by open space.
((f----gat for this section ?)) 4
I. OPEN SPACE ACgJISITION i-%;LICIES
The following open space acquisition policies will be a major consideration
in the District's land acquisition decisions. They define the role the District
will play in the preservation of open space and reflect the roles the District
believes other public agencies and private organizations should play.
I . OPEN SPACE FOR THE PROTECTION OF NATURAL VEGETATION
Much of the natural beauty of the remaining open spaces in
the District is due to the abundance, diversity and in some cases
uniqueness of the natural vegetation. This vegetation, from the
low growing pickleweed of the bayland marshes to the majestic
redwoods of the Santa Cruz mountains, provides the necessary
habitats for a great variety of wildlife. The vegetation is of
inestimable value in reducing soil erosion, decreasing runoff
and aiding water absorption in watershed areas, as well as
greatly improving air quality. The diversity of vegetation found
in the District' s marshes, grasslands, forests and chaparral also
provides outstanding educational and nature appreciation oppor-
tunities to the area' s residents.
The valuable vegetative resources of the District are threat-
ened in many ways, not only by the pressures of urbanization but
by logging, grading, land filling (particularly in the baylands) ,
certain intensive recreational activities and quarry operations.
The District believes that human activities which destroy
vegetation should be strictly regulated by the appropriate govern-
mental agencies. Rare or endangered plant species should be
protected by governmental agencies. Provisions must be made for
enforcement of these regulations, and for restoration of natural
vegetation whenever possible.
Acquisition Policies
1. THE DISTRICT WILL ACQUIRE, THROUGH PURCHASE AND DONATION,
LAND OR RIGHTS IN LAND FOR THE PROTECTION OF NATURAL
VEGETATION.
I
2. THE DISTRICT WILL ACQUIRE AND PRESERVE REPRESENTATIVE
EXAMPLES OF MAJOR VEGETATIVE COMMUNITIES.
II. OPEN SPACE FOR THE PROTECTION OF WILDLIFE
Each species of wildlife has its own intrinsic value and con-
tributes to the quality of life around us. This generation and
future generations must have the opportunity to observe and enjoy
the wild creatures which inhabit the nearby open spaces. The
opportunity to study this wildlife can add greatly to our knowledge
of the effects of human intrusion on the natural environment.
Human settlement of this area and the resulting conflicts with
nature have had harmful effects on the wildlife of the region.
Gone are the grizzlies, cats and condors that once roamed freely
5.
in this area. Several other species are presently threatened
with extinction by the continued intrusion of people on the open
spaces which provide the food, nesting and resting areas necessary
for wildlife survival . Although some species can adapt to this
urbanization, others can survive only if their habitats are
preserved in a natural state, largely undisturbed by people.
We are fortunate to have in the District a great variety of
natural areas which provide diverse habitats for numerous species
of wildlife. The marshes and saltponds provide a valuable feed-
ing and nesting area for a variety oJ: waterfowl , small mammals
and marine life. These baylands also lie along the Pacific Fly-
way and thus provide a sanctuary for waterfowl and migratory birds
which roam far beyond the borders of the District. The chaparral,
grasslands, forests and streams of this area each contribute to
the support of a great diversity of birds and animals.
The District believes that governmental agencies must take
appropriate action to protect wildlife in general, those species
unique to this area, and particularly those animals and birds
which are on the State or Federal lists of rare and endangered
species.
Acquisition Policies
1. THE DISTRICT WILL ACQUIRE, THROUGH PURCHASE AND DONATION,
LAND OR RIGHTS IN LAND FOR THE PROTECTION OF WILDLIFE.
2. THE DISTRICT WILL CONSIDER ACQUISITION AND ESTABLISHMENT
OF SPECIAL PRESERVATION AREAS IN ORDER TO PROTECT THE
HABITATS OF RARE OR ENDANGERED SPECIES FOUND IN THIS AREA.
III . OPEN SPACE FOR OUTDOOR RECREATION
A. LOW INTENSITY RECREATION
In this commercial and mechanized society, one of the most
rewarding experiences can be the escape from the noise and
pressures of an urban center to the peace and quiet of un-
spoiled open spaces. Here, where there is little development
and few people, an individual may rejuvenate body and spirit
with such activities as walking, horseback riding, picnicking
and kiteflying, or by simply observing and communing with
nature. Such recreational lands have even greater value when
they can be easily and quickly reached from home or work.
This accessibility will become increasingly important as the
fuel shortage becomes more acute.
6.
The District believes that open space necessary for low
intensity recreation must be preserved while it is still avail-
able. Such land must also be protected from concentrations
of human activity so that the natural setting is not substan-
tially disturbed. Low intensity recreation requires little
investment in buildings, utilities or other facilities, and
is frequently compatible with other open space uses.
Acquisition Policies
1. THE DISTRICT WILL ACQUIRE, THROUGH PURCHASE AND DONA-
TION, LAND OR RIGHTS IN LAND FOR LOW INTENSITY RECREA-
TION.
2. THE DISTRICT WILL COOPERATE WITH AND CONSIDER JOINT
VENTURES WITH APPROPRIATE AGENCIES IN ORDER TO PROVIDE
OPPORTUNITIES FOR LOW INTENSITY RECREATION.
B. INTENSIVE RECREATION
The District defines intensive recreation as recreation
in which there is a concentration of human activity in a limited
area. Such activity generally requires the construction of
facilities such as ballfields, swimming pools, playgrounds,
campgrounds and buildings. Although such recreational oppor-
tunities are essential in a well-rounded society, the District
believes that the provision of necessary facilities is mainly
the responsibility of school districts, cities, the County and
of private enterprise where appropriate.
Acquisition Policies
1. THE DISTRICT WILL CONSIDER ACQUIRING, THROUGH PURCHASE
AND DONATION, LAND OR RIGHTS IN LAND WHICH IS VALUED
FOR INTENSIVE RECREATION IF SUCH LAND ALSO HAS OTHER
SUBSTANTIAL OPEN SPACE VALUE.
2. THE DISTRICT WILL CONSIDER ENTERING INTO COOPERATIVE
PROGRAMS WHEREBY OTHER AGENCIES (PUBLIC AND PRIVATE)
WILL PROVIDE RECREATIONAL FACILITIES ON DISTRICT LAND,
IF OTHER SIGNIFICANT OPEN SPACE VALUES WILL BE PRO-
TECTED.
C. WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE
The District defines wilderness experience as a form of
recreation which is, basically, "communing with nature" in a
quiet, secluded natural area. Areas suitable for this exper-
ience should be free from the visual signs, sounds and smells
of civilization, and should provide a sense of isolation and
privacy.
8 .
IV. OPEN SPACE FOR GUIDING URBAN FORM
Uncontrolled urban sprawl and leapfrog development have been
destructive to agriculture, have made efficient local government
difficult and provision of urban services costly, and have aggra-
vated pollution and transportation problems. This destructive
and wasteful process of urban development must be controlled by
careful planning and proper land use regulations, and by the phased
extension of urban services. To this end the District encourages
and supports the efforts of the cities, the County and the Local
Agency Formation Commission to enact and enforce land use policies
and regulations to guide urban form and to confine urban develop-
ment within Urban Service Areas. The District believes that the
boundaries of these areas should be strictly limited to reflect
the anticipated five year growth plan which they are intended to
represent.
Along with the planning and regulation of development, perman-
ent open spaces on the urban fringe should be acquired to induce
compact development and to limit urban sprawl. It is this critical
i
open space which is particularly threatened by development that
is also most valuable for guiding urban form.
Acquisition Policy
1. THE DISTRICT WILL ACQUIRE, THROUGH PURCHASE AND DONATION,
LAND OR RIGHTS IN LAND FOR GUIDING URBAN FORM.
V. OPEN SPACE FOR SCENIC PRESERVATION
A. THE SCENIC BACKDROP
The slopes and ridges of the mountains which are visible
from the Santa Clara Valley floor are especially valuable
as a scenic resource. Bodies of water, including the Bay, the
reservoirs, and streamsides, are valuable elements of the
natural landscape and important scenic resources as well. The
scenic value of land and water areas can be greatly diminished
if urban development is allowed to encroach upon them.
Preservation of the scenic backdrop does not necessarily
require the acquisition of the property in fee simple, nor
does it require public access to the property. The public
interest is retained through less-than-fee acquisition, such
as scenic easements, or through use of the Williamson Act.
The District believes that all jurisdictions should enact
and enforce reasonable zoning and land use regulations so that
7.
There are a number of locations within the District that
are attractive and secluded, and are potentially excellent
locations for wilderness experience. These sites are not com-
patible with open space uses which involve substantial amounts
of human activity; they are, however, fully compatible with
such open space uses as wildlife and vegetation protection,
water production, the protection of the public from natural
hazards.
Acquisition Policy
1. THE DISTRICT WILL ACQUIRE, THROUGH PURCHASE AND DONA-
TION, LAND OR RIGHTS IN LAND TO PROVIDE FOR THE WILDER-
NESS EXPERIENCE.
D. TRAILS
In recent years the rediscovery by many people of the great
pleasures of walking, bicycling and horseback riding have made
these activities among the most rapidly growing forms of recrea-
tion in the United States. There is a great need for more
public trails and pathways to accommodate these growing forms
of transportation and recreation. The energy shortage also
adds to the desirability of more public trails both in and
near urban areas. Easy accessibility through trails will be
an increasingly important factor in the enjoyment of the open
spaces of the foothills and baylands.
. The District believes that all levels of government have a
role to play in the development of a comprehensive trail and
pathway system within the District. Various methods may be
used to establish trail rights-of-way, such as outright pur-
chase or acquisition of trail easements. The District intends
to take a lead in planning and to participate in the implementa-
tion of recreational trails of regional significance.
Acquisition Policies
1. THE DISTRICT WILL ACQUIRE, THROUGH PURCHASE AND DONATION,
LAND OR RIGHTS IN LAND FOR A REGIONAL TRAIL SYSTEM.
SUCH ACQUISITIONS WILL BE PRIMARILY CONCERNED WITH
TRAILS IN THE BAYLANDS AND FOOTHILLS OUTSIDE OF THE
URBANIZED AREAS.
2. THE DISTRICT WILL ENTER INTO COOPERATIVE PROGRAMS WITH
PUBLIC AGENCIES AND PRIVATE GROUPS IN ORDER TO PROVIDE
A TRAIL SYSTEM WHICH TIES TOGETHER THE URBAN AREAS WITH
THE MAJOR OPEN SPACE AND RECREATIONAL RESOURCES OF THE
REGION.
10.
VI . OPEN SPACE FOR THE PRESERVATION OF UNIQUE SITES
A. HISTORICAL AND ARCHEOLOGICAL RESOURCES
Substantial cultural and educational benefits can be de-
rived from preserving the historic and archeologic remnants
of our past. Within the District there are a number of identi-
fied points of historical or archeological significance, as
well as many sites of probable significance.
The District believes that local jurisdictions should
attempt to identify historical and archeological sites , and
implement ordinances and programs for their preservation and
restoration.
Acquisition Policies
1. THE DISTRICT WILL CONSIDER ACQUIRING, THROUGH PURCHASE
AND DONATION, LAND OR RIGHTS IN LAND WHICH IS VALUED
FOR THE PURPOSE OF PRESERVING UNIQUE HISTORICAL AND
ARCHEOLOGICAL FEATURES, IF SUCH LAND ALSO HAS OTHER
SUBSTANTIAL OPEN SPACE VALUE.
2. THE AVAILABILITY OF COOPERATION FROM OTHER PUBLIC
AGENCIES OR PRIVATE INSTITUTIONS IN MEETING THE COSTS
OF PRESERVING AND OPERATING HISTORIC STRUCTURES AND
FACILITIES WILL BE AN IMPORTANT FACTOR IN CONSIDERING
ACQUISITION.
B. GEOLOGICAL AND TOPOGRAPHICAL FEATURES
There are within the District a number of unique land forms,
outstanding view sites and areas of geological interest. For
example, in the San Andreas Rift Zone, which runs the length
of the District, there are some exceptional places to view the
results of earth movement along that fault. These and many
other unique features can provide an exceptional educational
or recreational experience. The District believes these sites
should be identified and preserved.
Acquisition Policy
1. THE DISTRICT WILL CONSIDER ACQUIRING, THROUGH PURCHASE
AND DONATION, LAND OR RIGHTS IN LAND WHICH IS VALUED
FOR THE PURPOSE OF PRESERVING UNIQUE GEOLOGICAL AND
TOPOGRAPHICAL FEATURES, IF SUCH LAND ALSO HAS OTHER
SUBSTANTIAL OPEN SPACE VALUE.
9 .
no intensive development of the hills surrounding the valley
will be permitted. Carefully regulated low density develop-
ment should be allowed only in a manner that will preserve the
integrity of the natural landscape.. Scenic ridgetops which
surround the valley should be preserved in their natural state.
Water bodies - including creeks, streams, lakes, marshes and
other wetlands - and areas adjacent to them should be pro-
tected for their value as scenic open space areas.
Acquisition Policy
1. THE DISTRICT WILL ACQUIRE, THROUGH PURCHASE AND DONA-
TION, LAND OR RIGHTS IN LAND FOR THE PRESERVATION OF
THE SCENIC BACKDROP.
B. VIEW FROM SCENIC ROADS AND HIGHWAYS
Within the District there are a large number of roads and
highways traversing scenic rural areas. Leisurely travel on
these roads can be a pleasurable recreational and open space
experience. Some of the views from these roads have been given
protection by scenic highway zoning; others are relatively un-
protected.
Preservation of the view from a scenic highway does not
necessarily require the acquisition of property, nor the right
of the public to enter onto the property viewed. Use of scenic
easements or Williamson Act agreements are also useful for this
purpose.
The District believes that all jurisdictions should protect
their key scenic corridors by zoning and by other restrictions
prohibiting roadside advertising and other development incom-
patible with the scenic quality of the roadside and landscape.
Acquisition Policies
1. THE DISTRICT WILL CONSIDER ACQUIRING LAND OR RIGHTS IN
LAND FOR THE PRESERVATION OF THE VIEW FROM SCENIC ROADS
AND HIGHWAYS, IF SUCH LAND ALSO HAS OTHER SUBSTANTIAL
OPEN SPACE VALUE OR IF SUCH LAND IS PARTICULARLY
THREATENED BY INAPPROPRIATE DEVELOPMENT.
2. THE DISTRICT WILL CONSIDER ACCEPTING GIFTS OF LAND OR
RIGHTS IN LAND IN ORDER TO PRESERVE THE VIEW FROM SCENIC
ROADS AND HIGHWAYS.
- 12.
Acquisition Policy
1. THE DISTRICT WILL CONSIDER ACQUIRING, THROUGH PURCHASE AND
DONATION, LAND OR RIGHTS IN LAND PRESENTLY USED FOR MINERAL
PRODUCTION IN ORDER ,TO PROTECT OTHER SUBSTANTIAL LONG TERM
OPEN SPACE VALUES.
IX. OPEN SPACE FOR THE PROTECTION OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY
A. AIR QUALITY
Because of the nature of the Santa Clara Valley air basin,
the area' s population and present means of transportation, air
pollution is a significant problem in the Valley. It causes
harm to human health, and damage to property, animal and plant
life, including agricultural crops. The greatest single con-
tributor to the frequently severe air pollution is the auto-
mobile. Containment of urban sprawl can help to limit the
problems of pollution by the automobile. The vegetation and
water surfaces of the open spaces of the District contribute
greatly to the cleansing of pollutants from the air and the
regeneration of oxygen.
B. WATER QUALITY
Water produced within the District is used for a variety
of purposes, such as domestic water supply, agricultural irri-
gation, groundwater rechrage, recreation, and water supply for
native vegetation and for wildlife. The quality of water
produced can be adversely affected by human activity on lands
within the watersheds.
C. GEOLOGIC HAZARDS
Certain areas within the District are subject to earthquake
fault rupture, landslides and tsunamis. While all of the
District land is subject to earthquakes, the degree of risk
to life and property varies significantly with location. For
example, slope, soil condition, proximity to earthquake faults
and underlying rock structure are important factors when
evaluating geologic hazards.
D. FIRE RISK
Most of the Santa Cruz Mountains is rated as extreme fire
hazard area due to poor access, slow response time for fire-
VII . OPEN SPACE FOR THE PROTECTION OF AGRICULTURE
Agricultural land including orchards, farms and grazing
lands - has traditionally been an important form of open space
in the District. In the past, this land has provided visual and
functional buffers between urbanized centers. However, as
sprawling urbanization proceeded, vast agricultural lands were
subdivided and developed. The prime agricultural soils of the
District have largely been covered by homes, industry and pave-
ment. Few economically viable agricultural enterprises remain.
The District believes that lands with value for agriculture
should be identified as potential agricultural preserves. Those
agencies having jurisdiction should discourage urbanization and
encourage retention of agricultural use. Urban services should
not be extended to such land. Use of the Williamson Act should
be encouraged and other means of permanently preserving agricul-
tural land should be investigated and implemented by appropriate
governmental agencies.
The District also believes that local jurisdictions should
preserve remnants of orchards and other agricultural lands within
urban areas as educational and historical reminders of the agri-
cultural heritage of the Santa Clara Valley.
Acquisition Policies
1. THE DISTRICT WILL CONSIDER ACQUIRING LAND OR RIGHTS IN
LAND WHICH IS USED FOR AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION IF SUCH
LAND ALSO HAS OTHER SUBSTANTIAL OPEN SPACE VALUE.
2. THE DISTRICT WILL CONSIDER ACCEPTING GIFTS OF LAND OR
RIGHTS IN LAND IN ORDER TO PRESERVE AND PROTECT AGRICUL-
TURAL PRODUCTION.
VIII. OPEN SPACE FOR THE PRODUCTION OF MINERALS
The evaporation ponds found in the baylands of the District are
the first stages in the harvesting of appreciable quantities of salt.
There are also mineral extraction sites, particularly gravel and
limestone quarries, in the foothill areas. While in some cases
these mineral recovery operations have served to preserve both land
and water open spaces, they have also damaged or substantilly al-
tered the natural environment.
The District believes all mineral recovery activities should
be carefully regulated by appropriate jurisdictions in order to
minimize damage to the environment and to insure that extraction
sites and salt ponds are ultimately returned to a more natural con-
dition.
fighting vehic lack of water, flammab' vegetative cover, 13.
steep slopes, �__imate conditions, and acc lated brush. It
is in the public interest to minimize the use of high fire
risk areas for human habitation.
E. FLOODING
Certain baylands and creeksides within the District are
subject from time to time to flooding. When urban development
occurs in these areas human life and property are endangered.
Flood hazard is aggravated by development, which reduces the
area available for absorption of rain water by the soil.
Summary
The District believes that land use planning and zoning poli-
cies should be implemented by local jurisdictions to limit, or
in some cases prohibit, development in areas which present a sig-
nificant risk to public health and safety.
Acquisition Policy
1. THE DISTRICT WILL CONSIDER ACQUIRING, THROUGH PURCHASE
AND DONATION, LAND OR RIGHTS IN LAND FOR THE PROTECTION
OF THE PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY, IF SUCH LAND ALSO HAS
OTHER SUBSTANTIAL OPEN SPACE VALUE.
X. URBAN OPEN SPACE OF REGIONAL SIGNIFICANCE
The Midpeninsula Regional Park District was established to
acquire open space lands in the foothills, mountains, and bay-
lands -- outside the urbanized area. The District believes
that the preservation of urban open space is basically the
responsibility of local jurisdictions.
There may arise, however, exceptional circumstances under
which the MRPD may consider possible acquisition of "urban
open space of regional significance. "
The District defines "urban open space of regional significance"
to be undeveloped or essentially undeveloped land within an urban-
ized area and having unique or unusual characteristics of suf-
ficient natural value and importance to transcend its relevance
to the immediate locality.
A number of different characteristics might contribute to desig-
nating such urban open space as regionally significant. The open
space might serve as a trail link connecting non-urban regional
open space, or have exceptional scenic or recreational value to
the entire region. Unique flora and fauna might require the open
space to preserve a vanishing species. Important geological or
archeological features and historically important trails , ethnic
locations, agricultural lands and the like whose preservation is
important to the entire region are all factors which could make
urban open space regionally significant.
Acquisition Policy
1. THE DISTRICT'S PRIMARY PURPOSE WILL CONTINUE TO BE THE
ACQUISITION OF NON-URBAN OPEN SPACE LANDS, ALTHOUGH IT
WILL CONSIDER ACQUIRING URBAN OPEN SPACE LANDS OR RIGHTS
IN SUCH LANDS IF THEY ARE OF REGIONAL SIGNIFICANCE.
14 .
II. OPEN SPACE LANDS EVALUATION
The Open Space Lands Evaluation was done in order to identify those areas
which have the greatest composite open space value, as well as those which have
the greatest value for individual open space functions. It is intended to aid
the District in making open space land acquisition decisions. It must be remembered
that the information provided by this evaluation is only one of a number of
considerations which will enter into such decisions.
Summary of Methodol2a
A detailed discussion of the methodology employed in this Open Space Lands
Evaluation is contained in the technical appendices to this Master Plan,which
were published as a separate report available from the District office. The
following is a brief summary of the basic steps involved.
Step 1 - Preparation of a list of open space functions to be considered.
The following list of open space functions was prepared:
Protection of natural vegetation
Protection of wildlife
Low intensity recreation
Intensive recreation
Wilderness experience
Guiding urban form
Scenic backdrop
View from scenic roads and highways
Agriculture
Mineral production
Water production
Water quality protection
Protection from flooding
Protection from geologic hazards
Step 2 Establishment of evaluation criteria:
Criteria were established for evaluating the suitability of open space
lands to perform each of the open space functions listed in Step 1.
Step 3-- Delineation of geographic "land units":
The baylands, foothills, and mountains in the District were divided into
approximately 400 individual geographic areas (designated as "land units") ,
within which the vegetation and topography is relatively homogeneous*
basic tykes
Twenty-five,,, y (e.g.
es of land units were identified
"grasslands", "conifer -.,vst level to moderate slope", "reservoirs",
"chaparral - steep slope", "orchards and vineyards", "bay waters and tidal
flats", etc.)
Step 4 - Application of evaluation criteria to individual "land units".
Using data from the Santa Clara County Planning Department, U.S� Geological
Survey, and other sources, the thirty evaluation criteria established in
Step 2 were applied to each of the land units delineated in Step 31 and
numerical scores were assigned based upon how well each land unit rated on
each of the criteria.
15.
(Summary of Methodology - continued)
Step 5 - Calculation of evaluation ratings for individual open space functions:
Scores were calculated to determine each of the land units' evaluation ratings
for each of the individual open space functions listed in Step 1. These
scores were used to produce maps which will aid the District in identifying
those areas which have the greatest value for each of these open space
functions. (These one-of-a-kind, hand-colored maps are available for
inspection at the District's office.)
Step 6 - Assignment of "weights" by the Board of Directors:
The District' s Board of Directors assigned numerical "weights"
to each of the open space functions listed in Step 1, based
upon the relative importance of each of these functions to the
District' s open space acquisition program. To assure consistency
between these weights and the District' s acquisition policies,
(see "Open Space Acquisition Policies" section of this document) ,
the policies were reviewed in conjunction with the assignment of
these weights. The following weights were assigned by the Board:
Protection of natural vegetation 15%
Protection of wildlife . . • 15%
Outdoor recreation • . • 20%
Low intensity recreation (10%)
Intensive recreation 5%)
Wilderness experience 5%)
Guiding urban form . • • . 25%
Seenie preservation • . • 20%
Scenic backdrop (15%)
View from scenic roads
and highways 5%)
Protection of agriculture • 5%
TOTAL 100%
Step 7 Calculation of composite open space evaluation ratings.
Composite open space evaluation ratings were calculated based upon both
the scores each land unit received for each open space function in Step 5
and the weights assigned to each open space function by the District's
Board of Directors in Step 6, The resulting scores were used to prepare
the "Open Space Lands Evaluation Map" (see map inserted inside back cover
of this report).
16 .
STUDY AREA FOR THE OPEN SPACE LANDS EVALUATION
LEGEND
.ter• Boundary of the MRPD
�1
Study area for the
open space lands
evaluation
w°
f�
Note: The purpose of the open space lands evaluation was to determine the
relative importance of various open space areas within the foothills, mountains,
and baylands of the District -- outside the urbanized area. The study area
includes some developed areas which were deleted from consideration when the
final evaluation ratings and map3 were prepared.
17.
Analysis of the "Open Brace Lands CoMRosite Evaluation Llag"
Analysis of the "Open Space Lands COMOSito Evaluation Map" (see map in
po*ket inside back cover) and the data used in its preparation indicates that
the following kinds of areas generally received the highest composite open
space evaluation ratings:
Gently rolling foothill lands near the urban area
Areas highly visible from the valley floor
Streamside areas
Prominent ridgetops
Lands with relatively level terrain
Lands adjacent to the Bay
It should be emphasized that the analysis above relates only to the
composite open space evaluation. as of great importance for certain
individual open space functions may not necessarily possess these same
characteristics. Some areas of great scenic importance, for example, may
be neither level nor readily accessible from the urban area, but may still
be appropriate lands for acquisition by the District. These other
individual open space functions and i . iw6i� the characteristics
associated with them will be considered in addition to the composite
evaluation ratings when the District makes land acquisition decisions.
18 .
III. IMPLEMENTATION
The preservation of open space is the principal objective of the
Midpeninsula Regional Park District. The District is not, however, the
only governmental agency with powers and responsibilities t6 protect open
space resources within the District's boundaries. There are, in fact,
other governmental agencies -- specifically the cities and the County
which have a broader range of open space preservation tools available to
them. This "Implementation" section describes the open space preservation powers
of the MRPD and of various other governmental agencies and private organizations
whose activities may affect open space within the District.
WVD
The MRPD has several means by which it can implement its "Basic
Policy" , "Master Plan" , and "Action Plan. " Its most effective
tool is the acquisition of open space lands. This may be accom-
plished either through purchase or gift of fee title or lesser
interests in open space lands. When purchasing fee title or
certain types of open space easements, the District has avail-
able to it the power of eminent domain. In accordance with its
"Basic Policy" , the District' s power of eminent domain will only
be used in those instances when all reasonable attempts at voluntary
negotiations fail and the lands involved are of central importance
to the District' s program.
In order to increase the effectiveness of its acquisition efforts, the
District can seek state and federal grants, issue bonds, and borrow money to
supplement its regular sources of funds. The District can also solicit private
gifts of land, open space easements, and money. Such gifts are tax deductable
for income tax purposes and in the case of open space easements can provide the
landowner with property tax relief as well.
The MRPD can also employ various other acquisition techniques which may be
mutually beneficial to both the District and the landowner. These include
the use of installment purchases which spread payment over a period of
years, life estaten arrangements whereby the landowner may continue to
occupy the land for the remainder of his or her lifetime, and purchase-
leaseback or purchase-saleback agreements.
The District can participate in joint projects with other governmental
agencies to acquire, develop, or maintain open space lands. It can also
encourage these other agencies to use their open space preservation powers,
although there is no assurance that such efforts at persuasion will always
be successful.
The District does not have regulatory power over lands other than those it
owns. Consequently, it cannot adopt zoning ordinances or other such
regulations affecting privately-owned lands. The power to protect open
space by regulating land use is held primarily by the cities and the County.
f 19.
I
III. IMPLEMENTATION - continued
THE OPJX SPACE TI OF OTWW AMCISS
There are a number of other governmental agencies whose activities
can play an important role in the preservation of open space within
the boundaries of the Midpeninsula Regional Park District. It is
the District' s intention to encourage them to use their powers to
protect open space resources. The District will also seek oppor-
tunities to work cooperatively with these other agencies on open
i space projects of mutual benefit. `(
I
The Cities and the County
The units of government which have the greatest ability to protect open
space within the MRPD are the nine cities and the County. They are the
governments which make the most important decisions regarding land use
and which have the largest array of open space preservation tools ■
available to them.
' Each of the cities and the County possess essentially the same open space
acquisition powers as the MRPD. But in addition, they have certain powers
the MRPD does not have, including the power to regulate land use, to control
the urban development process, to provide econoxiol'incentives through the
Williamson Act to landowners who kAMP their + s is s, and
to require developers to dedicatee easements or lands as a
condition for approval of their U i*4 , r . osa a.
Thus, the success of open space preservation efforts within the
District will be very much dependent upon whether the cities and
the County make effective use of the powers they have available
to them. The District will encourage them to use their open space
preservation powers, and will seek opportunities to undertake
mutually beneficial cooperative projects and programs with them.
i
The Local Agency Formation Commission
The Santa Clara County Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) has the
power, among other things, to review all proposed annexations to cities or
special districts. One of its primary functions is to prevent urban sprawl.
To accomplish this task, LAFCO requires each of the cities to submit for
approval an urban service area boundary that delineates the area within
which urban development is necessary and appropriate over the next five
years. This is intended to prevent the type of leapfrog urban development
which has historically resulted in the loss of open space within Santa
Clara County.
The Midpeninsula Regional Park District will encourage efforts by LAFCO to
use its powers regarding urban service area boundaries and annexations to
prevent further urban sprawl.
i
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20.
III. IMPLEMENTATION - continued
II
Other Special Districts
The Santa Clara Valley Water District is a special purpose district
responsible for flood control and the provision of an adequate water supply
within Santa Clara County. Because of its projects involving streamsides,
reservoirs, and the baylands, its activities can have significant impacts
on open space resources and concerns. The MRPD, will work cooperatively with
the Valley Water District and other agencies on projects involving the
protection of water related open space resources and the provision of
hiking trails as part of a regional trail system.
The Black Mountain Resource Conservation District, together with the
U.S. Soil Conservation Service from which it receives assistance, are
available to provide technical aid relating to open space resource manapement.
Regional Agencies
The San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC)
is an important regional agency with regulatory jurisdiction affecting
the open space resources of the baylands. Specifically, BCDC has permit
jurisdiction over filling and dredging in San Francisco Bay, substantial
developments within a 100-foot wide strip inland from the Bay shoreline,
and any proposed filling of salt ponds or managed wetlands.
The Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) is a v6luntary organization
of cities and counties in the Bay Area. It is responsible for the preparation
of a regional land use plan, including a regional open space plan. It has
very limited power with regard to the implementation of these plans however*
It is primarily important to the MRPD because it is the designated regional
clearinghouse responsible for reviewing applications for state and federal
grants, including grants for open space land acquisition.
State Agencies
With few exceptions, state agencies are important to the District primarily
as sources of information and technical advice. Exceptions include agencies
with operations involving state-owned lands. The Division of State Lands of
the State Lands Commission has responsibilit* for the lease, sale, or
disposal of 'state-owned lands in tide and submerged lands. VW
The Department of Parks and Recreation and the Wildlife Conser-
vation Board administers programs providing funds for local
parks and open space projects.
21.
III. IMPLEMENTATION - continued
State Agencies - continued
The Department of Parks and Recreation administers Castle Rock k1wak State
Park, which adjoins the boundary of the Midpeninsula Regional Park District.
It also shares administration of Loghry State Forest, which is partially
within the MRPD, with the State Division of Forestry. The Department of
Parks and Recreation has announced its intention to support a trail
construction and maintenance program which has a potential for providing
considerable benefit to residents in the midpeninsula area.
Federal Agencies
The federal agency with the greatest current impact on open space
preservation in the South Bay is the U.S. Department of the Interior's Fish
and Wildlife Service which is responsible for planning, acquisitions and
management of the San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Portions of the
refuge are adjacent to the boundaries of the Midpeninsula Regional Park District.
The Department of the Interior is also important to the District because
of its federal Land and Water Conservation fund program which provides
grants for open space acquisition.
TRZ ROU OF M OR IN UNIYATIONS PRXSWVING OPO SPACS
Private individuals and organizations ;an play a variety of important roles
in preserving open space within the District. They can, for example, urge
their city and County governments to use their powers to protect open space
and oppose public and private projects which would adversely affect open space
resources.
They can also aid the MRPD by soliciting gifts of land or donations of
funds to the District. The District's Board of Directors has endorsed the
concept of the formation of a "Friends of the MRPD" foundation to serve as
an independent organization to receive gifts of land and other assets for
the District.
Some private organizations, such as the Sempervirens Fund, the Nature
Conservancy, and the Trust for Public Lands acquire open space lands with
private funds for subsequent re-sale, or AmombOW transfer to public agencies.
Private landowners can also play important roles in open space
preservation, particularly owners of large landholdings, major
portions of which have been devoted to open space uses. Within
the MRPD, these major landowners include Stanford University,
the San Jose Water Works Company, Kaiser-Permanente, and the
Archdiocese of San Francisco. Use of Williamson Act contracts
and open space easement agreements are means by which landowners
can mitigate the economic burden of maintaining their lands in
open space uses.
22.
FACTORS AFFECTING MRPD LAND ACQUISITION DECISIONS
There are a number of factors which enter into the land acqui-
sition decisions of the MRPD, including the following:
The "Basic Policy" and "Open Space Acquisition Policies"
of the District
Amount of public support for or opposition to the acquisition
Composite open space importance of the area involved
Importance of the area in performing individual open space
functions
Costs of acquisition, with special attention given to
gifts, bargain sales, installment sales, and sales of
open space easements
Net costs of maintenance, including potential revenue
from agricultural and other uses
Degree of threat of loss to development
Location of the area involved relative to other publicly-
owned open space lands, including those of the MRPD
Initiative or willingness of the owner(s) to negotiate
acquisition terms
Prospects for preservation actions by other agencies
Opportunities for joint actions with other agencies
The relative importance of each of these considerations may
vary from one decision to the next.
TENTATIVE LAYOUT FOR THE "OP' PACE LANDS COMPOSITE EVALUATIC' '1AP" September 26, 1975 DW
Not shown to scale or proportion
Midpeninsula Regional Park District
OPEN SPACE LANDS COMPOSITE EVALUATION MAP
About This Map
cD
i M
N
m
.' O
cr
y N
r N
Relative `D
Weights r,
Assigned
x
w
r'
Legend
Scale
1
I
ABOUT THIS MAP
This map was prepared as an element of the Midpeninsula Regional Park j
District's Master Plan Program. It is intended to aid the District in
evaluating the overall open space values of land and water areas within
the foothills, mountains, and baylands of the District.
The open space evaluation ratings on this map reflect scores assigned for
each of several individual open space functions, combined into a composite
rating in accordance with the relative importance assigned to each of
these functions by the District's Board of Directors (see "Relative Weights
Assigned" below). 1
This map is only one of a number of factors which will be considered
by the District' s Board of Directors as it makes decisions concern-
ing the acquisition of open space lands. A high rating on this
map does not necessarily mean that a particular area will be acquired
by the District; nor does a low rating necessarily mean that a
particular area will not be acquired. Some of the other consider-
ations include the amount of public support for the acquisition,
the cost of acquisition, degree of threat of loss to development,
importance for certain individual open space functions, location
relative to other publicly-owned open space lands, and potential
actions by other governmental agencies.
i
For additional information regarding this map, refer to the text of the
District's Master Flan report.
RrLATIVE WEIGHTS ASSIGNED
The composite evaluation ratings shown on this map were calculated using
the following weights assigned by the District's Board of Directors to
reflect the relative importance of these open space functions to the
District's land acquisition program:
PROTECTION OF NATURAL VEGETATION . . . . . . . 15%
PROTECTION OF WILDLIFE . . . . . . . . . . . 15%
OUTDOOR RECREATION . . . . . . . . . . . . 20%
Low intensity recreation ON)
Intensive recreation ( 5%)
Wilderness experience ( 5%)
GUIDING URBAN FORM . . . . . . . . . . . . 25%
SCENIC PRES RVATION . . . . . . . . . . . . 20%
Scenic backdrop (15%)
View from scenic roads
and highways ( 5%)
PROTECTION OF AGRICULTURE . . . . . . . . . . 5%
TOTAL 100%
I
LMOD
Boundary of the Midpeninsula Regional Park District
(Solid Existing urban development and other developed areas
no MINIM Urban service area boundaries of the cities
Open space preserves of the Midpeninsula Regional Park District `
City and County parks
Santa Clara County and major city parks
City parks within the urban area
Lands under Williamson Act contracts
Institutionally-owned lands
I
Composite ratings
Highest
' Lowest
SCALE
1" = 5,000' _ .95 mile
0 1 2 3 miles
1 ,000 acres N
500 acres
M100 Ig7s
i
°
�' --� �—== r-----= a —ism!— s c e s �eee■- eggs e 3 ".:., .�.�.Di s f r,r
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M-75-152
(Meeting 75-23 ,
Agenda item No. 2)
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
MEMORANDUM
October 16 , 1975
TO: Board of Directors
FROM: K. Duffy and D. Wendin
SUBJECT: Site Naming Policies
Introduction: At its May 14 , 1975 meeting, the Board of
Directors appointed a Subcommittee consisting of Directors
Kay Duffy and Dan Wendin to study site naming policies and
return to the Board with a recommendation on policies for
the District. The Subcommittee recently met with the General
Manager to review the site naming policies of other agencies
and to discuss appropriate policies for the District.
Discussion: The District would have responsibility for determin-
ing names of three types of open space areas - Open Space Preserves ,
Units, and Trails , Use Areas and Topographical Features. Listed
below are definitions of these open space areas and both the
recommended and non-recommended naming policies for each.
A. Open Space Preserve. This designation is applied in gen-
eral to acquisitions of the District. The name applied
to each Open Space Preserve should be general enough to
remain suitable if the site is enlarged, but specific
enough to give its location some significance.
(1) Recommended names :
(a) Geographical features of broad, general significance.
(b) Historical persons, uses or events broadly associ-
ated with the area.
(2) Non-recommended names :
(a) Living or recently deceased individuals .
(b) Designations which are too general.
B. Unit. This designation is given to a significant geographi-
cal subdivision or management area of a larger Open Space
Preserve. The name of a Unit could have a more limited
association and, where appropriate, could be applied to
additions to an Open Space Preserve.
M-75-152 Page two
(1) Recommended names:
(a) Geographical features which are more limited and
specify the Unit more precisely.
(b) Historical persons, owners, uses and events
associated with the area.
(c) Donor or donor designated. Substantial land
donations may be named by the donor.
(2) Non-recommended names :
(a) Living or recently deceased individuals.
C. Trails , Use Areas and Topographical Features. This desig-
nation refers to specific locations, land formations and trails.
(1) Recommended names:
(a) Geographical features.
(b) Historical persons, uses, owners and events
associated with the location.
(c) Donor or donor designated - to indicate District
appreciation for significant land, easement or
cash donations.
(d) Honorary or memorial - to honor specific individuals
or groups.
(2) Non-recommended names:
(a) Present or former Board or staff members of the
District, living or deceased.
In all cases the Board of Directors would make the final deci-
sion on appropriate names for Open Space Preserves , Units ,
Trails, and other use areas. For example, the official adop-
tion of the name of an Open Space Preserve could be made at
the time the interim use and management recommendation for
the site is made to the Board.
KD-DW:acc
r
C--75--20
October 22 , 1975
Meeting 75-23
14IDPENINSULA REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
C L A I M S
Amount Name Description
1370 $442,000. 00 Vestern Title Insurance Doan payment '- El Sereno
Company Open Space Preserve
•1371 500. 00 Floyd Clevenger Appraisal service .
1372 58 .25 Peninsula Blueprint Maps
Service - I
1373 323.10 Pacific Hardware & Field tools & supplies j
Steel Co.
1374 2.50 F.andy Brodersen CEQA report
1375. 539. 08 Xerox Corporation Duplicating
1376 31.80 Pitney Bowes Postage meter rental
1377 650 . 00 Ehrhardt Real Estate Relocation services
Services I
I' 1378 96.78 Petty Cash Dist. vehicle exp. $14.30
Ideal conferences 81 .42
Office supplies 1.06
1388 20. 00 San 'Jcise State Workshop fee
University Foundation
1389 20 . 00 American Right of Way Seminar registration fee
1390 53. 55 E. Jaynes Mileage-
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