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HomeMy Public PortalAbout19980325 - Agendas Packet - Board of Directors (BOD) - 98-07 i i Regionai Open 8, ce MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT Meeting 98-07 REGULAR AND SPECIAL. MEETINGS BOARD OF DIRECTORS AGENDA* 6:30 P.M. 330 Distel Circle Wednesday Los Altos, California March 25, 1998 *** PLEASE NOTE*** 6:30 P.M. Closed Session Start Time 7:30 P.M. Regular Meeting Start 77me (6:30) ROLL CALL SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS CLOSED SESSION The Closed Session will begin at 6:30 P.M. At 7:30 P.M., the Board will adjourn the Special Meeting Closed Session to the conclusion of the Regular Meeting, and at the conclusion of the Regular Meeting, the Board may reconvene the Special Meeting Closed Session. 1. Conference with Legal Counsel - Pending Litigation - Government Code Section 54956.9(a) A. Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District v. Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir, Inc. et al. San Mateo County Case No. 404182 (7:30) REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS ** ORAL COMMUNICATIONS -- Public ADOPTION OF AGENDA *** ADOPTION OF CONSENT CALENDAR - B. Crowder *** WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS BOARD BUSINESS 3:30 Distel Circle - Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 . Phone: 650-691-1200 FAX:650-691-0485 - E-mail: mrosd@openspace.org . Wei)site:www.operispace.org Board oY Oire(tors.Pete Siernens,Mary C.Davey,Jed Cyr David 1.Smernoff,Nonette I ianko, Betsy Crowder,Kenneth C.Nitz ,General Manager.L.Craig Britton Meeting 98-07 Page 2 (7:45) 1. Acceptance of 1998-1999 Insurance Premiums for District's Property and General Liability, Umbrella Liability, Automobile, Fidelity Bond, and Public Entity Errors and Omissions Insurance Coverage -- D. Dolan (7:50) 2. Adoption of the 1998-1999 Action Plan for the Implementation of the Basic Policy of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District -- C. Britton (8:05) 3. Approval of Budget for Fiscal Year 1998-1999 a) Administration and Budget Committee Report -- J. Cyr b) Staff Report -- C. Britton Minor Organizational Changes for the Planning (8:20) 4. Approval of the Proposed o O g g g Program, Including Continuance of the Self-Directed Work Team, and an Acting Appointment to the Senior Planner Position and Authorization for the Filling of an Open Space Planner II Position in Lieu of a Currently Vacant Open Space Planner I Position -- C. Britton *** 5. Approval of Annual Claims List, Including Debt Service Payments, for 1998- 1999 Fiscal Year -- D. Dolan (8:30) INFORMATIONAL REPORTS -- Directors and Staff *** REVISED CLAIMS (Consent Item) ADJOURNMENT *NOTE: 77mes are estimated and items may appear earlier or later than listed. Agenda is subject to change of order. ** TO ADDRESS THE BOARD: The Chair will invite public comment on agenda items at the time each item is considered by the Board of Directors. You may address the Board concerning other matters during oral communications. Each speaker will ordinarily be limited to 3 minutes. Alternately, you may comment to the Board by a written communication, which the Board appreciates. ***All items on the consent calendar shall be approved without discussion by one motion. Board members, the General Manager, and members of the public may request that an item be removed from the Consent Calendar during consideration of the Consent Calendar. i F ris Church, 06:31 ed 3�/12/ oas si a expans on X-Sender: chris@mail .backdoor.com (Unverified) To: MROSD Board of Directors <mrosd@openspace.org> From: Chris Church <chris@backinsf.com> Subject :ub 'ect : Coastside expansion on P Date : Thu, 12 Mar 1998 18 :31 : 07 -0800 X-Rcpt-To: mrosdGopenspace.org Member of the Board, Please do not expand into the Coastside for the following reasons : 1 . We have a very heavy pay-as-you-go State Park presence . 2 . We expect GGNRA growth with no extra tax and it ' s useful for dogs . 3 . Your minimum $100 parcel tax is burdensome . I hope neighbors agree . 4 . Why pay for land where I can' t walk my dogs freely? Enough rangers . Chris Church Montara RESPONSE ACTION PROPOSED BY SYA P Board President AcknovledBe/Respond Director Acknovledbe/Respond Staff Acknowledge/Respond Draft Response Attached Staff to be Directed to Prepare Draft Response for Board Consideration par Board Directive(:) No Response Necessary rin a or Malcolm Smith <mros openspace.org> Regional Open )ace MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT DRAFT RESPONSE PREPARED BY STAFF FOR BOARD CONSIDERATION Mr. Chris Church E-mail: chris@backinsf.com Dear Mr. Church: Thank you for your March 12 electronic mail regarding the possible expansion of the District to include the San Mateo County-coast. The Board reviewed your correspondence at its regular meeting last night. Let me assure you that no decisions have been made regarding a potential expansion. Last spring, the District received resolutions from the Half Moon Day City Council, the Pescadero Municipal Advisory Council, and the MidCoast Community Council, as well as a letter and petition from the Coastal Alliance (a grassroots land preservation organization), asking that the District-formally begin an active exploration of coastal preservation in San Mateo County. The Board formed an Ad Hoc Committee to carry out this research. They will be examining the feasibility of such an expansion, as well as determining how the coastal residents. feel about this possibility. Two community information meetings have been scheduled on the coastside in order to get public input on this issue: Thursday, April 16, 1998 at the Pescadero School Multi- Purpose Room, 620 North Street, Pescadero, and Thursday, April 30, 1998 at the Ted Adcock Community/Senior Center, 535 Kelly Avenue, Half Moon Bay. You are invited and encouraged to attend and contribute to the discussions. I'd like to address your four specific comments. First, as you may know, the District manages 23 open space preserves which, unlike many State parks, do not have an entry fee. Second, the Golden Gate National Recreational Area is proposing to expand to include the City of Pacifica. However, that agency has no current plans for expanding further south on the coast. 330 Distel Circle • Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 • Phone:650-691-1200 FAX: 650-691-0485 • E-mail:mrosd@openspace.org • Web site:www.openspace.org Board of Directors:Pete Siemens,Mary C.Davey,Jed Cyr,David T.Smernoff,Nonette Hanko,Betsy Crowder,Kenneth C.Nitz •General Manager:L.Craig Britton March 26, 1998 Mr. Chris Church Page -2- Third, the District does not have a minimum $100 parcel tax. The District's property tax funding is based on the assessed value of a property. That tax rate is approximately 1.7- cents per $100 of assessed value. For example, an individual owning a property assessed with a value of$100,000 would pay $17 of their annual property tax for District activities. Finally, the District currently allows leashed dogs on eight of its preserves, including a 16-acre off- leash area at one preserve. If the District expands to the coastside, decisions on access for dogs would have to be made. Again, thank you for your correspondence, and your interest in regional open space. Sincerely, Betsy Crowder, President Board of Directors BC/mcs cc: MROSD Board of Directors ED MA / � March 9, 1998 MIDPENlo,)s ,, A RcGIONAL OPEN SPACE 0ISTAICT Board of Directors Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos , CA 94022 re: Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir f lands on Skyline Ridge. News reports indicate that you are considering "eminent domain" to obtain the referenced property at a meeting scheduled for March 18, 1998 . Why have you deviated from your regular schedule of meeting on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month? This is the third Wednesday, are you trying to divert attention from your actions? (Actions which some might deem despicable. ) Yes , there have been news articles noting the date of the public hearing , but who originated them? I hope it was your doing. I would appreciate your advising me why this change of meeting date. /�' I ##. I Harry H� Haeussler, Jr. 1094 Highlands Circle Los Altos, CA 94024-7-16 RESPONSE ACTION PROPOSED BY STAFF Board President Acknowledge/Respond Director Acknowledge/Respond Staff Acknowledge/Respond Draft Response Attached Staff to be Directed to Prepare Draft R u poosa for board Consideration per Board 0lreccLv (a) No Rasp.... Necessary r i Regional Open _,)ace t 1 MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT DRAFT RESPONSE PREPARED BY STAFF FOR BOARD CONSIDERATION Mr. Harry Heussler 1094 Highlands Circle Los Altos, CA 94024-7016 Dear Mr. Heussler: Thank you for your letter of March 9 regarding the scheduling of a special Board of Directors' meeting on March 18. The Board reviewed your letter last night at its regular meeting. While the Board's regular meetings occur on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month, staff deemed it necessary to schedule a special meeting on March 18 to consider the issue of the property owned by the Russian Orthodox Convent. Due to the controversial nature of the agenda and the probability of a great number of people in attendance, holding a special meeting with no other agenda items was determined to be in the best interest of addressing this issue. I, as Board president, set the meeting for March 18. District staff went to great lengths to publicize the date, time, and location of the special meeting, and our normal process of agenda notification was also implemented. The media reported these details a number of times. Again, thank you for your interest. Sincerely, Betsy Crowder President, Board of Directors BC:mcs cc: MROSD Board of Directors 330 Distel Circle • Los Altos,CA 94022-1404 • Phone:650-691-1200 FAX:650-691-0485 • E-mail:mrosd@openspace.org • Web site:www.openspace.org Board of Directors:Pete Siemens,Mary C.Davey,Jed Cyr,David T.Smernoff,Nonette Hanko,Betsy Crowder,Kenneth C.Nitz •General Manager:L.Craig Britton � s RED° March 7, 1998 MAR .10 1gg8 MIDPE'.k-" �;'- E!V — OP Lf1 SPgCE DiSTR�NAL Board of Directors, CT Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos , CA 94022 Last August I brought up the matter of pepper spray and mace use on your lands. On August 19, 1997, I requested a letter from you stating your policy regarding the carrying of mace and /or pepper spray for self defense on open space lands. To date , I have not received a reply. Please reply. In the same letter I said I felt it behooves you to broadly and continually publicize your position in regard to mace and pepper spray on your lands. To date I have seen no publicity on this matter . Have you established a policy on carrying mace and/or pepper spray on you open space lands? Are you planning any publicity on this matter? I would like a reply to the matter of mace and pepper spray publicity and use on open space lands . r HarrylH. Haeussler , Jr . 1094 Highlands Circle Los Altos , CA 94024-7016 encl . copy of August 19, 1997, letter . RESPONSE ACTION PROPOSED BY STAFF Board President Acknowledge/Respond Director Ackoowl.dge/Rae Pond Staff Acknowledge/Respond Draft Response Attached Staff to be Directed to Prepare Draft Response for Board Consideration par Board Direct iva(e) No Response Necessary R REC,E=_T- f '0 E D Harry H. Haeussler, Jr. MAR 10 1998 1094 Highlands Circle Los Altos, CA 94024 MID FPEN—INS-'__;L,'�A 19 E G 10 N A L S r OPEN DISTRICT August 19, 1997 Board of Directors, MROSD 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 44022 At your last meeting I bro!�ght up the subject of Mace and Pepper Spray being carried by those who felt protection necessary while in your preserves. I noted that your Land Use Regulations, Section 403. 1 prohibited air and gas weapons. John Escobar, Operations Manager stated that when the regulations were made up, only EB and pellet guns were considered as air and gas o2erated. He went on to state that Mace and Pepper sprays were not considered at that time. At this point, use of the microphones diminished and I was unable to hear exactly what Mr. Escobar stated as to the carrying of Mace and/or Pepper sprays for self protection. In any event, I would like a letter stating your policy re- garding the carrying of Mace and/or Pepper spray for self defense in or on open space lands under your control. Further, under present conditions, I feel it behooves you to broadly and continually publicize your position in regard to Mace and Pepper spray self defense items being carried on your open space lands. Harry H. Haeussler, Jr. Regional Open )ace MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT DRAFT RESPONSE PREPARED BY STAFF FOR BOARD CONSIDERATION Mr. Harry Haeussler 1094 Highlands Circle Los Altos, CA 94024 Dear Harry: Thank you for your March 7, 1998 letter regarding the use of pepper spray and mace on District lands. At our Regular Meeting last night, the District's Board of Directors reviewed your comments. In your letter, you mention that in August 1997, you sent a letter to the Board regarding the same topic, but did not receive a reply. The Board did answer your August 19, 1997 letter. A copy of the response, dated September 25, 1997, is enclosed. Although we do not promote public use of pepper spray or mace on District preserves, the possession of these items is permitted under state law. We appreciate your concern for the safety of preserve visitors. Sincerely, Betsy Crowder President, Board of Directors BC/crb cc: Board of Directors 330 Distel Circle • Los Altos,CA 94022-1404 • Phone:650-691-1200 FAX:650-691-0485 • E-mail:mrosd@openspace.org • Web site:www.openspace.org Board of Directors:Pete Siemens,Mary C.Davey,Jed Cyr,David T.Smernoff,Nonette Hanko,Betsy Crowder,Kenneth C.Nitz •General Manager:L.Craig Britton Regional Openopace t MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT September 25, 1997 Mr Harry H. Haeussler 1094 Highlands Circle Los Altos, Ca. 94024 Dear Mr. Haeussler, The District's Board of Directors considered your letter of August 9, 1997 regarding the carrying of mace and/or pepper spray on District preserves at their September 24, 1997 regular meeting. Attached is a copy of section 12402 of the Penal Code, which defines"Tear gas weapons," and section 12403.7 which covers the"Possession (of tear gas weapons)for purposes of self-defense." The intent of District ordinance 403.1 is to cover projectile weapons (firearms, slingshots, bows and arrows, etc.), which are specifically not covered under penal code section 12402, which defines tear gas weapons. Thus, there is no conflict between the penal code section permitting the possession of tear gas weapons, for self-defense, and the District's ordinances. It should be noted that there are strong penalties for the misuse of tear gas weapons and citizens should give consideration to these penalties prior to carrying and using these weapons. It is not the District's intent to promote the carrying or use of any weapons on District preserves. We appreciate the time you took to write us about this matter. We further appreciate your concern for the personal safety of District visitors. Sincerely, Q:� Mary C. Davey President of the Board MD/JE/gb 4�4�v jic.{cc.c Ulcllc ors X����� Celebrate 25 Years of Open Space Preservation 330 Distel Circle • Los Altos,CA 94022-1404 • Phone:650-691-1200 • 1972-1997• FAX:650-691-0485 • E-mail:mrosd®openspace.org • Web site:www.openspace-org Board of Directors:Pete Siemens,Mary C. Davey,Jed Cyr, David T.Smernoff,Nonette Hanko,Betsy Crowder,Kenneth C.Nitz • General Manager:L.C1aig Britton r_ RESPONSE ACTION PROPOSED Is STAR Board President Acknowledge/Respond Director Acknovledge/Respond Staff Acknowledge/Respond Draft Response Attached Staff to be Directed to Prepare Draft (� Response for Board Consideration per 3.5. Board Directives) No Response Necessary Dear Folks at MPOSD: I have been walking through the Peters Creek Watershed for over thirty five years. Yesterday, I went to visit the Ohlone Solstice Rocks at Long Ridge and was appalled by what I witnessed. Most of the meadows have been rooted through by the wild pigs and the place looks devastated. The roads and trails are rutted and eroding badly due to the damage done by the mountain bikers coupled with the heavy rains. "" There has been more erosion and bloscape destruction in the last year than has occurred in the previous one hundred years of cattle grazing. This is beautiful and hallowed ground and to see it being ruined by pigs and bikers is too much. Both of these elements need to be eliminated from the preserve if there is to be a reduction in the damage to meadows and the trails. I have written letters to you before about the need to keep a short rein on the bikers and the problem with the star and milk thistles In the va rious - s pre serves the e response from your office was pathetic and impotent. I see where authorization has finally been given to start controlled burning at Russian Ridge - only after thousands of dollars were spent on idiotic "studies" like goat grazing and mowing. Burning has been done in these lands for thousands of years and is the only way to keep the land rejuvenated. I suppose thousands more will be spent on how to control the pigs and biker desecrations going on before you people come to the inevitable conclusion that both have to be eliminated by force: the pigs must be shot and the bikers banned from the preserves like they are in the State Parks. Please people: GET A CLUE! This destruction to property that is under your jurisdiction needs immediate attention. Laisse-faire policies don't work; we need action to get these vermin gone, not studies done by some egghead from Stanford. The wild pigs breed almost as fast as rodents - they have large litters and I've seen one group up there with 12 adults and 17 weiners. They wallow in the springs; they compete with the deer for available food; and worst of all, they rototill the meadows and glens looking for tubers and fungus until the entire place looks like hell. The Fish and Game Dept. has authorized land owners to shoot pigs with no bag limit. The Open Space District should hire a professional hunter with a few dogs and start eliminating these pests. Otherwise, there will be further erosion and eyesore and probably lawsuits against you by people getting attacked and possibly killed by mauraudering boars. These are dangerous critters - believe me. I hope you will address these continuing problems immediately. The responsibility is all of ours but it is up to the board to implement a realistic solution to these critieW events affecting these lands. In other words, a wise stewardship which doesn't appear to be any In evidence right now. Sincerely, ,A? Matt Hill PO Box 305 Ben Lomond, Ca 95005 Regional Opei pace I W1111 ............... DRAFT RESPONSE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT PREPARED BY STAFF FOR BOARD CONSIDERATION Matt Hill P. O. Box 305 Ben Lomond, CA 95005 Dear Mr. Hill: Thank you for your letter of March 5, 1998 regarding mountain bike use and wild pig activity at Long Ridge Open Space Preserve. The District's Board of Directors reviewed your letter at its regular meeting last night. Over the last five years, the District has been observing the effects of mountain bike use at Long Ridge Open Space Preserve. In an effort to reduce or eliminate damage to these trails staff has enforced seasonal closures. Such closures only work when they are obeyed, and there have been violations of the closures. Mountain bike use District-wide will be addressed when we revisit our trail use policies this year. At that time we will be seeking public input. Your name has been added to that mailing fist and you will be notified when these meetings are scheduled. For the past nine years staff has recorded the wild pig activity at Long Ridge Open Space Preserve, with a remarkable increase being observed this year. A documented report will be completed at the end of March. Wild pig populations are moving into Long Ridge Open Space Preserve from the south and west. Staff is exploring various methods of control, including conducting a multi-year trapping effort to control pig populations. Other agencies in the East Bay have used this method, which has been shown to be far more effective than shooting the pigs. However, any control method takes a significant amount of funding and commitment and until there is regional effort, control of wild pig population is not an economical option for the District. Thank you for your concern about District lands. If you have any further questions regarding these natural resources, please feel free to contact Jodi Isaacs, the District's Resource Management Specialist. Sincerely, Betsy Crowder President, Board of Directors BC.ji:snd 330 Distel Circle * Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 * Phone:650-691-1200 FAX:650-691-0485 * E-mail:mrosd@openspace.org a Web site:www.openspace.org Board of Directors:Pete Siemens,Mary C. Davey,Jed Cyr,David T.Smernoff,Nonette Hanko,Betsy Crowder,Kenneth C.Nitz -General Manager:L.Craig Britton S. M MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT R-98-39 Meeting 98-07 March 25, 1998 AGENDA ITEM -1- AGENDA ITEM Acceptance of Insurance Coverage for 1998-1999 Fiscal ear w GENERAL MANAGER'S RECO Accept the property and general liability, auto, umbrella liability, fidelity bond, and public entity errors and omissions insurance bid totaling $175,764 from Flinn, Gray & Herterich Insurance Brokers based on the quotations shown on Exhibit 1 from Reliance, General Accident Insurance, Fireman's Fund Insurance, Chubb, and Stewart Smith West for the period of April 1, 1998 through March 31, 1999. DISCUSSION Flinn, Gray and Herterich of Palo Alto, the District's insurance broker, has submitted the attached bid package totaling $175,764. This total is $5,926 more than the District's 1997- 1998 insurance premiums that totaled $169,838 and overall represents a 3.5% increase. The coverage period is April 1, 1997 through March 31, 1998. The bid information is: 1. Property and General Liability: Reliance has bid $117,572, a 3.6% increase over the 1997-1998 premium of$113,480. 2. AILW: General Accident Insurance has bid $23,555, a 9.7% increase over the 1997- 1999 premium of$21,455. 3. Umbrella Liability: Fireman's Fund has quoted $14,950 for the District's $5 million- limit umbrella liability coverage. This compares to the 1996-1997 premium of $15,500, and represents a 3.5% decrease. 4. Fidelity Bond Coverage: Chubb's premium bid is $6,084, a 4.8% increase over the 19974998 premium of$5,800. 5. Public Entity Errors and Omissions Coverage: Stewart Smith West's premium bid is $13,603, the same amount as the 1997-1998 premium. Prepared by: Deirdre Dolan, Administrative Services Manager Contact person: Same as above 330 Distel Circle - Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 * Phone:650-691-1200 FAX: 650-091-0485 E-mail: mros(]@openspace.org - Web site:www.openspace.org Box-d of Directors:Pete Siemens,Mary C.Davey,Jed Cyr, David T.Smernoff, Nonette Hanko,Betsy Crowder,Kenneth C.Nitz - General Manager.L.Craig Britton EXHIBIT A INSURANCE COVERAGE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT 1998-1999 COVERAGE COMPANY BID QUOTATIO Package (Property and General Liability) Reliance $117,572 Auto General Accident $ 23,555 Umbrella Liability Fireman's Fund $ 14,950 Fidelity Bond Chubb $ 6,084 Public Entity Errors & Omissions Stewart Smith West $ 13,603 $175,764 Retyional Opene MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT R-98-37 Meeting 98-07 March 25 1998 AGENDA ITEM 2 AGENDA ITEM Adoption of the Action Plan for the Implementation of a Distric 's Basic Policy for Fiscal Year 1998-1999 GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION Adopt the 1998-1999 Action Plan for the Implementation of the Basic Policy of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District. DISCUSSION You reviewed the Proposed Preliminary Action Plan at your January 28 meeting and charged the Administration and Budget Committee with conducting a review of the Action Plan on the Board's behalf as part of the budget review process (see report R-98-12). At your January 28 review, slight changes were proposed for the Action Plan. Staff has incorporated these changes and they have been reviewed by the Administration and Budget Committee. The changes are shown in italics in the attached Action Plan. At a workshop on January 14, you reviewed the proposed Planning Department Work Program for Fiscal Year 1998-1999, which is incorporated into the Action Plan. Since your January 14 review, changes have been made to the Work Program and reviewed with the Administration and Budget Committee. A summary of the revisions is shown in the attached chart. The revised Work Program is attached to the Action Plan. Prepared by: Deirdre Dolan, Administrative Services Manager Contact person: L. Craig Britton, General Manager 330 Distel Circle - Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 - Phone:650-691-1200 FAX: 650-691-0485 N E-mail:niros(i@opcnspace.org - Web site:www.openspace.org � Board of[hectors.fete Sie rnens,Mary C.Davey,)ed Cyr, David T.Smernoff, None Ite Hanko, Betsy Crowder,Kenneth C. Nitz - Genera/Manager.L.Craig Britton OPEN SPACE ACQUISITION PROGRAM Subprograms A. Negotiations and Special Projects B. Enterprise To Implement the BASIC POLICY OBJECTIVE: The District seeks to purchase or otherwise acquire interest in the maximum feasible area of strategic open space within the District planning areas, including baylands and foothills. The District seeks to link its open space lands with federal, state, county, and city parklands and watershed lands. General Proem Emphasis for 1998-1999 The program's emphasis will be to acquire the higher priority projects funded under the District's Financing Authority. Lower priority properties will be pursued through long-term options, available grant funding, bargain sales and gifts. The District will continue to work with Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST) to acquire land and further the District's overall open space acquisition goals. The Enterprise Subprogram will focus on maximizing rental income consistent with Open Space Management policies and maintaining and improving District rental structures, as well as studying the removal of uneconomical and/or marginal structures consistent with Open Space Management policies. Staff Resources (Regular, full-time positions, unless otherwise indicated) Land Acquisition Manager (vacant position) Real Property Representative Real Property Assistant 2 1998-1999 Negotiations and Special Projects Subprogram OMjective To provide for the acquisition of all real property rights necessary to secure a recreational and open space greenbelt in the foothills and baylands, including rounding out and improving public access to existing preserves and connecting District preserves with other public lands. Keay Projects 1. New Land Commitments - Convert the budgeted funds in the New Land Commitments budget category into open space lands, at desirable prices, focusing on the higher priority properties, which specifically protect the greenbelt including rounding out and improving public access to existing preserves, connecting to other preserves or public lands, and furthering the completion of the Bay Area Ridge Trail and Bay Trail Systems. Balance the desirability of the potential acquisition with the availability of limited funds, including, if possible, private financing with favorable terms and obtaining trail easements. 2. Pursue Key Acquisitions - To protect the scenic ridgeline at the District's northern boundary, pursue negotiations to acquire critical properties under threat of present or future development. In addition, work closely with POST on projects in this region including grant opportunities to acquire properties owned by POST. 3. Grants, Gifts, Bargain Sales and Joint Acquisitions - Because of severely limited acquisition funds, explore new grant opportunities, and focus on acquiring open space lands through bargain sales, and/or gifts where possible. Pursue the joint acquisition of appropriate properties with Santa Clara County Parks near the Lexington Reservoir and in Stevens Canyon. Continue to work closely with Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST) in their current "Campaign to Save Essential Open Space". 4. Alternative Acquisition Methods - Obtain Board approval on appropriate long-term options, at market prices or less, to acquire desirable properties that might be affordable in future years should the District be successful in obtaining additional funding for land acquisition. Explore various alternative terms of purchase (installment purchases, defeasible fee, etc.) to offer advantages and incentives to landowners, as well as cost savings to the District. Other Prpjects and Activities 1. Maintain a multi-year spending plan for open space acquisition which optimizes use of cash and borrowed funds to accomplish acquisition goals within extremely tight budget constraints. volunteer conservation easement monitoring program, and 2. Guide the new Distractg p g , continue to work with Peninsula Open Space Trust to administer their easement monitoring program. 3 3. Continue to pursue sale or exchange of the "Teague Hill" surplus property which will help fill a critical funding gap for additional land purchases. 4. Provide support and information for approaching the District voters when a plan for additional open space land acquisition funding is determined to be feasible. 5. Provide on-going acquisition planning and priorities input as part of the Planning team. 6. Explore additional methods to protect open space lands for less than the total cost of fee acquisition (open space easements, acquisition of development rights, development dedication, exchange or sale of development rights, cooperation with private individuals and groups, etc.) especially in this time of tight budget constraints for acquisition funds. 7. Encourage other agencies to apply for grants that will enhance overall open space goals. 8. Work actively and regularly with District legal counsel to maintain and pursue District's legal program where title to existing District lands are threatened by encroachment, claim of adverse rights, liens or other interference with District's real property rights. 9. Work with Operations Program in negotiating road agreements and resolving encroachments with adjoining property owners to ensure District's real property rights are protected and minimize the District's maintenance responsibilities where appropriate. 10. Initiate and maintain contacts with landowners, real estate appraisers and brokers, developers, architects, engineers, zoning and planning officials, and financial institutions. 11. Maintain a relocation assistance program utilizing staff and consultants as necessary. 12. Compile current information on real estate market activity, including ordering preliminary title reports on a timely basis for research into potentially available properties. 13. Catalog information of special interest, such as deed restrictions, encumbrances, financing and tax considerations. This activity includes the establishment and continuation of a working relationship with title companies and other information sources. 14. Work to clear and perfect title on District-owned land through the orderly, prioritized disposition of title and legal encumbrances (mineral and water rights, claims of prescriptive easements, encroachments, etc.) where appropriate. 4 1998-1999 Entemrise Subprogram Miectiv To manage all of the District's revenue-producing activities in such a way as to maximize income from enterprise accounts consistent with Open Space Management policies, incorporating compatible new programs when possible. Key Projects 1. Administer Enterprise Accounts - Administer rental accounts, communication and agricultural leases, consistent with open space management policies, to maintain and enhance revenue stream through competitive and current rate structure, effective maintenance programs and communication with tenants. 2. Maintain Rental Structures - Carry out maintenance and improvements to rental houses to keep buildings and grounds in a safe, sanitary, and attractive condition and to increase net rental income. Administer long term and reoccurring maintenance priorities on rental properties. 3. Administer Historic Leases - Oversee lease compliance and renovation requirements at historic Picchetti winery, Thornewood estate and Fremont Older house. Meet with Board committee to proceed with request for proposals for a long term historic tenant for the Thornewood residence. 4. Assess Economic Viability of Rental Properties - Evaluate and make recommendations on the long-term and economic viability of maintaining District residential rental properties (former North, Sink, Barlow and Saratoga Gap cabins) including, if necessary, the disposition of structures consistent with Board policies. Other Projects and Activities 1. Pursue sale of term ownerships on a demand basis for long-term interest arrangements (estate for years, lifetime tenancy) for former Bean and Smith residences. If successful, this program will provide additional funding for land acquisitions. 2. Prepare annual rental surveys on District rental houses and Ranger residences. 3. Administer lease of additional office space at 330 Distel Circle. 4. Investigate new enterprise proposals as initiated by other groups or individuals that would be compatible with District goals and objectives. 5. Evaluate possible extension of Skyline tree farm lease in conjunction with use and management process. 6. Continue to evaluate the District's communication leases and renew in line with market rates. 5 7. Oversee FEMA/OES audit of FEMA grant repairs to District roads and trails damaged during the 1995 winter storms. Pursue full reimbursement on large repair projects. 8. Monitor existing agricultural and grazing uses in accordance with use and management process, including grazing at the former McDonald Ranch, La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve, and at Big Dipper Ranch, Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve. 6 ACTION PLAN FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE BASIC POLICY OF THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT FOR THE 1998-1999 FISCAL YEAR I. OPEN SPACE ACQUISITION PROGRAM A. Negotiations and Special Projects Subprogram B. Enterprise Subprogram 11. PLANNING PROGRAM A. Advance Planning (including related Interdepartmental Support and Team Development) B. Current Planning (including related Interdepartmental Support and Information Systems) III. OPERATIONS PROGRAM A. Field Operations B. Resource Management Subprogram IV. PUBLIC AFFAIRS PROGRAM A. General Public Information and Outreach Subprogram B. Legislative, Funding, and Organizational Relations Subprogram C. Visitor Services Subprogram V. ADMINISTRATION PROGRAM A. Administration/Human Resources Subprogram B. Legal Services Subprogram OPEN SPACE PLANNING PROGRAM Subprogramc A. Advance Planning (including related Interdepartmental Support and Team Development) B. Current Planning (including related Interdepartmental Support and Information Systems) To Implement the BASIC POLICY OBJECTIVES: The District follows management policies that ensure proper care of the land that provide public access appropriate to the nature of the land, and that are consistent with ecological values and public safety. The District works with and encourages private and other public agencies to preserve, maintain, and enhance open space. The District protects and restores the natural diversity and integrity of its resources for their value to the environment, and the public, and provides for the use of the preserves consistent with resource protection. Program Emphasis for 1998-1999 Focus attention on advance planning efforts to help clarify and plan for the desired form and character of the District. This will be accomplished through coordinating physical planning studies with development of policies and procedures to help attain the desired outcome. Continue to make significant progress on additional work program projects in the areas of Interdepartmental Support, Planning Team Development, Information Systems, and Current Planning, including site planning and capital improvements. Staff Resources (Regular, full-time positions unless otherwise indicated) Senior Planner (1) Open Space Planner II (1) Open Space Planner I (2 both vacant) Planning Technician (2) Planning Secretary (half-time) 1998-1999 Advance Planning, Related Interdenartmenta_l Sunk tr , and Team Development Subprogram Objective Assist with the formulation, review, and refinement of policies, District-wide plans, and cost estimates for the management and development of District preserves on a regional or District- wide basis. Work with local agencies on joint planning and implementation projects, to share information, and to encourage planning decisions that support the preservation of open space and natural resources and development of regional trail systems. Key Projects 1. Regional Open Space Study Priorities - Study alternative medium-term acquisition and public access scenarios; determine preferences and priorities. Convert maps and data to GIS format to facilitate studies. 2. Trail Use Policy and Guidelines Review - Review and revise policies based on growing experience with trail use planning and Board concerns about preserving the wilderness experience. Includes an extensive public input and review process. 3. Resource Evaluation Procedures - With the assistance of the Resource Management Specialist, develop and test methods of assessing resources and identifying needs and constraints. 4. System for Land Use Decisions - This is a multi-year project. The first phase of this project involves preparation of a multi-year scope and schedule through a workshop format with staff and Board members. (This project is supported by projects 1, 2, and 3 above). 5. Medium-Term Greenbelt Strategic Plan - This is a multi-year project. The first phase of this project involves preparation of a multi-year scope and schedule with staff and Board members. (This project is supported by project 1 above). 6. Planning Team Organization - Implement staffing additions in response to two vacant Planner I positions. Formalize mentoring agreements, further improve the evaluation process, resolve team and individual roles and responsibilities, coordinate efforts with other District programs, and better organize team business and training. Other Projects and Activities Refer to the attached Chart A -Proposed Planning Department Work Program for Fiscal Year 1998/1999 at the end of this document for other projects and activities. 8 1998-1999 Current Planning, related Interdepartmental Pr-cjects, and Information Systems Subprogram miectiv Apply policies, prepare and implement plans and capital improvement projects on a site- specific basis, and respond to preserve use and management issues. Includes mapping, signing, and other public information services. Kcy PrqJect 1. Bridge Repair Projects - Repair or replace bridges to re-establish patrol and/or trail access. 0 El Corte de Madera Open Space Preserve - Determine type of replacement bridge for Lawrence Creek Trail crossing, design, and obtain permits. • La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve - Obtain permits, solicit bids and construct tw."b one possibly two) vehicle bridge(s). • Purisima Creek Open Space Preserve - Determine type of replacement bridge, if any; design, obtain permits as appropriate. 2. Thornewood Schilling Lake Dam Spillway Restoration and Landslide Repair - Obtain permits, solicit bids and construct a landslide and spillway repair project for the Schilling Lake spillway. An engineering study and plans were prepared during fiscal year 1997-1998. 3. El Corte de Madera Creek Trail Use Plan and Implementation - Complete planning process for incorporation of Study Area 2 into the Trail Use Plan for the preserve. Implement priority trail closures and construction/realignments as outlined in the plan. 4. Rancho Field Office Shop Building Seismic Upgrade - Retrofit existing shop building to improve structural integrity. Includes replacement of exterior siding, roof, and windows. Solicit bids and complete project. 5. Reynolds Road Ranger Residence - Establish a ranger residence on Reynolds Road to replace the ranger residence at the summit of Mt. Umunhum. May involve demolition of existing structures, obtaining permits, construction of a mobile or modular home on the site. 6. Soda Springs Parking and Trail Plan - Develop a plan for parking and a trail connecting the Soda Springs area to the Priest Rock Trail using funding available from the Environmental Enhancement and Mitigation, and Habitat Conservation Programs. Other Projects and Activities Refer to the attached Chart A - Proposed Planning Department Work Program for Fiscal Year 1998/1999 at the end of this document for other projects and activities. 9 OPERATIONS PROGRAM Subprograms A. Field Operations B. Resource Management To Implement the BASIC POLICY OBJECTIVE: The District follows management policies that ensure proper care of the land, that provide public access appropriate to the nature of the land, and that are consistent with ecological values and public safety. General Program Emphasis for 1998-1999 Continue to provide responsible stewardship of all District lands by furnishing those public safety, maintenance, construction, and resource management activities necessary to protect and enhance the natural resources and insure safe and appropriate use of District lands. Implementation of Board-adopted Resource Management Policies and Trail-use Policies and Guidelines will continue to be the primary focus of the operations program. Staff Resources Operations Manager Area Superintendents(2) Support Services Supervisor Operations Analyst Resource Management Specialist Supervising Rangers(4) Secretary Rangers (12) Equipment Mechanic-Operators(2) Lead Open Space Technicians(2) Open Space Technicians (7) Farm Maintenance Worker 8,000 Seasonal Open Space Technician hours (6,000 regular, 1,500 special project, 500 Deer Hollow Farm weekend star 10 1998-1999 Field Operations Subprogram Key, Proiects 1. Operations Program Review-Work with the staff of the Warner Group, the General Manager, and the Board ad hoc committee to complete the review and present the final report to the full Board. Insure participation of Operations Program staff in the program review process. Working with the General Manager, develop recommendations based on the findings of the program review for Board consideration. Implement those recommendations approved by the Board. Implement minor recommendations with the approval of the General Manager. 2. Interpersonal Communication Skills Development- Continue to build on the influencing skills training received by the entire staff in 1996 and 1997; assist in the training of influencing skills of all new employees; participate in the District-wide staff development and implementation of interpersonal communication performance standards; implement agreed-upon improvements to the employee performance evaluation process, and continue to provide leadership and supervision training to supervisors as necessary to facilitate the completion of these tasks and enhance the overall quality of supervisory skills within the program. 3. Operations Manual Update-Revise operations manual to include Open Space Technician, Lead Open Space Technician, and Equipment-Mechanic Operator positions. Update ranger sections to include new procedures not yet formally placed in document. Develop standing orders system to draft, review, and implement directives not included in the operations manual. Revise procedures based on approved recommendations of the Operations Program Review. 4. Restoration and Mitigation of Off-trail Impacts of Public Use- Close and restore existing undesignated trails and shortcut trails. Increase efforts to prevent the establishment of undesignated trails. Mitigate natural resource impacts and improve alignments of existing trails to minimize erosion. Work to insure visitor compliance of restoration area closures. Other Proiects and Activities 1. Ranger Patrol a. Monitor public use and land use regulation compliance, and educate the visiting public on proper use of District preserves. b. Enforce District land use regulations by providing active ranger patrol and after hours call-out response, as well as implementing patrol agreements with other agencies. C. Respond to accidents and other emergencies occurring on District lands. d. Identify and mitigate potential hazards on open space preserves to enhance public safety. 11 e. Continue the implementation of Board-adopted trail use guidelines. f. Monitor special events, use permits, and resource protection-related impacts on District lands. g. Incorporate ranger bicycle patrol and the use of radar into regular patrol duties to address trail use conflicts. h. Support the goals of the Public Affairs program by providing staff for special events and other projects, as time permits. 2. Maintenance and Construction a. Develop cost-effective methods of meeting site maintenance needs. b. Implement Use and Management Plan recommendations, as appropriate. C. Maintain lands, buildings, vehicles, and equipment to a safe and appropriate standard of appearance and utility. d. Provide supervision of volunteer projects, support enterprise subprogram field maintenance needs, and assist consultants and contractors with capital improvement projects as necessary. e. Implement resource management plans and specific projects, as appropriate. f. Improve public access and use through capital improvement projects, while protecting natural resources from the impact of public use. 3. Management and Administration a. Improve liaison with local police, fire, and municipal court jurisdictions. b. Provide for safe access and site security by negotiating road maintenance and caretaker agreements. C. Coordinate management of District vehicles and equipment. d. Coordinate an occupational health and safety program for field operations. e. Coordinate ongoing training and skills enrichment for field staff. f. Provide for continued field staff involvement in the planning process. g. Work with program managers to facilitate increased interaction between field staff and other staff. h. Work with CalTrans, California Highway Patrol, and other agencies to mitigate inappropriate use of Interstate 280 vista point adjacent to Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve. 12 i. Assist planning staff with review of Trail Use Policies and Guidelines. j. Increase computer use in field office, training for supervisors, record-keeping database, develop e-mail capability between main office and field offices. k. Explore alternative methods for managing District baylands with adjacent public agencies. 1998-1999 Resource Manaeement Subprogram Objective Inventory and analyze the state of natural resources District-wide and on specific preserves to identify needs and priorities for significant management issues. Use the availability of volunteers and consultants to expand District staff capabilities. Develop general procedures and strategic implementation plans for the resource management subprogram. Establish a network with other agencies, local authorities and specialists in the field. KK.y Projects 1. Grassland management implementation plan -Develop a set of management guidelines to control yellow starthistle and encourage native species. Tasks for this fiscal year at Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve include: coordinate a prescribed burn of roughly 80 acres with California Department of Forestry; continue experiments with treatment methods; monitor areas treated last year; and establish restoration sites to begin native species plantings. 2. Watershed assessment -Establish objectives and long-term goals for watershed management. Develop criteria for habitat protection and repair and maintenance of roads and trails. Initiate a monitoring program incorporating staff and volunteers in which the findings will be integrated into the interdepartmental system for mapping resource inventories. 3. System for mapping resource inventory- Inventory and record key flora, fauna, natural features and biotic communities especially focusing on rare and endangered plant and animal species. Coordinate with planning to develop a base map and database system to record and display resource information. Compile all known information, and solicit information from experts in the field and other agencies. Other Projects and Activities See attached Chart RM at the end of this document for complete list of resource management projects for 1998-1999 fiscal year. 13 PUBLIC AFFAIRS PROGRAM Subprograms A. General Public Information and Outreach B. Legislative, Funding, and Organizational Relations C. Visitor Services To Implement the BASIC POLICY OBJECTIVE: The District educates and makes clearly visible to the public the purposes and actions of the District, and actively encourages public input and involvement in the District's decision-making process and other activities. General Program Emphasis for 1998-1999 Maximize the general public's awareness and understanding of the District, its goals, and its activities, by reaching all communities served and all other target audiences with District information through a variety of means and methods; implement the top priorities of the District's legislative plan; increase environmental education and volunteer participation. Staff Resources (Regular, full-time positions unless otherwise indicated) Public Affairs Manager Visitor Services Supervisor Volunteer Coordinator Docent Coordinator Public Affairs Assistant Interpretive Aide(Nature Center)* *The interpretive aide position is seasonal, and approximately quarter-time 14 1998-1999 General Public Information and Outreach Subprogram Objective To generate additional support among the general public for completing the greenbelt by increasing the positive perception and awareness of the District's mission, objectives, accomplishments and programs, and effective management of public lands and financial resources. Key Proiects l. Kids' Art of Open Space- Schedule and coordinate the fifth event to take place no later than March 31, 1999. 2. Review of District Graphic Image-Review the District's overall graphic image, including letterhead, newsletter masthead, and District logo, make recommendations for revisions and improvements, and implement any changes. 3. Annual Report -Publish a District 1997-1998 Annual Report by May 29, 1998, followed by three regular issues of Open Space News. 4. Community Outreach Volunteers -Fully implement a program of selecting and training volunteers to staff District displays at community events. Other Proiects and Activities 1. Consider production of a District"Good Neighbor" brochure for distribution to property owners with land adjoining District preserves. 2. Conduct two placements of District information into chamber of commerce newsletters. 3. Maintain a high level of regular media coverage of District activities and accomplishments. 4. Continue to work with the Planning Program to create new site maps for preserve brochures, and continue updating, producing, and distributing existing site maps, brochures, and other collateral materials as needed. 5. Maintain and maximize the schedule of community presentations and displays. 6. Continue providing public affairs services to other programs, i.e., attendance and input at meetings, press releases, flyers, displays, mapping, media liaison, etc. 7. Utilize in-house staff to maintain and update the District's web site on the Internet. 8. Continue to update and expand the District's newsletter mailing list. 9. Work with Operations and Planning staff to develop a trail use education plan,focusing on bicycle and dog usage, in conjunction with the Board's Trail Use Policy and Guidelines review process. 15 1998-1999 Legislative- Funding, and Organizational Relations Subprogram Objective To carry out the high-priority elements of the District's legislative plan and to inform other public agencies and private organizations about the District's activities and goals. Kcy Projects 1. Coastal Preservation Effort-Work with the general manager and an Ad Hoc Committee of the Board toward a possible proposal for District expansion to the San Mateo County coast, and all related tasks and activities to include possible funding measures. 2. Funding for Mount Umunhum Clean Up -Develop and implement a legislative strategy to obtain Federal funding toward clean up of the former Almaden Air Force Station at Mount Umunhum, in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve. 3. Other Lobbying Efforts -Work with the general manager and the District's Sacramento lobbyist to preserve current and future state funding for the District, and to carry out elements of the District's legislative plan. 4. Protection Of District Funding-Work with East Bay Regional Park District to provide for long-term protection of District funding, including possible modification of appropriate Public Resources Code sections. 5. Regional Funding -Work with the Bay Area Open Space Council, the Planning and Conservation League, and others to develop and support potential regional or other alternative funding mechanisms. Other Projects and Activities 1. Work with Director Siemens(as current President of the Santa Clara County Special Districts Association) and the General Manager toward obtaining special district representation on the Santa Clara County Local Agency Formation Commission. 2. Continue to work with the Planning Program to provide publicity and outreach efforts for the District's Regional Open Space Study, and the Board's revisiting of the Trail Use Guidelines. 3. Work with East Bay Regional Park District in planning for the 1998 Special Districts Forum, which the District will co-host with East Bay. 4. Continually review and analyze legislation, determine District's position on bills, and take appropriate action, if any, on bills. 5. Work with legislators, legislative committees, state and federal administrators, other agencies, private organizations and interested citizens for information and action regarding state legislation and specific local issues. 6. Support federal, state, or local legislation that will benefit the District. 16 7. Provide support and services for specific District projects requiring legislative support, such as grant applications. 8. Maintain contact with other organizations and agencies and encourage them to assist the public in differentiating between agencies, and for the exchange of information, cooperation on special projects and participation in special events such as conferences and seminars, to keep the District informed of current issues. 9. Provide District information to candidates in any 1998-1999 elections, and set up information meetings with candidates as need is determined, including a candidates' forum or information meetings with candidates for seats on the District Board of Directors. 10. Continue to provide staff support to the Legislative, Finance, and Public Affairs Committee, and work as needed to develop District positions on and involvement in statewide open space issues. 11. Provide a District presence in key legislative activities, meetings, and conferences in Sacramento, through CPRS, PCL, or with the District's legislative advocate. 17 1998-1999 Visitor Services Subprogram Objective To encourage active public participation in the maintenance, restoration, and protection of the District's natural resources, and provide cultural, historical, and environmental education opportunities to the public. Key Projects 1. Kids' Nature Express - Develop funding to be used for District transportation assistance for schools utilizing the outdoor education program at the Daniels Nature Center. 2. 1998 Special Districts Forum - Work with East Bay Regional Park District and Open Space District staff in planning and implementing the 1998 Special Districts Forum, which the District will co-host with East Bay. 3. Environmental Education - Continue to implement and improve the District's environmental education program for school children. Recruit and train additional outdoor education leaders to accommodate more school groups. Investigate methods of providing disadvantaged school classes with transportation to the field trips at Skyline Ridge. 4. Daniels Nature Center - Work with planning staff to finalize design and installation of exhibits. Develop and set up seasonal and temporary displays. With the help of volunteers and seasonal staff, open the nature center to the general public on Saturdays and Sundays, mid-March through mid-November. 5. Crew Leader Training - Implement the crew leader training program for Preserve Partners projects. Other Projects and Activities 1. Recruit and train docents and other volunteers, and provide public information about volunteer programs, projects, and events through bimonthly newsletters. 2. Coordinate monthly volunteer service projects and short- and long-term special request volunteer projects. 3. Conduct a broad range of public interpretive programs on open space preserves. 4. Coordinate the volunteer trail patrol program, and provide ongoing training for trail patrol volunteers and docents. 5. Maintain the artifacts and furnishings in the historic Grant Cabin. 6. Provide leadership training to field staff assigned to work with volunteers. 18 ADMINISTRATION PROGRAM Subprograms A. Administration/Human Resources Subprogram B. Legal Services Subprogram To Implement the BASIC POLICY OBJECTIVE: The staff administers the affairs of the District on behalf of the public so as to maximize accomplishment of the goals of the District within existing financial and other constraints. General Program Emphasis for 1998-1999 Instill vision and provide leadership to foster staff participation and activities to carry out the District's short and long-term goals and objectives. Guide and support the District-wide effort to i develop and improve leadership, supervisory, and interpersonal communication skills among all staff in order to enhance the District's work environment. Maintain the District's viability as an open space acquisition and management agency in light of limited funding. Staff Resources (Regular, full-time positions unless otherwise indicated) General Manager Legal Counsel (two-thirds time) Controller (one-quarter time) Administrative Services Manager/District Clerk Senior Management Specialist Research Attorney Administrative Analyst Office Manager/Secretary to the General Manager Accounting Specialist Secretary (one-half time) Receptionist 19 1998-1999 Administration/Human Resources Subprogram Miective: To provide overall coordination, direction, and administrative base for all District activities so as to maximize the accomplishment of the Board's policies and directives, to implement the Action Plan, and to maintain the District's viability as an open space acquisition and management agency. Key Projects 1. District Funding - Work to preserve current and future state funding for the District. Continue to provide multi-year information/scenarios on District's long-term finances, including bonded indebtedness and cash flow, and to address the need to rely on the availability of grant funds for major development projects. Pursue alternate sources to secure additional funding to meet acquisition and open space management needs, including, if needed, a 1998 note issue for critical open space acquisitions. 2. Human Resources - Work with all programs to develop and improve leadership, supervisory, and interpersonal communication skills to enhance the overall quality and effectiveness of the District's work environment. Carry out District's personnel and labor relations functions. Continue updating District's `Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual I, provide advice regarding revision of internal affairs, discipline and grievance policies pursuant to Memorandum of Understanding with Local 715. Enhance organizational effectiveness through increased communications, staff meetings, training seminars, and team building activities. 3. Elections - Coordinate necessary election services and activities for Wards 1, 2, 5, and 6, including an informational meeting with candidates, if appropriate. 4. Coastal Expansion - Develop and carry out a specific action plan as approved by the Board for potential expansion of the District's boundaries to include coastal lands in San Mateo County. Other Projects and Activities 1. Continue to build and refine a management team approach for overall management of the District's activities. 2. Provide financial management and accounting services, including investment of temporarily idle funds. 3. Perform administrative and legal obligations as required by State law, promote and oversee the District's safety program, and oversee coordination of equipment/infrastructure needs at main office. 4. Provide personnel support and employee relations services to all programs. 5. Update Action Plan; coordinate program evaluations for Action Plan progress. 20 6. Prepare, monitor, and revise, as necessary, annual budget. 7. Coordinate preparation and distribution of all materials for Board's regular and special meetings. 8. Involve Board of Directors in planning of the annual special Board meeting to be held as part of Board's Good Neighbor Policy. 9. Refine and implement a comprehensive risk management program, including exploring the potential for self-insurance. 10. Monitor the ongoing procurement policy for the purchase of recycled and alternative paper products and other office supplies. 11. Complete computer system upgrade to Windows 95, expand internet access, centralize hardware and software acquisition, initiate master planning process for interdepartmental databases, and conduct system assessment to meet future needs. 21 1998-1999 Legal Services Subprogram Miectiv� To provide timely legal services to the Board and to all District programs to assist in formulating and implementing District policies and projects in accordance with law. Key Projects 1. Real Property - Provide legal advice concerning District real property, including acquisition, disposition, title and encroachment issues, permits to enter District land, and road maintenance issues. 2. Risk Management - Process and monitor current claims and litigation against the District for personal injury or property damage; refine risk management procedures; represent District's interests in insurance coverage matters; provide oversight of matters handled by outside counsel. 3. Human Resources - Assist in carrying out labor relations functions; serve as chief negotiator on District's bargaining team; provide legal advice on personnel matters; assist in revising and updating District's "Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual"; provide advice regarding revision of internal affairs, discipline and grievance policies pursuant to Memorandum of Understanding with Local 715. 4. Coastal Expansion - Provide advice concerning legal requirements applicable to potential annexation or expansion and potential related ballot measures. Other Projects and Activities 1. Continue to provide legal research concerning historic parcels and chain of title to assist in resolving real property issues or in support of planning and acquisition projects. 2. Provide advice concerning legal requirements applicable to public agencies such as the Brown Act, conflict of interest, election law and the California Environmental Quality Act. 3. Assist programs in bidding process and contract administration for public works and professional services contracts. 4. Prepare and review District legal documents such as contracts, resolutions, and leases. 5. Represent District's legal interests in relation to other government agencies. 6. Advise District on court rulings and legislation affecting the District and on legislation proposed by the District. 22 March 2, 1998 F ies: C=Critical, H=High, M=Medium, L=' Chart A *=New project, not in FY 97/98 work program Planning Department Work Program for Fiscal Year 1998/1999 Project Preserve Staff Project Description Tasks Proposed Fiscal Year 98-99 1. Al >PL Long-Range Planning C System for Land Use Decisions District-wide Randy Complete a set of policies and Prepare multi-year scope and schedule * (Mufti-Year Goal) All procedures to guide planning and through workshops with staff and Board. management decisions and actions, Supported by other projects as noted clearly linked to and supporting Basic below. Policies. C Medium-Term Greenbelt Strategic Plan District-wide Randy A detailed map and quantification of Prepare multi-year scope and schedule (Multi-Year Goal) All projects to achieve desired state of through workshops with staff and Board. * District in 5-10 years.Coordinated list of Supported by other projects as noted staff projects and activities,incl. below. resources and budgets for each year to implement plan. C Regional Open Space Study Priorities District-wide Randy Conceptual planning study to guide Study alternative medium-term (Supports Strategic Plan Goal) Matt District towards a long-term vision of the acquisition and public access scenarios- All greenbelt. determine preferences and priorities. Convert ROSS maps and data to GIS format to facilitate studies. Policy and Procedures Planning C Trail Use Policy&Guidelines Review District-wide Del Scoping and public process to review and Scoping and public process to review and (Supports System for Land Use All revise policies based on growing revise policies and guidelines. Decisions Goal) experience with trail use planning. * C Resource Evaluation Procedures District-wide Randy Develop policies and procedures for Discuss,develop,and test methods of (Supports System for Land Use Matt factoring resources into land use and assessing resources and identifying Decisions Goal) Jodi management decisions. needs and constraints. H San Mateo County Permitting Process Regional Randy Develop a stream-lined permitting Work with County staff to clarify roles and * Mary process with San Mateo County. responsibilities;obtain necessary permits for capital improvement projects in County. H Rock Climbing Policy District-wide Mary Develop policies to apply to all District Complete public review process of draft preserves. policies. Board adoption. M Recycled or Certified Wood Product Use District-wide All Consider use of recycled wood products Consider use of either recycled or or scientific certified wood products for all certified wood products in preparing �k construction projects. specifications for construction projects. Regional and Preserve Planning H Rancho de Guadalupe Use and Sierra Azul Del Prepare Comprehensive Plan with Trails Complete pond management plan Management Plan,including Risk Mt. Jodi Element and RMP(for Cherry Springs (Operations)and Interim Use and Management and Pond Management Umunhum Pond). Include Risk Management Plan Management Plan for initial public Plan for mine shaft and tailings area to provide access. security. h:\workprog\budget\wkp98-99.xls WKP98-99.XLS Page 1 March 2, 1998 F ies: C=Critical, H=High, M=Medium, L= Chart A *=New project, not in FY 97/98 work program Planning Department Work Program for Fiscal Year 1998/1999 Project Preserve Staff Project Description Tasks Proposed Fiscal Year 98-99 _:. . ...... _.. C Acquisition Support District-wide Del Assist Acquisition as needed with Assist as needed. (Delete: digitize * Randy preparation of staff reports,consideration District and private parcel information; Doug of planning issues related to acquisitions, create maps). preparation of graphic exhibits. C Land Management Support General All Assist Operations,Enterprise and Legal Assist as needed,plus specific projects in researching and responding to use as noted below. proposals and problems,encroachments, etc. C Resource Inventory System (Supports District-wide Jodi Assist Resource Specialist to develop Develop base maps,begin collecting System for Land Use Decisions Goal) Randy methodology and projects for the information for a resource inventory of Matt inventory of key flora,fauna,and natural District preserves,and design resource * communities using GIS data& inventory database. technology,volunteers,special interest groups,interns and consultants. H Public Affairs Support General All Assist Public Affairs with events, Assist Public Affairs as needed,including presentations,and general information. on a one-day workshop overview of District lands and management issues at Special District Forum,and other specific projects as noted below. H Study Expansion of District Boundaries Regional Del Assist Administration with land and Working with consultants,assist with to include the San Mateo Coast Randy financial studies regarding potential studies towards inclusion of San Mateo * expansion of District boundaries to County Coast within District boundaries. include the San Mateo County Coast. Projects could include Master Plan revisions,ROSS expansion. H Summit Springs Surplus Property Teague Hill Mike Support Acquisition on disposition of Provide support as needed. Randy surplus property. H Pinto Way Surplus Property Teague Hill Mike Support Acquisition on application for lot Coordinate with real estate consultants Randy line adjustment,disposition of surplus and provide support as needed. property H New Grant Applications District-wide Del Assist Administration Dept.with new As needed,assist with new grant Doug grant applications applications. Typical tasks include map All preparation,scoping project,cost estimates. H Historic Residence Lease Thornewood Mike Support Acquisition in long term Assist in preparation of a Request for * Randy disposition for historic Thornewood Proposals,review for long term lease House. historic structure. M Wetlands Restoration Ravenswood Jodi Restore pond to tidal action and restore Continue negotiations with Rhone- Randy to marsh. Poulenc. Complete agreement for project Matt implementation. M Brochure Review Process District-wide Malcolm Assist Public Affairs in developing and Develop questionnaire,solicit input and Doug administering a questionnaire to solicit evaluate data. public input to improve site brochures. h:\workprog\budget\wkp98-99.xis WKP98-99.XLS Page 2 March 2. 1QQO P ieu: C=Crdicm[ H=HkJh. W1=K4ediumn. L=' Chart w=Nmmpnojeot. not in FY97/88 work program Project Preserve Staff Project Description Tasks Proposed Fiscal Year 98-99 Matt improvements for field staff use. over from FY 97/98. Planning Department Work Program for Fiscal Year 1998/1999H Patrol Map Books General Randy Create map book of all District lands and Complete map sets. Project is a carry- � � C Refine Planning Goals&Priorities General All Define departmental objectives in support Refine current Work Program goals, developing realistic multi-year work into draft prioritized 5 year Work programs. Program,if feasible. C Planning Team Organization General All Implement staffing,structure,procedures, 1)Implement staffing plan and support,2) and support for efficient service, formalize mentoring agreements,3) improve evaluation process,4)resolve Team roles and responsibilities w/ positions,5)coordinate better w/other Programs,6)organize Team business and training. ~~ H GIS Development General Matt Participate in development of shared Add in-house computer resources to Randy regional geographical information system support ArcView 3.0 GIS software. map and database. Digitize Regional Open Space Study and resource data into shared database. Obtain 2000'scale wall maps for main and field offices. H Computer Mapping System General Doug Develop in-house capability to generate Continued implementation of mapping site maps and regional map for reports system using Illustrator/Macintosh. and presentations. Obtain other needed files from consultant for in-house use. H Sign Inventory District-wide Matt Develop a database system to maintain Develop a process and database to keep current records for District preserve current records of preserve signs. I signs. H Signage Program Evaluation District-wide Matt Evaluate signage program to determine Complete survey of office/field staff, how well it is working,identify any major volunteer patrol staff,and docents to problem areas,and devise potential identify strengths,weaknesses,and solutions to problem areas. opportunities regarding sign program, H Graphic Support District-wide Doug Graphic support for Board reports, Projects are completed as needed. presentations,and exhibits;including the updates for all existing computerized H Preserve Signs District-wide Matt New and replacement signs for trails and Projects are completed as needed. parking areas,including projects associated with Sign Committee H Mapboard Trailhead Signs Long Ridge Doug Install mapboards and bulletin boards at Install mapboards/bulletin boards with Grizzly Flat Trailhead and Hickory Oaks laminated South Skyline map along with en ry, other materials. H Mapboard Trailhead Signs Thornewood Doug Install mapboard and bulletin board at Install mapboard and bulletin board. trailhead near parking lot. lCarry-over from FY 97/98. � � � � March 2, 1998 F ies: C=Critical, H=High, M=Medium, L=' Chart A *=New project, not in FY 97/98 work program Planning Department Work Program for Fiscal Year 1998/1999 Project Preserve Staff Project Description Tasks Proposed Fiscal Year 98-99 M Develop Preserve Map La Honda Doug Create computer-generated preserve Finalize map and produce fact sheet. map. * M Develop Preserve Map Ravenswood Doug Create computer-generated preserve Generate and finalize map;produce fact map. sheet. M Develop Preserve Map Sierra Azul Doug Create computer-generated preserve Complete map. Carry-over from FY map. 97/98. * M Develop Preserve Map El Sereno Doug Create computer-generated preserve Generate and finalize map;produce fact map. sheet. 5. . ....... _ _ _ . Site Planning C Soda Springs Parking/Trail Connection Cathedral Randy Develop plan for implementation of EEM Develop plan to implement parking in the Oaks Matt &HCP Grants. area and a trail connection to Priest Rock Trail C Trail Use Plan El Corte de Mary Develop trail use plan for Study Area 2. Develop plan with assistance of task Madera Doug force; Board adoption. Matt H Rock Climbing Plan Long Ridge Mary Prepare rock climbing plan for Devils Delete: Upon adoption of rock climbing Doug Canyon area policies,prepare a plan for Devil's Matt Canyon area. M Jacques Ridge Parking Study Mt. Del Joint project with County to develop Continue to work with County planners to Umunhum parking near Jacques Ridge. define project and discuss joint management issues. M Parking Alternatives Study Fremont Randy Study alternatives,select preferred Obtain approval to proceed. Older Other locations,determine design requirements and permit process. Grant Administration C National Recreational Trails Grant El Corte de Mary Administer National Recreational Trail Administer grant. Madera Grant. C EEM&HCP Grant Administration Kennedy- Mike Administer three grants awarded for Seek extensions and reconfigure grants Limekiln Randy acquisition of properties and construction as necessary. of two staging areas.(One grant includes a project in Kennedy Limekiln Area.) C Land and Water Conservation Fund Windy Hill Mary Administer grant to fund parking lot and Upon completion of trail construction, Grant I trail development, close out grant. CIP Projects Parking Areas H Parking Lot El Corte de Mary Design and construct 40-50 vehicle Complete conceptual plans. Develop Madera Other parking area&restroom near Skyline. construction drawings;submit for permits. C Lower Parking Lot&Restroom Windy Hill Mary Design and construct 50 car parking lot at Complete construction project. lower entrance to preserve,includes restroom,staging. M Parking Lot Fremont Randy Design&construct parking lot. Help negotiate purchase/exchange Older Other agreement. h:\workprog\budget\wkp98-99.xls WKP98-99.XLS Page 4 March 2, 1998 F les: C=Critical, H=High, M=Medium, L=1 Chart A *=New project, not in FY 97/98 work program Planning Department Work Program for Fiscal Year 1998/1999 Project Preserve Staff Project Description Tasks Proposed I I I I I Fiscal Year 98-99 Restroolms H Convert Restroom Monte Bello Other Convert restroom from chemical Relocate and replace restroom in main recirculation system to pit style. parking lot. H Install Restroom Monte Bello Other Install restroom at backpack camp. Install. Carry-over from FY 97/98. H Install Restroom Skyline Other Install restroom near Daniels Nature Install. Carry-over from FY 97/98. Ridge lCenter. H Install Restroom Windy Hill Other Install restroom at Spring Ridge Parking Obtain permits,install. Carry-over from Area. FY 97/98. H Convert Restroom Russian Other Convert restroom from chemical Relocate restroom in main parking lot. Ridge recirculation system to pit style. Structures C Shop Building Seismic Upgrade Rancho San Del Retrofit existing shop building to improve Resolve approach. Complete permit Antonio Mary structural integrity. Replace exterior process. Other siding,roof and windows. H Nature Center Skyline Mary Construct nature center building and Construct deck,exterior exhibits. Specify Matt install interpretative exhibits and lab; use of certified wood material. interpretive trail signs. H Reynolds Road Ranger Residence mt. Matt Establish residence on former North Upon demolition of existing structures, Umunhum Mary property. obtain permits and construct a mobile or modular home on the property(including new well&septic system). M Operations Field Office Skyline Mary Install concrete slab floor in shop open Complete concrete work,obtain fuel tank bays;install diesel fuel tank. permits. M Bartels Cleanup mt. Matt Remove structures;cleanup. Complete project Umunhum Mary M Young Cleanup mt. Matt General cleanup of site. Complete project. Umunhum Mary M Glasspool Cleanup mt. Matt General cleanup of site. Complete project. Umunhum M Winery Building Picchetti Other Seismic upgrade of structure. If Santa Clara County Historical Grant is Mary successful,prepare plans&specs for seismic upgrade;obtain permits. M Former Sink House Disposition mt. Matt Determine disposition of buildings;if Determine disposition of buildings. If Umunhum Mary demolition is warranted,demolish demolition is warranted,obtain permits, buildings and restore site. remove hazardous materials,complete demo of structures. Carry-over from FY 97/9& H Red Barn La Honda Mary Stabilize structure and maintain until a Structural and roof repairs to maintain Creek final use determination can be made. barn. Consider use of certified wood material. h:\workprog\budget\wkp98-99.xls WKP98-99.XLS Page 5 I March 2, 1998 F ies: C=Critical, H=High, M=Medium, L Chart A *=New project, not in FY 97/98 work program Planning Department Work Program for Fiscal Year 1998/1999 Project Preserve Staff Project Description Tasks Proposed Fiscal Year 98-99 M Former Barlow House Disposition Mt. Matt Determine disposition of buildings;;if Determine disposition of buildings. If Umunhum Mary demolition is warranted,demolish demolition is warranted,obtain permits, * buildings and restore site. remove hazardous materials,complete demo of structures. Carry-over from FY 97/98. Trails & Roads C Trail Improvements El Corte de Mary Implement Trail Use Plan,barricade and Continue Phase II trail construction, Madera Matt restore unauthorized routes and including construction of footbridge Doug discontinued routes,as identified in the across El Corte de Madera Creek. Other plan. Implement study area 2 trail plan upon approval by Board. C Bridge Replacement La Honda Other Replace two existing bridges to Obtain permits,solicit bids and construct Creek Randy accommodate emergency vehicles one bridge. Consider use of certified wood products. C Sausal Trail and Wildlife Observation Windy Hill Doug Construct grant-funded trail from parking Design and construct deck and trail. Deck Mary lot below dam to connect with Spring Consider use of certified wood products. * Ridge Trail. Design and construct wildlife observation platform on the shore on Sausal Pond. * C Storm Related Repairs General All Repair storm related damage. Assess damage,apply for FEMA reimbursement,prepare plans. H Grabtown Gulch Bridge Purisima Other Replace or reconstruct bridge Take action upon resolution of approach. Randy May include new foundation/relocation or plans and permits for replacement * C Driveway and Parking Area Thornewood Other Pave driveway and parking area as part Obtain permits,contract for paving, Mary of District/neighbor settlement. complete project. H Alpine Pond/Horseshoe Lake Trail Skyline Mary Seal with an all-weather surface Resurface portion of trail with an all- weather material M Trail Improvements St.Josephs Randy Restore/realign trails to implement Trail Assist field staff to determine trail Hill Use Plan(Caltrans mitigation funding) alignments. Amend U&M as needed. H Lawrence Creek Bridge El Corte de Other Replacement of old bridge to improve trail Make determination on approach. Madera Randy and patrol access. Miscellaneous C Dam Spillway Restoration/Landslide Thornewood Other Repair landslide impacting Schilling Lake Bid and construct landslide and spillway Repair Randy spillway. repair project. * H Tank Removal Skyline Mary Removal of underground fuel tank at Removal of fuel tank. Doug former Bullis property. * M Seeger Memorial Bench Pulgas Randy Place memorial nameplate on existing Upon LAFPAC Committee and Board bench. authorization,place memorial nameplate on existing bench. Pay Phone-Deer Hollow Farm Rancho Other Install pay phone at Deer Hollow Farm Research costs/need. Seek Board approval and install if cost effective. h:\workprog\budget\wkp98-99.xis WKP98-99.XLS Page 6 March 2, 1998 F ies: C=Critical, H=High, M=Medium, L= Chart A *=New project, not in FY 97/98 work program Planning Department Work Program for Fiscal Year 1998/1999 Project Preserve Staff Project Description Tasks Proposed Fiscal Year 98-99 Pay Phone Russian Other Install pay phone at main parking area. Research costs/need. Seek Board Ridge approval and install if cost effective. h:\workprog\budget\wkp98-99.xls WKP98-99.XLS Page 7 3/2/98 ties: C=Critical, H=High, M=Medium, L r Revisions to Chart A *=New project, added to work plan since 1/14/98 Board review {>..;..',.{..,.'..+.:.'�'k�e'•.:..:tz...':o-..::e:�O't:>�' i}",�e,'x'k.:.:..+>.,::`,`X•. ..'.T�:.. :.x•;rn..' .•.. ..;:?,n�.r;:.?.,x+,y:.,,,.,,.'�`., �+o:.:...,".,..<::::... :t,. Project Preserve Staff Project Description Tasks Proposed Fiscal Year 98-99 H San Mateo County Permitting Process Regional Randy Develop a stream-lined permitting process NEW PROJECT. Work with County Mary with San Mateo County. staff to clarify roles and responsibilities; * obtain necessary permits for capital improvement projects In County. M Recycled or Certified Wood Product Use District-wide All Consider use of recycled wood products NEW PROJECT. Consider use of or scientific certified wood products for all either recycled or certified wood products �c construction projects. in preparing specifications for construction projects. _...._..._............................................................ ......... ......................................_......_..... ::::: Msll-. .............._.......................................... :..................... C Acquisition Support District-wide Del Assist Acquisition as needed with NEW PROJECT, Assist as needed. * Randy preparation of staff reports,consideration Doug of planning issues related to acquisitions, preparation of graphic exhibits. H Historic Residence Lease Thomewood Mike Support Acquisition in long term NEW PROJECT. Assist in Randy disposition for historic Thomewood preparation of a Request for Proposals, * House. review king term lease for historic structure. H Patrol Map Books General Randy Create map book of all District lands and CARRY-OVER FROM FY 97198. #1�� Matt improvements for field staff use. Complete ma sets. rORM ON" �V:; siasi si i `a`' ''} iv? ii.i i {if t2%tin 3 s% ii tsi?a 5['?.......inns:;;:: ;:'>c?in s?:S�sSc c c[t si iisss`i'<ssf"!'`'s ia' [: i :`ss H Mapboard Trailhead Signs Thomewood Doug llnstall mapboard and bulletin board at CARRY-OVER FROM FY 97198. trailhead near parking lot. Install mapboard and bulletin board. M Develop Preserve Map Skwra AM Doug Create computer-generated preserve map. CARRY-OVER FROM FY 97198. Complete map. ... .......................;................: :.:.:_.;....>......;.....::;::::;::;:....:........;....<;;::<-:::;'`.:;_;>:;'2:;4ii ii ;:<i (i`<#;iji . .... it:'s '::::5:i r i i nisi ii £..... jG i:ii:i sisiiiili`; 3 t i;sisa .'•i :E i?,•;<Es a y; .: �t�t� �jy .................................................... :.::._..::5.3�:i:3iiiiiiiii:;i:ii>3;ftit:>sis3asssiinns;.:Sin?iss.::,,,:.:::.::.siSiiii'innsii!i ; Electrical M Underground Power Purisima Other Underground power to ranger residence to DELETE PROJECT due to time enable creation of an emergency constraints of other projects. helicopter landing pad. Parking Areas M Enlarge Parking Lot Purisima Other Enlarge parking area at Whittemore lot by DELETE PROJECT due to time redesigning lot,regrading,refencing constraints of other projects. perimeter. M Parking Lot Fremont Randy Design 8 construct parking lot. REDUCE SCOPE. Help negotiate Older Other urchasetexchan e a regiment. Restrooms * H Convert Restroom Monte Bello Other Convert restroom from chemical NEW PROJECT. Relocate and recirculation system to pit style. replace restroom in main parking lot. H Install Restroom Monte Bello Other Install restroom at backpack camp. CARRY-OVER FROM FY 97198. Obtain permits,install. H Install Restroom Skyline Ridge Other Install restroom near Daniels Nature CARRY-OVER FROM FY 97198. Center. Obtain permits,install. H Install Restroom Windy Hill Other install restroom at Spring Ridge Parking CARRY-OVER FROM FY 97198. Area. Obtain permits,install. h:\workprog\shraist.xls Page 1 3/2/98 ties: C=Critical, H=High, M=Medium, L v Revisions to Chart A *=New project, added to work plan since 1/14/98 Board review Project Preserve Staff Project Description Tasks Proposed Fiscal Year 98-99 * H Convert Restroom Russian Other Convert restroom from chemical NEW PROJECT. Relocate restroom Ridge recirculation system to pit style. in main parking lot. Structure$ C Shop Building Seismic Upgrade Rancho San Del Retrofit existing shop building to improve REDUCE SCOPE: Resolve Antonio Mary structural integrity.Replace exterior approach. Complete permit process. Other siding,roof and windows. H Nature Center Skyline Mary Construct nature center building and CARRY-OVER FROM FY 97198. Matt install interpretative exhibits and lab; Construct deck,exterior exhibits. include interpretive trail signs. specifying use of certified wood products in appropriate contract documents, request for bid. M Operations Field Office Skyline Mary Install concrete slab floor in shop open CARRY-OVER FROM FY 97198 to bays;install diesel fuel tank. complete concrete work. Expand work to !k include outside contract,obtain fuel tank permits. * M Glasspool Cleanup Mt. Matt General cleanup of site. NEW PROJECT: Complete project. Umunhum M Winery Building Picchetti Other Seismic upgrade of structure. NEW PROJECT. If Santa Clara Mary County Historical Grant is successful, 7fc prepare plans&specs for seismic upgrade;obtain permits. M Former Sink House Disposition Mt. Matt Determine disposition of buildings;if CARRY-OVER FROM Fy 97198. Umunhum Mary demolition is warranted,demolish Determine disposition of buildings. If * buildings and restore site. demolition is warranted,obtain permits, remove hazardous materials,complete demo of structures. H Red Bam La Honda Mary Stabilize structure and maintain until a NEW PROJECT: Structural and roof * Creek final use determination can be made. repairs to maintain bam. Consider use of certified wood material. M Former Barlow House Disposition Mt. Matt Determine disposition of buildings;if CARRY-OVER FROM FY 97198. Umunhum Mary demolition is warranted,demolish Determine disposition of buildings. If buildings and restore site. demolition is warranted,obtain permits, remove hazardous materials,complete demo of structures. Trails & Roads C Bridge Replacement La Honda Other Replace two existing bridges to REDUCE SCOPE: Obtain permits, Creek Randy accommodate emergency vehicles solicit bids and construct,not two,but one bridge. C Sausal Trail and Wildlife Observation Windy Hill Doug Construct grant-funded trail from parking Design and construct deck and trail. Deck Mary lot below dam to connect with Spring REVISE to include use of certified wood Ridge Trail. Design and construct wildlife products. observation platform on the shore on Sausal Pond. h:\workpmg\shrtlist.xis Page 2 - _ _ = ha A 3/2/98 ales: C Cntical, H Hlgh, M Medium, L v Revisions to Chart *=New project, added to work plan since 1/14/98 Board review Project Preserve Staff Project Description Tasks Proposed Fiscal Year 98-99 * C Storm Related Repairs General All Repair storm related damage. NEW PROJECT. Assess damage, apply for FEMA reimbursement,prepare plans. * C Driveway and Parking Area Thornewood Other Pave driveway and parking area as part of NEW PROJECT. Obtain permits, Mary District/neighbor settlement. contract for paving,complete project. M Trail Improvements St.Josephs Randy Restorelrealign trails to implement Trail NEW PROJECT. Assist field staff to �k Hill Use Plan(Caitrans mitigation funding) determine trail alignments. Amend U&M as needed. H Lawrence Creek Bridge El Corte de Other I Replacement of old bridge to improve trail REDUCE SCOPE. Make Madera Randy and patrol access. determination on approach. h:\workprog\shrtiist.xls Page 3 ............._ d., MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT R-98-41 Meeting 98-07 March 25, 1998 AGENDA ITEM _3a_ AGENDA ITEM Fiscal Year 1998-1999 Budget 1998 ADMINISTRATION AND BUDGET COMM_iTi'EE'S RECOMMENDATION Accept the proposed 1998-1999 budget and recommendations numbered I through 5 below. DISCUSSION The charge to the Committee was to review a proposed budget to determine whether it reflects a realistic view of projected income and the planned work program for the coming fiscal year, and follows the Board approved guidelines for operating expense growth and cap on capital improvements. These guidelines (established in 1994) include a 6% limit on operating expenses such as salaries, benefits, services, supplies, and equipment, as well as a yearly cap on capital improvement projects. Special projects or expenses such as a one-time mailing or a new field office may be excepted depending on financial conditions. The Committee met six times with various program managers and staff members to review budget items. The review included consideration of the Action Plan, the Planning Work Plan, the Resource Management Work Plan, the Five Year Equipment Schedule, and previous years' expenditures. The proposed budget for 1998-99 totals $24,251,175, including $5,559,925 for operating expenses and $740,750 for capital projects (not including staff facility improvements of $140,000). Included in operating expenses is funding for cost of living adjustments for all staff except Board appointees (General Manager, Legal Counsel, Controller). Capital Improvement Budget In September 1994, a $600,000 growth cap was informally adopted for Planning's capital improvement budget. This year, the resource management projects, which represented $100,000 of the capital improvement budget, have been transferred to Operations, resulting in Planning's capital improvement budget guideline being adjusted to $500,000. Each year, when the capital improvement budget is developed, there is some confusion regarding how the guideline is calculated. Staff used the following guidelines to prepare this year's capital improvement budget: 1. The capital improvement budget guideline should not exceed $500,000 per year for District cash expenditures. 330 Distel Circle - Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 - Phone: 650-691-1200 FAX: 650-691-0485 - E-mail: nirosd@openspace.org . Web site:www.openspace.org Bwrrl of Directors Fete 5iernens,Mary C. Davey,Jed Cyr, David T.Smernoff, Nonette Nanko,Betsy Crowder,Kenneth C Nitz - General Manager.t..Craig Britton I� R-98-41 Page 2 2. Grant income is considered above the $500,000 cap, allowing the capital improvement budget to exceed $500,000 based upon actual grant revenues. 3. The $500,000 budget guideline is applied over a three-year period (the current year and the previous two years) to allow flexibility in budgeting, and provide for normal fluctuation in project scheduling. The Committee is comfortable recommending the adoption of these guidelines for tracking the capital improvement budget, and this year's proposed $740,750 capital improvement budget. Using these guidelines, the 1998-1999 proposed capital improvement budget is six percent below the three year cumulative guideline. Target Average Six Percent Guideline for Qnerating Expenses The proposed operating budget is 19% over the 1997-1998 projected expenses. For purposes of calculating the target average six percent guideline, the 1998-1999 proposed operating budget figure of$5,599,925 has been adjusted to exclude operating expenses considered outside the guideline. The adjusted operating budget figure of$5,322,875 excludes the publication and printing of the special newsletter mailing ($56,500), the Operations Program Review ($53,000), election expenses ($75,350), and resource management expenses ($92,200). (Resource management expenses will be added to the target average six percent guideline next year and the base budget figure will be adjusted upward by $92,200.) The adjusted operating budget is 7.5% above the 1997-1998 projected expenses. Over the four year period since the implementation of the target guideline, growth in the adopted budget has averaged 5.9% per year when compounded annually; actual expenditures have averaged 3% under budget each year during the same period. The Committee feels comfortable recommending this budget in terms of meeting the six percent guideline for this year, provided the Board will be further clarifying policy regarding the six percent guideline as recommended in this report. Controller Mike Foster and Treasurer Ken Nitz expressed concern that we may be setting a precedent with the large increase from last year's projected expenses, so we need to look at future increases very carefully. Last year the Board directed the Administration and Budget Committee and staff to review the process and criteria for meeting the target average 6% growth guideline. Staff presented an analysis of the six percent guideline since its inception in 1994-1995, and used the following criteria to determine expenses that should be excluded from the guideline for the 1998-1999 operating budget: 1. Capital improvement projects on open space preserves. 2. Staff facility improvements. 3. Irregular, large a one-time expenses,nses such as District-wide mailings. g 4. Election expenses. The Committee is comfortable with the application of these guidelines for the 1998-1999 budget. However, the Committee feels it would be appropriate to reconvene after the close of the 1997-1998 fiscal year to reassess the validity of the target average six percent guideline and to establish the methodology by which the guideline will be determined and applied in future years. R-9841 Page 3 Controller's Report Controller Mike Foster met with the Committee and presented a financial review of the 1997- 1998 year, a review of the 1997-1998 tax revenue versus budget, the 1998-1999 tax revenue estimate, and projections for revenue, debt service and cash flow. This information was subsequently presented to the Board. Of particular significance are the facts that our property tax income will once again be increasing and our statutory debt limit would allow the District to issue an additional $15M in bonds in the 1998-1999 fiscal year for land purchases, if warranted. Recommendations The Administration and Budget Committee recommends that the Board: 1) Approve the proposed 1998-1999 Budget. 2) Approve the guidelines noted in this report for the capital improvement budget. 3) Direct the ad hoc Board Appointee Evaluation Committee to initiate a salary review and evaluation for the General Manager and Controller. (Legal Counsel review was completed in January 1998.) 4) Review the 1997-1998 actual versus budgeted expenditures after completion of the audit; mid-way through the fiscal year, review the 1998-1999 budget and expenditure status, review the capital improvement budget to insure the guidelines are working adequately, and meet with the Controller for a review of the District's financial status. 5) By August 1998, reassess the validity of the target average 6% growth guideline in the operating budget, and establish the methodology by which the guideline will be determined and applied in future years. Prepared by: J. Cyr for the Administration and Budget Committee (Directors J. Cyr (Chair), K. Nitz, and M. Davey) Contact person: Director Cyr I Regional Open 5, .ce MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT R-98-40 Meeting 98-07 March 25, 1998 AGENDA ITEM 3b AGENDA ITEM Adoption of Budget for Fiscal Year 1998-1999 GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATIONS 1. Approve a one point (1%) salary adjustment for the office, supervisory, and management staff. 2. Adopt the attached resolution approving the budget for the 1998-1999 fiscal year. DISCUSSION The proposed budget for the 1998-1999 fiscal year was presented for your review at your March 11, 1998 meeting (see reports R-98-35 and R-98-29). This revised budget is being presented for your final consideration and adoption. The revised budget for the 1998-1999 fiscal year totals $24,251,175 and breaks down as follows: Land Purchases $11,303,000 Debt Service $ 6,467,500 Operating Expenses $ 5,599,925 Capital Improvement Projects $ 740,750 Staff Facility Improvements $ 140,000 The proposed operating expenses have decreased from $5,625,525 in the March 11 report to $5,599,925 in this final report, a reduction of$25,600. The major changes from the proposed operating budget presented to you on March 11 are as follows: ■ The PERS employer contribution rate was estimated at 4% in the March 11 proposed budget. The actual PERS employer contribution rate came in at 7.052%, adding $61,300 to the total PERS cost for 1998-1999. ■ Insurance costs (not including auto) were estimated at $196,900 in the March 11 proposed budget. The actual insurance costs are $152,250, a $44,650 reduction from the March 11 proposed budget. (Auto insurance costs remain unchanged from the March 11 proposed budget.) In addition, the insurance costs have been more equitably reallocated among the Administration, Operations, and Enterprise programs, resulting 330 Distel Circle • Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 • Phone: 650-691-1200 : FAX: 650-691-0485 . E-mail: mrosd®openspace.org Web site:www.openspace.org Board of Directors:Pete Siemens,Mary C.Davey,Jed Cyr,David T.Smernoff,Nonette Hanko,Betsy Crowder,Kenneth C.Nitz •Genera!Manager:L.Craig Britton R-97-35 Page 2 ■ The proposed production and mass distribution of the Regional Open Space Study map was initially budgeted at $102,000. This information is now proposed to be included in a special newsletter mailing, trimming $45,500 from the expected cost. The new proposed budgeted amount is $56,500. As noted in report R-98-35, the proposed budget presented at the March 11 meeting included the scheduled one-point (1%) salary adjustment for employees represented by S.E.LU. - Local 715, and a proposed one-point (1%) salary adjustment for office, supervisory, and management staff. The proposed one-point salary adjustment is below labor market comparables and CPI and is intended to help offset the cost of PERS 2% at 55 retirement formula which was approved last year and became effective in June 1997. For purposes of measuring the target average six percent growth guideline for operating expenses, the revised 1998-1999 proposed operating budget figure of$5,599,925 has been adjusted to exclude operating expenses considered outside the growth guideline. The excluded expenses have changed slightly since the March 11 report; they are the special newsletter mailing with the Regional Open Space Study map (reduced from $102,000 to $56,500), election expenses ($75,350), and the Operations Program Review (new; $53,000). In addition, the resource management expenses ($92,200) remain outside the guideline this year. The revised adjusted operating budget figure for purposes of the target average six percent guideline is $5,322,875. Adjusted operating budgets and expenses, as compared with the guideline, are shown in the following table. FY 94-95 FY 95-96 %> FY 96-97 %> FY 97-98 %> FY 98-99 %> (Base) Budgeted $4,161,950 $4,409,750 5.9% $4,525,300 2.6% S4,950,425 9.3% $5,322,875 7.5% Funds AcUAV $3,991,620 $4,216,825 5.6% $4,369,610 3.6% $4,648,421 6.3% $5,322,875 14.4% Projected Expenses Over the four year period since the implementation of the target guideline, growth in the operating budget has averaged 5.8% per year when compounded annually. Over the same period of time, growth in actual and projected expenses will average 6.1%, assuming all 1998- 1999 budgeted funds are spent. The revised 1998-1999 proposed budget presented by program is found in Attachment 1. Attachment 2 of this report shows in detail the 1998-1999 proposed budget broken down by program and major expenditure categories. Prepared by: Deirdre Dolan, Administrative Services Manager Contact person: Craig Britton, General Manager ttachment 1 Page 1 of 3 1. OPEN SPACE ACQUISITION PROGRAM 97-98 97-98 9499 Adopted Projected Proposed Budget Expenses Bud et Salaries & Benefits $90 600 $112 075 $125 500 Services & Supplies 40 700 39,675 53 450 Fixed Assets - Acquisition 153 000 115,910 . 262 950 Enterprise Subprogram 132 850 102 200 108 300 Debt Service 5,979,600 5,840,630 6 z 467 500 Land Purchases 13,303,000 1 921 300 11 303 000 Total $19 399 750 $8 131 830 18 324700 ' Changes from initial proposed budget: -Increase of$2,300 in salaries and benefits (PERS). -Decrease of$12,550 in Enterprise subprogram due to insurance reallocation. 2. PLANNING PROGRAM 97-98 97-98 98-99 Adopted Projected Proposed Budget Expenses Bud et Salaries & Benefits $ 291 750 $ 258 575 $363 200 Services & Supplies 125,250 72 150 98 950 Fixed Assets - 4,000 4,700 C,050 Operating Expenses Staff Facility 175,000 10,700 14Q,040 Improvements Capital Improvement 811,800 922,450 740350 Projects (Public Use Total Plannin $ 1 407 800 $ 1,268 575 $ l 348 950 Changes from initial proposed budget: -Increase of$6,500 in salaries and benefits (PERS). i Attachment 1 Page 2 of 3 3. OPERATIONS PRO AM 97-98 97-98 98-99 Adopted Projected Proposed Budget Expenses Budget Salaries and Benefits $2,014,900 $1,886,090 $2,111�350' Services and Supplies 505,800 507,489 ! 704,950 Fixed Assets 130,600 134,700 140"'$W Total $2,651,300 $565,972 11951,100' Changes from initial proposed budget: -Increase of$34,950 in salaries and benefits (PERS). -Increase of$4,300 in services and supplies due to insurance reallocation. 4. PUBLIC AFFAIRS PRO .RAM 97-98 97-98 98-99 Adopted Projected Proposed Budget Ex nses Bud et Salaries & Benefits $290 400 $272 200 $314 850 Services & Supplies 273 025 293,012 275 Fixed Assets 600 760 4 000 7 Total $564 025 $565 972 $S7 125 Changes from initial proposed budget: -Increase of$5,600 in salaries and benefits (PERS). -Decrease of$45,500 in services and supplies due to reduction in publication costs for Regional Open Space Plan Study information. I i :tachment 1 ?age 3 of 3 5. ADMINISTRATION PROGRAM 97-98 97-98 9 - 9 Adopted Projected Proposed Budget Expenses Bud et Salaries & Benefits $703 000 $640 875 $722 554 Services & Supplies 275,650 263,450 31G 05U Fixed Assets 13,300 20,550 8 700 Total $991 950 $924 875 31,047,3W] Changes from initial proposed budget: -Increase of$15,150 in salaries and benefits ($11,950 PERS plus $3,200 salary correction) -Decrease of $36,350 in services and supplies due to insurance reallocation. 'ttaclirent 2 age 1 of 4 MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT (a) PRELIMINARY BUDGET BY PROGRAM 1998-1999 (Dollars) ------------------------------------------- .....--------------------------------- ------------------------ ------------------- ......---------------------------- Acquisition Planning Operations Public Affairs Administration TOTALS Budget Category Program Program Plogtarn Program Program (All Programs) ----------------------------------- -------- --- ----------------------- -------------- -------------------------- -----------........ ------------------------ ---------- REVENUES —---------------------------- Tax Revenue 12.142,000 12,142,000 ------------ ------ --- ----------------------------- ------------------------- -------------------------- ----- Grant Income 275,000 190,00U 465,000 -----------------..... ------------- --------------- .......................... ------------------------------ ----------- Interest Income 90Q000 900,000 ------------- ------------ ---- -- ---------------- ----------------- ---- ------------------------------ ----------------------- Rental Income 600,UU0 600,000 ............----------.... ............---........- ----------------------------- ------------------ ..... --------I--..----------- -------------- Other Income 32.000 365,000 397.000 .................I--------------------- ......-- ------- --......... .........----------...... --------------------------- .......—---------------- ----------------------------- ------------------------- TOTAL INCOME 907,000 19U,Uo0 0 0 13,407,000 14.504,000 .......-..---------------------.......... ------------------- ------------— -------------------------- ---------------------- --------------------- --------------------------- INCREASE IN RESERVES (9,747,175) ----------------------- -------------- -1-1-------------- - -------------------I...... --------............... ............................. -------------------------- Attachment 2 MIDPEN�NSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISI,,. Page 2 of 4 (b) PRELIMINARY BUDGET BY PROGRAM 1998-1999 (Dollars) ---------- ------------ ---------------------------------------------- ...... ................—-------- --------------—----—--——---- Acquisition Planning Operations Public Affairs Administration TOTALS Budget Category Program Program Program Program Program (All Programs) ---------I-------------------------------------- --------------------------- -------I------------------- ---------------------- --------------....... -------------------------- --------------------- EXPENDITURES —---------------- ----------- Debt Service —----—----------------------------- Interest 4,440,400 4,440,400 ------------.— —----------------......---- ------------------------- -------------------- ----------------—--—----—-- Principal 2,027,100 2,027.100 ----—--------------------------.................. -------------------------- ------------------------ ------------------------- ........................ ------------------------------ SUBTOTAL 6.467,500 6,467,500 --------------------------- --------- --------- ---------- -------------------------- ........................ ---------—-----------—----- Salaries ---------- a)Gen.Mgr,Appointees 99,000 284,100 1,630,100 250,200 366,750 2,630,150 ---------------------------- ---------- ---------- ----- ------------------------ ----- ---------------------- ----—— b)Salary Incentive Awards 25,000 25,000 ------------------ ------------------ ----------------------------- c)General Manager 98,200 98,200 ------ ------------- .. .....------------- ........................ -------------------—....... --------------------------—-- d)Legal Counsel 63,650 63,650 --------------- ------ ---------------------- ----------------------- ...............---------- ..........------------------ -------------—----—-----—-- e)Controller 9,500 9,500 -------------------------------------- ----- -------------- - ----------------------- - ---------------------------- ----- .......... --------------—-----------— ------------ Benefits 26,500 79.100 481,250 64,650 132.450 783,950 —-----------—-------------- ------------- ----------------------- ----------- --------------------------- ..........-------------- ------------------------- Directors'Fees 27.000 27,000 —----------------------- ------------ -------------...a...-.-...---- ------------- ------------------------- ---------- ------------- ---------------------—-- ---------------------- SUBTOTAL 125,500 363,200 2,111,350 314,850 722,550 3,637,450 ------------------------- ---------- ----------- --- ------- ------------------------------ ----------------------—------ Attachment 2 MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTr,.-. Page 3 of 4 (c) PRELIMINARY BUDGET BY PROGRAM 1998-1999 (Dollars) --------------------------------------------------- --------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------....... ----------------------------- Acquisition Planning Operations Public Affairs Administration TOTALS Budget Category Program Program Program Program Program (All Programs) ---------------------------------------------- - ------------------ -------------------------- -------------------------- ------------------------ I----------------------------- ----------------- SERVICES&SUPPLIES ----------------------------------------------- Legal Services 500 20,U00 10,000 30,500 ---------- --------------------- ----------------------- ------------------------------ Regular Outside Services 12,000 500 30.600 500 4,200 47,800 -------------------- ---------- ---------- ----- ----------- --------- ............................ --------- Land Option Fees 5,000 5,000 -------------- ---- ------------------------------ ----------------- ..................... --------------------------- ---------------------------- Contract Services 29,500 71,100 141,700 22,800 36,800 301,900 ------------------------------ ----------------------------- ----------------- ------ ............---------- ----------------------------- ------------ Election/Annexation 75,350 75,350 --------------------------- ----------- ------------------------- ..........------ ---------------------------- ------------ - Library and Subcriptions 300 800 1.000 1,000 4,250 7,350 ------- -----1--------------- -------------------------- ---- ------------------ .............................I ---------------------------- Film&Developing 600 500 1.100 -------------- ------- -------------------- ----------------------------- ---------------------- Rents and Leases 5,450 12,500 17.950 ---------- --------------------- ------------------------------ Utilities 19,450 26,600 45.100 93.150 ------------------------ -1--...---------------- ------- ------ ------------------- -- ----------------------------- -------------------------- Postage 250 55U 200 70,000 13,500 84,500 ---------------..........-- ---------------------------- ----------------------. .................------ ------------------------------ -------------------- Printing and Duplicating 350 6,000 5.600 2,400 15.000 29,350 ------------------- .....---------------..... ---------- --...---- ----------------------.. .........-------------------- --------------------------- Insurance 24,450 99.250 28,550 152,250 -------------------------- ------------------ ------------------------- -------------------..... ..........I----------------- ----------------- Advertising 1,700 2.000 0 600 1,000 5,300 --------------------------1- ------------------------ --------------- ----------------- ------------------ ------ ---------------------- Maps and Aerials 600 800 1,400 ---------- ------------------ ------1------- -------- ----- ------- -----------------......... -------------------------- Private Vehicle Expense 1,5uo 5"0U0 60U 1,400 6,000 14.500 ----------- ------ -------------- --------- -------------------------- --------------------------- District Vehicle Expense 142,950 142,950 -------------------------- ----------- ------------------------ ---------- ---------- ............................. ---------------------------- Business Meeting Expense 600 250 800 2,975 3,500 8,125 ------------------I----- ------------- ------ ------------------------ ---------------- ----------------............ --------------------- Personnel Development 2,450 6,700 21,000 5,700 25,900 61,750 ---------------------------- ----------------------------- --------------------I-------- --------------- - ------------------------------ -------------------------- Maint./Repait Equipment 20U 19.600 2,500 22,300 ---------- ----------------------1---- ------------------------- ..........--,--------------- ----------------------------- Operating Expenses-Distel 9,950 9,950 -- ------------------- ----------------------- ------------------- ---------------------------- ------------------------------ Computer Expenses 500 3,250 2,000 2,000 5,400 13,150 -------- -----I------------........... ------------------------------ Office Supplies/Sml EqUip 300 1,200 1,100 400 6,500 9.500 ----- ------------------------------ Field Supplies/Sml Equip. 41,900 41.900 ----------------------- ----- --------- ----------------------- ------------------------- ... -------........ ........................-- Outside Maint.Services 51,750 138,500 19,900 210,150 -------------------------- ---------------------------- -------- -------- ... -------------- .1--------I------------------- Property Taxes&Permits 3.600 3,600 --------------..........--- ------------------------------ ....--------------.... ...............--------- --------------------------- ------------- Comm-Publications 127,500 127,500 --------------------------- ---I-------------------------- ................---------. ......-----------...... ----------------------------- ---------------------------- Comm.Special Projects 8.000 8,000 -------------- ----------------- --------------------------- ----------------------. -------------------------- ------------------------- Volunteer Program 12,900 12,900 --------------- -- ------I--------------- ----------------------------- ----------------------------- Miscellaneous 100 100 100 300 ------------- ---------------------- ---------------- ----------------------------- ---------------------------- SUBTOTAL 161,250 98,950 704,950 258,275 316,050 1,539,475 ---------------------------------- ---------- ----- --------------- ------------ ----- --------------............... ----------------------------- Attachment 2 Page 3 of 4 MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT (d) PRELIMINARY BUDGET BY PROGRAM 1998-1999 (Dollars) ---------------------------------- ------ --- ------------ ------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------- Acquisition Planning Operations Public Affairs Administration TOTALS Budget Category Program Program Program Program Program (All Programs) .............------------------------------- -----—---------.........-- ----------------- ---------------------- .......................... ------------------------------ ------------- FIXED ASSETS -------------------------------------------- Previous Land Commitment 1.303,00U 1,303,000 -----------------------...... ---------------------------- .........-------------— -------------------...... ----------------—----- New Land Purchases 10,000,U00 10.000,000 ---------------..........-- ----------------------------- --------------------- -----------........... ------------------------------ ------- Appraiser 5U,000 50,000 --------------- ----- ------------------------ ----------------------------- -------------- Site Acquisition Expense 26,000 26.000 -----------------—-------- ------------------ --- ---- ---------------- ------------- --- -------I--------------------- ------ - Legal Fees 150,000 150,000 ------------------ ---------------------------- ------------------------- -------------------------- ................I------------ Relocation 500 5W -------------- ------------------------- ------------------------------ ------------------------ ------------------------------ Title Insurance 1U,UU0 10,000 --------------------------- ------------------- ------------------ -------- ---------- .............................. --------------------------- Site Engineering 10,000 10.000 --- ------------------- ----------------- -----------—------------ —--------------------------- Site Preparation Expense 10,000 10,000 ----------------—------ ...----------------- -------—------ ------------ -- ------------------------------ ---------------------------- Option Fees 15,000 15,000 ----------------------------- ---------------- ------- -------- ---------------- ----------------------- -------- Structures&Improvements 5U0 87U.75U 0 $71,250 -------------- ...... --------------- ----------------------- -------------------------- ---------I---------------- ------------------------------ Field Equipment 25,500 25,500 --------------- ----- -- ---------------------------- ------------------- ..............------------- ---------- Office Equipment 1,450 6,050 4,3U0 4,000 8.700 24,500 ----------- ------------- ------------ ----------------------------- -------- ----------- .............I---------------- ---------------------------- Vehicles 111,000 111,000 ----------- ------------ --------------------- -------------------------- ------------------ ---------- ...... I----------------------------- ------------- SUBTOTAL 11,566,450 886,800 140,800 4,000 8,700 12,606,750 .......I------------------------ ----------------......1—- --------- ----------------- ---------------------------• --------......---------- ------------------------------ ------------------------- TOTAL OF ALL EXPENDITURES 18.320,700 1,348,950 2.957,100 577,125 1,047,300 24,251,175 ------------------- ------------ -------------- ----------------------------- -------------------- TOTAL EXPENDITURES EXCLUDING LAND AND DEBT SERVICE 550,200 048,95U 2,957,100 577,125 1,047,300 6,480.675 ------------ -------- ------ --------------------- --------------- --------------------- ------------ ............ ---------------------------- RESOLUTION NO. RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT ADOPTING BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 1998-1999 The Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District does resolve as follows: Section One. The budget for the Midpeninsula. Regional Open Space District for the fiscal year 1998-1999 is adopted as set forth in Exhibit A. Section Two. The District's allocation of property taxes collected shall correspond to the maximum tax rate of one percent of assessed valuation for all agencies within each county. Section Three. A total tax rate often cents ($0.10) per $100 assessed valuation is adopted or such lesser amount as may be allowable by law. Section Four. An adjustment to the New Land Purchases budget category shall be made to reflect any difference between actual revenue and budgeted revenue. Section Five. Monies are hereby appropriated in accordance with said budget. EXHIBIT A Midpeninsula. Regional Open Space District Budget for Fiscal Year 1998-1999 I. REVENUES A. Tax Revenues $12,142,000 B. Grant Income 780,000 C. Interest Income 900,000 D. Rental Income 600,000 E. Other Income 82,000 TOTAL INCOME $14,504,000 INCREASE IN RESERVES ($9,747,175) EXPENDITURES A. Debt Services 1. Interest $4,440,400 2. Principal 2,027,100 DEBT SERVICE SUBTOTAL $6,467,500 B. Salaries 1. General Manager Appointees $ 2,630,150 2. Salary Incentive Awards 25,000 3. General Manager 98,200 4. Legal Counsel 63,650 5. Controller 9,500 Benefits $ 783,950 C. Directors' Fees $ 27,000 SALARIES AND BENEFITS SUBTOTAL $3,637,450 EXHIBIT A Page 2 D. Services and Supplies 1. Legal Services $ 30,500 2. Regular Outside Services 47,800 3. Land Option Fees 5,000 4. Contract Services 301,900 S. Election/Annexation 75,350 6. Library and Subscriptions 7,350 7. Film&Developing 1,100 8. Rents and Leases 17,950 9. Utilities 93,150 10. Postage 84,500 11. Printing and Duplicating 29,350 12. Insurance 152,250 13. Advertising 5,300 14. Maps and Aerials 1,400 15. Private Vehicle Expense 14,500 16. District Vehicle Expense 142,950 17. Business Meeting Expense 8,125 18. Personnel Development 61,750 19. Maintenance/Repair Equipment 22,300 20. Operating Expenses - Distel 9,950 21. Computer Expenses 13,150 22. Office Supplies/Small Equipment 9,500 23. Field Supplies/Small Equipment 41,900 24. Outside Maintenance Services 210,150 25. Property Taxes and Permits 3,600 26. Communications - Publications 127,500 27. Communications - Special Projects 8,000 28. Volunteer Program 12,900 29. Miscellaneous 300 SERVICES AND SUPPLIES SUBTOTAL $1,539,475 EXHIBIT A Page 3 F. Fixed Assets 1. Previous Land Commitment $ 1,303,000 2. New Land Purchases 10,000,000 3. Appraiser 50,000 4. Site Acquisition Expense 26,000 5. Legal Fees 150,000 6. Relocation 500 7. Tide Insurance 10,000 8. Site Engineering 10,000 9. Site Preparation Expense 10,000 10. Option Fees 15,000 11. Structures and Improvements 871,250 12. Field Equipment 25,500 13. Office Equipment 24,500 14. Vehicles 111,000 FIXED ASSETS SUBTOTAL $12,606,750 TOTAL OF ALL EXPENDITURES $24,251,175 Rtregional Open S, ce ..................... R-98-38 MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT Meeting 98-07 March 25, 1998 A AGENDA ITEM AGENDA 4 Approval of Proposed Minor Organizational Changes for th Ian' g Program and Authorization to Fill a Planner 11 Position GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATIONS 1 Approve the proposed minor organizational changes for the Planning Program, including continuance of the self-directed work team and an Acting Appointment to the Senior Planner position. 2. Authorize the filling of an Open Space Planner H position in lieu of a currently vacant Open Space Planner I position. BACKGROUND In September 1995, you approved the establishment of a self-directed work team for the Planning and Acquisition Programs (see report R-95-120). Over the past year there have been a number of staffing changes in the Planning and Acquisition Programs, including the departure of two Open Space Planner I's, the conversion of the half-time Acquisition secretary to the full-time Real Property Assistant, the transfer of a Senior Planner to Senior Management Specialist in Administration, and the filling of the second Planning Technician and half-time Planning Secretary positions. Given these staffing changes and the current vacancies in the Planner I position, the Planning Team and General Manager met several times to discuss the self-directed work team status, the needs of the department in relation to the two vacancies, and the relationship between the Planning and Acquisition Programs. DISCUSSION Self-Directed Work Team Status The successful transition to a self-directed work team takes time (usually two to five years), training, and management support. The Planning Team has undergone many changes and made a great deal of progress in the two and one-half years since the inception of the team concept. The recent experience of preparing the Work Program was a turning point for the team in understanding and experiencing how a team organization could work. The team is very enthusiastic about working together and has expressed a strong desire to continue in a self-directed format. However, it is also recognized that leadership within the team is a necessary element for success and that it has sometimes been lacking. To address this need, Senior Planner R. Anderson and Open Space Planner II M. de Beauvieres will be designated as the leaders of the group. R. Anderson will provide the team leadership in the advance 330 Distel Circle - Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Phone: 650-691-1200 FAX: 650-091-0485 - E-mail: r-riros(]@openspace.org Web site:www.of)enspace.org Bo?I(j of oiroaors:Pete Siemens,Mary C. Davey,Jed Cyr, David T.Smernoff,Nonette Hanko,Betsy Crowder,Kenneth C.Nitz - General Manager.L.Craig Britton R-98-38 Page 2 planning area, and M. de Beauvieres will oversee the capital improvements or "current" planning projects. Both Randy and Mary will also assume responsibility for mentoring and/or supervising the other Planning Team members. The other necessary elements to insure team success are support from management team, and training. The General Manager, Operations Manager, and Administrative Services Manager have been working closely with the Planning Team over the last several months, and this participation will continue as needed. Training opportunities for the Team may include topics such as decision-making, conflict resolution, coaching and mentoring, communication skills, and conducting performance evaluations. Proposed Organizational Changes The Acquisition Program was originally included in the self-directed work team because of its reduced size and its close interaction with the Planning group. In recent months, the Acquisition Program has begun to operate independently outside of the Planning Team structure. Both the Planning and Acquisition groups agree that this has simplified the team process for Planning and increased the effectiveness of both programs. Planning and Acquisition need to remain actively engaged in open communication. To that end, they have scheduled regular meetings between the two groups, but otherwise intend to operate as separate groups rather than as part of the same self-directed work team. Two budgeted Planner I vacancies currently exist in the Planning Program. An internal hiring process is underway to fill one of the Planner I vacancies. This position will most likely be filled by one of the current Planning Technicians, resulting in the need to backfill one of the Planning Technician positions. Regarding the second vacancy, the Team has identified a need for a planner with a construction project background, because a significant number of planning projects involve construction. The ideal candidate would have a degree in civil engineering or construction management, plus experience in construction design, planning, and project management. Based on the knowledge and level of experience sought, this position should be equivalent to the Planner II level. We have initiated the hiring process for a Planner II with construction management experience, with the proviso that it is pending Board approval. In the event the Board does not approve the hiring of a Planner II, we will proceed with the hiring of a second Planner I. Section 5.5 of the Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual states that "An exempt employee formally assigned by the General Manager to perform the work of a higher classification, normally due to a position vacancy, shall be paid at least five points more than his or her current salary or the minimum salary range assigned to the higher classification, whichever is greater, for a specific period of time designated by the General Manager as long as the acting appointment exceeds fifteen working days." In recognition of the fact that M. de Beauvieres and R. Anderson will be sharing leadership responsibilities and other duties that would otherwise be assigned to a manager, M. de Beauvieres will be assigned to an Acting Senior Planner position and will receive a five point (5.1%) salary increase for the duration of the 1998-1999 fiscal year. At the end of the 1998-1999 fiscal year we will evaluate the success of the self-directed work team. At that time we also anticipate undertaking a salary and classification study that will include a close look at the ranking of the Planning positions within R-98-38 Page 3 the self-directed team structure, assuming a successful evaluation. Financial Implications Funding for two full-time Planner I positions is included in the 1998-1999 Planning Program budget. Realistically, the Planner H position and the anticipated replacement Planning Technician position will not be filled for at least the first few months of the 1998-1999 fiscal year. The salary savings during these first few months should offset the cost of hiring a Planner II instead of a Planner I, as well as the cost of the Acting Senior Planner assignment. It is expected that these staffing changes will therefore be accomplished within the existing budget. Prepared by: Deirdre Dolan, Administrative Services Manager Contact person: Craig Britton, General Manager Ate(-vioIJ I Open S ce R-98-42 MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL.OPEN SPACE DISTRICT Meeting 98-07 March 25, 1998 AGENDA ITEM 5 AGENDA ITEM Annual Claims List for Fiscal Year 1998-1999 CONTROLLER'S RECOMMENDATION Approve the annual claims list, including debt service payments for the 1998-1999 fiscal year. DISCUSSION In accordance with Section 1.53 of the District's Rules of Procedure, this list of annual claims for the 1998-1999 fiscal year is submitted for Board approval. All items are in accordance with the budget to be presented at your March 25 meeting for approval. Staff will submit a revised annual claims list during the 1998-1999 fiscal year to reflect necessary changes. The debt service claims list reflects payments required by currently outstanding debt. Attachment A lists the District's current debt service annual claims for 1998-1999, and Attachment B provides a detailed list of debt service obligations. ANNUAL CLAIMS ITEM DESCRIPTION AMOUNT Directors' Fees $ 27,000 Staff Salaries 2,798,650 Salary Incentive Awards 25,000 Retirement Funds 396,600 Group Insurance Premiums 287,200 State-Mandated Insurance 99,800 Dr. Steven M. Loy (H. Grench Dental Coverage) 850 Monthly Vehicle Expense (Craig, Mary, Del) 7,000 Utilities - PG&E 55,200 Legislative Consultant (Heim, Noack, & Spahnn) 15,000 Dispatching Services (City of Mountain View) 19,000 Magana's Janitorial Service (330 Distel) 17,000 Bettencourt American Landscape (330 Distel) 3,500 Antenna Site Rental - Motorola Inc. (Repeater Si te) 2,000 Fuel - Valley Company Oil Com an 52,000 Prepared by: Michael L. Foster, Controller Bunny Congdon, Accounting Specialist Contact person: Same as above 330 Distel Circle - Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Phone:650-691-1200 C 5 w r-nrosd@operisl)ace.org- - www.openspace.org FAX: 650 6)1 04H�a Email: mrosciC)openspace.or� Web site:www.oErens�<ce.o g Hoard of Oirectors.Pate Siemens,Mary C.Davey,Jed Cyr,David T.Srnernoff, Nonctte Hanko, Betsy Crowder,Kenneth C. Nilz « General Manager:L.Craig Britton ANNUAL CLAIMS DEBT SERVICE FISCAL YEAR 1998-1999 NOTEHOLDER-LAND PRINCIPAL INTEREST Aine 8,612.81 9,512.00 Leverich-Corn 3,851.35 800.45 Lazenby 4,592.77 4,125.68 Hosking/S &Y 0.00 32,500.00 BONDS PAYABLE 1990 Notes 655,000.00 951,327.50 1992 Notes 335,000.00 455,525.00 1993 COP'S 360,000.00 923,585.00 1995 Notes 100,000.00 796,142.50 1996 Note 370,000.00 812,660.00 1996 JPFA Lease 165,000.00 454,257.50 TOTALS--NOTEHOLDERS & BONDS 2,002,056.93 4,440,435.63 DEBT SERVICE 98/99 03/31/98 OPEN SPACE PRESERVE Payable to Close of Escro Original Note Rate% Terms Remaining Principal Final Paym.Due Payable 98/99 Principal Interest Foothills Aine 01/18/89 192-DO0.00 7.0 20 years 135,88551 12(18/08 18,124.91 R61281 9,51200 Sierra Azul Leverich 05/13/81 50,000.00 7.0 20 years 13,177.68 0512212001 4,651.80 3,651.35 800.45 Lazenby 08/31/88 100,000.00 ra 0 20 years 68,761.36 08/31/2008 8,7118.45 459277 4,125.68 150,000.00 81,939.04 13,370.25 R444.12 4,92E Skyline Hosking 03/01/68 500,000.00 6.5 10 years 500.000-00 03/01/2003 32-500.00 0.00 32-500,00 SUBTOTAL--NOTEHOLDERS 642-000.00 717,624.55 63,995.06 17,056593 46,938.13 Various Notes 1990 Note 09,101/90 15,000,000.00 7.41 20 years 13,270,000.00 09,101/2010 1,6136,327.50 65E4000,00 951,327.50 1992 Note 12/01/92 R000,000.00 6,09 20 years 7,680,000,00 12101/2012 790,52500 335,00aoo 4515,52500 1993 Cop's 09./01/2020 17,315,000.00 699 25 years 16,825,000.00 09/01/2020 1,283,585.00 360,O0O.00 923,58SOO 1995 Note Cia(31/201 5 11,500,00D,00 7.07 20 years 11,500,000.00 03/31/2015 896,142-50 100,000.00 796,142-50 1996 Note 07/96 1 R 166,481.00 609 20 years 18,166,481.00 C9/01/2016 820,43000 370,ODO.00 812660.00 1996 JPFA Lease 07/96 11,743,720.00 6,09 30 years 11,598,720.00 09/01/2026 605,550OO 165,000.00 454,257.50 SUBTOTAL-NOTES 81,725,201.00 79,040,201.00 R002-560 00 11,985,000,DD 4,393,497.50 TOTALS--NOTEHOLDERS&NOTES 82,567,201.00 79,75RO25.55 6,06rA555 06 2,0D2_056 93 4,440,43- � Claims No. 98-08 K8webnQW8'O7 Date: March 25. 19Q8 � M|DPENIN8ULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT # Amount Name Description 3797 299.86 ACME & Sons Sanitation Sanitation Services 3798 97.50 ADT Burglar Alarm 3798 334.33 All Laser Service Laser Printer Service � 3800 25.00 Bob Archibald Docent Training 3801 258.00 Atlas Heating & Air Conditioning Ranger Residence Furnace Repair 3802 38.66 AT&T Telephone Service 3803 86.90 Gordon BaiUie Reinnburmernont - PRAC Conference 3884 70.00 Ba1zoncourt American Landscape Landscape Maintenance 3806 573.00 Bills Towing Towing � 3806 1,050.00 Thompson Brooks Tree Removal and Trimming � 3807 85.01 Car|oen Bruins Reimbursement ' Nature Center Supplies 3808 562.50 Building Abatement Enterprise � . � 3809 1,055.53 Cabe|a'm Uniform Supplies 3810 120.00 California Park and Recreation Society Subscription � 3811 128.61 California VVau*/ Service Company VVmoar Service 3812 25GO3 CaUanderAumociaten Windy � � � 3813 91 .24 Cal-Line Equipment, Inc. Equipment Repair � 3814 70.00 Camino Medical Group Modioa| Servoeo 3815 880.99 C | Enterprises, Inc. Lighting Maintenance 381G 3'O35�SS Cascade Fire Equipment Company Fire Fighting Equipment � 3817 296.56 Connmunication & Control, Inc. Mt. UnnunhunnPump � � 3818 49.94 Patrick Congdon Reimburoenment ' PRAC Conference � 3818 155.21 Compu/un Systems Computer Supplies � 3820 175.32 Contemporary Engraving Co.. Inc. Engraving 3831 80.00 °1 Betsy Crowder Reinnburuonnent ' PCLFSynnpoaiurn 3822 41.20 CSKAuto'K/agan Vehicle Maintenance 3823 250.20 Mary Davey Reinobunaenmant - PCLConfuronne 3824 65-00 Decatur Electronics, Inc. Radar Certification 3825 1.300-00 Department of Parka & Recreation DSTTraininQ � 3826 6S1�87 °2 EIS, Inc. Board Meeting Equipment Rental � 3827 668O0 EnohuUah. Inc. Consulting Servioem - TeagueHiU 3828 28.25 Federal Express Corporation Express Mail 3829 501.18 Forestry Suppliers, Inc. PH/Conductivity Kit and Power Pack 3830 38.45 Foster Bros. Security Systems, Inc. Keys 3831 51.60 G & K Services Shop Towel Se/vice 3832 35-98 GaU'n Inc. Night Guard Spot Light 3833 56141 GoodYear Auto Service Center Tires 3834 60.00 Greenbelt Alliance Patrol Map Book � 3835 429.00 GnaenVVeate Recovery, Inc. Ounnpsner Service ' Skyline � 3836 36.94 GTEK4obi|net Cellular Phone Service 3837 50.00 Keith Gutierrez Docent Training 3838 223.31 H & L International, Inc. Volunteer Program Supplies/Equipment 3839 100.00 Phil Hearin Roimbumonment - PRAC Conference 3840 45-00 C|arieHoUmnbeuk Docent Training 3841 160.21 °3 Stanley W. Hooper Reimbu/aenoont ' Uniform Supplies 3842 839.48 Home Depot Fie|dSupp|iee/Equipmnwnt | 3843 25�O0 Dianne Hunt Docent Training / 3844 117.77 J. C. Penny Uniform Supplies 3845 54.49 John Kovva|eoki Rmimburnennont - FUnn Developed Page 1 Claims No. 88-06 Meeting08-O Date: March 25. 18S8 M|DPEN|NSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT # Amount Name Description 3846 47.59 Lab Safety Supply Restroom Supplies - Skyline 3847 68.04 Langley Hill Quarry Drainage Rock 3848 935.20 Lanier Worldwide, Inc. Copier Lease 3848 200.00 Tom Lindsay Docent Training 3850 846.92 Livestock Supply Company Gates 3851 327.00 David Lockhart Feral Pig Study Project 3852 252.18 Los Altos Garbage Company Debris Box ' Pu|QaoOSP 3853 72.54 Lucent Technologies Telephone Maintenance 3854 1'427.48 KristenManims Seed Collection Data Consultant 3856 200.17 MetroMobi|eConmmunioabono Radio Repair ' Foothills 3856 300.00 Ken Miller Ryimburoement - PRAC Conference 3857 175.37 Moffett Janitorial Supply Restroom Supplies 3858 18.38 Mountain View Garden Center Pea Gravel 3859 281 .00 Mi||er, Brovvo & Donnis Legal Services 3860 1'861 .22 Orchard Supply Hardware Field Supplies 3861 1'609.62 Pacific Bell Telephone Service 3883 250.70 Porto|a Valley Food Straw 3863 638.87 Platypus Studios, Inc, Nature Center - Grophiva 3864 149.39 R. E. Bonnnann`aSteo| Field Supply 3865 16.88 Rancho ACE Hardware Reotroorn Supply 3866 34.13 Rayne VVotor Conditioning Water Service 3887 120.00 Redwood Plumbing & Heating BeanReaidenoe - SorvineCaU 3868 490.00 Barbara Scherb Rufer Contract Planner 3869 1'049.45 Russ Enterprises Barricades/Signs 3870 114.75 Sa/etyK|emn Solvent Tank Service 3871 1 1&GG Sears Ro|d Supplies 3872 185.90 Kelly Seitz Training Manuals-Hez Mat Class 3873 44.00 Sequoia Analytical Labratory Skyline Water Tests 3874 337.21 Stevens Creek Quarry, Inc. Grovo|/DrainRouk � 3875 253.20 Summit Uniforms Uniform Supplies 3878 203.50 Debra Tho/n|ey Ca|Trano Project Consultant 3877 105.80 Tool Crib of the North Tools 3878 1'293-00 Turner & Mu|oure Legal Services � 3879 583.77 United Green Mark, Inc. Field Supplies 3880 7.51 Uooca| 7G Fuel � 3881 3'000.00 U. S Postal Service postage 3882 1.232.68 Visa Supplies 3883 22.73 West Coast Reba/ Field Supply 3884 839.06 Wheel VVo/ku Tires 3886 50.03 VVhee|omith Bicycles Patrol Bicycle Repairs 3886 250.00 Wilderness Taxidermy Nature Center Displays 3887 40.89 Workingman's Emporium Uniform Supplies °1 Urgent Check Issued March 18' 1888 °3 Urgent Check Issued Maroh2O' 1898 °3 Urgent Check Issued March 12. 1998 TOTAL 36.245.58 Page Claims No. 98-0e Meeting 98-07 Date: March 25, 199a Revised MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT # Amount Name Description 3797 299.86 ACME & Sons Sanitation Sanitation Services 3798 97.50 ADT Burglar Alarm 3799 334.33 All Laser Service Laser Printer Service 3800 25-00 Bob Archibald Docent Training 3801 258-00 Atlas Heating & Air Conditioning Ranger Residence Furnace Repair 3802 38.66 AT&T Telephone Service 3803 86.90 Gordon Baillie Reimbursement- PRAC Conference 3804 70.00 Bettencourt American Landscape Landscape Maintenance 3805 573-00 Bills Towing Towing 3806 1,050.00 Thompson Brooks Tree Removal and Trimming 3807 85.01 Carleen Bruins Reimbursement- Nature Center Supplies 3808 562.50 Building Abatement Analytics Enterprise Asbestos Surveys 3809 1,055-53 Cabela's Uniform Supplies 3810 120.00 California Park and Recreation Society Subscription 3811 129.61 California Water Service Company Water Service 3812 256.03 Callander Associates Windy Hill Parking Lot Construction 3813 91.24 Cal-Line Equipment, Inc. Equipment Repair 3814 70.00 Camino Medical Group Medical Servces 3815 880.99 C I Enterprises, Inc. Lighting Maintenance 3816 2,035.56 Cascade Fire Equipment Company Fire Fighting Equipment 3817 296.56 Communication & Control, Inc. Mt. Umunhum Pump 3818 49.94 Patrick Congdon Reimbursement - PRAC Conference 1819 155.21 Compurun Systems Computer Supplies 820 175.92 Contemporary Engraving Co., Inc. Engraving 3821 80.00 1 Betsy Crowder Reimbursement - PCLF Symposium 3822 41.20 CSK Auto-Kragen Vehicle Maintenance 3823 250.26 Mary Davey Reimbursement - PCL Conference 3824 65.00 Decatur Electronics, Inc. Radar Certification 3825 1,300.00 Department of Parks & Recreation OST Training 3826 651.87 *2 EIS, Inc. Board Meeting Equipment Rental 3827 668.00 Enshallah, inc. Consulting Services -Teague Hill 3828 28.25 Federal Express Corporation Express Mail 3829 501.19 Forestry Suppliers, Inc. PH/Conductivity Kit and Power Pack 3830 38.45 Foster Bros. Security Systems, Inc. Keys 3831 51.60 G & K Services Shop Towel Service 3832 35.98 Gall's Inc. Night Guard Spot Light 3833 561.41 GoodYear Auto Service Center Tires 3834 60.00 Greenbelt Alliance Patrol Map Book 3835 429.00 GreenWaste Recovery, Inc. Dumpster Service - Skyline 3836 36.94 GTE Mobilnet Cellular Phone Service 3837 50.00 Keith Gutierrez Docent Training 3838 223.31 H & L International, Inc. Volunteer Program Supplies/Equipment 3839 100.00 Phil Hearin Reimbursement- PRAC Conference 3840 45.00 Clarie Hollenbeck Docent Training 3841 160.21 •3 Stanley W. Hooper Reimbursement - Uniform Supplies 3842 839.48 Home Depot Field Supplies/Equipment '1843 25.00 Dianne Hunt Docent Training j844 117.77 J. C. Penny Uniform Supplies 3845 54.49 John Kowaleski Reimbursement - Film Developed Page 1 Claims No. 98-06 Meeting 98-07 Date: March 25, 1998 Revised MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT # Amount Name Description J846 -44-69'v t, D Lab Safety Supply Restroom Supplies - Skyline 3847 68.04 Langley Hill Quarry Drainage Rock 3848 935.20 Lanier Worldwide, Inc. Copier Lease 3849 200.00 Tom Lindsay Docent Training 3850 846.92 Livestock Supply Company Gates 3851 327.00 David Lockhart Feral Pig Study Project 3852 252.18 Los Altos Garbage Company Debris Box - Pulgas OSP 3853 72.54 Lucent Technologies Telephone Maintenance 3854 1,427.48 Kristen Manies Seed Collection Data Consultant 3855 200.17 MetroMobileCommunications Radio Repair - Foothills 3856 200.00 Ken Miller Reimbursement - PRAC Conference 3857 175.37 Moffett Janitorial Supply Restroom Supplies 3858 18.38 Mountain View Garden Center Pea Gravel 3859 281.00 Miller, Brown & Dannis Legal Services 3860 1,961.32 Orchard Supply Hardware Field Supplies 3861 1,609.62 Pacific Bell Telephone Service 3862 250.70 Portola Valley Feed Straw 3863 -63&67 Platypus Studios, Inc. Nature Center- Graphics 3864 149.39 R. E. Borrmann's Steel Field Supply 3865 16.88 Rancho ACE Hardware Restroom Supply 3866 34.13 Rayne Water Conditioning Water Service 3867 120.00 Redwood Plumbing & Heating Bean Residence - Service Call 3868 490.00 Barbara Scherb Rufer Contract Planner 869 1,049.45 Russ Enterprises Barricades/Signs 3870 114.75 Safety Kleen Solvent Tank Service 3871 116.56 Sears Field Supplies 3872 195.90 Kelly Seitz Training Manuals--Haz Mat Class 3873 44.00 Sequoia Analytical Labratory Skyline Water Tests 3874 337.21 Stevens Creek Quarry, Inc. Gravel/Drain Rock 3875 253.20 Summit Uniforms Uniform Supplies 3876 203.50 Debra Thornley CalTrans Project Consultant 3877 166.90 Tool Crib of the North Tools 3878 1,293.00 Turner & Mulcare Legal Services 3879 593.77 United Green Mark, Inc. Field Supplies 3880 7.51 Unocal 76 Fuel 3881 3,000.00 U. S. Postal Service Postage 3882 1,332.68 Visa Supplies 3883 22.73 West Coast Rebar Field Supply 3884 639.06 Wheel Works Tires 3885 50.03 Wheelsmith Bicycles Patrol Bicycle Repairs 3886 250.00 Wilderness Taxidermy Nature Center Displays 3887 40.99 Workingman's Emporium Uniform Supplies 3888R 2,508.00 BNY Western Trust Company 1995 Note Administration Fee 3889R 210.00 CAPIO CAPIO Conference-K. Altied 389OR 13,268.97 Jens Hansen Company Windy Hill Improvement Project 3891 R 572.33 Office Depot Office Supplies 189211 284.74 *4 Precision Cameras Field Staff Camera Page 2 Claims No. 98-06 Meeting 98-07 Date: March 25, 1998 Revised MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT Amount Name Description .,893R 110.57 Petty Cash Business Meeting Expense, Office and Field Supplies and Conference Expense •I Urgent Check Issued March 18, 1998 •2 Urgent Check Issued March 20, 1998 *3 Urgent Check Issued March 12, 1998 •4 Urgent Check Issued March 23, 1998 TOTAL 52,200.19 Page 3 Claims No. 98-06 Meeting 98-07 Date: March 25, 1998 Revised MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT # Amount Name Description 3797 299.86 ACME & Sons Sanitation Sanitation Services 3798 97.50 ADT Burglar Alarm 3799 334.33 All Laser Service Laser Printer Service 3800 25.00 Bob Archibald Docent Training 3801 258.00 Atlas Heating & Air Conditioning Ranger Residence Furnace Repair 3802 38.66 AT&T Telephone Service 3803 86.90 Gordon Baillie Reimbursement - PRAC Conference 3804 70.00 Bettencourt American Landscape Landscape Maintenance 3805 573.00 Bills Towing Towing 3806 1,050.00 Thompson Brooks Tree Removal and Trimming 3807 85.01 Carleen Bruins Reimbursement - Nature Center Supplies 3808 562.50 Building Abatement Analytics Enterprise Asbestos Surveys 3809 1,055.53 Cabala's Uniform Supplies 3810 120.00 California Park and Recreation Society Subscription 3811 129.61 California Water Service Company Water Service 3812 256.03 Callander Associates Windy Hill Parking Lot Construction 3813 91.24 Cal-Line Equipment, Inc. Equipment Repair 3814 70.00 Camino Medical Group Medical Services 3815 880.99 C I Enterprises, Inc. Lighting Maintenance 3816 2,035.56 Cascade Fire Equipment Company Fire Fighting Equipment 3817 296.56 Communication & Control, Inc. Mt. Umunhum Pump 3818 49.94 Patrick Congdon Reimbursement - PRAC Conference 3819 155.21 Compurun Systems Computer Supplies 3820 175.92 Contemporary Engraving Co., Inc. Engraving 3821 80.00 •1 Betsy Crowder Reimbursement - PCLF Symposium 3822 41.20 CSK Auto-Kragen Vehicle Maintenance 3823 250.26 Mary Davey Reimbursement - PCL Conference 3824 65.00 Decatur Electronics, Inc. Radar Certification 3825 1,300.00 Department of Parks & Recreation OST Training 3826 651.87 *2 EIS, Inc. Board Meeting Equipment Rental 3827 668.00 Enshallah, lnc. Consulting Services - Teague Hill 3828 28.25 Federal Express Corporation Express Mail 3829 501.19 Forestry Suppliers, Inc. PH/Conductivity Kit and Power Pack 3830 38.45 Foster Bros. Security Systems, Inc. Keys 3831 51.60 G & K Services Shop Towel Service 3832 35.98 Gall's Inc. Night Guard Spot Light 3833 561.41 GoodYear Auto Service Center Tires 3834 60.00 Greenbelt Alliance Patrol Map Book 3835 429.00 GreenWaste Recovery, Inc. Dumpster Service - Skyline 3836 36.94 GTE Mobilnet Cellular Phone Service 3837 50.00 Keith Gutierrez Docent Training 3838 223.31 H & L International, Inc. Volunteer Program Supplies/Equipment 3839 100.00 Phil Hearin Reimbursement - PRAC Conference 3840 45.00 Clarie Hollenbeck Docent Training 3841 160.21 *3 Stanley W. Hooper Reimbursement- Uniform Supplies 3842 839.48 Home Depot Field Supplies/Equipment 3843 25.00 Dianne Hunt Docent Training 3844 117.77 J. C. Penny Uniform Supplies 3845 54.49 John Kowaleski Reimbursement - Film Developed Page 1 Claims No. 98-06 Meeting 98-07 Date: March 25, 1998 Revised MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT # Amount Name Description 3846 47.59 Lab Safety Supply Restroom Supplies - Skyline 3847 68.04 Langley Hill Quarry Drainage Rock 3848 935.20 Lanier Worldwide, Inc. Copier Lease 3849 200.00 Tom Lindsay Docent Training 3850 846.92 Livestock Supply Company Gates 3851 327.00 David Lockhart Feral Pig Study Project 3852 252.18 Los Altos Garbage Company Debris Box - Pulgas OSP 3853 72.54 Lucent Technologies Telephone Maintenance 3854 1,427.48 Kristen Manies Seed Collection Data Consultant 3855 200.17 MetroMobileCommunications Radio Repair - Foothills 3856 200.00 Ken Miller Reimbursement - PRAC Conference 3857 175.37 Moffett Janitorial Supply Restroom Supplies 3858 18.38 Mountain View Garden Center Pea Gravel 3859 281.00 Miller, Brown & Dannis Legal Services 3860 1,961.32 Orchard Supply Hardware Field Supplies 3861 1,609.62 Pacific Bell Telephone Service 3862 250.70 Portola Valley Feed Straw 3863 638.67 Platypus Studios, Inc. Nature Center - Graphics 3864 149.39 R. E. Borrmann's Steel Field Supply 3865 16.88 Rancho ACE Hardware Restroom Supply 3866 34.13 Rayne Water Conditioning Water Service 3867 120.00 Redwood Plumbing & Heating Bean Residence - Service Call 3868 490.00 Barbara Scherb Rufer Contract Planner 3869 1,049.45 Russ Enterprises Barricades/Signs 3870 114.75 Safety Kleen Solvent Tank Service 3871 116.56 Sears Field Supplies 3872 195.90 Kelly Seitz Training Manuals--Haz Mat Class 3873 44.00 Sequoia Analytical Labratory Skyline Water Tests 3874 337.21 Stevens Creek Quarry, Inc. Gravel/Drain Rock 3875 253.20 Summit Uniforms Uniform Supplies 3876 203.50 Debra Thornley CalTrans Project Consultant 3877 166.90 Tool Crib of the North Tools 3878 1,293.00 Turner & Mulcare Legal Services 3879 593.77 United Green Mark, Inc. Field Supplies 3880 7.51 Unocal 76 Fuel 3881 3,000.00 U. S. Postal Service Postage 3882 1,332.68 Visa Supplies 3883 22.73 West Coast Rebar Field Supply 3884 639.06 Wheel Works Tires 3885 50.03 Wheelsmith Bicycles Patrol Bicycle Repairs 3886 250.00 Wilderness Taxidermy Nature Center Displays 3887 40.99 Workingman's Emporium Uniform Supplies 3888R 2,508.00 BNY Western Trust Company 1995 Note Administration Fee 3889R 210.00 CAPIO CAPIO Conference-K. Altieri 3890R 13,268.97 Jens Hansen Company Windy Hill Improvement Project 3891 R 572.33 Office Depot Office Supplies 3892R 284.74 •4 Precision Cameras Field Staff Camera Page 2 Claims No. 98-06 Meeting 98-07 Date: March 25, 1998 Revised MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT Amount Name Description 3893R 110.57 Petty Cash Business Meeting Expense, Office and Field Supplies and Conference Expense *1 Urgent Check Issued March 18, 1998 *2 Urgent Check Issued March 20, 1998 *3 Urgent Check Issued March 12, 1998 *4 Urgent Check Issued March 23, 1998 TOTAL 52,200.19 Page 3 Regional Open S,, xe MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT TO: Board of Directors FROM: C. Britton, General Manager DATE: March 20, 1998 SUBJECT: FYI 330 Distel Circle * Los Altos,CA 94022-1404 - Phone: 650-691-1200 FAX: 650-691-0485 * E-mail: mroscl@openspace.org Web site:www.openspace.org Board of Directors:Pete Siemens,Mary C. Davey,Jed Cyr,David T.Smernoff,Nonette Hanko,Betsy Crowder,Kenneth C.Nitz -General Manager:I.Craig Britton The Warner Grou5950 CANOGA AVENUE,SUITE 600 p WOODLAND HILLS,CALIFORNIA 91367 MANAGEMENT CONSULTANTS (818)710-8855 * FAX(818)710-1467 Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Operations Program Review Date: March 6, 1998 To: Craig Britton and John Escobar Front: The Warner Group — Subject. Project Progress Menio This memo describes the tasks accomplished as part of the Operations Program Review during the month of February 1998, and the next steps in the project. Accomplishments • Conducted Project Kick-Off Meeting with the Board Ad Hoc Committee, Operations Program Managers and Supervisors, and Union representatives on February 2 d • Received and began reviewing background documentation including the District's Enabling Legislation, District policies, etc. • Developed briefing materials and questions for interviews with Operations Program Staff • Worked with Gordon Baillie to schedule four days of interviews and field ride-alongs • Conducted individual interviews with all Operations Program staff, including: • 18 Rangers (including 2 Area Supervisors and 4 Supervising Rangers) • 12 Maintenance Staff(9 OSTs/2 EMOs/1 FMW) * 6 Management/Administrative Staff 0 3 Board Members • Completed two follow-up interviews with staff whose interviews were not completed during the originally scheduled interview time • Conducted four ride-alongs with District Rangers; two ride-alongs in the Skyline area and two in the Foothill area CAA0L301D0WNL0AD\SM0309EM.doc 3/17/98 5V PM 40 • Began planning employee focus groups, including developing focus group approach and discussion topics • Began planning external stakeholder assessment, including compiling lists of stakeholders suggested by Operations staff during interviews, developing recommendations for stakeholders to be interviewed, and drafting interview questions • Began planning comparable agency study, including compiling lists of agencies suggested by Operations staff during interviews Next Steps • Continue review of background documentation, including documentation recently received from Craig Britton and others • Finalize focus group topics and begin scheduling sessions • Conduct focus groups • Finalize list of external stakeholders to be interviewed and finalize interview questions • Schedule and conduct external stakeholder interviews • Develop comparable agency study data collection materials • Begin conducting comparable agency study Other Issues While reviewing the Project Schedule, we realized that the completion date for Phase 1, Task 4 (conduct the External Stakeholder Assessment) was the week of 4/6/98. This is beyond the 3/27/98 date by which we have agreed to complete Phase I, Tasks I through 4. We have adjusted the Project Schedule to reflect completion of Task 4 by the week of 3/23/98. The attached Project Schedule includes this adjustment, and is shaded to highlight the portion of the schedule which has been completed. We feel that the project is going well and that we are moving ahead according to schedule. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact Christine Wilson or Ken Zahn at (818) 710-8855. CAAOLMDOWN WAMSN10309EM.doe 2 MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT OPERATIONS PROGRAM REVIEW PROJECT SCHEDULE Schedule In Weeks Workplan Tasks 212 1/9 1/16 21'23 3/1 3/9 3/16 3113 3/30 4/6 14113 4/10 4/27 5/4 5/11 5/18 5/25 6/1 6/8 6/15 6/17 6/19 7/6 7/13 Conduct Project Kick-Off Meeting Phase 1 1. Interview Board Members, District Management and Employees 2. Review Relevant Documents 3. Conduct Employee Focus Groups 4. Conduct External Stakeholder Assessment 5. Conduct Comparable Agency Study 6. Assess Current Practices,Methods and Processes 7. Analyze Programs and Services 8. Develop Service Delivery Models Phase 2 1. Prepare Interim Progress Report 2. Present Interim Progress Report Phase 3 1. Develop Draft Review Findings and Recommendations Phase 4 1. Prepare Final Report Progress Memos 2-13-1995 1 1 23PfA FROtl P- I PO Box 370599 Montara, CA 94037 March 19, 19998 Midpeninsula Regional Openspace District FAX 691-0485 Mr. Pete Siemens Ms. Mary C. Davey Mr. Jed Cyr Mr, David T. Smernoff Ms. Nonette G. Hanko Mr. Kenneth C. Nitz Honorable Directors — I just heard of your courageous 6-1 vote to �ersist in your efforts to protect the land currently owned by the Sisters of Our Lady of Vladimir. I There Is just too little nature left, and too many things that can go wrong. With each passing month, there) are new threats and disappointments where I live on the San Mateo Pounty coast. Each land owner, each developer has its own reason why their project deserves special treatment — and why the continued benefit of the public is somehow mean and selfish. Sometimes I wonder if we can save enough, soon enough. Usually the answer is no, but sometimes there are bright sports. Last night your vision and Integrity created one of those slivers of hope. For that I offer my sincerest thank you. U"Y'Do ohnson INTER-OFFICE MEMORANDUM March 16, 1997 TO: Craig Britton, General Manger FROM: Gordon Baillie, Operations Analyst SUBJECT: MONTHLY FIELD ACTIVITY SUMMARY Month February Year 1998 VIOLATIONS TOTALS CITES CRIMES Bicycles Stolen vehicle recovery I Closed area 3 3 Speed 0 0 ACCIDENTS/INCIDENTS Helmet 3 1 Bicycle 0 Night-riding 0 0 Equestrian 0 Unsafe operation 0 0 Hiking/running 0 Dogs Other first-aid 0 Prohibited area I I Search/rescue I Off-leash 2 1 Air evacuation — 0 Off-road vehicles 0 0 Closed area 4 0 ENFORCEMENT After hours 1 0 Citations 20 Fishing 0 0 Written warnings 11 Vandalism 1 0 Arrests 0 Parking 12 11 Police assistance 0 Parking after hours 3 3 Dumping/littering 0 0 MUTUAL AID Campfires 0 0 Accidents Camping 0 0 Law Enforcement 0 Weapons Fire Actual contact 0 0 Report only 0 0 Evidence of 0 0 Illegal grazing I I SUMMARIES OF SIGNIFICANT INCIDENTS Feb. 2: T. Lausten and K. Miller were flagged down by a CalTrans crew and requested to assist with a motor vehicle accident at Foothill Expressway and Hwy 280. The vehicle had gone over an embankment and the driver was trapped. District staff assisted with first aid, extrication and traffic control. Feb. 9: At Russian Ridge OSP another grazing violation occurred involving a neighboring land owner. This ongoing problem is being pursued through the San Mateo County District Attorney's Office criminal complaint process. B. Downing. Feb. 15: A young boy got his knee wedged between two trunks of a tree in Rancho San Antonio OSP. K. Miller and County Fire responded. An airbag between the tree trunks was used to free the boy. He was released to his parents Without injury. Feb. 15: K. Miller stopped a couple with two dogs off leash in Rancho San Antonio County Park. The visitor was curious if Miller was carrying a gun, and then legally signed his name on the citation with an "X." Feb. 24: The restroorn at Monte Bello OSP was vandalized with graffiti. The spray-painted tagging was removed by staff. L. Paterson. Feb. 26: A stolen vehicle was recovered in the Higgins-Purisirna lot at Purisima Creek Redwoods OSP. The vehicle windows were broken and all four tires were flattened. San Mateo County Sheriff's Office handled the recovery. M. Ken. t 4DO goo � ' N - .Jim. �i •q b f� I J /©m NOTE: Bicycle riders must wear ,p approred helmets in both E j /0.6 Fremont Older O.S.P.and m ` f Stevens Creek Countv Park V6LI0 ow .Y L t0 0.7 a s 0.4 c_ o w 0.2 600 1- 0.2 6=i au�n 0.2 t 1.0 C�i •;ass\ aoo • \ 1 s Hunter's 11 Point Ranch% y4 4) ,0.2 0.5 _ i y n 0.7 5a' n A 0.1 i •• w 0.5 6a d 0.7 Hayfield 1 y - w Trail �w tJ � OJ A n• 0.1 Cora Older rn C 0.3 •••o / frail G / 0.2 0.1 •0.1; 1 O Fern ...0.2 Trail / a Stevens Creek tl•1 '• m County Park Maisie's 0.5 �•' P, C (Santa Clara County) Ors 0.2 Peak 0.2 •� •'•0.6 •�'•• • I Bay View Trail Bat O 600 Coyote 0.1 0.4 ��• Ridge 0.6 Toyon L • Trail ✓ Trail Q Soo ;/� 0.3 NOTE: h L \ 0'6 Toren Trail it w6ject LJ 1200 ►rb •• 1 _� to awrul ck wre. sss+rwa....• ® \\� ve Nob J p� '•;�•• � Vista loop Trail tarn f 0.2 �� S s Stevens",- Mt.Eden oleo • 6ao u Canyon ® Contact Stevens Creek Road Road a County Park for more - county park information. - �Garrodi" Farms ,.f.::. a,• _ •.: ' '0 6 1997 Midjwnuisula Regional Open Space District �'ro'•� D yam. CQ�.�. /�� I1G�� Gc�oss �'u�,..�. � �J ev Gc.� .O�Gt►wp/h� lGl�t Cal L L� �4,Ir/(L.c.� Gy.. �7 �c l sc� h yA7 /-x l'o lei a,57"1te eel `d dasCn Grl�-z, �G�at�ld 7j Q7� [��S`� ji C RECEWED MAR 101998 MIDPENINSGLA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT � i Regional Open Space 1 L� MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT TO: Board of Directors - FROM: C. Britton, General Manag DATE: March 25, 1998 SUBJECT: FYI I i 330 Distel Circle • Los Altos,CA 94022-1404 • Phone:650-691-1200 FAX:650-691-0485 • E-mail:mrosd®openspace.org • Web site:www.openspace.org ` Board of Directors:Pete Siemens,Mary C.Davey,Jed Cyr,David T.Smernoff,Nonette Hanko,Betsy Crowder,Kenneth C.Nitz • General Manager:L.Craig Britton Regional f Sp,, -,e MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT This is a co of the letter that was sent to all of the people we received correspondence copy p p p from on this matter. Dear Thank you for your recent correspondence regarding the possible acquisition of the Russian Convent property by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District through the eminent domain process. The District's Board of Directors will be considering this issue at a special meeting on Wednesday, March 18. This meeting will begin at 7:30 p.m. at the District office: 330 Distei Circle, Los Altos. The members of the Board appreciate your concern and value your comments. Your correspondence will be provided to the Board for their consideration, and will be made a part of the permanent record of this public hearing. Again, thank you for taking the time to express your thoughts and concerns on this issue. Sincerely, L. Craig Britton General Manager LCB/mcs cc: MROSD Board of Directors 22-1404 Phone: FAX: h50-f 91-0485 « E-mail: mrosd@oA nspace.org Web site:www.opensp ace.org � Los mrosd@openspace.org g openspace org Beard of Directors:Pete Siemens,Mary C. Davey,Jed Cyr,David r.Smernoff, Nonette I ianko, Betsy Crowder,Kenneth C. Nitz - General Manager:t_Craig Britton I convent --0 4.5(Y-PM--3-/ 98, ao,6 i i-9 iL 8-e-D i-a t i 18-E To: convent From: Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace .org> This is a copy of the response Subject : Open Space District that was. sent to all of people Cc: we received E-mail responses Bcc : from on this matter. X-Attachments : March 12 1998 Thank you for your recent correspondence regarding the possible acquisition of the Russian Convent property by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District through the eminent domain process . The District ' s Board of Directors will be considering this issue at a special meeting on Wednesday, March 18 . This meeting will begin at 7 :30 p.m. at the District office : 330 Distel Circle, Los Altos . The members of the Board appreciate your concern and value your comments . Your correspondence will be provided to the Board for their consideration, and will be made a part of the permanent record of this public hearing. Again, thank you for taking the time to express your thoughts and concerns on this issue. Sincerely, L. Craig Britton General Manager LCB/mcs CC : MROSD Board of Directors �,,,,Y.ou„'re iin�v�rt�e„d to join a unacimously passed a resolution Loder6`'""""�'"WM -""Spring Fair 9" m Negotiations resume on urging the open space district to sat. April 4tk from 11:Q0 a.m. till 1:30 p.nl. rescind its decision. It said that Goo proposed Skyline convent cisedo domain should or, and cised drily as a last resort, andA� 4 4 * m urged a negotiated solution that N The district filed a lawsuit re- "recognizes both the legitimate Mis event will be filled with family fun and activities for N By MARIOAi SOFTKV quired to begin eminent domain interests of the Russian convent to children of all ages.I will be sponsoring a ChUdren's Petting procedures the day after an emo- Pursue their dream of establishing ZOO.Stop by to-tee some baby critters of chickens, The action to condemn 280 6onal, four-hour hearing March a permanent home on the prop- rabbits,ducks,goals and piglers. D acres of Skyline open space be- 18;however, it has cot served it, erty, and the interests of the dis- r- longing to the Russian Convent of Negotiations resumed March trict in preserving open space." Looking forwwd to C Our Lady of Vladimir is on hold 27,and both sides were hopeful a Supervisors Ruben Barrales and seeing you there I m while representatives of the Mid- solution could be reached, possi. Rich Gordon,who voted last year Patrick Buell Z peninsula Regional Open Space bly by the board meeting April 8 against the convent's concept r- District and the convent resume or 22, "The district's intent is to plan,supported the resolution. "Portota Valley's E „i discussions on whether a convent come up with a compromise as Mr. Smith explained the dis- . . Walking Realtor" LO and retreat center can coexist with soon as possible. We really want trict's purpose in using eminent Direct-line' 650-851-3501 open space and wildlife on the a solution," said Public Affairs domain is always to reach a set- scenic properly west of Skyline. Officer Malcolm Smith. Clement. This is the 151h time in After a storm of protest, the In earlier negotiations,the con- its 25-year history that the district district board ofdindthe voted vent had offered toseU the district has initiated eminent domain. c+ �; Whdt �� youget L�YMarch 25 to suspend the action 60 percent of the land for Fourteen of those times it settled when taken one week earlier to initiate $300,000and dedicate another 30 before trial,and once during trial, eminent domain proceedings on percent to permanent open space; he said. "The intent is always to you C��SS 1he Atldflti( land planned for an 18,000- the district offered S982,800 for settle—to sit down and come up square-foot complex,including a the entire property. with a solution that will satisfy convent for up to 18 cloistered The disagreement apparently everyone." - t �n (he Dtdni(? nuns, a retreat center,and a chapel centered upon the location of the Meanwhile, the convent has with 47-foot onion dome. The buildings on the remaining 28 filed its application with the ro property, bought from the Arch- acres, and the impact of i8,000 county,which has hired a consul- diocese of San Francisco in 1996 square feet of building on wildlife cant who is preparing an environ- " u for approximately S700,000, is habitat, wildlife corridors and mental impact report. Attorney , i i�P�jp[j;N located west of Skyline Boule- scenery. Colleen Doherty said she hopes to ~­ yard about 2-112 miles south of On March 24. the San Mateo be,ready for public review of the tEghway 92. County Board of Supervisors project this spring or summer. Jo VA-111 Woodside School neighbors balk at construction plans ` �� _T, Go all i,he waY with Bob Jenkins! L- MY JENNUkELDWAI _......_. ......._....._............ -.:,................................................. o. 'thee them- Francisco bisects are ed- i }," a I 10-n " 1998 ANG Newspapers 97th Year, No.36 P.m. FRIDAY March 6, 1998 Nuns defendcontroversialconven v w miles south of Mark Adams lion. Opponents of the project aren't mot- Skyline Boulevard two ii les By Pp P J STAFF WRITER Michael Klestoff, a San Francisco lified. Lennie Roberts of the Committee Highway 92. real estate agent who serves as for Green Foothills said the property is The area overlooks Half Moon Bay REDWOOD CITY—A group of nuns spokesman for the convent, said only an important connection in linking as well as coastal mountains and val planning a controversial convent in three percent of the 280-acre parcel open space from Skyline Ridge to the leys and provides a vital wildlife cor Woodside that features a 40-foot will be disturbed. The project would coast. ridor in the region, he said. chapel topped by an onion donee con- include a convent building to house 20 While under the convent plan 90. "The magnitude of this development lend there is no need for court action nuns, the chapel building and a six- P ll percent of the land would be left alone, is inappropriate for these sensitive to halt their development on a pristine room "retreat center" where visitors most of it is steeply sloped and not open-space lands and will forever de- • s P 1 ridge. would stay. able to be developed anyway. stroy the land's unique character and Representatives of the Convent of There would be a total of 18,000 "This is a major development on a environment value,"Smith said. Our Lady of Vladimir, a Russian Or- square feet of building space, he said. very spectacular, breathtaking site" Former San Mateo County Super- thodox order, held a news conference The muss plan to screen the chapel and should be left alone, she said. visor John Ward is also representing Thursday in Redwood City to say the with tall trees and have offered to sell "The land of most interest to the the convent, now housed in quarters in nuns have answered all the concerns of 60 percent of the property to the dis- public would not be accessible to the San Francisco's Mission District de- those objecting to the project. trict. The remainder of the land would public," said DaveTerrone.of Save Sky- scribed as less than ideal. A March 18 public hearing has been be kept in open space through condi- line Open Space. He said limited money is available to scheduled by the Midpeninsula Re- lions attached to county permits. Malcolm Smith, a spokesman for groups such as Midpeninsula Regional gional Open Space District to consider "What is so objectionable?" lie said. the open space district, compared the Open Space District for land acquisi- forcing the nuns to sell the land "We're asking fbr the public's support. project to building 10 to 16 homes or a Lion and that they should be spent through an eminent domain court ac- This is not right." hotel on the ridge property that lies off more wisely. ALam RESEARCH Dr. Alexander M. Voshchenkov M1 e o sD D . , 144- - � `g l RE C E1VE ® MAR 12 1998 MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT I _ March 30, 1998 REC , V ED Board of Directors , MROSD MAR i11998 330 Distel Circle Los Altos , CA 94022 MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT I must confess that I misplaced your letter of September 25 , 1997, regarding the use of mace and pepper spray. In looking through my files I noted that I had no reply to my original letter on the matter , and thus the letter of March 7. I apologize for the error on my part , and for the extra work on the part of your staff . Harry H. Haeussler,Jr . 1094 Highlands 'Circle Los Altos , CA 94024 l I' MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT 1 u find your place hi Open Space call 415-691-12W i Regional Open Space AE -- -- ram I9a � ADP 1 1998 OS MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT ol MOT a eA 40 � a s a�� 3-17-1998 10:39Pri FROM S4GENT-TECHNOLOGY A I S G l d 6830 March 17, 1998 Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos,CA 94022 To Whom It May Concern. This letter is to express my support for the MROSD plan to stop the proposed convent development near Kings Mountain Road. As a hiker and bicyclist, I often find myself on Skyline Blvd. near the proposed convent site. On every visit I feet rejuvenated by the wild and undeveloped nature of the area. It is quiet, ancient, mysterious. There is no place like it on the valley floor, where I live. Nor could I personally afford to purchase such a piece of land. But I can visit, temporarily, and be touched by it. I know these experiences have had a powerful, positive effect on my life. I realize there are people who will argue that the nuns have bought the land, and it is theirs to do what they want. But our concept of private property is pathetically weak in this situation. Paying money for something does not give you the moral right to treat it as you please. In the grand scheme of things, human beings are simply not that important. As Chief Joseph of the Nez- Pierce said, 'The Earth does not belong to us. We belong to the earth.' As development accelerates in this area and land parcels like this one become increasingly rare, we must put aside manmade conventions in favor of what we instinctively know to be right. If we allow the convent development to move forward, we will have lost the beauty and mystery of this land forever. I am deeply saddened by the nuns refusal to modify the proposed development. I am not, however, willing to sacrifice that piece of land for their self-expression. Although the nuns may see themselves as isolated, they are inextricably connected to us all. Their refusal to see this fact does not erase it. This situation, in my opinion, is the reason the MROSD exists. To preserve land for all residents of this area, where and when development threatens. If eminent domain is required in this situation, so be iL I can live with the contradiction of knowing my personal property rights can be limited for the greater good. 1laine R. AsGie Mountain View '0A FAX: 691-0485 April 8, 1998 Mid-Peninsula Open Space District I don't know anybody who is for allowing the nuns to build a convent on the land along Skyline. Being a real estate broker and having dealt in land along Skyline I know the Bay Area is bursting at the seams in terms of population growth. The land should be set aside for us all in as pristine a fashion as possible. The local politicians because of the religious nature of the convent have demogogued the issue.However, with the generalized collapse of religion in places such as Italy, Spain and Province of Quebec and amongst America's educated,the religious issue does not play well with say west side San Mateo County. If the nuns were good citizens they would take their profit and find a piece of land in some more,remote part of California instead of arrogantly insisting on building on Skyline with its magnificent view of the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco. Are the nuns even citizens? I believe the great majority of voters in Sun Mateo County if given a full explanation of the position take by the Open Space District would concur with the decision made by the Open Space District. Also,being a real estate broker and knowing the people in the Santa Cruz mountain range I believe there is a high probability that if a convent is built with a cupola the cupola will have a number of bullet holes in it within a year of its construction. Sincerely DRYSDALE REAL ESTATE INVESTMENTS By George Drysdale(650)592-7559 MillyCreekyCrioter Coals' co-v NCCC) No-ph,o�, Yu)--fax, vto-el-mail, vw w6b-s tel Today Ms. Betsy Crowder and Board Members MROSD3 i= Delivered via courier --= --- Ref: Your meeting March 18, 1998 Mills Creek Open Space Preserve MAR 2 q 1998 (aka<to us> as"Our Home" ,1 MIDPENINS!LA Dear Ms. Betsy Crowder and MROSD Board Members, OPEN SPAf:;; 1A L THANK YOU! ! ! THANK YOU ! ! ! THANK YOU II I THANK YOU to ofr Yours truly,Mr. Canis latrans("Coyote")on behalf of myself and Banana Slug, Bobcat,Turkey Vulture, Mountain Lion, Deer, Western Bluebird, Fence Lizard, Coopers Hawk, Rattlesnake and all the other members of the Mills Creek Critter Coalition Dear Board of Directors, We the following would like to applaud your move to obtain the land that was slated to become a monastery_ Development of this. fragile and beautiful property would have a prnfniind effect on the public's ability to enjoy the enactlinP PAD 41 l0 G5 Pa rA �4uP � { (o Y, �H✓C/iD �',� 113 ✓ � � �,��.�� Rio �� /�w-�-- �'� �V50 6 Cindy Jacobson 1 i u La Para Avenue Palo Alto, California 94306- March ?n i qUR Board of Directors Midpeninsula Regional Open space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, California 94n-22 Den r Board, i support you in your courageous move to preserve our coastline and to prohibit the building of the monastery. I know vol, have received -much attention from those who feel they have a right to develon their land even when it R ' ` ` M ri goes against the common good. I have spoken to many 6 _._ ``. people about this issue and avast mainrity are in favor of MAR 2 1998 MIDPENINN, ),-A tiIEC;IONAL your actions, OPEN SPAC.:E E-�STRICT Please, please be strong and follow your vision to keep the coast and its beauty for everyone. Sincerely, C— LO- ALinda S. Cohen, M.A. 935 Scott Street Palo Alto, CA 94301 03/23/98 President Betsy Crowder and Board Members Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Dear Board Members; I'm writing to support your decision to prevent development of the beautiful 288 acre parcel on Skyline Blvd. proposed for development by the Russian Orthodox Church. I understand how difficult it is to take this stand. Upon my own evaluation, I wholeheartedly believe you are taking the right steps. My own faith based beliefs are in relation to our environment and mother earth which offers its cathedral's for the masses. In this case,we are sacrificing a cathedral for the few, so that the masses may have this necessary link to the open space agenda, for Skyline, that is currently in place and supported. Unfortunately, a legacy of past and future takeover of prime/sacred open space,watershed, and natural habitat by massive and random development brings us to this juncture. The coastal mountain ranges of Northern California, in my mind, constitute a world heritage site, and should be preserved as much a possible. In perspective, you are not asking for something unreasonable. In addition to Catholic Nuns, we all need a quiet place to pray and find serenity. The majority of us are battered and bruised by increasing traffic, congestion, development, etc. The unknown ramifications, additions, etc. of the above proposed development are too risky to endure. I, also, hope and pray that a satisfactory place will be found for these sisters in their transition. S n erely, Li Linda S. Cohen, M.A. [MAR 7*� �T ` OPEN cri . Flick E.Thurber 4(415)566-3582 M3I24198 04:13 PM ❑212 Friday, March 20, 1998 San Francisco Chronicle Letter to the Editor (415) 543-7708 Thank God for the Mid Peninsula Regional Open Space District who voted to pay top dollar for 284 acres of San Mateo County coastal open ace, rather than allow its plant P P and animal habitat be seriously compromised by a small, self-serving religious order who would rather replace its natural features with a convent and chapel. Under intense pressure, the District's board clearly voted to protect the property which will be open to the general public who hopefully will recognize and appreciate the immeasurable beauty and serenity of our non man-made world. The religious order would do well to remember that the Mission District once was as pristine and unspoiled as the coastal site still is. "Heartless arrogance", both religious and secular, destroyed the plants, animals and native people who once called the Mission District their home. Our individual lack of sensitivity, care, understanding and love of one another and other living things has made the Mission District what it is today-, trashed, graffiti'ed, degraded. It seems to me that any "religious" order would naturally want to stay in the Mission and while in prayer and meditation, assist in restoring their existing neighborhood to a clean and respectable place for themselves and other human beings to live. Beth S. Feinstein 205 Upper Terrace _ _.--- San Francisco,CA 94117 7E�" ' t``'�; ED] (415) 566-3599 !.�._:�.�'" MAR 2 Q 1998 OPEN SF'A` STRICT March 23, 1998 San Mateo County Board of Supervisors 401 Marshall St. Redwood City, CA 94063 Dear Supervisors: I disagree with both the opinion and attitude that many of you have expressed regarding the attempt by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District ("MROSD") to stop the building of a monastery on a gorgeous, wild ridgeline overlooking the coast. MROSD is doing exactly what it was voted into existence to do by the south San Mateo County residents, i.e., protect significant wild areas from obtrusive development. The fact that these particular buildings are being proposed by nuns who were persecuted in Russia should have no influence on whether or not this development should be allowed. This is the same sort of illogic that people use to defend Israel's persecution of the Palestinians. Two wrongs do not make a right. Evidently the majority of you feel to the contrary; that development approvals should somehow depend on whether or not we feel sympathetic towards the applicants, and if so, then it is okay to throw-out many of the coastside protections you are expected to maintain. This is not a proposal to build a single house in a generally out-of-sight location, as the Coastal Commission has in the past allowed to occur on beach-front properties. This is 18,000 square feet of buildings proposed in an area that is mainly open grassland and visible from several sections of Highways 92 and 35! This is also a critical link in the wide open spaces of that part of the Skyline corridor and for the Bay Area Ridge Trail. Thank God we have MROSD to fall back on to protect the skyline and coastal areas of the south county when our supervisors decide to let us down. I own 30 acres of scenic land near Ashland, Oregon, and I know how it feels to have property effectively stolen through zoning while watching a religious group get an exception for their temple. While all I am allowed to do is attempt to grow harvestable trees on a property that will not support same, with no building rights, a "Rimposhah"who was chased out of India and his followers were permitted to build a 20,000 square-foot domed monstrosity in plain view of everywhere else in this remote valley. Your actions seem embarrassingly similar. The beauty of MROSD's actions, by contrast, is that they try to negotiate a fair price, and if that does not succeed, they pay at least full market value if they choose to pursue eminent domain. The nuns will receive over a 30% gain on their investment in less than three years, and that is fairer than any zoning sympathy contest held by you. Please do not attempt to restrict MROSD's right of eminent domain in the rural south county. This is not"NIMBYism", as one of you put it. This is instead what makes us different from L.A. and Daly City. Sin rely, / -. _. ...... V homas R. Williams MAR 2 5 1998 400 Davey Glen Rd. #4403 Belmont, CA 94002 MIDPEN-INSULA REGIONAL (650) 595-7790 O P f-N r---- ._ .-—"'rT Copies to San Francisco Chronicle Editor(slightly modified), Assemblyman Lou Papan, MROSD 3/25i98 11:41 AM Macktoah 850-851-7148 P.002 � r MICHAEL A . GLENN March 25, 1998 Peninsula Open Space District Fax No. 650-691.0485 Following up on my voice mail of last night, I want to express my thanks for the courage of the District in helping to protect our environment in view of the well financed and highly emotionalized attack on the District's work brought by the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir, and by political opportunists, such as Mr. Nevin. We live in a country that has wisely sought to separate church from state. In this regard, a religious use of land is no different than a commercial use of land - inappropriate land use is still inappropriate use no matter what hard story is being told. There is no difference between a golden dome and golden arches when it comes to the impact such development has on the environment. If there is anything I can do to help support the District (write letters, etc.), please contact me and let me know. Keep up the good work, the preservation of our beautiful hills and forests for our children and grandchildren is well worth the effort. Very Truly Yours, Michael A. Glenn 115 LAKE ROAD• PORTOLA VALLEY, CALIFORNIA 94028 • (650) 851-7138, FAX (650) 851-7149 03/25/1998 14:44 650-854-2565 JIM POSNER - ENTERPR PAGE 01 FW o ys o 7�v 03-21-98 10:29AM FROM 415-341-8772 P02 r March 20, 1998 1592 Forge Road San Mateo, CA 94402 jdroz4aol.com 650-525-9002 The San Mateo County Times Editorial Page Editor John Horgan 1080 S. Amphlett Boulevard San Mateo, CA 94402 Wait a minute. After months of negotiations, how come the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District is portrayed as the 'Bad Guy' when it's the nuns who are stonewalling? Although the nuns paid only $700,000 for the land, the District offered them nearly $1 million for it. The nuns refused. The District has explained that development of just three percent of the land would still destroy habitats for a variety of wildlife, already crowded on this tiny strip of Peninsula land. The animals can't go anywhere else. The nuns can, but won't. The District has offered to spend $25,000 of its own money to help the nuns find another location. The nuns have declined. Frankly, my sympathies are with the Open Space District. The District has made good faith efforts, and its intentions are far from selfish. It is trying to preserve much-needed, untouched acreage that not only houses what remains of our area's native wildlife, but offers a beautiful, natural vista for all Peninsula residents and subsequent generations. There is an issue here that is both spiritual and for the public good. The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few. I'm astonished that a cloister of nuns, who above all other individuals should understand this concept, don't recogni a it. IL Mary am1b , 1-Drone EL CAMINO ANIMAL H05PITAL 2951 El Camino Real ■ Palo Alto,California 94306 (415)326-1211 " MAR 2 q 1998 March 19, 1998 '�`-- .`" ,., DiSTRICT Board of Directors Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Digit:':Circic Los Altos,CA 94022-1404 Dear Board of Directors, Thank you for voting to acquire and preserve the 284 acre property on the Mills Creek Watershed. It took good judgment and courage to make this decision under difficult circumstances. The proposed development of this property would have resulted in an eight acre fenced compound covering the prime, accessible ridge top with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay. An important wildlife corridor runs right along the ridge top and would be completely disrupted by the development. I have observed a mountain lion, several bobcats and numerous deer using this corridor. This uniquely scenic and biologically important property was under immanent threat of development,thank you for protecting it. Sinc ly, Robert Agramonte Dr.Robert Agramonte, DVM Dr.Cecil Behunin, DVM OFFICE HOURS: Mon. - Fri.7 AM—7 PM 5at.8 AM—12 Noon Jessica Rose Agramonte `- 12150 Skyline BoulevardRECEIV . Woodside,CA 94062 MAR 2 Q 1998 � MIDPENINSULA FF,- OPEN SPV. M, _J March 19, 1998 Board of Directors Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Dear Board of Directors, I am writing to thank you for voting to acquire and preserve the 284 acre property on the Mills Creek Watershed. The proposed development of this property would have resulted in an eight acre fenced compound covering the prime, accessible ridge top over looking the Pacific Ocean, Farallon Islands, Marin and Napa. A vital wildlife corridor runs right along the ridge top and would have been completely disrupted by the development. This uniquely scenic property, under immanent threat of development, may now be enjoyed as open space for generations to come. Thank you, ./Ate) &Jessica Rose Agramonte 2-17-1995 8:43PM FROM P. 1 PO Box 370057 Montara,CA 94037 March 23, 19998 Board of Directors Midpeninsula Regional Openspace District FAX: 6501691-0485 Mar Directors— Thank you for vote to persevere in protecting open space land currently owned by the nuns. I understand that many have painted this as an issue of religious freedom, but I see it as one of separation of church and state. The Sisters were persecuted in Russia and China, but here we neither persecute religious orders nor give them sperial treatment. If people were to understand the facts in this complex case, and consider them independently of the emotional appeals introduced on the S ters' behalf. I believe that they would thank you as I do. Sinc • ly. /� Board Of Directors Mid-Peninsula Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, California March 26, 1998 To Whom it May Concern, I am writing to give my strong support and thanks to the Mid-Peninsula Open Space District Board for their willingness to look out for the needs of all residents and visitors of San Mateo County in their dealings with the Russian Orthodox Convent. I fully support their move to institute eminent domain procedures and I think that their care and vision in preserving open space has had a very positive impact in making the Peninsula one of the most beautiful places in the SF Bay Area. I want to thank and commend them for their great work! I am dismayed at the shortsightedness of San Mateo County Supervisor Mike Nevin. Regulating the development of the scenic coastal areas and open space in San Mateo County is an important quality of life issue for a lot of people. The recent fingerpointing and demonization of the Open Space District by Mr. Nevin is not helpful. We elect Supervisors with the hope that they will look out for all of us and the generations to come in San Mateo County. This means that they must show care and thought for those of us who love and respect the wilderness and environment. They are not elected to be advocates on behalf of a private religious community. E.M 27 1998 MIDPEN_1F� .� f�"SAL OPEN SPA STRICT I know that a lot of my friends and neighbors are supportive of the protection of open space, and we hope that although the open space board has stopped their procedure for eminent domain, and are again negotiating with the Convent, they will not forget their mandate to preserve and protect the beautiful open space on the Peninsula. Sincerely, Lisa Maldonado 431 Vera Ave Redwood City, Ca 94061 650.368.6816 cc San Mateo County Board of Supervisors San Francisco Chronicle Redwood City Tribune I I I 25 March, 1998 Ms. Bettsy Crowder Chair, Board of Directors Mid-Peninsula Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, California 94022 -1404 Dear Ms. Crowder: 1 have just returned from attending your MROSD Directors meeting, where the recession of last weeks' adoption of RESOLUTION OF NECESSITY was announced. While l understand the political climate that has blossomed around this issue 1 trust that you and your associates will maintain the vision of your charter, and mission regarding the protection of open space. If the proposed development was submitted by the TransAmerica Corporation for an 18,000 sq. ft executive retreat with a small business and two major annual corporate events held at the site there would,be no outcry when it was denied. The San Mateo County Board of Supervisors and its Planning Commission set in motion the need for the"RESOLUTION OF NECESSITY." I am disturbed by the possibility of a hidden agenda. Other than `fill' land there is no development of land east of the Skyline(Bay Side)and much of the Coastal Zone land is under Williamson Act protection. The precedent of allowing the `Convent' development will be the"chink in the armor"that allows future coastside development. Please keep in mind the precedent setting consideration in any agreement with the `Convent' that jeopardizes coastal open space. Each incursion into the preservation of the land subtly corrodes the open space protection you have as a mandate. Hopefully your boards action of"recession"will be a delay of the implementation of the `RESOLUTION OF NECESSITY' pending the exploration of other options and not an overturning of the decision. It is unfortunate that this matter has become a`Public Relations' management problem. Please keep in mind that `management' is doing things right and 'leadership' is doing the right thing. I believe that the boards' original adoption of a "RESULUTION OF NECESSITY"showed leadership and resolve. I have faith that you will be able to hold that high ground and do the right thing. lJe s r� . David Blackmer 12270 Skyline Blvd Woodside, CA 94062 rt� cc: Craig Britton, MROSD _ C' „__`. T �J All Directors and Senior Staff SENT VIA FAX WITH ORIGINAL COPY BY MAIL � I MAR Eke '99 09:59 DAVIES P. 1/1 > 25 March, 1998 Ms. BetisY Crowder Ch*Board ofDirector5 ;. Mid-Peninsula Open Space District 330 Distct Circle Las Alto,Calithrma 94022-1404 Dear ms. Crowder. I have JustreWmed from Mending your MtOSD D tdrs meeting, where the recession of last weeks'adoption of RESOLUTION OF NECESSITY was announced_ While l understand the Political climate that has blossomed around this issue I trust that You and your associates will maintain the vision of your charter,and mission� the protection of open space. If the Proposed development was submitted by the TransAmerica Corporation for an 18 000 sq. ft executive retreat with a small business and two major there would, be no outcry when it was denied. annual corporate events held at the site f The San Mateo County Board of Supervisors and its Planning C for the"RESOLUTION OF NECESSITY." I am disturbed by toe FOSS' n set in rr�otion the need O&ff than`fill'land there is no developmentposin sibility of a hidden agenda. the Coastal Zone land is under'Williamson Act of ensn of the preceldent of allowing e(Say Side)and much of 'Convent'development will be the"'chink in the armor" g e Please keepp in mind the precedent setting consideration that ogre future coasts{cfe development. J��. coastal a only agreement with the'Convent that l Each incursion into the preservation of the land subtly corrodes the open space Protection n You have as ve Y a manda te, Hopefully Your boards „ „ action _of recessr `RES0LU1TON OF NECESSITY' on will be a delay of the to plementation of the ovon. Pending the exploration of other options and not t ur of the dxisi oP an management problem Please keep u tortnnate that this matter has become a`Public Relations' eth tnirtd that'aurarrangement is doing things right and µ�rl'>�p'�doing the right thing. I believe that the boards' RESULUT O Originaladoption of I N OF NECESSITY"showed leadership and resolve. i have faith that able to hold that hiyou will be i turd and Y � do� the right e 1Y> .f. vrd Iiba mer 12270 Skyline Blvd W Woodsi de,CA 9406 2 P Craig Britton,MROSD All Directors and Senior Staff 7 04/08/98 WED 11:08 FAX 415 536 4707 CTI SOLUTIONS zool April 6, 1998 Board of Directors Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos,CA 94022 Dear Board Members, I am writing to ask you to please delay your final decision on the 'property owned by the Orthodox nuns on Skyline Boulevard, I moved to California about 5 years ago and in my first year I discovered the MROSD. I have mountain biked, hiked and(in the appropriate preserves)walked my dog in almost all of the preserves. I have been so impressed with the lands that I have volunteered several tunes at the Preserve Partners programs on Saturdays. I am indebted to you for the work you have done and continue to do to maintain these incredible,undeveloped lands so close to the Bay Area urban area. Thank you for all your work on behalf of that effort. I understand why you may need to compromise on this project,but please do not compromise until adequate time has been allocated to finding the nuns an alternate site for their development- Please do not let the negative publicity sway you from your original goal of preserving the land as open space. The development is not appropriate to the site and it would be an irreplaceable loss of open space. Again,please defer your decision on the land until you can take the time to help the nuns find an alternate site for their development. Thank you for your work preserving and maintaining the beautiful lands in your care and your consideration on this important issue. Sincerely your., 0 rm tch en Burke I Burlingame Ave. #3 Burlingame, CA 94010 (650) 343-2953 (415)276-8013 APP-08-1998 10:40 CITY OF MEMO PARK. 415 328 7935 P.01i01 Dianne Dryer 212 Lassen Ave. Mountain View, CA 94443 April 8, 1998 Board of Directors Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 1 am writing to urge you to NOT compromise on your efforts to dissuade the Russian Convent from developing the property they own. The District should continue to work with the Convent to find an altemative site for their center. The District should buy the property, even if it means exercising eminent domain. Thank you for considering my opinion. Sincerely, Dianne Dryer Post-it'Fax Note 7671 Dates► To - From Co/Dept IL ca- Co Pno�e M FPHone e Fax$P .rx X TLTHL P-01 APP. 8.1998 9:56AN NABU FAX N9.068 P.1,/1 Christine Gardner 4125 George Avenue. #3 San Mateo,CA 94403 (650)345-4922 April 8, 1998 TO: Chairman Betsy Crowder and Members Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022 Fax: 650-691-0485 Re! Skyline Ridge Throughout my life,I have enjoyed this region's beauty and thoroughly support your Organization in protecting our open space. My dog and I have explored many great hiking areas in the bay area that are available to me greatly from your efforts. In the recent past, my family has donated property that will allow for even more land to remain undeveloped SO that MY children will be able to enjoy this magnificent area. I found the recent situation about the nun and their desire to develop a convent on a valuable piece of open space very disturbing. It is unfortunate that as a result of your organization's attempt to save this land,them has been a backlash that may result in you suspending your efforts to acquire this space. I support your efforts to protect this piece of property and I urge you not to accept a compromise which results in development on this site. Instead,please invest your energy and resources to finding an alternative location for the nuns to live,This is a solution that will benefit both sides of the issue. Thank you, Christine Gardner 1 FROM Darwin Grp PHONE NO. : 415 854 8134 "lar. 12 1998 12:46PM P1 f� G9t- agpS March 12, 1998 President Betsy Crowder and Board Members Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos,CA 94022-1404 Dear President Crowder and Members of the Board, The Committee for Green Foothills urges you to adopt the proposed Resolution of Necessity at your meeting on March 18 and begin the process of acquiring the 288 acre property owned by the Russian Orthodox Church on Skyline Boulevard. We first wrote to you on October 23, 1996, urging your Board to take whatever action necessary to acquire this property, including eminent domain if necessary. The property is now threatened with an intensive development, akin to a 22 unit residential facility, with an 8 unit motel, a 24 car parking lot, and an 80 person conference center. AithoAWLAhe IMP. so al is for achurch--rglated ling th hy�ica�pffpyrZ of tfi -RMiRct n the land and its visual impact are no different than from--a large com_mex:cial.develapfnent, The threat of development is imminent, as the Concept Plan for the project has already been approved by the County Board of Supervisors, and the Church is moving ahead with the final approvals. Although the Convent has proposed changes in negotiations with your staff, the Concept Plan is still in effect as far as the County approvals are concerned. If constructed, the project would be located on a prominent and conspicuous ridge which is visible from Skyline Boulevard, Highway 92 and Highway 1, all designated Scenic Corridors, The projects 47 foot high gold dome and spire would be visible from as far away as downtown San Francisco! By preserving this Iand as open space, you will ensure a wonderful addition to the complex of other public open space and park lands in the vicinity. The breathtaking views from the ridge, the precipitous drop-offs to the canyons below, and the easy accessibility to.Skyline all stake this a FAM Darwin Grp PHONE NO. : 415 954 9134 'lar. 12 1998 12:47PM P2 choice piece of land for public use and enjoyment. The property's relatively flat land along Skyline and the ridge top would be a good potential trailhead to access the open space preserves and parks to the west. Your recent decision to begin the process of acquiring the Zion property to the north, together with this property, also affords an opportunity to fill in a key missing gap in the north-south Bay Area Ridge Trail. In addition to the open space and trail benefits for public use this property will provide, its preservation also will protect important wildlife habitat, wildlife migration corridors for deer, mountain lion, bobcat, and other species, and will protect the headwaters of Mills Creek, a steelhead spawning stream. The benefits to the public of this acquisition are very high indeed. We are sympathetic to the Russian Orthodox Church's desires to find a suitable location for a new Church. Nonetheless, we believe the higher purpose for this particular property is its preservation, in its entirety, as open space. We commend the District's efforts to work with the Church to find an alternative site. Thank you for considering our views. Sincerely, Lennie Roberts, Legislative Advocate Committee for Green Foothills Pauline Lord David Harlow PHONE NO. : 415 3286970 r. 24 1997 05:20AN P1 / t i+-t..c, t r S Qtenr ctre i. 0�.-w�- ,c,,;,, -h•�-y �, Owe- �.L. s t�� '�� A rc,twmal group uvrkin8 for envircmnmenuW quallry 10, ;1 Ycnui5uta Cuascmation Centet',3921,jj B jrsitort.Pti OA, �4 to,Calibotiva 303•(415)968 7243 FP13M Pauline Lord / Da,,)id Harlow PHONE NO. 415 3286970 r. 24 1997 05:21AM P2 March 20, 1998 Editor: We applaud the courageous and visionary decision taken by the Directors of Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District in electing to purchase and protect from development, in perpetuity, Mills Creek Open Space Preserve, The decision was genuinely agonizing. The situation is indeed tragic, with the nine elderly nuns of the Russian Convent led to believe that they would prevail and that this open space cloister would revitalize their Order. Evidently the Sisters had been unaware of District's longstanding intention to preserve this site in its natural state for the wildlife and the public and for its magnificent views. As Wallace Stegner wrote, Peninsula conservationists work "to save for everyone, for the hostile and indifferent, as well as the committed, some of the health that flows down from the green ridges of the Skyline and some of the beauty and refreshment of spirit that are still available to any resident of the valley who has a moment, and the wit, to lift up his eyes unto the hills," Thank you, Midpeninsula, Regional Open Space District! Pauline Lord President of Committee for Green Foothills p durham V 650-369-6192 M03/25/98 5 35 PM '111 March 27, 9198 Dear Members of the Board, I would like to express my strong support for the Mid-Pen. Regional Open Space District in the matter of the ridge and the Russian Orthodox church. I find that everyone that I've talked with on this subject supports your board's decision. However none of them, including myself, had thought to contact you because we felt that you were doing the right thing! After reading the paper and gathering that you were receiving opposition to your decision, I felt that I should write to you. Your decision is soundly based in serving your constituents. We do not want a large structure on top of the mountains, visible from both the Bay and the sea. To avoid such unsightly and unecologically friendly land use is precisely why the MROSD was created. John Hudgins P.O. Box 4035 Menlo Park, CA 94025 Phone: 650-369-7512 3/12/98 Board of Directors Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Honorable Chairman of the Board and Directors I am writing to you regarding the possible acquisition of parcel number APN 067-3 10-110 by the district. As I have stated before, I am strongly in favor of the district acquiring this land. I know that all of you must find this to be a difficult decision. You have to. This will probably be the hardest choice made by any of you in the service of our district. 1, too,have had difficulties with the issues involved here, the choice between kindness on one hand,and the our duty to the land on the other. I have wrestled with the dilemma that we all face together and wondered if we were doing the right thing. The other night I sat out in the forest and thought it out.and finally it came clearly to me. I realized that no matter what any human being might think, it is the land that matters. The land and the countless small beings that do not even know that they depend on us for their well being. Go out onto the land,any land- before next Wednesday. Let it speak to you. Listen to the sweeping wind. The rustling of the grasses. The murmuring of the trees. Watch the coyote and the red tail. Admire the pale symmetry of the blue eyed grass. Respect the patience of the steelhead. Know that they depend on you. Know that it has been left to you of all people to know your mission, to do the hard .0 thing, to save the land. Remember your silent constituency, the small helpless ones in the night.and your duty to them. Thank you fio"your patience, Dave Perrone 316 Ridge Road Woodside, CA- 94062 Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 3/25/98 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Honorable President of the Board and Directors: Thank you. I want to thank each and every one of you, either way you voted, for having made a very difficult choice. It is clear that the decision to proceed with acquisition of the Upper Mills Creek Watershed for the district was not an easy one for any of you. It is also that clear that each of you did the right thing and voted with care and thought on this critical issue, and that you did not all agree with condemnation. I commend you. It is essential to the function of an agency such as yours that you can disagree on important topics and still get the job done, to "agree to disagree". Part of the an or strength of organization lies in the diversity of its members. g Y an g Y From the reports in the media since last Wednesday, it is apparent that you are faced with an extremely tough battle. The future autonomy of the district may even be at stake. Whichever direction you take from this point is yours to decide, but either way, you will have my respect, admiration and support. Dave Perrone Kings Mountain, CA 3t6 t?.cc�Qe E AA ? OPEN SPACE U'S 3SS6 #?a9/,6ho �Hv -I-' PoJ6 Ark, C4 9y3c6 R 199$ 2e►1s-y 6-ow der 04 a' /hem;t rS �d oe7j'/ s-Lda We9;an Q/ O?m ce )1'kii^ c7~ 33o �isge f CC1-c le Lc)s Al}os C14 9'(6).z SLy1)ti c Rt,d yc Prjcr/y as Car✓eI7� s;{e 1 cu cue y o cc 'kJ -%n p ►e�,1 y su 6/� -�� lc�ca+�ia/� 2 �2�'aSe� Can✓ent. 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Balsamina Way Portola Valley, CA 94028-7515 (415)854-7287 April 3, 1998 Ms. Betsy Crowder Broad President - Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 District Circle Los Altos, CA 94022 RE: "Convent" on Skyline--Exhibit Some Backbone and Please Condemn the Property Dear Ms. Crowder: I read(The Almanac 3/25/98) the article on the recent MROSD meeting attended largely by supporters of the property owners. My impression was many of these people do not live in the district and are pushing a special interest use of that land which is entirely incompatible with keeping the Skyline ridge largely open space. Allow me to cut to the core of the issue. I urge the members of the board not to be intimidated by the Convent's attorney,Ms. Doherty, its team of"high-powered consultants" or anti-environmental County supervisors such as Mike Nevin. Remember,the project has an ecological footprint on the scale of a commercial development that would normally NEVER be allowed on that land. The fact that the group is religiously affiliated, while posing certain public relations problems for the MROSD board,is ECOLOGICALLY IRRELEVANT. This point is clear to many residents of the district who elect the board and pay the taxes that fund the district. I urge you to exhibit backbone and resolve to protect that land by continuing with condemnation and adding it to the District holdings. Do not be concerned "with letters and e-mail from New Jersey, Germany, Japan and Singapore supporting the nuns." Be concerned with letters from citizens, such as myself, who live in the area and want to preserve Skyline and prevent the bad precedent of permitting such a large development. Please distribute a copy of this letter to the other board members. 'Thank you. Sincerely yours, William E. Murray, Jr. xc: Mike Nevin, SM County Supervisor Rich Gordon, SM County Supervisor Pauline Lord, President, Committee for Green foothills Audrey Rust,Exe, Dir. POST Julia Bott, Loma Prieta Sierra Club Chapter Director Ted Lempert, Assemblymen, 21 stDistrict Byron Sher, Senator, 1 lth District I 2'd -IIAI3 dddJ Wd6b:60 26, ZO add APR 07 198 02:49PM FAILURE ANALYSIS P,3 121 N. Balsamina Way Portola Valley, CA 94028-75 15 (415)854-7287 April 3, 1998 Ms, Betsy Crowder Broad President Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 District Circle Los Altos, CA 94022 RE: "Convent" on Skyline--Exhibit Some Backbone and Please Condemn the Property Dear Ms, Crowder: I read (The Almanac 3/25/98) the article on the recent MROSD meeting attended largely by supporters of the property owners. My impression was many of these people do not live in the district and are pushing a special interest use of that land which is entirely incompatible with keeping the Skyline ridge largely open space. Allow me to cut to the core of the issue. I urge the members of the board not to be intimidated by the Convent's attorney, Ms. Doherty, its team of"high-powered consultants" or anti-environmental County supervisors such as Mike Nevin. Remember, the project has an ecological footprint on the scale of a commercial development that would normally NEVER be allowed on that land. The fact that the group is religiously affiliated, while posing certain public relations problems for the MROSD board, is ECOLOGICALLY IRRELEVANT. This point is clear to many residents of the district who elect the board and pay the taxes that fund the district. I urge you to exhibit backbone and resolve to protect that land by continuing with condemnation and adding it to the,District holdings. Do not be concerned "with letters and e-mail from New Jersey, Germany, Japan and Singapore supporting the nuns." Be concerned with letters from citizens, such as myself, who live in the area and want to preserve Skyline and prevent the bad precedent of permitting such a large development. Please distribute a copy of this letter to the other board members. Thank you. Sincerely yours, William E. Murray, Jr. xc: Mike Nevin, SM County Supervisor Rich Gordon, SM County Supervisor Pauline Lord, President, Committee for Green Foothills Audrey Rust, Exe Dir. POST Julia Batt, Loma Prieta Sierra Club Chapter Director Ted Lempert, Assemblymen, 2 1 stDi strict Byron Sher, Senator, 1 I th District APP 07 '98 02:49PM FAILLRE ANALYSIS P.2 121 N. Balsamina Way Portola Valley, CA 94028-7515 (415)854-7287 April 7, 1998 Senator Byron Sher ~ State Capitol lam-- 2054 Sacramento, CA 95814 Assemblyman Ted Lempert 2188 State Capital Building Sacramento, CA 94249 RE: "Convent" on Skyline and MROSD's Right of Eminent Domain to Condemn property Dear Byron and Ted. I read in the Almanac (3/25/98) in connection with the controversy over the proposed MROSD proceedings to condemn the skyline property, that SM County Supervise Mike Nevin with the help of Assemblyman Lou Papan was talking about introducing a special bill in Sacramento to give the city and county final approval over eminent domain actions such as the one proposed by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District. I strongly urge you to OPPOSE Assemblyman Lou Pavan and any such bill. When you consider the scale of what is being proposed on Skyline and the special interest it really benefits, I strongly support the MROSD. See my attached letter to the President of MROSD Betsy Crowder Sincerely yours, ill A �� William E Murray, Jr. xc�Ms. Betsy Crowder IA Mike Nevin, SM County Supervisor Rich Cordon, SM County Supervisor Pauline Lord, President, Committee for Green foothills Audrey Rust, Exe. Div. POST Julia Bott, Loma Prieta Sierra Club Chapter Director Ted Lempert. Assemblyman, 21 st District Byron Sher, Senator, 1 lth District Lou Papan, Assembivman, 19 District I s 3/8/98 Board of Directors MROSD 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Dear board members, I am writing to express my support of MROSD in your attempt to preserve the open space now threatened by development by the Russian Orthodox Church. Since our property is completely surrounded by theirs, we obviously have many more concerns than most, ranging from the destruction of a beautiful natural setting, to the clients ability to take care of it. After the wettest February in history, there are numerous trees down in front of their gate, on their road, and on our fences. The road to the right, behind the proposed convent building, is sliding away, but could be saved with some effort. The area behind the neighbors has washed badly because of the bulldozing done last July. As of this date, nothing is being done about any of this. Aside from the Channel 2 video, the last we know of that were here affiliated with the convent were riding a Four people � g Trax, and motorcycle up and down the muddy steep trails on Super Bowl Sunday. They had a key to the gate. I have pictures of them, and their vehicle. I have been deeply involved in the opposition to this development. It can be safely said that the developers have been less than honest in issues relating to facility usage, water estimates, tree removal, and visual impact. The possibility of a forty acre subdivision in the scenic corridor mentioned at the outset, has not been included in any present applications. However a density credit is being withheld, that could be used at a later date. It is more than obvious that the San Mateo County Planning Department has bent over backwards to accommodate the developers. The Convent has now hired as consultants, John Ward, a former member of the Board of Supervisors, and Donald Woolfe, a former Planning Director to guide them through the process. An analysis was done by Paul Koenig on 7/30/97 to reinterpret the density credits that applied to the property, and his conclusion was, that the original density assignments were Probably incorrect. As a result, 1 density credit has been added. Some minor modifications have been made to the project recently, none of which has any real impact. The convent and chapel have been moved 10 and 5 feet respectively in an attempt to make them less visual. They have been moved to the South closer to the 75 foot Cypress and Eucalyptus trees. I would certainly question the intelligence of this change,because of the strong South winds during the Wint 1 .the Nun's;. their developers have never attended a Skyline storm. R ' MAR 12 1998 MIDPENINfS�sLA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT Several people opposing this development had asked Planning to forward all pertinent issues relating to the project as they developed. This is no longer being done. We get the information because we go to Planning and get it. The analysis as to the density credit calculations had our name mentioned, and we did not find out about it until two months later when we went to Planning to look in the folder. Planning is more willing to allow us access to the information, but they are certainly not volunteering anything. The above are my personal objections as a very affected property owner. My real objective is the preservation of open space. I was born on a 182 acre ranch 6 miles South of Half Moon Bay. I worked on the ranch until I was out of college, and at 61 years old, can truthfully say at the time did not fully appreciate what I had. With age your values change. In the 60's when the family sold the ranch, I had it with tractors, cows, horses, chickens, and everything that goes with ranching. It is now subdivided into 5 parcels, with an ugly asphalt road across a brushy sidehill that used to be the home of deer, rabbits, and quail. There are casements so you can get to the various parcels. I►t essence, what was once a beautiful working ranch with open fields, and steep brushy hillsides, is now an ugly subdivided mess. It can never be returned to what it was. The days when large acreage's were working privately owned ranches, which constituted open space, are gone. Modern farming techniques and equipment, make the steep Coastal hills uneconomical to farm. As a result, the property is sold off to developers, and other buyers, (with a lot of money) such as these. How much more land will we allow to be developed? This property is an integral part of existing and planned open space. Lets keep it that way. This is certainly not an objection to Nuns. We have two Catholic Priests lit our family, and a very good friend who is the head of the Presentation Order of Nuns of the world. This is simply opposition to development. This is a very sensitive situation due to the nature of the clients. Even though we have sympathy for their situation in San Francisco, they have to undergo the scrutiny any other entity would have to go through for a development of this nature. They have lived peacefully in the United States for 50 years, and can continue to do so forever. Their representatives have ignored the more than obvious opposition at public meetings on the Mountain, petitions, and the many letters written by direct Skyline residents. There is III reality, only a small number of people who have come forward in support who are Kings Mountain residents. It is a simple matter to gain support from their congregation, most of which have never seen, and do not know the impact, or even where the property is. There is much more that could be written, but I mention the above in the hope of making your decision easier in the event you must invoke eminent domain. Acquisition of this property, with its connection to presently owned and future planned land would be a tremendous asset to the people of San Mateo County and the people of Kings Mountain. Thank you for efforts, and hopefully this entire property will become open space in the very near future. Yours truly. Al Bell 12130 Skyline Blvd. Woodside, CA 94062 MAR 12 1998h�-z MIDPENINSULA ON OPEN SPACE DISTRICT c3t r v I v ^ ire ��✓�� -,�i 2 � -�-�2'�-y 3/28/98 RECEIVED President Betsy Crowder and Board Members [MAR .11 1998 Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 OPEN SPACE DISTRICT Dear President Crowder and Members of the Board We would like to thank you once again for your outstanding work relating to the Convent property to establish the Mills Creek Open Space Preserve. We certainly understand the necessity to suspend plans in the face of this totally created public opinion caused by the media. We are not giving up, as the majority of people in the community do not want development of this size regardless of the nature of the applicants. We will try to get the real issues across to the general public. This includes the fact that this is not just a home for nine elderly Nun's, but a three million dollar religious complex with even more building planned in the future that is not being mentioned. We have contacted an aid for Assemblyman Lou Papan, and it seems they were not aware the property was under Williamson Act contract. This seems to have kindled their interest, and have asked for more information. Hopefully MROSD will not rescind their resolution until all chances of alternate property have been explored. There are certainly locations in San Mateo County that would be less intrusive, and controversial than this unique location. Although the Nun's claim to be stewards of the land, the property today is in a total shambles due to the heavy rains this Winter. There is half a large tree down directly in front of their gate laying on the phone line, and has been there for well over a month. There are about eight trees across their road, there is one tree laying on our corral fence, several smaller trees are blown half over that could be uprighted and braced while the ground is wet, and the road to the right behind the convent building site is sliding away badly. MROSD should own this entire property. Yours truly, 411-r—za C� Al and Jeanne Bell 12130 Skyline Blvd. Woodside, CA 94062 3/19/98 THU 11,48 FAX 1 415 T88 7324 EARTH ISLAND INSTITUTE Zool S EARTirI ISLAND INSTITUTE" 300 Broadway,Suite 28 0 San Francisco,CA 94133-3312 * LISA Telephone:415-788-3666 11 Fax.-415-788-7324 - E-mail:earthi,,cland@earthisland.org World Wide Web.-www.earthisland.org March 9, 1998 Board of Directors David R Brower Board of Directors C&-urman Carl Ajithuny Mid-Peninsula Regional Open Space District Pv:admt Los Altos, CA Rotx-rt Wilkins it Vix_c Prc�idvnt FAX. 650-691-0485 Tati&An& To:i*ur%:r Dear Board of Directors, Maria Moyer-Angus txxrk-tary Claire curnmings On behalf of Earth Island institute, David Brower, and our more than POPI' Arnaldo Carcia 90,000 members and supporters, I write to urge you to stand firm on Michael I lathaway your decision to not allow the development of a convent in San Mateo John A.Knox Mehs�ia K.Nelson County open space near Woodside. As we witness the continued D.i v id PI ullijns dwindling of habitat for wildlife in California, it is extremely important Peter Winkler to maintain the current open space wildlife habitat for future Advisory Board generations. Al Baez Peter&irnsos Once this convent is under construction, there will be an incentive for Jolui&rger other developers to move into the area which will lead to further Arlene Shun Lester Orown destruction of wildlife habitat. This is evident in many such projects Catherive Cau,field developed in the past. You are to be applauded for allowing a part of David Chathpld scenic wildlife habitat to be preserved Ray Dasmann California's heritage which is its seen John Denver for all citizens. Judy Diamond Anne 11.Ehrlich Paul R,Ehrlich Thank you for your attention to this very important matter and Rianc Eisler fortbcoming reply. ChWis Glendirming Claire Grcenhfeldvt Sown Griffin Lori Hancock ly, Raniiiall HityLN Hazel Henderson Huey 0.Johnson Amory I cvvinci ark Berman Joanna Macy Stephanie Mills Program Associate I lolly Near Helena Norberg-I locige Russell W Peterson Vandana Shiva Nancy Skinner Tim Such Tom Turner Erk Utsic Vi"enne Verclon-Roe I la7el A Wolf Executive DinLctung John A Knox David 11hillifin F.,th 1:JwnLI jir,htutc pet—wtr,thr ow et NA,,pwi r4l"W,alte?,Ualwi V-,T rva7tWU _—FUIN 1 4.4 U r A.% 1 41 u r 0 a 1.)4.4 r..etc a rt t i t v.v u I:v a t l l t S G LgJ U(11, EArryff IsLAND IV 0 _V" ASTITUTE 300 Broadway,Suite 28 • San Francisco,CA-94133-3312• USA "'+ Telephone:415-788-3666 • Fax.415-788-7324-E-mail:earthisland0earthisland.org �s r I T World Wide Web:urww.earthisland.org March 9, 1998 RESPONSE ACTION PROPOSED By STAFF Board of Directors 98 Board President Acknowledge/Respond ' Director AckwowledgeJ Rea pond DavChar aCOWeC Board of Directors Staff Acknowledge/Respond Chairman --- Carl Anthony Mid-Peninsula Regional Open Space District Draft Response Attached President Los Altos, CA Staff to be Directed to Prepare Draft Robert Wilkinson ��/ [C}� [(�1 (►�p� Response for Board Consideration per Vice President FAX. 650-691-0485 Hoard Directive(s) Tim RandB No Response Necessary Treasurer Maria Moyer-Angus Dear Board of Directors, ' Secretary , Plain Cummings On behalf of Earth Island Institute, David Brower, and our more than Peter Fugazzotto ArnoldoGarcla 90,000 members and supporters, I write to urge you to stand firm on . Michael Hathaway your decision to not allow the development of a convent in San Mateo John A.Knox Melissa K.Nelson County open space near Woodside. As we witness the continued David Phillips dwindling of habitat for wildlife in California, it is extremely important Peter Winkler to maintain the current open space wildlife habitat for future Aidvisory Board generations. At Baez Peter Barnes Once this convent is under construction, there will be an incentive for John tiger other developers to move into the area-which will lead to further Arlene Blum Lester Brown destruction of wildlife habitat. This is evident in many such projects Catherine Canfield developed in the past. You are to be applauded for allowing a part of ' David Chatfield Ray Ch ann California's heritage which is its scenic wildlife habitat to be preserved John Denver for all citizens. Judy Diamond Anne H.Ehrlich Paul R.Ehrlich Thank you for your attention to this very im ortant matter and Rune Eisler Chellis Glendinning forthcoming reply: Claire Greensfelder Susan Griffin Loni Hancock Since' ly, Randall Hayes Hazel Henderson Huey D.Johrtson Amory Loving ark Berman Joanna Stephanie Program Associate Holly Near Helena Norberg-Hodge Russell W.Peterson Vandana Shiva . Nancy Skinner Tim Such Tom Turner Eric Utne Vivienne Verdon-Roe Hazel A.Wolf Executive Directors, John A.Knox David Phillips Earth Island Institute promotes the use of ecological paper aiternaiitxs. 4100pesa Printed an 100%prw-consumer,non-dr-inked,recycled paper ruith 9vy-baser!inks. March 17, 1998 Ms. Bettsy Crowder Chair, Board of Directors Mid-Peninsula Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, California 94022-1404 Dear Chair.- We are writing you regarding the March 10`h notice referencing the"NOTICE OF INTENTION TO ADOPT A RESOLUTION OF NECESSITY'and your Board's consideration of adopting the necessary resolution for the obtaining of 12140 Skyline Blvd a.k.a. Parcel Number 067-310-l 10. As residents of Kings Mountain for the last 19 years we have a unique perspective on the property involved since we have experienced the joy of hiking and horseback riding access to the 284 acres and adjoining acreage know the land intimately. When the property'changed hands' one of the new owners first acts was to post the property with No Trespassing notices. In our judgement any development, commercial, industrial or church, should be resisted and if at all possible the land preserved as'public' open space. Hopefully, your organization and POST will be able to protect those undeveloped properties along the"Scenic Corridor"and the facing"Coastal Zone." We want to express our support for your adoption of the necessary 'Resolution of Necessity'. We have supported your principles for more years than we have lived on the mountain. Having followed the actions of the MROSD and POST we are assured that under your stewardship the'public open space' alone the scenic corridor will be preserved for us and future generations. Your actions, should you adopt the proposed resolution, would be consistent with both your public trust and mission statement. We who have been cast as"selfish Skyline property owners" would instead argue that we have an 'up close and personal' understanding regarding the impact of lost of this important Skyline open space. Making the subject property'PUBLIC' open space would preserve and protect it from development. The media has cast the new property owners as nine poor unfortunates. They have disregarded the church's plans for a business, festivals, a twenty-five car parking lot,a retreat, and ringing of church bells invading the silence of the air as well as the openness of the land. The land and silence that currently means home to many animals roaming these mountains has been disregarded. We urge your Board to resist the skillful Public Relations efforts that surround this issue, to accept your staff recommendations and adopt the Resolution. Respectfully, J. David Blackmer&Norma H. Davies(Blackmer) 12270 Skyline Blvd _ Woodside,CA 94062 ' RE .:: F=r E' cc! Craig Britton, MROSD (Original to be hand delivered at Public Hearing) MIDPENINSULA HEE U&IAL OPEN SPACE D:aTRICT 2—IS-1998 9: 10AH FROM DENNIS RUBY 650 851 2221 P- 1 Dams Rubv 1320 skyjmc HVVkV&rd Woodside.CA 94062 Phone 415 851-2121 Fax 415851-2221 &MW 1XMRU5Y(§AOLfiWM V-2 =simue tunsnfiftal To: Malcolm Smith Fax: 650-691-0485 From: Dennis Ruby Daft: (WIP)s Re: Russian Orthodox Convent Pages: One CC: 0 Urgent X For Review 0 PWMO Comment 0 Pismo ft* 0 Please ftqcw I*Aw. Ckxv)wning the above mentioned project,I am in favor of PAROSD contlemning the land if no feSO"can be read*d VW would enable VROW to wnrtW Budeigh-MuM State Park.the Say Am Ridge Trail and hopAft Pwwm Open space. I have set Vm*two meetings mmming this pvpd and 1 f"that the xd*ml has M been ento"honest when decirmng the"M compound Numbers WnOMVV aluam rootage and tfthls keep changing- In addition;he dome has gone from brass to a petina took,back to brass. Someone has also come up with creative ways to calculate how much water Skyline Water Dist.can actually supply to the proposed compound. I am not a proponent of immanent domain, however, I would make an exception in this case it the above conditions cannot be met. Best Regards, %3/18/98 WED 13:24 FAX 408 986 2817 HTF DIVISION [A001 17 March 1998 To, Board of Directors MROSD 330 DiStel Circle Los, Altos CA 94022 From: Ruth Waldhauer 22400 Skyline Boulevard Box 35 'e, La Honda CA 94020 Re: Skyline land of the Russian Orthodox church Though I am generally opposed to MROSD using "eminent domain" in acquiring land, in this special case of the Skyline land of the Russian Orthodox church I support MROSD's -resolution of necessity". the magnitude of this proposed development on a coastal ridgeline, regardless of its use, is inappropriate for these sensitive open space lands, and will forever destroy the land's unique character and environmental value. JPL 1�03/18/98 WED 13:24 FAX 408 986 2817 HTF DIVISION Zoo] 17 March 1998 To: Board of Directors MROSD 330 Distel Circle Los Altos CA 94022 From: Ruth Waldhauer 22400 Skyline Boulevard Box 35 La Honda CA 94020 Re: Skyline land of the Russian Orthodox church Though I am generally opposed to MROSD using -eminent domain" in acquiring land, in this special case of the Skyline land of the Russian Orthodox church I support MROSD's "resolution of necessity". The magnitude of this proposed development on a coastal ridgeline, regardless of its use, is inappropriate for these sensitive open space lands, and will forever destroy the land's unique character and environmental value. Hamilton family W 964-1140 1C3/18/98 I'`S:OS PM D 212 "al 16 March 1998 Dear MROSD Board Members, I'm writing to express my opposition to the development, as currently proposed, of a Russian Orthodox convent, hotel, parking lot, and other buildings in the Kings Mountain-Skyline area. I am a resident of Mountain View and a supporter of public open space. I feel that new developments of this magnitude should be strongly encouraged to till in gaps in already-developed areas. The convent complex, as currently proposed, would negatively alter the character of the peninsula by intruding into the natural views, disrupting wildlife migration corridors, adding to traffic and noise, and setting a bad precedent for future ridge-area land use. I strongly object to the manner in which the San Mateo County Planning Commission first approved a concept plan for this proposed development with an environmental impact report to come later. Environmental impact should be of primary concern and an integral part of the planning process, not an afterthought. I sympathize with the desire the nuns have for a more peaceful residence. But I feel that a church should have no special land-use rights and should have to consider the public impact of their plans. After all, this church complex benefits only a very small number of people, and the open space benefits all. While eminent domain acquisition of this property appears heavy-handed to me, it the nuns and MROSD cannot agree on a reduced-scale development that addresses their current plan's problems, then I would support the MROSD's proposed Resolution of necessity. Bottom line, I feel the proposed development is too intensive for the location. Sincerely, Mary Hamilton 1526 Fordharn Way Mountain View, CA 94040 650-962-1160 ,,.Hamilton family V 964-1140 Ct3/18/98 C 5:05 PM �2/2 16 March 1998 Dear MROSD Board Members, I'm writing to express my opposition to the development, as currently proposed, of a Russian Orthodox convent, hotel, parking lot, and other buildings in the Kings Mountain-Skyline area. I am a resident of Mountain View and a supporter of public open space. I feel that new developments of this magnitude should be strongly encouraged to till in gaps in already-developed areas. The convent complex, as currently proposed, would negatively alter the character of the peninsula by intruding into the natural views, disrupting wildlife migration corridors, adding to traffic and noise, and setting a bad precedent for future ridge-area land use. I strongly object to the manner in which the San Mateo County Planning Commission first approved a concept plan for this proposed development with an environmental impact report to come later. Environmental impact should be of primary concern and an integral part of the planning process, not an afterthought. I sympathize with the desire the nuns have for a more peaceful residence. But I feel that a church should have no special land-use rights and should have to consider the public impact of their plans. After all, this church complex benefits only a very small number of people, and the open space benefits all. While eminent domain acquisition of this property appears heavy-handed to me, if the nuns and MROSD cannot agree on a reduced-scale development that addresses their current plan's problems, then I would support the MROSD's proposed Resolution of necessity. Bottom line, I feel the proposed development is too intensive for the location. Sincerely, Mary Hamilton 1526 Fordham Way Mountain View, CA 94040 650-962-1160 I 27 March. 1998 Dear MROSD Board Members , I want to thank you for your courageous efforts to preserve the King' s Mountain land where the Russian nuns want to build their enclave . I can understand how difficult this decision must have been in a public relations no win situation. There are no greater sacred cows in this country than private property rights and nuns . As you are well aware , the nuns ' proposal is not a modest one. It will have a far greater impact than the 3% area they want to build on. I hope you will continue to help the nuns find a more suitable area to build and also continue your efforts to ensure that the entire site is preserved as public open space . I also hope that you will be able to launch some kind of PR counteroffensive that will stress that the nuns ' land would not be taken without fair compensation and that the natural beauty that contributes so much to the desirability of this area is due to your 25 years of tireless effort to buy land for public ownership. I have written letters to the San Mateo County Bd of Supervisors to indicate my support of your efforts to preserve this property and your desire to expand the district ' s boundaries to include more of this county. I have also sent letters to the editors of local newspapers to indicate this support . Sincerely Ann y alo Ni kum 103 El Nido Portola Valley,Ca 94028 RECE z &ED APR n � 1998 MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT APP-06-1999 18 58 4153908497 P.01 SIERRA CLUB • LOMA PRIETA CHAPTER San Mateo• Santa Clara • San Benito C:ounttcs April 6, 1998 Abbess Evgenia Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir 336519th Street San Francisco CA 94110 (via fax to Colleen Doherty) Dear Abbess: On behalf of the Loma Prieta Chapter,I am writing to urge that the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir continue to work towards a solution which both preserves the skyline property and provides an appropriate location for the nuns'convent. Both your organization and the District are working towards very laudable goals. We fear that trying to reach a compromise about development and activities on the Skyline site will result in no one's needs being met. We applaud your efforts to work together but we urge that you re-focus the discussion to locating an alternative site. It would be a testimony to both of your organizations if working together in this manner produced an outcome which met everyone's respective gas. We believe that alternative sites can be found,it both parties fully commit to such an effort. We further believe that the community would rally behind such an effort. We look forward to working with you on this effort. R ctfully ssubmitted,,.. ?JPC- a Bott hapter Director cc; Betsy Crowder,MROSD 3921 East BayShore Road Suitc 204 Palo Alto,CA 94303 415-390.8411 cave zon ae Printed on 100%tree five kenaf paptr TOTAL P.01 APR 06 '96 1.6:20 THE ROANOKE CCU. aINC.415 3372984 P,1 Of SIERRA CLUB • LOMA PRIETA CHAPTER San Mated • Sanra Clara • 'Nin I3enity Counties April7th, 998 For Imme 'ate Release For Information Contact: Julia Bott 650-390-8414 Lennie Roberts 650-854-40449 Dave Perrone 650-508-8700 Ex. 122 ENVIRONMENTAL GROUPS CALL FOR COOLING OFF PERIOD ON CONVENT COMPLEX VS.OPEN SPACE No Reason to make a decision now. Environmental groups, including the Sierra Club, Loma Prieta Chap r, The Committee for Green Foothills and the Save Skyline Open Space Committee, urged the Mid peninsula Regional Open Space District and the Our Lady Vladimir Convent to i delay finalizing any agreement. Time should be give to finding an a ternative site. "Any compromise which allows development on this site will be a to s for open space, wildlife and the church," said Julia Bott, Chapter Director of the Sierra Club. "The real solution is finding an alternative site." Concerned that decisions which will forever alter the scenic character of the upper Skyline area are being made under the stress of political threats, the groups urged the players to step back and re-focus the discussion to finding an alterna ve location for the complex. "This is a major religious complex," said Dave Perrone of Save Skyline Open Space Committee. "This is not simply a home for nine elderly nuns. We aze concerned with the precedent and pattern this development sets for the future." Lennie Roberts, Committee for Green Foothills, said, "We recognize 1hat both the district and the church have higher purposes than many other organ nations. Surely if both these groups work together they could accomplish a win-win si ation." -30- ��A- t 3921 Fast Bar,hore Road Suire 204 Palo Alto,CA 94.303 415.390•8411 a `�' FAX 415.39C�+8497 Printed o 100%tree free kenaf paper APP-03-1998 15:37 4153908497 P.01 _r./ fr.h!�, e. " 'fir` k�. • e "a•�4rpa t.. "7. +{: ;Y SIERRA CLUB • LoMA PRIETA CHAPTER San Mateo • Santa Clara- San lenttt'i U-,antics April 3, 1998 President Betsy Crowder and Hoard Members Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos,CA 94022-1404 Dear President Crowder and Members of the Board, On behalf of the Loma Prieta Chapter,I am writing to thank you for your efforts to establish the Mills Creek Regional Open Space Preserve and we urge you to continue to work towards a solution which both preserves the entire property and provides an appropriate location for the nuns`convent. Because of the tremendous open space and habitat values of this property as well as the potential for significant impacts from the proposed development,we believed that this property would be a spectacular addition to the District's preserves. We also applaud the District's commitment to working with the church It will be delightful if an outcome can be reached that meets of everyone's respective goals. We do urge that the District commit significant resources to locating an alternative site. We further urge that both parties agree to allow adequate time for locating this alternative before committing to any compromise about development on the Skyline property. Finally,we want to thank you for all of your efforts to acquire a continuous green belt of protected open space lands for permanent wildlife habitat,for the public use and enjoyment, and to preserve for future generations to ergoy. Respectfully submitted, 6xr6�— dha Batt Chapter Director Loma Prieta Chapfier CA3921 East Bayshore RoadSuire 2^v4 Palo Alto,CA 94.303 ` 415-390-8411 TOTAL P.01 f c /� !)%hi La G. NEQLE4. 84p0 <S-gawn Jn-aJ 2)zly� rJV zdo -(PaJ, Cafif04nia 94025 33o6,�e �� �ic.� 7`�LOzcsJ�- `�e�-.. � `� O t</` �TGLi��l G�ei�c��G�e-c-•�cj ec �"et�L e C4"-,-c y � m APR n 61998 M'LPEN SPACE D1STR CT REGIONAL O J ELISE C. JACQUES ATTORNEY AT LAW 112 WARE ROAD WOODSIDE,CA 94062 (415)529-9521 April 4 1998 P i MROSD Board of Directors, c/o Betsy Crowder, President 330 Distal Circle Los Altos, CA 94022 Dear Ms. Crowder and board members: I am writing to urge you not to vote on the Mills Creek property this Wednesday April 8. The Board has courageously made the right decision that this property merits protection as open space. I understand that the well-financed, highly professional lobbying against the board's decision to acquire the property has put you in the position of needing to accommodate all of the interests. I hope you will work to find an alternative site for the proposed development. But please, don't undercut your credibility by making a 180 degree shift in your position. The board had more than adequate justification for its vote to acquire Mills Creek watershed given the district's long-time interest in the property and its significant open space value for recreation, scenic beauty, and wildlife habitat. These values have not diminished despite the carefully orchestrated political campaign against your decision. If the district recinds its decision to acquire the property I am concerned you will not have to worry about the state legislature gutting your power because you will have given it away. To turn away from your decision now will send the public the message that you did not have ample justification to acquire the property. Even worse it broadcasts to all developers that if they threaten political reprisal the district backs off. If the board caves in to political pressure this time, it will emasculate itself for all future contests with the developer's lobby. Developers will have a political field day at the district's expense from here on out whenever the district wants to acquire land. The only way out of this political quagmire is to find a solution that allows the convent to locate on another site and the district to proceed with its plans to preserve Mills Creek watershed. Please do everything possible to.find an alternative location, don't buckle under the political pressure, and stand firmly behind your original commitment to preserve this property. Thank you. Sincerely, REC=FVED Elise Jac u ��� LAM n R NO MIDPENINSOLA REGIOt4AL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT r�L,-hard F. Frantz 12,360 Skyline -Rlvd. Woodside Ca, 94062 APrii 5, 1998 AAROSD �30 Distel Cr. Le,;s Altos, Ca. Dear Ms. Cro,.%.,der; We are residents on Skyline Blvd. less than a quarter mile away from the proposed convent development. We have lived at this location for thirty "ears. Vie are disturbed tha.t. the County Planning Commission would allow this monster developm-ant on pristine open spa.-,e land that must be held or, k)�+mta-d by MSOSD- if you don't take advantage of this opportunity it-,Ahll be serious loss for all concerned citizens. Note that in neighboring communities Such as Woodside, Portola Valley & Atherton the local planning commissions would never allo�, this type of development. purchase the property in qu-Astion - you, are the only solution! Cord'all Q�Ic M <�7 Richard R. Frantz id WdeT:Zo 866T go 'add TVT8 TS8 STV 'ON 3HOHd DNI ZiNddj W08J FRWI N'; -1 N;'!-A VE (P!,I ) J,I. iJ-D' I, -;« 4:-t NO. 21,j4ii,,4 11 Y. V Bill Prince and Georgia 5tigal( 172875kylinc Blvd #102 Woociroide CA 94062-3741 phone: 6550.941.10658 email: getioallPaolxom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 2, 199& Board Members Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos,CA 94022-1404 Ref- Support for acquisition of"Russian Convent Of Our Lady of Vladimir Inc.Property" (hereafter referred to as"Mills Creek property") Dear MROSD Board Members, Thank you for your efforts on an ism that affects residents,the public,native wildlife an4 The future of mserved lands in this rewon We comment again as both advocates for native ecosystems and as Landowners adjacent to MROSD lands. Our home,several miles from,the Mills Creek property,is in Williamson Act. Because of the distance,we are not personally in the viewshed of or affected by activities on this property. We are,however,very concerned about the precedent of the proposed development for this property. The scale of this proposal is grossly inconsistent with the Skyline region and with the residential developments in that region. We are very worried that a project of this size(and the highly inappropriate location) could occur on a parcel in our own region of Skyline;should the precedent be set. Other portions of the Bay Area repeatedly prove that once the"development genic is out of the bottle",it is rarely contained. We do not want this to happen in the Skyline region! We realize this is a very difficult issue and want to encourage you to persist in acquiring this land,which is consistent with the MROSD mission. We urge you to avoid a"compromise"that would result in any development on this land,and aggressively pursue finding another location for the Sisters as soon as possible. Failing that,we continue to support acquisition of the Nils Creek property via eminent domain. We adamantly oppose use of eminent domaw(condemnahm)for property on wkwk people have made their homes. We are frankly disgusted by the truxita,coverage of this situation,as well as the gross misrepresentation and fear-mongering by some parties. We realize it is difficult to work effectively in such a hostile environment,and commend you for your continued professionalism. We also want to remind you that many of your constit uents favor acquisition of this prop erty Very sincerely, William F.Prince /Georgij. Stigah cc: Craig Britton,MROSD I Janice Brody 820 Bear Gulch Road Woodside, CA 94062 March 16, 1998 Betsy Crowder, President, and Board Members Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Dear President Crowder and Members of the Board, I am writing as a concerned citizen to urge you to adopt the proposed Resolution of Necessity at your meeting on March 18, as a first step in acquiring the 288 acre property owned by the Russian Orthodox Church on Skyline Boulevard. The property's beautiful views,easy accessibility to Skyline,and trail benefits make it ideal for public use and enjoyment. In addition, its preservation will protect important wildlife habitat, migration corridors for deer, mountain lion, bobcat and other species, and will protect the headwaters of Mills Creek, a steelhead spawning stream. While I understand the Church's desire to find the right location for a new Church, I believe that this particular property should be preserved in its entirety as open space. Thank you for considering my views. Very truly yours, anice Brody " ' Y D R MAR 1 9 199 MIDPEt�II"tSi�"�1cf:IOPJAL OPEN SPADE f';STRICT Mar-12-98 02: 17P P.01 I I I FOR OPEN SPACE March 11, 1998 Chairwoman Betsy Crowder and Members of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Re: "Resolution of Necessity" action to acquire Russian Convent Property--SUPPORT Dear Chairwoman Crowder and Board Members: Greenbelt Alliance supports the proposed"resolution of necessity"to preserve the important 280 acre open space property owned by the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir. The many attributes of the property--its highly visible coastal ridgeline location, important wildlife habitat, and the spectacular views from the property)combined with the extensive but unsuccessful efforts on the part of the District to negotiate with the owners, leads us to support this action. The proposed development would be substantial and have significant impacts both on the property and its immediate surroundings and visual impacts from other lands. The scale of development in not appropriate in this sensitive location. We also believe that the use of the site would be more appropriate in more accessible, and less environmentally sensitive area. Therefore, we applaud the District's decision to hire a consultant to assist in locating a more suitable location for the convent development. We know that the District uses eminent domain to acquire property from unwilling sellers. only under very pressing circumstances,with very great deliberation,and very rarely. We believe the circumstances of this property require this action. I Thank you for your consideration. Sinc rely, Vicki Moore Associate Policy Director MAIN W170' • 116 Vcw Motugcsmety Suite 6•10, tiara Fr:uu-iuv CA 94105♦ (1151 5.13-4291 • Fax(415)5433-(0I 03 SOT 1'TI1 fL1Y(►FFIGI: • 1922 The Alumv-da Suhr 21:3. S:m Jt se CA 951`26 ♦ (41►H)5►H3-0531► • Fax(IIIS)9M% UNIT NORTTI ILWOFFICE • 52011cenr]rKinrt Avetute Spite 200, Santa Rosa CA 95401 • (7w)37.-1:3661 • Fax(707)57."275 EAST RAV OFFICE ♦ 54KI Y3;uaciu Valley Road Suiur 250. W:Jutu Creek GA 9,15 Ni • (510)032-7776 • Fax(510)932-1970 email: greeIIhvIIMgc.apr.otg • wcbmte: http:r',itvww.KretrulK(t.urti!);ba 03/11/98 20:09 V415 328 7343 ADELPHI TECH INC oo2 Melvin A. Fiestrup 13900 Skyline Blvd. Woodside, CA 94306 Home phone-- 650-851-0633 Phone: 650-328-7337 Fax- 650-328-7343 e-mail. melpie@ix-netcom.com March 10, 1998 Ms. Betsy Crowder Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Dear Ms- Crowder, As my elected representative for Ward 6 of the MROSD and a resident of Kings Mountain, I would like to encourage you to vote yes for the total "e ui$1tion of the property recently acquired by the Russian Orthodox Convent. I have been a resident of Kings Mountain since 1975 and in that period I have seen the very positive impact of MROSD land acquisition. One of the arguments being voiced in an open letter to "Residents of Kings Mountain" by one of my active neighbors (Ms. Carrie German) is that public access to these lands would "mean a negative impact on the animals, fauna and neighboring properties.- In another section of the letter she states her fears of potential public use of these lands: "The main problem with this (acquisition) is the Public. If there is a trail from your property onto MROSD land, the public will use it no matter how many signs and gates are put up. They will show up in your yard--lost, in need, curious, looking for a shortcut or better view. Therefore you will allow your trail to grow over and you will use the park entrance, wherever that may be. The public will park in front of your house because there is shade. You won't be able to take your dog hiking with you and you will have to hike during park hours- I repeat this argument because of; in my view, its wildly speculative nature. I remember similar arguments against the formation of MROSD_ The Public was not to be trusted.- hoards of folks stomping down nora, visions of people chainsawing off burls from Redwood trees for tables. Oh, and don't forget that less of tax base!! One need only remember what the Kings Mountain area was like prior to MROSD. Purisima Canyon was being logged by an absentee landlord, the creek bed and logging road were being used by off-the-road vehicles and motorized dirt bikes for races. For those of us living above the canyon, the roar of the dirt-bike engines was a regular weekend occurrence- I'm not sure what the effect of all this was on the flora and fauna, but it was sure bell on the creek bed and road. My wife and I have regularly weekend hiked most of MROSD lands for more than a decade. I have not seen the fears of Ms.Germau and others realized. MROSD lands appear to be free of trash, and physical abuse- This is not necessarily because of the stewardship of MROSD, but in my view, because of the public's care of these lauds. There is surely impact on these lands by the public, but compared to what? Marc housing, more logging, and the simple hell-raising of off-the-road vehicle crowd? 03/11/98 20:10 V415 328 7343 ADELPHI TECH INC zm t Well, maybe I'm being speculative. But it seems to me that distrust of public ownership usually comes from the large land holders and some of the very rich. They got theirs, and the bell with the rest of us. These lands are precious.... stunningly beautiful. One need only go down the trail from the Kings Mountain Store to sce spectacular view of the mountains and ocean that are only surpassed, in my view,by those of Big Sur. My favorite (of many) is that of the view off the backside of Bald Mountain, a recent MROSD acquisition_ Thesebeautiful places are open to all of as now, thanks to MROSD- The proposed acquistion has this class of beauty--- buy it! I believe you will get a lot of fear generated regardless of your decision on this issue. I believe there is a general fear of some residents that MROSD will come and take our housing away- As I understand it, MROSD goes only after land and that usually existing housing is left to the owners- I realize this is difficult to accept for many who hold large properties, but ultimately this is for the good of the general population who voted MROSD into being. I note that earlier many of my neighbors signed a petition urging MROSD acquisition of this particularly beautiful piece of property. At the time I did not sign it because of my desire to think more fully about it.... and I have- Put me on it! Sincerely Melvin A- Piestrup Ernest Goitoin W 650 369 6071 ZZL4/6198 �7:os PM Ernest Goitein 167 Almendral Avenue Atherton, CA 94027 650 369 6690 April 6, 1998 Betsy Crowder Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle, Los Altos CA 94022 Dear Ms Crowder and members of the MROSD, I strongly support your efforts to protect our open space., including protecting the land bought by the nuns of the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir. I hope that any compromise worked out with the nuns will not result in loss of this land to the MROSD. MROSD's proposal to find alternative property and repurchase the property for more than the nuns paid for it, is eminently fair. I believe the Property of the Commons, deserves an equal amount of protection as the private property right claimed by the Convent. There is no reason why the nuns cannot find other land to develop a retreat center, with vour assistance. Protection of the watershed of the headwaters of Mills Creek is vital. Cordially, cc San Mateo County Board of Supervisors FROM PHONE NO. 9723875253 06 1998 10:54PM P1 April 6, 1998 Betsy Crowder and Members Midperimsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos,CA 94022 Dear Ms.Crowder and Members. I want you to know that I wholeheartedly support your effmts to protect the region's open spaces. I am dismayed at the histrionics deployed by the local press and local politicians regarding your opposition to ,he proposed development- I urge you to not compromise on your objectives to protect the Skyline ridge. I support your efforts to assist the nuns in finding an alternative site. Keep up the good work,and don't let the misinformation campaign deter YOU from protecting this important,beautiful site. Sincerely. -5 Christine Hcrt?og 80 Loyola Ave. Menlo Park,CA 94025 650-363-1420 APR-06-199e 15: 15 PCCF 650 962 8234 P.01 Lucile B. Spurlock 856 Creek Drive Menlo Park CA 94025 650-323-5358; fax 650-323-5359 email: CASpurlock@aol.conr Facsimile Message TO: Betsy Crowder, Chairman, and Members Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District DATE: April 6, 1998 RE: Controversy over Skyline property I support the aim of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District to secure as open space the Skyline property proposed for a convent and retreat. Unfortunately, the recent decision the acquire the property through eminent domain has become a public relations nightmare because the property is owned by a religious group. I applaud your decision to suspend the eminent domain process. However, I strongly urge you to continue your efforts to acquire this property for the public. Please commit to work with the religious group to find an alternative site for their proposed construction so that this particular piece of property can be protected for public ownership and access. TOTAL P.01 04I06/1998 18: 34 6503729772 H LENNING PAGE 01 April 5, 1998 Harlo Lenning, I I I Bounty Dr, 4107-R Foster City,CA 94404 District-Chairman Betsy Crowder and Members of the Midpenin,ula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Court Los Altos,CA 94022 Dear Ms.Crowder and Members of MROSD. I am a strong supporter of the MROSD and your efforts to protect wildlife and open space on the Peninsula.I am writing to urge you to not to approve a compromise development for the proposed convent property,but to work with the nuns to help them find a more suitable piece of land.No one gains from a compromise which allows this land to be developed.A convent on this site would have negative effects on both open spare and wildlife,and the compromise proposal prevents the church from developing the retreteat center they really want. Again,please do all you can to work with the nuns to find another piece of property for their retreat. Sincerely,, Harlo Lenning APR. 7.1998 12:52pm AKZO NOBEL ELECTRONIC NO.610 P.1/,1 From: Wesoff, Eric Sent, Tuesday, April 07, 1998 1:38 PM To: 'mrosd@openspare.org' Subject: My advice is:avoid confrontations with nuns at all costs Chairperson Betsy Crowder and Members: As a long-time resident of Skyline Boulevard—I am well aware of both the area's beauty and fragility. And it seems clear to me that Skyline is simply an inappropriate location to plant a gold onion dome. I have logged thousands of hours and thousands of miles running,hiking,biking and horsebackriding the trails that MROSD has championed and won. I support your efforts to protect our region's open space and urge you to not to compromise on the convent site. Please help the nuns to find an alternate site Good Luck and thank you for your efforts. Eric Wesoff 18400 Skyline Blvd Woodside CA 94062 650 529 0406 wesoffeftsun.akzo-no APR-07-'98 15:41 T-BURRISS 941-6709 4620-02 Vanya K. Sloan 2433 Villanueva Way Mountain View, CA 94040 (650)903-0913 April 8, 1998 Betsy Crowder, Chairman Members of the Board Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022 Dear Ms. Crowder and Members of the Board: I am writing in support of your efforts to protect the Skyline property site from the development proposed by the nuns of the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir, and to urge you not to accept a compromise which results in dcvelopmcnt of this site. While I sympathize with the groups' position and their desire to live at this beautiful location, allowing this site to be developed would significantly impact the open space and wildlife of that area I strongly recommend that you work with the nuns to help them find a suitable new home, and that, if necessary,you commit significant resources to do so. Thank you for the valuable work you are doing in preserving open space. Sincerely, Vanya K. Sloan APR-07-'98 15:42 T-BURRISS 941-6709 U620-03 Vanya Kathleen Sloan 2433 Villanueva Way Mountain View, CA 94040 (650) 903-0813 April 8, 1998 Abbess Evgenia Russian Convent of Out Lady of Vladimir 3365 19'h Street San Francisco, CA 94110 Dear Abbess Evgenia: My husband and I are among the many individuals who enjoy hiking in the Skyline area and in similar locations protected from development by the N1idpeninsula Regional Open Space District. We especially enjoy looking for unique birds, but are not disappointed when we encounter a deer or other wildlife. Thus, having heard Of Your Proposal to build a development at the Skyline site alarmed me. Your desire to have a convent in this beautiful location is, of course, understandable; however,I ask that you please consider finding an alternative location and leave this site for everyone's enjoyment. To build at the Skyline site would mean that we would lose valuable and irreplaceable open space and badly-needed wildlife habitat. I hope you will seriously consider making a public commitment to looking for an alternative location to the Skyline site. Many people and groups, aside from the very willing Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, would be very happy to assist you in finding a beautiful new home for the convent. Thank you for your consideration of this important matter. Sincerely, Vanya K. Sloan bcc: MROSD Board of Directors 4/3/98 MROSD 330 Distrel Cir. Los Altos, CA 94022 Re: Skyline Blvd / Russian Orthodox Convent Dear Directors, c parcel. We We applaud your decision to prevent h eminent ddomlapnent on in in order to psotectg'he public need for encourage you to proceed open space. Any decision to allow development in this area is an open door for further such projects. Sincerely, Joe Cernac Barbara Coleman /Salves 1219 Singletary Ave. San Jose, CA 95126 RE I!ED APR 71998 MIDPENINSULA 'REGIONAL OPEN SPAGE_DiSTRICT MEMORANDUM To: MROSD Board of Directors Los Altos, California From: Lee Pitt 12520 Skyline Blvd. Woodside, CA 94062 ------------------------------------------------------------------- The value to the MROSD and the public of the 284 acres on Skyline Boulevard is the same today as it was two weeks ago. Hopefully, the District Board will not reverse its decision to pur- chase it until it can find another suitable location for the Russian Convent development -- and there must be many throughout the Bay area. While delaying implementation of the purchase the District will gain more time to find another location. To reverse your decision at this time, because of a few misinform- ed politicians, would be tragic. RE "IV 11ED APR n a 1998 MIDPENINSUE.A REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT I Stephen J. Salveter 1379 Montclaire Court Los Altos, California 94024 Ms. Betsy Crowder, Board President Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Dear Betsy, Betty and I want to let you and the other Directors know how much we appreciate the difficult decisions you have had to make on the monastery property, and that we understand how agonizing it must be for all of you. To have to weigh the benefits of preservation of open space against the rights of a formerly oppressed religious order is surely a responsibility that none of you ever expected. Please convey our gratitude to the Board for their thoughtful consideration and let them know that they have our support regardless of the final outcome. Sincerely, Betty and Steve Salveter Open Space Volunteers MAR q 0 1593 MIDPENiI',, �. . r� : I-INAL OPEN SPAI't DISTRICT C. Michael Zimmerman Tel: (650) 326-5758 1555 Walnut Drive Fax: (650) 327-7844 Palo Alto, California 94303 e-mail: cmz@patents-for-less.com March 27, 1998 Board of Directors Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distal Circle Los Altos, CA 94022 Re: Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimer - land parcel Dear Members: I wish to lend support to you in protecting the environment and the scenic values of the Midpeninsula. Do not shy away from major controversy. p Y Y 1 Y It was fairly easy to form the district (I was co-chair of the voter passed measure which extended the district into San Mateo County). This was at least partly because most of your constituencies, the taxpayers of the district, felt strongly that it was necessary to protect our scenic backdrop from development and retain some "wildness" in the Midpeninsula. We recognized at the time the district was formed that it's job often wouldn't be easy. I wouldn't be surprised to learn it even has become harder in view of the value the district has added to this whole area through your aquisitions and stewardship. Don't let controversy make you stray from the principles of your founders and the charge you have from the taxpayers of the district. The Midpeninsula clearly does not need to have another visible man-made landmark at or near a ridgetop, no matter who wishes to put it up. While it may bE true that a convent of primarily elderly nuns will provide a less obtrusive use y than, say, a home development, you are justified in being wary. Insist that any placement not be visible and worry about future use of the land if it is not in public hands. Place it in public hands. Very truly yours, rm r C. Michael Zimmerman ail ZOOMERS Woodside CA 6508515605 P. O1 I 1 i i 1 Lucy B. Dobson 329 Albion Avenue Woodside, CA 94062 tel: 650-851-7432 April 8, 1998 Betsy Crowder 1 MIZ�SD. J Fax 650-'691-0485 i 1 i Re: Proposed Convent Location on Skyline Blvd. r San Mateo County Dear Betsy, I wish to {offer my support for your plan to help find an alternative sight for Abbes� Evgenia's convent. Your mission is to preserve open space land for future generations; this is what you are trying to do. This is what you have done so well. 'There must be an alternative for this development', or whomever else comes along, that would not invade such pristine spare. This Morning I was hiking with a group on Skyline Ridge. As we look d around with appreciation for this glorious land, I was struck by the im act of this proposed development. It is my hope that the nuns and their representatives will consider an alternative location. i 5 Si ncerely, I Lucy Dobson I fc: Colleen Doherty —for Abbess Evgenia fax '415-282-6654 4 � Apr-08-98 03:59P P.0 Bruce Knoth 519 Prospect Street San Carlos,CA 94070 650-654-4975 April 8, 1998 Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos,CA 94022-1404 Fax:650-691-0485 Dear Sir or Madam: As a resident of San Mateo County,I support your recent opinion to refuse the permit for construction of the Monastery. I believe that the open space in the county should be preserved at almost any cost, particularly the large regions of space along the ridges and mountains. I understand the Nuns*'desire for a secluded retreat, but I would hope they and their supporters recognize the sanctity of the hills that we have and the need to leave them as they are, Sincerely Bruce Knoth Document] 04/08/98 STENMARK CORPORATION TEL : 1-415-851-4403 Mar 20 ,98 12 :59 No .002 P .01 ROY & BETTY-ANNE STENMARK Kings Mtn. 12970 Skyline Blvd., Woodside, CA 94062 (650) 851-8190 fax 851-4403 March 20, 1998 'Ip DIRECTORS of MID PENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT Ladies& Gentlemen: We wish to thank you for your decision to keep the 284 miles on Skyline Blvd. as they have always been, untouched. It is wonderful to think that there is a public agency that can make a far sighted decision, one not based on emotion. Neither of us can conceive how the Russian Orthodox Church gathered such clout, political and otherwise,and also such money that they could turn down the monies offered by MPROSD. None of this makes sense, there must be more to this than meets the eye. Most residents on King's Mtn.wondered what would happen to this property after the elderly nuns passed away. What were the plans past the immediate? We know you have been criticized in the press. The Chronicle even suggested, "a majority supported the Nuns." We beg to differ- it's just that on Sunday morning it's easy to orchestrate the troops. We and our nelghbours totally support your decision and thank you for it. MOP EN SPACE DISTRICT L 1 s CR' NTO ADDRESS D STANDING COMMITTEES 5TA CA IYOL..ROOM 2057 TRANSPORTATION-CHAIRMAN SACRAMNTO.GA 95814 (IT f l r I l ii 2 i Ir:It #'PPYCM to ARESUURE FS CRICULTURE A WATER 4l eb 4 445503 BUDUk I AND FISCAL REVIEW -. FINANCE INVESTMENT t} E MAIL SENATOR KOf POSEN CA GOV �A SPjy INTERNATION4L TRADE _ •d. MOUSING AND\AND USF LOCAL GOVERNMENT DISTRICT OFFICE O r +.r �. PU9LIC SAFETY 2171 JUNIPERO SCRRA BLVD. :� Hcvnnuc wnu 1 AA.1 ION SUITE 530 M1� ` DALY CITY ' .CA 94014 1 WA) SELECT COMMITTEES PROCUREMENT, 16S01301 1721 - • EX PENDII URES AND .- INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY JOINT COMMITTEES STATE SENATOR CHAIRM GENETICS AN JOINT COMMITTEE ON FAIRS ALLOCATION QU ENTI N L. KOPP GENETICS A CORRIDOR a PUBLIC POLICY AND CLJASSN"IGATION HIGI,IER EDUCATION JOINT GOMMITTFF ON LEGISLATIVE AUDIT EIGHTH SENATORIAL DISTRICT MARITIME INDUSTRY REPRESENTING SAN FRANCISCO AND SAN MATEO COUNTIES NHISUN MANAGEMENT JOINT COM MITT lE ON RULES REDEVELOPMENT TECHNOLOGICAL CRIME AND np 7HF C01,15UMER March 26, 1998 SSUDGETSUB O BUDGET SUBCOMMITTEE NO 2 ON RESOURCES ENVIRUNMFNTAL PROTECTION,JUDICIARY AND TRANSPORTATION CHAIRMAN FINANCF SUBCOMMITrEE ON CAUFCWNIA-EUROPEAN TRADE DEVELOPMENT - CHAIRMAN Ms. Marilyn J. Walter SUBCOMMITTEE ON THE AMFRI('A$ 20 Coyote Hill Portola Valley CA 94028 Dear Ms. Walter: Thanks for your letter of March 22, 1998. While I appreciate your earnestness, I am also appreciative of the sincere effort of the Monastic Nuns of the Russian Orthodox Church to obtain an appropriate set of facilities for their religious purposes. The subject property is not located in the senatorial district I've had the good fortune to represent the past 11-1/2 years. Senator Byron Sher represents that part of San Mateo County. I have deferred to his efforts to secure a compromise agreement, under the terms of which the nuns will be able to construct their desired facilities and the balance of unimproved property can be conveyed to the district at a favorable market price. You may be assured that I understand the issues "clearly." I entreat others to understand the issues just as clearly, because the publicity for the district has been most unfavorable and I wouldn't want a plebiscite for voter approval or disapproval if I were a member of the board of directors or an unremitting adherent of the district. I suspect that a majority of voters in San Mateo would reject a plebiscite involving an extension of district powers or even involving a question of whether the district shuuld be continued in its present form. Yours truly, i L . O I � QLK:aw cc: Honorable Byron Sher Z0 'd zeze VS9 0S9 T 00 DNIGUdl "d3Qt1-I Wh ST = TT 86-12-dOW t MIDPENINS REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT To find y ur lace in Open Space call415-691-1200. I Piz. v Regional Open Space I / Urgent . Please deliver at once to: Name: �-^ �� ►`��t OY\ Department: Phone:�..�!_' �-� Ext: We are sending pages including this cover sheet. Date: 1 Time:j % L I,t— Please call �2 C 0 WA e f at 5 � � 0 � 10 ❑ Call only if this transmission was incomplete or unsatisfactory. P Ie-ase_ GIN L-t(cz-r 4�s —4v e2�,,- r— P69Qre4 o-) e*-h Y-).e ej -FA X l( Received from: DADE TAWG CAM- gy 200 Ladera Shopper Portota Vattey, CA 94028 (415) 854-9255 FAX: (415) 854-8202 ie -d zeze tIss OG9 z 00 DNiaaai aa3aVI WV GT : zi 86-T2-aaw April 7, 1998 Dear MROSD Board Members, We believe that you all are doing the right thing with regards to the proposed development of land near skyline& Highway 92.We agree with you all on the value of this piece of land both for scenic and habitat reasons, and eschew the opportunistic treatment that the Press have given this issue. Similarly,we are disturbed by the crass maneuvering of some politicians who suggest that the use of eminent domain in this case is some sort of heavy-handed authoritarian tactic. We feel it is imperative that Districts such as MROSD be given maximum authority to preserve our dwindling open spaces from the threats of development, be they religious or secular. /64 cc:Senator John Vasdconcellos Assemblywoman Elaine Alquist i Bill&Terri Michel [(t " 4 255 S. Rengstorft Ave.#79 fff,y Mountain View,CA 94040 y RE COVED [APR n 8 1998 MIDPENINSIILA '?ECjIUNAL r�r= IS1 RIOT OPEN _^ MIROSD Board 333 Distel Cl. Los Altos,CA 94022 o Illlll1111l1l11l1111 dill IIIIIIIIIIIII till 11 till 1I11II ' 1 t . urns to 3155 Drywood Ln. ? San Jose, CA 95132 i I Mid-Peninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distal Circle Los Altos Ca 94022-1404 REEFED April 10, 1998 App 1 q 1998 MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT Dear Mid-Peninsula Regional Open Space District: I am writing regard and to the District's decision allowing Russian 9 Orthodox nuns to develop on an ecologically sensitive ridge in San Mateo County. I am immensely disappointed by the board's decision to allow development of this scenic land. I have no doubt the nuns will be "heavenly stewards" to the land. However, this does not change the fact that any development on this ridge top will adversely impact the local biology and ecology of the area. Under any guise, building a 20,000 square foot convent and outbuildings is a commercial development. I must have been mistaken in understanding the purpose of setting aside open space was to preserve simply that, open space, thus preventing development of a natural environment. If the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir is allowed to build on land designated for open space preservation, what will prevent the Open Space District from caving to pressure by other special interest groups such as residential developers, businesses, and commercial real estate? A concerned citizen who enjoys undeveloped open space. Timothy E. Marzolf 1 138 Kentwood Avenue Cupertino CA 95014-58OR 2-08-1995 5: 18AM FROM P- 1 PO Box 370599 Montara, CA 94037 March 13, 1998 Board of Directors Midpeninsula. Regional Open Space District 330 DIstel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022 FAX; 650/691-M5 Honorable Directors — I write in support of efforts to preserve the coast�l ridgeline threatened by the proposed Our Lady of Vladimir Convent. 1 It is unfortunate that the religious purpose of the proposed development has been allowed — or perhaps used — to divert attention from the real issue: protecting the best of our threatened environment for all, and for generations to follow. The Sisters are not being singled out for persecution as they were in Russia and China. Neither should they or their supporters expect special treatment in California because of their i;;�efs. I encourage you to look beyond the sincere but misguided fears of religious persecution to preserve the beauty of the land the Sisters came here to share. Don nson 03/15/1998 10:04 6503290878 NANCY SERRUPIEP PAGE 01 Nancy and Greg 5errurier March 15, 1998 President Betsy Crowder and Board Members Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 33o Distal Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 BY FAX Dear President Crowder and Members of the Board: We are writing to request your support in stopping the development of the Russian Orthodox Church on Skyline Boulevard. Please adopt the Resolution of Necessity at your meeting this week and begin acquiring the property, as recommended by the Committee for Green Foothills. The development proposed by the the Church violates the entire long and proud history of land conservation in the Skyline Blvd., Highway 92 and Highway 1 area. While we are sympathetic to the Church's desire to create housing for their nuns, we question why open space and priceless vistas must be marred forever for the rest of us. It this were a for-profit commercial development, with similar density, paving and especially height, it would surely be met with more skepticism and objection than the Church`s plan. The public benefits of acquiring this land are extraordinarily high. Please continue working with the Church to find an alternative site for their complex and protect this property as part of the open space which makes this peninsula so special. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, li -Nancy errurier 4egaJler 528 5crkeley Avenue Menlo Park.CA 94026 650-329-9206 yerrurier(�earthlink.com FAX 050=.329=0W8 3-17-1998 d:5sPF1 FROM KERSTEEN—TUCKER d15 728 2307 P, 1 Zoe KeRsTeen-Tucker 776 Burns Vi�,ra Sr. rlwa Beach, CA 94035 6501728-282; 650!725-Z307 (Fax) zcrkreaol.car 17 March, 1998 President Betsy Crowder and Members of the Board Midpenuisula Regional Open Space District '130 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Dear President Crowder and Members of the Board, I am writing to urge you to adopt the Resolution of Necessity regardurg the property owned by the Ruaaian Orthodox Church on Skyline Boulevard. While a suitable home for the Nuns must be fowrd, the decision zaade regarding this unique property will chart the course of open space protection in San Mateo County for year-a to come Because thin is a precedent-setting proposal for an intensive residential/visitor-serving development on a prominent ridgeline, it would simply be a matter of time before the pristine scenic backdrop to our rural coastal zone is strewn with a gaudy array of rooftop graffiti if the project is permitted. The inevitable tide of additional ridgelitie developments would be irreversible and the San Mateo County Coastside would soon suffer Southeni California's sad fate. This must not be permitted By acquiring this threatened land, the Midpeninsula RegionAl Open Space District.will be making a bold decision in favor of' protecting land of regional significance. No single group, no matter how appealing their- cause, should receive special dispensation when it comes to development on our dwindling open space lands. The purchase of this property is a fair and appropriate way to resolve this dilenuua- As a member of the Coastal Open Space Working Group, I have participated in the yearlong study of expanding your District boundaries to include the San:Mateo Coastside. It is clear that the Coastside would benefit frvrn your assistance in maintaining and/or acquiring coastal open space. Many coastsiders are currently poised to campaign for the expansion of your District boundaries Use of the controversial power of eminent domain on the Skyline property could impact near-term district expansion efforts on the coast. However, the alternative to the use of eminent domain to acquire and protect the Skyline property would have a more negative long-tern effect on the coast. If this project is built according to current plans, it would tower 1500' above the coast atop a highly prominent ridge. The gold dome of the chapel would be visible from Pillar Point Harbor, Moss Beacln, El Granada and Half Moon Bay. Much of the midcoast region would be forced to live with this development into the foreseeable future The most equitable solution is to purchase the Skyline property, make it part of the existing network of public open space for all to enjoy and work with continued diligence to secure an alternative housing site for the Russian Orthodox Nuns. 'I'lnank you for your thoughtful efforts on this matter and thank you for your good work on behalf of the coaatside. Sincerely, i Kersteen-Tucker Member, Coastal Open LApace Working Group MAR., 18' 98(WED) 15:53 T. G. V. TEL:408-475-52" P. 001 � - - Andy Nourse 40 Forest Road Woodside, CA )I/DL 21 Betsy Crowder 18-Mar-I99R Midpeninsula Open Space District Distell Circle Los Altos, CA Dear Ms. Crowder, I am writing to express my support for the District's plans to acquire the Russian Orthodox Church property on Skyline Boulevard. This property would be a fine addition to the District. It is close to Purissima QSP and could easily have trails connect to it. The property can provide another part of the Bay Area Ridge Trail. It is a beautiful, unspoiled place, with a gorgeous view. This view would be replaced by buildings and parking lots if the current owners have their way. They have surprisingly ambitious building plans for such a small order,and one has to wonder if their real role is to open the doors for full commercial development of that area. The people of San Mateo county decided some time ago that such places should not be developed. Unfortunately, the country supervisors are unwilling to uphold the law when a church is involved,so acquisition of the property by the District has become our only hope. I urge you to vote yes on this acquisition. Thank you, r Andy Nourse it r N1ak1,- 18' 98 IWED) 15.39 T. G. V. TEL A08-475-5 P. 001 Andy Nourse 40 Forest Road Woodside, CA I S-Mar-1998 Betsy Crowder Midpeninsula Open Space District Distell Circle Los Altos, CA Dear Ms. Crowder, I am writing to express my support for the District's plans to acquire the Russian Orthodox Church property on Skyline Boulevard. This property would be a fine addition to the District. It is close to Purissima OSP and could easily have trails connect to it. The property can provide another part of the Bay Area Ridge Trail. It is a beautiful,unspoiled place, with a gorgeous view. This view would be replaced by buildings and parking lots if the current owners have their way. They have surprisingly ambitious building plans for such a small order, and one has to wonder if their real role is to open the doors for full commercial development of that area. The people of San Mateo county decided some time ago that such places should not be developed. Unfortunately,the country supervisors are unwilling to uphold the law when a church is involved, so acquisition of the property by the District has become our only hope. I urge you to vote yes on this acquisition. Thank you, Andy Nourse MAR.,18' 98(WED) 15:39 T. G. V. TEL:408-475-51'" P. 001 r Andv Nourse 40 Forest Road Woodside, CA 18-Mar-1998 Betsy Crowder Midpeninsula Open Space District Distell Circle Los Altos, CA Dear Ms. Crowder, I am writing to express my support for the District's plans to acquire the Russian Orthodox Church property on Skyline Boulevard. This property would be a fine addition to the District. It is close to Purissima OSP and could easily have trails connect to it. The property can provide another part of the Bay Area Ridge Trail. It is a beautiful, unspoiled place, with a gorgeous view. This view would be replaced by buildings and parking lots if the current owners have their way. They have surprisingly ambitious building plans for such a small order, and one has to wonder if their real role is to open the doors for full commercial development of that area. The people of San Mateo county decided some time ago that such places should not be developed. Unfortunately, the country supervisors are unwilling to uphold the law when a church is involved, so acquisition of the property by the District has become our only hope. I urge you to vote yes on this acquisition. Thank you, Andy Nourse 03/24/98 18:35 0408 246 6048 COPYMAT X60 Q 001 FAX to: 650-691 - 0485 To: General Manager, Craig Button and Mid Peninsula Regional Open Space District: Dear Friends: Please hold the line and continue to support protect- ing the environment over development in crucial areas, such as Skyline Blvd. above Half Moon Bay. Do not cave in to personal interests over the interests of the public. It was mentioned in the March 23rd issue to the San Francisco Chronicle that the Russian Orthodox Church will live in harmony with nature. Well,that isn't possible when 18,000 square feet of land will be developed to hold a chapel, a religious retreat and a convent plus roads to the area, waste products from the area, water pipelines to the area, gas and electric, and cars; plus the cutting down of trees and bushes and anything in the way of the develope- ment. This effectively eliminates the wild and natural open space area that we are trying to preserve; and removes this area from the domain of the public to a group of people who have the money to buy it. There will always be groups who have the money to buy our precious lands. Now is the time to put our feet down, and protect these lands for the environment and for the public. Very sincerely, Helen Mintz 2960 Homestead Rd. 9/­7 Santa Clara, CA. 9505/ MIDPFNINSULA REGIONAL OPFIN SPAII DISIRIIT To findyFeacar�altrca itl CC) Regional open Sp ace 03-24-98 20:52 21 +1 415 326 1580 B 001 eO�' a rrj 4kM A.A*'tLM " fl Iny �, -f k ems/nlO `�,"� (7vw a c�OD rt pawt Q 'Y!/1 C11��vK. f?y Vvi be. . � vym {t a, ?, Qa �a� z.e Lf'G�C �� t�rfkn�x ON � C�nt�n Gv Ul �Wg Un WOW''llr e. �in�c� (►,,evi L 33� Why M ' v tam k. vnVOU � ,� , ( wf (A AAVA ? � � �?14f 03-24-98 20:53 22 +1 415 326 1580 S 002 1 j iv 03-14-98 11:13 2R +1 415 326 1580 19001 14 March 199H Ms. Betsy Crowder President , MROSD 330 Distal Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Dear Ms . Crowder , I ' m writing to urge the VIROS0 Not to cross the unethical line it ' s consideriny in regard to the proposed Eastern Urthodox monastery in the Kings Mountain area. As a former member of the Green Party , I am very sensitive to environmental issues WHEN THEY ARE GENUINE . It ' s painful witnessing the direction some environmentalists are heading in. T all good things have their dark side. MR050 ' s dark side is being sharply revealed in its dealings with the monastics. The MR050 is really hurting itself. . . When one reviews the concessions reportedly made by the moneatics in their negotiations with MROSD , it appears all legitimate environmental concerns have been more than adequately addressed. Issues are no longer centAred an public environmental needs , but on the preservation of the elitist lifestyles of a few Kinga Mountain residents . I find this repugnant ! From a strictly financial point of view, it appears foolish as well. . This is definitely a really bad move on the MROSD ,s part. DON ' T 00 IT ! ! ! ! 51 cerely , t I Laura L gdan Mar-28-98 09:05P P .01 P �lJ1CK FAX_- PO- - Fro To: Letter to the Editor Fa. From: Oscar Braun, Coastal Family Alliance Rural Coastal Lone, San Mateo County E Telephone 650-726-3307 Subject: Open Space& Save Our Coast! Date: March 27.1998 Well, here they come again! The Mid-Peninsula Open Space District and the Save Our Coast gang have been out terrorizing a small cloister of Nuns while brilliantly executing their relentless pursuit of"maximizing preservation of ttw open space values ..."! Hold on there, before you rush to judge these folks tot) harshly, you need to have all the facts about why they must beat up on nuns and wipe out small family farms. From the Official Public Record....Just the Facts. • The Sierra Club & the Committee for Green Foothills, aka Save Our Coast, wrote the current version of the Local Coastal Program lbr San Mateo County and won voter approval and adoption in 1986. • Their LCP calls for maximum development fir the 5,840 acres that make up the Urban Mid-Coast area, which includes Half Moon Ray through Montara. • Their LCP calls lbr minimum development for the 76,621 acres that make up the Rural Lands Area. • Since adoption of the I.CP in 1980 , there has been an average of less than 4 homes built in the Rural Coastal Lone and it will take a mere 283 years to complete the Save Our Coast 30 year build out plan! • The Rural Coastal Zone (76.62lacres) has very little ground water and thus it currently has fewer dwellings than any time this century. • In 1986, Save Our Coast successfully blocked the construction of a $72 million basic two lane Hwy I Bypass and replaced it with their $178 million Four Lane 'funnel Freeway to be built some time in the next century. • In 1994. the unsuccessful Save Our Coast Initiative called for the "reduction of government expenditures for the Coastal lone by reducing costs to San Mateo County taxpayers for roads, law enforcement, fire protection, water supplies, additional sewage treatment facilities and larger highways." They forgot nuns and schools! • The January 1998 ,Executive Summary" written for the Open Space District states in part....the public and tax payers do not condone the use of "eminent domain" to condemn or take private property. Tt further states that there is NOT enough support to pass the open space tax and recommends that the District annex the San Mateo County coastal tone WITHOUT putting the measure before the voters. So there you have the utopian blueprint of Save Our Coast and the Open Space District. Be sure to send your THANA Yolf letters (with checks enclosed) to their Santa Clara County headquarters. March 31 , 1998 Dear Gov. Wilson: I have read several articles in the newspapers that the Midpeninsula Regional. Open Space District is planning to grab by "eminent domain" 284 acres of land from the Russian Orthodox Order of our lady of Vladimir (who plan to build a convent and retreat center) because they want an open space. ! ! ! Nothing, I �s mean nothing got my goat , with anger surging through my body when I read the MROSD is funded by property tax revenues - yes, thats right property taxes, a funding this Marxist environmentalist group. One letter to the Editor said ,"where was the MROSD when BFI was granted the right to open Ox Mountain dump site for all the garbage from both San Mateo count and San Francisco. I can tell you why, BFI (garbage collection comp) is an international Corporation owned by the Mafia. MROSD would not DARE! ! ! This Open Space District should be demolished, abolished immediately, can you imagine in the United States of America a small group Y g g up of Marxist environ- mentalists can seize private property because they want open space. It is bad enough that environmentalists de-value private property by using butterflies , frogs, snakes, warblers, etc , etc. How in God' s name did this group come into existance with funding from private property taxes. Millions of our sons and daughters, through several wars, have died, have given their lives to protect our private property rights, and a handful of environmentalists whackos, with the stroke a pen can seize property that is privately owned? As bad as emineln domain is, I thought that belonged to the government. What we need to do is start sueing these very same people for their own homes, put a frog,butterfly , or snake in their back yard and de-value their property. We need to fight bac.- CC: Rush Limbaugh - please talk about this on your radio show 011ie North - please talk about this on your radio show Most Congressmen RECE ED APR n q 1998 hti MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN '_TMCT� l - Mar- 18-98 01 : 25P OFFICF QEPOT #869 65096aS763 P .01 t1arch 17, 1996 TO: Members of the Board MidPenir,sula Open Spilee Di strict FAX #(650) 691-0465 ,RE- rLirch Id. 1y98 schedi;led vote for/against e:ninent domain proceedings to acquire nuns' Skyline property Members of the Board: Your vote in favor of forcible acquisition of the nuns' property for the purpose of open space preservation would oo so far beyond overkill as to undermine your credibility. The proposed building area totals 18,000 square feet. The reported land area totals 264 acres, or 12,371,040 square feet. Visible buildings would comprise .001L5 of the total land area, lez.vi.ng .99855 of the land essentially as it is nou. :'tip presently proposed use is preservation of open space. The private owners 'should be lauded for prPs,rving 99.85r�% of the land, not face the prospect of losing their land to sAve 1/7 of one percent from visible development. Your use of public funds to provent so sensitive and gentle a use as this will be per- ceived as a m ause of the public trust. Respectfully submitted, May-- 18-98 01 : 25P OFFICE '")SPOT #869 6509649--763 P .01 March 17, 1998 TO: Members of the 13oprd nidPeninsula Open Space District FAX #(650) 691-0465 RE- 14irch 10, 1998 scheduled vote for/afraInst eminent domain proceedings to acquire nuns' Skyline property Members of the Board: Your vote In favor of forcible acquisition of the nuns' property for the purpose of open space preservation would 'go so far beyond overkill as to undermine your credibility. The proposed building area totals 18,000 square feet. The reported land area totals 284 acres, or 12,371,040 square feet. Visible buildiriC5 would comprise .00IL5 of the total land area, lez.ving .99855 of the land essentially as it is noun. 'Ilie prt--sently proposed use is preservation of open space. The private owners Would be lauded for prps,rving 99.85171 of the land, not face the prospect of lo3irw their lend to ssav" 1/7 of one percent from visible development. Your use of public funds to prPvent so sensitive and gentle a use as this will be per- ceived as a mause of the public trust. Respectfully submitted, MAR. -18' 98(WED) 10: 17 SAMTRANS F` P. 001. V� r� 0, cOCI �/C1 - - � J, �7a.,,rljµt 691, .. Jn urn. orsir�Gc D J r - P - G o rnr s f rQ c rQ rt i) (is. ,� Lc �CA rj w'1 - - ---- /'l(,1/J �-�t�a � ,/J(u ..� f d �U �±7� �/�� i •,1 J �?�'rnJl/_�v'�-1--- -- -- r.t� i r.c � �¢lI�J C ✓rr.��l•� �J Jct)rl---�-�- - � � - 1-n . I � y c-i,Jr� �•-� %str-r� � (-'� �5,�c �..�c.,,- - V l�..J �Jl a.t� �K G r4L .re ca n✓i -;Zee .. Ci&--,Lt(c i e. ril .e ..1 arJ. h�iJl(✓��-1 _. .. G Ct,. (1✓-e— k) �ca t-C tl..'�t irk l.tL un ua C Jri✓0 t� 1 I� n C� l(✓.�Ja l� �-� _ ✓_c�a _.Li/�t�a I .. ..-- f�/� � `� (�� r� �1 Jvr /FCn.✓(/Y�1L �.j,.�(t a i .t/1 ..- - - - -- - - - -. dc. Cv►rl'Zi MAR-26-98 10 : 16 AM BUTLER 4158517861 P. 01 VIA vrp ter21�4 wrap 'Jo� u LAL/V--�7 f'V vU J .. � . _ . _ . lo : M 14 �.ninsc� la DOGuc[- �pv FolKS , i haroe� been a u�?pa'��' s�v� ce: vr,ca�sbon aMQ 1: am to (I cuti op- n � Al SP a rnm,a�& ��y,� � a Ian eak ?Ywti� 2,� 199 MAR-24-1998 20:57 SMC BOARD OF SOPER�)ISUPS. 650 599 1027 P.02/02 March 23, 1998 Supervisor Tom Heuning president of the Board of Supervisors County Government Cuter Redwood City,CA 94063 Dear W. President and Members of the Hoard of Supervisors: t would like to add my support to the chorus of many others in the community regarding Supervisor Mike Nevin's resolution urging the Maid-Peninsula iZegio>tal'Open SP'ac'e District(MROSD)to rescind its resolution of public necessity to start condemnation proceedings oa the property owned by the Russian Convent of Our Lady of vladimir. At a time whm the MROSD wants to expand the District and its authority it would appear District to waste yer dollars on th fi i�rr 'ble arul ir�trudernt for the taxpa . to be bo scan}+ ed to remain in o which,is ahead commits f ht Y 9 0 � the purchase of a par+cd,over P the Convent's open space in perpetuity under the F rdmmorc,X=&sappoipted in the public hearing process conducted by the Hoard which allowed for little deh`bention cad an apparent rush to judgtnmt not at the ck"3 1 hour... but at 1:30 in the morning. All the best, 3a 'e Speier TOTE- P.02 _I March 23, 1998 Board of Directors MROSD 330 Distel Circle Los Altos , CA 94022 Re : Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir Your action on the Resolution of Necessity for Acquisition of the subjects property at your March 18, 1998 , meeting confirmed that the actions of our forefathers in adding the Second Amendment to our Constitution was well conceived . There is no other way that the people of this country can defend themselves from the arrogant , overbearing , inconsiderate, and intolerant bureaucratic directors that you have proven to be . Our revolution was against tyranny and cruel and unjust use of power . Our constitution and its amendments were to prevent this. In my opinion , and in the opinion of many others , you have abused your authority in a draconian manner . Fortunatly, the Nuns are a prayerful group, and their supporters are non-violent , this being 1998 and not 1776. I wonder how safe all the other property owners along Skyline feel from your clutches after this action. The sword of Damocles is hanging over their heads . 6ic ITNA- ti,4,ti Harry �H. Haeussler, Jr . 1094 Highlands Circle Los Altos, CA 94024-7016 Los Altos , CA 94024-7016 . .. . MAR 2 4 199b NAIDPENINSULA REGIONAL (OPEN SPADE DISTRICT March 20, 1998 MAR 2 q 1998 Board of Directors MROSD MIDPENINSIA REGIONAL 330 Distel Circle OPEC! SPACE 1STRICT Los Altos , CA 94022 I wish to commend you on the manner in which the meeting on March 18 , 1998, was conducted. You gave the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir representatives every opportunity and all the time they desired to make their presentation . In fact , I feel you "bent over backwards" for them. Every one else desiring to speak was given the time to do so . Again, thank you for the well handled meeting. Harry /H. Haeussler, Jr. 1094 Highlands Circle Los Altos , CA 94024-7016 P.S . No reply, please. HHHJr . MAR. '25. 1998 1 i . 23AM STANFORD MA A EME J ^N0, 82-78 F. L The Country Almanac 3525 Alameda de las Pulgas Menlo Park, CA 94025 via fax: 650.854-0677 Editor: March 24, 1998 About the nuns and eminent domain. During my 10 years representing this area on the Board of the MROSD I learned that the eminent domain decision depends on applying specific criteria to the unique situation of each case. During my service I opposed some actions and voted in favor of at least two. In the case of the nuns hardly anyone can reach an informed opinion unless they have stood in the shoes of a District Director.However, our Director and Board President, Betsy Crowder, voted no and declared that some mistakes had been made. She's my elected representative and her deasions are trustworthy and credible with me. Moreover,many people have formed judgmental opinions and that fact leads me to conclude that the Board's"mistakes"include a failure to inform the public adequately of its rationale for this current controversial use of the government power of eminent domain. The Board,through inadequate attention to the legitimate interests of its constituents,has seriously impaired its credibility and public trust. Restoration of public trust can come from leadership by the only person on the Board who has acknowledged mistakes and is in the position as the current President to exercise influential leadership. Mistakes can be fixed only by those people who acknowledge thew. Further compromise is possible. Innovative alternatives could be developed.Finally,the Board should explain its action to the public. If a convincing explanation is not forthcoming then it should reconsider its Resolution of Necessity. kJaVje Teti Harry Turner 481 La Mesa Drive Bmtola Valley voice: 650.926-0260 e-mail: lik.hat4 forsythe.stanford.edu i FPOM = PHONE NO. Pol March 25, 1Y48 Ana Lisa Hedstrom 22330 Skyline La Honda Ca. 94020 MROSD ROARD OP DIRECTORS FAX! 650-691-0485 PLEASE GIVE THIS LETTER TO THE 14OARD OF DIRECTORS FOR THE MEETING OF MARCH 25th. RECONSIDER THE CONDEMNATION OF THE RUSSIAN CONVENT. As a long time resident of the Skyline corridor T have supported the acquisition of open space. I fo-P) that in this situation condemnation is both an abuse of pnwpr And a PR disaster. The peninsula i!3 a densely populated area with fabulous natural resources which need to be preserved. . . but multiple use and private property concerns must rpinain part of the whole picture. . . . . . Do no throw these isGtjos; into the extreme polarities of the past! ,rhe impact of the nuns seems minimal---possibly less than bikers and hikers on the wildlife— and they have modified their plans in aspirit, of compromise- I ► elleve you will reyret, any decision to condemn. Now is the time fOr a compromise. Sincerely Ana Lisa Hedstrom 03/20/98 15:13 1&650 363 1916 SM CTY SUPS/MGR. Z001 RESOLUTION NO. BOARD OF SUPERVISORS,COUNTY OF SAN MATEO,STATE OF CALIFORNIA RESOLUTION URGING THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT TO RESCIND THEIR RESOLUTION OF NECESSITY WITH RESPECT TO THE PROPOSED ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY OWNED BY THE RUSSIAN CONVENT OF OUR LADY OF VLADIMIR AND TO ENTER INTO DISCUSSIONS FOR A RESOLUTION THAT IS SATISFACTORY TO BOTH PARTIES RESOLVED,by the Board of Supervisors of the County of San Mateo,State of California, that WHEREAS,the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir(the"Russian Convent')is a monastic order of contemplative Russian Orthodox nuns which, for generations, has seeking a permanent home for their order;and WHEREAS,the Russian Convent owns 284 acres of property adjacent to Skyline Boulevard in unincorporated San Mateo County which they wish to use to establish a convent and retreat center; and WHEREAS,the Russian Convent has received from the County a Coneek Plan approval for development of the convent and retreat center on an approximately 6 acre portion of the property, and have applied for the necessary development approvals to proceed With their project; and WHEREAS,the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District(the"District")has indicated an interest in maintaining the property in open space;and WHEREAS, the Russian Convent, in discussions with the District, has indicated a willingness to preserve 90 percent of the parcel in open space and to convey a majority of the 03/20/98 15:15 *0650 363 1916 Ski CTT SUPS/MGR, Z002 Property to the District; and WHEREAS, notwithstanding the Russian Convent's willingness to pursue a negotiated solution that would meet the objectives of both parties,the Board of Directors of the District, on March 18, 1998,adopted a resolution of necessity that would authorize and direct the District to take the entire property under the power of eminent domain for'Open space uses;and WHEREAS, this Board is of the view that the power of eminent domain should be exercised only as a last resort, that the District has not yet explored all alternatives short of condemnation that would substantially achieve the goals and needs of the District,and that there is currently an insufficient basis upon which to base the findings in the District's resolution of necessity;and WHEREAS,this Board is of the opinion that the District should immediately rescind their resolution of necessity and initiate discussions with the Russian Convent to reach a negotiated solution that recognizes both the legitimate interests of the Russian Convent to pursue their dream of establishing a permanent home on the property and the interests of the District in preserving open space: NOW, THEREFORE, IT IS HEREBY DETERMINED AND ORDERED that the President of this Board of Supervisors be,and he is hereby,authorized and directed to forward a letter to the Board of Directors of the District strongly urging the District to rescind their resolution of necessity regarding the property, and to enter into discussions with the Russian Convent that would allow the Russian Convent to pursue their pending application for a convent and retreat center on the property. L:NCLIENrBQAP,r),t,(]P\RESOCONV.WPI) OF SAN MqT �wT.s,Wo.T F 0 HONORABLE ADRIAN "BUD" MOORMAN ' 0 gp of Fob*rC ° z SAN MATEO COUNTY CORONER Q < STATE OF CALIFORNIA s� � • q B.FA C'gC1FORN"P rf�a rMrecxm nt'� DWLOMAIE BOARD CFRTWIM FORLNSK ER March 18, 1998 Attn: L. Craig Britton, MROSD General Manager I am writing this letter to convey to you my support for the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Valadimir, Skyline Boulevard, San Mateo County, to develop their property. The Convent submitted a Preliminary Concept Plan which has been approved by the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors and the San Mateo Planning Commission. As a member of Russian Orthodox Church I have been supporting the Convent over the years in their quest to find and build a home suitable to their beliefs. When they purchased this piece of property in 1996, they investigated and worked with several departments in San Mateo County with a full explanation on their part as to their plans for this property. Yes,there has been some opposition from other organizations but none so vigorous as yours. What is your real reason for opposing this plan? Other than offering to buy the land, at taxpayers expense, or take it away what have you offered at the table?The Convent has made many concessions and your group has made none, what kind of mediation is this?I find it hard to believe that your organization is working for the best of the community and the people in it. I strongly oppose the purchase of this property by you or any organization at the expense of the taxpayer in San Mateo County. As an elected official of San Mateo County, having some knowledge of the law, politics, and the rights of citizens, I don't understand how an organization such as yours has managed to gain the power that you claim. As a former businessman, I also know about compromise and working with the community to facilitate what is best for everyone. Your organization is not showing me any thing but a"my way or no way" attitude. I find this very distressing in this day and age in this Country. I am not asking you, but I am demanding that you and your organization reconsider the offers made by the Convent and let them build there home just as others in this area of San Mateo County have done. Respectfully, Adrian C. Moorman, M.Sc., B.C.F.E. Coroner of San Mateo County P.O. BOX 679, DALY CITY, CA 94017-0679 • 650 755-3400 Not printed at public expense May-25-98 08: 33A P-01 SISTERS OF NOTRE [TAME DE NAMUR CAkIfORMA PROVINCt i 14800 13QHLMAN ROAD - SARATOGA, CA - 95070- 6399 (408) 741 U324 FAX (408) 741 - 5809 March 23, 1999 San Mwo County Board of Supervisors 401 Marshall Street Redwood City,Califtnis 94063 Dear members of the Board: This is in support of the Russian Orthodox Sisters in the current conflict over their land I speak for the readership Team of the California Sisters of Notre Dune de Namur- Our Sisters have been In ministries of education and pLuoraUsmial service in this state for nowly 150 ycais. We have much concern that Open space be preserved Wougbout this beautiW state and in V=W are in sympathy with the Mi0mmuls Regions!Open SPWC DStnct- Howm, 'n the caw of the Sisters and&w Project to build a 1001149efY,we believe that the BPOV i's being excessively rigid Wid uncompromising. The Sisters in this case appear 10 have been willing to compromise in their plans to answer to many of the concerns of the Open Space ZmW,limiting building to a vay small Proportion Of the land.Offering to sell 60%of the property and to keep the rest of the land as permanent open SPOCC It PW0$Us that the Vocation of eminent domain in this instance would be yet one more act of a kind of violence against women who have already been displaced twice by revolution and oppressive regimes. We also see a difference between the madest beautiful structure which they would build desIP"y in harmony with the suffouDduigs and remindful for maw W Out society Of spiritual values wW the building in the some space of a housing development or a mall, We"that you can prevail upon the Open Spor_c group to reconsider their decision, RespeCMAlY, Sister Margaret Hqf1hian SND Communications coordinator for the Leadership Tmm California Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur TOTAL P.02 r Richard H. Scholz 145 Lois Lane Palo Alto, CA 94303 March 21, 1998 MAR 2 q 1998 Mr. Malcolm Smith MIDPENiti'S??LA i'GGiOIdAL Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District OPEN SPADE DISTRICT 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022 Dear Mr. Smith: It was extremely disappointing to hear of your District's vote to take the Skyline property away from the Russian nuns. They purchased the land in good faith, agreed to keep the vast majority of it in open space, and did everything else to be a "good neighbor". I cannot imagine how the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District could make such a radical decision. Having watched over the year as this situation progressed, it just doesn't make sense...It really appears to be a power hungry land grab for selfish interests...Can that be true? Getting away from such an atmosphere is what brought them to our country. Please reverse your decision. Please let the nuns have their own land and complete the relatively minor development they had planned. Yours truly, Richard H. Scholz �D /U'iQ p�'�►//,y�'ClL6¢ D �' c�/4e.� l�/.STl2�c T, y0v2 sr�oN� -��-► T /-ZO .41D owe �y 77�.�� /14� L v7-Ly - D.s yo 0�e4 - Gv I L L Dd ell 5'1r �,e T T �v�,s �•�1 7fV lj viY- �2- �7�17TLE� .fir' Ld/GL 4-ZsD ItIxv6oLts s (J,/,plOR T yU,u fL i ✓ R ' I�E MAR 2 199 j goy L ?/�/� � y MIDPENIh'--:.jLA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT y 97 March 19, 1998 Betsy Crowder President Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District MAR 2 3 1998 330 Distel Circle Los Altos,CA 94022-1200 —- •--' ,_iVINSLIL�� B EN P- March 18, 1998 was a sad day for America. Having witnessed, first hand,the charade,and the travesty,all in the name of democracy,put on by you, by your MROSD board,and by your MROSD staff members, I can only weep for America. Your minds were made up a long time ago to place animals and hiking trails ahead of the nuns and we, convent supporters,were just talking needlessly to the walls. There is nothing more to say,since I did not see even the smallest vestige left in you, in your board. or in your staff,of the fundamental human values,or beliefs,that had once made this country great. With deepest sympathy for America, .l, - '-47- '1, � Dimitry A. Bobroff 12865 Glen Brae Drive Saratoga, CA 95070 R ; Betsy Crowder, Director MidPeninsula Regional Open Space District (BAR 2 Q 199d 330 Distel Circle MIDPflPllNs`iLAGloNA! Los Altos OPr-N RPAIrE DISTRICT CA 94022-1404 I am appalled and disgusted that the Mid-peninsula Regional Open Space District plans to continue bullying its way ahead to forcibly acquire private property and suck up to the elitists and millionaires who are using the district's powers and public funds to protect their private hideaways. Surely with more than 40,000 acres socked away in wilderness preserves, there is no need to grab a couple of hundred more acres, taken by legal force at the expense of a few peaceful women. I have seen few more egregious examples of the misuse of public funds to accomplish selfish private aims. What's more, after critical editorials in the SF Chronicle and the San Mateo County Times, I would think the board would have recognized this move as not only foolish but politically dangerous, since common decency is not sufficient to deter. Perhaps it's time to remove completely from this ridiculous district the power of eminent domain, which it is so blatantly abuses. Paul Azevedo 1251 Hermosa Ave. Pacifica, CA 94044 R ; D Ms Betsy Crowder President, Board of Directors MAR 2 1998 MROSD, 330 Distel Circle MIDPENINSL:i-A PEGIONAL Los altos, CA 94022 March 20, 1 9980PEN SPA^F D STRICT Dear Betsy, This is incredible! A small group of Nuns, persecuted and driven out of their homeland Russia, and from convents in China, found refuge in the Mission district of San Fransco, only to be overtaken by noise, polution, and a frenetic neighborhood. After years of searching in this, the land of the free and the home of the brave, they finally found their piece of Heaven - 284 acres of unused land off the Skyline overlooking Half Moon Bay. The Nuns bought this land on the open market. They paid $700,000 for it. Their preliminary plans were approved by the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors. So what could go wrong? Objections were raised that the Nuns would build too many buildings, encourage too much parking, look like a Motel, take away free pasture where horses now roamed, in short - this land shouldn't be "owned" at all, it should belong "to the people". But it was legally bought and paid for. The concessions made by the Nuns include pledging to preserve 90 percent of their land in permanent open space, and allowing public trails throughout the northern and western portions where the finest views are located. What more could the MROSD ask for, without paying a cent? This religious order which has been so persecuted in communist lands, now seems to be facing the same kind of persucution in our country - where religious freedom is protected. Sometimes. The threat of eminent domain by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District is now real. It is unnecessary, and a waste of taxpayers' money, given the concessions already made by this religious order to preserve most of their wild land in open space. It is cruel and arrogant. It would be hard to prove that this particular 280 plus acres is needed for "public benefit". If it is so needed, why didn't the MROSD acquire it earlier? Now this land has been legally bought and paid for by a religious order which plans to "live in harmony" with the land, and continue to practice their prayerful life in our country which is supposed to support religious freedom. This order, the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir deserves our support. Sincerely, 501 PORTOLA ROAD \ BOX 8033 PORTOLA VALLEY, CA 94028 cc SMC Board of Supervisors CJ�� � MPP 23 '98 16:39 TO 6506910485 FROM PAL/LANDRE T-003 P.01 Dorisanne R. Walker Landre 16990 Skyline Blvd. Woodside, California 94062 Phone: (415) 851-1021 Fax: (41 S) 851-9203 To: MidpeninSula Regional Open Space District 330 Distei Drive Los Altos, CA 94022 Date: 3/23/98 Re: Eminent Domain decision on 284 acres on Skyline Blvd. The decision to use Eminent Domain to take the land is an abusive use of power. This is not the correct use Of eminent domain proceedings. Eminent domain should be used for drastic situations where no agreement can be reached and environmentaly poor use of the land is planned. The owners have offered to sell a large percentage of their land to the Open space District. They will build on only 8 acres of the land. .... San Mateo County planning has approved the budding plans. .— They will scale down the size of the dome of the building. .... They will paint the dome a neutral color to appease the protesting neighbors who have built on their property but do not want a building in their view. ( as shown by the flyer sent in our neightborhood a few months ago.) This appears to be good open space use of the land. Please reconsider your vote to take this land by eminent domain. Y- cc to:/ fax to: Byron Sher--fax 364-2102 Michael Nevin —fax 599-1027 Lou Papan --fax 866-3948 March 21, 1998 Mid-Peninsula Regional Open Space District Board Members 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022 Dear Board Members, In my attempts to make sense out of the present situation, I consulted the Bible and found the following passage in the Old Testament: Woe to those who plan iniquity, And work out evil on their couches; In the morning light they accomplish it When it lies within their power. They covet fields, and seize them; They cheat an owner of his house, A man of his inheritance. Micah 2:1-2 Please consider your work more carefully. Your "public hearing" on March 18th, was the closest thing to communism that I have experienced since I studied in Leningrad during 1979 and sat in on a legal procedure to condemn a professor for allowing his students to study the architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright! You were the presiding body, you were the opposing party, and you were the only ones controlling the final decision! Please consider the state of the environmental movement as we near the year 2000!! What example are you setting for the children? You lock up all the beautiful land, for the sake of the public(?), and give them no hope to ever dream of buying a piece of property and having the right to build themselves a home. Kings and emperors used to measure their wealth by the amount of land they could conquer and control. Is that what you fancy yourselves, competing for "wealth" with the other environmental groups in the area. What is really happening here? We have all seen the damage that unrestricted development can cause, but do we have any idea of the damage unrestricted "environmental- control" can cause? I doubt that you will respect me with a response to the above questions, many are rhetorical in manner. However, if you care to respond my address is: Mrs. Kathleen Klestoff 275 Dorantes Ave. San Francisco, CA 94116 Kathle C =0V &. MAR ? A 1998 MiCFr_ r i OPEN Sh � i � ear^ �1 ( faw4 PIAR 2 4 1998 M�Gp�,�jt�aSU v_S�-A GIO1' Sr��O�AL T C� &Vt d zkoo� buu L 7 .n c V L � ; 5ef.,�i r���QG[.Q.GpryL Miss Liiis A.Acebo 703 Atlantic Ave.#235 V Alameda,CA 94501 Tues Mar 24 98 14:89 PAGE 2/3 To: Hoard of Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (The following was written in the form of public hearing testimony) RUSSIAN CONVENT of Our Lady of Vladimir I am Ralph Nobles and live in Redwood City and am a member of, and President of the Friends of Redwood City and also a member of the San Mateo County Planning Commission. In fact I was chairman at the time the Commission gave unanimous conditioned approval for the Russian Convent project on King's Mountain. However I am not representing the County Planning Commission, only myself. I am well aware that it was, at least in part, our Commission's action which placed the Open Space District in the difficult position in which it finds itself at present. For this I am truly s orry, but I don't see how it could have been avoided. I believe our Commission reached a fair and correct decision, a decision in the public interest and best for the long range goal of the preservation of open space and responsive to the political reality of the situation. Our decision was based on the preponderance of evidence and information presented by Staff and by the public as well as by on site observations. Our mandate as Planning Commission is different from that of yours as Open Space District Directors, so it should be no surprise that we might reach different conclusions based on more or less the same set of facts. I am a friend and enthusiastic supporter of the Open Space District and have been since 1972 when my friend and then physicist colleague at Lockheed Palo Alto Research Laboratory ,Herb Greneh, became the first executive director of the then new Open Space District. I am also an environmentalist and in the past 16 years have spent more time and effort working to preserve open space than on any other endeavor. My efforts have been directed principally toward trying to influence Local, State and Federal government officials as well as the public and commercial interests to make decisions favorable for the preservation of open space and a better natural environment. My wife Carolyn and I (among others) played an important roll in saving 1,600 threatened wetland acres on Bair Island and I am the orginator and now deeply involved in a plan to restore 29,000 acres of San Francisco Bay's historic wetlands. when completed this will represent the largest wetland restoration anywhere at any time. Carolyn and I were named Conservationists of the Year, 1997, by the Peninsula Conservation Foundation, and we also received the 1995 Founders Award from the Save San Francisco Bay Association. My purpose in relating these facts is to convince the Board that I appear before you as one who has more than a passing interest in the preservation of open space. I'm not acquainted with the details of the Open Space Districts' mandate, but I know what think it should be, that is to: secure and protect the greatest amount of high quality open space for today and for future generations within the limits of the funds available and the constraints imposed by a democratic society and not necessarily to acquire every single piece of quality open space, irrespective of the cost and damage to public support which such action might entail. The decision to condemn the Convent property to protect 3% of the area (8 out of 284 acres) is in my opinion a profligate use of the public's money and even worse a very real threat to the power and independence of the Open Space District. The condemnation decision also will have a very the negative impact on the possibility for the District to expand to the coast and farther northward into San Mateo County and that's a high price to pay for the small gain represented by the condemnation. Another unfortunate consequence of the condemnation decision is its divisiveness for the environmental community. For example, on a personal level, it fills me with anguish to find Tues Mar 24 98 14:18 PAGE 3/3 ' myself in opposition to Lensue Roberts, Julia Bott, Wim de Witt, Herb Grench and David Bomberger and others. A member of your staff was quoted in the newspaper as expressing the view that after the initial furor, things would settle down and the public would forget and things could go on as before. I think that is grossly in error and that this matter will come back to haunt us all. There seems t 0 be a lack of understanding of the fact that we are dealing with beliefs and views at least as deep and wide spread as those of environmentalism and that we are needlessly creating a schism among groups who should be allies by following a counter productive doctrinaire policy. As an aside I would like to make the observation that in all the years I have spent attending and participating in public hearings I have never encountered a group who have acted with more grace, charity, understanding , good will and spirit of compromise than that exhibited by our Lady of Vladimir Nuns and their legal council Colleen Doherty and I wish to extend to them an expression of deep admiration. In closing I respectfully and sincerely request that you rescind your earlier decision and instead vote to allow the nuns to proceed with their convent for the sake of social justice and the greate r good of the open Space District and peninsula environmentalism and for the continued preservation of open space for future generations. Ralph Nobles 3720 Country Club Drive Redwood City, CA 94061 (650) 365-0675 rnoblesOjps.net March 24, 1998 190 Amador Avenue San Bruno, CA 94W March 20f99 1 Board of Directors �— Midpeninsula Open Space District BAR 2 o. 1998 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022 MIDPE iWI,7)iJLA r EGIONAL OPEN SPAT:c r,:STRICT Dear Directors: My husband and I were extremely disappointed to learn that you voted to deny the Russian runs the use of their land and were exercising eminent domain over their property. You should all be, with the exception of one, ashamed of what you have done. It is apparent from the outcome that you had no intention of being fair and equitable with the nuns. It was, by all intents and purposes, business as usual or shall we say fait accompli. The nuns have, from all media accounts, conceded much to the district. They have been willing to sell you some of the lard for $300,000.00 and grant permission for the public to use the ridge thereby giving you 900/o control of their property. They have offered to plant trees and shrubs to obscure their buildings, and to do everything in their power not to disturb the environment; and to live in harmony with the land, wildlife and their neighbors. Your offer to find them other suitable land on which to build and to pay them for their present property is akin to what the white man did to the Native American Indian. Let my husband and I tell you why we feel your decision was wrong, wrong, wrong and should be rescinded. First, you cannot maintain the open space preserves you now have--you lack the manrower. Second, 900/o of the people who use the preserves abuse them. You can see almost any kind of garbage imaginable on or off the trails; from water bottles to soiled diapers, no matter the elevation. You car see names and initials carved on trees and bridges, the Sandstone Formation defaced with names and drawings, and wires cut by the cyclists so they can ride trails off-limits to them or those under restoration. It is disheartening to see the trails eroded by the bi- cycle tire tracks and more so because we know this erosion is never-ending. They cause irreparable damage to the trails, ride their bicycles at top speeds and use trails reserved for hikers orly. They can neither read or visually understand the "No Cyclists" signs or "Closed Trails" signs. Third, the money you are expending or have expended to deny the nuns the use of their property could and should be put to better use. with this morey ,you could hire more rangers to protect the preserves from abusive users, finish new trails and repair the trails damaged by the recent rains. So many trails have been damaged by the rains this year that they cannot be used. Fourth, some of the arguments used by the district and those residents opposed to the nuns building on their property is an insult to one's intelligence. To say that one of the mountain lions detected in that area will be deprived of his home range is ludicrous. Your own recent newsletter states that a mountain lion "has a home range of 40 square miles." To say that the buildings will prevent the deer from using their old trails is a very poor argument. Deer are very resourceful animals; they know not to walk into a building, they can and will find different trails for they adapt quite easily to change in their environment. To say that the buildings will be visible from Skyline and therefore detract from the beauty of the area is preposterous. You have innumerable homes, three restuarants, Skylonda, the Kings Mountain Store, a CalTrans maintenance station and a winery all visible from Skyline, not to mention the numerous cars parked all around the homes. Do these add to the beauty of the area, we think not. This is another very poor argument. To say that the 24 parking spaces included in the over-all architect's plans will in- crease traffic is nonsensical and argumentative. Come now, 24 parking spaces hardly constitutes a "Motel 6" establishment. And finally, do you really believe that 30 letters (60 con, 30 nro) can be the determing factor to exercise eminent domain. Can you honestly say that this Is a valid argument for your decision. Although my husband and I admire the work you do and have done to preserve the en- vironment, we sincerely hope and pray that you lose the eminent domain argument; and that, once again, "David" is triumphant over "Goliath." In closing, we ask that you reconsider your decision to exercise eminent domain over the property of the Russian nuns. It is still not too late to change the selfish and hypocritical image you are presently portraying to the public. Do not tarnish your excellent environmental image. Sincerely ours, Richard Pastor Natalie M. Pastor cc: Ruben Barrales, San 141ateo County Supervisor Mary Griffin, San Mateo County Supervisor Tom Huening, San Mateo County Supervisor Mike Nevin, Sar, Mateo County Supervisor File „ S AN F RANCISC0 A S S O C I A T E S Financial Resource Management, Inc. Financial Services Benefit Administration Insurance & Actuarial Service March 20, 1998 Mr. Michael Nevin, Supervisor San Mateo County 401 Marshall Redwood City, CA. 94063 Dear Mr. Nevin: This letter concerns the action taken by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District with regard to the property owned by the nuns of the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladmir. How can the District make the case of "public necessity” to exercise eminent domain when the nuns are offering 90%of 284 acres as permanent open space and then actually using only 3% for their building!. This is a clear case of abuse of power. It is also official arrogance.. I strongly support your effort to prevent the District from going forward with this insane decision. This action will resonate throughout the country and I urge you to muster support from all over America to bring some common sense to decisions on open space. It is encouraging to see an elected official like yourself step forward to take a stand on such an issue. I hope your fellow supervisors will do the same. jS* er yr I ida c:Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District r// Sen. Byron Scher Assemblyman Lou Papen San Mateo County Times =- The Convent of Our Lady of Vladmir 7F MAR 2 d 1998 � MIDPENINS0-A rlcr;GNA! OPEN SPACE C ,STRICT 500 WASHINGTON STREET, 3RD FLOOR. SAN FRANCISCO 94111 (415) 677-9500 FAX: (415) 677-9582 Life insurance,annuities.variable life insurance and variable annuities offered by Metropolitan Life Insurance Company. Mutual fun(ls offered by Met Life Securities,Inc.(Not affiliated with San Francisco Associates Financial Resource Management, Inc.) March 19, 1998 , s Malcolm Smith Staff MAR 2 199; Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle MIDPE'- 'TONAL Los Altos, CA 94022-1200 OPEN R I CT March 18, 1998 was a sad day for America. Having witnessed,first hand,the charade,and the travesty,all in the name of democracy,put on by Betsy Crowder,by the MROSD board,and by the MROSD staff members, I can only weep for America. The MROSD board members' minds were made u a long time ago to lace animals and hiking trails P g g P g ahead of the nuns and we,convent supporters,were just talking needlessly to the walls. There is nothing more to say,since I did not see even the smallest vestige left in the board,or in the staff, of the fundamental human values,or beliefs,that had once made this country great. With deepest sympathy for America, Dimitry A. Bobroff 12865 Glen Brae Drive Saratoga, CA 95070 J _r0 ` Y°3 o J ^ l -75 �u I� �° March 19, 1998 Malcolm Smith Midspeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022 Dear Sir I heard this morning that your Board has decided to invoke eminent domain and take the land belonging to the Sisters of Our Lady of Vladimir. This determination is unconscionable! On Channel 4 early this morning, one Board member stated (paraphrasing)... " that it is too bad that this has become such an impassioned affair,the public seems to perceive this as a religious freedom issue. It is not, it has to do with the preservation of the land." I, for one, do not see this as a religious freedom issue; I see this as a civil rights issue! These nuns purchased this land legitimately,they received permission to build on the site, they have bent over backwards to appease the protestors by promising to keep an enormous chunk in its natural condition.....and this Board sees fit to take their land away! I ask that you rethink this decision...it is blatantly wrong! A long court fight will only serve to deplete the funds of the Nuns and the taxpayers of this county. Please reverse your thinking, do the right thing. This is the United States of America, our rights are protected only as long as the rights of the least powerful are protected. Our forefathers would surely recoil in horror as do I! Sincerel , Eleanor Woodard RECEIVED Donald J Woodard MAR e 0 IWO 2106 Lyon Ave. Belmont, CA 94002 MIDPEN NSULA REGIONAL (650) 591-6097 OPEN SPACE DISTRICT Copies to: Sisters of Our Lady of Vladmir S. F Chronicle Michael Klestoff, Attorney San Mateo County Times Lennie Roberts, Committee for Green Foothills From: at (9 4154796531-call 1st 03-20-98 01:28 pm To: Midpeninsula Regional Open Space at (9 1-650-691-0485 eez of OOZ Karen Baird, CPRW Certirted Prqfessional Nsunzi Writer Effortless Resume' s 131 Deepstone Drive San Rafael, California 94903 (415) 479-6531 March 20, 1998 Editor, SF Chronicle Fax: 343-7708 Dear Editor: Regarding the relocating and new construction of the Russion Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir near Kings Mountain Road in Woodside, I applaud the Open Space District's decision, in the face of heavy criticism, to uphold their mandate and preserve this area for all of us. I grew up in the mid-peninsula and remember the longstanding battle in Menlo Park over a proposed development of land owned by St. Patrick Seminary. St. Pius Church in Redwood City sold a large portion of their real estate for an (in my opinion) ugly, cramped condo development. Much earlier, the convent at the Redwood City- Woodside border sold a large parcel of their land to developers for a project that, for its time, was cramped and too urban for its rural location. Here in the north bay, a church in Cotati recently sold a large parcel to Lucky Stores where it plans had been made to build the Lucky Stores flagship. A concerted campaign and election was the only thing that stopped this highly inappropriate development. I am an active church member and have been employed by churches. I believe having a spiritual sanctuary is one of the most important things in life. Unfortunately, the followings is what can happen. Churches, because of their tax exempt status, can afford prime real estate - which is as it should be - where they can create a spiritual sanctuary. The problem arises when these same churches face a money crunch and become the target of "spec" developers and others. Many people are delighted to have a church where they would be appalled to have a condo development or major retailer. I would feel better about the Sisters' plans if they deeded the property to the Open Space with a clause that allowed them a perpetual lease within guidelines that upheld the mandate of the Open Space District. Thank you for your kind attention. Very truly yours, Karen Baird cc: Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 93/25/98 WED 14:04 FAX 650 364 0402 KENKO'S RWC Z002 3THIS Al(ESIDENT OXAN�PARLOS CE 1949 i�ZT , oe, I HAVE KEN WITH ANYONE TAKEN BY THE NflD PENINSULA WITH OPEN WHO FAVORS THE RECENT ACTION N SPACE DISTRICT,THE I- GREEN HILLS AND THE SIERRA CLUB. �%WTT.EE FOR DANGEROUS PRECEDENT IF YOU MUST CONSIDER THIS AS A IIERY JUST THINK- A FEW CITIZEN 710'OPEN SPACE DISTRICT CONI)EMNATIO14 IS SUCCESS S VEVELOPMENT A NEWLY pUpVolCJE THEIR DISPLEASURE TO A I CHASM PIECE or NEW NEI GnBl0F,A NEW AFOREMENTIONED PROPERTY,TO COALITIONS AKIN TO THE NT'ONED GROUPS,THEN SIT BACK AND WITNESS THE PROPERTY BEM OGNRASBABNEMDAINTE7071ECOMUBNETRyA?LIFIMCASNTAyyoEtjojBF4AGg.4ET14F-FUTURE EFFECTS THIS CAN HAVE OUR ONLY RECOURSE IS CALIFORNIA? TIRE -SAE�THAT ,. IT IS To COME HERE AND VOICE OUR FEELINGS TOV IOU_ACCORDING TO THE S r CHRONICLE 119S WILL BE THE 15TH TUAE HARASSMENT PRECITOINGS HAVE BEEN PERFORMED TO SHAME INDIVIDUALS OUT OF THEM PROPERTY Fl(0M WHAT I CAN GATHER ALL OUR COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS RESOLUTION`STRONGLY URGING"THE BOARD TO RESCIND Do IS TO CONSIDER A'ESCIND ITS VOTE_ WOULD IT BE OUT OF ORDER TO ASK THE BOARD To MAKE THE INCEPTION OF THIS LAW IN 1982 BOUGHT ABOUT THE RDONE OTHER(,ONSIDERATION.7 PENINSULA RE OPEN SPACE DISTRICT. ISN'T IT ABOUT TIME TO REVIEW THIS LAW M rr,�ENTIRETY AND CONSIDER MAKING AMENDMENTS FOR REGIONAL THOSE OF US LAITNG IN SAN CARLOS A THE PURPOSE OF FINE TLNING TI IERE ARE ND ALL THE CITIES SOUTH WHO PLOVIDE THE OPEN SPACE DISTRICT MOST OF ITS BUDGET,$14 000,000.00. WE NEED To LEVEL THE PLAYING FIELD- IT APPEARS THE ONLY PEOPLE 1�i MID EN SPACE DISTRICT TALKS To IS THE SIERp P INSULA REGIONAL OPEN A CLUB AND THE COM%GTTEE Fol I GREEN HILLS WHO CONTRIBUTES NOTHING IN THE WAY OF FUNDING IF I REQUESTED T COLLECTOR To REMOVE AND KEEP My SHARE OF THE RESIDENT PROPERTY TAX To THE AX THIS OPEN SPACE DISTRICT,HE WELL TELL ME THE LANGUAGE IN THE LAI V MAKIES,IT VIRTUALLY IMPOSSIBLE THE S14.000,000,00 CLOUT SHOULD BE ABLE To DEMAND AND HE PROVIDEJ)WITH OPTIONS AND THE TIME IS ALSO RIPE TO HAVE A SAY IN 71-rE PRESENT C01,4DEMNATION PROCEEDINGS THE LAW,AS PRESENTLY,WRITTEN MUST BE REVIEWE D ND P TO REFLECT OPTIONS WHICH CAN APPEAR ON ALL PROPERTY TAX BILLS ro R REVISED WHO FUND THE OPEN SPACE GROUP. 'ESIDENTS QUITE SIMPLY•WHEN PROPERTY TAX BILLINGS ARE SENT TO PROPERTY()WNERS, RESIDENTIAL AND COMNWRCLAJL,ADD THE FOLLOWING STATEMENTS ON IIOTH BILLS "PLEASE CHECK:I WISH TO CONTe4UE PAYING My SHARE OF THE MID PENM ULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT.AND IMDyo RESIDWEINS11.ITATOL STHAAXRTEO DMIYS lZESCETIN'TIAL PROPERTY*rAy-WITH THE KID PENINSULA REGIONAL opl W SPACE SOMEHOW I FEEL THIS WILL MAKE CAUTIOUS WHEN MAKING HEADY DECISIONS, THE OPEN SPACE DISTRICT j,BIT MORE THANK YOU FOR ALLOWING ME To SPEAK O DR AN VCARLOS,CA W704429 650-369-3412 f 3 NEWTON KASTNER & REMMEL Duc C'N L.N ER N KKR,. ERIC C. F.REMRATTORNEYS AT LAW-A PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION STEVERONA F F.KENNEL STEVE F.REBAGLIATI CHIP Cox O.ANTONY ABDOLLAHI 1451 Grant Road•P.O.Box 1059 O Mountain View,CA 94042 8 Phone:(650)967-7854•Fax:(650)967-5800 1OLEEN GROSSING O http://wwiv.nkr.com 4 ALEXISJ.CUROTTo 1ARY J.HULST LENELL TOPOL MCCALLUM 1OHN P.CASTRO MELVILLE A.TOFF(1923-1983) March 25, 1998 SENT VIA FACSIMILE (650) 691-0485 Board of Directors Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District - ' 330 Distel Circle V Los Altos, CA 94022 MAR 2 R 1998 Re: Russian-Orthodox Sisters ". AEGIOW P STRICT , Dear Board Members: This law firm represents the Coastal Family Alliance. The Alliance was organized to represent families, farms and ranches in the rural coastal zone of San Mateo County. In fact, many Alliance members are adjoining neighbors of the Russian-Orthodox Sisters who are attempting to build a convent on a King's Mountain ridge top. The purpose of this letter is to express the Coastal Family Alliances support for the unanimous vote of the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors to protest the use of the District's power of eminent domain to condemn the property owned by Our Lady of Vladimir. The Sisters should be permitted to develop the proposed monastery on their property. They have been most willing to cooperate with your agency and have made many concessions in order to preserve the surrounding habitat and scenic views. It would appear that the taking of the Sisters' property is contrary to the District's own policy that "the power of eminent domain will be used only on those instances where all reasonable attempts at voluntary negotiations failed and the parcel in question is central to the open space program of the District." There is overwhelming public support for the Sisters as well as public concern about the District's unwarranted use of its eminent domain power in this instance. The importance of preserving open space pails on balance with the G:\ROCS\C 1126\AM3202.WPD Board of Directors Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District March 25, 1998 Page No. 2 importance of permitting the construction of a sanctuary for these Sisters who fled to this country to escape religious persecution in Russia and China. You do the District a great disservice in pursuing the pending eminent domain action. In light of the District's limited budget, how can you justify your refusal to accept the Sister's more than generous offer and instead spend the tax payers money to condemn and purchase the same property at a higher price? The Coastal Family Alliance joins with the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors and others who support the right of Our Lady of Vladimir to develop their property and we will participate in whatever legal steps are necessary to protect them. Sincerely, NEWTON, KASTNER&REMMEL Eric er LTM:ECK:am GADOCST 1126\AM3202.WPD MPP-25-1998 15:15 Newton Kastner Remmel 4159675800 P.01/03 • STUMN L.NUWMN NEWTON, KAsTNFR& IREMMEL Fjw C,mrnm Nl�& ATTORNEYS AT LAW-A PROFESSIONAL CORPORA-noN RONALPF.REMMM Snn F.AwAcuxn CHM Cox 0.Amrow AsDouAw 1451 Gant Road-P.O.Box 1059 0 Mountain View,CA 94042*Phonc(650)967-7954•Fax:(650)%7-5800 JOUIEN GRUSSM 0 hUp.#wwwnAr.com ♦ ALUM 1.CuxoTTo JARY 1,HuLsT UPMLL TWOL MCCALLUM DATE: March 25, 1998 FROM: Eric C. Kastner TO: Board of Directors, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District TELECOPY NO.: (650)691-0485 PAGES (including cover): 3 RE: Russian Orthodox Sisters OPERATOR: Sue HARD COPY TO FOLLOW: Yes IF COPY IS ILLEGIBLE OR INCOWLETE, PLEASE CALL (650)967-7854 IMMEDIATELY FOR RETRANSMISSION. MESSAGE: CONFIDENTI" MATERIAL The information contained in this tacsimile aleb5d9c ito privileged and cftfidential information tot rhC UI 0r tne individual only or entity named above- if the re4'dcz of this Me3sage is not the intended recipient, you are hereby notirlea that any retention, dissemination, distribution or copy::nq of the mcs*uqr is strictly prohibited. If you hetvt rcccived this message in error, please immediately notify us by te)ePh'onc, and return this document and all ,idocuments contained herein to the adazt66 abovc (if possible, otherwise please ae3troy) . Thank You. MAR-25-1998 15: 16 Newton Kastner Remmel 4159675800 P.02,/03 NEWTON, KASTNER& IREMMML STUIRIN L NEWTON N EMC XAMU K& ATTORNEVS AT LAW- A liftommoNAL CORMRATtoN PLONAL'0 F.RFMMEL S1.11.V REOAOUAn CORP Cox Q.AKTUNY ADVOLLAI 0 1451 Grant Road•P.U.Box 1059 0 Mountain View,CA 94042 4 Phone:(650)967-7954•Fix:(650)967-5900 JOLITH GAUSS" 0 hllp.11wwnkrcom 4 AIAM J CUROTFO JARY 1.HULST LENGLL TOOL MCCALLLM lom P CAgTko MULVILLEA TOFF(i9voyep March 25. 1998 SENT VIA FACSIMILE(650)691-0485 Board of Directors Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022 Re: Russian-Orthodox Sisters Dear Board Members: This law firm represents the Coastal Family Alliance. The Alliance was organized to represent families, farms and ranches in the rural coastal zone of San Mateo County. In fact, many Alliance members are adjoining neighbors of the Russian-Orthodox Sisters who are attempting to build a convent on a Ding's Mountain ridge top. The purpose of this letter is to express the Coastal Family Alliance's support for the unanimous vote of the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors to protest the use of the District's power of eminent domain to condemn the property owned by Our Lady of Vladimir. The Sisters should be permitted to develop the proposed monastery on their property. They have been most willing to cooperate with your agency and have made many concessions in order to preserve the surrounding habitat and scenic views. It would appear that the taking of the Sisters' property is contrary to the District's own policy that"the power of eminent domain will be used only on those instances where all reasonable attempts at voluntary negotiations failed and the parcel in question is central to the open space program of the District." There is overwhelming public support for the Sisters as well as public concern about the District's unwarranted use of its eminent domain power in this instance. The importance of preserving open space pails an balance with the 1134%4M11101 WPO NAR-25-1998 15: 16 Newton Kastner Remmel 4159675800 P.03,,'03 Board of Directors Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District March 25, 1998 Page No.2 importance of permitting the construction of a sanctuary for these Sisters who fled to this country to escape religious persecution in Russia and China. You do the District a great disservice in pursuing the pending eminent domain action. In light of the District's limited budget, how can you justify your refusal to accept the Sister's more than generous over and instead spend the tax payers money to condemn and purchase the same property at a higher price? The Coastal Family Alliance joins with the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors and others who support the right of Our Lady of Vladimir to develop their property and we will participate in whatever legal steps arc necessary to protect them. Sincerely, NEWTON, KASTNER&REMNML Eric 6�Whs�ier LTM:ECK:am TOTAL P.03 George E. Stafford P.O. Box 620514 Telephone (650) 593-5828 Woodside, CA 94062 Facsimile (650) 593-0372 March 25, 1998 The Midpenisula Open Space District 330 Distel Drive Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 RE: The Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir Dear Sir or Madam: The plight of the Russian Convent of Our lady of Vladimir (The Convent) is a concern of myself and many other county residents. As you are already aware, The Convent has purchased the land in question for purposes of building a limited use monastery and they have received the approval of The San Mateo County Planning Commission and The County Board of Supervisors. Despite the County's approval of The Convent's building plans, this matter came before the Midpenisula Regional Open Space District (The District) which voted to acquire the property under eminent domain. As a long time San Mateo County resident I have benefited from the actions of The District. Prior land acquisitions have been consistent with your charter. However, in this case, I firmly believe The District has exceeded their charter and they "cannot see the forest for the trees". The preface to Christoph Martin Weiland's often quoted phrase is of interest: "Too much light often blinds gentlemen of this sort, they cannot see the forest for the trees". In this matter, "too much light" has prevented The District from seeing the reasonableness of the Convent's building and open space plan. I applaud your prior actions related to land use and open space. Respectfully, I would urge you and The District to further evaluate: The Convent's proposed limited land use; their willingness to set aside the majority of this property as open space; and other mitigating factors that would allow them to enjoy their substantial property rights. Very truly yours, j MAR George E. Stafford cc: Supervisor Michael Nevin, County of San Mateo _--..-.- -.._...._._...__ HRS. 6bWARa C,60RG6 PARR 1321 HOBART STREET Me-"LO PARK, CALIFORNIA 9402E 1L -� Z . 0 fir. ��� ,.�...._ .�-�•r,.�,.Q d .j y 0 Mar-25-98 09:03P Mark Jensen 650 941-3488 P.01 Mark Jensen Phone 650 941-2254 Fax 650 941-3488 26225 Purissima Rd. Los Altos Hills,CA 94022 Voice mail 650 482-9848 Email mejensen@woridnet.aft.net March 25, 1998 Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Dear sirs, You people have abused your power of eminent domain on a number of occasions over the years, taking away peoples homes and property. I think you may have finally gone too far with the nuns. Taking away nuns' property is something the nazis would have done, and is truly a fascist act. You deserve to have this power stripped from your arsenal, and I would support the abolition of your organization if given the chance. Back off. Sincerely, March 4, 1998 �� �N��D MAR n 6 1998 Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District MIDPENINSIJLA REGIONAL 330 Distel Circle OPEN SPACE DISTRICT Los Altos, California 94022 Dear Sir/Madam, With respect to the proposal to eminent domain the Russian nun's parcel, I think you are wrong. We have lots of open space already. An onion-dome and bells would be more pleasant to see and hear than the statement homes and blowers that clutter the edges of our existing open space. Also, using eminent domain just to get your own way cheapens the procedure. Our family has walked many of your trails. They are all lovely, but there are plenty. From the ridgetops of most of the trails, one does not have an totally natural view anyway. There are wires, fireroads, old farm buildings, statement homes, etc. I don't see how one convent will make a big difference, especially as it is carefully designed. The noise of an urban area percolates all nature areas, and a few bells would be much more peaceful than most of what one hears already. Eminent domain should be reserved for necessary projects, like utility easements, hospitals and by-passes. If your organization did not acquire the land when it was available, grow up and live with it. If you should get this parcel, we will never walk it. On a more emotional note, how can you take land from persecuted nuns? What kind of spirit do you have that allows you to be one of the persecutors? Does your mother know what you do for a living? I was thinking of donating money to your outfit in gratitude for all the good times we've had on your land, but now I think I'll give it to the nuns for their legal fees. Disgustedly, 1J ask, Kathleen Wooster 522 Hilton St Redwood City, California 94063 �������D 650/367-9624 MAR p 6 1998 MIDPENINSIJLA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT r Mrs.Patricia A.Baumgartner y 409 E Santa Inez Ave. i� t•v San Mateo,CA 94 401-1 83 7 RE•� ..:z-�" OED MAR n 9 1998 March 5, 1998 MIDPENIN-ST;-D REGIONAL OPEN SPACE: DISTRICT Mr. Malcolm Smith Mid Peninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA Dear Mr. Smith: If I was ever convinced that government agencies are out of control, it was when I heard your ridiculous statement that your agency wanted to take the land of the Russian nuns in Woodside through Eminent Domain. Why? Because their monastery threatens the wildlife habitat and the beauty of the San Mateo County ridgeline. For Whom? Does your window and a multitude of others look out daily on this scene eight hours a day? I doubt it; Will traffic be coming through eight hours a day, every day? I doubt itl The nuns justly offered 90 percent of the land as permanently open space with only 3 percent for construction. Yet you wouldn' t accept it. Many of us who have been following this issue for some time know that the real crux of the agency' s anger is over the fact that the Catholic Church sold the land to persecuted nuns instead of to your agency which has lusted after it for some time. This issue has been a real awakening to many of us that agencies like yours Mr. Smith, and people like yourself, definitely DO NOT represent Democracy or the Democratic ideal that so many of my family members died for in World War II, Korea and Vietnam. Sincerely, XYIQ� Mrs. Patricia Baumgartnert//1 PAB File I - RE ` �' D _._.. ___­­_ March 6, 1998 MIDPENIIt:cO A HE-G1ONAL OPEN epic:(' ;TRICT George and Natalie Kalousek ^� 1885 Oakdell Drive Menlo Park, California 94025 Betsy Crowder President, Board of Directors Mid-Peninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Dear Ms. Crowder, This letter is to express our deepest outrage at your intent to confiscate the Woodside property belonging to the Russian Orthodox nuns based on Eminent Domain. The compromises offered by the nuns to allay environmental concerns have been more than reasonable. In light of this, your intent can only be viewed as inappropriate, unreasonable, and entirely uncalled for. It smacks of religious persecution. This is not what we regard as proper public service. In your misguided zeal, you are promoting injustice by trying to bully nuns into relinquishing their property. Have you lost all sense of decency and humanity? We demand that you stop these practices, accept the nuns' compromises and put to better use your time and taxpayer dollars. Sincerely, George Kalousek, MD Natalie Kalousek, RN Nlarch 7, 1998 Eugene D. Bobroff 2429 Pine S1. San Thego, C:,a 92103 Betsv Crowder President of the Board of Directors Micipeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 i Dear Ms. Crowder and Open Space District Board Members: This letter is regardiing the upcoming decision to "condemn" the property owned by the Sister of Our Ladd- of Vladimir Russian Convent on March 18, 1998. 1 am a 25 rear old member of the Russian Orthodox Church who grew tip immersed in the religion and culture that the Sisters of Our Lady of Vladimir represent. I have been away° from the bay area for the past four years in medical school and was deeply disgusted when I heard the disturbing news. Your decision to pursue such drastic action manifests a blatant disregard for the last remnants of decency and bastion of good that remains in our societ . Not only am I disgusted by this action because of my membership in the Orthodox Church and my support for these rains, but as a future significant tax-payer, your decision to spend a significant sum of money on this land (which otherwise tvould be essentially free) is utterly ludicrous. 1 can't believe how a seemingly educated group of indix ideals could collectively agree on such a decision that doesn't make any financial, social or MORAL sense. The compromises that the representatives of the convent have proposed meet the vast majority of the demands that y oti have presented for the use of the land, AND A"T NU COST. The only possible reason that I can see why the board would ti-s- to purstie this issue is strictly for underh-ing evil reasons. 1 sincerely pray for the souls of the board members that God have mercy when you must answer for such blasphemous actions. I also pray that at least one of you has the common and moral decency to stand tip and "do what is right". I am sorb- that I will not be able to attend the Board Nleetiing on the 18th, but I did want my voice heard on this matter. ,s�,�• — Sincerely.. Dtrirle D. Bobroff MAR 1 1 1998 geREGioilw- ne DISTRICT l%88 Comma/ fi� , Sca„ 7e5e � GA 95izy Gcowa�rc , Pnh�ote�.t I D, Sf� i�t. ca�r�sc�fz Csteae� � ,�arut �nc ,:2 � i" ce tle Co�, va..+� lw�P.E n�u- its —ovari A .. 't V �tfv �tf v a LAAk 111998 . � ne��ri a� c✓cfO � 2G/Cu R.nGC L(.�t h¢LINp/ll/ ./� �Z O✓PR. 67,,y� IK& CVhv-o7*d s %stg,,,)j 44,uc , Sf� - 7 sfep, aeP 7%e �o2p�a �i.. .Qeya-6; fI'a-j Mzedec �F� -m- tilte cane . W�af eezon� � aie �.ve MRosD -f-an.<w,.,. rna,� �u2 �it�e ,•,a� ,fie �ee�,P/ 1—� — a, e,. �J,�, � Mid�a�insu�c Re�araQ �vace � rsf2i�. cea �scr�u� ,Ta,vnanei Za � p�-�,, , �, y�( a / ow , h Ahay � a�iaic �oL+ h Occ+ nc Soma �/�. March 8,1998 TO: Betsy Crowder President of the Board of Directors, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos CA 94022-1404 Dear Betsy Crowder, We are completely outraged by the idea of condemning a convent; a place of holy worship, which gives women the choice of leading a secluded and holy way of life! The majority of women seeking this convent are refugees fleeing political, religious, and political persecution. They came here to these United States of America,the land of the free, to peacefully worship God like our founding fathers. Is it not ironic to give into paranoid, ignorant neighbors, who should, like all good Americans, be the preservers and cultivators of this country's founding principles; one of which is the freedom of worship? Is it not ironic that a peaceful, quiet, and kind neighbor is being forced to leave? The nuns, and convent organizers only want room for a life where they will not bother anyone; a life in which their holiness will shine before God Almighty. They have done their best to satisfy the communities' and environmentalist's needs, setting aside 90%of their property as permanent open space. A board condemnation will force the nuns into the crime ridden Mission District in San Francisco, an area fearfully avoided by the police, let alone by nuns. Your conscience will haunt you to your grave if something were to happen to the nuns; so spare yourself, and the holy sisters, the worry and pain. Do not commit treason against the Lord with a sin that can only be motivated by pride, distrust, ignorance, avarice, and envy. A decision condemning the convent will be a crime against Americans, and against humanity. God bless you On hehall'of the Povarov and Napadij families, and Mrs. Tarykina, R E C E I ® Alex dra Spilkova 1111 Weyburn Ln. #34 MAR 1 1 1998 San Jose CA 95129 MIDPENiNSUL.A REGIONAL OPEN SPACE Dis*rRICT Mrs. Mary Warren _ 1100 Cambridge Road " Burlingame,CA 94010 R E.'�»:•" . E D MAR 10 1998 MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT March 8, 1998 President Betsy Crowder Mid Peninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022 1 Dear President Crowder: I was shocked to hear in the news that your Board is considering the condemnation of land owned by a group of Orthodox Nuns. This news was again confirmed in an article in the San Francisco Chronicle last Friday. According to this article, you plan to prevent the nuns from building a retreat on a very small portion of the total land they own along Skyline Boulevard, and declare this land "open space". The nuns seem willing to accomodate most of your wishes; they're prepared to sell you a large piece of their property, and to declare most of their remaining land as"open space". Why are you and your Board unwilling to consider this approach? I feel that you and your Board should accept the offer that the nuns have made you. It appears to be the financially prudent way of spending our hard-earned taxpayer dollars. Sincerely, i V V w W �1/Ll£ti�. II 4 Mary arren i March 8, 1998 Alec D. Bobroff 2602 34`h St. Santa Monica, CA 90405 (310) 399-5308 Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 ATTN: Betsy Crowder Dear Betsy Crowder, As a young Christian student, I was appalled to learn of the condemnation of Our Lady of Vladimir Russian Convent off Skyline Blvd. in Woodside. I believe that it is a complete waste of taxpayers money to pursue the condemnation when the convent seems so willing to compromise with MROSD. I ask that you reconsider the drastic action of condemning the land and pursue a compromise with the convent. After reading about the facts, surely there could be a mutually beneficial compromise to the conflict. I ask that you carefully consider all possible solutions before condemning the land. Sincerely, A9 Alec D. Bobroff E '" 1�EDMAR 11 1998 ENINSULA REGIONAL N SPACE DISTRICT i Mr. Paul Kozachenko 104 Palacio Ct. March 9, 1998 Fremont.CA 94539-3876 Ms. Betty Crowder �� President, Board of Directors _E"tP �'�E D. _ Midpeninsula Reginal Open Space District MAR 10 19y8 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 MIDPENINSULA NEGIONAL Re: Proposed Russian Convent OPEN SPACE DISTRICT Dear Ms. Crowder and other members of the Board of Directors, Have compassion upon the sisters of Our Lady of Vladimir Russian Convent and permit them to build their convent on their land off Skyline Boulevard in Woodside. Not only will the convent not take away from the beauty of the area but it will enhance it and add a mystique. All this and preservation of 90% of the land as open space. What other developer or group could or would offer as much? Read the history books of Greece and Russia and you will readily see that most convents and monasteries were built in remote areas and became one with nature. The monastics have always cherished God's creation and taken good care of the surrounding area. Your intention to evoke Eminent Domain to wrest the land from the sisters is a travesty of justice. The sisters of Our Lady of Vladimir Russian Convent have negotiated with you in good faith. The ridge trail will still be there; 90% of the land will be put aside as permanent open space and the sisters have offered other concessions as well. As an order, they have already suffered enough and had their land taken from them multiple times. Must you add to this! I urge you and your committee to go to their existing convent in the Mission district of San Francisco. Just how safe do you feel! The monastics deserve better. They purchased the land in 1996 and have dealt with both the San Mateo Panning Clonimnission and the County Board of Supervisors to approve: the preliminary concept. Why must you tread upon their due process? Please reconsider. Very truly yours, i Catherine G. Kozad enko George and Natalie Kalousek 1885 Oakdell Drive Vlenlo Park, CA 94025 March 9, 1998 Betsy Crowder President of the Board of Directors Mid-Peninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Dear Ms. Crowder, We are writing this letter to express our extreme outrage and utter shock at the way you have dealt with the Russian Orthodox nuns and their Woodside property. Your threats of and action's toward confiscation of their land are examples of poor public service, are a disservice to the community in general, and must be stopped. The nuns have offered compromises which, aside form being quite generous, make sound financial sense. The have offered 90% of their land to be reserved as public open space at NO CHARGE to taxpayers. You, however, are willing to pay them nearly one million dollars to have them clear out completely, in other words, for 10% of their land. What kind of sense is this? What other motivation could you have in pursuing this plan of action except for the fact that you simply do not want them there? These ladies have no intent to develop this land. All they want is to live a life of quiet thought and inner prayer, away from the crime-filled, unsafe Mission District in which they now dwell. Their presence on this land will be virtually unnoticeable. Our Lady of Vladimir Convent has been in existence for many years. These ladies have sacrificed their property to totalitarian governments twice before; once to Stalin's Soviet government and then to the Communist Chinese. We do not expect that you will allow the American government to be equated with these two. We strongly urge that you drop these proceedings immediately. Sincerely, p� Nadia KKalousek Temple Craig Temple RE 'E ED MAR i 1998 MIDPENINSUL.A REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT i Mrs. Xenia/Oxana Hempel (Trl 650-342-4862) 815 Maple Avenue Burlingame, CA 94010 March 15 Midpeninsula RLgional Open Space District R 330 Distel Circle, Los Altos, CA 94022-1404. MAR 18 1998 Attention: President Betsy Crowder MIDPEI 4^'SULA RECC..;Gf kL OPE's'J OUR LADY OF VLADIMIR CONVENT PRO ER''.PY-_" . __� Kings Mountain site, South of Highway 92 . Preliminary Concept Plan Approved by Heads Ladies & Gentlemen: I feel driven to write and say to those of you who are in charge of this project that, those of us whom fate had tossed around the world, and who feel blessed that we managed to end up in our wonderful, free America, on whose money it says "In God- We Trust, " and is a country always fighting for "Human Rights, " aiddmly should strive to deny the above Convent to build a Church/Chapel, Retreat Center and Priest' s/Caretaker' s quarters on their land for reasons that are un-American. The neighbors must be a strange lot, to go against a small group of nuns wishing to build a Monastery Chapel and pray daily for our world. Personally, I would not like to live near such folk, and would try to get away from them immediately, but nuns cultivate patience throughout their lives and obey God's will. Yet those of us who have read about the situation and seen this news on television , wonder what is going on, and where is justice- hiding in this case??? I am a 78-year old widow, who has lived at the above address since 1965; am a member of the Burlingame Church of All Russian Saints, as well as a choir member and am on the Board of the Church Sisterhood/Ladies Society. Am also a Saint John' s Volunteer, since the formation of this non-profit group, which started the Brookside Skilled Nursing Facility in San Iviateo,and servVother organizations . Therefore, I am familiar with involvements , etc. However one looks at it, the problem in question seems unjustly unreasonable. To Russian-born people like myself, whose father was a Captain in World War No.l and twice evaded being shot by Communists who destroyed his father, a priest, and other family members, and who ended up in China after a most harrowing journey across Siberia. I grew up in China and in Japan with one brother, where both of us were Convent-educated by Catholics , but where Orthodox Russian Churches were flourishing prior to the Communist take-over in 1949. I married a German national in Tientsin during the Japanese occupation and we moved to Peking, where my husband Oswald R• Hempel was born. His father, Richard Hempel came to Peking in 1900 as a military volunteer toprotect German nationals from forces of the Boxer Rebellion. The Hempels were well-known in leking as they raised 5 children and had dairies , a butchery and sausage factory as well as a Hempel's Hotel and Restaurant on Hatamen Street for over 30 years. The eldest daughter married Frank E. Gowen, a Marine, who brought in all his buddies and became a new partner after leaving the Marine Corps. Frank Gowen built an oak table for- those who were able to down a huge stein in a few gulps and became one of the Knights. of the Round Table. Their names were put on a metal strip that was attached. to the table for ever. The Round Table from Hempel's is now in the Larine Corps Barracks in Washington, D.C . It makes me happy to have an interesting history connected with HempelS of China and the rarine Corps . - 1 - 2 - MROSD /IvIonas tery My childhood and youth in China were difficult years as very poor white- Russian displaced people without a country of their own. The Japanese occupation period was most difficult for all foreigners , even Germans who were supposed to be allies ; nevertheless, the Japanese took over the Hempel's Hotel after our 30-year contract with the Chinese owner of the land had come to an end, and left us and many Chinese servants without a dependant, livelihood. In 1949, when Communists took over, white-Russians had no place. to go. But thanks to the Philippine Government and U.S. military transport, several thousand Russians found a home on Tubabao, a small island with only trees and grass , but within a week people had tents and showers and wood on the floors from wooden crates that brought in food. lv!any of these people now live in San Francisco and surrounding areas , or are buried in cemeteries. After living on Tubabao/Samar, most of the Russians found countries they could immigrate to, like Australia, New Zealand, Canada, South America, or (most difficult because of "quota"system) to the United States of America. People had to adjust to their new country or new language, and to find jobs so they could refund the borrowed-money for their trip. For many people without relatives or friends with connections , life was very hard indeed. My husband was repatriated to Germany, without relatives or contacts , but simply because he and I had German passports . We reached Hamburg, after being 3 months on the sea in different ships , in 1952, together with hundreds of German nationals being returned or just sent to Germany,due to laws then, While from the Eastern block, thousands of Russians, Polish people, or Slays , Ukrainians , and people from Yugoslavia were entering war-torn Germany from every possible angle. Unbelievable, yet true, that Germans found places in bunkers, bombed buildings , etc. as shelters for almost everyone. Ey dear husband and I were very lucky to have found a room, and I even got a job at World Council of Churches. because I spoke Russian and English and could type and my German was good enough f or answering telephones. My job was registering DP's (displaced persons ) who were looking for countries they could immigrate to from camps where they lived in groups, and one never knew what tomorrow would bring. Sou.e, who had no friends or hope because they lost or had no religion or trust in God, simply took their lives , as they felt that the new freedom in the world had just as much graft, corruption, dishonesty and plain wickedness as they left behind. With God, one has hope, and this gives one a kind of assurance that the road you are going on will lead you to safety. This is the kind of feeling I have always had when traveling into uncertainty. America has been a dreaul for ruillions of people to be free and be able to worship in peace without harming anyone , like the Pilgrims who came before us. What is happening to people now? Where is the good old American spirit today` This letter of urine iday not help any, but perhaps, just perhaps, it might touch some hearts to see things from a different angle, an angle from one who was long in China, lived in Japan, then back to different cities in China; one who went through flood in Tientsin in 1939, Japanese occupation of China, 3-month trip to Germany, im;uif;ration to Canada and, finally, to blessed U.S .A. My husband is buried in Col:..a, and i..y only brother got here with his children from Cor.rmunist Russia in 1;7y, aria was put to rest in Los Angeles, where all his chilaren live and worx. I aLr so grateful to Goa and fate to have drought Laost of ;,.y living relatives to America, and also to be surrounded with r:iany Russian and other friends who -,rew up in China with i.,e. re are your loyal Americans because, if anybody, we Russians went through nardships and know v,e are booa suprorters of what this country stands for. Do not look down on us ! host sincerely yours , Incl. Rouna `T'_ole & Chinese Saints _ease excuse errors . I Dave , acular ae,.;eneration aria failing e�, esi1-ht. Mar-18-98 12 :08P MAIL F''7XE5 ETC .294 650 34A 0233 P.01 March 18, 1998 MidPeninsula Regional Open space District Art: Board of Directors 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, California 94022 Ladies and Gentlemen: 1 understand that you will consider the question of the use ofeminent domain to acquire the property now owned by the Convent of Our Lady o1'Vladimir. While 1 am anxious to preserve open space where possible, it seems to me that the proposal made by the Convent is very reasonable and sound and in keeping with the goals ot'preserving open space. l hope that you can come to an agreement tonight without seizing their property but perhaps make an arrangement by which they might sell the property to the District if and whcn the Convent wishes to do so in the future. There is a very hard edge to the process you tire proposing and it seems to be in cunllict with the soft edge of preserving open space. Please consider your actions very carefully. Constance Barton Barba 1044 Northwood Drive San Carlos,Calitirrnia 94070 March 17, 1998 Malcolm Smith Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022 Dear Mr. Smith, I have been reading for some time now about the Sisters of Our Lady of Vladimir moving to their property in Woodside. I write in their behalf as I am absolutely appalled at the way this convent group is being treated. What better neighbors could one want? Who would care more carefully for this land than a group who is so close the Creator of the land? It appears that this group of nuns have made more than average concessions to the opponents of this project! I find no just cause in the opposition to these women living on their own land....let alone that the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District is considering taking their land away from them!!! This is the United States of America, the greatest country in the world! We fly heady banners proclaiming our love of freedom and our preservation of civil rights. It is high time we lived up to our promises. Sincerely, Eleanor Woodard Donald J. Woodard 2106 Lyon Ave. Belmont, CA 94002 (650) 591-6097 Copies to: Sisters of Our Lady of Vladimir _ Mark Klestoff Committee for Green Foothills R m lkr. ` John Ward MAR 18 1998 MIDPF " ^rGIONAL PAUL DE GREGORIO 442 - 9TH AVENUE MENLO PARK, CA 94025 March 28 1998 REt ED Betsy Crowder, President [APR n 1 1998 Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle MIDPENI��� }�H REGIONAL Los Altos, CA 94022 OPEN SF' ,�:L DISTRICT Dear President Crowder and Board members: Your Boards action this week to suspend the eminent domain proceeding against the land owned by the Russian Convent is to be commended. As part of the normally "silent majority," I believe I speak for most of your informed constituents who believe a compromise solution can be achieved and that the "last resort" argument used at the previous meeting to justify condemning the property is not defensible. Thank you for your reconsideration action and new efforts to resolve this issue peacefully. Sincerely, C P '~ieguriu Copy: Board of Supervisors Nonette G. Hanko RECEIVED Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 MAR n 6 1998 MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT March 4, 1998 Dear Nonette, I'm writing this letter to express my disappointment with the district's apparently serious consideration of using eminent domain proceedings to prevent The Russian Convent of Our Lady Vladimir from developing a monastery on its property in San Mateo County. I learned of this in a March 3 article in the San Jose Mercury News, so I may not have all the facts. Nevertheless, if you the district is planning such an action, I strongly urge you to reconsider. I say this as a supporter of the district's overall goals and as an avid user of the open space preserves. For the record, I do not have any connection to the property owner, and had not heard of the convent until I read the article. I believe the board of directors should accept the nuns' offer to sell most of the property as open space and work with the district to minimize the impact of the monastery on the surrounding area. There are several reasons that this would be in the best interest of the district and its constituents: 1) It would help maintain MROSD's generally good public image, which is one of its strongest assets in completing its mission. By using such a harsh measure as eminent domain against a group that is bound to elicit sympathy from the public—especially given its reported history of suffering oppression in other countries—the district runs the risk of gaining a reputation as a"neighborhood bully." Such a reputation could be a hindrance in future endeavors that require public support. In fact, publicity in this case may have already cost some good will. 2)Accepting the offer would also help local land conservation organizations (Sempervirens Fund, POST, Save-the Redwoods League) maintain good relations with property owners who may some day donate or sell land for open space. Eminent domain proceedings are a frightening prospect to most property owners and tend to breed mistrust of organizations that are in the business of acquiring land—even those who only work with willing sellers. To the extent that the district's goal is to preserve as much land as possible in the area—not to mention to secure conservation easements to connect public trails—it should encourage the efforts of these groups to add land to the public domain. At the very least, it should not take actions that make their job more difficult. There is more7RECEIVED piece of ro r at stake here. Please consider the bigger picture. M41� 0 R 1998 MIDPEHINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT 3)Although it's always nice to get everything you want,the offer from The Russian Convent of Our Lady Vladimir is good enough,especially considering the potential cost of litigation and damaged public relations. It is only because the district can resort to using the power of eminent domain in the first place that those who may be bent on this course do not recognize a good deal when they see one. District spokesman Malcom Smith's quotes (if accurate)reflect just such a lack of perspective (to put it mildly). "We're not throwing anyone off their land...we're bending over backward to compromise." As far as I can tell, the property owner is doing all the backward bending. It's not as if the convent has refused ' sell a single acre. The district's position appears to be "we want it all, and we'll take it— with or without your cooperation." I think some parties in the district need to be reminded that just because a piece of private property is located within the district's sphere, doesn't mean that it automatically belongs to it.Eminent domain powers or not, MROSD cannot justify treating the rightful property owners as squatters who can use the land only at the district's mercy. Nor is it entitled to appoint itself as the zoning board for San Mateo County. If the district is serious about compromising, it will accept the convent's offer. Most non-profit conservation groups would be pretty satisfied with it—and so, I believe, would most open space users. Communicating with public agencies can be a frustrating experience. But knowing the district's commitment to accepting feedback from the public—I attended an MROSD public planning meeting last year—I feel confident that the issues I've raised in this letter will be considered in board discussions of this particular piece of property. Indeed, I would hope these issues would be considered in any future discussion of the use of eminent domain, which in my opinion is rarely justified, whether for the purpose of building freeways or for securing public park land. Sincerely David M. Rader Palo Alto, CA r- �4�b !-�aMi /7pin �f/Q• i CA 9413 o � � Z S � — Svc. Peter and Maria Tobias 926 Cottrell Way Stanford, CA 94305 (650) -494 -0243 March 10, 1998 Ms. Betsy Crowder President Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Dear Ms. Crowder, As life-long environmentalists (I worked for Greenpeace for two years), my husband and I were very dismayed to hear that the MROSD is about to condemn 280 acres of land in Woodside that have been set aside for Our Lady of Vladimir Convent. This land is an ideal site for the convent and would in no way be damaged by its presence there. The nuns understand the concerns of your organization, as well as those of Sierra Club and other groups, and have made many concessions. They have agreed to use only 3% of the land, leaving 90% to be put into open space. The nuns have even agreed to allow trails to be built and allow full public access. This seems to us to be a very fair and even generous proposal on their part. The group of nuns who wish to build the convent in Woodside have had a very difficult life. Their convent has been forcibly broken up three times during their lifetimes (once in Soviet Russia and twice in China). It is too cruel to put them through such an experience for the fourth time. We hope you will reconsider your opposition to the proposed convent. It seems to us that the nuns and the nature lovers who wish to visit the open space district can easily coexist. Sincerely, flw�c(wl�z R������� � Ma is Tobias ., { MAR i 2 148 �j Peter Tobias MIDP: y DNAL OF _ _. . .. ._ . RICT MARY J.COSPER 2051 TICONDEROGA DRIVE SAN MATEO,CA 94402 March 10 , 1998 Mr. L. Craig Britton R E(0 40 Midpeninsula Open Space District � 8 330 Distel Ci rdle Los ',Altos , CA. MIDPENINSU� .::; —)NAL OPEN SPAG= ACT Dear Mr. Britton: I am a supporter and admirer of the Open Space District. I have hiked in many of the preserves with friends , a Sierra Club hiking group, and district sponsored hikes. I feel that the open space on the peninsula is one of the most important factors contributing to our good quality of life in San Mateo and Santa Clara counties . My husband and I are also contribtors to the Peninsula Open Space Trust. Even though I am firmly committed to maintaining and expanding open space, I am not sympathetic to taking the property of the Sisters of our Lady of Vladimir. It seems to me that the proposed convent and related buildings would not seriously detract from the open areas along Skyline Boulevard, especially since there is so much open space in that area. I hope that the district will not exercise eminent domain proceedings and will allow these elderly women and their guests to enjoy the property they have purchled. Thank you for considering my opinion. Mary J. Cosper March 10, 1998 Board of Directors Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Alltos , CA 94022 Re: Lands of Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir Your threat to use eminent domain to take the referenced lands reminds me of the the way large cattle ranchers of the old west ran off homesteaders and farmers . They drove stampeding herds across their fields, shot their livestock, and burned their barns and homes. You have seen the movies . But there was always a "John Wayne" to come to the rescue of the downtrodden. Who will be the "John Wayne" for these Russian Convent nuns? Not the neighbors who are petitioning you to use eminent domain to prevent the nuns from enjoying the peace and serenity the neighbors already have. They have found their "piece of heaven" and pulled the ladder up behind them. Not the elitist environmentalists who would go to any means to prevent use of natural and renewable resources to satisfy the hunger of mankind . "This is an important wild life habitat" . What studies have been made to prove this? Who has counted the mountain lions, bobcats , field mice, toads and what have you that cross this so called "corridor between vital San Francisco water- shed lands" . What "spectacular , unspoiled ridge line" is under discussion? There are homes all along skyline ridge . Are the owners of all these homes willing to sell their "bit of heaven" to you and move back down into the city so you can make the unspoiled ridge line you want? I would doubt it . From reports I have read , the nuns of the Convent have made numerous gracious concessions , cutting the size of their construction and offering sale (at a reasonable price) of a large percentage of their holdings to you for open space . Why deprive these people of the peaceful living they desire? There are already many living in the same skyline area in "their peaceful surroundings" . Who , among you, under the same circumstances , would not fight to enjoy what these Convent nuns are seeking? I urge you to desist in your efforts to throw these nuns "in the gutter" by use of eminent domain . IVED Harry Haeussler,Jr. tMAR 1998 1094 Highlands Circle MIpF._, Los A1tos ,CA 94024-7016 �P�N`SPSU, R�GIONAL 0 DISTRICT 1 i ' Lila over SIB N.Delaware St.Apt. 304 San Mateo. CA 94401-1531 i 27-�e 2 10 March 1998 To: Betsy Crowder, President of the Board of Directors, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, 330 Distel Circle, Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Dear President Crowder: It has come to my attention that the Mid-Peninsula Regional Open-Space District is planning on condemning the 280-acre property in the vicinity of highways 280 and 92 that was purchased by the nuns of the St. Vladimir Convent of San Francisco. The argument seems to be that the property should be kept as open space for use by the general public. The property has been in private hands for many years and did the district, in the past, approach the previous owners with an offer to buy it for open-space purposes? The buildings that the nuns will erect are not part of some master plan to develop housing on all 280 acres. On the contrary, it only uses a small portion of the total acreage and they have already made a good-faith offer to cede a good size of the property so that people can access the prime vista points in the area. In addition, the area is not completely pristine since other housing has been in place in the area for a number of years. I understand that there is a master plan to eventually build a trail that will circle most of the Bay Area. Should it even be necessary to have the trail in the convent's "backyard", as opposed to some other area, the nuns have agreed to have it go through the area that they are willing to cede to the public. Therefore, I think that it is a misuse of public funds to go through a condemnation procedure since it will be much more expensive than what the nuns are now offering to do. Please do not cast doubt on the benevolence of your organization and do allow this project to continue without further delay. Depending on how this issue is presented in the news media, a condemnation procedure may have a negative impact on your organization. You have a just cause in providing open space for the public and that space can be so provided in this instance without said condemnation or any other legal procedures. If you have the power to condemn any property for any capricious reason, what good are our American rights? I do hope that you will put this matter to rest in your next public hearing, and vote to let the land remain in the hands of the current owners so that they can provide both ��--for themselves and the public. R Respectfully, p Y, 12 1998MIDPEIIJINSUO' ::J :'_ ONAL ��� OPEN SPACE L. STRICT L11AR tom , 10 March 1998 To: Betsy Crowder, President of the Board of Directors, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, 330 Distel Circle, Los Altos, CA 9•4022-1404 Dear President Crowder: It has come to my attention that the Mid-Peninsula Regional Open-Space District is planning on condemning the 280-acre property in the vicinity of highways 280 and 92 that was purchased by the nuns of the St. Vladimir Convent of San Francisco. The argument seems to be that the property should be kept as open space for use by the general public. The property has been in private hands for many years and did the district, in the past, approach the previous owners with an offer to buy it for open-space purposes? The buildings that the nuns will erect are not part of some master plan to develop housing on all 280 acres. On the contrary, it only uses a small portion of the total acreage and they have already made a good-faith offer to cede a good size of the property so that people can access the prime vista points in the area. In addition, the area is not completely pristine since other housing has been in place in the area for a number of years. a I I.. ., 1 understand that there is a rndbier pic111 to e�vent;_ially I....:Irl a }r.�i t t M'1 M} will circle most of the Bay Area. Should it even be necessary to have the t ra i I in the convent's "backyard", as opposed to some other area, the nuns have agreed to have it go through the area that they are willing to cede to the public. Therefore, I think that it is a misuse of public funds to go through a condemnation procedure since it will be much more expensive than what the nuns are now offering to do. Please do not cast doubt on the benevolence of y.Dur organization and do allow this project to continue without further delay. Depending on how this issue is presented in the news media, a condemnation procedure may have a negative impact on your organization. You have a just cause in providing open space for the public and that space can be so provided in this instance without said condemnation or any other legal procedures. If you have the power t o condemn any property for any capricious reason, what good are our American rights? I do hope that you will put this matter to rest in your next public hearing, and vote to let the land remain in the hands of the current owners so that they can provide both for themselves and the public. RE ~ � Respectfully, - D MAR 12 1998 S�� MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL IkOf OPEN SPACE r.)lF"RICT George Lapp l J 860 J cnny lknyafL:ane San Kyfacf Cafifornia 9490,3-2-330 Tel/lFaX,415-472-7241 IL mad .`NGavravCPuofcom March 9 , 1998 Ms. Betsy Crowder, President Board of Directors Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos , Ca. , 94022-1404 Re: Russian Convent of our Lady of Vladimir Woodside, CA. Dear Ms. Crowder: I am contacting you to strongly protest MROSD' s decision to consider initiating eminent domain proceedings on the above property. The nuns of lady of Vladimir Convent have been negotiating in good faith with the district, proposing to allow 90 percent of the 280 acres in question to be preserved as open space for public use and to allow trails built where the best views are located. However, regardless of how much, in the way of concessions , were offered by the sisters , the district' s response has been "NO" . It ' s a shame the issue has now become "political. " It' s also ironic that the nuns, who had lost their properties in Soviet Russia and rnmmunist China, are now facing a similar predicament here. It reminds one of how the Nazis and the Communists used to expropriate church property and then send the clergy and the monks to the gulags. Sadly, it' s also a commentary on what is now happening here in the U. S.---the Land of the Free. There is still time for the board to reconsider the above matter and vote not to condemn the above property and allow the nuns of Lad of Vladimir Convent to live peacefully on their own property. incer y y rs, George Lavrov /gl I Dr.Ale�andro Tkaczevski 331 20 Ave.,#2 San Francisco,CA 94121 tka@ccrma.stanford.edu 415-752-3265 Betsy Crowder, President of the Board of Directors, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, 330 Distel Circle, Los Altos,CA 94022-1404 March 10, 1998 Dear President Crowder: Just last Sunday I had a chance to enjoy the fruits of your labors at the Windy Hill Open Space Preserve. It was a pleasure to allow our children to run around and hike without the constraints of the urban environment. My impression was that your organization is dedicated to the improvement of life in the Bay Area. I was therefore quite surprised and confused by the news that you are attempting to forcibly take land away from an organization that more than shares your love of God's creation and its dedication to the spiritual uplifting of all people. I am referring to the proposed Russian Orthodox Christian convent off Skyline Boulevard just south of Rt.92. As you know,the land was purchased with cooperation with San Mateo authorities and development plans were disclosed without hesitation. Yet you threatening to destroy the project at taxpayers' expense. In your own documentation you state: "The power of eminent domain will be used only in those instances where all reasonable attempts at voluntary negotiations fail and the parcel in question is central to the open space program of the District. Any contemplated condemnation action will include a full public hearing.As in all condemnation procedures,fair market value as decided by a jury and based on adequate appraisals will be paid by the District." Negotiations and proposals have been reasonable. At no cost to the tax payer,90%of the convent property will be available to citizens to enjoy the beautiful views that the property affords.There is no reason why the convent needs to provide such a generous offer. The land is rightfully owned by a legal organization. Your organization's unwillingness to accept this extremely generous offer makes any reasonable person think that you may have a hidden agenda. Please do not cast doubt on the benevolence of your organization,and allow this project to continue without further delay. If you have the power to condemn any property for any capricious reason,what good are our American rights? How are we protected from the authoritarian power of government? I do hope that you will put this matter to rest in the next public hearing,and vote to let the land remain in the hands of the current owners. Sincerely your , E - f ED Alejandro Tkaczevski. RED�] — -------� / MAR 1 1 1998 MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT V) <) VI 99 VI U, a., z 2= fi - <LL U, (04 2 z 2 w VI 10 or�, 01 ja-a I I MAR—I3-98 FRI 11 :03 AM MAUREEN HALLY S476004 P. 01 as MTN sisters of Mercy of the Americas Hernianas de la Miseticordia de las Americas Institute justice Team TO: Betsy Crowder Maun-crt Hally,RSM FAX 650-691-0485 Commufti6cs ccwrdmotor 23M Adirlinc Ormc FROM: Maureen Hally, RSM Eurlmgarne,CA 94010 FAX 650-347-6004 Ph 654)440-7421 Fax 65(7-347-W4 DATE March 13, 1998 e-wa4•hAintoWaol coat RE Russian Orthodox Nuns' Property V.11C Jarvis,R5A1 Dear Ms, Crowder, COAT'J"Unitles Coordinator 45M MfPW4*Amwit, 8mm,NY 10470 From what I have read in several sources, I am dismayed at the MROSD's Ph 716-325-2&35 attitude and potential actions against 10 very elderly Nuns who have made Fa.710-994-91M mail jarvrsrsn,�aol cow several concessions to the open space, That they want to build four small buildings on 6 acres out of 42,000 acres of open space land is not unreasonable Nor is it a precedent, It is just plain humane and decent to grant this request, especially given their history of persecution by governments and Mary`satatuck PSM governmental entities in the past. Cmaturaries Coordinawr 2173 Willoughby Avenue &,Vk1yr_N1 11205 Ph 7184364570 1 realize that this land has been used"illegally" by the Pacific -Half Moon Bay F.A.7784364M5 Sportsmen's Club for hunting As an avid and active environmentalist myself, I find hunting game, especially deer and foxes immoral. yet, it seems that this group of hunters is favored over the Nuns who have promised to protect the land by a group that professes to be environmentally concerned Somehow, this does not quite Jive IssVes Coordinstvr PQ Box 525 Avmril'[L 60507 1 ask you to reconsider the eminent domain principle and grant the Nuns their Al 703-&V-9%4 Fax'0"20-7402 time to consider my request, ,v., request, Thank you for taking the t-mad donithummCiQlcom A concerned environmentalist, A-A APOW10 Hartigan,RSM imfitute c(mrdineror a '/ 70 LrxinVor Avenue Maureen Hally, RSM 15n)oklyn,NY 11221 Pit 718-452-3136 FAA 718-452-3945 ir-nlipil:pharhgan4aral corn ILI) � r Mrs. Xenia/Oxana hempel (Trl 650-342-4862) 815 Maple Avenue Burlingame, CA 94010 March 15 18 Midpeninsula RLgional Open Space District -- 330 Distel Circle, Los Altos , CA 94022-1404. MAR 18 1998 Attention: President Betsy Crowder MIDPENINSULA RCGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT OUR LADY OF VLADIMIR CONVENT PRO Kings Mountain site, South of Highway 92. Preliminary Concept Plan Approved by Heads Ladies & Gentlemen: I feel driven to write and say to those of you who are in charge of this project that, those of us whom fate had tossed around the world, and who feel blessed that we managed to end up in our wonderful, free America, on whose money it says "In God We Trust, " and is a country always fighting for "Human Rights, " szddmly should strive to deny the above Convent to build a Church/Chapel, Retreat Center and Priest' s/Caretaker' s quarters on their land for reasons that are un-American. The neighbors must be a strange lot to go against a small group of nuns wishing to build a Monastery Chapel and pray daily for our world. Personally, I would not like to live near such folk, and would try to get away from them immediately, but nuns cultivate patience throughout their lives and obey God' s will. Yet those of us who have read about the situation and seen this news on television , wonder what is going on, and where is justice hiding in this case??? I an, a 78-year old widow, who has lived at the above address since 1965 ; am a member of the Burlingame Church of All Russian Saints, as well as a choir member and am on the Board of the Church Sisterhood/Ladies Society. Am also a Saint John' s Volunteer , since the formation of this non-profit group, which started the Brooksiae Skilled Nursing Facility in San I,lateo,and serv,�ther organizations . Therefore, I am familiar with involvements , etc . However one looks at it, the problem in question seems unjustly unreasonable. To Russian-born people like myself, whose father was a Captain in World War No.l and twice evaued being shot by Communists who destroyed his father, a priest, and other family members , and who ended up in China after a most harrowing journey across Siberia. I grew up in China and in Japan with one brother, where both of us were Convent-educated by Catholics , but where Orthodox Russian Churches were flourishing prior to the Communist take-over in 1949. I married a German national in Tientsin during the Japanese occupation and we moved to Peking, where my husband Oswald R. Hempel was born. His father, Richard Hempel came to Peking in 1900 as a military volunteer toprotect German nationals from forces of the Boxer Rebellion. The Hempels were well-known in Peking as they raised 5 children and had dairies , a butchery and sausage factory as well as a Hempel' s Hotel and Restaurant on Hatamen Street for over 30 years. The eldest daughter married Frank E. Gowen, a Marine, who brought in all his buddies and became a new partner after leaving the Isiarine Corps . Frank Gowen built an oak table for- those who were able to down a huge stein in a few gulps and became one of th Knights_ of the Round Table. Their names were put on a metal strip that was attached. to the table for ever. The Round Table from Hempel 's is now in the T,:arine Corps Barracks in l?lashington, D.C . It makes me happy to have an interesting history connected with Hempe13 of China and the Marine Corps . - 1 _ 2 - MROSD /Monastery My childhood and youth in China were difficult years as very poor white- Russian displaced people without a country of their own. The Japanese occupation period was most difficult for all foreigners , even Germans who were supposed to be allies ; nevertheless, the Japanese took over the Hempel's Hotel after our 30-year contract with the Chinese owner of the land had come to an end, and left us and many Chinese servants without a dependant, , livelihood. In 1949, when Communists took over, white-Russians had no place togo. But thanks to the Philippine Government and U.S. military transport, several thousand Russians found a home on Tubabao, a small island with only, trees and grass, but within a week people had tents and showers and wood on the floors from wooden crates that brought in food. Many of these people now live in San Francisco and surrounding areas , or are buried in cemeteries . After living on Tubabao/Samar, most of the Russians found countries they could immigrate to, like Australia, New Zealand, Canada, South America, or (most difficult because of "quotallsystem) to the United States of America. People had to adjust to their new country or new language, and to find jobs so they could refund the borrowed-money for their trip. For many people without relatives or friends with connections , life was very hard indeed. My husband was repatriated to Germany, without relatives or contacts , but simply because he and I had German passports . We reached Hamburg, after being 3 months on the sea in different ships , in 1952, together with hundreds of German nationals being returned or just sent to Germany,due to laws then, While from the Eastern block, thousands of Russians , Polish people, or Slays , Ukrainians , and people from Yugoslavia were entering war-torn Germany from every possible angle. Unbelievable, yet true, that Germans found places in bunkers , bombed buildings , etc. as shelters for almost everyone. My dear husband and I were very lucky to have found a room, and I even got a job at World Council of Churches. because I spoke Russian and English and could type and my German was good enough for anc%ve,li,ng telephones. My job was registerin DP's (displaced persons ) who were looking for countries they could immigrate to from camps where they lived in groups , and one never knew what tomorrow would bring. Some, who had no friends or hope because they lost or had no religion or trust in God, simply took their lives , as they felt that the new freedom in the world had just as much graft, corruption, dishonesty and plain '! wickedness as they left behind. With God, one has hope, and this gives one a kind of assurance that the road you are going on will lead you to safety. This is the kind of feeling I have always had when traveling into uncertainty. America has been a dream for millions of people to be free and be able to worship in peace without harming anyone , like the Pilgrims who came before us What is happening to people now? Where is the good old American spirit today" This letter of mine may not help any, but perhaps, just perhaps , it might touch some hearts to see things from a different angle, an angle from one who was long in China, lived in Japan, then back to different cities in China; one who went through flood in Tientsin in 1939, Japanese occupation of China, 3-month trip to Germany, immigration to Canada and, finally, to blessed U.S.A. My husband is buried in Col ma, and my only brother got here with his children from Communist Russia in 1979, and was put to rest in Los Angeles , where all his children live and work. I am so grateful to God and fate to have brought , most of my living relatives to America, and also to be surrounded with many Russian and other friends who grew up in China with me. ""ie are your loyal Americans because, if anybody, we Russians went through hardships and know we are good supporters of what this country stands for. Do not look down on us ! Most sincerely yours , Encl. Round Table & Chinese Saints Please excuse errors . I have macular degeneration and failing eyesight. e, I 1 � er ' ' ,N, M1 i� �,• k► Y�: i This round table is special to many-a-former Marine. It's a table of a China tavern that is no more and of a time past. The o u e a simple piece of furniture, made of oak and nails story by Sgt. Dave Sampson - photos by SSgt. Matthew Perez Tahis is the story of I was attending a Marine ling to a time long past. Back table. A simple Corps Combat Correspondents to the days of the China piece of furniture convention in Las Vegas last Marines. Back to the days of made of oak and September and following the the Knights of the Round Table. nails. It isn't blessed with a itinerary I was taking part in a Following the war to end famous name brand or the poolside barbecue one evening. all wars, World War I, United distinction of serving kings and Across from me at the table sat States Marines found themselves queens through the ages but over ! an elderly, distinguished as they have since the beginning the years it has seen its share looking gentleman. As strangers of our Corps, on the job in far of noble men pass by. With the often do, we began to exchange away lands. One such location passage of time it has been pleasantries about the weather, was the American Legation rewarded for its faithful, the meal and the gathering in contained within the diplomatic sturdy service with the scratch- general. When in the course of quarter of Peiping China. The es and dents of a thousand the conversation I mentioned China Marines were a mixture of glasses banging into the that I was stationed at Marine battle-hardened veterans of surface. In a way they are the Barracks, Washington D.C. his Belleau Wood and fresh faced battle scars the table has j eyes lit up and he asked me if I kids just off the farm, eager to earned from the hundreds of had ever sat at the Round Table. take their place in the ranks. Marines who have gathered around When I asked what he meant by In fact, about the only thing over the years to live and laugh that 1 was given the rare they had in common was the title and fade away. Ironically the privilege, thanks to former U.S. Marine. store began for me at a table. Marine Clem Russell, of tra%el- As Marines are known to do 12 P,:sS in Review _6 6 ...Enter Hempels and you think you're in a butcher shop. Behind the glass partitioned counter a woman is eternally cutting up thick, juicy steaks. Walk on through and you emerge into a cozy, cheerful little bar and eatery that might have been lifted out of any city in America. in times of recreation, they table top signifying their soon found an establishment to membership in this unique their liking where they could organization. hang their hats, enjoys each Aacross he1930's drew to a others company and taste a bit ose, the fires of of the grain. It was located at . warwere being fanned number 49 Hatamen Street and i the Pacific went by the name of "Hempel's and the Far East and Frank and Butchery and Sausage Factory". r Olga Gowen packed up and The description that follows is returned to the United States. from the publication North China During the ravages of war and j Marine. "Enter Hempels and you occupation of Peiping by the think you're in a butcher shop. Japanese Hempel's somehow Behind the glass partitioned remained open. But, the Knights counter a woman is eternally ' of the Round Table no longer cutting up thick, juicy steaks. gathered on cold winter nights Walk on through and you emerge ` , to trade lies and raise a glass. into a cozy, cheerful little bar That is until the Fifth Marines and eatery that might have been arrived in 1945 to 'disarm and l lifted out of any city in " '' repatriate' the Japanese. anes e. i America." , , a It didn't take long for the Hempels was opened in 1902 0 new crop of China Marines � � p es to by Richard "Pa" Hempel shortly discover Hempel's and begin new after he was discharged from the , acquaintances and renew old German embassy guard following ones. Once again the Round the Boxer Rebellion. As it < _ table was the focal point of the turned out, one of the Marines ` Marines social scene in Peiping who gathered at Hempels from r with its worn surface and time to time was a young private scratched nameplates playing from Amesbury Massachusetts i ' ' host. In 1949 the Chinese named Frank Gowen. Private communists came to power and the Gowen had enlisted in the Corps This bottle cap opener, attached place known as Hempels ceased to in 1923 and saw duty on Guam and a table leg, saw plenty of exist. Hempel's was no more, Cavite before arriving in China action in the 1930s at Hempels. but a piece of it somehow lived in 1925. When he was discharged on. A German businessman from the Corps in 1927, he exactly what the Knights did. A managed to rescue the Round stayed in Peiping marrying one constitution and by-laws was Table and it was brought to the of Pa Hempels daughters, Olga, adopted outlining the conduct of states by a since forgotten and purchased the business. the knights and the criteria for Marine who had it shipped to its It was 1929 when he had a accepting new members. With rightful owner, Frank Gowen. table constructed of oak and I their logo of a red pig on a began a loosely knit organiza- white field, the knights In the years that followed tion of Marines and other gathered at Hempel's and the Gowens settled in Las Vegas hangers-on and called them the journeyed together to places along with another former China Knights of the Round table. with exotic names like Black Marine, Clem Russell. The two Their knightly creed was, "to be Dragon Pool, Jade Fountain and would get together every now and good fellows, pay their bills, the Sleeping Buddha. In time then to sit around the table and help each other in time of need the names of close to eight- enjoy a few cool libations while and have a good time". For the knights were inscribed on Continued on next page next eleven years that is ' nameplates and attached to the Februar}• 1988 13 r Table remembering days long past. One subject of conversation was the fate of the Round Table. Gowen was concerned about where it would end up and what sort of care it would be given, especi- ally since it held so many Marine Corps memories. Frank Gowen passed away in October 1982 with the fate of the table still undecided. That is it was undecided until Clem Russell took charge. He knew that Frank Gowen wanted the table to end up r i •. in a place where it would be appreciated by the type of Marines who used it in China-- 1 a enlisted Marines. Russell took it upon himself to contact every major Marine Corps commands searching for a suitable home. When 8th and "I" received his ` � '•►`,: ��' 1. �,�:� �: �`; ii letter the response was almost immediate. We would be honored to provide the Round Table with �• 1 �,1 �; a place of honor in the Barracks Staff NCO Club. Despite a few • unexpected delays the table arrived safely at the oldest . i,;� post and was presented to the i r# Barracks at the first summer parade of the 1983 season. When I returned from the Many names of former Marines and "Knights of the Round Table" convention in Las Vegas I walked are engraved on brass plates on the top of the table. into the Barracks Staff NCO Club and there it was, the Round Table. Frank Gowen once said that by his calculations about 93,000 different people sat at a -'^`*^•...•• :...__ � the table during those 17 years in China consuming close to five -� million glasses of some of the worlds best beer as well as countless tons of food. It is only a table. Oak- and nails. But when you stand next to it and rub your hands across its scarred top and read - the names, Bull Blasi, Swede '` Gagner, Pappy Teel and Frank - - Gowen you know that you are in the presence of great men from a great time. And if you close your eyes and listen very carefully you might even hear There it sits all alone to a corner of the staff the sounds of Hempel's in 1930 club. It has mail y memories and someday it "light i and the China Marines. have a few more. 14 Pass in Review 4 The Free China Journal ® December 19, 1997 Local Taiwan artist paints Chinese saints for Vatican even_ t By Linda Chang religion.The artist had the bishop Staff Writer of the Taichung diocese in central f ` d , ��' Taiwan sprinkle holy water on the A Taiwan artist's painting ; " l + canvas to bless the painting process. to commemorate the Vatican's up- �„ Imported oilcloth from the coming canonization of 123 Chi- nese reli sous figures is awaiting or the g g g r painting, which took Lee 15 its trip to Rome for the special a :,/ event. months to complete. The aintim= b artist Lee a ,,, +' The artist noted that through- p o� Y - Y c a' out the Vatican project he received Chien-yi, was commissioned by several high-payingoffers in Tai- wan,Holy See especially for the I " �,.: aw Nf wan,only to turn them all down. canonization. Also, it represents "God seemed to be testing m the first painting by an OrientalY, r g Y w will and concentration powers," artist destined for permanent col Lee said. 1 fr' As he works on his painting,Lee's lectiF r the Vatican Museum. f facial expression appears to be as As it turned out, when Lee For hundreds of years, J t` devoted to task as those of the finally finished the painting of Catholicism has been practiced ''"► 1 Catholic martyrs he is portraying. the Chinese martyrs,many of the in Chinese society—albeit often at i.� � '¢ �.� other commissions were slit]there the risk of persecution. Even so, sign work in August of the same waiting for him. One of the jobs the Papacy has yet to canonize �� year. The Taiwan artist said he involved painting a portrait to be any Chinese martyrs.The 123 se- studied the works of Michelan- used as the cover of a forthcom- lected figures, among whom are 5. gelo to gain inspiration. ing biography by Taiwanese opera seven foreign missionaries, all To ensure authenticity, Lee star Yang Li-hua. lived during the Ching Dynasty conducted research on Ching Dy- The completed version of the 1 (1644-1911). d , " nasty clothing and the personal Vatican paintingstrayed slightly Throughout that period of his- lives of the 123 martyrs from Le 's original design In tory,it was uncommon,if not out- But the biggest challenge,ac- stead of a rainbow, he ended up right illegal,in Chinese society to ! cording to the artist,was the spa- painting rays of sun bursting J express a belief in the Catholic tial composition of the large-scale through clouds."The idea came to faith.The authorities condemned f work. Lee had to compose a pic- me while I was watching the papalists as traitors and foreign = ture that would be 390 centimeters movie`Independence Day,"'Lee ` collaborators. Yet, despite such ► in height and 260 centimeters in revealed. "In the film, there is a persecution,the 123 martyrs main- ''S► t. width yet still capable of stirringscene like that with ever tained their faith e everyone . a th and preached the the emotions. gazing skyward." gospel to the Chinese public. The canvas was so large,Lee After it was finished, the The.canonization ceremony had to rent a house for the project, painting of the Chinese saints will be held at the Vatican in front his studio being too compact and was exhibited throughout Taiwan of Saint Peters Basilica. L,ee's w-•Iu ceilmged. "Even then, I had at various Catholic churches up painting will be hung above the t to use a mechanical lift to move until this past September. "When entrance of the church to memo- up and down while painting,"he people looked at the painting,they rialize the Chinese saints. Taiwan artist Lee Chien-yi's painting depicts the 123 martyrs from Chi- noted. seemed so venerate of their faith," Pope John Paul II had first nese society who will be canonized by the Vatican in a future cere- "Each martyr needed to have Lee said. suggested that such a painting mony. Lee's work represents the first painting by an Oriental artist to a different facial expression and The Taipei City Government ` should be created as a gesture of be permanently collected at the Vatican Museum.The work of art was P Y the correct attire," Lee pointed has announced that it laps to ex- commissioned by the Holy See to commemorate the upcoming canon P respect to the saints.He expressed ization ceremony,which will be held in front of Saint Peter's Basilica. out. More than 150 figures in all, hibit the painting before it is sent his personal wish that the work including the martyrs and a group to the Vatican. of art reflect the sincerity of each of hovering angels,were put into Lee said he donated hair of 1 martyr's religious endeavors and works have been collected exten- though many Western artists art the painting, his commission for the project to belief in God. sively.He has won many awards, famous for their portraits, moss The artist said he positioned Catholic churches in Taiwan.Also, In 1996,the Vatican sent two including the Kyoto Fine Arts of them have not been so fortunatc them along a basic "S" configu- plans are in the works to produce cardinals to Taiwan to select an Museum Prize in Japan and first as to work on such a significan ration."However,each part of the replicas which will be sold to raise artist for the commemorative place in the oil paintings category painting. painting can be viewed independ- funds for the needy. painting. at the Taiwan Fine Arts Exhibition. Even more exceptional is the ently," he noted. The Vatican has not yet an- After a thorough screening of Between 1979 and 1996, fact that Lee is the first Orienta But what kind of mood should pounced the date of the canoniza- several candidates,Lee was cho- Lee held some 20 exhibitions. artist to have a painting perma such an important painting have? tion ceremony for the Chinese sell. In his mid-40s, Lee teaches However,despite such vast expe- nently collected in the Vaticai "I tried to depict a thankful feel- martyrs. Its last such ceremony painting at Fu Jell Catholic Uni- rience, he termed the canoniza- Museum. ing on the martyrs' faces as the was held in 1992 for a Spanish versity and National Taiwan Col- tion portrait his most difficult task Lee was commissioned t angels descended to take them to priest.More than 200,000 Catholics lege of the Arts. as-an artist. produce the painting of the Ch Heaven,"Lee said. from around the world came to Lee is regarded as an out- "it was a tremendous honor," nese saints in March 1996. H Although Lee himself is not the plaza outside Saint Peter's standing portrait artist,and his Lee said.He pointed out that even completed the preliminary d( a Catholic,he said he respects the Basilica td witness the event. L . . • fit[ XPAM CBB. IIEPBOBEPXOBHbIX AHOCTOAOB HETPA ICI HABAA Sts. PETER&PAUL RUSSIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH 850 St. Olga Ct., Santa Rosa, CA 95407 (707) 584-4092 Betsy Crowder,President of the Board of Directors, March 16, 1998 Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, 330 Distel Circle, Los Altos,CA 94022-1404 Dear Ms.Crowder: On behalf of the parishioners of Sts. Peter& Paul Russian Orthodox Church in Santa Rosa CA., I wish to protest, most earnestly, the recent actions of your board in regards to the proposed Russian Orthodox Convent off Skyline Bl.,just south of Hwy.92 and your apparent intention to condemn said property. Having worked for the County of Sonoma-a county renowned for it's magnificent coastline, vineyards and open countryside - for a number of years, I recognize the significance of the government's power of eminent domain and the purpose for which it exists. I am appalled at your apparent intent to so flagrantly misuse that public trust by condemning the property rightfully owned by the nuns. The power of eminent domain can only be invoked when all efforts to come to a common resolution of any difficulties fail. This implies,of course,that the non-government entity is being uncooperative or, in some fashion, acting belligerently. Given all of the reports of your recent negotiations, it is clear that the nuns have been overly cooperative in offering their land to be maintained as open space with free access to all but a very small portion of it. Given this, together with the numerous other concessions the nuns have made,your intention of condemning 100% of their property over their very humble request to develop only 3%of it makes it clear, that such condemnation would constitute an abuse of the power vested in your board and a betrayal of the public trust. Although we are quite some distance away from you and the area in question,we are deeply concerned over your actions as they demonstrate, once again, that our country- to which so many of us came in search of true freedom - has become, as the result of such irresponsible acts on the part of it's government, a nation that stands not for freedom of religion,but freedom from religion. Our children no longer have the right to exercise their religious rights through prayer in school. No one dares allow our children to mention the"C"word around December 25th and of course, all of our kids know that Easter is when a little bunny comes around and gives them candy eggs. Sounds rather foolish, doesn't it? Tragically,this is the reality we live in today. We take a very personal offense at this attack on our sisters in this particular fashion as they have, for decades, helped so many of us and our parents immigrate to America, taking us in,giving us the food from their meager tables and helping us get started in this new land. After their years of sacrifice for the benefit of so many, for them to be cast out by a whim of the local beaurocracy,would be an affront to every good thing this country stands for. Ms.Crowder,you are in a win-win situation. By accepting the concessions offered by the nuns and allowing them to build their small convent, you entrust that land to a group of people who appreciate the beauty of God's creation certainly,as much as I'm sure you and your board members do. By doing this,you will truly be working to the benefit of all concerned. 4Rev. enli hten you and ur board bers to this wisdom. R E�_! w�""`"` ander Krassonsky,R or —O L I,- 0PEN SPACE L)) STRICT SENCENBAUGH WIND ELECTR 415 364 7072 P. 01 March 10, 1991 Mary C. Davey,Member of the."Vard Mid-Peninsula Open Space District f l S�,�,�{— &Oad my nn 330 Distel Circle C SCtU�� t Qr� J Los Altos, CA 94025 Dear leis. Davey. This letter is in reference to the proposed taking of private property belonging to the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir, Inc I am a private property owner with 30 acres on Long Ridge , La Honda. My property line is adjacent to MROSD property, in a sense we are neighbors. As a neighbor I find your behavior in the situation an outrageous abuse of power and contrary to all the good will and common sense MROSD has attempted to show in the last decade. I tsould like to remind the hoard that the po�%cr to protect open space through land use regulation is held by d)e county not MROSD MROSD cannot create zoning ordinances or create regulations affecting privately owned lands. This group has meet all the required tests and criteria for the proper use of their property as established by their local government. They bought the land on the open market, successfully went through County Planning and Review-, survived a challenge to their desire to use the land, which was endorsed by the County Board of Supervisors,and have made very generous proposals to MROSD in an attempt to accommodate your concerns. In the view of most citizens I have talked with their )Iopostxl monastery has MINIMAL.impact on surrounding open space. Thity have a right to use their property in accordance with the land use regulations set forth by their local government. Contrary to what MROSD has attempted to convey, tlus is not only about open space but goes to the very heart of this Republic,the right to o%vn private property,the rights of the Individual, and rcpresentativc government. These people came to this cuuntry to escape religious and political persecution in the So-v7et Union and Cliina, both countries with a long Iiistory as oppressive governments where the private citizen has very little power. This proposed action goes against all sense of fairness that citizens in this country take pride in. It does not place your organization in a favorable light As a citizen,property owner and one who has previously endorsed the basic concepts of open space I recommend that the Board take a generous step backwards and carefully reconsider this proposed action. If the Board takes this land without further consideration your Rain will not equal your losses. You will lose both the respect and cooperation of your neighbors, and a very large majority of the voters and property owners in the area. Very truly yours, es Sencenbaugh� 12 Iris St, Redwood City,CA 94062 I r March 19, 1998 Mid-Peninsula Regional Open Space District Board Members 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022 Dear Board Members, I would like to thank you for allowing me to come to your public meeting last night and embarrassing myself for your benefit. It humbles one greatly to be humiliated in front of strangers every now and then. You must feel rather embarrassed yourselves today, judging from the decision to go ahead with the confiscation by fee of the Convent's land. Any person with an ounce of conscience would have felt the desperation in the Convent's appeal. How inhuman of you to take away their dream, the American dream as a matter of fact, to own land and build a home! I have enclosed my speech that was too long to read in full last night, with the hope that it will at least make for good recycling material. The issues it brings up are now irrelevant. You all came into that meeting last night knowing what you were going to do! Mr. Bell never stopped smirking all evening, self-confident from his private correspondence with Craig Britton and Lennie Roberts, that he would not have the nun's for neighbors! You wasted the public's time, and the nun's money! How shameful that you call yourselves environmentalists, and public officials! Congratulations on your victory. Ms. Crowder, it appears that you will need to publish a new revision to your Peninsula Trails book. Unfortunately, I will never take my children hiking on any lands "owned" by the MROSD! It will take some time to undo the terrible message you have sent them by your decision. I keep assuring them that environmentalism is good, it is people who sometimes mess up! You aii missed a perfect opportunity last night to come across as rational and responsible members of the human environment. You were wrong. With sincerity, but little respect, Kathleen Klestoff copies/all 7 board members,and Criag Britton copies/all major Bay Area newspapers as a letter to the editors Presented to the Board of the Mid-Peninsula Regional Open Space District, 3/18/98 Last week I had the opportunity to spend four days as a chaperone for our sons sixth grade outdoor education trip to the Marin Headlands Institute. We spent seven hours a day on the trails and by the beach learning about ecology and about our place in the scheme of things on earth. It was a fantastic experience. I believe the children went away with a feeling of respect for nature and an understanding that the future of our planet is in their hands. It is very important to have these places where city dwellers can go out and experience nature. Thank you to everyone who has worked and keeps on working to preserve such areas. The 9 county Bay Area is lucky to be home to more than 300 city parks, more than 1,000 miles of trails and more than 1 million acres of wildlife or open space preserves. There are more than 30 registered environmental groups that oversee and protect this huge investment. This is a lot and it is all very good. During our stay at the Headlands Institute, our instructors told us many stories about nature and ecology. I have taken the liberty to paraphrase one story which I hope will enlighten all parties to our situation here today. Long ago, the earth was inhabited by hundreds of thousands of animals. All living freely, unaware of the small population of human beings existing quietly around them. Slowly, and over many centuries the population of human beings grew larger, the multiplying humans demanded more and more of the earth's resources, land, plants, animals and water. Humans developed clans, which grew into cultures, which grew into countries, made up of many cities. People built roads to connect the cities. All of this growth, and population expansion took its toll on the abundant animals. They were forced to either adapt, move away or die. With the growth of the cities appeared a new species, the Developer, who would swoop down on undeveloped areas, never looking down or around or up to consider the animals, the plants or the sky, and built homes, or factories or malls, to satisfy the needs and desires of the expanding populace. The people thought this was good so they left the Developer alone to do his work. The Developers became richer, more numerous and more powerful. After many years, a new species appeared, the Environmentalist , who began to question the actions of the Developer and the needs of the human beings. The message was strong and sweeping, and the Environmentalists organized quickly to stop the destruction and waste. People began to listen and many agreed on the necessity to change, so they helped form groups to safeguard our planet. Environmentalist groups multiplied and expanded, non-profit and grass-roots movements flourished. The people thought this was good so they left the Environmentalists alone to do their work. The Environmental organizations got bigger, and richer, and more powerful, acquiring more and more land, holding that land tightly and selfishly. They became corporate and governmental and bureaucratic and stopped looking down or around or up to consider the human beings, who were being slowly squished into a shrinking area of habitable land. -2- Then a small and silent group of nuns appeared and bought a large parcel of beautiful land. They planned to build a home and a church for their order. By design this project would use only 3% of all their land, leaving a lot of room for the deer, the bats, the frogs, the bobcats, raccoons, skunks, and the mountain lion (if he happens by from time to time). Their project even allows for planting new vegetation to screen their buildings from view so that the occasional motorist going 50 to 60 mph on highways 92 or 1, can look up and say wow look at all the greenery we are zooming by! When actually the screening is desirable because it provides the nuns the privacy and solitude that they live by. Their project even has provisions for possible trails for week-end hikers and possessive neighbors, who do not want to lose what was never theirs in the first place. When the Environmentalists heard of these dangerous nuns they moved quickly to stop their project by use of their ultimate weapon, eminent domain. After all, what choice do they have? I can offer you a choice: Why not try COOPERATION: the ecological meaning of cooperation is "an interaction between organisms that is largely beneficial to all those participating." We have to find common ground. Through cooperation the public's need for open space and the rights of private land owners can exist in the same world. As ecologists, you have to see that this project should be applauded and used as an example for responsible, low-impact development. Please reject the resolution to acquire the Convent's land! (Kathy Klestoff, 3/18/98) March 17, 1998 Henry Y. Upton, M.D. 230 Todo El Mundo Woodside, CA 94062 Betsy Crowder, President Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022 Dear President Crowder: feel that the costruction of the Russian Convent's proposed building should be approved. This should not affect the beauty of the area. It would be grossly unfair to that organization to deny them the right to use the very small portion of the area they own for this construction. Being a Woodside resident, I am attracted to the area because of its beauty, and am a firm believer in preservation of the natural environment, but I do not see a conflict with my love of the environment and the building of this convent. Thank you for considering my letter. Respectfully yours, H. Y. Upton, M.D. R I E. LMAR- 1g MIDPENlN: GLQ ei'C:?ONA!_ OPEN SPACE (_:''.STRICT i FROM THE GUEST ROOMS Kathie Hillier 267 Alberta Ave San Carlos, CA 94070 rl Lol'� � .s7Dn G !OVAL�� �i DiJrRICT O D�•c� r/� -�/' 1-�i 4860 WEST KENNEDY BOULEV D,�TAMPA,FLORIDA 33609-2591 PHONE:(813)286-4400 FAX:(813)286-4053 THE SHERATON GRAND MOTEL IS OWNED BY WL TAMPA LTD AND OPERATED BY THE CONTINENTAL COMPANIES UNDER A LICENSE ISSUED BY SHERATON INNS.INC �/,� �sv �..`� i� � � �� � �, �� ��� 70 Crane Drive San Ansehno CA 94960 23 March 1998 Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 350 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022 Dear Members of the Board: I am writing to express my total disapproval of your actions regarding your attempts to seize the lands belonging to the Russian Orthodox nuns. Wrong, wrong, wrong! I am a supporter of the Marin Agricultural Land Trust (MALT), that pays to retain land in open agricultural use, it doesn't seeze the land. I have been a volunteer with the Marin County Open Space District for over 20 years. I work very closely with staff and rangers. The MCOSD doesn't even breathe the words "eminent domain" with regard to property;the MCOSD works WITH the property owners, and not AGAINST them. Surely Midpen had the opportunity to buy this property two years or more ago, when it first came on the market. Why didn't you move on it then? The nuns' offer to put 90 percent of the property into open space should satisfy those who want to preserve plant and animal habitat. Eminent domaining smacks of pure land grab. It's actions such as yours that give other Open Space Districts a bad name. Please reconsider your ill-advised position. Yours very truly, Connie Berto (Mrs. Frank J. Berto) cc: Assemblyman Lou Papan Supervisor Mike Nevin, San Mateo County State Senator Byron Sher m805 — G :..1 i i L March 28, 1998 Malcolm Smith and all the Board Members - Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District R ECA, !-7!V I D 330 Distel Circle ^�- Los Altos, CA 94002 MAR ? 1 1998 Ladies and Gentlemen: MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DfSTRICT I wrote to you before because I thought your decision to begin eminent domain proceedings against the Sisters of Our Lady of Vladimir was wrong. I was very pleased to read in the newspaper that you have suspended that decision. I hope by the time you receive this letter that you will have withdrawn this lawsuit. From the very beginning, I thought that their development plans in Woodside were very much in keeping with the preservation of this lovely area. Because the nuns have been so generous in allowing public access on so many acres, this truly is the ideal solution for all concerned. I read two different accounts about your actual vote (one stated it was 4 - 3, and the other stated 5 - 2). 1 am concerned there might be members on your Board that will continue to block this development in some way. You are keepers of the Public Trust and I believe that the public has made its views concerning this development very clear. You were elected to represent the people of your district. It is incumbent upon you to spend tax funds in conformance with the will of your constituents. We will watch with interest to see how this matter is resolved. We appreciate your efforts to preserve the land but in this particular instance I think the development is very compliant with your goals. Thank you for your consideration in this matter. Sincerel , Eleanor Woodard Donald J. Woodard 2106 Lyon Ave. Belmont, CA 94002-1639 (650) 591-6097 Copies to: Sisters of Our Lady of Vladimir Representative Anna Eshoo Mike Klestoff Assemblyman Ted Lempert Lennie Roberts, Committee for Green Foothills San Mateo County Supervisors Senator Byron Sher RECEIVED MAR 1998 MItipENINSUL.A REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT ia ;� , dvqflvl� ,�,&,a� ���un�'�D�jU � �al qA� lCu Ack X0 4 ml VW 14 + �� 1 �R6os �u, G S(.v Y I,- L Si 4a A. ��i, Letters to the editor March 30, 1998 San Mateo County Times If the Russian nuns who still might have their property ripped away from them by legal force had bought their acreage near Skyline Blvd. for investment purposes, then the demand that they must sell it, and at the price offered by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, might make some sense. However, they bought it because it fitted their needs. Those needs involved treading very lightly on the land. Most of the property would remain in open space. The small part they would make direct use of would be used in the practice of their religion. I suggest the district rip away instead the nearby lands owned by millionaires, artists, and elitist Sierra Club types. Let the millionaires return to urban areas, and leave the nuns in tranquility and solitude. As for Mary Campbell-Drone (letters 3/30) the reason that the Open Space District is portrayed as "the bad guy" is because they truly are the bad guys. If this marginally useful district can grab private property from nuns, it can grab it from anyone. The power of eminent domain must never be abused again as this district had abused it in this case. Paul A v o �?o 1251 Hermosa Ave. Pacifica, CA 94044 /650 355 5545 cc: Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District R E-CT VE D APR n 1 1998 MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL 0 PEN SPACE DISTRICT 04/01/1998 14:35 6503481474 1 PAGE 01 i PcsLIP E. lama t p y� 477 NINTR AY[NVIC.jjUITF IW ri• 6AN MAtCO. CALIFORN1A Hopi I f (41 s)i4s-4 U r IfIA FAX 1415/s11-04a3 1 MarCh 31, 1998 Mid-Peninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distal Circle Lo■ Altos, CA 94022 Attn: Betsy Crowder, President 1 Dear Ks. Crowder, Please accept this letter as my strong opposition to the support of your position in regards to the Convent of Our Lady or Vladimir. Your position of forcing the sale of this property is outrageous. YOU still have time to repair the situation have created. I would su est you your position. This action is no yo t in the best long term interest of the Open Space Trust. Fy, Ls herz, ent PL/pb OENE)iAI. AOLIVT r P.....ERICA lrl. CC]Y PAN [� MARY GRIFFIN San Mateo County Supervisor April 9, 1998 Betsy Crowder 1998 President, Board of Directors MidPeninsula Regional Open Space District ;7NP� 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 OP De esi I was pleased to receive your communication indicating you had reached a compromise with the Russian Orthodox Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir that will allow the nuns to establish a reflective convent. I really believe that this proposed development will not in any way harm the environment and that its residents will be an asset to the community. It is unfortunate that so much negative publicity surrounded this issue. The resolution you have reached has definitely created a positive atmosphere. Thank you for recognizing our board's efforts to reach a compromise. It is my intent to look into activities of the Open Space District with an open mind. I look forward to another breakfast meeting with you. Please let me know when you are available to meet with us. Sincerely, MARY GRIFF Supervisor First District MG.jc 4 c County Government Center DED SSbb Redwood City, California 94063 (650) 363-4571 ' � �� 1` � fp. � r � • � • � � � '� �• '� • � � � � � � � � '. � �; � ` ► � � .` � C` �� � \ � , � � � � � � �11� �� , v �� � �� • �. \ � � � �� M \ \ � ► � R � �1 V � \ ,` ! � I•> � �` 1 � � �� CA � • � � ♦ �� r. ZFD -6-7 �� cym ( 47 � f -V7 S51 -ffm4,wD h uc L - - � fro -a d� ' ► - �Z oGt czt `T� zr ek-I 1 -- s.•G-�e__ c�.fit-�n� _ __f�Lc�c�.c)_ -- --�1,�.,.c�,_- — _ _ -s Lam. r f ri _ jp (A- Al CL>t it C" _ - �rU 14- nt 6 (mod. Tk� _ -- -,P- d;z � cc j5 pp � � 00 U1 U an 5f � (,�,,�_ - ems_-- - - -�s /Jakxom _ c�e� �•u _. 'Jo t ,�P- 94 7L P -02 46M - --- -- - - AkW. 7�at � � dZ en ---emu vu �oal- LZ ate.. � S q LIU -- -- m ji b4 - - �� -- - C1 F - -- il l ------- -1 f i March 23, 1998 The San Francisco Chronicle Attn: 9ditor 901 kission Street San Francisco, California 94103-2988 Tear Iditor: I hope that the San Pateo County Hoard of S-zpervisors at the urging of supervisor Nike Kevin will consider a resolution urging the Mid- peninsula Regional Open Space District to rescind its vote denying the nuns of the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir to build a modest convent, chapel and retreat house on heir undeveloped property. The nuns' offer to sell sixty percent of the land to the open space district or declare ninety percent as permanent open space fell on deaf ears. I Would suggest that the open space district directors exercise restraint in using the complaints of vocal groups and their particular biases as the primary measure of administrative performance. I urge the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space DTistricy to reverse their decis'on and give the nuns the opportunity to realize their dream. Very t l your , Joss Judge Forner Yayor City of San Carlos 3335 Brittan Avenue, 99 _�.,, San Carlos, California 94070-3437 (� (650) 593-5753 I MAR ? 7 'fit 9d �toNAL. NOTE: copy forwarded to: San Mateo County Times •J� lRICT iJ San Mateo County Board of Supervisors (Pike TWEET Mayor Nike King - San Carlos Inquirer Bulletin Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94002 March 25, 1998 Attention: Malcolm Smith I am writing to express my displeasure with the decision made by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District denying the Russian nuns the right to build on their own property in the King's Mountain hills. The Sisters of Our Lady of Vladimir have owned this property for two years. Some time ago they applied to the County Planning Commission and the Board of Supervisors for approval of the building plans...preliminary approval was granted. There was no opposition to their plans until some nearby residents decided that the Monastery would obstruct their view. I consider this a"NIMBY" mentality. This is not a religious issue, this is a matter of civil rights! The board's action is grossly unfair!!!! You have stated, Mr. Smith, "That they (the Board) are not throwing anyone off their land and that this is different from a totalitarian government coming with guns." Maybe so...the end result, however, is the same. The Sisters lose their land! These women do not want another site; they do not want to be bought out by the district. They want to build on the land that they chose! It is their right to do so! District President, Betsy Crowder, might want to look up the word `cloistered'. Being cloistered does not mean that you don't need a view, enjoy a view, or appreciate a view. I strongly urge the Board to reconsider and reverse this unjust decision. Sincerely, Loretta E. Obertelli Mrs. John Obertelli LIAR 2 7 lyy� 1 2426 Casabona Ave. Belmont, CA 94002 NAL O r � STRiCT Copies to: Sisters of Our Lady of Vladimir, San Mateo County Times, San Francisco Chronicle, Mike Klestoff, Representative Anna Eshoo, Assemblyman Ted Lempert, Senator Byron Sher, Mike Klestoff, Committee for Green Foothills, San Mateo County Supervisors March 26, 1998 Ms. Betsy Crowder President of the Board of Directors Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Dear President Crowder: I think that a great injustice has been dealt to the Sisters of the Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District. I am at a loss for words. They offer so much to obtain so little. If an affluent person owned the land and wanted to build a mansion, would you have taken the land? Would the affluent neighbors complain? The Sisters faced similar persecution in Russia and China! As an American, I am ashamed. As a taxpayer, I think our money is being poorly spent, especially when the Sisters were going to give most of the land to the people anyway. It is sad. I do not want taxpayer money spent fighting a legal battle over this in court. I ask that the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District reconsider its decision. In addition, I will be supporting changes in the law which would limit the Open Space Districts ability to take such action without County or State oversight and approval. Respectively, REC' D] Daniel J. Lesieutre MAR 27 1yy� 935 Chabrant Way San Jose, CA 95125 MIDPENHi .!_; !0raAL (408) 971-8812 OPEN SPA('.'t= (j;3TRi0T Betsy Crowder, President MROSD 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA94022-1404 March 9, 1998 Dear Ms. Crowder: I first became aware of the issue which I am addressing in this letter through a newspaper article. I then saw some brief references to it on TV channels 2 & 4. Wanting to find out more about it I spoke with some friends and obtained a Regional Open Space notice re. action to be taken on the question of the use of land purchased by some Orthodox nuns in San Mateo County. According to the above cited notice I see that as a citizen I am invited to give my input and, indeed, my participation is all "essential part of the planning process..." Given this, I would very much like to react to the proposed action to be taken. Let me say that I am appalled that the MIROSD is seriously considering taking action to revoke the right of the afore-mentioned nuns to build a convent on land which they have apparently legally acquired. The broad area encompassing the acreage in question is neither a sanctuary, nor totally pristine as one is led to believe. I live in Burlingame (alas, none of the seven members of the Board have Burlingame as part of their ward, indeed neither is San Mateo in anyone's ward, yet action is to be taken in reference to a piece of land in San Mateo County and in closer proximity to the city of San Mateo) and have occasion to drive down the peninsula on a weekly basis. Looking out toward the piece of land in question I see other structures present in the non-too-distant vicinity of the proposed erection site of the nuns' edifice. Moreover, I understand that the nuns are prepared to cede 90% of their acreage to open-space, i.e. only 10% of the acreage will thus be used. Where is the rub? If it were a hotel/motel, country-club, golf course that were to be developed, then I would totally support all action to halt such progress by the MROSD, but, forgive me, to prevent a few nuns from building a discreet, non-obstructing, non-projecting-above-tlne-viewable-horizon structure strikes me as a totally illogical, indefensible and arbitrary position. If the invitation by the MROSD to have the public speak and, consequently, to be heard, is frank and open then I think the Board of Directors would be hard put to make a decision that apparently is directed against the flow of public opinion. I hope that you will re-weigh the facts and the circumstances and that having sensed the pulse of public opinion you will come to the conclusion that the nuns should be allowed to remain. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be heard. Y g g PP Y 7 MAR 2 0 10 � Yours truly, L) -�11Gc,��_ `F'��11f�S� ::C LONAL Colonel Robert W. Parr (USAFR ret) - PEN s ,m. ���cT ortez Avenue Burlingame, CA 94010 Monday March 23, 1998 Ms. Betsy Crowder President of the Board of Directors Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA. 94022 Dear President Crowder: I strongly oppose the decision of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District to forcibly take the land of the Russian Orthodox convent. I attended the entire public hearing last Wednesday evening and was surprised at all of the concessions that the convent had made to the District. As you heard at that hearing, it is the Tradition of Orthodox monasticism to protect the environment and to live in harmony with it. Monastics are environmentalists, and have been for over 1800 years. They are vegan, they fast (eating only as much as needed to survive), they do not reproduce (overpopulation is why we have so little open space to begin with), and they are not consumers. If more persons became monastics, within 100 years we would not have any open space problems! I personally believe that the land in question would be best kept as private open space with limited public access. As others testified at the hearing, unrestricted public access tends to work against the ecology of the land. I think the District has misread the feelings of the tax payers within its jurisdiction on this matter, and I urge the District to reconsider its decision. A bne size fits all'approach is not a responsible way to implement policy. Humanitarian issues are interwoven with the issues of open space, ecological balance, environmentalism, and animal rights. I believe in all of the above, and a reasonable approach to this particular situation is for the District to work with the convent in finding a fair solution to all of these issues. ReMectfully, � r '�, Randall E. Woelfel 1945 Latham#16 r q Mountain View, CA. 94040 0PEN 'PA C E_ S'i FtICT @TO March 14, 1998 Board Members of The SISTERS Mid-Peninsula Open Space District OF MERCY Betsy Crowder, President David Smernoff Pete Siemens Nonette G Hanko Marcy C. Davey Kenneth C Nitx J Edmond Cyr L. Craig Britton, General Manager Dear Board Members: I wish to express my support of the Russian Orthodox Sisters who hope to be permitted to use the land they purchased even as they are willing to observe all their concessions to your concerns for the environment. It seems you will be the winners in every respect while they hopefully will be allowed in this democratic country - "land of the free" what has been denied them before ill countries that had no qualms about property rights. I Please reconsider your proposals and give the Sisters what they hope for-- permission to go ahead in the use of this small area of the land they hope to live on. Sincerely, Marie Meller, RSM 2300 Addinr Oft 5.0ingam,CA 90n10 415 34D-7.100 Fak 415 347-1550 Peter R. Bohley 290 Ridgeway Road Woodside, CA 94062 March 16, 1998 President Betsy Crowder BY FAX MROSD 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022 Dear Ms. Crowder. Please add my name to the growing list of your constituents who oppose the District's current direction with respect to taking the Skyline property owned by the Russian Convent. As one who also serves in an elected position at the local level, I was quickly struck by the fiscal aspect of this issue. I would suspect that the District's priority list of potential fixture acquisitions undoubtedly exceeds the fiscal resources available to the District. When It appears that the District can gain title to approximately 90%of the Convent's land,it no cost to the taxpayer, it seems senseless for the District to spend approximately$1,000,000 to condemn the remaining 10%when that 10%will he screened from public view The District has an admirable track record over the years in the acquisition of private land for open spa"uses. The acquisition of this property in the manner that is being proposed by the District is seriously flawed. I urge you to accept the proposal by the Convent to place 901/6 of their property into perrnanent open space and utilize the District's $1,000,000 for needed acquisitions elsewhere. Very truly yours, Peter R Robley Td Wti ,G:80 866T 91 -Jew 2-Bt7l 8S2 0,;9 3NOHd ATRJW/,HIHOEI WOd3 Mar 13 98 03: 56p Burlingame RLT 650-548-0673 P. 1 Sisters cif Mercy the A-cricas Hiermana%de la Miwri(ordui dt, las Anu`rjca, '171 n7('I I its,of H(Irlin March 13, 1 99S Midpeninsula()pL-ll Space District DQ4jd of Directors: 8ClsY Crowder,President Peter Siemens Marcy C. Davey J.Edmond(:vl David snu:lnoff Kenneth C. Nits: Nonette G. Hanko L. Craig Britton,General Manager Dcar Board Members, I am writing in support of the Rue%;'an()rthodox Sisters wliv Itctiltly and are in process ofstibmitti g their project Putchased 280 acres in San Mateo County n for approval to the Proper agencies. I was dismayed to team that your Board may use the"eminent domain"principle to condemn the property to prevent them &Oni prol7essing on their project I am very surTni3cd tllatyvu would take such a step since you have publicly stated that tactic would only be used in cases of"Severe environmental damage or impending development and permanent loss of open space." As I understand it.the Sisters have gone out of their way to build their new home on the property in such a wa space v that preserves the vast majority of the parcel for open spac . They have agrccd to place %of e prop y permanent oprn.jpace, 'including the prom, P d" 90 the property into ment view ridges and environmentally sensitive areas of interest to Your District Board. They have also offered to sell 60%of their land to the District and hold the majority of the remaining 40%in Permanent private open space. How many otlic, property owner-,would make these kinds of ofters to address your concerns? As you know,the project meets all the county guidelines and zoning requirements and less than 3%of the Property would be affected by the Sisters'proposed project. In addition, the Sisters have also agreed to mitigate any on or off-site visibility of its buildings by planting a guaranteed screening of trees and shrubbery. Thcy have also agreed to accommodate the Bay Area KidSc Trail should that become necessary. It is a great pu7.de to we how you,as capable Board members,could not see the value of allowing this project to continue. The public will get all the advantages of the property under the terms of the Sisters'proposal. No As guard mculbcrs committed to sateguarding open the public I No developer would take that generous step a cost action on your part would allow the Sisters to place 90%of its property into permanent open space cltn o to space.no action on your part is the responsible approach in this situation. I am confident that the Sisters would care for the huid as good environmental Please allow them the i ed them three right to do so—rights Previously der men al stewards, - It is incredibly ironic to think that their rights could be once again denied,but th and China me times before by totalitarian governments in the Soviet Union democratic governmental action. i time by a I urge you to support the Sisters'Plans,take no action against the property and,by doing so,dcruvil.g,4tc that you are supporting 4 OCal tx-nefit to the public you represent. Sine rely, Diane CiTass4iii RSM Nt-gion,ii Leadersinp rearr, 2-36k)Adehric Orivt, Litalitipime, CA I4WW-550) N 1:))J40-7410 3-13-1998 3:20PH FROM CHANCERY OFFICE A]5+565+3635 P- 1 THE ARCHDIOCESE OF SANFRANOSCO OFFICE Of PUBLIC POLICY&SOCIAL CONCEPNS RESPECT LIFE- JUSTICE&.PEACE 445 CHURCH STREET, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94114-1799 (415) 565-3673 FAX (415) %5-3648 March 13, 1998 President Betsy Crowder Board of Directors INfidPeniasula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos,CA 94022-1404 FAX: 650-691-0485 Dear President Crowder: I am writing in support of the Russian Orthodox nuns and their plan to build a monastery on their property. I am dismayed that the Midpeuinsula Regional Open Space District would be considering a•`taking„of this property by eminent domain. The nuns very lifestyle indicates that their interest is to preserve and to live in harmony with their natural surroundings.Their lives of prayer and contemplation would seem to be a perfect fit with this piece of property. I understand that they have made every effort to accommodate the design of their living space so that it Will not impede view or be a foreign presence in this space. I ask that you and members of the Board treat the Russian Orthodox nuns,who have been excluded and dispossessed so many times before,with fairness and allow them to occupy this property in a way that would be appropriate to the environment. Sincerely yours ore �e.lck Office of Public Policy cc: Supervisor Mike Nevin,San Mateo County NHR-18-1998 11:30 GEHPATECH EHG. 415 225 2698 P.01 March 18, 1998 Board of Directors Mid Peninsula Region Open Space District RE: 1.March 18 vote on use of eminent domain of nun's property in San Mateo County 2. News article regarding the possible expansion of district to coast side Dear Board of Directors, As a taxpaying and voting member of the public whose funds help support the district's efforts and a former elected official,I am very disturb by the board's actions of late. I have read every news story account of the issue with the nun's property and the effort of the District to acquire the property. The 'taking' of private property is and should be a last ditch-effort by a governmental agency done only for the public good. In this situation with the nun's property I strongly believe this 'taking' of private property is not in the best interest of the general public. I am in support of some of the District's past actions. I believe my and my family 's interest in open space are secure. We can only enjoy and hike in so many trails. I do not expect nor do I want every hillside on the entire cow side to be void of buildings of signs of humans. Private property owners do have rights. This is one of the great virtues of living in this country. I strongly recommend to you, as board members,to serve the interest of all of us in the peninsula and not just the interest of a few vocal advocates. The District was created to serve the interest of the *public'. My feelings are echo by many of my office colleagues and neighbors. Talking about 'neighbors'. If neighbors of the project want their share of open space. Rather than use the 'public money',my tax money,to create open space around their houses they should buy the land. That is the American way, Otherwise I certainly would like to invite the District in to buy out my neighbors and create open space for my family around my house. On the separate issue of expanding the District to the coast side,please don't. With the current regulations with the City's,the County,BCDC,and the Coastal Commission,there are already too many layers of government. People are frustrated with the unneeded layers of government. All we are creating is the 'Big Brother' in 1984. Singomly, ee 604'St. Croix Foster City TOTAL P.01 s I I 1 i March 20, 1998 Virginia Newberry • Iy 24225 Summerhill Ave. Los Altos, CA, 19024 9i/0-7v Attention: Craig Britton To the members of the Regional Open Space District Board: I Shame on you. You have grown drunk with the power that we have vested in you and no longer seem capable of exercising it prudently. I have always been a supporter of your efforts to preserve open space, but I cannot condone this bullying of the old nuns. Again - shame on you. i R! r:, �' Ij [MAR ?_ R 1yy� MIDPENIN!S .;1_. -''HGIONAL OPEN SPAT, E D,STRICT 1 _1 71 � � 1 06 7D '/ - C -ems 3� a � n �� IcCG�'r�I Cdit,Gao �C�9�1<rk. Cdncl f l 3vd CfIQ/ D� I Lo M LOIL 1` �i s . Board of Supervisors BOARD OF SUPERVISORS RUBEN BARRALES RICHARD S.GORDON 1 MARY GRIFFIN I , TOM HUENING MICHAEL D.NEVIN COUNTY OF SAN MATEO RICHARD L.SILVER CLERK OF THE BOARD COUNTY GOVERNMENT CENTER REDWOOD CITY CALIFORNIA 94063 (415)363-4566 WEB PAGE ADDRESS:http://www.co.sanmateo.ca.us FAX: (415)599-1182 March 24, 1998 Board of Directors Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Re: Proposed Acquisition by Condemnation of Property Owned by the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir Dear Members of the Board: On March 24, 1998, the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors, by a unanimous vote of all of its members, adopted a resolution urging the District to rescind their resolution of necessity regarding acquisition, by condemnation, of property owned by the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir, and to again enter into discussions with the Russian Convent to seek a solution which substantially meets the objectives of both sides. A copy of the resolution is enclosed. The Board of Supervisors feels strongly that the District has acted precipitously, and without considering all of the options that might lead to a satisfactory resolution of this matter. The Russian Convent has made a number of proposals to the District, in the spirit of compromise, that would achieve the goal of maintaining open space while minimizing any impact of the planned development on open space values on the property. The Board is concerned that the District has not given these proposals the consideration they deserve. The Board urges that, instead of moving ahead with condemnation, the District reopen talks with the Russian Convent so that a solution can be fashioned that fairly considers all of the interests at stake in this very important matter. Very truly yours, TOM NING, PRES BO OF SUPE ISORS jL:\CL1ENT\B0ARDSUP\LTRC0NV.WPD MAR 2 61998 � f Enclosure RESOLUTION NO. - ` ': BOARD OF SUPERVISORS, COUNTY OF SAN MATEO, STATE OF CALIFORNIA RESOLUTION URGING THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT TO RESCIND ITS RESOLUTION OF NECESSITY WITH RESPECT TO THE PROPOSED ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY OWNED BY THE RUSSIAN CONVENT OF OUR LADY OF VLADIMIR AND TO ENTER INTO DISCUSSIONS FOR A RESOLUTION THAT IS SATISFACTORY TO BOTH PARTIES RESOLVED,by the Board of Supervisors of the County of San Mateo, State of California, that WHEREAS, the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir(the "Russian Convent") is a monastic order of contemplative Russian Orthodox nuns who, for generations, have been seeking a permanent home for their order; and WHEREAS,the Russian Convent owns 284 acres of property adjacent to Skyline Boulevard in unincorporated San Mateo County which they wish to use to establish a convent, a chapel and a small retreat center; and WHEREAS,the Russian Convent has received from the County a Concept Plan approval for development of the convent, a chapel and a small retreat center on an approximately 6 acre portion of the property, and have applied for the necessary development approvals to proceed with their project; and WHEREAS,the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District(the"District")has indicated an interest in maintaining the property in open space; and WHEREAS, the Russian Convent, in discussions with the District, has indicated a willingness to preserve 90 percent of the parcel in open space and to convey a majority of the Property to the District; and WHEREAS, notwithstanding the Russian Convent's willingness to pursue a negotiated solution that would meet the objectives of both parties, the Board of Directors of the District, on March 18, 1998, adopted a resolution of necessity that would authorize and direct the District to take the entire property under the power of eminent domain for open space uses; and WHEREAS, this Board is of the view that the power of eminent domain should be exercised only as a last resort, that the District has not yet explored all alternatives short of condemnation that would substantially achieve the goals and needs of the District, and that there is currently an insufficient basis upon which to base the findings in the Districts resolution of necessity; and 7 WHEREAS, this Board is of the opinion that the District should immediately rescind its resolution of necessity and initiate discussions with the Russian Convent to reach a negotiated solution that recognizes both the legitimate interests of the Russian Convent to pursue their dream of establishing a permanent home on the property and the interests of the District in preserving open space: NOW, THEREFORE, IT IS HEREBY DETERMINED AND ORDERED that the President of this Board of Supervisors be, and he is hereby, authorized and directed to forward a letter to the Board of Directors of the District, enclosing this resolution, and strongly urging the District to rescind its resolution of necessity regarding the property and to enter into discussions with the Russian Convent to achieve a compromise that would allow the Russian Convent to pursue its pending application for a convent, a chapel and a small retreat center on the property. r � •r Regularly passed and adopted this 24th day of March, 1998. AYES and in favor of said resolution. Supervisor: MARY GRIFFIN TOM HUENING RICHARD S. GORDON RUBF.NBARRA[ES MICHAEL D. NEVIN NOES and against said resolution: Supervisors: NONE Absent Supervisors: NONE (SEAL) TOM HUENING President, Board of Supervisors County of San Mateo State of California Certificate of Deliver , (Government Code section 25103) I certify that a copy of the original resolution filed in the Office of the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors of San Mateo County has been delivered to the President of the Board of Supervisors. JOHN MALTBIE County Manager/Cler of the Board of Supervisors STATE OF CALIFORNIA ) ) COUNTY OF SAN MATEO ) DALE ELLEN YOUNG, Deputy Clerk, Board of Supervisors, does hereby certify that the above and foregoing is a full, true and correct copy of Resolution No.6 129` entered in the minutes of said Board. In Witness Whereof, 1 have hereunto set my hand and the seal of said Board this 24th day of arch 1998. �OIV DALE ELLEN YOUNQrj ef Deputy Clerk, Board Supervisors `+ �_� ~� I i i 'i �� I F_ 03/25/98 12:24 V650 363 1916 SM CTY SUPS/MGR. Z 001/005 County Manager's Office BOARD OF SUPERVISORS RUBEN BARRALES RICHARD S.GORDON MARY GRIFFIN TOM TOM HUENING MICHAEL D.NEVIN `+ COUNTY OF SAN MATEo • JOHN L.MALTBIE L � COUNTY MANAGER COUNTY GOVERNMENT CENTER • REDWOOD CITY • CALIFORNIA 24063-1655 (650)363.4123 WEB RAGE ADDRESS:httpJJwww_co.samnatoo.ca.us FAX: (650)363-1916 FACSIMILE TRANSMITTAL SHEET DATE SENT. f t�1 , TO BE DELIVERED TO: I ND Lt FACSIMILE NUMBER: T BY:SENT NUMBER OF PAGES TO FOLLOW COVER SHEET: SE ,E-GAL INSTRUCTIOLV : OUR FACSIMILE MACHINE IS A CANON FAX•L770. OUR FACSIMILE NUMBER IS(650)363-1916. PLEASE CALL(650)363-4123 IMMEDIATELY Ili THERE IS ANY PROBLEM WITH TRANSMISSION. THANK YOU. 03/25/98 12:25 V650 363 1916 Sit CTY SUPSAGR, Z002/005 BOARD OF;SUPERVISORS Board of SuoemsOrs RIJEIFN BARRALES RICHARD S.GORDON MARY GRIFFIN TOM HUENING MICHAFL D.NEVIN JOHN MALTME Cowry MANAGEW OUNTY OF SAN MATEO CiARK OF Tt4e GOARD (650)353-4653 COUNTY GOVERNMENT CENTER - REDWOOD CITY CALIFOANIA 94063 WEB PAGE ADORESS:hnpjtwww.co,wrnatoo-c-a.us FAX: (1560)5IRg-1027 March 24, 1998 Board of Directors Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos,CA 94022-1404 Re: proposed Acquisition by Condemnation of Property owned by the Russian Convent of our Lady of Vladimir Dear Members of the Board: On March 24, 1998, the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors,by a unani]TIOIAS vote Of all of its members,adopted a resolution urging the District to rescind their resolution of necessity regarding acquisition,by condemnation,of property owned by the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir,and to again enter into discussions with the Russian Convent to seek a solution which substantially meets the objectives of'both sides. A copy of the resolution is enclosed. The Board of Supervisors feels strongly that the District has acted precipitously,and without considering all of the options that might lead to a satisfactory resolution of this matter. The Russian Convent has made a number of proposals to the District, in the spirit of compromise,that would achieve the goal of maintaining open space while minimizing any impact of the planxted development on open space values on the property. h Boisposalsnsidion y deserve. The concerned that the District has not given these pro, ith the Board urges that,instead of moving ahead with condemnation,the District reopen talks w Russian Convent so that a solution can be fashioned that fairly considers all of the interests at stake in this very importimt,matter- Very truly YOUTS, RESID NT TO HUENING,P A SUPS RS RD OF OF S P L\LTRcoNv,wrL) Enclosure 03/25/98 12:25 V650 363 1916 SM CTY SUPSI'MCR, W1003/005 2 G98 COUNTY OF SAN MATEO INTERDEPARTMENTAL CORRESPONDENCE To: Honorable Board of Supervisors From: Supervisor Michael Nevin* Subjeet: Resolution Urging the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District to Rescind Its Resolution of Necessity Regarding the Russian Convent Property Date: March 20, 1999 As you know,the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir has received a concept plan approval from this Board for a convent and retreat on property owned by the Convent on Skyline Boulevard. The project,as proposed,would occupy a six acre portion of the 284 acre property, leaving over 90%of the parcel in open space. In discussions with the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District held over many months,the Convent has indicated its willingness to preserve the open space portion of the property in perpetuity,and to consider conveyance of the open space portion to the District. Despite the Convent's efforts to reach a compromise solution that would allow the Convent to pursue their dream of a permanent home for their order,while preserving the vast majority of the acreage in open space,the District has insisted on preserving the entire property in open space. On March 18, 1998,the Board of Directors of the District adopted a resolution of necessity that authorizes the District to initiate condemnation proceedings. I am asking this Board to join me in protest of the District's unilateral action by adopting a resolution that would strongly urge the District to rescind the resolution of necessity and to reinstitute discussions with the Convent with the goal of achieving a compromise solution that would allow the Convent to pursue their dream of a permanent home for their order while preserving the remainder of the property in open space. I believe we all would agree that the extreme alternative of condemnation should only be used as a last resort,and that reasonable efforts at compromise have not been exhausted in this case. Michael Nevin,Supervisor 03/25,198 12:26 10650 363 1916 SH CTY SUPS/MGR. (?1004/005 RESOLUTION NO. BOARD OF SUPERVISORS,COUNTY OF SAN MATEO, STATE OF CALIFORNIA * * * A * * RESOLUTION URGING THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT TO RESCIND ITS RESOLUTION OF NECESSITY WITH RESPECT TO THE PROPOSED ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY OWNED BY THE RUSSIAN CONVENT OF OUR LADY OF VLADIMIR AND TO ENTER INTO DISCUSSIONS FOR A RESOLUTION THAT IS SATISFACTORY TO BOTH PARTIES RESOLVED,by the Board of Supervisors of the County of San Mateo, State of California, that WHEREAS,the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir(the "Russian Convent") is a monastic order of contemplative Russian Orthodox nuns who, for generations, have been seeking a permanent home for their order;and WHEREAS,the Russian Convent owns 284 acres of property adjacent to Skyline Boulevard in unincorporated San Mateo County which they wish to use to establish a convent,a chapel and a small retreat center;and WHEREAS,the Russian Convent has received from the County a Concept Plan approval for development of the convent, a chapel and a small retreat center on an approximately 6 acre portion of the property,and have applied for the necessary development approvals to proceed with their project;and WHEREAS,the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District(the"District")has indicated an interest in maintaining the property in open space;and WHEREAS, the Russian Convent, in discussions with the District, has indicated a 03/25/98 12:26 V650 363 1916 SM CTY SUPS/MGR- 005/005 willingness to preserve go percent of the parcel in open space and to convey a majority of the Property to the District; and WHEREAS, notwithstanding the Russian Convent's willingness to pursue a negotiated solution that would meet the objectives of both parties, the Board of Directors of the District,on March 18, 1998,adopted a resolution of necessity that would authorize and direct the District to take the entire property under the power of eminent domain for open space uses; and WHEREAS, this Board is of the view that the power of eminent domain should be exercised only as a last resort, that the District has not yet explored all alternatives short of condemnation that would substantially achieve the goals and needs of the District,and that there is currently an insufficient basis upon which to base the findings in the District's resolution of necessity;and WHEREAS,this Board is of the opinion that the District should immediately rescind its resolution of necessity and initiate discussions with the Russian Convent to reach a negotiated solution that recognizes both the legitimate interests of the Russian Convent to pursue their dream of establishing a permanent home on the property and the interests of the District in preserving open space: NOW, THEREFORE, IT IS HEREBY DETERMINED AND ORDERED that the President of this Board of Supervisors be, and he is hereby, authorized and directed to forward a letter to the Board of Directors of the District, enclosing this resolution, and strongly urging the District to rescind its resolution of necessity regarding the property and to enter into discussions with the Russian Convent to achieve a compromise that would allow the Russian Convent to pursue its pending application for a convent,a chapel and a small retreat center on the property. Priest Athanasios, 08 :39 3/25J98 MROSD From: "Priest Athanasios" <gocofwi@mags .net> To: <MROSD@openspace .org> Subject : MROSD Date : Wed, 25 Mar 1998 08 : 39 : 00 -0600 X-MSMail-Priority: Normal X-MimeOLE: Produced By Microsoft MimeOLE V4 . 71 . 1712 . 3 X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Dear Sirs, Madams, The taking over the Church' s property is DESECRATION against our Holy Faith. Please stop. Respectfully, Fr. Athanasios Holy Trinity Monastery Arkdale, WI k Y }4 r 1 (Printed- for-Malcolm Smith <mrosd@6penspace.org> 1 -Dor-e—en Bartholomew, 07:32 AM 3/25/98 , Our Lady of Vladimir Convent From: "Doreen Bartholomew" <dbartholomew@trainsmith. com> Organization: Train, Smith Counsel To : bos*mnevin@smtpgate .co. sanmateo.ca.us, MROSD@openspace .org, senator. sher@sen.ca.gov, senator.kopp@ca.gov Date : Wed, 25 Mar 1998 07 : 32 : 12 -0500 Subject : Our Lady of Vladimir Convent Priority: normal X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Shame on you, all of you. IPrinted­--for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> Fr. Alexis Duncan, 07:19 AM 3/25/98 Convent of Our Lady of Vlad mi 1 Subject : Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir Date : Wed, 25 Mar 98 07 : 19 : 30 -0500 x-sender: fralexis@tiger.avana.net From: "Fr. Alexis Duncan" <fralexis@avana.net> To: <MROSD@openspace .org> cc : <bos*mnevin@smtpgate .co. sanmateo.ca.us> X-Rcpt-To : mrosd@openspace .org I am greatly concerned about the current status of the proceedings against the Convent of Our lady of Vladimir. Being a supporter in general of your work, I am appalled that you would oppose such a proposal . The convent would actually preserve the property far better than the status quo. Presently, there is no enforcement of any protection of the property. In the event the convent would be built, there would be substantial protection and needless to say, a complete lack of commercialization for the future . I strongly oppose your recent actions and ask that your motions be immediately withdrawn. These moves are seen by our faithful as not an environmental issue at all, but the clear repression and persecution of the nuns who themselves suffered persecution both in Russia and China under the communist governments . Fr. Alexis Joy of All Who Sorrow Orthodox Church Atlanta, GA http: //www. avana.net/fralexis/ Printed for -Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 3 Date : Tue, 24 Mar 1998 05 : 38 :40 -0800 From: "Lester V. Tinnin" <lvtinnin@2xtreme .net> To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : The Convent on Kings Mountain X-Rcpt-To : mrosd@openspace .org Ms . Betsy Crowder: I am writing in support of the nuns wishing to take their monastery to Kings Mountain. I am not part of the Orthodox community, but I know a few people who are, two of which attended the Wednesday night meeting when your Board voted. I am a resident of San Mateo County in Daly City. While it is good to petition Boards it is also good to know what the laws are . First though I want to thank you for your No vote last Wednesday night . I fall into the born again Christian Community class that has been having problems with various government agencies because of the teaching in public schools of evolution as fact . So this type of controversy is nothing new. Various levels of government also try to restrict religion in various ways . I think that the laws are in favor of the nuns and that they will prevail . If at all possible I will be trying to get as much support for them as I can. Yours Very Truly, Lester V. Tinnin 81 Park Plaza Dr. , #14 Daly City, CA 94015-1321 I'Print-e-d--fo—r-Ma-l-c-olm-Sm-i-th—<m-r-o-sdgo-l�e—ris-pa—cd-.o—rg>— g _ g _ P Kocher in, Eleni, 10 •�8 PM 3 23 98 FW• Midpeninsula Ile ional 0 en From: "Kochergin, Eleni" <eleni@paragraph.com> To: " 'MROSD@openspace .org l " <MROSD@openspace.org> Subject : FW: Midpeninsula Regional Open Space Distric Power of Eminent Dom ain Date : Mon, 23 Mar 1998 22 : 28 : 44 -0800 X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org > From: Kochergin, Eleni > Sent : Monday, March 23 , 1998 9 : 03 > To: MROSD > Subject : Midpeninsula Regional Open Space Distric Power of Eminent > Domain > > Eleni Kochergin > 888 Mango Avenue > Sunnyvale, Ca. 94087 > March 23 , 1998 > Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District : > > I 'm writing to you regarding the land that BELONGS to the nuns of the > Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir. > I am Russian Orthodox by belief . Of course, I 've been very involved with > this . > It really bothers me being a mother of four children and grandmother of 3 > year old. . . . .what is happening in our country. Where is the freedom that > is mentioned in "The Declaration of Independence"??? Freedom does not > mean POWER to take away someone ' s belongings . Why is the POWER given to > Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District to without any unlawful reason > take away someone ' s PRIVATE land or anything for that matter, with the > POWER of EMINENT DOMAIN. I would like to ask you who is giving you right > to use my money for this purpose? > Unfortunately, I will not be able to attend The San Mateo County Board of > Supervisors ' meeting tomorrow, but I do want you to know that I wrote a > letter to them and also to the state assemblymen and senators regarding > this issue . > Yours truly, > Eleni Kochergin > U. S. citizen > JPr nted for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 KirillG, 03 :14 AM 3/ 4/3$ Convent From: KirillG <KirillG@aol . com> Date : Tue, 24 Mar 1998 03 : 14 : 06 EST To: MROSD@openspace .org Subject : Convent X-Rcpt-To : mrosd@openspace .org Dear MROSD Committe members ! As long-time residents of this area - 8 years in Palo Alto and 30 years in Los Altos, my wife and I are deeply troubled and upset by the cavalier attitude of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (MROSD) in utilizing eminent domain to expropriate 280 acres of property lawfully belonging to th e e i Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir. And this after the nuns had offered all kinds of concessions to allay the MROSD' s concerns : Committing to plant trees to obscure the view of a one-story building and of a church cupola! Committing to confine these two buildings to an area amounting to only 3% of their land. Offering to sell 60% of their parcel to the district to pacify its demands . Not to mention the fact that the San Mateo County' s Planning Commission had approved the building plans . And it is not to our credit that these nuns, who had had their land and church confiscated twice before in totalitarian countries (in Soviet Union and in China) are once again faced with the same prospect, but this time in the land of the free ! We respectfully urge you to reconsider your decision and ensure that this injustice does not occur. Sincerely, Cyrill and Tatiana Glushkoff [Printed- for -Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> l i 1 gcr, ift acbell .net, 1-0 :02 PM 3/23/98 Open Space decision From: gchi@pacbell .net Date : Mon, 23 Mar 1998 22 : 02 : 35 -0800 Reply-To: gchi@pacbell .net To: mrosd@openspace .org CC: kchichka@csulb.edu, serafimg@jps .net, zhavoronok@mcione . com, feedback@sjmercury. com, bkoon@sjmercury. com, jmurrell@sjmercury.com Subject : Open Space decision X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org March 23 , 1998 1962 Hastings Court Santa Clara, California 95051 Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District C.O. L. Craig Britton, General Manager 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, California 94022-1404 Mr. Britton: Congratulations ! I was present at the meeting of the board on March 18 , 1998, on Rengstorf Ave . , in Mountain View, where it was decided to exercise the right of eminent domain to buy out the land belonging to the Russian Orthodox nuns . With the world situation right now, there is no Communism in Russia. They are now closer to democracy. We, on the other hand, are definitely closer to communism. The methods you used for the decision you made are very similar to the communist tactics in the 1930' s in Russia. They took over land "for the good of the many" . Never mind the rights of the landowners . They needed the land to organize collective farms, so the government evicted people and collectivized the farms . Since when, in United States of America, it is legal to put the good of the many ahead of the rights of the few? Where is the premise that the individual is just as important as the majority? I will never again trust your group. I will remember you at the voting time, and paying my taxes . It is a disgrace ! Olga Chichkanoff Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosdtgopenspace.org> 1 Kochergin, Eleni, -US:40 PM 3/23/9$ FW: Midpeninsula Regional Open From: "Kochergin, Eleni" <eleni@paragraph. com> To: " 'MROSD@openspace .org l " <MROSD@openspace .org> Subject : FW: Midpeninsula Regional Open Space Distric Power of Eminent Dom ain Date : Mon, 23 Mar 1998 21 :40 : 36 -0800 X-Rcpt-To : mrosd@openspace .org > From: Kochergin, Eleni > Sent : Monday, March 23 , 1998 9 : 03 > To : Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District > Subject : Midpeninsula Regional Open Space Distric Power of Eminent > Domain > Eleni Kochergin > 888 Mango Avenue > Sunnyvale, Ca. 94087 > March 23 , 1998 > Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District > Dear members of MROSD: > I 'm writing to you regarding the land that BELONGS to the nuns of the > Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir. > I am Russian Orthodox by belief . Of course, I 've been very involved with > this . > It really bothers me being a mother of four children and grandmother of 3 > year old. . . . .what is happening in our country. Where is the freedom that > is mentioned in "The Declaration of Independence"??? Freedom DOES NOT mean > POWER over anyones private belongings . Why is the POWER given to > Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District to without any unlawful reason > take away someone ' s PRIVATE land or anything for that matter, with the > POWER of EMINENT DOMAIN. I would like to ask you WHO is giving you right > to use MY money for this purpose? > Unfortunately, I will not be able to attend The San Mateo County Board of > Supervisors meeting tomorrow, but, of course I wrote a letter to them and > also to state assemblymen and senators . > Sincerely, > Eleni Kochergin > U. S . Citizen [Printed-for-Malcolm Smith <mrosdCgopenspace.org> I Kochergin, Eleni, 779 :4M 3/23/9$ FWz IKidpeninsula Regional Open j > Yours truly, > Eleni Kochergin > U.S . citizen Printed -for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> - 2 Sean Thornile 03 :58 PM 3 23 98 MPOSD Skyline siezure I � I � y y X-envelope-info: <greenman@sonic.net> Date : Mon, 23 Mar 1998 15 : 58 : 50 -0800 From: Sean Thorniley <greenman@sonic .net> Reply-To: greenman@sonic .net Organization: Sonoma County Trails Council To: "romp@cycling.org" <romp@cycling.org> Subject : MPOSD Skyline siezure Sender: owner-romp@cyclery. com X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Here is two bits form a North Bay boy. Bear with me for a moment please because you will see the picture I am creating through all the background after a couple of paragraphs I promise I live on over a half acre of property completely surrounded by dense residential apartments, single story thank goodness . It is in the Rincon Valley segment of eastern Santa Rosa just bellow the Rincon Ridge/Fountain Grove Hills which used, to form the eastern boarder of Santa Rosa mannnnnny years ago and were fairly free from development . Just last year a new four lane divided boulevard was constructed that goes over this entire ridge I live at the foot of and Hewlett Packard' s SR location is situated in the middle of, which is currently doubling in physical size . The women whom we (my wife and father-in-law) bought the house and property from had lived here for nearly 50 years and the property was originally 45 acres of prime valley floor. What does this have to do with the Skyline and the Nuns, well everything. You see development is development and ALWAYS leads to at least the attempt for more development and more often than not, more development . We Californians need to become more comfortable with the fact that our population, most especially here in the Bay Area and the Silicon Valley segment even more so, will continue to grow for some time no matter what we all do. If we don' t at least try to protect what we can we will end up like the grater LA area where there is over a 100 miles of city/development with no significant open places in every direction and few after that for another 50 plus miles . You see the city of Santa Rosa told us tax payers that it was constructing this millions of dollars road over the Fountain Grove area to make it easier for us Rincon Valley residents to get to northern Santa Rosa and HWY 101 easier than driving around the hills and through town, or over the long and twisting small roads to the north. Yes, this new road does make it faster, but at what cost? Well you see what the city didn' t tell folks who didn' t ask was that they also rezoned this area that road crossed so that 700 new homes could be constructed. We are not talking low income homes, or medium income homes (though a few token ones may be thrown in at the lower elevations) , but high end and often HUGE luxury homes densely packed in to increase profitability. The dozen or so lots that are on the top of the ridge facing west (on less than a 1/5 acre in size) sold for $330, 000 each and were nearly all sold before the roadway was even finished. I would ride my bike in this area on the water tower access roads that connect the 7 towers so I watched this as it happened. These lots sold for that much with not structures and three homes are complete with six nearly done ! This area has a great view of Annadel as well, sigh. Most of the homes that have been built since the roads opening in mid November, there are now about four dozen nearly complete, are at `Printed --f—or Malcolm Smi-th <mrosd@opens pace.org> 1 Sean Thorniley, 03:58 PM 3/23/98 , MPOSD Skyline siezure least two stories and 3 , 000 square feet with as many hanging on the hill side as possible . There are five new smaller off-shoot roads being built while the new housing developments are being prepped at the same time . So you see once you allow some development to take place someone will try to make more take place when ever they can because there is a lot of money in it for the developers as well the government who collects the taxes on the property. Not all that long ago the County of Sonoma and the Army Corp. of Engineers decided to build a dam in the north west area of the county for "better flood control of the Santa Rosa plain" and to create recreational opportunities on and around the "new" lake . Since Lake Sonoma was created we have gained some nice single track trails that are basically all open to bikes and some nice camping areas, but at what cost? First cost was the dam that, surprise, went WAY over budget . Second cost was the Pomo village that is now under water. Then of course there is now the serene sound of dozens of loud two stroke motors 2/3 of the year thanks to all the water craft allowed on the lake . No peace and quiet on most of these trails on warm days . Oh yeah, let us not forget the two biggest costs, that is the fact that since there was a new water source the county could be much "better" developed since there was water for all those folks eager to move in. Santa Rosa' s population has more than doubled in the 14 years I have lived here (now at 128, 000) and the city limits have as well . All of the hills along this area are now being aggressively developed since over 90% of them are publicly owned! And the final cost of this Flood control project we so desperately needed, well the lower Russian River now floods more than it ever used to since there is more run off then there ever used to be because much of the valley floor is covered and can no longer absorb this water and put it back into the lowering water table . So, if the nuns had been allowed to build on the Skyline than that would have been one more example for developers to use to convince folks that they should be able to build as well ' cause they will provide a little trail for the public and generate new and much needed moneys . . . Who knows what would have happened to that access when the land changed ownership. It is sad that it had to happen, but it did. If you don' t the idea of eminent domain I am sorry, but it is part of the foundation of a government that is for all the people, not some of the people ! Yes, this law is often miss used, that does not make it a bad one . Tough decisions must be made some times, but the needs of the many out weight the needs of the few! If you would like another example of development vs recreation ask me how Annadel State Park came into existence (it has to do with a 15 old girl ' s letter to the editor; building materials, golf courses, retired folks and the Oakland Raiders, REALLY) and how Sugar Loaf Ridge park will soon nearly double in size (and will test the newer and more shared trails policies of this area as well) . Thanks for reading! Sean Thorniley Santa Rosa (Printed-for Malcolm smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 2 1 C CarrieG211 06 36 PM 3/23/98 , attn: 13 Crowder re: Convent From: CarrieG2 <CarrieG2@aol .com> Date : Mon, 23 Mar 1998 18 : 36 : 11 EST To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : attn: B Crowder re : Convent X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org March 23, 1998 Dear Ms . Crowder, Thank you for your vote on Wednesday night against having Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District use eminent domain to acquire the property owned by the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir. I see this as a question as to which entity is better able to preserve this piece of property. The staff report feels that it is vital that this property remain undisturbed. MROSD, by its very nature, cannot do this . The public must be allowed on all of the land. In the staff ' s report, final paragraph on page 5, it is acknowledged that the only portion that the convent will use are areas that are already disturbed and are dominated by non-native invasive species . The convent plans to replace and plant with native species . That is not in the plans of the staff report . The staff report proposes to use the existing trails and roads on the property (page 8, paragraph 3) and speaks of concern for the deer migration route . Yet the map in Exhibit B shows the deer using the existing road recommended for a trail . Day hikers may not affect the mountain lion but I would expect they would affect the deer. I would also like to suggest that the deer use that trail to avoid the small private parcel . I would expect that the deer would be inconvenienced during construction of the convent but would quickly return due to the quiet nature of the convent and the added buffer it would provide from the private parcel . I would expect that the public would be more inclined to respect the private property status of land owned by a convent than that owned by other private parties . Also, the existence of buildings with fire sprinklers and an additional two fire hydrants would greatly enhance the ability to fight a wildland fire in that area. Since the vast majority of the property would be off-limits to humans or minimally impacted with one trail, I feel the stated objectives of preserving steelhead and wildlife habitat would be most economically and permanently achieved by having the convent built . Printed for Malcolm -Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> I JI' I CarrieG2, -06 :36 PM 3/23/98 attn: 13 Crowcler re Convent_ Thank you, Carrie German Kings Mountain 13080 Skyline Blvd. Woodside, CA 94062 650-851-4198 III' Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> � l II David T. Smernoff, 02 :34 PM 3/23/98 , EMINENT DOMAIN Date : Mon, 23 Mar 1998 14 : 34 : 09 -0800 (PST) To: mrosd@openspace .org From: "David T. Smernoff" <dsmernoff@mail .arc .nasa.gov> Subject : EMINENT DOMAIN X-Rcpt-To : mrosd@openspace .org Malcolm, Please add mr. oswald to our list of respondents for the convent issue . Thanks David >From: rjone@webtv.net (ralph oswald) >Date : Mon, 23 Mar 1998 11 :23 : 05 -0800 >To: dsmernoff@mail .arc .nasa.gov >Subject : EMINENT DOMAIN >MIME-Version: 1 . 0 (WebTV) > It is difficult to evaluate actions taken by your Board without >having access to "behind the scenes" negotiations . Having had dealing >with Craig Brittain, I am surprised that this matter has developed to >the stage of last resort . This is reminiscent of the Town of Woodside >condemnation proceeding wherein they attempted to take property of a 92 >year old lady who was in a rest home . They got what they wanted but it >cost double market value plus voluminous attorney fees . > Develped land within the District is not all bad. . . look at Fogarty >Winery or the residences that lie contiguous to the concerned property. > As a fifty year property owner in the Skyline area, I urge the >Board to reconsider the eminent domain proceeding and arrive at an >amicable solution that will improve the image of the District . > Thanks for having an EMail address . Aat age 75, I have become an >advocate of the internet . I ,printed for- Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> -_ l R. Woelfel, Ol:ll _PM .-S72-3 J98 , Russian convent X-Sender: woelfel@lanelib. stanford.edu Date : Mon, 23 Mar 1998 13 : 11 : 29 -0800 To: mrosd@openspace .org From: "R. Woelfel" <woelfel@kryptos . Stanford.edu> Subject : Russian convent Cc : woelfel@kryptos .Stanford.edu X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace.org Monday March 23 , 1998 Ms . Betsy Crowder President of the Board of Directors Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA. 94022 Dear President Crowder: I strongly oppose the decision of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District to forcibly take the land of the Russian Orthodox convent . I attended the entire public hearing last Wednesday evening and was surprised at all of the concessions that the convent had made to the District . As you heard at that hearing, it is the Tradition of Orthodox monasticism to protect the environment and to live in harmony with it . Monastics are environmentalists, and have been for over 1800 years . They are vegan, they fast (eating only as much as needed to survive) , they do not reproduce (overpopulation is why we have so little open space to begin with) , and they are not consumers . If more persons became monastics, within 100 years we would not have any open space problems ! I personally believe that the land in question would be best kept as private open space with limited public access . As others testified at the hearing, unrestricted public access tends to work against the ecology of the land. I think the District has misread the feelings of the tax payers within its jurisdiction on this matter, and I urge the District to reconsider its decision. A one size fits all ' approach is not a responsible way to implement policy. Humanitarian issues are interwoven with the issues of open space, ecological balance, environmentalism, and animal rights . I believe in all of the above, and a reasonable approach to this particular situation is for the District to work with the convent in finding a fair solution to all of these issues . Respectfully, Randall E. Woelfel 1945 Latham #16 Mountain View, CA. 94040 !Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> l ralp oswald, 11:_41 __AXi 3/ -3/98----TO: Crai Brittain g From: rjone@webtv.net (ralph oswald) Date : Mon, 23 Mar 1998 11 :41 : 54 -0800 To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : TO: Craig Brittain X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Craig: Have serious concerns about the adverse publicity being generated by the threat of eminent domain proceedings being headlined by the media. (Did you her Bill Wattenberg on KGO last evening/) Recommend that you jump in with a solution that mkes the District come out with a positive image . Woodside tried condemnation of property and ended up with "egg on the face" . They condemned the home of a 92 year old lady in a rest home and ended up paying double plus serious attorney' s fees . In addition, the Town administration lost considerable credibility. You have done a tremendous job creating an extremely positive image for the Distrtict . It would be a shame to lose all that on what seems to be a solvable problem. I recommend that you come up with a program that makes Brittain and the District look like good guys, the defenders of the poor and defenseless . From what I can see from the sidelines, they have all the potential for P.R. on their side and in the public eye, the District is the ogre . Regards, Ralph Oswald P.S . To refresh your memory, we had dealings re : the water line at Thornwood. 15-r nted- for-Malcolm Smith <mrosdgopenspace.org> _- 1 J Sue Thayer, 5:11 AM 3/28/98 , The Nuns and the Open space & Date : Mon, 23 Mar 1998 11 : 11 : 55 -0800 To: mrosd@openspace .org From: Sue Thayer <sue@jasper. stanford.edu> Subject : The Nuns and the Open space district X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Hello- I am on your mailing list and enjoy the preserves in the open space district very much. I am outraged however, about your decision with respect to the orthodox nuns building on land they own. I feel they have been more than willing to work with you and that you are being extremely unreasonable . They are not going to make an open gravel pit, clear cut or do anything except erect and inhabit quietly some buildings . This is an awful decision. Sue Thayer IPr nted for Malcolm Smith <mrosd_Wopenspace.org> 1 j Minh Dinh, 09:12 AM 3/23/98 , Re: Land seizure on Skyline Date : Mon, 23 Mar 1998 09 : 12 : 34 -0800 From: khdinh@postal .mfg. sgi .com (Khanh Dinh) References : <16296221 . 2 . 1125@mxl-ll .onmedia. com> To: Todd McGee <Todd.McGee@stanford.edu>, rhyolite@ix.netcom.com, romp@cycling.org Subject : Re : Land seizure on Skyline Cc : mtn-bike@goplay. com Sender: owner-romp@cyclery. com X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org On Mar 20 4 : 05P m, Todd McGee wrote : > Subject : Re : Land seizure on Skyline > Art, > I can certainly understand your sense of unfairness but let me ask you a > question. Would your feelings be different if Nabisco wanted to build a > commercial bakery on top of Skyline in such a location as to be visible > from Half Moon Bay to the East Bay and everything in between? If this > development was blocked would you be cursing the District or praising them? > The point of this little exercise is this : MROSD was established to > preserve Open Space from development . The fact that the people who wanted > to establish a commercial development in this case were a bunch of sweet, > non-threatening, long-suffering nuns is irrelevant . I feel the difference is a bit more relevant than what is being stated. There are couple of small details that are being glossed over when you categorize the nuns into the same category as "commercial development . " All references/examples that have been made in regards to commercial development have been truly examples of commercial entities, such as Nabisco, a grocery store, etc . . . The nuns, I feel, do not fit into this category. Sure, they will be building a building on the land, but the are also offering the surrounding land as public access . They are not intending to use the land for commercial gain, rather public use except for a few acres or so. I ' d have to agree w/ Nanci on this issue . The nuns are willing to allow access to previously private land in return for several acres to themselves . They are _willing_ to do this w/ *their* land. as for MROSD' s mission, my sentiments are : you snooze, you lose . . . If midpen was on their game and not so busy destroying the 914 trail at skeggs, maybe they wouldn' t be in this situation. But seriously, I 'm not really comfortable w/ the whole eminent domain issue. What excuse does midpen have for waiting till someone else bought the land? Most private parties interested in aquiring land will most likely have intentions of building something on it . That is how I view it . That is (Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 i K-Fianh ]Dinh, 0-9 12 Ali 3/23/3$ , Re: sand seizure on Skyline what I would do if I aquired a large plot of land, although it would be tons o' singletrack to feed my fix. ; - ) If money was the issue, I don ' t think midpen would have problems borrowing money since they have some prime real estate to put up as collateral . BTW, anyone know what the operating budget for midpen is?? California state Parks and Rec doesn' t get squat . > I certainly agree that > it would have been FAR more prefereable for the Distrcit to have purchased > the land FIRST, before the nuns got ownership, and avoided the whole > "emminent domain" thing but that didn' t happen and it doesn' t change the > fact that the residents of San Mateo and Santa Clara counties formed MROSD > for the specific purpose of preventing development on the Skyline. If they > had NOT acted to block this development they would have been ignoring the > very problem that they were formed to address . I sense the "take no prisoners" attitude, but I personally do not have an issue w/ the nuns. I know I know, I 'm not a part of midpen so that is easy for me to say. . . <dream> It would be nice to have a place where we could build technical singletrack and *ride* it outside the boundaries of midpen </dream> . As for eminent domain, the fact that midpen is offering the nuns more than what they paid is due highly to the sensitivity and publicity this case has around it in my belief . If it were a joe smo w/o all the publicity, I feel the offer would be substantially less . A co-worker who lives in the hills surrounding almaden quicksilver tells me that midpen' s use of eminent domain on his neighbors has usually come out below fair market, but there are tax breaks thrown in. don' t know if that quite makes up for difference in the fair market value . enough ramblings from me . khanh PS, has anyone tried to cross over the ' slide ' at demo forest? Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 2 Roberta Harvey, 12 :52 PIS 3/18/98 Our Lady of Vladimir convent Date : Wed, 18 Mar 1998 12 : 52 : 57 -0600 (CST) X-Sender: rahll@popd. ix.netcom.com To: mrosd@openspace .org From: Roberta Harvey <rahll@ix.netcom. com> Subject : Our Lady of Vladimir convent X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org As a supporter of the Mid Peninsula concept for many years, I understand the need for open space but I would like to ask that you allow more time for the consideration of the Russian convent . I believe that they are trying to reach a compromise with the district and would like to ask that you abandon the condemnation effort and allow the compromise to work itself out . Roberta Harvey 410 Sheridan Avenue #332 Palo Alto, CA 94306-2020 i (Printed for Nalcolm smith <mrosd('ko--penspace.org> 1 1 dot ti -Cichon, 11:0-77 Aft 3/18J98 Russian Convent Date : Wed, 18 Mar 1998 11 : 07 : 35 -0800 (PST) X-Sender: poipu@aloha.net To: mrosd@openspace .org From: dotti Cichon <poipu@aloha.net> Subject : Russian Convent X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace.org Dear Mr. Smernoff : Re : Proposed Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir - San Mateo County I live in Mountain View and am a citizen who is usually on the side of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, Sierra Club, and the public right to prevent harmful development, but, from what I have learned about the proposed convent, I believe that you are wrong in this case . So little of the land would be used for the convent which would be sheltered by trees anyway, while the rest would remain open space as agreed to legally by the convent, that I don' t understand why you are persecuting these nuns and preventing them from practicing their religion freely, which is what they came to this country to do. They would not be hurting anyone or the land, and in fact would be voluntarily providing open space at their cost rather than at taxpayer' s cost . I just do not understand the necessity for a condemnation by eminent domain for this land. I especially do not understand your trying to push this condemnation through prior to the convent ' s obtaining permits for their project legally through the guidelines already established by the County of j San Mateo, and prior to the general public having the opportunity to hear about this project and decide for themselves . Thank you. Sincerely, Dotti Cichon 649 Tami Way Mountain View, CA 94041 650-964-0495 FAX: 650-967-4014 e-mail : poipu@aloha.net gri­n­ted for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 spasiCerols.com, : 08 PM 3/18/98 , Holy Virgin of-- a�Vladimir From: spasi@erols . com Date : Wed, 18 Mar 1998 14 : 08 : 35 -0500 To : mrosd@openspace .org CC: bitscribe@aol . com Subject : Holy Virgin of Saint Vladimir X-Rcpt-To : mrosd@openspace .org Ms . Betsy Crowder President of the Board of Directors Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Dear President Crowder: I write to you as an ordinary Orthodox Christian, about the Convent of the Holy Virgin of Saint Vladimir. Saint Vladimir brought the peoples of Russia to the Orthodox Christian Church, and these monastic women honor the icon of Saint Luke that emblefies their coming to the faith. This faith the nuns have kept through numerous persecutions in numerous lands Our Convent of the Holy Virgin of Saint Vladimir had an original sisterhood in Russia that fled to China. Both these countries had their governments taken over by the communists and twice the nuns took what could be carried, and fled for their lives . They settled eventually in the city of San Francisco. While the city life in San Francisco had for decades been fairly tranquil the sisters tolerated the surrounding municipal bustle . But in the continuing development of inner city complications they found that it was necessary for them to relocate . The primary purpose of monastics is to pray, and quiet is conducive to this . They bought property on which they hoped to build a new quiet home . And now an independent and arbitrary government office called the -Mid-Peninsula Regional Open-Space District is planning on condemning it , making it impossible to fulfill their dream. They have made many very magnanimous concessions to the open space and environmental interest groups, giving up large portions of their property and constricting their personal rights and needs . They are using a small section of the land for their needed buildings; they are willing to give up part of the property and to allow passage and access in other certain areas; they are hiding their buildings behind slopes and tree lines; they moved the whole placement of the convent in an inconvenient position for themselves; they have decreased the size of their buildings (cramping the already tight layout) . They have in detail disclosed their activities to the curious and distrustful detractors . They have done all the above . What is being done for them? Is their no compromise, no exception in this unique and special �Printecl-or Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> - s_ as @erols.com, 0 : 08 PM 3J18/9$ Holy Virgin of Saint Vladimir P Y J circumstance? Fairness to ALL parties involved must be the guideline by which such cases are arbitrated. Those opposing the Convent have set demand upon demand and the Convent has responded in a positive way every time it could. They have shown their good faith in this matter. You, Ms . Betsy Crowder, are the President of the Board of Directors of Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District and you can show the Convent the fair and just judgment that the public trusts that you have . Additionally, Ms . Crowder, you may wish to consider the precedent being set by your action to deny monks the ability to pray in areas of low distraction. In our Church, we value the prayer of those who have devoted their life to God. These women monks, together with the other monastics of our Church, perform a needed function for our salvation and should be encouraged, not persecuted. Please let them continue their work to pray in a place where there is little persecution, form noise or any other distraction. You may also wish to know that the Orthodox Church is committed to preserving the environment as God gave it to us to use wisely and not to demean His gift . Respectfully, Galina Schneider I I (Printed for Malcolm -Smith cmrosd6openspace.org> 2 CH= MISS 04 :3G PM 3/1-8/98 Re: your meeting tonight about Date : Wed, 18 Mar 1998 16 : 36 :42 -0500 (EST) From: CHAD HUSBY <ar430@tcnet .org> To: mrosd@openspace .org cc : ar430@tcnet .org Subject : Re : your meeting tonight about land for new convent X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Dear President Crowder, I pray to God your hearts will be softened to the plan for the sisters who hope to build a new convent . I understand they have been obedient to the requests of all, which is a witness to their faith. An Orthodox monastery is OPEN to retreat and "keeps the faith" for us all . They pray for all of us, when we in the world are so caught up that it is the last thing on our minds that we need God' s help. Any property you have already, is God' s . And, this property they have purchased is Gods . If you take it away from them, it is still God' s . If you allow them to proceed, I can promise you will not live to regret your compassion. The Orthodox Church appears to be ethnic. . .but, in truth, it is traditional and the Church as God would have us know it . I pray that you will not make a decision without attending a service and visiting with these nuns . Their lives are not their own. They have taken names of saints and left their families, for the sake of witnessing to what this life is really all about . . . a spiritual pilgrimage . Selflessness . God' s will over our will . The Orthodox Church is here for all of us . . .we just overlook it . The services are simply the Psalms and traditional liturgies handed down through the ages . The closer you inspect Orthodoxy, the closer you come to experience God as He really is, was and will be . Even if the language is not yours, you feel touched. Russia used to be full of Orthodox Churches and it was called Holy Russia. They were persecuted by communism there, and the church that remains there under the name of orthodox, is not pure like the witness you have here . It conforms to the world. Please do not conform the nuns out of their land. The Russian Orthodox Church Abroad gives hope to pilgrims in this country. In the past three ears I have lost m husband and m father to death. P Y Y Y Both died disenfranchised with what we call churches in the United States . When you attend a Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia, you feel like you have "come home" . Orthodoxy dates back to the apostles of Christ . It has been preserved for all of us . My sons and I hope to be received into the Church. So, I speak objectively. . .outside the Church. If you allow the Convent to be part of your open space, it will truly be "open" , and you can feel that you really have served the public good in a way you would never have known possible . God' s will for our lives on this earth is what this is about . . .His REAL estate . May your hearts be softened to the good to be gained. May you come to IPrinted for -Mcalcolin Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 r i ' Cl= HUSBY, 04: 6 P 3j18/98 Pe-: your meeting tonight about appreciate the Monastery as a "gem" in the open space setting. May you know the peace that comes with doing God' s will . In His love, Carol Husby ar430@tcnet .org i (Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosd0openspace.org> 2 rsc-Grant, 03�6 _PM 3/18/98 , Russian Convent of Our Iady of Date : Wed, 18 Mar 1998 15 : 16 : 01 -0800 From: Eric Grant <eagrant@earthlink.net> j To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace.org Ms. Betsy Crowder President of the Board of Directors Mid-Peninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, California 94022 Dear President Crowder: I am an attorney with the Pacific Legal Foundation, a nationwide public interest law firm based in Sacramento. Among other things, PLF represents property owners and members of the public concerned about property rights . PLF is not officially involved in this matter, but I write on my own behalf to urge the District NOT to condemn the Skyline Boulevard property owned by the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir. I understand that less than 30 of the property would be affected by the new structures proposed to be built by the convent, that the Convent has agreed to screen these structures with foliage to make them invisible from most vantages, and that the Convent has also agreed to encumber 9001 of its property with conservation easements . In these circumstances, it appears that the District ' s goal of preserving "open space" could be accomplished handily WITHOUT the necessity of condemning the Convent ' s property. Indeed, in these circumstances, it appears that condemnation would constitute a monumental waste of public funds . Many people have commented that it would "ironic" for the nuns of the Convent to have fled to the United States after their property was confiscated by Communist governments in the Soviet Union and in China, only to have their property confiscated again in this country. I myself think it would be more travesty than irony. For these reasons, I urge the District not to institute condemnation proceedings against the Convent ' s property. This is a situation where reasonable people should be able to work out a solution that does not involve expropriation. Thank you for your consideration. Cordially, Eric Grant, Esq. t- (Printed- for Malcolm -Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> Man__Ma___ - La- , 05 49--P-M- -3-/18/98 Russian- - -- Orthodo_x___C in Wcarconvent o To: MROSD@openspace .org Date : Wed, 18 Mar 1998 17 :49 : 37 -0600 Subject : Russian Orthodox Convent in Woodside, CA X-Juno-Line-Breaks : 8, 16-20 From: blxenia@juno.com (Nun Macaria) X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace.org I have been truly shocked and dismayed to hear of the gross injustice and religious persecution being implemented by the M.R.O.S .D. against the poor nuns of Our Lady of Vladimir Convent of San Franciso who purchased the property in 1996 after extensive consulting with San Mateo County and major concessions to the environmental agencies to keep 900 of the 280 acre property open. I can not believe that such an injustice as condemning and claiming the land and thus robbing this quiet monastic community can bring anything but harm to the people of San Mateo. In the interest of public justice I ask you to reconsider. I am a former Bay Area Resident myself . I worked for more than ten years at the Raphael House Emergency Shelter for Families and on several occaissions worked in San Mateo under the Red Cross Disaster Services for flood relief . It is a beautiful area with many natural advantages . Here is an advantage that it has not yet had and which it could potentially benefit greatly from--a community of women dedicated to prayer. The benefits might not be outwardly visible to many. And yet, in the years to come it can contribute invaluably to the peaceful atmosphere of the area. Yours truly, Nun Macaria Corbett St . Xenia Metochion Indianapolis, IN You don' t need to buy Internet access to use free Internet e-mail . Get completely free e-mail from Juno at http: //www. juno.com Or call Juno at (800) 654-JUNO [654-58661 �Printed for-Malco-Im Smith <mrosd@openi9pace__._or_g> fenderson 03 :06 PM 3/18j98 , Tonight' s Meeting on the Women X-Sender: mhen@ptialaska.net (Unverified) Date : Wed, 18 Mar 1998 15 : 06 :45 -0900 To: MROSD@openspace .org From: Henderson <mhen@ptialaska.net> Subject : Tonight ' s Meeting on the Women' s Monastery SF Chronicle 3/18/98 X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Article 1 of 3 SFC9807700421 EDITORIAL EDITORIALS An Open Space Monastery 470 Words 3067 Characters 03/18/1998 The San Francisco Chronicle FINAL Page A20 (Copyright 1998) THE PRACTICAL power of prayer will be tested in Los Altos tonight in a land battle between nine Russian Orthodox nuns and the Mid- Peninsula Regional Open Space District . The nuns of the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir, who live on a noisy and hooker-infested corner of San Francisco ' s Mission District, want to build a modest monastery in the serenity and Silence of San Mateo County' s coastal range where they own 284 acres west of Woodside . But the high-handed open-space district wants to seize the nuns ' property by eminent domain, pay "fair market value" of $980, 000 and make the acreage permanent public land. A hearing is scheduled tonight at district headquarters in Los Altos . The seven-member MROSD board of directors will decide whether to approve a resolution of necessity, the first step toward eminent domain. The directors should reject the resolution, allow the monastery to be built and enthusiastically welcome the nuns as good neighbors who would live lightly on a small portion of their own land and commit more than 90 percent of the rest to open space . Building plans have already been approved by San Mateo County' s Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors . It would be overreaching, arrogant and heartless for the district to grab the land from the nuns, who came here 50 years ago after they were persecuted and had their land seized in the Soviet Union and China. Surely the district directors do not want to join the ignoble company of such regimes, where religious freedom and property rights were equally ignored. jPr nted for Malcolm Smith <mrosd&openspace.org> 1 Henderson, 03a06 PM 3/18/98 , Tonight' s Meeting on the Women The nine nuns, ages 40 to 87, want to build three buildings -- a convent big enough for 20 people, a chapel with a 40-foot-high dome and a small guest house -- nestled among the trees on the ridgeline . They promise to use no more than 3 percent of the land for the monastery, and will save the rest for permanent open space . Blueprints have been altered to reduce the size of the buildings and extensive landscaping is planned to further veil the monastery from public view. Overlooking Half Moon Bay in the distance, the nuns ' property is adorned with rolling hills, canyons and swales dotted with scrub brush and coppices of acacia, cypress and eucalyptus trees . From the ridgeline on a sunny day you can see the Farallones on the western horizon and San Francisco to the north. Enshrouded in fog it has an unearthly quality. It would be a lovely place for the nuns to pray, contemplate the works of God and perform their work of sewing, gardening, restoring icons and protecting nature. "We hope this will let us live in a natural environment and the convent will prosper, " says Mother Eugenia, the tiny, 87-year-old abbess . She says the nuns are praying they will be allowed to build there . Printed for -Malcolm Smith <mrosd0openspace.org> 2 PffLafen, 08 :25 PM 3/18/98 RE Convent Iof Our Lady of Vlad From: PMLafen <PMLafen@aol .com> Date : Wed, 18 Mar 1998 20 : 25 : 22 EST To: MROSD@openspace .org Cc : PMLafen@aol . com, mhen@ptialaska.net Subject : RE Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir. X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace.org March 18, 1998 Ms Betsy Crowder Board President Midpeninsula Open Space District Dear Ms Crowder, On behalf of the sisters of Our Lady of Vladimir Convent I urge you to consider a compromise with regard to your board' s action on their property off Skyline Boulevard in Woodside. While I understand the demand for open space recreation in our nation' s urban areas, and indeed have spent many years projects to reclaim or reserve open space resources in man working on probe p p p y parts of the nation, there are some uses that are not only compatible with open space and public recreation, they are actually sources of enhancement of the public enjoyment of that space. In my experience I have worked to preserve the commercial agricultural activities in the Pinelands of New Jersey because of how well the heritage of wetland agriculture demonstrated the history of the region while playing a constructive role in water resource management, and providing independent economic activity for residents of the National Reserve . While the creation of the convent in this space would be a new presence, it is certainly in keeping with the historical tradition of the Spanish missions in California, as well as the quiet scenic open space of the Fr. Ross State Park and the Orthodox Christian Monastery at Pt Reyes National Seashore . Particularly since the sisters are willing to grant open space easements and to accomodate the development of the Bay Area Ridge Trail, I would urge you to accomodate them in their search for a home where they can live at peace with the beauty of the California natural environment . I am confident that if your board' s action is limited and reasonable, and permits the convent to open, future generations will be pleased both with its aesthetic presence and with its spiritual presence in the landscape of your region. ,Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> PML—af e--n-, 0 8:2 5 PM 3-/I-8/9 8 RE Convent of Our Lady of V1 ad ----------- Thank you for including my comments in the record of your deliberations . Sincerely, Peter M. Lafen �Print6d for M&Icolnt Smith <mr6—sd@6jpens- ace.org5 2 Solmonson, Leslie D, 05:52 PM 3j18j58 , Russian Orthodox Church retrea Content-return: allowed Date : Wed, 18 Mar 1998 17 : 52 : 51 -0800 From: "Solmonson, Leslie D" <leslie .d. solmonson@lmco. com> Subject : Russian Orthodox Church retreat To: " 'mrosd@openspace .org l " <mrosd@openspace.org> Importance : high X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Dear MROSD, Please find enclosed a letter that I highly endorse and support . Thank you very much for your consideration in this matter. Leslie Solmonson (408) 238-8534 <<Preserve Skyline Open Space . txt>> Attachment Converted: C: \NETSCAPE\EUDORA\Preserve . txt i I [Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@o_penspace.org> - 1 j JosephRapp, ?!-:04-PM 3/18/98 , The Russian Convent of Our Lad From: JosephRapp <JosephRapp@aol . com> Date : Wed, 18 Mar 1998 21 : 04 : 55 EST To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : The Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org I am writing to urge the Board of the MROSD to NOT use powers of eminent domain for the convent ' s property. There will be no harm done to the area by building a convent that has already been reviewed by and approved by the San Mateo County Planning Commission. Joseph Rapp 2001 Shiras Ave . Dubuque, Iowa �I (Printed for 'Malcolm Smith <mrosdQopenspace.org> 1 I Michael Zahirsky, 07:07 AM 3J19/9& -Convent Harassment Date : Thu, 19 Mar 1998 07 : 07 :29 -0500 From: Michael Zahirsky <michl946@clover.net> To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Convent Harassment X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Betsy Crowder, It occurs to me that any desire to allow any land to remain in as pristeen a condition as possible should include giving monastics charge over than land. Do you know much about monasticism? Could you possibly find a group of people less likely to polute or otherwise misuse land? Where are your real prioritites here? VRev. Michael Zahirsky for the community of St . Andrew Orthodox Church PO Box 273 Mingo Junction, Ohio 43938 <michl946@clover.net> I Printed for M41 oYm Sm >ith <mrosd@openspace.org I Michael Novak, 06:5-8 A 3/1 SJ98 , Gross stupidity, the decision Date : Thu, 19 Mar 1998 06 : 58 : 02 -0800 From: Michael Novak <mnovak@infinex. com> Reply-To: mnovak@infinex. com Organization: SSFUSD To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Gross stupidity, the decision to oust the Nuns ! X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Where was MROSD when that condo/apartment complex was built last year at the Princton intersection on Hwy 1? Talk about a visual impact that complex makes on the thousands that pass it . Where was the claim of eminent domain then? At least the Nuns would have locked up most of their property as open space and you could have saved precious funds to buy more at-risk properties . Obviously, the people who control this organization did not have to pass an intelligence test . I had a lot of respect for MROSD before this issue arose . Now, I am not so sure I should encourage my friends to make donations to MRSOD. Such idiocy! Such a mismanagement of funds ! Michael Novak A Very Concerned Citizen IPrilited for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 f - Sandra COOPE�21 �8.57 A1� 3 19 98 nuns Date : Thu, 19 Mar 1998 08 : 57 : 29 -0800 From: Sandra COOPERMAN <sandrac@annurev.org> To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : nuns Content-Disposition: inline X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Dear Commissioners : I am deeply distressed about your intended actions against the nuns and their intentions of building a retreat on the land they own. That you would use eminent domain to seize their land is absolute arrogance of power. The nuns have offered a more than reasonable compromise . You have offered none . In terms of public relations, the damage you are doing is incalculable . The Open Space District has been accused of high-handed elitist tactics before, but this is just beyond the limits . I am grateful to the Open Space District for all the wonderful places there are to hike, but you current tack is simply not acceptable . Sincerely yours, Sandra Cooperman 7 Eagle Hill Terrace Redwood City 94062 sandrac@annurev.org (Printed for Malcolm Smith <2nr0sd@6penspace.org> l I Unprivileg- ed user, --09-:22—AM 3119/98 Feedback Fo=_ ___ Date : Thu, 19 Mar 1998 09 :22 : 22 -0800 (PST) From: Unprivileged user <nobody@best .com> Reply-to: Howland@Priss .com Subject : Feedback Form name = Curt Howland organization = Citizens Against Government Abuse, a non-organization email = Howland@Priss . com comments = I heard today that you intend to rob nuns of their property in order to prevent them from using their private land as they see fit . I pitty your children. zipcode other = on specialneeds = Privacy ethnic = knowMROSD = yes frequency = 1permonth frequency = other = funding = Yes other = mailto = mrosd@openspace .org subject = MROSD Web Site Feedback mrosdconfirm url = http: /www.openspace .org/mrosdconfirm.html required fields = name email formatted_fields = email=email format—username = mrosd format filename = format . fmt ----------------------------------------------- (Printed for -Malcolm Smith <mrosd@6penspace.org> Curt Howland, _ 09 :27 AM 3/19/98 legalized violence Date : Thu, 19 Mar 1998 09 :27 :48 -0800 (PST) From: howland@Priss . com (Curt Howland) To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : legalized violence X-Rcpt-To : mrosd@openspace .org I heard today that the MROSD intends to rob nuns of their ability to use their private land as they see fit . Isn' t there a poluter or developer of row houses somewhere that you could concentrate on, rather than peacefull people trying to live on their own land? I What megalomania must infect the MROSD for you to think that your god is so much more important than anyone elses god that you get to force people to live YOUR way at gun point? Crawl back into your holes . Your bigotry is no different than racial hatred, language bias or sexual phobia. I pitty your children. Curt- it Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@6penspace.org> 1 George Wooster, 0 .: 4 PK 3/19/98 , Public Hearings Date : Thu, 19 Mar 1998 16 :24 : 27 -0800 From: George Wooster <woosterl@shelll4 .ba.best . com> Reply-To : woosterl@she1114 .ba .best . com organization: Wooster & Wooster To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Public Hearings X-Rcpt-To : mrosd@openspace .org Dear Mr. Nitz After enduring last night ' s public hearing concerning the church land until early morning, I awoke to hear on a radio station news that your decision was to begin the process of eminent domain on this land. I have yet to hear any facts upon which a decision may be based, so I applaud your courage but not your action. I know this is a rare idea in today' s "junk science" environment, but I am writing to request that some consideration be given to facts in future considerations of your district . In virtually every public hearing I have attended in California since 1979 I have heard that the subject property is the last parcel with -------- (insert whatever attribute you wish) ------ that is left undeveloped in the area. I don' t believe it, I have heard that statement too often and have yet to hear or see evidence to support it . Frankly, I heard very few facts in last night ' s hearing about the church land. I am extremely sad to see people suffer from decisions based on hearsay and emotion rather than facts which may be verified by qualified professionals . I know it is not popular these days to ask for facts and use common sense, but that is exactly what I am asking you to do. Allow other professionals in other agencies to do their jobs of zoning, planning, protecting fish and wildlife, controlling erosion, and regulating development to allow for completion without excessive environmental consequences . Use your resources of time and money wisely. sadly, George Wooster 522 Hilton St . Redwood City, Ca 94063 e-mail : George@drainpro.com Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 I MarHab, 11-: 51 Ply 3/19/9-8 . Russian Nuns convent From: MarHab <MarHab@aol . com> Date : Thu, 19 Mar 1998 23 : 51 : 17 EST To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Russian Nuns convent X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org I heard today that you were starting eminent domain proceedings to buy the land from the nuns and stop them from building their convent . As a resident of San Mateo Cy, a taxpayer and a frequent and enthusiastic user of the open space Preserve, I feel that your attitude in this matter is an abuse of power and quite unfair. The contemplative order will in NO way harm my enjoyment of the area, as long as the nuns stick to their promise of maintaining the Ridge Trail through their property. How many private developers would be ready to do th at I consider the Preserve as my community property, and I welcome the elderly nuns, as well as the Russian architectural style . To claim that this convent is "development" , is to ignore the meaning of contemplative life, and to show contempt for people who have waited a long time for this to happen. Let them do it ! ! ! Martine Habib Star Route Box 94 Woodside, CA 94062 Printed- for Malcolm Smith <mrosa@openspace.org> 1 � rhyo11—te61 .MEfi CO 12 :36 PM 3/20/98 , Land seizure on Skyline j From: rhyolite@IX.NETCOM. COM Date : Fri, 20 Mar 1998 12 : 30 :41 -0600 (CST) To: romp@cycling.org Subject : Land seizure on Skyline Sender: owner-romp@cyclery.com X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Folks, I might love what the district does sometimes, but I pity the next person who decides to purchase property and develop it in the skyline area. I 'm sorry but this is just wrong. That land had no significance to the district prior to the Save Skyline Open Space grass roots committee approached the district and said "Save us, we can' t do it ourselves . " What a crock. Art Printed-for Malcolm -Smith <mrosd0openspace.org> 1 C nprivileged user, 10 :_ Al+ 3/20/98 Feedback POrm Date : Fri, 20 Mar 1998 10 :46 : 50 -0800 (PST) From: Unprivileged user <nobody@best . com> Reply-to: flycam@aol .com Subject : Feedback Form name = Kevin Rockwell organization = email = flycam@aol . com comments = Your directors and staff researchers should be ashamed of themselves for their vote the other night to force eminent domain on the sisters who want to build the convent along Hwy 35 . This is a shamful example of over protectiveness . . I am an environmentallist at heart and yet I find nothing wrong with what the sisters want to do with their property. They would be fine stewards of the land. I also found the statements read in your staff report at the meeting the other night almost laughable . Satting that the deer and mountain lions would not be able to cross the property if they build on it . Give me a break. That is laughable science if I ever heard it . I hope you guys get your pants sued off for theese actions . Try to run that science in front of a judge and see if it doesn' t get laughed out of the court room. zipcode = age = 30to40 specialneeds = ethnic = Caucasian ethnic = knowMROSD = yes frequency = 1perweek frequency = other = other = mailto = mrosd@openspace .org subject = MROSD Web Site Feedback mrosdconfirm_url = http: /www.openspace .org/mrosdconfirm.html required_fields = name email formatted_fields = email=email format_username = mrosd format filename = format . fmt ----------------------------------------------- JPr nted-_for Malcolm Smith <mrosdOopenspace.org> 1 nikita derugin, �i: �7 PM 8J0/ 8 Condemnation of Convent' s prop To: mrosd@openspace .org Date : Fri, 20 Mar 1998 13 : 07 :22 -0800 Subject : Condemnation of Convent ' s property on Skyline Blvd. X-Juno-Line-Breaks : 0, 10, 19, 29, 32, 34-36 From: deruginrits@juno.com (nikita derugin) X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace.org Dear Betsy Crowder and the Board of MROSD, I attended the meeting at the Community Center on March 18th. I was shocked to learn that there is no control over the MROSD. I couldn' t understand why people who would have no interest in the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir were so angry about your action to condemn by eminent domain. When I came to the meeting I was unclear about who was who and I assumed that the MROSD Board of Directors was the City Council . After all when I chose to build on my property in Burlingame it was the City Council who listened to my side and the sides opposed and then decided the fate of my property. The marvelous thing about our justice system is that on every level we have checks and balances . I , my husband, and my three children are campers, backpackers, and hikers, residence and taxpayers of San Mateo County. We have hiked in the King Mt . area, we enjoy the beauty of the drive along 280, along 92 to Half Moon Bay, the drives along Skyline Blvd. , the drives along Hwy 1 . We appreciate what agencies such as yours are doing, but in this case and perhaps in others that I am unaware of you have over- stepped your bounds . I understand that we the taxpayers of this beautiful county have elected to have you protect its beauty and natural state but I will support any legislation that will check and balance your power. When I came to the meeting I wanted to show my support for the Convent being the best custodians of their property. I feel safer about the Convent guarding this property than the public or any public agency. I believe this with all my heart since I to am a firm believer in animal habitat conservation. I see the deer, fox, bobcats, ground squirrels along the Crystal Springs Reservoir and the deer, squirrels, and raccoons that wonder about the areas where we live and take great comfort in knowing that they are still here . This is their land as it is the Native Americans, we are only guests here . I think the nuns of the Convent are the best human candidates for governing these 280 acres of open land. My question to you is this : didn' t MROSD have the opportunity to purchase the property in question two years ago as did the nuns, why didn' t MROSD purchase it? I would appreciate your response . My address is 1531 Los Altos Drive, Burlingame 94010 . My E-mail address is deruginrits@juno.com Sincerely, Anna Derug in I You don' t need to buy Internet access to use free Internet e-mail . from Juno at http: //www. juno. com i free e-mail o Get completely p // � Or call Juno at (800) 654-JUNO [654-58661 i i Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosd0openspace.org> 1 r mandeep gill, 03 :51 PM._. 3/20198 , Discussion on the Tand seizure Date : Fri, 20 Mar 1998 15 : 51 : 57 -0800 (PST) From: mandeep gill <msgill@leland.Stanford.EDU> To: rhyolite@ix.netcom. com cc : romp@cycling.org Subject : Discussion on the Land seizure on Skyline Sender: owner-romp@cyclery.com X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org On Fri, 20 Mar 1998 rhyolite@ix.netcom. com wrote : > Folks, > I might love what the district does sometimes, but I pity the next > person who decides to purchase property and develop it in the skyline > area. > I 'm sorry but this is just wrong. That land had no significance to the > district prior to the Save Skyline Open Space grass roots committee > approached the district and said "Save us, we can' t do it ourselves . " > What a crock. > Art I 'm sorry Art, I couldn' t let this email slip by uncontested -- I 'm afraid what you consider just "wrong" is something that I , and I know many others on this list, feel is one of the most *right* things that Midpen is doing; I was at one of the meetings where the Russian Nuns spoke, and though I certainly agree they should have a place to worship in peace, I cannot agree that it should be smack in the middle of one of the last major greenbelts that our forebears have worked so many years to preserve -- we are very lucky to live in an urban area that has so much open space close by, and that so many have worked so hard to keep that way for so long. Perhaps we should really just allow developipng and paving over the entire ridge, straight from the Bayside to the Coastside to make room for the 15 million more people who will populate CA in the next 30-40 yrs? Maybe *that ' s* the answer you' re looking for? MSG f Printed -for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> _ 1 Nand:, 87e86 PM 3/20/98 Re: Land seizure on Skyline Date : Fri, 20 Mar 1998 19 : 06 : 16 -0700 From: Nanci <npass@pacbell .net> Reply-To: npass@pacbell .net To: Dennis S Pedersen <dennisp@rahul .net> CC: Todd McGee <Todd.McGee@stanford.edu>, rhyolite@ix.netcom. com, romp@cycling.org, mtn-bike@goplay. com Subject : Re : Land seizure on Skyline References : <1998320102613641@> <v03007805bl38ad33e37a@ [206 . 61 . 225 . 85] > Sender: owner-romp@cyclery.com X-BulkFactor: 100% XXXXXXXXXX X-Rcpt-To : mrosd@openspace.org I gotta say that I also feel for the nuns . Unlike the person who thought about building a grocery store on the hill I thought about what would have happened if it had been a developer who wanted to build a couple more multimillion dollar homes on the hill . My guess is that no one would have even brought it up to Mid Pen to buy the land to save the open space . It would have been just a few more neighbors moving in. As most of the the original objections to the convent didn' t come from those of us who use and enjoy the open space, but from the current residents of the area who in general block public or any other use of the land aside from their own private domains I still got to look at the original motive and question it . It seems to me some of the concessions that the nuns were willing to make - they build on a few acres of the land and preserve the rest, including putting in public trails and allowing public access were pretty reasonable . That would open up land that is currently privately held and inaccessible, wouldn' t use up resources that Mid Pen keeps telling us they don' t have for other projects, and for the most part keeps the land pristine . jPrnted for Malcolm-Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> - 1 Steve, 07s37--PM 3/20/98 , Nuns I've never known From: "Steve" <steve@markimicrowave . com> To: <mrosd@openspace .org> Subject : Nuns I 've never known Date : Fri, 20 Mar 1998 19 :37 : 55 -0800 X-MSMail-Priority: Normal X-MimeOLE : Produced By Microsoft MimeOLE V4 . 72 . 2106 .4 X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org I bicycle and hike on Mid-Peninsula Open Space Preserves 2-3 times a week. I 've been astounded at just how much land the open space district has acquired over the past twenty years . Being a long time contributor to Sempervirens, and more recently, to POST, it ' s gratifying to see how much good can be done with good will and a good donation base that goes along with that . In keeping with that spirit, I 'm off tomorrow to do volunteer work at St . Joseph' s Hill . I was hoping to use this opportunity to get more involved with the open space district . However, your dispute with the Nuns near Purissima has put a serious damper on my enthusiasm. I realize that newspaper articles are usually a poor way to get any information about a dispute, however, the idea of using eminent domain to acquire property under almost any circumstances is a slippery slope, particularly in this case. I believe you would be much better advised to come to whatever agreement you can short of acquiring the property in such a high handed manner. Eminent domain is best saved for right of ways and other such actions that have a more legitimate moral base . Sincerely, Steve Rempel Mountain View < !DOCTYPE HTML PUBLIC " -//W3C//DTD W3 HTML//EN"> <HTML> <HEAD> <META content=text/html;charset=iso-8859-1 http-equiv=Content-Type>< !DOCTYPE HTML PUBLIC " -//W3C//DTD W3 HTML//EN">< !DOCTYPE HTML PUBLIC " -//W3C//DTD W3 HTML//EN"> <META content= "'MSHTML 4 . 72 . 2106 . 611 ' name=GENERATOR> </HEAD> <BODY bgColor=#ffffff> <DIV><FONT color=#000000 size=2>I bicycle and hike on Mid-Peninsula Open Space Preserves 2-3 times a week. &nbsp; I 've been astounded at just how much land the open space district has acquired over the past twenty years . &nbsp; Being a long time contributor to Sempervirens, and more recently, to POST, it ' s gratifying to see how much good can be done with good will and a good donation base that goes along with that . &nbsp; In keeping with that spirit, I 'm off tomorrow to do volunteer work at St . Joseph' s Hill . &nbsp; I was hoping to use this opportunity to get more involved with the open space district . &nbsp; However, your dispute with the Nuns near Purissima has put a serious damper on my enthusiasm. &nbsp; I ;Printed for Malcolm Smith <mroscTfto—penspace.org> 1 I've- -- -kn Steve, 0-7-:-37 PM 3-/2-0/98 bunssIve ne ver own realize that newspaper articles are usually a poor way to get any information about a dispute, however, the idea of using eminent domain to acquire property under almost any circumstances is a slippery slope, particularly in this case . &nbsp; I believe you would be much better advised to come to whatever agreement you can short of acquiring the property in such a high handed manner. &nbsp; Eminent domain is best saved for right of ways and other such actions that have a more legitimate moral base. </FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT color=#000000 size=2></FONT>&nbsp;</DIV> <DIV><FONT color=#000000 size=2>Sincerely, </FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT color=#000000 size=2></FONT>&nbsp;</DIV> <DIV><FONT color=#000000 size=2>Steve Rempel</FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT color=#000000 size=2>Mountain View</FONT></DIV></BODY></HTML> IPrint-ed for -MaIc&Im- Smith <mro6d@openspace.org-->-- 2 sandahalOix.netcom. , 07 :59 Alai 3J20/98 gussian Nuns From: sandahal@ix.netcom. com Date : Fri, 20 Mar 1998 07 : 59 :44 -0600 To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Russian Nuns X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org As a resident of the midpeninsula, I am both angry and embarassed by the District ' s decision to condemn the property recently purchased by the nuns . I am a strong environmentalist and work for and organization that has a very extensive environmental program. However, there are times when environmental do-gooders and the "I live in the hill elitists" can be a bit greedy. The nun' s proposal is a modest one and they have certainly moved to accommodate the district . As Supervisor Nevin has observed, this is the one of the worst cases of NIMBYism that I have seen in recent years . The folks that live up in the hills are basically saying, "Screw you jack, I 've got mine and the rest of you peasants can pump sand. " I also find the district ' s stance as that of a group of environmental nazis and sharing an elitist posture with the residents who already have theirs . As they say, "Them that has gets . " The idea that you cannot make an accomodation because you fear opening the flood gates is absurd. Betsy Crowder' s position would have at least allowed the District and the nuns to continue a dialogue . I certainly plan to support Supevisor Nevin in his effort to secure legistlation to stem future actions of this type . Hal Anjo 427 Lotus Lane Mountain View, CA 94043 (650) 964-8254 Printed for-Malcolm-Smith <mrosdCopenspace.org> 1 olegr 08c12 PM 3J21YJ98 Eminent domain Errors-To: <olegr@concentric .net> Date : Fri, 20 Mar 1998 20 : 12 : 05 -0800 From: olegr <olegr@concentric.net> Reply-To: olegr@concentric.net To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Eminent domain X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace.org March 20, 1998 To the Board of Directors of MROSD Dear Directors, Thank you so much for Wednesday night ' s lesson in democracy (your version of it anyway) . At the beginning of the meeting, your man, Del, was working with the map of the Convent parcel which had an almost rectangular box outlined in blue . He said, in answer to a question about it, that the box represented private land, meaning that the Convent land was no longer private. I knew right there that your minds were made up and that the "hearing" that followed was a sham. The same had to become apparent to everybody in the audience after the haste with which you made your decision. You kept several hundred people until 2 a.m. knowing full well that no matter what they said, the outcome was predetermined. And what a rotten outcome . You took property away from people against their wish. The concept of private property is fundamental and should not be taken lightly. Eminent domain cannot be insisted upon at the drop of a hat . All the mumbo-jumbo about protecting the environment and not disturbing the pristine state of the parcel and then you insist the nuns cut a bunch of trees and build on a site that would require significant excavation. It seems that all of your demands were aimed at forcing the Convent into an impossible situation. On the one hand you "brag" that a million people visit your spaces each year, on the other it bothers you and the local environmentalists that eighty people are going to visit the Convent twice a year. By the way, how many square feet is the parking lot you are currently building? I am not a card-carrying enviro-freak, but my family recycles, we try to minimize waste : the water is not running when we brush our teeth, I ride a scooter as much as possible to reduce gas consumption, etc . . . It occured to me that most of those who favored your position, were either neighbors who would benefit from status quo (one of them admitted riding an off-road vehicle on the property - a real pristine activity) , or enviro-freaks who, while having theirs ' , don' t want anybody else around. It really frosts me the way your kind puts the interests of noseeums before that of people. You don' t have them on your list, but let me assure you that these nuns are a much more endangered species than your deer, mountain lions, snail darters, etc . . . Last time I looked, Safeway had plenty of steelhead in their fish section. As I mentioned in my three minute appeal to you at the meeting, open space is wonderful and important, but so is balance . You have 42 , 000 acres and counting, then Printed-for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> I olegr,, 08:12 PM 3/20/98 Eminent domain there is POST, The Santa Clara Open Space Authority, the state, county and city parks, etc . . . Some of you would like to see the whole state an open space, except for your own property. Balance is important in most things that we do. This parcel, beautiful as it is, does not remotely qualify for an eminent domain take-over. The simplest proof of that is the fact that if it did, you would have grabbed it long ago, before it was sold to the nuns, at a cheaper price and without all of this commotion. As it is, you are continually adding to your open space total through mutually agreeable means . Add to that the fact that the Convent was willing to set aside 900 of their parcel free of charge and your decision qualifies for "outrageous" . Then came the deliberations . The first director to consider the decision, said she had to go along with the mail from the constituents, which she said were running in favor of condemnation. Just how she determined the addresses of all those sending e-mail, I don' t know. Why she focused on letters rather than presentations at the meeting which obviously ran against condemnation is again a mystery. Is MROSD financed strictly within the district or is some of the funding from state sources, etc. . Should other Bay Area residents be excluded? Why did you then listen to people whose opinions didn' t matter? Other directors were very brief : one had to represent his silent constituents, another echoed a previous director. It was quite clear that your minds were made up and after 2a.m. why waste any more time . Your web page says that current funding for acquisitions is inadequate and that private development pressures on these pristine lands continue to be very strong. Why not save your money for developers with bigger and more invasive projects, those unwilling to make any concessions? All in all, your concept of environmentalism may have lost more than it gained. You and the arrogant environmental movement made a lot of enemies Wednesday night . I can guarantee you that it will be a long time before a pro environment issue gets this taxpayer' s vote . Oleg Reoutt 6 Oak Forest Road Novato, CA 94949 olegr@cris . com Printed for -Malcolm Smith -mro_sd@openspa_ce.org> 2 Tony Lima, 0-5 :40 PM 3/21/98 , Leave the Funs Alone From: TonyLima@ms . spacebbs .com (Tony Lima) To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Leave the Nuns Alone Date : Sat, 21 Mar 1998 17 :40 :50 GMT Organization: Nope, none Reply-To: TonyLima@ms . spacebbs . com X-Rcpt-To : mrosd@openspace .org Dear Mr. Smith, In the past we have supported the MROSD, participating in a number of activities and voting in favor of your initiatives . No more . Your attempt to evict the nuns is reprehensible. In any future election, we will steadfastly vote against MROSD initiatives unless you give up this course of action. Sincerely, Tony Lima and Gloria Gale San Carlos jPr nted for-Malcolm--Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> I dim Price, DSz:58 AM 3/21/98 Our Lady of—Vladimir From: "Jim Price" <jprice@informer. com> To: <mrosd@openspace .org> Subject : Our Lady of Vladimir Date : Sat, 21 Mar 1998 09 : 58 :49 -0800 X-MSMail-Priority: Normal X-MimeOLE : Produced By Microsoft MimeOLE V4 . 71 . 1712 . 3 X-Rcpt-To : mrosd@openspace .org I am very disappointed to read of your confiscation of the land on which the Our Lady of Vladimir order is planning to build a convent . I wonder why you didn' t proceed before they purchased the land and went through the planning and approval process . Is it because of the objections of neighbors who have already developed their properties and don' t want anyone else to do the same? You have done a good job in preserving open space. Unfortunately most of us don' t have access to it . I think it is now time to allow some additional uses, like limited picnicing and camping. You certainly have enough land. Jim Price 173 Cedar St . San Carlos, CA 94070 < !DOCTYPE HTML PUBLIC " -//W3C//DTD W3 HTML//EN"> <HTML> <HEAD> <META content=text/html;charset=iso-8859-1 http-equiv=Content-Type> <META content= "'MSHTML 4 . 71 . 1712 . 3 " ' name=GENERATOR> </HEAD> <BODY bgColor=#ffffff> <DIV><FONT color=#000000 size=2>I am very disappointed to read of your confiscation of the land on which the Our Lady of Vladimir order is planning to build a convent . &nbsp; I wonder why you didn' t proceed before they purchased the land and went through the planning and approval process . &nbsp; Is it because of the objections of neighbors who have already developed their properties and don' t want anyone else to do the same?</FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT color=#000000 size=2></FONT>&nbsp; </DIV> <DIV><FONT size=2>You have done a good job in preserving open space . &nbsp; Unfortunately most of us don' t have access to it . &nbsp; I think it is now time to allow some additional uses, like limited picnicing and camping. &nbsp; You certainly have enough land. </FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT size=2></FONT>&nbsp;</DIV> <DIV><FONT size=2>Jim Price</FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT size=2>173 Cedar St . </FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT size=2>San Carlos, CA 94070</FONT></DIV></BODY></HTML> Printed for X- m lcolm Sith <3xirosd@openspace.org> I II� PRICE, TtE 1-1:15 AM 3/21/98 RE: Land seizure on Skyline Date : Sat, 21 Mar 1998 11 : 15 : 00 -0800 From: "PRICE, KENT" <PRICEK@pab27a. ssd. loral .com> Subject : RE : Land seizure on Skyline To: npass <npass@pacbell .net>, Dennis S Pedersen <dennisp@rahul .net> Cc : Todd McGee <Todd.McGee@stanford.edu>, rhyolite <rhyolite@ix.netcom.com>, romp <romp@cycling.org>, mtn-bike <mtn-bike@goplay. com> Sender: owner-romp@cyclery.com X-BulkFactor: 092*1 XXXXXXXXX X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org The Government owns 50*1 of California. Why do they need more? Your land may be next . And we taxpayers have to make up for the lost tax revenue . And pay for Mid Pen to do the upkeep on roads, and to drive around in their trucks . And it may never be open for Mountain Bikers if the Sierra Club complains enough. -----Original Message----- From: npass [SMTP:npass@pacbell .net] Sent : Friday, March 20, 1998 7 :20 PM To: Dennis S Pedersen Cc : Todd McGee; rhyolite; romp; mtn-bike Subject : Re : Land seizure on Skyline I gotta say that I also feel for the nuns . Unlike the person who thought about building a grocery store on the hill I thought about what would have happened if it had been a developer who wanted to build a couple more multimillion dollar homes on the hill . My guess is that no one would have even brought it up to Mid Pen to buy the land to save the open space . It would have been just a few more neighbors moving in. As most of the the original objections to the convent didn' t come from those of us who use and enjoy the open space, but from the current residents of the area who in general block public or any other use of the land aside from their own private domains I still got to look at the original motive and question it . It seems to me some of the concessions that the nuns were willing to make - they build on a few acres of the land and preserve the rest, including putting in public trails and allowing public access were pretty reasonable . That would open up land that is currently privately held and inaccessible, wouldn' t use up resources that Mid Pen keeps telling us they don' t have for other projects, and for the most part keeps the land pristine . This message was posted to the mtn-bike list . To update your address or to be removed from this list, please email mtn-bike-request@goplay. com [Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosdZ openspace.org> 1 Michael Tscheekar, 03 0 pM__:3J2l/_9 Equitab-le Treatment of All Date : Sat, 21 Mar 1998 15 :40 :26 -0800 From: Michael Tscheekar <misha@sbceo.kl2 . ca.us> Reply-To: misha@sbeeo.kl2 . ca.us To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Equitable Treatment of All X-URL: http : //www.best . com/-ariel/orthodox/russian_convent/ X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Dear Friends, I understand that the MROSD has voted to deny the request of the sisters to build a convent on their land. I also understand that others in the area have unauthorized land uses on their properties in the same area. I assume that you will take action to bring all land-use in the area into conformity. Sincerely yours, Michael Tscheekar 4210 Breezy Glen Drive Santa Maria, CA 93455 3/21/98 Printed- for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 Dennis S Pedersen, 01:51 PM 3/22/98 , RE: Land seizure on Skyline Date : Sun, 22 Mar 1998 13 : 51 :46 -0700 To: npass <npass@pacbell .net>, Dennis S Pedersen <dennisp@rahul .net> From: Dennis S Pedersen <dennisp@rahul .net> Subject : RE : Land seizure on Skyline Cc : Todd McGee <Todd.McGee@stanford.edu>, rhyolite <rhyolite@ix.netcom.com>, romp <romp@cycling.org>, mtn-bike <mtn-bike@goplay.com> Sender: owner-romp@cyclery.com X-BulkFactor: 100% XXXXXXXXXX X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org At 11 : 15 AM -0800 3/21/98, PRICE, KENT wrote : >The Government owns 50% of California. Why do they need more? Your land >may be next . And we taxpayers have to make up for the lost tax revenue . > And pay for Mid Pen to do the upkeep on roads, and to drive around in >their trucks . And it may never be open for Mountain Bikers if the Sierra >Club complains enough. But I think if you look at the current reality, you' ll find that MROSD lands are almost all open to visitors . The only exceptions I 'm aware of are in new parks which haven' t been "improved" yet . Sure, I 'd like to see more of it open to bikers, but I still prefer that _we_ own those beautiful areas instead of people who intend to build them up (though of course the nuns were perhaps an extreme example of a sympathetic landowner) , whether or not I can bring my bike to them. In my opinion their efforts are laudable even if nobody_ could visit . . . the beautiful views alone would be worthwhile . Certainly beats the overbuilt hillsides common in some areas . But I expect that bikers _will_ be allowed into the new park when it ' s open. Certainly other MROSD lands are being opened to bikes . . . witness the New Almaden Quicksilver Park. Maybe I 'm being overly-optimistic, but I _do_ know that if I tried to ride the property now, I could be arrested for trespassing! Dennis S Pedersen (Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 I _ Sweetp1067106:54 PM 3722/98 1 Russian Orthodox Convent From: Sweetp1067 <Sweet p1067@aol .com> Date : Sun, 22 Mar 1998 18 : 54 : 54 EST To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Russian Orthodox Convent X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org I am writing in regards to your decision to procede with eminent domain on the 284 acre parcel owned by the Russian Orthodox Convent in the Kings Mountain area. I was apalled by your decision for several reasons . The first, being that the rights of the property owner weren' t taken into consideration. Since when does an agency such as yours have the absolute power to condemn property? I consider this an abuse of power. I also find the argument to condemn the property as being needed for the benefit of the public as being absurd. Who would it benefit? Finally, I strongly object to the use taxpayers monies for the purpose of purchasing property so that a certain few can have their open space . I hope that you will reconsider your decision. Sincerely; Julie E. McGowan printed for bUalcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> i Rick Brusuelas, 68:47 PSI 3J22/-98 , ate: Land seizure on Skyline 1 Date : Sun, 22 Mar 1998 20 :47 : 53 -0800 From: Rick Brusuelas <rickmtb@ix.netcom.com> To: romp <romp@cycling.org>, mtn-bike <mtn-bike@goplay.com> Subject : Re : Land seizure on Skyline References : <16352342 . 1 . 11466@serverl .onmedi.a.com> Sender: owner-romp@cyclery.com X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Dennis S Pedersen wrote : > But I expect that bikers _will_ be allowed into the new park when it ' s > open. Certainly other MROSD lands are being opened to bikes . . . witness the > New Almaden Quicksilver Park. One small correction. . . NAQP is not MROSD land. I can' t help but feel uncomfortable with all of the comparisons with this small convent that purchased the land a year ago with commercial entities that might buy lands in the future . Certainly the Order made a series of compromises to minimize their impact and allow most of the land to be open to other users . Its a shame that all other land owners don' t show anything close to their flexibility. I also hope that MROSD does allow access to these lands, especially to MTBers . Otherwise I get a strange feeling we 'd have a better chance gaining access from the Order. One question though. . . if MROSD was most concerned about the sensitivity and impact (visual and otherwise) of the ridgeline to be developed by the Order, why didn' t MROSD consider swapping that land with some other similarly-sized open space area in a accessible (by road) but less sensitive area? . . . Leave No Trace Rick Brusuelas rickmtb@ix.netcom.com 17rfnted-for-Malcolm Smi-th <mrosd@openspace.org> I ...._....... aennis S pedersen, ---f0:2-4 PM 3/22198 , Re: sand seizure on Skyline Date : Sun, 22 Mar 1998 22 :24 : 50 -0700 To: Rick Brusuelas <rickmtb@IX.NETCOM.COM>, romp <romp@cycling.org>, mtn-bike <mtn-bike@goplay.com> From: Dennis S Pedersen <dennisp@rahul .net> Subject : Re : Land seizure on Skyline Sender: owner-romp@cyclery.com X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace.org At 9 : 16 PM -0800 3/22/98, Rick Brusuelas wrote : >One question though. . . if MROSD was most concerned about the >sensitivity and impact (visual and otherwise) of the ridgeline >to be developed by the Order, why didn' t MROSD consider swapping >that land with some other similarly-sized open space area in a >accessible (by road) but less sensitive area? Maybe MROSD can answer that question. They have at least one member who suscribes to this list (Malcolm Smith, the same guy who was on TV) . . . maybe he can explain. But I doubt that they are allowed by law to swap one piece of MROSD land for another a la "Headwaters Deal" . Plus, I think their mission is to prevent development throughout the hills, to keep them open. . . not just areas that _some_ people might consider more sensitive than others . This is in part to allow wildlife more room to breathe, and partly because some people may prefer the open ridge areas while others might prefer the heavier forested slopes more . In other words MROSD isn' t assuming that some areas should be saved and others not . They' ll save as much as they can of any land, given the budget, laws etc . Dennis S Pedersen (Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosd0openspace.org> 1 1 Peter LaTourrette, 11-i-u- AM 1/16/98 , Wednesday' s ce X-Sender: petelatl@pobox2 . stanford.edu Date : Mon, 16 Mar 1998 11 : 00 : 11 -0800 To: mrosd@openspace .org From: Peter LaTourrette <petelatl@stanford.edu> Subject : Wednesday' s vote X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org President Betsy Crowder and Board Members Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Dear President Crowder and Members of the Board, Wednesday night you are to decide whether or not to begin the process of acquiring the 288 acre property owned by the Russian Orthodox Church on Skyline Boulevard. This already difficult decision has been rendered more so by extensive media coverage . In my opinion, this situation is one with which you can "win the battle and lose the war, " with the potential loss being the public support for the District . The District has endured tumultuous times in the past, with accusations of elitism and heavy-handedness and consequent changes in personnel and policies, and it has taken no little effort to overcome them. The invoking of Eminent Domain in this particular situation will almost certainly cause you to revisit those times . The article in today' s _San Jose Mercury News_ reports on negotiations and aproposed compromise instigated by the Church. A compromise solution would, in my opinion, be far superior to either of the other alternatives . I urge the Board to pursue such a solution rather than to begin the process of acquisition. Sincerely, -------------------- -------- ---------------------------- Peter LaTourrette Bird photos : http: //www-leland. stanford.edu/petelatl/ Santa Clara Valley Audubon Society: http: //www. scvas .org/ Western Field Ornithologists : http: //www.wfo-cbrc.org/ [Printed--for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> - 1 I Rev. Milton T. Wals, 0_ ,4 _PM 472/98 , Rueeian Cc..- ant Date : Thu, 2 Apr 1998 21 : 34 : 12 -0800 (PST) X-Sender: mwalsh@mail .wenet .net To: mrosd@openspace .org From: "Rev. Milton T. Walsh" <mwalsh@wenet .net> Subject : Russian Convent X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Dear members of the MROSD: I am writing to urge you to assist the Russian Sisters in their desire to establish a convent . It seems to me that "open space" and "monastic space" fit well together -- the very way of life these women lead is one of quiet contemplation, with few visitors . Those few visitors are people seeking peace and quiet, and thus will be using the land in the most non-obtrusive way. Monasteries need a buffer zone of quiet, which means they need "open space" -- and in turn, their silent presence creates an added reason to discourage future developments . I hope that a compromise can be reached which will integrate both your laudable goals and theirs . (Rev) Milton Walsh Menlo Park Printed -for-hT i olm Smith <mrosdgopenspace.or g> 1 sdplank, 0_9__;__1_8 .AM 3j16, March 181 1998, pu-bric .aaring Reply-To: "sdplank" <sdplank@msn. com> From: "sdplank" <sdplank@email .msn. com> To: "MROSD" <mrosd@openspace .org> Subject : March 18, 1998, public hearing Date : Mon, 16 Mar 1998 09 : 18 : 07 -0800 X-MSMail-Priority: Normal X-MimeOLE : Produced By Microsoft MimeOLE V4 . 71 . 1712 . 3 X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org March 16, 1998 L. Craig Britton, General Manager, I have received a notice of your hearing on March 18 in which you intend to consider adopting a "resolution of necessity" regarding the taking of the property at 12140 Skyline Blvd, San Mateo County. As a resident of the community where the subject property is located, I have researched the proposed use of the property and have concluded that I shall remain nuetral as to the outcome of this contraversial land use . I am not, however, nuetral on your use of eminent domain as a tool to circumvent due process and negotiated resolution. I protest your consideration of this ' resolution of necessity' in the strongest possible terms . Let us not return to those past times when every large private land owner or owners of even small parcels of land, developed or not, in the District ' s path of desired acquisition could not sleep soundly. I use and appreciate our open space . I even more strongly appreciate the rights of private citizens to use their land for any legal use and to develop their land by due process as provided by established zoning and land use requirements in this county. If you want this land, negotiate an agreement and BUY IT! DO NOT resort to the use of eminent domain. Sincerely, Sybil Plank 1274 Tunitas Creek Road Woodside, CA 94062 ph 650 . 851-1455 fax 650 . 851-4299 Igri'n—ted- for Ma1-c-olm -Smith <mrosdgopenspace.org> 1 Roger---Dettloff, 31-16198 , -T,eave the nuns -_one. X-Sender: roger@sneezy. sri . com Date : Mon, 16 Mar 1998 08 : 54 : 09 -0800 To: mrosd@openspace .org From: Roger Dettloff <roger@systech. sri .com> Subject : Leave the nuns alone. X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace.org Why do you want to steal land from some poor nuns? I very strongly support the principle of personal ownership of property and feel that government powers of eminent domain should be used very sparingly and only in the most extreme cases of public need. I support the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District ' s efforts to purchase land from willing sellers, but I do not want to be associated with any nun-hating land thieves ! I urge you to leave the nuns alone . Respectfully, Roger Dettloff Redwood City, CA Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 Del—agrammaticas Fam, L- :16 PM-/13/98 Greetings :om Canada X-Sender: dagreek@execulink. com Date : Fri, 13 Mar 1998 22 : 16 :21 -0500 To : MROSD@openspace .org From: Delagrammaticas Family <dagreek@execulink. com> Subject : Greetings from Canada X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Greetings from Canada. I have heard that the sisters of the Russian Orthodox Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir in San Francisco is in threat of going through a grave injustice . As you are well aware, the nuns have worked both hard and honestly to pursue their way of life . It ' s ironic that the Convent is facing the loss of their land in the United States, after losing their property three times in the past, once in the Soviet Union and twice in China. I thought that American' s supported life liberty and the pursuit of happiness? I also understand that your efforts are just as noble . However, I ask you, do you really think that selecting another site will drastically effect your goals? Although I don' t know the scope of your project I can reckon that I might be easier for you to find an alternate site than it would be for the nuns . Hey, you never know. . .we have a lot of "space" (literally) up here in Canada. I humbly ask you to reconsider. Sincerely, N. Delagrammaticas II IC II XC II IIIIIIIIIIIIIII II NI II KA II IC-Ihsous/Jesus XC-Xristos/Christ) NIKA- the Victor. . .of death— it ' s no longer all GREEK to you! ! ! I A ( ) A / \ o ( o ) ^ I o I ( I I ) 0 [Printed-f r--Malcolm Smith <mrosd@6] enspace.org> 1 Mick & C:eleste Bobr, %.- 449 _PM 1715198 , Russian C. ient of Our Lady of Date : Sun, 15 Mar 1998 17 :49 : 09 +0800 (SGT) X-Sender: bobroff@pacific .net . sg To: MROSD@openspace .org From: Mick & Celeste Bobroff <bobroff@pacific .net . sg> Subject : Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir X-Rcpt-To : mrosd@openspace .org To: Betsy Crowder, President of the Board: I am writing to urge you to support the building of a new facility for the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir on the 280 acres that they own off Skyline Boulevard in Woodside . During 1987-1992, I took my grandfather to church services at the Convent ' s facility in San Francisco every month. The nuns are very peaceful ladies and they deserve to have their facility in a peaceful environment . I grew up the Bay Area and lived there until 1992 . After being overseas for 6 years, my wife and I will be returning this summer. While we lived in the Bay Area, we spent a lot of time at open space reserves hiking, jogging and mountain biking where it was legally permited. I am having a hard time understanding MROSD' s objection to this convent . The nuns have already made many concessions, most notably placing 90 percent of the property into permanent open space and accommodating the Bay Area Ridge Trail should that become necessary. If anything, I would expect MROSD to support, and not condemn, the new convent . Who better than peaceful Russian nuns could ensure the serenity of the area surrounding their land? Unfortunately, I am now residing in Singapore and can not attend the meeting on March 18th. Once again, I urge you to reconsider the MROSD' s stand on this issue . �Pr nt-d-f-or Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> I olegr 10 24 PM _3 J15/!>_ , eminent domain Errors-To: <olegr@concentric .net> Date : Sun, 15 Mar 1998 22 :24 :20 -0800 From: olegr <olegr@concentric .net> Reply-To : olegr@concentric .net To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : eminent domain X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org March 12 , 1998 Ladies and Gentlemen of MROSD, I am writing this to register my most strenuous objection to your plan to take over the property belonging to the Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir. It ' s one thing to apply eminent domain to take over private land to build a freeway or land to be flooded behind a dam or land with spectacular features (such as El Capitan, for example) . It ' s quite another to use it to grab land which is just "very nice" . Private property, private enterprise and private initiative form the conceptual backbone of this country. From your web page we learn that you manage some 40, 000 acres and are continuously adding more . There must be an ample quantity of nice parcels with great views that you can obtain with the previous owners ' consent . Especially puzzling is your refusal to compromise . More than 200 acres (90%) of this parcel are offered for public use without charge . Taxpayers are going to have a hard time understanding your refusal to accept this offer. Again from your web page I notice you are building a 50 car parking lot . There will probably be restrooms, water fountains a couple of picnic tables, maybe a BBQ. Of course we all understand the need for these facilities and your willingness to pour cement on pristine terrain. The Convent also needs appropriate facilities to do its work. Their preliminary plans have been approved by the county and they are only using 3% of the land they own. I hope that you hear from enough California taxpayers to be able to reconsider and accept the Convent ' s proposal . Sincerely, Oleg Reoutt (olegr@cris . com) Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 Anita Cecilia -Herna, .._:44 PM 3/15/98 , Please re -,ct the nun' s right Date : Sun, 15 Mar 1998 23 :44 : 21 -0800 (PST) From: Anita Cecilia Hernandez <anitandz@leland.Stanford.EDU> Sender: anitandz@leland. Stanford.EDU To: mrosd@openspace .org, dsmernoff@mail . arc .nasa.gov Subject : Please respect the nun' s rights X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org MROSD members : Please stop harassing the Catholic nuns and respect their affliation and their right to own the property. The members should not be pressuring them to sell their property to your organization. I have every confidence that they will maintain most of the property as open space . They have negotiated in good faith and have conceded to haveing 90 percent of the land as open space, even though MROSD will not be operating it . I consider the manner in which MROSD is pressuring this group as appalling. THe members of MROSD are circumventing the democratic process of the SMC Planning commision and the rights of this group of people . sincerely, Anita C. Hernandez School of Education Stanford University Printed -f-o-r Malcolm S-mith <mrosd@openspace.org> � j Stolzi, 10:48 AM 3j16, s , Re: Russian Convent of ar Lad From: Stolzi <Stolzi@aol . com> Date : Mon, 16 Mar 1998 10 :48 :42 EST To: MROSD@openspace .org Subject : Re : Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Dear Ms . Crowder: This letter is in support of the sisters of the Convent against attempts to condemn the land which is legally theirs . For centuries, Orthodox monastic institutions have afforded places of rest and refreshment, with spiritual and physical food for visitors, in untroubled natural settings . The sisters have promised to guard sightlines and leave the majority of the property in natural condition. Such an establishment would be a blessing, not a bane, to the neighborhood involved. I earnestly beg that you and the Board would uphold freedom of religion and the beauty of your area by voting in the sisters ' behalf . How can the Convent be facing the loss of their land in the United States, after losing their property three times in the past, once in the Soviet Union and twice in China! Thank you for your consideration. Mary M Stolzenbach PrintecF for Malcolm Smith <mrosd0openspace.org> 1 I i ,bever;y j carter, 12 :2, _,Nt aj27I98 Our Lady of Aimar property Date: Fri, 27 Mar 1998 00 :26 : 38 -0800 From: "bever;y j carter" <i715311@mail . thegrid.net> Reply-To: i715311@mail . thegrid.net To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Our Lady of Vladimar property sale X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org I have been a resident of San Mateo County all of my adult life, that is 45 years of it, and thought I had heard everything. Let these Nuns live in peace in San Mateo County and have the pice of property they seek to buy. From all the background information I have seen, they will be nothing but an asset to the community and can have minimum impact on the envirommnt, and can hardly been seen as a negative impact on the tiny bit open space they wish to occupy. Please let them buy their property. It will be to your credit it you do. i i I Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openepace.org> I i Linda &/or Tom KOZI, i 1 PM 3/26-J38 Convent Date : Thu, 26 Mar 1998 22 : 31 : 03 -0600 From: Linda &/or Tom KOZIK <lkozik@centuryinter.net> Reply-To: lkozik@centuryinter.net To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Convent X-Rcpt-To : mrosd@openspace .org In spite of our late date in finding about the sisters plight, March 26, 1998, we still decided to write to you in hope of a chance at influencing you in any outstanding discussions or reviews regarding this matter. Dear Ms . Crowder and Members; As a beacon of religious light and freedom, the United States of America is the undisputed leader with all its faults and trepidations . It is because of this original idea that a great gift from the Creator was bestowed on this the land of milk and honey. This has been unabated from the very birth of our rich history; religious freedom has been the center of all that evolved into goodness and plenty. We as a country, have enjoyed more than any other in history, a spiritual and physical well being that has no rival . It is precisely because of our allegiance to God, in the most fundamental free way we choose (including the right of not to) , that allows such wellness and richness to grow. This is not a coincidence . It was sad for us to hear of the trials and tribulations that the sisters of The Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir are having to experience once again. With their rich history and past injustices, it would be a very sad day indeed, if another man made bureaucratic endeavour, which only hinders human growth, would be allowed to stand and not let the sisters in their rightful place enrich all of us . Surely, they could find another place, but why?- Don' t we all want the same things that made this country great from its beginning to continue and flourish?- Sure we do! As humans grow and flourish, we tend to get lost in the daily mundane matters of man' s laws in which we proudly uphold, and tend to loose the original sight of the Creator ' s intentions . It is therefore that we respectfully ask, that you and the members carefully reflect introsepectively and do the right thing. The sisters deserve your support and blessing. You will be infinitely rewarded. Yours Truly, Linda & Tom Kozik Lakeview, Arkansas 72642 [Printed for Malcolm Snnth <mrosdgopenspace.org> Edward ine art, 08:38 3/26/98 Convent Date : Thu, 26 Mar 1998 20 : 38 : 54 -0800 From: Edward Winegart <valet_cruise@earthli.nk.net} Reply-To : valet_cruise@earthlink.net To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Convent X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org What possible reaason could there be for stopping these perscecuted Nuns their already secured land? Printed for ITalcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.orgy Arnold--Yee, 07:5 PM 3/ -6/98 SF Russian Nuns Lan-t- Date : Thu, 26 Mar 1998 19 :51 : 05 -0800 From: Arnold Yee <a2yeel9@idt .net> To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : SF Russian Nuns Land X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Having lived in the US all my life, I find that yoiur tactics in trying to seize the land belonging to these nuns abhorible . You are no different than an old gestapo group who believes themselves beyond the rights of property owners. If you were in China you would fit in very well . You hid behind your committee and use tax payers money to suit your purposes . You can be sure when it is time to vote for your board members again I will assure you you will have my vote against you all and your gestapo tactics . (Printed for Malcolm Smitfi <mrosd@openspace.org> I j Steve Parsons, 12 :05 Pi_ ,/26/98 Support for- Conv, z o£ dur Lad Date : Thu, 26 Mar 1998 12 : 05 : 03 -0800 From: Steve Parsons <steveparsons@geocities .com> Reply-To: steveparsons@geocities .com To: MROSD@openspace .org Subject : Support for Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Dear Sirs, I was very disappointed to hear of your recent decision to dismiss the desires of a monastic community of the Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir to build on their property. That this small group of nuns should be denied their rights by a few who want to preserve their idea of a nice view at the expense of others shows what a fascist mindset the MROSD has taken on. It is disgusting. The comment made by Mrs . Crowder to the effect that all of the nuns are going to die anyway was offensive to Orthodox Christians everywhere . Monastacism among Orthodox Christians -- always strong -- is growing in the United States, not shrinking. To speak otherwise is simply ignorance and religious bigotry. Please reconsider and reverse your decision. Steve Parsons Los Gatos, CA Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosd openspace.org> 1 I 7o_hn Simmons, 11: 08 AM -125/98 Convent/bpenSpace X-Authentication-Warning:: shell3 .ba.best . com: strannik owned process doing g P g I -bs Date : Wed, 25 Mar 1998 11 : 08 : 57 -0800 (PST) From: John Simmons <strannik@strannik. com> X-Sender: strannik@shell3 .ba.best .com To: MROSD@openspace .org Subject : Convent/OpenSpace X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org To whom it may concern, I I am a Bay Area native, and continue to live and work here . I enjoy the open space regions of the Peninsula, and I 'm truly glad that someone is working to preserve these regions from encroaching urbanization. However, using eminent domain to turn a convent away is going too far. Historically, Orthodox Monastics have been some of the best environmental preservationists in the world (Mt . Athos in Greece being a prime 1000+ year old example, a monastery in Platina, CA being another) . Allowing the nuns to occupy the land they have purchased will essentially guarantee responsible environmental use of the land for the future, as well as provide a spirtual haven for nuns and retreatants, for which a natural setting is important . You could not have a better blend. It has also been my experience, in visiting other such settings, that the enjoyment of natural spaces are in no way hampered by the presence of monastics, but rather that monastics work as caretakers in a way that no hired person could match, adding an ineffable blessing to the area in which they work. Please reconsider your decision. Thank you, John Simmons strannik@strannik. com john. simmons@eng. sun.com !Printed _f or Ma7.colm Sma th <mrosd(gopenspace.org_> 1 bark N Seidel,-- 6 :-49 14*, s/25/98 Recent decision -,dins_t tie Co To: MROSD@openspace .org Date : Wed, 25 Mar 1998 09 :49 :31 -0800 Subject : Recent decision against the Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir X-Juno-Line-Breaks : 0-1, 5-6, 12-13 , 16-17, 20-25 From: mnseidel@juno. com (Mark N Seidel) X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Dear Sirs, I was shocked to learn of your decision to declare the property of the Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir as open space, and thus to force your purchase of it by eminent domain. I am very familiar with the issues, and have spoken with your public relations person by telephone . These monastics have made many concessions, and would treat the property with respect regarding your concerns and those of their neighbors . To deprive them of this land is a travesty of justice and a clear indication that there is too much power in the MROSD. They have shown an extreme willingness to work with you, and this decision is like a hard slap in their face . I support the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors in their outrage that the permits granted by their Planning Commission have been dismissed in this manner. Rather than dig in your heels for a fight, I urge you to reconsider and overturn your earlier decision. Let them build their convent . They will treat the land and their neighbors with respect . Thank you. Dr. Mark N. Seidel Milpitas, CA You don' t need to buy Internet access to use free Internet e-mail . Get completely free e-mail from Juno at http: //www. juno. com Or call Juno at (800) 654-JLNO [654-5866] Printed for- Malcolm -Smith <mrosd0openspace.org> l Robert Hosken, 09 :45 P& >/25/98 Against state tz, _Ming on- 1Ws Date : Wed, 25 Mar 1998 21 :45 : 04 +0300 From: Robert Hosken <Stargate@xc .org> To: MROSD@openspace .org CC: Evangelical-Orthodox Conference <Evang-Orth@xc .org> Subject : Against state trampling on Russian Orthodox Christians ' rights X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Redwood City, CA Dear Sirs, My wife and I are American protestants, living in mid-Russia and teaching at a provincial university. It has come to my attention that the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District has summarily condemned and is preparing to sieze the property of a Russian Orthodox convent, the Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir. This is a gross violation of religious freedom and other rights, specifically the right to own property. You are doubtless aware that these monastics have fled religious persecution in Russia. Now they have collided with the very same thing in the United States of America. For decades I have labored for religious freedom of both Orthodox and Evangelical Christians in the former Soviet bloc countries . It ought to be manifestly evident that the loss of freedom for one religious group portends the imminent loss of freedom for other religious groups . As Patrick Henry, the American patriot, said, "Gentlemen, we must hang together, or we will hang separately. " So I am writing to express my solidarity with the nuns of the Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir. Monday while lecturing at the Russian-American Center here about American culture and values, I told them that as a direct descendant of the first Pilgrims on the Mayflower, I value highly the right of Americans to freely practice their faith and way of life, and yet because of intellectual honesty I had to mention this recent miscarriage of justice in California. The audience, all teachers of English and well-informed about American ways including freedom of religion, were shocked to hear of this terrible turn of events . Please give me the opportunity to report to them the good news that this mistaken decision of the MROSD has been reversed. Yours truly, Prof . Robert Hosken Free Russian Bible; Evang-Orth dialog Web site : http: //www.xc .org/hyprbibl Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosd9 penspace.org> Saint Gregory Palam, y li.i5- AM 3 25 98 Convent of sr mad of -`C7"ladim X-Sender: sgpm-0003@pop. sisgtel .net Date : Wed, 25 Mar 1998 11 : 35 : 22 -0800 To: MROSD@openspace .org From: "Saint Gregory Palamas Monastery (C.T.O. S . ) " <sgpm@sisgtel .net> Subject : Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir. X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Midpeninsula Religional Open Space District Dear Board Members : I am writing to protest the recent decision of your board regarding the prposed building project of the Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir. Let me quote to you what a well-respected and prominent Greek religious publication, "The Orthodox Voice, " published yesterday in Athens . I received the article today by fax. The translation from the Greek is mine : "The Orthodox Church has seen its Faithful slaughtered in this century by communist idealogues . This outrage provoked the consciences of all civilized people, worldwide . Not only our country, which is Orthodox, but many other countries around the world, including the United States of America, took in countless refugees from Eastern Europe, among them Bishops, Priests, nuns, monks, and simple Faithful from the Orthodox and other Churches of Eastern Europe . The Western world can be proud of such acts . "But now, a San Francisco [sic] environmental agency has denied a permit for refugee nuns from Russia to build a convent on land that has been set aside for hikers and animals . All of this despite the fact that the nuns have agreed to confine themselves to a small corner of their property, have the proper papers for building from the pertinent planning agency, and have promised to make their land available to naturalists (hikers and hunters [sic] ) . "We have received newspaper reports that trace the original objections to the situation of the Convent on the property in question to the religious bigotry of dome of its neighbors, who apparently prefer hikers to nuns and who refuse to acknowledge that the Convent presents no obstruction of their view of the horizon. This affront to the many, many millions of Orthodox Christians in the United States is amazing. "From communist Russia, we would not be surprised to hear about governmental agencies that prefer hikers over nuns or who would allow anti-religious bigots to contribute to an unfair process of denying immigrant nuns their right to live the simple, peaceful life that has always characterized our Orthodox monasticism. But from America? From a country which has a constitution which acknowledges the contribution of religion to a nation' s life and the leaders of which openly speak of religious values? How ashamed decent people must be when they are called Americans in the context of the pitiable decision at hand. "Worse yet, it seems that hundreds of people protested this evil decision to no avail . What, we must ask, has happened to the democracy which our nation bequeathed to America? Has the United States become a country of cold bureaucrats who listen to bigots at the cost of helping refugee nuns? Let us hope that this is not so. " I am ashamed, in many ways, to be an American, when I read things like this in the press of my ancestral homeland. It is difficult to explain "Printed for Malcolm --Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> _ l Saint Gregory Pal-am, 1i..j5 AM 3/25-/98- Convent 111,of _sr -Lady of--Vla-d:bn-iL to those outside our country why such a thing as this has happened. Indeed, I am sure that the journalist who wrote this article does not understand the full nature of the problem at hand. But he does touch on something which rises above laws and regulations : This whole problem began with vocal bigotry. It should end with vocal justice for the nuns and a capituation to common sense rather than the letter of the environmental law. The very worst bigotry is that which says that there are no special cases and that quiet, peacful individuals should not be given the benefit of the doubt . And that bigotry makes for poor citizens and poor government alike. Thank you for your attention. Sincerely, The Most Reverend Chrysostomos Archbishop of Etna and the St . Gregory Palamas Monastery Synodal Exarch in America Synod of Bishops of the True (Old Calendar) Orthodox Church of Greece Printed- for Malcolm Smith <m-r-osd@6p46iiiipdd-e--.-org> 2 - i nancyheldredge, 04 : 09 1.__ 3/25/9$ , cloistered have._ Date : Wed, 25 Mar 1998 16 : 09 : 02 -0800 From: nancyheldredge <nheld@sjm. infi .net> Reply-To: nheld@sjm. infi .net Organization: InfiNet To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : cloistered haven X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Dear Mid-peninsula Regional Open Space District, I think you are a great organization, you have saved many wonderful open areas from development . I am happy to know part of my tax dollar goes to such a great cause . But, when it comes to the Russian Orthodox Cloister and their land in the latest fight to save open space, I must say I have to take their side . This type of religious order would go on the disappearing species list if that list included humans . To take their land away is borderline cruel . If the Mercury News is accurate, they have made many concessions to accomodate the need to keep their land pristine and untouched, now they deserve the same treatment . No governing body should be an organism with a brain only, it must have a heart and soul too to make truly intelligent and caring decisions . Please be a thinking and feeling organization when you make your decision about this situation. Sincerely, Nancy Eldredge Printed for Malcolm Smith <mro&d@openspace.org> 1 /2 5 support for Convent- -of a - aCd sandr-at, 08-:06 -PM 3 or L Date : Wed, 25 Mar 1998 20 : 06 : 07 -0800 From: sandrat <sandrat@one .net> Organization: http: //w3 .one .net/-afanassy To: MROSD@openspace .org Subject : support for Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir X-Rcpt-To : mrosd@openspace .org To Whom It May Concern, I have written to Senators Sher and Kopp requesting a resolution against eminent domain power of the MROSD, or a bill supporting monastic open space . Who could be a better environmentalist than a monastic? Sincerely, S. Thompson (Printed for Malcolm Smith- <mrosd@openspace.or9> John_S-tolz--e3rbacIG ,M-3/26/98 -PW-: Why Boot ---- convent--I -- From: John Stolzenbach <joa-stol@tkc. att .ne . jp> To: 'I 'MROSD@openspace .orgl " <MROSD@openspace .org> Subject : FW: Why Boot the Convent? Date : Thu, 26 Mar 1998 10 : 19 : 54 +0900 X-Rcpt-To : mrosd@openspace .org I want to write again to protest your decision to deprive the sisters of the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir of the land which they have already purchased for a convent . You are aware of how many commitments they have made to use the land in an environmentally conscientious way, with a high extent of open space . I also believe that they, of all people, would want to keep this land in a state which honors God who made it . I can see no good reason for you to take this land from their hands, so I write you again to ask that you would leave them to make good use of this land. Thank you for your attention, John Stolzenbach Printed forMalcolm RaCith <mro- sd@openspace.o-rg>- olegr, 05 37 VU 3/25/3a , Convent _ Errors-To: <olegr@concentric .net> Date : Wed, 25 Mar 1998 17 : 37 :45 -0800 From: oleg r <ole r@concentric .net> g Reply-To: olegr@concentric .net To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Convent X-Rc t-To: mrosd@o ens ace .or P P P g TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT Ladies and Gentlemen, keepers of our open spaces, I would like to express my hope that you will act upon the request of the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors to reconsider your condemnation vote of the Convent property. You will never regret it . For ages, monastics have been among the best friends of nature . You will be preserving more than 250 acres with very little disturbance (provided the neighbors are not permitted to ride their off-road vehicles there) and at no cost . What relatively little construction takes place, can be just as easily justified as your current construction of a parking lot . Even more so: these buildings will modestly house people and provide a place of worship. I don' t understand all the commotion about the visibility of the dome. Other structures are visible anyway, but the dome is unusual and should be pleasing to the eye. In my own experience as a hiker, I can tell you that coming upon a clearing and seeing buildings at a distance can truly enhance the enjoyment of the moment . It was said that the desired location of the three buildings are in the way of the path traveled by deer. There are plenty of them in my neighborhood and you and I know very well that these creatures are very resourceful . They will find their way around the buildings very easily. There was concern about the eighty visitors twice a year. If I read some of your information correctly, you are very proud of the fact that over a million people visit your facilities every year. What then is another eighty people? You express concern over the fact that funds may be harder to get in the future and developers are forever on the prowl . The Convent is not a developer. Why don' t you save your money so that you can put it to much better use somewhere else. Thank you for your consideration. Oleg Reoutt (olegr@cris .com) Printed f or-..Malcolm Smith -mrosd@openspace.org> 1 Fr. Aidan Keller, 10:%,_ PM- 3/10/98 , Convent' s Mo to land Date : Tue, 10 Mar 1998 22 : 08 : 33 -0600 (CST) X-Sender: hilarion@mail .prismnet .com To: MROSD@openspace .org From: "Fr. Aidan Keller" <hilarion@prismnet . com> Subject : Convent ' s Move to land X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org To: Betsy Crowder President of the Board Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Dear Ms . Crowder, I was saddened to learn that the women of Our Lady of Vladimir Russian Orthodox Convent are experiencing opposition in their plans to locate their community upon 280 acres off Skyline Blvd. in Woodside . This women' s community has experienced many hardships in its history. One was their eviction from their original property in Russia, which made them homeless . Another was their eviction from property they had acquired in China, which rendered them homeless. Yet another was a second eviction from property which they owned in China, once again rendering this community of women homeless . Can it be that they will experience the very same types of trials in the United States? The centuries-old monastic way of life to which these women aspire is one of the most successful ways that human beings can live on this planet not as consumers and abusers of the environment, but as real stewards, utilising natural methods to conserve resources and embody a non-materialistic, non-capitalistic approach to life . I ask you to consider the history of this community and to aid them in their quest for a final, peaceful home . Thank you. Yours Sincerely, Fr. Aidan Keller Policy and Procedure Coordinator Austin State Hospital 4110 Guadalupe Austin, TX 78751-4196 wk 512/419-2131 hm 512/442-2289 iPrinted for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 i Kochergin, Alex, 05 5.. PM 3/10/98 Open Letter 1. Support of Huns Return-receipt-to: "Kochergin, Alex" <alex.kochergin@lmco.com> Content-return: allowed Date : Tue, 10 Mar 1998 17 : 53 : 30 -0800 From: "Kochergin, Alex" <alex.kochergin@lmco.com> Subject : Open Letter in Support of Nuns To: " 'MROSD"' <mrosd@openspace .org> X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org 10 March 1998 To : Betsy Crowder, President of the Board of Directors, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, 330 Distel Circle, Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Dear President Crowder: It has come to my attention that the Mid-Peninsula Regional Open-Space District is planning on condemning the 280-acre property in the vicinity of highways 280 and 92 that was purchased by the nuns of the St . Vladimir Convent of San Francisco. The argument seems to be that the property should be kept as open space for use by the general public . The property has been in private hands for many years and did the district, in the past, approach the previous owners with an offer to buy it for open-space purposes? The buildings that the nuns will erect are not part of some master plan to develop housing on all 280 acres . On the contrary, it only uses a small portion of the total acreage and they have already made a good-faith offer to cede a good size of the property so that people can access the prime vista points in the area. In addition, the area is not completely pristine since other housing has been in place in the area for a number of years . I understand that there is a master plan to eventually build a trail that will circle most of the Bay Area. Should it even be necessary to have the trail in the convent ' s "backyard" , as opposed to some other area, the nuns have agreed to have it go through the area that they are willing to cede to the public . Therefore, I think that it is a misuse of public funds to go through a condemnation procedure since it will be much more expensive than what the nuns are now offering to do. Please do not cast doubt on the benevolence of your organization and do allow this project to continue without further delay. Depending on how this issue is presented in the news media, a condemnation procedure may have a negative impact on your organization. You have a just cause in providing open space for the public and that space can be so provided in this instance without said condemnation or any other legal procedures . If you have the power to condemn any property for any capricious reason, what good are our American rights? I do hope that you will put this matter to rest in your next public hearing, and vote to let the land remain in the hands of the current owners so that they can provide both for themselves and the public . Respectfully, (Printed for-Malcolm Smith <mrosd0openspace.org> 1 I f 10 Kochergin, Alex, 05z5_ IM 3/10/98 Open Letter i. oupport of Runs Protodeacon Alexander Kochergin Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosdOopenspace.org> 2 I ti ketcher, 07:18 Phi , 10/98 Nuns Date : Tue, 10 Mar 1998 19 : 18 : 30 +0000 From: tim ketcher <zosima@ix.netcom.com> Reply-To: zosima@ix.netcom.com To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Nuns X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org To whom it may concern: As a member of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia, it grieves me to read of what your organization would do in the name of preserving the beauty and integrity of Nature in order to prevent quiet, humble nuns a refuge for their labours . I am sure many of you are acting out of a genuine concern and love for what you value -- something that in our modern, consumer culture is all too often sacrificed for the banker' s or developer' s bottom line . But please stop and consider what you are doing to gentle people who as part of their spirituality, see themselves as guardians of the beauty and integrity of God' s creation as well . It is bad enough that many of the Russian people lost their loved ones and their homeland in the upheaval of the Revolution and this sort of thing cannot but bring back the sort of pain and sorrow of having once more the things important to them and their culture as Orthodox Russians taken out from under them. I would appeal to your kindness and your good conscience to please let the nuns have their convent . Respectfully yours, Tim Ketcher Printed for Malcolm Smaith7 <mrosd@6penspace.org> 1 i , BALr i 11:20 AM 3 _ _ _ 3� Russian Convent of � Lad f� ab c, / i y o From: BADrabic <BADrabic@aol .com> Date : Wed, 11 Mar 1998 11 : 20 :48 EST To: MBOSD@openspace .org Subject : Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir X-Rcpt-To: mbosd@openspace .org I am writing to express my support for the Sisters of the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir in SanFrancisco. I am hoping that they will be allowed to retain possession of their property off Skyline Blvd. in Woodside . What a shame it would be if their property in the USA was confiscated as it was in the USSR and twice in communist China. Please allow them to keep their property. Thank you, Barbara Drabic BADrabic@aol . com Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 I I David Miller,104:24 Px. JJ12/9- To Ms Betsy Crr ar, Director X-Sender: hdm@mailhost .heartport .com Date : Thu, 12 Mar 1998 16 :24 : 34 -0800 To: mrosd@openspace .org From: David Miller <hdm@heartport . com> Subject : To Ms . Betsy Crowder, Director X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Dear Ms Crowder: I have attached my letter to this Email as a Microsoft word document (much better formatting) and in addition have included it as plain text in case you are not able to print the attachment . -------------------------- 16222 Skyline Blvd. Woodside, Ca. 94062 March 12, 1998 Ms . Betsy Crowder, Director Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District via Email to: MROSD@openspace .org Dear Ms . Crowder: I am writing to express s my vehement objection to your potential adoption on March 18th of a resolution of necessity that would authorize and direct the taking of the 284 acre property located at 12140 Skyline Blvd. San Mateo County (the Russian Orthodox Convent property) . I have been a resident of the Skyline area for over 25 years and since its inception have watched MROSD acquire and manage properties in my neighborhood. On balance 7 g I believe MROSD has done a good job in n of the fulf illing its mission of acquiring irin and protecting open space . one g q g P g P P hallmarks of this process has been good faith negotiations between interested sellers and MROSD including numerous instances of bargain sales as well as transfers from POST. This potential use of eminent domain is a radical departure from your long standing "friendly" acquisition process and sets, I believe, a dangerous precedent . Eminent domain should be reserved for situations that are potential ecological disasters if left unchecked; the functional equivalent of building a large shopping center in the middle of Yosemite Park. I simply do not believe that this situation qualifies . This parcel, if not purchased by MROSD, will be minimally developed under the strict planning guidelines of San Mateo County. It is located in an area where there are other residences and even commercial developments (like the King' s Mt . County Store and Fisher Investments) . Furthermore, it is my understanding that the owners have offered to sell the majority of the parcel to MROSD at a reduced price and have even agreed to permanent open space covenants on the remainder of the parcel . Given that MROSD has limited funds for Printed -for Malcolm Rmith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 -David--Ml-l-l--e---r,--04-:2-4 -PA.- J/-12J9 8- So-lls-. Betsy Crc _ jr, Director acquisitions and is currently using a significant portion of their annual tax revenue for debt service, I fail to understand why this is not an attractive option. It allows the transaction to be a "friendly" sale, preserves the overwhelming bulk of the parcel as open space and does it with a price tag of less than one third (1/3) of the eminent domain proposal . Also, I firmly believe that this use of eminent domain will jeopardize the ability of MROSD to acquire future holdings since potential interested sellers will be afraid to even broach a sales discussion with MROSD out of fear of the "big stick" being used against them if they can' t come to a favorable agreement on the terms with MROSD. There is a second component to this scary potential use of eminent domain which is even more unsettling: a blatant case of "I 've got mine; you can' t have yours" . Al Bell, who owns a home next to this parcel has been the organizer of the effort to prevent the Convent from erecting their building and to cajole MROSD to purchase the parcel . Until his efforts to encourage the purchase by MROSD, I don' t believe the parcel was even on MROSDs radar screen; much less listed as a priority acquisition for the district . While I'm forced to tip my hat to Mr. Bell' s ability to sway opinion and "beat the drums" , it disturbs me that One Million Dollars ($1, 000, 000) of tax money is potentially going to be used to wrest control via eminent domain of this parcel from the current owner to preserve Mr. Bell' s personal view from his home . I wonder how he would react if MROSD chose to expand the preserve and forced him to include his home in the acquisition. I strongly urge you to consider all the ramifications of the use of eminent domain in this situation. Your decision will not only affect this parcel, but the future of MROSDs relations with its constituents . Sincerely, H. David Miller Attachment Converted: C: \NETSCAPE\EUDORA\mrosd.doc David Miller Heartport Inc . 200 Chesapeake Dr. Redwood City, Ca. 94063 (650) 4 82-42 93 Fax (650) 482-4439 email : hdm@heartport .com web site : http: //www.heartport .com/ Printed- -for-Malco-im--Smi-th ---mr&sd@openspac-e-.brg> John St61z_en_b_a_c_ h_, _ 10: , , AM- 3-/-12[98 Why Bootthe invent? __ From: John Stolzenbach <joa-stol@tkc .att .ne . jp> To: 'I 'MROSD@openspace .org' 'I <MROSD@openspace .org> Subject : Why Boot the Convent? Date : Thu, 12 Mar 1998 10 : 04 : 27 +0900 X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace.org I am writing in support of the desires of the sisters of the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir to build their convent on land which they have already purchased. From what I have heard, they have made many concessions to keep the land used in an environmentally conscientious way, with a high extent of open space . I also believe that they, of all people, would want to keep this land in a state which honors God who made it . I can see no good reason for you to take this land from their hands, so I write you from Japan that you would leave them to make good use of this land. Thank you for your attention, John Stolzenbach �Rjcinted for Malcolm- Smith --<mrosd@-Openspai6d.brg-> atefan - 10 :19 PX 31 p 12 s _[Pwd: The Convent, as zhis a ' Date : Thu, 12 Mar 1998 22 : 19 :32 -0800 From: Stefan <spavlenk@PACBELL.NET> Reply-To: spavlenk@PACBELL.NET To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : [Fwd: The Convent, pass this along. ] Content-Disposition: inline X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Return-Path: AGrant@igate . sprint .com Received: from mail-gw3 .pacbell .net (mail-gw3 .pacbell .net [206 . 13 . 28 . 551 ) by mail-sfl .pacbell .net (8 . 8 . 8/8 . 7 . 1) with ESMTP id OAA07628 for <spavlenk@chumash. snfc2l .pbi .net>; Thu, 12 Mar 1998 14 : 52 : 36 -0800 (PST) From: AGrant@igate . sprint . com Received: from sentry2 . fon. sprintcorp.com (firewall-user@cerberus2 . fon. sprintcorp.com [204 . 215 . 0 . 611 ) by mail-gw3 .pacbell .net (8 . 8 . 8/8 . 7 . 1+antispam) with ESMTP id OAA19838 for <spavlenk@pacbell .net>; Thu, 12 Mar 1998 14 : 52 : 35 -0800 (PST) Received: by sentry2 . fon. sprintcorp. com; id QAA27561; Thu, 12 Mar 1998 16 : 52 :33 -0600 (CST) Received: from fonkc28 . fon. sprintcorp.com(144 . 223 . 19 . 54) by sentry2 . fon. sprintcorp. com via smap (3 . 2) id xma027542 ; Thu, 12 Mar 98 16 : 52 : 23 -0600 Received: FROM FONIMAIL. fonkc28 . fon. sprintcorp.com BY fonkc28 . fon. sprintcorp. com ; 12 Mar 98 16 : 52 : 22 CST Date : 12 Mar 98 16 : 52 : 37 CST Subject : The Convent, pass this along. To: spavlenk@pacbell .net Message-ID: <00OOnzpzjfht .H000108902bb1818@igate . sprint .com> Miss Ann Grant 1300 Patricia Dr. , #814 San Antonio, TX 78213 March 12 , 1998 Ms . Betsy Crowder, President of the Board of Directors, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, 330 Distel Circle, Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Dear President Crowder: The news of your organization' s plans to condemn the property belonging to the Sisters of Our Lady of Vladimir Russian Convent in San Francisco has reached all the way to Texas . And so has the outrage . I hope you ' re proud of yourselves . The fact that the sisters bought the property in 1996 and have been going through the proper channels obtaining the proper approvals for their plans, only to have you express concern at this late hour, only makes me wonder who else is interested in this property. Will we �Printed for Malcol_m -Smit-h <mrosd0openspace.org> 1 Stefan, 10 :19 PM 3/12, s [Pwd: The Convent, paL .:his a hear a year or two from now that the land has been rezoned and sold to a developer who plans to build a new mall? After all, the land surrounding the future site of the convent it already developed. What ' s one more mall? It smacks of dirty dealings and religious persecution to me . Considering the nuns are willing to put aside 900 of the land, that they rightfully bought, for public use, I should think MROSD would be pleased and leave them alone . To force the nuns to sell their land is folly and an unnecessary waste of taxpayers money. Wouldn' t it make more sense to let the nuns own the land and develop the paths for public use? If you took this route the open spaces would probably be better maintained and develop quicker than if city services were to take on the project . Tell me, how much property does MROSD already own that it has not yet made accessible to the public? When did it promise to have that land developed? I am shocked to learn that something as outrageous as the seizer of the property of some harmless nuns could take place in a supposedly enlightened state such as California. And even more so here in America, where freedom of religion is one of our rights . If the idea of wasting taxpayers money and religious persecution doesn' t give you pause, then the fact that by this action you are standing up to be counted along with the oppressive communist governments of the Soviet Union and China should. I hope you will reconsider your stand and allow the Sisters of Our Lady of Vladimir Russian Convent to proceed with their plans unmolested. Sincerely yours, [PICTURE] Ann Grant Printed for Malcolm Smi-th <mrosd@openspace.org> 2 i Marc &/or Bobbie I Wi, . .24 PM 3/-11/98 , rnjustice .i Northern Ga-1 forn Reply-To: <mbwilson@cyberport . com> From: "Marc &/or Bobbie Wilson" <mbwilson@cyberport . com> To: <MROSD@openspace .org> Subject : Injustice in Northern California-Convent Date : Wed, 11 Mar 1998 18 :24 : 56 -0000 X-MSMail-Priority: Normal X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org I am forwarding this e-mail message to MROSD to make you aware of my support for the sisterhood and their convent and to emphasize that I agree with the position and concerns of the attached e-mail message which I have forwarded to you. Respectfully, Marc D. Wilson > From: orthodoxy-errors@lists .best . com > To: orthodoxy@lists .best . com > Subject : Digest orthodoxy.v001 .n142 > Date : Wednesday, March 11, 1998 5 : 00 PM > > -------------- BEGIN orthodoxy.v001 .n142 -------------- > 001 - Jbobroff <Jbobroff@aol . co - Injustice in Northern California - Convent > *** Orthodoxy Mailing List Digest *** > --------------- MESSAGE orthodoxy.v001 .n142 . 1 --------------- > From: Jbobroff <Jbobroff@aol .com> > Subject : Injustice in Northern California - Convent > Date : Tue, 10 Mar 1998 11 : 16 :34 EST > MIME-Version: 1 . 0 > Content-Type : text/plain; charset=US-ASCII > Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit > > Hello, > Can you please post this . > Thank you, > Dimitry Bobroff > The sisters of the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir in San Francisco > need your help in rectifying a grave injustice . > In 1996, they purchased 280 acres of open land off Skyline Boulevard in > Woodside, California in order to build a new facility. Prior to purchase, the > Convent met with the San Mateo Planning Department, the Committee for Green iPr nted- for Malcolm -Smith <mrosa@openspace.org> 1 ............ i I Marc &joIr Bobbie Wi, 24 PM 3/11/98 , Injustice .1 Northern Calif orn > Foothills and others to determine the feasibility of their plans . Tentative > approval was given. > Neighbors, who fear loss of their own non-authorized use of this property, > have opposed any construction on the site. They interested the Midpeninsula > Regional Open Space District to purchase the land. > The sisters had searched for ten years for a proper site to build their > convent so naturally, they have no interest in selling this land to MROSD. > They have made many concessions to the environmental agency, including placing > 90 percent of the property into permanent open space, planting trees and > bushes to screen the buildings from direct ridgetop exposure, and > accommodating the Bay Area Ridge Trail should that become necessary. > The MROSD is not budging. They have publicly stated they will condemn the > property, exercising the power of eminent domain, despite the fact that this > action would circumvent the San Mateo County Planning Commission. Because the > MROSD answers to no local or state agency, they are not concerned about > abusing their power. > > It ' s ironic that the Convent is facing the loss of their land in the United > States, after losing their property three times in the past, once in the > Soviet Union and twice in China. > Please help by e-mailing your support for the Convent before March 18 to Betsy > Crowder, President of the Board, at MROSD@openspace .org If you can attend the > meeting on March 18 at 7 :30 p.m. , that would be even better. The district > office is located at 330 Distel Circle, just off El Camino Real in Los Altos, > California. 7 > ------------ --- END orthodoxy.v001 .n142 --------------- > Please contact orthodoxy-owner@lists .best . com to report > errors an d if you have questions . Printed for Malcolm -Smith <mrosd@6penspace.org> 2 � I i I Malcolm Smith, 07:1 3111/98 RU96'1A 0�2TR0-1)G_ MNVENT Cfwd) - ___ Date : Wed, 11 Mar 1998 19 : 18 :27 -0800 (PST) From: Malcolm Smith <mrosd@netcom. com> Subject : RUSSIAN ORTHODOX CONVENT (fwd) To: mrosd@openspace.org X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org mrosd@netcom. com ---------- Forwarded message ---------- Date : Mon, 9 Mar 1998 19 : 06 : 15 -0800 From: Terri Molakides <molakides@email .msn. com> To : mrosd@netcom.com Subject : RUSSIAN ORTHODOX CONVENT Dear Ms . Crowder, As a long time Kings Mountain resident, I would like to register my extreme opposition to the MROSD using their power of eminent domain against the nuns of the Russian Orthodox Church. Those women have a right to the property and have been persecuted long enough. I have reviewed the plans for the property and their plans are considerate of the Open Space as well as their neighbors . Neither do I want MROSD to start the precedent of acquiring our property through this process . I will not support any member of the board who supports the eminent domain process . Terri Molakides 13662 Skyline Blvd. Woodside, CA 94062 (Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@6penspace.org> ] i j Steffan, b9 :43_PM 3%=1, s ussian _onvent Date : Wed, 11 Mar 1998 21 :43 : 15 -0800 From: Stefan <spavlenk@pacbell .net> Reply-To: spavlenk@pacbell .net To: mrosd@openspace .org CC: AGrant@igate . sprint . com, Bogoslovski <Bogofaml23@aol . com>, ariel@best . com, DEACONAK@aol .com, Dmitri Zhukov <irapm@cityline . ru>, "Gan,Vadim" <Vadim.Gan@Grubb-Ellis . com>, Irene Lodvick <lodvick@shcowell .org>, ecoleweb@evansville .edu, nschid@phoenix. Princeton.EDU, oleg@ix.netcom.com, t-day@usa.net, spavlenk@pacbell .net, ginn@Redsite .REDLAB.Ru, Vova@aol . com, wjbll@earthlink.net, yuric@genesyslab. com Subject : Russian Convent X-Rcpt-To : mrosd@openspace .org Ms . Betsy Crowder, President of the Board of Directors, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, 330 Distel Circle, Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Wednesday, March 11, 1998 Dear President Crowder: I write to you as the Rector of the Orthodox Church of All Russian Saints a parish of the Western American and San Francisco Diocese of the Russian Orthodox Church Abroad. Most of my parishioners are of Russian decent having come to American to find a peaceful haven to live freely and worship in the way that we feel is correct . Our parents and grandparents fled the totalitarian regimes of the militantly atheistic communist soviet system. Their properties had been taken away from them by the laws of that government . The Churches and Monasteries were destroyed or turned into "public" facilities for the better use of the masses . Our Convent of the Holy Virgin of Saint Vladimir had an original sisterhood in Russia that fled to China. Both these countries had their governments taken over by the communists and twice the nuns took what could be carried, and fled for their lives . They settled eventually in the city of San Francisco. While the city life in San Francisco had for decades been fairly tranquil it the sisters tolerated the surrounding municipal bustle . But in the continuing development of inner city complications they found that it was necessary for them to relocate . They bought property on which they hoped to build a new quiet home . And now an independent and arbitrary government office -Mid-Peninsula Regional Open-Space District is planning on condemning it, making it impossible to fulfill their dream. They have made many very magnanimous concessions to the open space and environmental interest groups, giving up large portions of their property and constricting their personal rights and needs . Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosdt(openspace.org> 1 I Stefan, 69 :43 tefan,_09 :43 PM 3/11, Russian Convent- They are using a small section of the land for their needed buildings; they are willing to give up part of the property and to allow passage and access in other certain areas; they are hiding their buildings behind slopes and tree lines; they moved the whole placement of the convent in an inconvenient position for themselves; they have decreased the size of their buildings (cramping the already tight layout) . They have in detail disclosed their activities to the curious and distrustful detractors . They have done all the above . What is being done for them? Is their no compromise no exception in this unique and special circumstance? Fairness to ALL parties involved must be the guideline by which such cases are arbitrated. Those opposing the Convent have set demand upon demand and the Convent has responded in a positive way every time it could. They have shown their good faith in this matter. You, Ms . Betsy Crowder, are the President of the Board of Directors of Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District and you can show the Convent the fair and just judgment that the public trusts that you have . Respectfully, Archpriest Stefan Pavlenko �Printed for Malcolm Smith <xwrosd@ope_n_ space.org> A-11-Mercifu-1 Saviouu :28 -fit 3/11/98 , Injustice .1- I40rthern Ca11forn Date : Wed, 11 Mar 1998 09 :28 : 59 -0800 To: MROSD@openspace .org From: All-Merciful Saviour Monastery <asrom@earthlink.net> Subject : Injustice in Northern California X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Dear Betsy Crowder, I am writing to you regarding the terrible injustice being perpetrated on the nuns of the Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir in San Francisco, an injustice being committed by none other than an organization that purports to protect open spaces . These nuns have suffered twice before, losing their land and convent because of communist governmental takeovers . To have the same thing happen again, in the very land wherein they sought freedom, is beyond comprehension! ! I am the abbot of a monastery on Vashon Island, in the Puget Sound, near Seattle . I 've been personally involved in the protection of open spaces and other environmental concerns for many years . Being an avid hiker, I am very well aware of the need to conserve open spaces . Yet, to take land away from these nuns, whose convent would affect only a very small portion of their land, all in the name of open space preservation, is an injustice that is beyond my comprehension. Please, leave them to their holy work. Do not give a bad name to the conservation movement by taking these nun' s little portion! Please reconsider. I plan to attend the hearing that is coming up, believing that this is an injustice about to happen that needs public attention. I will stand with my sisters in this matter! I see very little difference between what you are about to do, and the notice our monastery received from the Starbucks Corporation (we operate a gourmet coffee mail order business) , just before Christmas, telling us we were in violation of copyright laws for selling a "Christmas Blend, " a phrase they' d trademarked. We stood firm, and the public took our side in a BIG WAY! I believe the story of these nuns plight to be just as big a story for the media. As with Starbucks, you seem to have the law on your side, but I doubt very much the public, once they hear the story, will stand with you. It is only natural that the neighbors to this property, given their free access to open spaces not their own, are with you. Yet I wonder, what were these people thinking when they built on their land? Was it not also open space at the time? Haven' t these nuns already agreed to hand over ninety percent of their land for open space? Now they g can' t even build on the remaining ten percent because your organization is prepared to condemn it or force a sale? Give me a break! Ten percent of 280 acres is a small portion of a very large parcel . How many other property owners would agree to give over 90 percent of THEIR property to be used publicly? You should be thankful the land wasn' t purchased by the likes of Starbucks or Microsoft, then you' d really have a fight on your hands, and with corporations that would not be so inclined to cooperate with you. Please, reconsider. Give the nuns the break that communist forces did not give them. Abbot Tryphon All-Merciful Saviour Monastery PO Box 2420 Vashon Island, WA 98070-2420 (Printed-for-Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 I CFMJM, 1224 PM 3/26/9b convent - From: CFMJM <CFMJM@aol .com> Date : Thu, 26 Mar 1998 12 : 24 : 20 EST To: mrosd@openspace .org Cc : CFMJM@aol . com Subject : convent X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org I cannot believe you would treat good people so disdainfully. Please try to do the right thing and let these nuns have their convent where they want it . Its painfully obvious that the power of boards like yours should be curbed by our elected officials . Sincerely Frank Nuno Printed for- Malcolm Smith <mrosdoopenepace.org> 1 I ed in folsom, 10 :16 Aft _,, 25/98 nuns - Date : Thu, 26 Mar 1998 10 : 16 : 38 -0800 From: edwin folsom <eddief@ix.netcom.com> To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : nuns X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Dear Ms . Crowder, I just sent you an email expressing my outrage over the actions of the MROSD. After rereadingm note to you, I must confess to you that m Y Y Y Y note was rude . Please accept my apology for overstepping the bounds of polite discourse. If I were in your shoes right now, I would not appreciate being yelled at, either over the email or in person. I should not need to do that in order to communicate the strength of my feelings . If you can overlook the tone of my previous note, I hope you can still see how the recent actions of the MROSD cannot be condoned. Public institutions must exercise extreme care in not stepping on individual citizens whom they serve . It is my hope that you can weather the critism of the public, including my emotional outburst, and after the dust settles, reconsider your actions and then do the right thing. Once again, I apologize for being rude. I violated my own rule to talk to people as if they were family. I meant no personal disrespect . Sincerely, Edwin Folsom I printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspaee.org> 1 edwin Folsom, 09 :3-9 AM _i26/9-8 convent Date : Thu, 26 Mar 1998 09 : 39 : 14 -0800 From: edwin Folsom <eddief@ix.netcom. com> To : mrosd@openspace .org Subject : convent X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Dear Ms . Crowder, After reading of the plight of the nuns from the Russian Orthodox Church and the crisis they find themselves in due to the actions of the MSROD, I have a number of comments for you: - first, I think the actions of the MSROD are incredibly arrogant and anti-american. Who do you people think you are? Dictators? Your actions put you in the same infamous company of the Russian and Chinese Communists . Is that company that you welcome? -second, do you realize that your actions, if succesful, will cost the taxpayers over 1 million dollars, whereas if you would work with the nuns, the MSROD could gain 90 percent of the land at no cost ! To the average citizen it looks like you people have acted either incompetantly in the exercise of the public duty and trust you have been given, or perhaps . . . . . could there be something unethical or worse going on here? Perhaps we need to notify the authorities and have them investigate this mess . -third, I wonder who lives next to where the nun' s property is located and what connection they have to the MSROD? -last but not least, no matter what the outcome of this dispute, of which I have no personal interest, other than the cause of simple justice for a handful of old nuns, you and the other members of the MSROD have inspired me to action to get involved with the political efforts to pass legislation which will put some accountability and balance back into the MSROD. -was this what you expected would happen as a result of your acti ons? Looks to me like Y J you folks just shot ourselves in the foot . Y Have a nice day. Edwin Folsom P.S . I would love to hear what you have to say in defense of the actions of the MSROD. _ - m th <mrosdCto >ens ace.or - l i,Prin�ed for Malcolm S p p g Unprivileged user,-- PM 3/25/98 Feedback FOr. -- _ I Date : Wed, 25 Mar 1998 23 : 27 : 31 -0800 (PST) From: Unprivileged user <nobody@best .com> Reply-to: ffleck@aol .com Subject : Feedback Form name = Frank Fleck organization = email = ffleck@aol . com comments = I 'm so glad to hear that those in higher places with-in our governing bodies have come to the aid of those nuns in San francisco. It ' s too bad that you guys choose to abuse your powers . Its also too bad that your neighbors are such "snobs" . If they are so into "preserving" the open spaces, why don' t they give their land away to the district . zipcode = 94107 age = 30to40 specialneeds = ethnic = knowMROSD = yes frequency = 1perweek frequency = other = news = on wordofmouth = on other = mailto = mrosd@openspace .org subject = MROSD Web Site Feedback mrosdconfirm_url = http: /www.openspace.org/mrosdconfirm.html required_fields = name email formatted_fields = email=email format_username = mrosd format filename = format . fmt ----------------------------------------------- Printed for Malcolm -gmith <mrosd@-(openspace.org> I mrpetep, 0_7:09 "_3/2 Convent Reply-To: <mrpetep@cyberdude . com> From: "mrpetep" <mrpetep@cyberdude . com> To: <mrosd@openspace .org> Subject : Convent Date : Thu, 26 Mar 1998 07 : 08 : 31 -0500 X-MSMail-Priority: Normal X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Greetings, I was reading about the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir in San Francisco. As I understand it, it seems they purchased some land to build a new convent . Why can' t they? I guess I don' t understand the situation. Maybe you could help. Thanks, Peter A. Petrowich 'Printed for- Malcolm Smith -mrosd@openspace.org> 1 i Daniel Lieuwen, 07 :59 3J26198 Convent of Our _ Ay of Vladami Date : Thu, 26 Mar 1998 07 : 59 : 06 -0500 (EST) From: Daniel Lieuwen <lieuwen@research.bell-labs . com> To: MROSD@openspace .org Subject : Convent of Our Lady of Vladamir X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org I am deeply disappointed by your decision with regard to the convent . They would be good neighbors and good for the environment---monastics, particularly nuns, produce gorgeous grounds . Furthermore, they are willing to leave 900-. of the land as open space or even to sell 60% of the land at a significant loss for open space . They are being extremely cooperative, and this should not go unnoticed. It is also unjust to force them to continue living for years in the dangerous section of San Francisco they currently live in. I was warned when visiting of what colors not to wear, lest I run grave risk of being hurt due to the gang warfare . Is that a place where old ladies (most of them over 80) should be forced to live out the rest of their lives? Please revisit the decision and let the nuns move to where they can both be good neighbors and have good neighbors . Sincerely yours, Daniel Lieuwen, Ph.D. Printed for--Xalcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> l Rev. Richard M. Zel, 0. . .,1 AM 3/26/98 (no subJec. . Date : Thu, 26 Mar 1998 07 : 01 : 08 -0600 From: "Rev. Richard M. Zelonis" <piusopn@execpc .com> Reply-To: piusopn@execpc . com To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : (no subject) X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Sirs, For the sake of American justice, truth and freedom, it is necessary for your organization to cease its persecution of these women of the Convent of our Lady of St . Valdimer. What you are attempting to do is, at the bottom line, steal under cover of "law" that which belongs to another. Cease and desist in the name of Freedom! Fr. Richard Zelonis I I I i ;Printed- for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 I Charles Erlandsen, -08 U. A 3/2�J98 No Subject From: K4HPV@a-o.com (Charles Erlandsen) To: <mrosd@openspace .org> Date : Thu, 26 Mar 1998 08 : 07 : 20 -0000 X-MSMail-Priority: Normal X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org I have read the information concerning the plight of the Nuns, I urge you to do all possible to allow them to keep that which they have, this situation reads like another stupid power grab by a group out of control . While I am not of Cathilic faith,my sympathy is with the sisters and the hell they have gone thru in Russia China and now here is repulsive. C. F.Erlandsen I I Printed—for Malcolm-....Smith <mrosMopenspace.org> l Blaydoe Marc, 11:00 AM .,/26/98 Our Lady of Vladiu, Monastery Date : Thu, 26 Mar 1998 11 : 00 :22 -0500 From: "Blaydoe Marc" <Blaydoe_Marc@bah.com> Reply-To: blaydoe_marc@bah.com Organization: Booz Allen & Hamilton To: MROSD@openspace .org Subject : Our Lady of Vladimir Monastery X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org It was with great disappointment and dismay that I learned of your recent actions against the Monastery of Our Lady of Vladimir. Rest assured, this unconscionable act of persecution is receiving a great deal of publicity throughout the Internet . Your callous disregard and hypocracy will not go unacknowledged. Please reconsider you heinous action, and allow these poor persecuted women to be the proper custodians of the land that is rightfully theirs . Marc Blaydoe Printed for Malcolm -Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> PH91 , 12 s 18 PM 3/2 6 f9 b MAOSD From: PHRII <PHRII@aol .com> Date : Thu, 26 Mar 1998 12 : 13 :41 EST To: bos*mnevin@smtpgate .co. sanmateo. ca.us Cc : MROSD@openspace .org Subject : MROSD X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Mr Mike Nevin San Mateo County Board of Supervisors Dear Mr Nevin I am writing from Pennsylvania to express my support for the nuns of Our Lady of Vladimir relative to ther current altercation with the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (MROSD) . Because of what appears to be an abuse of the principle of eminent domain on the part of the latter body, I urge that the San Mateo Board of County Supervisors investigate why the permits of its own Planning Commission have been dismissed by the MROSD. Sincerely, Patrick Henry Reardon Sewickley, Pennsylvania Printed- for Malcolm Smith <mrosditpenspace.org> 1 I Daniel Lieuwen, 01s20 _A 3/10/9� Convent of our _ady of 'CT-lada -i Date : Tue, 10 Mar 1998 13 :20 :26 -0500 (EST) From: Daniel Lieuwen <lieuwen@research.bell-labs .com> To: MROSD@openspace .org Subject : Convent of our Lady of Vladamir X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org It is unjust to interfere with a group of old nuns building a safe place for themselves to live . They have made ample environmental concessions already. The plan to condemn the property will force them to stay in the same unsafe neighborhood they have been in for years . I have visited. They are afraid to open the door, even in the day. The only way I got in was because I had called ahead. To force 80+ year old women to live there is unconscionable . However, it may take them many years to find another appropriate site . Please treat them with justice. Sincerely yours, Dr. Daniel Lieuwen (Printed for Malcom-Smith <xnrosdfopenepace.org> 1 -R FrJSilver, 03-:29 PM 3, _j/98 Monastery in Woods-1 From: FrJSilver <FrJSilver@aol . com> Date : Tue, 10 Mar 1998 15 :29 :41 EST To: MROSD@openspace.org Subject : Monastery in Woodside X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Betsy Crowder, President of the Board Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos CA 10 March 1998 Dear President Crowder: I have been following the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District ' s handling of the matter of the Monastery of Our Lady of Vladimir' s relocation from San Francisco to property purchased by the Monastery for that purpose in Woodside. It is clear that the District is unsympathetic to the nuns ' plans to build their new monastery, in spite of prior conditional approvals of the project by the San Mateo Planning Department and the Committee for Green Foothills . It appears that others with their various proprietary and esthetic concerns have influenced the District ' s opinions so that you are now considering taking the nuns ' property by a misapplication of the principle of eminent domain. I certainly hope that you remain open to a few more ideas before you reach your final decision. While I am not privy to all the issues and interests which would use the nuns ' property any differently than they would themselves, left to their own designs, the nuns have made significant theoretical concessions in environmental matters . This is important for two reasons : first, it suggests that those who raised objections to the nuns ' possible uses of the land found it important to safeguard the objects of their concern by obtaining assurances and representations from the nuns, which were indeed forthcoming. But second, and probably more significantly, it suggests that the neighbors , are p Y g Y� gg g largely unaware of th e usual beneficial g fi ial effects of monastic land management . As an example of this second and very important point, I would direct your attention to Mt Athos, the monastic republic which has existed on a peninsula in northeastern Greece for more than a thousand years . In addition to the (Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@o-pern.space.org> 1 - Fragi-1ver, G3_:_ 29_ PX__3, _J/_99_ -Monastery in Woods-I vast spiritual and cultural resources of the 'Holy Mountain' , as it is known among orthodox Christians, Athos is also the only area of Greece which was not completely deforested during the centuries of Turkish Muslim oppression of the Christians in the Balkans . The European lion was last seen in Athos just a little more than a century ago. These few examples are not unique in orthodox monasticism, nor in orthodox Christianity as a whole . Members of your Board would do well to visit some of our monastic communities, whether in the United States or elsewhere, to gain some sense of the absurdity of claims that the nuns ' presence in Woodside would be anything less than a blessing to the natural environment . I suspect that there are other, less ecological and more financial, interests at work here, whether from the perspective of the market value of surrounding properties, or of licenses, concessions and the creation of amenities for campers and tourists . All these things can be worked out if they are discussed honestly and openly, but please don' t stoop to accusing the nuns of violating the natural ecology of the place as an excuse to dislodge them from their property. I wish you well in your meeting on 18 March, and I hope that ethics and simple justice will prevail over the ignoble self-interest of people who would deprive the Monastery of its property for the third time in its humble existence . The world will be watching. Sincerely, Monk James Father James Silver Apt 2 1 Victor Street Lodi NJ 07644-2522 phone 973-471-9420 fax 973-471-0331 e-mail <FrJSilver@AOL. com> IPrinted--for -Malcolm Smi:Lth <33irosdOop—enspace.6r95___ --Z-- Steve Parsons, 61 62 _ _ 3 10798 TIC P0RT convent .n Woodside, C Date : Tue, 10 Mar 1998 13 : 02 : 22 -0800 From: Steve Parsons <steveparsons@geocities .com> Reply-To: steveparsons@geocities .com To: MROSD@openspace .org Subject : SUPPORT Convent in Woodside, CA X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Dear Ms . Crowder, I support the efforts of the sisters of the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir to build their new facility off Skyline Boulevard near Woodside . What use could be more compatible with open space than to house those who are devoted to the Creator of the space? Why oppose and deny those who respect deeply the creation, and who will care for it well? These nuns have been through great turmoil, having lost their land to both the fanatic Soviet Union and the fanatic People ' s Republic of China. Are we to inflict yet another wound upon them -- and become fanatics in the process? No, I say. Let sanity, goodwill, and reason prevail . Stop the opposition to their project . Steve Parsons Los Gatos, CA Printed_ for Malcolm Smith <mrosd6openspace.org> 1 CAMPBELL,ROY LTC (D, - :D$ -phi 3 fl O J98 Convent _i ovation From: "CAMPBELL, ROY LTC (DEPUTY FIRE SUPPORT COORDINATOR) " <FSEDFSCORD@HQ. C5 .ARMY.MIL> To: " 'mrosd@openspace .org l " <mrosd@openspace .org> Subject : Convent relocation Date : Tue, 10 Mar 1998 23 : 08 : 03 +0100 X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Dear Officials of MROSD, I am writing on behalf of the Orthodox nuns from SF. Please help them to find a solution acceptable to all parties concerned as they endeavor to build their new convent . Without question, you will be doing a service well-pleasing to God if you can assist this group of nuns to realize their goal of building a holy place in your community. As a graduate of Stanford in 1989 (M.A. in Russian History) , I came to recognize the sanctity of this sisterhood, and I pray to God that you will succeed in this difficult situation. Thank you for your consideration of this important matter. Respectfully, Roy Campbell, US Army Lieutenant Colonel, Heidelberg, Germany 2'rinted- for Malcolm Smitlz <mrosd@openspace.org> l I 03 38 �__ 3/10/98 Russian Convent ro-bert peters, _n Woodside, C From: "robert peters" <hoodpeters@worldnet . att .net> To: <MROSD@openspace .org> Subject : Russian Convent in Woodside, CA Date : Tue, 10 Mar 1998 15 : 38 :44 -0500 X-MSMail-Priority: Normal X-MimeOLE: Produced By Microsoft MimeOLE V4 . 71 . 1712 . 3 X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org March 10, 1998 Dear Ms . Crowder, I am writing to you in support of the building of a Russian Orthodox convent on their land in Woodside . I am not completely informed as to why there would be an objection to having the sisters there . Historically, monasteries and convents have been built in isolated areas (the quiet and solitude are conducive to prayer) and have been stewards of the environment entrusted to their care . I believe that if your organization sought an understanding with the sisters as to what was their goal for the property, and if assurances and contracts could be reached which would satisfy all parties, this would be in the best interest of all . It would be a blessing on your community to have a Russian Orthodox convent within its boundaries . Sincerely - John Peters i Printed for Malcolm .Smith <mrosdgopenspac-e.org> l Alejandro Tkaczevsk, AlPM 3/10/98 Convent c. Skyline X-Sender: alext@fujitsui . fujitsu.com Date : Tue, 10 Mar 1998 14 :41 : 57 -0800 To: mrosd@openspace .org From: Alejandro Tkaczevski <alext@fii . fujitsu. com> Subject : Convent off Skyline X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Betsy Crowder, President of the Board of Directors, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, 330 Distel Circle, Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 March 10, 1998 Dear President Crowder: Just last Sunday I had a chance to enjoy the fruits of your labors at the Windy Hill Open Space Preserve . It was a pleasure to allow our children to run around and hike without the constraints of the urban environment . My impression was that your organization is dedicated to the improvement of life in the Bay Area. I was therefore quite surprised and confused by the news that you are attempting to forcibly take land away from an organization that more than shares your love of God' s creation and its dedication to the spiritual uplifting of all people . I am referring to the proposed Russian Orthodox Christian convent off Skyline Boulevard just south of Rt . 92 . As you know, the land was purchased with cooperation with San Mateo authorities and development plans were disclosed without hesitation. Yet you threatening to destroy the project at taxpayers ' expense . In your own documentation you state : "The power of eminent domain will be used only in those instances where all reasonable attempts at voluntary negotiations fail and the parcel in question is central to the open space program of the District . Any contemplated condemnation action will include a full public hearing. As in all condemnation procedures, fair market value as decided by a jury and based on adequate appraisals will be paid by the District . " Negotiations and proposals have been reasonable . At no cost to the tax payer, 90% of the convent property will be available to citizens to enjoy the beautiful views that the affords . There is no reason whythe property convent needs to provide such a generous offer. The land is rightfully owned by a legal organization. Your organization' s unwillingness to accept this extremely generous offer makes any reasonable person think that you may have a hidden agenda. Please do not cast doubt on the benevolence of your organization, and allow this project to continue without further delay. If you have the power to condemn any property for any capricious reason, what good are our American rights? How are we protected from the authoritarian power of government? I do hope that you will put this matter to rest in the next public hearing, Printed -for-Malcolm Smith <mrosMopenspace.org> 1 Alejandro--Tkac- z- ev- -sk—, .41 11 PM 3110[98 -,- Cafixefi-to- . -Skyline and vote to let the land remain in the hands of the current owners . Sincerely yours, Dr. Alejandro Tkaczevski 331 20th Ave . , #2 San Francisco, CA 94121 tka@ccrma. stanford.edu 415-752-3265 (Printed-for Malcolm- Smith <m- &sd@open-space.&-r-g>- 2- ------------ N ' BRENDAN NICHOLS, 1. j6 Ply 3/10/98 Convent vs OSD To: Jbobroff@aol .com, MROSD@openspace .org Cc : deanel3@gte .net Subject : Convent vs MROSD References : <199803101655 . IAA22510@listsl .best .com> X-Juno-Line-Breaks : 0-1, 15-16, 30-31, 37-108 From: mbrendannichols@juno.com (M BRENDAN NICHOLS) Date : Tue, 10 Mar 1998 22 : 56 :44 EST X-Rcpt-To : mrosd@openspace.org To : Betsy Crowder, President of the MROSD Board, I cannot say that I know all sides of this subject, for I do not, but I do know the audacity of County officials and others who seem to think that they are somehow wiser and far more intelligent once they are in a position of power than those for whom they yield that power. It is a version of the social disease of Anonymity which people in large cities acquire, which renders them senseless of their responsibility to their fellow citizens and neighbors . I have been a victim of this kind of arrogance, as we fought our county to place our home on our farm for three years--the whole time having all the clearance and authorization necessary, and eventually having three separate files in three separate cabinets, each giving authorization, before we were finally able to use our own property for our own home. All we got at the end was a thrown back head and an eye roll at the incompetence, by the guy who was finally helping us . If, as it seems from the information I have received below, that this same arrogation of the rights of the persons who have bought the land rightfully and have jumped through all of the hoops and even granted utterly outrageous concessions to flagrant trespassers is the case yet again, please, in the name of all that America stands for, if it cannot be in the Name of God because of separation of Church and State, put an end to this sham of pseudo-justice and give back to the land owners their full rights to do as they will with their own property. I put my life on the line, was run through with a rifle, declared dead three times, am missing 12 ' of intestines, was shot through the pelvis and thrown through the jungle, and paralyzed except from my elbows to my fingers by the trauma to my body for about nine months; all this, so that such tyrannical things could not happen in other countries : so that they could have what we enjoy in America--freedom and justice for all . Do not allow this travesty to continue . It is utterly unAmerican. Let those who would usurp this land, put their nickels together and buy their own space to play and gawk. I am appalled that this would even have been fabricated as true : that it could be happening here in America is totally unacceptable . Make sure that this does not go against the rightful landowners . Do what is correct . Sincerely, sDn Brendan Jefferson, Oregon On Tue, 10 Mar 1998 11 : 16 : 34 EST Jbobroff <Jbobroff@aol . com> writes : >Hello, >Can you please post this . �Prnte3 for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> �. � M m B7REND NICHOLS, 1-- _ )6 Pbf 3j10J98 Convent vs AOSD > >Thank you, >Dimitry Bobroff >The sisters of the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir in San >Francisco >need your help in rectifying a grave injustice . >In 1996, they purchased 280 acres of open land off Skyline Boulevard >in >Woodside, California in order to build a new facility. Prior to >purchase, the >Convent met with the San Mateo Planning Department, the Committee for >Green >Foothills and others to determine the feasibility of their plans . >Tentative >approval was given. > >Neighbors, who fear loss of their own non-authorized use of this >property, >have opposed any construction on the site . They interested the >Midpeninsula >Regional Open Space District to purchase the land. >The sisters had searched for ten years for a proper site to build >their >convent so naturally, they have no interest in selling this land to >MROSD. >They have made many concessions to the environmental agency, including >placing >90 percent of the property into permanent open space, planting trees >and >bushes to screen the buildings from direct ridgetop exposure, and >accommodating the Bay Area Ridge Trail should that become necessary. >The MROSD is not budging. They have publicly stated they will condemn >the >property, exercising the power of eminent domain, despite the fact >that this >action would circumvent the San Mateo County Planning Commission. >Because the >MROSD answers to no local or state agency, they are not concerned >about >abusing their power. >It ' s ironic that the Convent is facing the loss of their land in the >United >States, after losing their property three times in the past, once in >the >Soviet Union and twice in China. i>Please help by e-mailing your support for the Convent before March 18 >to Betsy >Crowder, President of the Board, at MROSD@openspace .org If you can >attend the Printed -for -Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> - 2 M .-8P-tENnAm- x1mon5t- 1-0.,6--PX3_/_1:0/98_ Convent v-s SSD - >meeting on March 18 at 7 : 30 p.m. , that would be even better. The >district >office is located at 330 Distel Circle, just off El Camino Real in Los >Altos, >California. You don' t need to buy Internet access to use free Internet e-mail . Get completely free e-mail from Juno at http: //www. juno. com Or call Juno at (800) 654-JUNO [654-58661 C :rknted for Malcolm Smith <mar&s_d@qp6n_ s;pace.org5 --Ca-r1- De--ckJe-r-,- 1-2 :17-AM -/-9/98--,-----P-I-oe-as--e- -s-t-o--p- your _position to Date : Mon, 9 Mar 1998 00 : 17 : 10 -0500 From: Carl Decker <cdecker@pol .net> To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Please stop your opposition to the Convent X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace.org I urge your organization to please stop your opposition to the Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir. Such places of prayer are a rarity in our modern society. They provide a place where the human soul reaches out to God and contemplates questions of great importance to all of us . Instead of opposing the Convent, consider their choice to locate in your area a blessing from God. Their existence will be a quiet one and the benefit to your community immeasurable . Sincerely, Carl W. Decker, MD cdecker@pol .net Printed -for Malcolm Smith mras-ftopenspace.--or--g> Bar ara hurray, 63 0'] __4 /3/38 U per space was of public fun Date : Mon, 9 Mar 98 05 : 07 :47 UT From: "Barbara Murray" <barbaramurray@classic .msn. com> To: mrosd@openspace .org Cc : dsmernoff@mail .arc .nasa.gov Subject : Open space waste of public funds X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org I have seen the TV news and read articles in the newspapers with regard to the plans of the Mid-Peninsula Open Space to condemn the rural property of the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir through eminent domain. What a waste of our tax money! What an insult to the belief of Americans of freedom from religious persecution! It is obvious that the nuns are willing to compromise by giving up 90% of their land to be used for the public . To condemn the property means going to court and spending money from a public that does not agree with this sort of irresponsible spending. Work out an agreement with the nuns and keep this out of the courts ! !Printecl for-Malcolm Smith <mro6dgopenspace.org> 1 I poluektov Sohn, 32 0-8 _ A 3%10/ 8 , Be nice to nun_ From: "Poluektov, John" <poluektov@paragraph.com> To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Be nice to nuns Date : Tue, 10 Mar 1998 00 : 08 : 14 -0800 X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace.org Folks, There is a thing called 'what comes around goes around. ' I strongly urge you act wisely, and stop your crusade to deprive the Orthodax Convent of their land. Judging by the name of your organization, your goal is to preserve open space . You can be assured that there is no single group of people that are more qualified to achieve this goal (preserving open space) than a group of nuns seeking seclusion. It would be satisfying to say "if you continue with your Crusade, you will be cursed with bad luck, including lightning strikes upon you and yours, tornados carrying your tomatos off to Kansas, severely stopped-up toilets, flat tires, and IRS audits . " But unfortunately (fortunately) these very same nuns (that you are trying to, essentially, do a reverse Robin Hood to) teach me to not wish such evil unto others . So I guess, I must must wish you happy vacations, a growing 401K plan, a fast Lexis and a good tax attourney instead. So have a nice day. johnP Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 SESushriel:l, 12 :30 PT3-�), _0j9-8 The Convent of Our dy of VIa From: SEBushnell <SEBushnell@aol .com> Date : Tue, 10 Mar 1998 12 : 30 : 16 EST To: MROSD@openspace.org Subject : The Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace.org Dear Ms . Crowder: I 'm a Californian concerned that the nuns of the Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir be treated fairly and well . It is a community of women that has suffered much in the past, and I do hope you can contribute to a healing resolution to their situation. Most cordially, Steven Bushnell, Ph.D. (Primed--or- Malcolm Smith �mrosdgope-nspace.org> I Cae-cbrio-n-two,­ 12-:32 Phi -0f9V-, San -Rateo and thethe .,vent- of 0 From: Caedmontwo <Caedmontwo@aol . com> Date : Tue, 10 Mar 1998 12 : 32 : 08 EST To: MROSD@openspace .org Subject : San Mateo and the Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir X-Rcpt-To : mrosd@openspace .org Dear Ms Crowder: I have just heard of Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District ' s deliberations to declare as eminent domain the property off Skyline Boulevard in Woodside, CA which has been purchased by the Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir with the intention of permanently placing their convent their. I am not in the habit of sending "support" letters so please forgive me if have the form wrong, but I would strongly urge and hope that you reconsider this action. The existence and activity of monasteries is very important to those Americans who share the Orthodox Christian faith with these nuns, and we look to the permanent settlement of these nuns, already driven from the Communist Soviet Union and China, in Northern California as both a wonderful thing for our faith, but also an affirmation of the religious freedom we of America are blessed with. I do not know what all your concerns for the land are, but frankly, I can think of no better caretakers of the environment or of historical value than Orthodox monastics . Sincerely, Troy Parsons Dallas, TX • The sisters had searched for ten years for a proper site to build their • convent so naturally, they have no interest in selling this land to MROSD. • They have made many concessions to the environmental agency, including • placing 90 percent of the property into permanent open space, planting • trees and bushes to screen the buildings from direct ridgetop exposure, and > accommodating the Bay Area Ridge Trail should that become necessary. > It ' s ironic that the Convent is facing the loss of their land in the United States, after > losing their property three times in the past, once in the Soviet Union and twice in > China. Printed—f or-Malcolm Smith- <IrkrosdWopenspace.org>- Blaydoe Marc, -12 .40- PL_ j/10/-98 -,-- Rus-sian-Convent Our Lady of Date : Tue, 10 Mar 1998 12 :40 : 07 -0500 From: "Blaydoe Marc" <Blaydoe-Marc@bah. com> Reply-To: blaydoe_marc@bah. com Organization: Booz Allen & Hamilton To: MROSD@openspace.org Subject : Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace.org To interested parties of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District . I hope and pray that you will leave the monastics at the Our Lady of Vladimir Convent in peace and allow them to build their monastery. They are the rightful owners of this property and I am sure that you are aware that they will be responsible custodians of the local environment . Any negative actions that take the land from these ladies are acts of persecution against people who want to do nothing more than serve God and their fellow human beings . These poor people have been persecuted enough by communists . Will you be responsible for showing the world that San Mateo is as bad a place for religion as China and the former Soviet Union? That capitalism is no more tolerant of religion than communism? Marc Blaydoe (301) 862-7073 Day (301) 870-8579 Eve auiia- Adkins-Kaufma, __420 AM _3/_6/98_ -_, __Our Sad- Vladimir- landholdi From: juliannak@webtv.net (Julia Adkins-Kaufmann) Date : Fri, 6 Mar 1998 11 : 20 : 26 -0800 To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Our Lady of Vladimir landholding X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org I am distressed and dismayed by what I have read in this morning' s SF Chronicle about the action that your organization is attempting to take against the sisters of Our Lady of Valdimir. According to what I have read, the sisters are willing to work with the district and designate a very large portion of their land as permanent open space . It would be churlish, and mean-spirited for the district to continue in this legal action against these women who are only seeking to make this land a tranquil and quiet place. To my mind, the placing of a convent and a chapel on this land can only add to its beauty and sacred qualities . Besides that if the district had wanted this land as part of some park, why didn' t you buy it fair and square when it was for sale only two years ago. I think you folks should back off with the heavy handed legal action and allow the sisters to keep their land and build their buildings, including the golden onion dome. Please keep me informed as to what action you decide to pursue in this matter. Julia 'Printed for Malcolm Smith- <_ mn:5sd@opensp_ace_.6ki4 Ray nosier, 08 :35 AM 3/20/ 8 , Open Space is Open Space Date : Fri, 20 Mar 1998 08 : 35 : 58 -1600 From: Ray Hosler <ray.hosler@nsc.com> Organization: National Semiconductor To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Open Space is Open Space X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org MROSD: I am not "outraged" by the board' s decision to restrict development of land on Skyline Ridge for a Russian Orthodox convent, as are some politicians . I support your action and you can be sure most people who voted for the creation of MROSD agency do too. Planet earth is a big place, with plenty of room for building a convent . Let ' s just not have it built on one of the most beautiful parcels of open space in the San Francisco Bay Area. That ' s why we voted for open space in the first place . I hope the board remains faithful to its charter to preserve open space for all to enjoy. Sincerely yours, Ray Hosler r Printed-for Malcolm Smith <mrosdgopenspace.org> 1 XT ,ngwin, 02 :27 pJ2ojg$ "nun' s land" From: MJAngwin <MJAngwin@aol . com> Date : Fri, 20 Mar 1998 14 :27 : 04 EST To: mrosd@openspace .org Cc : george@etak. com, cgk@montara. com (chuckkozak) , MJAngwin@aol .com Subject : "nun' s land" X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Dear people : Pete Siemens, Mary C. Davey, Jed Cyr, David T. Smernoff, Nonette G. Hanko, Kenneth C. Nitz of MROSD Thank you for your vote on what the press calls the "nun' s land" . It is clearly not an issue about where twelve 70-80-old nuns spend their declining years . In my opinion, new and huge chapels, onion domes, retreat houses, etc . are not designed primarily with the comfort of reclusive old people in mind. This development was a way for two church groups (Roman Catholic, who sold it, and Russian Orthodox, who bought it) to try to subvert the fact that the land was slated for acquisition by the MROSD, for all people ' s enjoyment . These entitites preferred to try hold this land as a noticeable skyline sanctuary for a few, by arranging a private land sale, despite the land' s status (MROSD had asked to buy it . ) If this development is built, the buildings and restrictions on public use will remain, and probably grow, after this particular set of older nuns have passed away. You voted the right way, and don' t let anybody tell you differently. If You had given in to pressure ( "poor old women, how very sad, just like what the communists did to them" ) you would have encouraged all sorts of cleverly designed private land deals on land already announced for MROSD acquisition. I wonder a bit about the "vision" thing, so to speak. To me, it is very Californian, and very beautiful, to see a skyline covered with trees . I fear for a skyline with competing steeples (Russian Orthodox, Jewish, Catholic, Protestant, large visible Buddhist Stupas . . . . . ) To me, that could be really sad: man competes with man in the religious manner, just as man competes with man in war and policy. Once we have one noticeable religious structure up there, I fear that more will follow. Let nature show our unity, instead. My name is Meredith Angwin, I live at 314 Third Street in Montara, and my phone is 650-728-2661 . Thank you very much. Meredith Angwin Printed for Walcolm Smith <mrosd(gopenspace.org> 1 i Todd McGee, 03:55 PM 3/20/98 Re: Land seizure on S-kyline X-Sender: scoop@pobox3 . stanford.edu Date : Fri, 20 Mar 1998 15 : 55 : 53 -0800 To: rhyolite@ix.netcom.com, romp@cycling.org From: Todd McGee <Todd.McGee@stanford.edu> Subject : Re : Land seizure on Skyline Cc : mtn-bike@goplay. com Sender: owner-romp@cyclery.com X-BulkFactor: 1000i XXXXXXXXXX X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace.org Art, I can certainly understand your sense of unfairness but let me ask you a question. Would your feelings be different if Nabisco wanted to build a commercial bakery on top of Skyline in such a location as to be visible from Half Moon Bay to the East Bay and everything in between? If this development was blocked would you be cursing the District or praising them? The point of this little exercise is this : MROSD was established to preserve Open Space from development . The fact that the people who wanted to establish a commercial development in this case were a bunch of sweet, non-threatening, long-suffering nuns is irrelevant . I certainly agree that it would have been FAR more prefereable for the Distrcct to have purchased the land FIRST, before the nuns got ownership, and avoided the whole "emminent domain" thing but that didn' t happen and it doesn' t change the fact that the residents of San Mateo and Santa Clara counties formed MROSD for the specific purpose of preventing development on the Skyline . If they had NOT acted to block this development they would have been ignoring the very problem that they were formed to address . Now before you start flaming at me, let me say that I feel very badly for the nuns . I wish they P could have found a lace in which to build their retreat and live their lives as they wish. And I hope they can find another place to build. But don' t blame the District for acting in the very fashion that they have been instructed to act . Nobody would be upset if they had just stopped a grocery store from being built on the Ridge, and if they' re h have to apply the same criteria to ALL commercial going to be fair they P Y g g Y P development, not just to the ones that they don' t like . I support the District and their policies or preserving Open Space . But that doesn' t mean that you have to like all of the things that come from those policies . Just my two cents - Todd McGee At 12 . 30 / / rhyolite@ix.netcom.com-0600 3 20 98 rh olite@ix.netcom.com wrote : >Folks, >I might love what the district does sometimes, but I pity the next person >who decides to purchase property and develop it in >the skyline area. >I 'm sorry but this is just wrong. That land had no significance to the >district prior to the Save Skyline Open Space grass >roots committee approached the district and said "Save us, we can' t do it >ourselves . " Printed- for -Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> I TodcI_ McGee, 0_3 :55-PM 3/20/38 Re: "rid seizure on Skyline >What a crock. >Art Todd McGee Scientific Advisor and Systems Developer - HighWire Press http: //highwire . stanford.edu/-tpmcgee (Pr_inteec for Malcolm Smith <mrosdgopenspace.org> 2 Dennis S Pedersen, O5 :O�PM 3/20-/98 Re: Land seizure on gkyline References : <1998320102613641@> Date : Fri, 20 Mar 1998 17 : 04 : 26 -0700 To: Todd McGee <Todd.McGee@stanford.edu>, rhyolite@ix.netcom. com, romp@cycling.org From: Dennis S Pedersen <dennisp@rahul .net> Subject : Re : Land seizure on Skyline Cc : mtn-bike@goplay. com Sender: owner-romp@cyclery.com X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org >>I might love what the district does sometimes, but I pity the next person >>who decides to purchase property and develop it in >>the skyline area. I wish _I_ could be one of those "victims" of eminent domain. . . those nuns got about a $300, 000 return on their approximately $1, 000 , 000 investment in less than one year! Sign me up! But seriously, this is a vivid example of the whole property rights issues that have been raised more and more over the last few years . It has got to be incredibly frustrating to have your plans for your own property thwarted by the government, especially when your plans are relatively benign as in this case . On the other hand, if enough people get hurt by the actions of a few (seven very elderly nuns in this case who probably won' t live much longer, but who would leave that area permanently developed in their wake) , then I feel that private property rights have been taken too far. In this case there are thousands of people who' d be likely to visit the park they' ll be opening on this property. Surely they have rights too. I 'm totally supportive of what MROSD is doing. I love to drive along Skyline instead of 280 when I have the time, not to mention riding or hiking the trails . Part of that enjoyment stems from the very low development of the land up there . The views are breathtaking, and I get bummed every time I catch a glimpse of a house up there . Sure, I ' d love to live in one of them, but I really can' t condone messing up the area just so more people can live up there . I don' t mean to come down too heavily on the side of the eminent domainers, it is after all a rather extreme measure and should be used with caution. But whenever I consider the issue, I 'm reminded of that park in the Sierras (forget the name) which has the remains of the largest living redwood trees ever recorded. The property they stood on was privately owned, and the owners decided it would be fun to be able to lay claim to having cut down the world' s largest tree . Which they promptly did. They sliced some of the trunk into chunks that they sold as souvenirs (marked with little signs that pointed to the tree ' s rings that coincided with the dates of historic events . . . birth of Christ, Magna Carta and the like) . You can see some of those slices still around, or at least similar ones at places like Big Basin. Most of the trunk is still lying where it fell . . . slowly rotting away. They then built a small dance hall on top of the stump. Another huge tree they stripped of its bark. They then carefully cut up the bark in sections and numbered them. This they then re-assembled for display at various public venues until the exhibit was destroyed by fire . Not a very sensible use of land rights I ' d guess . All we have now are the stumps and the dead trunks . I 've only been there once and I doubt I ' ll return. It was (Printed for (Malcolm Smith <mrosdWopenspace.org> I Dennis S Pedersen, 05iO_i�M 3_)`_ZO/9_ , Re: sand seizure on Skyline way too depressing. Granted, the nuns won' t be chopping down trees (well maybe a few) , but their convent would definitely mess up the views just that much more, and close the area to the rest of us . I look forward to riding in that park! Thanks MROSD! Dennis S Pedersen JPr nted for Malcolm Smi-th �mrosd@6penspace.or4> 2 Bob -Dow, 10 :59 AM 3/2O198 Good Decision on the Nunnery Date : Fri, 20 Mar 1998 10 : 59 : 28 -0800 From: Bob Dow <bdow@cisco. com> Reply-To: bdow@cisco. com Organization: Cisco Systems, Inc . To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Good Decision on the Nunnery X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org I support your decision to deny the proposed development by the Nuns. It is unfortunate PR, but you are taking the correct long view for our descendants . These are *very wealthy women* -- you ought to emphasize that in your PR efforts . They can choose virtually any place to settle for their remaining years, except in a preserve for our children. They could buy a big estate in Los Altos Hills, for instance, and they would be much closer to medical care . After they are gone, the monastery will undoubtedly become a conference center and the push for further development will begin again. You' re doing the right thing. Stick to your guns . Regards, Bob Dow printed for Malcolm--Smith <mrosdQopenspace.org> Andrew Nourse, 10 :26 PM 3/20/98 Re: Land seizure on Skyline X-Sender: andy-pythagoras@sanmateo0l .pop. internex.net Date : Fri, 20 Mar 1998 22 :26 : 15 -0800 To: ramp@cycling.org From: andy@pythagoras .org (Andrew Nourse) Subject : Re : Land seizure on Skyline References : <1998320102613641@> <v03007805bl38ad33e37a@ [206 . 61 . 225 . 851 > Sender: owner-romp@cyclery. com X-BulkFactor: 100% XXXXXXXXXX X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Way to go MidPen! ! To protect open space that is threatened by development is why the MROSD was created in the first place . At 12 : 30 PM 3/20/98, rhyolite@ix.netcom.com wrote : > That land had no significance to the district prior to the Save Skyline Open Space grass > roots committee approached the district and said "Save us, we can' t do it ourselves . " The land has long been on MROSD' s map of properties they hoped to obtain. The District had been in discussions with the Catholic church (the previous owner) which, as I understand it, had agreed to offer the property for sale to the District prior to selling it to anyone else, but did not do so. The land is a potential link for the Bay Area Ridge Trail, and it is close to Purisima O. S . P. and Burleigh Murray State Park. At 07 : 06 PM 3/20/98 -0700, npass@pacbell .net wrote : >I gotta say that I also feel for the nuns . Unlike the person who >thought about building a grocery store on the hill They will be getting at least $1, 000, 000 for the property (an appreciation of almost 50% in a year) . They can certainly buy another suitable property for that . >I thought about what would have happened if it had been a developer who wanted to build a >couple more multimillion dollar homes on the hill . Measure A and the Williamson Act would have prevented it . Those *should* have prevented it in this case, but the Board of Supervisors decided on their own that zoning and land-use laws did not apply to a church (A recent Supreme Court decision says otherwise) . > My guess is that no >one would have even brought it up to Mid Pen to buy the land to save the open space . True, but only because the county supervisors would not have approved it in the first place . (Printed-for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 I 10�� -P 3/20/98 e• Land seizure on line Sk Andrew �1'ourse, y >It would have been just a few more neighbors moving in. As A few neighbors and a set of buildings and parking lots big enough for a hotel. >most of the the original objections to the convent didn' t come from >those of us who use and enjoy the open space, but from the current >residents of the area Hi there. I am a current resident of the area AND one who uses and enjoys the open space on my mountain bike . > . It seems to me some of the concessions that the nuns were willing to >make - the build on a few acres of the land and reserve the rest Y P >including putting in public trails and allowing public access were pretty reasonable . They were not willing to concede at all on the *location* of their buildings, which they want to put on the ridgeline, where they would be as visible as they can make it . They want to build a big, ostentatious showcase for their religion, in hopes of expanding their order. If they were to succeed, they would want to build more and we know that the county government is unwilling to say "no" to them. If they fail and the order dies off, it would be sold off, and who knows what the land and the buildings would be used for then, or if any commitments about public access would be honored by whatever entity purchased it . It would probably turn into a hotel or some corporate retreat type place, with NO public access at all except for paying$$$$$ customers . >That would open up land that is currently privately held and inaccessible What MidPen is doing would open it all up, and it will STAY THAT WAY. The Tie-Dyed Side of the Force JPrined for Malcolm-Sm t-h <mrosd@openspace.org> I GVes Taylor-, 09 :45 PM 3/21/98 , Re: Land seizure on Skyline Date : Sat, 21 Mar 1998 21 :45 :43 -0800 From: Wes Taylor <twistdspokes@earthlink.net> Reply-To: twistdspokes@earthlink.net To: "PRICE, KENT" <PRICEK@pab27a. ssd. loral . com> CC: romp@cycling.org Subject : Re : Land seizure on Skyline References : <199803211937 .LAA29738@ssd. loral . com> Sender: owner-romp@cyclery.com X-BulkFactor: 100o XXXXXXXXXX X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org If it wasn' t for the organizations like Mid-Pen, you could right off riding or hiking in this area. Want to be like other metropolis areas with nothing but concrete and asphalt? Sometimes things like this happen even though they are controversial . But once the land is developed, the game is over. Never even a chance that we could get out there . If you don' t like Mid-pens managament, then run for a seat on their board or get active . Try to make a constructive difference . Sorry, just couldn' t let that one slide, Wes . PRICE, KENT wrote : > The Government owns 50% of California. Why do they need more? Your land > may be next . And we taxpayers have to make up for the lost tax revenue . > And pay for Mid Pen to do the upkeep on roads, and to drive around in > their trucks . And it may never be open for Mountain Bikers if the Sierra > Club complains enough. > > -----Original Message----- > From: npass [SMTP:npass@pacbell .net] > Sent : Friday, March 20, 1998 7 :20 PM > To: Dennis S Pedersen > Cc : Todd McGee; rhyolite; romp; mtn-bike > Subject : Re : Land seizure on Skyline > I gotta say that I also feel for the nuns . Unlike the person who > thought about building a grocery store on the hill I thought about what > would have happened if it had been a developer who wanted to build a > couple more multimillion dollar homes on the hill . My guess is that no > one would have even brought it up to Mid Pen to buy the land to save the > open space . It would have been just a few more neighbors moving in. As > most of the the original objections to the convent didn' t come from > those of us who use and enjoy the open space, but from the current > residents of the area who in general block public or any other use of > the land aside from their own private domains I still got to look at the > original motive and question it > It seems to me some of the concessions that the nuns were willing to > make - they build on a few acres of the land and preserve the rest, > including putting in public trails and allowing public access were Printed-for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> z Wes Taylor, 09:45 PM 3/21J9-8 Re: Land seizure on Skyline > pretty reasonable . That would open up land that is currently privately > held and inaccessible, wouldn' t use up P resources that Mid Pen keeps > telling us they don' t have for other projects, and for the most part > keeps the land pristine . > > This message was posted to the mtn-bike list . > To update your address or to be removed from this list, > please email mtn-bike-request@goplay.com > (Printed—for Malcolm Smi-th <mrosdOopenspa 11 cIe.org> 2 Michael B4chmann, -03c...1-2 PM 3J22/98 Preserve Skyline Open Space X-Sender: bachmann@cmgm Date : Sun, 22 Mar 1998 15 : 12 : 10 -0700 To: mrosd@openspace .org From: Michael Bach mann <bachmann@cmg m. stanford.edu Subject : Preserve Skyline Open Space X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org President Betsy Crowder and Board Members Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Dear President Crowder and Members of the Board, I urges you to adopt the proposed resolution of necessity at your meeting on March 18 and begin the process of acquiring the 288 acre property owned by the Russian Orthodox Church on Skyline Boulevard. The property is now threatened with an intensive development, akin to a 22 unit residential facility, with an 8 unit motel, a 24 car parking lot, and 80 person conference center. Although the proposal is for a church-related use, the physical effects of the project upon the land and its visual impacts are no different than from a large commercial development . The threat of development is imminent, as the Concept Plan for the project has already been approved by the board of Supervisors, and the Church is moving ahead with the final approvals . Although the Convent has proposed changes in negotiations with your staff, the Concept Plan is still in effect as far as the County approvals are concerned. If constructed, the project would be located on a prominent and conspicuous ridge which is visible from Skyline Boulevard, Highway 92 and Highway 1, all designated Scenic Corridors . The project ' s 47 foot high gold dome and spire would be visible from as far away as downtown San Francisco! By preserving this land as open space, you will ensure a wonderful addition to the complex of other public open space and park lands in the vicinity. The breathtaking views from the ridge, the precipitous drop-offs to the canyons below, and the easy accessibility to Skyline all make this a choice piece of land for public use and enjoyment . The property' s relatively flat land along Skyline and the ridge top would be a good potential trailhead to access the open space preserves and parks to the west . Your recent decision to begin the process of acquiring the Zion property to the north, together with this property, also afford an opportunity to fill in a key missing gap in the north-south Bay Area Ridge Trail . In addition to the open space and trail benefits for public use this property will provide, its preservation also will protect important wildlife habitat, wildlife migration corridors for deer, mountain lion, bobcat, and other species, and will protect the headwaters of Mills Creek, a steelhead spawning stream. The benefits to the public of this acquisition are very high indeed. We are sympathetic to the Russian Orthodox Church' s desires to find a suitable location for a new Church. Nonetheless, we believe the higher purpose for this particular property is its preservation, in its entirety, as open (Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosdQopenspace.org> 1 -Michael Sac ann, 03 :1 PM 3/22/98 preserve Skyline Open Space space . We commend the District ' s efforts to work with the Church to find an alternative site . Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Michael Bachmann, M.D. , D.Sc . Palo Alto Printed for-Malcolm .9mith <mrosd@openspace.org> 2 Scott._ Boyd. 11:07 AM3/18/98 , .Stand tall Date : Wed, 18 Mar 1998 11 : 07 : 07 -0800 To: mrosd@openspace .org From: Scott Boyd <scott@montara. com> Subject : Stand tall X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace.org I urge you to stand tall in your lawful efforts to acquire the 284 acre site on Skyline . I believe that the MROSD charter calls for you to do so, and I offer my support . Invoking the power of eminent domain is never to be used lightly, but there are times when its use is called for. Personally I find it unconscionable that a religious order would hide behind a media campaign built around a facade of religious persecution. Were they ignorant of the laws and regulations surrounding the use of their purchase when they made it? I can' t say for sure, but the information I have sure makes it look like they had proper disclosure at the time of their purchase . Would ignorance of the law matter if it were anyone else? No. My congregation in Redwood City has grown phenomenally. We wanted to build a larger place of worship on the property. We met with neighbors . We designed carefully and creatively. We met with planners . We met with neighbors some more. Our application was denied. Were we persecuted? No. We couldn' t put together a plan which would satisfy the zoning laws . When Jesus told us to render unto Caesar that which is Caesar' s, we got our marching orders . Live within the law. Right now, you are advocates for the law. You have my support . Sincerely, Scott Boyd 266 4th Street Montara, CA 94037 650/728-0552 I !Printed for Malcolin Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 Chuck Kozak, 01:14 AM 3/24/98 copy of letter to SMco Supervi X-Sender: cgk@hax.com (Unverified) Date : Tue, 24 Mar 1998 01 : 14 : 23 -0800 To: mrosd@openspace.org From: cgk@montara.com (Chuck Kozak) Subject : copy of letter to SMco Supervisors X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org 3/23/98 re : 3/24/98 Agenda item #14 : Resolution concerning Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District President Huening, Honorable Supervisors Barrales, Gordon, Griffin and Nevin: Last Wednesday' s decision by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (MROSD) to proceed with the acquisition, by eminent domain if necessary, of the Skyline property owned by the Order of Our Lady of Vladimar Convent was a tough, difficult decision for its Board of Directors, but it was the right decision for them to make in this situation. It is important that all the facts and background be considered: It is not a case of unfairly persecuted nuns having their property stolen by tree-hugging bullies . The issue here is not one of freedom of religion, but of equal treatment under the law. Is it correct to give a special-interest group' s development preference based on their religious philosophy? The laws and procedures are the same for all landowners . The parallels suggested to the Order' s experiences in the Soviet Union and China are misleading - there, property was seized without any reparation and with the intent of destroying the Order' s religious structure and influence . Here, they are being offered more than fair market value for their property and assistance in relocating to an appropriate site where they can fulfill their dream of a convent and retreat center. The proposal is an inappropriate development on a prime viewshed, trail link and wildlife habitat property that is in a rural area under protection by an Open Space District . Before you judge the actions of MROSD, please look at the facts : * Although the proposed development would be initially operated by the Order only as a retreat center, there is no guarantee that the 18 , 000 sq. ft of buildings could not later be sold to a commercial interest for conversion to a resort or motel . There is no guarantee against further development on the property. * The "compromise" plan from the Order did little to address the critical issues - the commercial development was not removed, and the land offered for sale or for easement protection did not include crucial public access points, trail link segments, or wildlife corridors . The transfer of density credits onto land protected by a Williamson Act contract would establish a dangerous precedent for increased density development on similarly i not supported b the State Office of protected rural land. This transfer s PP Y Land Conservation. * MROSD has expressed an interest in this property since 1978 . It was not offered a chance to purchase it when it was put up for sale . The District Printed for-Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 I Chuck Kozak, G1:14- -AM 3/24/98 , Copy- of- letter to SMco- Supervi reviewed the Order' s concept plans before they even purchased the property and expressed concerns then about the inappropriateness of the development and restated their interest in the property. They have been in continuous discussion and negotiation since then. The Order had full knowledge of the applicable zoning and land use regulations, as well as the District charter in this area, before purchasing the property and proceeding with their development plans . In my experience of working with MROSD, I 've been impressed with the level of dedication, thoroughness and professionalism of the District ' s Directors and Staff . They have an impeccable track record of fairness and land stewardship over the past 25 years . I would urge you not to pass this resolution, but instead consider one supporting continued negotiation, supporting equal give and take on both sides, and not undermining the Districts authority. Sincerely, Chuck Kozak PO Box 917, Moss Beach, CA 94038 (650) 728-8239 (Printed for-Malcolm Smith -mrosd9o_penspace.org>_ __ 2 Merry Ann Moore, 1G:15 AM 3123/979 Thank you for your bold action Errors-To: <merryann@concentric .net> Date : Mon, 23 Mar 1998 10 : 15 : 52 +0100 From: Merry Ann Moore <merryann@concentric .net> Organization: Moore Creative To: MROSD <mrosd@openspace .org> Subject : Thank you for your bold action X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Content-Type : text/plain; charset=us-ascii; x-mac-type="54455854" ; x-mac-creator=114D4F5353 " Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit DATE : March 23 , 1998 TO: Pete Siemens Mary C. Davey Jed Cyr David T. Smernoff Nonette G. Hanko Kenneth C. Nitz Thank you for your decisive action on the Skyline Blvd. open space slated for development as a convent . It took a good deal of political courage . Count on me to write letters of support in the days ahead, to assure that your efforts to save this important land as critical open space come to fruition. Sincerely, Merry Ann Moore Resident, Montara ph 650-728-8703 email merryann@concentric .net Printed for Malcolm amith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 Jaya-h@ix.netcom.com. 11:56 AM 3118/98 - Sk y�'wde fiction alert 7.ine Th � From: jayah@ix.netcom. com Date : Wed, 18 Mar 1998 11 : 56 :46 -0600 (CST) To: mrosd@openspace.org Subject : Fwd: Action Alert - Skyline Threatened! X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org ------Begin forward message------------------------- 3/18/98 President Betsy Crowder and Board Members Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Dear President Crowder and Members of the Board, PLEASE DO NOT LET OUR PRECIOUS OPEN SPACE BE DEVELOPED. Its preservation also will protect important wildlife habitat, wildlife migration corridors for deer, mountain lion, bobcat, and other species, and will protect the headwaters of Mills Creek, a steelhead spawning stream. The benefits to the public of this acquisition are very high indeed. We are sympathetic to the Russian Orthodox Church' s desires to find a suitable location for a new Church. Nonetheless, we believe the higher purpose for this particular property is its preservation, in its entirety, as open space . We commend the District ' s efforts to work with the Church to find an alternative site . Thank you for considering our views . Sincerely, Jayah Faye Paley Concerned Citizen & Voter I ------End forward message--------------------------- Jayah Faye Paley Voice Mail : (415) 242-4713 email : jayah@ix.netcom. com Adventure Buddies Unite ! (Printed for -Malcolm Smith <mrosd0openspace.org> 1 Doncarro-I1, 12:12 PM 3/23/38 Current Land Issue w Russian O From: Doncarroll <Doncarroll@aol .com> Date : Mon, 23 Mar 1998 12 : 12 : 36 EST To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Current Land Issue w Russian Orthodox nuns X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org I support your action in fighting for this open space for all of the public . This is not a religious issue, although if it can be made into that, it will give the opposing side more momentum. Hold firm. I will contact Papan, Nevin, and Sher with my opinion. �Pr:b ted- for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 Rise Newton, 10 :2 5 AM _3 C18 h 8 Nuns and openspace - Date : Wed, 18 Mar 1998 10 :25 :49 -0800 (PST) From: Rise Newton <risewon@yahoo. com> Subject : Nuns and openspace To: mrosd@openspace .org X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org To whom it may concern: I would like to express my support for the MROSD position regarding the proposed convent and conference center. While I can understand why the sisters would like to build on this beautiful site (indeed, who wouldn' t? ! ) , the bottom line is that if a developer came in and asked for permission to build a hotel, conference center and housing for it ' s employees, the request would be immediately rejected by Board members and the public alike . The fact that the developers in this case are a religious order should not make one bit of difference . I encourage the Board to maintain it ' s position with regard to this issue and keep this beautiful area untouched for wildlife and people alike to enjoy. R. Newton Menlo Park P.S. In case it matters, I am a "good" and active Christian who believes that, in this case, the glory of God is best served by respecting and protecting his creation for all to enjoy and marvel at, rather than building on it for the use of a select few. DO YOU YAHOO! ? Get your free @yahoo. com address at http: //mail .yahoo.com I i Jhrnted- for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 -� -Apr il_.Vargas, 12a00 PM 3/18/98 Eminent bomain Procedures Return-Receipt-To: <april@hax. com> Date : Wed, 18 Mar 1998 12 : 00 : 20 -0800 To: mrosd@openspace .org From: April Vargas <april@hax.com> Subject : Eminent Domain Procedures X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org March 18 , 1998 Dear MROSD Board Members : I am writing to comment on the proposed development by the Sisters of Vladimir Convent . This issue has generated strong emotional responses, fueled by fears of unjust governmental power and religious persecution. A more dispassionate review of the facts reveals that : 1 . The District had always intended to acquire the property in question and had made that desire clear to the former owner, the Catholic Church. 2 . The Catholic Church did not give the District the opportunity to purchase the property when they decided to sell it . 3 . Current Lands Use Designations, available density credits and other zoning restrictions were all ready in place when the Convent bought the land. The District ' s intent to acquire the land and maintain it as open space was also well-documented. The fact that the Convent received poor advice and incomplete information on this purchase does not entitle it to build a project that is not currently allowed on the land. The fact that transfers of density credits into Williamson Act-protected property will be necessary makes this entire enterprise unworkable and undesirable. The District has agreed to buy the existing property for an amount which exceeds the original purchase price and will assist the Convent, at District expense, in finding a more suitable location. There is a reason why the eminent domain proceeding is considered only as a final resort by the District . It is always preferrable to work with a co-operative seller. However, I believe that the District must pursue this final option to uphold its charter and maintain this property as open space . No one will be evicted because there are no existing dwellings and the Convent will be justly compensated. I support the implementation of eminent domain, distasteful though it may be . Thank you, April Vargas P.O. Box 370265 Montara, CA 94037-0265 650-728-5215 april@montara. com Printed- for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> I arroll Ann Hodges, 1222 pM 3/18/98 Russian Orthodox- Ridge-top- Site 1 Date : Wed, 18 Mar 1998 12 : 22 : 01 +0000 From: Carroll Ann Hodges <CAHodges@worldnet .att .net> j Reply-To: CAHodges@worldnet .att .net Organization: home To: mrosd@openspace .org CC: cgf@best .com Subject : Russian Orthodox Ridgetop Site X-BulkFactor: 100o XXXXXXXXXX X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org March 18, 1998 II Board of Directors Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distal Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Dear President Crowder and Board Members : For the public record, I wish to applaud the Board' s efforts to negotiate acquisition of the property on Skyline Boulevard owned by the Russian Orthodox Church; inasmuch as these efforts appear thus far to have been stonewalled, I urge you to pass your proposed "resolution of necessity" and take the actions required to force the sale of the property to the Open Space District for permanent protection. The proposed development of this 280+ acre site is totally out of scale, too intense, and inappropriate for the setting. Were this a commercial development, it surely would not obtain county -- let alone community -- approval, given the visibility and sensitivity of the land; yet the proposal by the church is every bit as objectionable as commercial development would be . This parcel, overlooking the Murray Ranch State Park and across the highway from the San Francisco Watershed State Wildlife Refuge, can be a vital addition to our priceless network of public open space lands, providing invaluable wildlife habitat while affording controlled public access . The District has done an absolutely outstanding job of protecting our incredible natural environment and scenic vistas in the face of the relentless and cancerous growth of human population on the Peninsula. Congratulations on your excellent record. I hope you will act with all deliberate speed to rescue yet one more parcel of untrammeled terrain on our skyline from senseless development . Sincerely yours, Carroll Ann Hodges 1367 Canada Road j Woodside, California 94062-2452 650/851-7264 j Printed for--Malcolm Smith <mrosd@6ipenspace.org> 1 Anne -Knight, _01-:24 PM TT18/58 _Ope_n_ space - -------- Date : 18 Mar 1998 13 :24 :46 U From: "Anne Knight" <anne—knight@tcibr.com> Subject : Open space To: "betty crowder" <mrosd@openspace.org> X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org March 18, 1998 TO: Betty Crowder, President, Open Space Preserve FROM; Anne Knight I learned just now of the urgency concerning disposition of a parcel of land threatened with development by the Russian Orthodox Church organization. I want to join my voice to those of others opposing such development . There can be no doubt that it would afford a lovely site for any dwelling, but it is just as clear that such land benefits far more people if allowed to remain in its undeveloped--natural--state, both people enjoying it now and future generations. Those of us "in cities pent" take comfort in having natural beauty available elsewhere. Indeed, for many of us it is precisely such beauty that enables us to live and works in cities, knowing we can flee them to commune with Nature. If such areas are allowed to be built up, there will soon remain no sources of the refreshment that Nature can uniquely supply. Such a catastrophe must be avoided. So to the nuns who wish to build on high, I say, "lift your eyes to the mountains" --but, please, build elsewhere . Sincerely yours, Anne Knight 6 Roosevelt Circle Palo Alto, CA 94306 work: 408 747-6203 home : 650 852-0819 (Pkirited--foi�--Malcolm-- .Smith <mr I os__d@op_ e_ n__sp_ ac_e___._or_ g> Katie Roper, 04 :19 PM 3/18/98 Russian Orthodox Church Develo � X-Sender: katie@shell7 .ba.best . com Date : Wed, 18 Mar 1998 16 : 19 : 59 -0800 To: mrosd@openspace .org From: Katie Roper <katie@roper.org> Subject : Russian Orthodox Church Development X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace.org Hello- Please, please do not allow development of the Russian Orthodox Church on Skyline Boulevard. So many more of us would benefit from making the area accessible by trail for hiking, Mt . biking, etc . Thank you- Katie Roper katie@roper.org (Printed for Flalcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 I David - :- Smernoff1 05e00 PM 3/18/98 ems ___ Date : Wed, 18 Mar 1998 17 : 00 : 57 -0800 (PST) To: mrosd@openspace .org From: "David T. Smernoff" <dsmernoff@mail .arc .nasa.gov> Subject : Nuns X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Malcolm, i Another letter regarding the russian convent . David >Sender: bm@Corp.Sun. COM >Date : Wed, 18 Mar 1998 15 :21 :46 -0800 >From: Bill Michel <bill .michel@Corp.Sun.COM> >Organization: Sun Microsystems >MIME-Version: 1 . 0 >To: dsmernoff@mail . arc .nasa.gov, bl@Corp.Sun.COM >Subject : Nuns >Hi David >Just wanted to reiterate both my personal opposition, >as well as that of the Loma Prieta Chapter to the >proposed development along skyline . As you suggested >the other night, this development would be contraindicated regardless of >what agency was promoting it , religious >or otherwise . The Nuns should look for a less environmentally >sensitive area in which to build. >Bill Michel >Conservation Chair >Sierra Club, Loma Prieta Chapter > CPrinted for Malcolm Snnith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 jaguar, 1 :23 PM 3/18-/98 Skyline Rlvd. property Date : Wed, 18 Mar 1998 23 : 23 : 23 -0800 From: jaguar trinity@rf .net> Reply-To: trinity@rf .net Organization: trinity l .p. To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Skyline Blvd. property X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org March 18, 1998 To: Betsy Crowder and Board Members of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District +I Dear Ms . Crowder and Members of the Board: I strongly urge you to do all that is within your power to acquire the 288 acre parcel on Skyline Blvd. destined otherwise to become a highly developed building project by the Russian Orthodox Church. Their plan for development would be a serious setback to the goal of preserving an intact greenbelt corridor in the foothills . Although this plea may come too late, I thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Carol Hankermeyer Outdoor Education Leader and Curriculum Writer IPrin-ted for 'Malcolm Smith <mrosd@6penspace_org> 1 1 1 1 Terris Linenbach, -11-:03 AN 3/1-9/98- , Input on nun-debate -----------'"' I ''I I--,,-,--,- 1 -1 - I",-- -,-- - — - --- - ---- -- From: Terris Linenbach <terris@rahul .net> Subject : Input on nun debate To: mrosd@openspace .org Date : Thu, 19 Mar 1998 11 : 03 : 24 -0800 (PST) X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace.org Honorable member of the Open Space District, I am not in support of the nuns who would like to build a convent in the Peninsula woodlands . This encroachment into an already threatened wildness area is unacceptable, and, if approved, will only encourage further development . As a San Mateo County property owner, I urge you to invoke eminent domain for me, my contemporaries, and future generations of Bay Area residents . our quality of life depends on it . Thank you, Terris Linenbach San Mateo �Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@open- space.-6rg> Sara Timby, 61:45 PM 3/19/98 skyline acquisition— From: Sara Timby <stimby@sulmail . stanford.edu> Sender: stimby@sulmail . stanford.edu To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : skyline acquisition Date : Thu, 19 Mar 1998 13 :45 : 07 -0800 (Pacific Standard Time) Priority: NORMAL X-Authentication: IMSP X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Congratulations to you all for taking a difficult position (ie taking heat) but adequately explaining the over-riding reasons this land should be open space . I 'm sorry the media weren' t more fair. Good job! Sara Timby 621 Knoll Drive San Carlos, CA 94070 i �Printe3-�or Malcolm Smith <mrosdQ6penspa_ce.org> __ 1 i Lorraine Feather, 03 :38 PM 3/19/98 today' s decision Date : Thu, 19 Mar 1998 15 :38 : 58 -0800 From: Lorraine Feather <plume@gte .net> To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : today' s decision X-Rcpt-To : mrosd@openspace .org Bravo! We moved to this area because we love it and because there are so many wild and beautiful places nearby. It could so easily be ruined, and we are grateful that there are people fighting for it . Best wishes - Lorraine Feather Tony Morales P.O. Box 2794 El Granada, CA 94018 http: //www.magicisland.com/el/ I Printed for-Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> i Scott Boyd, 03 52 PM 3/19/98 , THANX YOM ! ! Date : Thu, 19 Mar 1998 15 : 52 : 19 -0800 To: mrosd@openspace .org From: Scott Boyd <scott@hax.com> Subject : THANK YOU! ! ! X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Attention: Pete Siemens Mary C. Davey Jed Cyr David T. Smernoff Nonette G. Hanko Kenneth C. Nitz Dear Pete, Mary, Jed, David, Nonette, and Kenneth, Here on the coastside we have already heard outrage from a few vociferous individuals at the notion that MROSD might utilize the power of eminent domain to pursue its charter. Many of us, on the other hand, understand that the public good can only be served when the public has empowered itself, and that ' s what your power of eminent domain is . The public counts on MROSD to serve the public interest in open space . Your vote yesterday on the eminent domain matter showed courage . I am proud of your courage in light of the difficult emotional issues that have been played in the press . i I look forward to a future that I hope holds promise of MROSD expanding its boundaries to the coastside . Your charter, backed up by your courage, is something we desperately need as development pressure mounts here in this beautiful area and natural treasure . Sincerely, Scott Boyd d 266 4th Street Montara, CA 94037 �Pr rated for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 —wave ogg n��:5Z-p - � �3 jSB _1 Th-e mun" board Date : Thu, 19 Mar 1998 18 : 51 : 15 -0800 From: Dave Goggin <dgoggin@haywire .csuhayward.edu> Reply-To: dgoggin@haywire . csuhayward.edu Organization: Student - CSU, Hayward To: mrosd@openspace .org CC: Eric Worrell <eew@eew.com>, Karen & Bill Owens <tracshoe@tracy.com>, John delaCruz <delacruz@visa.com> Subject : The "Nun" board decision X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace.org Hi . I 've been following the story of the nuns wanting to build their facility in the middle of one of your open spaces with great interest . I want to CONGRATULATE you on your COURAGE in standing up to them and seeing through their phony pious rhetoric . Increasingly, it seems that people are able to get away with almost anything in the name of religion. The fact of the matter is that if you look at the amount of money taken in by organized religion in this country, it is clear that religion is big business in America! Don' t let those crosses around their necks and talk of "Christian charity" fool you -- they know what they want and they are determined to get it . They should be very happy that they live in America, even the mission district -- but they need to conform to our culture. In any case, there is more than enough open space in Russia, if they care to move back there. regards, Dave Goggin I rinecTor 1Glalco m mz _<xnro�s openspace.org> Maureen Davis 09 :55 Pi,_ /25/98 eminent domail Date : Wed, 25 Mar 1998 21 : 55 : 54 +0000 From: Maureen Davis <maureend@pacbell .net> Reply-To: maureend@pacbell .net To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : eminent domail X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Dear MROSD Directors, I just wanted to tell you that I agree with your action to stop the development by the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladmir. I saw in today' s SF Chronicle that the SM County Board of Supervisors has passed a resolution "urging" you to rescind. I surely hope you do not . I wish I had seen the paper earlier today. . . this message will reach you after tonite ' s meeting. The open space on the Peninsula is precious and NEEDS to be protected from inappropriate development . Please continue on this course of action. Sincerely, Maureen Davis Millbrae, CA Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 i Marlene Juscen- ong, Ob. A 3/26/3$ , eminent dog .n From: mjl332@webtv.net (Marlene Juscen-Long) Date : Thu, 26 Mar 1998 08 : 09 : 29 -0800 To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : eminent domain X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org As a peninsula resident for 37 years I support your position on the "seizure" of the coastal ridge tract of land now owned by the nuns . I am shocked by the show of the powerful feelings expressed by those in opposition to your portion and am trying to understand it exactly, if that is possible . Is it because they are elderly nuns and we should thus have sympathy for their religious mission? The gridlock on the peninsula continues . . . . . . .Thank God for your mission to save the land. Marlene Juscen-Long Printed for--Malco7.m-Smith <mrosd@6penspace.org> 1 aohri Lafrentz, 11:33 P. 7 98 Our Lady of Vlac_ _r Convent Date : Tue, 7 Apr 1998 23 : 33 : 34 -0700 (PDT) X-Sender: jlafrentz@pop. igc .org To: "Ms. Betsy Crowder" <mrosd@openspace .org> From: John Lafrentz <jlafrentz@igc .org> Subject : Our Lady of Vladimir Convent X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Dear Ms . Crowder: I strongly stupport your efforts and those of the other members of MROSD to prevent the development of the proposed site of the convent of the Sister of our Lady of Vladimir. I urge you to work cooperatively with the sister to locate an alternative site which would have less detrimental environmental impacts . MROSD has been a faithful steward of our open spaces along the midpeninsula. As such, the district has acted responsibly to prevent inappropriate development, regardless of the entity benefiting from the proposed development . Please "stick to your guns" on this issue, and work with the sisters and their representatives to meet their needs while protecting the resource . Respectfully, John Lafrentz 21084 White Fir Court Cupertino, CA 95014-4236 John Lafrentz I 1Printe3 for Malco-lm 8rmith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 Keith-- Johns & _Simon, 0. .7 PM 4j7J98 -. Duns devei ,ient plans Date : Tue, 07 Apr 1998 21 : 07 : 25 -0700 From: Keith Johns & Simone Bley <japhy@hooked.net> Organization: Myriad Music To: mros@openspace .org Subject : Nuns development plans X-Rcpt-To: mros@openspace.org Chairman Betsy Crowder and Members of the Midpeninsula Open Space District, I would like to voice my support for your efforts on behalf on the citizens of this communuty to protect this significant piece of property. I urge you not to accept a compromise which could result in development . I ask that you work with the nuns and help find an alternative site that all parties can be satisfied with. Best wishes, and thank you for all your efforts to help protect this beautiful community. Kindest regards, Keith Johns Pr n-ted- -for -MalcolLm Smith <mrosdZ�openspace.org> 1 Sylvia b. M. Gregor, 0. A PM 4j7/98 -, The _Nuns-1 'lem Date : Tue, 7 Apr 1998 20 : 01 : 36 -0700 (PDT) From: "Sylvia D. M. Gregory" <sdmg@netcom. com> To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : The Nuns Problem Cc : sdmg@netcom8 .netcom.com X-Rcpt-To : mrosd@openspace .org Chairman Betsy Crowder and Members Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, I urge the District to continue to work with the nuns and try to find another suitable place for them to build their retreat . >From the stories that I have read I feel that the nuns were sold this land improperly when the seller knew that the land was not to be developed. I think that the seller tried to pull a fast one on the nuns and the District too. Please do all you can to bring this nasty affair to a gentle and happy ending. Sincerely, Sylvia M. Gregory 141 Madison Ave . San Bruno, CA 94066 650-589-3176 Printed --for Malcolm Smith <mrosidtopenspace.org> 1 l -Kichael -Closson-,- Ol:-3D 17-8/98 -I Don-It roll -Ove. X-Sender: mclosson@pop. igc .apc .org Date : Wed, 8 Apr 1998 13 : 30 : 52 -0700 To: mrosd@openspace.org From: mclosson@igc.apc.org (Michael Closson) Subject : Don' t roll over X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace.org Dear Chairperson Crowder, I am writing to encourage you to stick to your original decision regarding prohibiting the proposed convent on Skyline Blvd. It is a beautiful and important site that should never be subjected to any human development ! It is very unfortunate that certain politicians have resorted to demagoguery in an effort to force you to reverse your decision. But, I think that most people can be convinced of the appropriateness of your decision in the inevitable debate that will follow it . I urge you to hang in there and put your energies and funds into finding a more appropriate site for the convent . Sincerely, Michael Closson 1325 Cowper St . Palo Alto, CA 94301 650-323-2881 JPrInted for M-alcolin -.9inith--<mr6i3d&o-peniqpCa-ce.I o-rg->--- I i, �uatin�rney, 0240 �_ ,/6/98 -, Zpen space versu_ .development i Date : Mon, 6 Apr 1998 14 :40 :30 -0700 (PDT) From: Austin Gurney <nico@gene . COM> To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Open space versus development X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Dear Chairman Betsy Crowder and committee members, I urge you to protect the skyline ridge as an open space for the benefit of all of the citizens of the area, rather than let it be forever developed for the benefit of the relatively few. Please urge the Nuns to look elsewhere for the proposed development . Thank you for efforts, Dr. Austin Gurney (650) 225-8996 1 Debbie Lane, Belmont CA 94080 i printed—for Malcolm Smi th <mroadC openapace.org> I --krishiia venkatraman, PyyM rr aa Proposed _c .cent development i Date : Mon, 06 Apr 1998 15 : 14 : 53 -0700 From: krishna venkatraman <krishna@Remedy.COM> To: mrosd@openspace.org Subject : Proposed convent development X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace.org Dear Chairman Betsy Crowder and Members of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District : I support your efforts to protect the region' s open space including the ridge on Skyline 2 . 5 miles south of Hwy 92 where a proposed convent is to be built . I urge you to not accept a compromise which results in development on this site . I request you instead to, invest significant resources in finding an alternative location for the nuns to live . Sincerely, Krishna Venkatraman 107 Esplanade Ave . , #75 Pacifica, CA - 94044 (650) 355-2097 I i Printed -or- Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 i'---M-a-JL-c---olx-m---S,.m*i-t-h,---04 :44 P,_ s/6f9-8 - It �3 n_ent Dome. Date : Mon, 6 Apr 1998 16 :44 : 15 -0700 (PDT) X-Sender: mrosd@shell7 .ba.best . com To: mrosd@openspace .org From: Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> Subject : Re : Eminent Domain X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Just want you to know we supported your original decision & can certainly appreciate the pressure you all are under; we think it ' s rotten that that is happening. We salute Mary Davey & David Smernoff for standing firm, & hope that MROSDIs original goals win in the end. Most sincerely, Carolyn Curtis & Don Mayall seleve@netcom.com ,'P rinted --for---Malcolm Simi tIi__<jrLr6ifd@6p enspac e.__org> -1 biz Kniss, 05D4 Pit- J.,_�9$ �2uss firth convent Date : Tue, 31 Mar 1998 17 : 04 :44 -0800 From: Liz .Kniss@Eng. Sun. COM (Liz Kniss) To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Russ Orth. Convent Cc : Liz .Kniss@Eng.Sun.COM X-Sun-Charset : US-ASCII X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Dear MROSD Board: I read the story re above w/ interest; if I understand it correctly, I agree with Mary Davey and her vote . While difficult, the acquistion of land has been, and will continue to be, a challenging and arduous task. Looking for compromise *may* work, but I believe it is unlikely. I support the resolution of necessity. Given the goal of providing a continuous green belt of protected open space, this would seem essential . Liz Kniss (Printed- for__Malcolm -Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 r Pev STO 02 :11 PM 4/ . , -,8 E, Skyl-ine Development j From: RevJSTONE <RevJSTONE@aol . com> Date : Tue, 7 Apr 1998 14 : 11 : 15 EDT To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Skyline Development X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace.org I support finding a new location for the convent as the best alternative to the present dilemma. There are already several convents and Catholic retreat centers on the Penninsula. This is an area where open space needs to be conserved. There must be alternative locations which could be found with just compensation provided to the nuns in exchange for this part of the property, for this piece of property. If it is decided that the nuns be allowed to build on this property it should be on the least impactful part of the sight, the sight nearest to civilization and furthest from creeks, wildlife migration path' s etc . to minimize length of roads and other intrusive development . I re-iterate that, while I have great sympathy for the nuns and their need for a suitable place to retire, I believe re-location is a better alternative . Reverend Judith Stone Environmental Justice Do-ordinator, California Nevada Conference of the United Methodist hurch Tinted for 1�3alcolm smith <mrosdZ�openspace.or 1 Linda p. , 01:45 Ply 470, ., -, Open Space _Protect oi_ Date : Tue, 7 Apr 1998 13 :45 : 31 -0500 (CDT) X-Sender: lindap@ricochet .net To: mrosd@openspace.org From: "Linda P. " <linda@lifebydesign.com> Subject : Open Space Protection X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace.org I support your efforts to protect the region' s open space by aquiring the property on Skyline which has been a proposed site for a retreat center and convent . Please do not accept a compromise which will result in development on this site and, effectively, a lose-lose situation for us, the wildlife, and the nuns . Instead, please do everything possible to find an alternative location for the nuns and the development for their retreat center. Thank you, Linda Peterson 4788 Raspberry Place San Jose, CA 95129 (408) 252-3419 !Printed- for-Malcolm Smith <nnrosd@openspace.org> 1 _Christopher Bail, 128t. .M 4/7/-98 -, The difficult -tuation with t X-Sender: cbail@pop. igc .apc .org Date : Tue, 7 Apr 1998 12 : 06 : 23 -0800 To: mrosd@openspace .org From: cbail@igc .apc .org (Christopher Bail) Subject : The difficult situation with the nuns of Our Lady of Vladimir Cc : lisab@wni .com X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace.org Christopher Bail 125 W. Dana St . #21 Mountain View, CA 94041 I am writing to urge you to find an environmentally friendly solution to the situation involving the nuns of Our Lady of Vladimir and their effort to buy land that the Open Space District originally intended to protect . Please make every effort to negotiate with the nuns and urge them to consider a different location, even request help from the community and actively seek an alternative site . If this is not possible, please negotiate with the nuns for the sale of the steepest and other environmentally sensitive areas of this important tract of land, as they have offered. It is important that the scenic beauty and wildlife corridors of the region be maintained as vigiliantly as possible-that should be the your first reponsibility. Please try not to bow to negative public pressure in your attempts to make the right decision for the land. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Christopher Bail Chris printed- for -Malcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> W soff, Eric, 01 :32 _PM ,7/98 -, My advice is: avc, confrontat _1 From: "Wesoff, Eric" <Eric .Wesoff@akzo-nobel .com> To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : My advice is : avoid confrontations with nuns at all costs Date : Tue, 7 Apr 1998 13 :32 : 59 -0700 Return-Receipt-To: "Wesoff, Eric" <Eric .Wesoff@akzo-nobel . com> X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Chairperson Betsy Crowder and Memebers : As a long-time resident of Skyline Boulevard - I am well aware of both the area' s beauty and fragility. And it seems clear to me that Skyline is simply an inappropriate location to plant a gold onion dome . I have logged thousands of hours and thousands of miles running, hiking, biking and horsebackriding the trails that MROSD has championed and won. I support your efforts to protect our region' s open space and urge you to not to compromise on the convent site . Please help the nuns to find an alternate site Good Luck and thank you for your efforts. Eric Wesoff 18400 Skyline Blvd Woodside CA 94062 650 529 0406 wesoffe@sun.akzo-nobel .com I `Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosd@gp_ enspace.org> 1 Eric Wolff, 03:17 PM_4, . , 98 -, 1 am a taxpaying-me_ sr of the Date : Tue, 7 Apr 1998 15 : 17 : 13 -0700 (PDT) From: Eric Wolff <e_wolff@yahoo.com> Subject : I am a taxpaying member of the district . Here is my opinion To: mrosd@openspace .org X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Dear MROSD Board Members, Keep your head above the political fray and continue to protect the hillsides . The offer (s) you have made to the nuns, with a $300, 000 profit above what they paid for the land, have been generous . Please help them find other quiet places where they can build their "center" . With the moneyyou have offered them, the can do remarkably well on Y Y Y Howell Mountain in Napa, where the land is not protected and there are many private estates . I 'm suggesting Howell Mountain because it ' s about the same elevation as the peninsula site that ' s endangered, but with a better climate and more private land opportunities . If you write back to me to tell me to whom I should write, I will write to the appropriate politicians who are being obnoxious . Is is Lou Pappan who' s making trouble? Use of emininent domain to protect the public interest is what MROSD is all about . Sincerely, Eric Wolff 270 Montebello Avenue Mountain View, CA 94043 4368 650 961 7666 DO YOU YAHOO! ? Get your free @yahoo.com address at http: //mail .yahoo. com ;Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosdgopenspace.org> i .Blmichel,- 02 c 49 ! 4J7, i E, Stop the Eco=X Her .1\ a! From: Blmichel <Blmichel@aol . com> Date : Tue, 7 Apr 1998 02 :49 :45 EDT To: mrosd@openspace .org Cc : Blmichel@aol . com Subject : Stop the Eco-Killer Nuns ! X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org April 7, 1998 Dear MROSD Board Members, We believe that you all are doing the right thing with regards to the proposed development of land near skyline & Highway 92 . We agree with you all on the value of this piece of land both for scenic and habitat reasons, and eschew the opportunistic treatment that the Press have given this issue . Similarly, we are disturbed by the crass maneuvering of some politicians who suggest that the use of eminent domain in this case is some sort of heavy-handed authoritarian tactic . We feel it is imperative that Districts such as MROSD be given maximum authority to preserve our dwindling open spaces from the threats of development, be they religious or secular. Bill & Terri 255 S . Rengstorff Ave . #79 Mountain View, CA 94040 Printed for MA-lcolm Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> l XaryXe-nney, 1-0:14 AM i4/98 Russian Orthodox C. Bch develo -1 From: MaryKenney <MaryKenney@aol . com> Date : Sat, 14 Mar 1998 10 : 14 : 09 EST To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Russian Orthodox Church development proposal X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Dear President Betsy Crowder and Board Members of Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, I have recently become informed of a development project slated for property along Skyline Blvd proposed by the Russian Orthodox Church. I am very concerned about the ecological and visual impact of this development as they have been described to me. One of the things that saves my soul on more than one occasion is being able to look west from 280 and look upon what is relatively wild land in the Bay Area. I am very appreciative of the fact that your organization and others like yours have worked hard to preserve this view and access to these properties . I urge you to continue this legacy and do whatever you can to work to obtain this property. I hope that the Russian Orthodox Church will join with you and many citizens who believe that the value of this landscape and habitat is in preserving it rather than building upon it . Sincerely, Mary Kenney Menlo Park Citizen Printed for Ma-lcolm-gri tlii �anrosdgopenspace.org> 1 Lorraine—PeatFier, 01 .. _ AM 3/16798 open space c.. Jkyline Date : Mon, 16 Mar 1998 01 :34 :25 -0800 From: Lorraine Feather <plume@gte .net> To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : open space on Skyline X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org To whom it may concern: This is to express our support for the acquisition of the 200-plus site on Skyline as open space . We feel that it is urgent for this area to be preserved as such. It should not be used for housing or development of any kind. Respectfully, Lorraine Feather Tony Morales P.O.B. 2794 El Granada, CA 94018 (650 712-1972 http: //www.magicisland.com/el/ (Printed for Malcolm Smith <mros&@openspace.org> 1 I _Slocum, Gail, _-0_2 :11 PL_ .s/16/98 Vetter-Re eetir,,_ if-Mardi 18 - J From: "Slocum, Gail" <GLSg@pge .com> To: " 'mrosd@openspace.org l " <mrosd@openspace .org> Subject : Letter Re Meeting of March 18 - re Skyline/Russian Orthodox Prope rty Date : Mon, 16 Mar 1998 14 : 11 : 09 -0800 X-BulkFactor: 064a XXXXXX X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org March 16, 1998 President Betsy Crowder and Board Members Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 RE : Skyline Boulevard Property - Use Eminent Domain to Stop the Russian Othodox Church' s Plans for Intensive and Harmful Development Dear President Crowder and Members of the Board, I implore your Board to act at your meeting of March 18 to adopt the proposed resolution of necessity and immediately start the process of acquiring the 288 acre property owned by the Russian Orthodox Church on Skyline Boulevard. Please take whatever action necessary to acquire this property, including using your power of eminent domain if necessary. As you know, an intensive development is proposed for this property including, a 22 unit residential facility, with an 8 unit motel, a 24 car parking lot, and 80 person conference center. Such a dense project will have effects upon the land, and side-ranging in visual impacts, that would be similar to a large commercial development . I understand that such a development could imminently proceed, as the Concept Plan for the project has already been approved by the board of Supervisors, and the Church is moving ahead with the final approvals . As a former Mayor of Menlo Park, I know how important it is for public servants to seize turning point moments like this one -- we don' t often get a chance to preserve as open space for our grandchildren' s grandchildren such wonderful and accessible land as this ! Once it is developed, that chance is gone forever. Bold and swift action is necessary to and fully consistent with your purpose . Think of yourself looking back at your decision right now and being proud you did everything you could. And because your actions indeed succeeded, our area ' s legacy was all the greater. If constructed, the project would be located on a prominent and conspicuous ridge which is visible from Skyline Boulevard, Highway 92 and Highway 1, all designated Scenic Corridors . The project ' s 47 foot high gold dome and spire would be visible from as far away as downtown San Francisco! By preserving this land as open space, you will ensure a wonderful addition to the complex of other public open space and park lands in the vicinity. The breathtaking views from the ridge, the precipitous printed for Malcolm Smith <mroscl@openspace.org> -- 1 02 :11 Pj_ il-16/98- Letter- Re M-eet1r, )-f M-arch- --r8 drop-offs to the canyons below, and the easy accessibility to Skyline all make this a premier piece of land for public use and enjoyment . The property' s relatively flat land along Skyline and the ridge top would be a good potential trailhead to access the open space preserves and parks to the west . Your recent decision to begin the process of acquiring the Zion property to the north, together with this property, also afford an opportunity to fill in a key missing gap in the north-south Bay Area Ridge Trail . In addition to the open space and trail benefits for public use this property will provide, its preservation also will protect important wildlife habitat, wildlife migration corridors for deer, mountain lion, bobcat, and other species, and will protect the headwaters of Mills Creek, a steelhead spawning stream. The benefits to the public of this land acquisition would be very great . The Russian Orthodox Church can find another more suitable location for such a project The best and highest use for this particular property is its preservation, in its entirety, as open space . I trust that the District will continue to work with the Church to find an alternative site . Thank you for your prompt and considered actions . Sincerely, Gail L. Slocum Former Mayor, Menlo Park 205 Pope Street Menlo Park, CA 94025 IP'rin-ted for Malcolm Smith <--m--r-o--s--dgo-p-en—sp-a--c-e.or-g-> Paul_S----hm ft-Oamat.c, _18 PM 3/-16/98 Threatene ip-en-Sp—ace From: Paul_Schmitt@amat .com X-Lotus-Fromdomain: AMAT To: mrosd@openspace .org Date : Mon, 16 Mar 1998 13 : 18 : 17 -0800 Subject : Threatened Open Space X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org March 16, 1998 President Betsy Crowder and Board Members Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Dear President Crowder and Members of the Board, I urge you to adopt the proposed resolution of necessity at your meeting on March 18 and begin the process of acquiring the 288 acre property owned by the Russian Orthodox Church on Skyline Boulevard. The Committee for Green Foothills has urged your Board to take whatever action necessary to acquire this property, including eminent domain if necessary. The property is now threatened with an intensive development, akin to a 22 unit residential facility, with an 8 unit motel, a 24 car parking lot, and 80 person conference center. Although the proposal is for a church-related use, the physical effects of the project upon the land and its visual impacts are no different than from a large commercial development . The threat of development is imminent, as the Concept Plan for the project has already been approved by the board of Supervisors, and the Church is moving ahead with the final approvals. Although the Convent has proposed changes in negotiations with your staff, the Concept Plan is still in effect as far as the County approvals are concerned. If constructed, the project would be located on a prominent and conspicuous ridge which is visible from Skyline Boulevard, Highway 92 and Highway 1, all designated Scenic Corridors . The project ' s 47 foot high gold dome and spire would be visible from as far away as downtown San Francisco! By preserving this land as open space, you will ensure a wonderful addition to the complex of other public open space and park lands in the vicinity. The breathtaking views from the ridge, the precipitous drop-offs to the canyons below, and the easy accessibility to Skyline all make this a choice piece of land for public use and enjoyment . The property' s relatively flat land along Skyline and the ridge top would be a good potential trailhead to access the open space preserves and parks to the west . Your recent decision to begin the process of acquiring the Zion property to the north, together with this property, also afford an opportunity to fill in a key missing gap in the north-south Bay Area Ridge Trail . In addition to the open space and trail benefits for public use this property will provide, its preservation also will protect important wildlife habitat, wildlife migration corridors for deer, mountain lion, bobcat, and other species, and will protect the headwaters of Mills Creek, a steelhead spawning stream. The benefits to the public of this acquisition are very high indeed. We are sympathetic to the Russian Orthodox Church' s desires to find a suitable location for a new Church. Nonetheless, I believe the higher purpose for this particular property is its preservation, in its entirety, as open space . I commend the District ' s efforts to work with the Church to find an alternative site . Thank you for considering my words on this matter. I am an avid user of existing open spaces as a hiker, and am looking forward to your JPrinted for _Malcolm Smith <mrosd@6penspace._org> Paul Schmitt-itt-Weditcat.C, 18 1M-3/1-" Thre-a-t—ene- open-- Space continued work for the sake of open space. Sincerely, Paul Schmitt Concerned Citizen and Hiker 1051 E. Homestead Rd. Sunnyvale, CA 94087 schmitt_paul@amat . com 408-985-1673 (Printed for MaRcolm with <bxrosdW6p-e-n-spaLc-e-org> Meg Hilbert, �1:31 PM i16j9-8 In Support of Ope Jpace X-Sender: megh@swift Date : Mon, 16 Mar 1998 13 :31 : 08 -0800 To: mrosd@openspace .org From: Meg Hilbert <megh@informix. com> Subject : In Support of Open Space X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org March 16 , 1998 President Betsy Crowder and Board Members Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Dear President Crowder and Members of the Board, I encourage you to adopt the proposed resolution of necessity at your meeting on March 18 and begin the process of acquiring the 288 acre property owned by the Russian Orthodox Church on Skyline Boulevard. In addition to the open space and trail benefits for public use this property will provide, its preservation also will protect important wildlife habitat, wildlife migration corridors for deer, mountain lion, bobcat, and other species, and will protect the headwaters of Mills Creek, a steelhead spawning stream. I do not support such enormous development plans as are being proposed by the Russian Orthodox Church. The Bay Area residents as a whole need to be considered as recipients of the possible use of this property, as opposed to a select few. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Meg Hilbert 273 Iris Street Redwood City, CA 94062 (650) 364-5024 ------------------------------------------------------------------- Meg Hilbert Direct : (650) 926-6557 Localization Manager Fax: (650) 926-6571 Informix Software Email : megh@informix. com ------------------------------------------------------------------- Printed for--Malcolm Smith <mrosd@6iienspace.o-rg> I I Cblaney, 01:5-8- P- 4/-8-/_ , thanks/retreat center- From: Cblaney <Cblaney@aol .com> Date: Wed, 8 Apr 1998 13 : 58 : 00 EDT To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : thanks/retreat center X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Dear Chairman Crowder, I want to applaud your willingness to stand up to fierce public pressure in order to protect important open space in the case of the retreat center being proposed by the Russian Orthodox nuns . While I 'm very sympathetic to their desire to establish a retreat center, using crucial open space to do it will create problems for wildlife in the present and future and will damage our already limited open space in the Bay Area. I urge you not to allow development on this piece of property but to make every effort to find an alternative place for the nuns to locate . While educating the public about your mission in this situation is a difficult one, I believe the conflict also creates an opportunity to point out the value of open space for current and future generations . Thanks for your wonderful efforts . Best regards, Carol Blaney 7275 Sleepy Creek Dr. San Jose, CA 95120 (408) 927-7682 Primed for—blaleolm--Smith <mrosMopenspace.org> 1 Paul- S-clunitt0ain 5-- 4/8/98 Compromisi, at.c, I- PM on Convent Prapos From: Paul_Schmitt@amat .com X-Lotus-Fromdomain: AMAT To: mrosd@openspace .org Date : Wed, 8 Apr 1998 12 : 15 : 34 -0700 Subject : Compromising on Convent Proposal Content-Disposition: inline X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org April 8 , 1998 President Betsy Crowder and Board Members Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Dear President Crowder and Members of the Board, I am writing to urge you to proceed with your efforts to locate an alternate site for the convent and subsequent development proposed by the Russian Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir. I implore you to allocate resources sufficient to find a site suitable for the convent, and one which is agreeable to both parties . I do support your move towards a compromise . However, I hope that you will find such a compromise that does not include development on this Skyline Blvd. site . I urge you to stand firm in your commitment to providing for a continuous greenbelt, for both habitat and trail use . I am an avid user of lands which you have previously acquired, and I look forward to your continued efforts at keeping Skyline green for all creatures . I appreciate the fact that you are working with the Nuns, and that your decisions will be not be biased based on Religion, Ethnicity, or Gender. Sincerely, Paul Schmitt Concerned Citizen and Hiker 1051 E. Homestead Rd. Sunnyvale, CA 94087 schmitt—paul@amat .com 408-985-1673 [PrAinte_d --for _Malcolm smi th <mrosd@ap_ enspace.or_g>_ GS_t:Fg_a1I:_, 0-2 :42 PM__ 4/8, -Eff- TO-.- 90- D re: Mills Cre &onven A From: GStigall <GStigall@aol .com> Date : Wed, 8 Apr 1998 14 :42 : 35 EDT To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : TO: BoD re : Mills Creek/convent X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org April 8, 1998 . To: President Betsy Crowder & Board of Directors MROSD Re : Convent property aka Mills Creek watershed Dear President Crowder & Board of Directors, We write again as both landowners adjacent to MROSD (several miles from the Mills Creek property) and as advocates for native ecosytems . We urge you to delay any decision regarding an agreement for any development on the convent property. This issue has been completely misrepresented by the media and by certain government officials . This is completely unjust and unethical on their part . This is NOT about "the nuns vs . MROSD" . This is about placing a very busy and large development in a highly inappropriate location that will serve neither the Sisters nor the general public . Deciding today to allow for a development of ANY size will be misleading the public (by default) about the true facts of this situation. We understand the seriousness of the threat to remove your power of eminent domain. Frankly, however, there is nothing to say that those efforts will not persist even if you do not acquire the Mills Creek watershed property. This site is not right for the nuns, and everyone knows it . Why are those facts being hidden? How will the priests conduct church services, funerals and so forth during Winter when the winds are gusting at 100mph and it ' s raining much more than "buckets"? What would happen with this development after the Sisters and their associates realize this site won' t work for them? Why is the county so anxious to move a large development -- with very frequent activities involving visitors -- into a quiet residential and open space environment? Why did it take **ten years** to find this property for the Sisters? Please delay your decision to allow development on this property. Doing so will hurt no one, and the delay could result in a win-win for everyone Printed for Kalcolmftith_ <mros_dftpenspace_.org> - aStigal-l-' 02 :42 PR 4/8, , E, TO: -96D re: Mills- -Cre conven - the Sisters, the district, the public and the wildlife who already make Mills Creek their home . We heartily encourage you to continue ambitiously seeking another site for the Sisters . Thank you for your consideration of our viewpoints . Sincerely, Bill Prince & Georgia Stigall 17287 Skyline Blvd #102 Woodside CA 94062-3741 Ph: 650 . 941 . 1068 Email : gstigall@aol . com Printed forMal6o]:iiL-Smith-<mr-o-sd@-o-p- -e-nspace o 11 rg> —Barbara- --Carol Slaugll, _2___AM -4/8/98 Skyline de -opment- From: "Barbara Carol Slaughter" <slaughte@cs .ucdavis .edu> Date : Wed, 8 Apr 1998 10 :42 : 15 -0700 To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Skyline development X-Rcpt-To : mrosd@openspace .org Dear Chairman Betsy Crowder and members at Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, As an environmental activist, I fully support your efforts in finding an alternative development site for the group of nuns that own the Skyline property. I hope you will do everything in your power to preserve this property, as it is valuable for the protection of wildlife as well as for human enjoyment . I often hike in the surrounding areas there, and I would be saddened to see it developed. A compromise will leave everyone a little unhappy, so I urge you to negotiate the purchase of this property and assist in acquiring an alternative property for the nuns . Thank you, Barbara Slaughter 7769 Hillrose Dr. Dublin, CA 94568 (925) 556-0426 �Pkiilted--f6k- Malcolm-Smith o<mr'o__sd@open_sp ace.org> 1 Sara "Timby, 10 �5 -AM 41 , 98 Mills-Creek watersf. From: Sara Timby <stimby@sulmail . stanford.edu> Sender: stimby@sulmail . stanford.edu To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : Mills Creek watershed Date : Wed, 8 Apr 1998 10 :45 :43 -0700 (Pacific Daylight Time) Priority: NORMAL X-Authentication: IMSP X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace.org 8 April 1998 Chairman Betsy Crowder and Members of MROSD I thank all of you for your efforts in trying to secure this piece of property for the District . I hope any compromise you agree to will not result in a development that will significantly affect permanent public access to the land -- or its visual degradation. It seems a perfectly suitable case for eminent domain proceedings . My best wishes, Sara Timby 621 Knoll Dr. San Carlos, CA 94070 650 593-3287 Printed for Malcolm Smi-th <mrosd9openspace.org> 1 robert fisher, D2 24 PL•_ j/3D/-99 No Subject Date : Mon, 30 Mar 1998 14 :24 :48 -0800 (PST) From: robert fisher <fisher@leland.Stanford.EDU> Sender: fisher@leland.Stanford.EDU To: mrosd@openspace .org X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org To whom it may concern: I am writing to give my support to the board in their efforts to prevent construction of the convent up near Skyline . Its visibility would be inconsistent with the goals of the Open Space District and would detract from the surroundings . I believe it would be used as a wedge to initiate further development in this area. There is plenty of space in the central valley where the nuns would be able to find a peaceful, contemplative atmosphere . Sincerely yours, Robert F. Fisher 1345 Altschul Ave . Menlo Park, CA 94025 Printed for Malcolm-Smith <mrosd@6p-enspace.org> BM, 03 :08 AM- 3/28/98 convent From: BJW3 <BJW3@aol .com> Date : Sat, 28 Mar 1998 03 : 08 :24 EST To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : convent X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org I support what you' re doing about the convent proposal . I am sympathetic to the nuns, but I also believe that the district should not ignore its mandate just because the development is proposed by nice people . We need to preserve open space, and that means no buildings . Agree to a compromise if there ' s a good one, but don' t give up our open space . Bryan Wilson Palo Alto Printed for Malcolm Smith <jxr6sd@openspace.6rg>_ C Unprivileged user, 16:,_ AM 3728/98 , Feedback Fox._ Date : Sat, 28 Mar 1998 10 :47 : 10 -0800 (PST) From: Unprivileged user <nobody@best . com> Reply-to: kosinski@us .oracle . com Subject : Feedback Form name = Kevin Osinski organization = email = kosinski@us .oracle .com comments = I just wanted to drop you a quick note to register my support for your eminent domain claim against the convent from San Francisco. It ' s a sticky situation, and I admire your courage in taking a strong stand against development _of any kind_ that threatens irreplaceable open space . I also support your bid to extend your reach to the coast . Keep up the good work. zipcode = 94062 age = 30to40 specialneeds = ethnic = Caucasian ethnic = knowMROSD = yes frequency = 1per6months frequency = rancho = on lostrancos = on montebello = on Hiking = on other = funding = Yes books = on wordofmouth = on other = mailto = mrosd@openspace .org subject = MROSD Web Site Feedback mrosdconfirm_url = http: /www.openspace .org/mrosdconfirm.html required_fields = name email formatted_fields = email=email format_username = mrosd format filename = format . fmt -------------- --------------------------------- Printed for Malcolm -Smith <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 I Marlene Juscen-Long, Oy _ J1 PM 3/26/98 land � From: mj1332@webtv.net (Marlene Juscen-Lon g) Date : Thu, 26 Mar 1998 16 : 01 :48 -0800 To: mrosd@openspace .org Subject : land X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Please don' t give in. It looks like you are . Of course allowing the nun' s project to go foroward will include, very heavy traffic up there . . . . .trucks, construction vehicles, continual traffic even after construction is done to bring in supplies etc and religious friends . Should the Russian Orthodox church have more rights over the land than the people of California? It ' s like the ancient old growth redwood trees owned by one person who owns the lumber co. We have to buy the land from him to save it, unfortunately for a very high price but that is the way it is . Don' t give in. Marlene Juscen-Long (Printed- for Malcolm gmkth <mrosd@openspace.org> 1 Prince, Bill, 10 :44 AN ../26/9 FP: sf_cTiron today From: "Prince, Bill" <bill .prince@TANDEM.com> Subject : FW: sf chron today Date : Thu, 26 Mar 1998 10 :44 : 32 -0800 X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org What this article (and most that I 've read) fail to mention is that the 1130-. " of this land is about 8 1/2 acres of land on a ridgetop promontory, plus that the developers reserve the right to develop up to 27 acres (approx. ) , also on the ridgetop. Further, the media has consistently failed to mention that this order has shrunk from approximately 13 nuns a year ago to 9 now. The remaining nuns are quite elderly, and it remains unclear what will become of this monastery when/if the order fails or dies out . One can easily point to what has happened at Rancho Ran Antonio OSP with the Saint Josephs Seminary (and the resulting "Forum" ) , and another similar situation a few years ago in Los Gatos . This ain' t over yet . . . but I am very disappointed in the current course of events . I will be even more disappointed 10, 20, or 1 30 years in the future when the other shoe drops . Remember, "you don' t know what you got ' till it ' s gone . They paved paradise, put up a parking lot . " Bill Prince South Skyline resident (La Honda) > From SF Chronicle today (Thursday, March 26 , 1998) : > Faced with mounting political pressure, directors of a Peninsula land > conservation agency last night abruptly suspended plans to seize a > coastal ridge where Russian nuns want to build a monastery. > The move, which came after an hourlong closed-session meeting, was a > victory for the nuns, who want to leave their convent in San > Francisco' s noisy Mission District for the quiet hills . > The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District had voted last week to > start eminent domain proceedings to seize 284 acres the nuns had > bought for a planned chapel, retreat center and convent . Directors > worry the development, which would be located two miles south of > Highway 92 off Skyline Boulevard, would harm wildlife habitat and > spoil views of a scenic ridge . > But directors, facing a groundswell of protest, voted 4 to 3 last > night to suspend the lawsuit and reopen negotiations with the Russian > Convent of Our Lady of Vladimir. > "Each member of the board anguished over this decision, ' ' said Betsy > Crowder, the board' s president . "Our hope has always been, and > continues to be, that we reach a compromise suitable for the convent ' s > while maximizing P P P reservation of the open space values in purposes > that area. ' ' lPr ntec-for Malcolm ._Smi-th <mr6sd96penspace.org> I -Rana Sir-car, _04 :0_3__PM_ :5/ ,27_f98 Dispute with th—eNx,,, ---------- To: mrosd@openspace.org Date : Fri, 27 Mar 1998 16 : 03 : 57 -0800 Subject : Dispute with the Nuns X-Juno-Line-Breaks : 0, 2-5 From: musafir@juno.com (Rana Sircar) X-Rcpt-To : mrosd@openspace .org You took the right position. Please don' t give in; don' t back off under pressure . Every time I go on a hike I think of your good work over the years . You don' t need to buy Internet access to use free Internet e-mail . Get completely free e-mail from Juno at http: //www. juno. com Or call Juno at (800) 654-JUNO [654-5866] jPr-inted for-Malcolm Smith <rtir_o_sd9qpenspAce.org_> ---------- Denni s—Coleman, 01:22 3/25/98 _Support for Con. .it LandAcqu-i__ X-Sender: coleman@coastside .net (Unverified) Date : Wed, 25 Mar 1998 13 :22 : 04 -0800 To: mrosd@openspace .org From: Dennis Coleman <coleman@coastside .net> Subject : Support for Convent Land Acquisition X-Rcpt-To : mrosd@openspace .org I am the HMB City Council member, who carried the item to endorse your study of Coastside open space protection opportunities . I wish to encourage you to stick to your mission and not be swayed by the cynically sacharine PR campaign being waged against you by ridgeline development interests . Having attended parochial schools all the way from first grade through college, I know nuns . This issue is not about nuns. It ' s about appropriate land use . Please make your decisions on that basis . In the Catholic Church, nuns are regarded literally as brides of Christ ' . As history has shown numerous times, nuns can be contemplative, even at ground zero of a shooting war. Where they are is secondary, if it ' s on the radar screen at all . These particular nuns are no doubt devout and kind people . What ' s unkind is that they are being used by others in an attempt to force an unwise land use decision for private profit . The intent is an old PR ploy; namely, to create a different issue (justice for the nuns; a nuns dying wish; etc) , than the one your justifiable decision rests on. Nuns, especially cloistered ones, don' t really care where they are, unless their order administers to a geographic need, such as the homeless or sick in blighted areas. Your prior decision is not depriving the nuns of a home . Even if visions and false prophets appear, keep your eye on the ball . You were not elected to win a popularity contest, but to apply your good judgement on behalf of the public . DC 1Pkin-ted­ for-Malcolm Smith--mr-osdiftpenspace.org-> Toe1 Jensen - -._ - - , 03.:�4_ �M _/�2T gB , - Convent vs. o en ace Date : 12 Mar 98 13 :24 :43 -0700 From: Joel Jensen <jjensen@unix. sri .com> Subject : Convent vs . open space To: MROSD Staff <mrosd@openspace .org> Reply-To: Joel Jensen <jjensen@unix. sri .com> X-Rcpt-To : mrosd@openspace .org To the board members and staff of the MROSD: Greetings - I was interested to read the recent Si Mercury article on the MROSD' s eminent domain proceedings relating to the planned convent in the vicinity of Skyline Boulevard, and I was rather disappointed in the tone of the coverage . The article appeared to put the MROSD actions in the same category with the illegal seizure of the nuns ' land that apparently occurred in eastern europe . . . so much for journalistic accuracy. I wouldn' t mind selling my property at the rate of return you are offering them! I 'm mainly writing to say that I 'm glad the MROSD is keeping its priorities straight . This bad press will pass, and in the meantime we ' ll have preserved the open space for the long term. Thanks for your efforts ! Joel Jensen 426 Northumberland Ave Redwood City, CA 94061 Printed-for Fialcolm Smith <mrosdoo-penspace.org> 1 monkeygnetwizard-s.n, O,z _.,2_PK 3/25/`" Letters to xitor/aluns vs. Ope From: monkey@netwizards .net Date : Wed, 25 Mar 1998 16 : 32 : 07 -0800 To: mailto : Subject : Letters to Editor/Nuns vs . Open Space X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace .org Dear Editor, Who will claim the high ground. I refer not to the disputed ridge of the Santa Cruz Mountains (at issue between the Russion Orthodox nuns and the Open Space District) but to the moral dimension it highlights . It is disappointing to learn how far the Russian Orthodox lags behind other churches in its attitude toward the environment . Already several years ago, the Greek Orthodox Church declared Mount Athos, in Greece, a nature preserve and dedicated a new feast day in the Church calendar to the environment . People look to the world' s churches to set an example as the public ' s conscience and guardians of the Common Good. Here is an opportunity for the Russian Orthodox Church to be moral leaders in caring for nature and natural beauty, instead of handing this role to the Open Space District . A community of Roman Catholic nuns has lived for many years in seclusion in the heart of Menlo Park. The nine Russian Orthodox nuns would earn much respect should they choose to live in a similar manner and keep the mountain site as it is . It is precisely by moving into nature that we destroy it . Let us hope the Russian Orthodox Church will show leadership in caring for Creation by opting for stewardship of nature, not dominion over it . Sincerely, P. Durham Menlo Park 650-369-6192 We ' re looking for a few good Mac users join the MacMarines<http: //www.macmarines .com>fight back for the Mac ! Printed for Malcolm Smith �mrosd@o >ens ace.or 1 � P P J I Elaine #aight, �8l disputed end Skyline Blvd. Date : Wed, 8 Apr 1998 20 :21 :29 -0700 X-Sender: eh02673@discovery. fhda.edu To: mrosd@openspace.org From: Elaine Haight <eh02673@tiptoe . fhda.edu> Subject : disputed land on Skyline Blvd. in Woodside X-Rcpt-To : mrosd@openspace .org I urge you to keep your decision to protect the land on Skyline south of Hwy. 92 as part of the open space district . Please use your power of imminent domain to add this parcel to our beautiful group of protected parklands . Just because it is nuns that want to live there, it doesn' t mean that we should take this land from our descendants . If nuns are truly religious and close to God, they should not need to usurp some of the most beautiful land on the peninsula. Stay the course ! Preserve this land for our future. -Elaine Haight 166 Cowper St . Palo Alto, CA 94301 650-321-7851 �Prirritee— for Malcolm--Smith <mrosd�penspace.org> 1Malcolm Smith, 07 s s8 . __ -3 j11)'98 MR09D and Russi orthodox con Date : Wed, 11 Mar 1998 19 : 18 : 55 -0800 (PST) From: Malcolm Smith <mrosd@netcom.com> Subject : MROSD and Russian Orthodox convent (fwd) To: mrosd@openspace.org X-Rcpt-To: mrosd@openspace.org mrosd@netcom.com ---------- Forwarded message ---------- Date : Mon, 9 Mar 1998 19 : 30 : 35 -0800 From: Debra M. Ikeda, M.D. <dikeda@stanford. edu> To: mrosd@netcom.com Subject : MROSD and Russian Orthodox convent Dear Representative Crowder: My husband and I live at 12960 Skyline Blvd. , about 2 miles from a proposed Russian Orthodox Convent site that the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (MROSD) will begin the process of using eminent domain to aquire . We fully support this action and feel it is a good use of our tax dollars . We are both voting professional people who do not have a lot of time to spend at public meetings, but we follow the news of these proceedings closely. We feel that the MROSD purchase will benefit the community and protect the land by controlled public access and MROSD monitering. The aquisition of this land would ensure that it remains undevloped and accessible to the public with minimal environmental impact . Yours sincerely, Debra M. Ikeda-Pelzar and Robert Pelzar (Printed for Malcolm Smith <mrosd0openspace.org> 1