NOTICE of PLANNING COMMITTEE PUBLIC HEARING Community

October 2011 No. 447 Community Manager's Report NOTICE OF PLANNING COMMITTEE COLORS PUBLIC HEARING In the “it’s a small world” department comes my PROPOSED WINDROW TRAIL EXTENSION friendship with a Sea Rancher with whom I served in the Army. While we served at the same time, in the The Sea Ranch Trails Committee has proposed the same Military Police unit, and at the same facility, I extension of an existing trail from Windrow Close, didn’t know him then, and have only come to know linking it to the Bluff Trail. The present trail connects him 40 years after our mutual service. The Army Windrow Close with a middle meadow trail in Unit remains unaware of its risky error in having us serve 35C; the extension will provide hikers a westerly link the country at the same time. to the Bluff Trail, as shown on the diagram (bottom left In reflecting on those days, I recalled my experience column). directing traffic as the base closed each day with a The Trails Committee had received requests from ceremony fittingly known as retreat. Promptly at several Members in Unit 35C proposing the extension, 5:00 p.m., an artillery piece sounded, a trumpet was has evaluated the proposed extension and reviewed played over a loud speaker and the colors were lowered. the proposal for consistency with the Comprehensive Traffic stopped, drivers emerged at attention from their Trails Plan, and has recommended implementation of vehicles to salute the flag, and the base essentially the trail to the Planning Committee. The extension stopped in its tracks. is intended to provide bluff access in an area which is Standing on a non-OSHA approved pedestal in the some distance from other access points and to mitigate middle of the intersection, it was my job to provide the impact of a number of other volunteer trails that some sense of traffic order when the ceremony ended. result in trespass through private lots. The extension With appropriate military precision, I directed people itself would follow an existing volunteer trail through through the otherwise chaotic intersection all the while the Common area. looking at the front bumper of each car; for on the front bumper was the key to the entire United States Consistent with the process for new trail proposals, cont’d on page 2 the Planning Committee will be reviewing the Trails Committee proposal for the Windrow Trail extension before making its recommendation to the Board of Directors. In order to evaluate the proposal, the Planning Committee will hold a Public Hearing on Saturday, October 8, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. in the Ohlson Ranch House.

This serves to notify you of the hearing and invite you to attend. If you cannot attend but wish to comment on the proposal, please forward your written comments to the Planning Committee, c/o TSRA, PO Box 16, The Sea Ranch, CA 95497-0016. Comments can also be emailed to [email protected]. If you have any questions about the proposal, please contact Bill Wiemeyer, Department of Design, Compliance and Environmental Management, at 707-785-2316.

Diagram: Proposed Windrow Trail Extension — — Planning Committee

1 —— The Sea Ranch Association Bulletin, October 2011 Community Manager's Report cont'd cont’d from page 1 military structure, a numbered decal of varying colors the hackles of Security. It seems to me that we could displaying that the operator was either an officer (blue), expand this program to better describe the status of an enlisted man (red), or a civilian worker (green). A the vehicle’s owner to include such things as levels of twisted mathematical relationship further declared that political activism (red, for firebrand, transparent for the lower the number on the car’s decal, the higher the apathetic), dedication to progressive environmental status of the occupant. Red and green stickers could practices (green, naturally), full- or part-time status be largely ignored, but a blue decal required a salute. (maybe half black and half white, gray if undecided), or A blue decal with a low number required that some perhaps a nice blue and tan mix to signify those who attention be paid to the effort. I may not know much, simply love to be here amid the blues of the water and but I can wave my arms madly directing traffic and the grasses of the meadows, who willingly give of their snap off a salute to a blue decal with the best of them. time to our committees and activities, and generally The colored bumper decals also determined such things make The Sea Ranch a better place to live in the spirit as access, parking, and whether one could pass through intended in our founding vision. the base gates without being stopped. With this expanded identification program in mind, Now, forty years later, the decals make me think of you could then decide simply by driving by whether the a new order of things here on The Sea Ranch. We function you were planning to attend was where you currently have the yellow windshield sticker that really wanted to be, or if it might be better to go for a proudly states that the vehicle to which it is attached hike. belongs to a Sea Ranch Association member and, — — Frank Bell therefore, can operate on The Sea Ranch without raising Community Manager

What’s Inside ... BULLETIN © Community Manager's Report: Colors . pp. 1-2 Website posting date: 9/20/11 Printed issue date: 10/07/11 PC Public Hearing: Trail Extension p. 1 The Moonraker Tower p. 3 The purpose of The Sea Ranch Association BULLETIN is to provide information to members about the official business and operations ofThe Financing Our New Water Tank pp. 4-5 Sea Ranch Association. Time to Nominate 2012 Sea Rancher of Year p. 6 Published Monthly for members by THE SEA RANCH ASSOCIATION The Volunteer Voice: About Volunteering p. 7 Post Office Box 16 • The Sea Ranch, California 95497 Tel: 707-785-2444 • Fax: 707-785-3555 • E-Mail: [email protected] CCNM: Shorebird Fall Migration . . . . . p. 8 CLC: Commons Corner – Views 2 p. 9 Editor: Frank Bell Assistant Editors: Janice Bonora, Darrell Paige Trails Talk: Trail Hazards p. 10 Design/Layout/Typesetter: Darrell Paige Saturday Hikes: 10/15 & 11/19 p. 11 Printed on recycled paper with 30% post-consumer fiber. No part of this Pool Schedules p. 12 publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without the prior, written permission of the Editor, excepting brief quotes used in Recreation Information . . . . . pp. 14-15 connection with reviews written specifically for inclusion in a newpaper or Water Company Board Summary & Actions p. 16 magazine. All materials for the BULLETIN should be submitted electroni- cally to the Assistant Editor who can also provide submission deadlines. Association Board Summary & Actions . pp. 17-19 Resolution 351 ...... p. 19 Thespians: Proof ...... p. 20 the sea ranch association office will be closed in observance of Budget Meeting Schedules: TSRA & WC . p. 20 the following holidays New Members Meeting: 10/8 ...... p. 21 Nov 11 Friday Veteran’s Day Forum: Preserving North Sonoma Coast Land . p. 21 Nov 24 Thursday Thanksgiving Dec 27 Tuesday Christmas Read the Bulletin online at www.tsra.org!

The Sea Ranch Association Bulletin, October 2011 —— 2 THE MOONRAKER TOWER The first question may be what is a “Moonraker Tower” being made with the Sheriff’s Department to place and why would we want to buy one? The tower is not new equipment on the tower. We already know that a relic of a James Bond movie, rather it is a tall steel the tower generates enough revenue to pay its minimal structure that sits on 1.42 acres adjacent to the south cost of operation. With new revenue from new leases, end of The Sea Ranch (TSR). It is visible from Highway we can also recover our costs of the investment over One and points around TSR, and it’s sort of an eyesore time. If ever we decided that we didn’t want the tower, on an otherwise pristine ridgeline. Towers have to “see” we could offer it to the county or another entity where each other above trees and ridges to transmit a signal we could control our ability to keep our TSRA services from place to place. operating far into the future and our costs low. Built about 20 years ago, the tower currently houses Others have said that the cost is too high, the revenues equipment owned by the Association (TSRA), Verizon are too low, the technology is changing, or an and CVC Cable, generating about $30,000 in annual earthquake will knock the thing down. I don’t have revenue, 97% of which is paid by Verizon and CVC. space to go through all of the worries, but I intend to The tower can accommodate more equipment and, make sure that the tower is a positive investment for thus, generate more revenue. It is a permitted use in TSRA and our communications services are improved. perpetuity. Towers such as this typically have long life Yes, technology is changing, but towers remain critical spans even here on the coast, and it should last 60 years to any system that transmits a signal though the air. without significant refurbishment. The tower clearly Since we are still in the 1990s from a communications has a financial and a functional value to any owner. standpoint, I am not worried that we will suddenly emerge in an age when the tower is not needed. Finally, When we were contacted by a representative of the if we have an earthquake and the tower falls down, we estate selling the tower, an appraisal had already been will probably have greater problems to worry about —- completed and the clock was ticking on the sale. It and, of course, we will insure it. showed a value of $460,000, though the appraisal appeared to have used inflated comparables. Our own So, how do we pay for it? First, this project is not appraisal showed a lower value of $333,000, though driven by the assessment. A few members have loaned it may have underestimated the value of the Coastal us the purchase price for one year. TSRA used the permit. My inquiries within the industry estimate short-term loan program we implemented through the start-from-scratch value of the tower at about $1.3 an info alert request issued last year for the design million if permits could be obtained. The purchase portion of Tank 8. During the upcoming year, we will price is $425,000. recruit new service providers and consider the revenue and expense picture for the longer term. Any revenue So, here is this tower on our doorstep, now for sale, generated beyond costs can be used to offset the that houses our local communications network such assessment just like fees charged by DCEM. Then, we as it is, and we are faced with an important decision. will either re-finance the tower over a longer term, roll Without the tower, what little cellular reception we it into the financing package for the Tank 8 project (the have might not exist, cable TV and Internet services Water Company relies on the tower as well), or divest could be significantly reduced, and TSRA would have it and repay the short-term loan. The County has a difficult time communicating by radio with our already asked us if we would consider a lease/purchase security and maintenance people. If someone else buys agreement. the tower, we face uncertainty — who owns it, how do the uses change, how might our communications Is it an appropriate business for TSRA? We already and emergency services be affected, will our costs provide services not typical of other CIDs, including go up, and will the new owner help us recruit better water service and street maintenance. There are no communications services? We either need to control incorporated communities nearby, and we are far this tower or become a “small potatoes” customer of a removed from county and state services; therefore, if new owner. At a minimum, our costs to lease space on we don’t do it, it often doesn’t get done. The Sea Ranch the tower would likely increase. has always insisted in controlling its own destiny, and we are continuing to do so through this purchase. I think it advantageous to TSRA to own the tower. It allows us to actively recruit better public access and — — Frank Bell emergency communication services. Plans are already Community Manager

Board Summary and Actions located on pages 16-19 of this bulletin!

3 —— The Sea Ranch Association Bulletin, October 2011 Water Company

FINANCING OUR NEW WATER TANK

The Board of Directors approved the Capital tank. For example, while we already have approval Improvement Plan (CIP) for The Sea Ranch Water from the CPUC to borrow up to $9 million for this vital Company in stages over the last several years; the project, we cannot include this cost in our rate structure most recent approval came at the Board meeting on until the project is completed and in service. Therefore, July 2, 2011. The CIP was designed to address a series we have to be able to fund the interest expense for the of significant problems faced by The Sea Ranch Water 12 – 18 months that the construction phase will take to Company. Some of these problems were known when complete. the Association acquired the Water Company from the developer in 1997. Included were low water pressure The administration and Board looked at three possible for firefighting at the south end of The Sea Ranch and approaches to funding the new water tank. Given low water pressure to a number of homes. In 1999 the success of the interim member loan program, we the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) considered the possibility of having the project funded increased State fire flow requirements, leaving us with on a voluntary basis by those members willing to lower than acceptable water pressure and inadequate commit to a long-term and relatively secure loan at water storage to fight a major fire. This led the CDPH to attractive rates of interest. We considered a one-time require that the fire flow problem be fixed. A detailed assessment on all Association lots, which would have hydraulic study funded by the Association concluded amounted to approximately $3,500 per lot. We also that the best overall solution would be to add a major considered external (commercial) financing in various new water tank at the south end of The Sea Ranch. A forms. number of other improvements to the Water Company’s systems were also recommended at that time. To understand why the Board and staff concluded that external financing was the only practical option, As a consequence, the Board has now approved plans let’s deal with the first two options. Leaving aside for to construct Tank 8 and related improvements, and the moment the fact that a long-term (probably 20- we have moved on to the construction phase. But year) loan term is a very different proposition from of course, this requires financing — and there’s no the short-term loans provided by members to cover question that this is the largest capital improvement the engineering expenses, and the liquidity issues project yet undertaken by The Sea Ranch. Very careful associated with members leaving Sea Ranch or passing consideration has been brought to bear on what is the away with consequences for their heirs, there simply best approach to funding a $6 - 7 million construction isn’t enough time to put together a program of this project. While these are large numbers, they do include magnitude and meet the construction schedule that several components: $440,000 for the engineering answers the State requirement and that fixes our critical studies and design work, $1.5 million for actual issues. So this approach has had to be ruled out. construction of a 900,000 gallon concrete tank, $3.35 million for the associated water main piping, $450,000 A one-time assessment, while in many ways an for pumps and pressure relief valves, and the cost of attractive and relatively inexpensive option (for financing, which is estimated at $600,000 but could the Association and the Water Company!) has tax change substantially. consequences, according to our auditors, that make this equally impractical. The Sea Ranch is very fortunate to have had a number of members willing to provide short term financing; The impracticality of the first two options leave some we were able to secure $400,000 in loans from our form of external financing as the next most obvious members to fund the engineering work at 5% interest. choice. Realistically, there are three alternatives, all of We are very grateful to them and to the many which were considered by staff and the Board. They other members who also offered to help, saving the included a variable rate bond, a fixed rate bond and Association a significant amount of expense. a commercial loan. The first can be amortized over 30 years with positive consequences for the annual The Water Company operates under the oversight of the principal and interest payment, whereas the second California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), which two would run for 15 – 20 years. While there are many has complex rules governing our rate structure and rate complexities associated with each of these approaches, increases to cover major projects like our new water and significant differences in both up-front costs

The Sea Ranch Association Bulletin, October 2011 —— 4 Water Company cont'd and long-term interest expense, the Board and staff There are a few other reasons why the Variable Rate concluded that a variable rate bond offers the best Bond was the choice made by the Board. First, the solution for the Association and Water Company — Federal Reserve has recently announced that there will and here’s why: The projected $400K annual interest be no significant increase in interest rates until at least expense of a variable rate bond is less than half of the 2013 — a very timely announcement, from our point other alternatives. This is the fundamental reason why of view. Next, while the setup charges for the Variable this alternative was chosen by the Board. While it is Rate Bond are higher than the other two alternatives, also true that the setup expenses of a variable rate bond they do reduce the Water Company’s costs during the are higher, the impact over the life of the bond is trivial construction period when — as you may recall from the by comparison with the annual interest expense. The beginning of this article — we cannot get a rate increase accompanying graphic makes this abundantly clear. approved to cover the interest expenses. This has to wait until the project is completed and in service.

So in the end, despite all of the Variable Rate Commercial Fixed Rate complexities associated with the analysis Loan Loan Bond of the various options available to the Water Company, the choice became Setup Cost $625k+ $425k $605k relatively simple. A Variable Rate Bond cuts the interest expense by a decisive Rate Var. 2 - 3 % 7 - 7½ % 9 - 10 % margin compared to the other two alternatives and could amount to a Term 30 yrs 15 - 20 yrs 15 - 30 yrs savings of at least $4 million in interest Annual Payment $400k $800k $950k - 1.05 mil expense over the life of the loan.

The entire process of developing a Skeptical readers will immediately ask what the risk Capital Improvement Program for our Water Company inherent in variable rates could be over the 30 year has been exhaustive (and sometimes exhausting). The life of the loan – and that’s an excellent question. Board has authorized the construction of Tank 8 and Without going into wearisome detail, members should its associated improvements because we have to fix understand that the interest rate for a variable bond is the Water Company issues described at the start of based on LIBOR (the London Interbank Overnight Rate) this article. The Board has also authorized the use of which historically tracks very closely to the Fed Funds Variable Rate Bond financing to cover the expense of and US Prime rates. Over the past 10 years, the LIBOR completing the program. There will, of course, be an has peaked twice for very brief periods at just under 6 increase in water rates to cover these costs; however, percent. During such spikes, our actual payments would even after this increase, our water rates will probably be still be only slightly more than we would be paying lower than Gualala’s and broadly comparable to rates for for either of the other two alternatives. The average for Point Arena and Bodega Bay. The analyses used at every the 10-year period has been 2.28 percent. Therefore, stage of this complex process have been rational and the highest degree of probability is that a LIBOR- compelling. Now we turn to building the water tank based interest rate will beat the other two alternatives, and solving the issues that have led to its construction. and probably by a wide margin. At a cost of between $250,000 and $500,000, the Board could authorize — — Frank Bell the purchase of a “cap” on the increase of the interest Community Manager rate, which would keep the rate at 5 percent or below; however, it doesn’t seem necessary to do this based upon all of the advice received to this point.

5 —— The Sea Ranch Association Bulletin, October 2011 Community Information

TIME TO NOMINATE 2012 SEA RANCHER OF THE YEAR The Sea Rancher of The Year award is given to Please send your nomination(s) detailing the services a member (or members) of the Association in rendered by your nominee(s) to: recognition of their outstanding contributions Community Manager Frank Bell of service to The Sea Ranch Community over P.O. Box 16 an extended period of time . The Sea Ranch, CA 95497-0016 If you know someone whom you would like to or hand-deliver it to the Association office nominate for this award, you must act soon! no later than November 16, 2011 .

The recipient of this prestigious award will be acknowledged at the Midwinter Meeting on Saturday, February 18, 2012.

Previous Sea Ranchers of the Year 1970 Don Carlos Hines 1991 Daniel H. Levin 1972 Elizabeth B. Morse 1992 Joanne Hafner 1973 Tom Christensen 1993 John Wingate 1974 William E. Rand 1994 George Snyder 1975 J.S. Woodruff, M.D. 1995 Dick Soule 1976 Al Boeke 1996 Duane and Kathi Gordon 1977 Pauline Satur 1997 Dick Warren 1977 Sylvia Moore 1998 John Lundell and John McChesney 1977 Joseph Griffin 1999 Al Wool 1978 Harry Estes 2000 Mel Mirsky 1979 Dave Nagle 2001 Walt and Joanne Guenther 1980 Dale Wood 2002 Matt Sylvia and Lawrence Halprin 1981 James L. Cockburn 2003 Rae Hudspeth 1982 Jerry and Sally Skibbins 2004 Diane Boeke and Carol Emory 1983 Byrne Thrailkill 2005 Martha “Dibby” Tyler 1984 Patricia Ditzler 2006 Sandra J. Bush 1985 Ginny Trumbull 2007 Peter and Patty Mattson 1986 Bill Platt 2008 John Horn 1987 George Wickstead 2009 Alex and Anne Long 1988 Janann Strand 2010 Rosemarie Hocker 1990 Jeff and Millie Davis 2011 Susan M. Clark and Richard Kuehn

— —

Volunteers Needed for appointment to the Election Committee

Assistance during the spring election. No regular meetings.

The Volunteer Application can be picked up at the Association office or found on the website at: http://www.tsra.org/mod/secfile/viewed.php?file_id=157

The Sea Ranch Association Bulletin, October 2011 —— 6 THINKING ABOUT VOLUNTEERING?

Are you thinking about volunteering, but hate to sit in meetings? Fortunately, there are many other ways you can volunteer your time and skills. For example, the Native Plant Committee would like some help developing standardized TSRA web pages for describing individual plants on The Sea Ranch plant list and taking and preparing plant photos for the website. If you’d rather be out among the plants, you can join work parties in the Native Plant Demonstration Bulletin Board Garden or the Del Mar Gardens. If this sounds good to you, talk with our Current Opportunities volunteer facilitators about opportunities for special projects and outdoor work. • Join a work party for the Del Mar Garden or the Native VOLUNTEER FACILITATORS Plant Demonstration Garden. • Scan early issues of Soundings Our Volunteer Facilitators act as a clearinghouse for volunteer needs into digital form to complete and opportunities. They check with committee chairs and volunteer TSRA historical files. groups to determine volunteer needs and to help Sea Ranchers who are considering volunteer work find a good match for their skills and • Take and format photo- graphs to accompany plant interests. description pages on the If you are considering becoming a volunteer, contact [email protected] website. or talk with our volunteer facilitators. • Organize an archive of important documents for Leigh Mueller 785-9533 [email protected] the Utilities Committee. Jan Gerst 785-1758 [email protected] • Provide transportation to meetings and activities for NEW MEMBERS MEETING members who cannot drive. • Take minutes at committee On Saturday, October 8th, the Association and the Communication meetings. Committee will hold the annual New Members Meeting, a very special meeting where there is no formal agenda and the meeting starts off with The following TSRA Committees wine and cheese! It’s mainly about getting to know new neighbors and are seeking new members: sharing the “Sea Ranch Story” of why we decided to move here. The • Communication • Planning meeting is also an excellent opportunity for new, and even not-so new, • Security • Website members to learn more about The Sea Ranch, community activities and *If you would like to volunteer for volunteer efforts. At Del Mar Center Hall, from 3-5 p.m. Call the Association these or other volunteer projects at 785-2444 if you’d like to attend. and activities, please contact [email protected] Jan Gerst, Volunteer Facilitator — — for further information. Communication Committee We want to hear from you! The Volunteer Voice is a monthly column produced by the Communication Committee to highlight volunteer needs and opportunities at The Sea Ranch.

Welcome New Volunteers Mary Austin - Archives Group Jim Flessner - Utilities Committee Rick Belding - Website Committee Kay Martin - Planning Committee Roland Coombs - Utilities Committee Janet Windsor - CLC Special Project

7 —— The Sea Ranch Association Bulletin, October 2011 CCNM Stewardship Task Force

The Wandering Tattler, a little bigger than a Robin, bobs continually as it searches the intertidal zone for food. Another bird a little smaller and closer to Robin- sized is the Surfbird. In their non-breeding plumage, the Tattler is gray overall while the Surfbird is gray above and white below with a white wing-stripe when it flies. The Tattler bobs up and down while walking and has a longer bill. The Surfbird may be seen in small groups.

Often seen in larger groups, the Black Turnstone is a tad bigger than the yellow-eyed Brewer’s Blackbirds that hang around downtown Gualala. Black above and white below, this bird uses its short, up-curved bill to turn over Spotted Sandpiper Photo by Craig Tooley stones and find food. Shorebird Fall Migration When the Summer has come to an end, and along our rocky coast group flies, and offshore islands, shorebirds appear, having left their white their breeding grounds in Alaska and northern Canada wing stripe to migrate south for the winter. Many have also left and rump their brightly patterned breeding plumage behind and are visible. changed to the more subdued tones of winter. Along Smaller our beaches, or in the mussel beds at low tide, the still, the sandpiper family forages for invertebrates, using their Spotted thin bills to find their food and their long legs to wade Sandpiper and run along the sand and mud. is a little On our quarterly surveys, the California Coastal bigger than the White National Monument Stewardship Task Force walks the Surfbird Photo by Bryant Hichwa entire length of The Sea Ranch to identify and record Crowned which species are here, and watch for some of the Sparrows we see flitting around the bush lupine. Its sandpipers we see most often in fall/winter. tail teeters up and down as it walks. Brownish gray above and white below, this bird is seen throughout the The largest of these is the Whimbrel, often seen United States, on fresh water as well as the coast. This walking in the mussel beds. This bird’s body is about shorebird nests in Sonoma County and may be seen the size of a Black Oystercatcher, but it has long legs along the Gualala River in summer. and a long, down-curved bill and is a uniform gray brown over all. Usually solitary, the Whimbrel feeds on During the third week of November, the Task Force crabs and other small invertebrates. will have seven teams on the Bluff Trail, doing our quarterly survey. If you are interested in learning about the shorebirds of Sea Ranch, please volunteer! No experience is necessary – look through spotting scopes and learn from the experts! We hope this article will help you enjoy and identify some of the many shorebirds traveling through and spending the winter with us.

Contact: Diane Hichwa, [email protected] or Barbara Rice [email protected].

— — Barbara Rice, Co-Chair CCNM Stewardship Task Force Whimbrel Photo by Craig Tooley

The Sea Ranch Association Bulletin, October 2011 —— 8 Commons Landscape Committee

Commons Corner • October 1986: Board adopted “Procedure for View Restoration,” defining application procedures and cost allocations for tree removal or trimming to maintain views from private lots. • December 1989: Board adopted “Procedure of VIEWS — A LEGACY OF ACTION View Restoration, Tree Removal or Trimming.” Last month, this column attempted to put to rest This action, supplanting the 1986 version, the idea that owners have a legal right to a view and established the permitting process for “tree promised to describe how the Association has acted proposals” that, with few modifications, is the over the years to help Members maintain views. In this process now followed by DCEM. context, “view” is almost always narrowly defined as a • October 1993: Board adopted Resolution view of the ocean. It is important to remember that 57 stating “The Association is irrevocably the most cherished “views” of many members are of committed to the primacy of its policy in favor of the meadows, forests, streams and especially the places the Preservation of the spectacular ocean views frequented by animals and birds. But The Sea Ranch of The Sea Ranch from the Members’ respective is a coastal community and Members who have views properties as it pertains to the Commons.” It of the ocean from their houses certainly value them called for a plan, removal of impediments to highly. view preservation, and creation of a task force At the core of the view issue is the growth of trees on among other things. With this resolution, both private lots and Commons that eventually may the pendulum swung far to the side of the obstruct ocean views from private lots. The problem individuals, but the actions actually taken were arose in the earliest days of The Sea Ranch, leading relatively minor. The resolution was superseded to a 1971 opinion by Reverdy Johnson (the author of by subsequent Board actions. our Restrictions) that vegetation used as a hedge or a • March 1995: Board adopted Resolution 82 windbreak could constitute an “improvement” under “Measures for Fire Management and View the Restrictions and thus be subject to height limits. Preservation on The Sea Ranch.” This resolution This interpretation of the Restrictions, incorporated in linked fire and view concerns and stipulated 10 the Design Committee Rules in 1974, allows the Design specific actions and an appropriation of $50,000 Committee to restrict the height of vegetation on to accomplish them. private lots to protect ocean views of other owners. It is still the Design Committee’s most important tool to In the late 1990s and 2000s, the emphasis shifted to oversee planting on private lots. Over the years, the vegetation management for fire safety and to adoption concept has evolved into a more general statement in and implementation of the Fuels Management Plan; the 2007 Design Manual and Rules Section 6.3.1 stating however, the view issue has never been far beneath the that “trees and shrubs are subject to the same height surface. After years of debate, a new Design Manual limitations as other improvements on the lot and and Rules was adopted in 2007, including Section 7.4 on can be held to the height limit in those cases where vegetation management. they would otherwise block views and/or shade a With all this effort spanning 40 years, angst over views neighboring property.” remains an issue at The Sea Ranch. The Commons Policies regarding tree removal or trimming to maintain Landscape Committee (CLC) is the new kid on the or create views from private lots have see-sawed back block to grapple with it. The Committee hopes that by and forth over time as The Sea Ranch community has comprehensively and systematically assessing each of struggled to reach an appropriate balance between the fourteen landscape planning areas identified at The the desires of individuals and the aesthetics of the Sea Ranch, a reasoned basis for balancing community community as a whole. Some examples: and individual concerns will emerge. Please help the Committee by participating, particularly when the CLC • November 1978: Board adopted a resolution comes to your neighborhood. to prevent the creation of new view corridors stating, “. . . such additional view clearing is not The next workshop is for Area 14 between The Sea an acceptable policy and is to be avoided unless Ranch north boundary and Salal Creek on Saturday, justification of the most complete sort is offered October 29, 2011 at 9:00 a.m. at the Del Mar Center Hall. and accepted by the Design Committee and the — — Martha “Dibby” Tyler Association.” Commons Landscape Committee

9 —— The Sea Ranch Association Bulletin, October 2011 Trails Committee

Ticks Trails talk Another common hazard on the trails is being bitten by a tick. Ticks can be found in the grass or on brush and can cling to your clothing as you walk by. Once they get on you, they will climb up until they find a tasty place to attach. You might feel a bite; however, since many ticks are tiny and their bite is painless, the chances are that you will not feel a tick bite. It is a good idea to vigorously brush off your pant legs after walking in grass, and check thoroughly for ticks Tick sizes when you get home. If you are wearing light colored clothes, ticks are easier to see. Wearing long pants and long-sleeved shirts, staying on trails, and not walking TRAIL HAZARDS through meadow grass or brush will help to avoid ticks.

Most of us on The Sea Ranch came here to enjoy the Pets can pick up ticks and transfer them to you, your outdoors, especially the trails. Even though the trails car, or into your house. Be sure to treat your dog or are beautiful, hikers should be aware of some of the cat with a tick repellent. If you get a tick bite, remove hazards they may encounter, and how to avoid them, the tick as soon as possible with fine-point tweezers so that hiking in our wonderful environment can be or a tick removal tool. Don’t squeeze the tick or pull safer and more enjoyable. hard, because you may inject fluid into yourself and/or break off part of the tick. If you cannot easily remove Poison Oak the tick, see a doctor to have it removed. The RCMS One hazard that can be either in the meadow or the Urgent Care Clinic can remove ticks. Our local Gualala forest is poison oak. Urushiol, an oil present in poison Veterinary Clinic sells tick removal kits and tick oak, can cause an allergic reaction and skin rash. repellent products for dogs and cats. If you remove a Poison oak is identified by its shiny oak-like green tick that has bitten you, you can send it to the Sonoma or red leaves, growing in three-leaf patterns. It is a County Public Health Lab to be tested for disease. climber and often found wound up a tree or in another Pack it in a small, sealed, non-crushable container in a bush. If you’re unfamiliar with what it looks like, one water-moistened cotton ball. Details and the necessary place to see it is at marker #28 on the Monarch Glen forms can be found at http://www.sonoma-county.org/ Interpretive Trail. The oil from poison oak can be health/services/laboratory.asp. picked up from the dry stems as well as the leaves. If What about Lyme disease? Lyme disease is an infection you think you have been in contact with it, wash caused by Lyme “spirochetes,” specifically Borrelia thoroughly as soon as you get home, including your burgdorferi. Ticks can carry several infectious agents, clothes and shoes. You or others can get poison oak including Lyme, but the vast majority of tick bites do from urushiol on clothing, shoes, or tools, and the oil not result in infection. If you are concerned about a can remain active for more than a year. Your pets can tick bite or if you think you may have Lyme disease, also bring it to you. consult a physician. Good sources of information There are products available made specifically for about Lyme can be found at: http://cdc.gov/lyme/, removing the oil. One brand called Tecnu is available http://ipm.ucdavis.edu (search for “Lyme”), and at many pharmacies and stores selling outdoor gear. It http://mayoclinicproceedings.com (search for “Lyme”). will remove the oils from your skin and can be used — — Bonnie Plakos on laundry and tools. While avoiding contact with Trails Committee Secretary poison oak is the best prevention, there are also barrier products, such as Ivy Block, that can be applied to your skin before exposure, if you think you will be unable Correction - September Trails Talk: to avoid contact (e.g., while clearing brush). Much The September "Del Mar History Hike" Trails Talk article more information can be found online by searching for was authored by James Fitzsimmons and not Dave Ball. “Poison Oak Prevention” or “Identifying Poison Oak.” It was also incorrectly stated in the article signature that And the next time you see our grazing goats, give them Dave Ball was Chair of the Trails Committee. David Rice an extra smile: they eat poison oak! is the current Chair of the Trails Committee.

The Sea Ranch Association Bulletin, October 2011 —— 10 Committees

saturday hikes

Saturday, octoBER 15 Saturday, november 19 Hike: Forest Trail Sampler. We’ll take a 4 mile Hike: The popular Del Mar History Hike. Learn all loop from the Ohlson Ranch House to the North about vestiges of the community that was here around Water Tower and back. The hike covers portions 1900 on a loop starting at the Del Mar Center to the of the Long Meadow, Big Tree, Ridge, Cluster, bluff and back. Sites include the Del Mar School, White Fir and Hugel Ravine Trails. Although chicken coop, railroad grade, Del Mar Point landing, mostly in the forest, it also includes some upper shipwreck site, lumber operations and powerhouse meadow and riparian zones. Good shoes and remains. This hike was described in detail in the a hiking stick are recommended for the steep September Bulletin Trails Talk. sections. Location and Time: Meet at the Del Mar Center Location and Time: Meet at the Ohlson parking lot at 1:00 p.m. (Note that this is not the usual Recreation Center parking lot at 1:00 p.m. Ohlson Recreation Center start location.) Difficulty: The first two miles are mostly uphill Difficulty: An easy, flat walk for about an hour. with an elevation gain of about 570 feet. The second two miles are mostly downhill with one Hike Leader: Jim Fitzsimmons, [email protected] fairly steep section. Time is about two hours. Coordination: Steve Brugler, [email protected] Hike Leader: Dave Windsor, 785-9521 Coordination: Steve Brugler, [email protected]

The Sea Ranch Native Plant Committee Presents:

Fall 2011 Native Plant Committee Workshop Keeping your landscape fit and trim: pruning from trees to grass

Saturday, October 1, 2011 10:00 a.m. to Noon Ohlson Ranch House and Demonstration Garden

Scott Graf and Craven Alcott will discuss:  Pruning trees to look natural and be safe;  Trimming shrubs for looks and fire safety;  Maintaining meadow for interest, habitat, and fire control.

Outside pruning demonstration included.

Jonathan Raymond, Chair, Native Plant Committee

11 —— The Sea Ranch Association Bulletin, October 2011 DCEM and F & R

• Preliminary Site Visits (PSV)* 1 roadside branch collection service Conceptual Reviews 2 (Third Monday of each month) Preliminary Submittals** 0

2011 Final Submittals 0

t All Revised Submittals 0 s Upcoming Collection Dates: Additions 2 Miscellaneous Submittals 2

October 17 and November 21 ugu Landscape Plans 3

Remember, you must sign up for this service by the A Extension of Plan Approval 1 Saturday preceding the collection date. • Misc. Staff Reviews 53 Tree Applications 27

Please keep vegetation debris piles ws off the road areas. Encroachment Permits 3 Percolation Permits 0 See the Association website for more information

revie Violations 6

and to submit your service request online, or call the Association office at 707-785-2444. Compliance Inspections 99

ign Construction Starts/Residences 0 www tsra. org. s Construction Starts/Additions 2

de Construction Completions/Residences 1

• Construction Completions/Additions 1

hazmobile Homes Completed 1782 Household Hazardous Waste Collection Homes Under Construction 7 Total Number of Undeveloped Lots 498

Hazardous materials can be dropped off between ummary Total Number of Properties 2287 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. at The Sea Ranch North Fire s

Station, Highway 1, on the following dates: • *PSV - UBL: 35C-128 (41299 Tallgrass) 2011 Schedule (remaining) Friday-Saturday, October 28-29, 2011 ** Neighboring owners within 300’ are routinely notified when preliminary plans have been submitted for a new residence and are invited to examine the plans at our office and to submit their written comments prior to the scheduled Del Mar REC POOL date of review. - will be CLOSED for maintenance between September 25th & October 2nd

OHLSON REC CENTER POOL - Days open extended to October 10th.

A reminder to our members and guests that the Ohlson Recreation Pool is open with extended days in October. Please note the change to winter hours for all pools; see page 22 for times.

— — Facilities & Resources Staff

The Sea Ranch Association Bulletin, October 2011 —— 12 Safety and Security Services

TYPE OF CALL august year to date total

2011 2010 2011 2010 2010

ALARMS 2 6 28 34 50 animal related 39 32 244 267 392 assistance - law enforcement 31 47 214 240 365 assist member/renter 94 111 646 657 1002 association initiated action 22 24 151 159 230 2011

** Burglary 0 0 1 4 4 t * cc&r violations 98 128 616 641 970 s check the welfare 1 1 16 12 17 disturbance - noise 4 2 31 25 39

augu disturbance - other 4 8 24 34 50

• fire 0 1 4 3 4 s hazards (trees, wires down, etc) 11 20 101 113 171 medical aid 6 11 37 46 60 all miscellaneous 36 48 251 312 497 c missing/lost person 0 1 3 8 11 of

sec. dept. initiated action 237 286 1645 1679 2486 suspicious person/vehicle 71 83 443 429 668 theft 2 3 7 11 13 trespass person/vehicle 46 48 267 255 404 vandalism/property damage 1 1 44 33 43

Summary vehicle accident 0 1 9 13 17 warning notices issued 49 54 325 272 432 * Most CC&R violations are resolved daily in the field. ** January 2010 – Unit 28 (under construction / unlocked) ** April 2011 - Unit 35D ** March 2010 – Unit 28, Unit 1 ** May 2011 - Unit 34A ** Burglary is under the jurisdiction of the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Department.

— — Lin Plescia, Director of Security

Security Reminder - It’s Rutting Season

Rutting season for our local deer population is in progress again. While adult bucks should always be regarded as potentially dangerous animals, during autumn they are especially aggressive and unpredictable. Whether hiking the trails or simply walking around outside your house, be aware of your surroundings and exercise caution. This is equally important while driving. As he attempts to assemble his harem, neither a pursuing buck nor a fleeing doe is in any way concerned as to where the chase may lead, increasing the possibility of a collision with a vehicle. Lastly, as has been mentioned on numerous occasions, feeding deer is not just a bad idea, it’s against the law.

— — Lin Plescia Director of Security

13 —— The Sea Ranch Association Bulletin, October 2011 Recreation Information for Members, Guests & Renters

Swimming pools & Tennis Courts Del Mar Center (DMC) Location: 40600 Leeward Rd. - west side of Highway 1 (mile marker 56.88), turn on Deer Trial. Facilities: Large outdoor heated pool (40ft. wide x 82 ft. long + shallow area), saunas, 2 tennis courts. Summer Hours: memorial Day Weekend - End of September Pool: 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. - Lap swim & Aquatic exercise 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. - Open swim Tennis: 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tennis reservation sheets are available every Monday at 7:00 a.m. Use of courts is first-come, first-served on weekends & holidays. winter Hours: October - Memorial Day Weekend Pool: 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. - Lap swim & Aquatic exercise 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. - Open swim Tennis: 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Ohlson Recreation Center (ORC) Location: 37600 Highway 1 - west side (mile marker 53.76), enter south of Knipp-Stengel Barn. Facilities: Large outdoor heated pool (28ft. wide x 82 ft. long + shallow area), saunas, 3 tennis courts, half-court basketball, volleyball court (basketball & volleyball available upon request at ORC kiosk). Summer Hours: memorial Day Weekend through October 10th* *Note: ORC Summer opening extended 10 days Pool: 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. - Lap swim & Aquatic exercise 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. - Open swim Tennis: 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tennis reservation sheets are available every Friday at noon. winter Hours: POOL CLOSED October 11th - May (Reopens Memorial Day Weekend) Except for following holidays: Thanksgiving week, weekend before Christmas through New Year's Day weekend, week before and week after Easter (Consult May/October "Bulletins", the Association website or the Association office for exact days/hours of operation). Pool: 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. - Lap swim & Aquatic exercise 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. - Open swim Tennis: 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Moonraker Recreation Center Location: 35336 Moonraker Rd. - west side of Highway 1 (mile marker 51.06). Facilities: Small outdoor heated pool (20ft. wide x 33 ft. long + shallow area), saunas, tennis courts. Summer Hours: memorial Day Weekend - End of September Pool: 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. - Aquatic exercise 10:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. - Open swim Tennis: 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tennis reservation sheets are available every Saturday at 8:00 a.m. winter Hours: October - Memorial Day Weekend Pool: 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. - Aquatic exercise (Monday - Friday) 10:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. - Open swim Tennis: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. A member personal I.D. Card must be presented for each individual at all recreation centers. Renters must present a Renter Identification Pass at all recreation centers.

The Sea Ranch Association Bulletin, October 2011 —— 14 Recreation Information for Members, Guests & Renters

Members, please leave this page in your homes for your guests and renters. Renters, please call your Rental Agency for further information. The Sea Ranch Library Motto: "Donate, Borrow, and Return" Location: Ohlson Ranch House - Highway One, mile marker 53.76 at Ohlson Recreation Center. Hours: Daily 8:30: a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Books can be donated from your own library for others to borrow. Please return borrowed books within two weeks to keep them in circulation.

Reminder for Members: Kindly check your shelves at home to see if you have a book with The Sea Ranch Library stamp that you may have neglected to return and bring it to the Ohlson Ranch House as soon as possible. Members who rent their homes are especially urged to see that Sea Ranch Library books don’t languish on their shelves. OTHER RECREATION AREAS (Note: These areas cannot be reserved exclusively. However, if your group is planning a picnic or other activity, call the Association at 785-2444 for calendar information.)

One-Eyed Jack’s Playground Leeward Road between Units 24 & 28 – Picnic tables and barbecue available.

The Hot Spot On the Gualala River at the end of River Beach Road, Unit 14. Picnic tables and barbecues are available, but area is subject to closure during winter months. MAPS & GUIDES The Sea Ranch Trails Map: Includes: Units, streets, beach & bluff access, parking areas, trails with numbered trail posts, etc. Price $3.00 each.

Guides/Booklets: Wildlife, marine life, trails & walks, wildflowers, history and development of The Sea Ranch. Prices vary.

Available at The Sea Ranch Association Office – 975 Annapolis Road Tuesday through Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. I.D. INFORMATION The Sea Ranch Association requires owners, guests, and renters to have appropriate I.D. while using any recreational facilities and The Sea Ranch Common area, including all Association trails.

Rental Agency Renters: Place renter I.D. tag on vehicle and carry renter I.D. pass to register at pool or to reserve tennis courts. Please call your Rental Agency for further information.

Visitors Renting Directly from Member: Place member’s hangtag on vehicle and carry member’s personal I.D. card to register at pool or to reserve tennis courts.

Overnight Guests of Member: Same as visitor renting directly from member.

15 —— The Sea Ranch Association Bulletin, October 2011 Water Company Board Summary and Actions

Water Company BOARD SUMMARY AND ACTIONS

On August 27, 2011, The Sea Ranch Water Company Seven Members provided input, including possibility Board of Directors completed an Agenda that included of a combination financing option including both one Workshop and two items of new business. The internal Member and external financing, comparison Agenda packet for this meeting can be viewed on the of the LIBOR vs. fixed interest rates over time, support Association website at for the internal financing option, maintaining parity http://www.tsra.org/news.php?viewStory=1237, and the and equitable distribution of costs between current and audio file is available at future water rate payers, impact on water meter and http://www.tsra.org/news.php?viewStory=1239. usage rates from year to year through rate structure changes, tax implications of financing options, and WORKSHOP suggestion that Members be provided a graph of each of the financing options showing costs per household. Capital Financing Plan for the Water Company CIP (Tank 8 Project) NEW BUSINESS Director Gallagher (Treasurer) reviewed the background issues giving rise to the Capital Improvement Plan Decision and Approval of CIP Financing Option (Tank 8), and reviewed the steps in the process that Following Board discussion and opportunity for have been implemented to date, including most Member input, the Board passed a motion to remove recently the completion of the engineering design the fixed rate bond option from further consideration. phase and the Water Company Board approving ACTION: The Board of Directors passed the motion size and composition of the Tank at their July 2, unanimously. 2011 meeting. He further summarized Tank 8 cost projections and options for financing. Three basic A motion was then made to consider the variable approaches to financing the project have been rate loan and at the same time poll the Membership considered – long term member financing (based on to determine interest in making private loans to the the success of the short term plan utilized to fund Water Company. Board discussion of the motion the engineering design phase), onetime assessment, included further questions about Member financing, and external financing options. In consultation with whether options other than the variable rate loan could staff, the auditors, and the Finance Committee, it was facilitate proposed ground-breaking and construction determined that long term member financing was schedules, current and projected interest rate and cost not a viable option at this time and that a onetime advantages of the variable rate loan, and feasibility of assessment carries tax disadvantages that make it refinancing using other options at a later time. impractical. ACTION: The motion was withdrawn.

Director Gallagher explained three commercial A subsequent motion was made to pursue the variable financing options – variable rate loan, commercial rate loan option as the primary course of action. loan, and fixed rate bond. Each option presents Following Board discussion and Member input the advantages and disadvantages, including differing motion was approved. startup costs, term of years, and projected costs per ACTION: The Board of Directors passed the motion year. Variable rate loan offers the lowest annual costs unanimously. but the largest startup costs; commercial loan offers Approval of the Assignment of Agreement to lower startup costs but much higher annual costs; and Purchase the Moonraker Tower and Moonraker fixed rate bond would generate the highest annual Site from The Sea Ranch Water Company to costs. The Sea Ranch Association Board discussion included further questions about Following opportunity for Board discussion and internal financing options and onetime assessment, Member input, the Board passed a motion to transfer parity in distributing costs equitably between current the Agreement to Purchase from the Water Company Water Company customers and future property to the Association. owners, tax implications of financing under various ACTION: The Board of Directors passed the motion Water Company governance structures, impact on unanimously. water meter and usage rates, and possible need for — — Frank Bell further expert opinions. Community Manager

The Sea Ranch Association Bulletin, October 2011 —— 16 Association Board Summary & Actions

Association BOARD SUMMARY AND ACTIONS (revised 9/15/2011) This report is an informational summary of the discussion and action taken at the Board meeting of August 27, 2011. It is not the official record or the “minutes” of the meeting which provide greater detail and will be provided to the membership at a later date and upon formal approval of the Board of Directors. On August 27, 2011, The Sea Ranch Association Board Board Leadership Retreat, were included in the Agenda of Directors completed an Agenda that included three packet, and that staff would be working to assist the items of new business and a Round Table discussion. Board in addressing all of its Goals and Objectives over The Agenda packet for this meeting can be viewed on the course of the year. Chair Retzer added additional the Association website at http://www.tsra.org/news. background concerning the collaborative process php?viewStory=1236, and the audio file is available at utilized to reach agreement on these areas of focus. http://www.tsra.org/news.php?viewStory=721. Director Gallagher (Treasurer) reported that as of the During Reports, Chair Retzer noted that the Association end of July, the Association budget shows $58,000 Board has held five meetings and the Water Company better than plan on expenditures as well as $52,000 Board has held two meetings since the beginning of the better than plan on revenues. With 25% of the fiscal new Board year in June. Chair Retzer further reported year completed, the budget stands at 22% for an overall that he and Community Manager Bell met with Pascal better than plan status. He reported that the annual Sisich of Burbank Housing Corporation and Efren Audit Report for the Association will appear in the Carrillo, Sonoma County 5th District Supervisor, on September Bulletin and that the Water Company Audit August 19th in Santa Rosa. The parties were notified is also complete. The Association currently has Claims that the Association will no longer take the lead in of Lien against 10 properties and the Board is scheduled efforts to resolve Burbank Housing Corporation’s to authorize five additional liens during the current financial difficulties related to rehabilitating The Sea meeting. At the end of July, delinquencies stand at Ranch Apartments. The Association representatives $71,000 on a total of 58 accounts, a little higher than expressed hopes that the County will take the lead in normal. During June four escrows closed, bringing pursuing other options, noting that the Association the yearly total to 45, compared to 30 last year at this remains open to offering information and advice, and time. There has been only one new housing start this to participating in discussions that might be led by the year, compared with 5 last year at this time. Staff is County. beginning the preliminary work for the next Water Finally, Chair Retzer reported on the morning Executive Company budget. session, noting that the Board heard compliance During Members Agenda, two members spoke, one updates on three properties, authorized filing Notices of asking for and receiving assurance that Burbank Default on two properties, approved the appointment Housing’s Plan B and any subsequent plans for financial of Roland Coombs to the Utilities Committee, and assistance to Burbank had been laid to rest, and the received an update on The Sea Ranch Association vs. other Member reminding the Board that there is a lot Weatherford & Taaffe. of misinformation about budget issues in circulation Director Chaboudy, Board Liaison to the UC, reported and urging the Board to make clear to the Membership that the UC is adding three new sub-committees. The the big picture of how issues such as Burbank, the sub-committees will study (1) wastewater – focusing Moonraker Tower purchase, and the proposed Solar on charges associated with wastewater assessment Array installations might relate to the overall budget calculations, licensing of operators, and modification and to Member assessments. of the connection to the Gualala wastewater system; UNFINISHED BUSINESS – None (2) electrical service – focusing on aging buried cables, NEW BUSINESS tree clearance near power lines, and regional efforts on energy choices and alternatives; and (3) refuse Proposed Resolution 351, Authorization for recycling and other waste streams – focusing on refuse Claims of Lien for Delinquent Assessments and recycling efforts of the Association and the Water Community Manager Bell introduced Resolution 351 Company, evaluation of the Association recycling area regarding delinquent assessments, noting that three and how Member recycling efforts and the recycling properties were being removed from the draft resolution area itself might be improved, and review of how because of recent payment or partial payment. The the Association and the Water Company handle Davis-Stirling Act requires that this item be brought and dispose of generated hazardous waste and toxic forward in Open Session. substances. ACTION: The Board of Directors adopted Resolution 351 unanimously. (see page 19) Community Manager Bell reported that the Board’s 2011-2012 goals and objectives, agreed upon at the cont'd on page 18

17 —— The Sea Ranch Association Bulletin, October 2011 Association Board Summary & Actions, cont'd cont'd from page 17 Approval of Contract with SolarCraft, Inc. for mechanism for application of the cash grant, whether Leasing and Installation of Two Solar Arrays on this proposal followed the normal process for Task Association Facilities Forces bringing recommendations to the Board, plans Community Manager Bell, in collaboration with for scheduled replacement of inverter equipment, and Director of Works Randy Burke and Solar Array Task potential maintenance costs. Force Chair Marti Campbell, summarized the work of Director Chaboudy, Board Liaison to the Utilities the Board and of the Solar Array Task Force since 2009 Committee, noted that the UC and the Solar Array in looking at the feasibility of the Association having a Task Force (SATF) have established mechanisms for role in the development of alternative energy sources on collaboration concerning alternative energy, and that The Sea Ranch, including background for the current the UC unanimously endorses moving forward with recommendation to proceed with installation of two the solar array proposal. Director Austin voiced some solar arrays on Association facilities. concerns that various aspects of research surrounding Following a competitive bidding process, two this project may not be adequate from an engineering contractors submitted bids. SolarCraft, Inc. of Novato, standpoint. UC member Jim Flessner noted that his CA was deemed to be the most responsive and flexible employer, the Sonoma County Water Agency, is now of the bidders, and demonstrated ability to offer involved with its fourth solar array project and that excellent customer service. SolarCraft also made the SolarCraft was the contractor selected. Both he and Association aware of potential cost offsets through a Community Manager Bell confirmed that annual federal cash grant program, reducing the overall cost of increases in energy costs from PG&E have exceeded the the project by 30%. The project is bid at approximately 5% estimate assumed in the proposal. SATF Chair Marti $495,000. Campbell noted that once the Association has paid off The proposed method of financing is a Lease Purchase the cost of the project, surplus energy generated by the agreement with the contractor, with the Association array would be reimbursed by PG&E at a rate based on owning the project at the end of seven years. Start their energy generation costs. up costs would be minimal, followed by gradually Seven members commented -- praising the expertise, escalating monthly costs calibrated to be directly qualifications, and diligent work of the Solar Array proportional to cost of purchasing the equivalent Task Force, noting that prompt action is important amount of energy directly from PG&E if it were not because of the federal cash grant program, and generally being generated by the solar arrays, paid from money expressing support for moving forward with the already allocated in the budget. At the end of the project. One member expressed concern about whether seven years, a balloon payment of $186,000, equivalent the Board had enough information to act upon the to 35% of the total project costs, would be due. This proposal. money would be set aside in a sinking fund at the Upon Board motion, and following Board discussion rate of approximately $26,000 per year, using project and member input, the Board approved the contract funds already included in the budget. The federal cash with SolarCraft for installation of the two solar arrays. grant program expires at the end of this calendar year. ACTION: The Board of Directors approved the motion by Nothing in the financing proposal would have impact vote of 5.2 (Nays, Directors Austin and Karch). on Member assessments. Financial projections show the project paying for itself by the end of the twelfth Approval of the Assignment of Agreement to year, with all energy generated from that point being Purchase the Moonraker Tower and Moonraker essentially cost free. Site from The Sea Ranch Water Company to The Sea Ranch Association Board discussion included questions about accuracy of Community Manager Bell reviewed the history of the the estimate for annual energy cost escalation, whether recent offer by Shamrock LLC to sell the Moonraker sufficient technical details are included in the written Tower and Moonraker Site, the reasons that led initially contract, projected annual degradation rates for the to consideration of purchase by the Water Company, solar panels, whether the contract should be vetted by and the analysis that led to the conclusion that the an independent appraiser, whether the actual energy purchase would be more appropriately pursued by the use on the two meters in question provides an accurate Association. He noted that the Water Board previously estimate of energy cost offsets, whether the Board had authorized the Community Manager, at its August 13, adequate involvement in the selection and vetting of 2011 meeting to continue negotiations for the purchase contractors, whether a new roof on the car barn behind including payment of earnest money, and that the the Association offices would be needed, whether a Water Company Board, meeting earlier in the day, had completion bond would be required as part of the approved a similar housekeeping item to assign the contract, whether the costs of the lease would be shared Agreement to Purchase from the Water Company to between the Association and the Water Company, the

The Sea Ranch Association Bulletin, October 2011 —— 18 Summary & Actions cont'd / Resolution No. 351 the Association. During Board discussion, questions spreading to the hedgerows, and concerns about who were raised about whether the Association should enter might take responsibility for carrying out forestry into the business of owning and leasing access on a recommendations and how they might be funded. communications tower. No Members commented. Following Board discussion and Member input, the Upon Board motion, and following Board discussion Community Manager offered recommendations, and opportunity for Member input, the motion passed. including possible consideration of a unified forestry ACTION: Motion passed by vote of 6.1 plan to get all of the moving parts working together (Nay, Director Karch). in a more coordinated manner, and Chair Retzer ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION: Trees – A Major summarized next steps. Concern for the Future Summary of Next Steps: (1)The Board of Directors Chair Retzer noted that this Agenda item had its origin will continue its conversation with the Design Committee, in the most recent session of the Joint Board and Design including tree issues; (2) consideration will be given to Committee Workshop, when the Design Committee scheduling a Round Table discussion or other symposium members asked that the Board bring back to the next involving all of the stakeholders; (3) the Community Workshop session a list of tree concerns so that they Manager will investigate possible options for having the could be discussed by the group. He further noted 1991 McBride forestry report updated; and (4) Chair that trees, as they relate to aesthetics, fire safety, and Retzer, Director Tyler, and the Community Manager will views, have the potential to be the biggest and possibly work together to bring an update back to the Board at their most important ongoing Association issue. Chair October meeting. Retzer placed before the Board and the Membership — — Frank Bell the question, “Do we want to develop a more Community Manager comprehensive forestry plan that incorporates all or many of the elements that we already have into a more RESOLUTION NO. 351 cohesive framework?” AUTHORIZATION FOR CLAIMS OF LIEN Board comments included review of the work of the Commons Landscape Committee, support for the Adopted on August 27, 2011 idea of having a coordinated forestry plan, interest in WHEREAS, Section 1367.1 of the Civil Code requires the having participation by the Planning Committee in Board of Directors to authorize, in an open meeting, the the discussion because of their work with hedgerows, recording of liens against the separate interests of owners with delinquent assessments; and lessons learned from the hedgerow rehabilitation that has occurred to date, potential for beetle and other pest WHEREAS, more than thirty (30) days prior to the deadline, problems, and noting that the 1991 McBride forestry the Association sent certified letters to the Owners of: report has not been fully implemented and should Property Parcel # 155-110-013 perhaps be updated. Property Parcel # 156-510-021 Nine Members offered comments, including review Property Parcel # 156-100-024 of the history of the Fire Safety Task Force and Property Parcel # 156-440-017 Property Parcel # 156-290-014 development of the Fire Management Plan, importance of recognizing and attempting to resolve competing Pursuant to Section 1367.1(a) of the Civil Code, the letters interests related to trees, overlap between entities contained a notice of delinquent assessment, which included which have responsibility for dealing with trees, issues but was not limited to, describing the Association's collection of PG&E contractors trimming trees near power lines and lien enforcement procedures, an itemized statement of charges, the owner's inspection rights, the owner's "meet and but not cleaning up appropriately, recommendation confer" rights, and the owner's Alternative Dispute Resolution that a forest ecologist, such as Joe McBride, be brought rights, and back to update the 1991 plan and that the Board make a commitment to implement the resulting WHEREAS, these owners remain delinquent in the payment recommendations, suggestions that all of the entities of their assessment accounts, exclusive of late fees, interest charges, and other collection-related amounts; dealing with tree issues be brought together for a joint discussion, suggestions that individual homeowners NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the be given more information about tree related concepts Association authorizes Allied Trustee Services to place a lien and threats to tree health in order to give them on these properties for the delinquent amount including increased ability to work with tree issues on their any late fees, interest charges, and other collection-related property, issues of fire safety in the meadows potentially amounts if the indentified responsible parties have not yet paid these accounts before the date of authorization.

19 —— The Sea Ranch Association Bulletin, October 2011 Community Information

The Sea Ranch Association 2012-13 Fiscal Year Budget Meeting Schedule

1/14/12 First Joint BOD/Finance Committee Workshop 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Del Mar Center Hall

2/11/12 Second Joint BOD/Finance Committee Workshop 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Del Mar Center Hall (as necessary)

2/25/12 Association Budget adopted by Board

The Sea Ranch water Company 2012-13 Fiscal Year Budget Meeting Schedule

10/22/11 First Water Company Budget Workshop 9:00 a.m., Del Mar Center Hall

12/10/11 Second Water Company Budget Workshop* (*if a second workshop is necessary, then it will be part of the Regular Water Company Board meeting on this day.) 9:00 a.m., Del Mar Center Hall

All meetings of the Association’s committees are open to the membership, and you are encouraged to attend and learn how the committee process at The Sea Ranch works. Committee meeting minutes are posted on the Association’s website www.tsra.org. Since sometimes circumstances

y require that meeting dates and times be changed, please contact the

e Association office at 707-785-2444 for confirmation.

Committee Date Time Location CCNM Task Force Nov 9, Jan 11 3:00 - 5:00 DMC Room #1 Commons Landscape 3rd Saturday 1:00 - 4:00 ORH monthl Communication 3rd Friday 3:00 - 5:00 TSRA Office schedul Finance Oct 15, Dec 17 (3:00 - 5:00) 1:00 - 4:00 DMC Room #2 Gardens Contact Association Office 3:00 - 5:00 DMC Room #2 Native Plant Sept 28, Nov 23 1:00 - 3:00 ORH Planning 2nd Saturday 9:00 – Noon ORH Security Sept 24-Cancelled, Nov 26 9:00 – 11:00 DMC Room #1 Solar Array Task Force Sept 24 (DMC Rm#1,1:30), Nov 26 9:30 - 12:30 DMC Room #2

meeting Trails 3rd Saturday 9:00 – 10:30 ORH committee Utilities 3rd Saturday 9:00 – Noon DMC Room #1 Vision Interpretive Program 2nd Friday 3:00 - 5:00 DMC Room #2 Website Sept 30, Nov 4 3:30 - 5:00 TSRA Office DMC = Del Mar Center ORH = Ohlson Ranch House

The Sea Ranch Association Bulletin, October 2011 —— 20 Community Information

new members meeting the SEA RANCH FORUM Saturday, October 8, 2011 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Presents Preserving Land along Del Mar Center Hall Registration, coffee and refreshments Sonoma County’s North Coast: at 2:30 p.m. Plans and Progress Meeting at 3:00 p.m. Please call Member Services (707-758-2444) or email ([email protected]) by Friday, September 30th to let us know if you plan to attend. — — Laurie Mueller Chair, Communication Committee

THE SEA RANCH CLASSIC FILM schedule 2011

October 19 Play Misty for Me (1971) with Clint Eastwood and Jessica Walter. Clint Eastwood made his directorial debut in this contemporary thriller Saturday, October 1, 2011 in 1971. The interaction between a disc from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. jockey (Clint Eastwood) and a sexy women at Del Mar Center Hall (Jessica Walter) provides a spooky campaign of terror - great for Halloween! The Sonoma Land Trust will describe plans for Time: 1 hour 43 minutes. preserving and protecting land along the northern coast of Sonoma County and present an overview of Nov 9 What’s Eating Gilbert Grape? (1993) with the progress that has been made. Johnny Depp and Leonardo DiCaprio. All films are on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. in the Knipp- Please note the time change! Stengel Barn (dress warmly). Free admission, coffee, and popcorn to Sea Ranchers and their guests. Sea Ranch For further information about these members who would like to be notified by email of and other Sea Ranch Forums, upcoming Sea Ranch Classic Film showings can send their please contact Forum Chair Leigh Mueller at email address to [email protected]. [email protected] CLAIMS OF LIEN as of September 9, 2011 U/B/L U/B/L U/B/L other Event Notices: 35E-7 28-99 29A-31 • Fall 2011 Native Plant Workshop 35C-105 35B-80 3-7-30 Saturday, October 1, 2011 (see page 11) 14-2-4 19-10 35B-61 • Planning Committee Public Hearing 18-26 24-78 14-1-12 Saturday, Octobers 8, 2011 (see page 1) 18-69 19-58 35C-5 • Hazmobile The Sea Ranch Association has filed a Claim Household Hazardous Waste Collection of Lien according to its Assessment Collection October 28-29, 2011 (see page 12) Policy on the above properties. Liens are listed • CLC Workshop: Area 14 as of the date above, and may have been cured Saturday, October 29, 2011, (see page 9) before the time of publication.

21 —— The Sea Ranch Association Bulletin, October 2011 Community Information

Having a Holiday Party? A Celebration of the Life of Hosting a group gathering? Rae Hudspeth Providing TSRA Parking Permits for your non-Sea Ranch guests' vehicles is a member responsibility. Let us help Sea Rancher of the Year / 2003 ensure your company will have an enjoyable visit. We can Sea Ranch Association Board Chair / 1993-1994 provide you with additional Parking Passes and have our Security Department assess the parking availability at your Will be held at location, and provide cones if needed. Del Mar Center House October 23, 2011, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. Call Member Services at 707-785-2444 with the date, time, location, and number of Vehicle Permits needed. A host committee will provide beverages and Early notification (1 week) is helpful! will appreciate guests bringing small platters — — Member Services of finger foods to be shared.

For additional information (no RSVPs needed), th please contact Marti Campbell Unit 17 Party - 16 Annual by email at [email protected] DATE: Saturday, September 24, 2011 TIME: 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. PLACE: Del Mar Center House Celebrate with your neighbors, both old and new. Please bring finger food for 6 people. A $6.00 donation is requested to cover beverages. 1941-2011 Mark your calendar now (no invitation will be mailed). Is 1941 your Birthday Year? RSVP/Information: Carol Stone, [email protected], 415-459-5854 If so, you and your guest are invitied to The Sea Ranch: or Lynn Benningfield, 70th Birthday Celebration [email protected], 916-835-7714 Sunday, October 16, 2011 HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE! 5:00 p.m., Del Mar Center Hall

Please let us send you a formal invitation.

- 23rd Annual The 70th Birthday Party began with a group back in Unit 21 Party 1998 and is one of the legacies of Rosemarie Hocker. It DATE: Saturday, September 24, 2011 has continued almost every year since then. TIME: 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. PLACE: One-Eyed Jack’s Playground Many find that friendships are made and/or renewed during the evening. A happy consequence is a It’s always a great party. If you own a home or lot in strengthened bond with our community. Unit 21, we look forward to seeing you. And to others who are not Celebrants but would like to The host committee will provide beverages and picnic participate as Hosts, Waiters and Chefs, please consider supplies. Please bring an hors d’oeuvre to share. A joining us. That makes it a double party for us all! $4.00 contribution per person would be appreciated to help defray expenses. To receive an invitation, or to offer your help, please Committee Chair: TSR Contact: contact: Don German Jim Krenek Mary Hunter at 785-1150 ([email protected]) 415-461-3558 707-785-2289 Ben Klagenberg at 785-3530 ([email protected]) [email protected]

The Sea Ranch Association Bulletin, October 2011 —— 22 Calendar ongoing groups/Activities Calendar DEL MAR GARDENERS YOGA Wednesdays – 9:00 a.m. to Noon - DMC Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays Call Dave Osteraas 785-9633 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. – DMC Hall DEMONSTRATION GARDEN VOLUNTEERS Call Jeanne Osterland 785-2190 4th Saturday 10:00 a.m. Demonstration Garden, ORC ZUMBA DANCE EXERCISE Call Barbara Rice 785-2318 or [email protected] Thursdays – DMC Hall Call Jon Raymond 785-2909 or [email protected] 4:00 to 5:30 p.m madrigal singers Call Jan Fogel 785-1789 Wednesdays – 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. - DMC Hall Call Marjie Van Gunten 785-3408 MAH-JONGG GROUP meetings and events Wednesdays – Call Bobbie Penney 785-9302 PETANQUE ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETINGS Wednesdays & Saturdays – 10:00 a.m. Regular Sessions: 10/22/11, 12/10/11, 2/25/12 One-Eyed “Jacque’s” 4th Saturday of every other month, 1:00 p.m. at Del Mar Center Hall George Rathmell 785-2989 or Rich Clune 785-9131 Special Sessions: 9/24/11 (9 a.m.), 10/15/11 (10 a.m.)

PIANO GROUP water company BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETINGS 2nd Monday of month – 1:00 p.m. Regular Sessions: 10/22/11, 12/10/11 Roland Stoughton 858-775-4115 9:00 a.m. at the Del Mar Center Hall SENIOR AEROBICS Tuesdays 9:00 a.m., DMC Hall COMMITTEE MONTHLY MTG. SCHEDULE - (see p. 20) Call Denny Gold 785-2208 ROADSIDE BRANCH COLLECTION - 3rd Monday (see p. 12) SENIOR STRENGTH TRAINING Monday and Thursday – Call Sue Denevan 785-2597 THESPIANS: Proof – 9/15-18 and 9/22-25 (see p. 20) 4:00 p.m. at the Knipp-Stengel Barn TAI CHI Thursdays 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m., DMC Hall THE ARCHIVES GROUP PRESENTATION – 9/24 Nancy Carter 785-3504 or Martha Wohlken 785-3311 ‘Centennial Recognition - Women’s Right to Vote in California’ TEAM SEA RANCH 1:30 p.m. at the Del Mar Center Hall Bicycling for fun & fitness. Call M.A. & Bryan Brauer 785-1108 PLANT COMMITTEE FALL 2011 WKSHP – 10/1 (see p. 11) 10:00 a.m. at the Ohlson Ranch House / Demonstration Garden THE SEA RANCH BRIDGE GROUP Last Friday of month 12:45 to 4:45 p.m. – ORH FORUM: Preserving Land along Sonoma Coast – 10/1 (see p. 21) For reservations call Gretchen Chapler 785-0092 1:30 p.m. at the Del Mar Center Hall (Note New Time) THE SEA RANCH FLYING SOCIETY PLANNING COMMITTEE PUBLIC HEARING - 10/8 (see p. 1) Pilots & Non-Pilots Welcome 10:00 a.m. at the Ohlson Ranch House Contact Tom Landecker 785-9737, [email protected] THE SEA RANCH KNITTING GROUP NEW MEMBERS MEETING – 10/8 (see p. 21) Mondays 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. DMC 3:00 p.m. at the Del Mar Center Hall Lynn Tuft 785-3392 Registration begins at 2:30 p.m. THE SEA RANCH TENNIS CLUB OCTOBER SATURDAY HIKE - 10/15 (see p. 11) Mixed Doubles & Men or Women’s Tennis 1:00 p.m. at the Ohlson Recreation Center parking lot New Members Welcome. Call Marvis Forst 785-3823, Mike Mee 785-3999 or Roiann Hatcher 785-3534 70th BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION - 10/16 (see p. 22) THE SEA RANCH THESPIANS 5:00 p.m. at the Del Mar Center Hall www.searanchthespians.com CLASSIC FILM: Play Misty for Me - 10/19 (see p. 21) Call Carol Emory 785-2548 7:30 p.m. at the Knipp-Stengel Barn WATER EXERCISE GROUP – Del Mar Pool Monday through Friday – 7:30 a.m. 1ST WATER COMPANY BUDGET WKSHP - 10/22 (see p. 20) Call Dorothy Stevenson 785-3374 9:00 a.m. at the Del Mar Center Hall or Marianne Baxter 785-9513 HAZMOBILE - 10/28-29 (see p. 12) Mon.-Wed.-Fri. – 10:00 to 11:00 a.m Household Hazardous Waste Collection Call Lita Gitt 785-3370 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the North Fire Station, Hwy 1 WOMEN’S GOLF Play Days: Tuesday and Thursday – 9:00 a.m. CLC WORKSHOP: AREA 14 - 10/29 (see p. 9) Co-Captains: Sharon Hiles 785-3055, 9:00 a.m. at the Del Mar Center Hall Doreen Arthur 785-1129 WPGA Rep: Sue Lease 785-1400 NEIGHBORHOOD PARTIES – (see p. 22) Units 17, 21 (on 9/24) (Note: Since date, time, and location of meetings and events are subject to change, please verify them first with TSRA office.)

23 —— The Sea Ranch Association Bulletin, October 2011 THE SEA RANCH ASSOCIATION Prsrt Std P. O. BOX 16 U.S. Postage THE SEA RANCH, CA 95497-0016 PAID Address Service Requested Permit 2 Gualala, CA

THE SEA RANCH ASSOCIATION BULLETIN DEADLINE Administrative Offices • 975 Annapolis Road • The Sea Ranch Remember, think ahead! General Information and Member Services Phone: 707-785-2444 The submission deadline for the Tuesday – Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. General Fax: 707-785-3555 Website: www.tsra.org Email: [email protected] November 2011 Bulletin is noon on Wednesday, October 5, 2011. Ext. Department Contact 222 • Facilities Reservations Member Services The November issue will be posted on

know the website by October 18th, and paper copies 226 • Member Assessments Haidi Hatfield 227 • Finance & Human Resources Director Ellen Buechner will be received by Sea Ranchers on us

232 • Facilities & Resources, Operations Manager John Prescott 233 • Safety & Security Services Director Louise DeWilder approximately October 26, 2011. 234 • Information Technology Manager Sara Windsor Contact: [email protected] let

236 • Administration & Management Services Director Janice Bonora 248 • Maintenance of Buildings & Recreational Facilities Schus Design, Compliance & Environmental Management

lease Phone: 707-785-2316 • Tuesday – Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m

? P Julie Browne, DCEM Administrative Manager Security Business Phone: 707-785-2444 • Urgent Calls Only: 707-785-2701 help

Business Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. • Lin Plescia, Director

we The Sea Ranch Emergency Message System To hear Emergency Update Information from our Emergency Message System y Phone: 866-716-4911 (provide our organization ID: 8390625#) ma

THE SEA RANCH WATER COMPANY Office Annex • 35600 Verdant View • The Sea Ranch

ow Phone: 707-785-2411 • General Fax: 707-785-9756

H Operations: Monday – Friday 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Financial Services: Mary Condon • Director of Works: Randy Burke Urgent On-Call (after hours, weekends and holidays): Cell 707-328-0400 OnSite Wastewater Disposal Zone Phone: 707-785-2756 • Monday – Friday 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.