April 6, 2021
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Board Meeting Packet SPECIAL NOTICE REGARDING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AT THE EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING SCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2021 at 1:00 pm
Pursuant to Governor Newsom’s Executive Order No. N-29-20 and the Alameda County Health Officer’s Shelter in Place Orders, the East Bay Regional Park District Headquarters will not be open to the public and the Board of Directors and staff will be participating in the Board meetings via phone/video conferencing.
Members of the public can listen and view the meeting in the following way: Via the Park District’s live video stream which can be found at https://youtu.be/f4ioV7Ed1F8
Public comments may be submitted one of three ways:
1. Via email to Yolande Barial Knight, Clerk of the Board, at [email protected]. Email must contain in the subject line public comments – not on the agenda or public comments – agenda item #. It is preferred that these written comments be submitted by Monday, April 5, 2021 at 3:00 pm.
2. Via voicemail at (510) 544-2016. The caller must start the message by stating public comments – not on the agenda or public comments – agenda item # followed by their name and place of residence, followed by their comments. It is preferred that these voicemail comments be submitted by Monday, April 5, 2021 at 3:00 pm.
3. Live via zoom. If you would like to make a live public comment during the meeting this option is available through the virtual meeting platform: *Note: this virtual meeting platform link will let you into the https://zoom.us/j/99857174781 virtual meeting for the purpose of providing a public comment. If you do not intend to make a public comment please use the YouTube link at: https://youtu.be/f4ioV7Ed1F8 to observe the meeting. It is preferred that those requesting to speak during the meeting contact the Clerk of the Board at [email protected] by 3:00 pm on Monday, April 5, 2021 via email or voicemail (510) 544-2016 to provide name and the subject of the public comment or item to be addressed.
Comments received during the meeting and up until the public comment period on the relevant agenda item is closed, will be provided in writing to the Board of Directors, included transcribed voicemails. All comments received by the close of the public comment period will be available after the meeting as supplemental materials and will become part of the official meeting record. If you have any questions please contact Yolande Barial Knight, Clerk of the Board, at [email protected] or (510) 544-2020. Clerk of the Board YOLANDE BARIAL KNIGHT (510) 544-2020 PH MEMO to the BOARD OF DIRECTORS (510) 569-1417 FAX EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
East Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors
DEE ROSARIO The Regular Session of the TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2021 President - Ward 2 Board Meeting is scheduled to commence via teleconference at 1:00 p.m. COLIN COFFEY Vice President - Ward 7 Park District’s live video stream can be found at: BEVERLY LANE https://youtu.be/f4ioV7Ed1F8 Treasurer - Ward 6 DENNIS WAESPI Secretary - Ward 3 ELIZABETH ECHOLS Respectfully submitted, Ward 1 ELLEN CORBETT SABRINA B. LANDRETH Ward 4 General Manager AYN WIESKAMP Ward 5 SABRINA B. LANDRETH General Manager
2950 Peralta Oaks Court Oakland, CA 94605-0381 (888) 327-2757 MAIN (510) 633-0460 TDD (510) 635-5502 FAX ebparks.org
3 AGENDA
REGULAR MEETING OF APRIL 6, 2021 BOARD OF DIRECTORS EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT The Board of Directors of 11:00 a.m. ROLL CALL (Virtual) the East Bay Regional Park District will hold a regular PUBLIC COMMENTS meeting virtually, commencing at 11:00 a.m. for Closed CLOSED SESSION Session and 1:00 pm for Open Session on Tuesday, April 6, 2021. Video Stream at: A. Conference with Labor Negotiator: Government Code Section 54957.6 https://youtu.be/f4ioV7Ed1F8 Agenda for the meeting is 1. Agency Negotiators: Sabrina B. Landreth, Ana M. Alvarez, listed adjacent. Times for Allyson Cook, Eddie Kriesberg agenda items are approximate Employee Organizations: AFSCME Local 2428, only and are subject to change Police Association during the meeting. If you wish Unrepresented Employees: Managers, Confidentials and Seasonals to speak on matters not on the agenda, you may do so under Public Comments at the beginning of the agenda. If you wish to comment on an item 1:00 p.m. OPEN SESSION (Virtual) on the agenda, please send an email to [email protected] PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE before 3:00 pm, Monday, April 5, 2021. A. APPROVAL OF AGENDA A copy of the background materials concerning these B. PUBLIC COMMENTS agenda items, including any material that may have been Public comments may be submitted one of three ways: submitted less than 72 hours before the meeting, is available for inspection on the District’s 1. to Yolande Barial Knight, Clerk of the Board, at [email protected] . Via email website (www.ebparks.org). Email must contain in the subject line public comments – not on the agenda or public comments – agenda item #. It is preferred that these written comments Agendas for Board Committee be submitted by Monday, April 5, 2021 at 3:00 pm. Meetings are available to the 2. Via voicemail at (510) 544-2016. The caller must start the message by stating public upon request. If you wish to be placed on the mailing list public comments – not on the agenda or public comments – agenda item to receive future agendas for a # followed by their name and place of residence, followed by their comments. It is specific Board Committee, preferred that these voicemail comments be submitted by Monday, April 5, 2021 at please call the Clerk of the 3:00 pm. Board’s Office at (510) 544- 3. Live via zoom. If you would like to make a live public comment during the meeting 2020. this option is available through the virtual meeting platform: District facilities and meetings https://zoom.us/j/9985717478 *Note that this virtual meeting platform link will let you comply with the Americans with into the virtual meeting for the purpose of providing a public comment. If you do Disabilities Act. If special not intend to make a public comment please use the YouTube link at: accommodations are needed for https://youtu.be/f4ioV7Ed1F8 to observe the meeting. It is preferred that those you to participate, please requesting to speak during the meeting contact the Clerk of the Board at contact the Clerk of the Board [email protected] by 3:00 pm on Monday, April 5, 2021 via email or voicemail as soon as possible, but preferably at least three (510) 544-2020 to provide name and the subject of the public comment or item to working days prior to the be addressed. meeting. 4 C. SPECIAL UPDATE
1. General Manager’s Update on the Status of the East Bay Regional Park District Emergency During the COVID-19 Pandemic and the Reoperation Plan for 2021.
1:30 p.m. D. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD
1. CONSENT CALENDAR
a. Approval of District Check Listing for the Period of February 15, 2021 Through February 28, 2021 (Auker/Landreth) (Resolution) (No Cost) b. Approval of the Minutes for the Board Meeting of March 16, 2021 (Barial Knight) (Resolution) (No Cost) c. Resolution to Support AB 1500 (Garcia D-Coachella) – Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparation, Flood Protection, Extreme Heat Mitigation and Workforce Development Bond Act of 2022 (Pfuehler/Landreth) (Resolution) (No Cost) d. Resolution Denouncing Racism, Xenophobia, and Violence Against Asians, Asian Americans, and Pacific Islanders and Reaffirming the East Bay Regional Park District’s Commitment to a Safe, Welcoming, and Inclusive Workplace and Park System (Rosario/Landreth) (Resolution) ( No Cost) e. Resolution Reaffirming the Existence of a Local East Bay Regional Park District Emergency (Landreth) (Resolution) (No Cost) f. Authorization of Adoption of Agreement for Participation in Alameda County Operational Area Emergency Management Organization (Love/Ciaburro) (Resolution) (No Cost) g. Authorization for Construction-Related PG&E Utility Payments and Associated Agreements for Two Projects: the Renovate Water Treatment System Project and the Develop Brickyard Cove Project: Del Valle Regional Park and McLaughlin Eastshore State Park Regional Shoreline (Goorjian/Kelchner) (Resolution) (Budgeted Funds) h. Authorization to Award a Contract to “Rootid Nonprofit Communications” for Custom Website Redesign and New Content Management System (Koh/Johnson) (Resolution) (Budgeted Funds) i. Authorization to Purchase One Bobcat Toolcat 5600 from the Bobcat Company as an Addition to the Fleet (McCrystle/O’Connor) (Resolution) (Budgeted Funds) j. Authorization to Purchase Three Ford Vehicles from Downtown Ford Sales for Public Safety Vehicle Replacements and Appropriate General Fund EBMUD/JPA Restricted Funds (McCrystle/O’Connor) (Resolution) (Budgeted Funds) k. Authorization to Amend a Contract for Services with Gray-Bowen-Scott for Active Transportation Program Grant Administration Services for the Pinole Shores to Bayfront Park Trail Segment: San Francisco Bay Trail (Dougan/Holt/Kelchner) (Resolution) (Budgeted Funds)
5 L. Acceptance of Completion of San Francisco Bay Trail: Pinole Shores to Bayfront Park Construction for the Active Transportation Program Grant from the California Department of Transportation: San Francisco Bay Trail (Dougan/Holt/Auker) (Resolution) ( Budgeted Funds) m. Authorization to Apply to the Association of Bay Area Governments for Grants from San Francisco Bay Trail Grant Program, District-wide (Hornbeck/Dougan/Auker) (Resolution) ( Rev Authorization) n. Authorization of Quagga/Zebra Mussel Infestation Prevention Grant Program Application and Funding Agreements: District-wide (Hornbeck/Patterson/Auker) (Resolution) (Rev Authorization)
2:00 p.m. 2. ACQUISITION, STEWARDSHIP AND DEVELOPMENT DIVISION
a. Authorization to Execute a Contract with Belfor Property Restoration and Degenkolb Engineers Inc.; Acceptance and Appropriation of a Partial Payment of Insurance Funds from PRISM; and Appropriate and Transfer Funds for the Response to Vasco Shop Fire Project: Vasco Hills Regional Preserve (Victor/Auker/Kelchner) (Resolution) (Budget Change)
2:15 p.m. 3. GENERAL MANAGER
a. Review of Park District Federal Priorities for 2021 in Preparation for Virtual Meetings with Federal Legislator (Pfuehler/Landreth)
2:30 p.m. 4. BOARD AND STAFF REPORTS
a. Actions Taken by Other Jurisdictions Affecting the Park District (Landreth)
2:45 p.m. 5. GENERAL MANAGER’S COMMENTS
STAFF PRESENTATION a. Assistant Finance Officer Michelle Strawson O’Hara will present an update on the Finance Department’s progress in transitioning to a remote working environment during the COVID-19 pandemic.
3:00 p.m. 6. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS
a. Finance Committee (2/26/2021) (Lane) b. Operations Committee (2/18/2021) (Corbett) c. Operations Committee (1/21/2021) (Corbett)
3:10 p.m. 7. ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM CLOSED SESSION
3:15 p.m. 8. BOARD COMMENTS
4:00 p.m. E. ADJOURNMENT
6 CONSENT CALENDAR AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
Tuesday, April 6, 2021
E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD
1. CONSENT CALENDAR
a. Approval of District Check Listing for the Period of February 15, 2021 Through February 28, 2021 (Auker/Landreth)
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Board of Directors approve the Check Listing for the period of February 15, 2021 through February 28, 2021.
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.
7 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
RESOLUTION NO.: 2021 – 04 -
April 6, 2021
APPROVAL OF DISTRICT CHECK LISTING FOR THE PERIOD OF FEBRUARY 15, 2021 THROUGH FEBRUARY 28, 2021
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 February 15, 2021 through February 28, 2021;
Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 6th day of April, 2021 by the following vote:
FOR:
AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:
8 AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
Tuesday, April 6, 2021
E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD
1. CONSENT CALENDAR
b. Approval of the Minutes for the Board Meeting of March 16, 2021 (Barial Knight)
9 Page Left Blank Intentionally
10 Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of March 16, 2021
The Board Meeting, which was held March 16, 2021 at East Bay Regional Park District, 2950 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland, CA 94605 called its Closed Session to order at 11:00 a.m. by Board President Dee Rosario.
ROLL CALL
Directors Present: Dee Rosario, President Colin Coffey, Vice President Dennis Waespi, Secretary Beverly Lane, Treasurer Ayn Wieskamp Elizabeth Echols Directors Absent: Ellen Corbett
The Open Session of the Board Meeting was called to order at 1:03 p.m. by President Rosario.
Staff Present: Sabrina Landreth, Carol Victor, Ana Alvarez, Debra Auker, Anthony Ciaburro, Jim O’Connor, Carol Johnson, Kristina Kelchner, Allison Picard, Allyson Cook, Jonathan Hobbs, Dave Mason, Lance Brede, Erich Pfuehler, Aileen Thiele, Tiffany Margulici, Kim Balingit, Alan Love, Michael Reeves, Mike Moran, Katy Hornbeck, Mary Mattingly, Richard Guest, Jim Tallerico, Matthew James, Sydney Erickson (PrimeGov) Guests: None.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
President Rosario asked Director Echols to lead the Board in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Echols announced that we are on the traditional lands of the Huichin people who spoke the Ohlone and Chochenyo languages and that this land was never lawfully ceded.
President Rosario opened the meeting and stated that consistent with Governor Gavin Newsom’s Executive Order N-25-20 issued on March 12, 2020 in response to the threat of COVID-19 and the Alameda County Health Department’s Order dated March 16, 2020, the Board of Directors may utilize teleconferencing to remotely participate in meetings. Clerk of the Board announced the three ways in which the public could participate in the meeting. President Rosario asked if the Board members had any questions about the meeting process. There were none.
Director Ellen Corbett is present in the meeting.
A. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
By motion of Director Lane, and seconded by Director Wieskamp, the Board voted unanimously to approve the agenda.
Directors Remote: Colin Coffey, Ellen Corbett, Elizabeth Echols, Beverly Lane, Dee Rosario, Dennis Waespi and Ayn Wieskamp. Directors Against: None. Directors Absent: None. 11 Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of March 16, 2021
B. WELCOME AND SWEARING-IN CEREMONY OF NEW GENERAL MANAGER: SABRINA B. LANDRETH
President Rosario performed the swearing in ceremony for the incoming General Manager Sabrina B. Landreth and welcomed her to the District. GM Landreth thanked the Board, the executive team and staff for welcoming her, for the suggestions, feedback and opinions she has received. Rosario stated that Landreth is the first women to take the helm of EBRPD.
C. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Clerk Knight announced that 17 e-mails were received from the public. William Yragui of Mission Peak Conservancy, Monica Melville, Unnati Khapre, Lawrence Edelson, Don Thompson, Dave Rich, Alicia Kealey, Donna Manha, Gayle Tupper, Heidi Wheeler, Randy Fewel, Kathleen Deck, Marisa Lyssand, Nina Stull, Sirena Lueker-Boden, Pamela Weiss Barr, Suzanne Naone and Shahab Khatib commented on the hard closure of the Pickering entrance to Vargas Plateau without any community input. The public asked that the Board consider reopening this entrance because it is the one neighbors have been using for years and because of safety concerns such as the inability of fire trucks and emergency vehicles to access the hillside and cattle could pose a danger or trap park visitors.
Clerk Knight read public e-mails into the record. Claire Linder expressed dismay that the restrooms and water fountains remained closed in many parks. Joan Schwab asked when the Dumbarton Quarry and Campground would open. Karen Weil and Rhonda Sarnoff asked that South Park Drive in Tilden Park remain closed.
Director Waespi commented that today’s questions were legitimate and access to parks is needed due to the 30% increase in park visitation because of COVID. Director Lane asked why the Pickering entrance was closed. Jim O'Connor, AGM of Operations replied the entrance at Pickering is not an official entrance and staff responded to neighbors’ request to reinforce the fencing at Pickering. Morrison Canyon is the official entrance according to the land use plan, but staff can take another look and report back to the Board. Director Wieskamp said the Fremont Park District Liaison Committee is meeting in spring and this could be an issue to talk about. Wieskamp requested that staff communicate with Joan Schwab who’s e-mail was read at this meeting.
D. SPECIAL UPDATE
1. Interim General Manager’s Update on the Status of the East Bay Regional Park District Emergency During the COVID-19 Pandemic.
General Manager Landreth gave a brief update and Jim O’Connor, AGM of Operations walked the Board through more specifics. GM Landreth stated that both Alameda and Contra Costa Counties have moved into the red tier. Landreth thanked Carol Victor, District Counsel who worked to have some of the District employees designated under state rule as emergency services employees which will allow them to register and receive their vaccines.
Landreth introduced AGM Jim O’Connor to continue the update. O’Connor’s presentation included highlights of the District’s comprehensive plan to reopen. Some camping and backpacking sites are reopening, Visitor Centers and indoor dining at our golf courses will reopen on April 1 with appropriate staffing at 25% capacity. Concessions are reopening soon at Tilden, Ardenwood, Miller Knox at 25% capacity with building entry protocols along with reservable facilities, day camps and outdoor recreation programs. The Volunteer Trails Safety Patrol (VTSP) will restart on April 2nd. 12 Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of March 16, 2021 Director Lane congratulated Operations on restarting the VTSP. President Rosario thanked Operations and acknowledged the work that has gone into the reopening plan.
E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD
1. CONSENT CALENDAR
By motion of Director Corbett, and seconded by Director Echols, the consent calendar was unanimously approved.
Directors For: Colin Coffey, Ellen Corbett, Elizabeth Echols, Beverly Lane, Dee Rosario, Dennis Waespi, Ayn Wieskamp. Directors Against: None. Directors Absent: None.
a. Approval of District Check Listing for the Period of February 1, 2021 Through February 14, 2021 Resolution No. 2021 – 03 - 058 (attached)
b. Approval of the Minutes for the Board Meeting of March 2, 2021
c. Approval of Reappointments and Appointment to the Park Advisory Committee Resolution No. 2021 – 02 - 059 (attached)
d. Authorization to Appoint Mr. Robert Kennedy as the Chief of Maintenance and Skilled Trades (MAST) at Step E of the Management Pay Range MG05: Operations Division, MAST Department Resolution No. 2021 – 02 - 060 (attached)
e. Resolution to Support AB 72 (Petrie-Norris D-Laguna Beach) – Coastal Adaptation Permitting Act Resolution No. 2021 – 02 - 061 (attached)
President Rosario supported this resolution and asked if a sponsor has been found for the upland part. Rosario stated he was aware the District has been lobbying with local electives to cut the green tape. Erich Pfuehler, Chief of Government Affairs replied staff met today with Asm. Eduardo Garcia's staff about the Cutting Green Tape initiative with regard to the tree mortality issue, and they will try to include it into the climate bond package. Pfuehler explained staff will have another conversation with some resources staff later today to discuss other options for sponsors. Rosario said this means a lot for not only the District, but other agencies.
f. Resolution to Support AB 391 (Villapudua D-Stockton) – Pollinator Habitat Grants Resolution No. 2021 – 02 - 062 (attached)
President Rosario said that if this goes forward the District can benefit directly. Staff are working on a resolution with Cal Fire with Save the Bees and the efforts to save the Monarch butterfly. Rosario suggested the District should provide programs for both and take advantage of some of these funds to do that.
g. Resolution to Support ACR 17 (Voepel R-Santee) – Special Districts Week in May Resolution No. 2021 – 02 - 063 (attached)
h. Resolution to Support H.R. 610 (Speier D-CA) – San Francisco Bay Restoration Act Resolution No. 2021 – 02 - 064 13 (attached) Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of March 16, 2021
i. Resolution to Support S. 91 (Sinema D-AZ) and H.R. 535 (Garamendi D-CA) – Special Districts Qualifying for Coronavirus Relief Fund Resolution No. 2021 – 02 - 065 (attached)
j. Resolution to Support SB 347 (Caballero D-Salinas) – California Tree Fund Resolution No. 2021 – 02 - 066 (attached)
k. Authorization to Purchase E-Citation Software and Handheld Printers from Crossroads Software, Inc. to Replace Obsolete Devices Resolution No. 2021 – 02 - 067 (attached)
L. Authorization to Apply to the California Coastal Conservancy for Grant Funds from the Explore the Coast Grant Program: District-wide Resolution No. 2021 – 02 - 068 (attached)
m. Make Findings Required by Government Code Section 51292 in Connection with the Park District’s Recent Acquisition of the Gherini Property, and Authorization to File Notices of Non-Renewal of Land Conservation Contracts with Alameda and Contra Costa Counties: Las Trampas Wilderness Regional Preserve Resolution No. 2021 – 02 - 069 (attached)
n. Authorization to Amend the 2020 Budget and Appropriate Funds for Costs Related to the November 3, 2020 General Election Resolution No. 2021 – 02 - 070 (attached)
Director Waespi had question about the difference in the Election costs between Alameda County $335,000 and Contra Costa County $140,000 asking about the ratio of how much we pay each county. Debra Auker, AGM of Finance and Management Services answered that the registrars break down the total costs by registered voter and parse it out by the different agencies that have items on the ballot. Auker said she will follow up with Director Waespi after the meeting.
President Rosario added that early in the year there was a robust discussion at the Alameda County Mayors Conference regarding the justification for the process and cost from the Alameda County Special Districts’ perspective.
o. Approval of Accounting Adjustments to Reflect the Disposal of Two Fixed Assets with a Book Value Over $25,000 Resolution No. 2021 – 02 - 071 (attached)
Director Waespi complimented staff for donating a 1997 Type 3 fire engine to the Mendocino Fire Department and auctioning a helicopter for $535,000. Waespi expressed his appreciation for this accounting adjustment. Items that couldn't be sold were recycled.
p. Acceptance of the East Bay Regional Park District Investment Report for the Quarter Ended December 31, 2020 Resolution No. 2021 – 02 - 072 (attached)
q. Authorization to Appropriate Funds and Award Contract to Terramark General Engineering Contractors Inc. for Lake Anza Access Improvements: Tilden Regional Park Resolution No. 2021 – 02 - 073 14 (attached) Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of March 16, 2021
Director Lane was pleased to see this project going forward because of the popularity of Lake Anza. This will allow wheelchairs by clearing a path and upgrade to whole access. Lane asked if AGM O’Connor might comment on the extent of this project. Jim O’Connor, AGM of Operations said that over the last 8 years MAST staff has done a great deal of ADA access upgrades to the swim facility itself in terms of the restrooms, the entrance grade, and an additional ADA parking lot. The ADA Transition Plan has been 20 years in the making.
r. Approval of the Recommendation for Anthony Chabot Equestrian Center Concession Request for Proposal Response and New Agreement: Anthony Chabot Regional Park Resolution No. 2021 – 02 - 074 (attached)
s. Approval of the Recommendation for Las Trampas Stables Concession Request for Proposal Response and New Agreement: Las Trampas Wilderness Regional Preserve Resolution No. 2021 – 02 - 075 (attached)
2. ACQUISITION, STEWARDSHIP AND DEVELOPMENT DIVISION
By motion of Director Lane, and seconded by Director Coffey, the Board voted unanimously to approve the Item 2a.
Directors Remote: Colin Coffey, Ellen Corbett, Elizabeth Echols, Beverly Lane, Dee Rosario, Dennis Waespi, Ayn Wieskamp. Directors Against: None. Directors Absent: None.
a. Authorization to Execute a 25-year Master License Agreement with Contra Costa County and Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District and to Execute a Separate Letter of Agreement with Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District to Collectively Allow the Park District to Continue to Operate 21 Miles of the Iron Horse Regional Trail Located within Contra Costa County: Iron Horse Regional Trail Resolution No. 2021 – 02 - 076 (attached)
Michael Reeves, Chief of Land Acquisition Department, gave a detailed presentation on the history of the Iron Horse Regional Trail (IHT) established along the former Southern Pacific railroad right of way. In 1986, the District began a program of developing the former railway right away into a regional trail connector. Today it extends 34 miles and is the subject of the new master license agreement which pertains to the 17- mile segment that runs from Pleasant Hill down to the Contra Costa Alameda County line. Reeves showed photos and provided a quick journey along the IHT, starting at the Contra Costa Alameda County border with images of all of the bridges in Walnut Creek, Oakley and Suisun Bay. Reeves concluded his remarks by acknowledging that it has taken many years. He expressed thanks to Linda Wu, Real Property Specialist Land Acquisition, for her work and staying the course.
Director Coffey questioned what type of property interests will have to be acquired to extend Iron Horse, down the Western side of Walnut Creek. Reeves replied that the Land department will go after these property interests and stitch together the right of way the District needs. Director Lane thanked staff for the presentation. She added that it is interesting to see the extent of the trail. Lane noted that the North end is one of the very expensive additions to make this trail work and extend it up to the Benicia Bridge.
15 Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of March 16, 2021 3. BOARD AND STAFF REPORTS a. Actions Taken by Other Jurisdictions Affecting the Park District Carol Victor, District Counsel presented the items in this report. Richmond City Council has authorized a one-year pilot safe program for the unsheltered community, but it will not move forward due to some neighborhood concerns. The city will continue to look for a suitable location for their state street program. Rosario asked where the two Park District sites were located. Brian Holt, Chief of Planning, GIS and Trails replied Councilmember Bates suggested the parking lot at Point Pinole and a bit of open space property just directly south of the parking lot at Point Pinole. Neither of these sites went very far in the evaluation because the District owns these sites.
The other item on this report is that the Alameda County Board of Supervisors approve their Aramis Project. Aramis is a solar energy and generation storage project located out at 4400 North Livermore Avenue near Livermore. This is a solar project that will have a maximum energy output of a hundred megawatts over a 410-acre site. Director Wieskamp said that she has problems with the Aramis Solar Project because they were supposed to develop a solar policy in the County which did not happen. Brian Holt sent a letter to the County about this project and the deficiencies as far as the Park District is concerned. As a part of LAFCo’s work plan, there is a concern with potential agricultural and open space being misused. Wieskamp would prefer to have a policy in place before giving approval on a project of this size.
Brian Holt, Chief of Planning, Trails and GIS shared a map to orient the board and staff to the location of the Aramis Project. There has been a long discussion on developing a solar policy for the County and the concern has been the aesthetics impacts, the potential biologic impacts and the piecemeal nature of these large utility scale projects moving forward, absent a larger policy for them from the County. Director Lane commented she had never seen an agricultural community as well organized because all of a sudden there are enormous signs in opposition to the 410 acres of solar panel project. Lane felt it was a very negative direction for people to be going with solar panels and it gobbles up the land in a way that's quite destructive. President Rosario agreed that some of the initial solar farms that were put in, in Southern California, haven't been managed well and they are falling apart. Building over existing infrastructure like parking lots is a much more viable use of the land versus taking up open space.
4. GENERAL MANAGER’S COMMENTS
General Manager Landreth said there are two items. One is the Interpretive and Recreation staff report of the programs and outreach from the last reporting period. The other item is the staff report from AGM of Public Affairs, Carol Johnson.
a. STAFF PRESENTATION
Carol Johnson, AGM of Public Affairs provided an extensive and detailed presentation on the Strategic Workplan for 2021. Johnson’s presentation included the following topics. The role of Public Affairs which includes to educate and inform about issues; news and events; preserve and enhance the District’s reputation; connect multi-cultural and economically disadvantaged communities with regional parks resources; and fundraise from private sources to benefit EBRPD. Public Affairs Initiatives of 2021 includes focused communication, messaging and education; strategic community engagement; multicultural outreach; COVID safety; fire preparedness and tree mortality; safe trail use and endangered species protection. Additional focused topics discussed are Signature and Wellness events for the year; website upgrade and transition of Park District website to a new content management system by December 2021. Exhibits to be completed are Del Valle Visitor Center; Sunol Visitor Center and to continue the Shadow Cliffs Interpretive Pavilion. Signage projects include updating information panels and new map templates for brochures and signage. Districtwide archives and history program; access/digital resources;16 collaboration and outreach; Regional Parks Foundation Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of March 16, 2021 initiatives include youth, senior and disabled programs; environmental conservation; campaigns such as, Initiate Capital Campaign for Tilden EEC & Jewel Lake, offer memberships at park kiosks; fund 10% net revenue for free park memberships to community nonprofit groups for black and brown families.
The Board congratulated AGM Johnson and her team on a great job. Director Waespi reminded Johnson that he would like to be a part of any ceremony when the Peace Pole is installed at Lake Chabot. AGM Johnson confirmed that Waespi is included and they are hoping that this relationship with the United Nations Peaceful Project will come to fruition this year. Director Lane acknowledged the struggle with the archives on storage space. Director Coffey inquired as to when the Ambassador program will begin. AGM Johnson said they are waiting for conditions to improve in the two counties. Director Echols gave a special thank you for getting the fund for Director Dotson. Johnson has been in touch with Jelani Dotson, his son, and they plan to meet soon. President Rosario said that he is excited about the toolkit that park supervisors can use to target their parks. He added that he is encouraged in the increase in multilingual signage. Rosario suggested that we add an acknowledgment of tribal land in each park on the website. Johnson said they can work with our interpretation folks on appropriate information.
Public Comment: Shahab Khatib commented the communication plan is impressive. His concern is that different parts of the Park District are doing different things that contradict each other. He added that the communication he receives in the San Jose Mercury encourages him to go to the park and yet at the same time people are being prohibited from entry. He commented on the closure of the Pickering entrance to Vargas Plateau.
5. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS
a. Legislative Committee (02/19/2021) (Wieskamp) b. Finance Committee (02/05/2021) (Lane) c. Executive Committee (01/20/2021) (Rosario) d. Finance Committee (11/23/2020) (Coffey)
6. ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM CLOSED SESSION
Interim General Manager Carol Victor stated were no announcements from closed session.
7. BOARD COMMENTS
Director Rosario reported on meetings attended. Director Rosario • Attended the EOC meetings; • Attended the Executive Committee meeting 3/4; • Attended the pre-workshop meeting with AGM Auker and DGM Alvarez 3/4; • Attended the Contra Costa County Mayor's Conference 3/4; • Attended the Board Workshop 3/5; • Attended 1-on-1 with GM Landreth 3/9; • Attended the Covid Taskforce 3/9; • Attended Bev Ortiz’s Zoom birthday party 3/10; • Attended the Regional Parks Foundation 3/11; • Attended the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion subcommittee meeting 3/11; • Attended the Alameda County Transportation Commission with Director Waespi, Erich Pfuehler 3/12; • Attended meetings with constituents 3/12 and 3/14; • Attended a pre-Board Workshop meeting with GM Landreth, District Counsel Carol Victor, and DGM Alvarez 3/15; 17 Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of March 16, 2021 • Attended a meeting with Government Affairs Pfuehler and Baldinger 3/15; • Attended the Oakland DD Coalition meeting evening 3/15. Rosario welcomed new General Manager Sabrina Landreth and thanked District Counsel Victor for being the Interim General Manager during the recruitment process and for doing an amazing job taking the helm. District Counsel thanked the Board for the beautiful floral arrangement.
Director Lane reported on meetings attended. Director Lane • Attended 1-on-1 with General Manager Landreth; • Attended the Dublin Liaison Committee meeting 3/9; • Attended the Contra Costa County Mayors Conference 3/4; • Attended the Board Workshop 3/5; • Attended the Roddy Ranch public meeting 3/11. Lane thought that it was probably time for the District to give a presentation to the CCC Mayors Conference and to introduce GM Landreth. She thanked AGM Kelchner and Brian Holt for their conversation regarding the proposed development next to Concord Hills Regional Park and the potential impacts to Concord and Pittsburg. Lane hiked Las Trampas and Sycamore Valley Open Space. She was pleased the Volunteer Trail Safety Patrol will be back in the park. Lane looks forward to the virtual Hike the Hill Conference. Lane thanked District Counsel Victor for the work she did doubling as Interim GM and Counsel.
Director Waespi reported on meetings attended. Director Waespi, • Attended a meeting with John Kaufman of Hills Conservancy 3/4; • Attended the Board Workshop 3/5; • Attended a Covid Task Force meeting; • Attended a meeting with Director Rosario, Government Affairs Pfuehler and Baldinger 3/15; • Attended the CARPD 3/15; • Attended a 1-on-1 hiking meeting at Roberts with GM Landreth on 3/17; • Attended the Alameda County Transportation Commission with Director Rosario and Erich Pfuehler 3/12. Waespi applauded the reoperation plan. Waespi hiked parks and met with two property owners about the Pickering entrance closure. This issue needs to be addressed because 30% more people are showing up from the neighborhood and the park is getting more crowded. Waespi thanked District Counsel Victor for doing a great job.
Director Wieskamp reported on meetings attended. Director Wieskamp • Attended the Board Workshop 3/5; • Attended the Dublin Liaison Committee meeting 3/9; • Attended City of Pleasanton’s meeting with the new mayor Carla Brown 3/9; • Attended the Alameda County Special Districts Association meeting 3/10; • Attending a special LAFCo meeting 3/11. Wieskamp thanked Brian Holt and his staff on their review of the Aramis solar project. Wieskamp hopes staff will continue to follow this project because there are lot of issues involved. Staff need to continue to ask Aramis to examine the issues that the District is concerned about. Wieskamp asked for an update from Operations on when the Vasco workshop will be rebuilt.
Director Echols reported on meetings attended. Director Echols • Attended the Alameda County Democratic Central Committee 3/3; • Attended the Board Workshop 3/5; • Attended the Alameda County Special Districts Association meeting 3/10; • Attended a meeting with the Sierra Club East Bay Public Lands Commission 3/10. Echols extended a warm welcome to GM Sabrina Landreth and a heartfelt thank you to District Counsel Victor for her work of holding down both jobs. Echols appreciated AGM O'Connor and his team on the re- 18 Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of March 16, 2021 opening of day camps, visitor centers, outdoor swim facilities and the reintroduction of the Volunteer Safety Patrol back into the parks. Echols and her daughter have been enjoying Tilden Park and Pt. Isabel. Echols acknowledged James Chang, her recent appointment to the PAC, who will add a lot of perspective and diversity to the PAC.
Director Coffey reported on meetings attended. Director Coffey • Attended the Board Workshop 3/5; • Attended the Executive Committee Meeting 3/4; • Attended the Contra Costa County Mayors Conference 3/4; • Attended the Contra Costa Watershed Forum 3/10; • Attended Assemblyman Frazier's staff meeting 3/11; • Attended a meeting with the Planning staff with Antioch Mayor and Vice Mayor; • Attended the Roddy Ranch Community outreach meeting 3/11; • Attended a 1-on-1 with GM Landreth 3/11; • Attended a town hall sponsored by Congressman McNerney; • Attended a pre board meeting with President Rosario 3/15. Coffey went Lone Tree to watch the cranes place the new bridge at on the San Pablo Bay Trail in Rodeo. He thanked Sean Dougan for letting him know about the timing of this work. Coffey expressed he was happy to renominate Elissa Robinson to the PAC and to nominate Marie Arce to the PAC. Each nominee contributes to the diversity we're seeking on that body.
Director Corbett had to leave the meeting for another appointment.
E. ADJOURNMENT
President Rosario adjourned by congratulating the new general manager Sabrina Landreth on her appointment and Carol Victor for acting as interim manager. Victor thanked the Board for their trust and confidence while she was interim general manager. President Rosario closed the meeting in honor of Carol Victor at 3:24 pm.
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20 AGENDA REGULAR MEETINGS BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
Tuesday, April 6, 2021
E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD
1. CONSENT CALENDAR
c. Resolution to Support AB 1500 (Garcia D-Coachella) – Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparation, Flood Protection, Extreme Heat Mitigation and Workforce Development Bond Act of 2022 (Pfuehler/Landreth)
RECOMMENDATION
The General Manager and the Legislative Committee of the Board recommend the Board of Directors adopt a resolution to support AB 1500 (Garcia D-Coachella) – Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparation, Flood Protection, Extreme Heat Mitigation and Workforce Development Bond Act of 2022.
REVENUE/COST
There would be no cost impact as a result of this action.
BACKGROUND
Assembly Member Eduardo Garcia (D-Coachella) and Assembly Member Kevin Mullin (D-South San Francisco) have introduced this $6.7 billion bond proposal. Chapter breakdowns are listed below. The District will benefit from the $1.1 billion in Chapter 2 for wildfire and forest health. There is also $150 million in Chapter 2 for a block grant program to cities, counties, districts and regional park entities aimed at improving climate resilience and promoting access for park users ($300,000 minimum award for regional entities – like the District – and counties). While this is a direct benefit, the District will continue to advocate for $500 million in this account. In Chapter 3, there is another important allocation of $1 billion to the State Coastal Conservancy. Of the total, $300 million is allocated to the San Francisco Bay Restoration Authority (Restoration Authority), yet only $10 million is allocated to the San Francisco Bay Area Conservancy Program (Bay Program). The Bay Program funding is much more flexible than the Restoration Authority. The District has historically benefitted much more from the Bay Program. The District and TOGETHER Bay Area are seeking equity in the distribution for the two programs and calling for $300 million to be allocated to the Bay Program. The Chapter breakdowns are as follows:
General Provisions (Chapter 1):
21 • At least 25% set aside for projects benefitting vulnerable populations, under-resourced or disadvantaged communities, with at least an additional 10% for severely disadvantaged communities • Up to 10% may be allocated for technical assistance and capacity building • Up to 5% for ongoing monitoring and scientific review • Allows advanced payments to grant recipients of up to 25% of grant award
Wildfire (Chapter 2): $1.1 billion: • $300 million for pre-hazard mitigation program – Office of Emergency Services • $500 million for forest resilience and wildfire risk reduction: o $150 million for Regional Forest and Fire Capacity Program – Department of Conservation o $150 million for long-term forest health – CAL FIRE o $150 million for watershed improvements by using prescribed fire – Resources Agency o $50 million to Sierra Nevada Conservancy • $30 million for development of alternative uses of forest products – California Air Resources Board • $70 million to reduce fire risk to state parks – State Parks • $150 million to cities, counties, districts and regional park entities to improve climate resilience – Resources Agency • $50 million for workforce development programs which improve climate resilience - California Conservation Corps and local corps
Coastal and ocean climate risks (Chapter 3): $1.2 billion: • $1 billion for coastal resilience – Coastal Conservancy o $300 million for San Francisco Bay Restoration Authority Act o $10 million to San Francisco Bay Area Conservancy Program o $10 million to Santa Ana River Conservancy Program o $100 million for natural infrastructure projects o $65 million for dam removal • $30 million for coastal planning – Coastal Commission • $20 million for coastal planning – San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission • $80 million for Ocean Protection Trust Fund – Ocean Protection Council (OPC) • $20 million for CO2 sequestration in ocean ecosystems – OPC • $50 million to reduce risks from sea level rise in state parks – State Parks
Safe drinking water/drought preparation/flood protection (Chapter 4): $1.6 billion: • $250 million for Sustainable Groundwater Management Act implementation (65% in critically over drafted basins) – Department of Water Resources • $300 million for safe drinking water – Water Board o $30 million for drought contingency plans • $100 million for cleaning up contaminated groundwater or surface water supplies that are drinking water sources – Water Board
22 • $400 million for restoration of rivers, lakes, streams to improve water quality or water supply – Resources Agency o $240 million for Salton Sea ▪ $30 million to Salton Sea Authority ▪ $2 million for community-directed grants o $30 million for Tijuana River o $25 million for Los Angeles River – Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy o $25 million for Los Angeles River – Rivers and Mountains Conservancy • $15 million for New River – California Environmental Protection Agency • $200 million for multi-benefit flood protection projects – Department of Water Resources o $50 million for coastal urban watersheds o $50 million for Delta levees • $35 million for central valley flood planning – Central Valley Flood Protection Board • $300 million for water recycling projects – Water Board
Protecting fish, wildlife and natural areas (Chapter 5): $800 million: • $400 million to Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) • $50 million for groundwater projects that provide wildlife habitat – WCB • $50 million for fish and wildlife habitat – Department of Fish and Wildlife • $300 million for climate risk reduction projects – state conservancies (no less than $10 million per conservancy; except for Coastal Conservancy which receives funding in Chapter 3)
Protecting farms, ranches and working Lands (Chapter 6): $300 million: • $150 million to California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) o $50 million for climate practices on farms and ranches, including those promoting soil health, carbon sequestration, air/water quality, groundwater recharge, surface water, and fish and wildlife habitat o $40 million for agricultural water efficiency o $40 million for methane emissions reductions from manure o $20 million for invasive species control • $100 million for agricultural infrastructure and facilities that support disadvantaged, small and medium sized farmers – CDFA • $50 million for protection, restoration and enhancement of farmland and rangeland – Department of Conservation
Extreme Heat (Chapter 7): $640 million: • $400 million for Statewide Park Development and Community Revitalization Act of 2008 (AB 31) program – State Parks o $50 million to address historic underinvestment in Central Valley, Inland Empire, gateway, rural and desert communities • $75 million for urban greening benefitting vulnerable populations – Resources Agency • $75 million for urban forestry – CAL FIRE • $50 million for low-income weatherization – Department of Community Services and Development
23 • $40 million to reduce urban heat island effect and other extreme heat impacts – Strategic Growth Council
Regional Climate Resilience (Chapter 8): $1.06 billion: • $850 million to address impacts of climate change to communities – Strategic Growth Council (SGC) • $100 million for Transformative Climate Communities program – SGC • $50 million for community resilience centers – Office of Emergency Services • $60 million to upgrade fairgrounds for disaster staging/evacuation centers – California Department of Food and Agriculture
ALTERNATIVES
None recommended.
24 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
RESOLUTION NO.: 2021 - 04 -
April 6, 2021
RESOLUTION TO SUPPORT AB 1500 (GARCIA D-COACHELLA) – SAFE DRINKING WATER, WILDFIRE PREVENTION, DROUGHT PREPARATION, FLOOD PROTECTION, EXTREME HEAT MITIGATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT BOND ACT OF 2022
WHEREAS, AB 1500 takes a comprehensive look at the inter-relation between jobs, public health, climate change, reducing wildfire risk and mitigating climate impacts on urban areas; and
WHEREAS, impacts from climate change and dramatic weather conditions will continue to increase; and
WHEREAS, CAL FIRE reports the recent years of wildfire have been the deadliest and most destructive in California history; and
WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District’s Wildfire Hazard Reduction and Resource Management Plan (WHRRMP) has enabled the Park District to significantly reduce hazardous wildland vegetation and the potential for a catastrophic fire event; and
WHEREAS, the Park District has also developed innovative, adaptive restoration strategies – such as the Dotson Family Marsh project in Richmond which provided job support for 431 construction workers and consultants, and the Bay Point restoration project near Pittsburg which supported jobs for nearly 200 contract workers; and
WHEREAS, fire protection and adaptation strategies are increasingly costly, and they benefit communities and infrastructure far beyond the District’s property; and
WHEREAS, the Park District and State could benefit by a statewide bond measure addressing the role of natural resources in creating jobs while adapting to and mitigating for a changing climate.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby supports AB 1500 (Garcia D-Coachella) – Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparation, Flood Protection, Extreme Heat Mitigation and Workforce Development Bond Act of 2022; 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.
25 Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 6th day of April, 2021 by the following vote:
FOR:
AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:
26 AGENDA REGULAR MEETINGS BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
Tuesday, April 6, 2021
E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD
1. CONSENT CALENDAR
d. Resolution Denouncing Racism, Xenophobia, and Violence Against Asians, Asian Americans, and Pacific Islanders and Reaffirming the East Bay Regional Park District’s Commitment to a Safe, Welcoming, and Inclusive Workplace and Park System (Rosario/Landreth)
RECOMMENDATION
The President of the Board of Directors and the General Manager recommend that the Board of Directors adopt a resolution denouncing racism, xenophobia, and violence against Asians, Asian Americans, and Pacific Islanders (AAPI), and reaffirming the East Bay Regional Park District’s commitment to a safe, welcoming, and inclusive workplace and park system.
REVENUE/COST
There would be no cost impact as a result of this action.
BACKGROUND
On June 16, 2020, the Board of Directors adopted Resolution No. 2020-6-132 denouncing racism and committing to fighting racial injustice and to promoting racial equity within the Park District. Since the outbreak of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in March 2020, harmful and xenophobic rhetoric related to the geographic origins of this disease resulted in a rise in reported hate incidents and crimes against AAPI individuals, communities, and businesses throughout the state and nation. In recent months, there has been an alarming surge of violent threats and violent crimes against APPIs in the City of Oakland, the greater Bay Area, and in the country. AAPI individuals are rightly concerned for their safety and well-being.
In response to these incidents, it is important for businesses, community groups, and government agencies to speak out and stand in solidarity with the AAPI community. The attached resolution denounces racism, xenophobia, and violence against AAPIs and reaffirms the East Bay Regional Park District’s commitment to a safe, welcoming, and inclusive workplace and park system for people of all races, ethnicities, national origins, and backgrounds.
ALTERNATIVES
None recommended.
27 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
RESOLUTION NO.: 2021 – 04 –
April 6, 2021
RESOLUTION DENOUNCING RACISM, XENOPHOBIA, AND VIOLENCE AGAINST ASIANS, ASIAN AMERICANS, AND PACIFIC ISLANDERS AND REAFFIRMING THE EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT’S COMMITMENT TO A SAFE, WELCOMING, AND INCLUSIVE WORKPLACE AND PARK SYSTEM
WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District is committed to ensuring that our organization, our parks and our programs are safe, welcoming and inclusive places for people of all races, ethnicities, national origins and backgrounds; and
WHEREAS, for more than a century, xenophobia, bigotry, and discrimination have been directed toward Asians in California and across the United States with tragic consequences; and
WHEREAS, since the outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in March 2020, harmful xenophobic rhetoric related to the geographic origins of this disease encouraged prejudice and discrimination against Asians, Asian Americans, and Pacific Islanders (AAPI); and
WHEREAS, recently there has been a surge in incidents of racism, threats of violence, and violent crime against AAPI individuals, both locally and across the country; and
WHEREAS, AAPI individuals are rightly concerned about their safety and well-being, given the rise of hate crimes and other racially motivated attacks; and
WHEREAS, on June 16, 2020, by Resolution No. 2020-6-132, the Board of Directors denounced racism and pledged solidarity with Black People and all People of Color and affirmed the East Bay Regional Park District’s commitment to promoting racial equity within our organization, our parks, and our public spaces; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District condemns racism, xenophobia, and intolerance against Asians, Asian Americans, and Pacific Islanders; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District reaffirms its commitment to ensuring a safe, welcoming, and inclusive workplace and park system for people of all races, ethnicities, national origins and backgrounds free of racism, discrimination, and threats of violence; 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 6th day of April, 2021 by the following vote:
28 FOR:
AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:
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30 AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
Tuesday, April 6, 2021
E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD
1. CONSENT CALENDAR
e. Resolution Reaffirming the Existence of a Local East Bay Regional Park District Emergency (Landreth)
RECOMMENDATION
The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors adopt a Resolution Reaffirming the Existence of a Local East Bay Regional Park District Emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
REVENUE/COST
The Park District has been tracking Covid-19 related costs since March 2020, during which time $7.3 million in expenditures has been recorded. This includes staff time related to the initial shelter in place, overtime for Covid-19 response, as well as supplies and services. The District received initial authorization for $1.1 million in FEMA funding; however, after meeting with the granting agency the majority of District expenditures do not meet the criteria for funding based on the current rules. These rules primarily provide grant funding for medical care, food distribution, medical sheltering and some EOC operations. Staff is advocating for additional state and federal eligibility to these CARES Act funds and additional relief funds. The Board of Directors appropriated $850,000 for Covid-19 related purchase of personal protective equipment, and for public information dissemination, including signage, public service announcements and message boards. The Board of Directors also amended the 2020 revenue and expenditure budget to adjust for the $7.2 million revenue shortfall due to the cancellation of recreation, environmental education and aquatic programing, fee collection, facility/picnic rental and many concession activities. The 2021 Adopted Budget included modestly reduced revenue budget for charges for service (with the hope that some modified summer programing can be provided) and appropriations for continued Covid-19 response.
BACKGROUND
At a Special Board meeting of March 19, 2020, the Board of Directors adopted Resolution No. 2020-03-051 declaring a local East Bay Regional Park District Emergency related to the COVID- 19 pandemic. The current Resolution requires the Board of Directors to reaffirm the existence of an emergency every sixty (60) days until termination of the emergency has been proclaimed
31 by the Board of Directors. On May 19, 2020 by Resolution No. 2020-05-090; July 21, 2020 by Resolution No. 2020-07-156; October 6, 2020 by Resolution No. 2020-10-215; December 1, 2020 by Resolution No. 2020-12-272; and on February 2, 2021 by Resolution No. 2021-01-010 the Board of Directors reaffirmed the existence of a local East Bay Regional Park District Emergency.
The State of California declared a public health emergency on March 4, 2020. On March 16, 2020, six Bay Area counties (Santa Clara, San Francisco, San Mateo, Marin, Alameda and Contra Costa) issued Orders directing all individuals living in these specific counties to shelter at their place of residence. On March 19, 2020, Governor Newsom issued a state-wide Stay at Home order. Although each of these orders has been modified from time to time, the public health orders remain in place and continue to greatly restrict normal activities of Bay Area residents.
Note that pursuant to Governor Newsom’s March 4, 2020 Proclamation of a State of Emergency, the sixty (60) day time period contained in the Government Code within which a legislative body of a local agency must renew the existence of a local emergency was waived. Given the ongoing nature of this COVID-19 pandemic, Park District staff is recommending that this declaration of local emergency eliminate the need to re-affirm the existence of a local emergency every sixty (60) days. Rather, the Board of Directors can take action to terminate the local emergency when conditions warrant such an action.
After a rise in COVID-19 cases during December and January, the number of cases and hospitalizations in California and in the Bay Area have declined. Additionally, Alameda County and Contra Costa County have both moved into the red tier of the state's color-coded Blueprint for a Safer Economy reopening system. Although vaccinations continue to be administered and there is increasing supply of vaccines, COVID-19 is and will remain a significant risk to public health and continues to greatly disrupt normal activities for residents of the state and to impact East Bay Regional Park District operations.
The attached Resolution will reaffirm the existence of an emergency in the East Bay Regional Park District and continues the emergency powers conferred on the General Manager as provided by state law and Board approved resolutions and ordinances, including the Park District’s Emergency Preparedness Policy and Emergency Services Workers Resolution (Resolution No. 2005-12-237).
ALTERNATIVES
No alternatives are recommended.
32 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
RESOLUTION NO.: 2021 – 04 -
April 6, 2021
RESOLUTION REAFFIRMING THE EXISTENCE OF A LOCAL EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT EMERGENCY
WHEREAS, the California Emergency Services Act, Chapter 7, of the California Government Code, commencing with § 8550, confers upon governing bodies of the political subdivisions of this state emergency powers necessary to protect health and safety and preserve lives and property; and
WHEREAS, on March 19, 2020, the Board of Directors adopted Resolution No. 2020- 03-051 proclaiming that a local emergency exists in the East Bay Regional Park District; and
WHEREAS, on May 19, 2020 the Board of Directors adopted Resolution No. 2020-05- 090 reaffirming the existence of a local East Bay Regional Park District Emergency; and
WHEREAS, on July 21, 2020 the Board of Directors adopted Resolution No. 2020-07- 156 reaffirming the existence of a local East Bay Regional Park District Emergency; and
WHEREAS, on October 6, 2020 the Board of Directors adopted Resolution No. 2020- 10-215 reaffirming the existence of a local East Bay Regional Park District Emergency; and
WHEREAS, on December 1, 2020 the Board of Directors adopted Resolution No. 2020- 12-272 reaffirming the existence of a local East Bay Regional Park District Emergency; and
WHEREAS, on February 2, 2021 the Board of Directors adopted Resolution No. 2021- 02-010 reaffirming the existence of a local East Bay Regional Park District Emergency; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District does find that conditions of extreme peril to the safety of persons and property have arisen within the East Bay Regional Park District due to COVID-19 commencing on or about March 16, 2020 and continuing as follows:
On March 4, 2020, California Governor Gavin Newsom issued a Proclamation of a State of Emergency relating to COVID-19 that included a waiver of the 30-day renewal requirement for a local emergency;
On March 6, 2020, the County of Alameda adopted a resolution ratifying the declaration of a local health emergency by the County Health Officer;
On March 10, 2020, the County of Contra Costa declared the existence of a local emergency due to COVID-19;
33 On March 16, 2020, the Alameda County Health Department and Contra Costa County Health Services, as part of a coalition of six Bay Area county health departments, issued a legally enforceable order dictating that citizens of the Bay Area shelter in place beginning at 12:01 a.m. on March 17, 2020 (“Bay Area Public Health Order”);
On March 19, 2020, Governor Newsom issued a state-wide Stay at Home order;
On December 3, 2020, in response to the recent surge in COVID-19 cases and dwindling ICU bed capacity, Governor Newsom issued a regional Stay at Home order, and Alameda County and Contra Costa County preemptively adopted the regional stay at home order for the Bay Area region on December 7, 2020;
WHEREAS, On January 25, 2021, Governor Newsom lifted the regional Stay at Home order across California, shifting the counties back into the state's color-coded Blueprint For a Safer Economy reopening system;
WHEREAS, the State of California; the County of Alameda and Contra Costa County continue to operate under public health orders as they have been modified from time to time; and
WHEREAS, COVID-19 remains a significant threat to public health; and
WHEREAS, that the aforesaid conditions of extreme peril warrant and necessitate the proclamation of the existence of a local emergency; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby proclaims that a local emergency continues to exist throughout the East Bay Regional Park District; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that during the existence of said local emergency the powers, functions and duties of the General Manager/EOC Manager and the emergency organization of the East Bay Regional Park District shall be those prescribed by state law, and by the ordinance and resolutions of the East Bay Regional Park District approved by the Board of Directors including the Emergency Preparedness Policy and Emergency Services Workers Resolution adopted by the Board of Directors on December 20, 2005 by Resolution No. 2005- 12-237 and pursuant to the Proclamation of a Local East Bay Regional Park District Emergency adopted by the Board of Directors on March 19, 2020 by Resolution No. 2020-03-051, reaffirmed on May 19, 2020 by Resolution No. 2020-05-090, on July 21, 2020 by Resolution No. 2020-07- 156, on October 6, 2020 by Resolution No. 2020-10-215; affirmed on December 1, 2020 by Resolution No. 2020-12-272; and further affirmed on February 2, 2021 by Resolution No. 2021- 02-10.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, pursuant to Governor Newsom’s Declaration of a State Emergency, dated March 4, 2020, the existence of a local East Bay Regional Park District
34 emergency shall remain in place until termination of the emergency is proclaimed by the Board of Directors; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the General Manager is hereby authorized and directed, on behalf of the Park District and in its name, to execute and deliver such documents and to do such acts as may be deemed necessary or appropriate to accomplish the intentions of this Resolution, as well as the intentions of Resolution No. 2020-03-051 originally proclaiming that a local emergency exists in the East Bay Regional Park District.
MOVED by seconded by , and adopted this 6th day of April, 2021 by the following vote:
FOR:
AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:
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36 AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
Tuesday, April 6, 2021
E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD
1. CONSENT CALENDAR
f. Authorization of Adoption of Agreement for Participation in Alameda County Operational Area Emergency Management Organization (Love/Ciaburro)
RECOMMENDATION
The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors adopt the Agreement for Participation in the Alameda County Operational Area Emergency Management Organization, which was approved by the Alameda County Board of Supervisors on May 10, 2016.
REVENUE/COST
There are no costs associated with the adoption of the Agreement.
BACKGROUND
The potential for a major catastrophe due to natural or human-caused disaster requires all government entities within Alameda County to be prepared to share resources and information among themselves, as well as with the State of California in order to protect public welfare. By joining together in pre-disaster agreements with the County of Alameda, its cities, other special districts and public benefit non-profit corporations, the Park District can achieve greater efficiency and disaster preparedness, response, recovery and mitigation, in the event of a natural or human caused disaster. The agreement will expire December 31, 2025.
The East Bay Regional Park District originally adopted the agreement on August 2, 2005, by resolution 2005-8-149, which expired in 2015.
ALTERNATIVES
No alternatives are recommended.
37 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
RESOLUTION NO.: 2021 – 04 –
April 6, 2021
AUTHORIZATION OF ADOPTION OF AGREEMENT FOR PARTICIPATION IN ALAMEDA COUNTY OPERATIONAL AREA EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ORGANIZATION
WHEREAS, the potential for a major catastrophe due to natural or human-caused disaster causes all government entities within Alameda County to be prepared to share resources and information among themselves as well as with the State of California in order to protect public welfare; and
WHEREAS, greater efficiency and disaster preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation can be achieved by joining the efforts of the County of Alameda, its cities, other special districts and other public benefit non-profit corporations together in pre-disaster agreements; and
WHEREAS, the California Emergency Services Act makes reference to the "operational area" and defines it as "an intermediate level of the state emergency services organization" created to perform extraordinary functions for local governments within a county area such as strengthening mutual coordination, providing a focal point and conduit for disaster information, and assisting in the efficient management of resources; and
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorizes the adoption and resolution of the Agreement for Participation in the Alameda County Operational Area Emergency Management Organization, as it was approved by the Alameda County Board of Supervisors on May 10, 2016, 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 6th day of April 2021 by the following vote:
FOR:
AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:
38 AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
Tuesday, April 6, 2021
E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD
1. CONSENT CALENDAR
g. Authorization for Construction-Related PG&E Utility Payments and Associated Agreements for Two Projects: the Renovate Water Treatment System Project and the Develop Brickyard Cove Project: Del Valle Regional Park and McLaughlin Eastshore State Park Regional Shoreline (Goorjian/Kelchner)
RECOMMENDATION
The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize entering into agreements with Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) and direct payments for utility service installation related to construction for two projects: the Renovate Water Treatment System at Del Valle Regional Park (Del Valle), and the Develop Brickyard Cove Project at McLaughlin Eastshore State Park (MESP), at a total cost of $124,084.
REVENUE/COST
This action authorizes direct payments incurred for utility service upgrades for the Develop Brickyard Cove Project at MESP (No. 509900) and the Renovate Water System Project at Del Valle (No. 505800). These payments are funded from project budgets in the amounts indicated below.
UTILITY SERIVCE INSTALLATION FEES PG&E Utility Fee for Develop Brickyard Cove Project (No. 509900) $ 54,366
PG&E Utility Fee for Renovate Water System Project (No. 505800) 69,718 TOTAL UTLTITY SERVICE INSTALLATION FEES $ 124,084
BACKGROUND
The Develop Brickyard Cove Project at MESP is construction of new public access improvements including a picnic areas, entry plaza, restrooms, and parking area. Items which require electrical connections include the irrigation controller, lights for the restroom building and electrical vehicle charging stations. PG&E is the service provider and calculated installation and connection fees
39 for these new services. This project is scheduled to be completed by Fall 2021.
The Renovate Water System Project at Del Valle Regional Park includes upgrades to the current electric utilities provided by PG&E at the water treatment plant. The upgrades are required to serve the increased power requirements of the water treatment system which is being renovated to meet regulatory requirements. This project is in the final stages of close out and the water system is scheduled to be on-line in May 2021.
These Projects require new or upgraded utility connections, and the Park District does not have a choice of utility providers. At the time the construction contracts were awarded, by Resolution No 2019-10-245 for Del Valle and by Resolution No. 2020-05-109 for MESP, the connection fee amounts were unknown. Because timely payments were required to keep project construction advancing, the Park District entered into agreements with PG&E and paid utility connection fees in the amount of $124,084. Staff now seeks ratification from the Board of Directors to confirm authorization of these agreements with PG&E.
ALTERNATIVES
No alternatives are recommended.
40 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
RESOLUTION NO.: 2021 – 04 –
April 6, 2021
AUTHORIZATION FOR CONSTRUCTION-RELATED PG&E UTILITY PAYMENTS AND ASSOCIATED AGREEMENTS FOR TWO PROJECTS: THE RENOVATE WATER TREATMENT SYSTEM PROJECT AND THE DEVELOP BRICKYARD COVE PROJECT: DEL VALLE REGIONAL PARK AND MCLAUGHLIN EASTSHORE STATE PARK REGIONAL SHORELINE
WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District (Park District) desires to complete the Phase 1 of the Develop Brickyard Cove Project at McLaughlin Eastshore State Park (No. 509900) and the Renovate Water System Project at Del Valle Regional Park (No. 505800). (Projects); and
WHEREAS, the Projects require upgraded utility connections and the Park District does not have a choice of utility providers; and
WHEREAS, the Park District is required to enter into an agreement with PG&E to design and perform the utility connections at the Projects and payment to PG&E in advance is required; and
WHEREAS, due to the necessity for timely payments to keep project construction advancing, the Park District entered into agreements with PG&E and paid utility connection fees in the amount of $124,084;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorizes the Park District to enter into an agreement with PG&E and approves payments for utility connection fees in the amount of $54,366 from for the Develop Brickyard Cove Project budget (No. 509900); and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors hereby authorizes the Park District to enter into an agreement with PG&E and approves payments for utility connection fees in in the amount of $69,718 from the Renovate Water System Project budget (No. 505800); and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the General Manager, or his designee, is hereby authorized and directed, on behalf of the Park District and in its name, to execute and deliver such documents and to do such acts as may be deemed necessary or appropriate to accomplish the intentions of this resolution.
41 Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 6th day of April, 2021, by the following vote:
FOR:
AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:
42 AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
Tuesday, April 6, 2021
E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD
1. CONSENT CALENDAR
h. Authorization to Award a Contract to “Rootid Nonprofit Communications” for Custom Website Redesign and New Content Management System (Koh/Johnson)
RECOMMENDATION
The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors award a contract to Rootid Nonprofit Communications (Rootid) for redesign of the Park District’s website and development of a flexible content management system to be completed by December 31, 2021.
COST
This professional services contract shall not exceed $98,250 and is budgeted within the Public Affairs 2021 budget, 101-3110-000-6191. A total of four formal proposals were received from Bay Area website design firms - EIGHT25MEDIA, Rolling Orange, Project6, and Rootid. The proposals indicated that services would range from $98,250 to $99,990 for the redesign and development of a website of our size and complexity.
BACKGROUND
The Park District’s website, www.ebparks.org, is the most important communications tool to connect with the general public, park users, community groups, news media, school districts, healthcare providers, agency partners, and elected officials. Annually, two million unique users visit the website for information about parks, trails, maps, board/committee meetings, naturalist programs, recreational activities and events, volunteer opportunities, policies and budget, park planning and natural resources, and Ordinance 38 park rules and regulations. The Park District’s current content management system is provided by Civica, a division of Granicus Technology Company (Granicus) based in Denver, Colorado.
In late 2020, Granicus informed Public Affairs staff who oversee the District’s website that it will be sunsetting its Civica division by December 31, 2021, and our website would no longer be in District’s website, its current assets and technologies. Soon after, the web team sent out a Request for Proposal to nine website design firms and received four proposals as follows:
43 Name of Vendor Proposal Cost Rootid Communications, El Cerrito $98,250 Eight25Media, San Jose $98,550 Rolling Orange, Campbell $99,743 Project6, Emeryville $99,990 .
Based on a thorough evaluation of the four proposals, the web team strongly recommends Rootid for its proven track record of excellent website development strategy, flexible and innovative design and technology. They have provided a comprehensive project scope of work that will deliver a new and improved user-centric, responsive, ADA-compliant website with strong information architecture and innovative design; a clear timeline; and a realistic budget.
Rootid is an East Bay full-service communications firm that specializes in website design, information architecture, and content management system development. Rootid uses Drupal, a versatile and powerful content management software that enables easy content authoring, provides reliable performance, and excellent security. Drupal provides a contemporary look with flexible modules making it easy to build dynamic webpages and present the Park District’s complex content in a user-friendly and mobile-friendly way. The District’s initial website, built in the early 2000s, became obsolete as technology advanced and the website was migrated to the Civica platform. Civica was acquired by its competitor Granicus in 2018 and, subsequently, will be discontinued at the end of this year.
Other Rootid website clients include local and national agencies such as Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, Habitat for Humanity, American Rivers, Contra Costa College, David Brower Center, Ella Baker Center, Earth Rights International, and National Center for Youth Law.
One unique benefit of working with Rootid is that their overarching principle of website design is anchored in JEDI principles. Specifically, Design Justice which “rethinks design processes, centers people who are normally marginalized by design, and uses collaborative, creative practices to address the deepest challenges our communities face.” These principles are important to the Park District as the Board has unanimously approved a resolution denouncing racism and systemic racial injustice. We are working collaboratively to ensure that our parks and services, including our website, are welcoming to all people of diverse abilities, languages, sexual orientation, gender identity, faith traditions, and socioeconomic status.
Equally important is Rootid’s East Bay location which gives us the ability to communicate quickly, develop web functionalities and migrate our content over accurately and speedily to meet the timing of Civica’s closure. Rootid’s principal staff have indicated that our website redesign and migration will take approximately eight months of development from date of contract approval. They have acknowledged our tight deadline and will have a new website in place by the end of 2021.
44 ALTERNATIVES
Staff received three other proposals, in addition to Rootid, to provide redesign and development services for a large and complex website like www.ebparks.org. The standard fees for similar scope of work, from all four firms, were very close. Rootid, however, has a track record of working successfully with nonprofit and government agencies. Their values and principles are steeped in strategic thinking, sustainability, flexibility, and growth -- using communications and technology as vehicles to advance justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Public Affairs recommends approval of this contract.
45 Page Left Blank Intentionally EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
RESOLUTION NO.: 2021 – 04 –
April 6, 2021
AUTHORIZATION TO AWARD A CONTRACT TO “ROOTID NONPROFIT COMMUNICATIONS” FOR CUSTOM WEBSITE REDESIGN AND NEW CONTENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District (Park District) website is the most important communications tool with two million unique visitors annually looking for parks, trails, maps, meetings, naturalist programs, activities and events, volunteer opportunities, planning and natural resources, and Ordinance 38 park rules and regulations; and
WHEREAS, the Park District was notified that its current website content management system on the Civica platform will sunset on December 31, 2021 causing the Park District’s website to be discontinued; and
WHEREAS, Public Affairs staff responsible for the management of the ebparks.org website sent out a Request for Proposal to nine local website design firms and received four proposals. Based on thorough evaluation of the proposals and stellar endorsement by Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, Rootid was selected for its proven track record of excellent website development strategy, flexible and innovative design creativity and technology; and
WHEREAS, Rootid has provided a proposal not to exceed $98,250 to redesign and create a new content management system; provide an advanced search engine and interactive maps; migrate content over to the new platform; interview staff to determine priorities and build departmental alignment; and
WHEREAS, Rootid staff are guided by Design DEI principles, specifically, Design Justice which “rethinks design processes, centers people who are normally marginalized by design, and uses collaborative, creative practices to address the deepest challenges our communities face;” and
WHEREAS, Rootid is the best local website design and development firm for the comprehensive needs and urgent timing required to ensure the Park District has a functioning website by December 31, 2021; and
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorizes the award of a contract to Rootid Nonprofit Communications to redesign the Park District website and create a new content management system that is to be funded from 101-3110-000-6191 for a total cost not to exceed $98,250, and
46 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the General Manager is hereby authorized and directed, on behalf of the District and 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 , seconded by on the 6th day of April 2021, by the following vote:
FOR:
AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:
47 AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
Tuesday, April 6, 2021
E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD
1. CONSENT CALENDAR
i. Authorization to Purchase One Bobcat Toolcat 5600 from the Bobcat Company as an Addition to the Fleet (McCrystle/O’Connor)
RECOMMENDATION
The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize the purchase of one Bobcat Toolcat 5600 from the Bobcat Company of West Fargo, North Dakota at a total cost of $72,603 as an addition to the fleet.
REVENUE/COST
For the purpose of purchasing additional fleet equipment, funds have been allocated in the East Bay Regional Park District’s 2021 Budget: Las Trampas Account 101-5161-170-7505 (Rolling Stock >$25,000).
PROPOSED ENCUMBRANCE: Base Price $ 67,069.00 Sales Tax $ 5,534.00 Proposed Encumbrance $ 72,603.00
BACKGROUND
One Bobcat Toolcat 5600 will be an addition to the fleet assigned to Las Trampas as approved in the 2021 Budget. It will be used to maintain developed park areas as a result of the Park District’s adopted policy to phase-out the use of glyphosate in developed areas.
This new Bobcat Toolcat 5600 is available for purchase directly from the Bobcat Company by means of Sourcewell Contract #040319-CEC. The contract pricing is the result of a competitive bid process and open to all federal, state and local governmental entities. Public agencies electing to use this method of equipment acquisition avoid the administrative costs of seeking formal bids.
49 ALTERNATIVES
For this purchase, staff has determined that there is no significant advantage in formally seeking other bids; therefore, none are recommended.
50 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
RESOLUTION NO.: 2021 - 04 -
April 6, 2021
AUTHORIZATION TO PURCHASE ONE BOBCAT TOOLCAT 5600 FROM THE BOBCAT COMPANY AS AN ADDITION TO THE FLEET
WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District has included funding in its proposed 2021 Budget for the purchase of new equipment; and
WHEREAS, Park District has adopted a policy to Phase-Out Glyphosate use for the maintenance of developed park areas; and
WHEREAS, the Park District has the need to purchase one new Bobcat Toolcat 5600 as an addition to the fleet assigned to Las Trampas; and
WHEREAS, the Bobcat Company of West Fargo, North Dakota is a recognized vendor offering suitable equipment based on the results of competitively bid pricing through Sourcewell Contract #040319-CEC;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorizes the purchase of one Bobcat Toolcat 5600 for a total cost of $72,603, with said sum to be encumbered from the 2021 Budget: Las Trampas Account 101-5161-170-7505 (Rolling Stock >$25,000); and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the General Manager is hereby authorized and directed, on behalf of the Park District and in its name, to execute and deliver such documents and to do such acts as may be deemed necessary or appropriate to accomplish the intentions of this resolution.
Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 6th day of April, 2021, by the following vote:
FOR:
AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:
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52 AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
Tuesday, April 6, 2021
E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD
1. CONSENT CALENDAR
j. Authorization to Purchase Three Ford Vehicles from Downtown Ford Sales for Public Safety Vehicle Replacements and Appropriate General Fund EBMUD/JPA Restricted Funds (McCrystle/O’Connor)
RECOMMENDATION
The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize the purchase three Public Safety patrol vehicles from Downtown Ford Sales of Sacramento, California and emergency equipment set-up from Lehr of Pittsburg, California at a total cost of $178,640 and the appropriation of East Bay Municipal Utility District Joint Powers Agreement (EBMUD/JPA) Restricted funds held in the Park District General Fund.
REVENUE/COST
The Park District’s General Fund balance includes restricted funds that are reserved for legal agreements, such as the Park District’s Joint Powers Agreement with East Bay Municipal Utility District. According to the agreement, these funds may be appropriated as needed to replace vehicles and/or equipment required to fulfill specific obligations identified in the agreement.
SOURCE OF FUNDS Appropriation from General Fund Balance Restricted Funds (101-8240-000-7505/800093-602) $ 364,348.86 Proposed Amount for Use $ 178,640.00 REMAINING $ 185,708.86
USE OF FUNDS EBMUD/JPA vehicle replacement Vehicle Base Price $ 107,079.00 Lehr Emergency Equipment Set-up $ 60,000.00 CA Tire Fee $ 27.00 Vehicle Wrap $ 1,800.00 Delivery $ 900.00 Sales Tax $ 8,834.00 Total Encumbrance $ 178,640.00
53 BACKGROUND
Three Ford F150 SSV pick-up trucks, designed for police use, will replace the below EBMUD/JPA Police vehicles which are being retired due to high mileage and declining condition. These new Ford F150 SSV pick-up trucks are a change from the current Ford Expedition Sport Utility Vehicles. Both the vehicles and equipment changes are funded by the Joint Powers Agreement with EBMUD.
Department Eq# Year Description PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICERS - JPA 109 2011 UTILITY, FORD EXPEDITION SSV PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICERS - JPA 130 2015 UTILITY, FORD EXPEDITION SSV PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICERS - JPA 159 2013 UTILITY, FORD EXPEDITION SSV
Finance staff is required to record expenditures for the East Bay Municipal Utility District Joint Powers Authority against a specific Public Safety department budget. The transaction data is used to bill EBMUD quarterly for services related to the JPA. Funding is set aside from those payments in a restricted account of the General Fund, to cover the operating costs of the JPA including the replacement of vehicles used for that purpose.
ALTERNATIVES
For this purchase, staff has determined that there is no significant advantage in formally seeking other bids; therefore, none are recommended.
54 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
RESOLUTION NO.: 2021- 04 -
April 6, 2021
AUTHORIZATION TO PURCHASE THREE FORD VEHICLES FROM DOWNTOWN FORD SALES FOR PUBLIC SAFETY VEHICLE REPLACEMENTS AND APPROPRIATE GENERAL FUND EBMUD/JPA RESTRICTED FUNDS
WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District holds a General Fund restricted account to provide for such purchases through a Joint Powers Agreement with East Bay Municipal Utility District; and
WHEREAS, Downtown Ford Sales of Sacramento is a recognized vendor offering suitable vehicles based on the results of competitive pricing through the State of California, General Services Procurement Division, Contract #1-18-23-20A; and
WHEREAS, Lehr of Pittsburg, California is a recognized vendor offering suitable emergency equipment based on the results of informal bid;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorizes the appropriation of funds in order to purchase three Public Safety EBMUD/JPA patrol vehicles and equipment set-up for a total cost of $178,640, with said sum to be encumbered from the 2021 Budget, Restricted Account 101-8240-000- 7505/800093-602 (Rolling Stock > $25K); and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the General Manager is hereby authorized and directed, on behalf of the Park District and in its name, to execute and deliver such documents and to do such acts as may be deemed necessary or appropriate to accomplish the intentions of this resolution.
Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 6th day of April, 2021, by the following vote:
FOR:
AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:
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56 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT BUDGET CHANGE FORM
NEW APPROPRIATIONS BUDGET TRANSFERS x From Fund Balance Between Funds DECREASE BUDGET ACCOUNT AMOUNT INCREASE BUDGET ACCOUNT AMOUNT Account Name: Expense: General Fund- EBMUD Joint Powers-Rolling Stock greater than $25,000-EBMUD JPA - Auto Replacement- Program Expene
Account: 101-8240-7505-800093-602 $ 178,640 REASON FOR BUDGET CHANGE ENTRY As being presented at the Board of Directors meeting on April 6, 2021 the General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize the appropriation of $178,640, from the East Bay Municipal Utility District/Joint Powers Authority General Fund reserve (2811), for the purchase of three Public Safety EBMUD/JPA patrol vehicles and equipment set-up.
As approved at the Board of Directors Meeting on date: 4/6/2021 Board of Directors Resolution Number: 2020-4 Posted By: Posted date: Signature:
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58 AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
Tuesday, April 6, 2021
E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD
1. CONSENT CALENDAR
k. Acceptance of Completion of San Francisco Bay Trail: Pinole Shores to Bayfront Park Construction for the Active Transportation Program Grant from the California Department of Transportation: San Francisco Bay Trail (Hornbeck/Dougan/Auker)
RECOMMENDATION
The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize acceptance of completion of the San Francisco Bay Trail: Pinole Shores to Bayfront Park construction at San Pablo Bay Regional Shoreline to comply with California Department of Transportation grant requirements.
REVENUE/COST
Acceptance of the construction phase for this project will allow the final invoicing for the $4,000,000 in Active Transportation Program (ATP) grant funds for the San Francisco Bay Trail: Pinole Shores to Bayfront Park Project.
BACKGROUND
In 2014, the Park District was awarded $4,000,000 of Active Transportation Program (ATP) funds. The California Department of Transportation has been delegated the responsibility for the administration of the grant program and its necessary procedures. These procedures require the formal acceptance of construction projects by the local agency’s Board of Directors before the final reimbursement of grant funds will be made to the Park District. The San Francisco Bay Trail: Pinole Shores to Bayfront Park Project at San Pablo Bay Regional Shoreline was completed in 2018 by Gordon N. Ball, Incorporated of Alamo, CA (Contract 04-CC-0-EBPD). This Board action will allow the final request for reimbursement to be made while the Park District works with the contractor to resolve remaining warranty and punch list items. Note that there are potential existing claims between the contractor and the project designer, and the acceptance of this project is not intended to waive any claims the Park District may have either party.
59 The Union Pacific Railroad Company (UPRR) recently reimbursed the Park District $2,030,500 which they had agreed to pay under the Amended and Restated 2016 MOU negotiations between the Park District and UPRR. UPRR had agreed to contribute $2,030,500 towards construction of the overcrossing and connecting trail, and the Park District agreed to provide signage at nearby Wilson Point directing trail users to Pinole Shores for shoreline access, repair existing security fencing at Wilson Point to discourage trespassing, and assist UPRR’s application to Bay Conservation and Development Commission for a permit to upgrade existing fencing to UPRR’s current specifications. This contribution represents many years of coordination and final approval of this project by UPRR. The Board is not required to authorize acceptance of payment due to Resolution no. 2016-10-277 that adopted the 2016 MOU.
ALTERNATIVES:
No alternatives are recommended.
60 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
RESOLUTION NO.: 2021 – 04 -
April 6, 2021
ACCEPTANCE OF COMPLETION OF SAN FRANCISCO BAY TRAIL: PINOLE SHORES TO BAYFRONT PARK CONSTRUCTION FOR THE ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM GRANT FROM THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION: SAN FRANCISCO BAY TRAIL
WHEREAS, $4,000,000 of funding from the Active Transportation Program (ATP) was awarded to the East Bay Regional Park District in 2014 for construction of the San Francisco Bay Trail: Pinole Shores to Bayfront Park project; and
WHEREAS, the California Department of Transportation has been delegated the responsibility for the administration of the ATP grant program and its necessary procedures; and
WHEREAS, said procedures established by the California Department of Transportation require the Grantee’s Governing Body to certify by resolution the acceptance of construction projects performed with the grant funds; and
WHEREAS, potential claims against the project contractor, Gordon N. Ball, Inc., and against the project designer, AECOM (formerly URS Corporation) exist, and the East Bay Regional Park District intends for such claims to survive the acceptance of the project and intends to reserve its rights to asserts such claims.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby accept the completion of the San Francisco Bay Trail: Pinole Shores to Bayfront Park completed by Gordon N. Ball, Incorporated of Alamo, CA (Contract 04-CC-0- EBPD); and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the General Manager, or his designee, is hereby authorized and directed, on behalf of the Park District and in its name, to execute and deliver such documents and to do such acts as may be deemed necessary or appropriate to accomplish the intentions of this resolution.
Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and approved this 6th day of April 2021, by the following vote:
FOR: AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:
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62 AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
Tuesday, April 6, 2021
E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD
1. CONSENT CALENDAR
L. Authorization to Amend a Contract for Services with Gray-Bowen-Scott for Active Transportation Program Grant Administration Services for the Pinole Shores to Bayfront Park Trail Segment: San Francisco Bay Trail (Dougan/Holt/Kelchner)
RECOMMENDATION
The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize an amendment to the contract for services with Gray-Bowen-Scott (GBS) for grant administration services required for the Pinole Shores to Bayfront Park segment of the San Francisco Bay Trail (SFBT).
REVENUE/COST
The contract amount awarded to date is $33,000. The additional cost incurred from this amendment is $39,000, bringing the total contract amount to $72,000. Sufficient funds are available within the Construct Pinole Shores Project No. 147100 as shown in the table below.
SOURCE OF FUNDS Project No. 147100 - Construct Pinole Shores $ 13,8,33,323 Encumbrances and Expenditures to Date (13,502,659) AVAILABLE BALANCE $ 340,664
USE OF FUNDS Contract Amendment $ 39,000 BALANCE REMAINING $ 291,664
BACKGROUND
This project closes a critical gap in the SFBT between Pinole Shores and Bayfront Park in the City of Pinole. The ½-mile segment of trail along the San Pablo Bay shoreline was constructed and opened to the public in 2018 and included a bridge structure of approximately 1,100 feet in length over the Union Pacific Railroad tracks.
63 In 2014, the District was awarded $4,000,000 of Active Transportation Program (ATP) funds for construction of this project, administered through the California Department of Transportation. The ATP program requires significant post-construction grant administration including coordination with federal, state, regional and local funding partners to formally accept and close the project out before the final reimbursement of grant funds can be made to the Park District.
The Park District hired GBS on August 15, 2017 to assist in complying with federal and state post-construction contract award requirements. Consultant duties included construction contract award reporting, as well preparation of the close-out reports and approval of the packages with Caltrans and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). The Consultant’s level of effort was based on assumed minimal complexities encountered during construction. Due to project delays experienced from the remedy of construction warranty items and potential existing claims between the contractor and the project designer, the Park District requested that GBS aid with additional items outside of the original scope of work including requesting and receiving a one-year time extension from the California Transportation Commission and preparation of an extension request for project completion from the FHWA.
The construction warranty work has been completed and the project is now ready to be closed. However, an additional allocation of funds is needed to cover GBS’s expanded scope of work to ensure full reimbursement of grant funds to the District. There are sufficient funds available for this amendment within the project budget.
ALTERNATIVES
No alternatives are recommended.
64 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
RESOLUTION NO.: 2021 – 04 –
April 6, 2021
AUTHORIZATION TO AMEND A CONTRACT FOR SERVICES WITH GRAY-BOWEN-SCOTT FOR ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM GRANT ADMINISTRATION SERVICES FOR THE PINOLE SHORES TO BAYFRONT PARK TRAIL SEGMENT: SAN FRANCISCO BAY TRAIL
WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District (Park District) requires significant post- construction grant administration and coordination with federal, state, and regional and local funding partners to formally accept and close the project out before the final reimbursement of grant funds will be made to the Park District; and
WHEREAS, on August 15, 2017 the Park District executed a contract for services in the amount of $33,000 to Gray-Bowen-Scott (GBS) to assist in complying with federal and state post- construction contract award requirements including construction contract award reporting, preparation of the close-out reports and approval of the packages with Caltrans and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA); and
WHEREAS, due to project delays experienced from the remedy of construction warranty items and potential existing claims between the contractor and the project designer, the Park District requested that GBS aid with additional items outside of the original scope of work including requesting and receiving a one-year time extension from the California Transportation Commission and preparation of an extension request for project completion from the FHWA; and
WHEREAS, the additional work requested by the Park District exhausted $31,887.42 of the original contract amount leaving a remaining amount of $1,112.58; and
WHEREAS, a contract amendment to extend the time to completion and a cost increase in the amount of $39,000 is necessary to aid in post-construction grant administration services for project closeout; and
WHEREAS, there are sufficient funds available at this time for this amendment within the Construct Pinole Shores Project budget (No. 147100);
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorizes an amendment to the Contract for Services with Gray- Bowen-Scott for post-construction grant administration services for the Pinole Shores to Bayfront Park segment of the San Francisco Bay Trail to extend the completion date to December 31, 2021 and increase the contract amount by $39,000 for a total contract amount of $72,000; and
65 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 6th day of April 2021, by the following vote:
FOR:
AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:
66 Legend East Bay San Francisco Bay Trail Regional Park District Pinole Shores to Bayfront Park Existing SF Bay Trail Environmental Review & GIS Applications Proposed SF Bay Trail t:\bstone\mxd projects\trails\ sfbaytrail\sfbt_PinoleShores 070 140 280 Feet June 25, 2011
E V S a n P a b l o A D A Bay Shoreline O R L I A R Bayfront Park
T E N N E N T T C A Proposed A V R E D Segment A To Pinole U C Shores
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68 AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
Tuesday, April 6, 2021
E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD
1. CONSENT CALENDAR
m. Authorization to Apply to the Association of Bay Area Governments for Grants from San Francisco Bay Trail Grant Program: District-wide (Hornbeck/Dougan/Auker)
RECOMMENDATION
The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize grant applications to the Association of Bay Area Governments San Francisco Bay Trail Grant Program to fund the development of the San Francisco Bay Trail, District-wide.
REVENUE/COST
This action proposes grant applications for the following SF Bay Trail segments: • Point Molate, Bridge to Beach Extension, $139,000 • Radke Martinez Shoreline, Nejedly Staging Area to Berrellesa Street, $200,000
These project may increase the long-term operating cost of the Park District.
BACKGROUND
In partnership with the State Coastal Conservancy, the Bay Trail Project is soliciting grant applications for trail planning and construction projects to complete gaps in the Bay Trail. The Bay Trail is a planned 500-mile, multiple-use trail administered by the Association of Bay Area Governments. When complete, the trail will encircle San Francisco Bay, linking the shorelines of 47 cities and nine counties. Currently, 350 miles of Bay Trail are complete. Approximately $1.4 million is available from Proposition 68 to fund projects that complete Bay Trail gaps, provide strong leverage with local matching contributions, incorporate partnerships, encourage creative solutions and demonstrate readiness.
ALTERNATIVES
No alternatives are recommended.
69 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
RESOLUTION NO.: 2021 – 04 -
April 6, 2021
AUTHORIZATION TO APPLY TO THE ASSOCIATION OF BAY AREA GOVERNMENTS FOR GRANTS FROM SAN FRANCISCO BAY TRAIL GRANT PROGRAM: DISTRICT-WIDE
WHEREAS, the California State Coastal Conservancy has approved a grant for the development of San Francisco Bay Trail that will be administered by the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), San Francisco Bay Trail Project; and
WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District is seeking grants for the following Bay Trail segments:
• Point Molate, Bridge to Beach Extension, $139,000 • Radke Martinez Shoreline, Nejedly Staging Area to Berrellesa Street, $200,000
WHEREAS, the California State Coastal Conservancy and San Francisco Bay Trail Project have been delegated the responsibility for project administration and require the applicant to certify by resolution approval of an application before submission of said application; and
WHEREAS, said application contains assurances that the applicant must comply with; and
WHEREAS, upon award of a grant the applicant will enter into an agreement with ABAG and/or the State Coastal Conservancy to proceed with development of the project;
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(s) under the ABAG San Francisco Bay Trail Grant Program for the above projects; and
2. Certifies that said applicant understands the assurances and certification; and
3. Certifies that said applicant has or will have available prior to commencement of any work on the project included in this application, the required match and all other funds necessary to complete the project; and will have sufficient funds to operate and maintain the project; and
4. Authorizes and directs the General Manager or Assistant General Manager of Finance and Management Services, 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
70 5. such acts as may be deemed or appropriate to accomplish the intentions of this resolution; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Assistant General Manager of Finance and Management Services/CFO or Budget Manager is hereby authorized to amend the project’s budget, and that the General Manager or Assistant General Manager Finance and Management Services/CFO is hereby authorized and directed, on behalf of the Park District and in its name, without further Board action, upon receipt of an executed grant contract from the Grants Manager, including but not limited to any documents which may be necessary in the continuation of the project. 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 approved this 6th day of April 6, 2021, by the following vote:
FOR:
AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:
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72 AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
Tuesday, April 6, 2021
E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD
1. CONSENT CALENDAR
n. Authorization of Quagga/Zebra Mussel Infestation Prevention Grant Program Application and Funding Agreements: District-wide (Hornbeck/Patterson/Auker)
RECOMMENDATION
The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize grant applications with the California Department of Park and Recreation Division of Boating and Waterways for funding to prevent the infestation of quagga and zebra mussels, District-wide.
REVENUE/COST
This action proposes a grant application up to the maximum amount allowed, $400,000 each for implementation projects or $200,000 each for planning projects, to prevent the infestation of quagga and zebra mussels District-wide.
BACKGROUND
On September 23, 2012, the Governor of the State of California signed legislation which authorizes the Division of Boating and Waterways to establish quagga and zebra mussel infestation prevention fees and authorizes the Department of Motor Vehicles to collect the fees. Funds derived from the fee are made available for grants to entities for the reasonable regulatory costs incurred for the implementation of mussel infestation prevention.
The Park District began its mussel inspection prevention program in 2008 with four parks: Del Valle, Lake Chabot, Contra Loma, and Quarry Lakes. On October 1, 2016, mussel inspection was implemented at Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area at the recommendation of Division of Boating and Waterways and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
The Park District has received four consecutive grants through this program staring in 2015, totaling approximately $1,200,000. The current grant funding will end in Fall 2021 and staff would like to continue to apply for invasive mussel prevention grants.
73 ALTERNATIVES
None are recommended.
74 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
RESOLUTION NO.: 2021 – 04 -
April 6, 2021
AUTHORIZATION OF QUAGGA/ZEBRA MUSSEL INFESTATION PREVENTION GRANT PROGRAM APPLICATION: DISTRICT-WIDE
WHEREAS, prior to the State of California, Department of Parks and Recreation Division of Boating and Waterways’ (DBW) approval of an executed Grant Agreement, said East Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors is required to pass a resolution, authorizing a designated representative(s) to execute said Applications, Grant Agreements, amendments, and certifications, designating a representative to approve claims for reimbursement, designating a representative to sign the Reimbursement Claim Form and Quarterly Progress Reports, designating a representative to sign Project Completion Certification, and designating a representative to sign the Contractor’s Release Form (as applicable); and
WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District has the legal authority to manage the water, construct, operate, and maintain infrastructure, post signage, prepare Prevention Plan documentation, monitor for water chemistry and quagga and zebra mussels, conduct and monitor boater inspections and decontamination activities, and conduct public outreach for Del Valle, Lake Chabot, Contra Loma, Quarry Lakes and Shadow Cliffs; and to apply to DBW for grants up to the maximum amount allowed for the Quagga and Zebra Mussel Infestation Prevention Grant Program; and
WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District desires to develop or implement a plan for the prevention of an infestation of the quagga and zebra mussel for Del Valle, Lake Chabot, Contra Loma, Quarry Lakes and Shadow Cliffs; and
WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District pursuant and subject to all of the terms and provisions of the Quagga and Zebra Mussel Infestation Prevention Grant Program, applications are hereby made to DBW for funding.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the General Manager or Assistant General Manager of Finance and Management Services/CFO of said East Bay Regional Park District is hereby authorized and directed to do the following acts, including but not limited to: 1. Cause the necessary data to be prepared and applications to be signed and filed with DBW; and 2. Sign DBW Quagga and Zebra Mussel Infestation Prevention Grant Agreement(s) and any amendments thereto; and 3. Approve Claims for Reimbursement; and 4. Execute the Budget and Expenditure Summary; and 5. Sign the Contractor’s Release Form; as applicable; and 6. Certify that the project(s) are complete, and ready for final inspection, as applicable.
75 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Assistant General Manager of Finance and Management Services/CFO or Budget Manager is hereby authorized to amend the project’s budget, and that the General Manager or Assistant General Manager Finance and Management Services/CFO is hereby authorized and directed, on behalf of the District and in its name, without further Board action, upon receipt of an executed grant contract from the Grants Manager, including but not limited to any documents which may be necessary in the continuation of the project. The budget amendment will include an increase in budgeted revenue and a corresponding increase in appropriation for the amount stipulated in the grant contract; 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.
Passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the East Bay Regional Park District for the Lake Del Valle, Lake Chabot, Contra Loma, Quarry Lakes and Shadow Cliffs:
Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 6th day of April, 2021, by the following vote:
FOR:
AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:
76 ACQUISITION STEWARDSHIP DEVELOPMENT AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
Tuesday, April 6, 2021
E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD
2. ACQUISITION, STEWARDSHIP & DEVELOPMENT DIVISION
a. Authorization to Execute a Contract with Belfor Property Restoration and Degenkolb Engineers Inc.; Acceptance and Appropriation of a Partial Payment of Insurance Funds from PRISM; and Appropriate and Transfer Funds for the Response to Vasco Shop Fire Project: Vasco Hills Regional Preserve (Victor/Auker/Kelchner)
RECOMMENDATION
The General Manager recommends the Board of Directors:
1. Authorize executing a contract with Belfor Property Restoration (Belfor) of Hayward, California for emergency demolition and building repair to the work shop and stable for the Response to Vasco Shop Fire Project at Vasco Hills Regional Preserve (Vasco) in the amount of $837,508; and
2. Authorize executing a contract with Degenkolb Engineers Inc. (Degenkolb) of San Francisco, California for engineering services required for repairs for the Response to Vasco Shop Fire Project in the amount of $200,000; and
3. Authorize acceptance and appropriation of the partial payment of insurance funds in the amount of $275,000 (less $25,000 deductible) from PRISM; and
4. Authorize the transfer and appropriation of $802,000 from the General Fund to the Response to Vasco Shop Fire Project (No. 162200).
REVENUE/COST
The current action will authorize a new contract with Belfor and execute a professional services contract with Degenkolb. The total cost to bring the stable and workshop facilities up to current building code is to be determined and may require additional funding. This action will increase the project budget by $1,052,000 to fund the construction and engineering contracts, and associated project costs including contingency, project management, permits and staff time for demolition and building reconstruction. Insurance is ultimately expected to reimburse the
77 majority of these expenses less a $25,000 deductible. Once all insurance funds have been received by the Park District, staff will return to the Board to request that funds less the deductible be returned to the General Fund.
SOURCE OF FUNDS Response to Vasco Shop Fire Project (No. 162200) $ 200,000 Encumbrances and Expenditures to Date (52,000) Partial Payment of $275,000 from PRISM less $25,000 deductible 250,000 Transfer & Appropriation from General Fund Balance (101-9110-000-9980) 802,000 TOTAL SOURCE OF FUNDS $ 1,200,000
USE OF FUNDS Construction Contract with Belfor Property Restoration $ 837,508 Construction Contingency 125,626 Contract with Degenkolb Engineers Inc. for Consulting Services 200,000 Other Project Costs (including project management, permits and 36,866 contingency) TOTAL USE OF FUNDS $ 1,200,000
BACKGROUND
On July 16, 2020, there was a fire at Vasco Hills’ service yard. This incident resulted in smoke and structural damage to the stables and completely burned down the workshop building resulting in demolition of both facilities. The stables and 1,600 square foot workshop were part of the existing infrastructure when acquired. The workshop has been integral to operating and maintaining Vasco Hills Regional Preserve. The Mounted Unit utilizes the stables and adjacent arena for specialized trainings for both their unit and the Volunteer Unit. It is imperative for Park Operations and the Mounting Unit that the work to repair the facilities begins immediately.
The Park District’s insurance provider, CSAC-Excess Insurance Authority/Lexington Insurance Company (now PRISM), deployed Belfor to the scene after the fire to secure the area and start the demolition process. There is a need to work expeditiously on this restoration to complete demolition and to replace the burned structures. The Park District did not solicit bids because in order to benefit from the insurance proceeds, the Park District had to utilize the insurance provider approved vendors.
The Park District is insured for property damage through the PRISM. Belfor and Degenkolb have been approved by insurance as a preferred contractor and engineer with negotiated rates making it more cost effective. Belfor is a highly qualified, full-service restoration contractor. They will be responsible for demolition and full reconstruction of the building. Degenkolb will provide architecture, design, engineering, and related services for renovation of the stable and workshop facilities. The cost proposals that Belfor and Degenkolb prepared are reasonable and soliciting bids would not produce significant savings. The engineering firm and contractor are prepared to start work as soon as the contracts are signed. District Counsel has reviewed this justification and has approved sole sourcing these emergency contracts.
78 Based on these unique circumstances and as provided by Section H.4 of Appendix E of the Board Operating Guidelines, seeking additional proposals would not be in the best interest of the Park District. Accordingly, staff recommends executing contracts with Belfor Property Restoration and Degenkolb Engineers Inc.
ALTERNATIVES
No other alternatives are recommended.
79 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
RESOLUTION NO.: 2021 – 04 –
April 6, 2021
AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE A CONTRACT WITH BELFOR PROPERTY RESTORATION AND DEGENKOLB ENGINEERS INC.; ACCEPTANCE AND APPROPRIATION OF A PARTIAL PAYMENT OF INSURANCE FUNDS FROM PRISM; AND APPROPRIATE AND TRANSFER FUNDS FOR THE RESPONSE TO VASCO SHOP FIRE PROJECT: VASCO HILLS REGIONAL PRESERVE
WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District (Park District) desires to repair the damage from a fire that occurred on July 16, 2020 to the Vasco Hills stable and workshop facilities at Vasco Caves Regional Preserve; and
WHEREAS, the need for demolition and repairs must proceed expeditiously; and
WHEREAS, based on Board Operating Guidelines, Appendix E, Section H.4., staff believes obtaining proposals for this work would not be in the best interest to the Park District because this work is covered by the Park District’s insurance provider and in order to benefit from the insurance proceeds, the Park District must utilize the insurance provider approved vendors; and
WHEREAS, Belfor Property Restoration (Belfor) of Hayward, CA and Degenkolb Engineers Inc. (Degenkolb) of San Francisco, CA has the expertise, resources, and experience that highly qualifies them to do this work immediately; and
WHEREAS, Belfor and Degenkolb have provided cost proposals that are acceptable to the Park District; and
WHEREAS, additional funding is needed for the construction contract and contract for consulting services in order to complete the project; and
WHEREAS, the Park District’s property insurance carrier PRISM will cover damages, less the Park District’s $25,000 deductible; and
WHEREAS, PRISM has advanced a partial payment of $275,000 (less the $25,000 deductible) toward the project; and
WHEREAS, staff will track all partial insurance payments receive and will seek authorization to accept and appropriate the final payment in settlement of the insurance claim; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park hereby awards a contract to Belfor Property Restoration for emergency demolition and building repair to the work shop and stable for the Response to Vasco Shop Fire Project, in
80 the amount of $837,508; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors hereby authorizes executing a contract for consulting services with Degenkolb Engineers Inc. for engineering services required for repairs for the Response to Vasco Shop Fire Project in the amount of $200,000; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors authorizes the acceptance, transfer and appropriation of insurance payments to the Response to Vasco Shop Fire Project (No. 162200), including a partial payment of $275,000 less the $25,000 deductible; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors hereby authorizes the appropriation of $802,000 from the General Fund to the Response to Vasco Shop Fire Project (No. 162200); and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that once all insurance reimbursements are received, staff will return to the Board to authorize settlement of the insurance claim and to request that funds be returned to the General Fund; 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 6th day of April, 2021, by the following vote:
FOR:
AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:
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82 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT BUDGET CHANGE FORM
NEW APPROPRIATIONS BUDGET TRANSFERS X New Appropriations Between Funds From New Revenues Between Projects DECREASE BUDGET ACCOUNT AMOUNT INCREASE BUDGET ACCOUNT AMOUNT Account Name: Capital Fund-Design Unit-Vasco Hills-Construction in Progress/Response to Vasco Shop Fire Project-General Fund-Construction Contract
Account: 333-7120-180-7020/ 1622000DS10-009 $ 802,000 Account Name: Capital Fund-Design Unit-Vasco Hills-Construction in Progress/Response to Vasco Shop Fire Project-Insured Reimbursement- Consultant(s)
Account: 333-7120-180-7020/ 162200INSR-005 $ 250,000 TRANSFERS BETWEEN FUNDS Account Name: TRANSFER OUT: Account Name: TRANSFER IN: Capital General Fund-Non Departmental-District Fund-Non Departmental-District Wide- Wide-Transfer In Transfer In
101-9110-000-9980 $ 802,000 333-9110-000-3980 $ 802,000 As being presented at the Board of Directors meeting on February 2, 2021 the General Manager recommends the transfer and appropriation of $250,000 from Insurance Reimbursement, and $802,000 General Fund for the Response to Vasco Shop Fire project 162200.
As approved at the Board of Directors Meeting on date: 4/6/2021 Board of Directors Resolution Number: 2021-06- Posted By: Posted date: Signature:
T:\BOARDCLK\BOARD MATERIAL\2021\6- April 6, 2021\S DRIVE\E-2-a ASD Vasco Hills Fire Response Award Eng Const Contract 04.06.21 - BCF
83 GENERAL MANAGER AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
Tuesday, April 6, 2021
E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD
3. GENERAL MANAGER
a. Review of Park District Federal Priorities for 2021 in Preparation for Virtual Meetings with Federal Legislators (Pfuehler/Landreth)
RECOMMENDATION
The General Manager recommends the Board of Directors review the Park District Federal priorities and priority topics for 2021 to discuss during virtual meetings with Federal legislators April 14 and 15, 2021.
REVENUE/COST
All related costs are included in the 2021 Adopted Budget.
BACKGROUND
The District’s annual conversation with Federal legislators will occur virtually on April 14 and 15. Staff is working on scheduling virtual meetings with U.S. Senators and U.S. Representatives (or staff). Government Affairs staff Erich Pfuehler and Lisa Baldinger will provide a presentation about Federal priorities for these meetings.
The Board Legislative Committee reviewed and commented on these priorities at their December 11, 2020.
ALTERNATIVES
None are recommended.
84 BOARD AND STAFF REPORTS AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
Tuesday, April 6, 2021
E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD
4. BOARD AND STAFF REPORTS
a. Actions Taken by Other Jurisdictions Affecting the Park District (Landreth)
Richmond City Council – Adopted Final Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program for 1.25-mile segment construction of San Francisco Bay Trail connecting Point Molate Beach Park to the Winehaven Historic District
On March 16, 2021, the Richmond City Council adopted the Final Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (FMND/MMRP) for the San Francisco Bay Trail at Point Molate, which the East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) adopted on May 1, 2018 and addresses two 1.25-mile trail segments from the Richmond-San Rafael (RSR) Bridge to the Winehaven Historic District. The City Council also authorized the city manager to execute the necessary agreements with the State Coastal Conservancy to accept the $1,000,000 Priority Conservation Area grant for the construction of the northern 1.25-mile segment of the San Francisco Bay Trail connecting Point Molate Beach Park to the Winehaven Historic District. EBRPD has committed to funding and constructing the southern 1.25-mile segment of the project from the RSR Bridge to Point Molate Beach Park. The City has partnered with EBRPD to complete the construction plans, environmental review, and funding for construction of both segments of the Point Molate Bay Trail project. The grant funding from the Coastal Conservancy is anticipated to complete the necessary funding required for the northern 1.25-mile segment connecting Point Molate Beach Park to the Winehaven Historic District. Upon assemblage of the project funding, EBRPD and the City will be working together on bidding the total 2.5-mile San Francisco Bay Trail at Point Molate as one project.
85 GM COMMENTS AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
Tuesday, April 6, 2021
E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD
5. GENERAL MANAGER’S COMMENTS
STAFF PRESENTATION Assistant Finance Officer Michelle Strawson O’Hara will present an update on the Finance Department’s progress in transitioning to a remote working environment during the COVID-19 pandemic.
GM COMMENTS PUBLIC SAFETY From January 21, 2020 – to February 20, 2021 the Public Safety Division handled 834 service calls and 1,751 total incidents. Highlights are included below.
Police There were 12 arrests made throughout the District for a variety of felony and misdemeanor offenses, including DUI, weapons possession, drug possession, violation of court restraining orders, disorderly conduct, and public intoxication. Officers handled 129 field interviews (contacts without citations or arrests) and issued 716 citations (573 for parking.)
• Anthony Chabot: On February 2, an officer took a report of negligent discharge of a firearm; several spent shell casings were collected.
• Big Break: On January 25, officers and medical personnel responded to the report of an abandoned vehicle; a victim was located in the vehicle and was pronounced deceased on scene from a suspected drug overdose.
• Big Break: On February 16, officers and a sergeant responded to a welfare check for a park user; the subject was taken to the hospital for a mental health evaluation.
• Leona Canyon: On February 5, an officer took a report of a dog bite; the victim sought medical attention and contact information was exchanged.
• Martin Luther King Jr. Shoreline: On February 9, an officer attempted to contact a subject for a vehicle code violation; the suspect had an outstanding warrant and was arrested for resisting a peace officer.
86 • Martinez Shoreline: On February 12, an officer took a report of assault with a deadly weapon; a victim was battered with a flashlight in an altercation that was allegedly in response to the aggression of the victim’s dog. The suspects fled the scene.
• Oyster Bay: On January 30, an officer took a report of grand theft; a game camera was stolen.
• Quarry Lakes: On February 10, officers contacted two subjects for curfew and fishing violations; they were issued citations and released on scene.
• Redwood: On February 7, an officer and medical personnel responded to a bicycle accident with minor injuries; the cyclist fell over the bike’s handlebars and was treated for an arm injury.
• Sibley: On February 18, officers responded to the report of two damaged vehicles; both vehicles had windows smashed but no reported missing items. No suspects were identified.
Fire Operations • District Fire personnel worked with Fuels Crew personnel on a variety of pile burning projects done throughout the District as part of fuels management work.
Medical • Highways 680/24: On February 19, District Fire personnel came upon a three vehicle accident while heading to a fuels project. Contra Costa Fire and ambulance were contacted and were already enroute to the scene. One patient was transported via ambulance to John Muir Medical Center.
• Tilden: On February 22, District, Berkeley, and Contra Costa Fire and Emergency Services personnel responded to a report of a juvenile bicycle accident. The victim was treated and released to the care of their parent.
Fuels Management • District Fuels Crew personnel are continuing work in Redwood on recommended treatment area (RTA) AC008b. A total of one hundred piles were completed as part of this pile burning project.
• District Fuels Crew personnel continue to perform selective pine tree removal, funded by a Coastal Conservancy grant and FEMA at Anthony Chabot Park in recommended treatment area (RTA) AC004.
• District Fuels Crew personnel are performing fuels reduction work, funded by a grant from The Coastal Conservancy, in recommended treatment area (RTA) TI011.
• FEMA-funded fuels reduction contractors and crews are continuing fuels reduction work in recommended treatment areas (RTA) T10012, T1013, and T1014.
87 • Contractors performed selective tree removal, ladder fuels reduction, brush removal, stump grinding, and pruning at Tilden during the month of March.
Lifeguard Services • COVID vaccinations were coordinated for many District employees.
• Distribution of PPE continues for the entire District through the Logistics Section.
• A new virtual public outreach program to schools, focused on delivering content to underserved communities, was initiated.
• COVID-19 station/medical standby for Park Ranger testing was provided.
• The first hiring round of returning Lifeguard II/IIIs was selected.
88 BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
Tuesday, April 6, 2021
E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD
6. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS
a. Finance Committee Minutes and Recommended Actions from the Meeting of February 26, 2021 (Lane)
Attendees Board: Beverly Lane, Ellen Corbett, and Elizabeth Echols
Staff: Ana M. Alvarez, Kristina Kelchner, Debra Auker, Deborah Spaulding, Michelle Strawson O’Hara, David Sumner, Ruby Tumber, Meadow D’Arcy, Christina Crosby, Lisa Goorjian, Kim Balingit, Ren Bates, Thao Vuong-Saephahn
Speakers: Allison Kaune, David Reeser and Monique Spyke, PFM Asset Management
Public: Kelly Abreu, Mission Peak Conservancy
Committee Chair Beverly Lane began the meeting at 12:32PM with the introduction of Committee members.
Agenda Item No. 1 December 31, 2020 Investment Report and Portfolio Review
Assistant Finance Officer Deborah Spaulding presented a report of the District’s investment activity as of the end of the fourth quarter 2020. The report is in accordance with State law and in conformity with the District’s 2020 Investment Policy. The market value of the Park District’s pooled cash and investments as of December 31, 2020 was $268.8 million. The Park District’s pension trust, project bond funds and debt service funds held an additional $77.8 million.
Tables and graphics accompanying the investment reports were provided in the Finance Committee packet.
AFO Spaulding introduced Monique Skype, David Reeser, and Allison Kaune with PFM Asset Management, who gave an update on the District’s investment portfolio, the current investment environment and discussed the Park District’s investment benchmarking with an emphasis on how COVID-19 has affected the market.
89 Chair Lane asked AFO Spaulding to review changes from the prior year in CAMP, LAIF and US Treasuries, and how Finance staff works with PFM in managing these investments.
AFO Spaulding stated as short-term investment returns have dropped, the Park District has moved some of its pooled cash from CAMP to LAIF, where higher returns can be achieved. However, LAIF has an investment cap of $75 million. Similarly, US Treasury investment returns have also declined, so the Park District has transitioned out of this sector and into securities where greater returns can safely be achieved. Day-to-day investment decisions are made by PFM. PFM regularly meets with Park District staff to provide updates and receive direction.
Recommendation: Motioned by Ellen Corbett and seconded by Beverly Lane that the Finance Committee recommends to the full Board of Directors approval of the December 31, 2020 Investment Report. Motion Approved.
Agenda Item No. 2 Job Order Contracting Program – Quarterly Report
Chief of Design and Construction Lisa Goorjian gave a brief introduction to the Committee on the function and scope of the Job Order Contracting (JOC) Program. Additionally, the JOC Program is undertaking an RFP for consultants in the coming month.
Director Corbett asked when consultant selection information will be made available to the Board. Chief Goorjian replied the consultants selection and fees will be shared with the Board of Directors. Chair Lane asked in what type of format the report would come to the Board of Directors. AGM Auker stated the information would be shared either through a separate report or through the Quarterly JOC Program update to the Board Finance Committee.
Capital Program Manager Ren Bates provided a JOC Program status update. In 2015, the Board awarded the first round of Job Order Contracts, at a total value of $6 million. On May 21, 2019, the Board awarded another round of eight $1 million job order contracts. Currently ten job orders are in progress: 22 job orders have been completed. District staff is preparing to bid the next round of JOC contracts that will consist of three “A” General Engineering contracts, three “B” General Building contracts, and two “A” General Paving contracts. This is the same number of contracts that were previously awarded. CPM Bates explained the steps that are followed in the JOC review process. Proposals are vetted and checked by project managers, as well as by staff from The Gordian Group, which provides administrative support to the JOC program. CPM Bates reviewed the job order list, explaining each job contract and the projects that have been completed.
CPM Bates concluded his presentation by stating that the JOC program is working well, is a beneficial tool to the Park District, and has generated considerable time savings and reduced contracting costs.
Director Corbett sought clarification if whether the Lake Chabot Public Safety secure parking lot would be the lot next to the Nike Classroom or whether the fence would encompass the Public Safety parking lot.
90 CPM Bates stated the parking lot next to Nike Classroom would remain open to the public.
Chair Lane remarked on improvements to the Del Valle Visitor Center and asked who was the current Supervising Naturalist for Del Valle, Sunol and Shadow Cliffs. Management Analyst Ruby Tumber responded it is Supervising Naturalist Ashley Grenier.
Director Echols requested clarification on extending JOC contracts from $1 million to $1.5 million. CPM Bates responded that currently JOC contracts are set at a “not to exceed limit” of $1 million. Staff will request an increase to $1.5 million from the full Board of Directors. Once the Board approves the eight JOC contracts, staff will have a mandatory agreement meeting and go out for bidding.
Director Corbett asked for confirmation that the JOC contracts require prevailing wage pricing. CPM Bates confirmed, stating the requirements for JOC contracts are no different from the Park District’s regular bidding requirements – JOC uses prevailing wage and local materials costs. The Park District’s JOC contracts also encompass all federal requirements, as JOC is often used on projects that receive FEMA grants or other federal funds.
Chair Lane asked about the cost of yurt repair at Camp Arroyo as compared to the cost of a new yurt structure. CPM Bates replied he would research this and bring that information back to the Board Finance Committee. AGM Auker noted that this project was FEMA funded, which might have limited the ability to replace the yurt.
Chair Lane commented she appreciated the work on the Arata Barn at Black Diamond and asked about the fees of the Gordian Group. CPM Bates stated the Gordian Group receives 5% of the final work cost and is only paid for work that is fully completed.
Recommendation: This item is for information only. No action required.
Agenda Item No. 3 2020 Disposal of Fixed Assets
Accounting Manager Kim Balingit reported that the District annually performs an inventory of fixed assets, identifying items that have been disposed in the prior year, and recording an accounting adjustment to “write-off” the remaining net book value of any asset no longer in the District’s possession. Per Board Operating Guidelines, items with a book value (cost less accumulated depreciation) of over $25,000 are subject to Board review and action. Disposal of two fixed assets with a book value over $25,000 during the 2020 fiscal year were an interpretive facility and a storage building at Sunol Wilderness Regional Preserve, both of which were destroyed in the SCU Lightning Complex Fire.
An informational list was provided to the Committee summarizing all fixed assets disposed in 2020, regardless of value. In 2020, there were 33 assets disposed through the Board approved action process and $128,319 was received at auction for these items. In addition, ten assets were determined not be auction-able and were disposed or recycled. The net book value of these items combined was $257,700. Three of the assets were destroyed due to fire. One asset was donated to the Westport Volunteer Fire Department in Mendocino, CA: a 1997 type 3 engine fire truck. Lastly, one asset was sold to Airtime
91 Helicopters Inc for $535,000, an American Eurocopter AS350-B2 helicopter (Eagle 6). This asset was fully depreciated at the time of disposal. The Board previously approved the sale of this at their December 1, 2020 meeting.
Director Corbett appreciated that the District donated equipment to assist in fighting fires across California.
Recommendation: Motioned by Elizabeth Echols and seconded by Beverly Lane that the Finance Committee recommends to the full Board of Directors for approval of accounting adjustments to reflect the disposal of two fixed assets with a book value over $25,000 during the 2020 fiscal year. Motion approved.
Agenda Item No. 4 Easy Bay Regional Park District Retirement Plans Update
AFO Spaulding reported that the Park District was preparing to issue an RFP for plan administration services for the East Bay Regional Park District Retirement Plans, also known as the Transamerica Plans. Transamerica has provided retirement plan administrative services ever since the Plans’ inception in 1961. One limitation to being able to transition from Transamerica administrative services is the fact that a segment of retirees receives annuity payments, the administration of which could not be transferred from Transamerica. However, the percentage of retirees with annuities has declined in recent years.
The funded status of the Plans estimated as of 3/31/2020 (the most recent information available) is provided below.
92 AGM Auker stated the Park District contracts with Milliman to provide investment advisory advice for these Retirement Plans, and that these services will also be part of the RFP. The results of the RFP will come to Board Finance Committee in June 2021.
Director Echols commented that she thought it was important for the Park District to be able to easily access retirement reports and necessary information on the website.
Recommendation: This item is informational only. No action required.
Agenda Item No. 5 Open Forum for Public Comment
Kelly Abreu, Mission Peak Conservancy submitted his comment via email noting that he had in compared the Park District’s forecast for property tax revenues against forecasts prepared by two other agencies. Alameda County had the same forecast as the District, but the Fremont forecast looks to be extremely optimistic.
Agenda Item No. 6 Committee Comments
None.
Meeting adjourned at 2:09PM. The next Finance Committee meeting is scheduled for April 30, 2021. The March meeting is cancelled due to the Board Workshop.
Respectfully submitted, Caitlin Stone, Finance Department
93 Page Left Blank Intentionally
94 AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
Tuesday, April 6, 2021
E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD
6. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORT
b. Operations (Thursday, February 18, 2021) (Corbett) Present
Board: Directors Ellen Corbett (Chair), Ayn Wieskamp, Elizabeth Echols
Staff: Jim O’Connor, Ruby Tumber, Steve Castile, Anne Kassebaum, Tiffany Margulici, Dan Sykes, Matt Moore, Jeff Bennett, Sarah Motley, Denise Valentine
Absent: None
Guests: Vijoa Lucas, Anthony Ricardo, Juliene Bartley
Agenda Item 2: Approval of Recommendation for Anthony Chabot Equestrian Center Concession Request for Proposal (RFP) and New: Anthony Chabot Regional Park
Business Services Manager Tiffany Margulici presented the recommendation for the new concession for Anthony Chabot Equestrian Center (ACEC). Items reviewed included: ACEC RFP review, time and process, location, background, Kheystone Management Co., strategic partners, projected revenue, and staff recommendations.
Kheystone Management President Vijoa Lucas Ricardo and Co-Founder and Managing Director Anthony Ricardo provided an overview of the company, experience and knowledge in the field, and goals set for the operation as a concessionaire.
Public Comments on Agenda Item 2 Karen Spies commented on her experience as a rider and boarder at Anthony Chabot for 15 years, improvements made over the years to the facility, and the positive personal interactions with the Ricardo’s as being respectable, honest, and knowledgeable of horses.
Email submitted by Frank Harbin and Michelle Burrill To Whom It May Concern: We are life-long Oakland residents and homeowners. We have been competing and showing in nationally ranked equestrian competitions for over 25 years. We are active members of Oaklands' proud Metropolitan Horsemen's Association. We are so grateful to be ‘boarders’ (always more
95 than one horse), at Anthony Chabot Equestrian Center .. for over twenty-two years! ..and counting….
We had served one summer as EBRP Ambassadors giving very popular ‘barn tours’ to the public at Anthony Chabot Equestrian Center (ACEC) every-other Sunday.
There is not another equestrian facility in the Oakland Hills (and for MANY miles beyond) that is physically able to accommodate visits from the public.
We optimistically look forward, to ACEC once again, being a welcoming public facility; where our diverse public will be genuinely welcomed when they visit. One of our favorite responses from the non-equestrian public is ‘we NEVER KNEW this wonderful facility is right here!’.
For our diverse equestrian community, and in honor of our rich East Bay Equestrian History, ACEC is unique as it represents ‘home’ ‘to all disciplines of ridership, whether it be western, pleasure/trail riding, dressage or hunter jumper.
Kheystone Management Company (Vijoa Lucas and her husband Anthony) know ACEC, value the legacy, and will do their best to continue this tradition, and they represent their passion too, in exposing new generations to the joy of engaging with equines.
Also, we look forward to a more active interaction with EBRP staff in assisting with our goal for enhancing the publics’, and our equine communities’ shared appreciation for our parks and trails and our diverse public community. It is a great location for a park visitor to occasionally meet an EBRP employee and gain a deeper appreciation for our exceptional EBRPs.
Thanks for considering our comments.
Email submitted by Joyce Smith Dear EBRPD Board of Directors:
My name is Joyce Smith. By way of background, I am a partner at Baker & McKenzie, LLP focusing on international tech transactions but perhaps more importantly and relevant leading our Firm's local and global D&I initiatives. I am also a long-time Oakland resident who loves and appreciates our public parks and spaces.
I am delighted to write this letter of enthusiastic and unequivocal support for Kheystone Management Company in connection with your decision to award the ACED concession. I have had the pleasure of being a client of Kheystone Training, based at ACEC, for over 12 years. My experience over this period of time has been fun, insightful and rewarding in terms of my growth as a rider and as a human being owing to the effective, insightful and caring instruction of Kheystone Training. As an equestrian and racial equity advocate, I am excited and thrilled to see that the Board is considering awarding the ACEC concession to Kheystone Management Company. In my view, the ACEC concession couldn't be in more exceptional hands than with Kheystone Management Company who possess the perfect combination of experience/expertise, business acumen, and care and concern for the community.
96 Let’s keep the momentum going in ensuring that all of the wonderful assets EBRPD has to offer continues to reach a wide array of constituents and users, particularly under-served communities. This pandemic and fiscal recession only shows how important and worthwhile our beautiful facilities and open spaces are for families and users who need it the most.
Thank you for your time and consideration. Kind regards,
End of Public Comments on Agenda Item 2
Director Wieskamp acknowledged the positive comments submitted on behalf of Kheystone by members of the public, sound business acumen, and knowledge of the operation.
Director Echols echoed Wieskamp’s comments, recognizing and commending the comment “as a team that can do it all,” and the focus on under-served communities.
Director Corbett concurred with both committee members comments and commented on the impressive work in sensitivity training.
AGM O’Connor recalled his initial apprehension with only one submitted application for operation, but is looking forward to working with Kheystone and commended Kheystone on work being performed surrounding equestrian / mt bike sensitivity training.
Echols moved to approve and recommend to the full Board the Park District staff recommendation for the selection of Kheystone Management Company as concessionaire of Anthony Chabot Equestrian Center for an initial term of three years beginning April 1, 2021 with a mutual option to extend the term of the Agreement for one five-year period. The Park District can expect up to $52,600 annually, representing 10% of total gross monthly receipts, (5% in concession fees and 5% to a site-specific Concession Maintenance Fund (“CMF”)). There will be no cost to the Park District for this action except for any unknown cost of maintenance or repairs to the property not covered by the concessionaire or the CMF. Wieskamp seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
Agenda Item 3: Review Las Trampas Stables RFP: Las Trampas Regional Wilderness
Business Services Manager Tiffany Margulici presented an overview of the RFP for the Las Trampas Stables. Items reviewed included: location, background, RFP timeline and process, projected revenue, and staff recommendation.
Juliene Bartley of Juliene Bartley, LLC expressed gratitude to meet with the Committee and potentially assume the responsibilities at the Las Trampas Stables. Bartley recalled she has been serving the stables for almost two years and has developed relationships with the boarders and horses.
97 Park Supervisor Matt Moore shared the pleasure of communicating with Bartley coming on as the new park supervisor, the asset of having her onsite and the good relationship she has with park staff.
Echols moved to approve and recommend to the full Board the Park District staff recommendation for the selection of Juliene Bartley, Limited Liability Company as concessionaire of Las Trampas Stables for an initial term of three years beginning April 1, 2021 with a mutual option to extend the term of the Agreement for one five-year period. The Park District can expect up to $28,800 annually, representing 10% of total gross monthly receipts, (5% in concession fees and 5% to a site-specific Concession Maintenance Fund (“CMF”). There will be no cost to the Park District for this action except for any unknown cost of maintenance or repairs to the property not covered by the concessionaire or the CMF. Wieskamp seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
Agenda Item 4: Interpretive Parklands Unit Update: Greenhouse at Dry Creek Garden
Interpretive Parklands Gardener Jeff Bennett presented an update of the Greenhouse at Dry Creek Garden. Items reviewed included: delivery of greenhouse kit, ground preparation, structure frame, dual pane glass installation, automatic venting system, move in, final product, items needed, and 2020 in review.
Corbett inquired if there were protocol that would allow volunteers to assist with pruning the apple trees. Bennett replied there is a liability issue that prevents staff from recruiting volunteers for the purpose of pruning.
Wieskamp inquired if funds are set aside for the items still required for the garden. Bennett replied staff is currently submitting a grant request to cover costs for the battery and installation. Additional funding will be requested by staff in 2021 for the remaining items.
Agenda Item 5: Public Comments There were no public comments.
Agenda Item 6: Board Comments Wieskamp requested a Board Site Tour of the garden, when permissible.
Agenda Item 6: AGM Comments • Alameda County has accepted Park District staff as essential workers and vaccinations will begin to roll out to staff who have selected to receive vaccinations.
Meeting adjourned at 1:53 p.m.
Respectfully submitted: /s/ Denise Valentine Executive Secretary
98 AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
Tuesday, April 6, 2021
E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD
6. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS
c. Operations (Thursday, January 21, 2021) (Corbett) Present
Board: Directors Ellen Corbett (Chair), Ayn Wieskamp, Elizabeth Echols
Staff: Jim O’Connor, Ruby Tumber, Steve Castile, Anne Kassebaum, Tiffany Margulici, Renee Patterson, Sarah Lamborn, Nate Luna, Alan Love, Denise Valentine
Absent: None
Guests: Kelly Abreu, Tessa Nicholas, Brian Hickey, Adam Cope, Juwan Swan,
Agenda Item 2: Update: District-wide Civicorps Agreement
Chief of Park Operations Steve Castile, along with staff from Civicorps, presented an informational update on the Districtwide Civicorps Agreement, a Community Services Program. Items reviewed included: the annual operations contracts, Park District work plan, staff and corps members who have worked at the Park District, history of the partnership, project highlights, and Civicorps staff introductions.
Director Wieskamp inquired what are the next steps for students ready to transition to a higher level in the program. Civicorps Executive Director Tessa Nicholas replied that the next level is dependent on the level of education in which a student enters the program. In the job training program, there are milestones each student is expected to achieve before advancing to another level. For future advancement, the Support Services Team conducts individual service strategies to determine the individual goals of the student. Internship opportunities are also available within Civicorps for a variety of different intern positions. Civicorps also staffs two case counselors to address the needs for mental health, transportation, childcare, and housing.
Director Echols inquired on specific goals set by staff for job placement. Nicholas expressed the goal is for staff to see the expansion of the list of core members and staff who transition to a position with the Park District. Currently staff is evaluating the pathways for members to connect and bridge into employment opportunities. A great example is Waste Management. After a student completes two years of Class B driving experience with Civicorps, the student can then
99 enter an apprenticeship with Waste Management for two years and upon completion be considered for full time employment with the organization. In addition, staff is working with all existing partners and reviewing the needs of the partner and identifying the training requirements needed from students.
Director Corbett inquired if outreach is being directed towards the foster children group. Nicholas replied affirmatively and that Civicorps has partnerships with Beyond Emancipation and First Place for You. Both organizations work directly with foster youth and recognize this group comes with a different set of barriers. Civicorps conducted a study of the subgroup of former foster youth and youth in the program to ensure that these groups were being served as well as any other subgroup.
AGM O’Connor inquired if students applying for jobs are aided with the application process. Nicholas replied Civicorps holds resume building, cover letter, and interview skills workshops, where volunteers currently work directly with students via Zoom. Civicorps continues to identify gaps in training to better prepare a competitive applicant.
Agenda Item 3: Update: Reservable Facilities Department
Reservable Facilities Supervisor Sarah Lamborn presented an update on the Reservable Facilities Department. Items in the presentation included: overview of the Reservable Facilities, photos, department staff, caterers, approved caterers list, events, statistics, revenue, and projects.
Wieskamp inquired on current plans at the Camp Arroyo site. O’Connor replied funding has been secured related to utility costs. Due to COVID, events are currently on hold at the camp. Staff is utilizing the down time to complete several projects at the site.
Corbett inquired if staff is looking to increase Wi-Fi at indoor facility locations. Lamborn replied staff is exploring the options relating to Wi-Fi.
Corbett recalled the last Reservable Facilities presentation and inquired on the status of the outdoor project at the MLK Shoreline Center. Lamborn replied staff has approached the project by dividing it into three phases. Currently staff is working on phase one – a roof painting project. This work will begin once the weather permits.
Agenda Item 3: Brazilian Building PG&E Gas Line Decommission
Maintenance and Skilled Trades Project Manager Nate Luna provided an update on the PG&E Gas Line Decommission project at the Brazilian Building and residence at Tilden Park Regional Park. Items in the presentation included: project objectives, project location, exposed PG&E gas line, project objectives, timeline, project challenges, steep hillside planning, dumpster enclosure, project cost, dumpster enclosure health code compliance, Tilden sewer main and lateral repair, project accomplishments, and decorative fence/screen for service entrance.
Echols inquired on what is occurring at the Park Hills HOA, as it was displayed on the map. Luna replied there is a trail that runs from the HOA site to Wildcat, where a gas line is located.
100 Echols inquired if Park District lost income due to the work not being completed on time by PG&E. O’Connor replied, yes. Echols inquired if compensation was received for the interrupted service. O’Connor replied, no. Lamborn commented staff placed maintenance holds for the month of April, so the loss of income was minimal.
Agenda Item 4: 2021 Committee Work Plan Review
Management Analyst Ruby Tumber provided an overview of the 2021 Committee Work Plan, reviewed items added to the list by the 2020 Committee members and sought topics to be added by the 2021 Committee members.
Echols inquired on the process of determining what items are added to the list each year. Tumber replied each year staff populates the list and presents it to the Committee. The list is based on agreements coming to term and individual item timelines.
Corbett referenced the 2021 Ordinance 38 Biennial review item and requested an opportunity to review background material prior to the item being presented to the Committee.
Corbett inquired if there are cell tower agreements coming to term in 2021 year. Tumber replied, no. Corbett questioned whether staff expects any new requests to be received in 2021. O’Connor recalled at the end of 2020 staff approved a one-year extension for the PG&E communication site at Black Diamond. In addition, staff was approached by Contra Costa County to build a new facility in Carquinez Straights Regional Shoreline in Martinez, which has been handed over to the Park District ASD Planning group led by Chief of Planning Brian Holt.
Corbett inquired if any private entities have made inquiries on sites. Business Services Manager Tiffany Margulici recalled staff occasionally receives private entity applications that generally do not meet Park District policy needs, are not aesthetic, or are not considered good service to the public. Corbett inquired if it is typical for private entities to request to reserve space in a new complex. Margulici stated Contra Costa County has expressed interested in sub-leases. Corbett inquired if it would generate revenue. Margulici replied yes, and stated the standard percentage received for subleases is 25% of the sub lease revenue.
Corbett requested to add to the list an update on the MLK Shoreline Center. Wieskamp suggested a discussion on how to market the MLK Shoreline Center to local area businesses.
Corbett requested to add to the list an update on Wi-Fi upgrades in the Park District.
Corbett inquired if staff has changed the ways members of the public make reservations. Margulici responded Ardenwood Farm was briefly open utilizing a registration system for a specific time slot. The same model will be used for Tilden Little Farm when it opens on February 18. A pilot was implemented for allowing members of the public to pay boat launch and Quagga inspection fees online. Staff is working in 2021 to upgrade all credit card readers to contactless, which would allow Apple and Google pay options.
101 Agenda Item 5: Public Comments Kelly Abreu of Mission Peak Conservancy – Commented on Mission Peak data, expanded hiking and biking, park upgrades, Ordinance 38, disparity on parking ticket fines.
Agenda Item 6: Board Comments Directors Wieskamp, Echols and Corbett commented on looking forward to a busy and good year.
Agenda Item 7: AGM Comments • In process of recruitment for Chief of Maintenance and Skilled Trades. The target is mid- February to fill the permanent position. • Supervising Naturalist Mike Moran will be serving as the acting NW I & R Regional Services Manager.
Meeting adjourned at 2:41 p.m.
102 Park It: East Bay trails’ safety patrols returning to work Volunteer groups run by the park district have been off-duty a year due to COVID-19 measures By NED MACKAY | East Bay Regional Park District PUBLISHED: March 28, 2021 at 5:00 a.m. | UPDATED: March 29, 2021 at 7:49 a.m. East Bay Regional Park District Volunteer Trail Safety Patrol members Dale Boehme, left, of Pleasanton, and wife Barbara Boehme appear previously while on duty in the district’s mounted patrol group at Brushy Peak Regional Preserve in Livermore. The safety patrol, which has been on hold for a year due to pandemic restrictions, is returning to the trails. The East Bay Regional Park District’s Volunteer Trail Safety Patrol, which has been on hold for a year because of COVID-19 concerns, is back on the trails as of April 1. The patrol is administered by the park district’s public safety department. Full disclosure: I’m a member. There are five patrol groups — a mounted patrol, a bicycle patrol, a hiking patrol, a companion dog patrol and a marine safety unit. Members can also join the park district’s Search and Rescue unit.
The companion dog patrol consists of hiking patrol members accompanied by their personal pets. The belief is that park visitors with dogs will respond more positively to patrollers who also have dogs during interactions about dog rules in the parks. Although the patrol is part of the district’s Police Department, patrollers are not sworn police officers. Our role is to offer information and assistance, report on trail status and advise district staff of hazardous conditions or anything else requiring action. We also sometimes help at special events and staff information tables at park trailheads. Via two-way radio or cell phone, we can summon help if there’s an emergency.
In a diplomatic way, we advise park visitors of park rules and trail courtesy. The mantra is “observe, report, educate.” Patrollers inform; they do not enforce. You can recognize us by our tan- colored polo shirts and green ball caps, both with the park district insignia on the front. Following COVID-19 protocols when on patrol, we wear masks at all times and maintain 6 feet of social distance.
I think of patrollers as mobile information sources. We can provide directions, hand out park maps and generally help to make everyone’s park visit a pleasant experience. I like to think that we sometimes resolve problems before they become emergencies, such as preventing people from becoming lost. Our website is parkpatrol.org. So if you see us on the trails, say “hello.” We’re
103 friendly and always glad to share information.
Multicultural Wellness: The park district and Regional Parks Foundation are sponsoring a series of one-hour, online sessions on the theme of Multicultural Wellness and Fitness. All are accessible on Zoom via the park district’s website, ebparks.org.
There’s a Virtual Fitness program from 5 to 6 p.m. April 1 and another from 10 to 11 a.m. April 3, both led by David Wei. And there’s a wellness and fitness series underway from now through May 12. A link to the full schedule is at bayareane.ws/3w0SOIk.
Online learning: And there’s more. Under the heading of “Digital Learning,” the park district website offers a wide variety of virtual experiences in natural history. There are virtual tours of the visitor centers, which the district plans to reopen as soon as health officials say it’s safe to do so. There are also naturalist-produced videos on a variety of topics, geared for all ages. You can check out the videos, then take your kids out for a self-guided nature walk.
We’ll all look forward to the time when the district can resume more normal in-person nature programs and special events. Meanwhile, the parks and trails are open for hiking and riding. Please remember to maintain social distance and bring masks to wear on narrow trails and other locations where 6 feet of separation is difficult.
104 5 Hikes To Take In East Bay Regional Parks The weather will approach 80 degrees in some East Bay communities over the next week. Here's where to get out and enjoy a hike. Bea Karnes, Patch Staff Posted Thu, Mar 25, 2021 at 9:12 am PT EAST BAY — East Bay Regional Parks are an incredible treasure, encompassing 125,000 acres in 73 parks in Alameda and Contra Costa counties. You can do everything from boating to golfing, swimming and camping, mountain biking and horseback riding. But one of the favorites of park visitors is hiking.
The park district maintains over 1,250 miles of trails and 55 miles of shoreline where you can take a stroll as you enjoy the sunset.
Unfortunately, many park amenities are still closed because of coronavirus restrictions. But hiking trails are open.
Here are 5 to try —
Del Valle: The centerpiece of Del Valle Regional Park in Livermore is a five-mile-long lake. The photos above were taken at Del Valle. At just shy of 4,400 acres there are plenty of trails to try from easy to challenging. For an easy hike, try the Swallow Bay Trail which is roughly half a mile long. If you're looking for a long hike, the 5.5 mile East Shore Trail is considered intermediate. If you are up for a challenge, the Hetch Hetchy Trail is rated difficult. "Del Valle also is the eastern gateway to the Ohlone Wilderness Trail, 28 miles of scenic back- country trail," the parks district advises. If you snap any photos of wildflowers while hiking, compare them to the park's wildflower guide when you return home. Address: 7000 Del Valle Road, Livermore, CA 94550
Coyote Hills: This popular park along the southeast shore of San Francisco Bay in Fremont includes more than 1,266 acres of marshland and rolling grass-covered hills. It's a great place to combine bird watching with your hike. The 2.2 miles long Alameda Creek Trail is considered easy. If you want more of a challenge, try the intermediate Bay View Trail which is 3.5 miles long, but paved. Address: 8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont, CA 94555
Lake Chabot: If you want to make an entire day of hiking, try Lake Chabot. "Lake Chabot offers over 20 miles of hiking trails, which connect to the additional 70 miles of trails in
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adjoining Anthony Chabot Regional Park," the park district reports. "The paved, 3.52-mile West Shore and East Shore trails provide access to the south and east shores of the lake. Various trails in Lake Chabot Regional Park provide access to the Skyline National Trail north of the lake in Anthony Chabot Regional Park." Address: 17600 Lake Chabot Rd., Castro Valley, CA 94546
Briones: If you are craving rolling green hills, head to Briones. "With its rolling, grassy hills and secluded, shady canyons, Briones is a secret wilderness surrounded by the towns of central Contra Costa County. Although the park is close to Lafayette, Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill, Concord, and Martinez, there are peaks within it from which you can see only park and watershed lands for miles in every direction." If the park district's description sounds like a slice of heaven, the two most popular access points are in Lafayette and Martinez. Try the Vaca Creek Trail from Martinez for an easy hike. There are dozens of trails in the park. Take a look at the trail map. Addresses: 1611 Bear Creek Road, Lafayette, CA and 2537 Reliez Valley Road, Martinez, CA
Tilden Botanic Garden: This unique hike is easy, but you must make a reservation in advance. Make a reservation here. The Botanic Garden is situated in Tilden Regional Park's Wildcat Canyon in the north Berkeley Hills. The garden is devoted to the collection, growth, display, and preservation of native plants of California. All specimens are landscaped, offering an enjoyable exploration. The garden displays nearly all of the state's conifers and oaks, and possibly the most complete collection of California manzanitas anywhere. Address: Off of Wildcat Canyon Road and Grizzly Peak Boulevard, Shasta Rd, Berkeley, CA
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HAYWARD ADOPTS PLAN TO PROTECT SHORELINE FROM RISING SEA LEVELS March 23, 2021 On February 16, 2021, the Hayward City Council adopted the Hayward Regional Shoreline Adaptation Master Plan – a comprehensive set of strategies to prepare the Hayward shoreline for rising sea levels. The Plan was prepared by the Hayward Area Shoreline Planning Agency (HASPA), a partnership between the City, the East Bay Regional Park District, and the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District. Over the last century, San Francisco Bay sea levels have increased by eight inches according to the California Coastal Commission, and they will continue to rise due to global warming effects such as expanding ocean water molecules and the addition of freshwater to oceans from melting ice sheets and glaciers.
The Master Plan, developed with the support of a multidisciplinary team with extensive experience in climate adaptation, envisions a range of nature-based and engineered solutions along the shoreline that will host recreational opportunities, facilitate educational programming, and support the continued operation of critical urban infrastructure. As sea levels rise, a suite of design strategies and projects will be implemented to make the shoreline more resilient to climate change and more accessible to all. The complete Plan and supporting documents are available now on the project webpage.
The two-year planning effort was made possible due to the extensive stakeholder and public engagement that occurred at every stage of its development. Community members attended shore tours, workshops, and participated in online public comment forums, and the feedback they provided over the course of these efforts played a critical role in shaping the adopted Plan.
Community members are encouraged to stay involved by attending the Hayward Area Shoreline Planning Agency (HASPA) quarterly Board meetings. HASPA is currently seeking funding to begin implementing strategies identified in the Plan. For more information regarding meeting schedules and agendas, please visit https://www.hayward-ca.gov/your-government/boards-commissions/HASPA.
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Newsom appoints Rob Bonta, Oakland assemblyman, as state attorney general Bonta, 48, was first Filipino American in state Legislature, representing Oakland, Alameda and San Leandro By PAUL ROGERS | and ROBERT SALONGA | PUBLISHED: March 24, 2021 at 1:46 p.m. | UPDATED: March 25, 2021 at 7:18 a.m. ALAMEDA, CA – MARCH 16: Assemblymember Rob Bonta, Representing the 18th California Assembly District, talks to the media after he and Governor Gavin Newsom took a tour of the reopened Ruby Bridges Elementary School in Alameda, Calif., on Tuesday, March 16, 2021. Gov. Gavin Newsom on Wednesday announced he has chosen Assemblyman Rob Bonta, an Oakland Democrat, to be California’s next attorney general — a high-profile job and frequent stepping stone to higher office that was the epicenter of the state’s relentless lawsuits against the Trump administration over the last four years.
Bonta, 48, was the first Filipino American elected to the state Legislature in 2012. A close ally of Newsom who earned a law degree from Yale, he represents the 18th Assembly District, a Democratic stronghold that includes much of the East Bay, stretching from Oakland to San Leandro and including Alameda.
The nomination is subject to confirmation by the California State Assembly and Senate within 90 days, where approval is expected.
“Rob has become a national leader in the fight to repair our justice system and defend the rights of every Californian,” Newsom said. “And most importantly, at this moment when so many communities are under attack for who they are and who they love, Rob has fought to strengthen hate crime laws and protect our communities from the forces of hate. He will be a phenomenal attorney general, and I can’t wait to see him get to work.”
The state’s top law enforcement job became open after President Biden nominated California’s previous attorney general, Xavier Becerra, to be secretary of the U.S. Department Health and Human Services.
Becerra was narrowly confirmed by the U.S. Senate 50-49 in a vote last week.
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“As California’s Attorney General, I will work tirelessly every day to ensure that every Californian who has been wronged can find justice and that every person is treated fairly under the law,” said Bonta, whose appointment runs through the 2022 election.
In Sacramento, Bonta has garnered a reputation as a liberal, working on immigration, civil rights, tenants’ rights and public safety issues. He was co-author of SB 10, a bill that made California the first state in the nation to eliminate money bail for suspects awaiting trial and replace it with a risk- assessment system. After former Gov. Jerry Brown signed the measure into law, the bail bond industry put it on the state ballot and it was overturned by voters last November.
Bonta also co-authored bills that Newsom signed to ban private, for-profit prisons in California, and to compel state Department of Justice investigations of police shootings of unarmed civilians.
As California’s attorney general, he leads the state Department of Justice, following in the footsteps of Becerra, Vice President Kamala Harris and Brown in one of the state’s most politically powerful jobs. The agency has roughly 4,700 employees. It prosecutes people and companies who violate state laws, defends state government agencies in court cases and advises the state government on legal issues.
A number of other political leaders, including U.S. Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Burbank, Contra Costa County District Attorney Diana Becton, and U.S. Rep. Ted Lieu, D-Torrance, were believed to be on Newsom’s short list. But choosing a Democrat from Congress would have further shrunk the Democrat’s very slim majority in the House. And after Newsom chose former Secretary of State Alex Padilla of Los Angeles to fill Harris’ U.S. Senate seat when she was elected vice president, some pundits expected a Northern California pick for the next big job.
Bonta’s selection comes amid several high-profile attacks against elderly Asian Americans in the Bay Area, former President Trump calling the coronavirus “the China Flu,” and a shooting in Atlanta that killed eight people, six of them Asian women.
“Hate crimes targeting the API (Asian/Pacific Islander) community have skyrocketed over the last year, and we need a champion who will make the pursuit of justice for these victims a top priority,” said Assemblymember Evan Low, D-Campbell, who serves as vice chair of the API Legislative Caucus. “I have full faith Attorney General Bonta is the right person to meet this moment.”
Bonta and his wife Mialisa live in Alameda with their three children.
Bonta’s parents were missionaries working in rural villages in 1972 when he was born in Quezon City, Philippines. His father, Warren, a U.S. citizen from Ventura County, had joined Martin Luther King Jr.’s civil rights organizing in Selma, Alabama, in the 1960s to pass the Voting Rights Act.
His mother, Cynthia, who was at the event Wednesday in San Francisco where Newsom made the announcement, has worked for decades in the Filipino social justice movement. Shortly after Bonta was born, former Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos declared martial law and the family moved back to the United States.
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They lived in a trailer at Nuestra Señora Reina de la Paz, the United Farm Workers of America headquarters near Keene, California, and the home of legendary labor leader César Chávez. Bonta’s parents worked for Chávez and the UFW and organized Filipino and Mexican American farm workers when he was a child. Later, they moved north to Fair Oaks, a Sacramento suburb. Bonta graduated as class valedictorian at Bella Vista High School, where he also was a soccer player.
After high school, he attended Yale University, where he was captain of the soccer team, then attended Oxford University in England to study political science, philosophy and economics, before returning to Yale, where he graduated in 1998 with a law degree.
From 2003 to 2012, Bonta worked as deputy city attorney of San Francisco. He entered politics in 2010, winning a seat on the Alameda City Council before being elected to the state Assembly in 2012.
Brian Marvel, president of the Peace Officers Research Association of California, a prominent statewide police lobbying group, issued a statement welcoming Bonta’s selection.
“We look forward to working with him to address the many important challenges and opportunities facing California’s law enforcement community today,” Marvel said, “and to ensure the practice of law enforcement reflects our shared California values.”
110 111 Speak of the Devil
VOICES
students to hear from one of their peers rather than from an educator.” Hernandez, the youngest of four siblings, has spent time during his senior year doing coastal cleanups at Point Pinole Regional Shoreline and participating in a garden project next to the Pinole Library, reintroducing ferns, wild ginger, and other native California plants throughout a grove of redwood trees. Hernandez has also joined a committee of citizens—organized by the city of Pinole—concerned with protecting the Pinole Creek watershed. Hernandez’s impressive efforts with cleanup and conservation are certain to continue beyond this year’s Earth Day on April 22, as the East Bay native intends to build a career path around environmental concerns. “Environmental studies will be something I’ll be involved with for the rest of my life,” says Hernandez. “I plan to go for a master’s degree in public health and focus on air quality as I pursue my career. Ultimately, I would love to be an environmental scientist and help clean up air pollution.” For more information about Earth Team Clearing the Air programs in East Bay high schools, go to earthteam.net.
Local teen Kevin Hernandez myself and keep our community clean. The house I grew up in was surrounded by all envisions a pollution-free the plants that my mom loved to grow.” Hernandez has already spent years future in the East Bay. working with local nonprofit groups to BY PETER CROOKS research air-quality issues in Contra Costa County. During his senior year, he became an intern for the Pinole Valley High School // chapter of Earth Team, a conservation network that organizes students at East Bay high schools to meet on campus and get This has been a difficult year for high involved in community cleanups, plantings, school seniors. Instead of enjoying their and other eco-friendly activities. final weeks of school with their classmates, “I was excited when Kevin joined Earth they’ve been isolated in Zoom rooms. Team because he had so much experience Nonetheless, Pinole Valley High School working with nonprofits and doing research senior Kevin Hernandez is happy to believe on his own, specifically related to air-quality that his glass is half full. He just wants to issues in Richmond,” says Itzel Gomez, make sure the glass is filled with clean, Earth Team’s program manager for Pinole unpolluted water. Valley High School and Antioch High School. “I’ve always been very interested in “Kevin is also the chief editor of the school environmental issues,” says Hernandez, newspaper and has the voice to expand 18. “My parents taught me to pick up after environmental awareness throughout his From left: Earth Team members work on a garden
community. It makes such a difference for project in Pinole; Kevin Hernandez at home. FROM TOP: COURTESY OF EARTH TEAM PINOLE; KEVIN HERNANDEZ
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HIT THE TRAILS Hikers, cyclists, bird-watchers, horseback riders, and outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds won’t want to miss Las Trampas Wilderness Regional Preserve, one of the jewels of the East Bay Regional Park District. At more than 5,000 square acres, the wilderness has a wide range of habitats, challeng- ing trails, and sweeping views of Mount Diablo, the Carquinez Strait, and beyond. Another option for hikers is the Tassajara Ridge Trail, an 8.1-mile loop that begins at the Tassajara Ridge Staging Area on Windemere Parkway. Suitable for all skill levels, the trail offers views of San Ramon, Dublin, Danville, and Mount Diablo.
OUT AND ABOUT Scenic hiking trails, world-class golf, and top-tier shopping and entertainment venues are some
of San Ramon’s leading attractions. FROM LEFT: COURTESY OF CITY CENTER BISHOP RANCH; KEITH HAASE/COURTESY OF CITY OF SAN RAMON
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GREAT ESCAPES DOWN ON THE FARM to the Art and Wind Festival, The idea of escaping from confine- A gift to the community from longtime resident Ruth Quayle a popular event with music, ment has extra appeal these days, Boone, Forest Home Farms Historic Park is a 16-acre oasis that dance, crafts, food courts, and given that we’ve all been sheltered celebrates the agricultural history of the San Ramon Valley. professional kite-flying demon- in place for so long. So why not Horses, chickens, and sheep are in abundance here—and if you strations. (The festival was test your get-me-outta-here skills can time your visit to the park’s popular Sheep Shearing Day, canceled in 2020; check at Zscape Games, one of the Bay you’ll be in for a treat. Also on the property is the David and Eliza sanramon.ca.gov for information Area’s escape room venues? With Glass House Museum, a white Italianate Victorian home built in about this year’s plans.) options to break out of a prison 1877. Open for tours on Saturdays at 1 p.m. (and also by appoint- cell or flee a toy box, among ment), the house gives a fascinating glimpse of life in the late TEE TIME others, Zscape is both a mind 19th and early 20th centuries. San Ramon is blessed with game and a physical challenge. open spaces, making it an ideal SHOP TALK location for a scenic game of golf, and there are several excellent When City Center Bishop Ranch courses to choose from. The opened its doors in 2018, it was semi-private Bridges Golf Club has a major game changer for San a beautifully landscaped 18-hole Ramon in several ways. course, lighted driving range, and First, the much-anticipated restaurant and bar. Canyon Lakes shopping, dining, and entertain- Golf Course is a public, 18-hole ment center was designed by course; it also offers bocce courts. Renzo Piano, which meant that And the San Ramon Golf Club, a sophisticated complex by one another public course, has an of the world’s leading architects easily accessible location just off would be part of the city’s fabric. 680 and is suitable for players of all Second, City Center quickly skill levels. became home to some of the finest dining in town, with outposts of the acclaimed Slanted Door restaurant among its offerings. Third, it became an exciting destination for residents and visitors alike, with its 10-screen movie theater, The Lot; an Equinox fitness club; and a spacious central plaza. And last, and perhaps most notably, it elevated regional shop- ping opportunities exponentially. City Center Bishop Ranch has become one of the East Bay's pre- mier retail meccas, with big-name retailers like Anthropologie, Pottery Barn, Sephora, and Williams PARK PERKS Sonoma; fine jewelry stores like San Ramon has a staggering 58 parks, ranging from small pocket Heller Jewelers; and thoughtfully parks to large open spaces. Two standouts are Memorial Park, curated boutiques like M by which features bocce courts, a baseball field, a BMX track, and a OPPOSITE: CITY CENTER BISHOP RANCH, AN UPSCALE SHOPPING CENTER, OPENED TO THE COMMUNITY IN 2018; BIKE Maggie Rizer and Trader. plaque honoring those who died on 9/11; and Central Park, where ALONG THE TASSAJARA RIDGE TRAIL. THIS PAGE, FROM The complex also features a skate park, basketball hoops, and a splash pad attract visitors. LEFT: TOUR THE GLASS HOUSE MUSEUM; HIT SOME BALLS Alexander Square, named Most years, on Memorial Day weekend, Central Park is also home AT BRIDGES GOLF CLUB. after Alexander Mehran Jr., CEO of Sunset Development, which developed the property. Here, all kinds of family- friendly events—from live music performances to holiday festivities—animate the space on a regular basis. FROM LEFT: COURTESY OF CITY OF SAN RAMON; COURTESY OF BRIDGES GOLF CLUB
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Park It: More wildflowers possible in recovery from 2020 East Bay fires Some plants actually bloom briefly months after a massive blaze, then disappear till next one By NED MACKAY | PUBLISHED: March 21, 2021 at 5:00 a.m. | UPDATED: March 22, 2021 at 5:57 a.m
Hikers pass by a growth of Mule’s Ear in bloom previously along the Ohlone Wilderness Trail in Sunol. The trail stretches for about 30 miles, connecting Del Valle, Ohlone, Sunol and Mission Peak regional parklands in southern Alameda County. The Ohlone wilderness is usually one of the East Bay Regional Park District’s best places for wildflower displays. As the spring wildflower season begins, there’s some good news on the fire-recovery front. The SCU Lightning Complex Fire of 2020 burned more than 4 million acres, almost 400,000 of them in East Bay Regional Park District locations: Mission Peak, Morgan Territory, Ohlone, Round Valley and Sunol. All five parks have now reopened. Destructive though it was, firefighting agencies have determined that the SCU fire scenario was “best-case” in terms of intensity. Although the fire was high-intensity in some locations, it burned less hot in many. This allowed wildlife time to burrow or escape to safer areas and let seedlings survive for future regrowth. Grazing practices and properly managed fire roads likely reduced the intensity of the SCU fire in many areas. In some places it burned itself out at fire roads or slowed down in grazed areas. If winter rain totals are adequate, grasslands may experience an exceptional wildflower bloom. Some plants associated with chaparral actually require fire or smoke to germinate. They only bloom briefly, then disappear until the next fire. District staff will look for and record those species this year. We may see more animal activity too. Animals that took refuge in areas not affected by the fires will likely venture out in search of new homes.
The park district has established a Post-Fire Monitoring Task Force within its Stewardship Department to track the recovery of vegetation and wildlife and to help coordinate management needs for the burned areas. The burned area has many protected species such as golden eagles, which nest high up in the trees. It’s not known whether they will re-nest in the area if the fire destroyed their original nests.
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See wildflowers: Speaking of the Ohlone wilderness, if you’re willing to put in the effort, it’s usually one of the best places in the regional parks for wildflower displays. The Ohlone Wilderness Trail stretches for 30 miles or so, connecting Del Valle, Ohlone, Sunol and Mission Peak regional parklands in southern Alameda County. In the springtime, wildflowers abound along the way, but you don’t have to hike the whole trail to see them. Start at the Lichen Bark picnic area at Del Valle Regional Park south of Livermore. From there it’s a 2-mile climb up the Sailor Camp Trail and Ohlone Wilderness Trail to Rocky Ridge, where its rocky soil stimulates wildflower growth. Then there are the views, which are spectacular. After lunch it’s downhill almost all the way back to Lichen Bark. Hiking the trail requires a permit. It costs $2 and is good for a year. Permits can be obtained at the Del Valle and Sunol entrance kiosks, when staff is present.
Visitor center: While you’re at Del Valle, check out the newly redesigned Rocky Ridge Visitor Center, which is near the Lichen Bark picnic area. It’s the district’s first bilingual visitor center (English and Spanish), featuring interactive and state-of-the-art exhibits telling the story of Del Valle’s cultural and natural history. The center will open as soon as the status of the COVID-19 pandemic permits. Parks on TV: The park district’s shoreline parks in Oakland and Richmond are the stars of a television show airing at 6:30 p.m. March 21 on NBC Bay Area, hosted by Doug McConnell. The program tells how the park district has transformed abandoned industrial sites and former dumps into a series of beautiful bayside public parks linked by the San Francisco Bay Trail. The effort has required the park district’s ongoing partnership with the state of California, along with lots of grass-roots public support. The result has been bay shoreline access for everyone, especially people living in nearby lower-income communities.
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Rediscovering the Outdoors During Year of the Pandemic
By Kris Sanchez • Published March 19, 2021 • Updated on March 19, 2021 at 11:43 am
A year under pandemic restrictions had a lot of Bay Area residents rediscovering the great outdoor spaces across the region, not only for their scenic beauty but also for their therapeutic value.
When the Bay Area went into the first shelter order in March 2020, getting outside was one of the few things considered a low health risk. And it's always been a common way to de-stress. That led a lot of people to rediscover the region's spectacular open spaces.
"We’ve had full parking lots and busy trails for much of the year, and it’s fantastic that more people are getting out," said Brian Malone, spokesman for the Midpeninsula Open Space District.
Without commutes and extracurriculars, families had a lot more time to get outside for hiking and exploring during the pandemic. But how many more people headed outside may come as a surprise to some.
"We think that the people who’ve been coming out for years are coming out more often," Malone said. "But we also think a lot of new people are exploring and seeing parks and open space for the first time, and we hope they’ll keep coming back."
Indeed, the Midpeninsula Open Space District saw an 88% increase in visitation over the past year. Visitation was up 30% overall within the East Bay Regional Parks District, but it shot up 100% in some of the agency's individual parks. The Santa Clara County parks system saw a 100% spike in vehicle and trail use in December alone.
"I love to see more people out and about, enjoying outdoor spaces, taking care of themselves and our environment," hiker Michael Albertine said.
Albertine and his baby, Acadia, spend a lot of time outdoors, as they have since before the pandemic. But now, they have a lot more company.
"We do notice when we’re here there are more people," Dirk Hoekstra said.
Throughout the pandemic, Midpeninsula and other open spaces welcomed people with reminders to mask up and keep their distance, making some narrow trails one-way only.
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Those restrictions may hold for the near future because, even as fewer people are getting sick and more people are getting vaccinated, indoor capacities will continue to be limited for many activities in the months to come.
"When everybody is trapped indoors," hiker Aytek Celik said, "to have a little green space to go to really makes a difference."
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RESTORATION Nourishing Encinal Beach
ALETA GEORGE, REPORTER Before the East Bay Regional Park District completed the Encinal Dune Restoration and Shoreline Stabiliza- tion Project in December 2020, this tucked-away beach frequented by locals and harbor seal enthusiasts needed some love. The ice plant that dominated the low-flung dune offered little sustenance to fauna; the beach required more sand; the washed-up creosote-treated timber was strewn about like a giant game of pick-up sticks; and the large, rusty barge that buttressed a short section of the San Francisco Bay Trail had become dangerous. The nearly two-acre project site in the shape of an arrowhead includes Encinal Beach, the dune behind it, and a short section of the Bay Trail. Encinal Beach and its adjacent dune formed after the U.S. Navy installed a mile-long rock jetty in the 1940s off the southeastern shore of the Naval Air Station, now Alameda Point. To improve this locally loved site, East Bay Parks came up with a plan Mother and son stop on the Bay Trail to study the seals. Photo: Richard Bangert to “nourish” the beach and dune into a more natural condition and to Oakland’s Hanson Aggregates sup- feeding, we are hopeful the area will improve recreational access. District plied the beach sand after extracting fill in as designed, given the current landscape architect Carmen Eras- it from Point Knox Shoal in the San new growth,” says Erasmus. mus and district fishery biologist Joe Francisco Bay. Removing the creosote-treated Sullivan identified a series of resto- In another important restora- logs required that East Bay Parks ration steps and associated materi- tion step, the District weeded the scoop them up and take them to a als necessary to achieve these goals. ice plant matting the dune, brought landfill licensed to handle creosote- First the District trucked in in virgin marine sand from the Bay contaminated waste. The old barge medium-grain sand to elevate the to raise it, and sculpted hillocks to used for stabilization had become beach and reduce the frequency of enhance plant and wildlife habitat. rusty and eroded with sharp edges. dune inundation during extreme high Next, workers seeded the dune “The barge popped right out, and tides. At currently predicted esti- hillocks with native plants and there weren’t any hazardous mate- mates of sea-level rise, this measure grasses such as pink sand verbena, rials underneath it,” says Sullivan should last for about 50 years. The beach evening primrose, and Califor- gratefully. After removing the barge, nourished beach also improves non- nia poppies. As soon as they planted the next step was buttressing a short motorized boat launching access to the seeds, rock pigeons swooped section of the Bay Trail with riprap the San Francisco Bay Water Trail. in for a feast. “Even with the pigeon continued on next page
Photo: Carmen Erasmus 120 4 ESTUARY MARCH 2021
Packed harbor seal float corresponds to To report this story, I visited En- out and warm their blubber, some- herring spawning in December 2019. Photo: cinal Beach in February and found thing they need to do for survival. Richard Bangert people enjoying the site on an unsea- Since 2016, volunteer monitors have sonably warm weekday. Kids played counted and recorded the number that Dutra Materials supplied from a on the beach and in the water; kay- of seals that use the raft daily. When San Rafael rock quarry. It was tested akers launched from the beach and people were social-distancing on De- and certified as being free of clay and paddled around Seaplane Lagoon; cember 14, 2020, a record number of other organic matter. “Replacing the and masked cyclists, runners, and 86 seals piled onto the 500-square- rusty barge with rock provides better recreational walkers made good use foot raft. habitat for shellfish,” says Sullivan. of the repaved trail. With more people using the These improvements brought shoreline during the pandemic, the a total of 340 dump trucks full of City of Alameda started receiving sand and rock to the site, according complaints that some kayakers were to Erasmus. All the work near the With more people paddling too close to the seals. City waterline was done at low tide to managers asked the monitors to protect water quality. using the shoreline help them develop signs to remind East Bay Parks’ finishing touches during the pandemic, paddlers to keep a distance of at involved improving recreational ac- least 300 feet from the raft, espe- cess and enhancing habitat. Workers the City of Alameda cially during pupping season from repaved a section of the Bay Trail, March to July. Unlike the boisterous installed a split-rail fence to protect started receiving and seemingly entitled sea lions at the dune, and planted coast live oak, San Francisco’s Fishermen’s Wharf, toyon, and ceanothus behind the new complaints that harbor seals spook easily, and if they bathrooms that, along with two new some kayakers were continually feel threatened at their boat launching ramps for motorized haul-out site, they won’t return. That vessels, were installed by the City of paddling too close loss would be significant, as it is the Alameda. only spot in the East Bay between This project has been on the Dis- to the seals. Yerba Buena Island and Newark trict’s wish list for at least ten years, where they haul out. It would also be but funds and permits were difficult a loss for people. to assemble until 2016. The San To check out a rare treat in Sea- “There’s a whole universe of Francisco Bay Restoration Authority plane Lagoon, I walked west on the wildlife below the water surface, and contributed $450,000 to the $1.1 mil- Bay Trail for a short distance to view here you can walk down a public trail lion project, using local tax dollars a harbor seal float anchored 300 and see the seals with your naked from Measure AA, the San Francisco feet from the shoreline. The float eye,” says volunteer monitor Richard Bay Clean Water, Pollution Preven- was installed in 2016 by the Water Bangert. “It helps people connect to tion, and Habitat Restoration mea- Emergency Transportation Authority the marine ecosystem of the Bay.” sure passed by voters in 2016. East to mitigate the loss of an old wharf Now that the pandemic is sending Bay Parks, which leases the land used by seals that was being re- so many more in search of open air from the City of Alameda, matched moved for new docks. and nature, voters’ investments in that amount with funds from Mea- I learned from the Alameda Point shoreline improvements are proving sure WW, approved by voters in Al- Harbor Seal Monitors Facebook page more valuable than ever. ameda and Contra Costa counties in that this is the only custom-built 2008. A grant from the National Fish haul out designed for harbor seals in CONTACTS: [email protected]; and Wildlife Foundation also contrib- the world. The raft has a sloped end [email protected]; uted $200,000 to the effort. to make it easier for the seals to get [email protected] 121
Coyote that bit five people in Contra Costa County caught, killed The animal was shot with a firearm after it was trapped, authorities said By PETER HEGARTY | PUBLISHED: March 12, 2021 at 8:07 a.m. | UPDATED: March 18, 2021 at 11:51 a.m.
LAFAYETTE — The coyote that has bitten a 3-year-old girl and four other people in Lafayette and Moraga since last July, putting some of the area’s residents on edge, was trapped and killed this week, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife announced Friday
The coyote’s body was taken to a laboratory where for testing to determine whether it had rabies, Fish and Wildlife spokesman Patrick Foy said.
“There is no current evidence to suggest the coyote is rabid, but because of the severity of the disease, it is a standard operating procedure in an animal attack investigation such as this one,” Foy said.
All the attacks were separate and happened within a few miles of each other.
News of the coyote’s demise pleased Kenji Sytz, one of its victims. The animal bit him in the calf in December as he was exercising with friends at Campolindo High School in Moraga around dawn.
“I am just relieved,” Sytz, 45, of Moraga, said in an interview Friday. “I am also thankful that no one else will get hurt, especially a child.”
Sytz, who grew up in Moraga and lives near the high school, said he got four puncture wounds form the bite and had to make multiple hospital visits for injections in case the coyote had rabies.
With lights on and music blaring that chilly morning, Sytz was doing press-ups with his friends as part of a regular exercise routine when the coyote came up from behind and grabbed onto his calf. He punched it to release the bite.
What struck him, Sytz said shortly after the attack, was the animal’s boldness. It did not immediately run away. Instead, it moved closer to him after the bite, backed off, then scurried up close again before eventually disappearing into the darkness, Sytz said.
The coyote was trapped Thursday in Moraga near Calle de Montana, close to where the 3-year-old girl was bitten, Foy said.
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A U.S. Department of Agriculture employee shot the coyote with a firearm. Foy said a tranquilizer wasn’t used because “you cannot get too close. Coyotes can get out of the traps and it can quickly become a very dangerous situation and put people at risk.”
The agriculture department has been monitoring traps set in neighborhoods around-the-clock, Foy said. Traps were set on private properties to avoid accidentally injuring the public.
After the animal was shot and killed, its remains were brought to the Fish and Wildlife’s laboratory in Sacramento, where DNA evidence collected from it was compared with those from bite victims, Foy said. “This process took all day,” he said. “It matched.”
The coyote’s first attack happened last July, when it bit a 2-year-old boy at Moraga Commons Park, 1425 St. Marys Road, in Moraga.
The 3-year-old girl was bitten while walking with her mother at Campolindo Drive and Calle la Montana in Moraga, just a few doors away from where Sytz lives.
The girl was walking near her mother, who was pushing a stroller, when the coyote came from behind, police said. The child’s mother scared it away.
Other victims include an employee of Diablo Foods in Lafayette, bitten while taking a work break in the evening outside the business.
Coyote attacks on people are rare, happening an average of about 10 to 20 times a year in the United States, according to Lynsey White, director of humane wildlife conflict resolution at the Humane Society of the United States.
Aggressive interactions between coyotes and people usually occur because the coyote is rabid, is defending itself or its pups, or because it’s fed by people, White said via an email after the attacks began.
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Small Plane Makes Emergency Landing Near Lafayette Reservoir March 12, 2021 at 6:18 pm LAFAYETTE (CBS SF) — The pilot of a small two-seater aircraft made a successful emergency landing Friday afternoon in the East Bay hills near the Lafayette Reservoir after his plane ran out of fuel. The pilot landed on hilly property owned by the East Bay Municipal Utility District. just before 3 p.m.
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Small plane makes emergency landing in East Bay hills Officials said the pilot encountered mechanical trouble By JOSEPH GEHA | PUBLISHED: March 12, 2021 at 7:43 p.m. | UPDATED: March 13, 2021 at 5:58 a.m. LAFAYETTE — The pilot of a small two-seater airplane flying over the East Bay on Friday was forced to make an emergency landing near the Lafayette Reservoir after the craft experienced some mechanical trouble, officials said.
Just before 3 p.m., the pilot landed his yellow plane on some recreational land managed by water provider East Bay Municipal Utility District, which owns the reservoir, according to a statement from the district.
“Fortunately, there were no injuries to the pilot, no damage to the plane and no impacts to EBMUD watershed lands or Lafayette Reservoir,” the district said. East Bay Regional Park District police responded to the area and said they have referred the incident to the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board.
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Park It: Tick season’s upon us in East Bay open spaces Prevention best defense against the small parasites that can carry Lyme disease, other illnesses By NED MACKAY | East Bay Regional Park District PUBLISHED: March 14, 2021 at 5:00 a.m. | UPDATED: March 15, 2021 at 5:44 a.m.
Ticks, such as this female of the species Ixodes pacificus, are most active throughout the East Bay Regional Park District during the wet months between December and June.
As spring approaches, it brings green hills and the promise of wildflowers. Unfortunately, it also brings the active season for those eight-legged pests, the ticks.
Ticks are always with us in the outdoors, but they’re most active during the wet months between December and June. Adult ticks are about the size of this letter O in news print, until they’ve sampled blood and become engorged. In the larval and nymph stages of their life cycle, ticks are even smaller and harder to spot — about the size of a poppy seed. Ticks don’t fly or drop from trees. They climb to the tips of vegetation just a couple of feet off the ground, usually along animal trails or paths. There they wait for a passing animal or human to brush against them. Then they hitch a ride, crawl around on their unsuspecting hosts, bite and extract blood, then drop off. Ticks can carry a variety of diseases. The best known is Lyme disease, which creates flu-like symptoms and can be serious. Fortunately, only a small percentage of ticks are infected, the variety called Ixodes pacificus.
Prevention is really the best defense against ticks. When you visit the outdoors, stay on the official trails. Don’t cut cross-country through grasslands or chaparral. If you do pass through brushy country, check yourself afterwards. For that reason it’s advisable to wear light-colored clothing so you can see the bugs more easily. Tuck your pants into socks or boots, and tuck your shirt into your pants.
Ticks will crawl around for a while after transferring from vegetation to your clothing, so there’s time to find them and brush them off. Be sure to check Fido as well; ticks attach easily to dog fur. If a tick has attached to your skin, pull it straight out gently but firmly, preferably while wearing latex gloves. Apply antiseptic to the bite and wash your hands. Tick extraction kits, including special tweezers, are available at sporting goods stores.
Tick information is posted on the signs at East Bay Regional Park District trailheads, and there’s a good article on ticks in the March-April edition of the district’s “Regional in Nature” newsletter, which you can read online at the district’s website, ebparks.org.
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You can also obtain more detailed information on ticks and Lyme disease from the California Public Health Department’s online at bayareane.ws/38zVBxY and bayareane.ws/3rHDOfN. Also check out bayarealyme.org, the Bay Area Lyme Foundation’s website.
Agency projects: The district’s current newsletter has an article about projects completed or well underway that will increase public access to several of the regional parks. You can read about the new facilities now open at Encinal Beach behind Encinal High School in Alameda. Attractions include restored sand dunes, new trails and improved disabled access. The site is adjacent to the city of Alameda’s public Encinal Boat Launch.
Other projects are well underway. Dumbarton Quarry shoreline campground in Fremont — with camping spaces for cyclists, hikers, cars, motorcycles and recreational vehicles — is expected to open at midyear. McCosker Creek at Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve in the Oakland hills is undergoing the largest creek restoration project in the park district’s history, scheduled for completion in 2023. A half-mile extension of the San Francisco Bay Trail at Lone Tree Point in Richmond will open later this year.
Also scheduled to open this year is the Berkeley Brickyard at McLaughlin Eastshore State Park, which the district operates for the state. Improvements will include walking paths, a staging area, drinking fountains, a restroom, and a restored marshland habitat. And the Tidewater Day Use Area at Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline in Oakland is being expanded with parking, restrooms, picnic sites and water fountains. So there’s plenty to anticipate in the regional parks as winter ends.
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Letters: Biden and the press | Campsite threat | Schools solutions | Teachers rights | Trump’s government | 15th Amendment East Bay Times Letters to the Editor for March 11, 2021
By LETTERS TO THE EDITOR | PUBLISHED: March 10, 2021 at 4:30 p.m. | UPDATED: March 11, 2021 at 3:49 a.m.
Coyote Hills campsite threatens ecosystem
East Bay Regional Parks District plans to open a camping site at Coyote Hills Regional Park right next to the Dumbarton toll booth for RVs and campers in summer 2021. The development will include a store, showers and other “amenities.”
This campsite will enable countless campers, hikers and bikers to access Coyote Hills trails and disturb the fragile ecosystem of these protected hills, where more than 100 species of birds, various other animal species and countless plant species have found one of the last refuges in the Bay Area.
This development is a disgrace, and project leaders at EBRPD should be ashamed to contribute to the destruction of a protected space. I will cancel my park district membership. This organization cannot be trusted to be the stewards of our environmentally aware future.
128 A “Little Yosemite’ Awaits Just Miles From Pleasanton Updated: Mar 10, 2021, 10:31 AM Sunol Regional Wilderness visitors enjoy the “pools and drops” in the gorge on Alameda Creek dubbed “Little Yosemite.
SUNOL — Cascading waterfalls, natural swimming pools, and thick tree cover in the middle of nowhere.
It’s no wonder that they call the gorge that’s a sliver of the Sunol Regional Wilderness “Little Yosemite.”
In the spring and early summer the “pools and drops” that form near the headwaters of the Alameda Creek are often liberally sprinkled with families, teens, and couples frolicking in the cool shallow waters, playing under waterfalls and relaxing on granite rocks beneath a thick canopy of coastal oaks.
“Little Yosemite” — which may start to run dry as July nears — is just one of the reasons that make a day trip or even overnight backpacking to the Sunol Regional Wilderness so appealing.
The others are easy to access areas along Indian Joe Creek suitable for picnics, enjoying nature, or just kicking back; numerous hiking trails; and access to arguably one of the best but least known attractions of the Bay Area — the Ohlone Regional Wilderness.
The most surprising thing is how “wild” it is given it’s off Interstate 680 — the commuter artery that ties San Jose and the Santa Clara Valley with Pleasanton and the Amador Valley.
It doesn’t take a drive too far down Calaveras Road heading east from the freeway to realize this is not your typical Bay Area outdoor destination.
Trees crowd the road and provide a cooling canopy. Hawks and vultures outnumber the vehicles. And while you’ll pass a commercial endeavor or two including a wholesale nursery specializing in large box trees you won’t spy a single house as you travel 4.3 miles east on Calaveras Road. You can’t miss the left turn to Geary Road that terminates after 1.7 miles into the Sunol Regional Wilderness parking lot thanks to the road being blocked as crews replace the Calaveras Dam.
129 There is a $5 parking fee to access the Sunol Regional Wilderness. The park opens at 8 a.m. with changing closing times throughout the year. The gates are locked overnight. Campers must sign in before dusk. To access the much larger Ohlone Wilderness Area that abuts the Sunol Wilderness area you need to buy a permit that is good for a year at the Sunol entrance station. You must make backpacking reservations by phone at 1-(888) 327-2757, option 2, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
You can also access the Ohlone Wilderness from Del Valle Regional Park south of Livermore or the Coyote Hills Visitors Center in Fremont where you access the Mission Peak Regional Preserve. The Ohlone permit comes with a map.
Between the four areas there are 16,500 acres you can wander. That is almost 26 square miles of bliss away from the Bay Area hustle and bustle. There are 6,958 acres in the Sunol component.
If your goal is just to visit Little Yosemite, there is a relatively flat path that is a dirt road with restricted vehicle use to cover the two-mile distance. There is also a more interesting trail that goes up along the edge of hills and drops down.
Depending upon how much more rain we get, the window to enjoy the falls and pools of water is rapidly closing as we enter spring. Normally they’re history by late May or early June.
Of course, I went to go to hike.
Typically the best time to hike Sunol is from September to May. There are six main trails that interconnect as well as dead end trails that take you to viewing points.
I prefer a 7.6 mile loop consisting primarily of the Indian Joe Creek and Cerro Este Trails with a couple of side trips that involved doubling back to the loop route I picked to rack up nine miles.
The loop’s high point was 2,038 feet with a net elevation gain of 1,500 feet. It’s rated moderate to strenuous. With the side trips tossed in it took just about four hours.
While parts of the loop have tree cover, a significant part is exposed to the sun if you do it as spring unfolds and turns into summer. It’s best to start early.
What sets this hike apart from Pleasant Ridge, Del Valle, Joseph Grant (near the Hamilton Observatory), Mission Peak, Mt Diablo, and even the Ohlone Wilderness was the relatively few people who opted to use the trails to make a loop instead of enjoying the area around the visitors center, heading to Little Yosemite or destination for backpacking overnight in the Ohlone Wilderness.
Once I left the heavily traveled hillside trail to Little Yosemite and got back into the trail near the Visitors Center I passed three people in six miles.
Then there are the views. There were spots on the backside where you could scan the horizon for 360 degrees and not see a structure, telephone pole, cell tower or any sign of civilization save the
130 trail. Instead it was a golden panorama with dashes of green as well as clusters of oaks and bushes just like Spanish Explorers saw in 1776 when they trudged through the range.
There is also a view of Calaveras Reservoir in the distance.
It gets high points for solitude.
It’s clear that Sunol would be an absolute joy on a dry winter day or early spring. It is on my list of places that I periodically revisit.
Bicycles are allowed on some trails as are horses. Carry your own water. Never assume there will be water when you hike.
There is a wilderness museum at the visitors’ center. You will also find picnic tables scattered about. There are also benches placed periodically along trails. There were two on the loop I took each placed so that if you opted to rest you’d have an incredible view to soak in.
Dogs must be leashed 200 feet from any trail, picnic areas, developed areas such as playing fields, and on some trails. They must be within sight and under voice control at all times. There is a fee for dogs.
Again, the $5 entrance fee is worth it just to hang around the creek and area near the visitors’ center which is what several families with young children were doing on my recent Saturday excursion.
131 EAST BAY: Foundation enables park district to buy life-saving tools By COMPILED BY EAST BAY TIMES | PUBLISHED: March 10, 2021 at 11:30 a.m. | UPDATED: March 10, 2021 at 11:42 a.m. The East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) recently received a $40,000 grant from Fremont Bank Foundation to purchase three automotive extrication tools. The new equipment will let the EBRPD’s Fire Department respond to the growing number of vehicle accidents on Alameda and Contra Costa counties’ park backroads.
“These tools will help save lives and make the EBRPD’s job much easier when responding to car accidents,” said Fire Capt. Kent Simpson. “The extrication equipment is battery-operated so that responders can use the apparatuses at any distance from the roadway. We’re very grateful to Fremont Bank Foundation for helping us purchase much-needed equipment that will be used for years to come.”
Simpson added that the heavy-duty electric tools will be operated by three fire stations in the Oakland/Berkeley hills, Castro Valley, and Livermore.
“Fremont Bank Foundation strives to make contributions that have a lasting impact on our communities,” said Brian Hughes, the foundation’s president and executive director. “Now, EBRPD can continue doing the vital work it’s meant to do.”
For more details, visit fremontbank.com/giving and ebparks.org online.
132 MONITOR NOTES: EQUITY IN EDUCATION, FERRY FUTURE, HOMELESSNESS, ECONOMIC RECOVERY, AND PARKS APPOINTMENTS March 10, 2021 Park Appointments Sabrina Landreth is taking the helm at the East Bay Regional Park District as general manager. She is the first female to serve in the role in the park district’s 87-year history. Her appointment comes as we celebrate the successes and contributions of women in history this month — themes the Monitor covered last year in a special edition that included a look at the professional strides of Bay Area women. Ms. Landreth (pictured) is a fifth-generation East Bay native. She brings to the table executive leadership experience built from positions managing the cities of Oakland and Emeryville. She replaces Robert Doyle, who retired as general manager after a 47-year career with the park district. Landreth will begin her new position next week.
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Roddy Ranch Golf Course Habitat Restoration and Public Access Plan Public Meeting Written by ECT Mar 9, 2021
The East Bay Regional Park District is developing a new Regional Park at the former Roddy Ranch Golf Course in Antioch. The land use plan being developed will include restoration of native grassland habitat and recreational paths and facilities for walking, jogging, and picnicking.
The 230-acre Roddy Ranch golf course property was acquired by the Park District in 2018 with the majority of funding coming from the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy and the District’s Measure WW approved by voters in 2008. The 18-hole golf course closed in 2016.
The Park District is holding its first public meeting as part of the planning process to restore habitat and design and build recreational amenities at the Roddy Ranch golf course site. The public is invited to attend the meeting via Zoom to learn about the planning process, property constraints, and project goals.
The former golf course property is part of the District’s planned 3,500-acre Deer Valley Regional Park intended to protect habitat and expand recreational opportunities in East Contra Costa County.
. What: Roddy Ranch Golf Course Habitat Restoration and Public Access Plan Public Meeting . When: Thursday, March 11, 2021 – 6:30-7:30 P.M. . Meeting Link: https://ebparks.zoom.us/j/93304942688 . Meeting ID: 933 0494 2688 For more information about the public meeting, contact Eddie Willis, Project Planner at [email protected]. For more info, visit the project webpage at www.ebparks.org/about/planning/roddyranch
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