Board Meeting Packet August 4, 2020

Board of Directors Board Meeting Packet August 4, 2020

SPECIAL NOTICE REGARDING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AT THE EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING SCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, August 4, 2020 at 1:00 PM

Pursuant to Governor Newsom’s Executive Order No. N-29-20 and the Alameda County Health Officer’s Shelter in Place Orders, the East Bay Regional Park District Headquarters will not be open to the public and the Board of Directors and staff will be participating in the Board meetings via phone/video conferencing.

Members of the public can listen and view the meeting in the following way:

Via the Park District’s live video stream which can be found at: https://youtu.be/28G2OnqYC9Y

Public comments may be submitted one of three ways:

1. Via email to Yolande Barial Knight, Clerk of the Board, at [email protected]. Email must contain in the subject line public comments – not on the agenda or public comments – agenda item #. It is preferred that these written comments be submitted by Monday, August 3, at 3:00pm.

2. Via voicemail at (510) 544-2016. The caller must start the message by stating public comments – not on the agenda or public comments – agenda item # followed by their name and place of residence, followed by their comments. It is preferred that these voicemail comments be submitted by Monday, August 3, at 3:00 pm.

3. Live via zoom. If you would like to make a live public comment during the meeting this option is available through the virtual meeting platform: https://zoom.us/j/99240030027 . Note that this virtual meeting platform link will let you into the virtual meeting for the purpose of providing a public comment. If you do not intend to make a public comment please use the youtube link at https://youtu.be/28G2OnqYC9Y to observe the meeting. It is preferred that those requesting to speak during the meeting contact the Clerk of the Board at [email protected] by 3:00 pm on Monday, August 3, 2020 via email or voicemail (510) 544-2016 to provide name and the subject of the public comment or item to be addressed.

Comments received during the meeting and up until the public comment period on the relevant agenda item is closed, will be provided in writing to the Board of Directors, included transcribed voicemails. All comments received by the close of the public comment period will be available after the meeting as supplemental materials and will become part of the official meeting record. If you have any questions please contact Yolande Barial Knight, Clerk of the Board, at [email protected] or (510) 544-2016.

Clerk of the Board

YOLANDE BARIAL

KNIGHT

(510) 544-2020 PH MEMO to the BOARD OF DIRECTORS (510) 569-1417 FAX EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

East Bay Regional Park District

Board of Directors ELLEN CORBETT The Regular Session of the AUGUST 4, 2020 President - Ward 4 Board Meeting is scheduled to commence via DEE ROSARIO teleconference at 1:00 p.m. Vice President – Ward 2 Park District’s live video stream can be found at: BEVERLY LANE https://youtu.be/28G2OnqYC9Y Secretary - Ward 6

COLIN COFFEY Treasurer - Ward 7 DENNIS WAESPI Ward 3 AYN WIESKAMP Ward 5 Respectfully submitted,

ELIZABETH ECHOLS Ward 1 ROBERT E. DOYLE General Manager ROBERT E. DOYLE General Manager

2950 Peralta Oaks Court Oakland, CA 94605-0381 (888) 327-2757 MAIN 7-1-1 TRS RELAY SERVICE (510) 635-5502 FAX ebparks.org

AGENDA

REGULAR MEETING OF AUGUST 4, 2020 BOARD OF DIRECTORS EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT The Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District will hold a regular 11:30 a.m. ROLL CALL (Virtual) meeting virtually, commencing at 11:30 a.m. for Closed Session and 1:00 p.m. for Open Session PUBLIC COMMENTS on Tuesday, August 4, 2020. Video Stream at: CLOSED SESSION https://youtu.be/28G2OnqYC9Y

A. Conference with Labor Negotiator: Government Code Section 54957.6 Agenda for the meeting is listed adjacent. Times for agenda items are approximate only and 1. Agency Negotiator: Robert E. Doyle, Ana M. Alvarez, are subject to change during the Kip Walsh meeting. If you wish to Employee Organizations: AFSCME Local 2428, comment on matters not on the Police Association agenda, you may do so under Unrepresented Employees: Managers, Confidentials and Seasonals Public Comments at the beginning of the agenda and if you wish to comment on an item on the agenda please send B. Conference with Real Property Negotiator Regarding Price and/or an email to [email protected] Terms of Payment – Government Code Section 54956.8 before 3pm, Monday, August 3, 2020.

1. Agency Negotiator: Kristina Kelchner, Mike Reeves A copy of the background materials concerning these PROPERTY OWNER/ agenda items, including any APN/ADDRESS NEGOTIATING PARTIES PARK/TRAIL material that may have been Alameda County submitted less than 72 hours before the meeting, is available 096-0090-005-11 San Francisco Public Utilities Mission Peak for inspection on the District’s Weller Road, Fremont Commission Regional Preserve website (www.ebparks.org).

085A-6427-006-00 George and Caroline Garin Regional Park Agendas for Board Committee 33853 Palomares Road, Chouinard Meetings are available to the Castro Valley public upon request. If you wish 561-040-016-9 and 561- Chevron USA Inc. San Francisco Bay to be placed on the mailing list to receive future agendas for a 400-008-0 Trail specific Board Committee, Stenmark Drive, please call the Clerk of the Richmond Board’s Office at (510) 544- 561-400-004-9, Mt. Zion Enterprises Inc. San Francisco Bay 2020.

Stenmark Drive, Trail District facilities and meetings Richmond comply with the Americans with 561-100-008-3 City of Richmond Point Molate Disabilities Act. If special Stenmark Drive, Regional Shoreline accommodations are needed for Richmond you to participate, please contact the Clerk of the Board as soon as possible, but preferably at least three working days prior to the meeting.

1:00 p.m. OPEN SESSION (Virtual)

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

A. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

B. PUBLIC COMMENTS

Public comments may be submitted one of three ways: 1. Via email to Yolande Barial Knight, Clerk of the Board, at [email protected]. Email must contain in the subject line public comments – not on the agenda or public comments – agenda item #. It is preferred that these written comments be submitted by Monday, August 3, at 3:00pm. 2. Via voicemail at (510) 544-2016. The caller must start the message by stating public comments – not on the agenda or public comments – agenda item # followed by their name and place of residence, followed by their comments. It is preferred that these voicemail comments be submitted by Monday, August 3, at 3:00 pm. 3. If you are interested in speaking during Public Comments, please contact the Clerk of the Board at [email protected] for call in information by 3:00 pm on Monday, August 3, 2020. Email must contain in the subject line Board meeting 8-4-20 call in request. If you would like to provide public comment through the virtual meeting platform, please use https://zoom.us/j/99240030027 to participate. Note that this virtual meeting platform link will let you into the virtual meeting waiting room and then into the meeting for the purpose to provide comment. Please use the YouTube link https://youtu.be/28G2OnqYC9Y to observe the meeting when you are not providing public comment.

C. SPECIAL UPDATE

1. General Manager’s Update on the Status of the East Bay Regional Park District Emergency During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

1:25 p.m. D. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

a. Approval of District Check Listing for the Period of June 15, 2020 to July 5, 2020 (Auker/Doyle) (Resolution) (No Cost) b. Approval of the Minutes for the Board Meeting of July 7 and July 21, 2020 (Barial Knight) (Resolution) (No Cost) c. Authorization to Negotiate with Various Property Owners (Reeves/Kelchner) (Resolution) ( No Cost) d. Authorization to Renew a Special Use Agreement with Montclair Swim Team: Roberts Regional Recreation Area (Patterson/O’Connor) (Resolution) (No Cost) e. Authorize Second Term of Tilden Merry-Go-Round Concession Agreement with Sycamore Concessions Inc.: Tilden Regional Park (Margulici/O’Connor) (Resolution) (No Cost)

f. Authorization to Appropriate Funds and Award Construction Contract to Kerex Engineering Inc. to Construct Restroom: Coyote Hills Regional Park (Rasmussen/Auker) (Resolution) (Budget Change) g. Authorization to Amend a Contract with CES Engineering for Electrical Engineering Services for the Develop Dumbarton Quarry Campground Project: Coyote Hills Regional Park (Goorjian/Kelchner) (Resolution) (Budgeted Funds) h. Authorization to Purchase 24 Cisco Network Switches and 26 Network Routers from AMS.Net for District-wide Information Technology Infrastructure Replacements (Tallerico/Auker) (Resolution) (Budgeted Funds) i. Authorization to Purchase Five Chevrolet Bolt All-Electric Vehicles from Winner Chevrolet for Vehicle Replacements and as an Addition to the Fleet (McCrystle/O’Connor) (Resolution) (Budgeted Funds) j. Authorization to Purchase Four Mowers and Four Tractors from John Deere Company for Equipment Replacement and Additions to the Fleet (McCrystle/O’Connor) (Resolution) (Budgeted Funds) k. Authorization to Award a Contract to American Asphalt, Inc. for Maintenance of Paved Roads and Trails and Transfer and Appropriate Funds: District-wide (Bowman/O’Connor) (Resolution) (Budgeted Funds/ Budget Change) L. Authorization to Apply for Funding from National Fish and Wildlife Foundation for Habitat Restoration at Albany Beach: McLaughlin Eastshore State Park (Barton/Hornbeck/Auker) (Resolution) (Rev Authorization) m. Authorization to Apply for Funding from National Fish and Wildlife Foundation for Habitat Restoration at Encinal Beach, Alameda Point (Hornbeck/Graul/Auker) (Resolution) (Rev Authorization) n. Authorization to Apply to Caltrans for Federal Funding from the Active Transportation Program: San Francisco Bay Trail, Radke Martinez Regional Shoreline (Hornbeck/Dougan/Auker) (Resolution) (Rev Authorization)

2:15 p.m. 2. ACQUISITION, STEWARDSHIP AND DEVELOPMENT DIVISION

a. Authorization to Enter into a Purchase and Sale Agreement and to Transfer and Appropriate Funds for the Acquisition of 20± Acres of Real Property from the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission: Mission Peak Regional Preserve (Reeves/Kelchner) (Resolution) (Budget Change/ WW Funds) b. Authorization to Execute a Contract with Ghiradelli for Construction Management Services and Amend a Contract with Grey Bowen Scott for the Develop Doolittle Trail Project: Martin Luther King, Jr. Regional Shoreline (Goorjian/Kelchner) (Resolution) (Budgeted Funds)

2:30 p.m. 3. BOARD AND STAFF REPORTS

a. Actions Taken by Other Jurisdictions Affecting the Park District (Doyle)

3:00 p.m. 4. GENERAL MANAGER’S COMMENTS

a. Fire Chief Aileen Theile will introduce the new Assistant Fire Chief Mike Mathiesen and provide comments on the fire season to date.

3:15 p.m. 5. ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM CLOSED SESSION

3:20 p.m. 6. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS

a. Executive Committee (5/7/20) (Corbett) b. Executive Committee (6/4/20) (Corbett) c. Legislative Committee (6/26/20) (Waespi)

3:30 p.m. 7. BOARD COMMENTS

4:30 p.m. E. ADJOURNMENT

CONSENT CALENDAR

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

D. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

a. Approval of District Check Listing for the Period of June 15, 2020 Through July 5, 2020 (Auker/Doyle)

RECOMMENDATION

It is recommended that the Board of Directors approve the Check Listing for the period of June 15, 2020 through July 5, 2020.

Per Resolution No. 1992-1-40, adopted by the Board on January 21, 1992, a copy of the Check Listing has been provided to the Board Treasurer for review. A copy of the Check Listing has also been provided to the Clerk of the Board and will become a part of the Official District Records. EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2020 – 08 -

August 4, 2020

APPROVAL OF DISTRICT CHECK LISTING FOR THE PERIOD OF JUNE 15, 2020 THROUGH JULY 5, 2020

WHEREAS, District Resolution No. 1992 - 1 - 40, adopted by the Board of Directors on January 21, 1992, requires that a listing of District checks be provided to the Board Treasurer for review;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby approves the check listing for the period of June 15, 2020 through July 5, 2020;

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 4th day of August, 2020 by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

D. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

b. Approval of the Minutes for the Board Meeting of July 7 and July 21, 2020 (Barial Knight)

Page Left Blank Intentionally

Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of July 7, 2020

The East Bay Regional Park District Board Meeting, which was held virtually on July 7, 2020, called its Closed Session to order at 11:30 a.m. by Board President Ellen Corbett.

ROLL CALL

Directors Remote: Ellen Corbett, President Dee Rosario, Vice President Beverly Lane, Secretary Colin Coffey, Treasurer Dennis Waespi Elizabeth Echols Ayn Wieskamp

The Open Session of the Board Meeting was called to order at 1:15 p.m. by President Corbett.

Staff Remote: Robert Doyle, Ana Alvarez, Carol Victor, Jim O’Connor, Anthony Ciaburro, Debra Auker, Kristina Kelchner, Carol Johnson, Erich Pfuehler, Alan Love, Brian Holt, Mary Mattingly, Jim Tallerico, Jonathan Hobbs, Alice Kinner Aileen Theile, Chris Barton, Katie Quick, Lisa Baldinger, Kip Walsh, Matthew Graul, David Phulps, Peter Fitch, Katie Hornbeck, Ira Bletz, Anne Kassebaum, Deborah Spaulding, Dave Mason, Robert Lacy, Mycile Cahambing, Sharon Clay

Guests: Tim Seufert, NBS

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

Director Corbett opened the meeting and stated that consistent with Governor Gavin Newsom’s Executive Order N-25-20 issued on March 12, 2020 in response to the threat of COVID-19, and the Alameda County Health Department’s Order dated March 16, 2020, the Board of Directors may utilize teleconferencing to remotely participate in meetings.

President Corbett asked if the Board members had any questions about the meeting process. There were none.

A. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

By motion of Director Lane, and seconded by Director Rosario, the Board voted unanimously to approve the agenda. Roll Call Vote unanimous.

Directors Remote: Ellen Corbett, Colin Coffey, Elizabeth Echols, Beverly Lane, Dee Rosario, Dennis Waespi, Ayn Wieskamp. Directors Against: None. Directors Absent: None.

B. PUBLIC COMMENTS

President Corbett thanked the public and staff for attending the virtual Board meeting that was streaming live on zoom. Corbett acknowledged that with the new technology there may be some challenges, staff will endeavor to improve the meeting platform. Corbett explained that public comments were to be submitted in advance by e-mail to [email protected] or left by voice message at 510-544-2016. This allows the Clerk time to provide the Board members with the comments in advance of the meeting. President Corbett explained that Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of July 7, 2020 emails or voicemail received after the deadline will be provided to the Board of Directors and become part of the public record of the meeting.

Clerk Knight opened public comments.

Tom Kelly and his wife have been directing a revegetation project at Pt. Isabel for the last 16 years, and during that time they worked with thousands of volunteers to try and improve habitat value along the Hoffman Marsh. Kelley discussed Rydin Road where there is a community that are unhoused. The city and county are trying to find a safe RV park to move them to Kelley cited problems which include the need for access to water, sleeping in the park, drug use problem with hypodermic needles, increasing trash, reduced parking for park visitors, car break ins and the likelihood of an increase in confrontations between that community and park visitors. They have reached out to the Board to take a more proactive role to support the community until they can be moved to a safe park. Kelley asked for water and financial support for the city of Richmond to make contact with the people. President Corbett thanked Mr. Kelly for his years of volunteer service. Echols extended her appreciation to him and his wife for their years of service to the park and volunteer ethic. She shared their concern for the wellbeing of unhoused people living on Rydin Road. At the beginning of the pandemic, she worked with staff to ensure that there were portal bathrooms and hand sanitizing stations provided by the county and city of Richmond.

GM Doyle thanked Mr. Kelley for his work. He explained the District has 33 cities in its jurisdiction, all have a homeless problem and District staff try to reach out to county and city services and be helpful. The District is concerned with the safety of staff, the public and the resources. GM Doyle stated he will bring the water issue up with staff and look into the other suggestions posed. He stated this is a much bigger issue than Rydin Road.

Heather DeQuincy, Admin Analyst in Public Safety and on call firefighter was selected by AFSCME 2428 to serve as a member of the Classification task force. DeQuincy’s comments are in Attachment A. DeQuincy spoke about Item c – Authorization to Implement Compensation Equity Adjustments for Unrepresented Seasonal Classifications; Approve and Adopt an Amendment to the East Bay Regional Park District Salary Schedule as of July 18, 2020; and Appropriate Funds in the 2020 Budget.

Emailed and written comments received were read into the record by the Clerk. Chris Newey, President AFSCME 2428, Lance Jonson, Park Ranger at Del Valle, commented on reconsidering park openings, President Corbett thanked individuals for commenting and asked staff to look into them. Scott William talked about allowing paragliding about the new Concord Hills Park. William Yragui spoke regarding Mission Peak and its expiration of the lease agreement between the Fremont and the District as well as examples of the public not social distancing. Volunteer Medic Flight Program emails were sent to the Board from Matt Cobb, Linda Clem, Annie Beiber and Jamie Edson. (Attachment B)

C. SPECIAL UPDATE

1. General Manager’s Update on the Status of the East Bay Regional Park District Emergency During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

General Manager Doyle observed the District made it through another major holiday without closing additional parks. Fireworks were of deep concern this year due to the fire and safety risk. GM Doyle thanked the Fire Dept. for fully staffing patrols during the holiday weekend. There were 67 fires in Contra Costa County alone. Chief Theile gave a brief update on the weekend and the fires. There were 3 fires in the state response area, 3 fires on District land of 8 acres or less. The Fuels crew responded to 3 fires in areas the helicopter can’t access and hiking in was difficult. Director Lane inquired about the fire at Coyote Hills. Theile replied that fire didn’t start on District property, but just outside. Theile reported it was contained fairly quickly and Eagle did water drops on the area. President Corbett expressed the Board’s appreciation for their hard work and protection of not only District property but other folks’ property. Director Echols thanked Chief Theile on behalf of her Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of July 7, 2020 constituents. Theile added that the fuel work being done as an agency is important and other agencies are seeing how important this is in prevention. GM Doyle agreed the interface between the cities and the coordination in terms of mutual aid is vital.

GM Doyle said that staff can continue the plan to reopen parks for the public, however due to the surge in Covid cases staff will be putting the brakes on opening until staff can coordinate with the Health Department and this Board. The repeated message is social distancing, wear a mask and help the District keep our parks open. The District is following all of the recommendations regarding the Governor’s orders and the two counties. This is a very dynamic situation. Education and messaging are better than staff potentially getting into a confrontation with the public about them not wearing masks. There is an economic impact and the District has reached $700,000 in lost income from parks. It is a very difficult time for our concessionaires and we are doing what we can to help.

President Corbett thanked the GM for his thorough report.

D. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

By motion of Director Waespi, and seconded by Director Rosario, the Board voted unanimously to approve the Consent Calendar.

Directors For: Colin Coffey, Ellen Corbett, Elizabeth Echols, Beverly Lane, Dee Rosario, Dennis Waespi, Ayn Wieskamp. Directors Against: None. Directors Absent: None.

a. Approval of District Check Listing for the Period of May 18, 2020 to May 31, 2020 Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 137 (attached)

b. Approval of the Minutes for the Board Meeting of June 2, 2020

c. Authorization to Implement Compensation Equity Adjustments for Unrepresented Seasonal Classifications; Approve and Adopt an Amendment to the East Bay Regional Park District Salary Schedule as of July 18, 2020; and Appropriate Funds in the 2020 Budget Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 138 (attached)

Kip Walsh, Chief Human Resources Officer reported a typographical error on the rate for returning gate attendants both hourly $17.40 and $3016.00 monthly. The rate has since been updated.

d. Authorization to Renew a Special Use Agreement with Girl Scouts of Northern California: Briones Regional Park Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 139 (attached)

e. Authorization to Enter Into an Agreement with 2Air Services to Install Microwave and Wireless Communications Equipment: Del Valle Regional Park Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 140 (attached)

f. Approval of Second Amendment to the Redwood Canyon Golf Course Lease: Lake Chabot Regional Park Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 141 (attached) Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of July 7, 2020 Director Corbett asked about accommodations for ADA accessibility to the wedding pathway areas of the golf course. Tiffany Margulici, Business Services Manager, replied the concessionaire has made reasonable accommodations by using the indoor spaces adjacent to the patio and allowing cars to be brought closer to the location. Director Waespi spoke as a member of Operations Committee, and commented on the incredible work that Touchstone Golf has done during these trying times.

g. Authorization to Enter into an Agreement with Romaldo Cruz for Caretaker Services for the Roddy Ranch Property: Deer Valley Regional Park Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 142 (attached)

Director Lane inquired if the caretaker be living in the house and monitor the golf area. Jim O’Connor, AGM of Operations answered the caretaker will monitor the Roddy Ranch site of the property and will live in the doublewide mobile home. Staff are securing the Roddy Ranch House and plan to have a resident live in it to protect the property.

h. Authorization to Execute a Contract with Balance Hydrologics for Consulting Services for the Jewel Lake Feasibility Study Project: Tilden Regional Park Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 143 (attached)

Public Comment from Ellen Barth was read into the record. Her comment spoke of losing Jewel Lake which she has been a champion for saving for the last 5 years due to sedimentation.

Director Echols thanked Ms. Barth for her comments and her dedication and commitment to Jewel Lake over the years. Echols stated she appreciated the urgency of preventing Jewel Lake from disappearing while we wait for the sedimentation study. Echols asked what plans staff have in the short term to slow the sedimentation. AGM Kelchner, ASD introduced Matt Graul, Chief of Stewardship, Lisa Goorjian, Chief of Design and Construction, and Ren Bates, Capital Program Manager. Graul spoke about the sedimentation basin and the need to fix and determine very expensive solution.

Corbett asked if they have spoken with Ms. Barth to make sure her questions are answered. Corbett asked when staff put forth the feasibility study there will be certain goals. Would one of the goals be to return the lake into a lake? AGM Kelchner replied yes. Staff have spoken with Ms. Barth many times over the years and are certainly happy to continue to meet with her over her much appreciated and tireless advocacy. There will be possibilities for different options which are being considered. GM Doyle explained this is an artificial lake, created decades ago; regulations have changed, and it is now habitat. Mitigation and the feasibility study is essential, but the District doesn’t have funding which will cost several million dollars to not only fix, but to maintain it from siltation. It is a priority, but a challenge.

i. Authorization to Award a Construction Contract to Integra Construction Services Inc. to Construct Residence and Appropriate Funds: Camp Arroyo Regional Recreation Area Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 144 (attached)

j. Authorization to Award a Construction Contract to Kerex Engineering Inc. to Construct a Restroom at Jordan Pond and Appropriate Funds: Garin Regional Park Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 145 (attached)

Director Waespi asked what type of restroom is being constructed? Jeff Rasmussen, Assistant Finance Officer, replied it is a CXT restroom that can be locked.

k. Authorization to Purchase One Caterpillar D2 Dozer from Peterson CAT for Equipment Replacement Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 146 (attached) Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of July 7, 2020 Director Waespi asked if staff could include a photo of what the equipment looks like and what it will be used for in the next staff report.

l. Authorization to Purchase One Tractor from John Deere Company for Equipment Replacement Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 147 (attached)

m. Approval of Application for Grant Funds for California Climate Investments Urban Greening Program for Public Access Improvements: Martin Luther King Jr. Shoreline Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 148 (attached)

n. Authorization to Apply for Grant Funds from the Wildlife Conservation Board Public Access Program and Authorize Matching Funds: Del Valle Regional Park Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 149 (attached)

o. Acceptance of First Quarter 2020 General Fund and Other Governmental Funds Financial Report Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 150 (attached)

p. Acceptance of the 2019 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, Auditor’s Communication with Those Charged with Governance dated June 16, 2020, Single Audit Report (Uniform Guidance), and Independent Accountants’ Report on Agreed Upon Procedures Applied to 2020 Appropriations Limit Schedule Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 151 (attached)

2. ACQUISITION, STEWARDSHIP AND DEVELOPMENT DIVISION

By motion of Director Lane, and seconded by Director Coffey, the Board voted unanimously to approve the Item 2.

Directors For: Colin Coffey, Ellen Corbett, Elizabeth Echols, Beverly Lane, Dee Rosario, Dennis Waespi, Ayn Wieskamp. Directors Against: None. Directors Absent: None.

a. Certification of Environmental Impact Report, including Adoption of the CEQA Findings Report and the Associated Mitigation, Monitoring, and Reporting Program: Concord Hills Regional Park Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 152 (attached)

By motion of Director Lane, and seconded by Director Coffey, the Board voted unanimously to approve the Item 2.

Directors For: Colin Coffey, Ellen Corbett, Elizabeth Echols, Beverly Lane, Dee Rosario, Dennis Waespi, Ayn Wieskamp. Directors Against: None. Directors Absent: None.

b. A Resolution Adopting the Lane Use Plan: Concord Hills Regional Park Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 153 (attached)

Brian Holt Chief of Planning & GIS presented a detailed report of the Concord Hills Land Use Plan. Holt commented that this was the first project that was assigned to him 15 years ago. Holt is working with Devan Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of July 7, 2020 Reiff, Principal Planner on this project. Holt presented the background, history and planning that has gone into this project. Reiff presented the Land Use Plan details. Reiff stated outlined the history of the District’s engagement with the community and the balanced redevelopment of the area. There were two resolutions associated with this report.

GM Doyle read the comments from the public as well as from Discovery Builders. 95% of the property will be preserved in natural condition and much will be enhanced for more habitat by removal of the Navy’s infrastructure. For over 30 years, Park District has been an advocate for creating a park in Central Diablo valley. GM Doyle explained it has had the advocacy of Congressmembers George Miller, Ellen Tauscher, John Garamendi, and Mark Desaulnier, which is an example of what it takes to create a regional park on property already owned by the public. GM Doyle stated he was perplexed and disappointed by two letters received from the Seeno family with Discovery Builders. The District has worked cooperatively with that family for decades on other projects (Dublin Hills Regional Park staging area and in addition to dedicated land and providing sites for mitigation at Round Valley and Black Diamond). The District is building a vision and recycling a Navy base while restoring habitat and reutilizing old buildings to benefit the public and to create an accessible park for the City of Concord – telling both the bad and the good history. GM Doyle stated he hopes Discovery Builders will work cooperatively with this agency, appreciate the support of the public, Save Mt. Diablo and citizens adjacent the weapon station for being good advocates along with Director Lane.

President Corbett opened the Public Hearing: Public Comments and letters of support were received. Letters are attached to these minutes. Public Comments received by email can be found on the District Website for this board meeting. Ted Clement, Executive Director of Save Mt. Diablo thanked the District for all the truly outstanding work to help materialize the proposed Concord Hills Park and the thoughtful way staff are engaging native peoples and others to come up with a name for this park, and for keeping parks open during this time. Seth Adams, Save Mt. Diablo Land Conservation Director, formed in 1971 to protect land on or around Mt. Diablo. Tom Leatherman, NPS provided written comments and thanked the Board. (Attachment C) Wendy Gonzales talked about how close their property is to park and asked for clarification on the location of a conceptual trail to their property and if it would affect the home values.

Letter was read into the record by the Clerk from the Friends of Port Chicago, President Diana McDaniel. (Attachment D) The Friends of Port Chicago are appreciative of the planned visitor center to make aware and enhance the explosion that killed African American soldiers. 44 different emails of support for the Concord Land Use Plan were received. Each name was read into the record and is attached to these minutes. (Attachment E) To read all public comment emails not attached to these minutes please go to https://www.ebparks.org/about/meetings/bodgeneral/default.htm

President Corbett closed the Public Hearing.

Director Rosario thanked staff for their incredible work and congratulated Director Lane, GM Doyle, and Brian Holt for their perseverance. Director Waespi thanked NPS, Save Mt Diablo, all the NGOs, Legislators, Director Lane and GM Doyle. Director Coffey complimented staff, GM Doyle and Director Lane. Director Coffey stated he reviewed the objections sent to the District by lawyers, and staffs’ point by point responses in the board packet and the response from Devan this morning. Director Coffey stated this LUP is a strong and evidenced produced work and he shares the GM’s frustration. This has been in the reuse planning process for 10 years and the LUP has been circulated for 5 years, and day before the meeting last month to adopt the plan, the District receives a letter. Director Coffey remarked he is impressed with the work staff have done in response to the threat and urged them to keep it going.

Director Wieskamp observed the District is tenacious, looks ahead and thoughtful about the public and benefits to the public. The GM and Director Lane have led this all the way and it will be a magnificent park. It will take time to develop, and we have it for the future. Director Echols thanked Director Lane, GM Doyle and staff Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of July 7, 2020 who worked on this project over the years – their perseverance and vision for the future. Important too, is the cultural significance of the land and to have access to the Port Chicago Memorial. Echols commented reaching out to the community, and in particular, the native community in naming the land is important. President Corbett thanked Director Lane for her tenacity and strong efforts to help the public to weigh in. There are many stories in this land. Corbett expressed gratitude that the District has the support of the community taxpayers and the Navy in turning the land back to the people. Director Lane thanked everyone for the comments. Lane said she has been involved since 1999. Lane recognized and thanked staff and Placeworks. Lane commented that this park will complete a border of open space around the Diablo Valley, and is a success story. There has been great cooperation from national parks, City of Concord, the Navy, and the citizens. Lane also acknowledged Save Mt Diablo, Friends of Port Chicago, Navy, Regulatory Agencies and Legislatures and the public. She gave special thanks to Brian Holt and Kristina Kelchner, and remarked she is looking forward to adopting the Land Use Plan. Lane stated she looks at this whole park as what the stories will be as a microcosms of California history. She looks forward to the section that will open about 900 acres to meet the request of people in Concord and the central Diablo Valley, so that it will all not be landbanked for a long time. Lane stated this project has been highlight during her time on this board. District Counsel Carol Victor walked the Board through the approval of these two resolutions. Director Lane acknowledged Devan Reiff for his excellent work.

By motion of Director Corbett, and seconded by Director Echols, the Board voted unanimously to approve the Item 2a.

Directors For: Colin Coffey, Ellen Corbett, Elizabeth Echols, Beverly Lane, Dee Rosario, Dennis Waespi, Ayn Wieskamp. Directors Against: None. Directors Absent: None.

a. Authorization to Award a Construction Contract with Power Engineering Construction Co. for the Restore Encinal Beach and to Transfer and Appropriate Funds: Alameda Point Regional Shoreline Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 154 (attached)

Lisa Goorjian, Chief of Design and Construction, give a quick introduction to this item and recognized the work of Stewardship, Grants, Public Affairs and the Legal departments. Ren Bates, Capital Programs Manager gave this PowerPoint presentation. Bates offered context, project location, project need and project improvements. Bates explained the public bids were opened online. Five bids were received, with Power Engineering Construction Company as the lowest responsible bidder. Director Lane asked where the location of the shoreline will be in 50 years. Matt Graul replied he will return with a reply on the specific location. He added that the design does take sea level rise into account. Corbett was pleased the project will begin early. She asked about the naming of the property which is owned by Alameda. Kelchner replied that Brian Holt is the contact on naming and the working name that Alameda is using is Encinal Beach which is what the District is using currently.

3. FINANCE AND MANAGEMENT SERVICES DIVISION

By motion of Director Coffey, and seconded by Director Rosario, the Board voted unanimously to approve the Item 3a.

Directors For: Colin Coffey, Ellen Corbett, Elizabeth Echols, Beverly Lane, Dee Rosario, Dennis Waespi, Ayn Wieskamp. Directors Against: None. Directors Absent: None.

Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of July 7, 2020 a. Authorization to Amend the 2020 Budget for Mid-Year Appropriations and Transfers Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 155 (attached)

Deputy General Manager Alvarez presented this item. Alvarez reported the budget is a combination of many voices and collaboration by many department heads with an eye towards good fiscal management that prepares the District for the current impact of Covid19. Deborah Spaulding, Assistant Finance Officer, took the board through this presentation and provided context on recent economic data and the District’s refunds due the closure, property tax revenues, the CA states May revise, investment earnings impacts and revenues to date. Debra Auker, CFO reminded the Board where the District currently stands financially, however in August staff will have a clearer picture. Staff are predicting District expenditures will be less since not all programming is being provided. Spaulding continued with the midyear budget review process. Director Lane said she was pleased to see funds for the Arata Barn and the trail user counters. She appreciated the Finance committee and staff working through this and the importance of their work. Director Coffey stated it really challenged management with the concept of the crisis and foreseeable shortfalls, and staff have already established good reserves in general, pension trust funds and prudent planning. President Corbett asked what percent are our reserve? Auker replied 32%. GM Doyle said the budget ran through several reviews with both the DGM, Alvarez and Spaulding and there will be more costs to benefits and pension liability and didn’t want to put the Board deeper into a hole when we have less to give as the government continues to kick this can down the road. We are positioning ourselves to get through a storm.

Public comment - Kelly Abreu talked about the pandemic breaking the trend of growth for property taxes. He stated Management should not only watch the property tax but the economic changes. He said forecasting growth is imprudent.

4. BOARD AND STAFF REPORTS

General Manager commented that the report is in the packet.

5. GENERAL MANAGER’S COMMENTS Maintenance Superintendent Eric Bowman and Alternative Work Program Supervisor Patrick Demmons will co-present on the Trail Assessment Survey and Maintenance Plan.

Demmons gave his presentation on centralizing the approach of trail maintenance on all natural narrow surface trail crew. In the absence of an agreed upon standard he consulted with the California State Parks Trail book for guidance. In his scope of work he decided to conduct a walking survey and assessment of all trails. A narrow, natural surface trail is any unpaved trail that can’t be driven by 4-wheel drive truck or heavy equipment and can only be worked by a hand crew or specialized narrow tracked equipment. Lately all of our trails have seen an unprecedented rise from all groups due to SIP. All of this indicates that a focused trail assessment plan is more important now than ever. During the survey it was discovered that there are over 100 miles of additional bootleg or cattle trails that have frequent or daily use. He discussed the necessary sustainable trails adding that two 600-hour interns were hired and trained on how to walk and study trails. Demmons took the Board through the study of Las Trampas by highlighting and describing certain trail project sights. He also introduced the Trails crews past and present. He detailed the types of work that the crews have done to bring a trail back to for a rolling trail that follows the contours of the landscape. Information was analyzed using a trail maintenance budget estimator. Demmons said that working on trails is strenuous and yet rewarding. Director Rosario acknowledged the work of Demmons giving them a roadmap on how to maintain these trails. Director Waespi thanked Demmons for his dedication. Director Wieskamp and Lane thanked Demmons for his work on quantifying the work. Corbett said she hopes he is putting this information together for the EBRPD Trail handbook. Corbett asked how do we budget for this? AGM O’Connor said that right now we can’t get the work done, the plan is to have the park supervisors manage the work. GM Doyle said that one of the challenges is to how to prioritize which trails get the attention throughout the district and for each board members wards. There are a lot of donors who are interested in Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of July 7, 2020 trails. These narrow natural trails need a lot of work and yet they have some of the most spectacular scenery in the bay area. Rosario stated that if there is ever a stimulus program like the WPA we could put a lot people at work. Demmons thanked the Board and a lot of other rangers and supervisors who have this experience.

6. ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM CLOSED SESSION

District Counsel Victor said that are no announcements.

7. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS

a. Finance Committee (4/29/20) (Coffey) b. Legislative Committee (5/22/20) (Waespi)

8. BOARD COMMENTS

Director Corbett reported on meetings attended. Director Corbett • Attended 2 EOC meetings; • Attended a Shelter in Parade in Alameda virtually; • Attended the Lake Merritt rotary 10th event – video taped. Corbett congratulated Oakland that received the Transformative Climate Communities (TCC) Grant. Corbett acknowledged the Clerk Knight and Clay support staff that makes these meetings possible

Director Rosario • Attended the Adhoc residence meeting; • Attended the Operations Committee; • Attended the COVID Task force; • Attended the Finance Committee; • Attended the Workforce Diversity Committee; • Attended the videotaped Lake Merritt Rotary 10th event; • Met with john Kaufman and Jerry Kent on their proposal to form a fuel mitigation JPA; • Met with City of Oakland re: Lake Temescal with Dr. Alvarez and Matt Graul; • Met with Mayor of El Cerrito. Rosario thanked Public Safety and the police officers for their work. Rosario and Robyn road their bicycles along the Bay Trail.

Director Lane reported on meetings attended. Director Lane • Attended a Legislative Committee; • Visited Concord Hills, Big Break, Ironhorse trail, Briones and Castleridge. Lane mentioned the Sierra Club magazine has an interesting article entitled Across the Great Divide.

Director Coffey will report next board meeting.

Director Waespi reported on meetings attended. Director Waespi • Attended the Operations Committee; • Attended the COVID Taskforce meeting; • Attended the Legislative Committee; • Met with Matt Graul re: Hayward Shoreline Master Plan. Waespi went to Mission Peak for the 4th, Ohlone staging area, Garin Park, Don Castro and Cull Canyon. Hike at Lake Chabot daily Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of July 7, 2020

Director Wieskamp reported on meetings attended. Director Wieskamp • Attended the Adhoc Residence meeting; • Attended the Operations Committee. Director Wieskamp talked with park supervisors and unit managers in her ward. She also remarked about the purveyance at Shadow Cliffs.

Director Echols reported on meetings attended. Director Echols • Attended the Juneteenth with Barbara Lee and Julian Castro; • Attended the Legislative Committee; • Attended a meeting with staff on Jewel Lake project. Director Echols said that she has had several meeting with constituents virtually and some socially distant.

E. ADJOURNMENT

President Corbett adjourned the meeting at 5:46 p.m. in honor of the Chupcan tribe the native people who inhabited Concord Hills and the 300 sailors who lost their lives and the terrible injustice visited on the 50 sailors who exercised their free speech rights at the time.

Attachment A

Heather DeQuincy July 7, 2020 EBRPD Board Meeting Good afternoon President Corbett, Member of the Board of Directors, General Manager Doyle, and Deputy General Manager Alvarez I am Heather DeQuincy, an Administrative Analyst in the Public Safety Division and an On-Call Firefighter. I was selected by AFSCME Local 2428 to serve as a member of the Classification and Compensation Task Force. I came to speak to you today about Consent Calendar Item C, the Salary Adjustments for Seasonal Classifications, as I did in December 2019, when this proposal was first submitted for Board approval. As I did then, I’d like to first whole-heartedly support the District’s move to increase the salary for our valuable seasonal staff. I strongly believe that all District staff deserve to be compensated at median market rate. Second, I wanted to thank the Board of Directors and District Management for actively taking the Union’s concerns into consideration. Following the postponement of this consent calendar item in December, Human Resources staff requested to meet with Union representatives to ensure that our concerns were understood. They have since made significant changes to the proposed salary adjustments so that now the adjustments are both more in line with the equity adjustments received by AFSCME Local 2428 staff per limitation established in the 2017 – 2021 MOU and internally aligned based on historical precedent. Specifically, I wanted to thank Chief Human Resources Officer, Kip Walsh, and Human Resources Analyst, Ali Adams for their work to make this equity adjustment truly more equitable. I believe that Union members, District Management, and our elected Board Members share many common values and goals which are achieved through collaboration. Consent Calendar Item C is an example of working together for the betterment of the District as a whole. Thank you. Attachment B

From: Matt Cobb To: Yolande Barial Knight Subject: Board Meeting Public Comment Date: Monday, July 6, 2020 3:00:51 PM

I am commenting to the Board regarding the suspension of the Volunteer Flight Medic Program

The flight medics are the sole Advanced Life Support Paramedic providers in the park. Caring for park users officers in remote locations is always the foremost in operations.

Many of the Volunteer Flight Paramedics come to the Park with extensive critical care and firefighting experience. This includes overseas combat trauma stabilization, extensive austere medical experience in disasters such as earthquakes and typhoons, and fireline medic qualifications. Their resumes include working in emergency departments at level One Trauma Centers, active SWAT Team Medics, and being tasked to federal agencies to operate as tactical medics during National Special Security Events. Some are high level trauma and medical instructors.

Since there seems to be a disconnect narrative that reads since the Park will bolster its firefighting response it must eliminate its medical response. With this in mind it is important to understand that many of the flight medics are actually career fire department medics, ranking all the way to battalion chief, with extensive wildland firefighting qualifications and experience. In their regular work lives they are qualified to run engines, fire crews, and work as fireline medics who provide immediate care directly on the fireline. Some medics work on incident management teams who are called to large fires to establish control when the severity exceeds the ability for local jurisdictions to contain it, It seems like having medics who are trained in fire, some with decades of experience in wildland initial and extended attack, is a direct and distinct benefit to a program increasing its focus on wildland firefighting. These very professional individuals believe in this program and volunteer their time to eagerly support it. Please remember the standard fire engine staffing model across the nation includes at least one paramedic 24/7. For over a decade fire departments realize the community and operational importance of this model. And again, the community expects paramedics to arrive and initiate ALS treatment as the basic level of service.

Having a third member to assist with all operations, including firefighting is critical. On one specific weekend day when the East Bay Regional helicopter saved homes on two different fires. This happened because the Medic and TFO worked rapidly, safely, and efficiently together to assess the fire threats, locate a landing zone, deploy the bucket as a team, and clear the helicopter for take off. Twice on that day they did this and twice that day the helicopter made drops on the fire as it bumped the homes. This would not have occurred without the Medic to assist the crew in the overall safety and deployment. As the Park increases its water carrying capability the bucket will become proportionally heavier to deploy. I am not sure the specific gallonage and size of the new bucket but you should vet that out. See what it will take to safely and efficiently deploy it.

It seems that the helicopter is lilley dispatched to slightly more medicals than fires but you should look for specific data on that. It is there someplace. The helicopter actually turns down many medicals prior to dispatch due to access issues. Sometimes you can practically see the medical location from the airport but the crew is forced to deny the mission because there is no hoist. Lake Chabot is a good example of a location the Park helicopter cannot access yet can travel there in minutes. If the Park had an aircraft equipped with the basic expected capabilities the medical contacts would rise significantly. When hoist / rescue equipped aircraft are available they get used. On a weekend day where I work as a rescue manager I will use hoist capable aircraft up to three times in a day. As a matter of fact, we have sent our hoist ship back to refuel between rescues.

The number of people needing medical help and rescue has risen over the years. The need exists. The only issue is that we are aggressively opting not to meet that need. Yes, REACH can hoist and the public use hoist is free until they get the patient inside the aircraft and close the door. Then it is a standard medical transport and that will cost the injured party $38,000 for the flight. Yes the zeros are correct and that is the base price. If REACH, a for profit, sees the need to put on a hoist I promise they did not do it haphazardly. They see the need. They want to capitalize on the need. The Park helicopter should have both paramedics and a hoist to support the employees and visitors with what is a standard equipment and staffing complement. The liability lies in not having ALS paramedics who can treat and are the standard of care the public and industry expects.

When the fire department is conducting a rescue and bringing in a helicopter the standard questions an incident commander will have are “hoist / rescue capable?” and “ALS or BLS?” If they are not hoist / rescue capable or ALS they get turned back and replaced with a helicopter that can meet the expected mission. Why are we trying to push hard to turn the clock back to 1987? We need to meet today’s mission and the future’s. The need exists if we choose to get in the mix and actually build a program to meet it. I apologize about my frustration but it is confusing to state the obvious.

Anyone who has watched TV in the last month understands that police agencies are not getting a tremendous amount of fan mail. The community is screaming for police departments to show they care for the community. Many agencies understand that their helicopter arriving and rescuing a person while providing the standard of medical care expected is one of the best public relations machines they have in their pocket. It strikes me as odd that at the exact time police agencies are being asked to show they care the East Bay Regional Parks are making deliberate strides to show they want to eliminate service. This is the time to actively engage the community and demonstrate regard for their well being.

You may want to consider the vicious hiring cycle you seem to be entering. The firefighting operation requires high level pilots who come to the Park as operators. There is a huge safety issue with not letting operators operate. They leave to go to pretty much any other flight program out there since those agencies allow them to perform standard missions. Just about every other multi-mission agency allows the helicopters to work in the manner intended. As people leave you invest money and time into new employees who will use the ASU as a training ground prior to going to another agency that performs standard multi-mission assignments. After a short while the training suffers due to repetition. Safety is compromised. Similarly, making the aircraft equipment meet that standard mission profile you will also attract and retain flight medics. If you build a program that reflects what a multi-mission helicopter is supposed to be doing your employees (and volunteers) gain operational satisfaction, stay with you, and build on team experience.

By continuing to cut back you limit your future both operationally and culturally. If you get the correct aircraft with the correct staffing the missions will come. I have watched the CHP make the right moves and fly virtually no rescue missions to become extremely busy. If the EBRPD does the right moves they will see the calls come in, their operators feeling job fulfillment, and the community understanding that when they were hurt the police department arrived and made things better. Now more than any time in my life you need that. The need exists if you choose to be part of the solution. In a successful multi- mission profile all aspects work together and are critical: Law, search, firefighting, rescue / technical acces, and of course ALS Paramedics Care with flight medics. You short one, you short them all. You have amazing, visionary, and honest line leadership at the Air Support Unit that has worked tirelessly and developed a professional and encompassing program that is ready to become great for you. Listen to them. Exact their experience directly as you go forward. As far as the medics, they arrive with unique individual resumes that support the firefighting operation. Many with experience to train unit members both professional and volunteer in firefighting. It is time to build your program into a standard mission profile. From: Linda Clem To: Yolande Barial Knight Cc: Elizabeth Echols Subject: Fwd: VFMP Mission with EBRP Date: Friday, July 3, 2020 11:46:00 PM

From: TIM MCELHENEY

Subject: Fwd: VFMP Mission with EBRP

From: TIM MCELHENEY

To whom it may concern,

I am sorry to hear that the VFMP mission for East Bay Regional Parks is being disbanded. As a retired Park Ranger of 28+ years with Sacramento County Park Rangers, I found the use of air assets invaluable to meet our mission as guardians of our parks. We had access to the helicopters of the Sacramento Sheriff's Department, Sacramento Police Department, California Highway Patrol and Sacramento Metro Fire Department that provided air services for our calls for service. We even made call outs to EBRPD, twice, for incidents down in the delta. The one thing I can say is that all the air assets in Sacramento County are one dimensional. Either law enforcement or fire suppression/ search and rescue. None of the had an airborne medic on board. Response times in some of the more remote park locations could be greatly enhanced with an air unit with a medic on board especially drownings. Ground response could take up to 30-40 minutes depending on location.

A multi dimensional air asset that can locate, treat and transport a medical emergency seems like a "no brainier" and needs to be cherished and saved for the residents of Alameda and Contra Costa Counties.

Thank you for your attention,

Tim McElheney Park Ranger (Ret) From: Annie Bieber To: Yolande Barial Knight Subject: Public Comments Date: Sunday, July 5, 2020 4:58:04 PM

Dear Ms Barial Knight,

It was recently brought to my attention that the East Bay Regional Parks District is considering doing away with their Eagle Flight Medic Program in lieu of Fire Fighting Capabilities only. As a former Public Safety Dispatcher for Cal Fire I spent the majority of my career in the Morgan Hill Emergency Command Center and delt with the Eagle Helicopter Unit on a daily basis. I have also flown the entire EBRP District on numerous occassions and know not only how vast it is but also how remote many areas of the park system are and how vital it is to have Medics and a vehicle to trasnport them to the patient and the patient to a Trauma Center/Hospital.

I cannot count the number of times that a life has been saved by the availability of a Helicopter, on the flip side I can remember in vivid detail every call that a life was lost because Medics could not respond quickly enough to remote areas and all Air Ambulances were in use.

Every First Responder no matter the Organization, State, Country or Continent has taken a Vow to Protect and Serve with the Protection/Preservation of life being First and Foremost. You can replace buildings, rehab & replant vegetation you cannot Replace a Loved One. It is imperitive that the Eagle Medic Program continues especially when it is reliant on the goodwill and good opinion of the Tax paying public it has sworn to Protect. Perhaps this will prevent another Dispatcher, EMT, Parent etc...from a lot of What if...sleepless nights.

Respectfully yours,

Annie Bieber-Vandergoot [email protected] (408) 772-0235 From: Jamie Edson To: Elizabeth Echols; Dee Rosario; Dennis Waespi; Ellen Corbett; Ayn Wieskamp; Beverly Lane; Robert E. Doyle; Yolande Barial Knight Subject: Public Comments - not on the agenda Date: Monday, July 6, 2020 12:49:44 PM

Have you ever been stranded on the side of a mountain, knowing that if no one gets to you within minutes, you will die? That happened to me in 1999. It was not in EBRPD, it was at Sugar Bowl but it applies to a recent decision made by the head of the police and fire department of EBRPD.

Late in April, I had followed my friend Rob, up to a western facing cornice at Sugar Bowl's eastern face. The corn snow was melting in the latter part of the afternoon. We had been skiing hard all day, and while I skiied 60 days that season, I was not an expert skiier. I was tired and my Rob was bigger and stronger than I. He coasted over a small ridge, that I could not get enough momentum going to crest myself. I slid backwards and looped in the shape of a remembrance ribbon. When I came to a stop I was at the top of a chute. The chute was not as wide as my ski, and at the bottom was a massive boulder. So if I tried to slide down the chute I was probably just going to fall 30 feet to the boulder. I didn't have the strength to get out of the situation in any way that I could see. I literally dug my arms into the snow on the concave hillside against which I leaned, knowing that if I warmed it up too much more, it would break apart, and death awaited me below.

The only good thing in the situation was that I was almost right under the chairlift. People could see I needed help. I sent Rob down to ski patrol, in hopes that they could get there before I fell. He didn't want to leave me, and was already crying.

Other skiers on the lift, encouraged me to hang in there, (literally) and in the 10 minutes or so while I waited, in my head I ran the video of my life, and decided that my biggest regret was not having life insurance in force. I believed I was going to die.

Before ski patrol got to me, I heard the whir of a distant helicoptor. I knew it was there for me, in case the worst happened.

Fortunately, ski patrol was able to access me, remove my skis and I actually climbed up the vertical face of the mountain in my boots, digging them deep into the mountain drift like stairs. I rode to safety on the back of a snowmobile.

I never cry. Except then, when I cried for most of the rest of the day. Rob cried with me, because it was almost as traumatic for him as it was for me. The point of this story is that it could have ended VERY differently. Had I not been safely reachable by ski patrol, my only two other options were death or serious injury from a fall, requiring airlift, or being airlifted out before that happened.

What if the helicopter had not been there, and I did indeed fall, somehow managing to survive? b so I know it is possible to survive such an event, depending on how you land.

How long would I have waited, bleeding internally, multiple fractures, punctured lung, ruptured spleen? Probably paralyzed, but certainly with some head trauma?

I replay these scenes in my mind on a regular basis.

Would a commercial medivac flight checked my insurance or financial means, before they decided whether or not to come to my aid? Would they have waited the extra time to make sure I was inaccessible by land before they took off?

The helicopter was there before ski patrol.

Hopefully ERBRD (police and fire) will come to their senses and back up their decision to suspend the medic program. Similar scenarios to mine happen every day, where a medic carrying helicopter is the difference between life and death for someone, maybe a mom with two small children like I was at the time. I have seen these recoveries on the news more times than I can count. Property is important, and so is life. The medic program is a well established paramedic volunteer program that saves lives all year round.

I beg you to keep this important program in place. .

Thank you,

Jamie Edson 510.828.4243 [email protected] Attachment C Attachment D

United States Department of the Interior

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial 440 Civic Center Plaza, Suite 300 Richmond, California 94804

IN REPLY REFER TO: 1.A.2

June 1, 2020

Ms. Ellen Corbett President, Board of Directors East Bay Regional Park District 2950 Peralta Oaks Court. Oakland, California 94605

Re: Public Comments – Agenda Item #D.2.a: “Adoption of Land Use Plan, and Certification of Environmental Impact Report; Adoption of the Associated Mitigation, Monitoring, and Reporting Program, and Adoption of the CEQA Findings Report: Concord Hills Regional Park”

Dear Ms. Corbett and Fellow Board Members:

The National Park Service (NPS) manages and maintains administrative jurisdiction over Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial (National Memorial), a designated unit within the national park system, which is adjacent to Concord Hills Regional Park. The NPS provided comments on the proposed Land Use Plan for Concord Hills Regional Park on December 9, 2019, which were included in the Final Environmental Impact Report (EIR). The NPS appreciates the opportunity to address the East Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors regarding the final adoption of the Land Use Plan and EIR of the future park.

As was expressed in our comment letter, the NPS recognizes the Concord Hills Regional Park Land Use Plan as a culmination of past collaborative planning and partnership and supports the adoption of the proposed plan and EIR as a key next step in the implementation of the National Memorial’s enabling legislation. Adoption of the Land Use Plan and EIR would allow for continued collaboration with the District in implementing the joint visitor center and administrative and curatorial facilities envisioned in the plan. Furthermore, the NPS looks forward to continuing collaboration with the District in cohosting special events, tours, and related programs. If you have any questions, please contact Trevor Rice, Park Planner, at (925) 374-2293 or [email protected].

Sincerely,

Tom Leatherman Superintendent

Page 1 of 2 cc: Elizabeth Echols, Ward 1 Member, Board of Directors, East Bay Regional Park District Dee Rosario, Vice President & Ward 2 Member, Board of Directors, East Bay Regional Park District Dennis Waespi, Ward 3 Member, Board of Directors, East Bay Regional Park District Ayn Wieskamp, Ward 5 Member, Board of Directors, East Bay Regional Park District Beverly Lane, Secretary & Ward 6 Member, Board of Directors, East Bay Regional Park District Colin Coffey, Treasurer & Ward 7 Member, Board of Directors, East Bay Regional Park District Robert E. Doyle, General Manager, East Bay Regional Park District Brian Holt, Chief of Planning/GIS, East Bay Regional Park District Devan Reiff, Principal Planner, East Bay Regional Park District Woody Smeck, Deputy Regional Director, Regions 8, 9, 10, and 12, National Park Service David Siegenthaler, Program Manager, Federal Lands to Parks, Regions 8, 9, 10, and 12, National Park Service

Page 2 of 2 PUBLIC SPEAKERS– PT ISABEL Attachment E TOM AND JANE KELLY

********************************

PUBLIC SPEAKERS - CONCORD

• HEATHER DEQUINCY (STAFF) • SETH ADAMS AND TIM CLEMENT, SAVE MT. DIABLO • TOM LEATHERMAN

********************************

E-MAILS – MISSION PEAK

• WILLIAM YRAGUI • RUJUL AND DUSHYANT POTA

E-MAILS – COVID

• LANCE JOHNSON (STAFF) COVID – 19 – REOPENING OF PARKS • CHRISTOPHER NEWEY (STAFF) COVID – 19

E-MAILS – VARIOUS SUBJECTS

• MATT COBB SUSPENSION OF THE VOLUNTEEER FLIGHT MEDIC PROGRAM • WENDY GONZALES SOUTH SALAMANDER & RAN TRAIL • WILLIAM YRAGUI MISSION PEAK • ANDREW HANSON CONCORD HILLS – NO HOUSING

E-MAILS – CONCORD HILLS – SUPPORT OF LAND USE PLAN FRIENDS OF PORT CHICAGO SETH ADAMS AND TIM CLEMENT, SAVE MT. DIABLO (THEY ARE SPEAKING LIVE TOO?) BARBARA CAIN DEE SIMMONS DANA M. WIESE TOM MORGENSTERN JAMEE LONGACRE CHRISTOPHER SNYDER JACK SUITE KATHLEEN BRENNAN DAVID GHILARDI BETH JERSEY MOHAMED KHLAFALLAH ELLIOTT H. LEE MOHAMED AHMED ANDREA BOWMAN ALETHA WIENS ANGELA ?? DONAH CONDER CAROL MATTHEWS KEN DAM ELIZABETH ?? LANCE JOHNSON JOHN FREEMAN CAROL AND VICTOR GREY SCOTT WILLIAMS CHRISTINE HANSON ROMAN OMANI MARIANNE CALLAHAN AMY RODRIGUEZ DARLENE ROTH TIM SEGROVE – SUPPORT KEREN MARTINEZ NATE GRAHAM LUP. WOULD LIKE TO SEE PARK NAMED AFTER ONE OR [email protected] MARK PURZYCKI TWO GROUPS OF UNDER- MARK DAVIS TINA SEGROVE REPRESENTED PEOPLE C.A. LINDER ELLEN BARTH ALEX DAVIS IAN CHIZMAR JOHN CELIO BRIAN GIBSON DAVID FITZGERALD

Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of July 21, 2020

The East Bay Regional Park District Board Meeting, which was held virtually on July 21, 2020, called its Closed Session to order at 11:30 a.m. by Board President Ellen Corbett.

ROLL CALL

Directors Remote: Ellen Corbett, President Dee Rosario, Vice President Beverly Lane, Secretary Colin Coffey, Treasurer Dennis Waespi Elizabeth Echols Ayn Wieskamp

The Open Session of the Board Meeting was called to order at 1:38 p.m. by President Corbett.

Staff Remote: Robert Doyle, Ana Alvarez, Carol Victor, Jim O’Connor, Anthony Ciaburro, Debra Auker, Kristina Kelchner, Carol Johnson, Erich Pfuehler, Juliana Schirmer, Ira Bletz, Anne Kassebaum, Dave Mason, Alice Kinner, Alan Love, Aileen Thiele, Deborah Spaulding, Mona Koh, Kevin Damstra, Mary Mattingly, Lance Brede, Kip Walsh, Lisa Baldinger, Matthew Graul, Jason McCrystle, Yulie Padmore, Mona Koh, Deborah Spaulding, Sharon Clay, Matthew James.

Guests: None.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

President Corbett asked if the Board members had any questions about the meeting process. There were none.

A. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

By motion of Director Wieskamp, and seconded by Director Lane, the Board voted unanimously to approve the agenda. Roll Call Vote unanimous.

Directors Remote: Ellen Corbett, Colin Coffey, Elizabeth Echols, Beverly Lane, Dee Rosario, Dennis Waespi, Ayn Wieskamp. Directors Against: None. Directors Absent: None.

B. PUBLIC COMMENTS

There were no public comments.

C. SPECIAL UPDATE

1. General Manager’s Update on the Status of the East Bay Regional Park District Emergency During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of July 21, 2020

General Manager Doyle reported on the increase in cases of Covid-19 across the nation. Three District employees who have tested positive. There have been big crowds at the parks, complaints about bicyclists not wearing masks and passing too close, complaints about swimming being closed. The District is doing its best to adapt, manage and maintain with limited staffing needs. GM Doyle said it is essential staff wear their masks at all times. GM Doyle stated staff are receiving comments from the public about the public who don’t wear masks and don’t maintain the social distance. GM Doyle stated his direction for staff to not encourage arguments, but to model the behavior and rely on messaging posted throughout the park and on the District’s various communication platforms. GM Doyle reported there have been numerous fires across the District and fireworks are still being used. He commented that staff are preparing new protocols and policies for reopening and reoperation when the time comes. President Corbett commented that one of her constituents talked to her about working with restaurants to encourage their patrons to pack in and pack out when they go to Alameda Beach for a picnic. Corbett thought it was a good suggestion and asked her constituent to report back to her with her results.

By motion of Director Waespi, and seconded by Director Echols, the Board voted unanimously to approve the Item C.2

Directors For: Colin Coffey, Ellen Corbett, Elizabeth Echols, Beverly Lane, Dee Rosario, Dennis Waespi, Ayn Wieskamp. Directors Against: None. Directors Absent: None.

2. Resolution Reaffirming the Existence of a Local East Bay Regional Park District Emergency Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 157 (attached)

District Counsel Carol Victor gave a brief presentation about this item to reaffirm the state of emergency still exists. An additional be it further resolved will be added to this resolution which will read: “BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the Board of Directors shall reaffirm the existence of a local East Bay Regional Park District emergency every sixty (60) days until termination of the emergency is proclaimed by the Board of Directors”

D. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

By motion of Director Lane, and seconded by Director Wieskamp, the Board voted unanimously to approve the Consent Calendar.

Directors For: Colin Coffey, Ellen Corbett, Elizabeth Echols, Beverly Lane, Dee Rosario, Dennis Waespi, Ayn Wieskamp. Directors Against: None. Directors Absent: None.

a. Approval of District Check Listing for the Period of June 1, 2020 to June 14, 2020 Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 158 (attached)

b. Approval of the Minutes for the Board Meeting of June 16, 2020

c. Authorization of Costs of Electronic Solar-Powered Message Board Rental from United Rentals and Pacific Highway Rentals, LLC Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 159 (attached) Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of July 21, 2020

d. Resolution to Support S. 3684 (Wyden D-OR) – 21st Century Conservation Corps for Our Health and Our Jobs Act Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 160 (attached)

e. Resolution to Support AB 2519 (Wood D-Santa Rosa) – Advance Grant Payments for Conservation Projects Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 161 (attached)

f. Resolution to Support AB 3164 (Friedman D-Glendale) – Wildland Urban Interface Wildfire Risk Model Resolution No. 2020 – 07 -162 (attached)

g. Resolution to Support H.R. 2215 (Chu D-CA) – San Gabriel Mountains Foothills and Rivers Protection Act Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 163 (attached)

h. Resolution to Support AB 2076 (Bigelow R-O'Neals) – State Parks Wildfire Prevention Strategy Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 164 (attached)

i. Resolution to Support AB 3074 (Friedman D-Glendale) – Wildfire Ember Resistant Zones Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 165 (attached)

j. Resolution to Support H.R. 2199 (Carbajal D-CA) – Central Coast Heritage Protection Act Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 166 (attached)

k. Resolution to Support H.R. 6546 (Neguse D-CO) – Wildfire and Community Health Response Act of 2020 Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 169 (attached)

L. Resolution to Support H.R. 7073 (Garamendi D-CA) – Special Districts Qualifying for Coronavirus Relief Fund Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 170 (attached)

Director Waespi thanked Erich Pfuehler, Lisa Baldinger and Yulie Padmore of Government and Legislative Affairs on all the work they have done to advocate on behalf of the District.

m. Resolution to Support H.R. 7095 (DeFazio D-OR) – INVEST in America Act Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 171 (attached)

Director Rosario asked if this bill includes investments and Erich Pfuehler, Chief of Government and Legislative Affairs said that it does.

n. Resolution to Support S. 3624 (Coons D-DE) and H.R. 6702 (Price D-NC) – Pandemic Response and Opportunity Through National Service Act Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 172 (attached)

o. Authorization to Purchase Two Vermeer Chippers from RDO Equipment Company for Equipment Replacement and as an Addition to the Fleet Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 173 (attached)

Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of July 21, 2020 Director Waespi thanked Jim O’Connor and Jason McCrystle for the photograph of the chipper that was added to the staff report.

p. Authorization to Award Construction Contract to NBC Construction and Engineering Inc. to Install Arched Culvert: Morgan Territory Regional Preserve Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 174 (attached)

2. GENERAL MANAGER DIVISION

By motion of Director Rosario, and seconded by Director Waespi, the Board voted unanimously to approve the Item 2a.

Directors For: Colin Coffey, Ellen Corbett, Elizabeth Echols, Beverly Lane, Dee Rosario, Dennis Waespi, Ayn Wieskamp. Directors Against: None. Directors Absent: None.

a. Authorize the 2020/2021 Tax Rate to be Levied by Alameda and Contra Costa Counties for the Payment of East Bay Regional Park District Measure WW General Obligation Bonds Resolution No. 2020 – 07 - 175 (attached)

AGM FMS/CFO Debra Auker introduced this item which is an annual action to require approval of the bond tax levy. Auker gave a brief background on this item. Deborah Spaulding, Assistant Finance Officer, opened her PowerPoint presentation and discussed property tax information, establishing a debt levy, assessed value, WW bonds and 2020 preliminary revenues. GM Doyle commented that the District is still reimbursing reservations and not charging the public entrance fees which is a significant impact on the budget. Director Rosario and Corbett thanked AGM Auker and AFO Spaulding for their report.

3. BOARD AND STAFF REPORTS

General Manager Doyle’s report was on City of Lafayette – Terraces of Lafayette and Contra Costa County – Iron Horse Corridor Active Transportation Study. Director Rosario asked if there are any mitigations to benefit Briones. GM Doyle replied no. Director Lane commented on the controversial Ironhorse Corridor study and the ½ cent sales tax which did not pass. She suggested staff should look at an expanded trail or two trails – one for bicyclists.

4. GENERAL MANAGER’S COMMENTS

GM Doyle announced that on Thursday the House will vote on the Great American Outdoors Act which will include full and permanent funding of the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) which is bipartisan and he is hopeful that it will be approved and signed by the President. GM Doyle commented on the special livestream video celebrating the completion of the Albany Beach and SF Bay Trail Project hosted by himself and Director Echols. It was the first time a celebration of this type has been done and due to the pandemic public participation was kept to a minimum.

AGM O’Connor introduced this report. Regional Interpretive and Recreation Services Manager Ira Bletz provided an informational presentation on the Online Digital Learning Program which began in late March after the COVID-19 Shelter-in-Place order was implemented. Bletz commended Kevin Damstra, Supervising Naturalist at Black Diamond Mines who was instrumental in launching this program so quickly. Bletz thanked the Regional Parks Foundation for funding to create three virtual experiences. Bletz acknowledged that all staff are to be commended for their work to bring these kinds of programs to schools and to the public. Due to the cancellation of in-person programs for the safety of participants, staff began creating online content for the Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of July 21, 2020 Park District website and other digital platforms. The presentation provided an overview of video content, interpretive techniques, public response through social media platforms, and program planning for the 2020 Fall season and beyond. Anne Kassebaum, Chief of Interpretative and Recreation Services reported she has shared information on Zoom chats with other agencies, and it is great to document and memorializes these programs. Director Wieskamp asked if there is safety in roving. Bletz said that we have created a team on best practices to rove safely. Wieskamp thoroughly enjoyed this presentation and commented it was very well done. Director Coffey stated he is impressed with the work of this department. He commented on the large numbers of views that the District is getting on YouTube, Facebook and the District site. Damstra said that views allow people to watch and engage when they are able. Director Waespi praised staff for a great job well done. President Corbett said that environmental education is great and thanked staff for getting the message out so enthusiastically. She congratulated Kevin Damstra for his forward thinking. GM Doyle commented that Representative Mike Thompson encouraged the District to keep the lines of communication open with the public. Doyle thanked O’Connor, Kassebaum, Bletz, Damstra and staff for getting on board and rolling this out so quickly.

President Corbett called for a 10-minute break.

5. ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM CLOSED SESSION

District Counsel Victor said that are no announcements.

6. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS

a. Finance Committee (5/27/20) (Coffey)

Director Coffey commented that committee members were able to meet on an adhoc basis with the auditors. This is a good practice and the feedback was positive and productive.

7. BOARD COMMENTS

Director Corbett reported on meetings attended. Director Corbett • Attended the EOC meeting; • Attended a meeting with Consultant Brent Ives on GM recruitment; • Attended ASD’s Capital Workshop. Corbett said that there will be virtual presentations for Concerts at the Cove and she filmed the opening.

Director Rosario reported on meetings attended. Director Rosario • Attended 2 COVID Task force meetings; • Attended the Alameda County Mayors Conference; • Attended ASD’s Capital Workshop; • Attended the CCSDA meeting; • Attended the Ad Hoc Residence Committee meeting; • Attended the Operations meeting; • Attended the kickoff of the Implicit Bias Training. Rosario emphasized the need for staff to wear masks while at work.

Director Lane reported on meetings attended. Director Lane • Attended the virtual celebration of the Albany Beach and SF Bay Trail Project; • Attended the virtual National Park Service and District program on Port Chicago; • Attended a Contra Costa County Mayors Conference; • Attended ASD’s Capital Workshop. Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of July 21, 2020 Lane thanked IPM for the report, complimented Public Affairs for the RIN and is eager to hear about the future of the LWCF. Lane went out to Albany Bay Trail, Castleridge in Pleasanton, Sycamore Valley Open Space, Diablo Foothills and Buckeye entrance of Briones. She gave condolences to staff who lost the building at Vaquero Hills. Lane commented about her conservation with AGM O’Connor on trying to find a way to open up Little Farm for families.

Director Coffey reported on meetings attended. Director Coffey • Attended the June 22 PAC meeting; • Attended the Finance Committee meeting; • Attended the Alhambra Valley Watershed quarterly meeting; • Attended the Save Mt. Diablo meeting; • Attended the Contra Costa County Mayors Conference; • Attended Cong. Thompson’s Townhall; • Attended ASD’s Capital Workshop; • Attended the Contra Costa Resource Conservation Districts meeting; • Attended the virtual celebration of the Albany Beach and SF Bay Trail Project. Coffey compliment AGM Carol Johnson and Public Affairs staff for producing the Albany “tv” show.

Director Waespi reported on meetings attended. Director Waespi • Attended two COVID Taskforce meetings; • Attended the HASPA quarterly meeting; • Attended ASD’s Capital Workshop; • Attended a meeting with Consultant Brent Ives on GM recruitment; • Attended the CARPD Board meeting; • Attended the Operations meeting. Waespi hiked the Albany Beach trail. Compliments to Public Affairs staff on the RIN and complimented Government Affairs for advocating on behalf of the Park District in the state and federal legislatures.

Director Wieskamp reported on meetings attended. Director Wieskamp • Attended ASD’s Capital Workshop; • Attended a meeting with Consultant Brent Ives on GM recruitment; • Attended the Operations meeting. Director Wieskamp asked staff to consider a family program at Ardenwood. Wieskamp spoke with supervisors and staff in her ward and sent condolences on the Vaquero Hills fire. She talked with Chris Lyle, Wayne Gilfillan. She spoke with Shelly Miller at Del Valle and Mark Pearson, Botanic Garden who are both retiring and will be missed. RIN is wonderful and should be available in public places.

Director Echols reported on meetings attended. Director Echols • Attended the Berkeley townhall meeting and presented on fire safety – thanked Chief Theile; • Attended ASD’s Capital Workshop; • Attended and participated in the virtual celebration of the Albany Beach and SF Bay Trail Project. Director Echols thanked the community and its leaders on 20+ years of perseverance and acknowledged Director Dotson, Director Siri and Nancy Skinner.

E. ADJOURNMENT

President Corbett adjourned the meeting at 4:45 p.m. in the memory of Reverand CT Vivian and Congressman John Lewis. Vivian was an advocate in the struggle for racial justice and well known for his focus on peaceful protests. Congressman Lewis was on the front lines of peaceful protests and was infamous for the violent incident on the Pettus bridge, he was a champion on the 1965 voting rights.

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

D. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

c. Authorization to Negotiate with Various Property Owners (Reeves/Kelchner)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize the General Manager and the Assistant General Manager, Acquisition, Stewardship & Development Division, to negotiate with:

APN/ADDRESS PROPERTY OWNER PARK/TRAIL Alameda County 074-0890-005-00; 074-1367- City of Alameda Alameda Point Regional 001-00; 074-1367-003-01; Shoreline 074-1367-003-02; 074-1367- 005-01; 074-1367-005-02; 074-1367-006-00; 074-1367- 007-01; 074-1367-007-02; 074-1367-008-01; 074-1367- 008-02; 074-1367-032-01; and 074-1367-032-02 Main Street, Alameda

037A-3152-019-05 Alameda County Flood Leona Canyon Open Space Keller Ave., Oakland Control Regional Preserve

Contra Costa County 258-140-002 (portion) Saint Mary’s College of Old Moraga Ranch Trail 1928 St. Mary’s Rd., Moraga California

REVENUE/COST

Items of cost, terms or conditions of any option are subject to negotiation and would be presented to the Board for formal approval at a later date.

BACKGROUND

The proposed resolution for this item is in direct response to the Brown Act. According to District Counsel, "The Board may meet in Closed (Executive) Session prior to or during negotiations to give instructions to its negotiator regarding the price and terms of payment for the purchase or the lease of the property only after it has identified the parcels of concern, and has identified the people with whom this negotiator may negotiate in open session."

ALTERNATIVES

No alternatives are recommended.

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2020 – 08 -

August 4, 2020

AUTHORIZATION TO NEGOTIATE WITH VARIOUS PROPERTY OWNERS

WHEREAS, Government Code Section 54956.8 requires that prior to or during the negotiations concerning the acquisition of real property, the Board of Directors in closed session may give instructions to its negotiator regarding the price and terms of payment of such property; and

WHEREAS, prior to the closed session, the legislative body of the local agency shall hold an open and public session in which it identifies the real property or real properties which the negotiations may concern, and the person or persons with whom its negotiator may negotiate;

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby approves the authorization to negotiate as presented to the Board of Directors on August 4, 2020; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the General Manager and the Assistant General Manager, Acquisition, Stewardship & Development Division, are hereby authorized by the Board of Directors on behalf of the East Bay Regional Park District and in its name to negotiate the price and terms of payment of the following parcels of real property:

APN/ADDRESS PROPERTY OWNER PARK/TRAIL Alameda County 074-0890-005-00; 074-1367- City of Alameda Alameda Point Regional 001-00; 074-1367-003-01; Shoreline 074-1367-003-02; 074-1367- 005-01; 074-1367-005-02; 074-1367-006-00; 074-1367- 007-01; 074-1367-007-02; 074-1367-008-01; 074-1376- 008-02; 074-1367-032-01; and 074-1367-032-02 Main Street, Alameda

037A-3152-019-05 Alameda County Flood Leona Canyon Open Space Keller Ave., Oakland Control Regional Preserve Contra Costa County 258-140-002 (portion) Saint Mary’s College of Old Moraga Ranch Trail 1928 St. Mary’s Rd., Moraga California

Moved by Director , and seconded by Director , and adopted this 4th day of August, 2020, by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

Ac q uisition, Stewa rd ship & AUTHORIZ ATION TO NEGOTIATE Develop m ent Division Da te: August 4, 2020

Antioch

Concord

Richmond

Hwy 24 Contra Costa Berkeley County M t. Dia b lo Sta te Pa rk

3 Danville

1 Oakland 2

Alameda San Francisco County Bay Livermore Hayward d x m . 0 2 0 2 _ 4 0 _ 8 0 \ 0 2 0 2 _ s N Legend 2 A \ d n a L

EBRPD La nd s \ S 0 5 Miles I G \ [ : O

ALAMEDA COUNTY CONTRA COSTA COUNTY

Pa rk/Tra il: Ala m ed a Point Regiona l Shoreline 3 Pa rk/Tra il: Old M ora ga Ra nc h Tra il 1 Owner: City of Ala m ed a Owner: Sa int M a ry’s College of Ca lifornia APN: 074-0890-005-00; 074-1367-001-00; 074-1367-003-01; APN: 258-140-002 (p ortion) 074-1367-003-02; 074-1367-005-01; 074-1367-005-02; Loc a tion: 1928 St M a ry’s Rd , M ora ga 074-1367-006-00; 074-1367-007-01; 074-1367-007-02; 074-1367-008-01; 074-1367-008-02; 074-1367-032-01; 074-1367-032-02 Loc a tion: M a in Street, Ala m ed a

Pa rk/Tra il: Leona Ca nyon Op en Sp a c e Regiona l Preserve 2 Owner: Ala m ed a County Flood Control & W a ter Conserva tion Distric t APN: 037A-3152-019-05 Loc a tion: Keller Ave, Oa kla nd

Page Left Blank Intentionally

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

D. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

d. Authorization to Renew a Special Use Agreement with Montclair Swim Team: Roberts Regional Recreation Area (Patterson/O’Connor)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager and the Board Operations Committee, by unanimous vote at its July 16, 2020 meeting, recommend that the Board of Directors authorize a five-year agreement with the Montclair Swim Team for use of the swimming pool at Roberts Regional Recreation Area, when not closed or in public use.

REVENUE/COST

The Park District can expect revenue of approximately $24,000 per year. There are no additional costs associated with this agreement.

BACKGROUND

The Montclair Swim Team has been in existence in the Oakland Hills area since 1960. In 2006, the team moved from its long-time training facility at a private swim club to Roberts Regional Recreation Area pool. This arrangement enables the swim team to maintain consistent training programs, provides added coaching opportunities that permit swimmers to reach their full individual potential, and affords swimmers opportunities to test their abilities in competition. The Montclair Swim Team abides by the Park District’s code of conduct, changing room protocols, and other policies and procedures related to general safety.

The Montclair Swim Team will pay the Park District the same rate they have with past agreements, $50 per hour, for exclusive hourly use of the Roberts pool with anticipated scheduling of pool use for the months of August through November and January through June, when the pool is not closed for construction or Shelter-in-Place restrictions, or not in use by Park District programs or the general public. This use accommodates the Park District’s use of the pool for other uses, including swim lesson programs, and there is enough capacity to accommodate the Montclair Swim Team schedule.

ALTERNATIVES

None are recommended.

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2020 – 08 -

August 4, 2020

AUTHORIZATION TO RENEW A SPECIAL USE AGREEMENT WITH MONTCLAIR SWIM TEAM: ROBERTS REGIONAL RECREATION AREA

WHEREAS, the purpose of the Montclair Swim Team Special Use Agreement is to continue to enable the swim team to maintain consistent training programs, provides added coaching opportunities that permit swimmers to reach their full individual potential, and affords swimmers opportunities to test their abilities in competition; and

WHEREAS, when the pool is not closed due to construction or Shelter-in-Place restrictions, the Park District has capacity outside of public pool use or Park District use at the Roberts Regional Recreation Area swimming pool to support the use of the Montclair Swim Team; and

WHEREAS, on July 16, 2020, the Board Operations Committee reviewed and unanimously recommended approval of this amendment by the full Board;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby approves a five-year Special Use agreement for the Montclair Swim Team to use the Roberts Regional Recreation Area swimming pool, when not closed or in use for Park District programs or the general public, for the months of August through November and January through June for an approximate annual total of $24,000 to be coded to Account 101-5131-124-3612; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the General Manager is hereby authorized and directed, on behalf of the Park District and in its name, to execute and deliver such documents and to do such acts as may be deemed necessary or appropriate to accomplish the intentions of this resolution.

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 4th day of August, 2020 by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT: AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

D. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

e. Authorize Second Term of Tilden Merry-Go-Round Concession Agreement with Sycamore Concessions Inc.: Tilden Regional Park (Margulici/O’Connor)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager and the Board Operations Committee by unanimous vote at its July 16, 2020 meeting, recommend that the Board of Directors authorize the second five-year term of the Tilden Merry-Go-Round concession agreement with Sycamore Concessions Inc. to operate and maintain the Tilden Merry-Go-Round concession, from February 1, 2021 to January 31, 2026 with a 7% concession fee and 5% concession maintenance fund fee, based on gross revenues.

REVENUE/COST

The Park District can expect revenue of approximately $27,000 per year. There are no additional costs associated with this agreement.

BACKGROUND

In June 2019, the Board approved an amendment for an 18-month extension of Sycamore’s first term for the Merry-Go-Round Concession Agreement with a 5% concession maintenance fee reduction. The extension allowed staff to work more closely with Sycamore to optimize their compliance with the requirements of the agreement and pay their past due obligation.

During their first term and first extension, Sycamore has addressed many issues that are essential to the effective and safe operation of the Merry-Go-Round facility, with emphasis on routine maintenance, regular State safety inspections, and preservation of the historic structure. As of June 1, 2020, Sycamore paid the outstanding balance of $41,495.25 to the Park District including late payment charges. Sycamore has elevated their accounting methods and practices and have been reporting to staff on a monthly basis all income and expenses related to the operation, maintenance, and administration of the Merry-Go-Round facility. This has helped Sycamore and staff determine an accurate fee structure to support the future operation and maintenance of this facility. Although Sycamore has struggled to remain compliant with the agreement requirements in the past, they have now met all the terms and deadlines of the agreement, the 2019 amendment, and have exceeded their maintenance obligations, recently receiving a clear inspection report from the Division of Occupational Safety and Health.

ALTERNATIVES

None are recommended.

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2020 – 08 -

August 4, 2020

AUTHORIZE SECOND TERM OF TILDEN MERRY-GO-ROUND CONCESSION AGREEMENT WITH SYCAMORE CONCESSIONS INC.: TILDEN REGIONAL PARK

WHEREAS, in June 2019, the Board approved an amendment for an 18-month extension of Sycamore Concessions Inc. first term for the Tilden Merry-Go-Round Concession Agreement with a 5% concession maintenance fee reduction allowing staff to work more closely with Sycamore to optimize their compliance with the requirements of the agreement and pay their past due obligation; and

WHEREAS, as of June 1, 2020, Sycamore paid the outstanding balance of $41,495.25 to the Park District including late payment charges, met all the terms and deadlines of the agreement, the 2019 amendment, and have exceeded their maintenance obligations; and

WHEREAS, on July 16, 2020, the Board Operations Committee reviewed and unanimously recommended approval of this amendment by the full Board;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby approves the second five-year term of the Tilden Merry-Go-Round Concession agreement with Sycamore Concessions Inc. to operate and maintain the concession from February 1, 2021 to January 31, 2026 with a 7% concession fee (approximately $27,000) Account 101-5121-105-3651 and 5% concession maintenance fund fee; and

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 4th day of August 2020 by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

Page Left Blank Intentionally

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

D. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

f. Authorization to Appropriate Funds and Award Construction Contract to Kerex Engineering Inc. to Construct Restroom: Coyote Hills Regional Park (Rasmussen/Auker)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors appropriate of $286,350 in Major Infrastructure Renovation and Replacement funds (553) and award a $249,000 construction contract to Kerex Engineering Inc of Pleasant Hill, CA for the construct restroom project at Coyote Hills Regional Park.

REVENUE/COST

SOURCE OF FUNDS

Coyote Hills, Construct VC Restroom (#161400) New Appropriation from Major Infrastructure (553) $286,350 AVAILABLE $286,350

USE OF FUNDS

Coyote Hills, Construct VC Restroom (#161400) Award to Kerex Engineering $249,000 Remaining for contingency and inspection $37,350 TOTAL $286,350

BACKGROUND

The Park District has the long-term goal of replacing chemical toilets throughout the District with new pre-cast concrete restrooms. The new restrooms are more comfortable for park visitors, more sanitary and eliminate the cost and emissions from the sanitation truck need to service chemical toilets. This project will replace the chemical toilet near the Visitor Center at Coyote Hills with a two stall ADA flush restroom with drinking fountain (Exhibit 1).

The Notice to Bidders was published on June 29, 2020 to the Park District’s online plan room

and posted to the Dodge Data Construction Plan Room. Thirteen firms purchased Bid Documents and thirteen firms submitted bids on July 23, 2020 as follows:

CONTRACTOR Base Bid Kerex Construction $249,000.00 Suarez Construction $258,000.00 Golden Bay Construction $258,188.00 Terramark Construction $267,267.00 NBC Construction $268,778.00 McNabb Construction $268,912.00 Done Right Construction $271,000.00 Grade Tech Construction $287,000.00 Marshall Construction $298,000.00 GEMS Environmental Management $319,918.00 Sposeto Construction $321,935.00 Bay Construction $348,000.00 RK & Associates $385,000.00

The bid submitted by Kerex Engineering Inc of Pleasant Hill, CA met the specifications and conditions for the project; therefore, Kerex Engineering Inc of Pleasant Hill, CA is the lowest responsible bidder.

ALTERNATIVES

No alternatives are recommended.

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2020 – 08 -

August 4, 2020

AUTHORIZATION TO APPROPRIATE FUNDS AND AWARD CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT TO KEREX ENGINEERING INC. TO CONSTRUCT RESTROOM: COYOTE HILLS REGIONAL PARK

WHEREAS, the Park District has the long-term goal of replacing chemical toilets throughout the District with new pre-cast concrete restrooms. The new restrooms are more comfortable for park visitors, more sanitary and eliminate the cost and emissions from the sanitation truck need to service chemical toilets; and

WHEREAS, this project will replace the chemical toilet near the Visitor Center at Coyote Hills with a two stall ADA flush restroom with drinking fountain (Exhibit 1); and

WHEREAS, the Notice to Bidders was published on June 29, 2020 to the Park District’s online plan room and posted to the Dodge Data Construction Plan Room. Thirteen firms purchased Bid Documents and thirteen firms submitted bids on July 23, 2020 as follows:

WHEREAS, the bid submitted by Kerex Engineering Inc of Pleasant Hill, CA met the specifications and conditions for the project; therefore, Kerex Engineering Inc of Pleasant Hill, CA is the lowest responsible bidder;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District authorizes the following:

1. Appropriation of $286,350 in Major Infrastructure Renovation and Replacement funds (553) to Coyote Hills, Construct VC Restroom (161400), per the Budget Change Form attached hereto;

2. Award of a $249,000 construction contract to Kerex Engineering Inc of Pleasant Hill, CA for the project;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the General Manager is hereby authorized and directed, on behalf of the Park District and in its name, to execute and deliver such documents and such acts as may be deemed necessary or appropriate to accomplish the intentions of this resolution.

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 4th day of August, 2020 by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

Restroom, Coyote Hills Visitor Center

Printed: July 23, 2020 1:1,128

Park Entrances 0 0.0075 0.015 0.03 mi Public Entrance 0 45 90 180 Feet Service Entrance East Bay Regional P ark District. Site managed by GIS Services. [

Page Left Blank Intentionally

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT BUDGET CHANGE FORM

NEW APPROPRIATIONS BUDGET TRANSFERS X New Appropriations X Between Funds From New Revenues Between Projects DECREASE BUDGET ACCOUNT AMOUNT INCREASE BUDGET ACCOUNT AMOUNT Account Name: Capital Project Fund- Management Services Department- Coyote Hills Regional Park-Construct VC Restroom-Work by Contract

Account: 333-4110-136-7020 / 161400MIRR-009 $ 286,350 TRANSFERS BETWEEN FUNDS Account Name: TRANSFER OUT: Major Account Name: TRANSFER IN: Capital Infrastructure Renovation and Project Fund-Non Departmental-District Replacement Fund MIRR)-Non-Financial Wide-Transfer In / Construct VC Accounting-Transfer Out Restroom - Revenue Account: 333-9110-000-3980 / Account: 553-9110-000-9980 $ 286,350 161400MIRR-601 $ 286,350

As being presented at the Board of Directors meeting on August 4, 2020 the General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors appropriate $286,350 of Major Infrastructure Renovation and Replace fund to project 161400 Construct Restroom, Coyote Hills Regional Park

As approved at the Board of Directors Meeting on date: 8/4/2020 Board of Directors Resolution Number: 2020-08 Posted By: Posted date: Signature:

T:\BOARDCLK\BOARD MATERIAL\2020\14 - August 4, 2020\S DRIVE\D-1-f FIN - Coyote Hills Restroom budget change form

Page Left Blank Intentionally

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

D. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

g. Authorization to Amend a Contract with CES Engineering for Electrical Engineering Services for the Develop Dumbarton Quarry Campground Project: Coyote Hills Regional Park (Goorjian/Kelchner)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize an amendment increasing the existing consultant contract with CES Engineering, Inc. (CES), Grass Valley, California, for electrical engineering support services during the construction phase of the Dumbarton Quarry Transition Project in the amount of $40,000 for a total amount of $160,000.

REVENUE/COST

This action will amend and increase the original contract value of $120,000 by $40,000 for a total contract value of $160,000 for CES to provide new services. Funds for the proposed consultant contract amendment are available within the existing Dumbarton Quarry Transition Project budget as described below.

SOURCE OF FUNDS Develop DQ Campground Project (No.149300) $ 3,270,168 Encumbrances & Expenditures to Date (2,626,430) AVAILABLE BALANCE $ 643,738

USE OF FUNDS Amendment for Anchor CM 40,000 TOTAL USE OF FUNDS $ 603,738

BACKGROUND

Dumbarton Quarry Associates (DQA) is constructing the Dumbarton Quarry Campground on the Bay for the Park District, pursuant to the Indenture Agreement for Transfer of Real Property (Agreement) dated August 18, 1977 (as amended and modified in March 1997, December 2007,

December 2008, November 2012, and July 2017) between the Park District and DQA. In accordance with the terms of the Agreement, most project expenses are to be paid by DQA; however, some expenses are the Park District’s obligation, and the Park District has been directly dispersing funds for these expenses related to the Dumbarton Quarry Project (Board Resolution No. 2018-08-212).

The electrical engineering firm CES has been retained by the Park District to prepare, review, and inspect the electrical engineering work to ensure that the completed facility will meet the Park District’s standards and the public’s needs. This action authorizes an amendment to the professional service contract allowing the consultant to continue to provide electrical engineering support during the construction phase of the campground as well as the campground’s connection to the new service yard. The Park District is responsible for reviewing designs provided by DQA; providing designs for work not contractually in DQA’s scope; and inspecting portions of the construction not inspected, approved, and inspected by the City of Fremont or other local utility agencies.

Staff accepted an initial proposal from CES in the amount of $9,200 for development of site lighting plans, since site lighting was not included in the Park District’s agreement with DQA. On April 21, 2015, by Board Resolution 2015-09-254, the Board of Directors approved amending the consultant’s contract up to an amount of $50,000. At that time, the consultant’s scope of work was expanded to include development of plans and specifications for the joint utility trench design and the electrical distribution network in coordination with the Park District’s telecommunications consultant, alarm company, PG&E, and the consultants hired by DQA.

On June 5, 2018, by Board Resolution 2018-06-122, the Board of Directors approved amending the consultant’s contract up to an amount of $120,000. The scope was revised to include review, coordination and inspection of systems for fiber optic communications, and security and fire alarms. Also, utilities in the current project are being revised to accommodate future improvements being negotiated between DQA and the Park District for the Phase 2 expansion of the park. The large complex systems for the electrical power, communications and alarms require careful coordination. Identifying and correcting problems after the systems are buried is very difficult, so CES has been asked to review all plans and submittals related to electrical work and be part of the construction inspection team.

The scope of work for CES has been increased to include assistance with the amphitheater and the service yard outdoor lighting. Additionally, the project duration has been extended, and more involvement of the electrical consultant has become necessary. To cover the proposed changes in the scope of work, staff recommends that the consultant contract for electrical engineering services from CES be increased by $40,000 for a total amount of $160,000. Staff has reviewed the amendment proposal submitted by CES and has determined that the scope of work, hours, and compensation rates are reasonable and will be sufficient to complete the described work.

The new campground will consist of 62 full-hook up RV sites, six new buildings including a camp store, amphitheater, playground, picnic areas, parking, and trails. It will be the first full-service campground operated by the Park District. When completed, the total value of the improvements is anticipated to exceed $15 million.

Construction of the campground began in 2019 and is partially complete, with most grading and main utilities installed. Buildings, branch utilities and appurtenances are partially complete. Finish grading, paving, irrigation, site furnishings and landscaping work remains. Campground construction is anticipated to be substantially complete by the end of 2020 for a spring 2021 opening.

ALTERNATIVES

No alternatives are recommended.

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2020 – 08 –

August 4, 2020

AUTHORIZATION TO AMEND A CONTRACT WITH CES ENGINEERING FOR ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR THE DEVELOP DUMBARTON QUARRY CAMPGROUND PROJECT: COYOTE HILLS REGIONAL PARK

WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District (Park District) is developing a new campground at the Dumbarton Quarry Recreational Area of Coyote Hills Regional Park; and

WHEREAS, the campground is being constructed in partnership with Dumbarton Quarry Associates (DQA) pursuant to the Indenture Agreement for Transfer of Real Property (Agreement) dated August 18, 1977 (as amended and modified in March 1997, December 2007, December 2008, November 2012 and July 2017) between the Park District and DQA; and

WHEREAS, pursuant to the Agreement, most expenses will be paid by DQA, but some expenses are the Park District’s obligation; and

WHEREAS, the Park District has an existing contract with CES Engineering, Inc. (CES) to provide electrical engineering services for this project for a fee of up to $120,000, approved on April 21, 2015, via Resolution No. 2015-04-107 and on June 5, 2018, via Resolution No. 2018-06- 122; and

WHEREAS, CES’s services are still required during the remaining construction phase of the project and it is necessary to amend the CES contract to include the cost of additional engineering services; and

WHEREAS, there are sufficient funds in the Dumbarton Quarry Transition Project (#149300) to cover the cost of the additional engineering services;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorizes an amendment to the engineering services contract with CES Engineering, Inc. to reflect an increase of $40,000 from $120,000 for a total contract value of $160,000, to allow for expanded scope to include review, coordination and inspection of electrical, communication and alarm systems; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the General Manager, or designee is hereby authorized and directed, on behalf of the Park District and in its name, to execute and deliver such documents and to do such acts as may be deemed necessary or appropriate to accomplish the intentions of this resolution.

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 4th of August, 2020, by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

Page Left Blank Intentionally

Dumbarton Quarry Campground on the Bay East Bay Fremont, Alameda County Regional Park District Feet [ 0 1,000 2,000

U ni on C ity B lv y d kw e P dr Pa o e s a P

COYOTE HILLS A REGIONAL PARK rd en wood Blvd

PROJECT AREA

e d v v A d l J 8 R arvi s 1 y B 0 r 2 ar / u y 3

a 2 Q w /

e 5

t a T : G e t

h a

o D

r d

n x

t m .

o p a

n m

84 d

A r

«¬ b

v _ Q e D \ p a M d r B _ Q D \ n o i t c u r t s n o C n g i s e D \ D S A \ 8 1 0 2 _ s t c e j o r P \ y e k s a K c M C \ S I G \ : O

Page Left Blank Intentionally

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

D. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

h. Authorization to Purchase 24 Cisco Network Switches and 26 Network Routers from AMS.Net for District-wide Information Technology Infrastructure Replacements (Tallerico/Auker)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize the purchase of 50 Cisco network switches and router devices from AMS.Net for replacement of current information technology infrastructure.

REVENUE/COST

The purchase cost is $180,506 for equipment including installation. Budgeted funds are available in Project Account # 336-4150-000-7549/528000 in the amount of $180,506.

BACKGROUND

The Park District’s network equipment is vital to maintaining business continuity and therefore scheduled for replacement every 5 years which is an industry standard. The current equipment is 10 years old. This purchase will upgrade 20 park locations, Peralta Oaks and Public Safety, and improve connectivity.

These purchases are made under the Merced County Focus Contract, Contract No. 2015109; this eliminates the State law requirement to bid for equipment purchases. Although bidding is not required, Board authorization is necessary since the purchase amount exceeds $50,000.

ALTERNATIVES

The Board could choose not to proceed with the purchase, but this is not recommended due to the age of the current equipment.

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2020 – 08 -

August 4, 2020

AUTHORIZATION TO PURCHASE 24 CISCO NETWORK SWITCHES AND 26 NETWORK ROUTERS FROM AMS.NET FOR DISTRICT-WIDE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY INFRASTRUCTURE REPLACEMENTS

WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District (Park District) is a public agency operating in the State of California, and thereby bears the responsibility to conduct Park District business professionally and efficiently; and

WHEREAS, newer technology and the age of equipment make necessary the replacement of the Park District’s information technology infrastructure equipment; and

WHEREAS, Cisco switches and router equipment is available from AMS.Net which provides this equipment under the Merced County Focus Contract, Contract No. 2015109; thereby eliminating the need and expense of bidding for this equipment purchase,

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorize the purchase of 24 network switches and 26 router devices from AMS.Net for a total cost not to exceed $180,506 from Project Account # 336- 4150-000-7549/528000; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the General Manager is hereby authorized and directed, on behalf of the Park District and in its name, to execute and deliver such documents and do such acts as may be deemed necessary or appropriate to accomplish the intentions of this resolution.

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and approved this 4th day of August 2020, by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT: AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

D. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

i. Authorization to Purchase Five Chevrolet Bolt All-Electric Vehicles from Winner Chevrolet for Vehicle Replacements and as an Addition to the Fleet (McCrystle/O’Connor)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize the purchase of five Chevrolet Bolt all-electric vehicles from Winner Chevrolet of Colfax, California at a total cost of $157,105 for vehicle replacements and as an addition to the fleet.

REVENUE/COST

For the purpose of purchasing replacement and additional fleet vehicles, funds have been allocated in the East Bay Regional Park District’s (Park District) 2020 Budget, Fleet Replacement Account 101-5933-000-7505 (Rolling Stock >$25K) and Mobile Education Outreach Account 101-5228- 551-7505 (Rolling Stock >$25K).

PROPOSED ENCUMBRANCE 101-5933-000-7505: Base Price $ 115,340 CA Tire Fee & Delivery 828 Sales Tax 9,516 Total Encumbrance $ 125,684

PROPOSED ENCUMBRANCE 101-5228-551-7505: Base Price $ 28,835 CA Tire Fee & Delivery 207 Sales Tax 2,379 Proposed Encumbrance $ 31,421

TOTAL ENCUMBRANCE: Base Price $ 144,175 CA Tire Fee & Delivery 1,035 Sales Tax 11,895 Proposed Total Encumbrance $ 157,105

BACKGROUND

A total of five Chevrolet Bolt all-electric vehicles will be purchased, four of which will replace current Park District vehicles being retired due to age, high mileage, and/or declining condition and will be funded through the Fleet Replacement Fund. Two of these new all-electric Chevrolet Bolt’s will replace two all-electric Think City vehicles currently assigned to the Administrative Pool at Peralta Oaks and Crown Beach. One new all-electric Chevrolet Bolt will replace a gas- powered vehicle assigned to Ardenwood Historic Farms and the fourth one will replace a Hybrid- powered vehicle assigned to Fleet Management.

LOCATION # YEAR TYPE ADMIN POOL 3212 2011 SEDAN, THINK CITY EV ARDENWOOD FARMS 3111 2009 STAWGN, DODGE CALIBER, GAS CROWN BEACH 3210 2011 SEDAN, THINK CITY, EV FLEET MANAGEMENT 3014 2006 UTILITY, FORD ESCAPE, HYBRID

One all-electric Chevrolet Bolt will be an addition to the fleet assigned to Mobile Education Outreach as per an approved 2020 budget request.

These all-electric Chevrolet Bolt vehicles are being recommended as part of the ongoing fleet greening initiative to use alternative fueled vehicles wherever and whenever possible.

These new vehicles are available for purchase directly from Winner Chevrolet by means of contract pricing established by the State of California, General Services Procurement Division, Contracts #1-18-23-10D. The pricing is the result of a competitive bid process and open to all state governmental entities and educational institutions. Public agencies electing to use this method of vehicle acquisition avoid the administrative costs of seeking formal bids.

ALTERNATIVES

For this purchase, staff has determined that there is no significant advantage in formally seeking other bids; therefore, no alternatives are recommended.

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2020 - 08 -

August 4, 2020

AUTHORIZATION TO PURCHASE FIVE CHEVROLET BOLT ALL-ELECTRIC VEHICLES FROM WINNER CHEVROLET FOR VEHICLE REPLACEMENTS AND AS AN ADDITION TO THE FLEET

WHEREAS, a key component of the East Bay Regional Park District’s (Park District) mission is that an environmental ethic guides the Park District in all of its activities; and

WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District has included funding in its proposed 2020 Budget for the purchase of new rolling stock; and

WHEREAS, the Park District has the need to replace four vehicles which are being retired due to age, high mileage, and/or declining condition; and

WHEREAS, the Park District has the need to purchase one additional vehicle assigned to Mobile Education Outreach; and

WHEREAS, Winner Chevrolet of Colfax, California is a recognized vendor offering suitable vehicles based on the results of competitively bid pricing through the State of California, General Services Procurement Division, Contracts #1-18-23-10D;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorizes the purchase of five Chevrolet vehicles for a total cost of $157,105, with said sum to be encumbered from the 2020 Budget, $125,684 from Fleet Replacement Account 101-5933-000-7505 (Rolling Stock >$25K) and $31,421 from Mobile Education Outreach Account 101-5228-551-7505 (Rolling Stock >$25K); and

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 4th day of August, 2020, by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

Page Left Blank Intentionally

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

D. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

j. Authorization to Purchase Four Mowers and Four Tractors from John Deere Company for Equipment Replacement and Additions to the Fleet (McCrystle/O’Connor)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize the purchase of four mowers and four tractors from John Deere Company of Cary, North Carolina at a total cost of $357,866 for equipment replacement and additions to the fleet.

REVENUE/COST

For the purpose of purchasing replacement and additional fleet equipment, funds have been allocated in various locations in the East Bay Regional Park District’s 2020 Budget: Fleet Replacement Account 101-5933-000-5375 (Rolling Stock <$25,000), Fleet Replacement Account 101-5933-000-7505 (Rolling Stock >$25,000), Shadow Cliffs Account 101-5141-281-7505 (Rolling Stock >$25,000), Tilden Park Account 101-5121-105-7505 (Rolling Stock >$25,000), and Diablo Foothills Account 101-5131-145-7505 (Rolling Stock >$25,000).

PROPOSED ENCUMBRANCE 101-5933-000-5375: Base Price $ 73,134 CA Tire Fee 21 Sales Tax 6,034 Proposed Encumbrance $ 79,189

PROPOSED ENCUMBRANCE 101-5933-000-7505: Base Price $ 147,995 CA Tire Fee 21 Sales Tax 12,210 Proposed Encumbrance $ 160,226

PROPOSED ENCUMBRANCE 101-5141-281-7505: Base Price $ 23,095 Sales Tax 1,905 Proposed Encumbrance $ 25,000

PROPOSED ENCUMBRANCE 101-5121-105-7505: Base Price $ 28,859 CA Tire Fee 7 Sales Tax 2,381 Proposed Encumbrance $ 31,247

PROPOSED ENCUMBRANCE 101-5131-145-7505: Base Price $ 57,457 CA Tire Fee 7 Sales Tax 4,740 Proposed Encumbrance $ 62,204

TOTAL ENCUMBRANCE: Base Price $ 330,540 CA Tire Fee 56 Sales Tax 27,270 Proposed Total Encumbrance $ 357,866

BACKGROUND

Three of the mowers and three of the tractors will replace current Park District mowers and tractors which are being retired due to age and declining condition. Shadow Cliffs Park is providing additional funding to upgrade their tractor to a John Deere model 5090M.

LOCATION # YEAR MODEL ALAMEDA CREEK TRL 824 2008 MOWER, KUBOTA F3080, 4WD, 72” DECK

CULL CANYON 800 2007 MOWER, KUBOTA F2880F, 4WD, 72’’ DECK

LAKE CHABOT 768 2006 MOWER, KUBOTA F2880F, 4WD, 72’’ DECK BOTANIC GARDEN 728 2004 TRACTOR, JOHN DEERE 4210 4WD, LOADER SHADOW CLIFFS 759 2005 TRACTOR, JOHN DEERE 4720 4WD, LOADER WILDCAT CANYON 760 2005 TRACTOR, JOHN DEERE 4720 4WD, LOADER

A fourth mower and fourth tractor will be additions to the fleet assigned to Tilden Park and Diablo Foothills as per the approved 2020 budget. The mower for Tilden is being purchased in accordance with Adopted Board Resolution No. 2019-07-185 and Resolution No.2019-07-187 to phase-out glyphosate use for the maintenance of developed park areas.

These new John Deere mowers and tractors are diesel powered and will be refueled using non- petroleum based Renewable Diesel (RD-99). They are available for purchase directly from John Deere Company by means of Sourcewell Contracts #062117-DAC and #110719-JDC. The contract pricing is the result of a competitive bid process and open to all federal, state and local governmental entities. Public agencies electing to use this method of equipment acquisition avoid the administrative costs of seeking formal bids.

ALTERNATIVES

For this purchase, staff has determined that there is no significant advantage in formally seeking other bids; therefore, none are recommended.

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2020 - 08 -

August 4, 2020

AUTHORIZATION TO PURCHASE FOUR MOWERS AND FOUR TRACTORS FROM JOHN DEERE COMPANY FOR EQUIPMENT REPLACEMENT AND ADDITIONS TO THE FLEET

WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District has included funding in its proposed 2020 Budget for the purchase of new equipment; and

WHEREAS, the Park District has the need to replace three mowers and three tractors which are being retired due to age and declining condition; and

WHEREAS, the Park District has the need to purchase one mower and one tractor as additions to the fleet assigned to Tilden Park and Diablo Foothills; and

WHEREAS, John Deere Company of Cary, North Carolina is a recognized vendor offering suitable equipment based on the results of competitively bid pricing through Sourcewell Contracts #062117-DAC and #110719-JDC;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorizes the purchase of four mowers and four tractors for a total cost of $357,866, with said sum to be encumbered from the 2020 Budget, $79,189 from Fleet Replacement Account 101-5933-000-5375 (Rolling Stock <$25,000), $160,226 from Fleet Replacement Account 101-5933-000-7505 (Rolling Stock >$25,000), $25,000 from Shadow Cliffs Account 101-5141-281-7505 (Rolling Stock >$25,000), $31,247 from Tilden Park Account 101- 5121-105-7505 (Rolling Stock >$25,000), and $62,204 from Diablo Foothills Account 101-5131- 145-7505 (Rolling Stock >$25,000); and

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 4th day of August, 2020, by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

Page Left Blank Intentionally

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

D. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

k. Authorization to Award a Contract to American Asphalt, Inc. for Maintenance of Paved Roads and Trails and Transfer and Appropriate Funds: District-wide (Bowman/O’Connor)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize the award of a contract to American Asphalt, Inc. of Hayward, California for District-wide asphalt repair, maintenance, and striping at Alameda County Trail, Iron Horse Trail, Lake Temescal, and Delta De Anza Regional Trail; and transfer and appropriate funds to four separate projects.

REVENUE/COST

This action will award a construction contract to American Asphalt Repair & Resurfacing Co., Inc. of Hayward, California for $1,289,164 plus a $190,000 contingency for a total encumbrance of $1,479,164. This action will also appropriate $1,479,164 from Major Infrastructure Renovation and Replacement Fund (553) from the existing MAST 2020 Paving Budget to these projects.

SOURCE OF FUNDS MAST 2020 Pavement Maintenance Agreements Budget (553-5913-000-6444) $2,000,000 Encumbrances and Expenditures to Date $257,499 AVAILABLE $1,742,501

USE OF FUNDS American Asphalt, Iron Horse Trail $329,388 American Asphalt, Alameda County Trail $508,915 American Asphalt, Lake Temescal $125,030 American Asphalt, Delta De Anza Trail $325,831 TOTAL AWARD $1,289,164

Contingency 15% (553-5913-000-6444) $190,000 TOTAL ENCUMBRANCE $1,479,164

BACKGROUND

The Board of Directors and staff are committed to preserving and maintaining the Park District’s existing infrastructure. An important component of this infrastructure is the Park District’s network of paved roads, trails, and parking lots. Routine upkeep is necessary for maintaining the District-wide average Pavement Condition Index (PCI), a metric that catalogues the overall condition of paved assets. The PCI can improve with major repaving projects, as well as minor sealing and patching projects. This project will complete 386,350 square feet of slurry sealing. The Iron Horse Trail will have 25,000 square feet of asphalt removed and replaced. Alameda County Trails will have 190,000 square feet of slurry sealing, plus a seal coat, and an additional 39,000 square feet of asphalt will be removed and replaced. A slurry seal and seal coat of 90,000 square feet will occur on the Delta De Anza Trail in Antioch. Remaining slurry sealing will occur at Lake Temescal.

The current PCI of the project sections proposed in this action (a total of 4 sections) is 68. The average PCI for these 4 sections will increase to an average PCI of 90 upon project completion, an exemplary rating on the scale. This project is included in the on-going District-wide Pavement Maintenance and Preservation Program (PMPP).

The Notice to Bidders was published on June 15, 2020. The project was posted on the Park District’s online Planroom, in addition to other industry advertising portals utilized by the Park District. Six firms submitted bids by the bid due date of July 7, 2020 and the bid results are summarized in the table below. The basis for determination of low bid on this project is the amount of the bidder’s Base Bid.

PLANHOLDER BASE BID TOTAL American Asphalt Repair & $1,289,164.00 Resurfacing Co., Inc.

Silicon Valley Paving $1,440,000.00

R&M Paving $1,541,888.00

Alaniz Construction $1,817,457.00

Grade Tech Inc. $1,847,000.00

VSS International $2,990,000.00

The bid submitted by American Asphalt Repair & Resurfacing Co., Inc. of Hayward, California met the specifications and conditions for the project; therefore, American Asphalt Repair & Resurfacing Co., Inc. is the lowest responsible bidder.

ALTERNATIVES

None are recommended.

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2020 – 08 –

August 4, 2020

AUTHORIZATION TO AWARD A CONTRACT TO AMERICAN ASPHALT, INC. FOR MAINTENANCE OF PAVED ROADS AND TRAILS AND TRANSFER AND APPROPRIATE FUNDS: DISTRICT-WIDE

WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District is committed to preserving and maintaining its existing infrastructure, including the Park District’s network of paved roads, trails, and parking lots; and

WHEREAS, maintenance at Alameda County Trail, Iron Horse Trail, Lake Temescal, Delta De Anza Trail asphalt maintenance are included in the ongoing District-wide Pavement Maintenance and Preservation Program (PMPP); and

WHEREAS, requests for bids for the District-wide asphalt maintenance project were solicited and received: and six firms submitted qualified bids of which, American Asphalt Repair & Resurfacing Co., Inc., was the lowest responsible bidder;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorizes the award of contract to American Asphalt Repair & Resurfacing Co., Inc. of Hayward, California for a grand total not to exceed $1,289,164 and a contingency of $190,000; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors authorizes the appropriation of $1,479,164 from the MAST 2020 Paving Maintenance Agreements Budget (553-5913-000- 6444) as noted on the attached Budget Change Form; and

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 4th day of August 2020 by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT

Page Left Blank Intentionally

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

D. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

L. Authorization to Apply for Funding from National Fish and Wildlife Foundation for Habitat Restoration at Albany Beach: McLaughlin Eastshore State Park (Barton/Hornbeck/Auker)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize a grant application to National Fish and Wildlife Foundation for habitat restoration at Albany Beach in McLaughlin Eastshore State Park.

REVENUE/COST

This action proposes a grant application for approximately $100,000 for habitat restoration at Albany Beach. This project will not increase the ongoing operational cost of the District.

BACKGROUND

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the 2020 San Francisco Bay Estuary Conservation Fund (SF Bay Fund). The SF Bay Fund was established with community service payments arising from federal prosecutions of environmental cases brought by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California. The SF Bay Fund will provide funding for projects that will conserve, protect, restore, and otherwise benefit San Francisco Bay estuary environment, including, but not limited to fish and wildlife, and the habitats upon which they depend, such as the water, land and air resources of the estuary. A grant application was submitted by the August 1, 2020 deadline.

The Park District is seeking funding for habitat restoration at Albany Beach. The dune and wetland improvements were completed as part of Phase 2 of the Albany Beach Restoration and Public Access Project. Additional habitat restoration will focus on continued maintenance and plantings in the expanded and enhanced dunes and wetlands, to help establish native dune and wetland plants and manage invasive weeds over a three-year period. Funds will be used for labor and materials for plantings, periodic monitoring and maintenance including irrigation, and weeding. The dune and wetland areas provide ecosystem services and benefits, including water quality improvement and protection, which is particularly valuable for residents in nearby urban areas. The dunes have been designed to withstand 2050 sea level rise projections. NFWF grant funds would help ensure successful habitat establishment in these important dune and wetland areas.

ALTERNATIVES

No alternatives are recommended.

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2020 – 08 -

August 4, 2020

AUTHORIZATION TO APPLY FOR FUNDING FROM NATIONAL FISH AND WILDLIFE FOUNDATION FOR HABITAT RESTORATION AT ALBANY BEACH: MCLAUGHLIN EASTSHORE STATE PARK

WHEREAS, the National Fish and Wildlife has issued a Request for Proposals for the 2020 San Francisco Bay Estuary Conservation Fund with a deadline of August 4, 2020; and

WHEREAS, an application was submitted by the grant deadline for a project to restore habitat at Albany Beach; and

WHEREAS, Park District procedures require Board Approval of grant applications; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby:

1. Authorizes the application for funding from National Fish and Wildlife Foundation 2020 San Francisco Bay Estuary Conservation Fund; and

2. Authorizes and directs the General Manager or Assistant General Manager of Finance and Management Services/CFO, on behalf of the District and in its name, to accept grant funds and execute and deliver such documents including, but not limited to applications, agreements, payment requests and amendments and to do such acts as may be deemed or appropriate to accomplish the intentions of this resolution; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Assistant General Manager of Finance and Management Services/CFO or Budget Manager is hereby authorized to amend the current year’s budget, without further Board action, upon receipt of the executed contract from the Grants Manager. The budget amendment will include an increase in budgeted revenue and a corresponding increase in appropriation for the amount stipulated in the contract, including any interest.

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and approved this 4th day of August 2020, by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

Page Left Blank Intentionally

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

D. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

m. Authorization to Apply for Funding from National Fish and Wildlife Foundation for Habitat Restoration at Encinal Beach, Alameda Point (Hornbeck/Graul/Auker)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize a grant application to National Fish and Wildlife Foundation for habitat restoration at Encinal Beach.

REVENUE/COST

This action proposes the application for approximately $165,000 for habitat restoration at Encinal Beach. This project will not increase the ongoing operational cost of the District.

BACKGROUND

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the 2020 San Francisco Bay Estuary Conservation Fund (“SF Bay Fund”). The SF Bay Fund was established with community service payments arising from federal prosecutions of environmental cases brought by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California. The SF Bay Fund will provide funding for projects that will conserve, protect, restore, and otherwise benefit San Francisco Bay estuary environment, including, but not limited to fish and wildlife, and the habitats upon which they depend, such as the water, land and air resources of the estuary. A grant application was submitted by the August 1, 2020 deadline.

The District is seeking funding for habitat restoration Encinal Beach once construction is completed later this year. Habitat restoration will focus on expanding and enhancing transition zone areas by planting native species over a three-year period. Funds will be used for labor and materials for establishing the plants, including irrigation, weeding, and plant replacement. Transition zones occupy the area between tidal marsh and upland habitats, and provide valuable ecosystem services and benefits for residents in nearby urban areas including: protection against flooding and other extreme weather events, water quality improvement and protection, habitat for diverse species, and land area for animals to migrate inward as sea levels rise. NFWF grant funds would help ensure successful habitat establishment in these important transitional areas.

ALTERNATIVES

No alternatives are recommended.

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2020 – 08 -

August 4, 2020

AUTHORIZATION TO APPLY FOR FUNDING FROM NATIONAL FISH AND WILDLIFE FOUNDATION FOR HABITAT RESTORATION: ENCINAL BEACH, ALAMEDA POINT

WHEREAS, the National Fish and Wildlife has issued a Request for Proposals for the 2020 San Francisco Bay Estuary Conservation Fund with a deadline of August 4, 2020; and

WHEREAS, an application was submitted by the grant deadline to habitat restoration at Encinal Beach, Alameda Point; and

WHEREAS, District procedures require Board Approval of grant applications; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby

1. Authorizes the application for funding from National Fish and Wildlife Foundation 2020 San Francisco Bay Estuary Conservation Fund; and

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and approved this 4th day of August 2020, by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

D. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

n. Authorization to Apply to Caltrans for Federal Funding from the Active Transportation Program: San Francisco Bay Trail, Radke Martinez Regional Shoreline (Hornbeck/Dougan/Auker)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize a grant application to Caltrans for federal grant funds from the Active Transportation program for the San Francisco Bay Trail at Radke Martinez Regional Shoreline Park.

REVENUE/COST

This action proposes authorization of a grant application of up to $2,000,000 in federal funds for construction of a Class I trail connecting the Martinez Regional Shoreline and Carquinez Strait Regional Park. The required grant match would come from existing Measure WW bond funds previously appropriated to the project.

If constructed, this project would increase the long-term operational cost of the District.

BACKGROUND

The Park District has been working with the City of Martinez to design and complete this project for years. This project will construct a Class 1 shared-used path from Berrellesa Street along the railroad track to the Nejedly Staging Area at Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline (Exhibit 1). This project is part of the vision to close a gap in the Bay Trail to provide continues, direct, safe access between Martinez and Crockett for active transportation users. The project will require negotiating an at grade crossing with the Union Pacific Railroad at Berrellesa Street.

ALTERNATIVES

No alternatives are recommended.

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2020 – 08 -

August 4, 2020

AUTHORIZATION TO APPLY TO CALTRANS FOR FEDERAL FUNDING FROM THE ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM: SAN FRANCISCO BAY TRAIL, RADKE MARTINEZ REGIONAL SHORELINE

WHEREAS, on September 26, 2013, the Governor signed legislation creating the Active Transportation Program; and

WHEREAS, the goals of the Active Transportation Program are to increase the proportion of biking and walking trips for non-motorized users, advance greenhouse gas reduction goals, enhance public health, including the reduction of childhood obesity; and

WHEREAS, the California Transportation Commission adopted guidelines which assigns Caltrans the administration of the program.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorizes the submittal of a grant application to the Active Transportation Program for up to $2,000,000 in federal funding for construction of the San Francisco Bay Trail between Martinez Regional Shoreline and Carquinez Strait Shoreline; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the General Manager or Assistant General Manager of Finance and Management Services be authorized, as an agent of the District, to conduct all negotiations and execute and submit all documents, including, but not limited to, applications, contracts, receive grant funds, amendments, payment requests, and compliance with all applicable current state and federal laws and perform such acts which may be deemed necessary for the completion of the aforementioned project; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Chief Financial Officer or Budget Manager is hereby authorized to amend the current year’s budget, without further Board action, upon receipt of the executed contract from the Grants Manager. The budget amendment will include an increase in budgeted revenue and a corresponding increase in appropriation for the amount stipulated in the contract.

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 4th day of August, 2020, by the following vote,

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

Radke Martinez Shoreline, SF Bay Trail

Printed: July 23, 2020 1:4,514

Park Entrances 0 0.0375 0.075 0.15 mi Public Entrance 0 195 390 780 Feet Service Entrance East Bay Regional P ark District. Site managed by GIS Services. [

ACQUISITION STEWARDSHIP DEVELOPMENT AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

D. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

2. ACQUISITION, STEWARDSHIP AND DEVELOPMENT DIVISION

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize staff to enter into a purchase and sale agreement (PSA) with the City and County of San Francisco, operating through their Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC), for the purchase of 20± acres of the former Wool Ranch, and to transfer and appropriate funds for the purchase price and related acquisition costs. The property is located in an unincorporated area of Alameda County immediately east of the City of Fremont and adjacent to Mission Peak Regional Preserve and the City’s Rancho Higuera Open Space.

REVENUE/COST

This property may be acquired for $500,000, its appraised fair market value, plus acquisition costs as described below. The Park District and SFPUC signed a non-binding Letter of Intent (LOI) on February 27, 2020. Pursuant to the LOI, the District deposited $9,000 into escrow, creditable toward the purchase price. Pursuant to the PSA, an additional deposit of $10,000 is due to SFPUC upon the Park District’s approval of the PSA. A third deposit of $40,000 will be due five days after contingencies are waived. All deposits shall be credited toward the purchase price. The purchase is scheduled to be completed no later than February 21, 2021.

This Board action authorizes the transfer and appropriation of $534,000 of Measure WW acquisition funds for the Mission Peak allocation area for the purchase price and acquisition- related expenses as follows:

SOURCE OF FUNDS: Designated Acquisitions – Measure WW (CIP 229900WW00) $534,000 Mission Peak allocation area - acquisition funds

USE OF FUNDS: Wool Ranch/Mission Peak Acquisition (CIP 251200WP41) Purchase Price including Deposit Payments $500,000 Title and Escrow fees 10,000 Staff Time 6,000 Wool Ranch/Mission Peak Safety and Security (CIP 251201WP41) Fencing $10,000 Weed Abatement 4,000 Feral Pig Control 4,000 Total Current Appropriation $534,000

BACKGROUND

In 1992, the Park District acquired 163 acres of the E. O. Wool Ranch from the Wool family as an addition to Mission Peak Regional Preserve. The Wools retained 20 acres for personal use as a condition of sale, encumbered by a right of first refusal to the District in the event of future sale. In 2019, SFPUC approached the District requesting a release of the right of first refusal to allow SFPUC’s purchase of the remaining 787 acres of the Wool Ranch (of which this 20-acre inholding is a part) to move forward. In exchange for SFPUC agreeing to negotiate a lease of the 20 acres to the District for cattle grazing and watering purposes, the Board of Directors approved releasing this right on May 21, 2019 by its Resolution 2019-05-100. As the 20-acre inholding is not contiguous to the 767-acre balance of SFPUC’s Wool Ranch purchase, and is largely surrounded by District parklands, further discussions with SFPUC on the long-term disposition of this parcel resulted in SFPUC’s offer in late 2019 to negotiate the sale of the parcel to the District.

Located high on the edge of a ridgeline immediately east of Fremont on the southern flank of Mt. Allison and approximately one-mile due south of Mission Peak, the property is surrounded on three sides by Mission Peak Regional Preserve. The City of Fremont’s Rancho Higuera Open Space is immediately to the west. The Bay Area Ridge Trail passes within 300 yards east of the property. Access to the site is via an easement along a ranch road through Park District property connecting to Weller Road to the southeast. The property is undeveloped except for fencing and a well.

The property’s topography is predominantly level to moderately sloping, with its western edge dropping steeply down to the border with Rancho Higuera Open Space. An approximately one- acre pond is located roughly in the center of the property; this spring-fed pond holds water for most of the year. Vegetation is primarily grassland, with small stands of oaks and willows located adjacent to the pond. The Park District has long been interested in acquiring this parcel for its pond and well to support grazing management in the area.

The property’s County zoning designation is “A” (Agriculture), with a minimum parcel size of 100 acres. This area is also subject to an East County Area Plan (ECAP) which limits residential development to a 2-acre building envelope. After analyzing the property’s physical, legal and economic constraints, the appraiser concluded that the property’s highest and best use would be continued agricultural grazing, recreational use, and speculative development of a single-family residential homesite.

The property is enrolled in an agricultural preserve that is subject to a Land Conservation Contract pursuant to the Williamson Act, the purpose of which is to preserve productive agricultural lands. Pursuant to Government Code § 51292, government entities are required to make certain findings prior to locating public improvements on Williamson Act contracted lands. The Park District is exempt from making such findings because the purpose of the acquisition is for the primary benefit of the property to be acquired (Govt. Code § 51293(e)(3)), and because the property will be restricted to open space uses (Govt. Code § 51201(o)). Regardless, the District can make Section 51292 findings in that: 1) the District is not acquiring the property based upon the lower cost of acquiring land in an agricultural preserve, and 2) there is no other land within or outside the preserve on which it is reasonably feasible for the District to acquire to accomplish the same purpose. The purpose of the acquisition is to preserve and protect this unique property. The lower cost of acquiring property within an agricultural preserve is not a factor in this acquisition. The District will pay the full fair market value of the land as determined by an independently prepared property appraisal, and any cost differential of acquiring land within an agricultural preserve is not a factor in the proposed acquisition.

The Park District Board is following a policy of non-renewing Williamson Act contracts on District-owned lands. Non-renewal is appropriate because the mission of the District includes the preservation of open space in perpetuity so that the District’s acquisition of contracted lands accomplishes similar purposes to the Williamson Act with far greater certainty. Once land is owned by the District, a Williamson Act contract no longer serves the purpose of preserving the property, but it may impose unnecessary restrictions on the District’s ability to efficiently carry out its operations. The attached Board Resolution includes authorization to file a notice of non- renewal of the contract with Alameda County. The non-renewal will commence a wind down of the Williamson Act contract which will expire in nine years.

Because of the site’s relationship to Mission Peak Regional Preserve and the Bay Area Ridge Trail, its pond and water resources for cattle grazing, and its excellent views of the San Francisco Bay, staff recommends that the property be acquired and placed into Land Bank status until it is made safe and suitable for public access. Staff anticipates minimal increased operational demands as a result of this acquisition. Fencing is in good condition along the three sides shared with Park District lands. The Acquisition Evaluation attached to this report provides more detail.

ALTERNATIVES

No alternatives are recommended.

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2020 – 08 -

August 4, 2020

AUTHORIZATION TO ENTER INTO PURCHASE AND SALE AGREEMENT AND TO TRANSFER AND APPROPRIATE FUNDS FOR THE ACQUISITION OF 20± ACRES OF REAL PROPERTY FROM THE SAN FRANCISCO PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION: MISSION PEAK REGIONAL PRESERVE

WHEREAS, under direction given by the Board of Directors, staff has negotiated a purchase and sale agreement with the City and County of San Francisco, acting through its Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC), for the acquisition of the subject 20± acre property; and

WHEREAS, the subject property may be acquired on or before February 21, 2021 for $500,000, which is its appraised fair market value; and

WHEREAS, acquisition of this parcel aids in important resource protection goals by preserving open space and wetland habitat; and

WHEREAS, acquisition of the property also serves to preserve the scenic integrity of the Bay Area Ridge Trail within Mission Peak Regional Preserve; and

WHEREAS, the property includes a pond and water infrastructure which will support the District’s grazing and vegetation management program; and

WHEREAS, this acquisition is categorically exempt from California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requirements for preparing and processing environmental documentation under Sections 15316 and 15325 of the State CEQA Guidelines involving the transfer of ownership of land to preserve open space, and Section 15304 involving minor alterations of land with respect to grazing activities;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorizes the General Manager to execute the Purchase and Sale Agreement with SFPUC for the acquisition of the 20-acre subject property for a purchase price of $500,000; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board authorizes the transfer of $534,000 from Designated Acquisitions - Measure WW - Undesignated (229900WW00), utilizing funds from the Mission Peak allocation area, to project accounts Wool/Mission Peak Acquisition (CIP 251200WP41) and Wool/Mission Peak Safety and Security (CIP 251201WP41), as shown on the attached Budget Change form, to fund the purchase price and related acquisition expenses; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that, pursuant to Government Code § 51245, the Board authorizes the General Manager to file a notice of non-renewal with the Board of Supervisors of Alameda County for the Land Conservation Contract (Williamson Act contract) affecting the subject property; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the General Manager is hereby authorized and directed, on behalf of the District and in its name, to execute and deliver such documents and to do such acts as may be deemed necessary or appropriate to accomplish the intentions of this resolution.

Moved by Director , seconded by Director and adopted this 4th day of August 2020 by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

Page Left Blank Intentionally

ACQUISITION EVALUATION SUMMARY

Wool Ranch Inholding Mission Peak Regional Preserve Alameda County, CA 20 ± acres APN 096-0090-005-11

Site Description:

The Wool Ranch Inholding property is one parcel totaling 20± acres in unincorporated southern Alameda County between, and adjacent to, the western boundary of Mission Peak Regional Preserve and the eastern boundary of Fremont City limits and City of Fremont open space. The property is accessed via an easement and dirt road from Weller Road in Milpitas to the south and by way of Mission Peak Regional Preserve to the east. Access is considered average to good as compared to similar rural properties. The property is surrounded by primarily parklands, open space, and rangelands and is unimproved except for a well and some modest fencing. County zoning is Agricultural with an East County Area Plan (ECAP) overlay. Allowable uses include agriculture, single-family residential, open space, hiking and riding trails, oil and gas, kennels, stables. The property is encumbered with a Williamson Act land contract.

In 1992 the Park District acquired the 163-acre E. O. Wool Ranch, surrounding this property on three sides, as an addition to Mission Peak Regional Preserve. As a condition of sale, the Wool family retained the 20-acre inholding for family recreation purposes, but granted the Park District a first right of refusal to purchase the 20 acres in the event the family decided to sell the inholding. The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) worked to acquire the remaining 787 acres of the Wool Ranch, including this parcel, in 2018-2019. SFPUC asked the Park District to waive its right of first refusal to allow their acquisition to move forward, which was granted by Board Resolution No. 2019-05-100. SFPUC determined they do not need to retain the 20-acre parcel as it is not contiguous with the rest of their acquisition, and has agreed to sell the parcel to the Park District.

The Wool property will complete a missing section of parkland along the western boundary of Mission Peak Regional Preserve and will protect upland habitat and provide expansive views of San Francisco Bay for hikers along the Bay Area Ridge Trail.

Natural and Cultural Resources:

The Wool property is comprised of level to gently sloping topography with overall elevation changes from approximately 2,110 ft to 2,390 ft. The property remains in a relatively natural, undisturbed condition and has been used historically for cattle grazing by the Wool family. The only known utility onsite is a well. There is an approximately one-acre pond located near the center of the property. A small woodland and wetland habitat are adjacent to the pond.

The soil types on the property include Gaviota rocky sandy loam, Millsholm silt loam, and Los Osos loam with no evidence of major landslides. The property has primarily annual grassland cover with some native oak, buckeye, and willow tree cover and small wetland habitat. According to the 2016 CA Department of Conservation Important Agricultural Lands Map, the property is designated as “grazing lands”. The property is between two minor north-south running geologic faults, each about ¼ mile to the west and to the east of the property. The property is in FEMA Flood Zone X, an area that is outside a 100-year flood plain. Flood insurance is not required.

Stewardship staff have identified two half-acres each of native grasslands and narrow-leaf milkweed onsite; large-mouth bass were observed in the pond. There are no known cultural resources present on the property.

Planning Issues:

Master Plan: This acquisition will be an addition to existing parkland and is therefore consistent with the Master Plan 2013 Regional Parkland and Trail Map as amended in July of 2013.

Land Use Planning: The Wool inholding property will need to be made safe and secure for the public prior to being taken off the Land Bank list.

CEQA Compliance: This acquisition is exempt from CEQA requirements under both Sections 15316 and 15325 of the State CEQA Guidelines, the transfer of ownership of the land to preserve open space; and Section 15304, minor alterations of land with respect to grazing activities.

Public Safety:

Police: This acquisition will most likely have very minimal increased demands on EBRPD police patrol services. EBRPD owns and patrols the adjacent area by air and ground as part of regular patrols conducted in the area of Mission Peak and the Bay Area Ridge Trail. Public Safety does not foresee any additional policing demands.

Once open to the public, this property would be most efficiently patrolled by air with ground patrol as warranted. Officers and staff will need to conduct periodic checks of the area as part of regular patrols conducted within the Preserve.

Potential Police Issues: • Trespassing violations • Illegal camping violations

Police Recommendations: • Clearly established boundary fence and signs for jurisdictional identification purposes. • Ordinance 38 signage posted along fence lines for education and enforcement purposes when this property is opened to the public. • Future land use planning will need to be evaluated for potential public safety impacts as necessary.

Fire: The property is in an area classified as State Responsibility Area (SRA) for fire protection and is within the State’s Direct Protection Area. Mutual aid initial attack fire suppression resources would likely arrive first from Fremont Fire Department or Alameda County Fire Department and from CalFire’s Sunol Fire Station 14. CalFire crews, dozers and air resources would also be dispatched. The Park District would respond with engines, a watertender and overhead personnel from the closest staffed stations, either #1, #10, #5, or all of them. The property is in a remote location accessible by dirt ranch roads. During the day, response time would be 30+ minutes, depending on from which station they were dispatched. The EBRPD helicopter would arrive within 15 minutes from the Hayward Air Unit.

The parcel is located within the State’s “Moderate” Fire Hazard Severity Zone, with a narrow section of the northwestern portion in the State’s “High” Fire Hazard Severity Zone. A wildland fire would be of moderate to high intensity and could cause damage to natural resources and infrastructure improvements.

There are no known Hazardous Materials on the property. Hazardous materials responses will be the responsibility of Park District. Park District records indicate that over a recent three-year period, Mission Peak Regional Preserve had 2 hazardous materials incidents. HazMat Response frequency factor is 1.0; this is a low level of occurrence, compared with other Park District parks. One could expect a similar level of occurrence in this new addition.

In a recent three-year period, Park District fire department personnel responded to 27 medical incidents in Mission Peak. Medical Response Frequency Factor is 1.1, which is a high level of occurrence when compared with other Park District parks and could also characterize medical response activity in the new parcel. Over the same period there were 4 fires at Mission Peak. The Fire Hazard Severity Factor is 1.2, which is very high.

Fire Recommendations • Continue to strengthen mutual aid relationships with Fremont, Alameda County, and CalFire to ensure adequate emergency response times. • Cooperate with local and state fire agencies to ensure neighbors and the visiting public are aware of the risks, hazards, responsibilities and defensible space requirements to minimize fire losses in the wildland-urban interface. • If applicable at public access points, such as trailheads and staging areas, provide public education about the risks, hazards, responsibilities and actions to minimize the ignitions and losses from wildland fires.

Acquisition Criteria: This property: • Implements the adopted Park District 2013 Master Plan. • Presents an acquisition opportunity. • Completes park boundaries and eliminates private inholding. • Provides a buffer to protect trails, wildlife corridors and the visual integrity in existing parks. • Helps maintain an equitable parkland distribution of facilities and programs throughout the Park District.

Recommendation for Land Bank Status: Yes X No _ __

• The property is not located within an area covered by an approved Land Use Plan. The property will be held in Land Bank Status until it is made safe and suitable for public access.

Site Cost Estimate: Acquisition Estimate: $ 515,000

Safety and Security Estimate: $ 18,000 Fencing: $10,000 Weed abatement: $4,000 Feral pig control $4,000

Maintenance and Operational Estimate1 (annual): $ 2,036.80 Total Five-Year Projection: $ 10,184.00

1 Estimate is based upon the annual Land Base Operating Cost Methodology.

7/29/2020 E. Willis

Mission Peak Regional Preserve VICINITY MAP Wool Property APN: 096-0090-005-11 Feet [ 0 1,000 2,000

MISSION PEAK REGIONAL PRESERVE

Sunol Main Entrance Ohlone W ild IA er ne ss T rail

SUNOL WILDERNESS REGIONAL PRESERVE 0 2 0 2 / 8 / 6

: e t a D

C d x

IA a m . l y

B a t a i

v n

y i

e c A i

Stanford Ave. V r WOOL RANCH r e a _

a g Park Entrance s n

+767 ACRES i R d

R l

i o

o h n

g a I l

e o d o

T W

r _

a P

l M \ h c n a R l o o

WOOL 20-ACRE W _ INHOLDING PARCEL P M \ o i r T _ l

CITY OF FREMONT a s i a

FREMONT HILLS r p p

OPEN SPACE A \ d n a L \ D S A \ 0 2 0 2 _ s t

CALAVERAS c e j

RESERVOIR o r P \ y e k s

SFPUC a K WATERSHED LANDS c M C \ S I G \ : O

Page Left Blank Intentionally

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT BUDGET CHANGE FORM

NEW APPROPRIATIONS BUDGET TRANSFERS Appropriate Funds Between Funds From New Revenues x Between Projects

DECREASE BUDGET ACCOUNT AMOUNT INCREASE BUDGET ACCOUNT AMOUNT Account Name: Expense: Capital Project- Account Name: Expense: Capital Project- Land Acquisition-District Wide-Land + Trails- Land Acquisition, Wool / Mission Peak Measure WW Designated Acquisitions Acquisition Project Measure WW funds - 524,000 purchase price 491,000

Account: 333-7330-000-7010 / Account: 333-7330-114-7010 / 229900WW00-100 251200WP41-101 Account Name: Expense: Capital Project- Land Acquisition, Wool / Mission Peak Acquisition Project Measure WW funds - acquisition costs (title, escrow, additional staff time) 15,000

Account: 333-7330-114-7010 / 251200WP41-102/122/123 Account Name: Expense: Capital Project- Land Acquisition, Wool / Mission Peak Safety + Security - Measure WW funds - fencing, weed abatement, feral pig control

18,000

Account: 333-7330-114-7010 / 251201WP41-504/510/513

REASON FOR BUDGET CHANGE ENTRY: As being presented at the Board of Directors meeting on August 4, 2020, the General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize staff to enter into a purchase and sale agreement and to transfer funds for the purchase of 20 acres of real property from the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission. These funds will augment the $10,000 already appropriated and spent on initial acquisition efforts on this property. As approved at the Board of Directors Meeting on: Date: 8/4/2020

Board of Directors Resolution Number: 2020-08-

Posted By: Date: Signature

T:\BOARDCLK\BOARD MATERIAL\2020\14 - August 4, 2020\S DRIVE\D-2-a ASD-ACQ Wool Ranch PSA (Mission Peak)

Page Left Blank Intentionally

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

D. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

2. ACQUISITION, STEWARDSHIP & DEVELOPMENT DIVISION

b. Authorization to Execute a Contract with Ghiradelli for Construction Management Services and Amend a Contract with Grey Bowen Scott for the Develop Doolittle Trail Project: Martin Luther King, Jr. Regional Shoreline (Goorjian/Kelchner)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors:

1. Authorize executing a contract with Ghiradelli Associates of Oakland, California for construction management services in the amount of $1,225,032 for the Develop Doolittle Trail Project at Martin Luther King, Jr. Regional Shoreline (MLK); and

2. Authorize an amendment to the original contract with Gray Bowen Scott (GBS) of Walnut Creek, California in the amount of $63,000 for a total not to exceed amount of $211,300 for the Develop Doolittle Trail Project at MLK.

REVENUE/COST

The current action will authorize executing a consulting agreement for construction management services with Ghiradelli Associates and amend an existing professional services contract with GBS for new services. Funds for the proposed contract and amendment are available within the existing Develop Doolittle Trail Project budget as described below.

SOURCE OF FUNDS Develop Doolittle Trail Project (No. 500100) $ 5,647,400 Encumbrances and Expenditures to Date (2,373,705) TOTAL SOURCE OF FUNDS $ 3,273,695

USE OF FUNDS Contract with Ghiradelli for Construction Management Services $ 1,255,032 Amendment with GBS 63,000 Other Project Costs (administration and construction) 1,955,663 TOTAL USE OF FUNDS $ 3,273,695

In addition to currently available funds of $2.7 million in Develop Doolittle Trail Project No. 500100, an additional $1,435,000 granted by California Natural Resources Agency for the Multiple Benefit Green Infrastructure Investments Program is pending.

BACKGROUND

This action executes a professional services contract to provide construction management services for SF Bay Trail and park improvements at Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline. The trail will extend the San Francisco Bay Trail (SF Bay Trail) along Doolittle Drive (State Route 61) between Swan Way and Langley Street in Oakland, California. The segment of the SF Bay Trail is within the Caltrans right-of-way and next to Airport Channel of San Leandro Bay, a water way that connects to the San Francisco Bay. The project also includes improvements to MLK Jr. Regional Shoreline, maintenance of the existing SF Bay Trail, removal and replacement of a boat launch, improvements to an existing parking lot, and creation of approximately 2.5 acres of new tidal marsh to mitigate for project impacts.

The project is in the design and permit phase and construction documents are anticipated to be completed by late 2020 for public bidding with construction commencing in the spring of 2021. Due to the scale and complexity of this project and the required construction within the Caltrans right-of-way, staff recommends that a construction management firm be hired to administer the construction of the project to provide consistency and oversight during the construction period. In turn this will allow the Park District’s Construction/Survey Unit to maintain its current workload and deliver other Park District projects.

A Request for Proposals for consulting services was developed and advertised on May 20, 2020. Four proposals were received by the June 19, 2020, deadline. A selection committee comprised of Park District staff reviewed the four proposals and Ghiradelli Associates was determined to be the highest ranked and best qualified firm.

The consultant’s scope of services includes constructability/biddability review of construction documents, preconstruction and bidding support, construction administration, and project close-out support. Contract terms and conditions have been successfully negotiated with Ghiradelli Associates and staff recommends execution of the consulting services contract.

In addition, this action authorizes an amendment to the existing consultant services contract with GBS. GBS was initially hired on this project in 2018 to assist the Park District in defining a process to engage with and then facilitate said engagement with stakeholders for the SF Bay Trail Doolittle Drive segment. In July 2, 2019, by Board Resolution 2019-07-168, the Park District amended GBS’s contract to utilize their technical and specific expertise required to successfully coordinate with Caltrans and the Park District’s granting agencies throughout design, construction, and project closeout. Since then and due to the project’s complexity of being within the Caltrans right-of-way the Park District understands additional engagement with Caltrans is necessary that was not previously identified in the GBS contract. With GBS’s continued involvement, the Park District is on track to meet multiple milestones that are crucial for securing project funding and completion. Staff recommends amending the contract with GBS so they can continue to provide project coordination with Caltrans.

ALTERNATIVES

No alternatives are recommended. EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2020 – 08 –

August 4, 2020

AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE A CONTRACT WITH GHIRADELLI FOR CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT SERVICES AND AMEND A CONTRACT WITH GREY BOWEN SCOTT FOR THE DEVELOP DOOLITTLE TRAIL PROJECT: MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. REGIONAL SHORELINE

WHEREAS, East Bay Regional Park District (Park District) is committed to complete the gap in the San Francisco Bay Trail along Doolittle Drive between Swan Way and the Shoreline Center in Martin Luther King, Jr. Regional Shoreline; and

WHEREAS, a preferred project alignment has been identified that will be partially within the State Route 61 Caltrans Right-of Way; and

WHEREAS, the Park District has been awarded over $4 million in grant funds, in addition to allocating $2 million in District funds, and desires to move forward with project development in a timely fashion; and

WHEREAS, on May 19, 2020, by Resolution No. 2020-05-108 the Board of Directors adopted the Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND) and approved the project for the SF Bay Trail at Doolittle Drive project; and

WHEREAS, the Park District advertised a Request for Proposals for construction management services for constructability/biddability review of construction documents, preconstruction and bidding support, construction administration, and project close-out support; and WHEREAS, after evaluating proposals from four firms, the Park District determined Ghirardelli Associates to be the highest ranked firm, and has successfully negotiated contract terms and conditions including a total contract value of $1,255,032; and

WHEREAS, the Park District has an existing contract with Gray Bowen Scott (GBS) to provide coordination with Caltrans and the Park District’s granting agencies throughout design, construction, and project closeout; and

WHEREAS, the current GBS contract needs to be amended to support additional coordination with Caltrans; and

WHEREAS, there are sufficient funds available in the Develop Doolittle Trail Project (No. 500100) to cover the cost of Ghiradelli Associates contract and Gray Bowen Scotts amendment;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorizes executing a contract for construction management services in the amount of $1,255,032 with Ghiradelli Associates for the Develop Doolittle Trail Project (No. 500100); and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorizes an amendment to the existing $148,300 contract with Gray Bowen Scott in the amount of $63,000, for a contract total in the amount of $211,300, to continue provide Caltrans coordination and stakeholder support services for the Develop Doolittle Trail Project (No. 500100); and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the General Manager is hereby authorized and directed, on behalf of the District and in its name, to execute and deliver such documents and to do such acts as may be deemed necessary or appropriate to accomplish the intentions of this resolution.

Moved by Director , seconded by Director and approved the 4th day of August, 2020 by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

Page Left Blank Intentionally

San Francisco Bay Trail at Doolittle Drive East Bay Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline Feet Regional Park District [ 0 1,000 2,000 E 14 x th i S t a 3 n San Francisco BayTrail 8 L e e v a A n y Exist1in4g d r t r a h o in St t S m S S t e Proposed a h S n g ta i C C H o l l e a is v ra e A A u th v m 6 e 6 W E x a i y t

3 7

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. REGIONAL SHORELINE

E d g e O w a a k t p 9 e o 1 0

r r 2 t /

D 9

S 1 r /

t 6

: e t a D

d x m . 2 r D e l

E t t

e i x l

v o

i o t A D

3 _ s

6 T e B

F d

S E _

D L M

o \ o s n

l a i r

t T t l l a

e C _

l D i a

r r T e l t t i l o o

880 D _

¨¦§ L M \ s p a

Langley Street M d r a o B \ n o i t c u

y r t s

w n k o C

P n g i

y s

M a e D a B \ D i r t d S

l o A a R \

b 9

n r r 1 d a e 0 2

g _ D H r s r S t Project Location t e c a e t b j e e o n v r

H A P w e h \ t y y g 98 e 6 k Ra 1 e s m a H

p K c

Swan Way M C \ S I G \ : O BOARD AND STAFF REPORTS

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

D. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

4. GENERAL MANAGER’S COMMENTS

STAFF PRESENTATION Fire Chief Aileen Theile will introduce the new Assistant Fire Chief Mike Mathiesen and provide comments on the fire season to date.

GM COMMENTS From June 5, 2020 to July 5, 2020 the Public Safety Division handled 1,410 service calls and 2,318 total incidents. Highlights are included below.

Police There were seven arrests made throughout the District for a variety of felony and misdemeanor offenses, including DUI, weapons possession, drug possession, violation of court restraining orders, disorderly conduct, and public intoxication. Officers handled 72 field interviews (contacts without citations or arrests) and issued 660 citations (518 for parking).

• Alameda Creek Trail: On June 8, an officer took a report of vandalism and petty theft; the fence near the park office was cut open and a propane tank was stolen.

On June 28, an officer responded to an unresponsive park user suspected of a drug overdose. Narcan was administered and the victim was revived and transported to the hospital by ambulance for further evaluation.

• Dry Creek: On July 2, an officer took a report of an attempted vehicle theft. The victim was unable to positively identify a suspect.

• Iron Horse Trail in Walnut Creek: On June 4, a detective took a report of sexual battery. The victim provided details similar to four other reported incidents. The suspect has since been arrested.

• McLaughlin Eastshore State Park: On June 27, an officer took a report of vandalism to a rental mower.

On June 30, an officer responded to the report of an illegal encampment. The area was marked for a notice to vacate within 72 hours. • Out of Park in Castro Valley: On June 14, an officer performed a vehicle enforcement stop for a reckless driver. The driver was turned over to the California Highway Patrol for a DUI investigation.

• Roberts: On June 28, an officer took a report of an animal bite. The victim was bitten several times on the legs by a large dog, but refused further medical treatment. The victim provided suspect information about the dog owner who fled the scene.

• Sunol: On July 2, an officer cited and released a motorcyclist for infractions including an unsafe pass on right, a suspended driver’s license, and no motorcycle license. The motorcycle was impounded.

• Tilden: On July 2, several officers and medical personnel responded to a hit and run with major injuries. The suspects were located, with one arrested for felony hit & run, DUI, and child endangerment.

Fire Operations • Agency Assist: On June 6, District fire personnel, along with Contra Costa County Fire, and Cal Fire responded to a vegetation fire in a State Response Area (SRA) near Orinda.

• Point Pinole: On June 9, District fire personnel, along with the Richmond Fire Department, responded to a vegetation fire near the pier in Point Pinole. The fire was contained to 1.3 acres.

• Agency Assist: On June 10, District fire personnel responded to a vegetation fire of 2.3 acres on James Donlon Boulevard in Antioch.

• Agency Assist: On June 11, 2020, District fire personnel responded to a fire near Fish Ranch Road in Orinda, a State Response Area (SRA). This fire was contained to 4 acres.

• Tilden: On June 14, District fire personnel responded to and extinguished a 10’ x 10’ vegetation fire in Tilden off of Golf Course Drive.

• Miller/Knox: On June 19, District fire personnel and the Richmond Fire Department responded to a vegetation fire located at the end of Crest Avenue. The fire was .75 acre and burned upslope in grass and brush.

• Agency Assist: On June 23, District fire personnel along with the Crockett Fire Department, Cal Fire, and the Rodeo Hercules Fire Department responded to two vegetation fires near the intersection of Crockett Boulevard and Cummings Skyway, a State Response Area (SRA). Both fires were less than .5 acre and contained by resources on scene.

• Agency Assist: On July 4, District fire personnel, the Alameda County Fire Department and Cal Fire responded to a vegetation fire at the end of Sheraton in Rodeo, a State Response Area (SRA). The fire burned a total of 300 acres, a small portion of which was on the District landbank.

• Agency Assist: On July 4, District fire personnel assisted the Contra Costa Fire Department with a small vegetation fire off Highway 4 in Concord. The fire was contained to 6-8 acres.

• Agency Assist: On July 4, District fire personnel assisted with a vegetation fire off of Ruby Hill and Vallecitos Road in Livermore, a State Response Area (SRA).

• Agency Assist: On July 4, District fire personnel assisted the Contra Costa County Fire Department with a vegetation fire in Pittsburg, a State Response Area (SRA).

• Anthony Chabot: On July 4, District fire personnel responded to a report of a wood statue burning on a trail near Skyline and Grass Valley. The Oakland Fire Department extinguished the fire prior to arrival.

• Martin Luther King Jr. Shoreline: On July 4, District fire personnel responded with the Oakland Fire Department to a small spot fire located in the rocks along the shoreline.

• Waterbird: On July 4, District fire personnel and the Contra Costa Fire Department responded to a vegetation fire. The fire was contained to two acres.

Medical • During the month of June, District fire personnel responded to three vehicle accidents and three personal injuries or medical emergencies.

Fire Fuels Management • Anthony Chabot: On July 1, goat grazing began in the City Stable area.

• Anthony Chabot and Tilden: Skid steer mowing was completed in Recommended Treatment Areas AC007 Grass Valley, TI012 near Golf Course and Grizzly Peak, and TI009 near Canon and Wildcat Canyon Road.

• Civicorps completed their six-week commitment assisting with annual maintenance of the fuel break. Along with the maintenance work, they also cleared Alameda Whipsnake trap lines in Wildcat, Tilden, Claremont Canyon, and Sibley.

• Claremont Canyon: A masticator was used to remove seven acres of brush from the ridgetop and slopes in Recommended Treatment Area CC003. Ten trees were removed, and several trees were pruned.

• Garin: On July 5, goat grazing began in the Skyview/HOA area.

• Leona Canyon: The District fuels crew began work in Recommended Treatment Area LC005.

• The District fuels crew completed weed clearance and brush cutting in Recommended Treatment Area LC009.

• The District received Pacific Gas and Electric grants, totaling $90,000, which will fund fuels projects in Recommended Treatment Areas CC003, SR005, and SR002.

Lifeguard Services • Lifeguard Services continued assessments for reopening swim facilities.

• Lifeguard Services provided online training for returning staff from July 16-18.

GM COMMENTS

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

D. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

5. BOARD AND STAFF REPORTS

a. Actions Taken by Other Jurisdictions Affecting the Park District (Doyle)

City of Antioch – The Ranch Master Development Plan (Sand Creek Focus Area)

On July 28, 2020, the Antioch City Council approved various environmental documents, General Plan amendments, and rezoning actions related to the development of The Ranch residential project (project) within the Sand Creek Focus Area. This project will allow the development of up to 1,177 residential units over 253.5 acres on a 551.5-acre site. Actions taken by the City Council include: 1) Certifying The Ranch project Final EIR, including statement of overriding considerations and the mitigation monitoring and reporting program; 2) Approving the development agreement between the City of Antioch and Richland Planned Communities, Inc. (developer); 3) Amending the City of Antioch General Plan Land Use Map, General Plan Text, Circulation Element, and Housing Element; 4) Rezoning the property to Planned Development and adopting the development standards; and 5) Adopting the resolution approving a Master Development Plan, Design Review adopting Design Guidelines, and a Resource Management Plan. This project is east of Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve and north of the future Deer Valley Regional Park, specifically the new park at the former Roddy Ranch Golf Course. The Park District has been tracking this project for several years and has submitted numerous comment letters between 2016 and 2020. The developer has worked with the Park District to include the construction of a staging area to allow for future connections to Black Diamond Mines and Deer Valley and has agreed to limit development in the hilly southern portion of the project site closest to the regional parks. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

D. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

6. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS

a. Board Executive Committee (05/07/2020) (Corbett)

Participants (Via Video Conference):

Board: Committee Chair Ellen Corbett, Dee Rosario, Ayn Wieskamp

Staff: General Manager Robert Doyle, Dr. Ana Alvarez, Becky Pheng, Anthony Ciaburro, Kristina Kelchner, Jim O’Connor, Debra Auker, Ren Bates, Brian Holt, Devan Reiff, Lisa Goorjian, Edward Willis, Matthew James

Public: Members of the public were able to access the meeting via live video stream.

The May 7, 2020 Board Executive Committee meeting was held via video conference pursuant to Governor Newsom’s Executive Order No. N-29-20. Committee Chair Ellen Corbett called the meeting to order at 12:35 pm.

1. Roll Call

Becky Pheng, Recording Secretary, conducted a roll call of Board Executive Committee members and staff.

2. Concord Hills Regional Park Land Use Plan

Brian Holt, Chief of Planning and GIS, introduced this agenda item. He provided an overview of the project and acknowledged staff who worked on this project. Devan Reiff, Principal Planner, presented a PowerPoint presentation on the draft Land Use Plan (LUP). He highlighted the history of the site, which was a former munition storage depot. The inland area officially closed in 2005. In 2019, approximately 2,200 acres of inland area was transferred to the National Park Service for use by the Park District. The draft LUP was released in 2019 and developed concurrently with the Navy Environmental Impact Statement. The goals of the LUP include protection of biological resources and cultural and historical resources; recreation and educational facilities; interpretive facilities; and accessible space. Future trails include 22 miles of trails and roadways. Public amenities proposed for the park include camping and picnic sites, facility for special events, and community orchard. The south of Bailey area is projected to open first. Community

engagement for the project spanned over a five-year period. The Park District released the draft EIR on October 18, 2019. There were no significant unavoidable impacts found. The final EIR and response to comments was published on May 1, 2020.

Director Wieskamp thanked staff and Director Beverly Lane for all their work on this important project. This is a unique acquisition and project. Director Lane was a strong advocate for the creation and development of this new park. She inquired about the City of Pittsburg’s perspective of this project and if there are any opportunities for trail connections.

Director Rosario inquired if the Park District is working with tribal representatives on the project. Mr. Reiff responded that staff is working with various tribal representatives, and in particular regarding the naming of the park. Mr. Holt commented that there was an extensive tribal consultation process per Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. Director Rosario also inquired about zoning and opportunities for solar power, especially with the new facilities.

Chair Corbett commented that the draft LUP is extensive and thorough. She also thanked Director Lane for all her work on this project.

General Manager Doyle acknowledged Director Lane’s work on this work, and our congressional delegation and federal representatives for helping to make this happen.

Public Comment: Scott Williams submitted a comment on this item via voicemail. He would like the Board Executive Committee to consider allowing paragliding at the Regional Park. There is an excellent ridgeline and good wind. The Park District already allows paragliding at Mission Peak.

Recommendation: By motion of Director Wieskamp and seconded by Director Rosario, the Board Executive Committee voted 3-0 to forward a favorable recommendation to the full Board of Directors to 1) certify the Environmental Impact Report and 2) adopt the Land Use Plan for the Regional Park.

3. Concord Hills Regional Park Naming Selection

Devan Reiff, Principal Planner, presented this agenda item. He gave an overview of the Park District’s Naming Policy and Guidelines and talked about the overall naming process. Staff undertook four surveys to ask the public about their recommendations for the name of the future park. Approximately 1,200 responses were received. The following names received the most votes: Concord Hills, Los Medanos, Meridian Hills, Monte Del Diablo, and Other (names which honor and recognize native people and historical figures). Mr. Reiff talked about the “pros” and “cons” of the proposed names. Prior to park naming, staff will consult with Native American representatives.

Director Rosario asked if a name must be selected prior to bringing the draft LUP for Board adoption. Mr. Holt responded that it is at the Board’s discretion. Director Rosario commented that he would like to receive feedback and comments from Native American representatives

prior to making a decision. He also suggested adding the word “memorial” to the park name similar to Robert Crown Memorial State Beach.

Director Wieskamp would also like to hear the Native American perspective on naming recommendations. She would like the park name to be local and Native American related.

Chair Corbett commented that naming is an important policy and it is important to hear from the Native American community. She would like a name that is descriptive of the geographical area. She suggested that staff move the draft LUP forward for full Board consideration and hold off on a naming recommendation at this time.

The Board Executive Committee requested staff bring back this item for further discussion at a future meeting.

Public Comment: Tina Segrove submitted a public comment on this item via e-mail. She expressed her endorsement for naming the new park in one of two manners: 1) In honor of the indigenous people who initially live on these lands. 2) In honor of the many sailors, merchant seaman, and civilians who lost their lives during the Port Chicago disaster.

City of Concord Mayor Tim McGallian submitted a public comment on this item via e-mail. The City of Concord conducted an online survey to gather community input on the future regional park’s name. The majority of the respondents recommended “Concord Hills”.

Recommendation: The Board Executive Committee requested staff bring this item back for further discussion and consideration at a future Board Executive Committee meeting.

4. Repair Swim Lagoon Project: Contra Loma Regional Park

General Manager Doyle introduced this agenda item and provided a history of the park and development of the Contra Loma Swim Lagoon. The goal of this project is to make the swim lagoon safer. Lisa Goorjian, Chief of Design & Construction, gave an overview of the project location and history. The swim lagoon was built in 2003 by Contra Costa Water District (CCWD) to replace lake swimming. The Park District operates the swim lagoon pursuant to a management agreement. The swim lagoon is a popular facility that receives over 60,000 visitors annually. The swim lagoon has a sand feature which adds value; however, it impacts the lifespan of the lagoon surface. The sand wears down surfaces leaving dark areas, which may create visibility issues for lifeguards. To address this issue, staff recommends surface repairs including sandblasting and removing old sealant; sealing surface of lagoon and pump pits; and coping repair and tiling as needed. The repairs will allow for continued operation and extend the life of the lagoon for an additional 8-10 years.

The project cost is estimated at $725,000. Funds are available from the Major Infrastructure Repair and Replacement Fund (553). Staff will also seek cost sharing from the Bureau of Reclamation and CCWD per the management agreement.

General Manager Doyle noted that staff has had discussion with the Bureau of Reclamation regarding pending grants and monies from CCWD. Staff will continue to advocate for additional funding.

Chair Corbett inquired about other funding opportunities for this project. General Manager Doyle responded that staff will seek additional grants from the state, and would like to have a discussion about this and major infrastructure repairs at a future Board workshop.

Director Wieskamp asked when the facility will open to the public and the project timeline. Ms. Goorjian responded that it is unclear given the shelter in place and contractor’s availability to undertake the work.

Director Rosario thanked lifeguards for all their work on protecting the public and acknowledged that the swim lagoon is a valuable facility for the community.

Chair Corbett concurred that the swim lagoon is a valuable facility for the community.

Police Chief Anthony Ciaburro commented that this is an important project for lifeguards, and the project should move forward.

Recommendation: By Motion of Director Rosario and seconded by Director Wieskamp, the Board Executive Committee voted 3-0 to approve the Contra Loma Swim Lagoon schematic design and project.

5. Discussion on Rescheduling Board Workshops

General Manager Doyle lead a discussion with the Board Executive Committee on rescheduling Board Workshops cancelled as a result of the COVID-19 health emergency. Staff will move forward with rescheduling the Board Finance Workshop. He also noted that it is important for the Board to understand the financial impacts of COVID-19 and park operations. Director Wieskamp commented that it is important to have these discussions under the current conditions.

Recommendation: None. This was a discussion item.

6. Open Forum for Public Comments

Members of the public had an opportunity to submit public comments via e-mail and voicemail. No public comments were received on items not listed on the agenda.

7. Board Comments

Director Wieskamp asked staff for an update on when pools and lakes will be open to the public. General Manager Doyle responded that additional facilities are expected to open in the coming days. Staff will provide an update to the Board.

Director Rosario thanked staff for their presentations, and looked forward to the continued discussion on the Concord Hills Regional Park naming selection in the future. He commented on the importance of keeping Park District employees safe before reopening parks and facilities.

Chair Corbett commented that lifeguards are active and asked about the availability of personal protective equipment for staff. She restated the importance of safety while using the parks.

8. General Manager Comments

None.

There being no further business, Chair Ellen Corbett declared the meeting adjourned at 2:30 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Becky K. Pheng Legal Assistant

Page Left Blank Intentionally

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

D. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

6. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS

b. Board Executive Committee (06/04/2020) (Corbett)

Participants (Via Video Conference):

Board: Committee Chair Ellen Corbett, Dee Rosario, Ayn Wieskamp

Staff: General Manager Robert Doyle, Dr. Ana Alvarez, Becky Pheng, Jim O’Connor, Anthony Ciaburro, Alan Love, Kristina Kelchner, Brian Holt, Matt Graul, Lisa Goorjian, Ren Bates, Toby Perry, Chantal Alatorre, Matthew James

Public: Members of the public were able to access the meeting via live video stream.

1. Roll Call

Becky Pheng, Recording Secretary, conducted a roll call of Board Executive Committee members and staff.

2. Hayward Shoreline Adaptation Master Plan

Brian Holt, Chief of Planning, introduced this agenda item. The Park District manages approximately 50 miles of shoreline in the East Bay. Sea level rise is an important issue that will require multiple agencies to coordinate, plan, and respond. The Hayward Regional Shoreline Adaptation Master Plan (Plan) was commissioned in 2019 by the Hayward Shoreline Planning Agency (HASPA). HASPA was originally established in 1970 as a joint powers agency consisting of representatives from the City of Hayward, East Bay Regional Park District, and Hayward Area Recreation and Park District. The Plan will propose multi-benefit strategies for the shoreline, its existing infrastructure, and the surrounding natural habitat in order to adapt to sea level rise. Several grants have been awarded to assist with climate adaption planning including a $509,000 grant awarded to HASPA, and a $375,000 grant awarded to the Park District for the Bay Trail Risk Assessment and Adaptation Prioritization Plan.

Matt Graul, Chief of Stewardship, talked about the ecology of the shoreline and science component of the Plan. The Plan will look into a variety of strategies including:

- Nature based strategies including tidal marsh restoration, diked pond management, fine sediment augmentation, breakwaters, and eelgrass restoration. - Engineered strategies including levee improvements, revetments, wastewater treatment adaptation, land elevation, and drainage. - Non-structural strategies including public access and the bay trail, managed retreat, relocation of facilities, and building scale strategies.

Three design alternatives were presented and discussed. General Manager Doyle commented that there are many commercial businesses located along the Hayward shoreline that will be impacted with sea level rise. Director Corbett commented that it is important to engage businesses and industries in the area and recommended that staff reach out to the Hayward Chamber of Commerce to help publicize information on the Plan. Director Wieskamp commented on the importance of getting the public engaged and the financial costs of the projects. Director Rosario asked if the City of Hayward is considering a community-financing district for the shoreline. Staff responded that there has been some discussion, along with other opportunities for financing the projects. General Manager Doyle suggested that staff present the Plan to BCDC for review and comment, and to help promote the importance of this project.

Recommendation: This was an informational item.

3. Park District Headquarters – Peralta Oaks North

Deputy General Manager Ana Alvarez introduced this agenda item. In 2019, the Park District acquired 2955 Peralta Oaks to create a Park District headquarters campus that would house Public Safety Division and administrative staff. Staff is working with a consultant to design and renovate the building to meet current building code standards. To assist with the 2955 Peralta Oaks North Project, a team of staff from various departments was assembled to develop a request for proposal (RFP) for consultant services to advise the Park District on space programming, engineering and structural needs, and renovation and design. Staff expects to bring a recommendation for a consultant to the Board in June. Kristina Kelchner, Assistant General Manager for Acquisition, Stewardship & Development, talked about the process involved in acquiring the 2955 Peralta Oaks building, and highlighted the work-to-date on the property including site security and stabilization projects, establishment of a steering committee, and issuance of a request for proposal. Lisa Goorjian, Chief of Design and Construction, discussed the RFP selection process. The RFP was released in February-March 2020. The Park District received seven propels, and the steering committee selected four firms to interview. After interviews and discussions, staff recommend selection of the firm of Shah Kawasaki Associates for this project. A project timeline was presented.

Director Rosario commented that the Board of Directors are interested in this project and asked whether Board members can participate in the steering committee. He also inquired about the location of a communication tower in the area. Staff responded that the consultant will look into

the location of the communication tower. Chair Corbett concurred that Board members should participate given the size and scope of the project. She recommended forming an ad hoc committee. Director Wieskamp inquired about air quality and circulation in the new building given the current pandemic. Staff responded that the consultant will look into that as part of the design process. General Manager Doyle concurred that the consultant will look at the HVAC system and space design, and discussed the need to find additional funding for this project. Chair Corbett left the meeting early.

Recommendation: This was an informational item.

4. Open Forum for Public Comments

Members of the public had an opportunity to submit public comments via e-mail and voicemail. No public comments were received on items not listed on the agenda.

5. Board Comments

Director Rosario inquired about the status of the naming selection for the new Concords Hills Regional Park.

6. General Manager Comments

General Manager Doyle commented that public agencies will likely face economic challenges and Park District projects will likely be impacted.

There being no further business, Director Rosario declared the meeting adjourned at 2:05 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Becky K. Pheng Legal Assistant

Page Left Blank Intentionally

AGENDA REGULAR MEETINGS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

D. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

6. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS

c. Board Legislative Committee (06.26.2020) (Waespi)

Present

Board: Dennis Waespi, Beverly Lane, Elizabeth Echols

Staff: Robert E. Doyle, Erich Pfuehler, Lisa Baldinger, Yulie Padmore, Debra Fuller, Rachel Sater, Jeff Rasmussen

Consultants: Doug Houston, Peter Umhofer

Public:

This meeting was called to order at 12:34 pm.

Items discussed: I. STATE LEGISLATION / OTHER MATTERS A. NEW LEGISLATION – RECOMMENDED BILLS FOR SUPPORT

1. AB 2076 (Bigelow R-O'Neals) – State Parks Wildfire Prevention Strategy Legislative Advocate Doug Houston stated AB 2076 was introduced by Republican Assembly Member Frank Bigelow, Vice-Chair of Appropriations. The bill requires the Director of the Department of Parks and Recreation to establish a wildfire prevention strategy primarily in high and very high fire severity zones. This bill could impact Del Valle, Mount Diablo and Marsh Creek as they are state parks within the scope of the new wildfire prevention strategy.

2. AB 2519 (Wood D-Santa Rosa) – Advance Grant Payments for Conservation Projects Houston explained AB 2519 builds upon an effort a few years ago by then Senator, now Insurance Commissioner, Ricardo Lara to permit advance grant payments primarily to disadvantaged communities in California. The primary grant program of concern was the Integrated Regional Watershed Management Program. This bill is looking to expand the model to allow for advance grant payments from the Resources Agency, State Coastal Conservancy, Department of Water Resources and Water Resources Control Board. The District may be eligible to request advance payment.

3. AB 3074 (Friedman D-Glendale) – Wildfire Ember Resistant Zones Houston provided Assembly Member Laura Friedman, Chair of the Assembly Natural Resources Committee, is active in the California fire policy space. This bill places a new overlay of protection, in addition to the current 100 feet defensible space, establishing a five-foot “ember-resistant zone” around homes in high fire risk areas. The analysis notes embers do travel and ignite flammable objects, increasing potential risk of house fires.

4. AB 3164 (Friedman D-Glendale) – Wildland Urban Interface Wildfire Risk Model Houston stated Assembly Member Friedman’s bill, AB 3164, would create a wildfire risk model within the high and very high fire severity zones. The creation of the model would be in cooperation with an advisory group and the Insurance Commissioner. The model would identify and categorize areas of the state at risk of wildfire and identify protection policies. Chief of Government and Legislative Affairs Erich Pfuehler added the bill has a provision for an oversight committee which includes representatives from the insurance industry. Motion passed unanimously to support AB 2076, AB 2519, AB 3073 and AB 3164.

B. NEW LEGISLATION – RECOMMENDED BILLS FOR WATCH

1. SB 1300 (Skinner D-Berkeley) – Hercules Redevelopment Agency Dissolution Finding of Completion Houston stated SB 1300 intends to allow the Hercules Redevelopment Agency (RDA) successor agency to restructure its existing financial obligation. The redevelopment dissolution settlement would need to be re-opened by legislation. This effort could help mitigate some of the continued financial impact on the City of Hercules. There would be some negligible impact to the District due to the slight reduction of property taxes. The greater impact maybe $10 million redirected from the state’s General Fund. This would directly affect schools and would require the state, through its Prop. 98 obligations, to backfill the loss. SB 1300 has been held in suspense and will not advance. Pfuehler noted staff was asked to review SB 1300 by the California Special Districts Association (CSDA). CSDA is concerned about the dissolution of any finding of completion for an RDA. It is a bad precedent. Since Senator Skinner was on the District’s Board of Directors and represents much of the East Bay in the State Senate, CSDA wanted the District’s feedback. District staff provided feedback. Although the bill will not advance this year, staff did want the Board to be aware. General Manager Robert E. Doyle suggested the Finance Department provide the Board an update about the dissolution of redevelopment agencies since some District Board Members were appointed to those committees.

2. SB 1431 (Glazer D-Orinida) – Property Tax Reassessment Due to Covid-19 Houston said SB 1431 was introduced by Senator Steve Glazer. The bill would allow for the reassessment of property taxes by elevating Covid-19 to the same status as an earthquake or fire. This would be a departure from existing constitutional law since counties generally permit property owners to seek reassessments when there is physical damage or destruction. SB 1431 is seeking primarily to mitigate the effects of rent freezes and/or loses for California multifamily property owners. The property owners may not be receiving rent payments, yet continue to pay their mortgages and insurance. The analysis of the bill goes into detail about the far-reaching effects to restaurants and manufacturing properties. This translates into billions of dollars in property tax losses if implemented. Appropriations sought to hold the bill on cost alone. Pfuehler added SB1341 would only go into effect if the Governor declares an emergency. The District was asked by CSDA to look at the bill. It was also reviewed by District Finance staff. Both Finance and Legislative staff were not sure the bill was specific to apartment buildings. District staff had a broader interpretation which included all properties. If that is the case, the bill would be hugely impactful to the District. Since it is Senator Glazer’s bill, staff placed it on the agenda as a watch knowing it is held in committee and not advancing. Motion passes unanimously to watch SB 1300 and SB 1341.

C. OTHER STATE MATTERS 1. June 15, 2020 State Budget Houston explained a stopgap budget passed on June 15, 2020. Pfuehler noted the District secured funding for the McCosker project. Houston informed the District will receive $4.6 million in allocations from the Prop. 68 per capita program. He will clarify for the District’s Grant Department a potential expedited release of other Prop. 68 program bond funds. Doyle commented per capita is a very important piece of discretionary grant funding for the District. The Board will be able to prioritize the funds. It will be critically significant for completing some of the District’s projects. Legislative and Policy Management Analyst Lisa Baldinger indicated at a future meeting she would provide a holistic analysis of the per capita program and how the grant criteria were developed.

2. Climate – Jobs Bond Houston spoke with Assembly Member Laura Friedman yesterday, one of the principal authors of AB 3256. She was not optimistic about the bill at this time, but looked forward to 2021 to reboot the effort. Baldinger commented Together Bay Area, formerly known as the Bay Area Open Space Council, has been working with Midpeninsula Regional Open Space, Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority and others to create a policy subcommittee. Through the cultivated efforts of Political Director Shelana deSilva, Bay Area specific requests were submitted to Assembly Member Mullin’s office and the author. Although the bill is not advancing, efforts continue to highlight regional economic benefits from conservation related work. Pfuehler added due to the emergence of jobs related bonds and infrastructure packages, staff is examining how the District frames projects. Baldinger is working on a project with Beacon Economics, cross-divisionally with the District Finance, and Design and Construction (DECO) Departments to quantify job statistics for future and shovel-ready projects. This data will be used to create stronger arguments for grants and direct allocations. Doyle remarked Baldinger is on the Together Bay Area Board, a Bay Area wide coalition, which supports the work of our delegation.

3. Spilt Roll Ballot Initiative Houston explained in November there will be an initiative on the ballot intended to reassess all commercial retail properties in California based on today's values pursuant to Prop. 13. If passed, it would generate about $12 billion annually. A sizable amount would go to local agencies. The analysis shows the possibility of about $20 million in new property tax revenues would be allocated to the Park District. Pfuehler expressed the District would benefit from additional revenue, but the measures chance of success is not clear. East Bay companies, who are represented on our Foundation Board, would be impacted. Staff wanted to bring this to the Board’s attention to be clear about both the initiative and how it could impact the District.

II. FEDERAL LEGISLATION / OTHER MATTERS

A. NEW LEGISLATION - RECOMMENDED BILLS FOR SUPPORT 1. H.R. 2199 (Carbajal D-CA) – Central Coast Heritage Protection Act and 2. H.R. 2215 (Chu D-CA) – San Gabriel Mountains Foothills and Rivers Protection Act Pfuehler clarified H.R. 2199 and H.R. 2215 were brought to staff’s attention by Director Dee Rosario. The Board Legislative Committee and the Board of Directors approved the Protecting Unique and Beautiful Landscapes by Investing in California (PUBLIC) Lands Act by Senator Kamala Harris. The PUBLIC Lands Act had three House companion bills folded into one Senate bill. The primary bill of interest dealt with redwoods and redwood parks along the coast. That bill would have some impact on the District’s Reinhardt Redwood Park, therefore, the District took a position on the bill. Director Rosario wondered why not take a position on the other two since they are consistent, even though they don't directly impact the Park District. The Central Coast Heritage Act and the San Gabriel Mountains Act would put more land in both regions into protective status under Wilderness, and Wild and Scenic River Act designations. Legislative Advocate Peter Umhofer expanded the three bills came together in a House- passed bill on February 11th. The Senate quickly introduced this combination of three bills. It is wholly appropriate for the District to support.

3. H.R. 6546 (Neguse D-CO) – Wildfire and Community Health Response Act of 2020 Pfuehler said this bill would require the Department of Agriculture and the National Park Service, as well as other Federal land management agencies, assess risks. Specifically, to protect firefighters, mitigate wildfire risk and continue the work of removing vegetation. There is no associated funding, only a report back to the Congress and other agencies in the administration. Umhofer noted the bill is forward-thinking and can become legislation after they get the feedback from the agencies.

4. H.R. 7073 (Garamendi D-CA) – Special Districts Qualifying for Coronavirus Relief Fund Pfuehler stated H.R. 7073 would ensure 5% of future relief funding would be directly allocated to special districts throughout the country. Currently, this bill does not have a companion in the Senate. Senator Harris and Senator Feinstein are both looking at it, as well as Senator Kyrsten Sinema from Arizona. Umhofer mentioned he has been reaching out to offices with parks or special districts in areas such as Illinois, Texas and Ohio. Help is needed to get the word out. These communities can be powerful messengers to members of Congress and to Senators. Director Beverly Lane asked if the District should be communicating with our special district forum peers. Pfuehler added staff will communicate to the invitation list for the Park District's Forum hosted last year. Staff will send an email to those on the list asking they provide input to their elected members of Congress and Senators. Additionally, staff will reach out to the California Association of Recreation and Park Districts.

5. H.R. 7095 (DeFazio D-OR) – INVEST in America Act Pfuehler explained the Federal transportation authorization bill is reauthorized about every five years. This is the opportunity to reallocate Federally-collected gas tax dollars. The Investing in a New Vision for the Environment and Surface Transportation in America (INVEST) Act would allocate $1.5 billion annually for four years to active transportation. The bill is pro-green and worth supporting. Since this bill was introduced, it was folded into a broader infrastructure package of about $1.5 trillion. The INVEST Act is $500 billion. Umhofer provided the infrastructure package covers transportation, energy, broadband, schools and housing. It is bold and focuses on a variety of different important needs for the country. There are three programs for bike and pedestrian funding where multi-county special districts are eligible. The Park District is well-positioned: 1. The Transportation Alternative Program funded at $1.5 billion a year for four years. 2. The Active Transportation Connectivity Grants starting in 2024. 3. The Community Climate Innovation Grant Program. In the larger infrastructure bill, there are two Living Shoreline Coastal Resilience Grant Programs which will be of interest. Director Lane asked if there is historic preservation funding in this bill as there has been in the past. Umhofer continued he would look to see if historic preservation is a piece of the bill.

6. S.3624 (Coons D-DE) and H.R. 6702 (Price D-NC) – Pandemic Response and Opportunity Through National Service Act Pfuehler stated there are a series of bills introduced due to Covid-19 which expand opportunity for community service through programs such as the Civilian Conservation Corps, AmeriCorps and other national service programs. Staff identified a few for the committee and anticipate there will be more. This bill is aimed at expanding these efforts to increase health care service providing capacity.

7. S. 3684 (Wyden D-OR) – 21st Century Conservation Corps for Our Health and Our Jobs Act Pfuehler explained Oregon Senator Ron Wyden, due his state’s large amount of public lands and rural community challenges during Covid-19, has introduced a comprehensive package to create a new Civilian Conservation Corps. Umhofer added there has been a collective effort to introduce bills which include Covid-19 emergency relief. S. 3684 has the Conservation Corps language. It is an important program for California and could employ many people. Motion passes unanimously to support H.R. 2199, H.R. 22115, H.R. 6546, H.R. 7073, H.R. 7095, S.3624 and S. 3684.

B. OTHER FEDERAL MATTERS 1. Federal Response to Covid-19 Umhofer explained the House HEROES Act, a $3 trillion bill including state and local funding, passed on May 15th. The Senate has not decided about their approach to the next relief bill. The White House is starting to engage on what it would like to see in a Senate bill. The Senate has said they want to see around a $1 trillion bill. The Senate is waiting until the end of July for maximum leverage when the unemployment extension benefits expire. There is a deep split among Senate Republicans about state and local funding. One side deeply believes states and localities have great need and money should be provided now. Others believe more money to states and localities would be a bailout for states not run well. There is currently a stalemate. With the spike in Covid-19 cases, Congress is rethinking what else may be needed in a relief bill. The economic conditions continue to evolve.

2. Land and Water Conservation Fund / Great America Outdoors Act Umhofer said the House is set to vote on the Great American Outdoors Act which includes permanent funding of $900 million for the Land and Water Conservation Fund and $9.5 billion over five years for the public lands maintenance backlog. At the moment, the trajectory is looking positive. On Tuesday, the House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis will issue a 500-page report to address the climate change crisis legislatively. It will be announced by Speaker Nancy Pelosi along with members of the Select Committee. There is a whole section on public lands, carbon storage, resilience and coastal protections.

3. Other Matters

III. IMPACTS OF THE CORONAVIRUS ON EAST BAY PARK USERS AND INFORMATION ANALYTICS Pfuehler recognized Acting Legislative Assistant Yulie Padmore’s work on this presentation and acknowledged her new acting role. Baldinger was recognized for her support on the presentation and participation in the development of the survey instrument. Pfuehler and Baldinger presented the findings of a recent N=500 survey conducted from May 11 – May 18, 2020, along with recent analytics about District communication with the public around the impacts of Covid-19.

IV. ARTICLES & OTHER MEDIA Director Dennis Waespi valued the article by Catherine Nagel noting how parks are essential. He stated historically Frederick Law Olmsted understood this connection years and years ago. The value just continues to be so great to society. Pfuehler added both the City Parks Alliance, for which Catherine Nagel is the Executive Director, and the National Recreation and Park Association are going to advocate for Federal legislation to consider parks as essential.

V. OPEN FORUM PUBLIC COMMENT No comments

VI. BOARD COMMENTS No comments

This meeting adjourned at 3:01 PM.

Respectfully Submitted,

Debra Fuller Confidential Secretary

NEWSCLIPS

Opinion: As park use surges during pandemic, federal funding needed Rep. Mark DeSaulnier and predecessor George Miller say East Bay parks are prime example of rapidly rising demand By MARK DESAULNIER and GEORGE MILLER | PUBLISHED: July 24, 2020 at 6:10 a.m. | UPDATED: July 24, 2020 at 6:16 a.m. ALBANY, CA – JULY 19: Bicyclists ride on the newly added section of the Bay Trail in Albany, Calif., on Sunday, July 19, 2020. The $18.9 million East Bay Regional Park District project added a new mile-long segment to the trail behind the Golden Gate Fields racetrack, closing a gap in the trail between Berkeley and Albany. (Jose Carlos Fajardo/Bay Area News Group)

During the current COVID-19 global pandemic, parks and open space areas providing safe places for outdoor activity are experiencing an unprecedented surge in visitation and impacts on facilities.

Take, for example, the East Bay Regional Park District, a system of 73 parks with 125,000 acres and 1,300 miles of trails. EBRPD’s pre-COVID visitation rate was 25 million a year. (For comparison, Disneyland had 18 million visits annually.) Since the shelter-in-place orders in March, the park district’s general manager estimates, the rate of trail use has doubled.

This surge in park visitors, which is being seen around the country, has an impact on infrastructure, natural resources and the ability to manage the parks effectively for control of fire.

That’s why the federal government, now more than ever, needs to sufficiently fund maintenance of parks for current and future generations. And why members of Congress are backing legislation to provide that money.

Viewed through the lens of the current pandemic, parks and trails serve as a safe space for essential activity that contributes to both the psychological and physical health of residents. An EBRPD survey in May of residents of Alameda and Contra Costa counties proves just that:

• 96% of respondents say keeping regional parks and trails open during the pandemic has been important.

• 90% believe having access to regional parks and trails has been important to their health and well-being.

• 92% say the pandemic has had an impact on their mental health.

• 94% believe parks will play an equal or greater role when the pandemic is over. Public investments in natural resources not only protect those parks so essential during the pandemic, they also provide jobs — particularly for young people — that are critical for our communities.

Fortunately, members of the U.S. Congress have proposed historic parks investments during this global health and economic crisis:

• The Great American Outdoors Act (H.R. 1957), which the House passed Wednesday, the Senate had previously passed and is heading to the president for his signature. The bill would permanently allocate $900 million annually from federal oil and gas leases to the Land and Water Conservation Fund — and infuse $9.5 billion over five years to address maintenance needs on public lands.

• The Moving Forward Act (H.R. 2), an infrastructure package passed by the House on July 1 that invests $1.5 trillion in infrastructure, including shoreline restoration projects, transportation alternatives (such as paved trails) and recreational trail funding.

• The Special Districts Provide Essential Service Act (H.R. 7073), which emphasizes the need for special districts — local units of government providing specific services such as parks, hospitals, fire, water and sanitation — to be eligible for future COVID-19 emergency funding aimed at assisting local governments.

• The 21st Century Conservation Corps for Our Health and Our Jobs Act (S. 3684), which renews the call for national service to invest billions into job creation — particularly for young people challenged to find work at this time — for the psychological and physical health of our communities.

We need efforts like these to help fund badly needed public lands for preservation and public access during the recession and international pandemic.

Rep. Mark DeSaulnier, D-Concord, currently represents most of Contra Costa County. He succeeded George Miller, who retired in 2015 after serving in Congress for 40 years.

Protecting Funding for Public Health and Equity July 23, 2020, by Robert Doyle

East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) in Oakland, California, manages a system of 73 parks, 1,300 miles of trails and 55 miles of shoreline on 125,000 acres in the East San Francisco Bay Area. We are proud to serve the very diverse East Bay population, especially in these difficult times, by keeping 99 percent of our parks open and accessible, allowing all people access to the vital mental and physical benefits of exercising in nature. Well before the current coronavirus (COVID-19) health crisis, EBRPD established significant programming, encouraging greater access by members of under-resourced communities. In partnership with our Regional Parks Foundation, we implemented a robust Healthy Parks Healthy People program, fostering relationships with doctors and hospitals to develop scientific studies showing the health merits of access to nature. A Parks Rx program and increasingly well-attended multicultural wellness walks followed. However, more work needs to be done to address the systemic health disparities that impact many of the communities we serve. Assisting Public Health Agencies Unsurprisingly, local health agencies declared outdoor activity as essential activity at the onset of the Bay Area shelter-in-place (SIP) order. An immediate surge of users followed, as parks were the only game in town for getting out of the house to exercise. EBRPD responded quickly — balancing the needs to safely keep parks open and protect staff. Within 24 hours of California’s first-in-the-nation statewide SIP order, EBRPD began producing public service announcements describing how to keep safe in the parks during the pandemic. We kept most parks open, but temporarily closed some parking lots to reduce crowding, closed high-touch facilities — such as restrooms, play structures and picnic tables — and halted trash pickup. County health agencies subsequently asked EBRPD to keep parks and trails open as an essential service during the pandemic and the SIP orders. Weekly discussions with the county health agencies followed, and safety protocols were developed to keep staff safe when cleaning restrooms and picking up trash. Many of the closed amenities were reopened within two weeks. East Bay Parks staff rose to the challenge of creating signage and educating both regular park users and thousands of new visitors on maintaining physical distancing and wearing masks. At the same time, staff developed a reopening plan to ensure equitable park access to both urban and rural parks and trails, keeping as many parks as possible open for all, and rejecting calls from wealthy neighborhoods to restrict access to locales. Ninety-nine percent of our parks and trails have stayed open, and we continue to reopen those few closed facilities as safely allowable.

Advocating for Equity Equitable public access has long been a focus of the agency. Forty years ago, at the urging of conservation and community leaders, we made a huge commitment to provide public access along the urban shoreline, adjacent to some of the historically most under-resourced communities in East Bay. Miller/Knox Regional Shoreline in Richmond was our first shoreline park, followed by Martin Luther King Jr. Shoreline in Oakland and Point Pinole Regional Shoreline in Richmond, which recently received a major upgrade with a restoration and public access project. During the past 10 years, EBRPD has invested nearly $100 million in these urban communities and others, providing both more access and new park improvements. We know the need is great and continue to keep our commitment to do more for social and environmental justice, especially now. This year, with grants and assistance largely supported by our legislative delegation, we’re opening three shoreline projects:

• Bay Point Regional Shoreline Restoration and Access Project – $5.8 million ($3.9 grant funded, including $750,000 from a Land and Water Conservation Fund [LWCF] competitive grant) • McLaughlin Eastshore State Park Albany Beach Restoration and Bay Trail – a connection between the West Berkeley and Albany communities – $14 million ($4.6 million grant funded) • Judge John Sutter Regional Shoreline in West Oakland – new waterfront park with a public access pier – $29.6 million (funded and developed by Caltrans and MTC/Bay Area Toll Authority) EBRPD has and will persist in making the case with our legislators for the need of continued enhanced investment in our vital public access programs and projects that deliver access to nature for all. As the economy cratered under the weight of SIP orders, EBRPD set up meetings with state and local legislators to remind them that parks truly are an essential service and that the surge in visitation is real. In the short term, we need to protect the funding we have and proactively seek recovery funds as we navigate the uncertain times ahead. A future green stimulus and/or funding of LWCF could help fix and maintain parks, increase equitable access and continue parks’ role as part of the health system while providing needed economic opportunities for those struggling financially, even while mitigating some of the effects of climate change. In the long term, learning from this moment and keeping the public’s trust will position park agencies well for future funding. EBRPD has found that social media, Zoom meetings, virtual walk-and-talks and written correspondence are all effective ways to communicate at a time when elected officials are seeking positive stories. The park and recreation field has a great story to tell right now, so let’s tell it together!

Robert Doyle is General Manager at East Bay Regional Park District.

Sierra Club director cancels founder John Muir — should parks, schools, be renamed? Club director says Muir remarks ‘hurt and alienate’ By JOHN WOOLFOLK | [email protected] | Bay Area News Group PUBLISHED: July 22, 2020 at 2:34 p.m. | UPDATED: July 23, 2020 at 4:18 p.m. Visitors stroll along trails through redwoods at Muir Woods National Monument, named for Sierra Club founder John Muir, near Mill Valley, Calif. on Monday, Nov. 25, 2019. (Alan Dep/Staff Archives)

The Sierra Club has called founder John Muir America’s most influential naturalist. His work inspired the preservation of such wonders as Yosemite and the Grand Canyon.

But in a stunning turn this week, the 128-year-old club’s current executive director, Michael Brune, said “it’s time to take down some of our own monuments” and called out Muir for having made “derogatory comments about Black people and Indigenous peoples that drew on deeply harmful racist stereotypes.”

Such remarks, Brune wrote, and Muir’s association with white supremacists who were early members and leaders of what would become the country’s largest environmental organization, “continue to hurt and alienate Indigenous people and people of color who come into contact with the Sierra Club.”

The club’s reassessment of its founder — coming at a time when the country is reevaluating how it honors a host of historical figures with racist pasts, from Confederate generals to former presidents — swiftly called into question the widespread honors to the man known as the father of our national parks.

A linked article notes Muir (1838-1914) “has at least one high school, 21 elementary schools, six middle schools and one college named after him, as well as a glacier, a mountain, a woods, a cabin, an inlet, a highway, a library, a motel, a medical center, a tea room and a minor planet.”

MARTINEZ, CA – JULY 22: A sculpture of John Muir is seen in the visitor’s center at the John Muir National Historic Site in Martinez, Calif., on Wednesday, July 22, 2020. The site contains the home of the naturalist and conservationist. (Jane Tyska/Bay Area News Group)

In the Bay Area, they include Muir Woods National Monument in Marin County, the John Muir National Historic Site near Martinez and John Muir Health system in Walnut Creek. There are John Muir elementary schools in San Francisco, Berkeley, Martinez and San Jose, where a middle school also is named after him, as is one in San Leandro.

Already, it’s sparked a torrid debate over renaming. John Muir Health said Wednesday its name originated as part of an elementary school naming contest when the Walnut Creek Medical Center was being built in the late 1950s and early 1960s, and that its board will “examine the history and legacy of the John Muir name” and consider “recommendations on this complex topic.” “The views of John Muir in no way reflect the mission and values of John Muir Health,” the company said in a statement. “We stand for equity, diversity, inclusion, dignity and mutual respect.”

Joshua Frank, an editor at political magazine and website CounterPunch, tweeted “we must rename the John Muir Wilderness,” the 100 miles in the Inyo National Forest from Mammoth Lakes to Mount Whitney.

But others rejected the idea as “cancel culture” run amok, arguing Muir’s contributions outweigh his racial views that were hardly unusual in his day, and which the Sierra Club’s Brune noted “evolved later in his life.”

“Canceling Muir would be a travesty to everything the environmental movement stands for,” tweeted Mark Topaz, a graphic designer and businessman.

According to an Atlas Obscura article Brune linked to his post, Muir described Cherokee homes he encountered as “wigwams of savages,” and indigenous people in California as “superstitious,” “lazy” and “dirty.” He made similar remarks about Blacks during a trip through the South in the late 1860s, referring to them as “Sambos” who didn’t work hard.

The Atlas Obscura article notes however that those “hateful words” were “not the sum total of Muir’s perspective,” adding that in his trip through the South, he “bemoans the bigoted mindset he encounters amongst whites.”

Chantal DeGuzman of Concord, who visited the Muir National Historic Site with her daughter Amanda DeGuzman and her granddaughter Jade Guzman, 4, was still trying to process it all Wednesday.

“We heard it on the news this morning, but I didn’t know this about John Muir,” DeGuzman said. “So I’m learning.”

The club’s reassessment of its founder comes amid a broader reckoning in an environmental movement that has been criticized as overwhelmingly white, wealthy and more focused on wildlife and parks than pollution in poor neighborhoods. Brune and the club didn’t comment whether Muir’s name should no longer be honored elsewhere.

Loretta J. Ross, associate professor of women and gender at Smith College, likened it to the recent decision of Planned Parenthood of Greater New York removing the name of founder Margaret Sanger over her “harmful connections to the eugenics movement.”

“I believe every generation has the human right to make the decisions in the struggle for freedom that are right for them, so I don’t disagree with removing Muir’s statue no more than I disagree with removing Sanger’s name from that Planned Parenthood building in New York City,” Ross said. “These are decisions that are made by the people on the front lines of activism who I refuse to second guess.”

But she added, “I also don’t believe in repudiating people who had large impacts on the struggle for freedom and justice just because they were imperfect people. Judging people in the distant past by modern standards lifts them out of the context of their times and sometimes lacks nuance and reinforces the ‘cancel culture,’ which I oppose.”

24 Bay Area hiking trails to try as coronavirus keeps us closer to home From the East Bay to the South Bay, easy to challenging there's an option for you By LISA HERENDEEN | [email protected] | Bay Area News Group PUBLISHED: July 22, 2020 at 2:57 p.m. | UPDATED: July 23, 2020 at 4:04 a.m. SAN JOSE – JUNE 11: One of the trails at Alum Rock Park in San Jose, Calif., on Thursday, June 11, 2020. (Randy Vazquez / Bay Area News Group)

As the coronavirus pandemic has curtailed many of the things we used to do for recreation, one activity has remained consistently do-able — hiking the great trails that crisscross the Bay Area, meandering through scenic parks, over hills and valleys.

Here’s a list of trails you might want to give a try. Remember to pack some water and follow the posted signs and regulations.

East Bay Hiking Trails:

Alameda Creek Regional Trail: This trail is 11 miles in Fremont, covering the area between Niles Canyon and San Francisco Bay.

Bay Area Ridge Trail: This series of trails, which when completed will extend 550 miles to link the ridgelines that encircle San Francisco Bay, is 80 percent complete and offers a number of both challenging and easy hikes through district parklands including the East Bay Skyline National Recreation Trail, an 80-mile stretch from northern Marin to Highway 92 and a 43-mile section from El Sobrante to Union City. Most of the trails are open to hikers, bicyclists and horses.

Briones to Las Trampas Regional Trail: This trail connects Briones to the Lafayette-Moraga Trail, and a portion includes steep, hilly terrain.

Briones to Mount Diablo Regional Trail: This trail is 12 miles long through Central Contra Costa, and connects to several other regional trails including the Contra Costa Canal Trail, California State Riding and Hiking Trail, and the Iron Horse Regional Trail. It also links Briones and Mount Diablo parks.

California State Riding and Hiking Trail: First envisioned in 1945, this trail will eventually connect Martinez and Mount Diablo. Right now, it is completed between Martinez and Concord. It offers spectacular views and a challenging experience to hikers of all abilities. Contra Costa Canal Regional Trail: Fourteen miles of trail through Central Contra Costa County links Martinez, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek and Concord. It is one of the most popular in the area and features a paved trail suitable for wheelchairs, hikers, runners, bicyclists and equestrians.

Delta de Anza Regional Trail: This 15-mile trail connects Concord, Bay Point, Pittsburg, Antioch and Oakley and commemorates the route taken by Spanish explorer Juan Bautista de Anza during his 18th century expedition into the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta. The trail is multi-use for hiking, biking and horse riding.

Iron Horse Regional Trail: Projected to be 55 miles at completion, the multi-use trail that follows the former Southern Pacific Railroad right-of-way, is now 32 miles long, starting in Concord near Highway 4 and continuing through residential and commercial areas to Dublin and Pleasanton. Plans call for it to eventually connect Suisun Bay to Livermore.

Lafayette-Moraga Regional Trail: This trail, once a utility easement used by mule trains and later by steam trains, is 8 miles long and parallels St. Mary’s Road. At this time, the trail is closed because of a landslide, but check with the parks department for updates.

Las Trampas to Mount Diablo Regional Trail: This hiking and equestrian trail is 5 miles long and connects two popular parks in the region, Los Trampas and Mount Diablo. The trail crosses both residential and open space and provides some breath-taking views as it goes through ancient oaks and rolling hills.

Marsh Creek Trail: The 6.5-mile long trail following Marsh Creek, beginning in Brentwood’s Creekside Park and ending at Big Break State Park on the Delta shore. The trail is multi-use and paved, and eventually will cover 14 miles, connecting the Delta with the Morgan Territory Regional Park.

San Francisco Bay Trail: Like the Ridge Trai, the San Francisco Bay Trail is an ambitious undertaking that, when completed, will pass through all nine Bay Area counties and 47 cities on a single, 500-mile route. Right now, more than 350 miles are completed, connecting communities, parks and open spaces along the shorelines of the Bay. It is great for hiking, biking and bird and wildlife watching.

San Pablo Bay Trail: Although there are plans to extend and complete this trail to connect Richmond, San Pablo, Pinole, Hercules and Rodeo, right now two segments of the trail in Hercules and Rodeo are open for multi-use.

Maps and more detailed information are available at ebparks.org/parks/maps. The COVID-19 emergency is a constantly changing situation. For up-to-date information on park status and safety rules, visit ebparks.org/coronavirus.

South Bay Hiking Trails

Almaden Quicksilver County Park: This trail follows old quicksilver mining routes to provide a steady climb up the slopes of Mount Umunhum for some glorious views.

Alum Rock Park and Sierra Vista Open Space: A difficult 3.9 mile (one way) climb to the high ridges on the eastside of Santa Clara Valley, provides those that tackle it with views of San Jose, the South Bay and the Peninsula.. Coyote Creek Parkway North: If you’re looking for a mostly flat expanse for walking and bike riding, this trail might be your ticket. The trail, which is 9.3 miles one way, has a wide path and follows a nearly level course from Tully Road to Metcalf Park in San Jose.

Coyote Creek Parkway South: This trail, also rated as “easy,” is a level paved trail from Metcalf Park in San Jose to Anderson Lake Visitor Center in Morgan Hill. It also gives visitors an idea of what the area looked like before it was developed. A separate path is available for horseback riders. There is little shade on the trail, but carry water with you.

Joseph D. Grant County Park: The trail, rated “difficult,” covers 5.9 miles (one way) from Edwards Trail Gate on Mt. Hamilton Road to Dutch Flat Trail Gate at Southwest Park Boundary in San Jose. The trail follows the western edge of Joseph D. Grant County Park, and runs through grasslands and oak woodlands to reach a 2,457-foot vista point with views of the Coast Range, Santa Clara Valley and Halls Valley.

Mount Madonna County Park: This trail offers a moderately difficult uphill climb from the Sprig (this is the correct spelling) Recreation Area entrance to Old Mt. Madonna Road in Gilroy. The redwood summit has excellent views of southern Santa Clara County and the inner Coast Range mountains.

Penitencia Creek: This easy 3.7 mile (one way) mostly paved trail crosses San Jose neighborhoods and ends at the eastern edge of Santa Clara Valley. Along the way, you’ll pass through two large parks, Penitencia Creek Gardens and Penitencia Creek Park.

Santa Teresa County Park and Calero/Los Alamitos Creeks Trail: Take this easy, roundtrip hike through high oak-studded grasslands to Coyote Peak, then head west past spring wildflowers and coast range views.

Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve and Lexington Reservoir: A difficult 11.7 (one-way) mile trail from Jacques Ridge parking area, gate SA6 in San Jose to Lexington Reservoir in Los Gatos. Enjoy panoramic views of Mount Umunhum, the Santa Clara Valley and the inner and outer coast ranges.

Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve, Mount Umunhum: This difficult uphill trail through bay, oak and madrone woodland on your way to the 3,456-summit, with great views of Santa Clara Valley. Trail starts at Jacques Ridge or Bald Mountain parking areas, and there are interpretive signs throughout the hike to explain the natural history and ecosystem.

Sierra Vista Open Space Preserve, Sierra Road to Lower Calaveras Fault: The Sierra Vista Trail connects the Ridge Trail at lower elevations with the upper and lower Calaveras Fault Trails, creating an 8.9 mile Ridge Trail segment. The hike is rated as “difficult,” but with plenty of visual rewards.

The COVID-19 emergency is a constantly changing situation. For up-to-date information on park status and safety rules, visit https://ridgetrail.org/shelter-in-place-trails-parks-faq/#COVID

Contra Costa Supervisors Eyeing More User- Friendly Iron Horse Trail JULY 22, 2020 8:00 AM A study of how the Iron Horse Regional Trail in central Contra Costa County can better host more efficient long-distance bicycle commuting, and still safely cater to slower-moving walkers and joggers, has been praised by the county Board of Supervisors for promoting both transit and recreational uses.

The Iron Horse Corridor Active Transportation Study, accepted by the county supervisors last week, lays out some ways the trail can be more commuter-friendly.

Among the proposals are separating the faster bicycle traffic from slower walkers and joggers to make the trail safer for all users; improving trail access to BART stations and other area trails; possible installation of overpasses at some higher-traffic street intersections now guarded by traffic signals; improving trail lighting, and, in general, “reduce user conflicts.”

Jamar Stamps, a principal planner with the county’s Department of Conservation and Development, told the supervisors that specific projects haven’t yet been designed. But he said the plan is for the trail to be split into approximately 15 “design segments,” with two or three suggested projects on each segment.

Supervisor Candace Andersen of Danville said it will ultimately be up to the cities through which the trail runs, perhaps in partnership with other agencies, to evaluate, design and find money for each project.

The Iron Horse Regional Trail stretches about 30 miles, starting at Marsh Drive just south of state Highway 4 in Concord and running through Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, Alamo, Danville and San Ramon to the Alameda County line, and a few miles further south into Dublin and Pleasanton.

Most of the trail south of Monument Boulevard in Concord is on a former Southern Pacific rail line that hosted trains from 1891 until 1977.

The first trail segments on this corridor opened in 1986.

Though there have been discussions at various times since then about possible conversion of parts of the trail into a rail or bus transit route, none of that came to fruition. Andersen said last week that such plans weren’t feasible economically, and have been overwhelmingly unpopular with people living near the trail. The 2019 passage of Assembly Bill 1025, which essentially relinquished the right to turn the trail route into a mass-transit corridor, has ensured rails can’t return to the trail.

There will be “no restoring it back to the days of the Southern Pacific,” Andersen said.

Instead, the goal of this study is to determine whether the trail can practically be improved for better “active transportation” uses, including commuter bicycling, as well as e-bikes and e-scooters.

Stamps said, though, that the use of “shared autonomous vehicles” might one day be practical on trail segments near job centers in San Ramon (mainly the Bishop Ranch business park) and Walnut Creek. That, he said, would require some specific trail modifications.

Planning for this report has been underway for almost two years.

Public opinion had been gathered at several Bike to Work Day stations and other “in- person engagement events,” and from January through August 2019 via a web-based mapping tool, through which more than 400 comments about trail uses were registered. Presentations have been hosted by the Danville Town Council and the Alamo Municipal Advisory Council.

Last week, David Schonbrunn, president of the Train Riders Association of California, told the supervisors that, with AB 1025, they had blown a chance to make at least the San Ramon section of the Iron Horse Trail into part of a planned Tri-Valley San Joaquin Regional Rail Authority “Valley Link” commuter rail route connecting Lathrop and Dublin-Pleasanton BART.

“Your board caved in to the NIMBYs and their short-term thinking,” Schonbrunn said.

That isn’t how Andersen sees it.

“We want (the trail) to keep its wonderful charm, but at the same time utilize its ability for people to go up and down the trail without running into one another, and to get to and from work or school,” she said. photo credit: Sam Richards

Fire erupts on Richmond waterfront Carolyn Said July 21, 2020 Updated: July 21, 2020 6:57 p.m.

A one-acre grass fire erupted on East Bay Regional Parks property on the Richmond waterfront off Central Avenue near Costco on Tuesday afternoon.

“No structures were threatened, just grass and a little brush, but the winds kind of took it to a little extra,” said Manly Moulton, Richmond Fire battalion chief.

The cause was undetermined. The fire was contained by about 6:30 p.m.

Wind-driven fire burns 75 acres along Holland Tract Road Tony Kukulich Jul 22, 2020 Updated Jul 22, 2020 Photo by Tony Kukulich A fire sparked by a crew doing weed abatement burned an estimated 75 acres along Holland Tract Road in Knightsen, Monday, July 20. Crews from multiple agencies responded to the incident along with helicopters from Cal Fire and the East Bay Regional Park District.

A vegetation fire in Knightsen sparked by a work crew cutting grass, burned 75 acres and kept firefighters busy long into the night, Monday, July 20.

Monday’s fire was the fourth major fire since early June to burn along the stretch of Holland Tract Road between Becky’s Bridge and the Holland Riverside Marina. It burned primarily in property owned by Reclamation District 2025.

“We’ve had a number of different fires out here along Holland Tract Road,” said East Contra Costa Fire Protection District (ECCFPD) Fire Marshal Steve Aubert. “Today’s fire does appear to have been caused accidentally. There was some weed abatement that was occurring at the time, and they actually witnessed and admitted that they hit a rock and threw a spark. They tried to control the fire. But with the heavy winds out here, that fire quickly grew out of control.”

Wind continued to be a factor throughout the day, and contributed to the fire’s rapid expansion. As firefighters arrived in the area, the fire was reported to have burned about five acres. Within 90 minutes, it had grown to 20 acres and was completely uncontained. A strike team was requested to assist the ECCFPD, Contra Costa County Fire Protection District and Cal Fire crews already engaged in the incident. That request drew five additional engines from Antioch, Concord, Moraga and San Ramon. Helicopters from Cal Fire and the East Bay Regional Park District joined the fight making repeated water drops throughout the afternoon and into the evening.

“There were probably about 50 firefighters on scene fighting the fire today,” Aubert said.

Despite the efforts of the fire crews, the eastern edge of the fire jumped Tranquility Bay Road and threatened the Brentwood Marina. Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office deputies evacuated residents of the houseboats in the marina along with a large number of people fishing along the slough. Crews were able to protect the marina, and no damage was reported.

On the western edge of the fire, thick stands of berry bushes generated flame of 60 - 70 feet as reported by firefighters. A residence on that side of the fire was also threatened, but was ultimately undamaged.

The fire, which was Initially reported at 2:14 p.m., burned 75 acres by 7 p.m. and was 65% contained. The last units were released from the scene around midnight. However, firefighters had little chance to recuperate. A vegetation fire was reported on Dutch Slough Road in Oakley at 2:17 a.m. One minute later, a residential fire was reported on O’Neil Court, also in Oakley.

Aubert said the residential fire involved a burning shed, but firefighters kept the flames from extending to the home. Crews were able to clear that incident in about an hour and were redirected to join the Dutch Slough incident where, according to Aubert, fuel spilled while a resident was refilling a generator ignited. That fire had tragic results for the resident who lost his trailer and two dogs.

“It burned up his trailer that he was living in,” Aubert said. “His two dogs were trapped in the trailer. He couldn’t get them out. It burned up a number of different boats and vehicles that were in the area and some vegetation.”

'The views are stunning': New stretch of Bay Trail opens Bay City News Service Published 2:53 pm PDT, Saturday, July 18, 2020

Photo: Tom Penpark/Getty Images A view of the city of Berkeley and the bay beyond.

ALBANY (BCN)

Cyclists whizzed past at breakneck speed and the waters of the bay sparkled as a new stretch of the Bay Trail enabling folks to walk from Oakland to Richmond formally opened in Albany on Saturday.

The $18.9 million East Bay Regional Park District project added a new mile-long segment to the trail behind the Golden Gate Fields racetrack, closing a gap in the trail between Berkeley and Albany.

"This is a legacy of 20 years of partnerships with the community, community leaders and the park district," said Park District Board Member Elizabeth Echols during a brief opening ceremony on the trail.

"The views are stunning," Echols noted, framed by a backdrop of the bay. Walkers, cyclists, stroller-pushers and all manner of outdoor enthusiasts can see the Bay Bridge, the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco skyline from the new stretch of trail right on the bay.

In his remarks, Park District General Manager Robert Doyle stressed, "To keep the park open, wear a mask and observe six feet of distance," in concurrence with Centers for Disease Control and Protection guidance.

In line with state guidance prohibiting public gatherings to limit the spread of COVID- 19, the opening ceremony was live streamed for the public. Only a few officials and members of the press attended.

The project also redid a small beach at the north end of the new segment in Albany, doubling its size, hauling away rocks and concrete, adding picnic tables and restrooms and creating a wetland area with plants to protect wildlife.

Shoshana Rosenberg said she was "just overjoyed" at the new segment as she relaxed on a bench overlooking the bay with friend Madeline Chun of Berkeley. "I used to bike out here" behind the racetrack, Rosenberg, a Richmond resident, said. "It was awful because there was shattered glass. Now, it's pristine."

Rosenberg said she liked the demarcations on the path separating cyclists and pedestrians. "There is tension sometimes between walkers and cyclists, and this will help."

The two friends started at the Albany Bulb near Buchanan Street and walked seven miles on the trail to the Berkeley Marina - a trip that wasn't possible before the new segment was added.

The beach and new stretch of trail actually opened several months ago and have been popular ever since. Located at the north end near the Albany Bulb, the beach area has scant parking. More parking is available at the south end of the new segment.

New stretch of Bay Trail opens, connecting Oakland to Richmond Published 3 days ago Albany Bay City News ALBANY, Calif. - Cyclists whizzed past at breakneck speed and the waters of the bay sparkled as a new stretch of the Bay Trail enabling folks to walk from Oakland to Richmond formally opened in Albany on Saturday.

The $18.9 million East Bay Regional Park District project added a new mile-long segment to the trail behind the Golden Gate Fields racetrack, closing a gap in the trail between Berkeley and Albany.

"The views are stunning," Echols noted, framed by a backdrop of the bay. Walkers, cyclists, stroller- pushers and all manner of outdoor enthusiasts can see the Bay Bridge, the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco skyline from the new stretch of trail right on the bay.

In line with state guidance prohibiting public gatherings to limit the spread of COVID-19, the opening ceremony was live streamed for the public. Only a few officials and members of the press attended.

Shoshana Rosenberg said she was "just overjoyed" at the new segment as she relaxed on a bench overlooking the bay with friend Madeline Chun of Berkeley.

"I used to bike out here" behind the racetrack, Rosenberg, a Richmond resident, said. "It was awful because there was shattered glass. Now, it's pristine."

Rosenberg said she liked the demarcations on the path separating cyclists and pedestrians. "There is tension sometimes between walkers and cyclists, and this will help."

The two friends started at the Albany Bulb near Buchanan Street and walked seven miles on the trail to the Berkeley Marina - a trip that wasn't possible before the new segment was added.

Park It: Hike these East Bay open spaces for the best views Often having to hike uphill the only downside to reaching these beautiful vistas By NED MACKAY | East Bay Regional Park District PUBLISHED: July 19, 2020 at 5:00 a.m. | UPDATED: July 20, 2020 at 5:22 a.m. Walnut Creek resident Rob Rosenblum hikes previously along Lafayette Ridge Trail at Briones Regional Park, which has more than 6,000 acres of open space in central Contra Costa County with miles of trails. From a perch at the Table Top Trail, one can see the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta, Mount Diablo, the Diablo Valley and even the Sierra Nevada when it’s clear.

Last time the column was about regional parks with shady trails for hot summer days. This time the highlight is parks with panoramic views, including some of the same parks.

The caveat here is that often, though not always, you have to climb a hill to reach the vantage point. And in hot weather, any outdoor exercise is more pleasant in the morning, before the heat of the day. Whenever and wherever you go, take plenty of water and wear sun-protective clothing. Download park maps at ebparks.org for detailed directions. With all that in mind, below are some suggestions for parks with a view.

Point Pinole Regional Shoreline: Good for shady trails, Point Pinole also has beautiful views of San Pablo Bay and Marin County along the aptly named Bay View Trail. And when you reach the pier, there’s a great vista toward Mount Diablo in the eastern direction. A bonus — Point Pinole is essentially flat, ideal for a less strenuous experience. There’s a staging area at the end of Atlas Road in Richmond.

Las Trampas Regional Wilderness: The main trailhead at Las Trampas is at the north end of Bollinger Canyon Road off Crow Canyon Road in San Ramon. The park is essentially a canyon between two steep ridges. There are spectacular views in all directions, but you have to work to reach them. Climb to Rocky Ridge on the west or Las Trampas Ridge on the east.

Garin and Dry Creek Pioneer regional parks: The main entrance is at the end of Garin Avenue off Mission Boulevard in Hayward. Try the High Ridge Loop Trail for great views of Hayward and the South Bay.

Sunol Regional Wilderness: At the end of Geary Road off Calaveras Road about 5 miles south of Interstate 680 and the town of Sunol. Walk out the Camp Ohlone Road, then return on Canyon View Trail for great wildflowers in season plus views of the valley and Calaveras Reservoir.

Mission Peak Regional Preserve: Mission Peak in Fremont is an enormously popular hike, understandably so. The view from the summit is breathtaking. So is the climb to get there. Because parking is limited and strictly enforced at the Stanford Avenue trailhead, you’re better off starting from the parking lot at nearby Ohlone College. Take plenty of water, and pack out your trash.

Ohlone Wilderness Trail: This 30-mile trail connects Mission Peak to Del Valle Regional Park south of Livermore. It traverses some of the most remote and beautiful open space in the East Bay. A permit is required, because part of the trail is on San Francisco Water Department land. For a 2-mile uphill climb to a great view, start at Del Valle’s Lichen Bark picnic area and head up the trail to Rocky Ridge. There are beautiful wildflowers in the spring.

Tilden Regional Park: There are lots of scenic viewpoints at Tilden, located next-door to Berkeley. From the parking lot at Inspiration Point on Wildcat Canyon Road, it’s a 2-mile walk on paved Nimitz Way out to Wildcat Peak. At the summit lookout there’s a 360- degree view of the Bay Area from the Golden Gate to Mount Diablo and beyond. For a similar perspective, climb the Seaview Trail on the south side of Wildcat Canyon Road to a picnic table, bench and rock circle. On a clear day, you can see the Farallon Islands.

Briones Regional Park: Located in central Contra Costa County, Briones has more than 6,000 acres of open space with miles of trails. One trailhead is at the end of Briones Road off Alhambra Valley Road near Martinez. From there it’s a 4-mile round trip uphill to the heights of the park. The highest point is Briones Peak at 1,483 feet, but the view is actually better from a bench at the Table Top Trail, about 100 yards farther along on the Briones Crest Trail. From there you can see the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta, Mount Diablo, the Diablo Valley and even the Sierra Nevada when it’s clear.

George Miller Trail: This is a 2-mile section of Carquinez Scenic Drive between Martinez and Port Costa on which no motorized vehicles are allowed. I mentioned it last time as a shady walk, and it’s also great for beautiful views of Benicia and Carquinez Strait with its maritime traffic. Moreover, it’s essentially flat. There’s a parking lot on the Port Costa side; park along the road on the Martinez side. Please don’t block fire gates.

Diablo Foothills Regional Park: This park is at the end of Castle Rock Road in Walnut Creek. The Stage Road Trail is mostly flat, with great views of Castle Rock. For another perspective, climb the Buckeye Ravine Trail from the Stage Road Trail. At the top, turn right onto an informal path that ascends a steep hill. At the end there’s a bench with a view of the rocks and Pine Canyon. You’ll see that the Castle Rocks are actually narrower rock fins.

Morgan Territory Regional Preserve: Located on Morgan Territory Road east of Mount Diablo, this park has miles of hiking and riding trails with beautiful views of the mountain. Check out the Prairie Falcon Trail if it has reopened.

These are just a few of the possible hikes to views in the regional parks. There are many others; browse the park district’s website at ebparks.org for lots more information.

'The views are stunning': New stretch of Bay Trail connects Oakland to Richmond Bay City News Sunday, July 19, 2020 2:52PM The pedestrian lane of the Bay Trail in the East Bay on July 18, 2020. (Bay City News)

OAKLAND, Calif. -- Cyclists whizzed past at breakneck speed and the waters of the bay sparkled as a new stretch of the Bay Trail enabling folks to walk from Oakland to Richmond formally opened in Albany on Saturday.

The $18.9 million East Bay Regional Park District project added a new mile-long segment to the trail behind the Golden Gate Fields racetrack, closing a gap in the trail between Berkeley and Albany.

San Francisco Bay Trail creates a recreational path across the Richmond/ San Rafael bridge on it's 30th anniversary.

Shoshana Rosenberg said she was "just overjoyed" at the new segment as she relaxed on a bench overlooking the bay with friend Madeline Chun of Berkeley.

"I used to bike out here" behind the racetrack, Rosenberg, a Richmond resident, said. "It was awful because there was shattered glass. Now, it's pristine."

Rosenberg said she liked the demarcations on the path separating cyclists and pedestrians. "There is tension sometimes between walkers and cyclists, and this will help."

The two friends started at the Albany Bulb near Buchanan Street and walked seven miles on the trail to the Berkeley Marina - a trip that wasn't possible before the new segment was added.

New stretch of Bay Trail connecting Oakland to Richmond opens By BAY CITY NEWS | PUBLISHED: July 19, 2020 at 11:55 a.m. | UPDATED: July 20, 2020 at 3:53 a.m. ALBANY, CA; JULY 19: Bicyclists and pedestrians enjoy the view while on the newly added section of the Bay Trail in Albany, Calif., on Sunday, July 19, 2020. The $18.9 million East Bay Regional Park District project added a new mile-long segment to the trail behind the Golden Gate Fields racetrack, closing a gap in the trail between Berkeley and Albany. (Jose Carlos Fajardo/Bay Area News Group)

ALBANY — Cyclists whizzed past at breakneck speed and the waters of the bay sparkled as a new stretch of the Bay Trail enabling folks to walk from Oakland to Richmond formally opened in Albany on Saturday.

The $18.9 million East Bay Regional Park District project added a new mile-long segment to the trail behind the Golden Gate Fields racetrack, closing a gap in the trail between Berkeley and Albany.

“This is a legacy of 20 years of partnerships with the community, community leaders and the park district,” said Park District Board Member Elizabeth Echols during a brief opening ceremony on the trail.

“The views are stunning,” Echols noted, framed by a backdrop of the bay. Walkers, cyclists, stroller-pushers and all manner of outdoor enthusiasts can see the Bay Bridge, the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco skyline from the new stretch of trail right on the bay.

In his remarks, Park District General Manager Robert Doyle stressed, “To keep the park open, wear a mask and observe six feet of distance,” in concurrence with Centers for Disease Control and Protection guidance.

In line with state guidance prohibiting public gatherings to limit the spread of COVID-19, the opening ceremony was live-streamed for the public. Only a few officials and members of the press attended.

Shoshana Rosenberg said she was “just overjoyed” at the new segment as she relaxed on a bench overlooking the bay with friend Madeline Chun of Berkeley.

“I used to bike out here” behind the racetrack, Rosenberg, a Richmond resident, said. “It was awful because there was shattered glass. Now, it’s pristine.” Rosenberg said she liked the demarcations on the path separating cyclists and pedestrians. “There is tension sometimes between walkers and cyclists, and this will help.”

The two friends started at the Albany Bulb near Buchanan Street and walked seven miles on the trail to the Berkeley Marina – a trip that wasn’t possible before the new segment was added.

New Stretch of Bay Trail Opens in Albany Connecting Oakland to Richmond July 18, 2020 at 7:51 pm

ALBANY (CBS SF) — Cyclists whizzed past at breakneck speed and the waters of the bay sparkled as a new stretch of the Bay Trail enabling folks to walk from Oakland to Richmond formally opened in Albany on Saturday.

The $18.9 million East Bay Regional Park District project added a new mile-long segment to the trail behind the Golden Gate Fields racetrack, closing a gap in the trail between Berkeley and Albany.

“This is a legacy of 20 years of partnerships with the community, community leaders and the park district,” said Park District board member Elizabeth Echols during a brief opening ceremony on the trail.

“The views are stunning,” Echols noted, framed by a backdrop of the bay. Walkers, cyclists, stroller- pushers and all manner of outdoor enthusiasts can see the Bay Bridge, the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco skyline from the new stretch of trail.

(CBS)

In his remarks, Park District general manager Robert Doyle stressed, “To keep the park open, wear a mask and observe six feet of distance,” in concurrence with Centers for Disease Control and Protection guidance.

In line with state guidance prohibiting public gatherings to limit the spread of COVID-19, the opening ceremony was live- streamed for the public. Only a few officials and members of the press attended.

The project also reworked a small beach at the north end of the new segment in Albany, doubling its size, hauling away rocks and concrete, adding picnic tables and restrooms and creating a wetland area with plants to protect wildlife.

Shoshana Rosenberg said she was “just overjoyed” at the new segment as she relaxed on a bench overlooking the bay with friend Madeline Chun of Berkeley.

“I used to bike out here” behind the racetrack, Rosenberg, a Richmond resident, said. “It was awful because there was shattered glass. Now, it’s pristine.”

Rosenberg said she liked the demarcations on the path separating cyclists and pedestrians. “There is tension sometimes between walkers and cyclists and this will help.”

The two friends started at the Albany Bulb near Buchanan Street and walked seven miles on the trail to the Berkeley Marina — a trip that wasn’t possible before the new segment was added.

Editorial: Help is on the way for Yosemite, Pinnacles and other parks Rare compromise between Democrats, Republicans would repair America's most beloved national parks By MERCURY NEWS & EAST BAY TIMES EDITORIAL BOARDS | PUBLISHED: July 17, 2020 at 6:15 a.m. | UPDATED: July 17, 2020 at 5:05 p.m. View of the Half Dome monolith from Glacier Point at the Yosemite National Park in California on June 4, 2015. At first glance the spectacular beauty of the park with its soaring cliffs and picture-postcard valley floor remains unblemished, still enchanting the millions of tourists who flock the landmark every year. But on closer inspection, the drought’s effects are clearly visible. AFP PHOTO/MARK RALSTON (Photo credit should read MARK RALSTON/AFP via Getty Images)

And now for some good news from Congress and the president.

No joke.

In a rare, welcome display of bipartisanship, Congress is poised to approve the most important conservation law passed in the United States in 40 years.

The legislation, known as the Great American Outdoors Act, would provide $9.5 billion over the next five years to repair America’s national parks. It also would provide $900 million a year in perpetuity from offshore oil drilling royalties to the Land and Water Conservation Fund to pay for maintenance, repairs and expansion of national parks, state parks and city parks across the nation.

The bill passed the Senate 73-25 in June. Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., and Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., both voted in favor. So did Sen. Kamala Harris, D-Calif., and Sen. Lindsay Graham, R-S.C.

The House should approve the legislation when it votes on the issue in the next two weeks. President Trump has said he will sign it into law.

Chalk the compromise up to the kind of election year politics that was once commonplace in Washington, D.C.

Democrats, working in tandem with environmentalists, have tried for years to lock in a guaranteed source of funding to deal with the national parks’ $12 billion maintenance backlog. The deal came about because Republicans are trying to save the Senate seats held by Sen. Cory Gardner, R-Colo., Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, and Steve Daines, R-Mont. Voters in those states have largely opposed efforts by Trump and Republicans to roll back environmental protections.

Congress approved the $900 million annual Land and Water Conservation Fund in 1964 as a way to expand the parks system as the nation’s population grew. But Congress and past presidents have too often shifted more than half of the funding to other purposes. Trump’s budget this year, for example, allotted only $15 million for parks and public lands.

The legislation would guarantee that the money would be used exclusively to maintain parks and buy new park land. The bill allocates 70% of the money to national parks. The remainder would be split between the U.S. Forest Service (15%), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (5%), Bureau of Land Management (5%) and Bureau of Indian Education schools (5%).

The funding is urgently needed to improve aging roads, bridges, trails, camping facilities and lodging in national parks.

The National Park Service reported in 2018 that California’s nine beloved national parks need more than $1 billion in essential repairs, including Yosemite ($645.6 million), Sequoia and Kings Canyon ($169.9 million), Death Valley ($128.8 million), Joshua Tree ($65.9 million) Lassen ($33 million), Redwood ($23 million), Channel Islands ($11.2 million) and Pinnacles ($10 million).

State and local parks would also benefit. The Bay Area News Group’s Paul Rogers reported that in the past the money has funded state grants to build 40,000 swimming pools, soccer fields, baseball diamonds, playgrounds, fishing piers, jogging trails and other projects at local parks nationwide.

It was John Muir who said, “Everybody needs beauty … places to play in and pray in where nature may heal and cheer and give strength to the body and soul alike.”

The Great American Outdoors Act is a great way for us to preserve what Wallace Stegner famously called America’s best idea.

Fireworks cause another fire in Oakland hills Officials say it is the eighth fire since June 1 in the Grizzly Peak area By HARRY HARRIS | [email protected] | Bay Area News Group PUBLISHED: July 16, 2020 at 9:49 a.m. | UPDATED: July 16, 2020 at 4:07 p.m.

OAKLAND, CA - July 16: A cyclist rides uphill past fireworks debris on Grizzly Peak Boulevard the morning after multiple fires broke out near Signpost 16. (Dylan Bouscher/Bay Area News Group)

OAKLAND — A fireworks caused blaze early Thursday morning burned an acre of grass and brush off Grizzly Peak Boulevard in the Oakland hills, officials said.

It was the eighth grass fire in the Grizzly Peak area since June 1, at least half of which were started by fireworks, officials said.

Thursday’s fire was reported at about 12:25 a.m. Thursday on a hillside across from a lookout area in the 2500 block of Grizzly Peak, in what is considered a fire “threat zone.”

Oakland Battalion Fire Chief Tracey Chin said responding firefighters saw fireworks going off as they arrived at the scene and also found fireworks paraphernalia.

Chin said 20 Oakland firefighters had the fire under control at 1:36 a.m. and were then assisted by East Bay Regional Park District firefighters to make sure there were no flareups.

No injuries were reported.

About 12:41 a.m. Saturday a fireworks caused blazed burned a bit more than an acre along Grizzly Peak in the same area before it was brought under control at 1:09 a.m., officials said.

As fire season has already started, officials are especially concerned about people setting off fireworks in the hills.

Fire Department spokesman Michael Hunt said the city is currently considering several options to alleviate the potential for fires in the Grizzly Peak area between Fish Ranch Road and Berkeley.

Port Chicago’s National Memorial a key step in - remembering the tragedy By David Scholz 5 days ago The Port Chicago National Memorial lists the names of those who died there on July 17, 1944.

Ten years ago this month, the official dedication of America’s newest national park ended a lifetime of waiting for a formal way to honor those lost at the Port Chicago Naval Magazine (PCNM).

For years, Concord’s historic site held only affiliate status, which proponents viewed as a slight. The Friends of Port Chicago is now collaborating with the East Bay Regional Park District for a visitor center that will further tell the story of the horrific events of July 17, 1944, and the racial injustice that Black service personnel endured.

In all, 320 men died in the accident, including 202 Black enlisted men. Just 51 bodies were sufficiently intact to be identified in the aftermath of the late evening explosions. Another 390 sailors and civilians were injured, including 233 Black enlisted men.

Heroic poses Unlike other memorials defined by statues in heroic poses, the PCNM National Memorial site has four granite placards with the names of those who perished. It overlooks the dock’s original pilings that extend out into Suisun Bay.

“The starkness of it’’ stands out for the Rev. Diana McDaniel, who since the early 2000s has helped carry the torch of making the Port Chicago Memorial a reality. “You can almost feel one of those lost in the explosions.”

The National Park Service will hold is annual observance virtually this year. Go to nps.gov/poch at 1 p.m. July 17 to find the link.

The local group’s plans for the visitor center to educate the community about the events at Port Chicago include having a quiet space for reflection with a display of the chapel’s original stained-glass windows. “They are beautiful depictions of what was going on,” said McDaniel, whose uncle, Irvin Lowery, was among the survivors. He told her he was sitting in a chair in the barracks when the explosion occurred, and he was blown against a wall of windows.

Long-term plans The original stained glass windows from the chapel show sailors loading munitions at Port Chicago Naval Magazine.

Long-term plans also call for artifacts, maps, audio and video presentations, and classrooms in the center. She envisions visitors taking a card with a sailor’s picture and the name of his hometown to hold as they move through the exhibits.

“I would like the people to have the experience of what it felt like – the racism and discrimination of the time,” said McDaniel. “I will keep putting my toe in there to make sure we get the Port Chicago story told.”

Port Chicago Naval National Memorial

• Project started early 1993. • Awarded to Daniel Quan Design • Budget roughly $250k (close to $500k in today’s dollars) • Design criteria – simple, dignified, and contemplative. It was to be interpretive as well as commemorative. • Be very low maintenance and made of highly durable and weather-resistant materials. • Accommodate small groups such as school classes, and gatherings up to 500. • Views around the site were purposely kept wide open so that visitors could better imagine the historic scene in 1944. • The granite markers are oriented outward to the explosion site and the bay.

Donations to the Friends of Port Chicago can be made at portchicagomemorial.org.

Contra Costa County: Multiple fire crews stop forward progress of Scenic Fire By KTVU staff Published 5 days ago Contra Costa County KTVU FOX 2 Crockett-Carquinez Fire Department responds to Scenic Fire in Contra Costa County.

CROCKETT, Calif. - Multiple fire crews are responding to a two-alarm vegetation fire in Contra Costa County Wednesday afternoon.

Forward progress of the Scenic Fire at Carquinez Scenic Drive and McEwen Road has been stopped. The seven-acre fire was 20% contained by around 3:30 p.m., Crockett-Carquinez Fire Department said.

Cal Fire, Contra Costa Fire, Rodeo-Hercules crews and East Bay Regional Parks District also responded to the grass fire that had the potential of growing to 10 acres.

No structures were threatened, but the fire was attacked from the air by Cal Fire as it spread towards the Delta.

Cal Fire said firefighters would remain on the scene for a few more hours to extinguish any additional hot spots.

It is not clear how the fire began.

2-Alarm Vegetation Fire Burns South Of Carquinez Strait Near Crockett CROCKETT (CBS SF) — Firefighters were battling a two-alarm brush fire near the city of Crockett Wednesday afternoon just south of the Carquinez Strait. The fire was burning in the area of Carquinez Scenic Drive and McEwen Road, according to Cal Fire. As of 4:25 p.m. forward progress of the fire had stopped after burning seven acres, Cal Fire said. There were no structures threatened and no injuries have been reported. Cause of the fire was not yet available.

Craving some Yosemite? Head to Diablo Foothills Park in Walnut Creek By Kevin Parker 6 days ago Little Yosemite Trail is a singletrack trail that crosses over into Mt. Diablo State Park from Diablo Foothills Regional Park (Kevin Parker photos).

We met some friends for a mellow 90-minute afternoon stroll, which like on “Gilligan’s Island,” turned into a three-hour tour. Gilligan never made it home, but don’t worry – we did. And this six-plus mile loop into the heart of Diablo Foothills Regional Park was one to remember.

Access to this park is easy, even in these crazed pandemic times. The East Bay Regional Park District has closed the last quarter mile of road and requires everyone to park in a large gravel spot near the equestrian area.

Don’t look for a restroom or drinking fountain; they are all closed. But if you want shady trails, wind-protected ravines and a walk near the coveted peregrine falcon breeding grounds, then this is a nice place to visit.

Lose the crowds

We walked into the park via a combination of paved and dirt trails until we passed Castle Rock Recreation Area. Hop on Castle Rock Trail, which heads directly up Pine Canyon, and get ready to lose the crowds with each step.

The trail is mostly sand and rock, has lots of “Mom, where does this go?” side trails for the kids and even some caves peppered along the route. Pine Creek is dry this time of year, but expect numerous creek crossings and wet shoes in winter.

We followed Castle Rock Trail until we met up with Little Yosemite Trail. This trail is surely a treat but easy to miss if you are not paying attention. Little Yosemite is a singletrack trail that immediately picks up elevation as you cross over into Mt. Diablo State Park (although you’d never know it). Another world

The rushing water of winter months would make this trail a little better, but it didn’t matter as we were showered with a panorama of beauty. Valley oaks, grassy hills, dry creek beds and one of those days where the clouds all look like mystical creatures from another world created a recipe for feeling good.

Little Yosemite junctions into Briones to Mt. Diablo Regional Trail, a highly exposed fire road that dips and dives back into Diablo Foothills and eventually links up with Buckeye Ravine Trail. This vantage points offers views of China Wall and the cliffs above Castle Rock.

Just as quickly as Little Yosemite blasted you up into the hills above Castle Rock, Buckeye Ravine does just the opposite. The abrupt downhill dive will weaken even the most seasoned trail legs. Much like the rest of this hike, Buckeye Ravine is shaded but very steep in sections – so keep an eye on your footing.

Once back on the canyon floor, we returned to the staging area on Castle Rock Trail. Time permitting, Shell Ridge Loop and Diablo Scenic Trails are always on my list. The trail climbing is serious fun, and the rewards are easy to come by and never get old. Don’t forget to smile, help others, be cool to your neighbors and go to nature, my friends.

Diablo Foothills Regional Park

• Trails: Castle Rock Trail, Little Yosemite Trail, Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail, Buckeye Ravine Trail • Distance: 6.8 miles • Elevation Gain: 1,184 feet • Time: 3 hours (includes 30-minute scenic detour) • Trailhead: Gravel parking area off Castle Rock Road (near Equestrian Staging) • Closures: Castle Rock parking, restrooms, drinking fountains, Castle Rock Singletrack Trail

How to Spend the Perfect Day in Oakland’s Redwood Regional Forest By Michelle Klug Jul 14, 2020 While Muir Woods houses some of the largest and oldest trees that are easily accessible to the public, it's very much a tourist destination with required reservations meaning that advanced planning is a must.

If large crowds and flashing cameras aren't your thing, consider going out to Oakland for the day instead where Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park is a magical hidden forest just minutes from downtown.

Given the ever-changing nature of the coronavirus pandemic, it's always a good idea to check for official updates before heading out to the parks.

In Redwood Regional Park, miles of trails wind through the ethereal foggy forest lined with plentiful ferns and tall Coast Redwoods. The crowd level ranges from sparse to deserted, so there is plenty of peace and quiet as you walk through the tranquil landscape of this 1,830-acre park. And while there are many great trails to explore, this 5-mile moderate hike is one of our favorites.

Total Distance: 5.25 miles

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Time: 3 hours

Dogs: Typically allowed off-leash in much of the park, during Covid-19 the park is requesting that dogs be kept on leash at all times.

What to Pack

Plan as you would for a moderate hike with frequent elevation increases. Wear loose fitting clothing and hiking shoes if you have them (although sneakers will work too). Bring a small backpack with water and trail snacks. There are open meadows along the route where you can sit and have a picnic. You'll still be close to civilization, so leave the bear spray, high-top hiking boots, and poles at home. During the Covid-19 pandemic, do bring a mask or other face covering to wear when you encounter other people. Where to Park

Park at the Skyline Gate Staging Area at 7867 Redwood Rd. in the Montclair neighborhood of Oakland. It's a good-sized parking lot that fills up quickly, but there is plenty of street parking in the surrounding neighborhood. Bathrooms are available at the trailhead, but water fountains are closed due to the pandemic, so be sure to bring plenty of water for you (and your pup).

Your Route

1. Starting in the Skyline Staging parking lot, take the Stream Trail. This is an easy, wide trail that runs along the stream where you'll likely see other hikers. The stream is a breeding spot for rainbow trout, so at certain times of the year, you may be able to spot them. You'll be on here for 1.5 miles.

2. Turn right onto Fern Trail, and then continue straight onto French Trail. '

3. You'll stay on the French Trail for 2.7 miles, and then take a right onto the West Ridge Trail, which will take you back to the parking lot. The West Ridge Trail is the only part of the hike where you'll be sharing with mountain bikers so watch out!

You can download a detailed trail map here.

What You'll See

150-foot coast redwoods, of course! Beyond redwoods, you'll see eucalyptus and pine trees, a variety of wildflowers, chaparral (a West Coast–style of shrub vegetation), birds, newts, slugs, migrating ladybugs, and other wildlife.

Microclimate

Once you get into the heart of the redwoods, you'll notice (in warmer months) the temperature drop. The large trees provide shade and the cool stream that flows through helps to create a pocket of refreshingly cool air.