Stuart Brown, Recreation Manager – (760) 934-8989 ext. 210

Town of Mammoth Lakes P.O. Box 1609 Mammoth Lakes, CA, 93546 Ph: (760) 934-8989 Fax: (760) 934-8608

Town News Week of October 18, 2010

News from the Town Manager

Town Council Meeting– Oct. 20, 2010

The next meeting of the Town Council will be held on October 20, 2010 beginning at 5:00 p.m. with a Joint study session with the Recreation Commission to discuss Measure R supplanting. Visit the Streaming Media Archive to review the previous meeting minutes or upcoming agenda items. Some of the agenda items include:

• Staff Presentation: Five year anniversary award to Associate Planner Pam Kobylarz

• Public Presentation: 1). Presentation regarding Domestic Violence Awareness Month – Susi Bains, Wild Iris. 2). Presentation regarding World Polio Day – Bill Taylor.

• Workshop: Budget reformatting workshop - Deb Pierrel.

• Public Hearing: Zone Code Amendment 10-003: The Town proposes text amendments to portions of Title 17 (Zoning Ordinance) of the Town of Mammoth Lakes Municipal Code to allow for time extension requests of up to six years for use permits, design reviews, and variances. Zoning text changes would apply retroactively six months from the effective date of the ordinance approving ZCA 10-003. Portions of Chapter 17.32.150 related to DesignReviews, Chapter 17.60.100 related to Use Permits, and Chapter 17.64.120 related to Variances would be amended.

• Policy Matters: (1) Formation of Measure U Steering Committee, (2) Equipment for commercial air service, (3) Workplan, (4) Town Attorney selection committee. (5) General Fund Revenue Update.

• Consent Agenda: (1) Proclamation declaring October 2010 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, (2) Proclamation declaring World Polio Day on October 24, 2010, (3) Letter of support for the National Medal for Museum and Library Service, (4) Amendment to the MOU for the Mono County Collaborative Planning Team, (5) Request by Southern Edison Company for grant of utility easement across Town property to service the Mammoth Lakes Court House.

Hot Creek Oral Arguments

The oral arguments in the Hot Creek appeal will be held in Sacramento on Monday of next week. Town Attorney Peter Tracy and I will attend. The Town will be represented before the three judge panel by our special counsel Morrison & Foerster. Earlier in the year the Town completed its written briefing. That process was led by Morrison & Foerster, and peer reviewed by two experienced attorneys who try cases before the appeals court. The League of California Cities and California State Association of Counties filed a supporting brief which argued that the issues before the court are of statewide significance.

Town e-News Page 1 10/15/2010 Stuart Brown, Recreation Manager – (760) 934-8989 ext. 210 Outsourcing/Consolidation Study

Les White of Avery and Associates was in Town on Monday and Tuesday to conduct interviews regarding potential services that might be outsourced or consolidated to achieve efficiencies. Additional interviews will be conducted by phone. Avery will also compare our staffing levels and contract services with a representative sample of other jurisdictions. A written report with recommendations will be completed by December and presented to the Town Council by Mr. White either in late December or early January.

Lupe Almaguer Investigation

Mr. Lupe Almaguer of Mammoth Lakes was arrested on October 5, 2010, pursuant to an arrest warrant. He was arrested for crimes of sexual abuse against two children who were at one time in his care as a daycare provider. These two children are now adults. Mr. Almaguer was booked for 288 PC; Lewd and Lascivious Acts with a Child under 14 at Mono County Jail with a bail of $100,000.00. The Mammoth Lakes Police Department and the Mono County District Attorney’s Office are still in the process of completing our investigation and we will not discuss publicly at this time any results or conclusions derived from our efforts. Mr. Almaguer, the public, and concerned parents deserve a comprehensive investigation that is focused on finding the truth and achieving justice. If you are a member of the media or a concerned citizen interested in Mr. Almaguer’s case, please contact investigator Wade McCammond at the Mono County District Attorney’s Office, (760) 932-5553, [email protected]. If you are a concerned parent who has, or has had, a child or children stay at Mr. Almaguer’s daycare facility, we strongly ask that you do the following:

1. DO NOT question or interview your child or children regarding anything involving their time at Mr. Almaguer’s daycare facility, and

2. Immediately contact investigator Wade McCammond at the Mono County District Attorney’s Office, 760-932-5553, [email protected].

Resident Vacation Checks

Mammoth Lakes Police Department reminds citizens and business owners that officers can conduct special checks on private property while owners are out of town for extended periods of time. Stop by the Police Department, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and speak to Community Service Officer Kari Orr, or phone her during the same hours at (760) 934-2011 ext. 83. She will be happy to take information from you about your home or business. Please make sure to provide the dates you will be out of town and emergency contact information in case we do spot a problem on your property. We recommend a local contact name and number as well, such as a neighbor or employee who has a key and alarm codes if necessary. While you are away, officers will make periodic checks whenever possible.

Calls for Service/Officer Observations

154, including 0 business/building checks

Crime/Incident Reports

29 reports, including 9 arrests

Town e-News Page 2 10/15/2010 Stuart Brown, Recreation Manager – (760) 934-8989 ext. 210 Traffic Stops/Citations/Traffic Collisions

45 stops; 5 citations; 3 parking citations; 0 skate park citations; 0 collisions

Animal Control Incidents

3 incidents; 0 reports

Wildlife Calls/Reports

10 calls; 2 reports

Community Development

Planning Commission Meeting Update – Oct. 13

• The Commission awarded a Certificate of Appreciation to Rafters Restaurant and Lodge for Exemplary Renovation of a Commercial Project. • Received a presentation by ORMAT on the Mammoth Geothermal Development Project. • Received a Transit Service Progress Report presented by MMSA, TML and ESTA. • Received the Special Event Permit Report. • Prepared for a future joint Town Council and Planning Commission meeting. • Discussed the Planning Commission November and December holiday meeting schedule.

Whitmore Track Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Available for Public Review!

The Whitmore Park Track and Sports Field Project (“Project”) is proposed within the Whitmore Regional Park on Benton Crossing Road in Mono County. The Project includes a high performance, all-weather track and field facility and associated amenities, including a concessions building, terraced seating, a covered pavilion, walkways and plaza, fitness trails, workout stations, landscaping, and surface parking. The Town Council authorized Town staff to support the development of the Project with the High Sierra Striders in March 2010.

The required CEQA review, an Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND), is available for public review from October 16 to November 15, 2010 at 5:00 p.m. Copies of the IS/MND are available for review at the Town of Mammoth Lakes Community Development Department, 437 Old Mammoth Road, Suite R, Mammoth Lakes, California, and on-line at www.ci.mammoth-lakes.ca.us/index.aspx?nid=363. Please mail, fax, or email your written comments to Ms. Jen Daugherty, Associate Planner, Town of Mammoth Lakes, P.O. Box 1609, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546; Fax: (760) 934-8608; or E-mail: [email protected].

The Town and High Sierra Striders are continuing to work with Mono County on processing the use permit application for this Project. We are also continuing to work with the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) to amend the Town’s existing lease or execute a new lease that will reflect the proposed Whitmore Track Project. If you have questions, please contact Jen Daugherty, Associate Planner at 760-934-8989 ext. 260 or at [email protected].

Town e-News Page 3 10/15/2010 Stuart Brown, Recreation Manager – (760) 934-8989 ext. 210 Zoning Code Update Listening Sessions - We Want to Hear From You!

The Planning Commission Zoning Code Update Committee (Tony Barrett and Jay Deinken) and Community Development staff will be attending several meetings in October to listen to your ideas about how the Zoning Code can be improved and what will make this Update successful. Here is the current schedule of meetings that they plan to attend:

• Advocates - Wednesday, October 20, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. in TOML Main Conference Room • The Future of Mammoth - Thursday, October 21, 2010 @ 6:00 p.m. at the Mammoth Lakes Art Center • Chamber Luncheon - Tuesday, October 26, 2010 @ 12:00 p.m. at Whiskey Creek • Lodging Association – Tuesday, October 26, 2010 at 3:00 p.m. at Mammoth Lakes Tourism Conference room • Sunrise Rotary - Wednesday, October 27, 2010 @ 7:00 a.m. at Ski Museum • Village Association – TBD • Board of Realtors – TBD

Please check the Town’s website for information on upcoming community workshops and listening sessions. If you would like to meet with us, or if you have questions, please contact Sandra Moberly, Senior Planner at 760-934-8989 ext. 251.

Public Hearing on Medical Marijuana Cooperative Use Permit Applications

On Wednesday, October 27, 2010 starting at 9:00 a.m., the Planning Commission will hold public hearing(s) on Medical Marijuana Cooperative use permit applications. If you have questions, please contact Sandra Moberly, Senior Planner at 760-934- 8989 ext. 251.

Thank You Workshop Participants! Mammoth Lakes Basin Special Study (LABSS)

The second LABSS collaborative public workshop was held on Thursday, October 14th at the Westin Monache. The focus of the “Management of the Mammoth Lakes Basin –Challenges and Opportunities” workshop was to identity the top ten management challenges in the study area; participants were asked to identify solutions to address these management challenges.

The Town of Mammoth Lakes and INF, along with partner organizations, are seeking input from the public that will inform future management decisions in the Mammoth Lakes Basin. The next opportunities to get involved, provide input, and participate are:

1. Attend a series of collaborative public meetings either in-person or on the web! • Thursday, October 28th: “Lakes Basin Mobility & Transportation” 5:30 – 8:30 pm, Westin Monache

To attend the meetings in person, please e-mail your name to [email protected] or call MLTPA at (760) 934-3154. To participate online via webinar, register at www.mltpa.org.

Visit the blog at www.labss.wordpress.com to share Lakes Basin impressions and suggestions through a variety of discussion topics.

Town e-News Page 4 10/15/2010 Stuart Brown, Recreation Manager – (760) 934-8989 ext. 210 Lake Mary Road Bike Path Update

The Lake Mary Multiuse Path (Lakes Basin Path) is a 5.3 mile Class 1 Bike Path that when completed begins in Town at the Lake Mary/Minaret Road intersection and ends at Horseshoe Lake. The contractor is working on the upper section between the Upper Twin Lake and Horseshoe Lake. The paving of the path has been completed in the upper basin. Work is continuing on shoulders, guard rail, signs, and clean-up. It is anticipated that the only remaining work to be completed in the summer of 2011 is pavement sealing and stripping. Funding for this project includes ARRA, STIP, TE, and local DIF funds.

Lake Mary Road Bike Path Completion Project

The Lake Mary Multiuse Bike Path Completion Project will complete a gap in the bike path system between Lower Twin Lake and the Twin Lakes Store. The project consists of a new bridge at Mammoth Creek, an under crossing at Twin Lake Loop Road, and 3,000 feet of Class 1 Bike Path. Town staff will assist the U.S. Forest Service in management of this contract. Work has begun and Lake Mary Road is closed just beyond Twin Lake Loop Road. There is a sign detour around the work area to provide access to Horseshoe Lake. For information of this section of path please contact Nancy Upham of the U.S. Forest Service at (760) 873-2427. Funding for this project is from ARRA, local DIF, and Measure R funds.

Town Road Rehabilitation

The Sherwin Road Maintenance Project has been completed. The Sherwin Creek Road will be maintained year-round up to the Turner Propane Tank Farm. There is limited parking at the end of the road similar to last year’s parking situation. Funding for this project is from Local General and Gas Tax funds and Turner Propane.

Community Center Park Playground Project

Construction of the new playground and walkway is nearly complete and all work is expected to be completed by the end of October. This project was funded by Measure R and General Funds.

Twin Lakes Trail Head Project

Construction of the new parking and staging area at the Lower Twin Lake Vista is underway. Concrete work is expected to begin next week including curb and gutter, sidewalk, signage areas, and space for a bus shelter that will be constructed by the Lake Mary Road Bike Lake Completion Project. Work will continue on this project as long as weather permits. Funding for this project is from ARRA and local state bicycle funds.

Ice Rink and Multiuse Facility Fencing Project

Work began this week on the Ice Rink and Multiuse Facility Fencing Project. The chain link fence will be constructed around the perimeter of the facility for site security and safety. Work will be completed by the first week of November. This project was funded by Measure R and General Funds.

Town e-News Page 5 10/15/2010 Stuart Brown, Recreation Manager – (760) 934-8989 ext. 210 Community News

Kit Mullen Named as Interim Supervisor

Regional Forester Randy Moore has announced that Kit Mullen will be the Interim or Acting Forest Supervisor for the Inyo National Forest, after the recent departure of Supervisor Jim Upchurch. Kit is currently the District Ranger for the Hat Creek District of the Lassen National Forest in Northern California.

Kit comes to the Inyo with a wealth of experience and background that will serve her well in this temporary assignment. Graduating from Colorado State University with a degree in Wildlife Biology, Kit spent many years in a variety of jobs in the private sector including working on a cattle and horse ranch, as an instructor at Colorado Mountain College, as a guide for snowmobile tours and big game hunting, and as the director of the Alaska Zoo in Anchorage. She also lived for many years in Solo Creek in the Alaska bush, during which time she built her own log cabin, ran a team of sled dogs, maintained all her own equipment, and basically lived a subsistence lifestyle with a high dependence on wild renewable resources. Kit began her federal service career with the National Park Service working at such iconic national parks as Wrangell-St.Elias in Alaksa and Grand Teton in Wyoming. She then spent eight years as the Park Superintendent of Timpanogos Cave National Monument in Utah before coming to Hat Creek. It is anticipated that Kit will be Acting Forest Supervisor until a permanent replacement for Jim Upchurch is announced.

Inyo National Forest and BLM Plan Fall Prescribed Burn Projects

The Mammoth and Ranger Districts of the Inyo National Forest and the north zone for the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) - Bishop Field Office are planning to implement several prescribed fire projects for habitat improvement and hazardous fuels reduction in the upcoming fall and winter months. Smoke may be visible at times from Highways 395, 120 and 203 as well as from the communities of Mono City, Lee Vining, June Lake, Mammoth Lakes, and Topaz.

Prescribed fire projects are expected to begin in October with understory burning near Pilot , east of Hwy. 395 at Deadman Summit, along Road near Arcularius Ranch, and at Crestview Guard Station. Following the first fall snow storms, slash pile burning will be conducted, and is expected to continue into December or possibly January. Pile burning is planned on national forest lands in the June Fire area, in the vicinity of Pilot Spring, west of Hwy. 395 near the southern June Lake junction, north of Indiana Summit, and south of Arcularius Ranch. On BLM lands, slash pile burning is planned in Slinkard Valley near Topaz, CA. Prescribed burn operations will be conducted when weather and fuel conditions are within prescription to safely accomplish the project objectives. For more information, contact Sue Farley, Interagency Vegetation Management Planner at (760) 924-5535

Inyo National Forest Announces Special Fuelwood Sale for Whitney Portal Area

The Mount Whitney Ranger District of the Inyo National Forest is planning a special personal use fuelwood sale in the Whitney Portal Area beginning on October 20, 2010 A limited number of participants for this fuelwood event will be selected by lottery, since there is a very limited amount of wood available. Whitney Portal is normally closed to gathering personal use fuelwood, however specific areas within the drainage will be opened for fuelwood during this special event as wood becomes available from a fuels reduction project. A lottery will be used to determine who will be allowed to gather fuelwood in the area. Lottery entries will be accepted during the

Town e-News Page 6 10/15/2010 Stuart Brown, Recreation Manager – (760) 934-8989 ext. 210 period of October 13 through October 29. Fuelwood gathering may be allowed in this area after the close of fuelwood season on the rest of the Inyo National Forest, weather permitting. For additional information, please contact the project leader, Rick Napoles, by email at [email protected] or by phone at (760) 876-6205.

Disabled Sports Announces Island Extravaganza – Dec. 11

Disabled Sports Eastern Sierra is excited to announce that Island Extravaganza, the nonprofit’s largest fundraiser, will take place at Canyon Lodge on Saturday, December 11, 2010 from 6:00 -11:00 p.m. Join Disabled Sports for an island- themed evening complete with dinner, live music, raffle and silent auction. Highlights of this year’s silent auction include a season pass courtesy of The Local Book. The grand raffle prize is a tropical island vacation for two! Help support Disabled Sports’ fundraising efforts while enjoying a night of dinner and live music with raffle and silent auction. Event tickets are $55 each and include dinner, live music, and a raffle ticket. Additional raffle tickets are five for $20 or one for $5 and you don’t need to be present to win. For more information or to purchase your Island Extravaganza event and raffle tickets call (760) 934-0791. Tickets are also available at the Java Joint, Booky Joint and Second Chance Thrift Shop in Mammoth or at the Disabled Sports office at Mammoth Mountain Ski Area.

Recreation Highlights

Recreation Wants to Hear From You!

The Recreation Department would still like to hear what you have to say about our service, programs and parks/facilities. If you participated in one of our summer programs this year or enjoyed one of our parks or facilities, please take the time to complete the Customer Satisfaction Survey and as a thank you, we will randomly draw two (2) Summer Camps of your choice and one (1) 2011 Whitmore Pool Family Pass. Customer Satisfaction Survey’s are available online at: www.townofmammothlakes.com or for collection from the Recreation office located in the Minaret Village Mall, above Giovanni’s. Please call (760) 934-8989 ext. 222 for additional information. We look forward to hearing from you!

ESV’s Final Ride of the Season – Oct. 16

Last Call…to sign up for this Saturday’s (Oct. 16) Benton Hot Springs Ride. The weather forecast looks to be awesome. Here’s the skinny: Meet in Benton at 10:15 a.m. - Ride Leaves at 10:30 a.m. Optional Saturday night camping at the Springs! Meet at the Ida May park which is on Hwy 120 approx. a half mile west of Hwy 6 in Benton. After the ride make your way to the Benton Hot Springs campground about 3 miles west from the park on Hwy 120. If you can join the after-ride festivities, please bring something for yourself to BBQ and a side dish to share, everything else will be provided. The ride will be an out-and-back from the hot springs to Wildrose, which is approx. 25 miles including some climbing, or to the top of Waterson summit, a 40 mile ride. There will be a support station at the top of Wildrose. Options will include staying overnight after the ride at Benton Hot Springs as well as simply having a hot soak after lunch at the hot springs. Jan and Scott Busby are our hosts ([email protected]). If you plan on camping that night at the hot springs, there will be a $10 per/person charge. Camping sites are limited, so please let Scott & Jan know if you will be staying Saturday evening. If you would just like to soak

Town e-News Page 7 10/15/2010 Stuart Brown, Recreation Manager – (760) 934-8989 ext. 210 after the ride, and not camp, we'd appreciate a $5 donation towards the cost of the event. Please RSVP through www.eastisdevelo.org. or e-mail Scott & Jan.

Measure R Fall Funding Presentations – Oct. 19

The 4th funding cycle for Measure R closed on Friday, October 8, 2010 at 5:00 p.m. Fourteen Measure R applications were received for a total request of $2,218,762.92. Each applicant will have the opportunity to present their project/service to the Recreation Commission on Tuesday, October 19, 2010 in Suite Z beginning at 4:00 p.m. Visit the Measure R page online under “Recreation Department” on www.townofmammothlakes.com to view your projects order of presentation to the Recreation Commission. Each applicant will have a maximum of 10 minutes, with 5 minutes of follow-up questions by the Commission. Please contact Stuart Brown, Recreation Manager at (760) 934-8989 ext. 210 for additional information about the 2010 Measure R Fall Funding cycle.

Missoula Children's Theatre – Oct. 25

Children Kindergarten through 12th grade are invited to audition for “The Princess and the Pea”, a week-long theater workshop presented by Missoula Children’s Theatre. Mono Council for the Arts presents this Free Workshop with funding from the California Arts Council and the Department of Justice Music Grant. Auditions will be Monday, October 25, from 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. in the Mammoth Elementary School Multi Purpose Room. Rehearsals are Monday, October 25, 2010 between 5:30 – 7:30 p.m., and Tuesday–Friday, October 26–29, 2010 from 3:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. (there will be a ½ hour snack break at 5:00 p.m.). Performances will be Saturday, October 30, 2010 at 3:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. at the Mammoth Lakes Arts Center. Admission- adults $10.00, children and seniors $5.00

Halloween Carnival & Haunted House – Oct. 29

The Town of Mammoth Lakes Recreation Department in partnership with The Village at Mammoth is hosting the annual Halloween Carnival and legendary Haunted House on Friday, October 29, 2010. Admission is FREE and game tickets are only 50 cents or purchase the all access $20 wrist band. The festivities get underway at 6:00 p.m. and conclude at 9:00 p.m. All carnival proceeds support the Town of Mammoth Lakes Recreation Department programs. Enter if you dare! Call (760) 934-8989 ext. 222 for all the spooky details!

“Hot Shots” Co-ed Basketball League – Oct. 31

Register your 3rd through 5th grade student for “Hot Shots.” This Co-ed basketball league will improve their basic basketball techniques including: shooting, dribbling, passing, offense, defense, and the rules. Parents are actively involved as coaches, scorekeepers or referees. Come one, come all! Play begins in November so please register by October 31, 2010 at the Recreation Department office located above Giovanni’s. Cost is only $30 per player.

Projected Average Resort Occupancy

Friday, October 15 - Saturday, October 16 = 22% Sunday, October 17 - Thursday, October 21 = 13%

Twitter

Follow ‘TownofMammoth’ daily on Twitter at www.ci.mammoth-lakes.ca.us. Town e-News Page 8 10/15/2010 Stuart Brown, Recreation Manager – (760) 934-8989 ext. 210 Public Service Announcements

Lake Mary Road Temporarily Closed to All Access

From October 4, 2010 through November 7, 2010, the Lake Mary Road will be temporarily closed to all access from the northern intersection with the Twin Lakes Loop Road to the southern intersection with Twin Lakes Loop Road. Access to the Lakes Basin will still be available by either Old Mammoth Road or Twin Lakes Loop Road.

This portion of the Lake Mary Road will be closed for the construction of a bike and pedestrian underpass, part of the Lake Mary bike path development project. When completed, the Lakes Basin Path will run from the intersection of Lake Mary Road and Minaret Road to Horseshoe Lake. The Lakes Basin Path also includes a trail bridge over Mammoth Creek below the Twin Lakes highway bridge, a number of bus shelters, bus pullouts, connector trails, and an overlook. This project is funded under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). For further information regarding the temporary road closure or scope of work, contact Jon Kazmierski, Recreation Officer for the Mammoth and Mono Lake Ranger Districts, at (760) 924- 5503 or [email protected].

Winter Air Service Schedules to Resume Dec. 16

More accessible than ever before, this winter travelers to Mammoth Lakes now features direct flights from two major national hubs: San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), plus routes from San Jose International Airport (SJC) and Portland International Airport (PDX).

United Airlines is offering San Francisco Bay Area residents convenient access to one of the country’s top year-round mountain resorts with new non-stop service from San Francisco International Airport to Mammoth Yosemite Airport. Flights will be operated by United Express carrier SkyWest Airlines, using 66-seat CRJ700 regional jets. Flights start at $188 round-trip (restrictions, taxes and fees apply).

Horizon Air will be offering twice daily nonstop from Los Angeles, daily nonstop service from San Jose and direct (same-plane, one-stop) service from Portland. Horizon will operate all flights to Mammoth with 76-seat Bombardier Q400s. This high-speed, twin-engine turboprop is one of the most technologically advanced regional aircraft in the world. It's as quiet and comfortable as a jet – thanks to special technology that suppresses noise and vibration, generously sized overhead storage bins, unobstructed under-seat space, and ample headroom (6 feet, 5 inches). The Q400 is also among the most environmentally friendly aircraft today, burning 30 percent to 40 percent less fuel and producing an equally lower amount of emissions (and 10 decibels less noise) than comparable jets. Prices begin at $59 each way from San Jose and Los Angeles, and $109 each way from Portland (restrictions, taxes and fees apply).

All winter seasonal flights will run from December 16, 2010 to April 24, 2011.

Fuel Reduction Project to Begin in Shady Rest

Starting in early October members of the Mammoth Lakes Fire Department and Cal- Fire crews will be doing a large fuel reduction project in the Shady Rest parcel. This approximately 25 acre parcel is located in the general area south of Center Street and east of Manzanita Drive. This is an extreme fire danger area, and of concern for public safety. The area is overgrown with trees and brush, and full of debris and Town e-News Page 9 10/15/2010 Stuart Brown, Recreation Manager – (760) 934-8989 ext. 210 garbage. People hangout and party in this area, we have found campfires, discarded cigarettes, and even make-shift shelters. If a fire were to start it could quickly gain momentum and threaten surrounding neighborhoods.

The Town of Mammoth Lakes and Mammoth Fire have been working closely with the firm that represents the investors in this property. Because this area is a serious threat to the whole community, the Town and Mammoth Lakes Fire, along with the owners, will be expending funds for the clean-up. By using Cal-Fire crews we can do this using the least expensive method possible. For the next several weeks you will see crews working in this area. They will be running equipment and falling trees, so please stay clear. We will work within 150' of the property boundaries over the next month. In the spring we will come back and clean the interior portions after completing the environmental study requirements. If you have any questions please contact Mammoth Fire Department at (760) 934-2300.

Reds Meadow Fee Change Implementation

The Inyo National Forest has implemented a change in the fee program for Reds Meadow Valley. Beginning Thursday, September 9, 2010 the expanded amenity fee of $7/adult and $4/child has changed to a standard amenity fee of $10 per vehicle for a day pass. In addition to the day pass, the proposal includes a 3-day pass for $20 per vehicle and a season pass for $35 per vehicle. All three passes will also be accepted at the other Inyo National Forest day use fee sites: South Tufa in the Mono Basin National Forest Scenic Area and Schulman Grove in the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest. The national Interagency Recreation Annual, Senior, and Access Passes will also be accepted. For further questions regarding the fee change, please contact Jon Kazmierski, recreation officer for the Mammoth Lakes and Mono Lake Ranger Districts, at (760) 924-5503 or [email protected]

This fee change is the result of a proposal that received public comment in 2009 and was approved by the California Recreation Resource Advisory Committee (RRAC) and the U.S. Forest Service over the summer of 2010. The “expanded amenity” fee that has been in place as a way to pay for costs of operating the mandatory shuttle bus will now be replaced with a “standard amenity” fee that will be used to make improvements to visitor facilities and services in the Valley. This is a significant change that will result in improved public services and enable the Forest Service to address critical maintenance needs in the Valley.

Hantavirus Precautions

Dr. Rick Johnson, Public Health Officer for Mono County, announced on August 12, 2010 that a 61 year old male has died from a probable hantavirus cardiopulmonary infection. The individual was a seasonal worker in Bodie and had been sick with a flu- like illness for about 4 days. After presenting to Mammoth Hospital he was quickly flown to Reno where he died. Since there have been no reports of influenza in recent weeks, hantavirus needs to be considered in anyone with a serious “influenza-like illness”, which includes fever, body and muscle aches, headache, cough, or respiratory difficulty.

Since 1993, when the disease was first recognized in the , the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed 534 cases of HPS in 31 states; 36% of the cases were fatal. California has documented over 40 cases, and in many of these, exposure has been in the Eastern Sierra counties. If confirmed, this would be the third case occurring in the Eastern Sierra this summer – one in Mono County, and one in Inyo County. Both survived.

Town e-News Page 10 10/15/2010 Stuart Brown, Recreation Manager – (760) 934-8989 ext. 210

Rodents, particularly the deer mouse, carry the virus that causes HPS, which is typically spread to humans when infectious material from rodents is inhaled. This occurs when fresh droppings, urine, saliva, or nesting materials are disturbed and the air becomes contaminated with the virus. Hantaviruses can live in the environment for 2-3 days at normal room temperature. The UV rays of sunlight will kill the virus. Transmission peaks during the spring and summer months. HPS in the United States cannot be transmitted from one person to another, nor from farm animals, dogs, cats, or rodents purchased at a pet store. Rodent control in and around the home remains the primary strategy for preventing hantavirus infection. Recommendations can be summed up as:

1. SEAL UP - Holes inside and outside the home to prevent entry by rodents. 2. TRAP UP - Trap rodents around the home to help reduce the population. 3. CLEAN UP - Urine and droppings, dead rodents or nests, cabins, barns, sheds, or other outbuildings, heavy rodent infestations, food sources and nesting sites

Mammoth Lakes Fire Department Reminder

The 2007 California Fire Code that was adopted by the Board of Commissioners in December 2007 included a provision that restricted the use of open-flame cooking devices (barbecues) on balconies/decks of apartment buildings, condominiums, and townhomes. The code also prohibited the use of propane cylinders greater in size than one pound.

At a meeting held on July 20, 2010, the Mammoth Lakes Fire Protection District Board amended two sections of Ordinance # 08-01. The sections are 308.3.1 Use of Open-Flame Cooking Devices and 308.3.1.1 Liquefied-Petroleum Gas-Fueled Cooking Devices. The new codes read as follows:

California Fire Code 308.3.1 (Use of Open-Flame Cooking Devices) Local Code Amendment:

Charcoal and wood BBQs are prohibited at all multifamily structures. Other open- flame cooking devices are permitted. This section does not apply to single family homes. Exception: Open-flame cooking devices are not permitted on any balconies/decks of mid rise or high rise structures (structures 4 stories and greater in height).

California Fire Code 308.3.1.1 (Liquefied-Petroleum Gas-Fueled Cooking Devices) Local Code Amendment:

Permit the use of propane cylinders up to 5 gallons for use on decks/balconies of all structures up to three stories. A hard propane supply line stubbed through an exterior wall would be permitted with a 90 degree shutoff. Any propane cylinder with a capacity of greater than 2.5 pounds (less than one gallon) shall not be brought inside or pass through the structure for refilling or storage. These changes only apply to the area within the Mammoth Lakes Fire Protection District.

Leash Law Reminder

Mammoth residents and visitors are reminded that the Town has a leash law, and it is a violation of the ordinance to allow your dog to run loose off of your property. While recent budget cuts eliminated the Animal Control Officer position, the laws

Town e-News Page 11 10/15/2010 Stuart Brown, Recreation Manager – (760) 934-8989 ext. 210 pertaining to controlling your pets did not change, and you can still be cited by Mammoth Lakes Police Department officers if your dog is at large. The Police Department is currently receiving a large number of complaints from several neighborhoods, and will be targeting patrol time in those areas when possible to apprehend loose dogs and to cite their owners. In addition to the citation fine, you could also be charged boarding fees by Mono County Animal Control if we choose to impound your dog at the Whitmore Shelter.

At-large dogs are a traffic hazard, and even the most well behaved dog can bite if provoked. If your loose animal causes a traffic collision or injures/bites someone, you would likely be liable for damages, which could add up to thousands of dollars. Please respect your neighbors, AND your pet and obey the leash law.

The Recreation Department Has Moved!

The Town of Mammoth Lakes Recreation Department is now located in the Town Offices (Minaret Village Mall) above Giovanni’s. All the relevant contact information can be found on the new Town website or call (760) 934-8989 ext. 222. Let us entertain your kids this summer with an exciting and expanding line-up of Summer Camps and programs for all ages. We’ll see you in our parks, on our trails or at the pool!

Scenic Loop Reconstruction and Bike Lane Project

The deteriorating Mammoth Scenic Loop will be reconstructed this summer/fall with a $7.5 million grant that will result in improved drainage, 11 foot wide travel lanes and 5 foot wide bike lanes. The road will also be widened near the snow play area to enhance the safety and recreation experience for both residents and visitors. The work project began Wednesday, June 23, 2010 and will require a road closure from SR 203 to the Inyo Craters Road until the end of August 2010. The road closure will then be from Inyo Craters Road to Hwy. 395. Access to the Inyo Craters Road will be provided initially from Hwy. 395 and in September from SR 203. All work is expected to be completed by the end of November 2010.

Traffic Talk in Mammoth Times

Look for “Traffic Talk” in the Mammoth Times. It’s a new column written by Mammoth Lakes Police Department Traffic Officer David Scobie. Officer Scobie will be answering questions about traffic laws, driver’s license requirements, vehicle equipment rules and other related topics. To submit a question to Officer Scobie, contact him at [email protected].

Salvation Army Opens Food Pantry

The Salvation Army with support from the Church on the Mountain has opened a food pantry and service extension at 220 Sierra Manor Road next to the office of Higerd Plumbing. The facility is a food pantry – not a thrift store – and accepts food and cash donations but not clothing or household items. Please take those donations to the Cast-Off, 2nd Chance – DSES thrift store in the Mammoth Mall, or the Salvation Army Thrift Store in Bishop. The Food Pantry is open Monday and Wednesday from 2:00 – 5:00 p.m., and Saturday from 12:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Town e-News Page 12 10/15/2010 Stuart Brown, Recreation Manager – (760) 934-8989 ext. 210 Mammoth Lakes Chamber Launches The Mammoth PowderGuide

The Mammoth PowderGuide is the official iPhone app of The Mammoth Lakes Chamber of Commerce. Developed by PowderNation the Mammoth PowderGuide gives you the latest up to the minute information about weather and conditions, including restaurants, shopping, apres ski, and nightlife. The app will save you both time and money with exclusive deals, GPS guided directions, and one touch dialing. Download the iPhone / iTouch App today from iTunes. Local businesses are encouraged to submit their details, contact numbers and special offers to the Mammoth Lakes Chamber of Commerce.

Town Outdoor Lighting Ordinance

In 2003, the Town implemented an outdoor lighting ordinance to eliminate light pollution and preserve views of our starry skies. The outdoor lighting ordinance was adopted to encourage residents to administer a lighting system that not only promotes public safety and night-time ambiance but to maximize energy conservation. To eliminate glare and light trespass into neighboring properties and roadways, the outdoor lighting fixtures on your property should be shielded and re- directed to shine downward or changed out to a lower wattage. More information about responsible lighting can be found at www.crlaction.org.

Town e-News Page 13 10/15/2010