HomeMy Public PortalAbout20040128 - Agendas Packet - Board of Directors (BOD) - 04-03 Regional Open Sp --e
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
t 1�1,EBRA 1ING 30 YEARS OF OPEN SPACE PRESERVATION
Meeting 04-03
SPECIAL AND REGULAR MEETING
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
6:00 p.m.
Wednesday,January 28, 2004
330 Distel Circle
Los Altos, California
AGENDA*
Please Note: 6:00 p.m. Closed Session Special Meeting Start Time
7:30 p.m. Regular Meeting Start Time
6:00 ROLL CALL
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE
DISTRICT—CLOSED SESSION
The Closed Session will begin at 6:00 p.m. At the conclusion of the Closed Session,the Board will
adjourn the Special Meeting Closed Session to 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—Existing Litigation, Government Code Section 54956.9(a)
Name of Case - Half Moon Bay Coastside Foundation, et al. v. Midpeninsula Regional Open
Space District, San Mateo County Superior Court Case No. CIV432548
2. Conference with Real Property Negotiator—Government Code Section 54956.8
Real Property— San Mateo County APN's 076-340-010 and 079-200-030
Agency Negotiato —Tom Fischer, Land Protection Specialist
Negotiating Party—Yurniko Westland,Northern California Presbyterian Homes and Services (The
Sequoias)
7:30* REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL
OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS—Public
ADOPTION OF AGENDA—M. Davey
ADOPTION OF CONSENT CALENDAR—M. Davey
BOARD BUSINESS
7:40* 1 Approval of the Memorandum of Understanding Between the San Mateo County Farm Bureau
and Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District and Authorize Staff to Sponsor and Submit
State Legislation that Prohibits the District's Use of Eminent Domain in the Coastside
Protection Area—C. Woodbury
33o Distel Circle 650-691-1200 info@openspace.org BOARD OF DI R ECI ORS:Pete Siemens,Mary Davey,Jed Cyr, GENERAL MANAGER:
Los Altos CA 94022-1404 650-691-0485 fax www.openspace.org Deane Little,Nonette Hanko,Lorry Hossett,Kenneth C.Nitz L.Craig Britton
Meeting 04-03 Page 2
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7:45* 2 Appointment of 2004 Board Committees; Approve Appointments to Standing and Ad-Hoc
Committees as Contained in this Report, Including the Determination of Compensation Status
—M. Davey
8:00* 3 Appointment of District Representatives to the Governing Board of the Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District Financing Authority; Approve Appointment of Directors Little, Siemens,
and Nitz to Serve on the Governing Board of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
Financing Authority—M. Davey
8:10* 4 Proposed Preliminary Action Plan for the Implementation of the District's Basic Policy for
Fiscal Year 2004-2005; Review the Proposed Preliminary Action Plan for Fiscal Year 2004-
2005 and Discuss Possible Modifications for Review by the Administration and Budget
Committee as a Part of the Budget Development Process—C. Britton
9:00* 5 Application for Per Capita Grant& Roberti-Z'Berg Harris Block Grant Programs Under the
Clean Water,Clean Air, Safe Neighborhood Parks and Coastal Protection Bond Act
(Proposition 40); Adopt the Attached Resolution of the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula
Regional Open Space District Approving the Application for the Per Capita Grant Program
Under the Clean Water,Clean Air, Safe Neighborhood Parks and Coastal Protection Bond Act
of 2002; Adopt the Attached Resolution of the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula
Regional Open Space District Approving the Application for the Roberti-Z'Berg Harris Block
Grant Program Under the Clean Water, Clean Air, Safe Neighborhood Parks and Coastal
Protection Bond Act of 2002—M. Williams
*** 6 Authorize the General Manager to Purchase a New Accounting Package, Including Software,
Maintenance and Training from NFP Accounting Technologies in an Amount Not to Exceed
$25,000 and Authorize the Expenditure for this Unbudgeted Package from Contract Services
and Fixed Assets, As Described in the Body of this Report—S. Thielfoldt
*** 7 Approve Appointment of Director Davey as the District's Representative to the California Joint
Powers Insurance Authority Board of Directors for their Annual Meeting and Appointment of
Two Alternates,General Manager,C. Britton,and Acting Assistant General Manager, S.
Thielfodt—C. Britton
9:10* INFORMATIONAL REPORTS—Brief reports or announcements concerning pertinent activities of
District Directors and Staff.
*** REVISED CLAIMS
9:30* ADJOURNMENT
* Times 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 three minutes. Alternately,you may
comment to the Board by a written communication, which the Board appreciates.
*** All items on the consent calendar may be approved without discussion by one motion. Board members,
the General Manager, and members of the public may request that an item be removed from the
Consent Calendar during consideration of the Consent Calendar.
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Regional Open Spu C e
1
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
R-04-15 CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF OPEN SPACE PRESERVATION
Meeting 04-03
January 28, 2004
AGENDA ITEM 1
AGENDA ITEM
Approval of the Memorandum of Understanding Between the $an Mateo County Farm Bureau and
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District and Authoriza 'on to Sponsor and Submit State Legislation
that Prohibits the District's Use of Eminent Domain in th on
Protection Area
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATI
Approve the Memorandum of U �andinggtween the San Mateo arm Bu u and District
and as provided in the MOU authorize staff to sponsor and submit State legislation that prohibits the
District's use of eminent domain in the Coastside Protection Area.
DISCUSSION
The San Mateo County Farm Bureau provided valuable input in the development of the District's
Coastside Protection Program. The program approved by the Board at their meeting on June 5, 2003
(see Report R-03-54) incorporated numerous policies, implementation actions and mitigation measures
that help to preserve the rural heritage and lend protection to agricultural production on the coastside.
The proposed Memorandum of Understanding MOU formalizes the partnership between the Farm
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Bureau and the District to support and preserve agricultural operations and to help protect the economic
and physical integrity of agricultural lands on the San Mateo coast. The MOU incorporates and
memorializes, the agriculture mitigation measures set out in the Environmental Impact Report.
Additionally, on a case-by-case basis,the District would seek the advice of the Farm Bureau during the
use and management process for lands the District might acquire that include an agriculture operation or
might affect an adjoining agriculture property.
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To further assure the Farm Bureau and all San Mateo County residents that the District's policy and other
measures prohibiting the use of eminent domain in the Coastside Protection Area will be secure and
permanent,the MOU includes a provision that the District sponsor and submit State legislation to that
effect. The Farm Bureau would support such legislation in Sacramento. This agreement represents a
major step toward efforts to implement the District's Coastside Protection Program.
Prepared by:
Cathy Woodbury, Planning Manager
Susan M. Schectman, General Counsel
Contact person:
L. Craig Britton, General Manager
List of Attachments
1. Letter from San Mateo County Farm Bureau
2. Memorandum of Understanding
33o Distel Circle 650-6gi-uoo info@openspace.o►g BOARD OF DIRECTORS:Pete Siemens,Mary Davey,Jed Cyr, GENERAL MANAGER:
Los Altos CA 94022-1404 650-691-0485 fax www.openspace.org Deane Little,Nanette Nanko,Larry Nassett,Kenneth C.Nitz L.Craig Britton
SAN MATEO COUNTY FARM BUREAU
765 MAIN STREET
HALF MOON SAY, CALIFORNIA 94019
PHONE (650) 726-4485
January 20, 2004
Craig Britton, General Manager
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
330 Distel Circcle
Los Altos,CA 94022-1404
Re: Memorandum of Understanding(MOU)
Dear Craig:
I am pleased to report that after much discussion, the San Mateo County Farm Bureau Board of
Directors unanimously supported the attached, signed MOU at our meeting last night. We sincerely hope
that the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Board will take a similar action at its next board
meeting.
We appreciate the opportunity to work with you and Sue Schectman regarding our concerns with
the proposed annexation.by the District. We recognize that the District is taking a significant step if it
agrees to sponsor and support legislation that prohibits its use of eminent domain in the area covered by
the proposed annexation. As we have previously stated,this issue is of paramount concern to Farm
Bureau.
In addition, Farm Bureau recognizes that the District has spent considerable effort on the final
EIR for the proposed annexation. The District developed agricultural mitigation measures in response to
the comments from Farm Bureau and individuals concerned about maintaining agricultural land in
agricultural production. This MOU further solidifies the District's commitment to these mitigation
measures. It also ensures that agriculture will have a voice in the District's plans and activities affecting
the area proposed for annexation so that agriculture can remain viable.
We believe that our recent discussions and cooperative efforts have been valuable for furthering
the goals of both organizations,and we would like to continue working together. From our viewpoint,
such efforts will benefit the citizens of this County.
Sincerely,
Jack Olsen,
Executive Administrator
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PROPOSED
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
BETWEEN
THE SAN MATEO COUNTY FARM BUREAU
AND
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
WHEREAS, the mission of the San Mateo County Farm Bureau ("Farm Bureau")
includes the preservation of existing and potential agricultural operations in San
Mateo County in order to keep the maximum amount of agricultural land in
production and to provide support and expertise to its members and to private and
public entities for those purposes; and
WHEREAS, the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District("District") has filed an
application with San Mateo County Local Agency Formation Commission
("LAFCo")to extend its boundaries to the San Mateo County Coast and has adopted
a related Service Plan for the purposes of preserving open space and agricultural land,
encouraging viable agricultural use of land, and preserving agricultural operations in
conformance with the San Mateo County General Plan; and
WHEREAS, the Farm Bureau and the District desire to work together cooperatively to
support and preserve agricultural operations and to protect the economic and physical
integrity of agricultural lands on the San Mateo Coast; and
WHEREAS, the Farm Bureau and the District believe that by such cooperative efforts the
Farm Bureau will help enable the District to better accomplish its mission for the
Coastside Protection Area for the benefit of its members and all residents of San
Mateo County; and
WHEREAS, the Service Plan establishes the policy of the District to insure that where
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open space recreation or public access occurs, it is planned and managed in a manner
that avoids adverse impacts to adjacent agricultural operations; and
WHEREAS, the District desires to consult with the Farm Bureau in planning for open
space recreation and public access to ensure that such uses avoid adverse impacts to
adjacent agricultural operations; and
WHEREAS, the Service Plan prohibits the District's use of the power of eminent domain
in the area proposed for annexation ("Coastside Protection Area"), and the Farm
Bureau has requested that this prohibition be established through state legislation so
as to further insure the permanence of this District policy; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of the District desires to sponsor such legislation to
further insure to the satisfaction of the Farm Bureau and all San Mateo County
coastside residents that its policy prohibiting the use of eminent domain in the
proposed Coastside Protection Area will be secure and permanent; and
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WHEREAS, it is the joint desire of the Farm Bureau and the District to enter into this
Memorandum of Understanding in order to formalize the goals and understandings of
both parties in their efforts to preserve agriculture in San Mateo County.
NOW, THEREFORE, IT IS AGREED AS FOLLOWS:
1. The San Mateo County Farm Bureau desires to insure that eminent domain
not be used to acquire land in the District's proposed Coastside Protection
Area. The Farm Bureau has requested that the District sponsor state legislation
permanently removing the District's power of eminent domain in the proposed
Coastside Protection Area. The District has agreed to sponsor such legislation.
A copy of the proposed legislation is attached hereto, marked "Exhibit A" and
incorporated by this reference. The Farm Bureau has agreed to support this
legislation without amendment. The enactment of this legislation, in the form
set out in Exhibit A, is a condition precedent of the parties' obligations in this
MOU. The parties recognize that minor changes to this legislation may be
made by the State Legislative Counsel in the normal course of its review and
approval of legislative language and the parties shall continue to support and
propose such legislation as approved by Legislative Counsel, provided that
only minor and technical changes are made by Legislative Counsel. Any other
changes shall require the prior written agreement of both the Farm Bureau and
the District.
2. The San Mateo County Farm Bureau and the District desire to insure that the
District's implementation of the Service Plan and its Coastside Protection
Program preserve and encourage viable agricultural operations, and avoid
adverse effects on agriculture. To accomplish this goal, the Farm Bureau and
the District agree that:
a. As part of its Coastside Protection Program, the District has adopted a set of
Mitigation Measures to preserve agriculture and to avoid adverse impacts on
agriculture. A copy of these Mitigation Measures is attached hereto, marked
"Exhibit B"and incorporated by this reference. The Farm Bureau has requested
and the District has agreed that these Mitigation Measures shall be incorporated
into this MOU. The District agrees that it will implement these Measures, and
that implementation of these Measures is a commitment from the District to the
Farm Bureau. These Mitigation Measures may not be amended by the District
unless required by law.
b. The District will consult with the Farm Bureau in the development of site-specific
use and management plans and site-specific agricultural production plans in the
Coastside Protection Area as set out in Mitigation Measure AGR-3h.
c. When practicable and consistent with the Mitigation Measures, when planning for
the preservation of land in agricultural production, the District will consider first
whether acquisition of a conservation easement is the best method to enable the
land to remain in private ownership and in agricultural production.
d. When considering the proposed use and management of any agricultural land
acquired by the District in the Coastside Protection Area, the District will provide
the Farm Bureau prior written notice of any hearings at which site use and
management plans, agricultural production plans, reviews or amendments will be
considered. Further, the District will provide a prior opportunity for the Farm
Bureau to review and comment on any such plans. This will insure that the Farm
Bureau has the opportunity to share its expertise, resources and viewpoints with
the District prior to any decision concerning future use or management of such
lands. In addition, District staff will meet with representatives of the Farm
Bureau from time to time on an informal basis upon request of either party to
consult regarding development of such plans.
3. The San Mateo County Farm Bureau determines that, based upon the
specific terms and conditions of this MOU, the District's Coastside
Protection Program will benefit and help preserve agriculture in San
Mateo County, and will help to protect agriculture's physical and
economic integrity in the County. The elimination of the District's power
of eminent domain by legislation is a key component that will further
protect agricultural lands from being removed from production. On that
basis the San Mateo County Farm Bureau expresses its support for and
endorsement of the District's Coastal Protection Program.
4. The San Mateo County Farm Bureau requests that LAFCo approve the
District's application for annexation of the San Mateo County Coastside
Protection Area as filed on October 28, 2003, in its entirety.
5. This MOU may not be amended without the written consent of both the
Farm Bureau and the District.
6. Any written notice sent pursuant to this MOU shall be addressed as
follows:
Farm Bureau: Executive Administrator
San Mateo County Farm Bureau
765 Main Street
Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
District: General Manager
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
330 Distel Circle
Los Altos, CA 94022
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this MOU to be executed by
their duly authorized officers to be effective as of the date of final execution by
the District.
FARM BUREAU: DISTRICT:
By: By:
Date Date:
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EXHIBIT A
SECTION I. Section 5572.2 is added to the Public Resources Code to read:
55712, The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District shall not exercise the power of eminent
domain to acquire any real property or any interest in real property in the San Mateo County
Coastal Annexation Area as defined in the Resolution of Application for Annexation
Proceedings No. 03-20 adopted by the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District on June 6,2003.
SECTION 2. The Legislature finds and declares that a special law is necessary and that a general law
cannot be made applicable within the meaning of Section 16 of Article IV of the California
Constitution because of the unique circumstances applicable only to this proposed project of the
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District. The District has adopted an ordinance and policy
prohibiting the use of the power of eminent domain in an area of San Mateo County currently
proposed for annexation to the District. This policy was adopted due to the special and unique
circumstances of the particular annexation project and the particular nature of the territory proposed
for annexation and in response to input from a Citizens' Advisory Committee formed to recommend
policies particular to this proposed project. This legislation will further that policy and ordinance.
The Legislature further finds and declares that this need is not common to all districts formed under
the Regional Park District law nor to other projects of the District.
SECTION 3. This act is an urgency statute necessary for the immediate preservation of the public
peace,health or safety within the meaning of Article IV of the Constitution and shall go into
immediate effect. The facts constituting the necessity are.
Enactment of this legislation will enable the District to implement the particular policies regarding
eminent domain it has adopted for this specific project at the earliest possible time. In order for the
prohibitions created by this act to become incorporated into this project,it is necessary for the act to
take effect immediately.
EXHIBIT B
Midpeninsuia Regional Open Space District Coastside Protection Program
Mitigation Measures
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AGRICULTURE
Mitigation AGR-1a: No new buildings or staging areas shall be located on
prime agricultural lands or on Unique Farmlands or Farmlands of Statewide
Importance as shown on Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the
California Resources Agencythat aFe beiRg used feF agFiGUItUral puFpq To
implement this Mitigation Measure
the Draft Service Plan should be revised to provide that
the ranger office/maintenance facility and the staging areas may not be
located on prime agricultural lands or on Unique Farmlands or Farmlands of
Statewide Importance as shown on Farmland Mapping and Monitoring
Program of the California Resources Agency-Farmland
Mitigation AGR-1b: Trails and habitat preservation areas shall either be
located to avoid prime agricultural lands-and Unique Farmlands or Farmlands
of Statewide Importance as shown on Farmland Mapping and Monitoring
Program of the California Resources Agency=or traverse such lands in a
manner that does not result in interference with agricultural activities or
substantially reduce the agricultural potential of those lands. Owners and
operators of aGWe agricultural activities lands shall be consulted to identify
appropriate routes on those lands they salt+vate. The agricultural activities and
the agricultural potential of traversed lands shall be protected and buffered
from trail user impacts by means of distance, physical barriers (i.e., sturdy
fences), or other non-disruptive methods.
Mitigation AGR-1c: The District shall adopt Draft Service Plan Policy P.1 by
ordinance. This policy reads as follows: "Within the Coastal Annexation Area,
the District shall only acquire lands or interests in lands from willing sellers.
The power of eminent domain will not be exercised by the District within the
Coastal Annexation Area. This policy is a Basic Policy for the Coastal
Annexation Area."
Mitigation AGR-1d: Amend the Draft Service Plan to include the following:
The term "prime agricultural land"as used in this Plan means:
a) All land which qualifies for rating as Class I or Class II in the U.S.
Department of Agriculture Soil Conservation Service Land Use Capability
Classification, as well as all Class III lands capable of growing artichokes
or Brussels sprouts.
b) All land which qualifies for rating 80-100 in the Storie Index Rating.
c) Land which supports livestock for the production of food and fiber and
which has an annual carrying capacity equivalent to at least one animal
unit per acre as defined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
d Land planted with fruit or nut bearing trees, vines, bushes, or crops which
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have a non-bearing period of less than five years and which normally
return during the commercial bearing period, on an annual basis, from the
production of unprocessed agricultural plant production not less than $200
per acre.
e) Land which has returned from the production of an unprocessed
agricultural plant product an annual value that is not less than $200 per
acre within three of the five previous years.
The $200 per acre amount in subsections d)and e)shall be adjusted regularly
for inflation, using 1965 as the base year, according to a recognized consumer
price index.
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Coastside Protection Program--Mitigation Measures
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The term "prime agricultural land" as used in this Plan shall also include
Unique Farmland and Farmland of Statewide Importance as shown on the
Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources
Agency.
Mitigation AGR-2: See Mitigation LU-2
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Mitigation AGR-3a:
Guideline 3.2 in the Draft Service Plan should be modified to state:
"Improvements or public uses located upon open space lands other than
agriculture...shall be located away from existing prime agricultural lands and
Unique Farmlands or Farmlands of Statewide Importance as shown on
Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources
Agency_
%AQUId not pmmete the planned, eFdedy, effiGient use of an . To
the exte-nt feasible, all All trails and other public facilities should be located so
as not to fragment agricultural operations unless no feasible alternative is
available. While trails that bisect grazing lands would not be likely to fragment
grazing operations, trails that bisect cultivated crops could adversely affect the
vitality of agricultural operations and should be avoided where feas+t�le. If trails
must traverse cultivated lands there they shall be permitted only if adequate
buffers, signs, and other measures necessary to ensure that trail use does not
interfere with the agricultural operations shall ae are implemented.'
Mitigation AGR-3b: The District shall provide private property signs where
appropriate and provide trail users information regarding private property rights
to minimize public/private use conflicts and trespassing. The District shall
clearly sign trails adjacent to active agriculture and provide trail users with
information regarding property rights to minimize trespassing and conflicts with
agricultural users.
Mitigation AGL-3c: Trails shall either be located to avoid prime agricultural
lands and Unique Farmlands or Farmlands of Statewide Importance as shown
on Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources
,LN nc or traverse such lands in a manner that does not result in interference
with agricultural activities or substantially reduce the agricultural potential of
those lands. Operators of active agricultural activities on lands owned by or
under easement to the District shall be consulted to identify appropriate routes
on lands they cultivate. Owners and operators of astive agricultural activities
on lands adjacent to District lands used for non-agricultural purposes shall be
consulted to identify routes that will avoid adverse effects on agricultural
operations. The agricultural activities and the agricultural potential of traversed
lands shall be protected and buffered from trail user impacts by means of
distance, physical barriers (i.e., sturdy fences), or other non-disruptive
methods.
Mitigation AGL-3d: The District lands or easements that GGFAprise the trail
setting upon which trails are sited shall provide width sufficient for
management and/or buffer space from adjacent uses so as not to preclude the
viability of those uses. Buffers established to separate recreation and other
open space uses from agricultural operations shall be designed and managed
in accordance with the following standards:
Buffers shall be designed in relation to the nature of the adjoining land use,
potential land uses and proposed public access:
Buffers shall be designed in relation to the topography and other physical
characteristics of the buffer area;
Buffers shall be designed with consideration of biological, soil, and other
site conditions in order to limit the potential spread of non-native invasive
species or pathogens onto agricultural lands:
Buffers shall be of sufficient width to allow a ricultural use of adjoinin
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Coastside Protection Program--Mitigation Measures
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agricultural lands including application of pesticides and other agricultural
chemicals on all lands needing treatment taking into account the likelihood
and extent of potential pesticide drift;.
e) All lands used for buffers should be on land or interests in land owned by
the District; adjoining landowners shall not be required to provide land for
buffers.
f) The District shall be responsible for the management and maintenance of
all lands used as buffers.
g) If a specific buffer fails to resolve conflicts between a recreational use and
adjacent agricultural uses the recreational use shall be moved to a
different location.
All buffers shall be developed in consultation with the owners and operators of
adjoining agricultural lands.
Mitigation AGR-3e: Where pesticides are used, including pesticides for
control of noxious weeds, they must be handled, applied, and disposed of in
such a manner that they do not adversely affect adjacent agriculture, including
organic agriculture. Pesticide use shall be guided by label restrictions and any
advisories published by the California Department of Pesticide Regulation
(CDPR)or the County Agricultural Commission. These chemicals shall only
be applied by a person who is properly trained in their application.
Mitigation AGR-3f: The District shall conduct its land management practices
such that they do not have an adverse significant impact on the physical and
economic integrity of timberland preserves on or contiguous to properties
owned or managed by the District and so that the safety of visitors to District
preserves is not compromised by timber harvesting (e.g., establishing
appropriate buffers on District lands).
Mitigation AGR-3g: When acquiring lands in agricultural use, the acquisition
shall be subject to continued use by the owner or operator until such time as it
is sold or leased pursuant to the use and management plan adopted for the
property. All agricultural land which is not needed for recreation or for the
protection and vital functioning of a sensitive habitat will be permanently
protected for agriculture and, whenever legally feasible, the District will offer
for sale or lease the maximum amount of agricultural land to active farm
operators on terms compatible with the recreational and habitat use. Lands
that do not have significant recreation or sensitive habitat values and which
can clearly support productive agricultural operations will generally be offered
for sale while other agricultural lands will generally be offered for lease.
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Coastside Protection Program--Mitigation Measures
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Mitigation Measure AGR-3h: Revise Draft Service Plan Guideline G.6.3
as follows:
GUIDELINE G.6.3
Inherent in the preservation of open space resources in the Coastal
Annexation Area is the protection of: rare, threatened and endangered
plant and animal species; ecological systems; agricultural resources,
water quality; visual resources; unique biological resources, including
heritage and significant trees: and the unique cultural resources in the
Coastal Annexation Area, including historic, archaeological and
paleontological resources. Therefore, prior to making any lands available
to low-intensity public recreational access, the District shall prepare and
adopt a use and management plan, which, includes site-specific resource
management and public access components plan for any lands acquired
by the District or managed through contract for other public or private non-
profit property owners. All lands acquired by the District within the Coastal
Annexation Area will be inventoried to identify and prioritize resource
management issues. Where there are critical issues, such as the
presence of non-native invasive species which threaten the habitat of
endangered species or the economic viability of an adjacent agricultural
operation, resource management plans will be prepared for these areas
even if they remain closed to the public.
The use and management plan shall include an agricultural production
plan for District-owned agricultural lands or District lands adjacent to
agricultural lands. For district-owned lands, the plan shall describe the
crop and/or livestock potential for the property together with the
management actions required to protect existing agricultural production
(e.g., growing seasons, water requirements, pesticide, manure, and waste
management)and the agricultural potential of the land. The plan shall
consider the following factors:
a) Availability of labor, including farm labor housing:
b) Availability of farm support services and goods:
c) Necessary capital improvements (e.g. water storage, fencing, land
leveling)
d) Farm operations, including erosion control, the season(s)and times of
pesticide or herbicide usage, manure and waste management,
e) Water use and availability:
f) Access to transportation and markets-, and
g) Promoting agricultural production on District-owned land.
In the case of District lands adiacent to agricultural production, the
agricultural production plan shall develop site-specific measures to prevent
activities on District lands from interfering with adiacent agricultural
production.
The development of use and management plans will include consultation
with the current owner or operator of any agricultural operations on the
land, adjoining landowners, the San Mateo County Environmental
Services Agency in addition to other include opportunities for public
involvement.
Mitigation Measure AGR-3i: Amend Draft Service Plan Guideline G.2 as
follows:
Prior to making any lands available to public access for low-intensity recreation
in the Coastal Annexation Area, the District shall have personnel and
leguipment available to manage public access such that: there would be no
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Coastside Protection Program--Mitigation Measures
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significant negative impact on existing services; and adequate stewardship to
protect natural and agricultural resources will be provided.
Mitigation Measure AGR-3j: Amend the Draft Service Plan to include the
following policy:
The District shall actively work with lessees of District lands and with the
owners of land in which the District has an agricultural easement interest to:
a. Facilitate the provision of farm worker housing on District-owned lands by
providing technical assistance in obtaining permits for such housing from
the County of San Mateo.
b. Seek grant funding for the continuation or establishment of viable
agriculture through the California Farmland Conservancy Program and
other agriculture grant programs.
c. Provide technical assistance to secure water rights for the continuation or
establishment of viable agriculture consistent with protection of sensitive
habitats.
Mitigation Measure AGR-3k: Amend the Draft Service Plan to include the
following policy:
The District shall actively pursue opportunities to enter agricultural easements
and leases with interested farmers and ranchers. All agricultural easements
and agricultural leases in the Coastal Annexation Area shall:
a. Be tailored to meet individual farmers and ranchers needs while respecting
the unique characteristics of the property;
b. Specify uses that are unconditionally permitted pursuant to the easement
or lease to provide certainty to the farmer or rancher entering the lease or
easement with the District;
c. Include terms that allow farmers and ranchers to adapt and expand their
operations and farming practices to adjust to changing economic
conditions;
d. Include terms that ensure farmers or ranchers may provide farm labor
housing as defined and approved by San Mateo County;
e. Ensure compatibility of resource protection and management, low-intensity
public recreation and viable agricultural operations; and
f. In the case of leases, be for a sufficient period of time to gain a return on
the investment in the agricultural operation.
Regional Open Sp, _,e
--------------------------—
R-04-12 MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
Meeting 04-03 (;F1_EBRA'r1N(; 30 YEARS OF OPEN SPACE PRESERVATION
January 28, 2004
AGENDA ITEM 2
AGENDA ITEM
Appointment of 2004 Board Committees
PRESIDENT'S RECOMMENDATION
Approve my appointments to Standing and Ad-Hoc Committees as contained in this report,
including the determination of compensation status.
DISCUSSION
Section 1.80-1.82 of our Rules of Procedure calls for the Board President to appoint Board
members to our existing Standing and Ad Hoc Committees, with consent of the Board.
The four Standing Committees consist of Administration and Budget; Legislative, Finance, and
Public Affairs; Use and Management; and Real Property(name changed from Acquisition and
Enterprise). Following our Rules, Directors Cyr (Board Treasurer), Hassett, and Nitz were
appointed to the Administration and Budget Committee at our January 14, 2004 meeting. The
remaining appointments are to be approved at the second Regular Meeting in January.
All standing committees are compensable. The Ad Hoc Board Appointee Evaluation and Coastal
Annexation Committees are also compensable. The Ridge Trail Council representation is
proposed to remain non-compensable.
Proposed committee assignments for the 2004 are shown on the following page and I look
forward to Board concurrence.
Prepared by:
Lisa Zadek, Assistant District Clerk
L. Craig Britton, General Manager
Contact person:
Mary Davey, President
III
33o Distel Circle 650-6gi-1200 info@openspace.org BOARD OF DIRECTORS:Pete Siemens,Mary Davey,Jed Cyr, GENERAL MANAGER:
Los Altos CA 94022-1404 650-691-0485 fax www.openspace.org Deane Little,Nonette Hanko,Lorry Hassett,Kenneth C.Nitz L.Craig Britton
BOARD OFFICERS—2004
President—Mary Davey
Vice-President— Larry Hassett
Treasurer— Jed Cyr
Secretary— Ken Nitz
BOARD COMMITTEES—2004
* non-compensable
STANDING COMMITTEES AD HOC COMMITTEES
Administration and Budget Board Appointee Evaluation
• Jed Cyr(Treasurer) • Jed Cyr
• Larry Hassett • Mary Davey
• Ken Nitz • Pete Siemens
Legislative, Finance and Public Affairs Coastal Protection Program
• Jed Cyr • Nonette Hanko
• Nonette Hanko • Larry Hassett
• Pete Siemens • Ken Nitz
Use and Management Ridge Trail Council Representative
• Larry Hassett • Jed Cyr
• Deane Little
• Ken Nitz
Real Property
• Nonette Hanko
• Deane Little
• Pete Siemens
Regional Open Sp -,e
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
(IFI.EBRAl-ING 30 YEARS OF OPEN SPACE TIRESERVA-FION
R-04-13
Meeting 04-02
January 28, 2004
AGENDA ITEM 3
AGENDA ITEM
Appointment of District Representatives to the Governing Board of the Midpeninsula Regional Open
Space District Financing Authority
PRESIDENT'S RECOMMENDATION
Approve my appointment of Directors Little, Siemens, and Nitz to serve on the Governing Board of
the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Financing Authority.
DISCUSSION
The Governing Board of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Financing Authority
consists of five members. In accordance with its bylaws, the District's Board President shall be the
Chairperson of the Financing Authority. Three members of the District's Board of Directors are
appointed by the Board President. The fifth member is the member of the Santa Clara County Board
of Supervisors whose district encompasses the greatest territory of the Midpeninsula Regional Open
Space District, and who is appointed to the Board of the Financing Authority by the Chairman of the
Board of Supervisors. Accordingly, Supervisor Liz Kniss will remain as the fifth member.
Section 2.4 of Article 11 of the Financing Authority's bylaws calls for the Treasurer (Controller) of the
District to be the Treasurer of the Authority, and District Clerk to be the Secretary of the Authority,
which translates to Mike Foster and Sally Thielfoldt respectively.
I recommend that you approve my appointment of Directors Little, Siemens and Nitz to serve on the
Governing Board of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Financing Authority.
Prepared by:
L. Craig Britton, General Manager
Contact person:
Mary Davey, President
33o Distel Circle 650-6gi-izoo info@openspace.org BOARD OF DIRECTORS:Pete Siemens,Mary Davey,Jed Cyr, GENERAL MANAGER:
Los Altos CA 94022-1404 650-691-0485 fax www.openspace.org Deane Little,Nonette Hanko,Lorry Hossett,Kenneth C.Nitz L.Craig Britton
i
I
Regional Open Sp_ .,e
R-04-14 MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
Meeting 04-03 CELEBRATINt; 30 YEARS OF OPEN SPACE PRESERVATION
January 28, 2004
AGENDA ITEM 4
AGENDA ITEM
Proposed Preliminary Action Plan for the Implementation - Pistrict's Basic Policy for Fiscal
Year 2004-2005
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATI
Review the proposed Preliminary Action Plan for fiscal year 2004-2005 and discuss possible
modifications for review by the Administration and Budget Committee as a part of the budget
development process.
DISCUSSION
The District's activities are guided by an annual Action Plan that implements the Basic Policy
and other Board policies. The Action Plan's function is to summarize the proposed and current
emphasis of the District's major departments, to identify key projects, to allocate budget, and to
be a basis for evaluation of progress.
Each Department Manger will highlight specific proposals and related projects and services
p p p J
during their individual Action Plan presentations at this evening's meeting.
The proposed Action Plan could be altered as a result of our meeting deliberations the budget
p p Y g g
formulation, the Administration and Budget Committee review process, and your final approval
of the Action Plan, which is ordinarily considered at your second meeting in March.
Prepared by:
L. Craig Britton, General Manager
Sally Thielfoldt, Administration and Human Resources Manager
Mike Williams, Real Property Representative
Del Woods, Senior Acquisition Planner
Cathy Woodbury, Planning Manager
John Maciel, Operations Manager
Rudy Jurgensen, Public Affairs Manager
Susan Schectman, General Counsel
Contact person:
L. Craig Britton, General Manager
jjoDistelCircle 650-691-1200 info@openspace.org BOARD OF DIRECTORS:Pete Siemens,Mary Davey,Jed Cyr, GENERAL MANAGER:
Los Altos CA 94022-1404 650-691-0485 fax www.openspace.org Deane Little,Nonette Hanko,Larry Hassett,Kenneth C.Nitz L.Craig Britton
ACTION PLAN
FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE
BASIC POLICY OF THE
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN
SPACE DISTRICT
FOR THE 200-24"2004-2005 FISCAL YEAR-
r'U A 1-'I'l I
I. PROPERTY DEPARTMENT
A. Acquisition, Funding, and Negotiation
B. Property Management
C. Land Protection
H. OPEN SPACE PLANNING DEPARTMENT
A. Planning and Geographic Information
B. Public Access Improvements and Staff Facilities
III. OPERATIONS DEPARTMENT
A. Field Operations
B. Resource Management
IV. PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT
A. General Public Information and Outreach
B. Legislative, Funding, and Organizational Relations
C. Community Programs
V. ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT
A. Administration
B. Human Resources
C. Legal Services
REAL PROPERTY OPEN SPACE ACQUISITION DEPARTMENT
Programs
A. Acquisition, Funding, and Negotiation
B. Property Management
C. Land Protection
To Implement the
BASIC POLICY OBJECTIVE:
The District seeks to purchase or otherwise acquire interest in the maximum feasible area of
strategic open space land within the District planning areas, including bay lands and foothills.
The District seeks to link its open space lands with federal, state, county, city parklands, and
watershed lands.
General Department Emphasis for 2003-20042004-2005
The department's emphasis will be to acquire lands funded under the District's Financing
Authority which are critical to fill in and complete the open space greenbelt. Other open space
land purchases will be pursued through long-term options, available grant funding, bargain
sales, and gifts. The District will continue to work diligently with Peninsula Open Space Trust
(POST) to acquire land and to further the District's overall open space acquisition goals. The
Property Management Program will focus on maximizing rental income consistent with Open
Space Management policies, upgrading communication leases and on maintaining and improving
District rental structures, as needed. The Land Protection Program will focus on conducting
comprehensive land acquisition studies, monitoring land use planning activities where interests
in land may be enhanced, and protect District interests in land by resolving conflicts arising from
easement and encroachment issues. Continue to improve communications with other
Departments to enhance the District's work environment. As a result of the approval of the
Clean Water, Clean Air, Safe Neighborhood Parks, and Coastal Protection Bond Act of 2002
(Proposition 40), the District will continue to apply for per-capita and competitive grants to
maximize available grant funding.
Staff Resources
(Regular, full-time positions, unless otherwise indicated)
Land n< <.r,o Real Property Manager(.>aeant p itio )
Real Property Representa4ve
Senior Acquisition Planner
Land Protection Specialist
Real Property Specialist
Administrative Assistant
Page I
200-4-20442004-2005
Acquisition Funding and Negotiation
Obiective
To provide for the acquisition of all real property rights necessary to secure an open space
greenbelt in the foothills and bay lands, including rounding out and improving public access to
existing preserves and connecting District preserves with other public lands.
Key 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 properties which
are critical to protecting the greenbelt, including rounding out and improving public
access to existing preserves, connecting to other preserves and other public lands,
protecting the natural habitat and resources, and furthering the completion of the Bay
Area Ridge Trail and San Francisco Bay Trail. ),vith potential ulti i-ate "fail. eonneetion"; to
the Pacifie Goast. Aequisitions founding oul Bear-0-eek Redwood Open Spaee Preserve
t.7 1 Balance the desirability of potential acquisitions with the availability of
budgeted funds, including, if possible, private financing with favorable terms.
2. Acquisition Grant Projects-To augment acquisition funds, explore new grant
opportunities focusing on high pri ofity-highly competitive acquisition projects for
specific grant programs. Seek new grant funds through existing grant programs such as
Land and Water Conservation Fund, Habitat Conservation Fund (HCF), Coastal
Conservancy's Coastal and San Francisco Bay Area Conservancy Programs, Recreational
Trails Program, Wildlife Conservation Board, and Bay Area Ridge Trail grants.
Complete Resubmit an application to the Bay Area Conservancy ff--ffl4
-Program for in Sierfaikixul, in the acquisition of the POST/Guadalupe
Land Company property in Sierra Azul. Complete f6f aequisition 4 the
POS'44 Loma Pfieta Ranehpfopefty and a possible addi'i".. .sima Creek Red,,A,00ds
aee l3feSep,,(_ D.— A--- idge Trail grant ------ 12 miles 0
dedieated Ridge ent through SierraAzu! Open Space Preserv-e
connecting Lexington Remen,ior to Almaden Quieksilver County Ptirk. Implement
Proposition 40 Bond Act Per Capita and Roberti-Z'Berg Grant projects and apply for
related block grants and competitive grants as they become available.
3. Gifts, Bargain Sales, and Joint Acquisitions -To augment acquisition funds, explore
bargain sales, and/or gifts where possible. Complete joint acquisition projects with Santa
Clara County Parks for the former Lobner property in Stevens Creek Canyon, Moody
Gulch property near Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve. Work closely with
Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST)to pufsue complete acquisition of the Guadalupe
Land Company property as andopen space V..01"ides potential fegional-�
trail conneetions. ineludi-ng additions to La 14-nda CC re-elk,-atx4 to Sierra Azul Open Space
Preserves. Pursue gifts of the "paper subdivision" lots in the Redwood Park
subdivision to round out the Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve and
Page 2
lots in the Hacienda Park subdivision to round out Sierra Azul Open Space
Preserve.
4. Alternative Acquisition Methods - Obtain Board approval of appropriate options, at
market prices or less, to acquire desirable properties that might be affordable through
grant applications in future years. Explore various alternative terms of purchase
(installment purchases, defeasable fee, exchange of agricultural easements to preserve
open space lands, etc.) to offer advantages and incentives to landowners, as well as cost
savings to the District. Complete easement exchange on lands adjacent to Monte Bello
Open Space Preserve. To resolve encroachments on District lands, complete possible
fee and easement exchange of lands adjacent to Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve
and adjacent to Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve, as approved by the
Board.
Other Projects and Activities
I Maintain a multi-year spending plan for open space acquisition which optimizes use of
cash and borrowed funds to accomplish acquisition goals within budget constraints.
2. Work closely with Legal Program to draft purchase agreements and related real estate
documents, atid-to clear and perfect title on District open space lands including obtaining
quitclaims and initiating quiet title action on Dennis Martin Road at Thornewood Open
Space Preserve.
3. Assist the Planning Department, when appropriate, with the C-0astal 'annexation projeet
Coastal Protection Program and LAFCo review process in San Mateo and Santa Clara
Counties.
4. sue a publie Ifin-affi-ei measure with favor-able t_rnisl to pfovide ad( 1 land
acquisition funds if d_emed appfopr-iate by!he Distr-iet Gontfoller-7 Initiate an
acquisition data base linking the historic and current Assessor's Parcel Numbers in
Santa Clara, San Mateo and Santa Cruz Counties with the Planning Department's
GIS data base.
5. 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,
land trusts, groups, etc.).
6. Encourage other agencies to acquire through various means, including grants, park and
open space lands that are consistent with their goals and which compliment the District's
greenbelt program.
7. Initiate and maintain contacts with landowners, real estate appraisers and brokers,
developers, architects, engineers, zoning and planning officials, and financial institutions.
Page 3
8. Maintain a relocation assistance program utilizing staff and consultants as necessary.
9. Compile current information on real estate market activity, including ordering
preliminary title reports on a timely basis for research into potentially available
properties.
10. 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.
11. Work with the Planning Department to complete the acquisition of the City and
County of San Francisco's surplus parcel which is needed to construct the staging
area at Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve.
12. Continue working with the Legal Services Program and Planning Department to
pursue global solutions to streamline the acquisition and planning processes,
including: A Memorandum of Agreement with Santa Clara County to identify
acquisitions that are exempt from the requirements of the Subdivision Map Act, and
Memorandum of Agreement with San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties clarifying
the consistency of acquisitions with County planning requirements.
Page 4
20033-29942004-2005
Property Management Pro ram
Objective
To manage all of the District's revenue-producing activities in such a way as to maximize income
from property management accounts consistent with Open Space Management policies,
incorporating compatible new programs when possible.
Key Projects
I
1. Property Management Accounts - Administer rental accounts, communication and
P g
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. 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. Work with Operations Department to implement a ,i fiaffn water ,stein „„ a
WArea.annual inspection
program of District rental and employee residence. Administer long term and recurring
maintenance priorities on rental properties.
3. Historic Leases - Oversee lease compliance and renovation requirements at the historic
Picchetti Winery, Thornewood estate, and Fremont Older house. Negotiate lease extension
with the lessee at the historic Picchetti Winery.
4. Communication Rental Income-Maximize lease income at existing PG&E tower at
Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve. Complete lease extension with Association of
Continuing ..
dtieation at Black Mountain and with the Count�, of San Mateo at the Rolph
Repeater- site -,44 12-ussi-an Ridge Open S-Paee Preserv . Federal Aviation Administration
(FAA) at Black Mountain.
Other Projects and Activities
1. Prepare annual rental surveys on District rental houses and Ranger residences. Work with
Operations and Planning Departments to maintain and improve employee residence structures.
2. _ aifitai g Distriet
Fental prepet4ies (such as the fofmeF Smith and Skerfill residences). Pursue a long
term lease or fee determinable estate arrangement with tenants at the former Smith
residence at Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve.
3. Assess the economic viability of long-term leasehold arrangements, or, if appropriate, the
disposition of structures in accordance with Board policies.
4. Investigate new property management proposals as initiated by other groups or individuals that
would be compatible with District goals and objectives.
Page 5
5. Administer lease of additional office space at 330 Distel Circle.
i
6. Pursue lease amendment for Agricultural lease for Christmas tree farms at Skyline Ridge
and Monte Bello Open Space Preserves.
i
Page 6
200-?-20a42 0 04-2� 0 OS
Land Protection Program
Objective
To preserve and protect District open space lands by conducting land acquisition planning activities
to identify acquisition priorities and, once acquired, to further protect these public lands from
incompatible and encroaching land use activities.
Key Projects
1. Land Acquisition Planning - Provide comprehensive land acquisition studies to guide the
acquisition program, including reviewing and updating acquisition priorities. Conduct
subregional planning studies in the areas surrounding i
Creek Open Space Presefves. Ranche San ,knionio and Monte Bello Open Space Pfesej=�,es.
Bear
Creek Redwoods, Rancho San Antonio, Sierra Azul, and Monte Bello Open Space
Preserves, including the Stevens Creek Trail.
2. Encroachment Reduction - Protect open space lands from encroachments and preserve
District real property rights. Use a variety of techniques to resolve encroachment issues
including restoration, mitigation and boundary line adjustments to maximize open space
protection. Negotiate resolution of encroachments at Rancho San Antonio and Sierra
Azul Open Space Preserves. l-n Assist the Legal Program, in coordination with
Operations, and Public Affairs Departments, and I J al Depat4nients eomplet-e in
completing a permit fee schedule and a procedural manual for handling encroachments,
identifying and resolving property rights issues on District land.
3 Monitoring d Reporting x"r -for-r ra-vi ng-L ease onservation Easement
Monitoring Program — h. patttieiship ,,vitha _the existing ResotiFee Management and Grazing Plan at D-H-0-011 12,811,_� F-) +
g . Protect
District-owned conservation and open space easements where located on private and
public lands. Oversee the conservation easement-monitoring program, and prepare
baseline reports for new easements utilizing volunteers as appropriate.
4. Explore the feasibility of the District becoming a joint holder of the Town of Los Altos
Hills' open space easements.
Other Projects and Activities
_
1. Review and update land acquisition and site dedication information. With assistance from a
index based on assess
or's s parcel number
s of all property interests
volunteer, create apropertyp p Y
P
held by the District.
Page 7
2. Provide site-planning information for land negotiators to assist in developing terms and
conditions for acquisition projects.
3. Prepare acquisition reports and conduct due diligence investigations when necessary; following
an acquisition, collaborate with Planning and Operations Departments to facilitate incorporation
of newly acquired land into the District greenbelt, including resolving property line disputes.
4. t�)f Distriet lands eneumber-ed by private and pub
,F.I I IAe atid publie lands. incorporate into then-..'- gram ne", ell-,- -1
eluding those at lAlindy Hill . „a HilI.Incorporate into the conservation
easement monitoring program new easements agreements, including those at Sierra Azul
and St. Joseph's Hill Open Space Preserves.
5. Notify County recorder offices of District--held open space and conservation easement rights in
compliance with Assembly Bill 1011.
6. Assist
tenants. the
Operations and Planning Departments in preparing a resource management plan for the
Big Dipper Ranch and Silva property areas of Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve, and
incorporate the findings into a long-term resource management/grazing lease.
7. Protect public and private open space lands from negative impacts associated with adjacent land
development where there is a relationship to the District's land interests. Complete acqui-�*
of tfail atid open space easenient as paft of NzleGaffliy Subdivision and similaf easements a
I licks 11"Feek-S+aWes in SiefFa Azu! Open Space I .-se. ,—
In coordination with the Legal
Program, obtain final resolution of the Sheldon Road License Agreement.
8. Work actively and regularly with District legal eounsel program to protect District property
rights where title to existing District land is threatened by claims of adverse rights, liens, or
other interference with District's real property rights.Negotiate an underground utility license
within the former Chy property in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve.
9. Work with Operations Department in negotiating road agreements with adjoining property
owners to ensure District's real property rights are protected and minimize the District's
maintenance responsibilities where appropriate.
10. � y COAe enforcement offieefs, zoning and
planning officials, sut-,reyor-s. and ..*__.1 .__11l.1atory agenei Complete acquisition of trail
and open space easement as part of McCarthy Subdivision, fee ownership exchange with
Spring Ridge LLC at Windy Hill Open Space Preserve, and fee ownership exchange with
Hicks Creek Stables in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve. With advice from Planning and
Operations, monitor activity on active developments adjacent to Ravenswood and Sierra
Azul Open Space Preserves for compliance with code requirements.
11. Initiate and maintain contacts with landowners, county code enforcement officers, zoning
and planning officials, surveyors, and various regulatory agencies.
Page 8
OPEN SPACE PLANNING DEPARTMENT
Programs
A. Planning and Geographic Information
B. Public Access Improvements and Staff Facilities
To Implement the
BASIC POLICY OBJECTIVES:
The District follows management policies that ensure proper care of the land, 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, public and private 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.
General Department Emphasis for 2004,-- 2004-2005 l
The Open Space Planning Department will take a broad-based approach to planning and project
implementation that emphasizes resource management. Planning efforts will focus on providing
public access while preserving and protecting the diversity and integrity of the District's
environmental and cultural resources. All projects and activities will include early analysis to
ensure compliance with environmental regulations. The work program will oe4 -focus on
completing new public access improvements anrepairpro.f-ee-t-s-designed in the IasE previous
year and implementation of the El Corte de Madera Creek Watershed Protection Program.
The-Key planning efforts will be directed toward completion of the approval process for the
San Mateo County ' t. Coastside Protection Program,w,4l--L1can#-i
p
Distfiet'r l,r�,,,,rlrz. 1 �..1,,,-, + 41,, „n With „le „+thy, da' eoll e
����--�:�r�� t-inn-#cap=and
proceeding with master plans for Sierra Azul, Bear Creek Redwoods and La Honda Creek
Open Space Preserves,. :
eonsultant Planning work will
emphasize projects outlined in the 4f,,4-second year of the Resource Management Strategic Plan.
Staff Resources
Planning Manager
Senior Planner(1)
Open Space Planner II (2)
Open Space Planner I (2)
Planning Technician(2)
Administrative Assistant (1)
GIS Intern (1/2)
�l e ° »,.s;*kv Resource Planner (1)
Page 9
200--20442004-200 5
Planning and Geographic Information
Objective
To formulate plans, policies and procedures for the management and development of open space
preserves. Facilitate resource inventories and other scientific study of the District's lands. In
conjunction with the Resource Management Specialist, prepare environmental restoration,
habitat enhancement and resource management plans. Develop and maintain Geographic
Information System (GIS) data sets necessary to support projects throughout the District.
Key Protects
1. Coastal Coastside Protection Program-Complete the LAFCo
process. coastal d-fle-N1144601n. 'A�dtt+inister and eoofdinate the
• an a, the Coastal Annexation tion t r ,1 z;(-'n. Work with the Public
Affairs Department to prepare updated information for the District's website and
implement a public relations and media campaign in support of the- t-it program.
Continue to work with the coastal community and actively participate in agricultural
issues in San Mateo County.
2. Master Plans—Irnt' t vVI-IflK with the consultant team t ,ae--. :1'y Work with
stakeholders, Board and staff to develop a shared vision for the two master plan
areas. Develop implementation plans. s.
Complete data mapping and project orientation. Seek grant funding for the planning
effort. Work with the Public Affairs Department on community outreach and media
relations. Address management and operational issues with the Operations Department.
• La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve* - Staff anticipates that this project will
through-be completed in fiscal year 404--24�5 2005-2006.
• Sierra Azul/Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserves- Staff anticipates that this
project will continue thfot rxh-be completed in fiscal year 2005-2006.
3. Resource Management Strategic Plan-Work with the Operations Department to
implement the 4 t-second year of the Strategic Plan:
A... Space Use and Management Plannin", Nocess to lash4e fes0tirc-c'
�t--r �
I �en�3
�� rnrvc sit A. t E`1 „kl ist r . . 1 .. t:+V 'liii i
issuesmatntefvance, safety, and r-esouree
t .. Tannin• Prioritize the €o-resource management planning
activities on District lands.
•
• Prepare a grassland management policy for Board approval.
• Prepare grazing policies with development of the La Honda Creek Master Plan.
• Begin District-wide road and trail inventory and assessment.
Page 10
I _
• I4op-Update geographic information for resource management projects including
mapping non-native invasive plant populations, Sudden Oak Death occurrences, and feral
pig rooting areas.
• Work with consultants and the Resource Management Specialist on a recurring basis to
identify emerging resource problems and prioritize opportunities to resolve resource
issues District-wide.
4. Regional Resource Inventory-Continue on-going studies and data collection to j
complete a District-wide resource inventory that supports Resource Management and
Planning activities. Staff anticipates that this project will continue annually.
• District-wide Vegetation Classification. Using the methodology developed for Sierra
Azul and the La Honda regions, complete a detailed vegetation classification of Purisima
Creek, Mills Creek, Thornewood, and Teague Hill the South Skyline«<ea,=ao=t�,�t�h* ',
al�tlt}d'i tF i i3i#;; R*.--g�rI(M rc Mot Bello, 'zc�riirr cici� I € $ d r2f f1
Stap-Open Space Preserves.
an4-l-ab4at
Other Projects and Activities
1. WEP Implementation-Continue efforts to integrate workplace enhancement methods
into the daily activities of the Planning Department.
4-2. Land Acquisition Support-Provide Planning support on acquisition projects as
requested, including pre-acquisition field studies and interim use recommendations.
Incorporate updated land acquisition and site dedication information into the District's
GIS.
- 3. Land Protection Support-Provide Planning support to determine remediation and
restoration of land and resources damaged through encroachments.
34. Grazing Plan-Work with the Operations and Aequisi�Real Property Departments to
develop aff4nte=-4n-a grazing plan fo the Alpine Road area of Skline
Ridge Open Space Preserve.
4-.5. Acquisition
and Planning Processes-Con
tinue Wworkingw'rth the LegalSe
rvices
Program and Aeequisit i Real Property Department to pursue global solutions to
streamline the acquisition and planning processes, including: a Memorandum of
Agreement with Santa Clara County to identify acquisitions that are exempt from the
requirements of the Subdivision Map Act, and a Memorandum of Agreement with San
Mateo and Santa Clara Counties clarifying the consistency of acquisitions with County
planning requirements.
-5 6. Environmental Review and Permitting Processes —Continue Wworking with
appropriate agencies to refine and streamline the environmental review and permitting
process for District projects. Cross-train representatives from the Operations Department
in preparing and obtaining permits for maintenance projects and small improvements that
are not part of the Capital Improvement Program.
Page II
i
477. Standard Details and Specifications—Work with the Operations Department o.nto
complete the second phase of a handbook of technical standards for construction, repair,
and maintenance of roads, trails, and other improvements.
7-.8. Permits to Enter—Review alterations to District land or installation of facilities proposed
by other agencies or private parties. Develop permit conditions to ensure protection,
preservation, or restoration of the affected lands. Work with Operations to monitor
activities to ensure compliance with conditions. Continue work on development of a
permit fee policy to recoup costs for issuance of permits to enter or use District land and
for other District services.
&9. Stevens Creek Shoreline Nature Study Area Remediation and Restoration—Continue
Wworking with the Legal Services Program to represent the District's interest in the U.S.
Navy's proposed toxic cleanup of Moffett Air Field Site 25 and restoration of the
District's property to tidal wetlands.
9-.10. Outside Project Review—Review agendas and minutes of Cities, Counties and Open
Space/Parks agencies. Comment on site-specific projects within close proximity to, or
that affects District lands. Review other agencies' policies and regional planning efforts,
and comment as necessary to ensure regional coordination and implementation of the
District's mission.
• ;` Fnrt 1arrsi �
• Stanford Plan Implementation
• Mid-Coast Local Coastal Program Update
• San Francisquito Creek Joint Powers Authority Activities
• tr�vcznia f�zEzt'ii-c f�ltt tt�zi a,:. Ltri,,+,,, ., yx_ii'xii
• Peninsula Corridor Study
• South Bay Salt Pond Restoration (Cargill lands)
• PG&E's Jefferson-Martin 230KV Transmission Line
44.11. Unanticipated Projects— Provide research and planning for unanticipated projects that
may arise due to new acquisitions, resource agency actions, regional planning efforts, and
other activities.
-I- 12. Guadalupe Watershed—Continue Wworking with the Legal Services Program on the
completion of the Guadalupe Watershed NRDA process and to participate in the TMDL
process. Develop plans and specifications for mercury remediation on District lands
within the watershed.
13. Work with the Real Property Department on an acquisition database linking the
historic and current Assessor's Parcel Numbers in Santa Clara, San Mateo and
Santa Cruz Counties with the GIS database.
*Includes grant funding.
Refer to the attached Planning Department Work Program FY-2(4-3-24)t)42004-2005.
Page 12
204J-24W42004-2005
I
Public Access Improvements and Staff Facilities
Objectives
� I
To emphasize preservation and enhancement of resources in Use and Management Plans and in
the design of public access improvements. To give the highest priority to resource protection
projects and construct projects funded by grants.
Public Access Improvements
Key Projects
Ir a I Ai.A fuii.ie j tv-r=:.iJccis
VI
aandofied trail ill CO :
and Nedi"Iew
t.'_eSer-vo
4f4ge .
� Ridge
2:1.E1 Corte de Madera Creek c �.,,..:,.., r,...,,.,,l . .,,� c.,��:,,,.,.,*.�t:on
and IS, rrn TtUir-r n.��
Watershed Protection Program implement I�Frp tn=a] f'��us«L:rc
a a„Tl 444e-a�-ed
Preserve ,Ffail Plan.pr _ , and NA doetiments 'Implement the
first phase projects, securing the necessary permits, pursuing grant funding, and
1: fxl'LA1a ----- ifs constructing the bridge replacement at Virginia
Mill. Staff anticipates this project will continue through fiscal year-2 48-12
�2007-2008, and possibly beyond.
2. Grabtown Gulch Bridge and Trail (Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space
Preserve)—Complete construction of bridge and trail realignment and restore
abandoned trail segment.
�)• uc! of •,41v
.. cu m -ciz=�u-�-c�rn..T.ir-i
„.„ .Z_ lot and stagit3g-aiva-0o C_t .ter.
4.B -fit li
r,
Erl,� ail T-
r�1 ui-`i4+ioFi )epai=m -t obtain an e,,,.._,,,,,,
rrarrL rive,. ....u,�.u,...,. tirerr^nrexcc'ei'ar7
to-p ovik ac ss to area and to as an
a 'lap and
5 3.Pulgas Ridge Staging Area and Trails* - (;ont nue eol ivrrr data. iev�
c: ,
Page 13
pupate-. F a plans an-, speeifleations,Demolish sewage treatment plant,
construct staging area and trails.
6:4.Windy Hill Improvements* See J, .,.As and cConstruct trail
realignments. Depending on Offield Staff. eComplete observation deck with
interpretive signage at Sausal Pond and install fencing around pond. Complete feasibility
and engineering studies for Bay Area Ridge Trail segment, pending approval of an
amendment to the Use and Management Plan.
5. Picchetti Ranch Winery Building* Complete seismic upgrade and access
improvements to the winery building.
-7 6.Trailhead Signs - Year?3 of a 5-year program. Replace approximately 10 trailhead
signs per year with the new and improved prototype. Work with the Public Affairs
Department to incorporate GIS data in the District maps and brochures in conjunction
with the new trailhead signs.
Staff Facilities
Key Projects:
4-:Foothills Field Office Shop Building—Complete construction of the shop building.
�k line 1 ie L� 4+41-atnting-- '
titi��l'l'G�-1 3l1 ii4 Ir —rcc' r"ric'�� lead based paint on shop' and-' Stul'11W aH_1_ Yt1_parirq
3-.La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve Ranch House— r'°,Hall...1.11 -H n
4*U*44�:HFn. 1=4�.i7—rrrc1crii'r walls. and sheathing ovef 1ec'd iiased paint..Prepare plans and
specifications to replace the ranch house with a possible "sustainable" building to serve as
a ranger residence.
*Denotes grant funded project.
Refer to the attached Planning Department Work Program FY-2403-20042004-2005.
Page 14
PLANNING DEPA MENT WORK PROGAM FY 2004-05
Project Project
Number Project Description Preserve Manager 2003-04 Tasks
PLANNING AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION
1 San Mateo County Coastal Annexation General Cathy Complete the annexation.A4m4*stet-a44d-
2 Sierra Azul&Bear Creek Redwoods Master Plan Sierra Azul& Steve/Sandy
Bear Creek
Redwoods Program-Work with Board and stakeholders to
develop a shared vision.Complete data
mapping and project orientation.Seek grant
funding for the planning effort.(Work will
eeat+nue threugh-be completed in-FY 2005-
2006).
3 La Honda Creek Master Plan La Honda Creek Matt initiate work with the GORGUItaRt team to
identifydevelop master plaR.
Complete data-mapp4Kjgnd-pfojmeGt-
Orientation.Work with Board and stakeholders
to develop a shared vision.Seek grant funding
for the planning effort. (Work will sontinue-
threugh be completed in FY 2004-20052005-
2006).
4 Resource Management Strategic Plan General All Staff Kirk Implement the 4st-second year of the Strategic
Plan.Work with Operations to identify
emerging resource problems,and prioritize
opportunities for their resolution.
5 Regional Resource Inventory General TBD Complete detailed vegetation classification for
Purisima Creek Mills Creek Thornewood and
Teague Hill Open Sapee Preserves.the,-South-
Skyline area(Russian Ridge,GGal Greek,
MoRte Eilelio.7-Sky4rie,-R4
Saratoga Gap OSP)
6 Stevens Creek Shoreline Nature Study Area Stevens Creek Ana Represent the District's interest in the US
Remediation and Restoration Shoreline Nature Navy's proposed toxic cleanup of Moffett
Study Area Airfield Site 25 and restoration of the District's
property to tidal wetlands.
PUBLIC ACCESS IMPROVEMENTS
PARKING AREAS
Sierra-Azui Baug
g Staging Area and Trails(Parking Lot, Restroom, Pulgas Ridge Doug/Ruthie Continue re6ourre data-RAYiew
and Demolition of Sewer Plant).
dog use. Begin trail Gonstrui;tion.Hire a
6pe6fieatiens-Demolish sewage treatment
plant construct staging area and trails.
Revised 1/22/2004
i
PLANNING DEPA MENT WORK PROGAM FY 2004-05
Project Project Description Preserve Project 2003-04 Tasks
Number Manager
TRAILS & ROADS
9 Windy Hill Improvements Windy Hill Ana and Construct
trail realignments.
-of-
field sta€f,GComplete observation deck with
interpretive signage at Sausal Pond,and install
fencing around pond.Construct Complete
feasibility and engineering studies for Bay Area
Ridge Trail segment,pending approval of a
Use&Management Amendment.
bong Ir#ge MattlSwrn--du Amend Use and Management Plan to
Summit Gateway—
serve as an alternative to the Bay rea-Ridge-
Tral
to-flag Sea Trait.
44 Old Page Moll Read RepaiF Skyline midge Sandy/Ana
raadbed:
12 Grabtown Gulch Bridge and Trail Purisima Creek Sandy/Ana
Redwoods preserve—Complete construction of bridge and
trail realignment. Restore abandoned trail
segment.
13 Virginia Mill Trail&Creek Crossing El Corte de Ana Complete construction of bridge and trail
Madera Creek realignment and restore abandoned trail in
conjunction with the ECDM Erosion Control&
Sedimentation Reduction Plan.
14 El Corte de Madera Creek Erosion Control& El Corte de Matt Integra
Sedimentation Reduction Plan Madera Creek
desaflaents for Implement first phase projects,
secure permits,and pursue grant funding
(Work will continue through FY 2007-2008-
24OW).
45 Methuselah Bridge €l Corte de- Sandy l Ana
Madera-Greek (Con tfuGt-pf9feGt4n-F-Y2Q04-a-5A,
15 Picchetti Ranch Winery Building Piccetti Ranch Doug Complete seismic upgrade and access
improvements to the winery building.
SIGNS
16 Map Board&Trailhead Signs and Updates General Sumudu Prioritize replacement of old trailhead signs.
Replace approx. 10 signs per year,including
maps and other exhibits. (Year 2-3 of a 5-year
program).
17 Preserve Signs General Sumudu Replace miscellaneous wood signs with new
sig
ns.
s.
Revised 1/22/2004
PLANNING DEPALMENT WORK PROGAM FY 2004-05
Project Project Description Preserve Project 2003-04 Tasks
Number Manager
IMPROVEMENTSSTAFF FACILITY
STRUCTURES
Foothills O erations Sho Buildin Rancho San Steve Complete construction of the shop building.
1$ p p 9 �
Antonio
4$ Skyline Field OffiGe Building Repairs and Ret Sloe
Surnudu Repair rafters iR stable buildipg, Re,rnn-yLa lead
Paining based paint OR ShOp and stable and Fe paint.
20 La Honda Creek Ranch House La Honda Creek Steve
based inty
Prepare plans and specifications to re e the
ranch house,possibly With.a sustainable
building.
ONGOING PLANNING WORK
General AnneDOGUMeRt expenditures and prep
requests to gFanter.
2 Outside Project&Policy Review General Cathy Assignments made to appropriate Planning
staff.
3 Permits to Enter General Ana/Doug Negotiate and prepare conditions of approval,
and monitor permitted activities for compliance.
4 GIS/GPS Program Development General Ruthie Continue development of GIS and GPS in
support of Acquisition,Current Planning and
Resource Management activities.
5 Policy Formation General Cathy Amend the planning process to emphasize
resource planning and management; include
policies for review and disposition of
structures.Work with Legal to develop shared
data policies.
6 Standard Details and Specifications General Sandy/Doug Prepare second phase of handbook of
technical standards for construction,repair and
maintenance of roads,trails and other
improvements.
7 Update Brochure Maps General Sum/Ruthie Work with Public Affairs Department to prepare
updated maps for brochures in conjunction with
trailhead sign replacement program.
I
Revised 1/22/2004
OPERATIONS DEPARTMENT
Programs
A-.Field Operations
W.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 Department Emphasis for 2403-20442004-2005
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 ensure safe and appropriate use of District lands.
Implementation of Board-adopted Resource Management Policies, Trail-Use Policies and
Guidelines, and DevelopmetA-completion of the Field Operations Manual will continue to be
the primary focus of the Operations Department.
Staff Resources
Operations Manager
Area Superintendents (2)
Support Services Supervisor
Management Analyst
Resource Management Specialist
Supervising Rangers (4)
Maintenance & Construction Supervisors (24)*
Administrative Assistant
Rangers (14)
Equipment Mechanic-Operators (2)
Lead Open Space Technicians (4)
Open Space Technicians (10)
Farm Maintenance Worker
10,0007,500 Seasonal Open Space Technician hours*
2,500 Seasonal OST hours for resource management work
Student intern-700 hours for Resource Management Intern
Includes addition of two new Maintenance & Construction Supervisors
ineiudes additional 1.000 seasonal houj-s t:6f Resoufee Management
includes additional 200 hour-S 4�6r- Student lfltemwol.k
Page 15
2003 20042004-2005
1. Field Operations Program
--a. Publication and Implementation of Field Ranger Operations Manual —
Edit and eomplete legal review of the dfaft Field Opefatiotis Manual. Dfaft Mani
� p g P
.Publish
and distribute the completed Ranger Operations Manual. Provide orientation and
training to staff on the use of the Manual and process for updating the Manual. Begin
use of the Manual as a tool for routine operational activities.
fib. Implementation of the El Corte de Madera Creek Eirosion Control and
Sedimentation Red uetionWatershed Protection Plan - Assist the P!a�=,�Ae�aartmet� i�
. g
Plan. Assist
the Planning Department in implementation of the El Corte de Madera Creek
Watershed Protection Plan, as approved by the Board.
4c.Update Implementation of the Mutual-Aid and Service Agreements - Negotiate and
Update e-ufr
emefgeney Fesponse to eff-eetively pfovide for the patrol needs of Distr-iet lands and to assist
neigbrn .Implement the completed Letter of Understanding the District and
Santa Clara County Parks. Negotiate similar letters of Understanding between the
District, and other adjacent agencies as necessary.
d. New Trail Construction and CIP Projects/Construction. —Assist the Planning
Department in the construction or relocation of trails at Pulgas and El Corte de Madera
Creek Open Space Preserves.
e. Hiring and Integration of New Maintenance and Construction Supervisors—Hire
and integrate two new Maintenance and Construction Supervisors. Realign existing
supervisory functional responsibilities. Integrate positions with existing resource
management functions and responsibilities.
Page 16
Other Projects and Activities
2. Patrol Services
a. Monitor public use and land use regulation compliance. Assist in the education of 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.
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.
e. Monitor special events, use permits, and resource protection related impacts on District
lands.
f. Conduct focused ranger patrol to address undesignated trail construction and use at Sierra
Azul, , and El Corte de Madera Creek Preserves.
g. Assist the Land Protection Specialist with identification and mitigation of encroachments
to District preserves.
3. Maintenance and Construction
a. Participate in the development of Use and Management Plan recommendations.
b. Maintain lands in an environmentally sensitive manner, utilizing resource management
practices.
c. Maintain buildings, vehicles, and equipment to maximize utility and longevity.
d. Provide supervision and assistance to volunteer projects.
e. Assist in the repair and maintenance of structures that are a part of the District employee
residency program.
4. Management an
d Administration
a. Continue the liaison efforts with local police, fire, municipal court, and other public
jurisdictions.
equipment
b. Use established purchasing practices to purchase vehicles and for the best
price.
c. Coordinate occupational health and safety program for filed operations.
d. Expand the communications between the field offices and administrative office,through
better use email capabilities and enhanced data management systems.
Page 17
e-e.
agencies.coffimunicate with emergency and fesoufee related
4 : irearadio
consultant to evaluate the current radio system, and to provide recommendations for
future improvements. Review the potential for acquiring new radio frequencies for
District use.
i
f. Develop a land Management Cost Evaluation System. Coordinate the Operations
Department's participation in the planning process to develop the Bear Creek/Sierra j
Azul Preserve and La Honda Master Plans. Complete and Implement a training
manual for new rangers. Update the District Ordinances and submit for Board review.
Update the District's Bail Schedule and submit for judicial review and approval.
g. WEP Implementation—Continue efforts to integrate workplace enhancement
methods into the daily activities of the Operations Department.
h. Research and develop a plan, as part of the master planning process, to build an staff
of-additional field offices loeatiotis in the south Foothills area.
5. Miscellaneous
a. Support the goals of the Public Affairs Department by providing staff for special events
and other projects, as time permits.
b. Assist in the implementation of resource management plans and projects.
c. Participate in the development of Trail Use Policies and Guidelines.
d. Work with the Planning Department on a joint committee to develop Maintenance
Standard Guidelines.
Page 18
2004-2005
Resource Management Program
Objective
Inventory and analyze the state of District natural resources, including the natural resources
of specific preserves to identify needs and priorities. Address immediate and critical
resource management issues utilizing District staff, volunteers, contractors and consultants
to maximize the District's responsiveness. Develop procedures and implement the Resource
Management Strategic Plan to address the resource management needs of District land.
Maintain regular contact and work with other agencies, local authorities, and specialists in
the field to restore or manage the District's natural resources.
Key Projects
1. Resource Management Strategic Plan— Work with the Planning Department to
implement Second Year of the Resource Management Strategic Plan:
a. at-eUpdate list of current restoration areas;
ethoids and
PlafltS
fes' ', I rarer p � protect rare plants
affected by trail maintenance and use.
b-b. Continue next phase of eucalyptus,acacia and broom removal at Mills Creek; and
r���eontinue implementation of the Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve Habitat
Restoration Plan by removing a++-additional area of eucalyptus *fear• behind the .."ageli.,.�
shfubs and oaks, and controlling broom.
c. DevelopUtilizing updated information on location and control methods of invasive
plants, implement ate--integrated pest management pt-methods for the District.
d. Restore an additional
p Y g g p
portion of the Christmas tree farm at Skyline Ridge Preserve that is no longer art of the farm
lease area.
e:e. Monitor forest recovery at Bear Creek Redwoods.
€;f. Determine status of, and potential for,yellow starthistle biocontrol agents on
District preserves.
gig. Develop and implement feasible practices for disking fuel breaks that do not
adversely affect natural resources.
h.-h. Develop a process, and specifications for, restoration planting, and for culvert
removal and replacement for routine maintenance.
2. ' -I-A, i consultant te,-expand the sufvey-4
Di4fiet lands problems of oppoAunities inelading Potentially
Og outbfealis of the most
Invasive Plant Tracking and
Page 19
Monitoring System —Work with the Planning Department to incorporate recent
consultant surveys of invasive plants into GIS-based inventories and maps, continue
updating invasive plant information, and utilize this information to prioritize resource
management effort. Purchase equipment and seek consultant advice to develop a
system for accurately tracking new sightings of invasive plants and for monitoring and
control techniques.
3-3. Wild Pig Population Control Program—Continue trapping program in the South Skyline
Area during the most active months and Goofdinate coordinate with local agencies.
assess
regional damage cause by wild pigs. N4onitof estab..,...-- areas on
E IS and Evaluate evaluate program for population changes to ensure the population
remains at or below the current level.
4:4. Grassland Management
�MOH40F FeSpOnSe Of Yef4etatiOH in 2002 burn afea on not4h end of Russian Ridge Open
Space PFeserve Control resprouts of bunt-Harding grass on north end of Russian Ridge
Open Space Preserve
Conduct a prescribed burn in an area adjacent to that burned last yea 2002 to assist in
restoring native grassland.
Continue different methods of yellow star thistle control and planting of native grasses in
front meadow at Rancho San Antonio.
Other Projects and Activities
a. Resource inventory— Inventory and record observed flora, fauna, natural and geologic
features, and biotic communities, and contribute information to the natural diversity database.
Coordinate mapping and GIS database development with Planning department staff.
b. Seed increase program—Collect local native seed for use on District projects and for seed
increase through seed contractors. Establish collection sites, schedule staff training, and
ensure proper storage, labeling, and documentation of collected seed. Work with the
Volunteer Programs Coordinator to organize seed collection workdays.
mac.Wildlife surveys—Conduct annual surveys of bluebird nesting and fall deer herd and
share information with regional groups. Collect and track information on special wildlife
sightings such as mountain lions. and survey red legged frog and amphibian locati
identified and potential new 10eallions t deter-mine if any managenient aetions need to b
taken t044thef PFOteCet populations at risk or to avoid human IW�1,41;t'- . . Identify
potential marbled murrelet habitat in the Skyline area. Conduct third year of bat
surveys associated with La Honda Red Barn restoration roofing. Award student grant
for up to $3,000 for research of wildlife management issues on District preserves.
d.d. Assist in the inventory of a7-+n erosion conditions and assessment of grazing
options at D •u, 4 r;,�, .,,a Big Dipper.
Page 20
e. Provide support to the Planning Department during the development of the La Honda,
Bear Creek Redwoods and Sierra Azul Open Space Preserves master plans. Work with
Planning Department on the natural resource elements of the plans, including mapping the
vegetation and defining the resource management objectives within each preserve. Work
with Planning to develop a Site Assessment Checklist and Standard Details and
Specifications Handbook.
f. Continue monitoring Sudden Oak Death, map confirmed and suspected locations,
develop and implement precautionary actions. Participate in regional trainings to stay
abreast of recent developments in control and management of Sudden Oak Death.
g. Continue to participate in regional resource groups like Bio-Regional Council, Weed
Management Councils in both San Mateo and Santa Clara, Sudden Oak Death Program and
other Native Plant Organizations.
Page 21
PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT
Programs
A. General Public Information and Outreach
B. Legislative, Funding, and Organizational Relations
C. Community Programs
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 Department Emphasis for 2083 24042004-2005
Maximize the general public's awareness and understanding of, and involvement with
the District, its goals, and its activities, employing a variety of means and methods to
reach all communities served and other target audiences. Implement the top priorities of
the District's legislative plan and protect the District's current funding structure. Reerai-t
and tfaiH new volunteersz maintain existing s and docents by
etaifi. V OIUHte Continue to offer a variety of community programs
which enhance visitors' experiences, provide opportunities to educate, and involve
people in the preservation, restoration and enjoyment of open space. Provide District
materials and information regarding the proposed eeastal annexationCoastside
Protection Program to community members and public officials, both within the San
Mateo County coastside communities, and,�A,'t+n the existing District, to ensure full
knowledge and understanding of the District, its programs and activities.
Staff Resources
(Regular, full-time positions, unless otherwise indicated)
Public Affairs Manager
Community Programs Supervisor
Public Affairs Specialist
Volunteer Programs Coordinator
Docent Programs Coordinator
Administrative Assistant
Interpretive Aide (2/3-time)
Public Affairs Interns - paft fime, 1,400 total hours
Page 22
2003-20042004-2005
General Public Information and Outreach
Objective
To generate additional support among opinion leaders, key policymakers, and the general
public for District acquisition, preservation, restoration, and interpretive education
projects, including coastal annexat-ionproteetion, by increasing the positive perception
and awareness of the District's mission, objectives, accomplishments, programs, and
effective management of public lands and financial resources.
Key Projects
I. stal-Coastside A Coa nnexa-tion-Protection Program—Implement next phase of
comprehensive outreach plan to support the completion of LAFCo applieation
arm-processes. Schedule briefings and presentations to local, elected officials;
schedule and present at editorial board visits; seek and obtain key endorsements;
assist with public hearings as needed. Develop new public information materials,
and update coastal 'anneXation Coastside Protection Program section of the web
site as needed. Distribute District materials and information to the San Mateo
County coastside and current constituent communities to increase their
knowledge and understanding of the District, its programs, and activities.
2 th A -omote (lie Distfiet's first tfail Anniversary Book Complete pfodtieiion of and pr
and assemble graphies and photo'-faplis to eomplement the
n —
3.2. Web Site Enhancements and Long Term Maintenance
Continue to use the Internet to reach out and communicate with the
community. Develop and implement features such as, the
system 14 public use to access infemiation and reservations for scheduled
Outdoor Activity programs,the ability to electronically provide an address to
receive District publications, and designed pages for the Coastside Protection
Program. Enhance the educational ability of the Website by implementing the
"e-nature" wildlife guides (customizable to District preserves), thus
providing a way for the public to research information on flora and fauna
within District Preserves.
F.Ili
Develop enhanced maintenance plan
and posting protocol.
3. Master Planning Public Support—Work with planning staff to provide
media and community outreach activities, such as docent led hikes, resource
Page 23
I
management projects, and Web site sections in support of the Sierra
Azul/Bear Creek Redwoods and La Honda Creek preserve master planning
projects.
47
,
and District Pub ii cations. Work with Board and staffto 4illy atilize Fegulafly
planned events and activities to celebrate the Distfiet's 30 yea Use
..
in open space pff-esei*vation.
. . ,
digital images ofl)isiriet lands and aetivities. Develop a plan, with librafians, fe
obtaining pti.1.6". and fef maintaining these archives 141-1- optimal staff
1111111111 an,, use. Updat", media, organization- and
4. "Good Neighbor" Brochure—Develop and produce a District"Good
Neighbor" brochure for distribution to property owners with land adjoining
District preserves that would inform current and future District neighbors
about District policies, and the benefits of being a neighbor of the
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District.
Other Projects and Activities
1. Complete District's Trail Guidebook"Peninsula Tales and Trails"
production and promote the District's trail guidebook. Provide media,
graphics, and event planning support to distributor to implement
promotional plan for the trail guidebook. Work with publisher to monitor
and track sales of the trail guidebook.
41:2. Continue efforts to integrate the Workplace Enhancement Plan methods into the
daily activities of the Public Affairs Department.
3. Evaluate, research, and identify best delivery systems to ensure effective
media and organizational outreach/communications. Update all records in
media, organizations, and government databases.
Page 24
3:4.
Wofk With planning staff in suppeft of Sierfa Azul�Bea. Cfeek Re A Woods and La
ur..,d„ Greer, preserve master-planning p eets na Utilize community
programs to raise public awareness, and gather public use data as needed in
support of the El Corte de Madera Creek Preserve Trail Plan changes. Util i ze
,,�� L
5. Create a graphics/image library, and work with a corps of photo volunteers
to obtain digital images of District lands and activities. Develop a plan, for
obtaining priority images and for maintaining these archives for optimal
staff access and use.
4.6. Working with the Legislative, Finance, and Public Affairs Committee, develop
and conduct a Visitors' Satisfaction survey.
?. Provide ongoing media and public
communications training for all staff/ and i-ntere, -Board members as needed.
6:8. Provide media and other support, as needed, to support District efforts to obtain a
full clean-up of toxins and a tidal restoration at the Moffett/NASA property
referred to by the Navy as "Site 25."
7. G Neighbor"a4joi � I III
9. g. Assist the Planning and Operations Departments in educating the public
regarding appropriate preserve and trail use, modifying and updating publications
to reflect policy or rule changes, as needed, and responding to associated public
and media requests for information.
10. 9. Respond quickly �med ila,, andProactively promote regular media
coverage of District activities and accomplishments and quickly respond to
media reports and inquiries. Conduct editorial board visits and reporter
briefings; place pro-active, positive feature stories, and work to place editorials,
where appropriate.
11. 10. 1 Work with the Planning Department to create new site maps for preserve
brochures, and continue updating, producing, and distributing existing site maps,
brochures, and other collateral materials.
12. 1-1 Develop a :tri tegie s::."edu!e Assess the usefulness of and attendance at
community outreach events such as, Art & Wine Festivals, and organization
health fairs. of-comet+m4ySchedule District attendance and presentations and
at community outreach events displays, involving managers, Board, and
Page 25
appropriate District staff. in these pfesentations. 'at4i,;v.ate in the p ,.'.,'r
13. 12. Produce the District's quarterly newsletter, Open Space Views, and
continue to update its mailing list; continue mailing two issues per year, including
annual report, to coastside residents. Publish a District 24022004-2443-2005
Annual Report in the fall.
I
14. 13. new Continue to improve the contents for the new District exhibit
for display at various coastside protection meetings and other recurring
District events.
15. Conduct District dedications and special ceremonies such as the Achistaca
Trail Dedication and Foothills Shop Open House.
16. Evaluate creating and distributing merchandise, such as, hiking sticks,
notecards, natural resource trading cards, for resale and as giveaways at
various District events.
17. Promote community goodwill by continuing the distribution of Holiday
Cards to District constituents on our mailing list.
18. Demonstrate care for the environment by using recycled materials and soy-
based inks in materials distributed by the District whenever possible.
Page 26
- 8442004-2005
Legislative, Funding, and Organizational Relations
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.
Key Projects
1. Property Tax Funding—Work with the District's legislative delegation and
Sacramento-based lobbyist to maintain and protect the District's current
percentage share of property tax from a detrimental reallocation. Work closely
with other governmental agencies to immediately address funding reduction
proposals.
2. State Legislation—Work with the District's legislative advocate and with
legislators and their staff to sponsor and support the Board-approved Legislative
Program. Seek coordination and support from other ageneies and a titiesspecial
districts.
3. Seek Regional Funding—Work with the Bay Area Open Space Council and
others to develop and/or support potential regional, state, or other alternative
funding mechanisms, such as legislation creating a new transportation fund for
clean water.
4. Clean-up of Mt. Umunhum - Work with members of Congress and State and
local agency leaders to develop and implement a strategy to encourager the
Army Corps of Engineers to begin the clean up of the former Almaden Air
Force Station at Mt. Umunhum in the Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve wofk
applying newly allocatewhich was named by Congress as a "Formerly Used
Defense Sites".
Federal. funding towafd clean up of th
' Urnunpenpaee a
reser-N, which was
named by Congress as a top pfiofity pr-(tiect, utilizing the positive Moment
built1. feee1�t ®<�. nls at Mt. 7 7n1i>>-ihiir'n
Other Projects and Activities
1. Continually review and, working with legal counsel, analyze legislation,
appropriate
determine recommended District positions on bills, and take action, if
any, on bills.
2. Work with legislators, legislative committees, state and federal administrators,
other agencies, private organizations, and interested citizens to provide
information and to lobby regarding state legislation and specific local issues.
Page 27
3. Support federal, state, or local legislation that will benefit the District.
4. Provide support and services for specific District projects requiring legislative
support, such as grant applications and regional and state awards. Obtain letters of
support for grant applications, such as Habitat Conservation Fund and Wildlife
Conservation Board grants.
5. Plan and conduct a-V.LP. tours of the San Mateo room+ District preserves,
featuring coastside planning presentations, and invite elected officials and
representatives of sister agencies.
6.
y•
7. Maintain contact, and exchange information with other organizations and
agencies. Cooperate on special projects with organizations such as the regional
Bay Area Open Space Council, and participate in special events, such as
conferences and seminars, to keep District staff and the Board informed of current
issues.
8. 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.
9. Provide a District presence in key legislative activities, meetings, and conferences
in Sacramento, directly and/or with the District's legislative advocate.
Page 28
f
2 4-2005
2A��3-�2004 00
Community Programs
Objective
To ser,,c-engage and involve a diverse range of community members and District staff in
meeting the community needs of enjoying and understanding open space, and supporting
District staff in achieving the District's objectives by providing high quality, ecologically
sensitive public programs that involve community members as volunteers, inspire
stewardship of open space, and support the acquisition, preservation, and restoration
objectives of the District.
Key Projects
l. Community Programs Vision—Complete an internal 5-year Community
Programs fev iey.Plan, which will lie!p g ide +"direct current and future
community programs in support of the overall objectives of the District. With
input from staff, Board, volunteers/docents, and community members, the study j
plan will dip abuild upon the established vision and goals,with the
development of key objectives, strategies, standards, and action steps that
appropriately supports, ends and strengthens Community Programs in
achieving the District's Mission.
2. Docent/Volunteer Program Development—Recruit and train new Trail Patrol,
Outdoor Education Leaders,Nature Center Hosts, and rfew r eadefsOutdoor
Activity Docents, a reasing-rnaintaining the quality interpretive, resource
management, and community outreach efforts of Community Programs.
Continue enrichment opportunities that expand the depth and breadth of
interpretive knowledge of docents, allowing for higher quality visitor experiences,
and a richer -more rewarding docent program..and an increase in (lie
groups that can become involved wit!
..+ l .P P . +
3. Volunteer Involvement Program Guide—Complete
lete the writing a nd printing
of the Volunteer Involvement Program Guide (VIP Guide). Refine the
volunteer involvement administrative system, distribute the new VIP Guide,
with the
the implementation
mentation of the adm
inistrative system
and coordinate
p
Distribution of the VIP Guide.
4. Interpretive Program Development—Developfamily
interpfetive activities that ,written resources for self guided
Page 29
interpretation of District preserves that enhance understanding of the District,
andiner-easeinvolvement of the e n+ni n4yengages visitors to become stewards
of the environment and open space, and provides ecologically sensitive
education about the local natural communities. r'.,t•e,yfeli and develop
progr
.
Other Projects and Activities
knoidvn L=s "eFogee Mandbooif
2A. Revise the "Become Involved in Your Open Space" volunteer brochure.
2. Provide volunteer support for resource management projects by working
with staff to schedule, conduct, and evaluate a sustainable number of
resource management projects. Identify and recruit individuals and/or
groups that can become involved with the District as new Preserve Partners
volunteers.
I
3. Research additional resources and opportunities for developing Outdoor
Education Leaders for the Spaces and Species program.
14. Recruit and train docents and volunteers, and provide public information about
volunteer programs, projects, and events through regular newsletters.
5. Conduct the annual Volunteer Recognition Event, and other recognition
activities for docents and volunteers that demonstrate the District's
appreciation for the efforts of its volunteers.
4-A Coordinate monthly volunteer service projects and special group volunteer
projects. Conduct ai "Earth��i,ys Day" and California Trail Day events
that provide appropriate ways for the community to be involved in preserve
projects or outdoor activities that celebrate the environment and our natural
resources during the period of time prior to and shortly after"Earth Day."
5.7. Conduct a broad range of public interpretive pfogfanyoutdoor activities on open
space preserves, encouraging docents to conduc
t prog
rams at less-utilized
preserves.
.. "hese ,last
LC.Y rJ.
this yeaf on �`
Acqui..
Page 30
8 Develop and implement %,Continue the established evaluation process for
Outdoor Activity Docents and Trail Patrol volunteers. Evaluation provides
opportunities to raise quality of visitor experiences, identifies needed areas of
additional training or enrichment, ensures compliance with all policies,
procedures, regulations, and laws, and allows for more effective management and
development of the docent and volunteer programs.
9. Coordinate volunteer(s) to mMaintain the artifacts and furnishings in the
historic Grant Cabin.
10. Maintain and operate the David C. Daniels Nature Center and continue to
implement the District's Spaces and Species program. Complete th
expenditures of the $12000 POST gfa*t-.
11. lnefeRsProvide effective communicatiorv4rain rigs foi- between Community
Programs staff and field staff involved with Community Programs.
1,3:12. --- at F1 Corte de Madera Cfeek Open Space
>.
14:13. Arrange, publicize, reserve spaces for, and work with field staff to support the
followingcommunityi pfogfams, ineludif+g-.- Fremont Older House and Garden
Tours (Spring 2004), Outdoor Activities, and Family Outdoor Discovery
(Year Round) programs.
14. Conduct the Annual "Community Open Space Celebration" incorporating
some of the Spaces and Species objectives, engaging participants with fun and
educational activities (i.e., scavenger hunt), and reaching to a broad based
public audience.
15. Research and collaborate with operations to assess the feasibility of
p tY
providing outreach and interpretation by interested District rRangers.
Page 31
I
ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT
Programs
A. Administration
B. Human Resources
C. Legal Services
To Implement the
BASIC POLICY OBJECTIVE:
Administers the affairs of the District on behalf of the public so as to maximize
accomplishment of the goals and objectives of the District within existing financial, legal
and other constraints.
General Program Emphasis for 2003-2004-2004-2005
Continue to support the District-wide efforts for improving supervisory, leadership, and
communication skills among all staff, including opportunities for employee input, in
order to enhance employee morale and the District's work environment. Foster staff
participation in carrying out the District's short and long-term goals and objectives.
Maintain the District's viability as an open space acquisition and management agency.
Work toward potential expansion of the District's boundaries to include coastal lands in
San Mateo County.
Staff Resources
(Regular, full-time positions unless otherwise indicated)
General Manager
Assistant General Manager
General Counsel (66.670,. times (80%time)
Controller(25%time)
Administration/Human Resources Manager
Attorney
Management Analyst—Human Resources
Management Analyst—Administration
Senior Administrative Assistant
Senior Accounting Specialist
Administrative Assistant
Receptionist
Network Specialist (70%time)
Accounting Clerk(80%time)
Page 32
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2004-2005
Administration Program
Objective
To provide overall coordination, direction, and administrative foundation 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.
Kew j ects
l. Coastal Protection Program— Coordinate the efforts of the Board, consultants,
and staff to work toward completion of the program of protecting the coastal
lands in San Mateo County. Work with all departments to examine the timing of
the coastal annexation, and assess the related impacts on staffing and resources.
2. State Budget Process—Closely monitor the State budget process for any impact
on the District and work with other appropriate agencies and our legislative
advocate to minimize, to the extent possible,the budget impact. Make
recommendations to the Board in response to any anticipated revenue impacts as a
result of the state budget deficit, including possible District budget reductions.
3. District Funding—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 of secure additional funding to
meet acquisition and open space management needs. inel ding possible bend
nsi�a�c�
47 Reeords Management Program Pfor permaneott fepar-e a plan and continue implementation
or-feco_ E). all Distfiet records as permitted
by law. Thits will inelude a database sihovflng A`Jeh records are held by eaeb
department 'and ine-1111,61ea time, line 4)r retention and�of destrtfc;tion of Such
reeCWds:
See Other Projects and Activities (Plan complete, no longer a major project
but an ongoing project.)
4. Elections—Work with Santa Clara, and San Mateo Counties on the election
process for Wards 3, 4 and 7 for November 2004.
S. New Accounting Software—Complete implementation of the new accounting
software program, including training of Department Managers and analysts
for use of new system.
Page 33
III
�,I
6. Risk Management—Complete pro-active risk reduction steps in
conformance with the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority
(CAJPIA) best practices recommendations. Work with the CAJPIA on
claims processing and monitoring and analyzing losses.
Other Projects and Activities
1. Continue to foster 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, compliance with new Government Accounting Standards.
Assure compliance with Purchasing Policies through review of all purchases and
ongoing education of staff.
3. Perform administrative and legal obligations as required by State law.
4. Oversee coordination of equipment/infrastructure needs at the main office.
5. Update Action Plan; coordinate program evaluations for Action Plan progress.
6. Prepare, monitor, and revise annual budget, as necessary. Coordinate
Administration and Budget Committee meetings.
7. Coordinate preparation and distribution of all materials for Board's regular and
special meetings.
8. Involve the Board of Directors in planning of the annual special Board meeting to
be held as part of Board's Good Neighbor Policy.
9. Administer and update various risk management components, including training
and other proactive processes in conjunction with the CAJPIA.
10. Continue to upgrades of the District's network computer system as needed to
increase efficiency and reliability; expand provide day-to-day technical support
to include both field offices; and continue to assess system, develop resources,
and manage technological change and improvements. Provide ongoing computer
training to staff at all three offices.
12. Work with other departments to implement and fully utilize feet. (4) oftt„�
database elements and databases, that
contain information that is shared by multiple departments per consultant
recommendations.
13. policy DevelopMaintain Board and staff olic and procedure manuals.
-a�l-
Page 34
14. Continue to use recycled products, whenever feasible, in accordance with the
purchasing policy.
15. Provide for ongoing web support.
16. Continue records management activities (permanent storage, record
retention and/or destruction) as required by law and designated by the
District's Record's Management Plan. Maintain the records management
database.
Human Resources Program
Objective
To provide coordination and direction for human resources activities so as to enhance the
overall quality and effectiveness of the District's work environment for all employees of the
District.
Key Projects
1. Workplace Enhancement Plan—Continue to coordinate, monitor, and support the
Workplace Enhancement Plan activities. The Plan consists of methods for improving
communication among all employees and management staff, increasing employee
input; enhancing management, supervisory, leadership, and communication skills;
and establishing a greater emphasis on people management versus task management.
2. Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual—Complete the re-write of the
Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual for Board approval, including hiring
procedures and exempt status policies. Continue facilitation of an employee input
process with employees from each department. Write or revise Administrative
Policies and Procedures as needed, including employee input as part of the
process.
3. Performance Standards—Review and assess the newly implemented supervisory
and performance standards. Assist all departments with timely and equitable
evaluations.
4. Labor Negotiations
Sh'!U Loeal 715. —Prepare for and negotiate a new contract with SEW Local
715.
5. Select, hire and work with consultant on analysis of health insurance and retiree
medical costs and benefit comparisons. Conduct employee information meetings
and surveys for staff regarding the report from the consultants.
Page35
Other Pro�ects and Activities
. ct
I. Plan and conduct recruitment processes for all position vacancies in order to fill
vacant positions as soon as possible. Ensure consistency in hiring procedures.
Provide a comprehensive new employee orientation for all new employees.
2. Administer compensation and benefit programs for all employees.
3. Provide human resources support and employee or labor relations services to all
departments. Maintain positive and productive working relationships with SEW
Local 715 and non-represented employees.
4. Assess training needs, identify training resources, and schedule in-house training
programs as needed to develop and improve leadership, management, supervisory,
communications skills, and risk management skills.
5. Coordinate, plan, and organize the annual staff recognition event on behalf of the
Board. Oversee the staff activities ("Fun")committee. Coordinate and plan other
staff events as needed.
6. Promote and oversee the District's safety program.
7. Continue expanded utilization of the new HRIS database system with applicable
payroll functions to eliminate duplicate processes.
Page 36
200-3-2004-2004-2005
Legal Services Prolzram
Ob'ec� tine
To provide timely legal services to the Board and to all District Departments; to advise and assist
the Board and staff in developing and implementing District policies, regulations, and
ordinances, and in accomplishing District projects in accordance with law.
Key Projects
1. Real Property - Provide legal advice concerning District real property matters, including
acquisition, disposition, management,title and encroachment issues, easement issues,
leases,and licenses, and permits to enter District land. Anticipated major projects include:
Claims and Liti at�ion -
Beaf Creek- Redwoods Open Space-12-feserve);
Half Moon Bay Coastside Foundation v. MROSD (challenge to adequacy of EIR for
Coastal Protection Program); Vandeweghe v. MROSD (quiet title action in which
plaintiff seeks to invalidate an access easement held by the District over land
adjacent to the El Sereno Open Space Preserve);_ file
quiet title action to obtain title to Dennis Martin Road to address use and
management issues (Thornewood Open Space Preserve)...; Completion r`r:,,adaluff
process; -advice
El r fte d Madera Open Space nresefN,e; assist Real Property Department in
resolving encroachments at Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Allen
Property) ,at the Montebello Open Space Preserve (Hanson Quarry) and at Pulgas
Open Space Preserve (AT&T Communications Lease); assist in resolution of access
easement claims at Coal Creek Open Space Preserve(Fogarty) and Bear Creek
Open Space Preserve (Christiansen); assist in preparation of new lease for Picchetti
Winery.
Other Projects—Assist Real Property Department in connection with potential
District acquisition of Guadalupe Land Company property as a corporate asset
(Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve); assist in transactional documents to exchange
real property (Ridge Vineyards Agricultural and Open Space Easments at
Montebello Open Space Preserve) and the Sequoias Property (Windy Hill Open
Space Preserve);Assist Acquisition and Planning Departments in pur-suing-4-obal
Mateo and Santa Clara Counties identi"',ing acquisi ions whiCh ftfe CORSiStent with the
(;Onnties' Planning fequifements*; eentintieworli on development of a permit fee Agfeement with Santa Clam Connty t,+-"* whiek are exempt 4orn th
;
Page 37
e.,,,.^act,Y,,ents; assist in preparation of an additional communications lease at an
existing site (Pulgas Open Space Preserve).
2. Risk Management—Provide advice and monitor current claims and litigation against the
District; represent the District's interests in insurance and JPIA coverage matters; provide
oversight of matters handled by outside counsel.
3. Human Resources - Assist in carrying out labor relations functions; provide legal advice
on personnel matters. Anticipated major projects: Continue to advise on update of
District's Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual; assist :., negotiation and
*hit,* and SFI T f-ocal 71 5; continue to assist in implementing the legal aspects of
the Workplace Enhancement Plan.
i
4. Coastal Amnt *tien-Protection Program P o eet-- Anticipated major projects:
Continue to provide advice concerning legal requirements applicable to the coastal
protection program, primarily in the LAFCo and process; draft and
review the Final •. � related
project documents; preparation of administrative proceedings;..and drafting of
documents such as cooperative agreements with public agencies.
5. Operations - Advise on the update of the Field Operations Manual; assist to
assist in the development of Cooperation Agreements for provision of law enforcement
and emergency services with sister agencies.
I
I
6. Planning- Advise on the Navy remediation project at Site 25 and proposed well
remediation (Ravenswood Open Space Preserve); provide advice concerning
resolution of sedimentation issues at El Corte de Madera Open Space Preserve;
provide advice concerning resolution of mercury remediation issues at the Rancho
de Guadalupe property (Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve).
Other Projects and Activities
1. Provide legal research concerning historic parcels and chains of title to assist in
resolving real property issues and in support of Planning and Acquisition projects.
2. Provide advice concerning legal requirements applicable to the District such as the
Brown Act, conflict of interest laws, election law, and the California Environmental
Quality Act.
3. Assist Departments in bidding processes and contract administration for public works
and professional services contracts.
4. Prepare and review District legal documents such as contracts, leases, permits,
regulations and ordinances.
Page 38
S. Represent the District's legal interests in matters involving other government agencies.
6. Advise the District on court rulings and legislation affecting the District and assist in
drafting and pursuing legislation proposed by the District.
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Page 39
Regional Open Sp.ce
R-04-11
Meeting 04-03 MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
January 28, 2004 c.E1,FJ1RA'1'1wc, 30 YEARSO1= OPEN SPA(�E PRESERVATION
AGENDA ITEM 5
AGENDA ITEM
Application for Per Capita Grant and Roberti-Z'Berg Harris Block Grant Programs Under the
Clean Water, Clean Air, Safe Neighborhood Parks and Coast Protection Bond Act of 2002
(Proposition 40)
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATIONS-
1. Adopt the attached Resolution of the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District approving the application for the Per Capita Grant Program Under
the Clean Water, Clean Air, Safe Neighborhood Parks and Coastal Protection Bond Act
of 2002.
2. Adopt the attached Resolution of the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District approving the application for the Roberti-Z Berg Harris Block Grant
Program Under the Clean Water, Clean Air, Safe Neighborhood Parks and Coastal
Protection Bond Act of 2002.
DISCUSSION
On March 5, 2002, California's voters passed Proposition 40, the Clean Water, Clean Air, Safe
Neighborhood Parks, and Coastal Protection Bond Act of 2002. Of the $326,725,000 provided by
this initiative, $3,054,318 is available in grants to the District on a direct appropriation basis
based upon the District's population in Santa Clara, San Mateo, and Santa Cruz Counties. The
District is eligible for$1,814,000 under the Per Capita Grant Program, and and additional
$1,240,318 under the Roberti-Z'Berg Harris Block Grant Program.
Matching funds are not required for the $1,814,000 in Per Capita Grant Program funds available
for acquisition project costs. Eligible project costs under this program may be incurred after July
1, 2003, and there is a June 30, 2006 deadline for securing a contract with the State. All projects
under this program must be completed by June 30, 2011.
The District is also eligible for $1,240,318 under the Roberti-Z'Berg-Harris Block Grant
Program. This grant program provides funds for the acquisition and development of recreational
facilities to meet the needs of urban counties. This grant pays for 70% of the project cost with
30% in matching funds to come from the District,private sources, or non-state sources. Eligible
projects under this grant program may be incurred after July 1, 2003. The deadline for securing a
contract with the State under this grant program is June 30, 2006. All projects under this program
must be completed by June 30, 2011.
33o Distel Circle 650-699-12oo info@openspace.org BOARD OF DIRECTORS:Pete Siemens,Mary Davey,Jed Cyr, GENERAL MANAGER:
Los Altos CA 94022-1404 650-691-0485 fax www.openspace.org Deane Little,Nonette Honko,Larry Hossett,Kenneth C.Nitz L.Craig Britton
R-04-11 Page 2
i
Since these programs began on July 1, 2003, recent and future open space acquisitions meeting
the separate grant program criteria will be submitted for funding reimbursement including
California Environmental Quality Act(CEQA) determinations. Future acquisition projects
meeting the criteria of these grants will be brought to you as part of a future agenda item.
As two separate funding formulas are required for these two grant programs, two separate
Resolutions are also required. When the District submits its Resolutions to the State of
California, the grant process for each program is initiated. The State will review the Resolutions
and then send a contract to the District. After the contract is fully executed, the District can
submit individual project applications for open space purchases that meet the criteria for each
grant.
Prepared by:
Michael C. Williams, Real Property Manager
Contact Person:
Same as above
i
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2002 Resources Bond Act
Roberti-Z'berg-Harris Block Grant Program
RESOLUTION NO.
RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF
THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE
DISTRICT APPROVING THE APPLICANT TO APPLY
FOR GRANT FUNDS FROM THE PER CAPITA
GRANT PROGRAM UNDER THE CLEAN WATER,
CLEAN AIR, SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS AND
COASTAL PROTECTION ACT OF 2002
WHEREAS, the people of the State of California have enacted the CALIFORNIA
CLEAN WATER, CLEAN AIR, SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS AND COASTAL
PROTECTION ACT OF 2002 which provides funds for the Roberti-Z'berg-Harris Block Grant
Program for grants to eligible Applicants; and
WHEREAS, the California Department of Parks and Recreation has been delegated the
responsibility for the administration of the grant program within the State, setting up necessary
procedures; and
WHEREAS, said procedures established by the California Department of Parks and
Recreation require the Applicant's Governing Body to certify by resolution the approval of the
Applicant to apply for the Roberti-Z'Berg-Harris allocation; and
WHEREAS, the Applicant will enter into a Contract with the State of California for the
Project;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Directors of the
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District hereby:
1. Approves the filing of an Application for local assistance funds from the Roberti-Z'Berg-
Harris Block Grant Program under the California Clean Water, Clean Air, Safe
Neighborhood Parks, and Coastal Protection Act of 2002; and
2. Certifies that the Applicant has or will have sufficient funds to operate and maintain the
Project(s); and
3. Certifies that the Applicant has reviewed, understands and agrees to the General Provisions
contained in the Contract shown in the Procedural Guide; and
4. Certifies that the Project conforms to the recreation element of any applicable city or county
general plan; and
5. Appoints the General Manager or Assistant General Manager as agent to conduct all
negotiations, execute and submit all documents including,but not limited to,
Applications, agreements, payment requests and so on, which may be necessary for the
completion of Project.
RESOLUTION NO.
RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF
DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA
REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
APPROVING THE APPLICANT TO APPLY
FOR GRANT FUNDS FROM THE PER
CAPITA GRANT PROGRAM UNDER THE
CLEAN WATER, CLEAN AIR, SAFE
NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS, AND COASTAL
PROTECTION BOND ACT OF 2002
WHEREAS, the people of the State of California have enacted the Per Capita
Grant Program which provides funds for the acquisition and development of
neighborhood, community, and regional parks and recreation lands and facilities; and
WHEREAS, the California Department of Parks and Recreation has been
delegated the responsibility for the administration of the grant program, setting up
necessary procedures; and
WHEREAS, said procedures established by the California Department of Parks
and Recreation require the Applicant's Governing Body to certify by resolution the
approval of the Applicant to apply for the Per Capita Allocation, and
WHEREAS, the Applicant will enter into a Contract with the State of California;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Directors of the
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District hereby:
1. Approves the filing of an Application for local assistance funds from
the Per Capita Grant Program under the Clean Water, Clean Air, Safe
Neighborhood Parks , and Coastal Protection Bond Act of 2002; and
2. Certifies that the Applicant has, or will have, sufficient funds to
operate and maintain the Project; and
3. Certifies that the Applicant has reviewed,understands and agrees to
the General Provisions contained in the Contract shown in the
Procedural Guide; and
4. Appoints the General Manager or Assistant General Manager as agent
to conduct all negotiations, execute and submit all documents
including, but not limited to applications, contracts, agreements,
requests and so on, which may be necessary for the
payment
q Y
completion of Project.
Regional Open St. .-e
R-04-06
Meeting 04-03 MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
January 28, 2004 (:E1,EBRAT1N(; 30 YEARS OF OPEN SPACE PRESERVATION
AGENDA ITEM 6
AGENDA ITEM
Authorize the General Manager to Purchase a N A ting Package, Including Software,
New
'ccT Maintenance and Training from NFP Accounting Tect - !no-gies in Amount Not to Exceed
Accounting
'ec 0'0 n Amount
$25,000
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION
Authorize the General Manager to purchase an accounting software package r in NFP
Accounting Technologies and authorize the expenditure for this unbudgeted package from
contract services and fixed assets, as described in the body of this report.
DISCUSSION
The District has been using Timespan accounting software since 1991. It is a DOS based system
which was custom made for the District. The cost at the time was $600, and the creator of the
system has been available for support throughout the years, without additional charge.
Unfortunately, the whereabouts of the creator of the system is now unknown, so we no longer
have vendor support if the system should fail or need attention. Additionally, the accounting
needs of the District have grown since 1991, and accounting software is now needed that is more
automated and is set up to include GASB 34 (Government Accounting Standards Board) criteria,
to which public agencies must adhere. These upgraded reporting requirements are the result of
recent nationwide accounting debacles.
Staff therefore began researching accounting software programs used by other public agencies.
MIP Corporation, Intuit, and NFP Technologies responded to the proposal requests and
conducted extensive on-site demonstrations of their accounting software packages. Each
company's software package is designed to follow GASB 34 guidelines and provides enhanced
reporting options. For example, each department manager will be able to access their year-to-
date expenditures (read only) at any time without having to contact the accounting department for
a printed report.
The cost of the software packages include three components- 1) the actual software, 2)the
implementation and set-up costs (which includes training of staff), and 3) the annual maintenance
fee. The total costs quoted by each company are outlined in the following table:
33o Distel Circle 650-691-12oo info@openspace.org BOARD OF DIRECTORS:Pete Sierrens,Mary Davey,Jed Cyr, GENERAL MANAGER:
Los Altos CA 94022-1404 650-691-0485 fax www.openspace.org Deane Little,Nonette Hanko,Lorry Hossett,Kenneth C.Nitz L.Craig Britton
R-04-06 Page 2
SOFTWARE/ BASE COST IMPLEMENTATION TOTAL COST ANNUAL
VENDOR & SETUP COST INCLUDING 1ST YEAR MAINTENANCE
MAINT. COST COST
MIP $15,215.00 $8,314.00 23,529.00 $2,200.00
NFP $13,768.51 $ 1,070.00 28,589.98 ($25,000) $3,751.47
Intuit $17,318.75 $18,060.00 41,318.75 $3,500.00
Staff evaluated each company proposal based upon the software capabilities, the type and quality
of support, and the total cost. It was determined that while MIP is the lowest cost, their software
is not as comprehensive as the other two companies. NFP uses the same software package as
Intuit, but offers a lower cost program. Staff checked references on other clients of NFP,
including CaISTRS, (the California State Teachers' Retirement agency) and learned that their
clients are very happy with the service and the software provided by NFP. In addition,NFP has
offered to reduce their proposal cost by $3,589 to a total of$25,000 if we purchase the program
immediately.
Staff originally anticipated budgeting for and, if approved by the Board, purchasing the software
package in April 2004. However, staff would like to move forward now so that the set-up and
training can be accomplished for implementation on April 1, 2004, the start of the District's next
fiscal year. This will also reduce duplicate entries for calendar year records such as 1099's, and
allow the District to receive the $3,589 savings offered by the vendor selected.
The total amount needed for the new accounting software package will be $25,000 for the
software and support services plus $3,000 for a new server to support the accounting system for a
total of$28,000. The new server would be necessary for any new accounting software package.
There is currently unspent funds in consulting services in the 2003/2004 budget, which staff
proposes to use to fund the maintenance support and server portion of this expenditure,
(approximately $14,23 1) and unspent fixed asset funds for the software portion of the
expenditure ($13,769).
Prepared by:
Sally Thielfoldt, Administration and Human Resources Manager
Contact person:
Same as above
i
Regional Open Sr ^e
R-04-16 MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
Meeting 04-03 CFI.FSRA'IANC�30 YEARS OF OPEN SPACE PRESERVATION
January 28, 2004
AGENDA ITEM 7
AGENDA ITEM
Approve Appointment of Director Davey as the District's Representative to the California Joint
Powers Insurance Authority Board of Directors for their ual Meeting and Appointment of
Two Alternates, General Manager, C. Britton, and Actl g Assistant General Manager, S.
Thielfoldt
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDAIIQNa-
1. Approve appointment of President Mary Davey to represent the Midpeninsula
Regional Open Space District at the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority's
(CAJPIA) annual meeting.
2. Approve appointment of General Manager, L. Craig Britton, and Acting Assistant
General Manager Sally Thielfoldt, as alternates.
DISCUSSION
At your Regular Meeting on March 27, 2002, you approved the District joining the CAJPIA
effective April 1, 2002 (see Report R-02-52). Pursuant to the Joint Powers Agreement—
Creating the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority, Article 7, Board of Directors, the
CAJPIA shall be governed by a Board of Directors composed of one representative from each
member who shall be selected from the legislative body of that member and, in addition, at least
one alternate who shall be an officer or employee of the member. The alternate member(s) shall
have the same authority as the regular member. The selected Board member or alternate would
attend the annual CAJPIA board meeting, which is held each July.
At your April 24, 2002 Regular Meeting, you approved appointing the Board President as the
appropriate Board member selected to represent the District at the annual meetings, with the
General Manager or Assistant General Manager available as alternates (see Report R-02-62).
However, according to the by-laws of the CAJPIA, each year the Board must actually name the
individual representatives.
Prepared by:
Elaina Cuzick, Public Affairs Administrative Assistant
Contact person:
L. Craig Britton, General Manager
33o Distel Circle 650-691-12oo info@openspace.org BOARD OF DIRECTORS:Pete Siemens,Mary Davey,Jed Cyr, GENERAL MANAGER:
Los Altos ea 94022-1404 650-691-0485 fax www.openspace.org Deane Little,Nonette Hanko,Larry Hassett,Kenneth C.Nitz L.Craig Britton
�in.x., tea:°wEE,A»gF»s
Claims No. 04-02
Meeting 04-03
Date 01/28/04
Revised
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
# Amount Name Description
7114 $33,332.43 2M Associates Coastal Annexation Consultant Study
7115 $584.56 A Royal Wolf Portable Storage Storage Rental Units-FFO
7116 $121.89 All Laser Service Printer Service
7117 $555.57 Allied Auto Works Vehicle Service and Repairs
7118 $1,200.00 American Red Cross Emergency Response Training
7119 $2,600.00 Arcturus GPS&Conventional Surveys Pulgas Ridge Land Survey
7120 $93.24 Board of Equilization Fuel Tax for Diesel
7121 $127.43 California Water Service Company Water Service
7122 $83.00 Casaretto,Mark Reimbursement-Uniform Expense
7123 $20.57 Cascade Fire Equipment Company Field Supplies
7124 $80.00 Clark Pest Control Pest Control
7125 $215.57 Cole Supply Co.,Inc. Janitorial Supplies
7126 $1,875.00 Concern EAP Quarterly Fee
7127 $25.00 '1 County of San Mateo ECDM Creek Road Assessment
7128 $1,213.50 Dell Corporation Precision Desktop-Planning Department
7129 $43.26 Federal Express Express Mailing
7130 $194.85 Forestry Supplies,Inc. Field Supplies
7131 $14.92 Foster Brothers Keys
7132 $52A6 G&K Service Shop Towel Service
7133 $350.98 G.P.Sports ATV Repairs
7134 $5,300.00 Gary Ifland&Associates,Inc. Surveyor Services-Sierra Azul
7135 $550,32 Green Waste Recovery,Inc. Garbage Services
7136 $668.67 Guzman,Ben Reimbursement-Academy Expenses
7137 $28.52 Honda Peninsula Field Supplies
7138 $69.65 Lab Safety Supply Field Supplies
7139 $1,808.77 LFR Levine Fricke Engineering&Design Services-Pulgas Ridge
7140 $131.01 Life Assist First Aid Supplies
7141 $392.54 Los Altos Garbage Co. Refuse Services
7142 $75.29 MCI Long Distance Telephone Service
7143 $285.78 McKowan,Paul Reimbursement-2004 CPRS Conference
7144 $856.00 Miller,Starr&Regalia Legal Services
7145 $281.60 Monster Mechanical,Inc. HVAC Maintenance-Admin.Office&Tenant Space
7146 $26.76 Northern Tool&Equipment Co. Vehicle Supply
7147 $818.79 Office Depot Office Supplies
7148 $83.59 Orlandi Trailer Trailer Accessories
7149 $4,380.00 Primary Consulting Services Recruitment Services
7150 $8.00 Rancho Cobbler&Cleaners Uniform Patch Application
7151 $36.13 Rayne Water Conditioning Water Conditioner Service
7152 $3,000.00 Reserve Account Postage-Postage Meter
7153 $19.44 Robert's Hardware Field Supplies
7154 $2,412.81 Roy's Repair Service Vehicle Repairs&Service
7155 $14.18 RV Cloud Plumbing Supplies
7156 $1,023.64 San Jose Water Company Water Service
7157 $312.81 SBC Payment Center Telephone Service
Page 1 of 2
Claims No. 04-02
Meeting 04-03
Date 01/28/04
Revised
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
# Amount Name Description
7158 $111.25 Sequoia Analytical Water Quality Test
7159 $14.40 United Parcel Service Parcel Shipping
7160 $61.98 WearGuard Uniforms
7161 $223.67 Workingman's Emporium Uniforms
7162 R $300.00 Acme&Sons Sanitation Sanitation Services
7163 R $123.50 Albion Environmental,Inc. Biological Services-El Corte de Madera Biotic Studies
7164 R $334.75 All Laser Service Printer Servicing Memory Upgrade
7165 R $205.11 Allied Auto Works Vehicle Service
7166 R $311.18 AT&T Wireless Cellular Phone Service
7167 R $147.22 California Water Service Company Water Service
7168 R $595.38 Cupertino Bike Shop Bicycle Supplies
7169 R $2,885.50 Economics Research Associates Consulting Services-Coastal Annexation Fiscal Studies
7170 R $7,268.00 Employment Development Dept. Unemployment Insurance-Claims
7171 R $2,752.86 First Bankcard 440.92-Training&Conf.Exp.
169.95-Internet Services
1958.61-Field Equip.Supp.&Uniform Exp.
31.72-Out of Town Business Meeting
151.66-Local Business Meeting
7172 R $15,144.97 ## Global Steel Fabricators,Inc. 13 Pipe Gates
7173 R $87.53 Goodco Press Inc. Printing Services-Time Cards
7174 R $6,867.30 HRB Construction,Inc. Engineering Services-Foothills Shop Building
7175 R $3,017.00 Macias,Gini&Company Auditor Services-2002/2003 Final Payment
7176 R $119.92 MegaPath Networks Internet Connection-DSL Line FFO
7177 R $125.00 Moreland&Associates,Inc. CSMFO Training-B.Congdon
7178 R $100.00 North American Title Company Easement Map
7179 R $289.25 Orlandi Trailer Trailer Accessories
7180 R $573.15 Petty Cash Conference&Training Expense,Office&Field Supplies,
Vehicle Mileage Reimbursement,Volunteer Supplies,
Out of Town&Local Bus.Meeting Expense
7181 R $49.34 Santa Cruz County Tax Collector Santa Cruz Fire Tax-Presentation Center
7182 R $382.67 Tadco Supply Janitorial Supplies
Total $107,459.46
'1 Urgent Check Issued 1/22/04
## Expenditure to Date Exceeds
10K But Not 25K
Page 2 of 2
I
Regional Open Spice
g p
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
To: Board of Directors
From: L. Craig Britton, General Manager
Date: January 23, 2004
Re: FYI's
330 Distel Circle • Los Altos,CA 94022-1404 • Phone:650-691-1200
Fax: 650-691-0485 9 E-mail: mrosd@openspace.org • Web site: www.openspace.org
III ONLAFCO
Local Agency Formation Commission of Santa Clara County
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Mid Peninsula Regional Open Space District's (MROSD) proposed
sphere of influence amendment and annexation of about 140,000
acres of coastal land in San Mateo County
This is to notify you of a public hearing before the Local Agency Formation
Commission of Santa Clara County(LAFCO) to consider a proposal forwarded
by San Mateo LAFCO.The proposal is a request by MROSD for a sphere of
influence amendment and annexation of about 144,000 acres of coastal land in
San Mateo County. The coastal annexation area is generally defined by the
southern boundary of the City of Pacifica to the north,San Francisco Watershed
Iands and the existing MROSD boundary to the east, the Pacific Ocean to the
west and Santa Cruz boundary line to the south.
Santa Clara LAFCO will consider the application and forward a recommendation
on the proposal to San Mateo LAFCO for its consideration and final action.
DATE: Wednesday,February 11,2004
TIME: 1:15 pm or as soon thereafter as the matter can be heard
PLACE: Chambers of the Board of Supervisors
County Government Center,70 West Hedding Street
San Jose,CA 95110
You may appear and be heard at said time and place.Written communications
should be filed prior to the date of the hearing with the Commission Office. For
more information,contact LAFCO Clerk,Emmanuel Abello at(408)299-5088.
Neelima Palacherla,LAFCO Executive Officer
January 21,2004
Note:Santa Clara LAFCO is the principal LAFCO for MROSD.In February 1999,
Santa Clara LAFCO vested jurisdiction in San Mateo LAFCO with regard to this
proposal. By agreement of both LAFCOs,prior to San Mateo LAFCO taking final action
on the proposal, the application will be referred to Santa Clara LAFCO for a
recommendation. Santa Clara LAFCO will hold a public hearing and forward a
recommendation to San Mateo LAFCO.
70 West Hedding Street - I 1 th Floor, East Wing - San Jose, CA 95110 ■ (408) 299-5127 - (408)295-1 b 13 Fax - www,santaclara.lafco.ca.gov
COMMISSIONERS: Blanca Alvarado, Don Gage, Suzanne Jackson, Linda LeZotte, Susan Vicklund Wilson EXECUTIVE OFFICER: Neelima Palacherla
�Ic LAFCO
i Local Formation Gorrrnission of SarRa tiara
Y
County Government Center, 10th Floor, East Wing
70 West Hedding Street
San Jose CA 95110
(408)299-5088
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEMING
FEtRWutY 11,2004 LAFCO MRm"a
Craig Britton, General Manager
MmPErrn+Isul.A RrGlowAt.OPEN SPACE Iltrrxlcr SOI AnExnlraarr Mid peninsula Re p p
&ANN xnn en
ox of SAN MATw CoAsTAL LAms p g. Open Space Dist
330 Distel Circle
Los Alto, CA 94022
FIRST CLASS MAIL
iIiIIII1 III I11111"till II III ItIIIIIIIIIt1II{1
, r
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
January 22, 2004
Board of Directors
Bay Area Ridge Trail Council
1007 General Kennedy Avenue - Suite 3
San Francisco, California 94129
Subject: Feasibility Study for Alternate Windy Hill Ridge Trail Alignment,
Grant Funding Request
Dear Honorable Directors:
The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District is pleased to submit a Proposition 12
Funding proposal for reimbursement of expenses incurred to complete the feasibility study for
the Windy Hill Ridge Trail Project. The purpose of the project is to determine a suitable
Ridge Trail alignment for bicycle use through the last remaining designated Ridge Trail
corridor that is currently closed to bicycles at Windy Hill Open Space Preserve. The project
will expand bicycle access in the preserve and offer bicyclists the option of avoiding a long
stretch of Skyline Boulevard by providing 7,600 feet of additional trail that follows the road
along the summit of the preserve.
Two trail alignments are under review. One option is to open an existing hiking and
equestrian single-track trail to bicycles. Although this option is viable, it raises potential user
conflict concerns and enforcement issues. A second option is to construct new trail that is
specifically designed for bicycle use. To evaluate option two, the District has hired the
following team of consultants to determine the feasibility of constructing new trail on the
preserve's steep slopes where numerous seeps are present:
Consultant Expertise Level of Review Cost
Freyer&Laureta,Inc. Civil and Structural Survey a"wet"area, $8,030
Engineering determine feasibility of
constructing trail
Biotic Resources Group Biology Conduct a Wetlands $1,650
(subconsultant to F&L) Delineation
Timothy C. Best, C.E.G Geology and Evaluate conditions and $2,850
Hydrology determine appropriate trail
construction methods
Sum of Contracts $12,530
To date the District has received a completed Draft Engineering Feasibility Report, a
Wetlands Delineation Report, and preliminary plans showing potential trail alignments for
one potentially sensitive segment. A third report that identifies appropriate trail construction
.,x t ^.:•f BOARD OF DIRECTORS:Pete Siemens,Mary Daveyled Cyr, GENERAL MANAGER:
Deane Little,Nonette Hanko,tarry Hassett,Kenneth C.Nitz L.Craig Britton
methods is expected in mid-March of this year. The findings in these reports will be
presented at a public meeting of the Use and Management Committee to discuss the trail
options and receive comments on how to proceed. The recommended trail option will then be
presented to the District's Board of Directors for final approval.
The District expects to complete the planning phase of the project by Summer 2004. Already,
the project has received much interest from individual bicyclists and organized mountain
biking clubs, who are eager to gain additional trail mileage in the preserve and avoid the need
to ride 7,600 feet on Skyline Boulevard to access Coal Creek and Russian Ridge Open Space
Preserves, which are located just south of Windy Hill.
Based on the table of costs above, we respectfully submit a request for funding in the amount
of$12,530 from the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council to reimburse the costs of conducting the
technical feasibility study for the alternate Windy Hill Ridge Trial Project. Please contact
Ana Ruiz, Open Space Planner, if you have any questions about the project.
Thank you for your consideration of this proposal.
Sincerely,
L. Craig Britton, General Manager
LCB:amr
cc: MROSD Board of Directors
i
Regional Open Space
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
i
i
To: Board of Directors
I
From: L. Craig Britton, General Manager
I
Date: January 28, 2004
i
Re: FYI's
i
• • 91- 2
330 Distal Circle Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 Phone:650-b 1 00
Fax:650-691-0485 • E-mail: mrosd@o ens ace.or • Web site: www.openspace.org
III P P 9 P 9
Rt-oiotn 0 . Sp-.1ce
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
January 26, 2004
Senator Barbara Boxer
1700 Montgomery Street, Suite 240
San Francisco, CA 94111
Dear Senator Boxer:
On behalf of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, I would like to ask for your
support of our Coastside Protection Program that would extend the District's service boundary
and sphere of influence to include rural San Mateo County, and allow us to purchase and manage
land in order to preserve this unique resource for generations to come.
As you may know, we began developing the program more than six years ago in response to
concerns by the coastside community, and their requests for assistance in preserving the rural
and agricultural heritage on the San Mateo County coast. Subsequently, the Board of Directors
and the District drafted the Coastside Protection Program and submitted its application to the
San Mateo County Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCo) in October 2003.
Our goal is the protection and preservation of this unique coastal landscape, valued by the
regional community for its scenic beauty, agricultural lands, natural resources, and recreational
opportunities. The Coastside Protection Program is necessary because inappropriate
development and sprawl have put the San Mateo coastline at risk. Such development threatens
to eliminate scarce farmland, destroy the region's natural heritage and spoil its rugged beauty.
Since constituents first voiced concerns about the environmental and agricultural viability of the
coast, open space preservation organizations and agencies have expressed the need for a local
agency to increase stewardship of coastal San Mateo County's open space and agricultural
resources due to their own limited capacity to expand preservation and management services.
i
This issue also has a national dimension because the Golden Gate National Recreation Area,
which has publicly supported the program, would not only have a common boundary with
District lands but share many trails, in effect extending the reach of one of the world's largest
urban national arks. The Coastside Protection Program would enable the District to work
p
closely with GGNRA on coastside resource and recreation planning issues and create a greenbelt
of contiguous public open space that would provide a vital wildlife corridor for the California
mountain lion, protect watersheds that are critical habitat for the steelhead trout (federally-listed
as threatened), and preserve diminishing native grasslands.
i;,fiar@0f—r=.'sPate,w BOARDOFDIRECTORS:PeteSiemens,MaryDaveyledCyr, GENERAL MANAGER:
Deane tittle,Nonette Nanko,tarry kassett,Kenneth C.Nitz L.Craig Britton
A=.. R J:r.xE.wr eeas
The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District is strongly committed to sharing the important
responsibility of protecting and preserving the San Mateo Coastside with local residents. The
District's Coastside Protection Program is the best way to protect and preserve the coast while
also ensuring accountability to local residents through fair and democratic representation. The
District plans to conduct public Board meetings and workshops in the coastal area to ensure that
local viewpoints are considered in all significant District planning and decision-making relating
to the coastside. The Coastside Protection area will be included in one or more District wards,
enabling one or more coastside residents the opportunity to be elected and serve on the District's
Board of Directors.
In the spirit of building trust and working collaboratively with local community members, the
District's Board of Directors has decided to eliminate their ability to use eminent domain in the
Coastside Protection area and to only purchase property from willing sellers. The Board
formalized this commitment by adopting a Willing Sellers Ordinance and included a prohibition
of the use of eminent domain in the coastal area throughout the administrative documents
required for protecting the coastside as open space. In addition, we have reached an agreement
with the San Mateo County Farm Bureau that calls for the District to sponsor state legislation
permanently removing our power of eminent domain in the Coastal Protection Area— in
exchange, the Farm Bureau has endorsed the program.
I
The Coastside Protection Program will be accomplished with existing District funds and no
taxation will accompany the extension of District boundaries. The District's Board of Directors
adopted a Resolution of No Property Tax Exchange, which ensures that no share of the current
property taxes will be taken from another local agency or special district. This means the
property taxes collected in San Mateo County will continue to be distributed exactly as they are
today.
The proposed program enjoys wide popular support. 18 cities and dozens of organizations and
businesses, including the Silicon Valley Manufacturing Group, have endorsed it to date. I've
enclosed a list with all supporters. A poll in 1998 has shown that 90 % of the people in San
Mateo and 88% of Santa Clara residents support the program.
Created by voters more than 30 years ago, Mid peninsula Regional Open Space District has a
long and proud history of successfully protecting and managing nearly 50,000 acres of public
open ace. We have achieved this track record b balancing responsible w f e land ble stewardship o the d
� P P Y g P P
with responsiveness to the needs of the community. Our experience and expertise speak to our
capabilities to implement the mission of the Coastside Protection Program:
To acquire and preserve in perpetuity open space land and agricultural land of regional
significance,protect and restore the natural environment, preserve rural character,
encourage viable agricultural use of land resources, and provide opportunities for
ecologically sensitive public enjoyment and education.
2
We look forward to your support of this important initiative to protect the San Mateo coast.
Should you have any questions about our program, please do not hesitate to contact me at(650)
691-1200.
Sincerely,
L. Craig Britton
General Manager
LCB/ij
3
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ce
�..«r:.........w.....,.-........ mom'""' ...,_ai ,..... .... i
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
Resolutions and Letters of Support for the
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District's
Coastside Protection Program
Cities within the District Cities outside the District Counties
Cupertino Belmont Santa Clara Board of Supervisors
East Palo Alto Half Moon Bay Santa Cruz Board of Supervisors
Los Altos Pacifica
Los Altos Hills Santa Cruz
Los Gatos Walnut Creek
Monte Sereno
Mountain View
Palo Alto
Portola Valley
Redwood City
San Carlos
Saratoga
Sunnyvale
State Senate State Assembly
Honorable Byron Sher, District 11 Honorable Rebecca Cohn, District 24
Honorable Sally Lieber, District 22
Honorable Gene Mullin, District 19
Honorable Joe Simitian, District 21
Federal Other Agencies
Honorable Anna Eshoo East Bay Regional Parks
Honorable Mike Honda Marin County Open Space District
Honorable Tom Lantos Midcoast Community Council
U. S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
Organizations
Acterra Midcoast Park Lands
Audubon Society: Sequoia Audubon Society Save Our Shores
Bay Area Open Space Council Save the Redwoods League
Bay Area Ridge Trail Council Sempervirens Fund
California Oak Foundation Sierra Club—Loma Prieta
Central Coast Wilds Silicon Valley Manufacturing Group
Committee for Green Foothills Sonoma Land Trust
Community Alliance with Family Farmers South Skyline Association
Greenbelt Alliance Stanford Open Space Alliance
Half Moon Bay Open Space Trust Surfrider Foundation
Landsmiths Trail Center
?tr'S(33>-.2,org BOARD OF DIRECTORS:Pete Siemens,Mary Davey,Jed Cyr, GENERAL MANAGER:
w wvv,op�nspate.org Deane Little,Nonette Hanko,Larry Hossett Kenneth C.Nitz L.Craig Britton
i
County of Santa Clara
Office of the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors L �i
County Government Center,East Wing
70 West Hedding Street, loth Floor s
San Jose,CA 95110-1770
(408) 299-5001 FAX 298-8460
January 23, 2004
Ms. Mary Davey, Director
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
330 Distel Circle
Los Altos, CA 94022
Dear Ms. Davey:
The Board of Supervisors of the County of Santa Clara is pleased to announce that
the newly elected Chair for 2004 is Pete McHugh and the Vice Chair is Liz Kniss.
The Chair or Vice Chair may be contacted at the County Government Center, 70
Y tY
West Hedding Street, loth Floor, East Wing, San Jose, CA 95110, by telephone at
(408) 299-5001, or by fax at (408) 298-8460. In addition, the County of Santa Clara's
web address is www.sccgov.org. You will find links on the home page to the
Board's Agendas, Summaries of Proceedings, Meeting Calendar, and other
information that I hope will be of assistance to you in the coming year.
Please pass this information on to any interested parties in your organization.
Thank you.
Very truly yours,
Phyllis A. Perez
Clerk of the Board of Supervisors
PAP/ler
1-1 le
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
January 27, 2004
Board of the California Coastal Conservancy
1 Ith Floor, 1330 Broadway
Oakland, CA 94612
Re: Compendium of Documents Produced by the California Department of Fish and Game
To Whom It May Concern:
I�
The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District(MROSD) acquires and preserves land within
San Mateo, Santa Clara, and Santa Cruz Counties. Many of the lands held by the MROSD are
located in the coastal watersheds of San Mateo County. Recently MROSD received a digital
copy of the Compendium of Documents Produced by the California Department of Fish and
Game for Coastal San Mateo County compiled by Robert Zatkin, Geologist. The comprehensive
and easy-to-use Compendium will serve as an important research tool to support our land
protection efforts in these coastal watersheds and throughout the Coastside Protection Area of
San Mateo County.
It has been brought to my attention that the Board of the California Costal Conservancy is
considering funding a project that will result in the production of a similar compendium for all
coastal counties south of the Golden Gate to the U.S./Mexican border. I believe such an
expanded compendium will prove to be a very valuable resource for other public land
management entities and interested citizens in all coastal California counties south of the Golden 1
Gate. As such, I heartedly endorse the proposed project and recommend that you provide the
funds necessary to expand on the coastal San Mateo County compendium.
Sincerely,
L. Craig Britton
General Manager
I
I
i
BOARD OF DIRECTORS:Pete Siemens,Mary Davey,led Cyr, GENERAL MANAGER:
L.Craig Britton
A k�,;PVnS, xCv g Deane Little,Nonette Hanko,Larry Hossett,Kenneth C.Nitz
i
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
January 23, 2004
TO: L. Craig Britton, General Manger
FROM: G. Baillie, Management Analyst
SUBJECT: MONTHLY FIELD ACTIVITY SUMMARY
Month December Year 2003
VIOLATIONS CITES TOTALS CRIMES CITES TOTALS
Bicycles Marijuana cultivation 0 1
Closed area 4 8 Petty theft 0 1
Speed 1 2 Possession narcotics 0 1
Helmet 2 2 Prostitution 0 1
Night-riding 0 0 Auto burglary 0 1
Dogs Stolen vehicle 0 1
Prohibited area 1 5
Off-leash 9 11 ACCIDENTSANCIDENTS
Off-road vehicles I I Bicycle acciden'� 1
Closed area 0 0 Equestrian accident 1
After hours 3 5 Hiking/running accident I
Fishing 0 0 Other first aid 0
Vandalism 0 3 Search &Rescue 0
Parking 4 6 Vehicle accident 0
Parking after hours 22 36 LZ air evacuation 1
Dumping/littering 0 4 Fire 0
Camping 0 0
Weapons ENFORCEMENT
Actual contact 0 0 Parking citations 26
Report only 0 0 Other citations 23
Evidence of 0 0 Written warnings 29
Plant collecting 0 2 Arrests 0
Smoking 1 1 Police assistance 5
Reckless driving 1 1
Resisting arrest 0 1 MUTUAL AID
False information to PO 0 1 Accident I
Law enforcement I
Landing zone off-site 0
Se
arch& Resc i.i e 0
Fire 0
I
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT INCIDENTS BY DATE
Date
3 Two undercover East Palo Alto Police Officers contacted two people in a vehicle at the
Ravenswood parking lot after observing possible prostitution and narcotics. Both subject were
released. J. Smith.
f
6 E. Wickham observed a driverspinning donuts in the North Ridge lot at Purisima Creek
endangering other vehicles and visitors. The driver was cited for reckless driving.
6 A. Correia observed a pick-up truck in Sierra Azul parked adjacent to a berm, which had been
created to prevent off road vehicle use. The vehicle was stuck on the berm. Two juveniles were
contacted regarding the vehicle. The driver was cited for"off-road vehicle prohibited,"and
verbally warned for transporting a passenger under 20 on a provisional license. The boys
extricated the vehicle with the assistance of A. Correia and K. Carlson.
12 M. Newburn observed four visitors after hours in Rancho. Contact was attempted at Mora water
tank and all four fled. Two were stopped after a short pursuit. One of these two fled again, and
the assistance of Santa Clara County Sheriffs Deputies was requested. The stopped juvenile was
identified and a Deputy arrived on scene. The juvenile was cited for after hours and released to
his father. Newburn found the juvenile who had fled twice, hiding behind a tree. The juvenile
refused to provide identification and was transported to the preserve boundary to meet a Deputy.
The juvenile then provided identification and was cited for after hours. The Deputy took custody
of the boy and transported him home to his parents. The other two individuals were not found.
14 Twenty-three Christmas trees were found to have been removed from a former tree farm in Bear
Creek Redwoods. Violations included removal of trees, closed area, and petty theft. A. Corriea
and T. Lausten investigated.
17 An experienced bicycle rider fell on Priest Rock Trail in Sierra Azul because her front tire got
stuck in a rut and she could not release her feet from the pedals. A witness reported that he
thought they were not going that fast. Her helmet was damaged, she had abrasions and
lacerations to her left leg. She was also experiencing pain in her left clavicle and femur. A
helicopter landing zone was established at Limekiln/Priest Rock. The patient was transported by
Lifeflight to Valley Medical Center. A. Cornea and C. Sparks Hart were the first District units on
scene. Santa Clara County Fire, Sheriffs Department, and Parks, CHP, AMR Medics, J. Smith
and T. Lausten responded.
18 K. Carlson contacted an off-road vehicle driver on a private property easement within Bear Creek
Redwoods. The driver advised Carlson of two abandoned vehicles nearby on the property.
Carlson and T. Fisher walked to the vehicles. The plates were checked and both came back
stolen. Two days later A. Cornea directed CHP to the vehicles for removal.
21 A man was found injured and disoriented in the Alpine Road parking lot at Russian Ridge. The
victim may have fallen as a result of a seizure. This would be consistent with his medical history,
provided by a friend who arrived on scene. The victim suggested he may have been assaulted,
but this statement ma
y have been a result of post-seizure disorientation. He was transported b
Y
p Y
ground ambulance to the hospital. R. Carlson, L. Paterson, B. Downing.
21 At Windy Hill an equestrian was thrown from his horse, and sustained possible C-spine and facial
injuries. A friend riding with him could determine no reason for the horse to buck. The patient
was transported to the hospital by ground ambulance. L. Paterson, R. Carlson, T. Valterria, B.
Downing.
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22 At Long Ridge a small marijuana cultivation site was discovered near the new Achistaca Trail.
The area was cleaned up and associated items were removed. S. Hooper, B. Downing.
24 Two cubic yards of yard waste were found dumped in the parking lot at Fremont Older. J. Smith
picked up the material and put it in the wood waste bin at the office.
26 Fresh blood was observed near the gate and on the trail at Ravenswood. K. Miller had dispatch
check with East Palo Alto Police Department for any prior enforcement activity in the area. The
Police advised that they had dispatched two vicious pitbull dogs just outside the preserve.
27 At Long Ridge a pile of broken auto safety glass was discovered on Hwy 35 at gate LR-10. This
suggests an auto burglary may have occurred. T. Valterria.
December Vandalism
7 A regulation sign at Windy Hill was shot once.
14 Two plywood window coverings were removed and the windows broken at buildings in Bear
Creek Redwoods. Also, a plywood cover was removed from a door.
17 Two wire fences at a Bear Creek Redwoods boundary were cut to allow for Off Road Vehicle
use.
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SOW N �F
Towle of Los GATos
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT CIVIC CENTER
: PLANNING DIVISION 110 E.MAIN STREET
�OS'G��OS PHONE (408) 354-6872 FAX (408) 354-7593 P.O.Box949
Los GATos,CA 95031
January 27, 2004
Ken Anderson
14936 Diduca Way
Los Gatos,CA 95032
RE: 15820 Shannon Road
Open Space & Conservation Easement
Dear Mr. Anderson:
The Community Development Department received your letter regarding the donation of an open space and
conservation easement to the Town of Los Gatos and the Mid-Peninsula Regional Open Space District
(MPROSD)by Dirk and Josine Smits. You received a call from Suzanne Davis shortly after you letter was
received. This letter summarizes that conversation. The granting of the open space easement should not
have any negative impact on your property. The open space easement was granted to ensure that the property
will remain in its present undeveloped and natural state and will not be subdivided or developed in the future.
The restrictions on development prohibit structures of any kind from being built on the land, and any new
landscaping must be native species. Additionally, no development rights can be transferred to another
property. This action is considered a positive contribution to the community. The open space easement
document is available for review at the Community Development Department if you wish to read the details
of its provisions.
The granting of an open space easement is not considered a rezoning. The property maintains its prezone
designation of HR-5. The Smits property is in Santa Clara County and should it be annexed into the Town,
it would be zoned HR-5. This also applies to your property and others in the immediate area. The open
space easement on the Smits property does not preclude you or any other neighboring property owner from
filing a development or subdivision application with the Town, nor does it require you to donate an open
space easement over your property. It also does not affect future annexation of the Smits property or any
other County property. Given that the Williamson Act designation my be removed from the Smits property,
it would be more susceptible to development without the presence of the open space and conservation
easement. The Town and MPROSD prefer to see the land remain undeveloped as it has aesthetic and
intrinsic value and preserves existing wildlife and plant habitat. This action is supported by the Town's
General Plan goals and policies which encourage acquisition of open space. The land within the open space
and conservation easement will be maintained in its natural state by the Smits at no cost to the Town.
The donation and acceptance of an open space easement does not require mailed public notice. This is why
you did not receive direct notification of the Town Council meeting in December. The Town 0 complies with
all noticing requirements for public meetings. Council agendas are posted prior to the meeting in several
locations around the Civic Center,including the library. You can also view Council agendas on the Town's
web-site: www.losaatosca.gov in advance of the meetings. Neighboring property owners have since been
notified of the open space easement donation by MPROSD and may contact either the District or the Town
if there are any questions or concerns.
INCORPORATED AUGUST 10, 1887 D
f ° TowN of Los GATos
' COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT Civic Cox
• PLANNING DIVISION 110 E.MAIN STREET
�Os"G At�g PHONE (408) 354-6872 FAX (408) 354-7593 P.O.Box 949
Los GATos,CA 95031
January 27,2004 j
Ken Anderson
14936 Diduca Way
Los Gatos,CA 95032
RE: 15820 Shannon Road
Open Space & Conservation Easement
Dear Mr. Anderson:
The Community Development Department received your letter regarding the donation of an open space and
conservation easement to the Town of Los Gatos and the Mid-Peninsula Regional Open Space District
(MPROSD)by Dirk and Josine Smits. You received a call from Suzanne Davis shortly after you letter was
received. This letter summarizes that conversation. The granting of the open space easement should not
have any negative impact on your property. The open space easement was granted to ensure that the property
will remain in its present undeveloped and natural state and will not be subdivided or developed in the future.
The restrictions on development prohibit structures of any kind from being built on the land, and any new
landscaping must be native species. Additionally, no development rights can be transferred to another
property. This action is considered a positive contribution to the community. The open space easement
document is available for review at the Community Development Department if you wish to read the details
of its provisions.
The granting of an open space easement is not considered a rezoning. The property maintains its prezone
designation of HR-5. The Smits property is in Santa Clara County and should it be annexed into the Town,
it would be zoned HR-5. This also applies to your property and others in the immediate area. The open
space easement on the Smits property does not preclude you or any other neighboring property owner from
filing a development or subdivision application with the Town, nor does it require you to donate an open
space easement over your property. It also does not affect future annexation of the Smits property or any
other County property. Given that the Williamson Act designation my be removed from the Smits property,
it would be more susceptible to development without the presence of the open space and conservation
easement. The Town and MPROSD prefer to see the land remain undeveloped as it has aesthetic and
intrinsic value and preserves existing wildlife and plant habitat. This action is supported by the Town's
General Plan goals and policies which encourage acquisition of open space. The land within the open space
and conservation easement will be maintained in its natural state by the Smits at no cost to the Town.
The donation and acceptance of an open space easement does not require mailed public notice. This is why
you did not receive direct notification of the Town Council meeting in December. The Town complies with
all noticing requirements for public meetings. Council agendas are posted prior to the meeting in several
locations around the Civic Center,including the library. You can also view Council agendas on the Town's
web-site: www.losgatosca.gov in advance of the meetings. Neighboring property owners have since been
notified of the open space easement donation by MPROSD and may contact either the District or the Town
if there are any questions or concerns.
i
i
INCORPORATED AUGUST 10, 1887
Ken Anderson
j January 27, 2004
Page 2 of 2
If you have further questions of the Town,please contact the Suzanne Davis,Associate Planner at(408)354-
6875. Tom Fischer is the contact at MPROSD and may be reached at(650) 691-1200.
Sincerely,
Bud N. Lortz,AICP
Director of Community Development
BNL:SD
cc: Town Manager
Town Council
Tom Fischer,Mid-Peninsula Regional Open Space District, 330 Distel Circle,Los Altos, CA 94022
File- 15280 Shannon Road
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