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Draft Minutes Subject to Corrections and Amendments To the Committee secretaries.
Minutes for Meeting held March 17, 2007 Audit Committee Members Present: Staff Members Present: Visitors Present: 1. Call to order The meeting was called to order at 2:30 PM 2. Announcements/Information There were no announcements 3. Approval of Minutes – August 19, 2006 The minutes were approved as submitted (moved by Jordan, seconded by Mueller, unanimous) 5. Auditor selection process Marti Campbell gave a review of the methods used for sending out a Request for Proposal, the reasons we went out to bid and the subsequent interviews of five candidates that responded to the request. Michael Doody, a sole practitioner Certified Public Accountant from Sacramento, was selected by the Audit Committee. Marti discussed why Mr. Doody was the successful candidate. 6. Audit Committee Meeting and Planning Logistics for 2007-08 fiscal year. The new Auditor will attend the March 31, 2007 Finance committee meeting to be introduced to the Committee members. Marti Campell proposed that a full audit be executed for the Water Company’s fiscal year 2007. Moved by Jordan, seconded by Mueller, the committee unanimously approved the proposal. The Audit Committee chose its next meeting date for August 11, 2007 at 2:00 PM in Del Mar house Room 1. The CFO was requested to verify that date with the Auditor for his availability. The August 11 meeting will include review of the Association audit for fiscal year 2006-07. 7. Open Time and Other Matters A discussion was held on planning for a first Budget Workshop for early in the fiscal year. It was decided to hold the workshop on June 9, 2007 in the Del Mar Hall from 2:00 to 4:00 PM. It was also decided to use a facilitator. Ellen Buechner will work with Marti Campbell and John Fox to develop agenda and presentation materials for the meeting. The meeting recessed at 2:50 to await Mike Musson of Linkenheimer, LLP. 4. Meeting with Tim Delaney of Linkenheimer, LLP to discuss FY 2006 review for The Sea Ranch Water Company. The meeting resumed at 4:10 PM. The committee welcomes Mike Musson, partner of Linkenheimer, LLP, who attended in the place of Tim Delaney. Mike reviewed the draft financial statements page by page with the Audit Committee and answered their questions. He gave a full report on the income tax return and the treatment of the loss carryforward for both balance sheet and income tax purposes. Dave Ball left the meeting at 3:45. A discussion on the Statements of Cash flows concluded with Mike’s remark that cash is not “building” from year to year but maintains a stable outlook for the Water Company to reach its operating goals, which is indicative of a company using profits to catch up on deferred maintenance. Moved by Jordan, seconded by Campbell, the committee agreed unanimously to distribute the financial statements as presented. 8. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 4:05 PM Respectfully submitted,
COMMUNICATION COMMITTEE Meeting Minutes February 21, 2008
Chair Nancy Carter called the meeting to order at 10:05 a.m. Members Present: Kathi Gordon, Linda Weinstein, Laurie Mueller, Bob Pounds Board of Director: Derek Bray Staff Liaison: Paula Lim Bulletin Publication: Janice Bonora Community Manager: John Fox The minutes of the January 17th meeting were reviewed then approved and will be submitted for posting on the Association website. Laurie reported on the spring issue of “Soundings.” All articles are in except for a piece about The Sea Rancher of the Year. This article is being written by Claire McCarthy and will be in this week. Duane and Kathi Gordon are proofing the edition. This issue will go to the printer on March 4th. The Summer issue will be chaired by Nancy. The deadline for the Summer issue is May 4th. Linda has tentatively agreed to chair the Fall issue. There is some interest being expressed in articles for the Fall issue. Bob shared his views on the Midwinter Membership Meeting. Support from office staff, public works and committee members was exceptional. Linda’s process document was specially helpful in planning the meeting. In future we should work toward better attendance. Kathi suggested we introduce all committee chairs and have them stand up to be recognized. Linda suggested we allow questions for our speakers immediately after their segment instead of waiting for the formal Q&A. This would encourage more audience participation. Bob wants to find a segment in future meetings to recognize the audience for their participation in the community. Linda suggested that if we use “The Barn” again we include a segment on the barn history. In that case John feels it would be good to get people up to visit information stalls and socialize with other Sea Ranchers. Kathi suggested we have tables for each activity group. Laurie suggested a ‘state of The Sea Ranch’ segment to tell where we have been and where we are going. Nancy suggested we survey the members to find what they would like to see in these meetings. Janice gave a general update on Website Committee activities. Kathi expressed concerns about the loss of privacy and the appropriateness of some member departments on the website. Janice is concerned about the need for more staff time to monitor the site’s content. John asks ‘How do we properly manage the site?’ Janice encouraged the committee members to visit the beta version of the site to see what it will look like and how to use it. There will be a joint meeting of the communication and website committees on Feb 29th. Website committee chair Anne Long will address the need for training sessions for the new site. Janice suggested that the Communication Committee may want to assist the Website Committee in planning for sessions to introduce the site to the (Sea Ranch) membership. This should be a topic for the Feb. 29th meeting. John suggested the Communication Committee help test the new webpage due to the tremendous scope of the project. Janice suggests that committee members bring all questions to the joint meeting. Janice reported on the March issue of the “Bulletin.” The issue will feature ‘Sea Ranch Conversations’ on the subject of mail delivery at The Sea Ranch. There will also be much financial information concerning the adopted budget. This issue will be sent 1st class due to “Davis-Stirling Requirements” which will cost about 2.5 times the bulk class rate. In April ‘Sea Ranch Conversations’ will be about The Sea Ranch Foundation. There was a discussion about the need for tighter editing of the Conversations articles and Kathi suggested that Janice ask Mirka for her assistance. The Communication Committee will next meet on March 20, 2008 at the Association office. The meeting adjourned at 11:45 a.m. Respectfully submitted, Bob Pounds
Finance
Committee Minutes Finance Committee Members Present: Dave Ball Richard Gary Doug Patterson Chris Kenber Elaine Reed Bill Retzer Finance Committee Members Excused: Jon Miller John Tornquist Staff Members Present: John Fox, Community Manager Ellen Buechner, Director of Financial Services & Human Relations Board of Directors Jim Jordan, Chairman Marti Campbell, Treasurer Tim Gallagher Rosmarie Hocker 1. Call to Order. The regular, bimonthly meeting of the Association’s Finance Committee was called to order at Del Mar Center on Saturday, December 15, 2007, at 9:00 AM by Dave Ball, the committee’s Chairman. 2. Approval of Minutes. Upon motion duly made, seconded, and unanimously carried, the minutes of the meeting of the Finance Committee held Saturday, October 13, 2007, were approved in the form presented to and discussed at the meeting. 3. 2007 – 2008 Goals – Subcommittee Reports Investment Guidelines update. Chris Kenber reported that during the month he had a very helpful meeting with John Fox and Ellen Buechner and that he will provide the committee with a draft of an updated investment policy for review at the February meeting. Finance Matters. Dave Ball opened the discussion summarizing that we have now completed eight articles for The Sea Ranch Bulletin focused on educating the membership about the Association’s finance and financial processes. The committee discussed potential future articles and the timing for those articles. The importance of maintaining transparency was discussed, with John Fox pointing out that laying everything out for the membership makes everything more open, available and stimulating. The committee discussed the subject of Finance Committee articles at length. The discussion included Board members present and staff. The consensus the committee reached was as follows: The Committee will continue to submit articles for publication in the Sea Ranch Bulletin. It was noted that there are some subjects that are more effectively addressed in Finance Committee articles than by Board members or the Community Manager. The Committee recommended that the Association provide an archive of previously-published Finance Committee articles on the Association web site. Future articles should be added as they are published The Committee identified a list of topics, together with potential authors that will cover the 8 months following Jon Miller’s Jan/ Feb article. Article list: Medium and long term financial challenges Rich Gary Goal-based budgeting (interview with John Fox) Chris Kenber Investment policy (post-approval of a new policy or not) Dave Ball Financing alternatives for capital projects Bill Retzer
Financial planning as
a part of strategic planning Financial impact of build-out Rich Gary
Dealing with
catastrophic events Financial impact of legal issues Jon Miller/ Chris Kenber One other suggested topic was “TSRA accounting terms made simple.” The Committee left this for future consideration. The Committee will agree a publication schedule at its January meeting: it specified that the budgeting article should appear at the start of the next budgeting cycle. 4. 2008 – 2009 Budget Process – Discussion First Workshop De-Briefing. The educational benefits of Budget 101 were discussed with the resolution that it was a beneficial process to help get everyone on the same page. The committee felt that the entire budgetary process continues to show year over year improvement. The lack of attendance is always a concern, but the impression of meeting participants was there is a lot of confidence being demonstrated in the current administration. A suggestion was made that the meeting could be broadcast on the web (perhaps “www.gotomeeting.com” or some other web based service could be utilized) so that members who were unable to attend in person could still see all of the materials and hear the discussion. The meeting could then be archived for a period on time on the Association’s website. The committee then discussed whether this year’s budgetary process could be completed in two or three workshop meetings. It was resolved that if there are no open issues following the second budget workshop meeting (January 12) and no issues develop by 10 days before the scheduled date for a potential third meeting, then the Chairman would cancel the third meeting. Examination and Discussion of Preliminary Budget 2008 – 2009. Ellen walked the committee through the Preliminary Budget Comparison 2008-09 from 2007-08. Emphasis was directed to significant year to year changes. The preliminary budget assessment request is $1.75 more than estimated for fiscal 2008-09 during last year’s budget process, due primarily to requested additions in staffing including provision for a Director of Communication and to extend the Emergency Management Director to full-time. The budget includes the following material increases: · A 3% salary range increase that affects all job classifications · A total payroll increase of 7% which includes a new department (Communications), extra patrol hours, a full time Emergency Management Director, estimated merit increase, and a 14% increase in employee benefits. · $30,000 for the management of hazardous trees · $40,000 for a second year of compliance with Section4291 fire safety reviews and compliance. · A return to a litigation reserve $110,000 for CC&R enforcement · A Development & Reserve Fund assessment of $9.65. All of the estimates and projections are preliminary and subject to change. The preliminary assessment request is $174.75, which represents a 7% increase over the current assessment. Committee initiatives totaling $177,135, and costs that could result from a study of organizational stress currently being conducted by John Fox and his staff, are not included in the current assessment amount. The committee discussed the percentage of DCEM expenses projected to be covered by internally generated fees as compared with the Board of Directors stated goal. This will need to be a subject of next year’s budget due to the various requirements which need to be satisfied before DCEM fees can be adjusted. The importance of the new Communications Department was discussed as well as the process that management utilizes (point factor ratings grid) to establish salary ranges for Sea Ranch staff. 5. Finance Director’s Report. Status of Delinquent Accounts: We currently have no liens on file. Assessment delinquencies are currently at $24,305 comprising 45 accounts. Property Transactions: In November 6 escrows closed, 3 houses and 3 lots. There have been 87 escrows closed so far this year as compared to 90 at this time last year. We have had 23 housing starts as of November 30, compared to 24 starts at the same time last year. Financial Statements: Year-end projections on the “Fund Balance Analysis” are conformed back to the budget documents that were distributed in early December. These projections will now be linked through the end of the budget process. Other Business: We will receive our insurance renewal quotes this week. Staff is working on the end of the payroll year, the end of the Water Company’s fiscal year and pre-audit analysis, the agenda packet and presentations for the January budget workshop and a staffing analysis that was explained to you at the December 15th meeting. 6. Monthly Financial Statement Review. Dave Ball reviewed the financial statements for October. Dave expressed his concern for a large and continuing personnel expense that is always under budget as a possible drag on productivity for the Association. John Fox indicated that the staff is working on a report regarding potential organizational stress which will be forthcoming for the next budget workshop. 7. Open Time. Bill Retzer brought up a solar energy idea that could result in promulgation of the ideals and principles of The Sea Ranch as well as a revenue enhancement opportunity for The Sea Ranch Association. He was encouraged by those present to summarize his thoughts in a letter to Jim Jordan so that the appropriate Sea Ranch committees could be coordinated to examine the opportunity. 8. Adjournment. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 12.00 noon.
Respectfully
submitted,
The Sea Ranch Association Minutes of Third Budget Workshop – February 9 2008
Present:
Board Finance Committee Dave Ball Staff John Fox The third budget workshop for fiscal year 2008/ 2009 was called to order by Finance Committee Chair Dave Ball at 9.03 am. Nine members of the TSRA staff were in the audience as well as 28 TSRA members. The minutes of the second budget workshop, held on January 12 2008 were approved with a minor typographical modification (a sentence was erroneously repeated). Ellen Buechner, Association Finance Director, reviewed fund balances, and projected year-end fund balances, noting a $173,000 over budget revenue status, due primarily to design fees, and a $100,000 under run in expenses, due mostly to lower than expected insurance costs and payroll vacancies. She noted that the projected assessment for 2008/ 2009 had been $173/ month in last year’s budget. It had advanced to $174.75 prior to the second budget workshop and as a result of discussions during the January 12 meeting, now stood at $185.00. Dave Ball then proceeded to review the score card items in order from the last budget workshop. He explained that he would take Board member comments first, then finance committee comments and comments from members. The first item was the addition of an administrative clerk position projected for May, 2008. Community Manager John Fox briefly reminded the meeting of the Rick Perry diagnostic study that had produced a number of recommendations, of which this position was one. He pointed out that the current year assessment, at $163/ month represented a 3.2% increase over the prior year and that the projected $185/ month for the 2008/ 2009 fiscal year, if all items presented in the second workshop were to be approved, would represent a 14% increase. John Fox pointed out that the diagnostic study had been generated by a board request, during the first budget workshop, to evaluate the adequacy of TSRA staffing and organization. He reminded attending members that final budget approval would occur at the February 23 2008 board meeting and that nothing had been finally decided at this point. Board member/ Treasurer Marti Campbell observed that there had been a clear mismatch between the community manager’s goals and the resources available to him. She further observed that the prior community manager had clearly found the position stressful and that she and Director Jordan, among others, had discussed whether the position needed to be modified to allow for a more reasonable workload. They had decided that such changes should await the appointment of a new community manager. She added that John Fox, our community manager, had in his first 2 ½ years established a record of frugality. In response to a member’s comment that this information had come as a surprise, Director Jordan agreed that more communication would perhaps have been helpful. Association member Chris Beach commented at length about the spiraling bureaucracy of the Sea Ranch as he saw it, comparing the Association to the Federal Government. He noted that positions that didn’t represent “boots on the ground” were unproductive. He added that 40% of the community manager’s time was spent “humoring the board”. Director Mueller contradicted Beach’s characterization. It became clear that Beach was actually speaking to the addition of a deputy community manager and not to the addition of a clerk. Association member Barry Weiss said that the Association should do less and their duties should primarily be focused on providing good service to members. He was not specific about what the Association should stop doing. In response to another member comment, Jim Jordan pointed out that the Association is heavily dependent on volunteers and that without them the Association’s costs would be far higher. Finding and retaining volunteers, even with special efforts over the past year was becoming increasingly challenging as Sea Ranchers were becoming more involved in the broader coast community. Both Jordan and John Fox said that outsourcing the clerical position was not a practical proposition. Board members present unanimously supported the addition of an administrative clerical position in the 2008/ 2009 fiscal year. The next straw vote item Dave Ball introduced for discussion was the Deputy Community Manager position first discussed at the second budget workshop on January 12. This was also part of the Perry diagnostic study recommendations unanimously supported by the Finance Committee and by the board straw vote at the last budget workshop. Jim Jordan said that he had concluded that this position should be deferred for consideration in the next budget year and that, perhaps, the addition of the other positions called for in the community manager’s recommendation would provide sufficient assistance to render this position unnecessary. The delay, should the position be approved in the 2009/ 2010 budget would be largely cosmetic because of the projected hire timing late in the upcoming fiscal year. Other directors concurred as did the community manager. Since the audience had already commented at length under the previous item, there was little additional member comment though member Roy Austin did say that Jim Jordan had “taken the wind out of his sails”, and that he supported the change. There was also an audience suggestion that the community manager should get more volunteer help – for the purposes of the position under discussion this didn’t appear to be very practical. Meeting Chair Ball then introduced the next straw vote item which was the addition of a full time IT position. John Fox explained that the Sea Ranch has some serious system problems and that he has attempted to upgrade internal IT skills by making them a required component in all job interviews. Nevertheless, the Association continues to be exposed to incompatible data bases, multiple data entries for the same item and serious documentation/ recovery issues. The Association has depended for some time on an outside contract resource to maintain Association systems – this is proving to be quite inadequate. Darla Buechner has been the internal IT support point but she has many other duties and IT is not one of her specific skills. The Association has problems in constructing an infrastructure overlay system that would allow it to map utilities. There is a detailed IT review under way which is a necessary precursor to system upgrades. John Fox introduced association member Corby Brasset of DK Systems who is conducting the IT study. While emphasizing that the study is still in process, Fox asked Corby Brasset to provide the audience an update and his impressions so far. Brasset explained that he had interviewed every TSRA employee/ user and had gained a good understanding of the Association’s IT issues. Among many others, he observed that the Association’s external support depends upon a T1 line that crosses the Gualala River on the bridge and represents an exposure. He explained that there seem to be three support alternatives for the Association. They are: a part-time internal resource with outside contracting help, the status quo of entirely external support, or a full time internal resource with continuing, though lower level outside support. He strongly supported the need for a full time internal resource for a variety of reasons that included availability, security and the relative complexity of the Association’s current and projected systems. Brasset described the current Association systems and hardware as “quaint.” Director Mueller asked what kind of IT resource would be required – a systems developer or a maintenance resource, and whether the Association wouldn’t need to start with one kind and then transfer to the other. Brasset responded that the resource would need to be able to do both tasks. Director Campbell asked the same question in a different form and Brasset continued to support the requirement for an internal resource. Director Jordan said that remote support could be provided effectively though he acknowledged that his direct experience of this concerned very much more sophisticated self-diagnosing supercomputers. Finance committee member Chris Kenber said that it appeared the Association was seriously exposed with current systems that lacked documentation or internal support capability and were probably unrecoverable in the event of a serious systems crash. He said it is essential for the Association to hire a full time internal resource immediately and that continued external help will be needed. He said, based on more than 40 years experience in the IT industry that the current situation was unacceptable. Corby Brasset said that Kenber’s assessment was correct. Member Barry Weiss repeated his support of outsourcing and said that the Association could meet all its needs externally with hundreds or a few thousands of dollars monthly — there is no need to hire an internal resource. He added that if the outside contract service is providing slow response the Association needs a new contractor. Member Chris Beach added that outside resources were fine and that the proposal was another giant waste of money. The board’s straw vote unanimously supported the dollar cost of the IT resource in the current budget request but deferred a decision on hiring a full time resource until the IT study is completed and it can get a clearer view of what the best solution will be. Dave Ball then took the cost of expanding administrative space availability in the Association’s offices as the next item since it was part of the overall staffing discussion produced by the community manager’s budget recommendation. Lisa Scott, Executive Director of the Department of Design, Compliance and Environmental Management, explained that she had completed a preliminary space plan at John Fox’s request that would accommodate the additional positions requested and make general improvements to work flow, including a minor expansion of the heavily-used conference room. The total projected cost (preliminary estimate only) would be $91,000 plus 20% for ADA compliance, required under federal statutes. She said that a time and materials contract might be the most efficient approach since remodels are often quite unpredictable. Alternatively the project could be split into two parts where the first phase would support immediate additions and improved workflow, and the second would add space for a deputy community manager. The first phase cost would be $52,914 (approximately) including the 20% ADA adder, and the second phase would be $79,372. The additional cost of splitting the project would be approximately $17,000. Director Campbell said that the first phase could be funded (largely) with the $50,000 in reserve board funds unused in the 2007/ 2008 budget. Director Mueller said that it might make sense to fund the whole project using the reserve funds and funding the balance in the 2008/ 2009 budget – his subsequent straw vote did not support this position however. Chris Kenber (Finance Committee) observed that it made little financial or operating sense to go through two phases of construction when it is highly likely that additional positions will be required. He added that it was surprising and disappointing that the community manager’s budget request, of which this item is the last part, was unanimously supported by the Finance Committee and by the Board’s straw vote at the last meeting and is now being modified despite profuse expressions of support for the community manager’s performance. He noted that nothing has changed since the last budget workshop – the request and the costs are identical and there is no change in any external factors. If the Board and the membership are not willing to support the community manager’s recommendations, they need to decide which major project the Association can delete from its current obligations. Nibbling around the edges won’t be sufficient. Director Mueller responded that his straw vote at the prior workshop was simply to keep the items under discussion – it could not be taken to indicate support for the proposals. Dave Ball objected to funding the second phase of the space recommendations. Member Chris Beach said the proposal represented completely unnecessary spending. Member Bob Hartstock asked if, given the post and beam construction of the current building the interior walls could be largely removed. Member Barry Weiss said that everyone should be in open cubicles like all Fortune 500 corporations. It wasn’t clear whether this approach would save money however, and Lisa Scott expressed a decided preference for her (newly acquired) office walls A member asked whether there is still consideration of an entirely new office building and whether in this event further expenditure on the existing building would make little sense. The board’s straw vote was unanimous in supporting the first phase, and unanimously opposed to the second. The next straw vote item was the proposed addition of 2 FTEs (full time equivalent headcounts) and capital equipment to support the recommendations of the Fire Safety Task Force. Jackie Gardener, the Task Force Chair, explained that the recommendation would allow the Association to start on the highest priority work items to reduce the risk of catastrophic fire on The Sea Ranch. These include the clearance of PG&E right-of-ways, the provision of mineral breaks and the clearance of mid-slope roads. The capital equipment includes a large chipper, capable of handling up to 17 inch tree limbs and whole trees, and two additional heavy duty chain saws. The chipper cost is approximately $46,000 but is expected to increase. Director Campbell expressed surprise that the chipper proposal includes two year financing at an additional cost of $4000 and recommended that the chipper be purchased outright. Director Mueller asked that the proposed program be reviewed after three years, as reentry (the further correction of previously corrected areas) should be substantially less expensive than the initial cost. However, it was pointed out that the initial projects were only a part of the overall list of fire risk reduction needs and it was therefore likely that the resources would continue to be needed. Finance committee member Reed pointed out that members already pay $17 + of their assessment monthly towards fire safety with an additional $1.80 in 12 month debris pick up. Member Dibby Tyler asked how much the Association should be spending on fire safety and wondered whether some of this project could be spread out over a longer time period. Member Chris Beach said he was happy to support any proposal that involved real people doing real work. There was some brief discussion over whether the chipper should be purchased with the unused Board reserves previously referred to, and the administration space plan funded as a part of the budget. It was concluded that this was a financing decision only and didn’t require further debate. The board’s straw vote was divided in two parts – first the board unanimously supported the addition of the 2 FTEs and required equipment, and second, the board unanimously supported the immediate purpose of the chipper, adding $25,000 to the budget and avoiding probable finance charges of $4000. At 1.10 pm Dave Ball relinquished the chairmanship of the meeting to Finance Committee member Jon Miller as he had to leave on vacation. Next, the meeting reviewed the proposal to do a forestry study of the CTPZ (Central Timber Preserve Zone). Bob Hartstock, Planning Committee Chair, presented the need. The CTPZ is a previously logged forest area purchased by TSRA some years ago. Approximately 233 acres, it is a resource that requires forestry management, which it has not received for many years. The first step is a study by a professional forester, the cost of which is estimated at $13,000. It is possible that a $4300 reimbursement could be available from Cal Fire – this estimate is under the 2007 reimbursement rates and the 2008 rates will/ could change. Jim Jordan said he was inclined to support a $10,000 budget line item, assuming some level of Cal Fire rebate. Hartstock expressed some concern about the assumption of the rebate. Member Barry Weiss asked if TSRA can make money out of the CTPZ by exploiting the timber resources. Hartstock responded that it might be possible. The Board unanimously supported a $10,000 budget item to support the requested study. The final item was a proposal by the trails committee to spend $1635 on new signage for two new trails. This proposal was unanimously supported by the board without any further discussion. Ellen Buechner then reported that, based upon the revisions that had been made during the meeting, the proposed assessment for the 2008/ 2009 budget would be $180/ month, a reduction of $5.00 from the previously proposed level. It was decided after board discussion that the two items of a deputy community manager and further building expansion would not be included in the second and third years of the proposed budget but would be explicitly footnoted. Ellen Buechner reported that the funds accumulated by Verdant View owner special assessments over the years did not appear to be specifically excluded from expenditure on the proposed Verdant View improvements and that therefore those improvements did not require budget expenditures in 2008/ 2009. The revised 30 year replacement fund projections were presented and approved without change. Ellen Buechner presented the proposed resolutions for board budget adoption at their 2/23 Board meeting. They were approved as to form. She also presented a recommendation that the prepayment discount for 2008/ 2009 dues will be $20, up from $17 in the prior budget year. This will be determined at the 2/23 Board meeting. Board Chair Jim Jordan thanked all of the attendees, especially those that stayed “until the bitter end.” Jon Miller adjourned the meeting at 1.27pm.
Respectfully submitted, Joint Utilities / Finance Committee Minutes of the Joint Sea Ranch Utilities/ Finance Committees: September 15 2007
Present:
Utilities committee:
Finance committee:
Staff:
Board:
The meeting was called to order by Utilities Committee Chair Schimbor at 9.03 AM. Approval of Utility Committee minutes was deferred until after the Joint Meeting. Finance Committee Chair Dave Ball chaired the joint committee budget discussion, and introduced a detailed presentation on the Sea Ranch Water Company budget outlook from Randy Burke, Director of Works. Burke described the conclusions of a detailed study on the needs of the Water Company by consultants Brown and Caldwell and the resulting staff implementation plan/ budget submission. The study reported a series of problems with the water supply at a number of hillside locations. These problems do not exist in Zone 1, which covers substantially all of the Sea Ranch west of Highway 1. Per Dan Levin, Sea Ranch VFD Chief, a failure to meet required fire flow and pressure standards was noted (min. 500 GPM/ 20 PSI). In addition the hillside tanks have potential seismic and other geotechnical problems. Complete failures of supply have been noted from time to time. A tanker loading water from a fire hydrant on the hillside effectively drained the supply. With water supply drained dry there is a risk of pipe collapse. None of these problems are new – they have existed in most cases since the inception of the Water Company. A large new tank, along with a number of other identified changes, is recommended (Tank 8) that, dependent upon location, will replace 3 or 4 existing tanks. This new tank will be constructed according to current seismic codes and practices, be geotechnically stable, and will resolve all of the issues reported in the study. The budget submission (attached) contains start-up costs to implement the study recommendations as well as the cost of geotechnical studies for the new tank location. It is not clear whether an EIR will be required though the staff consensus is that it is unlikely. Austin suggested that an NPV (Net Present Value) calculation of the comparison between the recommendation for a new tank and continued maintenance of the existing system be conducted by the Finance Committee. Kenber pointed out that the existing system was below minimum requirements and had other severe problems, that staff had not offered an alternative to the new tank, and that therefore such a study would not be useful. There was consensus agreement not to pursue an NPV study. The budget submission to the Utilities Committee by the Water Company includes continuing costs for pipe replacement over the next two years and expected expenses for fixing the cast iron saddle problems. It was noted that proactive repair costs about 1/3 of reactive repair. Kenber suggested that staff review their practice of capitalizing computer equipment – common commercial practice is now to write off such items as operational expenses since the equipment is by definition obsolete as soon as it acquired. Burke noted that the Water Company had implemented a SCADA online monitoring system due to considerable help from a UT committee member, and there will likely be a need to replace the server currently being used to support his application – this cost is included in the budget submission. Truck replacement has been modified to use lighter trucks where practical, saving considerable expense. In discussion about the septic systems on the Sea Ranch, Burke noted that the failure rate was extremely low at 0.4% compared to an average in the county of 15% to 20% and described our waste water district as the poster child for good septic system operation and inspection. He regards a requirement to switch to sewer lines in the future as unlikely. John Fox, Community Manager, said that the consultant Bartle Wells’ finding are that it may be financially beneficial if we are able to form a CSD (Community Services District) for the Water Company (and possibly other Sea Ranch services) since this could give The Sea Ranch Water Company access to much lower cost financing as a public entity. With projected $7.3 million borrowing required from 2009 through 2013, this is regarded as an important future Board decision. Ellen Buechner went through the Water Company budget in detail, stating that it assumes the formation of a CSD. It also assumes that the 30 year plan for the Water Company is adopted by the Board, which includes the Brown and Caldwell recommendations. For the $7.3 million financing requirement, 30 year bonds are assumed. Rate increases for Water Company customers are assumed in the budget as recommended by the consultant on governance for a Community Services District. Schimbor asked why maintenance costs don’t decrease in the submitted budget. The response is that the new facilities funded by this budget request don’t come on line until 2010 at the earliest. In the meantime, the Water Company has to maintain aging and inadequate facilities at high maintenance cost. The Water Company will still be maintaining many miles of pipe. Randy Burke was thanked by both committees for a complete and professional presentation. There being no other questions, the meeting was adjourned at 11.20pm. Respectfully submitted,
Chris Kenber FIRE SAFETY TASK FORCE Minutes for Meeting held October 19, 2007
1. Call Meeting to Order: The Fire Safety Task Force (FSTF) was called to order by Chair Jackie Gardener at 2:03 p.m. at the Ohlson Ranch Center House. Members present were Sandy Bush, Jackie Gardener, Bob Hartstock, Rosemarie Hocker, Alex Long, Leigh Mueller, Tom Osborne and Staff Liaison Louise DeWilder. Guests present were CM John Fox and Derek Bray, Marti Campbell, and Jim Jordan (all from the Board of Directors) and Association Members CE Brown and Elaine Reid. 2. Agenda: Additions or Changes: The revised agenda was approved. 3. Approval of Minutes from September 22, 2007 meeting. Motion by Sandy, second by Tom, to approve the minutes with changes. Approved. 4. Presentation by Louise DeWilder on Fire Safe
Council: Louise informed the FSTF about progress being made by The Sea Ranch
Fire Safe Council. Topics discussed were the Council, its Mission and
Objectives, the Fire Hazard Process, Fire Ignition Sources, Debris Pick-up
Analysis, Fuel Management Program Overview, and Commons Management Plan
Overview, and closed with answers to the questions posed by the FSTF. 6. Review of Meeting of October 17, as Needed: (See #5 above.) 7. Status of Written Report to the Board: Jackie submitted a draft of the written report that will be presented by Leigh at the October 27 Regular Session Board Meeting. If suggestions for modifications, send email to Jackie. 8. Update of Risk Assessment Research: Alex proposed the questions: Are we going to have the results we need and want? What is the outcome? Ask for confirmation that when the task is done, we’ll end with a safer condition. Discuss with Marshall Turberville (risk assessment expert). Tom reminded the need to get details. FSTF/the Association must be able to defend any decision, thus the need to have hard lines. Leigh discussed the approach. Draft a list of what we are looking forward to having, our needs. What should we be doing that we didn’t yet get to? Need a commitment to get to the Board by Fall, 2008. Though we have a tough issue—requiring money-policy-action—there’s a lot of reason for optimism. Bob and others reiterated we are going to get there. We can develop objective criteria and see it on a map. It may not come about as rapidly or aggressively as some would like, but there is a sense of a future positive outcome. FSTF is trying to find risk assessment software that would aid us in determining scientifically how to prioritize the work that needs to be done. 9. Developing Member Input and possible Meetings: Continue education through Bulletin articles. Possible workshop in March or April, 2008. 10. The next meetings are scheduled for Saturday, November 10 and Saturday, December 15, both at Ohlson Ranch Center House from 1-4 p.m. The FSTF meeting was adjourned at 5:00 p.m. Rosemarie Hocker Minutes of Meeting held Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Present:
Dave convened the meeting at 3:00 pm at Ohlson Ranch Center. The minutes of the previous meeting on Oct. 11, 2006, were approved. Announcement: The revised charter has been approved by the Board of Directors and all members have received a copy in the mail. Old Business: A. The non-native plants that were planted at the south entrance to the DMC pool have been removed. They will be replaced with appropriate native plants that don’t require much water. B. The BOD will vote on the new budget at their meeting this Saturday, Feb. 24. Included in this budget is this committee’s special request for $6900 for trimming of the camellia, holly, and cedar trees at DMC. This is a 2-year project. C. F & R will continue to maintain $1500 - $2000 in its operations budget for gardens expenses such as tool replacement, fertilizer and plant replacement. The contract gardener’s allotted monthly hours and hourly rate will remain at 60 hours and $25 per hour. D. Progress on the Ohlson Ranch transition area is continuing. Dave will be placing stakes in the locations where F & R will dig holes for 16 – 20 new plants. The volunteers will then plant them, and the work should be finished by the end of March or early April. New Business: A. The large blue spruce tree above the dahlia garden and close to Highway One is not in good condition. It is struggling, and the experts’ opinion is that it gets too much water because of the lawn sprinklers. Dave and Monica proposed the removal of a portion of the lawn in the vicinity of the tree so some of the watering will be stopped. The committee agreed with this strategy.
The
meeting was adjourned at 3:50 pm.
Native Plant Committee Minutes of Meeting 9 January 2008 at Ohlson Ranch House Members Present: Roz Bray, Scott Graf, Elaine Mahaffey, Nancy Powers, (Chair), Jon Raymond Staff Present: Craven Alcott Meeting called to order at approximately 1:10 PM Agenda approved as distributed. Minutes approved as distributed. Workshops: (Nancy Powers, Scott Graf). Two workshops are planned. The propagation workshop on 25 April will have Nancy Powers, Craven Alcott, Kate DeForrest, and Richard Shimbor each helping participants propagate various species: huckleberry, yerba Buena, monkey flower, and ribes. Participants will bring own soil, NPC will bring the pots. The open house is planned for 24 May (Memorial Day weekend). Nancy Powers will talk with F&R about having the sign ready soon after the new fiscal year’s budget cycle starts. Jon Raymond to discuss with Laurie Mueller having the VIP and NPC jointly sponsor a meeting for landscapers and gardeners with the DCEM. The best time might be January, 2009, when they would be most free from gardening jobs. May want an interpreter if the meeting includes gardeners. Demonstration Garden (Nancy Powers). Proposal accepted to move to a single workday from 10 to noon on the 4th Saturday of each month rather than the twice a week schedule now. Powers will follow up with staff. The 29 March workday will be spring planting. Jon Raymond also will follow up with Jan DeVries’s suggestion for a sun dial somewhere on The Sea Ranch: could it fit in the Demonstration Garden? Communication (Nancy Powers). The Mid-Winter report will be included in the next board meeting packet. The March Soundings article will include an announcement for the open house, along with colored pictures requested by acting editor Laurie Mueller. The draft of the first “Ask Scott” column is ready for the bulletin. The starting email address will be Craven Alcott’s as the annual cost for a new email address is not in the this year’s budget. Updated plants lists (Craven Alcott, Jonathan Raymond). The goal is to have the updated plant lists with approved, revised vegetation zones by the April propagation workshop. Craven Alcott will email the current list so we can make recommendations on zones as well as suggest corrections. Jon Raymond asked for suggestions on the first 10 plants to have full descriptions on the new web site. Meeting adjourned at approximately 2:20 PM Next meeting will be held Wednesday, 5 March 2008, 1 p.m. at the Ohlson Ranch House. Respectfully submitted, Jonathan Raymond, Secretary of the Native Plant Committee
THE SEA RANCH ASSOCIATION Action Minutes for December 1, 2007 1) The meeting was called to order at 9:05 AM by Bob Hartstock. Present: Bob Hartstock, Dibby Tyler, Mariko Roberts, Elaine Lawson, Dean Wolf, Kathryn Weiss, Jack Walton. Board Liaison: Rosemarie Hocker. Staff Liaison: Bill Wiemeyer, CM: John Fox. Absent and excused: Richard Lee, Secretary Marti Kambe. Guest: BOD members Jim Jordan and Derek Bray, Marge Rosholt. 2) Agenda: Two additions under 8) Topics of Interest: a) Wave Energy, b) Building Codes; One addition under 4): Communications: d) Verizon Fiber-Optic. 3) Approval of Minutes of 11/3/07 as corrected MSP (Hartstock, Wolf ) 4) Communications: a) CTPZ Budget Request: Hartstock reported that the Finance Committee had requested some clarification and seemed interested; the next hearing will be Jan. 12. In response to Jim Jordan’s question about the process for application, Walton indicated that required forms were available on the Cal Fire web site. b) Verdant View District Budget Request: Tyler reported that she had provided some clarification to the Finance Committee. Hartstock spoke with the Trails Committee which had some recommendations as to the route of the proposed trail connecting with Verdant View. c) CM MLPA Letter: John Fox said the letter was sent in time for the Science Advisory Committee, but that he had been notified that it would instead go to the Blue Ribbon Task Force. d) Verizon Fiber-Optic: Walton reported that he and Tim Gallagher had attended the meeting of the Sonoma County Board of Zoning Adjustments which approved the new cable installation with conditions. This should get underway in May. The Association has contacted Verizon to indicate a preference for additional upgrades. 5) Reports: a) Verdant View Update: Tyler reported that she was getting a final packet ready for Verdant View owners which will include all information produced during the study and the Verdant View Advisory Group will be disbanded. The PC can be available to the Owners if requested. b) Fire Safety Task Force: Hartstock reported that the committee didn’t meet in November, but will meet again Dec. 15. There was a demonstration of development of a roadside fire calming zone at the edge of the airport. 60%-70% of fire inspections have been done. John Fox noted that roadside pickups will continue beyond the Nov. cut-off date. c) State Marine Preserves: Walton announced that the Stakeholder Group met Nov. 28 to review feedback from the Science Advisory group, but that no results were available yet. d) Pelican Hedgerow Project: Tyler announced that the project was completed as scheduled on Nov. 10. She suggested that the PC might consider reinstating the hedgerow walkthroughs which had been conducted in past years. The committee decided this should be kept as a follow-up item. e) Board Summary: Hocker summarized the Oct. Board actions as included with the PC agenda. Jim Jordan noted that the Oct. approval of the Water Co. budget will allow time at the Dec. 8 Board meeting to discuss the possibility of forming a local agency. 6) Old Business: a) CEP Updates: Tyler distributed a list of errors she has identified, which are mostly typo’s, with two errors which could be errata – the Moonraker Rec Center is in the wrong parcel and the North sewer district is mislabeled as Central. Walton identified a section code number which was incorrect (8.06 should be 3.06). It was noted that the master copy of the CEP on disc is held by Hall Kelley, and discussion followed about the advisability of having the master copy at the Association. Tyler recommended that PC members review the CEP by the Feb. meeting and any actions be taken then. It was also suggested that a full review be done in 2009. b) Unit by Unit Landscape Management Plan: Tyler circulated several different subject area maps of the commons north of Halcyon which show the possibility of defining units for a study of commons. She is still working on developing a possible program and is looking for ideas. It was suggested that what we are trying to accomplish is predictability of how the landscape will be managed in commons and a clear definition of the Association responsibility. Discussion followed. Hartstock proposed that the PC put together a mission statement to distribute to other groups for feedback. Tyler will draft a statement and send it out to the committee. 7) New Business a) Carpooling: Wolf distributed a proposed plan for people who do not need rides but who want to share rides to live lightly on the land. The proposal is to experiment with a casual carpool day, tracking its success. Discussion touched on existing systems, both formal and casual, that seem currently to be working. The committee suggested that he check with CRC to see if a cooperative system might be worked out. b) Changing Landscape and Highway Fencing: Hartstock said he had received a question about instances of owners planting native plants for decorative purposes. The committee seemed to feel that was not in our purview. He also said there had been a number of complaints/questions regarding the wire fence which has recently been constructed along a section of Hwy. 1. Bill Wiemeyer indicated that area historically had a wire fence dating back to a part of the Sea Ranch area which was a cattle ranch. Discussion followed. Action: The committee recommends to the Board that action be taken to change the appearance of the wire fence nearest the highway. MSP (Tyler, Wolf , 5 yes, 2 no) c) PC Addition to the TSRA Website: Hartstock will print out information on this for the Jan. meeting. 8) Discussion/Review of Topics of Interest a) Wave Energy: Sonoma County is requesting a permit from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to conduct a feasibility test of wave energy production to include the entire Sonoma Coast area out to 12 miles. The Sonoma County Board wants to assure local control. The committee felt we should communicate to the county our interest in the process of this action. John Fox said he would have a discussion with the General Manager of the Water Agency. b) Building Codes: Hartstock mentioned the changes that will be made Jan. 1 in county building codes, the most significant for new construction is that all exterior surfaces must be of non-combustible materials. 9) Next Meeting: January 5, 2008 10) Meeting Adjournment at 12:05 PM Respectfully submitted, MINUTES THE SEA RANCH ASSOCIATION SECURITY COMMITTEE March 8, 2008 ATTENDANCE:
COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Paul Plakos – Chair Grace Carter Mike Tuft Mike Brayer
STAFF: John Fox – Community Manager Lin Plescia – Director of Security Linda Clyne – Assistant to Director of Security Fred Stange – Patrol Officer
GUESTS: Derek Bray – Board of Directors Russell Hardy – TSRA member Richard Schimbor – TSRA member David Windsor – TSRA member George Bell – TSRA member Call to order at 9:02 a.m. The minutes of the February 5, 2008 meeting were reviewed and accepted. Committee Chair Paul Plakos welcomed four TSRA members who have applied for the current vacancy on the Security Committee: Russ Hardy, Rich Schimbor, Dave Windsor and George Bell. OLD BUSINESS: A. Chapel parking lot sign status 1. Derek Bray stated he thought the proposed wording for the Chapel sign continued to be ambiguous and asked if there was still time to change it. Lin said she did not think the sign had been ordered yet. 2. After discussion it was agreed by the committee to modify the wording to say “Sea Ranch vehicle identification required except while visiting the Chapel.” 3. Paul will send an e-mail to John Prescott of Facilities and Resources to make the request for the wording change. B. Recommended stop signs status 1. At the February 5 meeting CM Fox proposed further review of the Security Committee’s proposal to increase the number of stop signs on Sea Ranch roads. At issue is the need to balance safety and aesthetics. Linda reported she was still working on finding a date and time that worked for all parties who need to be involved: CM Fox, Lin, Louise, and DCEM staff. 2. The problem of faded stop signs was also discussed. One sign in particular is the one at Deer Trail and Halcyon. Refurbishing signs is generally done about every seven years, corresponding with the slurry seal schedule. It was suggested that Patrol Officers report faded stop signs when observed, and that these reports may necessitate more frequent “refreshing” of signs if needed. 3. It was also suggested that arrows be painted on the divided pavement at Leeward Spur to direct traffic flow to and from Highway One. 4. Lin will address these additional suggestions at the meeting with DCEM when it occurs. C. Traffic violations/speeding study status 1. Grace and Mike reported they met with Lin and Linda this week to see what types of data could be used to describe the extent of the speeding problem on Sea Ranch roads. The educational radar trailer currently in use provides drivers with immediate feedback about their speeds but does not record statistical data. There are presently two methods for collecting speeding-related information available to Security: a. Patrol Officers utilize a radar device to identify individual speeders who are stopped and advised of the 25 mph speed limit. While this information can be useful, Grace and Mike deemed this to be a very labor-intensive method for collecting overall descriptive data. b. The Security Department owns a CAL-TRANS “traffic counter,” a device consisting of two cables laid across the road which can be installed at various locations to count vehicles and measure and record their speeds. This device has not been used for a number of years but Grace and Mike reviewed old records and thought they represented exactly the type of systematic data we need to collect and study. Further, it is less labor-intensive and provides a lot of information at a reasonable cost. Lin stated it takes two Patrol Officers about 30 minutes to set up the device in the field. There are about ten locations on the Ranch where posts have been installed so the device can be locked in place and left for any desired length of time (usually about a week or so). Computer software then tallies the results and reports the data in various formats. 2. The Security Committee supports the renewed use of the CAL-TRANS traffic counter for the purpose of collecting data related to speeding. Lin will work with members of her department to put the device back into use for a minimum of one week at each location. She will provide the requested data to Grace and Mike as it becomes available. 3. On a related matter, the committee discussed ways to communicate with contractors about the behavior expected by workers on The Sea Ranch. It was suggested that one member of the committee serve as a liaison to contractors similar to the way Mike Brayer works with rental agencies. Lin stated that past attempts by the Association to involve contractors in group meetings were not well attended; personal contact might be a more effective method of communication. No action was taken on this suggestion. D. Reporting methods for Security Department actions 1. During their meeting with Lin and Linda this week, Grace and Mike also looked at how Security actions are entered, stored, analyzed and reported. They concluded that the Access database program as it is currently set up does not provide the flexibility and/or capacity to collect the types of data the Security Committee and TSRA membership wants to see. 2. In light of the recent Association-wide IT analysis, the Security Committee encourages TSRA to include the Security Department in its efforts to consolidate and modernize its computer systems. A fully expanded relational database, and adequate staff training in its use, is key to giving TSRA members a more accurate picture of Security Department activities. 3. On a related matter, CM Fox questioned whether the Security call tables that appear in the monthly Bulletin are useful to TSRA members in the table format and whether graphical representation might be more descriptive. Grace and Mike proposed that the committee should decide precisely what kind of data we need to see from Security before changing the way information is presented. We need to first decide what we want to accomplish by putting these numbers in the Bulletin. E. Pass distribution discussion 1. Committee members considered possible changes to the 2009-2010 pass distribution process at the request of Paula Lim. Discussion focused on the idea of returning to past procedures requiring each member to pick up passes in person at the Association Office and having each ID traceable to a specific vehicle registration. It was agreed that this system was time- and labor- intensive and the committee recommended the current mailing system be continued. 2. The committee would like to review informational materials included with the passes, especially for the purpose of strengthening language related to the location of vehicle decals. Linda will obtain copies of what was sent out in the previous packets and forward these to committee members. She will also ask Paula about her deadline for incorporating the committee’s input and communicate this information to committee members as well. 3. Committee members also discussed raising the charge to members for replacing lost ID. There have been documented instances of members selling passes to non-members for the purpose of giving them access to Sea Ranch roads, trails and other facilities. Committee members wondered if Association records could be searched to determine if certain property owners “lose” or “never receive” their passes on a regular basis and if an escalating replacement fee might serve to reduce these occurrences. Linda stated that receptionists at the front desk issue replacement passes and note them in the TSRA database but she didn’t know whether Paula has the ability to summarize this information for the committee. Linda will talk to Paula to determine if this is something she can do. NEW BUSINESS: A. Rental agency discussion (pre-summer meeting) 1. Mike Brayer stated he is willing to continue as the Security Committee liaison to rental agencies. 2. Paula Lim has scheduled a group meeting with rental agency representatives on April 3. Mike will participate in this meeting. Afterward, he will assess the need to make personal visits to individual agencies as he has done in the past. B. Burbank Housing update – March 4 report 1. Members reviewed the March 4 Burbank Housing report. Among other CC&R violations, it was noted there has been an increase in the number of vehicles with expired registration on the property. In response to questions, Lin stated these vehicles cannot be cited unless they are on the road. However our local Deputy Sheriff King 1 has a special agreement with the county whereby he encourages owners of inoperable vehicles to relinquish them. He then arranges for the vehicles to be transported to the CAL FIRE station for use in vehicle extrication training exercises. 2. CM Fox reported that he will soon be meeting with John Lowry of Burbank Housing to discuss issues of mutual interest and concern. C. Discussion with volunteers 1. Each of the candidates for the Security Committee vacancy was given the opportunity to describe their background and reasons for wanting to join the committee. 2. It was proposed the committee increase its size to a number greater than the present five members given the availability of multiple, qualified candidates. 3. Paul will meet with the current members within a few weeks to discuss this proposal and to select (a) new committee member(s). D. Other 1. Lin reported pool usage statistics had been tabulated for 2007 and that sign-in sheets reflect an increase over 2006 figures of more than 3200 users for the three pools combined. Next meeting to be held May 10. Meeting was adjourned at 10:55 a.m. Linda Clyne
Minutes for the Meeting held February 16, 2008 Present: Gary Baxter, Roz Bray, Nancy Fairhurst, Jim Fitzsimmons, Kate De Forrest, Barbara Gomes, Don Kurtz, Steve Mader, Linda Moon, Robert Mulford, Dave Osteraas, Bonnie Plakos, Nancy Powers, Lynn Tuft, Jack Walton, Frank Welsh, Anne Westwater, Jean Whitridge, Judi Yeager Absent: Richard Almon, Marge Anthony, Steve Brugler, John Petersen, Paul Plakos, Brian Regan, Janann Strand, David Windsor, Bill Weimeyer (staff) Call to Order: Vice-chair Whitridge called the meeting to order at 9:03 a.m. Minutes: The January 2008 minutes were approved as distributed. Unfinished Business:
New Business:
Reports and Announcements:
Work Party: extensive work to be done on parts of Salal Trail today. Adjournment: 9:40 a.m. Next Meeting: Saturday, March 15, 2008 at Ohlson Ranch House Submitted by Anne Westwater, Trails Committee Secretary Utilities Committee Minutes Jan. 19, 2008 1. Present: UC Members: Joe Alessandri, Roy Austin, John Carey, Frank Field, Alex Long, Scott Nevin, Richard Schimbor. Board Liaison: Derek Bray. Staff: Randy Burke, Brad Clayton, John Fox, TSR Board: Sandy Bush, Jim Jordan. Finance Comm: Bill Retzar, Member Visitors: Kathi Gordon, Jack Walton 2. Call to order: 9:00 AM. 3. Announcements: John Carey is the new Chair of the Utilities Committee (UC), Frank Field is Vice Chair, and Roy Austin will continue as Secretary. Past Chair, Rich Schimbor’s second term on the UC ends April, 2008. However, he submitted a letter of resignation effective as of the end of this January meeting. All expressed appreciation for his service, and Joe Alessandri specifically recommended that Rich be awarded some form of official recognition from the Board. John Carey took an action to draft a BOD Commendation for Rich and send to Derek and Jim Jordan. 4. Staff Reports: Randy discussed two activities. The first was the experiences he and his staff encountered during the long PG&E power outage. There were no major problems with the exception of ma | |
