January 13, 2015

Board of Directors Board Meeting Packet

January 13, 2015

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

East Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors

WHITNEY DOTSON The Regular Session of the JANUARY 13, 2015 President - Ward 1 Board Meeting is scheduled to commence at DOUG SIDEN 2:00 p.m. at the EBRPD Administration Building, Vice President - Ward 4 2950 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland, CA BEVERLY LANE Treasurer - Ward 6

DENNIS WAESPI

Secretary - Ward 3

DIANE BURGIS Respectfully submitted, Ward 7 JOHN SUTTER Ward 2 AYN WIESKAMP Ward 5 ROBERT E. DOYLE ROBERT E. DOYLE General Manager General Manager

P.O. Box 5381 2950 Peralta Oaks Court Oakland, CA 94605-0381 (888) 327-2757 MAIN (510) 633-0460 TDD (510) 635-5502 FAX www.ebparks.org

AGENDA

REGULAR MEETING OF JANUARY 13, 2015 BOARD OF DIRECTORS The Board of Directors of EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT the East Bay Regional Park District will hold a regular meeting at the District’s Administration Building, 2950 2:00 p.m. OPEN SESSION (Board Room) Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland, CA, commencing at 2:00 p.m. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE for Open Session and 4:00 p.m. for Closed Session on Tuesday, A. APPROVAL OF AGENDA January 13, 2015.

Agenda for the meeting is B. 1. PUBLIC COMMENTS listed adjacent. Times for agenda items are approximate 2. SWEARING-IN CEREMONY OF NEWLY ELECTED only and are subject to change during the meeting. If you wish AND RE-ELECTED BOARD MEMBERS: to speak on matters not on the agenda, you may do so under Ward 3 – Dennis Waespi Public Comments at either the Ward 5 – Ayn Wieskamp beginning or end of the agenda. Ward 6 – Beverly Lane If you wish to testify on an item on the agenda, please complete Ward 7 – Diane Burgis a speaker’s form and submit it to the Clerk of the Board. A Following the ceremony, the meeting will recess for copy of the background a brief reception with light refreshments served. materials concerning these agenda items, including any 2:45 p.m. 3. ANNUAL ROTATION OF BOARD OFFICERS material that may have been submitted less than 72 hours before the meeting, is available for inspection on the District’s 3:00 p.m. C. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD website (www.ebparks.org), the Administrative Building reception desk, and at the 1. CONSENT CALENDAR meeting.

a. Approval of District Check Listing for the Period Agendas for Board Committee of November 17, 2014 through December 7, 2014 Meetings are available to the public upon request. If you wish (Auker/Doyle) (Resolution) (No Cost) to be placed on the mailing list b. Approval of the Minutes for the Board Meeting of to receive future agendas for a November 4, 2014 specific Board Committee, (Pulido) (No Cost) please call the Clerk of the c. Authorization to Negotiate with Various Property Board’s Office at (510) 544- 2020. Owners (Musbach/Nisbet) (Resolution) (No Cost) District facilities and meetings comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If special accommodations are needed for 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. 3

d. Authorization to Amend the 2014 Budget and Appropriate Funds for Costs Related to the November 4, 2014 General Elections (Pulido/Collins) (Resolution) (Budget Change) e. Approval of Appointment of Laura Thompson and Reappointments of Bruce Beyaert and Jeremy Madsen to the Park Advisory Committee (Pfuehler) (Resolution) (No Cost) f. Authorization to Renew the Contract with E2 Strategies, LLC for Advocacy Services (Pfuehler/Doyle) (Resolution) (Budgeted Funds) g. Authorization to Appoint Leonard Bellow as Human Resources Analyst II at Step F of Management Pay Range MG01 (Beshears/Doyle) (Resolution) (Budgeted Funds) h. Authorization to Apply for Federal Grant Funds from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for Marine Debris Prevention Program: Crab Cove Visitor Center (Rasmussen/Kassebaum/Collins) (Resolution) (No Cost) i. Authorization to Partner with Friends of San Leandro Creek on a Grant Application Submitted to the California Department of Water Resources Urban Streams Restoration Grant Program: Sibley Regional Preserve (Rasmussen/Graul/Nisbet/Collins) (Resolution) (No Cost) j. Authorization to Appropriate Funds and Apply for Federal Grant Funds for Replacement of Campground Restrooms: Del Valle State Recreation Area (Rasmussen/Collins) (Resolution) (Budget Change) k. Authorization to Apply for Grant from the California Public Utilities Commission for Golden Eagle Wind Turbine Study: District-Wide (Rasmussen/Bell/Graul/Collins) (Resolution) (No Cost) l. Authorization to Upgrade One Secretary Position to Executive Secretary and Amend the 2015 Budget: Acquisition, Stewardship & Development Division (Beshears/Nisbet) (Resolution) (Budgeted Funds) m. Authorization to Execute a Sale Agreement with ATS Properties LLC and Goodrick Properties for the Sale of 0.862 Acres of Real Property: North Richmond Shoreline (Musbach/Nisbet) (Resolution) (Budgeted Funds) n. Authorization to Augment Construction Contingency for the San Francisco Bay Trail Martinez Intermodal to Crockett Trail Project: Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline (Townsend/Nisbet) (Resolution) (Budgeted Funds)

3:20 p.m. 2 PARK ADVISORY COMMITTEE

a. Approval of Park Advisory Committee Goals for 2015 (Pfuehler) (Resolution) (No Cost)

3:30 p.m. 3. ACQUISITION, STEWARDSHIP & DEVELOPMENT DIVISION

a. Authorization to Enter into and Exercise an Option, Purchase and Sale Agreement for the Acquisition of 1.52± Acres of Real Property from the Donna Larimer Aweeka Revocable Trust, and Appropriate and Transfer Funds for this Acquisition: Redwood Regional Park (Musbach/Nisbet) (Resolution) (Budget Change/Meas WW) 4

b. Authorize the General Manager to Execute an Agreement with Indigo/Hammond & Playle Architects LLP to Perform Architectural and Development Consulting Services for the Reconstruction of the Public Safety Administration Building and Chabot Service Yard: Lake Chabot Regional Park (Barton/Nisbet) (Resolution) (Budgeted Funds)

4:00 p.m. 4. BOARD AND STAFF REPORTS

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

4:05 p.m. 5. GENERAL MANAGER’S COMMENTS

4:25 p.m. 6. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS

a. Executive Committee (12-11-2014) (Wieskamp)

4:30 p.m. 7. BOARD COMMENTS

5:00 p.m. The Board will reconvene in Closed Session in the Board Conference Room:

PUBLIC COMMENTS

CLOSED SESSION

A. Conference with Labor Negotiator:

Agency Negotiator(s): Robert E. Doyle, Dave Collins, Jim O’Connor, Sukari Beshears Employee Organizations: AFSCME Local 2428 Unrepresented Employees: Managers and Confidentials

B. Conference with Real Property Negotiator Regarding Price and Terms of Payment: Agency Negotiator: Bob Nisbet, Liz Musbach

APN/ADDRESS PROPERTY OWNERS PARK/TRAIL

Contra Costa County 258-450-012 and 258-450-018 Scott Lothamer and Las Trampas 60 Valley Hill Drive, Moraga Karen Lothamer Regional Wilderness

5:30 p.m. 8. ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM CLOSED SESSION

5:35 p.m. ADJOURNMENT

CONSENT CALENDAR

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

C. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

a. Approval of District Check Listing for the Period of November 17, 2014 Through December 7, 2014 (Auker/Doyle)

RECOMMENDATION

It is recommended that the Board of Directors approve the Check Listing for the period of November 17, 2014 through December 7, 2014.

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.

6 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2015 – 01 –

January 13, 2015

APPROVAL OF DISTRICT CHECK LISTING FOR THE PERIOD OF NOVEMBER 17, 2014 THROUGH DECEMBER 7, 2014

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 November 17, 2014 through December 7, 2014;

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 13th day of January, 2015 by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

7 AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

C. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

b. Approval of the Minutes for the Board Meeting of November 4, 2014 (Pulido)

8 Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of November 4, 2014

The Board Meeting, which was held on November 4, 2014 at the EBRPD Administrative Building, 2950 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland CA 94605 was called to order at 12:50 p.m. by Board President Ayn Wieskamp.

ROLL CALL

Directors Present: Ayn Wieskamp, President Doug Siden, Secretary Beverly Lane Carol Severin John Sutter

Directors Absent: Whitney Dotson, Vice President Ted Radke, Treasurer

At this time, the Board of Directors met in Closed Session to discuss those items outlined on the agenda.

The Open Session of the Board Meeting was called to order at 2:15 p.m. by President Ayn Wieskamp.

Staff Present: GM Robert Doyle, Jim O’Connor, Debra Auker, Bob Nisbet, Capt. Mark Ruppenthal, Carol Victor, Kristina Kelchner, Carol Johnson, Mona Koh, Liz Musbach, Jeff Rasmussen, Mark Ragatz, Kelly Barrington, Erich Pfuehler, Fire Chief Dan McCormick, Matt Graul

A. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

By motion of Director Siden, and seconded by Director Sutter, the Board voted unanimously to approve the Agenda:

Directors Present: Beverly Lane, Carol Severin, Doug Siden, Ayn Wieskamp, John Sutter. Directors Absent: Whitney Dotson, Ted Radke.

B. PUBLIC COMMENTS

Mike Shuster from Woodside, CA addressed the Board to provide his support for a short and long term lease extension for the Chabot Gun Club. He stated that the club was instrumental in providing safe firearms handling lessons to him and his kids, adding that the club provides an important community service.

EJ Shalaby addressed the Board to express appreciation to District staff from Coyote Hills as well as others from the Operations Division for their level of customer assistance in the establishment of a park memorial bench at the park in honor of dear friend Phil Schultz. Phil was tragically killed on January 20, 2014 when he attempted to help a stranger from the railroad tracks as an Express train headed into the Santa Clara station; he was able to pull the man to safety but was unable to save himself.

C. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

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

9 Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of November 4, 2014

Directors Present: Beverly Lane, Carol Severin, Doug Siden, Ayn Wieskamp, John Sutter. Directors Absent: Whitney Dotson, Ted Radke.

C-1-a. Approval of District Check Listing for the Period of September 22, 2014 through October 5, 2014 Resolution No. 2014 – 11 - 268 (attached)

C-1-b. Approval of the Minutes for the Board Meeting of September 16, 2014

C-1-c. Resolution to Support Pending State Legislation AB 1193 (Ting) – New Class IV Bikeway Designation Resolution No. 2014 – 11 - 269 (attached)

C-1-d. Resolution to Support Pending State Legislation SB 1183 (DeSaulnier) – Local Bike Infrastructure Enhancement Act Resolution No. 2014 – 11 - 270 (attached)

C-1-e. Authorization to Transfer Funds and Enter into a Sole Source Purchase Agreement with Airbus Helicopters, Inc. for Helicopter Hydraulic Servo-Controls and Frequency Adapters Resolution No. 2014 – 11 - 271 (attached)

C-1-f. Partial Vacation of Resolution Certifying the Environmental Impact Report and Adopting California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Findings and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program for the Albany Beach Restoration and Public Access Project: McLaughlin Eastshore State Park Resolution No. 2014 – 11 - 272 (attached)

C-1-g. Acceptance of Bid and Authorization to Award a Contract to Slurry Seal: Contra Costa Canal Trail Resolution No. 2014 – 11 - 273 (attached)

C-1-h. Authorization to Amend the 2014 Budget and Transfer General Funds to an Other than Asset Project Account for District-wide Drought Recovery Resolution No. 2014 – 11 - 274 (attached)

In response to a question from Directors Siden and Lane, AGM for Operations Jim O’Connor stated more research is being conducted regarding the possible projects to be undertaken, and that more details will be brought forward at a future Operations Committee meeting.

C-1-i. Authorization to Negotiate with Various Property Owners Resolution No. 2014 – 11 - 275 (attached)

C-1-j. Resolution to Oppose the City of Dublin Annexation of Doolan Canyon, Measure T Resolution No. 2014 – 11 - 276 (attached)

10 Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of November 4, 2014 2. FINANCE AND MANAGEMENT SERVICES

C-2-a. Authorization to Apply to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection for Fuels Management Grants: District-wide Resolution No. 2014 – 11 - 277 (attached)

By motion of Director Lane and seconded by Director Severin, the Board voted unanimously to approve item C-2-a:

Directors Present: Beverly Lane, Carol Severin, Doug Siden, Ayn Wieskamp, John Sutter. Directors Absent: Whitney Dotson, Ted Radke.

Jeff Rasmussen, Grants Manager, provided a brief presentation on this item. In response to a question from Director Lane, he stated that the process is very competitive but he is confident that funds will be awarded via the grant applications.

3. BOARD AND STAFF REPORTS

C-3-a. Actions Taken by Other Jurisdictions Affecting the Park District

GM Doyle discussed those items listed on the staff report.

4. GENERAL MANAGER’S COMMENTS

Jim Tallerico, Information Services Manager, introduced IS staff and provided a presentation on the IS Department’s staffing levels, growth of work responsibilities, scope of services provided and equipment managed. He stated that the current inventory at the District covers over 700 computers, 400 telephone land lines, 100+ printing/scanning/copy devices, and 1,200+ managed computers and networking equipment in total.

5. ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM CLOSED SESSION

Referring to Item 2-e of the Closed Session agenda, President Ayn Wieskamp stated that the Board voted 5 – 0, with Directors Radke and Dotson absent, to approve settlement of the condemnation case to acquire two easements from the defendant for the amount of $475,000.

6. BOARD COMMITTEE MINUTES

a. Legislative Committee (4-18-2014) (Sutter) b. Legislative Committee (5-16-2014) (Sutter) c. Legislative Committee (6-20-2014) (Sutter)

7. BOARD COMMENTS

Director Siden reported on meetings attended. Director Siden  Reminded everyone that the election that formed the District took place on this same day in 1934;  Mentioned that the District’s 2015 Calendar should be distributed soon;  Attended the Alameda Point land transfer event in Alameda yesterday;  Attended the last Finance and Legislative Committee meetings;  Will attend the Bay Nature event at the Brazil Room tomorrow;  Will attend the EBMUD Liaison Committee and the ACSDA meetings next week.

11 Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of November 4, 2014

Director Lane reported on meetings attended. Director Lane  Attended the Board field trip last Friday to Eastern Contra Costa County;  Attended Heyday Books’ 40th Anniversary event;  Attended the Eugene O’Neill Foundation dinner event that recognized Cong. George Miller and Hulet Hornbeck; EBRPD was also presented the Partnership Award at the event;  Went to Fort Ross with the Conference of California Historical Societies;  Attended the Contra Costa County Liaison Committee meeting;  Will attend a tour of Briones Regional Park with Acting Unit Manager Dan Cunning as well as the November 5 Bay Nature event.

Director Severin reported on meetings attended. Director Severin  Attended the Board field trip;  Attended her other scheduled Board and Board committee meetings;  Attended the Employee Service Awards in Pleasanton.

Director Sutter reported on meetings attended. Director Sutter  Attended the Contra Costa County Liaison Committee meeting;  Attended the Board field trip on October 31.

Director Wieskamp reported on meetings attended. Director Wieskamp  Attended the Finance, Operations and Legislative Committee meetings;  Attended the Employee Service Awards in Pleasanton;  Attended last week’s Board field trip.

D. ADJOURNMENT

The Board meeting was adjourned at 3:40 pm by Board President Ayn Wieskamp.

Respectfully submitted:

Allen Pulido Clerk of the Board

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AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

C. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

c. Authorization to Negotiate with Various Property Owners (Musbach/Nisbet)

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 018-0460-001-00 William J & Brian L San Francisco Bay Trail 3 – 5th Avenue, Oakland Silveira, Trustees

N/A City of Livermore Shadow Cliffs to Del Valle Vineyard Avenue near Regional Trail Vallecitos Road, Livermore

Contra Costa County 076-021-014 and 076-021-015 City of Antioch Black Diamond Mines Somersville Road, Antioch Regional Preserve

076-021-006 Good Chance Black Diamond Mines Somersville Road, Antioch Management, LLC and Regional Preserve Scenery Investments, LLC

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.

13 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.

14 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2015 – 01 -

January 13, 2015

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 January 13, 2015; 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 018-0460-001-00 William J & Brian L San Francisco Bay Trail 3 – 5th Avenue, Oakland Silveira, Trustees

N/A City of Livermore Shadow Cliffs to Del Valle Vineyard Avenue near Regional Trail Vallecitos Road, Livermore

Contra Costa County 076-021-014 and 076-021-015 City of Antioch Black Diamond Mines Somersville Road, Antioch Regional Preserve

076-021-006 Good Chance Black Diamond Mines Somersville Road, Antioch Management, LLC and Regional Preserve Scenery Investments, LLC

15 Moved by Director , and seconded by Director and adopted this 13th day of January, 2015, by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

16 17

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AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

C. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

d. Authorization to Amend the 2014 Budget and Appropriate Funds for Costs Related to the November 4, 2014 General Elections (Pulido/Collins)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize the appropriation of funds in the amount of $200,000 for election expenses incurred during the November 4, 2014 General Elections.

REVENUE/COST Invoices were received late in 2014 and need to be paid as a 2014 expense. Staff seeks to amend the 2014 budget with funds that have been set aside in the General Fund, Committed Fund Balance, Elections Costs Account 2841 and will be appropriated to the Board of Directors’ services budget 101-1110-000-6971.

Beginning Committed Fund Balance: $2,200,000 Proposed Appropriation: Contra Costa County Elections ( 200,000) Balance Available $2,000,000

BACKGROUND

With the terms of Directors from Wards 3, 5, 6 and 7 expiring at the end of 2014, the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District adopted Resolution 2014-05-099 on May 6, 2014 ordering that a District election be consolidated with the Statewide General Election on November 4, 2014, with said election conducted on behalf of the Park District by the Alameda County Registrar of Voters (Wards 3 and 5) and the Contra Costa County Clerk (Wards 6 and 7).

Although an election was not held for Wards 3 and 6 since the number of candidates for said office did not exceed the number to be elected, an election was held for Wards 5 and 7. The District has received the elections-related invoices from the Contra Costa County Clerk in the total amount of $194,686.36, and an invoice for partial costs for Alameda County in the amount of $4,924.69; staff is therefore seeking Board authorization to amend the 2014 budget and appropriate the necessary funds to pay for these costs. Staff will come back to the Board to seek additional authorization once additional costs are billed by the Alameda County elections officials.

ALTERNATIVES No alternatives are recommended.

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2015 – 01 –

January 13, 2015

AUTHORIZATION TO AMEND THE 2014 BUDGET AND APPROPRIATE FUNDS FOR COSTS RELATED TO THE NOVEMBER 4, 2014 GENERAL ELECTIONS

WHEREAS, the terms of four Directors from Wards 3, 5, 6 and 7 were expiring at the end of 2014; and

WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District adopted Resolution 2014 - 15 – 099 ordering that a District election be consolidated with the Statewide General Election on November 4, 2014, with said election conducted on behalf of the District by the Alameda County Registrar of Voters (Wards 3 and 5) and the Contra Costa County Clerk (Wards 6 and 7); and

WHEREAS, funds have been set aside in the General Fund, Committed Fund Balance, Elections Costs Account 2841 to pay for elections cost;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorizes an amendment of the 2014 budget and the appropriation of $200,000 in the General Fund Board of Directors services budget, reducing the Committed Fund Balance, Elections Costs Account 2841 per the attached Budget Change form for costs incurred in Contra Costa County related to the November 4, 2014 General Elections; 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 13th day of January, 2015 by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

19 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT BUDGET CHANGE FORM

NEW APPROPRIATIONS BUDGET TRANSFERS X New Appropriation Between Fund Sources From New Revenues Between Projects DECREASE BUDGET ACCOUNT AMOUNT INCREASE BUDGET ACCOUNT AMOUNT Account Name: Expense: General Fund- District Counsel-District Wide-Legal

Account: 101-1110-000-6971 $ 200,000 REASON FOR BUDGET CHANGE ENTRY As being presented at the Board of Directors meeting on January 13, 2015 the General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize the appropriation of $200,000 from the General Fund, committed election costs funds, tracked in object 2841. The appropriated funds will be used to pay 2014 election costs invoiced to the District in 2014 and so this action amends the 2014 budget.

As approved at the Board of Directors Meeting on date: 7/15/2014 Board of Directors Resolution Number: 2014-07- Posted By: Posted date: Signature:

T:\BOARDCLK\BOARD MATERIAL\2015\1 - January 13, 2015\PRINTING\C-1-d Election costs budget approp

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AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

C. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

e. Approval of the Appointment of Laura Thompson and Reappointments of Bruce Beyaert and Jeremy Madsen to the Park Advisory Committee (Pfuehler)

RECOMMENDATION The General Manager recommends the Board of Directors approve the appointment of Laura Thompson, a nominee of the Alameda County Mayors Conference, Bruce Beyaert a nominee of Director Whitney Dotson and Jeremy Madsen a nominee of Director Doug Siden to the Park Advisory Committee.

REVENUE/COST

There is no cost associated with this action.

BACKGROUND

Laura Thompson is a resident of Oakland. Ms. Thompson is the Manager of the San Francisco Bay Trail Project at the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG). The Bay Trail project is perhaps the benchmark of regional collaboration. Ms. Thompson is uniquely qualified to provide the District’s Board advice and support on regional planning. She is also an elected member of the Board of Directors of the American Planning Association, Northern California Section. Ms. Thompson’s experience with the American Planning Association and at ABAG gives her a well- rounded understanding of planning, development and recreation needs.

Ms. Thompson is an active participant in EBRPD’s Trails Challenge. She believes in advancing the completion of regional trails identified in the Districts’ Master plan to create a comprehensive network of recreation and active transportation corridors, connecting parks to people. Board approval would authorize Laura Thompson to serve her first two-year term commencing on January 1, 2015 and expiring on December 31, 2016.

Board approval would also authorize Bruce Beyaert to serve his 4th two-year term and Jeremy Madsen to serve his 3rd two-year term. Both PAC’s Members Beyaert and Madsen are currently serving terms which expired on December 31, 2014. Reappointing them would extend their terms to December 31, 2016.

ALTERNATIVE No alternatives are recommended.

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2015 – 1 -

January 13, 2015

APPROVAL TO APPOINTMENT LAURA THOMPSON AND REAPPOINTMENTS OF BRUCE BEYAERT AND JEREMY MADSEN TO THE PARK ADVISORY COMMITTEE

WHEREAS, Laura Thompson, has been nominated to the Park Advisory Committee by the Alameda County Mayors’ Conference; and

WHEREAS, Ms. Thompson is a resident of Oakland and the Manager of the San Francisco Bay Trail Project at the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG); and

WHEREAS, she also serves on the Board of Directors of the American Planning Association, Northern California Section and has a well-rounded understanding of planning, development and recreation needs; and

WHEREAS, Bruce Beyaert has been reappointed by Director Dotson to serve his 4th two- year term; and

WHEREAS, Jeremy Madsen has been reappointed by Director Siden to serve his 3rd two- year term;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby appoints Laura Thompson, and reappoints Bruce Beyaert and Jeremy Madsen to the Park Advisory Committee for two-year terms which commence January 1, 2015 and expire on December 31, 2016; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the General Manager is hereby 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 13th day of January, 2015 by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

22 AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

C. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

f. Authorization to Renew the Contract with E2 Strategies LLC for Advocacy Services (Pfuehler/Doyle)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends the Board of Directors authorize the renewal of the District’s contract with E2 Strategies, LLC for advocacy services at the federal level for two years from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2016. The Board Legislative Committee discussed and recommended renewal of this contract at its meeting on October 24, 2014.

REVENUE/COST

The cost of the contract with the E2 Strategies, LLC shall not exceed $100,000 per year. Funds for this purpose have been included in the Adopted 2015 Budget, Account No. 101-2010-000- 6191(General Manager – Professional Services).

BACKGROUND

Over the past several years, the District has utilized the services of E2 Strategies, LLC (Peter Umhofer – Principal) to help promote the District’s profile in Washington D.C., including the facilitation of meetings with U.S. Senate staff, House of Representatives staff, and key decision makers at several Federal agencies and departments. Mr. Umhofer has been effective in advancing the District’s interests and significantly assisted the District in securing and protecting the $10.2 million Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grant. In 2014, Mr. Umhofer ensured key priorities in the Water Resources Development Act which authorizes the District to manage the Oakland Inner Harbor Canal, which includes the innovative financing provision which could provide shoreline restoration funding, and declassifies the Lower Walnut Creek Channel. Mr. Unhofer provided key leadership on advancing the District’s Land and Water Conservation Fund competitive grant application for the Concord Hills Regional Park. His work also helped secure a commitment by the Army to clean up the upland portion of the Gateway Park property. In addition, he provided key strategic support in helping the District communications and policy staff navigate the challenges around the General Services Administration (GSA) property in the City of Alameda. For 2015 and 2016, priorities for Mr. Umhofer will be to: help facilitate transfer of the Concord Naval Weapons Station to the

23 National Park Service for public conveyance to the District; help hold the Army to its cleanup commitment at the Gateway property; and continue to assist the District in its negotiations with the GSA property. Mr. Umhofer will also continue to provide counsel on the District’s work with the Department of Health and Human Services and efforts to secure job training funding from the Department of Labor, as well as continued efforts on transportation policy. In light of his effective, ongoing advocacy, District staff would like to continue to retain the services of Mr. Umhofer and his consulting company E2 Strategies, LLC.

ALTERNATIVES

The Board could choose not to extend this contract for services with E2 Strategies, LLC and/or seek other service providers. These alternatives are not recommended.

24 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2015 – 01-

January 13, 2015

AUTHORIZATION TO RENEW THE CONTRACT WITH E2 STRATEGIES, LLC FOR ADVOCACY SERVICES

WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District is actively working to secure Federal dollars, as well as other Federal issues; and

WHEREAS, consultant Peter Umhofer of E2 Strategies, LLC has been effective in advancing Park District interests with Federal agencies and in legislative initiatives pending before Congress; and

WHEREAS, at its meeting on October 24, 2014, the Board Legislative Committee discussed and recommended favorable approval of the E2 Strategies, LLC contract by the full Board;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorizes the renewal of the contract with E2 Strategies, LLC for legislative advocacy services at the Federal level for the period January 1, 2015 through December 31, 2016 for a sum not to exceed $100,000 (compensation and reimbursable expenses) per year; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that funding for this agreement has been included in the Adopted 2015 Budget, Account No. 101-2010-000-6191 (General Manager – Professional Services); and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, 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 13th day of January, 2015 by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

Page Left Blank Intentionally

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

C. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

g. Authorization to Appoint Leonard Bellow as Human Resources Analyst II at Step F of the Management Pay Range MG01 (Beshears/Doyle)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends the Board of Directors authorize the appointment of Leonard Bellow to the position of Human Resources Analyst II at Step F of the Management Salary Range MG01 in the Human Resources Division.

REVENUE/COST

The cost associated with this action is within the adopted 2015 Budget.

BACKGROUND

The Human Resources Analyst II is an existing vacant position in the Human Resources Division. This position will serve as a strategic business partner within the division and provide key assistance to the Human Resources Manager with labor and employee relations matters. Based on the results of the recruitment process to fill this critical position, Leonard Bellow is the best-qualified of first pool candidates. Mr. Bellow has over 15 years of professional human resources experience in public, private and non-profit agencies. He has successfully provided leadership and guidance to management staff on policy interpretation and has a unique ability to mediate conflict and seek agreement in complex situations. His experience will be an asset to the Human Resources Division and the District. Mr. Bellow has agreed to accept the Human Resources Analyst II position at Step F, commensurate with his background and experience. In accordance with the Personnel Administrative Manual 6.01 (B), the General Manager may authorize appointment up to Step C. Appointment beyond Step C must be authorized by the Board of Directors. Mr. Bellow’s formal start date with the District will be Wednesday, January 14, 2015.

ALTERNATIVES

None are recommended.

26 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2015 - 01 -

January 13, 2015

AUTHORIZATION TO APPOINT LEONARD BELLOW AS HUMAN RESOURCES ANALYST II AT STEP F OF THE MANAGEMENT PAY RANGE MG01

WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District must recruit and retain a well-qualified workforce that reflects the diversity of the community served; and

WHEREAS, the District conducted a recruitment to attract and assess the qualifications of the candidates for the Human Resources Analyst II position; and

WHEREAS, the General Manager recommends the Board of Directors authorize the District to hire the top candidate, Leonard Bellow at Step F of the Management Salary Range MG01; and

WHEREAS, the General Manager is authorized to hire managers up to Step C and compensation beyond Step C requires Board authorization;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorize hiring Leonard Bellow to the position of Human Resources Analyst II at Step F of the Management Salary Range MG01; and

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and approved this 13th day of January, 2015, by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

27 AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

C. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

h. Authorization to Apply for Federal Grant Funds from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for Marine Debris Prevention Program: Crab Cove Visitor Center (Rasmussen/Kassebaum/Collins)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize an application for federal grant funds from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for Marine Debris Prevention Program at the Crab Cove Visitor Center.

REVENUE/COST

This action proposes the submission of a grant application of up to $75,000 to NOAA. The grant also requires that a $75,000 District match would come from existing funds budgeted for the Crab Cove Visitor Center including General Fund staff time. This project will not increase the long term operational cost of the District.

BACKGROUND

NOAA is soliciting proposals to prevent the introduction of marine debris including, but not limited to: 1) encouraging changes in behavior to reduce and address marine debris; 2) developing and implementing activities to reduce and prevent marine debris working with students, teachers, industries, and the public; and 3) engaging the public in active, personal participation (e.g. a small-scale shoreline cleanup with students or other hands-on activities, etc.).

The District would seek funds to purchase tables and equipment in order to convert the former exhibit lab at the Crab Cove Visitor Center into a wet lab for students, expand the teaching space, install a marine debris sculpture and host a number of shoreline clean up events at Martin Luther King, Jr. Regional Shoreline.

ALTERNATIVES

No alternatives are recommended.

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2015 – 01 -

January 13, 2015

AUTHORIZATION TO APPLY FOR FEDERAL GRANT FUNDS FROM THE NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION FOR MARINE DEBRIS PREVENTION PROGRAM: CRAB COVE VISITOR CENTER

WHEREAS, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is soliciting proposals to prevent, reduce and address marine debris by developing and implementing activities to working with students, teachers, industries, and the public including small-scale shoreline cleanup with students or other hands-on activities; and

WHEREAS, the District is seeking up to $75,000 to purchase tables and equipment in order to convert the former exhibit lab at Crab Cove into a wet lab for students, expand the teaching space, install a marine debris sculpture and host a number of shoreline clean up events at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Regional Shoreline; and

WHEREAS, up to $75,000 in District matching funds would coming from existing General Fund funds budgeted to the Crab Cove Visitor Center;

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

1. Approves the filing of an application of up to $75,000 with the EPA; and

2. Appoints the General Manager or Assistant General Manager of Finance and Management Services as agent of the East Bay Regional Park District to conduct all negotiations, execute and submit all documents, including, but not limited to applications, agreements, amendment, payment requests and so on, which may be necessary for the completion of the aforementioned project; and

3. Authorizes the Chief Financial Officer or Budget Manager to amend the current year’s budget, without further Board action, upon receipt of the executed grant 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 grant contract.

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 13th day of January, 2015 by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

29 AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 13, 2014

C. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

i. Authorization to Partner with Friends of San Leandro Creek on a Grant Application Submitted to the California Department of Water Resources Urban Streams Restoration Grant Program: Sibley Regional Preserve (Rasmussen/Graul/Nisbet/Collins)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize a partnership with Friends of San Leandro Creek for a grant application submitted to the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) for the McCosker Creek Restoration and Public Access project at Sibley Regional Preserve.

REVENUE/COST

If selected, the grant will fund $1,000,000 for McCosker Creek Restoration and Public Access project. Some of grant funds would be disbursed to the Friends of San Leandro Creek for assistance on the project. This project will likely increase the ongoing operational cost of the District.

BACKGROUND

The California legislature enacted Section 7048 of the California Water Code, which established the Urban Streams Restoration Program to protect, restore and enhance urban creek channels through effective and efficient flood damage reduction approaches that will preserve, restore, and enhance natural environmental values to local communities.

The District’s desired project for this grant would restore a section of McCosker Creek in the upper San Leandro Creek watershed that has been forced into a culvert approximately 1,600 feet long. Where the culvert has failed, dangerous sink holes have opened up on the property. The project would daylight the creek, restore its banks, and provide room for public access.

According to the grant guidelines, all proposals must have two applicants; a sponsor and co- sponsor. One applicant must be a local public agency and the other a citizen’s group. In this case, the District (local public agency) would be the sponsor, and Friends of San Leandro Creek

30 (citizen’s group) would be the co-sponsor. If awarded a grant, the District would enter into an agreement with the Friends of San Leandro Creek to perform project activities including but not limited to stakeholder engagement, review of alternatives, and restoration planting.

This application was submitted by the January 7, 2014 deadline. If not approved, the District may withdraw the application.

ALTERNATIVES

The Board could recommend that staff withdraw the application. This is not recommended.

31 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2015 – 01 -

January 13, 2015

AUTHORIZATION TO PARTNER WITH FRIENDS OF SAN LEANDRO CREEK ON A GRANT APPLICATION SUBMITTED TO THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF WATER RESOURCES URBAN STREAMS RESTORATION GRANT PROGRAM: SIBLEY REGIONAL PRESERVE

WHEREAS, the California Department of Water Resources, FloodSAFE Environmental Stewardship and Statewide Resources Office, Urban Streams Restoration Program has announced the availability of funds for grants; and

WHEREAS, said grants are intended to help solve flooding and erosion problems in a way that provides environmental enhancement; and

WHEREAS, the District has proposed to sponsor a grant application with the Friends of San Leandro Creek; and

WHEREAS, District staff has concluded that the project proposed for funding with grants would be environmentally beneficial and will comply with all requirements of CEQA and other environmental permits prior to implementation of the project; and

WHEREAS, staff considers the prospects of receiving a grant to be reasonably likely;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby approves the joint application with Friends of San Leandro Creek for an Urban Streams Restoration Program grant; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that if offered such a grant, we authorize the General Manager or their designee to accept and sign any contract for administration of the grant funds and to act as Project Manager for the project. We hereby delegate authority to the Project Manager to manage the Agreement including the submission of invoices, and to delegate authority to others to provide management and support services required for performance of the work and administration of the Agreement including an agreement with and the dispersal of grant funds to the Friends of San Leandro Creek for the 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.

32 Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 13th day of January, 2015, by the following vote,

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

33 AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

C. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

j. Authorization to Appropriate Funds and Apply for Federal Grant Funds for Replacement of Campground Restrooms: Del Valle State Recreation Area (Rasmussen/Collins)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize the appropriation of funds and an application to the California Department of Parks and Recreation for federal grant funds from the Land and Water Conservation Fund to replace campground restrooms at Del Valle State Recreation Area.

REVENUE/COST

This action proposes a grant application of approximately $500,000 to the Land and Water Conservation Fund and the appropriation of $500,000 as a match from the District’s Major Infrastructure Renovation and Replacement Fund 553, for a total cost of approximately $1,000,000. This project will not likely increase the ongoing operation cost of the District.

BACKGROUND

In January 1965, Congress established the Land and Water Conservation Fund. The program was initially authorized for a 25 year period and has been extended for another 25 years, to January 2015. Under provisions of the Outdoor Recreation Resources Plan Act of 1967, the expenditure of funds allocated to California is administered by the Director of the California Department of Parks and Recreation.

The campgrounds at Del Valle are among the District’s most popular recreational facilities, and the restroom buildings are nearly 40 years old. The exposed wood timber construction of the buildings is subjected to weathering and decay; they are in need of replacement. The District seeks funds to replace two existing restrooms in the campsite area: Building #19 near campsite 105, and Building #21 near campsite 137. The buildings will be replaced with a precast concrete structure similar to the restroom near campsite #52 which was replaced a few years ago.

ALTERNATIVES

No alternatives are recommended.

34 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2015 – 01 -

January 13, 2015

AUTHORIZATION TO APPROPRIATE FUNDS AND APPLY FOR FEDERAL GRANT FUNDS FOR REPLACEMENT OF CAMPGROUND RESTROOMS: DEL VALLE STATE RECREATION AREA

WHEREAS, Congress, under Public Law 88-578, has authorized the establishment of a federal Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant-In-Aid program, providing matching funds to the State of California and its political subdivisions for acquiring lands and developing facilities for public outdoor recreation purposes; and

WHEREAS, the California Department of Parks and Recreation is responsible for administration of the program in the State, setting up necessary rules and procedures governing applications by local agencies under the program; and

WHEREAS, the applicant certifies by resolution the approval of the application and the availability of eligible matching funds prior to submission of the application to the State;

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

1. Approves the filing of an application for Land and Water Conservation Fund assistance for the proposed project to Replace Campground Restrooms at Lake Del Valle; and

2. Agrees to abide by SECTION 6(F)(3) of Public Law 88-578 which states “No property acquired or developed with assistance under this section shall, without the approval of the National Secretary of the Interior, be converted to other than public outdoor recreation uses. The Secretary shall approve such conversion only if he finds it to be in accord with the then existing comprehensive statewide outdoor recreation plan and only upon such conditions as he deems necessary to assure the substitution of other recreation properties of at least equal fair market value and of reasonably equivalent usefulness and location;” and

3. Certifies that said agency has Matching funds from eligible source(s) and can finance 100 percent of the Project, which up to half may be reimbursed; and

4. Appoints the General Manager or Assistant General Manager of Finance and Management Services as agent of the applicant to conduct all negotiations and execute and submit all documents, including, but not limited to, Applications, contracts, amendments, payment requests, and compliance with all applicable current state and federal laws and perform such acts which may be necessary for the completion of the aforementioned Project; and

35 5. Appropriates $500,000 from the Major Infrastructure Renovation and Replace Fund 553 to a new project number as match, per the Budget Change Form attached hereto, these funds shall be returned if the grant is not awarded; 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 grant 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 grant contract.

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 13th day of January, 2015, by the following vote,

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

36 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT BUDGET CHANGE FORM

NEW APPROPRIATIONS BUDGET TRANSFERS X New Appropriation X Between Funds From New Revenues Between Projects DECREASE BUDGET ACCOUNT AMOUNT INCREASE BUDGET ACCOUNT AMOUNT Account Name: Expense: OTA Fund- Grants Dept-Del Valle-Camp Restroom Replacement-Major Infrastructure Renovation and Replacement-Contracted Services

Account: 336-4130-203-7020 / 512200MIRR-372 $ 500,000 TRANSFERS BETWEEN FUNDS Account Name: TRANSFER OUT: Account Name: TRANSFER IN: OTA Major Renovation and Replacement Fund-Non Departmental-District Wide- Fund-Non Departmental-District Wide- Transfer In Transfer Out

Account: 553-9110-000-9980 $ 500,000 336-9110-000-3980 $ 500,000 REASON FOR BUDGET CHANGE ENTRY As being presented at the Board of Directors meeting on January 13, 2015 the General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors approve the above transfer of $500,000 from Major Renovation and Replacement Fund to a new OTA project 512200 as matching funds for Del Valle Recreation Area campground restrooms as indicated above.

As approved at the Board of Directors Meeting on date: 1/13/2015 Board of Directors Resolution Number: 2015-01- Posted By: Posted date:

T:\BOARDCLK\BOARD MATERIAL\2015\1 - January 13, 2015\PRINTING\C-1-j 553 Approp for Del Valle Toilets

37 AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

C. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

k. Authorization to Apply for Grant from the California Public Utilities Commission for Golden Eagle Wind Turbine Study: District-Wide (Rasmussen/Bell/Graul/Collins)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize a grant application to the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) for the Electric Program Investment Charge (EPIC) Program to conduct Golden Eagle hazard collision study in the Altamont Pass Wind Resource Area (APWRA).

REVENUE/COST

This action proposes an application of up to $1,000,000 in grant funding to refine and expand Golden Eagle and other wildlife collision hazard studies in the APWRA. This project will not increase the District’s long term operational cost.

BACKGROUND

The EPIC program is funded by an electricity rate-payer surcharge established by the CPUC in December 2011. The purpose of the EPIC program is to fund clean energy technology projects that promote greater electricity reliability, lower costs, and increased safety. EPIC program funding initiatives include research on sensitive species and habitats to inform renewable energy planning and deployment.

The District has acquired lands within the APWRA that have existing wind farm leases and infrastructure. District staff has been monitoring raptors, including Golden Eagles, on its lands and adjoining public and private lands since 1986. This grant would be used to continue research to minimize impacts of wind turbines on raptors and other wildlife, especially for reducing impacts through careful repowering of the APWRA. The District has a keen interest in maintaining a sustainable population of Golden Eagles in the region by lessening the impacts of wind farms on eagles.

ALTERNATIVES

No alternatives are recommended.

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2015 – 01 -

January 13, 2015

AUTHORIZATION TO APPLY FOR GRANT FROM THE CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION FOR GOLDEN EAGLE WIND TURBINE STUDY: DISTRICT-WIDE

WHEREAS, the Electric Program Investment Charge (EPIC) program is funded by an electricity ratepayer surcharge established by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) in December 2011 with the purpose to fund clean energy technology projects that promote greater electricity reliability, lower costs, and increased safety; and

WHEREAS, the EPIC program funding initiatives including research on sensitive species and habitats to inform renewable energy planning and deployment; and

WHEREAS, the District has acquired lands within the Altamont Pass Wind Resource Area (APWRA) that have existing wind farm leases and infrastructure and has a keen interest in maintaining a sustainable population of Golden Eagles in the region by lessening the impacts of wind farms on eagles;

WHEREAS, the District has an opportunity to inform the careful siting of new wind turbines to reduce impacts to golden eagles and other wildlife as the APWRA is repowered;

NOW, THERFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby approves the submission of a grant application to EPIC program to conduct of Golden Eagle hazard collision studies to lessen impacts of wind turbine repowering in the APWRA; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the General Manager or Assistant General Manager of Finance and Management Services is hereby authorized, 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 Chief Financial Officer or Budget Manager is hereby authorized to amend the current year’s budget, without further Board action, upon receipt of an executed grant 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 grant contract.

39 Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 13th day of January, 2015 by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN ABSENT:

Page Left Blank Intentionally

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

C. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

l. Authorization to Upgrade One Secretary Position to Executive Secretary and Amend the 2015 Budget: Acquisition, Stewardship & Development Division (Beshears/Nisbet)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District authorize the upgrade of one Secretary position to Executive Secretary in the Acquisition, Stewardship & Development Division (ASD).

REVENUE/COST

The net change in salary and benefits cost to upgrade the Secretary position to an Executive Secretary at the top, non-merit step of the salary range is $27,460 per year. However, no increase in the Division’s 2015 budget is required to make this change. The funding to account for this upgrade is currently available in the ASD Division budget through salary savings from the Assistant General Manager (AGM), Planning, Stewardship, Design, and Construction position. This AGM position is vacant and will not be filled.

BACKGROUND

On September 2, 2014, the Land Division and the Planning, Stewardship, Design, and Construction Division merged into a single division now called Acquisition, Stewardship, and Development. This proposal is an integral part of merging the Land Division with Planning, Stewardship, Design, and Construction.

With the new larger Division (73 FTEs versus 19 FTEs in the old Land Division), this position will be part of the Leadership Team of the Division and thus, will have access to the management decision-making process for all administrative decisions made that affect the manner in which the Division operates. The Executive Secretary is a confidential position which supervises three or more regular office support staff. Specifically, the position will be responsible for managing the Division’s personnel and recruitment process as well as other confidential matters involving land acquisition and lawsuits filed against the District that require

41 the assemblage of information from Division files. This position will also be available to assist and provide support in the General Manager’s office if the need arises.

Human Resources staff has reviewed the request and determined the proposed changes more appropriately reflect the duties and responsibilities outlined in the Executive Secretary job description. Since the Secretary position is represented by AFSCME 2428, staff met with union representatives and the Union agrees with staff’s recommendation to upgrade the position to Executive Secretary.

ALTERNATIVES

No alternatives are recommended.

42 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO: 2015 – 01 -

January 13, 2015

AUTHORIZATION TO UPGRADE ONE SECRETARY POSITION TO EXECUTIVE SECRETARY AND AMEND THE 2015 BUDGET: ACQUISITION, STEWARDSHIP & DEVELOPMENT DIVISION

WHEREAS, review of the Acquisition, Stewardship & Development Division reorganization finds staffing adjustments are necessary to ensure positions are appropriately classified to meet current and future needs; and

WHEREAS, the District’s annual budget includes authorized funding appropriations and budgeted positions approved by the Board; and

WHEREAS, the current phase of staffing changes include the upgrade of 1.0 FTE (6310SECT00) Secretary position to Executive Secretary (6310CSEC00); and

WHEREAS, the 2015 increase in wage and benefit cost to upgrade the Secretary position to Executive Secretary will be approximately $27,460 and funding for this action is within the current Acquisition, Stewardship, and Development Division budget through salary savings by reducing the vacant Assistant General Manager, Planning, Stewardship, Design, and Construction position; and

WHEREAS, this reorganization is recommended by the General Manager and has been reviewed by labor representatives;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorizes the upgrade of 1.0 FTE Secretary position to 1.0 FTE Executive Secretary in the Acquisition, Stewardship, and Development Division and decreasing the AGM I position by .105 FTE; and amend the budget per the attached budget change form;

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and approved this 13th day of January, 2015, by the following vote:

FOR: AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

43 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT BUDGET CHANGE FORM

NEW APPROPRIATIONS BUDGET TRANSFERS New Appropriation Between Funds From New Revenues X Between Projects DECREASE BUDGET ACCOUNT AMOUNT INCREASE BUDGET ACCOUNT AMOUNT Account Name: Expense: General Fund- Account Name: Expense: General Fund- Design/Construction/Stewardship Acquisition/Stewardship & Development Administration-District Wide-Salary and Administration-District Wide-Salary and Benefits Benefits

Account: 101-7010-000-4XXX $ 27,460 Account: 101-6310-000-4XXX $ 27,460 REASON FOR BUDGET CHANGE ENTRY As being presented at the Board of Directors meeting on Jauary 13, 2015 the General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize the transfer of $27,460 General Fund salary and benefits budget from department 7010 to department 6310 to fund the upgrade of the existing secretary position to confidential secretary. The funding comes from the .105 FTE reduction of the vacant AGM1 position in department 7010.

As approved at the Board of Directors Meeting on date: 1/13/2015 Board of Directors Resolution Number: 2015-01- Posted By: Posted date: Signature:

T:\BOARDCLK\BOARD MATERIAL\2015\1 - January 13, 2015\PRINTING\C-1-L HR Upgrade ASD Secretary to 44 Executive Secretary AGENDA

REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

C. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

m. Authorization to Execute a Sale Agreement with ATS Properties LLC and Goodrick Properties for the Sale of 0.862 Acres of Real Property: North Richmond Shoreline (Musbach/Nisbet)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize entering into and executing a sale agreement with ATS Properties LLC (50%) and Goodrick Properties (50%) (“Buyers”) for the sale to Buyers of 0.862 acres of non-dedicated, District-owned, real property located on Goodrick Avenue east of Richmond Parkway in the City of Richmond. The subject parcel was donated by the Crader family to the District, via the Regional Parks Foundation, in 2013 as a condition of acceptance of a larger 31.14-acre wetland parcel, and the 0.862-acre property holds no recreational or habitat value.

REVENUE/COST

The subject property is proposed to be sold to the Buyers for $15,000. Costs associated with the sale of the 0.862-acre property include staff time and 50% of escrow fees (approximately $1,000). Title insurance is to be paid by the Buyer. Funding for associated expenses is proposed to come from Land Acquisition General Funds appropriated in the 2015 budget. The $15,000 purchase price will be credited as revenue to the Land Acquisition General Fund.

BACKGROUND

On March 5, 2013, by its Resolution No. 2013-03-41, the Board of Directors authorized staff to begin negotiations with the Crader family for the donation of a 31.14-acre wetland parcel located along the North Richmond Shoreline and a 0.862-acre parcel located in an industrial area on Goodrick Avenue. While the 0.862-acre parcel is not contiguous to District parkland or trails and holds no recreational value, the donation offer by the Crader family required acceptance of both parcels. The property was to be donated to the Regional Parks Foundation and then subsequently transferred to the Park District. On October 1, 2013, by its Resolution No. 2013-10-232, the Board of Directors authorized the acceptance of said donation from the Regional Parks Foundation. The Crader family offered the 0.862-acre parcel as a condition of

1 45 acceptance of the 31.14-acre shoreline parcel; they were unwilling to donate the 31.14-acre parcel alone. As part of Resolution No. 2013-10-232, staff recommended to the Board of Directors that once the properties were transferred to the District a concerted effort be made to transfer the smaller 0.862-acre parcel to the City of Richmond for storm drainage purposes or to an adjacent property owner as an assemblage with their existing industrial parcel. The City of Richmond declined acceptance of the 0.862-acre property.

On October 7, 2014, by Resolution No. 2014-10-245, the Board of Directors authorized staff to begin negotiations with an adjacent property owner, ATS Properties LLC (“ATS”), for the purchase of the 0.862-acre industrial parcel. ATS believes they could potentially use a portion of the 0.862-acre property for storage or additional parking as part of their industrial operation, with the majority of the property used for flood drainage purposes.

The 0.862-acre parcel is zoned for industrial uses and is located on the western side of Goodrick Avenue. The parcel was severed from a larger development owned by the Crader family. The majority of the 61-foot-wide parcel is used for drainage purposes by surrounding properties. The parcel consists of unimproved land located between two fully improved industrial properties and is characterized by its long and narrow shape (61-feet by 615.5-feet). Future development potential for this parcel is limited but includes possible use as an access lane for an adjacent parcel to the west, additional parking area for Buyers, and continued storm water drainage for adjacent developed sites. The property requires long-term maintenance in order to keep the drainage area clear of vegetation and debris.

Discussions with ATS culminated in their December 12, 2014 offer to purchase the parcel from the District in partnership with their corporate partner Goodrick Properties. The offer proposes that ATS purchase 50% interest and Goodrick Properties purchase the remaining 50% interest for a total purchase price of $15,000. Sale of the 0.862-acre property will relieve the District of on-going maintenance and staff time expenses associated with this parcel. Therefore, staff recommends the sale of this land parcel to the adjacent property owners (Buyers).

ALTERNATIVES

The Board could decline to sell this property. Retention of the property by the District would serve no public park purpose and would require commitment to an ongoing cost of maintenance, security and policing of over $7,000 per year that would need to be borne by the District; therefore, retention of the property would represent a long-term net financial and service liability to this agency. No alternatives to the sale of the property are recommended.

46 2

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO. 2015-01-

January 13, 2015

AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE A SALE AGREEMENT WITH ATS PROPERTIES LLC AND GOODRICK PROPERTIES FOR THE SALE OF 0.862 ACRES OF REAL PROPERTY: NORTH RICHMOND SHORELINE

WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 2013-03-41, adopted March 5, 2013, the Board of Directors authorized negotiations with the Crader family (“Donors”) to complete a donation of a 31.14-acre shoreline property located along the North Richmond Shoreline and a 0.862-acre industrial property located on Goodrick Avenue in the City of Richmond, California; and

WHEREAS, the Donors donated to the Regional Parks Foundation said 31.14-acre wetland property and 0.862-acre industrial property for subsequent transfer to the District; and

WHEREAS, as a condition of the donation, the Donors required that both the 31.14- acre parcel and the 0.862-acre parcel be accepted by the District; and

WHEREAS, the 0.862-acre industrial parcel is not contiguous to parkland or needed as part of a future trail connection, nor does it have any habitat or other recreational value to the District; and

WHEREAS, the 0.862-acre parcel will require long term annual maintenance to clear the storm drain channel located on the parcel of vegetation and debris; and

WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 2013-10-232, adopted October 1, 2013, the Board of Directors authorized acceptance from the Regional Parks Foundation of fee interest in the 31.14-acre shoreline property and the 0.862-acre industrial property with the express interest in selling the 0.862-acre property as soon as possible; and

WHEREAS, staff has successfully negotiated a sale agreement with adjacent property owner ATS Properties LLC and their corporate partner Goodrick Properties whereby ATS Properties LLC will purchase 50% interest in the 0.862-acre parcel and Goodrick Properties will purchase the remaining 50% interest in the parcel; and

WHEREAS, funding for expenses associated with the sale of the subject property, which include District staff time and 50% of escrow fees, is proposed to come from Land Acquisition general funds appropriated in the 2015 budget;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorizes entering into and executing a sale agreement for the sale to ATS Properties LLC (50% interest) and Goodrick Properties (50% interest) of 0.862- acres of non-dedicated, District-owned, real property; and

Moved by Director , seconded by Director and adopted this 13th day of January, 2015 by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

48 NORTH RICHMOND REGIONAL SHORELINE East Bay Crader Donation Parcels Regional Park District APNs: 408-220-045, -020 Feet 0 160 320 640 960

LOCATION MAP Point Pinole Regional Shoreline

Park ing Lot

Entrance

Goodrick Ave

Maas Ave Crader Donation Parcels APN: 408-220-045

31 Acres El mar C t

Fre ethy Bl vd

y w Crader Donation Parcels Pk d n o APN: 408-220--020 m h ic 0.86 Acres R

Vicinity Map Point Mai n Rd Pinole Regional Shoreline

P rotecto coat Ln

Radiant Ave

e v A o l b a

a Disclaimer: Boundary and property lines shown on this map do S m Rd not represent a boundary or property line survey. The East Bay blo Da Regional Park District makes no representation as to the an Pa accuracy of said property lines (or any other lines), and no S liability is assumed by reason of reliance thereon. Use of this map for other than its intended purpose requires the written consent of EBRPD. Environmental Programs August 14, 2013 t:/bstone/mxd projects/land acq/rw_crader_Sept2013_b+w.mxd 49

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AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

C. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

n. Authorization to Augment Construction Contingency for the San Francisco Bay Trail Martinez Intermodal to Crockett Trail Project: Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline (Townsend/Nisbet)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize the augmentation of the construction contract contingency in the amount of $90,000 for the San Francisco Bay Trail Martinez Intermodal to Crockett trail project, located along a portion of the alignment of the former Carquinez Scenic Drive at Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline.

REVENUE/COST

The additional $90,000 is available in the remaining project budget, as noted below.

EXISTING SOURCE OF FUNDS Current Approved Project Budget Build Carquinez Scenic Trail: Carquinez Strait Project No. 148500 $6,753,871 Less Expenditures and Encumbrances to Date (6,326,364) FUNDS AVAILABLE $ 427,507

PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION CONTINGENCY AUGMENTATION Existing Construction Contingency Encumbered in Project No. 148500 $ 485,000 Proposed Augmentation of Construction Contingency To Be Encumbered in Project No. 148500 90,000 TOTAL CONTINGENCY $ 575,000

BACKGROUND

By Resolution No. 2013-05-095, approved on May 21, 2013, the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District authorized the award of a construction contract with Goodfellow Top Grade Construction LLC, Livermore, CA for the construction of a 1.7-mile Martinez

50 Intermodal to Crockett segment of the San Francisco Bay Trail along the former Carquinez Scenic Drive at Carquinez Strait. The amount of contract award was $3,349,740. A construction contingency was authorized in the amount of $335,000, approximately 10 percent of the construction contract amount. On May 6, by Resolution No. 2014-05-105, the contingency was augmented in the amount of $150,000. This $90,000 proposed additional contingency augmentation would bring the total construction contingency to $575,000, or 17.1% of the original contract amount.

The most significant change order costs were related to unknown underground debris obstacles, County permit fees, a change in quantities of concrete colorant to allow precast concrete lagging to blend into the landscape, and modifications to slope stabilization measures. Other completed change orders include pile, retaining wall, and trail modifications as required for added stabilization of slide areas and the addition of pedestrian trail counters to meet funding requirements. The augmented contingency is required to cover the costs of added HDPE shims between the lags and H-Piles on walls 7 and 9, replacement of an existing monitoring well cover displaced during construction, installation of a gopher screen to protect newly-planted trees, and additional fencing and striping requested by the District.

Development of this trail improvement project required construction over two construction seasons. Work is now complete and the trail was opened to the public in November 2014. It is anticipated that the augmented contingency balance will be adequate to cover the additional costs incurred.

ALTERNATIVES

No alternatives are recommended.

51 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2015 – 01 -

January 13, 2015

AUTHORIZATION TO AUGMENT CONSTRUCTION CONTINGENCY FOR THE SAN FRANCISCO BAY TRAIL MARTINEZ INTERMODAL TO CROCKETT TRAIL PROJECT: CARQUINEZ STRAIT REGIONAL SHORELINE

WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District desires to complete the 1.7-mile Martinez Intermodal to Crockett segment of the San Francisco Bay Trail along a portion of the former Carquinez Scenic Drive at Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline as an integral part of the East Bay Green Transportation Initiative; and

WHEREAS, to complete this work, by Resolution No. 2013-05-095, approved on May 21, 2013, the Board of Directors authorized the award of a construction contract to Goodfellow Top Grade Construction LLC in the amount of $3,349,740, with a 10% construction contingency amount of $335,000; and

WHEREAS, due to unforeseen changes, including modifications to piles, retaining walls and trail pavement sections, and debris barriers needed to stabilize this slide prone area and protect existing railroad improvements, the majority of the authorized contingency funds have been expended through change orders, or are estimated to be expended through change orders in process; and

WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 2014-05-105, approved on May 6, 2014, the Board of Directors authorized the augmentation of the contingency funds in the amount of $150,000; and

WHEREAS, additional contingency funds are required to cover the costs of modifications to several of the soldier pile walls, replacement of a displaced monitoring well cover, and additional fencing and striping requested by the District; and

WHEREAS, funds have been appropriated into Project No. 148500 (Build Carquinez Scenic Trail: Carquinez Strait) for the construction of this segment of the San Francisco Bay Trail, which include federal Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER II) funds, and there is an unencumbered balance available to augment the construction contingency;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorizes the augmentation of the construction contingency for the contract with Goodfellow Top Grade Construction, LLC., Livermore, CA in the amount of $90,000 from Project No. 148500 (Build Carquinez Scenic Trail: Carquinez Strait); 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 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 13th day of January 2015, by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

PARK ADVISORY COMMITTEE

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

C. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

2. PARK ADVISORY COMMITTEE

a. Approval of Park Advisory Committee Goals for 2015 (Pfuehler)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager, Board Executive Committee and Park Advisory Committee (both committees by unanimous vote) recommend the Board of Directors approve the 2015 Park Advisory Committee Goals.

REVENUE/COST

There is no cost associated with this action.

BACKGROUND

During 2014, the Park Advisory Committee (PAC) addressed several topics of significance to the District – including an update about practical ADA projects, youth outreach and employment, development of a Plan Bay Area subcommittee, changes to Ordinance 38 and continued recommendations about the budget.

In 2015, the PAC proposes, among other things, to review accomplishments from Measure CC, the District’s work on adapting to climate change with an eye toward cap and trade revenue, a cultural services update, and the District’s use of water in light of the expected continuation of drought conditions. The Committee also proposes to continue its work on Plan Bay Area. The PAC will also take at least one field trip, as well as address ongoing goals as they come up.

On December 11, 2014, the Board Executive Committee and the PAC Chair jointly reviewed the proposed 2015 goals. The Board Executive Committee unanimously recommended favorable consideration of the 2015 goals. The PAC unanimously approved their proposed 2015 goals at their November 24, 2014 meeting. The proposed PAC 2015 goals, as delineated in the attached resolution, are presented for the Board’s input and approval.

ALTERNATIVES

None are recommended.

1 54 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2015 – 001 –

January 13, 2015

APPROVAL OF PARK ADVISORY COMMITTEE GOALS FOR 2015

WHEREAS, the Park Advisory Committee (PAC) has developed and recommended goals for 2015; and

WHEREAS, these goals are in conformance with the Board Operating Guidelines; and

WHEREAS, the General Manager and Board Executive Committee have reviewed these goals and ensure they support the 2015 Board objectives and the District’s future direction;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby approve the following goals for the PAC for 2015:

Committee goals and current year activities 1) Review proposed new Board policies to protect natural resources, enhance the natural and urban environment, and ensure an equitable and diversified system of programs, trails and regional parks is available to meet a variety of community needs. • District’s response to drought (new) • Cultural Services update (new) • Green Transportation – trails update (continuation) • Natural Resource update (continuation)

2) Provide input and actively participate in the Board’s efforts to seek funding for the acquisition, development, maintenance and operations of the parks. • Transportation ballot measures (new) • Legislative update, State Parks Bond, SB 1183, etc. (New) • Regional Parks Foundation update (New) • Climate Change, adaptation and Cap and Trade (2014 unmet goal) • Plan Bay Area ad hoc subcommittee update for the Board and Regional Advanced Mitigation program presentation (continuation)

3) Recommend policies and programs that foster outreach relating to both park usage and employment opportunities particularly with youth and in underserved communities. • Community Relations plan (continuation) • Interpretative and Community Outreach update (continuation) • Heathy Parks, Healthy People update (continuation) • Youth outreach and employment – workforce investment boards (continuation) • Kids Healthy Outdoors Challenge update (continuation) • Review Volunteer program every other year (scheduled for 2016)

2 55

4) Provide early input and review of the District’s annual Budget, the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR), voter approved bond measures, Concessionaire agreements and Ordinance 38 policy issues. • Marksmanship concessionaire agreement (2014 unmet goal) • 2016 proposed Budget and Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (continuation) • Measure WW review and update (continuation) • Review and comment on Measure CC, including geographic allocation of funds every other year (due 2015)

5) Review and provide input on the Districts Master plan, land use plans, design plans or amendments proposed for adoption to planning documents, and special use permits. • None scheduled yet

6) Participate in community outreach and education as time allows • Districts Ambassador program (continuation) • Bike Safety Patrol and other volunteer programs (continuation)

7) Undertake special projects as directed by the Board • None assigned

Additional Committee Member responsibilities include: • Attend and participate in monthly meetings, and as time allows participate in community outreach and District sponsored volunteer activities. • Provide periodic reports to appointing authority

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the PAC Goals align with the objectives of the Board of Directors, and 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 13th day of January, 2015, by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

3 56 ACQUISITION, STEWARDSHIP &

DEVELOPMENT

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

C. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

3. ACQUISITION, STEWARDSHIP & DEVELOPMENT DIVISION

a. Authorization to Enter into and Exercise an Option, Purchase and Sale Agreement for the Acquisition of 1.52± Acres of Real Property from the Donna Larimer Aweeka Revocable Trust, and Transfer and Appropriate Funds for this Acquisition: Redwood Regional Park (Musbach/Nisbet)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize staff to enter into an option, purchase and sale agreement with the Donna Larimer Aweeka Revocable Trust, exercise the option to purchase pursuant to the terms of that agreement, and transfer and appropriate funds for the purchase price and related acquisition costs. The subject 1.52± acre property and residence is located at 6345 Redwood Road in an unincorporated area of Alameda County just outside of the Oakland city boundary.

REVENUE/COST

This property may be acquired for $700,000, its appraised fair market value, plus acquisition costs as described below. Pursuant to the option, purchase and sale agreement, an option payment of $10,000 will be deposited into escrow upon execution of the agreement by the Park District. The option payment will be credited toward the purchase price. Escrow is to close by the end of this month.

Funding for the purchase price, related acquisition expenses, and site safety and security costs will come from Park District Measure WW acquisition funds for the Redwood allocation area. This Board action authorizes the transfer of funds and appropriation of funds for acquisition expenses as follows:

SOURCE: APPROPRIATE/TRANSFER FROM: Additional transfer proposed $760,850 Initial allocation 25,000 Designated Acquisitions – Measure WW - Undesignated (CIP 229900WW00) $785,850

USES: APPROPRIATE/TRANSFER TO: Aweeka/Redwood Acquisition (CIP 215600WP53): Purchase Price $700,000 Appraisals 9,000 Environmental Site Assessment 5,850 Title and Escrow 3,000 Staff Time 22,000 Aweeka/Redwood Safety and Security (215601WP53): Demolition and Site Cleanup 40,000 Fences, Signage, and Gates 3,500 Fuels Management and Weed Abatement 2,500 Total Project Cost $785,850

BACKGROUND

On June 3, 2008, by Resolution No. 2008-6-140, the Board of Directors authorized staff to begin negotiations with Donna Larimer Aweeka and Anthony Aweeka for the purchase of this 1.52± acre property and residence. Negotiations over the past several years with the property owners and, more recently, with the fiduciary representing the property owners’ Trust, have culminated in the current opportunity to purchase the property at its appraised fair market value.

The Aweeka property is located on the north side of Redwood Road approximately one-half mile east of Skyline Boulevard within the upper reaches of Redwood Canyon. Redwood Regional Park borders the property to the north and west, with the Golden Spike Trail passing near the northern boundary of the property. The Montiero Trail park entrance and the Park District’s Piedmont Stables facility are located approximately 100 yards east of the property along Redwood Road.

The property has a “RM” (Resource Management) General Plan designation, and an “A” (Agricultural District) zoning classification requiring a 100-acre minimum lot size. The parcel is smaller than the underlying zoning minimum lot size, and is considered a legal, non-conforming parcel. After analyzing the property’s access and its physical, legal and economic constraints, the appraiser concluded that the highest and best use of the property is its continued use as a single-family residence.

The property includes a 1,706-square foot wood frame house in fair condition that was originally built in 1919 and extensively remodeled and renovated in 1993-1994 after sustaining damage during the Loma Prieta earthquake. The residence draws water from a spring located on Park District land through a pipe crossing over the Golden Spike Trail. The house is situated on a steeply sloping and heavily wooded hillside directly above a branch of Redwood Creek, and is accessed by a dirt driveway and bridge crossing over the creek. Redwood Creek is part of the San Leandro Creek drainage, where the naming of the rainbow trout species was based on fish taken from this stream system. Trout seen in Redwood Creek today are

58 descendants of that pure strain of native trout.

The residences within Redwood Canyon do not have access to sanitary sewer services, and consequently rely upon septic systems that pose a threat to the long-term health of the creek system. The Park District and the East Bay Municipal Utility District have shared a longstanding interest in acquiring private property in Redwood Canyon when it becomes available in order to protect water quality within the Upper San Leandro Reservoir watershed and provide creek restoration opportunities. Over the years, most of the private parcels within the canyon have been acquired by one or the other of these two agencies. Presently, only three developed private properties including the Aweeka residence remain within Redwood Canyon.

The analysis and recommendations of an Acquisition Evaluation (“AE”) conducted by staff is attached to this report. The AE finds that this acquisition of a private inholding within existing parkland is consistent with the Park District’s 2013 Master Plan. The AE recommends that upon acquisition, the Aweeka property be placed into Land Bank status, with domestic water use from the Park District’s spring discontinued, the house and other improvements demolished, the land returned to a natural condition, and on-site creek restoration opportunities assessed. The estimated costs to demolish the residence and partially restore the site to a natural condition are outlined in the AE and budgeted in this Board action.

Under the terms of the Option, Purchase and Sale Agreement, Mr. Aweeka will be allowed to continue to store personal property inside the detached garage located next to Redwood Road through the end of April 2015 to allow him additional time to complete his move to Montana.

ALTERNATIVES

No alternatives are recommended.

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2015 – 01 -

January 13, 2015

AUTHORIZATION TO ENTER INTO AND EXERCISE AN OPTION, PURCHASE AND SALE AGREEMENT FOR THE ACQUISITION OF 1.52± ACRES OF REAL PROPERTY FROM THE DONNA LARIMER AWEEKA REVOCABLE TRUST, AND TRANSFER FUNDS AND APPROPRIATE FOR THIS ACQUISITION: REDWOOD REGIONAL PARK

WHEREAS, on June 3, 2008, by its Resolution No. 2008-6-140, the Board of Directors authorized negotiations with Donna Larimer Aweeka and Anthony Aweeka, owners of 1.52± acres of real property located at 6345 Redwood Road, Oakland, California (APNs 085-0101- 013-01, -03 and -04); and

WHEREAS, the subject property may be purchased for $700,000, its appraised fair market value as supported by an independently prepared appraisal; and

WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District has long had a policy to acquire private property in Redwood Canyon when it becomes available in order to protect the watershed of the Upper San Leandro Reservoir, improve water quality, provide creek restoration opportunities, and provide a more logical park boundary; and

WHEREAS, under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the Park District’s Environmental Review Manual, this action by the Board of Directors is Categorically Exempt and therefore not subject to preparation and processing of environmental documentation;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorizes the acquisition of the 1.52± acres of real property from the Donna Larimer Aweeka Revocable Trust for a purchase price of $700,000; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Board authorizes the transfer and appropriation of $785,850 from project account Designated Acquisitions – Measure WW – Undesignated (CIP 229900WW00), utilizing funds from the Redwood allocation area, to project accounts Aweeka/Redwood Acquisition (CIP 215600WP53) and Aweeka/Redwood Safety and Security (CIP 215601WP53), as shown on the attached Budget Change form, to fund the purchase price and related acquisition expenses; and

Moved by Director , seconded by Director and adopted this 13th day of January, 2015 by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

61 ACQUISITION EVALUATION Redwood Regional Park Aweeka Property 1.52 Acres APN: 085-0101-013-01, -03, and -04

Site Description:

The Aweeka property is an approximately 1.52-acre wooded home site located on Redwood Road adjacent to Redwood Regional Park and east of the city of Oakland within the unincorporated area of Alameda County. The property includes a 1,706 sq. ft. home as well as a number of accessory buildings including a shed and a water tank. The property is bordered to the east by a private residence, to the south by Redwood Road, and to the west and north by Redwood Regional Park. The property slopes steeply from Redwood Road up to the park. The Golden Spike Trail within Redwood Regional Park skirts the northern boundary of the property. The property is served by public electricity and has an onsite septic system. Water to the residence is piped from a spring located on Park District property within the park.

The property is being acquired as a continuation of efforts by the Park District and the East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) to remove private inholdings along Redwood Road within Redwood Regional Park and EBMUD’s watershed lands. The existing structure on the property is in fair condition and requires significant repair. Given the proximity of other park facilities, the lack of need for operations facilities at this site, and the condition of the structures on the property, it is anticipated that they will be removed and the site restored to natural conditions. Site restoration will also serve to end the use of the Park District’s spring as a domestic water supply source.

The property has a zoning designation of Agriculture and a General Plan Designation of Resource Management. Improvements to the property were made prior to the imposition of the current zoning designation, and are considered legal non-conforming use of the site.

Natural and Cultural Resources:

The Aweeka property consists primarily of a homesite landscaped with non-native ornamental shrubs with a mix of redwood and coast live oak on the upper hillsides. Redwood Creek fronts the property before crossing beneath Redwood Road. Redwood Creek provides habitat for native rainbow trout. The property does not likely provide suitable habitat for threatened or endangered species. However, restoration of the property and removal of non-native species will serve to protect water quality within Redwood Creek and contribute to the overall ecology of the Redwood Creek drainage. Additionally, removal of the property’s water supply system that draws from a spring within Redwood Regional Park will enable restoration of the spring and protection of water quality within the park.

The residence was constructed in 1919. The California State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) establishes criteria for the eligibility of properties to the historic register. The criteria states that for eligibility a property must: (1) be associated with events that have made a

62 significant contribution to the broad patterns of local or regional history or the cultural heritage of California or the United States; or (2) be associated with the lives of persons important to local, California or national history; or (3) embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, region or method of construction or represents the work of a master or possesses high artistic value; or (4) has yielded, or has the potential to yield, information important to the prehistory or history of the local area, California or the nation. The structures on the Aweeka property suffered significant damage during the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake and were substantially rebuilt in 1993-1994. The property does not meet any of the criteria established by the SHPO. The current state of the house is not considered to be historic or culturally significant. The home is considered to be in fair condition and in need of significant repair.

Planning Issues:

Master Plan: This acquisition will be an expansion of an existing parkland or trail and is therefore consistent with the Master Plan 2013 Regional Parkland and Trail Map (adopted July 16, 2013).

Land Use Planning: The Redwood Regional Park Land Use Plan was adopted in 1977. The acquisition of this property will require an amendment to the existing Land Use Plan prior to taking this property off of the land bank list.

CEQA Compliance: This acquisition is exempt from CEQA requirements under Sections 15061(b)(3), 15316, 15304, and 15325 of the State CEQA Guidelines, which address the transfer of ownership of land to preserve open space.

Public Safety:

Police: This property does not pose an immediate significant impact on Police services as it is an inholding within Redwood Regional Park, will remain in land bank status, and is in an area that is currently regularly patrolled. A gate should be installed at the access driveway to prevent trespass and illegal dumping.

Fire: The acquisition of the Aweeka property will benefit fire safety within Redwood Canyon by removing a private inholding and potential source of combustion. Alameda County Fire has the primary responsibility for structure fires and providing emergency medical services for this parcel. CalFire has primary responsibility for wildland fires. The Park District would also respond as backup to wildland fires, structure fires, and serious medical emergencies and for resource protection.

The Park District will also be responsible for fire prevention/fuel management and for responding to, and disposal of, any hazardous materials found on the property. The existing structures on the property provide a significant risk as a source of fire that impact the park and potential escape to the nearby community. Removal of the private inholding and management of the fire hazards on the property will significantly reduce the risk of fire.

63 Recommendations: • Conduct hazard mitigation and annual defensible space clearances around any structures on park property, in compliance with State PRC 4291. • Support the local fire protection jurisdiction in their enforcement of defensible space requirements for nearby private structures, in compliance with State PRC 4291. • Continue to strengthen mutual aid relationships with Alameda County, neighboring fire departments and protection districts, as well as with the State of California’s CALFIRE to ensure adequate emergency response times. • Integrate wildland/urban interface fire considerations in land management planning as well as development project plans. • Ensure an adequate level of fire and visitor safety protection capability is provided, commensurate with the increasing land base and wildland-urban interface requiring protection.

Acquisition Criteria: This property: • Presents an acquisition opportunity; • Removes an inholding within an established park; • Protects resources of significant value particularly through the protection of water quality; • Helps complete existing parks and restore the visual integrity within an existing park; • Facilitates coordination with the joint plans of other public agencies; and • Requires a minimum of development and maintenance.

Recommendation for Land Bank Status: Yes X No ____ • The property is located adjacent to the area covered by the approved Redwood Regional Park Land Use Plan. The property can be removed from Land Bank status at such a time that an amendment to the Redwood Regional Park Land Use Plan is approved.

Site Cost Estimate: Acquisition: $739,850

Safety and Security: $ 46,000 Demolition and Site Cleanup: $ 40,000 Fences, Signage, and Gates: $ 3,500 Fuel Management and Weed Abatement: $ 2,500

Total Site Cost Estimate: $785,850

12/23/2014 BH

64 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT BUDGET CHANGE FORM

NEW APPROPRIATIONS BUDGET TRANSFERS New Appropriation Between Funds From New Revenues X Between Projects DECREASE BUDGET ACCOUNT AMOUNT INCREASE BUDGET ACCOUNT AMOUNT Account Name: Expense: Capital- Land- Account Name: Expense: Capital- Land- District Wide-Acquisition-Designated Acquisition-Redwood-Aweeka Property- Land Acquisition-Measure WW Admin Costs Undesignated Account: 333-6330-000-7010 / Account: 333-6330-112-7010 / 215600 229900WW00-100 $ 760,850 WP53-100 $ 14,850 Account Name: Expense: Capital- Land- Acquisition-Redwood-Aweeka Property- Purchase Price

Account: 333-6330-112-7010 / 215600 WP53-101 $ 700,000 Account Name: Expense: Capital- Land- Acquisition-Redwood-Aweeka Property- Safety and Security

Account: 333-6330-112-7010 / 215601 WP53-500 $ 46,000 REASON FOR BUDGET CHANGE ENTRY As being presented at the Board of Directors meeting on Jauary 13, 2015 the General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize the appropriation of $760,850 Measure WW bond principal acquisition funds from the Redwood acquisition allocation area. This board action also formalizes the appropriation of $25,000 Measure WW funding that initiated the project.

As approved at the Board of Directors Meeting on date: 1/13/2015 Board of Directors Resolution Number: 2015-01- Posted By: Posted date: Signature:

65 T:\BOARDCLK\BOARD MATERIAL\2015\1 - January 13, 2015\C-3-a LAND 215600 - 215601 Aweeka Property REDWOOD REGIONAL PARK

East Bay Aweeka Property 1:8,000 Regional Park District ASD Division December 22, 2014 Feet ´ t:/bstone/mxd projects/ 0 250 500 1,000 1,500 landacq/rd_aweeka2014.mxd

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66 AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

C. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

3. ACQUISITION, STEWARDSHIP & DEVELOPMENT

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize execution of the agreement with Indigo Hammond Playle Architects, LLP (“Indigo Architects”) to perform architectural and development consulting services for the reconstruction of the Public Safety Administration Building and Chabot Service Yard at Lake Chabot Regional Park, and the encumbrance of funds in an amount not to exceed $1,771,600.

REVENUE/COST

This action will encumber $1,771,600 of budgeted funds for architectural and development services for the project. This fee covers services required to complete the project and is within the total project budget of $21,560,000.

EXISTING SOURCE OF FUNDS Current Approved Capital Project Budget Reconstruct PS Building Project No. 152500 $ 21,560,000 Encumbrances and Expenditures to Date 0 Funds Available $ 21,560,000

PROPOSED USE OF FUNDS Encumbrance for Architectural and Development Services Contract with Indigo Architects, Davis, CA Fee for Scope of Services $1,771,600 Consulting Total $1,771,600

BALANCE REMAINING $19,788,400

BACKGROUND

On October 7, 2014, the Board reviewed and accepted the results of a feasibility study for the reconstruction of the Public Safety Administration Building and Chabot Service Yard at Lake Chabot Regional Park. It also appropriated $21,560,000 establishing a capital project budget and directed staff to negotiate a professional services contract with Indigo Architects to work with staff to formally advance the project. The project scope includes construction and site improvements for:

• New Public Safety Building that includes a multi-purpose meeting room and Emergency Operations Center (EOC). • Relocate Chabot Service Yard and construct 2 pre-engineered buildings: 1. Shop for park operations at Chabot Service Yard 2. Building that provides space for offices and a training room

Indigo Architects has assembled a team to complete the tasks necessary to complete the project from the initial entitlement and permitting phase through final design/engineering and bidding/construction. The proposed $1,771,600 scope of work covers a range of services including:

• Architecture • Landscape Architecture • Civil Engineering • Structural Engineering • Electrical Engineering, Including • Mechanical and Plumbing Engineering Telecom/Data and Security Systems • Gas Pipeline Design • Fire Protection Engineering • Fire Water Line Design • Furnishings and Equipment Bid Package

Based on the team’s qualifications and prior experience successfully completing similar institutional and public safety building projects, staff believes the team is well suited for the project. Staff has reviewed and determined that the proposed $1,771,600 fee and associated scope of work is appropriate given the type of building construction and project complexity. Factors adding to the complexity of the project include:

Increased Code Requirements – The new Public Safety Building must be designed to meet stringent structural safety requirements to meet California Essential Services building requirements.

Phased Construction – A primary project objective is to allow for continuous operations of the site by Public Safety and Operations. This constraint protracts the construction period resulting in the need for additional professional services support during construction.

Site Terrain and Utilities – Areas to be developed would be on sloped terrain or previously developed land with inadequate utility infrastructure to serve the new buildings. This type of development requires a higher level of effort for design and

68 engineering compared to a flat suburban or city site.

The project is tentatively scheduled to go out to bid in March, 2016 with a construction start date of June, 2016 and move-in by summer 2018. As the project progresses, staff anticipates Board action or reviews at the following times:

Conceptual Plan: Board approval of conceptual plan prior to March 17, 2015 initiating formal public review and planning process with Alameda County

CEQA: Board review and consideration of potential environmental May 5, 2015 impacts.

Design Progress Update: Board review of plans and cost estimates August 11, 2015 prior to initiating final design and engineering.

Pre-Qualification: Board approval of pre-qualified bidders February 16, 2016

Award Contract: Board award of construction contract May 17, 2016

Staff has initiated a project charter to guide implementation of the project. The charter is a project management tool that helps define project deliverables, project limits, constraints, staff responsibilities, schedule and budget. A copy of the project charter is attached.

As the project progresses staff will update the Board on project progress through General Manager Comments at regularly scheduled Board meetings or at Board Executive Committee meetings.

Design and engineering of the South County Corporation Yard equipment shop was put on hold as the scope of the Public Safety Building project was being defined to ensure coordination and compatibility. Staff is currently working on developing a plan to integrate the equipment shop into the overall construction phasing plan for the Public Safety Building project.

ALTERNATIVES

No alternatives are recommended.

69 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2015 – 01 -

January 13, 2015

AUTHORIZE THE GENERAL MANAGER TO EXECUTE AN AGREEMENT WITH INDIGO/HAMMOND & PLAYLE ARCHITECTS LLP TO PERFORM ARCHITECTURAL AND DEVELOPMENT CONSULTING SERVICES FOR THE RECONSTRUCTION OF THE PUBLIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION BUILDING AND CHABOT SERVICE YARD: LAKE CHABOT REGIONAL PARK

WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District’s provision of services to the public requires adequate staff and support facilities for operations and maintenance, public safety, fire, administration, training, public meeting and other purposes; and

WHEREAS, these facilities must be constructed to meet current codes and safety standards, should be located for maximum staff efficiency, and need to be established and operated with the limited public funds available; and

WHEREAS, on October 7, 2014 the Board of Directors reviewed and accepted the results of a feasibility study for the reconstruction of the Public Safety Administration Building and Chabot Service Yard at Lake Chabot Regional Park, appropriated $21,560,000 into a new capital project account (Project No. 152500), and directed staff to negotiate a professional services contract with Indigo, Hammond, Playle Architects LLP, Davis CA to advance the project; and

WHEREAS, the Board has selected Indigo, Hammond, Playle Architects LLP based on the team’s qualifications and prior experience successfully completing similar institutional and public safety building projects; and

WHEREAS, work to be performed includes preliminary design, CEQA, entitlement and permit approvals, final engineering and design, and bidding and construction support;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby accepts the proposal of Indigo, Hammond, Playle Architects LLC, Davis CA, for the provision of consulting services for architecture and development consulting services for a total encumbrance not to exceed $1,771,600 from Project No. 152500 for this contract for services; 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 13th day of January, 2015, by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSENT: ABSTAIN:

Page Left Blank Intentionally

72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 BOARD AND STAFF REPORTS

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 13th, 2015

C. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

4. BOARD AND STAFF REPORTS

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

City of San Ramon – Creekside Memorial Park Cemetery

On Tuesday, December 9, 2014, the San Ramon City Council voted 4-0, with one abstention, to withdraw support for the proposed Creekside Memorial Park Cemetery. Originally proposed in 2005, the project would occupy almost 60 acres of an approximately 222-acre site located on Camino Tassajara in unincorporated Contra Costa County just east of San Ramon city limits. The cemetery site is within the city’s planning area but falls within county jurisdiction. Featuring one indoor and four outdoor mausoleums, the cemetery would also include an administrative office and chapel building, a storage building, a corporation yard and more than 100,000 burial plots. Homes located on Windemere Parkway are only 2,300 feet from the site and many of those homeowners and other residents spoke out against the project at a June public workshop and at the December 9th Council meeting. The December 9th Council vote directed staff to submit a letter to the County documenting the City’s reasons for withdrawing support. Concerns sited include the project's potential environmental impacts, lack of adequate water, habitat degradation, increased traffic, and neighborhood character impacts. San Ramon had originally lent support for the project in 2005 along with other Tri- Valley communities, with the exception of Livermore. The Park District submitted a 2006 comment letter and a follow-up letter on the Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) in 2011. Both letters recommended that the project address the need for a connector trail linking Camino Tassajara, east of the project site, with the existing Tassajara Ridge Trail which runs parallel to the project’s western boundary.

City of Richmond – Bottoms Residential Development

On Tuesday, December 16, 2014, the Richmond City Council voted 4-2 to approve a 60-unit condominium project planned for the Bottoms Property on the Point Richmond waterfront. The project proposed by Shea Homes will be located south of the Seacliff Estates development, between Seacliff Drive and Canal Boulevard. Overall, the 25-acre project includes nine buildings: 5 at two-stories in height and 4 at four-stories. Throughout the project’s review, residents of neighboring homes voiced apprehension over the heights of the four taller buildings, but city staff and the developer contended that the project would not be economically viable without the additional height. Responding to concerns, Councilmember Butt proposed a compromise that would slightly reduce the height of the four tallest buildings

81 and compensate the owners of adjacent homes for loss of views, if any occurred. The Council voted in favor of that compromise, with the dissenting votes attributed to concerns that approval would set a new height precedent throughout Richmond. In addition to the new condominiums, the project proposes enhancements to the existing shoreline, including public parking, dog stations, a bicycle repair station, and an approximately 1,200-foot long segment of the San Francisco Bay Trail between Canal Boulevard and Seacliff Drive. This section will close a gap in the trail system identified by the Richmond 2030 General Plan.

82 GM COMMENTS

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

C. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

5. GENERAL MANAGER’S COMMENTS

STAFF PRESENTATION

GM COMMENTS

Public Safety From November 11 to December 15, 2014 the Public Safety Division handled 591 service calls and 442 total incidents. Highlights are included below.

Police There were 16 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, public intoxication, and indecent exposure. Officers also issued 187 citations for Ordinance 38, vehicle code, and parking violations. Officers handled 237 field interviews (contacts without citations or arrests) and contacted 16 people on probation or parole to conduct compliance checks.

• Anthony Chabot: On November 15, an officer responded to the reports of noise and yelling after hours at two campsites. One of the campers was cited for an alcohol violation, the other campers were warned for the noise issue.

On December 14, officers contacted two occupants of a U-Haul truck that was overdue at the rental facility. The driver was in possession of several stolen items and was arrested. The passenger was released on scene.

• Delta De Anza Trail in Antioch: On November 17, a subject was pushed off his bike by 4 suspects who stole his phone, CD player, and bicycle. The investigation is ongoing.

• Huckleberry: On November 25, officers and medical personnel responded to the report of a gunshot victim on the trail. The victim had been robbed and was pronounced dead on the scene. Witnesses provided information to a sketch artist, and persons of interest were broadcast to the media. The incident is being investigated as a homicide and is ongoing.

83 • Lafayette Moraga Trail: On November 29, an officer responded to the report of a person walking around in an altered state. The subject was transported to the hospital by ambulance for a mental evaluation. It was determined he was the victim of a robbery in Berkeley and had fled the hospital after refusing to file a police report.

• Martin Luther King Jr. Shoreline: On November 19, an officer contacted a person near the restrooms. The subject was on probation, a registered sex offender, and in possession of cocaine and drug paraphernalia. He was arrested.

• Martinez Shoreline: On November 11, an officer contacted two people who were in a prohibited area. One of the subjects was in possession of concentrated cannabis and was issued a citation.

• Miller Knox: On December 7, a park user witnessed a suspect open the door to the park user’s vehicle. The park user yelled at the subject, who pulled out a gun and said he was “taking the vehicle.” Suspect information was provided, but the victim’s vehicle has not been located.

• Out of Park in Oakland: On December 14, Eagle 7 was flying at night when it was intentionally intercepted by a drone. The helicopter had to take evasive action in order to avoid a collision.

• Pt. Isabel: On November 21, an officer took a report of a vehicle stolen from the parking lot. No suspects were seen and the vehicle was entered into the stolen vehicle system.

• Tilden: On November 14, an officer contacted two occupants of a vehicle for park curfew violation. The driver, a minor, had several containers of marijuana. He was cited for possession of over one ounce of marijuana and released to his father on scene.

Fire Operations Special Service • Ardenwood: On December 6, firefighters provided medical standby at the annual Christmas event.

• Sunol: On November 15, firefighters provided medical standby at the Cowboy Hootenanny event.

Fire Management District-wide • Redwood Park: On December 2, fire crews burned brush piles near Pinehurst and Skyline Road Recommended Treatment Area (RTA) RD008.

• Tilden Park: CALFire assisted firefighters with management of brush and grassland fuel loading in an on-going fuel break maintenance project.

84 • Tilden Park, Frowning Ridge: Brush piles were burned with the assistance of CALFire to maintain the long-established fuel break RTA TI015.

• Wildcat Canyon Park, RTA WC011: Civicorps School hand crews created defensible space behind homes on Ivy Court adjacent to Wildcat Canyon Park.

Fire/Fuels Management in 2014 Contractor Work: • Anthony Chabot: Eucalyptus stump treatment to help maintain the site where eucalyptus trees were removed around the family campground in 2011 and 2012.

• Briones: Ladder fuel reduction near the service yard (funded by a PG&E drought grant).

• Claremont Canyon: Grass and brush removal along the roadside.

• District-wide: Goat grazing in several parks to reduce grass.

• Kennedy Grove: Wildland fuels reduction to thin eucalyptus stands and reduce ladder fuels.

• Sibley: Brush pile removal along Thorndale Road.

• Tilden Park: Eucalyptus stand thinning, risk tree removal, and surface fuel reduction along Wildcat Canyon Road (partially funded by a PG&E drought grant).

• Wildcat Canyon: Eucalyptus stand thinning and surface fuel reduction near Alvarado (partially funded by a PG&E drought grant).

Crew Work: • EBRPD Fire Department and CALFire crews removed brush and ladder fuels on District lands in the East Bay Hills as part of the Department’s ongoing efforts to maintain fuel break areas and promote habitats for native species. Debris piles were burned during the non-peak season.

• The Student Conservation Association (SCA) provided conservation youth crews to perform vegetation removal, trails maintenance, and park clean-up projects in several District parks near the cities of Berkeley, Oakland, and Richmond.

• Civicorps crews assisted the Fire Department in weed-eating and ladder fuel reduction on several parks in the East Bay Hills. The project was partially funded by a Department of Labor grant and state drought relief funds.

Right-of-Entry Agreements: • Tilden: District agreement with the Diablo Fire Safe Council and Park Hills Home Owner Association for wildland fuel reduction on District land near homes along Wildcat Canyon Road. 3

85 • Wildcat Canyon: District agreement with the Diablo Fire Safe Council and local residents for wildland fuel reduction on District land near Kensington.

• Claremont Canyon: District agreement with the local residents for wildland fuel reduction on District land near the Stonewall area.

Lifeguard Service • Staff initiated the lifeguard recruitment plan for the 2015 season.

Event Calendar February – March 2015 Board Meeting Date: February 17, 2015

Date Day Time Event Location Sponsoring Organization Feb. 3, Tuesday 4 – 8 pm Wedding Fairs Brazilian Room, EBRPD 10 & 17 Tilden Regional Park 2/7/15 Saturday 1 – 2:30 pm Healthy Parks Healthy Coyote Hills EBRPD People Hike 2/20/15 Friday 11 am – 12 pm Artists’ Reception: Tilden EEC EBRPD Creativity Explored 3/1/15 Sunday 12 – 4:30 pm Hazel Atlas Mine Open Black Diamond EBRPD House Mines 3/7/15 Saturday 1 – 2:30 pm Healthy Parks Healthy Coyote Hills EBRPD People Hike 3/8/15 Sunday 11 am – 3 pm Johnny Appleseed Day Ardenwood EBRPD

3/28/15 Saturday 10 am – 4 pm Splash into Spring & Egg Crab Cove Alameda Recreation & Scramble Parks Dept/ EBRPD

87 BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

C. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

7. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS

a. Board Executive Committee (12/11/2014) (Wieskamp)

Present

Board: Ayn Wieskamp (Chair), John Sutter, Whitney Dotson (Arrived at 2:05 pm)

Staff: Robert Doyle, Becky Pheng, Anne Kassebaum, Dave Collins, Erich Pfuehler, Kelly Barrington, Bob Nisbet, Deborah Auker, Larry Tong

Public: Bruce Kern (PAC), Eri Suzuki (Local 2428)

The meeting was called to order at 12:50 p.m.

1. Park Advisory Committee Proposed Goal for 2015

Erich Pfuehler, Government Relations and Legislative Affairs Manager, gave an overview of the Park Advisory Committee’s (PAC) 2014 goals and proposed 2015 goals. Mr. Pfuehler commented on the ADA update, youth employment and outreach, and Plan Bay Area ad hoc subcommittee. Director Sutter commented that the PAC is more proactive on reviewing District issues. Mr. Pfuehler and Mr. Kern talked about some of the important 2015 goals including Healthy Parks, Healthy People Initiative; Kids Challenge; Measure CC; climate change, adaptation, and cap and trade; natural resources; and transportation ballot measures. Staff emphasized the importance of connecting with the youth and undertaking more outreach to this user group. Bruce Kern, PAC Chair 2015, commented that he would like the PAC to focus on the “big picture”, and encouraged PAC members to meet regularly with their appointee to keep an open dialogue on issues.

Director Sutter asked if there were any issues that Mr. Kern would like the PAC to take up next year. He also concurred with Mr. Kern’s suggestion that PAC members meet regularly with their appointee. Mr. Kern talked about the importance of meeting with staff prior to a meeting to focus on the issues to allow for a more focused presentation. Robert Doyle, General Manager, emphasized the importance of having input from the PAC and appointing people who are interested in the District. Director Wieskamp commented that she communicates regularly with PAC member Ben Yee regarding Mission Peak and that his input is

88 valuable. She would like to see more minorities and women on the PAC. Director Sutter asked for clarification on the Economic Impact Report and Environmental Education Facilities Upgrade and why it was not considered due to a shift in goal. Staff responded that there was not enough information on the items to forward to the PAC for review and comment. Mr. Pfuehler spoke about bringing in an outside speaker to give a presentation to the PAC. Mr. Doyle gave an example of having an outside speaker to speak about climate change. The Committee concurred with staff.

Recommendation: By motion of Director Sutter, and seconded by Director Wieskamp, the Committee voted 2-0 to forward this item to the full Board for favorable consideration.

2. Acquisition, Stewardship, and Development Reorganization Update

Bob Nisbet, Assistant General Manager, provided an update on the merger of the Land Division and Planning, Stewardship, and Development Division. The idea of merging the two divisions was the result of a recommendation from a consultant hired by the District. The new division is now called Acquisition, Stewardship, and Development. The merger of the two divisions was proposed for the following reasons: increase efficiency by sharing administrative resources; combine similar functions together; better integrate priorities; develop consistency in managing projects; and streamline processes, reduce costs, and maximize work output.

Mr. Nisbet provided the Committee with examples of how the merger will increase efficiency and reduce costs. For example, prior to the merger there were two planning departments; the Advanced Planning Department focused on reviewing developments plans/projects and what other jurisdictions are doing, and the Planning Department focused on park planning. Combining the two departments will allow for projects to be distributed evenly between staff and for cross training. He also presented a proposed organization chart of how the various departments will look after the merger. The Advanced Planning, Planning, and GIS Departments were merged as one department titled Planning/GIS. Mr. Doyle gave a short history of why the Advanced Planning Department was created, and commented that the new Planning/GIS Department will provide opportunities for staff to advance and to cross train.

Director Sutter asked if this was presented to the union. Staff responded that this reorganization was presented to the union through the “meet and confer” process. The Committee inquired about the number of vacant positions and when the positions will be filled. Mr. Nisbet responded that recruitment efforts are underway for some positions, with the priority being environmental services manager which was previously held by Matt Graul. An outside recruiting firm has been retained to recruit for the position of Chief of Design and Construction, which will be vacant after the retirement of Diane Althoff at the end of the year. Staff discussed the importance of project management and creation of a Capital Projects Department. The Committee commented on the importance of having a project manager and asked that this item be discussed at the next Board Workshop.

Recommendation: None. This was an informational item.

89 3. Public Comment

There were no public comments.

The meeting was adjourned at 2:10 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Becky K. Pheng

90 NEWSCLIPS

Fungi flourish after rains, but beware of poisonous mushrooms

Kevin Fagan, San Francisco Chronicle

Friday, January 2, 2015

Fungi flourish after rains, but beware of poisonous mushrooms

The drought is over.

For wild mushrooms, that is. And how.

After three years of paltry mushroom growth throughout Northern California because of punishingly dry weather, the skies dumped torrents in December — and awakened the fungus among us in a profusion that hasn’t been seen since the turn of the decade.

The statewide water drought itself may not be over, but the fungal one is for now, and aficionados are loving it.

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“It’s remarkable. Amazing,” said David Rust, who lives in Oakland and is president of the North American Mycological Association. “They came up like crazy after all this rain, and now mushrooms are everywhere.

“You see all sorts of species that had been holding off for three years, and you find some in ways we haven’t seen in decades. It’s like the mushrooms are thinking, 'Hey, we have water and food at last, so let’s go.’”

The bumper crops have fungi fanatics fanning out to forage in fields and forests where mushroom collecting is legal. Because of safety laws, that’s a pretty restricted range of areas — but once pickers get there, it’s like an open-air grocery store.

Chanterelles, an aromatic favorite of chefs everywhere, all but disappeared during the drought but are cropping up as if on steroids. So are black trumpets, a buttery taste treat usually found in large numbers only in late winter. The spicy and somewhat exotic matsutake is popping up in numbers and locations not seen in decades, Rust said.

Porcinis, hedgehogs and candy caps — orange-colored mushrooms smacking of maple syrup — have also been fruiting in full force.

Rust said the trick to finding mushrooms is knowing what plants they flourish alongside. Coastal live oak trees, Douglas fir and Monterey pines are usually sure bets, and some fungi favor certain trees. The candy cap, for example, fruits around pines and live oaks.

“You do have to know what you’re looking at, though,” Rust cautioned. “You have to know how to stay away from the poisonous ones.”

Lethal death cap

Chief among the ones to avoid is the death cap, an invasive species that started out in Monterey County in the 1930s and is now all over California. Eating poisonous mushrooms can cause liver or kidney failure, and two to three people die of it every year in the United States, according to Mushrooms 4 Health, an educational organization.

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Fears of the death cap and its evil cohorts — which can be hard to distinguish from their edible counterparts — drive thousands of people every year to consult the half-dozen mycological societies in Northern California and their websites. The Bay Area Mycological Society’s site, for example, had an unusually high 31,000 page views this week, mostly for poison information, said Rust, who co-founded the society.

The societies also frequently hold educational gatherings. The next one is the 10th annual Point Reyes Fungus Fair, to take place Sunday at the seashore’s Bear Valley Visitor Center with speakers from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Most parks in Northern California prohibit picking mushrooms, making the few that do allow it big draws for hunters with buckets and a working knowledge of what to pluck.

Salt Point State Park, north of Jenner, and the Point Reyes National Seashore are two of the most popular areas to take fungus out of the ground legally. Some of the easiest spots to get to, however, such as the entire East Bay Regional Park District, are off-limits.

Harming habitat

There are two main reasons for the prohibitions. One is the fear of poisonous mushrooms. The other is that foraging usually happens off-trail, which can be bad for the environment — and people can get lost.

“Misidentification of poisonous mushrooms is definitely our primary concern, but damage to the environment is also a big one,” said Morgan Dill, a naturalist with the East Bay Regional Park District. “A lot of people who forage for mushrooms are extremely responsible — especially those with the mycological associations — but there are people who have their spots and return year after year, and start developing new trails where there shouldn’t be any.”

The growing popularity of foraging for all types of wild plants for food has also increased that type of foot traffic in forested areas, she said.

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“Being off-trail can severely impact the habitat of the plants and animals,” Dill said. “I personally love going out to look at mushrooms, so I’m all for guided walks and careful viewing. But it has to be carefully done.”

Extreme care

Even devoted fungus fans such as Rust understand the motivation for the picking bans. But he said the fears are overblown, given the extreme care serious mushroom fans bring to their avocation.

“California is overregulated on this,” he said. “Folks that seriously hunt mushrooms are very responsible about ecology of the forest, making sure they have a buddy system to get back to their cars safely.

“We know the woods. And we love the mushrooms.”

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Explore Bay Area's Native American past at four sites

By Lisa M. Krieger, Deember 30, 2014 [email protected] POSTED: 12/30/2014 12:00:00 PM: ABOUT 21 HOURS AGO

Guided ranger tours take visitors on an exploration of the Bay Area's Native American past in Brentwood, where the secret Vasco Caves offer a glimpse of ceremonial sites used 10,000 years ago. (Lisa Krieger/Staff) Indoors, the new year is just a turn from one calendar to the next. But step outside to feel an ancient reawakening in your bones, as the sun pushes back the margins of long, dark nights. Once-dry creeks are running hard. Redwood forests are cleansed. Hillsides are brightening. Celebrate the abundance of the season by exploring the lives of the Bay Area's original inhabitants -- Ohlone, Bay Miwok and Northern Valley Yokuts, here 13,000 years prior to European settlement -- who cherished winter hunting and gathering along the Bay Area's marshes, streams, grasslands and oak woodlands. While many of their sites have been lost due to agricultural, residential and industrial development, some are preserved and can be visited within our regional parklands.

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The clues are scattered across our region. Rock art can be viewed in the East Bay's Vasco Caves and the South Bay's Chitactac-Adams Heritage County Park. For bedrock mortars, visit the Peninsula's Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve. To see an original shellmound and reconstructed village site, go to Coyote Hills Regional Park. There will be time enough later to catch up on emails, schedule that postponed meeting or resume old agendas. Now, at the cusp of a fresh year, it feels deeply meaningful, even mystical, to explore winter landscapes and the rich lives of those who came before us.

VASCO CAVES REGIONAL PRESERVE, BRENTWOOD You don't know where this is? That's by design. Because of the fragility of this preserve's resources, the East Bay Regional Park District restricts access to small guided tours. Tucked away in the rolling eastern foothills of Mount Diablo, the dirt road entrance to Vasco Caves, named for the wind-eroded sockets in huge sandstone outcroppings, is unmarked -- and unremarkable. "Protection is primary. Public access is secondary," naturalist Eddie Willis says. No flash photography or GPS-equipped cellphone use is allowed. The hike, a 2-mile guided loop ($34), "is the East Bay Regional Parks' best-kept secret," he says. The site of ceremonial archaeological sites, the preserve features faint Indian rock art, part of a complex that reaches back nearly 10,000 years. Several images of birds -- perhaps golden eagles, who still soar overhead? -- are painted on stone. Nearby are several deeply carved bedrock mortar holes, used for grinding. The park's nonhuman features also are fascinating. Several large red-legged frogs, a threatened species that is protected by law, thrive in an old cistern. Raptors can sometimes be glimpsed in rock cavities; on our visit, we spotted a sleepy screech owl. Small seasonal pools, called vernal ponds, hold fairy shrimp.

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Guided ranger tours take visitors on an exploration of the Bay Area's Native American past in Brentwood, where the secret Vasco Caves offer a glimpse of ceremonial sites used 10,000 years ago. (Lisa Krieger/Staff) Like the California of old, the preserve's hillsides hold beautiful native bunch grasses, such as creeping wild rye and purple needlegrass. Also scattered around the landscape are sandstone concretions the size of cannonballs, formed by the accumulation of minerals into dense spheres. Details: Tours are held several times per month, with registration for March and April dates typically opening the first Tuesday in February. Tickets can be tough to get, but if you join the members of the East Bay Regional Park District, you'll hear about tour dates before the general public does. For details on the tours, go to www.ebparks.org/parks/vasco.

CHITACTAC-ADAMS HERITAGE COUNTY PARK, GILROY Between 1,700 and 2,700 years ago, this park was a village that the Ohlones called Chitactac. Located on the edge of the beautiful Uvas Creek, this small but significant 4.3-acre site offers a distinctive view of the region's Native American culture before and after the arrival of the Spanish. You can see samples of rock art and bedrock mortars, and take a self-guided interpretive walk around the site, which includes eight stations with descriptive panels, and an interpretive shelter with seven additional panels and displays about Ohlone village life, buildings, food processing and the natural history of the region. Additionally, learn about the Adams schoolhouse, on this property from the 1850s until 1956. Details: Guided school tours and interpretive programs are offered by staff and volunteer docents; http://bit.ly/ChitactacPark.

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COYOTE HILLS REGIONAL PARK, FREMONT The headquarters of this park offers a display of Ohlone artifacts, such as tule reed boats, clothing, tools and handmade baskets woven so tightly that they're waterproof. Naturalist-guided tours take visitors to an original Ohlone shellmound and reconstructed 2,000-year-old village of the Tuibun band of Ohlones, with examples of a pit house, sweat lodge and other structures. This is a special site, home to the annual Gathering of the Ohlone Peoples. Details: The Coyote Hills Visitor Center is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. The Tuibun Ohlone village site is accessible by reservation only. Call 510-544-3220; www.ebparks.org/parks/coyote_hills.

SKYLINE RIDGE OPEN SPACE PRESERVE, LOS ALTOS On Jan. 11, Daniel Sanchez, interpretive ranger for the Anza National Historic Trail-National Park Service, will lead a 5-mile walk to teach about the history and intention of the Anza Expedition of 1775. But this park, where Ohlone Indians once gathered to collect acorns, is also rich in local Native American culture. Particularly interesting is a bedrock mortar, which was used as a seasonal food-processing camp. A large, flat-topped boulder with well-worn holes -- called a grinding rock -- marks the site near Alpine Pond. Skyline Ridge Preserve activities meet at the Russian Ridge preserve parking lot on the northwest corner of the Skyline Boulevard and Page Mill/Alpine Road intersection. Details: For details on Skyline Ridge, go to www.openspace.org, and for details on the Jan. 11 Anza Expedition walk, go to http://bit.ly/AnzaExp.

98 Keep the Dream Alive at the 23rd Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Multicultural Rally

By EBRPD Public Affairs, December 29, 2014

For the 23rd consecutive year, a Multicultural Rally celebrating the life and dream of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. will be held on Monday, January 19 at the ILWU Union Hall in Oakland, from 10:00am to 12:00pm. The theme for this year is “Keeping the Dream Alive through Education, Non-Violence, and Justice.”

“This is the longest running multicultural rally keeping the dream alive,” said the Martin Luther King Jr. Rally Committee Chairman Otis Sanders. The first rally was held in 1993 to spread Dr. King’s message and unite people from all cultures.

This year’s keynote speaker will be Unified School District Superintendent Antwan Wilson. Assembly member Rob Bonta and Alameda County Supervisor Nate Miley will attend the event. East Bay Regional Park District Director Doug Siden will be the Master of Ceremonies, and participants from the Treasure Island Job Corps and the Herbert Guice Academy will also deliver speeches.

“We have come a long way -- and we have yet a long way to go,” said Sanders. The Rally Committee will present this year’s Betita Coty Award for Outstanding Community Service to Oakland Councilmember Larry Reid.

This free event is co-sponsored by the East Bay Regional Park District, the Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Center, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Rally Committee. The ILWU Union Hall is located at 99 Hegenberger Road, near the Oakland Airport. Doors open at 9:00 am.

For more information, call Committee Chairman Otis Sanders at (510) 798-5535.

The East Bay Regional Park District is a system of beautiful public parks and trails in Alameda and Contra Costa counties east of San Francisco Bay, established in 1934. The system comprises 119,000 acres in 65 parks including over 1,250 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding and nature learning.

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East Bay's Park It: Fremont's Ardenwood offers butterfly viewings this weekend

By Ned MacKay Columnist, Contra Costa Times, December 26, 2014 POSTED: 12/26/2014 12:00:00 AM People around the world have many different ways of welcoming in the new year and celebrating it as an opportunity for a fresh start on life. The East Bay Regional Parks are no exception. At Ardenwood Historic Farm in Fremont, the staff will celebrate the new year with a series of monarch butterfly programs. The butterflies gather at Ardenwood annually as part of their multigenerational life cycle, clustering in shingle-like arrays in the park's eucalyptus groves.

There will be slide presentations at the farm's granary from 11 a.m. to noon Saturday and Sunday, followed by walks to the greenhouse to see monarch cocoons. Other monarch programs at the greenhouse are scheduled at 1:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. And on New Year's Day, there are monarch programs at the granary at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. The groves where the monarchs gather are a short walk from the granary and greenhouse. Ardenwood is located at 34600 Ardenwood Blvd., just north of Highway 84. The monarch programs are free of charge. For information on Ardenwood's admission fees, call 510-544- 2797. Parking is free.

Oakland: As long as we're discussing insects, another spectacle well worth seeing is the annual ladybug convention at Redwood Regional Park in Oakland. Little red ladybugs cluster by the hundreds this time of year on the park's bushes and fallen logs. One of the best places to see them is around the junction of the Stream and Prince Trails. To get there, enter the park at Redwood Gate on Redwood Road, about 2 miles east of Skyline Boulevard in Oakland. Once you're in the park, drive to the Canyon Meadow picnic area at the end of the road. Then walk up the Stream Trail for just more than a mile to the junction with Prince Trail.

Please don't collect any ladybugs. It's against the law to remove any plants or animals from the regional parks.

Castro Valley: If you'd like to finish off the old year with a burst of energy, join naturalist Francis Mendoza at Cull Canyon Regional Recreation Area in Castro Valley for a hike from there to Don Castro Regional Recreation Area in Hayward and back. It's from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday and is about 7 moderately strenuous miles -- best for ages 15 and older.

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The hike also celebrates the 50th anniversary of the opening of Cull Canyon Regional Recreation Area. For information, call 510-544-3220.

Alameda: Crab Cove Visitor Center in Alameda plans a holiday open house from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday. There will be special free activities throughout each day, including chances to meet the center's live snake and turtle. More specifically, there will be videos about bay and ocean creatures from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with popcorn and cider served; bird bingo from 1 to 2 p.m. with prizes for spotting birds; beach exploration from 2 to 3 p.m. (wear mud boots); and fish feeding at the center's aquarium from 3 to 3:30 p.m.

Crab Cove is located at 1252 McKay Ave. off Central Avenue in Alameda. For information, call 510-544-3187.

Berkeley: Fabulous fungi are the focus at Tilden Nature Area near Berkeley, where interpretive student aide Morgan Rani Evans will host a free program about mushrooms from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday.

Morgan will discuss cooking techniques and show what kinds of fungus grow in the nature area. The program will be at Tilden's Environmental Education Center, which is located at the north end of Central Park Drive. For information, call 510-544-2233.

Though Morgan will discuss cooking techniques, it is against the rules to pick mushrooms in the regional parks. It's also potentially dangerous, since some very poisonous varieties resemble edible kinds. Your safest and best mushroom source is your local supermarket.

ALBANY BULB: Bird watchers will enjoy a bayside birding walk with naturalist Anthony Fisher from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday at the Albany Bulb, which is at the end of Buchanan Street in Berkeley. It's a flat stroll; all levels of bird expertise are welcome. For information, call 510-544-3260.

Oakley: At Big Break Regional Shoreline in Oakley, there's a wetland story time and nature walk from 2 to 3 p.m. Saturday. Learn about the history and importance of the local wetland.

And from 6:45 to 8:30 a.m. Sunday naturalist Kevin Damstra will lead a sunrise wildlife walk at Big Break in search of animals that are out and about in the early hours.

Both programs are free, but registration is required for the sunrise walk. To register or obtain more information, call 888-327-2757. Select option 2 and refer to program number 7537. Big Break is at 69 Big Break Road off Main Street in Oakley. For information, call 888-327-2757, ext. 3050. be SAFE: And however you celebrate it, have a safe and happy New Year.

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Heavy rains halt Christmas tree recycling program to at East Bay parks

By Nick Smith , ABC7News Friday, December 26, 2014

ALAMEDA COUNTY (KGO) --

The runoff from the recent rains has forced the cancellation of an annual post- holiday environmental program in the East Bay.

Christmas trees have been brought to local lakes and recycled as reefs for fish.

The most recent effort to create a tree reef was at Quarry Lakes Regional Recreation Area in Fremont. Reefs were also created at Lake Chabot in Castro Valley.

"We use unsold Christmas trees that get donated to the park and we create reefs out of the trees," said Joe Sullivan of the East Bay Regional Parks.

Dumped Christmas trees are a gift for fish and the eco-system. This year, Mother Nature has put the breaks on the East Bay Regional Park's holiday tradition.

"This year the water level is already so high, we didn't need to put in reefs and there was very little room to put reefs in," Sullivan said.

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Friday was the perfect day for fishing at Lake Chabot and the reefs that were put in place over the years are one of the reasons why.

"The water's coming over reefs that we created years ago that have never seen water," Sullivan added.

Fish are biting now, but it hasn't always been the case. Last year, the donation of more than 1,000 unsold Christmas trees by East Bay tree vendors, was repurposed as reef.

Underwater video from Del Valle Regional Park shows how the fish quickly took up residence among the newly installed Christmas trees. Making Friday's catch particularly special for fishermen like D'mitriy Altshuler, who, with patience and a steady hand now has dinner in the bag.

"Sometimes you have to wait a long time," Ted Hua, another fisherman, said. "Sometime you don't have any fish at all. But the point is to come out, enjoy the day and have fun. That's what it's all about. What you're going see at quarry lakes is the most full it's been in the last five to six years."

Like Lake Chabot, reefs have created the perfect environment for habitat. Algae will grow on the tree reefs below, bugs will eat the algae, fish will eat the bugs, bigger fish eat smaller fish, and so on. Tree reefs give everything in the ecosystem what it needs.

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Cull Canyon celebrates 50 years of recreation By Sara Giusti

With 2014 coming to a close, there is no better time to reflect and be grateful for the little things in life and big things, too. How about the vast acres of open space and parks of the Bay Area for starters? One park has a lot to be grateful for and look forward to as it celebrates its 50th birthday with two end-of-year hikes.

Castro Valleys Cull Canyon has been a source of recreation for the Bay Area since 1964. Plans for Cull Canyon go back to the Davis Grunsky Act of 1960 that provided financial aid to local public agencies for the development and maintenance of California’s water resources, as well as grants to agencies that protected wildlife and promoted outside recreation. The Alameda County Flood Control District applied and partnered with East Bay Recreational Park District to create two dams, Cull Canyon and Don Castro, formerly known as San Lorenzo Creek Dam. Several grants and resolutions later, construction began in 1962 and lasted one year.

Cull Canyon was the first lagoon to be connected to a reservoir for drinking water, said East Bay Parks Naturalist Francis Mendoza. Its unique construction allowed the swim area to remain separate from summer drawdowns. In 1966, Cull Canyon won the Governors Design Award for Exceptional Distinction for Recreational Development in landscape.

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The dam has been a recent topic of debate. In the early 2000s the dam was deemed seismically unfit due to limited technology of the 1960s. Fifty years’ worth of silt lies in the dam as well, making the dam just six feet deep and dangerous for wildlife ; Mendoza explained that birds have gotten stuck in the thick mud. The debate is whether or not to dredge and strengthen the dam, costing millions of dollars, or put a notch in the dam to allow excess water to flow more freely. Putting a notch in would emulate natural creek movement and be more cost effective, said Mendoza, pointing out that a notch would cost significantly less than dredging and reinforcing the dam.

This hasn’t put a dent the park’s recreation. It offers swimming in its 1.5 acre lagoon during summer, typically starting in late April and lasting until mid-September on the weekends. Starting in early June until late August, swimming is open Monday through Friday. Complete with lifeguards, bathhouse, vending machines, and picnic areas, Cull Canyon is a great picnic and swimming spot for families and friends to enjoy the warmer months.

The park offers plenty of hiking for the colder winter months, too. Cull Canyon is located on the Chabot-to-Garin Regional Trail that heads six miles north through East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) property up to the Chabot Staging Area. An EBMUD hiking permit is required for the staging area; make sure to call ahead for a permit at (510) 287-0459. However, Cull Canyon is also home to plenty of trails with no permit needed, such as trails surrounding the lagoon and a trail that leads to sister dam Don Castro and Hayward’s Garin Park in the south.

The public is invited to celebrate these trails and Cull Canyon’s birthday on December 28 and 30 with hikes organized by Naturalist Mendoza. The first hike on December 28 will be from Cull Canyon to Don Castro and back, totaling seven miles. It will be moderately strenuous and is

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recommended for ages 15 and up. Mendoza will be leading the hike, with a focus on discovering the local history, flora and fauna.

The second hike, a weekday bird walk, is set for December 30 and will be more relaxed. Lucky participants may spot rare birds, such as the wood duck, visiting from its usual habitat in the Central Valley. “The diversity of birds [at Cull Canyon] is impressive,” noted Mendoza. Ages 12 and up are welcome on this bird walk.

No registration is required for either hike; these are drop-in only. Make sure to wear proper footwear appropriate for mud, and layered clothing with a water resistant top layer. Bring plenty of water (there are not many spots to refill) and snacks, and you’re set!

What better way to celebrate a birthday and the coming of a new year than outdoors in the beautiful East Bay?

Cull Canyon to Don Castro Hike Sunday, Dec 28 9:00 a.m. Ð 1:00 p.m.

Weekday Bird Walk Tuesday, Dec 30 7:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

Cull Canyon Regional Park 18627 Cull Canyon Rd, Castro Valley (510) 544-3220 www.ebparks.org/parks/cull_canyon Free

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Reward increased in killing of former teacher in Oakland Hills

Police are looking for two suspects wanted in connection with the shooting death of David Ruenzel on a hiking trail in the Oakland Hills.

Tuesday, December 23, 2014 OAKLAND, Calif. (KGO) –

The reward is growing to help find the killer of a former teacher in the Oakland Hills.

On Tuesday, officials with the East Bay Regional Park District announced they are increasing the $10,000 reward to $25,000 in the death of David Ruenzel.

The 60-year-old was robbed and shot to death just two days before Thanksgiving while he was on a hike at the Huckleberry Botanic Regional Reserve. The park is on Skyline Boulevard, just south of Elverton Drive.

Ruenzel taught at The Athenian School in Danville.

Police are looking for two men witnesses saw on the trail just before the shooting.

Police say one of the suspects is described as a man who is black or possibly of mixed race and in his late 20s or early 30s with dreadlocks, a medium complexion, high cheek bones, a narrow face, a thin build and was wearing dark clothing.

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Authorities describe the other suspect as a black man who is 6 feet tall, weighs about 240 pounds, is clean shaven with short hair and was wearing dark clothes and a black backpack. Police say witnesses described the man as being out of shape and "overly friendly."

The East Bay Regional Park District Police Department urges anyone with information about the shooting to call their investigations unit at (510) 690-6549 or their dispatch center at (510) 881-1833.

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San Leandro’s Oyster Bay Regional Shoreline built on landfill

By Gail Todd, December 17, 2014, SF Gate

Photo: Daniel E. Porter / The Chronicle

Oyster Bay Regional Shoreline in San Leandro was a landfill filled with garbage for 37 years. After it reached capacity in 1977, it was sealed with clay. Dedicated a park in 1980, today Oyster Bay has been reborn as a 157-acre recreational area that billows out into the bay with a salt marsh, meadows, panoramic views, native plants and landscaped picnic areas. As you explore, you may see rabbits and garter snakes on the ground and hawks soaring overhead.

The East Bay Regional Park District is currently lugging in soil, planting trees and creating slopes for runoff. When development is complete, there will be a second entrance at Davis Street, automobile access and new trails.

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Two paved multiuse trails run through Oyster Bay, a nature walk and a segment of the San Francisco Bay Trail. There are also several undeveloped dirt trails, popular with off- leash dogs and their owners. (Be sure to keep dogs on a leash on the paved trails or you may get a citation.) You will find a drinking fountain near the entrance on Neptune Drive and a restroom a short distance down the nature trail.

To get a trail map and brochure of the park, go to http://bit.ly/1vKmebr.

The nature trail

Start out on the paved nature trail. If you have printed out the brochure, follow the trail numbers to learn about this former landfill. You will learn about Oyster Bay’s history, the wildlife and the former homelands of several Indian tribes. You pass plenty of benches and tables perfect for a picnic.

Notice the many “monitoring wells” throughout the area. These legacies of the site’s former days as a landfill monitor the liquid leachate and landfill gas still seeping out here. On a happier note, you will pass toyon shrubs, buckeye trees and other natives on the way to a rise with a gorgeous view. Here you see Roger Berry’s dramatic sculpture “Rising Wave,” which is made up of a series of poles angled to look like a swelling wave.

The San Francisco Bay Trail

A 2-mile perimeter trail running along the shoreline of Oyster Bay is part of the San Francisco Bay Trail. This segment offers bay vistas and close-up views of planes landing and taking off, seemingly from the bay. There are plenty of shorebirds and ducks in the shallows. The trail crosses the bright green Bill Lockyer Bridge, a pedestrian bridge over San Leandro Slough, connecting Oyster Bay with Bay Trail segments in Oakland to the north. Continuing past the bridge, you come to areas that are still undergoing conversion from landfill to park. If you don’t want to retrace your steps, you can take the dirt paths back to the park entrance.

Marina Park

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About half a mile south of Oyster Bay Regional Shoreline is the San Leandro Marina, with restaurants, picnic areas, restrooms and even a golf course.

At the south end of the marina is Marina Park, which sports a gorgeous shoreline trail reaching into the bay with an 18-station par course. The trail is 1 mile long, marked off in quarter-mile segments. If you want to know which of the par stations are the most fun, check out the ones crowded with children using them as playgrounds. This trail is also a premier bird-watching locale with ring-billed gulls fighting over scraps along the trail and cormorants and pelicans feeding in the water.

Gail Todd is the author of “Lunchtime Walks in Downtown San Francisco” and a tour leader for San Francisco City Guides. E-mail: [email protected]

If you go

Oyster Bay Regional Shoreline: From S.F., cross the Bay Bridge and head south on Interstate 880. Exit at Marina Boulevard, heading west. Turn right onto Neptune Drive and continue to the end. To get to Marina Park, return along Neptune Drive to Marina Boulevard. Continue on Monarch Bay Drive past Fairway Drive. Then park. If you walk, the distance is about a mile.

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Dec 16, 2014 Tri-Valley Hero: Beverly Lane, preservation for the ages

EBRPD director, historian and former Danville mayor receives Life Achievement award by Jeremy Walsh DanvilleSanRamon.com

Beverly Lane gives her acceptance speech after receiving the Tri-Valley Heroes Life Achievement award during a ceremony earlier this fall. (Photo by Mike Sedlak/[email protected]) Beverly Lane has epitomized effective and meaningful public service in the Tri- Valley for more than 30 years, initially making her mark while sitting on the first Danville Town Council and then solidifying it while spending the past two decades on the regional park district board -- all the while helping to preserve local history through her research and published writings.

"I really consider myself a student of the history here and of the community," Lane said during a November interview at downtown Danville's Museum of the San Ramon Valley, where she serves as curator.

A longtime San Ramon Valley public leader whose own role in the region's history continues to be written, Lane first moved to the area as an adult more than 40 years ago.

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Raised in a Marine Corps family in Southern California, Lane said with a smile, "I grew up in Orange County when there were still oranges there and before the interstate came through from Los Angeles to Santa Ana."

She graduated from Occidental College in Los Angeles with a double major in history and English, and later earned a master's degree in public administration from Cal State, Hayward.

Lane and her husband, Jim, relocated to Danville with their three sons in 1973.

Nearly a decade later, Lane's impact on her hometown would become a lasting one when she played an active part in the town's successful incorporation campaign and was elected to the first Danvillle Town Council in 1982.

"To be part of creating a new town in an area that already had quite an impressive history, and to work with four other people who were very public-spirited and make those initial decisions, was quite an extraordinary experience," she recalled.

"What was particularly outstanding was it was 'the first this', 'the first that,'" she added. "So all of those firsts -- and trying to do them using other people's experience of what had worked but also putting innovative ideas into it -- that was just great fun."

Lane served three consecutive terms on the Danville council, including three turns as the town's mayor.

Reflecting on her decision to not seek re-election in 1993, she said, "I felt it was time to have some people who would bring some different perspectives, and I actually was looking forward to being a private person again because in a community of this size, people recognized you and talked to you about their concerns wherever they saw you."

The time out of the public eye would be short-lived.

Lane, an active advocate for open space preservation and public park facilities, said that in the wake of her stepping down from the council, she was recruited to run for a vacant spot on the East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) Board of Directors.

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After initially declining to seek the seat, Lane said she soon reconsidered because she thought sitting on the board would put her in a better position to accomplish a top goal: extending the Iron Horse Regional Trail beyond the San Ramon Valley.

She was elected to the board in 1994 and hasn't looked back, earning another four-year term this year.

"I enjoy pretty much all aspects of it," she said of the last 20 years with the EBRPD. "There are plenty of challenges that have continued, and lots of opportunities to improve what the park district offered and to make it more accessible to people."

Her highest priorities for the upcoming term include helping EBRPD through a time of administrative staff transition, supporting district volunteer efforts, and continuing work on projects such as the new visitor center at Point Pinole Regional Shoreline and the proposed Concord hills regional park to be located on part of the now-closed Concord Naval Weapons Station.

Meanwhile, Lane is also working on preservation of another kind in her own backyard.

A published author and columnist, Lane has been conducting historical research on the San Ramon Valley for the past three decades.

"I'm interested in how the cities evolved and how the county works and how people decide to do what they do," she said. "The decisions people make are interesting, and I like to listen to them and see how they explain what they want in their own community."

Lane was the founding president of the Museum of the San Ramon Valley and has served as museum curator for roughly 10 years.

She said she recently started working on a new book, tentatively titled "San Ramon Remembered: Essays from Bygone Years in San Ramon" -- mostly a compilation of her own historical writing, along with some original source material.

"It's a work in progress," Lane added about her latest historical preservation project. "But it will be in one place, some of the San Ramon history -- which is really not that easy to find."

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Hero FYI:

* Open space preservation, helping initiate the Heritage Resource Commission and developing policies "to preserve a small-town view of life" were among Lane's proudest Danville council accomplishments.

* She currently represents EBRPD Ward 6, which includes Alamo, Blackhawk, Clayton, Concord, Danville, Diablo, Pleasant Hill, San Ramon, Tassajara, and most of Walnut Creek.

* The park district covers Alameda and Contra Costa counties, includes more than 114,000 acres and manages 65 regional parks.

* The Iron Horse Trail now extends 32 miles from Concord to Pleasanton.

* Lane's books include "Vintage Danville, 150 Years of Memories" and "Before BART: Electric Railroads Link Contra Costa County."

* One of her favorite local historical tidbits is the story of how Elliott's Bar in Danville turned into an ice cream parlor/candy store during Prohibition. Mr. Elliott decided he wouldn't run an illegal business because that would be a bad example for his sons. So, he closed the bar, offered drinks on the house, "and then he and his sons went out and broke all the liquor bottles," Lane said.

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Berkeley, environmentalists cite concerns over two-city refinery project

By Tom Lochner, Oakland Tribune, December 13, 2014 POSTED: 12/12/2014 01:36:51: 18 DAYS AGO BERKELEY -- Oil trains that could roll through some Bay Area cities on their way to a Central Coast refinery will not carry volatile Bakken crude, but another type that comes with equally dire threats to the environment and public safety, environmentalists warn.

Canadian tar sands oil would be the likely cargo under the Phillips 66 Rail Spur Extension Project under review by San Luis Obispo County. Concerns about the project are included in comments submitted last month by the city of Berkeley and environmental organizations about plans to bring crude oil by rail to Santa Maria for pre-processing and from there by pipeline to Rodeo.

The comment period for the Recirculated Draft Environmental Impact Report ended in November and a public hearing is scheduled in February.

The project near the city of Santa Maria would connect the Union Pacific mainline to a planned unloading facility that would receive crude oil from outside the state. Possible routes for the projected shipments of five trains per week hauling 80 tank cars each include Amtrak's Capitol Corridor from Martinez to San Jose along the shores of San Pablo and San Francisco bays.

The October 2014 DEIR specifically rules out delivery of Bakken to the refinery, although it does not say exactly where the oil would come from.

But with some petrochemical detective work, Communities for a Better Environment, Center for Biological Diversity, ForestEthics and Sierra Club say they have figured out the identity of the oil Phillips 66 wants to bring by rail to Santa Maria. Sleuthing through the reports of the Santa Maria project and a liquefied petroleum gas project at another Phillips 66 refinery in Rodeo, the group concluded that the propane and butane to be recovered at the Bay Area facility would come from tar sands oil and a diluting agent used to prepare it for transport -- first, as diluted bitumen coming by rail to Santa Maria, then, semi- refined, by pipeline to Rodeo.

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The Santa Maria and Rodeo plants are two parts of a single refinery, the group points out. As the "Refining" page of the Phillips 66 website notes, "The San Francisco Refinery is comprised of two facilities linked by a 200-mile pipeline." The refinery processes mainly heavy, high-sulfur crude oil, the website continues. Currently, most of it comes from California, but dwindling petroleum reserves in the state propelled Phillips 66 to look for alternative supplies.

"Semi-refined products from the Santa Maria facility are sent by pipeline to the Rodeo facility for upgrading into finished petroleum products," the segment continues. Those include gasoline, diesel and jet fuel. The environmental groups, and their cosignatory, Berkeley, are so sure of the tar sands hypothesis that they begin their comments to the DEIR with: "Phillips 66 now admits that this is a tar sands crude by rail project." Phillips 66 stopped short of saying Canadian oil sands, its preferred term, would be brought to Santa Maria, but acknowledges it could. "The purpose of the rail project is not to utilize any single crude, but to replace the diminishing crude oil coming from California sources with a similar crude oil that the Santa Maria refinery is capable of processing from a variety of sources," Phillips 66 spokesman Dennis Nuss said in an email Tuesday. "This could include crude oil produced from Canada's oil sands region." The DEIR's project description makes reference to "Access Western Blend" and "Peace River Heavy," both Canadian tar sands crude. "No matter what type of crude oil we process at our refineries, we have and will continue to comply with both federal and California's strict environmental regulations," Nuss wrote. As for Bakken, which raised a red flag when it was mentioned as the likely feedstock earlier this year, the Recirculated DEIR's project description says, "No Bakken crude would be delivered to the (Santa Maria Refinery) as part of the project." By contrast, the original DEIR of November 2013 had said, "The most likely sources would be the Bakken field in North Dakota or Canada." The Berkeley and Richmond city councils both voted unanimously in March to oppose rail transport of crude through East Bay cities.

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Bakken, named for a shale oil formation in North Dakota, Montana and Canada, has factored in several major rail disasters, including a July 2013 crude oil train explosion that killed 47 people and destroyed much of downtown Lac-Mégantic, Quebec. Tar sands oil is "even worse than Bakken," contends CBE senior scientist Greg Karras. In diluted bitumen form, it is just as volatile, he said, and processing it consumes greater quantities of fossil fuels and produces more greenhouse gases and air pollutants. The heavy tar sands oil also contains more copper, vanadium, nickel, lead, sulfur and nitrogen than other crudes. Opponents call tar sands oil among "the dirtiest, most carbon-intensive fuels on the planet." The high sulfur content, moreover, makes the oil corrosive. Sulfur corrosion, they note, was a factor in an August 2012 fire at the Chevron refinery in Richmond that sickened thousands. Diluted bitumen also is a powerful water pollutant, Karras said, particularly difficult to clean up because it is so heavy that it settles at the bottom of waterways.

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San Ramon: City Council takes action to oppose Tassajara Valley cemetery project

By Joyce Tsai, Dec ember 11, 2014 , Bay Area News Group POSTED: 12/11/2014 10:09: 19 DAYS AGO SAN RAMON -- Facing a crowd of 400 people and amid a flurry of impassioned speeches, the City Council on Tuesday took a stand against a plan to build a large cemetery in Tassajara Valley.

The council voted 4-0, with Councilman Dave Hudson abstaining, to send a letter to Contra Costa County to oppose building the $35 million Creekside Memorial Cemetery -- with some 100,000 to 150,000 plots and a 50-year capacity. It also would house a chapel and indoor and outdoor mausoleums with extensive landscaping on 221 acres at 7000 Camino Tassajara.

The project was proposed about nine years ago, but since then many homes have been built nearby in Dougherty Valley. The cemetery would be about 2,300 feet from homes on Windemere Parkway.

"What's happened is that thousands of people have moved within a stone's thrown of where this development is proposed," said Councilman Phil O'Loane. "I don't think this passes muster from an environmental standpoint. I don't think it makes sense from a cultural standpoint to a lot of folks. I honor the dead as much as anyone ... but this is an idea whose time has come and gone."

More than 30 people spoke, none in support. They expressed worries that the cemetery would destroy the area's picturesque landscape, deplete its already scarce water resources, clog its already traffic-ridden streets, lower property values and regularly expose children to the specter of death at too-young an age.

"In the Asian culture, we don't mix the living and the dead," said Crystal Lu, a San Ramon resident, adding that she and her husband moved to the area for its good schools and natural landscape to raise their children. "But if this cemetery would be built, it would be forcing the idea and image of death down our children's throats. It would be the last thing that my husband and I would want to see.

"And in talking to my neighbors, be it Chinese, Indian or Caucasian, I was not surprised to see that my concerns were echoed by all of them," she said.

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Others, such as student Andi Mo, argued that there's plenty of burial capacity in surrounding Bay Area cemeteries, especially with cremation becoming a more popular option. Holly Newman, who lives next to where the cemetery would be built in unincorporated Contra Costa County, was among a chorus of voices who urged the council to withdraw the city's support of a 2005 resolution to support the idea of a cemetery in Tassajara Valley. A Tri-Valley task force was created at the time to explore the idea after former San Ramon Councilman Curt Kinney needed to find a place to bury his daughter, who died suddenly on her wedding day. It led to Danville, Dublin and Pleasanton passing resolutions similar to San Ramon's, though Livermore rejected the idea. City Attorney Bob Saxe said that because the resolution was passed by a city council so long ago, an action to withdraw support for it wasn't necessary. A letter to the county to express the current council's opposition would suffice, he said. Councilman Scott Perkins said his biggest concern was how the cemetery would impact water resources in the area. As proposed, the cemetery would use as much as 45 acre feet of water per year, but only 27 acre feet of water is currently available. "To me, that would have an unacceptable impact on the Tri-Valley wells in existing ranches, farms and residences out there," he said. "They are suffering right now through a drought of historic dimensions. And even in good year, this project could drain that aquifer to an extent that would make the current wells unusable." He urged those who felt passionately about fighting the project to direct their energies to the county's planning and supervisors boards, which ultimately will make the final decision, though no meeting date has been set on the issue. "Coming here and telling us that we should pass a resolution against this is a flea on an elephant," he said. "If you really want to take action, you and your neighbors need to participate on whatever happens on the county level. That is where the decision will be made."

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Albany extends homeless outreach services

By Damin Esper, insidebayarea, December 9, 2014

ALBANY -- Services to the homeless population, initiated last year as part of the effort to clear the encampment from the Albany Bulb, will continue for at least 16 months more under a contract approved Dec. 1 by the City Council. The renewed contract with the nonprofit Berkeley Food and Housing Project (BFHP) runs from March 2015-June 2016 and will not exceed $141,400. The new contract also provides for an increase in staffing by BFHP to the equivalent of 1.5 full time employees working in Albany. Albany created the Housing Options Expanded (HOPE) program in concert with its decision to remove the homeless population from the city-owned Bulb, where a 2013 survey counted 70 people living. People have lived at the former municipal dump off and on for decades. An encampment was removed in 1999 but was soon reestablished. Albany first contracted with BFHP in August 2013 to do outreach, in partnership with a local church, to the Bulb population and try to place people in transitional housing. More than 30 people have been housed through the program, according to the city. Albany also stepped up enforcement of the city's no-camping ordinance. Violators were ticketed and those with outstanding warrants were arrested, as well as those found with drugs or other illegal materials. In May, a pre-dawn raid was conducted at the Bulb to forcibly remove the final campers along with a supporter who was camping with them. The city intends to turn the property over to the East Bay Regional Park District as part of the Sylvia McLaughlin Eastshore State Park. The district will not accept the land until certain mitigation measures are taken. Removing the campers was one of those measures. Other mitigation includes dealing with concrete and rebar and other hazardous materials discarded on the property when it was the city dump.

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This was the final meeting for the current City Council. Mayor Joanne Wile and councilwoman Marge Atkinson were both termed out. The new council will be sworn in at a special meeting on Dec. 8. Interim Councilwoman Rochelle Nason, selected to replace the late Peggy Thomsen, will now begin serving a full four-year term. Peggy McQuaid will also begin a four-year term

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Alameda County Coroner's Bureau moves into its new home in the Oakland hills By Matt O'Brien, December 5, 2014 [email protected] POSTED: 12/04/2014 09:05:52 PM PS | UPDATED: 25 DAYSArea News Group)

Visitors take tours during the County Coroner's Bureau, right, wit tour OAKLAND -- Nobody wants to have to identify a lost loved one at the Alameda County Coroner's Bureau. But tucked behind a eucalyptus grove in the Oakland hills, the new office opening in a few weeks will be a nicer place to visit than the grim 75-year-old autopsy room near Jack London Square.

County leaders on Thursday toured the new coroner's office on Peralta Oaks Court and celebrated the pending move-in not just of death examiners, but also laboratories for the Public Health Department and Sheriff's Office investigators.

A $31 million overhaul transformed the three-story building into a state-of-the- art investigative complex, allowing the county to vacate an entire city block along Broadway between Fourth and Fifth streets that was the longtime home of the coroner, the Public Health Department laboratory and Social Services.

The three buildings on that block, including the 1920s-era coroner's office, last remodeled in 1968, could eventually be razed for condos, commercial offices or

123 2 businesses, though no developers have yet come forward, said Aki Nakao, who directs the county's General Services Agency.

Among the workers ecstatic about the move to the hills is Monica Bender, supervisor of the county Public Health Department lab, which tests for infectious diseases.

For years, about a dozen microbiologists have been the only occupants of the turquoise five-story county building on Fifth Street in the shadow of Interstate 980.

Bender said most other workers began moving out after the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake raised questions about the building's safety, but it was too expensive to move the lab and its pricey equipment, such as autoclaves to sterilize biowaste.

Also moving to the third floor of the Peralta Oaks complex, a former Child Support Services office, are sheriff's crime scene investigators, who had been based at the sheriff's Eden Township Substation, near San Leandro. They will have a drug testing lab, as well as a high-tech office to extract cellphone and computer data seized during search warrants. The San Leandro office was "really cramped compared to this place," said forensic computer examiner Wansin Ounkeo. "It's very nice here, a lot of light." But the move most likely to affect the public is the new Coroner's Bureau, which has better ventilation than the foul-smelling office near Jack London Square, a family room with sofas for grieving families to wait, and an opaque window that becomes clear when a family member needs to view a body in the airtight autopsy room. "We couldn't allow public viewings" at the old office, said Alameda County Sheriff- Coroner Greg Ahern. "This facility is a beautiful place for that to happen."

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Castro Valley golf course reopens under new management

By Rebecca Parr [email protected], December 3, 2014 POSTED: 12/02/2014 01:18:16 PM

A golfer walks along a fairway at the Willow Park Golf Course on July 17, 2014 in Castro Valley.

(Aric Crabb/Bay Area News Group)

CASTRO VALLEY -- Willow Park Golf Course reopened this week under new interim management. The golf course was closed for two weeks while the previous operator shut down; Willow Park Public Golf Course Corp. ran the course for 50 years until its lease expired Sunday.

The operation has been transferred to Touchstone Golf, which will be in charge at least through March. The East Bay Regional Park District is preparing to put a long-term lease out to bid.

"We plan to improve the overall playability of the course to allow golfers to have a more enjoyable round of golf," said Steve Harker, Touchstone president. "We will be working to get the golf course and facilities in good condition and make sure the business is viable and attractive for a prospective tenant."

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One of the first things his company will do is seed the course to fill in bare spots, he said.

Hours will remain the same, sunup to sundown, Harker said. The restaurant will be open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, with plans to open it earlier on weekends, he said.

For more information or to make reservations, go to www.willowgc.com or call 510-537-8036.

Touchstone manages 10 courses in California, including Lake Chabot Golf Course in Oakland and Shoreline Golf Links in Mountain View.

126 Fire prevention grants spare some eucalyptus trees in East Bay hills

By Doug Oakley [email protected], December 2, 2014 POSTED: 12/01/2014 04:10:03 PM PUPDATED: 28 DAYS AGO OAKLAND -- Nine years and 13,000 public comments later, the federal government has decided that thinning eucalyptus trees in the East Bay hills instead of cutting them all down is the correct way to help prevent a repeat of the 1991 firestorm.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency last week ended its environmental review process for $5.67 million in grant applications from Oakland, UC Berkeley and the East Bay Regional Park District for tree and vegetation management.

The announcement caps a debate among residents and firefighters over whether it is better to remove all the highly flammable eucalyptus and nonnative trees in the hills or just some of them.

The federal government has decided that thinning eucalyptus trees in the East Bay hills instead of cutting them all down is the correct way to help prevent a repeat of the 1991 firestorm. (Doug Oakley/Bay Area News Group archives) But in the end, FEMA said much of the weight of the decision was on preserving habitat for animals in the hills in addition to removing vegetation.

"We have to be responsible stewards for the animals as well," said Jeff Lusk, director of hazard mitigation at the FEMA Oakland office. "It is about thinning appropriately while not completely removing the habitat where sensitive species live. We had to determine the happy point where we could reduce fire risk and maintain the habitat for animal species."

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The red-legged frog and the Alameda whipsnake are a couple of those, he said. If the grant comes through and there are no lawsuits blocking the grants, Oakland will get some much needed fire prevention relief, said fire Chief Theresa Deloach Reed, who started the job in 2012.

"I think this is going to be great for Oakland," Deloach Reed said. "We've been waiting a really long time for it."

Deloach Reed said Oakland's portion of the grants, $3 million, will allow the city to draw up a comprehensive plan to cut back trees and bushes in the hills. Until now, the city has removed only low-lying vegetation and some dead trees, but it hasn't done any wholesale thinning of trees. "Eucalyptus trees are very dangerous," Deloach Reed said. "I think thinning is a start, and it will allow us to prevent the spread of fire from tree to tree that happens so quickly." The end of the environmental review process starts an internal 30-day review within FEMA that will determine if the government will award the grants, Lusk said. If approved, the money should be released after that, he said. If the grants are awarded, Oakland will get the largest portion, East Bay Regional Park District will receive about $2.2 million, and UC Berkeley will get about $500,000. Tim Wallace, of Berkeley, who is president of the Claremont Canyon Conservancy, didn't like the decision because it leaves the eucalyptus trees in the hills. "Thinning will never take care of the issue," Wallace said. "It gets you into a perpetual public cost because it requires the removal of underbrush and leaves the eucalyptus there. They will continue to grow and drop acid on the native bushes below, which kills them. So what you have left is a eucalyptus plantation." Sal Genito, associate director of grounds at UC Berkeley, which has about 400 acres of land in the hills the FEMA grant would be used on, said all the entities that applied for grants will have to follow the same rules if they plan to use the money.

128 "The new approach does leave some of the eucalyptus in place," Genito said. "We don't have a choice. Everybody has to follow the same rules." In some areas of land it owns, UC Berkeley has been cutting down all the eucalyptus trees, Genito said. Dan Grassetti, of Oakland, who represents the Hills Conservation Network, an organization that has been fighting the idea of clear-cutting in the hills and a group that believes eucalyptus trees are not as flammable as many say, was cautiously optimistic about FEMA's decision to publish its environmental review. "In general, the decision to not allow radical clear-cutting is a good thing," Grassetti said. "The process of getting to fire mitigation is not nearly as disastrous as was proposed earlier. But we're still concerned about the number of trees that would be cut down." He said eucalyptus trees have been "scapegoated" in the past by fire department officials who say they are one of the worst fire hazards in the hills. "We had an independent third-party expert do an analysis on what the risks are and how to mitigate them, and there is a general agreement that ground fuels are the biggest problem and not tall trees," Grassetti said. "Bay trees are particularly problematic." .

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Fungi flourish after rains, but beware of poisonous mushrooms

Kevin Fagan, San Francisco Chronicle

Friday, January 2, 2015

Fungi flourish after rains, but beware of poisonous mushrooms

The drought is over.

For wild mushrooms, that is. And how.

The statewide water drought itself may not be over, but the fungal one is for now, and aficionados are loving it.

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Porcinis, hedgehogs and candy caps — orange-colored mushrooms smacking of maple syrup — have also been fruiting in full force.

“You do have to know what you’re looking at, though,” Rust cautioned. “You have to know how to stay away from the poisonous ones.”

Lethal death cap

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Most parks in Northern California prohibit picking mushrooms, making the few that do allow it big draws for hunters with buckets and a working knowledge of what to pluck.

Harming habitat

The growing popularity of foraging for all types of wild plants for food has also increased that type of foot traffic in forested areas, she said.

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Extreme care

Even devoted fungus fans such as Rust understand the motivation for the picking bans. But he said the fears are overblown, given the extreme care serious mushroom fans bring to their avocation.

“We know the woods. And we love the mushrooms.”

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Explore Bay Area's Native American past at four sites

By Lisa M. Krieger, Deember 30, 2014 [email protected] POSTED: 12/30/2014 12:00:00 PM: ABOUT 21 HOURS AGO

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Guided ranger tours take visitors on an exploration of the Bay Area's Native American past in Brentwood, where the secret Vasco Caves offer a glimpse of ceremonial sites used 10,000 years ago. (Lisa Krieger/Staff) Like the California of old, the preserve's hillsides hold beautiful native bunch grasses, such as creeping wild rye and purple needlegrass. Also scattered around the landscape are sandstone concretions the size of cannonballs, formed by the accumulation of minerals into dense spheres. Details: Tours are held several times per month, with registration for March and April dates typically opening the first Tuesday in February. Tickets can be tough to get, but if you join the members of the East Bay Regional Park District, you'll hear about tour dates before the general public does. For details on the tours, go to www.ebparks.org/parks/vasco.

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137 Keep the Dream Alive at the 23rd Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Multicultural Rally

By EBRPD Public Affairs, December 29, 2014

For more information, call Committee Chairman Otis Sanders at (510) 798-5535.

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East Bay's Park It: Fremont's Ardenwood offers butterfly viewings this weekend

Please don't collect any ladybugs. It's against the law to remove any plants or animals from the regional parks.

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The hike also celebrates the 50th anniversary of the opening of Cull Canyon Regional Recreation Area. For information, call 510-544-3220.

Crab Cove is located at 1252 McKay Ave. off Central Avenue in Alameda. For information, call 510-544-3187.

Berkeley: Fabulous fungi are the focus at Tilden Nature Area near Berkeley, where interpretive student aide Morgan Rani Evans will host a free program about mushrooms from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday.

Oakley: At Big Break Regional Shoreline in Oakley, there's a wetland story time and nature walk from 2 to 3 p.m. Saturday. Learn about the history and importance of the local wetland.

And from 6:45 to 8:30 a.m. Sunday naturalist Kevin Damstra will lead a sunrise wildlife walk at Big Break in search of animals that are out and about in the early hours.

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Heavy rains halt Christmas tree recycling program to at East Bay parks

By Nick Smith , ABC7News Friday, December 26, 2014

ALAMEDA COUNTY (KGO) --

The runoff from the recent rains has forced the cancellation of an annual post- holiday environmental program in the East Bay.

Christmas trees have been brought to local lakes and recycled as reefs for fish.

The most recent effort to create a tree reef was at Quarry Lakes Regional Recreation Area in Fremont. Reefs were also created at Lake Chabot in Castro Valley.

"We use unsold Christmas trees that get donated to the park and we create reefs out of the trees," said Joe Sullivan of the East Bay Regional Parks.

Dumped Christmas trees are a gift for fish and the eco-system. This year, Mother Nature has put the breaks on the East Bay Regional Park's holiday tradition.

"This year the water level is already so high, we didn't need to put in reefs and there was very little room to put reefs in," Sullivan said.

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Friday was the perfect day for fishing at Lake Chabot and the reefs that were put in place over the years are one of the reasons why.

"The water's coming over reefs that we created years ago that have never seen water," Sullivan added.

Fish are biting now, but it hasn't always been the case. Last year, the donation of more than 1,000 unsold Christmas trees by East Bay tree vendors, was repurposed as reef.

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Home Protective Services Classifieds Community Resources Archives About Us Advertising Comments Subscribe Contact December 23, 2014 >

Cull Canyon celebrates 50 years of recreation By Sara Giusti

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144 3 recommended for ages 15 and up. Mendoza will be leading the hike, with a focus on discovering the local history, flora and fauna.

What better way to celebrate a birthday and the coming of a new year than outdoors in the beautiful East Bay?

Cull Canyon to Don Castro Hike Sunday, Dec 28 9:00 a.m. Ð 1:00 p.m.

Weekday Bird Walk Tuesday, Dec 30 7:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

Cull Canyon Regional Park 18627 Cull Canyon Rd, Castro Valley (510) 544-3220 www.ebparks.org/parks/cull_canyon Free

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Reward increased in killing of former teacher in Oakland Hills

Police are looking for two suspects wanted in connection with the shooting death of David Ruenzel on a hiking trail in the Oakland Hills.

Tuesday, December 23, 2014 OAKLAND, Calif. (KGO) –

The reward is growing to help find the killer of a former teacher in the Oakland Hills.

On Tuesday, officials with the East Bay Regional Park District announced they are increasing the $10,000 reward to $25,000 in the death of David Ruenzel.

Ruenzel taught at The Athenian School in Danville.

Police are looking for two men witnesses saw on the trail just before the shooting.

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The East Bay Regional Park District Police Department urges anyone with information about the shooting to call their investigations unit at (510) 690-6549 or their dispatch center at (510) 881-1833.

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San Leandro’s Oyster Bay Regional Shoreline built on landfill

By Gail Todd, December 17, 2014, SF Gate

Photo: Daniel E. Porter / The Chronicle

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To get a trail map and brochure of the park, go to http://bit.ly/1vKmebr.

The nature trail

The San Francisco Bay Trail

Marina Park

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About half a mile south of Oyster Bay Regional Shoreline is the San Leandro Marina, with restaurants, picnic areas, restrooms and even a golf course.

Gail Todd is the author of “Lunchtime Walks in Downtown San Francisco” and a tour leader for San Francisco City Guides. E-mail: [email protected]

If you go

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Dec 16, 2014 Tri-Valley Hero: Beverly Lane, preservation for the ages

EBRPD director, historian and former Danville mayor receives Life Achievement award by Jeremy Walsh DanvilleSanRamon.com

A longtime San Ramon Valley public leader whose own role in the region's history continues to be written, Lane first moved to the area as an adult more than 40 years ago.

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She graduated from Occidental College in Los Angeles with a double major in history and English, and later earned a master's degree in public administration from Cal State, Hayward.

Lane and her husband, Jim, relocated to Danville with their three sons in 1973.

Lane served three consecutive terms on the Danville council, including three turns as the town's mayor.

The time out of the public eye would be short-lived.

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She was elected to the board in 1994 and hasn't looked back, earning another four-year term this year.

Meanwhile, Lane is also working on preservation of another kind in her own backyard.

A published author and columnist, Lane has been conducting historical research on the San Ramon Valley for the past three decades.

Lane was the founding president of the Museum of the San Ramon Valley and has served as museum curator for roughly 10 years.

"It's a work in progress," Lane added about her latest historical preservation project. "But it will be in one place, some of the San Ramon history -- which is really not that easy to find."

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Hero FYI:

* She currently represents EBRPD Ward 6, which includes Alamo, Blackhawk, Clayton, Concord, Danville, Diablo, Pleasant Hill, San Ramon, Tassajara, and most of Walnut Creek.

* The park district covers Alameda and Contra Costa counties, includes more than 114,000 acres and manages 65 regional parks.

* The Iron Horse Trail now extends 32 miles from Concord to Pleasanton.

* Lane's books include "Vintage Danville, 150 Years of Memories" and "Before BART: Electric Railroads Link Contra Costa County."

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Berkeley, environmentalists cite concerns over two-city refinery project

The comment period for the Recirculated Draft Environmental Impact Report ended in November and a public hearing is scheduled in February.

The October 2014 DEIR specifically rules out delivery of Bakken to the refinery, although it does not say exactly where the oil would come from.

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San Ramon: City Council takes action to oppose Tassajara Valley cemetery project

The project was proposed about nine years ago, but since then many homes have been built nearby in Dougherty Valley. The cemetery would be about 2,300 feet from homes on Windemere Parkway.

"And in talking to my neighbors, be it Chinese, Indian or Caucasian, I was not surprised to see that my concerns were echoed by all of them," she said.

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Albany extends homeless outreach services

By Damin Esper, insidebayarea, December 9, 2014

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Alameda County Coroner's Bureau moves into its new home in the Oakland hills By Matt O'Brien, December 5, 2014 [email protected] POSTED: 12/04/2014 09:05:52 PM PS | UPDATED: 25 DAYSArea News Group)

The three buildings on that block, including the 1920s-era coroner's office, last remodeled in 1968, could eventually be razed for condos, commercial offices or

162 2 businesses, though no developers have yet come forward, said Aki Nakao, who directs the county's General Services Agency.

Among the workers ecstatic about the move to the hills is Monica Bender, supervisor of the county Public Health Department lab, which tests for infectious diseases.

For years, about a dozen microbiologists have been the only occupants of the turquoise five-story county building on Fifth Street in the shadow of Interstate 980.

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Castro Valley golf course reopens under new management

By Rebecca Parr [email protected], December 3, 2014 POSTED: 12/02/2014 01:18:16 PM

A golfer walks along a fairway at the Willow Park Golf Course on July 17, 2014 in Castro Valley.

(Aric Crabb/Bay Area News Group)

The operation has been transferred to Touchstone Golf, which will be in charge at least through March. The East Bay Regional Park District is preparing to put a long-term lease out to bid.

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One of the first things his company will do is seed the course to fill in bare spots, he said.

Hours will remain the same, sunup to sundown, Harker said. The restaurant will be open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, with plans to open it earlier on weekends, he said.

For more information or to make reservations, go to www.willowgc.com or call 510-537-8036.

Touchstone manages 10 courses in California, including Lake Chabot Golf Course in Oakland and Shoreline Golf Links in Mountain View.

165 Fire prevention grants spare some eucalyptus trees in East Bay hills

The announcement caps a debate among residents and firefighters over whether it is better to remove all the highly flammable eucalyptus and nonnative trees in the hills or just some of them.

166

"I think this is going to be great for Oakland," Deloach Reed said. "We've been waiting a really long time for it."

167 "The new approach does leave some of the eucalyptus in place," Genito said. "We don't have a choice. Everybody has to follow the same rules." In some areas of land it owns, UC Berkeley has been cutting down all the eucalyptus trees, Genito said. Dan Grassetti, of Oakland, who represents the Hills Conservation Network, an organization that has been fighting the idea of clear-cutting in the hills and a group that believes eucalyptus trees are not as flammable as many say, was cautiously optimistic about FEMA's decision to publish its environmental review. "In general, the decision to not allow radical clear-cutting is a good thing," Grassetti said. "The process of getting to fire mitigation is not nearly as disastrous as was proposed earlier. But we're still concerned about the number of trees that would be cut down." He said eucalyptus trees have been "scapegoated" in the past by fire department officials who say they are one of the worst fire hazards in the hills. "We had an independent third-party expert do an analysis on what the risks are and how to mitigate them, and there is a general agreement that ground fuels are the biggest problem and not tall trees," Grassetti said. "Bay trees are particularly problematic." .

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