HomeMy Public PortalAbout20170308 - Agenda Packet - Board of Directors (BOD) - 17-07
SPECIAL AND REGULAR MEETING
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
Administrative Office
330 Distel Circle
Los Altos, CA 94022
Wednesday, March 8, 2017
Special Meeting starts at 5:30 PM*
Regular Meeting starts at 7:00 PM*
A G E N D A
5:30 SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA
REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT – CLOSED SESSION
ROLL CALL
1. CLOSED SESSION: PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION. Government
Code Section 54957(b)(1)
Title of Employees: General Counsel
2. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS (Government Code Section
54956.8)
Property: San Mateo County Assessor’s Parcel Numbers 085-170-020, 290 & 310
Agency Negotiator: Michael Williams, Real Property Manager
Negotiating Party: Walter Moore on behalf of Frances Conley
Under Negotiation: Purchase Terms and Conditions
ADJOURNMENT
7:00 REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA
REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
The Board President will invite public comment on items not on the agenda. Each speaker will
ordinarily be limited to three minutes; however, the Brown Act (Open Meeting Law) does not allow
action by the Board of Directors on items not on the agenda. If you wish to address the Board, please
complete a speaker card and give it to the District Clerk. Individuals are limited to one appearance
during this section.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
Meeting 17-07
CONSENT CALENDAR
All items on the Consent Calendar may be approved without discussion by one motion. Board members,
the General Manager, and members of the public may request that an item be removed from the Consent
Calendar during consideration of the Consent Calendar.
1. Approve February 22, 2017 and February 23, 2017 Minutes
2. Approve Claims Report
INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDA
• Update of Implementation Actions at Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve
• Update on La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve Implementation Actions
INFORMATIONAL REPORTS – Reports on compensable meetings attended. Brief reports or
announcements concerning activities of District Directors and staff; opportunity to refer public or Board
questions to staff for information; request staff to report to the Board on a matter at a future meeting; or
direct staff to place a matter on a future agenda. Items in this category are for discussion and direction to
staff only. No final policy action will be taken by the Board.
A. Committee Reports
B. Staff Reports
C. Director Reports
ADJOURNMENT
*Times are estimated and items may appear earlier or later than listed. Agenda is subject to change of order.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need assistance to participate in this meeting,
please contact the District Clerk at (650) 691-1200. Notification 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the
District to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting.
Written materials relating to an item on this Agenda that are considered to be a public record and are distributed
to Board members less than 72 hours prior to the meeting, will be available for public inspection at the District’s
Administrative Office located at 330 Distel Circle, Los Altos, California 94022.
CERTIFICATION OF POSTING OF AGENDA
I, Jennifer Woodworth, District Clerk for the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (MROSD), declare that
the foregoing agenda for the special and regular meetings of the MROSD Board of Directors was posted and
available for review on March 3, 2017, at the Administrative Offices of MROSD, 330 Distel Circle, Los Altos
California, 94022. The agenda and any additional written materials are also available on the District’s web site at
http://www.openspace.org.
Jennifer Woodworth, MMC
District Clerk
February 22, 2017
Board Meeting 17-05
SPECIAL AND REGULAR MEETING
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
Administrative Office
330 Distel Circle
Los Altos, CA 94022
Wednesday, February 22, 2017
DRAFT MINUTES
SPECIAL MEETING – STUDY SESSION
President Hassett called the special meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Members Present: Cecily Harris, Larry Hassett, Yoriko Kishimoto, Curt Riffle, and Pete
Siemens
Members Absent: Jed Cyr and Nonette Hanko
Staff Present: General Manager Steve Abbors, General Counsel Sheryl Schaffner,
Assistant General Manager Kevin Woodhouse, Legislative/External
Affairs Specialist Joshua Hugg, District Clerk/Assistant to the General
Manager Jennifer Woodworth
1. District Lobbyist Legislative Update for 2017 (R-17-22)
Legislative/External Affairs Specialist Joshua Hugg
Ralph Heim, Russell Noack, and Julee Malinowski-Ball from Public Policy Advocates provided
a legislative briefing. Mr. Heim described the current makeup of the California Assembly and
Senate, bills recently introduced in both houses, the governor’s budget, and potential pension
reform bills. Mr. Noack summarized the various bills the District is sponsoring, transportation
funding bills, and the differences between the competing park bond measures currently before
the legislature. Ms. Malinowski-Ball described water policy and climate change efforts being
pursued in the California legislature, including continuing water conservation, groundwater
management efforts, and reauthorization of cap and trade.
Director Riffle asked if there was an update on available federal funding for the District.
Meeting 17-05 Page 2
Mr. Noack reported legislative staff is monitoring federal changes and more information may be
known after the California legislative leadership unveils its environmental package. Additionally,
California officials are preparing to respond to federal actions as necessary.
Director Kishimoto requested additional information regarding the opposition to design-build.
Mr. Noack explained opposition typically relates to the size of the project, but recognition has
grown that some smaller projects may benefit from the process while still protecting organized
labor.
Director Siemens inquired if the California Special Districts Association has signed on to support
the design-build bill.
Mr. Noack reported additional special districts might want to be included in the bill and provide
their support. However, Mr. Heim reported it is unlikely a design-build bill to include all special
districts would be approved.
Public comments opened at 6:57 p.m.
Steve Gibbons, member of the Field Employees Association, thanked Public Policy Advocates
for coming. Mr. Gibbons asked about the relationship of the District continuing to be an
environmental leader and conservation efforts may influence pension reform in the future.
Mr. Heim discussed the ongoing issue that some agencies in California are in danger of
bankruptcy related to their unfunded liabilities. However, Mr. Heim does not currently see a
conflict between the two issues. Pension reform may be partially decided by the judiciary and not
in the legislature.
Public comments closed at 7:02 p.m.
President Hassett adjourned the special meeting of the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula
Regional Open Space District at 7:03 p.m.
REGULAR MEETING
President Hassett called the regular meeting of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
to order at 7:04 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Members Present: Cecily Harris, Larry Hassett, Yoriko Kishimoto, Curt Riffle, and Pete
Siemens
Members Absent: Jed Cyr and Nonette Hanko
Staff Present: General Manager Steve Abbors, General Counsel Sheryl Schaffner,
Assistant General Manager Ana Ruiz, Assistant General Manager Kevin
Woodhouse, Chief Financial Officer/Director of Administrative Services
Stefan Jaskulak, District Clerk/Assistant to the General Manager Jennifer
Meeting 17-05 Page 3
Woodworth, Human Resources Supervisor Candice Basnight, and
Assistant General Counsel Hilary Stevenson
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
No speakers present.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
Motion: Director Harris moved, and Director Riffle seconded the motion to adopt the agenda.
VOTE: 5-0-0 (Directors Cyr and Hanko absent)
SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY
• Introduction of Staff
O Melanie Askay, Grants Specialist
CONSENT CALENDAR
Director Harris pulled Agenda Item 3 from the Consent Calendar.
Public comment opened at 7:10 p.m.
No speakers.
Public comment closed at 7:10 p.m.
Motion: Director Riffle moved, and Director Kishimoto seconded the motion to approve the
Consent Calendar, with the exception of Agenda Item 3.
VOTE: 5-0-0 (Directors Cyr and Hanko absent)
1. Approve February 8, 2017 Minutes
2. Approve Claims Report
3. Memorial Grove Signage Plan Proposed by Save the Redwoods League Associated
with an Existing Partnership at Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (R-17-20)
Item 3 was heard after the Consent Calendar.
Director Harris requested additional information regarding the history of the program and
commented on the donation requirements for the memorial program.
Planner I Alicia Halpern explained the memorial grove was included in the title for the land
acquisition. The acquisition was purchased in partnership with the Save the Redwoods League.
Meeting 17-05 Page 4
Director Riffle spoke on behalf of the members of the Legislative, Funding, and Public Affairs
Committee and explained the Committee felt the signage plan was honoring the District’s
commitment to the Save the Redwoods League and would be a less intrusive and less expensive
way for the program to continue.
Public comment opened at 7:16 p.m.
Jennifer Verhines of the Save the Redwoods League thanked the Board for the District’s
continued partnership.
Public comment closed at 7:17 p.m.
Motion: Director Kishimoto moved, and Director Siemens seconded the motion to:
1. Approve the Memorial Grove Signage Plan at Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space
Preserve to minimize individual donor signage and install a centralized recognition signboard
based on a Committee-selected design option.
2. Authorize the General Manager to enter into a sign maintenance and replacement agreement
with Save the Redwoods League.
VOTE: 4-1-0 (Director Harris dissenting; Directors Cyr and Hanko absent)
4. Approval of Amendments to the Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual (R-17-
23)
General Manager’s Recommendation: Adopt a Resolution Adopting the Amended Personnel
Policies and Procedures Manual.
BOARD BUSINESS
5. Adoption of a Use and Management Plan Amendment for El Sereno Open Space
Preserve Designating All Trails Open to Dogs On-Leash Except for a Trail Segment Over
San Jose Water Company Property (R-17-21)
Senior Planner Tina Hugg provided the staff presentation describing the project and proposed
implementation measures.
Public comment opened at 7:25 p.m.
No speakers present.
Public comment closed at 7:25 p.m.
Director Riffle spoke regarding Planning and Natural Resources Committee’s review and
discussion of the item, including the proposed access area meeting the District’s criteria for
allowing dog access.
Motion: Director Siemens moved, and Director Kishimoto seconded the motion to:
1. Determine that the recommended actions are categorically exempt under the California
Environmental Quality Act, as set out in the staff report.
Meeting 17-05 Page 5
2. Adopt a Use and Management Plan Amendment designating all trails at El Sereno Open
Space Preserve open to dogs on-leash, except a 0.3-mile portion of the Aquinas Trail over
San Jose Water Company property.
VOTE: 5-0-0 (Directors Cyr and Hanko absent)
6. Restructuring of Human Resources within Administrative Services, and related
changes to the Classification and Compensation Plan (R-17-24)
Assistant General Manager Kevin Woodhouse described the proposed restructuring of the
Human Resource Department as recommended by the Financial and Operational Sustainability
Model and subsequent departmental organization study. Mr. Woodhouse reviewed each of the
departmental study’s recommendations and provided the proposed organizational chart. Finally,
Mr. Woodhouse described the fiscal impact of the proposed department reorganization.
Director Harris inquired if the proposed intern position would be a temporary or ongoing
position.
Mr. Woodhouse explained several departments have interns, who cannot work for more than
1,000 hours due to CalPERS restrictions.
Director Kishimoto inquired regarding the ongoing workload need for the recruitment analyst
positions.
Mr. Woodhouse explained recruitment for newly created positions will level off, and recruitment
needs will continue for vacancies created by natural attrition.
Public comment opened at 7:57 p.m.
No speakers present.
Public comment closed at 7:57 p.m.
Motion: Director Riffle moved, and Director Harris seconded the motion to accept a report on
the classification recommendations for the Human Resources Division and adopt a resolution
amending the District’s Classification and Compensation Plan to add a Human Resources
Manager.
VOTE: 5-0-0 (Directors Cyr and Hanko absent)
INFORMATIONAL REPORTS
A. Committee Reports
Director Riffle reported the Action Plan and Budget Committee met on February 21, 2017.
B. Staff Reports
Meeting 17-05 Page 6
Chief Financial Officer/Director of Administrative Services Stefan Jaskulak reported the
Measure AA Bond Oversight Committee met to review and discuss the sample expenditure
documentation.
Assistant General Manager Ana Ruiz spoke regarding the Board’s retreat scheduled for February
23, 2017.
Mr. Abbors commented on his recent article in Open Space Views regarding the why behind the
District’s work.
C. Director Reports
The Board members submitted their compensatory reports.
Directors Kishimoto and Riffle reported their attendance at the State of the Valley event.
ADJOURNMENT
President Hassett adjourned the regular meeting of the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula
Regional Open Space District at 8:11 p.m.
SPECIAL MEETING – CLOSED SESSION
President Hassett called the special meeting to order at 8:15 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Members Present: Cecily Harris, Larry Hassett, Yoriko Kishimoto, Curt Riffle, and Pete
Siemens
Members Absent: Jed Cyr and Nonette Hanko
Staff Present: General Manager Steve Abbors, General Counsel Sheryl Schaffner, Real
Property Manager Mike Williams, Senior Real Property Agent Allen
Ishibashi, Assistant General Manager Ana Ruiz, Assistant General
Counsel Hilary Stevenson
1. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS (Government Code
Section 54956.8)
Property: City of Campbell, Assessor’s Parcel Number 412-32-014
Agency Negotiator: Allen Ishibashi, Senior Real Property Agent
Negotiating Party: Brent Dressen, Colliers International
Under Negotiation: Fee Title
Public comments opened at 8:15 p.m.
No speakers present.
Public comments closed at 8:15 p.m.
Meeting 17-05 Page 7
The Board convened into closed session.
President Hassett adjourned the special meeting of the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula
Regional Open Space District at 9:03 p.m.
________________________________
Jennifer Woodworth, MMC
District Clerk
Board Meeting 17-06
SPECIAL MEETING
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
Mitchell Park Community Center - Adobe Room
3700 Middlefield Rd.
Palo Alto, CA 94303
Thursday, February 23, 2017
9:30 AM
DRAFT MINUTES
SPECIAL MEETING
CALL TO ORDER
President Hassett called the special meeting of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
to order at 9:31 a.m.
ROLL CALL
Members Present: Jed Cyr, Cecily Harris, Larry Hassett, Yoriko Kishimoto, Curt Riffle and
Pete Siemens
Members Absent: Nonette Hanko
Staff Present: General Manager Steve Abbors, Assistant General Manager Ana Ruiz,
Assistant General Manager Kevin Woodhouse, Chief Financial
Officer/Director of Administrative Services Stefan Jaskulak, Assistant
General Counsel Hilary Stevenson, Controller Mike Foster, District
Clerk/Assistant to the General Manager Jennifer Woodworth, Planning
Manager Jane Mark, Interim Public Affairs Manager Christine Butterfield,
Engineering and Construction Manager Jay Lin, Human Resources
Supervisor Candice Basnight, Information Systems Technology Manager
Garrett Dunwoody, Skyline Area Superintendent Tom Lausten, Land and
Facilities Manager Brian Malone, Natural Resources Manager Kirk
Lenington, and Real Property Manager Mike Williams
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Director Hanko arrived at 9:34 a.m.
Meeting 17-06 Page 2
Saratoga City Council member Howard Miller spoke in support of providing ADA access to the
Upper Terrace of Quarry Park and the Saratoga-to-Sea Trail and asked the Board to partner with
Saratoga to support these projects.
Debbie Pedro, Planning Director for the Town of Portola Valley, spoke in favor public access to
the Hawthorn Property, including realignment and widening of the Alpine Road Trail.
BOARD BUSINESS
General Manager Abbors provided opening comments summarizing the agenda topics for the
retreat and the goal to keep the Board informed on progress related to current District projects
and recommended projects for the upcoming fiscal year. Mr. Abbors reviewed the Board-
directed success criteria and explained current constraints on District workload and District staff
including continued implementation of Measure AA and a new business model as informed by
the Financial and Operational Sustainability Model.
Assistant General Manager Kevin Woodhouse provided an update on projects to be completed
before the end of the current fiscal year and the seven project focus areas Fiscal Year 2017-18.
Chief Financial Officer/Director of Administrative Services Stefan Jaskulak described projects
associated with implementation of the new business model and projected for completion by June
2017. Mr. Jaskulak described proposed FY2017-18 projects related to staff facilities, technology,
and organizational improvements, including the creation of an intranet, document management
system, and project tracking and documentation system.
Assistant General Manager Ana Ruiz summarized current and upcoming projects associated with
staff facilities, including studying alternatives and design development for the Administrative
Office, preliminary site assessments for a South Area Field Office, and evaluation of additional
field office sites.
Ms. Ruiz described the ongoing and proposed projects associated with opening Mount
Umunhum Summit to the public, including property purchases, completion of the Mt. Umunhum
Trail and Road improvements, construction of summit improvements, and a public grand
opening.
Ms. Ruiz provided an update regarding the opening of La Honda Open Space Preserve.
Completed projects and proposed projects include repairs to ranch roads, construction of a
parking area along Sears Ranch Road, visitor education materials for recreation in active grazing
pastures, drafting a Red Barn Site Plan, and a public grand opening for the preserve.
Ms. Ruiz summarized projects associated with opening the Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space
Preserve to the public. Ms. Ruiz described projects to be completed before the end of the current
fiscal year and proposed for FY2017-18, including approval of the Environmental Impact Report
and Preserve Plan, building a new parking lot, and numerous water system, Bear Creek Stables,
and Alma College improvements.
Mr. Woodhouse summarized several projects planned for FY2017-18 related to improving and
creating regional connections, including Rancho San Antonio transit connections, Bay Area
Meeting 17-06 Page 3
Ridge Trail crossing, Saratoga-to-the-Sea regional trail connection, and Ravenswood Bay Trail
design and implementation.
Director Siemens left at 10:22 a.m. and returned at 10:25 a.m.
President Hassett announced Director Riffle will be recusing himself regarding any Board
discussion related to Cloverdale Ranch.
Director Hanko left at 10:28 a.m.
Mr. Woodhouse discussed other Measure AA projects and projects driven by the implementation
of the Strategic Plan and the District’s mission, which are currently underway or recommended
for FY2017-18, such as El Sereno Open Space Preserve dog access, Fremont Older public safety
improvements, Vision Plan review, and outreach and partnership opportunities.
Director Riffle asked how the information is being relayed to the public.
Mr. Abbors spoke regarding the strategic direction of the Public Affairs department and
recruitment timeline for a new Public Affairs Manager.
Interim Public Affairs Manager Christine Butterfield spoke regarding the Public Affairs strategic
plan currently being developed, including communications plans, departmental support, and
integration of Public Affairs staff with the project teams.
Director Riffle commented on the public’s desire to access the preserves.
Director Kishimoto thanked staff for their efforts in completing numerous projects in the current
fiscal year.
Director Kishimoto commented on the need to balance the three aspects of the District’s mission.
Director Cyr spoke regarding the need to set dates for opening the District’s preserves to the
public.
Directors Harris and Siemens commented on the need to focus on completing projects and less
on the use of Measure AA as a funding source for those projects.
Public comments opened at 10:52 a.m.
Frank Bakonyi spoke in favor of increasing communication with the public regarding project
results, especially those that directly affect public access. Additionally, Mr. Bakonyi spoke in
favor of selecting a tenant for Bear Creek Stables as soon as possible.
Public comments closed at 10:56 a.m.
Director Riffle spoke in favor of public accountability regarding Measure AA projects and the
need to focus on Coastal Area projects.
Director Cyr left at 10:59 a.m. and returned at 11:01 a.m.
Meeting 17-06 Page 4
Mr. Woodhouse reported there are numerous projects related to the Coastal Area included in the
draft Action Plan that could be highlighted more prominently.
Mr. Woodhouse and Ms. Ruiz explained the draft Action Plan before the Board includes work to
be completed by six prior Board-approved positions, and three additional positions in the
planning and project delivery business line would be needed. The added positions follow FOSM
projections and are fiscally affordable according the District’s 30-year financial model.
The Board recessed at 11:06 a.m. and reconvened at 11:15 a.m. with Directors Cyr, Hassett,
Riffle, and Harris present.
Ms. Ruiz described the list of potential Action Plan projects proposed for FY2017-18 explaining
the list will likely be shortened based on staff capacity and other District resources.
Directors Kishimoto and Siemens returned at 11:17 a.m.
Director Riffle suggested the Board discuss the three proposed positions needed to complete the
projects included in the draft Action Plan.
By consensus, the Board agreed to the three proposed positions with the understanding that the
positions would be included in the FY2017-18 Budget for additional discussion and approval by
the Board as part of the annual budget process.
The Board reviewed the seven areas of focus for the draft Action Plan and requested and
received clarification regarding the projects included. The Board also requested edits to various
project descriptions.
President Hassett suggested including some of the specific veterans’ stories and interviews in the
Mt. Umunhum audio tour.
Mr. Abbors reported that information and materials would also be provided to the Veterans
Affairs Council.
Director Harris requested additional information regarding project support for La Honda Creek
projects.
Mr. Woodhouse explained these projects are related to support from the Public Affairs
department related to the opening of this preserve and others. The language will be updated to
reference Public Affairs staff’s communication plans.
Director Riffle inquired if the public will be involved in developing the Red Barn Site Plan.
Ms. Ruiz explained public meetings are planned for this project will provide opportunities for
public input.
Director Riffle asked if the proposed Coastal Office at the Driscoll Event Center would be a part
of the FY2017-18 Action Plan.
Meeting 17-06 Page 5
Land and Facilities Manager Brian Malone reported staff is currently studying the feasibility of
using the Event Center for a staff field office, and the item may be added to the Action Plan.
Director Riffle commented on the need for progress to continue for the projects at La Honda
Creek.
Director Harris suggested organizing the Bear Creek Preserve projects by Alma College, Bear
Creek Stables, water system, etc. Additionally, Director Harris commented on the large amount
of District funding for stable improvements will have a private benefit.
Land and Facilities Manager Brian Malone explained the stables improvements will be
completed in a phased approach with the initial improvements being improvements necessary to
allow for public access. The second phase of improvements will require tenant funding.
Public comments opened at 11:42 a.m.
Frank Bakonyi spoke in favor of selecting a tenant prior to stable improvements to allow the
tenant to raise funds in preparation for stable improvements. Stable improvements should be
undertaken with the understanding that the public will have access to the stables for education
programs and other public programs.
Public comments closed at 11:45 a.m.
Assistant General Counsel Hilary Stevenson explained that when improvements are made on
public property, state law requires a prevailing wage is paid. This requirement remains even
when tenants are funding the improvements.
Director Riffle spoke in favor of using the Stevens Creek Trail as a possible trail connection for
Rancho San Antonio, and the District may be able to help facilitate the trail connection.
Director Harris spoke in favor of the Purisima-to-the-Sea trail. Director Harris also questioned
the need for the District to do work on the Alpine Road, since it is owned by San Mateo County.
Mr. Abbors explained San Mateo County currently owns Alpine Road, and an engineering study
is first needed to understand the problem and better inform whether the District is prepared to
own the property.
Director Harris suggested the project may be delayed due to the road’s unknown condition.
Director Kishimoto spoke in favor of Alpine Road as a key cyclist connection and suggested she
would be open to alternatives. Also fixing the road now may prevent the need for more
expensive fixes later.
Director Hanko returned at 12:05 p.m.
Director Riffle announced his recusal regarding Cloverdale Ranch and left the room.
Mr. Abbors provided additional information regarding Cloverdale Ranch including a proposed
Board tour of the property. There are currently no adjacent District preserves.
Meeting 17-06 Page 6
Director Riffle reentered the room at 12:08 p.m.
Director Kishimoto expressed her support for the Saratoga-to-the-Sea Trail, Ravenswood Bay
Trail, and Hawthorn property public access.
The Board recessed at 12:19 p.m. and reconvened at 12:29 p.m. with all Directors present.
Director Kishimoto requested the language describing the Cooley Landing project be broadened
to include a second recommendation to allow for flexibility in scoping the project, including a
potential education center.
Director Hanko requested additional information regarding wildlife corridors along Highway 17.
Natural Resources Manager Kirk Lenington provided additional information related to the
proposed Highway 17 wildlife corridors, including District partners for the project.
Director Harris left at 12:54 p.m. and returned at 12:57 p.m.
Director Kishimoto requested additional information regarding wildfire management and
protection and requested creation of a comprehensive fire response plan.
Mr. Lenington explained CalFire typically develops comprehensive fire management plans on a
regional scope. District staff is working with various agencies to inform them of biologically
sensitive areas, fuel breaks already in place, etc. and provide additional information for the fire
management plans.
Mr. Malone reported Land and Facilities crews provide ongoing fire protection measures,
including mowing, disking, and structure clearance throughout the District’s preserves.
Director Siemens suggested including pursuit of a master permit with San Mateo County.
Director Harris left at 1:16 p.m.
Ms. Ruiz reported District staff has provided grading permit exemption language to San Mateo
County, similar to language included in Santa Clara County’s grading ordinance. In addition,
there are now San Mateo County staff members dedicated to the District’s type of projects,
which has shortened the permit process.
Director Siemens requested to add the following project “Pursue San Mateo County permit
streamlining.”
The Board reviewed the various suggestions made throughout the day to determine which will
move forward.
Director Hanko suggested having a meeting in the Coastal Area to present to the public projects
completed in the area.
Planning Manager Jane Mark suggested including a column on the Action Plan to call out
projects that are related to the Coastal Area.
Meeting 17-06 Page 7
The Board discussed the need for an office on the San Mateo Coast.
Mr. Malone explained staff will have an interim office in the Coastal Area, but further analysis
of a permanent office will need to be deferred until FY2018-19 due to limited staff capacity for
the project.
The Board decided against including this project in the Action Plan.
Mr. Abbors provided closing comments summarizing District focus for the coming fiscal year
and
President Hassett thanked staff and the members of the Board for their work and comments.
ADJOURNMENT
President Hassett adjourned the Special Meeting of the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula
Regional Open Space District at 2:18 p.m.
________________________________
Jennifer Woodworth, MMC
District Clerk
page 1 of 3
CLAIMS REPORT
MEETING 17-07
DATE 03-08-2017
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
Check
Number
Notes Vendor No. and Name Invoice Description Check Date Payment
Amount
74463 11709 - D-LINE CONSTRUCTORS, INC.Mt Um Summit Public Access Improvements Construction 03/01/2017 526,917.50
74461 *10215 - CalPERS-FISCAL SERVICES DIVISION - HB Employee Health Insurance ID: 2857159579 03/01/2017 169,521.32
74416 *10161 - CalPERS FISCAL SERVICES DIVISION - DB Pension Plan Unfunded Accrued Liability - February 2017 02/22/2017 45,626.91
74464 10463 - DELL BUSINESS CREDIT 3x Field Office Servers & VMWare Software Licenses 03/01/2017 30,433.90
74453 *11152 - WELLINGTON PARK INVESTORS AO2, AO3, AO4 Rent - March 02/22/2017 25,497.00
74427 11609 - GOVERNMENT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC.IT Server Systems Upgrade Consultant - Milestone 1 02/22/2017 20,700.00
74434 11679 - MKTHINK Futurist Consultant - AO Office 02/22/2017 8,884.95
74408 11434 - 2M ASSOCIATES Zion Property Planning Analysis - MR 02/22/2017 7,490.00
74475 10512 - MARK THOMAS & COMPANY INC Record of survey for POST (Apple Orchard / Event Center)03/01/2017 6,870.00
74450 *10419 - THE LINCOLN NATIONAL LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY Employee AD&D, LTD Insurance 02/22/2017 6,628.95
74422 *10880 - EDD Unemployment - Q4 2016 02/22/2017 5,826.08
74494 10338 - THE ED JONES CO INC New Badges for District Rangers 03/01/2017 5,593.44
74452 11618 - TRAIL PEOPLE Highway 17 Crossing feasibility study 02/22/2017 5,257.50
74474 11462 - MANAGEMENT PARTNERS Midpen Public Affairs Mgmt Services (Butterfield)03/01/2017 5,233.96
74487 11484 - SAN JOSE STATE UNIVERSITY RESEARCH FOUNDATION Data on Fire Weather/Fuel Conditions SJSU Grant 03/01/2017 5,000.00
74431 10452 - IFLAND SURVEY Lot Line Adjustment - Purisima Farm Uplands - PCR 02/22/2017 4,730.00
74412 10827 - BAY AREA OPEN SPACE COUNCIL Sponsorship of 2017 BAOSC Conference 02/22/2017 4,500.00
74448 11651 - STRATEGIC PRODUCTS & SERVICES, LLC SharePoint Implementation Consultant - IST 02/22/2017 4,350.00
74446 10585 - SOL'S MOBILE AUTO & TRUCK REPAIR, INC.Vehicle Service M208, P83, Major Repairs: M72, , P89 02/22/2017 4,327.26
74455 11176 - ZORO TOOLS SFO Fall Protection Equipment, Events Center / Back up generator 02/22/2017 3,988.12
74477 11536 - MTECH Quarterly HVAC Maintenance, HVAC Repairs - AO 03/01/2017 3,101.75
74413 11371 - CALFLORA DATABASE Annual subscription to Weed Manager tools 02/22/2017 2,900.00
74424 11151 - FASTENAL COMPANY Shelving for storage container 02/22/2017 2,730.24
74418 11520 - COMMUNITY INITIATIVES Latino Outdoors Project Partnership 02/22/2017 2,500.00
74444 11125 - SAN MATEO COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR, SANDIE ARNOTT Property Taxes to remove from tax rolls - 10 Parcels 02/22/2017 2,478.69
74491 11496 - STRUCTURE GROUPS Parking Protection Structure Inspections - FOOSP 03/01/2017 2,450.00
74438 *10211 - PUBLIC POLICY ADVOCATES Legislative Advocacy Services 02/22/2017 2,333.34
74492 *10583 - TELEPACIFIC COMMUNICATIONS District Telephone & SAO Internet for 02/2017 03/01/2017 2,315.27
74447 *11730 - STANDARD INSURANCE COMPANY RV Employee Life Insurance 02/22/2017 2,028.67
74493 10969 - THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST CO NA Escrow Agent Fee - 1996 Revenue Bonds, Trustee Admin Fee - 2012 Refunding Notes 03/01/2017 2,000.00
74423 11701 - ERIC GOULDSBERRY ART DIRECTION Design of MAA signage, Mt Um signage 02/22/2017 1,878.92
74473 10058 - LIEBERT CASSIDY WHITMORE HR Consulting Fees 03/01/2017 1,799.00
74420 *10761 - CROWN CASTLE USA INC Tower rental - Crown site id 871823 02/22/2017 1,764.22
74469 10187 - GARDENLAND POWER EQUIPMENT Chain saw and brush cutter parts -- bar oil, 3 Safety Helmets 03/01/2017 1,509.79
74419 11194 - CREEKSIDE SCIENCE Biological Monitoring for Mt Um Road Construction 02/22/2017 1,500.00
74499 *10213 - VISION SERVICE PLAN-CA Employee Vision Insurance 03/01/2017 1,407.00
74482 *10180 - PG & E Electricity/Gas 02/17 - 6 Locations 03/01/2017 1,358.21
74426 10187 - GARDENLAND POWER EQUIPMENT Chainsaw and brush cutter service parts 02/22/2017 1,325.55
74437 10086 - PHYTOSPHERE RESEARCH Fungicide for Sudden Oak Death treatment 02/22/2017 1,246.38
74445 *10580 - SHARP BUSINESS SYSTEMS AO Printing Costs 02/22/2017 1,222.88
74435 11536 - MTECH HVAC Repairs - AO 02/22/2017 1,102.55
74458 10813 - ALMADEN PRESS Wall Map Printing for Board Room 03/01/2017 1,074.15
page 2 of 3
CLAIMS REPORT
MEETING 17-07
DATE 03-08-2017
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
Check
Number
Notes Vendor No. and Name Invoice Description Check Date Payment
Amount
74411 11722 - ADLER TANK RENTALS LLC Water Tank rental 1/01-01/31/17 - Mt Um Summit 02/22/2017 1,009.05
74433 11746 - MARKEN MECHANICAL SERVICES, INC.HVAC Quarterly Preventive Maintenance Service at SFO 02/22/2017 990.00
74485 10195 - REDWOOD GENERAL TIRE CO INC Replace Tires/Patrol Truck P89 03/01/2017 943.32
74480 11144 - PENINSULA MOTOR SPORTS Mule Service 03/01/2017 934.03
74457 10001 - AARON'S SEPTIC TANK SERVICE WH-SR Restroom Pumping 03/01/2017 850.00
74409 10001 - AARON'S SEPTIC TANK SERVICE RR / SR Whole Access Lot 02/22/2017 825.00
74496 *10403 - UNITED SITE SERVICES INC Sanitation Services (FOOSP), (SA)03/01/2017 816.30
74484 11519 - PRICE, POSTEL & PARMA LLP Mt.Um Road and Trail Property Rights Consulting 03/01/2017 780.00
74462 11628 - CONFLUENCE Spring Newsletter Editing Services 03/01/2017 774.00
74428 *11551 - GREEN TEAM OF SAN JOSE Garbage Service (RSA), (SAO)02/22/2017 738.47
74472 11392 - LENNIHAN LAW San Gregorio Creek Adjudication compliance 03/01/2017 731.40
74488 11224 - SANTA CLARA COUNTY - COMMUNICATIONS DEPT Radio System Repair 03/01/2017 640.00
74498 *10309 - VERIZON WIRELESS Wireless Data Services Jan 13 - Feb 12 03/01/2017 618.77
74415 *10454 - CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE CO-949 AO, FFO Water Service 02/22/2017 613.25
74425 10169 - FOSTER BROTHERS SECURITY SYSTEMS Padlocks for gates and buildings, 2C10 Locks - qty 12 02/22/2017 586.18
74483 10140 - PINE CONE LUMBER CO INC Lumber for Trail Bridge Repair (RSA), Lumber (DHF)03/01/2017 487.65
74439 *10589 - RECOLOGY SOUTH BAY Garbage/Recycling Service 02/22/2017 474.30
74441 11479 - ROOTID Website Maintenance 02/22/2017 472.50
74443 11429 - SAN MATEO COUNTY PARKS DEPARTMENT 7 Magnetic Sign Boards, 2 Sticker Maps 02/22/2017 468.90
74471 10331 - LE'S ALTERATIONS Sewing on of Cloth Patches & Badges (75 pieces)03/01/2017 450.00
74430 10043 - HOWARD ROME MARTIN & RIDLEY LLP Mahronich vs Presentation Center - BCR 02/22/2017 448.70
74436 *10180 - PG & E Electric Service (SA-MT UM)02/22/2017 414.69
74454 11656 - WILLIAMS SCOTSMAN, INC.Trailer Rental 1/30-2/28/17 - Mt Um Summit 02/22/2017 400.86
74481 11129 - PETERSON TRUCKS INC.Vehicle Service/Repair - M23 03/01/2017 384.29
74468 *10168 - G & K SERVICES INC Shop Towel Service (FFO & SFO)03/01/2017 347.26
74486 10151 - SAFETY KLEEN SYSTEMS INC SFO Parts cleaner service 03/01/2017 340.93
74440 *10093 - RENE HARDOY 01/17 Gardening Services 02/22/2017 325.00
74417 10352 - CMK AUTOMOTIVE INC M213 Service, P89 Repair 02/22/2017 301.74
74451 10069 - THE WILFRED JARVIS INSTITUTE Leadership, Organizational, and Project Facilitation Consulting 02/22/2017 300.00
74442 11059 - SAN MATEO COUNTY HEALTH DEPT Water Testing (14 locations)02/22/2017 280.00
74500 11176 - ZORO TOOLS Fall Protection Equipment (body harness)03/01/2017 271.54
74456 0000A - ALEX COLLIER Speaking Fee for Docent Training 2/25/17 02/22/2017 250.00
74459 11620 - BURLINGAME HEATING & VENTILATION INC.Heater Repair - LHC 03/01/2017 250.00
74490 10447 - SIMMS PLUMBING & WATER EQUIPMENT Tank Chlorination - PCR 03/01/2017 241.46
74495 10201 - TURF & INDUSTRIAL EQUIP CO Battery Repair - 2 Hours shop labor 03/01/2017 238.00
74429 *10173 - GREEN WASTE SFO Weekly Garbage / Recycle 02/22/2017 230.50
74465 11455 - DITCH WITCH EQUIPMENT CO., INC.Fuel Pump for power toter 03/01/2017 198.91
74414 *10172 - CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE CO-3525 Water Service for Rental 02/22/2017 192.65
74466 11151 - FASTENAL COMPANY Chainsaw Oil 03/01/2017 189.64
74476 10190 - METROMOBILE COMMUNICATIONS Portable Radio, Belt Clip, Charger 03/01/2017 163.38
74489 11042 - SANTA CLARA COUNTY-OFFICE OF THE SHERIFF 2 Live Scan Background Checks 03/01/2017 138.00
74478 10160 - OFFICE DEPOT CREDIT PLAN FFO Office Supplies 03/01/2017 123.12
74479 *10481 - PACIFIC TELEMANAGEMENT SERVICE MB campsite pay phone 03/01/2017 78.00
page 3 of 3
CLAIMS REPORT
MEETING 17-07
DATE 03-08-2017
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
Check
Number
Notes Vendor No. and Name Invoice Description Check Date Payment
Amount
74501 0000A - ALEX COLLIER Refund of Deposit from check number 2482 03/01/2017 73.09
74470 10421 - ID PLUS INC Name tags 03/01/2017 69.00
74467 10186 - FEDERAL EXPRESS Shipping charges 03/01/2017 68.75
74432 10911 - LLOYD, JOHN Cell phone reimbursement 02/22/2017 60.00
74460 *10172 - CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE CO-3525 Monthly Water Service - WH 03/01/2017 55.59
74410 10240 - ACE FIRE EQUIPMENT & SERVICE INC Fire Extinguisher For New Vehicle - A104 02/22/2017 48.39
74421 11210 - DATA SAFE AO Shredding Services 02/22/2017 40.00
74449 10152 - TADCO SUPPLY Janitorial Supplies 02/22/2017 36.98
74497 10165 - UPS Shipping charges 03/01/2017 9.40
GRAND TOTAL 960,176.49$
*Annual Claims
**Hawthorn Expenses
BCR = Bear Creek Redwoods LH = La Honda Creek PR = Pulgas Ridge SG = Saratoga Gap TC = Tunitas Creek
CC = Coal Creek LR = Long Ridge PC = Purisima Creek SA(U) = Sierra Azul (Mt Um) WH = Windy Hill
ECM = El Corte de Madera LT = Los Trancos RSA = Rancho San Antonio SR= Skyline Ridge AO2, 3, 4 = Administrative Office lease space
ES = El Sereno MR = Miramontes Ridge RV = Ravenswood SCS = Stevens Creek Shoreline Nature FFO = Foothills Field Office
FH = Foothills MB = Monte Bello RR = Russian Ridge TH = Teague Hill SFO = Skyline Field Office
FO = Fremont Older PIC= Picchetti Ranch SJH = St Joseph's Hill TW = Thornewood SAO = South Area Outpost
RR/MIN = Russian Ridge - Mindego Hill PR = Pulgas Ridge DHF = Dear Hollow Farm OSP = Open Space Preserve P## or M## = Patrol or Maintenance Vehicle
DATE: March 8, 2017
MEMO TO: MROSD Board of Directors
FROM: Stephen E. Abbors, General Manager
SUBJECT: Update of Implementation Actions at Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve
_____________________________________________________________________________
This FYI Memorandum presents a status update of the District’s activities to implement Phase I
Priority Actions of the Bear Creek Redwoods Preserve Plan, which was recently approved by the
Board of Directors at their January 25, 2017 meeting (R-17-15). Phase I Priority Actions are
scheduled to begin between Years 1 to 3 (2017 – 2019). Some actions will be completed within
this timeframe (e.g. trails and parking area); other longer-term improvements will continue into
Phase II (e.g. Stables improvements):
Table 1. Phase I Priorities
High Priority Actions Status Next Steps
Road/trail upgrades and new
signage to open west side of
Preserve to hiking and equestrian
use
Underway Plans and specifications are underway.
Initial construction (new trail
construction, retaining wall) expected in
summer of 2017. All road/trail
construction expected to be completed by
November 2018.
Alma College parking area Underway Completed schematic design.
Presentation to PNR Committee
scheduled for March 28, 2017. Pending
PNR input, staff will forward design to
Board for construction documentation.
Bear Creek Road trail crossing Underway Completed schematic designs for phased
crossing (includes potential
undercrossing). Presentation to PNR
Committee scheduled for March 28,
2017. Pending PNR input, staff will
forward design to Board for approval to
complete construction documentation.
Bear Creek Stables improvements
Includes: public restroom with
flush toilets; stabilization of old
barn; demolition of dilapidated
structures; restoration and
revegetation of degraded
pastures; new livery stables; new
public arena; drainage, health
and safety improvements to
Underway RFQP for design development issued on
January 27, 2017. Target March 22,
2017 for Board award of contract.
FYI Memo on BCR Implementation Page 2
March 8, 2017 Board Meeting
paddocks; and site infrastructure
(roads, parking)
Water supply infrastructure Underway Water to be supplied by San Jose Water
Company (SJWC). RFQP for design
development released on January 20,
2017. Target March 22, 2017 for Board
award of contract. Target August 2017 to
secure SJWC water connection. Water
tanks and piping servicing the Stables to
follow in 2018.
Stables long-term tenant lease Scheduled
for FY17-18
Ongoing coordination with Stables Site
Plan development. Target 2018 (Q4
FY17-18) for release of RFP for long-
term tenant lease; requires completion of
50% design and implementation plan for
Stables improvements.
Cultural resource evaluation,
stabilization and enhancement plan
Underway Cultural resource evaluation for west-
side (Phase 1) sites expected to be
completed by June 30, 2017.
Pond Management Plan Underway Consultant work is underway.
Management of bat populations Underway Summer 2016: Consultant completed
population surveys and produced a Bat
Exclusion and Habitat Replacement Plan.
Summer 2017: Consult with CDFW on
habitat replacement strategies. Following
consultation, design and construct bat
houses (or retrofit existing structures.)
Winter 2017: Exclude bats from Alma
College Structures.
SOD long-term management plan Underway Spring 2017: Pilot SOD Blitz to map
distribution of impacted forest. Follow-
up SOD Blitzes in 2018 to complete
mapping and track trends in distribution
of pathogen. FY2018-19, Prepare
Preserve-specific management plan
Alma College Site Rehabilitation
and Cleanup
Includes: demolition and cleanup
of dilapidated structures (garage,
classroom, and 1950 library); site
safety and security
improvements; hazardous
materials remediation; vegetation
management; chapel
stabilization; rehabilitation of
shrines, lily pond, and roman
plunge; interpretive elements;
native plant installation
Underway Spring 2017: Complete site safety and
security improvements (repair fencing,
re-secure buildings); submit demolition
permit application to Santa Clara County;
initiate design of stabilization measures
for Chapel and 1934 Library; initiate
design of alternative bat structures
FYI Memo on BCR Implementation Page 3
March 8, 2017 Board Meeting
Road maintenance plan and weed
control
Underway Control of weed populations along roads
and trails is a 4-year effort to restore
native plant communities. Year 1
initiated in Fall 2016; Year 2 begins in
Fall 2017.
Retrofit structures and trails to
reduce seismic risk
Underway Spring-Summer 2017: Conduct trench
study for subsidiary fault traces near
Alma College structures.
Hazardous materials plan TBD*
Webb Creek bridge replacement Underway RFQP for design development released
on January 26, 2017. Target March 22,
2017 for Board award of contract.
Moderate/Low Priority Actions Status Next Steps
Wildlife-friendly horse water
troughs
TBD*
Picnic sites near Alma College and
Stables
TBD* Picnic sites to be included in site design
Regional trail connections TBD*
Rare plant population surveys and
monitoring
Scheduled
for FY17-18
Site-specific surveys to be completed
prior to construction of road and trail
improvements and other projects with
potential to impact resources.
Upper Lake improvements Scheduled
for FY17-18
Proposed FY17-18 Action Plan includes
engineering design of priority pond
improvements.
Bear Creek Stables Lower Priority
Improvements: New caretaker
house, rehabilitation of barn, new
hay barn, trailer parking and
storage area, additional upgrades
to roads, parking and boarder
paddocks and arena.
TBD*
*TBD projects would be initiated in either FY18-19 or FY19-20. The District’s three-year capital
improvement plan is currently underway, and expected start dates of capital improvements are still being
confirmed.
The Preserve Plan implementation schedule with key milestones is shown in Attachment 1.
Milestones are organized by major components: (a) Bear Creek Stables, (b) Public Access, (c)
Alma College, and (d) Resource Management and Restoration. The schedule starts with Board
approval of the Bear Creek Redwoods Preserve Plan and Environmental Impact Report and
extends out through year 2020.
Prepared by: Jane Mark, AICP, Planning Manager
Kirk Lenington, Natural Resources Manager
Jay Lin, P.E., Engineering & Construction Manager
Brian Malone, Land & Facilities Services Manager
Attachment: March 8, 2017 Bear Creek Redwoods Preserve Plan Implementation Diagram
BEAR CREEK REDWOODS PRESERVE PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
ALMA COLLEGE CLEANUP
ALMA
COLLEGE
SITE
SECURITY
SPRING 2017
PHASE I PHASE II
S T A B L E S
PLANPRESERVE
WATER SYSTEM
CONNECTION
SUMMER 2017
2018 2019 2020
WESTSIDE TRAIL
IMPROVEMENTS
FALL 2017
BEAR CREEK
ROAD UNDER
CROSSING
2019-2020
WEBB
CREEK
BRIDGE
FALL 2018
ALMA COLLEGE
PARKING AREA
& CROSSWALK
FALL 2018
HIGH PRIORITY
STABLES
IMPROVEMENTS
2019-2020
ALMA
COLLEGE
SITE
CLEANUP
2019-2020
2016
EASTSIDE TRAIL
IMPROVEMENTS
2020
WATER
RIGHTS
SPRING 2017
INFRASTRUCTUREPUBLIC ACCESS
FALL
FALL
POND
RESTORATION
FALL 2020
BAT
ROOSTING
STRUCTURE
FALL 2018
IPM
IMPLEMENTATION
FALL 2020
ROADS
& TRAILS
RESTORATION
FALL 2020
SHADED FUEL
BREAK
FALL 2018
WESTERN
POND
TURTLE
STUDY
BEGINS
SPRING 2017
P
R
E
S
E
R
V
E
O
P
E
N
S
EIR
I M P R O V E M E N T S
R E S O U R C E M A N A G E M E N T & R E S T O R A T I O N
2017
ATTACHMENT 1
DATE: March 8, 2017
MEMO TO: MROSD Board of Directors
FROM: Stephen E. Abbors, General Manager
SUBJECT: Update on La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve Implementation Actions
_____________________________________________________________________________
This FYI Memorandum provides updates on the implementation of the La Honda Creek Master
Plan Phase I actions as of April 15, 2016, the date of the prior Board FYI (Attachment 1). Phase
I actions are scheduled to begin between Years 1 to 5 (2012 – 2017). Some actions will be
completed within this timeframe (e.g. Phase I trail and new parking area), other longer-term
projects will continue into Phase II (e.g. Red Barn Site Plan and Phase II trails):
Table 1. Phase I Actions (Years 1-5)
High Priority Actions Status Next Steps
Designate Conservation
Management Units
Completed N/A
Pond Management Plan Completed N/A
Water infrastructure
improvements and
conservation grazing in
central/northern portion of
the Preserve
Underway Infrastructure improvements
for the remaining Pasture #3
in the former McDonald
Ranch area are included in
the proposed FY17-18
Action Plan.
Amend Williamson Act
Contracts on affected
Preserve properties to
permit open space and
recreational uses
compatible with agriculture
Completed; San Mateo County
determined that the District does
not need to pursue amendments
to Williamson Act contracts so
long as properties remain in
active agricultural use.
N/A
Reduce cattle impacts to
water quality
Completed; installed fencing to
exclude cattle from Harrington
and La Honda Creeks in
impacted areas.
Continue monitoring and
implement additional
measures as needed.
Red Barn Area Site Plan Underway; initiated in FY15-16.
Completed preliminary site
assessments, opportunities and
constraints analysis, and
preliminary conceptual design.
Draft conceptual design
alternatives under preparation
for PNR and Board input and
public presentation.
Q4 FY16-17: Present
Conceptual Design
Alternatives to PNR
Committee and public.
Seek Board acceptance of
Preferred Design Alternative
to initiate CEQA review.
FYI Memo on LHC Implementation Page 2
March 8, 2017 Board Meeting
Emergency maintenance
repairs to the White Barn
and Redwood Cabin
Completed initial evaluation of
Redwood Cabin maintenance
repairs and presented to PNR
Committee; further work
deferred due to other priority
actions.
Repairs to White Barn
deferred to FY18-19 to first
complete the structural
assessment in FY17-18 (see
below).
Two new interim parking
areas: one off Sears Ranch
Road and the other across
from the Driscoll Event
Center
Underway; the scope for the
parking area was modified with
Board approval from a small,
interim lot, to a larger, paved
permanent lot. Permitting now
underway.
In addition, a temporary
equestrian permit parking area is
in place at the Event Center; site
was moved to the Event Center
with purchase of the property.
Awaiting permits from
County of San Mateo to
proceed with bidding of the
Sears Ranch Road Parking
Area. Construction
scheduled to begin in early
Fall 2017.
Phase I road and trail
erosion treatments
Completed; final improvements
to Sears Ranch access road
completed in November 2016.
N/A
Phase I trail improvements:
open main Driscoll Ranch
road
Underway; completed public
access consultation with San
Mateo County Farm Bureau
Executive Board, as well as
design and fabrication of
interpretive signage
(conservation grazing).
Installation of self-closing
gates, fencing, signage and
replacement of Harrington
Creek Bridge superstructure
to be completed by fall 2017,
in time for public opening.
Improve trail off the Allen
Road permit parking lot as
an easy access trail
Deferred Deferred to FY18-19.
Replace or repair bridge
near Gate LH08
Completed; replaced with
pedestrian bridge; no vehicle
access.
N/A
Prepare a Wildland Fire
Response Plan
Underway; conducted
preliminary scoping.
Included in the proposed
FY17-18 Action Plan
Contain contaminated
areas; complete required
remedial actions (complete
as of 2011)
Completed N/A
FYI Memo on LHC Implementation Page 3
March 8, 2017 Board Meeting
Moderate Priority
Actions
Status Next Steps
Springs and water
infrastructure inventory
Partially completed; FY16-17
Action Plan includes assessment
of and compliance with the San
Gregorio Adjudication in La
Honda Creek OSP.
Proposed FY2017-18 Action
Plan includes
implementation of priority
compliance actions.
Develop forest
management practices
Evaluation initiated and potential
site identified for a pilot
reforestation project.
Proposed FY17-18 Action
Plan includes site evaluation
and development of Forest
Restoration Plan under
project title: Restoration
Forestry Demonstration
Project.
Complete historical and
structural assessments of
the White Barn and
Redwood Cabin
Partially Completed (Redwood
Cabin assessment done)
Proposed FY17-18 Action
Plan includes White Barn
assessments.
Non-renew Williamson
Act contracts
Completed N/A
Make updates to the open
space dedication status of
Preserve parcels
Completed; updates made
annually; no changes
recommended in 2016.
Review as part of annual
dedication report.
Low Priority Actions Status Next Steps
Cleanup existing debris
sites
Completed in January 2017;
removed 14 dilapidated
buildings, cleaned up and
restored site.
N/A
Identify former logging
features and incorporate as
part of the trail experience
Deferred Deferred for FY18-19.
To date, the District has completed 50% (7 of 14) of the high priority Phase I priorities, 40% (6
of 14) of the moderate priorities, and 50% (1 of 2) of the low priorities. In addition, the District
has initiated all five (5) Phase II priorities and completed two of the five priorities.
In an effort to streamline the permitting process with the County of San Mateo, District staff
requested a permit consultation meeting and pre-submittal site visit in June 2016 with County
Planning, Public Works and Parks Departments to discuss the proposed Sears Ranch Road
parking area and answer preliminary questions from the County. The project is benefitting from
the early consultation and streamlined review, where a permit may be issued in less than six
months.
FYI Memo on LHC Implementation Page 4
March 8, 2017 Board Meeting
Table 2. Summary of Phase I Priority Action Implementation
Phase I Priority Actions
(Years 1 – 5)
April 15, 2016 FYI March 8, 2017 FYI
High Priority (14 actions) 6 completed
6 underway/partially
completed
2 deferred
7 completed
6 underway/partially completed
1 deferred
Moderate Priority (5 actions) 1 completed
2 underway/partially
completed
2 deferred
2 completed
2 underway/partially completed
1 proposed for FY17-18 Action
Plan
Low Priority (2 actions) 1 underway
1 deferred
1 completed
1 deferred
Total 21 Priorities
The following Phase II Priorities, which were originally scheduled for initiation in Years 6-10
(2018 – 2022), have also begun or have been completed ahead of schedule:
Table 3: Phase II Priorities Underway or Completed
High Priority Actions Status Next Steps
Watershed and in-stream
salmonid habitat restoration
Completed in-stream habitat
restoration for steelhead and
Coho salmon within main stem of
San Gregorio Creek at former
Apple Orchard parcel in FY
2016-17.
Proposed FY17-18
Action Plan includes in-
stream habitat restoration
for steelhead and Coho
salmon within main stem
of San Gregorio Creek.
Red Barn parking area Conceptual site plan preparations
underway
Identify Preferred
Alternative for Site Plan;
initiate and complete
environmental review for
CEQA compliance
Implement Phase II road and
trail erosion treatments
Initial project scoping and
alignment scouting is underway
of select Phase II trails as part of
Red Barn Site Plan.
Continue scoping and
scouting of select Phase
II trail projects in FY17-
18.
Moderate Priority Actions Status Next Steps
Construct the permanent
Sears Ranch Road parking
area
Permits under review. Construction scheduled
for fall of 2017.
Remove dilapidated structures Completed
N/A
Overall Schedule and Key Milestones for Phases I and II
The overall schedule for Phases I and II of the La Honda Creek Master Plan with key milestones
is shown in Attachment 2. Milestones are organized under the various components: (a) Public
Access Infrastructure, (b) Land & Facilities, and (c) Resource Management and Restoration. In
this diagram, the Master Plan implementation schedule starts with the acquisition of the former
FYI Memo on LHC Implementation Page 5
March 8, 2017 Board Meeting
Driscoll Ranch acquisition and ends with the 2020 targeted date for opening the Red Barn
Parking Area.
The District is targeting late 2017 to open the southern area of the preserve to the public.
Other Next Steps for the La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve
Staff will be presenting trail names for the lower La Honda Creek area (former Driscoll Ranch
area) to the Legislative, Funding and Public Affairs Committee and the Board in late Summer
2017. In addition, staff will present a Master Plan amendment to formalize a new loop trail in
the western region of lower La Honda Creek.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Prepared by: Jane Mark, AICP, Planning Manager
Kirk Lenington, Natural Resources Manager
Jay Lin, P.E., Engineering & Construction Manager
Brian Malone, Land & Facilities Services Manager
Attachments:
1. April 15, 2016 FYI Memorandum
2. March 8, 2017 LHC Process/Milestones/Schedule Diagram
DATE: April 15, 2016
MEMO TO: Action Plan and Budget Committee
THROUGH: Stephen E. Abbors, General Manager
FROM: Ana Ruiz, AICP, Assistant General Manager
Jane Mark, AICP, Planning Manager
SUBJECT: La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve Master Plan Phase I Priority Actions
_____________________________________________________________________________
At the April 12, 2016 Action Plan and Budget Committee (Committee) meeting, the Committee
requested additional information to understand what priority actions have been and have not
been implemented for the opening of La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve (LHC). The
Committee sought to understand how the opening of Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space
Preserve (BCR) has impacted the timeline for the opening of LHC and what potential tradeoffs
should be considered between these two major projects as well as other public access projects
prior to recommending the proposed Fiscal Year 2016-2017 Action Plan and Budget to the full
Board.
This FYI memorandum provides the Committee with an overview of the 2012 La Honda Creek
Open Space Preserve Master Plan Phase I priority actions that have been implemented or are
underway, and informs the Committee of any such actions that have been deferred to a later
phase and/or remain to be implemented. As a reminder, the Phase I priority actions were
scheduled to be completed within approximately the first five years of Master Plan
Implementation, following the Board approval date of August 2012. The Phase I, 5-year
implementation timeframe is therefore assumed to have been set from September 2012 to August
2017.
To prioritize the opening of LHC in a timely manner, the Committee seeks to evaluate the
schedules for the Phase I public access improvements and the trade-offs made to date for the two
priority Preserves -- LHC and BCR -- given the significant resources that have been required to
address the multiple complexities associated with BCR.
BACKGROUND
At the November 17, 2015 Special Meeting, the Board requested that staff evaluate the resources
and priority actions that would be necessary to complete public access improvements and open
LHC without further delays caused by shifting resources to BCR. The Board’s preference was to
not delay the opening of LHC, yet concurrently continue to work towards completing the BCR
Preserve Plan and Environmental Impact Report (EIR). Staff re-evaluated the timing of the
subsequent phased implementation for opening BCR, once the Preserve Plan and EIR have been
completed, and, per Board direction, focused on slowing down implementation projects in order
to free up resources to work on LHC public access projects. A FYI Memorandum summarizing
ATTACHMENT 1
the results of the October and November 2015 Board Retreats, including Board direction as
discussed above, was forwarded to the Board on February 10, 2016 (Attachment 1).
DISCUSSION
In August of 2012, the Board adopted the LHC Master Plan and Mitigated Negative Declaration
(R-12-83), which provides stewardship and public access prescriptions for the entire Preserve
over a thirty-year period. At the time of approval, implementation of the Master Plan was
intended to occur incrementally over 30 years, where the Master Plan Phasing Plan provides a
general guideline for implementation with Master Plan actions grouped into five phases. Phase I
actions are intended to be implemented in years 1-5 following Master Plan approval, where the
targeted opening date of the Preserve would be fall of 2017. Actions were categorized by High
Priority, Moderate Priority, and Low Priority. A FYI Memorandum regarding the status of
several ongoing LHC Public Access Projects that are part of Phase I of the Master Plan was
forwarded to the Board on February 10, 2016 (Attachment 2).
Table 1 provides the implementation status of the High Priority, Moderate Priority, and Low
Priority Phase I Master Plan Action Items (i.e. action items scheduled for the first five years of
implementation). Of the 14 High Priority Actions in Phase I, the District has completed six,
another six are underway, and two are deferred. Of the Moderate Priority Actions, one action of
five has been completed and two are partially completed, and two are deferred. Of the Low
Priority Actions, one of the two actions is underway, with the second deferred.
Table 1. Status of La Honda Creek Preserve Master Plan Phase I Priority Actions
High Priority Actions Status Next Steps
Designate Conservation Management
Units
Completed
Prepare a Pond Management Plan Completed
Implement water infrastructure
improvements and conservation grazing
in central/northern portion of the
Preserve
Underway The proposed FY16-17
Action Plan includes
completion of infrastructure
improvements for the
remaining Pasture #3 in the
former McDonald Ranch
area.
Amend Williamson Act Contracts on
affected Preserve properties to permit
open space and recreational uses
compatible with agriculture
Underway San Mateo County
determined that the District
does not need to pursue
Amendments to the
Williamson Act contracts
for the former Wool and
McDonald Ranches,
providing that the District
remains in compliance by
maintaining active
agriculture on these
properties. The long term
grazing leases with AgCo
Hay on the Driscoll Ranch
and the Markegards on the
former McDonald Ranch
satisfy the continued
agricultural use
requirements.
Identify and implement measures to
reduce cattle impacts to water quality
Underway
Prepare the Red Barn Area Site Plan Underway Project initiated in FY15-16
to begin site design and is
proposed to continue in
FY16-17 to complete
design/engineering plans,
any additional CEQA
review, and permitting for
the proposed new facilities.
Complete emergency maintenance
repairs to the White Barn and Redwood
Cabin
Initiated evaluation
of Redwood Cabin
maintenance repairs
and presented to
PNR Committee;
further work deferred
due to other priority
actions.
Future work beyond FY16-
17 would include (1) the
preparation of updated
Redwood Cabin repair cost
estimates and a
recommendation on how to
proceed for review by PNR
and subsequent Board
approval and (2) an
evaluation of repairs needed
for the White Barn.
Establish two interim parking areas: one
off Sears Ranch Road and the other
across from the Driscoll Event Center
Underway; to be
completed by 2017
Design of interim Sears
Ranch parking lot
underway; temporary
equestrian permit parking at
Event Center included as
part of Preliminary Use and
Management Plan. FY16-
17 Action Plan includes
construction of the interim
parking lot.
Implement Phase I road and trail erosion
treatments
Underway; to be
completed by 2017
FY16-17 Action Plan
includes final road
improvements to the main
Sears Ranch access road to
be initiated summer 2016.
Implement Phase I trail improvements
• Open Main Driscoll Ranch Road
Underway; to be
completed by 2017
See schedule above –
erosion treatments needed
prior to opening the main
ranch road.
Improve trail off the Allen Road permit
parking lot as an easy access trail
Deferred
Replace or repair bridge near Gate
LH08
Completed (replaced
with pedestrian
bridge; no vehicle
access)
Prepare a Wildland Fire Response Plan Deferred Visitor Services to initiate
in FY2016-17 as part of
Core Functions
Contain contaminated areas; complete
required remedial actions (complete as
of 2011)
Completed
Moderate Priority Actions Status Next Steps
Complete a springs and water
infrastructure inventory
Partially completed FY16-17 Action Plan
includes inventory and
assessment by Water
Resources Specialist
Develop forest management practices Evaluation initiated
and potential site
identified for pilot
forest restoration
project (to be
confirmed by
registered
professional
forester).
FY16-17 Action Plan
includes Restoration
Forestry Demonstration
Project (would be
implemented in conjunction
with Wildland Fire
Response Plan).
Complete historical and structural
assessments of the White Barn and
Redwood Cabin
Partially Completed
(Redwood Cabin
assessment done);
White Barn
assessment deferred.
Non-renew Williamson Act contracts Completed
Make updates to the open space
dedication status of Preserve parcels
Deferred
Low Priority Actions Status Next Steps
Cleanup existing debris sites Underway; to be
completed by 2017
FY16-17 Action Plan
includes demolition and
cleanup
Identify former logging features and
incorporate as part of the trail
experience
Deferred
Additional Phase I Actions Implemented at La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve
To facilitate grazing operations, public access improvements, and the opening of LHC, the
District implemented additional land conservation, property management, and stewardship
actions in FY2013-14, FY2014-15, and FY2015-16 that were not identified in the 2012 Master
Plan. These projects were largely related to new purchases that followed Board approval of the
2012 Master Plan. In addition, approximately $94,000 in grant resources above the District’s
local funding match is being applied in LHC for fisheries enhancement at the Apple Orchard site.
Also, approximately $100,000 related to the District’s grazing program at Driscoll Ranch and
McDonald Ranch is being applied through grazing leases (e.g. fencing and water system
improvements).
Land Conservation/Property Management Actions
• Acquisition of the Apple Orchard and Event Center properties as additions to the
Preserve (2015)
• Development of a Facilities Use Agreement for the Event Center to allow for limited
equestrian activities (Interim 2014, Final 2015)
• Acquisition of the Cunha Trust Property as an addition to the Preserve, serving to
consolidate access rights along the private extension of Sears Ranch Road (2016)
• Completion of Quit Claim negotiations with Caltrans for the tunnel under Hwy 84 that
connects the Event Center to the rest of La Honda OSP (2016)
Stewardship Actions
• La Honda Creek Endangered Wildlife Protection and Habitat Restoration
• Driscoll/McDonald Water Systems Hydrologic Analysis
• Grazing Infrastrcture
o Driscoll Water Systems
o McDonald Fencing
• Driscoll Main Water Line Maintenance
• Invasive weed treatment (2013-2015)
• Installation of wildlife-friendly fencing along Harrington Creek (2013)
• Event Center Land Stewardship Projects (2013-2015):
o Water system improvements
o Installation of wildlife-friendly fencing along San Gregorio Creek
o Grading, resurfacing, and drainage improvements to the roads
• Apple Orchard Land Stewardship Projects (2014-2015):
o Repairs to grazing infrastructure
o Ranch road inventory and assessment for erosion reduction
o Historical Structures Evaluation of the vacant Apple Orchard cabin and barn
o Grazing Lease for Apple Orchard
• Upper La Honda Demolition of McDonald Ranch (2014)*
• Upper La Honda Demolitions (Paulin House and Houghton Cabin) (2015)*
*Removal of dilapidated structures are Master Plan Phase II actions, where these demolitions
were done ahead of the Master Plan schedule.
Resource Loading for LHC Master Plan Phase I Implementation
In order to redirect sufficient resources to complete the Phase I priority actions for opening LHC,
the District convened a Project Team with staff assigned from the Planning, Engineering and
Construction, Natural Resources, Real Property, Visitor Services, and Land & Facilities
Departments as follows:
• Assistant General Manager – Project Sponsor
• Planning Manager – Project Lead
• Planner III – Team Lead; Sears Ranch Interim Parking Lot and Phase I Trails
• Planner II – Red Barn Staging Area and Trails
• Capital Project Manager – demolition of structures in the former Driscoll Ranch area
• Capital Project Manager – repairs to Sears Ranch Road and Parking Lot construction
• Senior Resource Management Specialist – roads and trails inventory work
• Resource Management Specialist III – Endangered Wildlife Management and Restoration
• Senior Real Property Management Specialist – ensuring grazing operations and current
lessee uses are not impacted by public access improvements
• Trails Crew – installation of signage and fencing and replacement of Harrington Creek
bridge decking
Status of BCR Preserve Plan and EIR
The schedule for the BCR Preserve Plan was slowed down following the November 2015 Board
Retreat to shift staff resources back to LHC. Some of the resources that do remain at BCR have
been focused on evaluating potential water supply alternatives to inform the development of the
Preserve Plan and EIR. Given the shift in resources and the added complexities that have been
uncovered at BCR, the schedule for completing the Preserve Plan and EIR has been extended by
approximately six months. At this time, the tentative date for presenting the Preserve Plan and
EIR for Board approval is Fall 2016 (Q2 FY2016-17).
In addition to slowing down the timeline for completion of the Preserve Plan, design
development of the Phase I parking lot at the Upper Pond area near the former Alma College has
been delayed four months as part of the shift in staff resources back to LHC. Moreover,
implementation actions for the Alma College Cultural Landscape Rehabilitation Plan have been
deferred for a future year beyond FY16-17.
Conclusion
Upon review of the distribution of FY2014-15 and FY2015-16 Action Plan Projects for LHC and
BCR, a greater number of projects have been implemented to date at LHC as compared to BCR
to prepare the Preserve for public use. The distribution of projects emphasizes the District’s
focus on the implementation of priority actions to open LHC by fall of 2017, which is consistent
with the Phase I (1-5 years) timeline in the approved Master Plan. (See Attachments 3 and 4)
The proposed FY2016-17 Action Plan Key Projects for LHC and BCR are shown in Attachment
5. The distribution of projects is similar for both Preserves (10-11 Key Projects), in order to
open LHC by 2017 and BCR in a phased timeline.
NEXT STEPS
A schedule of key milestones for the LHC Public Access Projects is provided below. A
conservative schedule is provided for the Sears Ranch Road Interim Parking Area, which allows
time for potential permitting delays. Additional projects, including demolition and clean-up of
dilapidated structures, and operational improvements, including the installation of gates, signs,
and fencing, will proceed concurrently and are not shown below for simplicity.
Table 2. Tentative Schedule for LHC
LHC Milestones Sears Ranch Road Interim
Parking and Interim Trails
Red Barn Parking and
Trails
Design/Engineering
Consultant Selection
February 2016 June 2016
Initiate Public and Stakeholder
Outreach/Agency Consultation
March 2016 October 2016
Tentative Board approval of
Design/Initiate CEQA
Completed – as part of the
Master Plan Mitigated
Negative Declaration
June 2017 (potential
Subsequent IS/MND)
Submit Planning/Regulatory
Permit Applications
July 2016 January 2018
Initiate Construction
Documentation
October 2016 June 2018
Submit Permit Applications* NA January 2019
Initiate Construction Bidding
Process
January 2017 January 2020
Construction Summer 2017 Summer 2020
In Service Fall 2017 Fall 2020
*If required
Per the Board’s direction, staff is focused on a key milestone for BCR, which is the completion
of the Preserve Plan and EIR for Board approval, in accordance with the revised timeline (see
Table 3). In addition, the overall timeline and project phasing for BCR implementation actions
will be reviewed by the Board during the Annual Action Plan and Budget cycle.
Table 3. Tentative Schedule for BCR
Presentation of the Phased Improvement Plans and/or Minimal Site
Design Alternatives for Bear Creek Stables
May 2016
BCR Preserve Plan EIR Hearing and Alma College Presentation Summer 2016
EIR Certification and Preserve Plan Approval (including Stables and
Alma College Site Plans)
Fall 2016
Implementation of Phase I Parking Lot, Pedestrian Crossing on Bear
Creek Road and Trails on west-side of Preserve (pending Board approval)
Late 2016/2017
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment 1: February 10, 2016 FYI Memorandum, RE: Board Retreat Debrief
Attachment 2: February 10. 2016 FYI Memorandum, RE: La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve
Public Access Projects
Attachment 3: Board Approved FY2014-15 Action Plan Projects for LHC and BCR
Attachment 4: Board Approved FY2015-16 Action Plan Projects for LHC and BCR
Attachment 5: Proposed FY2016-17 Action Plan Key Projects for LHC and BCR
LA HONDA CREEK MASTER PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
PHASE I PHASE II
2018 2019 20202016
INFRASTRUCTURE
2017
MA
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2012 2015
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6
P UBLIC ACCESS
R E S O U R C E M A N A G E M E N T & R E S T O R A T I O N
THRU
STRUCTURE
DEMOLITION
& CLEANUP
PHASE II TRAIL
CONSTRUCTION
PHASE II TRAILS RED
BARN
PUBLIC
ACCESS
AREA
DRISCOLL RANCH TO
RED BARN TRAIL
CONNECTION
LA HONDA CREEK
LOOP TRAIL
POND
ENHANCEMENT
PEST MANAGEMENT
MAIN RANCH ROAD
FOLGER RANCH LOOP
PHASE I TRAILS
REDWOOD CABIN
HISTORIC &
STRUCTURAL
ASSESSMENTS
GRAZING
LEASES
DRISCOLL RANCH
REMEDIATION &
DEMOLITION
SEARS RANCH
ROAD DRAINAGE
UPGRADE
SEARS RANCH ROAD
IMPROVEMENTS
& PARKING LOT
PERMIT-ONLY
EQUESTRIAN PARKING
AT THE EVENT CENTER
HARRINGTON CREEK
BRIDGE REPAIR
SELF-CLOSING
GATES
INTERIM
COASTAL
FIELD
OFFICE
EROSION
CONTROL
FISHERIES HABITAT
ENHANCEMENT
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INTEGRATED
ATTACHMENT 2