Board Meeting Packet

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Board Meeting Packet

January 15, 2019 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

AYN WIESKAMP The Regular Session of the JANUARY 15, 2019 President - Ward 5 Board Meeting is scheduled to commence at ELLEN CORBETT 1:00 p.m. at the EBRPD Administration Building, Vice-President - Ward 4 2950 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland DEE ROSARIO Treasurer - Ward 2 COLIN COFFEY Secretary - Ward 7 Respectfully submitted, WHITNEY DOTSON Ward 1 DENNIS WAESPI Ward 3 BEVERLY LANE Ward 6 ROBERT E. DOYLE ROBERT E. DOYLE General Manager General Manager

2950 Peralta Oaks Court Oakland, CA 94605-0381 (888) 327-2757 MAIN (510) 633-0460 T DD (510) 635-5502 FAX ebparks.org AGENDA

REGULAR MEETING OF JANUARY 15, 2019 BOARD OF DIRECTORS EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT The Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park 11:00 a.m. ROLL CALL (Board Conference Room) District will hold a regular meeting at District’s Administration Building, 2950 PUBLIC COMMENTS Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland, CA, commencing at 11:00 a.m. CLOSED SESSION for Closed Session and 1:00 p.m. for Open Session on Tuesday, A. Conference with Labor Negotiator: Government Code Section 54957.6 January 15, 2019. Agenda for the meeting is 1. Agency Negotiator: Robert E. Doyle, Ana M. Alvarez, listed adjacent. Times for agenda Kip Walsh items are approximate only and Employee Organizations: AFSCME Local 2428, are subject to change during the Police Association meeting. If you wish to speak on Unrepresented Employees: Managers and Confidentials matters not on the agenda, you may do so under Public Comments at the beginning of 2. Agency Negotiator: Kip Walsh, Carol Victor the agenda. If you wish to testify Unrepresented Employees: General Manager on an item on the agenda, please complete a speaker’s form and submit it to the Clerk of the B. Conference with Legal Counsel: Board.

1. Existing Litigation - Government Code Section 54956.9 A copy of the background materials concerning these a) Paul Cutino v. EBRPD agenda items, including any material that may have been WCAB Case Nos. ADJ8214502 and ADJ11191455 submitted less than 72 hours before the meeting, is available 2. Anticipated Litigation – Government Code Section 54956.9 (d)(4) for inspection on the District’s (Initiation of Litigation): (1 case) website (www.ebparks.org), the Administrative Building reception desk, and at the C. Conference with Real Property Negotiator Regarding Price and/or meeting. Terms of Payment – Government Code Section 54956.8 Agendas for Board Committee 1) Agency Negotiator: Kristina Kelchner, Mike Reeves Meetings are available to the public upon request. If you wish to be placed on the mailing list APN/ADDRESS PROPERTY OWNERS PARK/TRAIL to receive future agendas for a Alameda County specific Board Committee, please call the Clerk of the Board’s Office at (510) 544- 048-5658-001-06; Oakland Unity High District-wide 2020. 2955 Peralta Oaks Court, School Oakland District facilities and meetings comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If special accommodations are needed for you to participate, please contact the Clerk of the Board as soon as possible, but preferably at least three working days prior to the 3 meeting. 1:00 p.m. OPEN SESSION (Board Room)

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

A. SWEARING-IN CEREMONY OF RE-ELECTED BOARD MEMBERS:

Ward 3 – Dennis Waespi Ward 5 – Ayn Wieskamp Ward 6 – Beverly Lane Ward 7 – Colin Coffey

Following the ceremony, the meeting will recess for a brief reception with light refreshments served.

B. ANNUAL ROTATION OF BOARD OFFICERS

C. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

D. PUBLIC COMMENTS If you wish to comment on an item not on the agenda, please complete a speaker’s form and submit it to the Clerk.

1:45 p.m. E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

a. Approval of District Check Listing for the Period of November 19, 2018 to December 2, 2018 (Auker/Doyle) (Resolution) (No Cost) b. Approval of the Minutes for the Board Meeting of December 18, 2018 (Barial Knight) (No Cost) c. Resolution to Support AB 65 – Coastal Conservancy Climate Adaptation Funds (Petrie-Norris D-Laguna Beach) (Pfuehler/Doyle) (Resolution) (No Cost) d. Resolution to Support H.R. 7154 – Safe Drinking Water in Playgrounds and Parks (Meng D-NY) (Pfuehler/Doyle) (Resolution) (No Cost) e. Resolution to Support a Resolution of Honor for Nonette Hanko (Pfuehler/Doyle) (Resolution) (No Cost) f. Resolution to Support S. 3499 – Outdoors for All Act (Harris D-CA) (Pfuehler/Doyle) (Resolution) (No Cost) g. Resolution to Support S. 3515 – Wildfire-Resilient Communities (Merkley D-OR) (Pfuehler/Doyle) (Resolution) (No Cost) h. Resolution to Support SB 8 – State Park and Coastal Beaches Smoking Ban (Glazer D-Orinda (Pfuehler/Doyle) (Resolution) (No Cost)

4 i. Resolution to Support SB 20 – Napa County Regional Park and Open Space District (Dodd D-Napa) (Pfuehler/Doyle) (Resolution) (No Cost) j. Authorization to Accept a 1.06-acre Recreational Trail Easement from McAvoy Yacht Harbor LLC: Bay Point Regional Shoreline (Reeves/Kelchner) (Resolution) (No Cost) k. Authorization to Amend a Contract with LSA Associates, Inc. for Professional Services for the Robert Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve Land Use Plan Amendment: Robert Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve (Holt/Kelchner) (Resolution) (Budgeted Funds) L. Authorization to Extend the Contract for Services for Concession Expansion Study at Redwood Canyon Public Golf Course with Touchstone Golf, LLC: Lake Chabot Regional Park (Waluch/O’Connor) (Resolution) (Budgeted Funds) m. Authorization to Purchase Two Vault Restrooms from CXT Inc: Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve (Bowman/Auker) (Resolution) (Budgeted Funds) n. Authorization to Accept and Appropriate Grant Funds from the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy Science and Research Grant Program and Amend a Contract with Patrick Kolar for Golden Eagle Research: East Contra Costa County Area (Kelchner/Auker) (Resolution) (Budgeted Funds/ Budget Change) o. Acceptance of Regional Parks Foundation 2018 Donations and Commitments Report and the Continuance of the Donation Procedure for 2019 (Strawson O’Hara/Auker) (Resolution) (No Cost)

2:00 p.m. 2. PARK ADVISORY COMMITTEE

a. Approval of Park Advisory Committee Goals For 2019 (Pfuehler/Doyle) (Resolution) (No Cost)

2:15 p.m. 3. FINANCE AND MANAGEMENT SERVICES DIVISION

a. A Resolution Declaring the Results of the 2018 Measure FF Election, Directing the Recordation of a Special Tax Lien, and Approving the Ordinance Authorizing the Levy of Special Taxes in Community Facilities District No. A/C-3 (Spaulding/Victor) (Resolution) (No Cost)

2:30 p.m. 4. ACQUISITION, STEWARDSHIP & DEVELOPMENT DIVISION

a. Authorization to Enter into a Five-Year Memorandum of Agreement with the San Francisco Bay Restoration Authority to Partially Fund the Bay Restoration Regulatory Integration Team: District-wide (Graul/Alvarez) (Resolution) (Budgeted Funds)

2:45 p.m. 5. BOARD AND STAFF REPORTS a. Actions Taken by Other Jurisdictions Affecting the Park District (Doyle) 5 3:00 p.m. 6. GENERAL MANAGER’S COMMENTS

a. Presentation by Regional Interpretive and Recreation Services Manager Ira Bletz who will provide an overview of the Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG) course.

3:20 p.m. 7. ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM CLOSED SESSION

3:25 p.m. 8. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS

a. Legislative Committee (12-14-18) (Rosario) b. Executive Committee (12-06-18) (Waespi)

3:35 p.m. 9. PUBLIC COMMENTS If you wish to comment on an item not on the agenda, please complete a speaker’s form and submit it to the Clerk.

3:40 p.m. 10. BOARD COMMENTS

4:30 p.m. F. ADJOURNMENT

6 CONSENT CALENDAR AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

a. Approval of District Check Listing for the Period of November 19, 2018 Through December 02, 2018 (Auker/Doyle)

RECOMMENDATION

It is recommended that the Board of Directors approve the Check Listing for the period of November 19, 2018 through December 02, 2018.

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.: 2019 – 001 -

January 15, 2019

APPROVAL OF DISTRICT CHECK LISTING FOR THE PERIOD OF NOVEMBER 19, 2018 THROUGH DECEMBER 2, 2018

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

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby approves the check listing for the period of November 19, 2018 through December 2, 2018;

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 15th day of January, 2019 by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

8 AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

b. Approval of the Minutes for the Board Meeting December 18, 2019 (Barial Knight)

9 Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of December 18, 2018

The Board Meeting, which was held December 18, 2018 at the East Bay Regional District, 2950 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland, CA 94605 was called to order at 11:30 am by Board President Dennis Waespi.

ROLL CALL

Directors Present: Dennis Waespi, President Ayn Wieskamp, Vice President Dee Rosario, Secretary Ellen Corbett, Treasurer Whitney Dotson Beverly Lane Colin Coffey Directors Absent: None.

The Open Session of the Board Meeting was called to order at 1:00 p.m. by President Waespi.

Staff Present: Robert Doyle, Ana Alvarez, Debra Auker, Carol Victor, Carol Johnson, Dave Mason, Matt Graul, Jim O’Connor, Alan Love, Anthony Ciaburro, Mona Koh, Chris Newey, Lance Brede, Kristina Kelchner, Bev Ortiz, Jason McCrystle, Brian Holt, Pam Burnor Anne Kassebaum, Jeff Rasmussen, Ruby Tumber, Aileen Theile, Michael Reeves, Michael McNally, Steve Castile, Deborah Spaulding, Ren Bates, Clay Simmons, Michelle Strawson O’Hara, Tyrone Davis, Sean Dougan, Nadine Vargas, Brad Gallup, Erich Pfuehler, Kelly Barrington.

Guests: None.

A. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

By motion of Director Wieskamp, and seconded by Director Dotson, the Board voted unanimously to approve the Agenda.

Directors For: Colin Coffey, Ellen Corbett, Whitney Dotson, Beverly Lane, Dee Rosario, Ayn Wieskamp, Dennis Waespi. Directors Against: None.

B. PUBLIC COMMENTS None.

C. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

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

Directors For: Colin Coffey, Ellen Corbett, Whitney Dotson, Beverly Lane, Dee Rosario, Ayn Wieskamp, Dennis Waespi. Directors Against: None.

10 Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of December 18, 2018 a. Approval of District Check Listing for the Period of November 5, 2018 to November 18, 2018 Resolution No. 2018 – 12 - 296 (attached)

b. Approval of the Minutes for the Board Meeting of December 4, 2018

c. Certification of November 2018 Election Results and Resolution Declaring Four Candidates Elected/Appointed as Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District Resolution No. 2018 – 12 - 297 (attached)

d. Approval of Reappointments to the Park Advisory Committee Resolution No. 2018 – 12 - 298 (attached)

e. Resolution of the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District in Support of Strong Unions Post the United States Supreme Court’s Decision in Janus v. AFSCME, Council No. 31, et al. Resolution No. 2018 – 12 - 299 (attached)

Chris Newey, President AFSCME Local 2428, spoke in support of strong unions and appreciates the leadership in bringing this item forward. Organized labor and collective bargaining has a long history of promoting pay equity, safe working conditions and equal opportunity.

f. Acceptance of Third Quarter 2018 General Fund and Other Governmental Funds Financial Report Resolution No. 2018 – 12 - 300 (attached)

g. Authorization to Amend and Extend Communication License Agreement with Bay Area Rapid Transit District: Tilden Regional Park Resolution No. 2018 – 12 - 301 (attached)

h. Acceptance of the East Bay Regional Park District Investment Report for the Quarter Ended September 30, 2018 Resolution No. 2018 – 12 - 302 (attached)

i. Authorization to Partner with San Francisco Estuary Institute and Approve a Grant Application to the Environmental Protection Agency for Federal Grant Funds from the San Francisco Bay Water Quality Improvement Fund for the Restore McCosker Creek Project: Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve Resolution No. 2018 – 12 - 303 (attached)

j. Authorization to Execute a Contract with WSP USA, Inc. for Construction Management Services and Appropriate Measure AA Development Funds for the Lone Tree Point Trail Segment: San Francisco Bay Trail Resolution No. 2018 – 12 - 304 (attached)

k. Authorization to Appropriate Measure CC Funds and Amend a Contract with Ascent Environmental, Inc. for California Environmental Quality Act Support for the Land Use Plan Amendment Environmental Impact Report: Miller/Knox Regional Shoreline Resolution No. 2018 – 12 - 305 (attached)

11 Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of December 18, 2018 L. Authorization to Execute the Renewal of the Contract with Strategy Research Institute Resolution No. 2018 – 12 - 306 (attached)

m. Authorization to Renew the Contract with E2 Strategies LLC for Advocacy Services Resolution No. 2018 – 12 - 307 (attached)

n. Award of Contract to Print and Distribute Regional in Nature (RIN) Activity Guide and up to Two Editions of Wildfire Prevention Guide Resolution No. 2018 – 12 - 308 (attached)

o. Authorization to Renew Contract for Youth Employment Services with Civicorps Schools for 2019 Resolution No. 2018 – 12 - 309 (attached)

p. Authorization to Amend the 2018 Budget and Transfer General Funds to an Other than Asset Project Account for Bridge Yard Building: Gateway Regional Park Resolution No. 2018 – 12 - 310 (attached)

Director Lane inquired on the plans to improve the building and adding additional restrooms. Jim O’Connor, AGM Operations, replied that there are two elements of tenant improvements. The Bay Area Toll Authority (BATA) /Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) approved in their budget $500,000 for future tenant improvements which is in process. The Board approved $450,000 from WW funds with half going towards restroom facilities out near the pier and in the new parking lot with the remaining funds to be applied for the design of the future tenant improvements. Staff hopes to complete the design process by May and submit a funding request to BATA.

Lane asked if there was discussion in the design plan of the buildings uses. O’Connor replied there is more concern about making the existing portion of the building more functional. Staff are looking at restroom, kitchen space and office space, but not at the west end of the building. GM Doyle added that there is a lot of office space on the side building that isn’t in use, and it hasn’t been programmed yet either. Doyle stated that any ideas for the bigger part of that building will come back to the Board. Director Rosario inquired about the type of security and if it tied to Public Safety. O’Connor replied that there is an alarm and cameras and it is connected to Public Safety. GM Doyle asked when will the parking lot area be cleared. O’Connor replied the intent is to have the Bridge Yard concession operational by March/April. The pier should be done in July 2019, and the parking lot in the fall of 2019.

q. Authorization to Transfer and Appropriate Major Infrastructure Renovation and Replacement Funds for the Replace Boat Concession Building Project: Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area Resolution No. 2018 – 12 - 311 (attached)

Director Rosario asked if the existing buildings are owned by the District. O’Connor answered that various District staff over many years installed the buildings. Director Wieskamp said she is glad to see the improvements because staff and public deserve them.

r. Authorization to Transfer and Appropriate Funds for the Replace Playground Equipment Project: Kennedy Grove Regional Recreation Area Resolution No. 2018 – 12 - 312 (attached)

Director Lane commented that she was glad to see this project moving forward. 12 Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of December 18, 2018 2. GENERAL MANAGER

SECOND PUBLIC HEARING

a. Adoption of the 2019 Operating Program and Project Budgets for the East Bay Regional Park District and Approval of the 2019 Appropriations Limit Resolution No. 2018 – 12 - 313 (attached)

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

Directors For: Colin Coffey, Ellen Corbett, Whitney Dotson, Beverly Lane, Dee Rosario, Ayn Wieskamp, Dennis Waespi. Directors Against: None.

GM Doyle introduced Debra Auker, AGM FMS/CFO. Doyle stated staff recommend the proposed budget, and this is the second hearing. Auker walked the Board through the details of the budget. She went through the 2019 Proposed Budget Highlights, the Budget Process, the Performance Plan, and District Resources and Appropriations. The budget is in two volumes.

President Waespi opened the Public Hearing for comments and questions.

Director Lane said the District should be candid about what is happening in EBRPD parks around Sudden Oak Death (SOD). Lane referred to page 19, volume 2 where there is a list that indicates where trail maintenance funds come from. Lane asked if Alameda County Transportation Commission (ACTC) has given any funds for the trail. ACTChas not. Lane challenged the ACTC Board members and encouraged said the District to reach out to the the commissioners. . Lane stated that Alameda County is not doing what they agreed to do, and what was promised by them is not being delivered.

GM Doyle said Government Legislative Manager Erich Pfuehler is already working on identifying meetings with their staff to work on this. Doyle added that Public Affairs has budgeted several fire-related educational mailings, and SOD can be included. Lane said she appreciates the work Finance staff put into compiling this budget. Director Wieskamp added Finance does a great job, and the greater community appreciates the fact that the District is fiscally careful; spending wisely and putting funds aside. Director Rosario appreciated the night meeting allowing public access to the hearing. He would like the District to track visitation numbers and include this information on the chart along with acreage in next years’ budget. In 2019, he would like staff to track the yield curves for three year and ten year treasury bonds, because that seems to be an indicator for recession. The curve has been inverted and it seems inevitable the District will be headed in that direction. Director Rosario extended congratulations to the Finance staff on this budget. Director Corbett added her appreciation for the work and commented that the District has a budget to be proud of. The District is conservative where needed, and good stewards of taxpayer funds. Corbett thanked the Finance staff for their good work. Director Coffey seconded Corbett’s remarks, adding that the budget was fun to read. Director Coffey commented he and Director Dotson are pleased to see funding allocated for the feasibility study for closing the final gap between Richmond and Rodeo on the Bay Trail. Director Coffey mentioned he didn’t attend the evening meeting but did see the presentation at the PAC and on the Finance committee. President Waespi thanked staff and said he is amazed at how the District continues to grow.

President Waespi closed the Public Hearing.

13 Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of December 18, 2018

b. Approval of 2019 Appropriations Limit

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

Directors For: Colin Coffey, Ellen Corbett, Whitney Dotson, Beverly Lane, Dee Rosario, Ayn Wieskamp, Dennis Waespi. Directors Against: None.

3. ACQUISITION, STEWARDSHIP & DEVELOPMENT DIVISION

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

Directors For: Ellen Corbett, Colin Coffey, Whitney Dotson, Beverly Lane, Dee Rosario, Ayn Wieskamp, Dennis Waespi. Directors Against: None. a. Authorization to Enter into and Exercise the Option, Purchase and Sale Agreement, and Transfer and Appropriate Funds for the Acquisition of 1.83± Acres of Real Property from Frank Albanese and Maydo Lorimer: Redwood Regional Park Resolution No. 2018 – 12 – 315 (attached)

Michael Reeves, Acting Chief of Land Acquisition oriented the Board to the location of the house in the park. He explained that this purchase completes the Measure WW goal to protect rare native trout habitat within Redwood Creek watershed, removes private inholding and potential use conflicts at park trail entrance, establishes a more logical boundary to Redwood Park and the large residence offers reuse possibilities for Park District purpose.

GM Doyle said this is a significant public investment in this watershed, and it is a significant watershed commitment. Director Rosario commented the retaining wall needs to be shored up near the creek which is a spawning ground; the house is a potential for office space and residence. Director Wieskamp thinks this can be operated as two separate units and she supports it. Director Lane asked if EBMUD could help with the purchase since the District is helping to protect the creek. Lane asked if the District contacted EBMUD to give them the opportunity to help purchase this with the District. Reeves replied that staff has not contacted EBMUD but has reached out on other acquisitions. Reeves said the EBMUD staff says the watershed is important to them, however they are looking to the District to put the final pieces of conservation effort into the canyon. Director Lane commented on the possible use of this building for staff. President Waespi asked if there are any persons of historical significance in the Canyon. Bev Ortiz is will research. Waespi supports keeping the residence.

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

Directors For: Colin Coffey, Ellen Corbett, Whitney Dotson, Beverly Lane, Dee Rosario, Ayn Wieskamp, Dennis Waespi. Directors Against: None. Directors Absent: None. 14 Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of December 18, 2018

b. Authorization to Execute a Contract with Anchor CM for Construction Management Services for the Restore McCosker Creek Project: Robert Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve Resolution No. 2018 – 12 – 316 (attached)

Matt Graul, Acting AGM ASD said that this is an important milestone in implementing the plan. Ren Bates, Capitol Program Manager began by telling the Board the culvert is failing, and it has resulted in sinkholes. This project will remove the culverts and reestablish the surrounding banks. The construction management recommendation was a need to hire a consultant. The repair will take two years to construct and hiring this firm will allow staff time to deliver other projects.

Director Wieskamp said she understands the need to use an outside company used to working on restoring creeks. Director Lane asked if this was the full project. Bates said it is, and the design was done by CEQA. Lane asked if they are using the soil removed to elevate the campground by 15-20 ft. She asked if this will affect the grade of the road. Bates said it will not be as steep. GM Doyle said this is significant and staff are looking at additional grants to fund this project. Director Corbett asked about the alignment of trails, and if those trails are off this site. Bates replied they are. Director Coffey has been asked if there were any significant creek restoration projects in Contra Costa County by the Contra Costa Watershed Forum, and this project is perfect. GM Doyle said this will be a poster project. GM Doyle stated that the former quarry company buried this creek. Director Rosario said he is looking forward to this project, and restoration is what the District should be doing. Director Waespi asked if cost is a factor in the ranking of the contractors? Bates answered this company’s price is standard for the industry. Lane asked if the parking lot for the campground area is in the design and Bates replied it is. Lane asked about whether equestrians can park at the parking lot. Bates said the LUP does not speak to parking at this parking lot, but equestrians can park at the other lot.

By motion of Director Wieskamp and seconded by Director Lane, the Board voted unanimously to approve Item 3c.

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

c. Authorization to Appropriate Grant Funds and Execute a Contract with Kjeldsen, Sinnock & Neudeck, Inc. for the Renovate Water System Project: Del Valle Regional Park Resolution No. 2018 – 12 – 317 (attached)

Matt Graul, Acting AGM ASD introduced this item. Clay Simmons, Civil Engineer, ASD opened with history on this plant. A few years ago, a master study was completed by Kjeldsen, Sinnock & Neudeck, Inc. (KSN). The purpose of the study was to evaluate and assess the condition of the existing water treatment and distribution systems. and the second purpose was to evaluate the considerations. Del Valle received five million dollars from the State of California Parks and Recreation Department for use at Del Valle. Simmons explained that this project needs to be completed by the end of 2020. The grant scope of work includes one million dollars for the Visitor Center remodel, and four million dollars for infrastructure improvements. KSN did a pilot study which determined the guiding principles are to improve reliability, provide redundancy, improve water treatment, reuse components and includes technical support.

Director Corbett remarked that this is great news and will benefit the park. She inquired if there will be opportunities for additional energy efficiencies. Simmons answered there is a proposal to have solar 15 Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of December 18, 2018 panels placed at both of the storage tanks. Director Corbett asked if there are issues with transit pipelines. Simmons replied it is asbestos concrete pipe and there are no health issues when it is in a solid state. Director Wieskamp commented that Kelly Barrington has convinced her of the need to replace this, and she thinks it is a great project. Director Wieskamp acknowledged Assembly Member Catharine Baker as a friend of the parks. Director Waespi asked about a less expensive way to pump the water. Simmons replied reducing costs for pumping was researched and he explained how staff decided on this plan. Waespi asked if the water agency has commented about raising the water level. GM Doyle announced the District would not be before the Board with this project without the efforts of Assembly Member Catherine Baker and Doug Houston, because it is a state budget allocation with time limits. GM Doyle is pleased to see this project move forward because the grant was awarded this year. Director Dotson asked if this is galvanized pipe. Simmons said it has some, but it is mainly a high density polyethylene plastic. GM Doyle would like to send this board material to Baker and Houston with a thank you card.

4. BOARD AND STAFF REPORTS

a. Actions Taken by Other Jurisdictions Affecting the Park District

GM Doyle discussed the actions in this report. Carol Victor, District Counsel, stated that the city had first reading of mitigated NegDec and approval zoning. This would remove the government overlay that the District calls the northern parcel. There was a citizen’s initiative to rezone the property to open space and the city will have to decide in January on whether to approve, hold a special election, or hold it over until the regular election in 2020.

5. GENERAL MANAGER’S COMMENTS

GM Doyle introduced Public Safety. Anthony Ciaburro, AGM Public Safety/Chief of Police. Introduced the seven new police officers who recently graduated from the Police Academy. GM Doyle introduced Kyle Maxwell, Aquatic Assistant to talk about lifeguard service and the Academy. There were 92 applicants for the Academy and 40 lifeguards graduated. Maxwell talked about the Academy and the trainings which consist of American Red Cross Lifeguarding, CPR/AED, administering emergency oxygen, open water lifeguard US lifesaving association, and first aid for public safety personnel. The lifeguards are certified as open water lifeguards.

Director Wieskamp extended congratulations on the excellent recruitment and the training that lifeguards are given are given at the District. Director Rosario asked if there is still a dive team. Maxwell said lifeguards are certified to dive. GM reminded the Board that many agencies have closed swimming and there is no training for lifeguards. GM thanked former GM Pat O’Brien for his leadership and help to form the Junior Lifeguards.

GM Doyle announced The Shift Award which highlights the great work of Public Affairs and Mona Koh. The award acknowledges the District’s innovation with Healthy Parks Healthy People, UC Benioff Hospital efforts, and the District’s, Shaping How We Invest for Tomorrow Conference, which highlights the different outreach programs. GM Doyle thanked the Board, staff and Executive team for all the great work that has been done and wished everyone happy holidays. President Waespi thanked Matt Graul for the emergency levee repairs on the Hayward Shoreline.

6. ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM CLOSED SESSION 16 Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of December 18, 2018

District Counsel said there are none.

7. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS

a. Natural/Cultural Committee (9-19-18) (Lane) b. Operations Committee (9-13-18) (Wieskamp) c. Operations Committee (8-09-18) (Wieskamp)

8. PUBLIC COMMENTS

There were none.

Director Wieskamp departed the meeting at this time.

9. BOARD COMMENTS

Director Lane reported on meetings attended. Director Lane • Attended Danville’s Installation and Community Awards event; • Attended the District Holiday Charity Luncheon at the Bridge Yard; • Attended the Executive Committee meeting; • Attended the Alameda County Mayors’ Conference in Walnut Creek; • Met with Alamo MAC members; • Attended a Reception at City Center Bishop Ranch; • Attended Walnut Creek Watershed Council meeting; • Attended the Old Growth Redwood Heritage event at Redwood Regional Park. Director Lane asked Public Affairs for an event page to send or email to folks for the swearing-in ceremony on January 15, 2019.

Director Waespi reported on meetings attended. Director Waespi • Attended the District Holiday Charity Luncheon at the Bridge Yard; • Attending the PAC Holiday Dinner; • Toured the Golden Gate Fields Trails Project; • Attended the Executive Committee meeting; • Attended the December All Manager’s meeting where Sam Hodder, GM of Save the Redwoods League; • Met with Supervisor Nate Miley, CalFire Chiefs and concerned neighbors on the Ten trails; • Attended an agricultural meeting at Supervisor Miley’s office; • Attended Castro Valley, Hayward and San Leandro Chamber of Commerce; • Attended the Legislative committee meeting; • Attended and swore in HARD Directors.

Director Rosario reported on meetings attended. Director Rosario • Attended the District Holiday Charity Luncheon at the Bridge Yard; • Attended the Oakland Estuary Park planning at Jack London Square Aquatic Center; • Attended the PAC Annual Holiday dinner; • Attended the Alameda County Mayors’ Conference; 17 Unapproved Minutes Board Meeting of December 18, 2018 • Attended the Legislative Committee meeting; • Attended Mark Hertz’s Retirement party; • Attending a tour of San Leandro Creek Alliance; • Attended the Old Growth Redwood Heritage event at Redwood Regional Park. Director Rosario thanked everyone who helped with Measure FF, attended Laurie Earp’s holiday event; attended Leslie Estes, City of Oakland’s retirement.

Director Dotson reported on meetings attended. Director Dotson • Attended the Centennial Park Ribbon Cutting in El Cerrito; • Attended the Richmond Liaison committee meeting; • Attended the District Holiday Charity Luncheon at the Bridge Yard.

Director Corbett reported on meetings attended. Director Corbett • Attended the planning committee meeting for the annual MLK celebration; • Attended the Alameda County Building Trades Luncheon; • Attended the Old Growth Redwood Heritage event at Redwood Regional Park. Director Corbett attended Laurie Earp’s holiday event; thanked the Board for her birthday celebration and invited the Board to the January 21 MLK event at the Longshoreman’s Hall in Oakland.

Director Coffey reported on meetings attended. Director Coffey • Attended the November PAC meeting; • Attended the Finance committee on November 28; • Attended the District Holiday Charity Luncheon Bridge Yard; • Attended a Miner’s Christmas at Black Diamond; • Attended the Richmond Liaison committee; • Attended the PAC Holiday dinner; • Attended Legislative Committee meeting as Alternate; • Attended the Philippine Annual Installation dinner; • Attended the Contra Costa County Watershed Forum. Director Coffey attended the Salmon Walk with Naturalist Cat Taylor, and explored the Nunn Ranch along Byron Highway. Director Coffey said the performance evaluations transcended the GM and encompassed the entirety of the management staff. He and the Board are proud to be associated with this staff and organization and join in the great success of this year.

D. ADJOURNMENT

President Waespi adjourned the meeting at 4:40 p.m.

In memory of Neil Sparger, former Park Ranger at Mission Peak and Ed Bennett a former champion and hero of the Sierra Club where an award now carries his name and advocate for parks and open space, and co-founder of CESP. GM Doyle commented that Ed Bennett was a gentleman, was respectful, and a leading advocate for conservation.

18 AGENDA REGULAR MEETINGS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

c. Resolution to Support AB 65 – Coastal Conservancy Climate Adaptation Funds (Petrie-Norris D-Laguna Beach) (Pfuehler/Doyle)

RECOMMENDATION

The Legislative Committee of the Board and General Manager recommend the Board of Directors adopt a resolution to support AB 65 – Coastal Conservancy Climate Adaptation Funds (Petrie-Norris D-Laguna Beach).

REVENUE/COST

There would be no cost impact as a result of this action.

BACKGROUND

Proposition 68 authorizes $40 million to assist coastal communities in adapting to climate change. The language of SB 5 (De Leon) called for depositing the $40 million into the California Ocean Protection Trust Fund (OPTF). The OPTF was created by the California Ocean Protection Act and administered by the Ocean Protection Council. Of the $40 million, SB 5 called on 35% of this funding to be available for the San Francisco Bay Area Conservancy Program and 12% available to the State Coastal Conservancy to fund a conservation program at West Coyote Hills. The remaining 53% would have been held in the OPTF. AB 65 would distribute the full $40 million to be administered by the State Coastal Conservancy. AB 65 prioritizes projects which adapt to climate change. AB 65 does not specify the Bay Program continues to receive 35% of the $40 million. While the State Coastal Conservancy would view San Francisco Bay Area projects as eligible for all $40 million, the East Bay Regional Park District would have an interest in ensuring 35% remain allocated to the Bay Program.

ALTERNATIVES

None recommended.

20 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2019 - 001 -

January 15, 2019

RESOLUTION TO SUPPORT AB 65 – COASTAL CONSERVANCY CLIMATE ADAPTATION FUNDS (PETRIE-NORRIS D-LAGUNA BEACH)

WHEREAS, on June 5, 2018 the California Park and Water Bond passed with 68% of the vote in Contra Costa and Alameda counties; and

WHEREAS, the enabling legislation (SB 5) allocates $40 million to the California Ocean Protection Trust Fund; and

WHEREAS, thirty-five percent of the $40 million in funding would be dedicated to the San Francisco Bay Area Conservancy Program; and

WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District was a leader in establishing the San Francisco Bay Area Conservancy Program; and

WHEREAS, this legislation seeks for all the funds to be administered by the State Coastal Conservancy; and

WHEREAS, the criteria for the funding includes natural infrastructure for shoreline protection which the Park District supports.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby support AB 65 – Coastal Conservancy Climate Adaptation Funds (Petrie- Norris D-Laguna Beach); and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, 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 15th day of January 2019 by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

AGENDA REGULAR MEETINGS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

d. Resolution to Support H.R. 7154 – Safe Drinking Water in Playgrounds and Parks (Meng D-NY) (Pfuehler/Doyle)

RECOMMENDATION

The Legislative Committee of the Board and General Manager recommend the Board of Directors adopt a resolution to support H.R. 7154 – Safe Drinking Water in Playgrounds and Parks (Meng D-NY).

REVENUE/COST

There would be no cost impact as a result of this action.

BACKGROUND

United States House of Representatives member Grace Ming from New York introduced this legislation to ensure drinking water fountains in playgrounds and parks are eligible for the “Reducing Lead in Drinking Water Grant Program.” Playgrounds and parks are not currently specified as eligible. The East Bay Regional Park District would potentially be eligible for grants under this legislation when replacing water fountains in the parks.

ALTERNATIVES

None recommended.

22 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2019 - 001 -

January 15, 2019

RESOLUTION TO SUPPORT H.R. 7154 – SAFE DRINKING WATER IN PLAYGROUNDS AND PARKS (MENG D-NY)

WHEREAS, the Reducing Lead in Drinking Water Grant Program currently seeks to limit children’s exposure to lead; and

WHEREAS, at this time, playgrounds and parks are not specified as eligible for these grants; and

WHEREAS, this legislation seeks to ensure playground and park drinking fountains are eligible for upgrades to limit the exposure of lead in drinking water; and

WHEREAS, Park District facilities would become eligible for water system upgrades.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby support H.R. 7154 – Safe Drinking Water in Playgrounds and Parks (Meng D-NY); 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 15th day of January 2019 by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

23 AGENDA REGULAR MEETINGS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

e. Resolution to Support a Resolution of Honor for Nonette Hanko (Pfuehler/Doyle)

RECOMMENDATION

The Legislative Committee of the Board and General Manager recommend the Board of Directors adopt a Resolution of Honor for Nonette Hanko.

REVENUE/COST

There would be no cost impact as a result of this action.

BACKGROUND

In 1970, Nonette Hanoke played a key role in the passage of a two-county initiative to form the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (MidPen). Ms. Hanko, a native of San Mateo and Burlingame, has served on the MidPen Board of Directors since 1972. During her tenure, MidPen has acquired and protected over 63,495 acres of land, including 6,800 acres of redwoods and creating more than 243 miles of trails. Over the last decade, Ms. Hanko has been recognized for her preservation efforts. She has been featured as one of the living visionaries of Bay Area open space in Galen Rowell’s book Bay Area Wild, received the World of Out of Doors Award from the Girl Scouts of Santa Clara County and received the prestigious “Creators of the Legacy” honor as part of the Palo Alto Centennial. In recognition of Nonette Hanko’s 46 years of consecutive public service on the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District’s Board of Directors, the Legislative Committee of the Board recommends a Resolution of Honor.

ALTERNATIVES

None recommended.

24 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2019 - 001 -

January 15, 2019

RESOLUTION OF HONOR FOR NONETTE HANOKE

WHEREAS, Nonette Hanko played a key role in the passage of a two-county initiative to form the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District; and

WHEREAS, Nonette Hanko served on the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Board of Directors since 1972, for a consecutive 46 years; and

WHEREAS, Nanette Hanko served six terms as President and is the only Board member to have served two of these terms consecutively; and

WHEREAS, as a Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Board of Director, Nonette Hanko oversaw the acquisition and protection of over 63,495 acres of open space, including 6,800 acres of redwoods; and

WHEREAS, during her tenure, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District expanded active transportation opportunities in the South Bay with the creation of over 243 miles of trail.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby support a Resolution of Honor for Nonette Hanko; and

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 15th day of January 2019 by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

25 AGENDA REGULAR MEETINGS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

f. Resolution to Support S. 3499 – Outdoors for All Act (Harris D-CA) (Pfuehler/Doyle)

RECOMMENDATION

The Legislative Committee of the Board and General Manager recommend the Board of Directors adopt a resolution to support S. 3499 – Outdoors for All Act (Harris D-CA).

REVENUE/COST

There would be no cost impact as a result of this action.

BACKGROUND

This legislation is the U.S. Senate companion bill to the U.S. House of Representatives H.R. 2943, the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program Act of 2017, on which the East Bay Regional Park District (Park District) took a support position at its September 19, 2017 Board of Directors meeting. The Outdoors for All Act would codify a federal grant program that offers matching funds to state and local governments investing in much-needed outdoor outlets. The bill directs the Department of the Interior to establish an outdoor recreation legacy partnership grant program under which Interior may award grants to eligible entities – which specifically include “a special purpose district, including park districts” at the Park District’s request. As a condition for receiving a grant, an eligible entity shall provide matching funds in cash or in kind equal to 100% of the amounts available under the grant. A grant recipient may use the grant to acquire land or water providing outdoor recreation opportunities to the public. A grant may also be used to develop or renovate outdoor recreational facilities, with priority given to projects that: • Create or significantly enhance access to park and recreational opportunities in an urban neighborhood or community; • Engage and empower underserved communities and youth; • Provide opportunities for youth employment or job training; • Establish or expand public-private partnerships; • Take advantage of coordination among various levels of government.

ALTERNATIVES

None recommended.

26 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2019 - 001 -

January 15, 2019

RESOLUTION TO SUPPORT S. 3499 – OUTDOORS FOR ALL ACT (HARRIS D-CA)

WHEREAS, this legislation is a companion bill for H.R. 2943 which would codify a federal grant program that offers matching funds to state and local governments investing in much-needed outdoor outlets; and

WHEREAS, funding from the grant program could be used to acquire land and water for parks and other outdoor recreational purposes, and develop new or renovate existing outdoor recreation facilities; and

WHEREAS, this program would encourage engagement and empowerment of underserved communities and youth, provide job training and youth employment and create advantageous coordination among various levels of government; and

WHEREAS, this would augment Federal dollars available to local and state agencies and compliment the Land and Water Conservation Fund; and

WHEREAS, S. 3499 specifically states “a special purpose district, including park districts” are eligible for grants; and

WHEREAS, this legislation would advance land conservation goals at the national level and could also provide the District additional resources to fulfill its mission.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby support S. 3499 – Outdoors for All Act (Harris D-CA); and

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 15th day of January 2019 by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

27 AGENDA REGULAR MEETINGS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

g. Resolution to Support S. 3515 – Wildfire-Resilient Communities (Merkley D-OR) (Pfuehler/Doyle)

RECOMMENDATION

The Legislative Committee of the Board and General Manager recommend the Board of Directors adopt a resolution to support S. 3515 – Wildfire-Resilient Communities (Merkley D- OR).

REVENUE/COST

There would be no cost impact as a result of this action.

BACKGROUND

United States Senator Merkley’s legislation specifically calls on the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture to carryout hazardous fuels reduction projects on federal lands – including land administered by the U.S. Secretary of Interior such as units of the National Park Service and the National Wildlife Refuge System. “Hazardous fuels reduction” projects are defined as the removal or modification of flammable vegetation or woody debris through prescribed fire, thinning, brush removal, pruning, slash treatment or a combination of those methods on the condition the method is “ecologically appropriate.” Priority projects are those adjacent to at-risk communities and high-value watersheds or historically have very high wildfire hazard potential. The legislation also provides financial and technical assistance to at-risk communities adjacent to Federal land to plan and prepare for wildfire. The legislation authorizes $100 million annually for these purposes. While the legislation focuses on Federal lands, District staff and advocates will be in communication with Senator Merkley’s office, as well as Senators Feinstein and Harris, to see if state and regional agencies might be made eligible.

ALTERNATIVES

None recommended.

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2019 - 01 -

January 15, 2019

RESOLUTION TO SUPPORT S. 3515 – WILDFIRE-RESILIENT COMMUNITIES (MERKLEY D-OR)

WHEREAS, the state of California has witnessed unprecedented wildfires in recent years with almost 2 million acres affected in 2018 alone; and

WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District recognizes that preemptive vegetation management is critical to control wildfires; and

WHEREAS, this legislation seeks to carryout hazardous fuels reduction projects on federal lands, including units of the National Park Service and the National Wildlife Refuge System; and

WHEREAS, S. 3515 would authorize $100 million annually for vegetation management practices which are ecologically appropriate; and

WHEREAS, the Park District can benefit from the precedent and best management practices identified by this national effort.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby support S. 3515 – Wildfire-Resilient Communities (Merkley D-OR); and

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 15th day of January 2019 by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

29 AGENDA REGULAR MEETINGS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

h. Resolution to Support SB 8 – State Park and Coastal Beaches Smoking Ban (Glazer D-Orinda) (Pfuehler/Doyle)

RECOMMENDATION

The Legislative Committee of the Board and General Manager recommend the Board of Directors adopt a resolution to support SB 8 – State Park and Coastal Beaches Smoking Ban (Glazer D-Orinda).

REVENUE/COST

There would be no cost impact as a result of this action.

BACKGROUND

State Senator Glazer passed similar legislation in last year’s legislative session, SB 835 and SB 836. The East Bay Regional Park District (Park District) took a support position on these bills at its June 19, 2018 Board of Directors meeting. The bills would have prohibited smoking in state parks, on state beaches and at any picnic area on a state beach. They also required the state Department of Parks and Recreation to post signs to notify the public about the smoking ban. Governor Jerry Brown vetoed these measures and similar measures in the previous two years. In his September 29, 2018 veto message, Governor Brown stated: “Third time is not always a charm. My opinion on the matter has not changed. We have many rules telling us what we can't do and these are wide open spaces.” SB 8 would make it an infraction to smoke in a unit of the state park system punishable by a fine up to $25. This iteration, should it pass the legislature, will be before a new Governor which may increase its chances of becoming law. In addition to the Park District, groups supporting this legislation in the past include the California Park and Recreation Society, Mount Diablo Audubon Society, Save the Bay and the Trust for Public Land. Given the Park District has its own smoking ban under Ordinance 38, it would be consistent to continue to support this legislation authored by a member of the East Bay delegation.

ALTERNATIVES

None recommended.

30 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2019 - 001 -

January 15, 2019

RESOLUTION TO SUPPORT SB 8 – STATE PARK AND COASTAL BEACHES SMOKING BAN (GLAZER D-ORINDA)

WHEREAS, this bill seeks to make smoking within the state park system or on a state coastal beach an infraction, punishable by a fine up to $25; and

WHEREAS, this legislation aligns with the East Bay Regional Park District’s current smoking ban under Ordinance 38; and

WHEREAS, banning smoking within sensitive environmental areas helps reduce cigarette butt litter and improve health conditions for park visitors.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby support SB 8 – State Park and Coastal Beaches Smoking Ban (Glazer D- Orinda); and

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 15th day of January 2019 by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

31 AGENDA REGULAR MEETINGS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

i. Resolution to Support SB 20 – Napa County Regional Park and Open Space District (Dodd D-Napa) (Pfuehler/Doyle)

RECOMMENDATION

The Legislative Committee of the Board and General Manager recommend the Board of Directors adopt a resolution to support SB 20 – Napa County Regional Park and Open Space District (Dodd D-Napa).

REVENUE/COST

There would be no cost impact as a result of this action.

BACKGROUND

SB 20 would statutorily provide the Napa County Regional Park and Open Space District (NCRPOSD) the ability to acquire 850 acres of state surplus property. The property is presently controlled by the County of Napa as part of Skyline Wilderness Park. Currently, the State Department of General Services does not have the authority to sell or exchange the property. This legislation would allow the NCRPOSD or Napa County to acquire the surplus property. While this is specific legislation to Napa County, NCRPOSD would welcome the Park District’s support of SB 20.

ALTERNATIVES

None recommended.

32 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2019 - 001 -

January 15, 2019

RESOLUTION TO SUPPORT SB 20 – NAPA COUNTY REGIONAL PARK AND OPEN SPACE DISTRICT (DODD D-NAPA)

WHEREAS, this legislation seeks to allow the Napa County Regional Park and Open Space District the ability to acquire 850 acres of state surplus property; and

WHEREAS, the property is currently under management by the County of Napa as part of the Skyline Wilderness Park; and

WHEREAS, under current policy, the State Department of General Services does not have the authority to sell or exchange the property; and

WHEREAS, this legislation would allow Napa County Regional Park and Open Space District to officially acquire the property.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby support SB 20 – Napa County Regional Park and Open Space District (Dodd D-Napa); and

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 15th day of January 2019 by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

33 AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

j. Authorization to Accept a 1.06-acre Recreational Trail Easement from McAvoy Yacht Harbor LLC: Bay Point Regional Shoreline (Reeves/Kelchner)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize the acceptance of a no cost 1.06-acre easement from McAvoy Yacht Harbor LLC (Harbor) to enable the construction of a recreational trail and kayak launch at Bay Point Regional Shoreline.

REVENUE/COST

The property owner is offering to grant the easement to the East Bay Regional Park District (Park District) at no cost. There are no direct costs associated with the acceptance of this easement other than staff time, which is already covered by general funds previously appropriated to the Land Acquisition Department budget.

BACKGROUND

Bay Point Regional Shoreline (Bay Point Park) provides access to waterfront open space and recreational opportunities for the underserved Bay Point community. Public access to nature and recreation is extremely limited along the 20-mile stretch of the Suisun Bay shoreline between Martinez and Oakley. The Park District plans to break ground later this year on park enhancements at Bay Point Park that will restore marshland habitat and improve public access to the shoreline.

To fully implement the public access improvements planned for Bay Point, utility and trail easements across a portion of the adjacent McAvoy Yacht Harbor property are necessary. On February 16, 2016, by its Resolution No. 2016-02-028, the Park District Board of Directors authorized staff to begin negotiations with the Harbor owners to acquire the desired easements. In October 2017, the Harbor owners granted a sewer line easement that will allow the Park District to replace the park’s existing vault toilet with a flush restroom building as a part of the planned Bay Point Park improvements.

34 With the utility easement secured in 2017, staff continued negotiations for a trail easement. The Harbor is now offering to grant the desired trail easement at no cost. The Harbor’s granting of this no-cost easement satisfies certain public access obligations stemming from a previous enforcement action against the Harbor by the Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC). The trail easement would allow construction of a new trail approximately 1,650 feet in length from the Bay Point Park staging area out to and along an open water slough that extends out to Suisun Bay. The easement will also allow the Park District to construct and operate a kayak launch at the edge of the slough that will serve as a new trailhead along the San Francisco Bay Area Water Trail. The Park District would be responsible to maintain only the planned improvements, including the new trail and kayak launch.

Together with other improvements planned for the Bay Point Regional Shoreline Restoration and Public Access Project, the new trail and kayak launch will provide the Bay Point community and all East Bay residents with enhanced shoreline access and improved visitor facilities that connect park visitors to the unique marshland ecology of the Suisun Bay shoreline.

ALTERNATIVES

No alternatives are recommended.

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2019 – 001 -

January 15, 2019

AUTHORIZATION TO ACCEPT A 1.06-ACRE RECREATIONAL TRAIL EASEMENT FROM MCAVOY YACHT HARBOR LLC: BAY POINT REGIONAL SHORELINE

WHEREAS, on February 16, 2016, by its Resolution No. 2016-02-028, the Board of Directors authorized staff to begin negotiations with McAvoy Yacht Harbor LLC (Harbor) to accept an easement that would allow construction of a new recreational trail and kayak launch as part of the East Bay Regional Park District’s (Park District) planned public access improvements at Bay Point Regional Shoreline (Bay Point Park); and

WHEREAS, Bay Point Park provides access to shoreline open space and recreational opportunities for the underserved Bay Point community; and

WHEREAS, the Harbor has offered to grant the desired easement at no cost to the Park District; and

WHEREAS, acceptance of the easement will allow construction of a new trail and kayak launch to connect park visitors to the open water of Suisun Bay; and

WHEREAS, other than staff time which will be funded by general funds previously appropriated to the Land Acquisition Department general fund budget, there are no other expenses associated with this transaction; and

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

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorizes the General Manager to accept a 1.06-acre recreational trail easement from McAvoy Yacht Harbor LLC at Bay Point Regional Shoreline; 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.

36 Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 15th day of January, 2019 by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

37 MCAVOY YACHT HARBOR TRAIL EASEMENT

Bay Point Regional Shoreline Feet [ 0 400

MCAVOY YACHT BAY POINT HARBOR REGIONAL SHORELINE

Easement for a Recreational Trail and Kayak Launch 1.06 acres

Kayak Launch

Harrier Trail

Levee Ln

Levee Rd Staging Area McAvoy Rd

Port Chicago Hwy "

Trojan Rd Shore Rd

Island View Ct

Ma rVist a Rd

Pen ins ula Rd

Mermaid Ct LakeviewDr OceanviewDr InletDr

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38 Anchor Dr Page Left Blank Intentionally

39 AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

k. Authorization to Amend a Contract with LSA Associates, Inc. for Professional Services for the Robert Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve Land Use Plan Amendment: Robert Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve (Holt/Kelchner)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize an amendment to the contract with LSA Associates, Inc. (LSA) of Fresno, California, for an additional $3,500 for services related to the preparation of the Robert Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve Land Use Plan Amendment (LUPA or Project) and associated Environmental Impact Report (EIR).

REVENUE/COST

On December 12, 2016, the East Bay Regional Park District (Park District) contracted with LSA in the amount of $48,330 for professional services related to environmental analysis, pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act, in preparation of the EIR for the LUPA. As the Project progressed, additional technical assistance was needed to respond to the high volume of public comments received for the Final EIR. This action will supplement the original contract amount by $3,500, for a total contract amount of $51,830, to provide for the additional assistance from LSA. Sufficient funds for this $3,500 amendment are available within the Restore McCosker Creek Project (Project No. 150800) indicated below. The additional services needed will exceed the General Manager’s current approval threshold of the existing contract and therefore requires Board approval.

SOURCE OF FUNDS Restore McCosker Creek (Project No. 150800) $ 4,601,000 Expenditures and Encumbrances to Date (1,434,701) AVAILABLE BALANCE $ 3,166,299

USE OF FUNDS Amendment to Contract with LSA $ 3,500 BALANCE REMAINING $ 3,162,799

40 BACKGROUND

Throughout the preparation of the EIR, LSA provided technical assistance and support, including technical reports, which were incorporated into the EIR. The scope of work included in the original contract, dated December 12, 2016, with LSA did not include the preparation of Responses to Comments, nor coordination with outside agencies to address the comments.

During the public review period for the Draft EIR, which commenced on July 6, 2018, and ended on August 20, 2018, the Park District received 143 comments, due to the high level of public interest in the project. Park District staff requested technical assistance from LSA in preparing written responses to comments pertaining to traffic/transportation. The Robert Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve LUPA was adopted and the Final EIR was certified by the Board of Directors per Resolution No. 2018-11-288 and Resolution No. 2018-11-287 on November 20, 2018.

ALTERNATIVES

No alternatives are recommended.

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2019 - 001 –

January 15, 2019

AUTHORIZATION TO AMEND A CONTRACT WITH LSA ASSOCIATES, INC. FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FOR THE ROBERT SIBLEY VOLCANIC REGIONAL PRESERVE LAND USE PLAN AMENDMENT: ROBERT SIBLEY VOLCANIC REGIONAL PRESERVE

WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District (Park District) prepared a Land Use Plan Amendment (LUPA or Project) and Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for Robert Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve; and

WHEREAS, on December 12, 2016, the Park District entered into a professional services contract in the amount of $48,330 with LSA Associates, Inc. (LSA) of Fresno, California, for technical assistance in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act related to transportation, noise, and air quality in the preparation of an EIR for the Project; and

WHEREAS, during the public review period for the Draft EIR, which commenced on July 6, 2018, and ended on August 20, 2018, the Park District received public comments related to transportation; and

WHEREAS, at Park District staff’s request, LSA assisted in the preparation of the Response to Comments for the Final EIR, which was beyond the original scope of the agreement; and

WHEREAS, the Project was adopted and the Final EIR was certified by the Board of Directors on November 20, 2018, by Resolutions 2018-11-288 and 2018-11-287; and

WHEREAS, additional funds are needed in the amount of $3,500 to cover the additional technical assistance provided by LSA; and

WHEREAS, funds are available within the Restore McCosker Creek Project (Project No. 150800) for this purpose;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorizes and directs the General Manager to amend a contract with LSA Associates, Inc. in the amount of $3,500 for a revised contract total of $51,830, to be funded out of the Restore McCosker Creek Project (Project No. 150800); and

42 Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted the 15th day of January 2019, by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

ATTACHMENT 1 Robert Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve Land Use Plan Amendment

Contra Costa County, California Feet [ 0 1,000 2,000 C la re m Moraga Way o n t A v e

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REDWOOD

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44 O:\GIS\CMcKaskey\Projects_2018\ASD\Planning\SR_BrdMap_LUPA\McCosker_LUPA_8pt5x11.mxd Date: 10/8/2018 Page Left Blank Intentionally

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

L. Authorization to Extend the Contract for Services for Concession Expansion Study at Redwood Canyon Public Golf Course with Touchstone Golf, LLC: Lake Chabot Regional Park (Waluch/O’Connor)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize the contract and first amendment to extend the contract for services with Touchstone Golf, LLC for one year to December 31, 2019, to complete the concession expansion study at Redwood Canyon Public Golf Course.

REVENUE/COST

The Board of Directors authorized funds in the 2016 Business Services General Fund budget for the purpose of executing an architectural feasibility study at Redwood Canyon Public Golf Course. Project #523800DS10-Study Concession Expansion was created to track the budgeted expenditures. Staff seeks use of part of the remaining project budget to complete the study.

SOURCE OF FUNDS Study Concession Expansion (Project 523800) $ 125,000 Expenditures to Date $ (36,091) AVAILABLE BALANCE $ 88,909

USES OF FUNDS Contract Amendment with Touchstone Golf LLC (Account No. 336-5320-781-6191-523800-DS10) $ 51,500 BALANCE REMAINING $ 37,409

BACKGROUND

Funds in the amount of $125,000 were appropriated in the 2016 Budget for the cost of services to complete an architectural feasibility study at Redwood Canyon Public Golf Course. The

46 purpose of the study is to evaluate potential options for expansion of the event center to support additional capacity for public and community events. A contract for services to complete the study has now expired with less than half the study completed. Staff recommends extending the original contract with Touchstone Golf, LLC, to provide continuity for the study. Touchstone Golf, LLC was initially hired due to their extensive and exclusive knowledge of the facility.

ALTERNATIVES

None are recommended.

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2019 - 001-

January 15, 2019

AUTHORIZATION TO EXTEND THE CONCESSION EXPANSION STUDY CONTRACT FOR SERVICES AT REDWOOD CANYON PUBLIC GOLF COURSE WITH TOUCHSTONE GOLF, LLC: LAKE CHABOT REGIONAL PARK

WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District included funding in its 2016 Budget for the purpose of having an architectural feasibility study at Redwood Canyon Public Golf Course; and

WHEREAS, $125,000 in funds were transferred to Project 523800DS10 Concession Expansion Study at Redwood Canyon Public Golf Course and $88,908.54 are available; and

WHEREAS, the Contract for Services for Project 523800DS10 Concession Expansion Study at Redwood Canyon Public Golf Course is expired but the study is not yet complete; and

WHEREAS, staff would like to extend the Contract for Services through December 31, 2019 with Touchstone Golf, LLC to complete the study; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorizes a contract for services with Touchtone Golf, LLC for the Study Concession Expansion project in the amount of $51,500 through December 31, 2019 charged to Account No. 336-5320-781-6191-523800-DS10; and

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 15th day of January, 2019 by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSENT: ABSTAIN:

48 AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

m. Authorization to Purchase Two Vault Restrooms from CXT Inc.: Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve (Bowman/Auker)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors purchase two concrete vault restrooms from CXT Inc. for installation at Black Diamond Regional Preserve.

REVENUE/COST

Budgeted funds are available in Project #535900 – Vaults & Sewers. SOURCE OF FUNDS Vaults & Sewers (535900) $1,031,000 Encumbrances and Expenditures to Date $612,814 AVAILABLE $418,186

USE OF FUNDS One Single Vault Restroom $ 22,495 One Double Vault Restroom $ 45,218 $350,473 REMAINING BALANCE

BACKGROUND

The East Bay Regional Park District (Park District) is committed to replacing chemical toilets with lower maintenance, higher capacity toilets to reduce maintenance and operations costs and improve the visitor experience. Two restrooms, from this purchase, will be installed at Black Diamond Regional Preserve. One restroom will be installed in the main picnic area and the other will be installed at the Hazel Atlas Portal (Exhibit 1).

The purchase was bid by Sourcewell, formerly National Joint Powers Alliance (NJPA). Sourcewell is a local government unit, public corporation and public agency authorized to establish competitively awarded cooperative purchasing contracts. Sourcewell follows the competitive

contracting law process to solicit, evaluate and award cooperative purchasing contracts for goods and services. See attached Sourcewell Ordering Information, Contract #030117-CXT.

ALTERNATIVES

No alternatives are recommended.

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2019 – 01 -

January 15, 2019

AUTHORIZATION TO PURCHASE TWO VAULT RESTROOMS FROM CXT INC.: BLACK DIAMOND MINES REGIONAL PRESERVE

WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District (Park District) is committed to replacing chemical toilets with lower maintenance, higher capacity toilets to reduce maintenance and operations costs, and improve the visitor experience; and

WHEREAS, the two restrooms, from this purchase, will be installed at Black Diamond Regional Perserve. One restroom will be installed in the main picnic area and the other will be installed at the Hazel Atlas Portal.

WHEREAS, the purchase was bid by Sourcewell, formerly National Joint Powers Alliance (NJPA). Sourcewell is a local government unit, public corporation and public agency authorized to establish competitively awarded cooperative purchasing contracts. Sourcewell follows the competitive contracting law process to solicit, evaluate and award cooperative purchasing contracts for goods and services;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorizes the purchase of two concrete vault restrooms from CXT Inc for a total cost of $67,713 from Project #535900; 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 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 15th day of January, 2019, by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

Exhibit 1

Double Restroom

Greathouse Visitor Center

Hazel Atlas Portal

Single Restroom

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AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

n. Authorization to Accept and Appropriate Grant Funds from the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy Science and Research Grant Program and Amend a Contract with Patrick Kolar for Golden Eagle Research: East Contra Costa County Area (Kelchner/Auker)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors:

1. Authorize the acceptance and appropriation of grant funds from the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy (Conservancy) Science and Research Grant; and

2. Authorize an amendment to the existing contract with California Golden Eagle Researcher, Patrick Kolar.

REVENUE/COST

This action proposes to amend an original services contract with Patrick Kolar by adding $55,000 with no extension in contract period to allow continued research related to golden eagles. The existing services contract with Patrick Kolar for $62,600 was approved by Board Resolution No. 2017-11-316 for the time period November 8, 2017 – December 31, 2019. Upon approval of the contract amendment, the total amount not to exceed contract amount will be $117,600. Funds are available from the NextEra Research Funds Project (No. 509100), listed below. This action also proposes to accept and appropriate $14,970 in grant funds from the Conservancy to be used toward the increased research cost.

SOURCE OF FUNDS NextEra Research Funds Project (No. 509100) $ 1,135,739 Encumbrances and Expenditures to Date (1,088,963) Appropriation of Conservancy Grant Funds 14,970 AVAILABLE BALANCE $ 61,746

USE OF FUNDS Contract Amendment with Patrick Kolar $ 55,000 BALANCE REMAINING $ 6,746

This project will not increase the Park District’s long-term operational cost.

BACKGROUND

As part of its mission to preserve and protect natural resources and wildlife for the benefit of the public and future generations, the Park District has been conducting research on golden eagles in collaboration with the United States Geological Survey (USGS) since 2014. This research provides data to help assess the effects of new wind turbines in the Altamont Pass Wind Resource Area on the region’s golden eagle population. These monitoring studies also help to identify opportunities for adaptive management strategies such as grazing practices that may reduce impacts and better support the regional golden eagle population. The research has been largely funded by settlement monies from NextEra Energies, Inc., in combination with donations and grant funds.

The Conservancy’s Science and Research Grant Program funds research that endeavors to illuminate and, where possible, resolve uncertainties associated with adaptive management of natural communities and covered species. The Park District has received previous grants from this program, which support raptor surveys and ground squirrel research in relation to grazing.

Board Resolution No. 2018-10-234 authorized grant applications to this program, as well as the appropriation of any granted funds upon receipt of an executed grant agreement. At the December 3, 2018, Conservancy Board of Directors meeting, $14,970 in grant funds was approved for USGS-directed golden eagle research on Park District owned property within Conservancy lands and lands within the Diablo Range. Work is authorized to begin under this grant as of January 1, 2019.

ALTERNATIVES

No alternatives are recommended.

55 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2019 – 001 –

JANUARY 15, 2019

AUTHORIZATION TO ACCEPT AND APPROPRIATE GRANT FUNDS FROM THE EAST CONTRA COSTA COUNTY HABITAT CONSERVANCY SCIENCE AND RESEARCH GRANT PROGRAM AND AMEND A CONTRACT WITH PATRICK KOLAR FOR GOLDEN EAGLE RESEARCH: EAST CONTRA COSTA COUNTY

WHEREAS, a primary mission of the East Bay Regional Park District (Park District) is to preserve and protect natural resources and wildlife for the benefit of the public and future generations; and

WHEREAS, the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy (Conservancy) provides funding for the management, enhancement, and restoration of habitats and landscapes throughout East Contra Costa County; and

WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 2018-10-234, the Park District Board of Directors authorized grant applications to the Conservancy’s Science and Research Grant Program; and

WHEREAS, at the December 3, 2018, Conservancy Board of Directors meeting, a $14,970 grant to the Park District was approved for the purpose of continuing the United States Geological Survey-directed research of golden eagles on Conservancy lands, including properties owned by the Park District; and

WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 2017-11-316, the Park District Board of Directors approved a contract with Patrick Kolar in the amount of $62,600 for golden eagle monitoring studies and assessment of the effects of new wind turbines in the Altamont Pass Wind Resource Area on the region’s golden eagle population; and

WHEREAS, the Park District wishes to amend the existing contract with Patrick Kolar using aforementioned grant funds and funds available within the NextEra Research Funds Project (No. 509100);

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

1. Authorizes acceptance and appropriation of $14,970 in grant funds from the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy’s Science and Research Grant Program into the NextEra Research Funds Project (No.509100) prior to signing agreements between the Conservancy and the Park District; and

2. Authorizes amending Patrick Kolar’s existing $62,600 contract by adding $55,000 for a total contract amount of $117,600 with no extension in the contract period of November

56 8, 2017 through December 31, 2019, to be paid out of the NextEra Research Funds Project budget (Project No. 509100); and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorize and direct the General Manager or Assistant General Manager of Finance and Management Services/CFO, on behalf of the Park District and in its name, to accept grant funds and execute and deliver such documents including, but not limited to, applications agreements, payment requests and amendments, and to do such acts as may be deemed or appropriate to accomplish the intentions of this resolution; and

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

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and adopted this 15th day of January, 2019 by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN ABSENT:

East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy Lands Contra Costa County, California Feet 0 6,500 13,000

Black Delta Diamond Access Mines

Clayton Ranch

Round Valley

Vasco Morgan Hills Territory

Byron Vasco Vernal Caves Pools

East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy Land Acquisitions

58 O:\GIS\KBoettcher\Projects_2018\ASD\Stewardship\Wildlife\HCP_Map\HCP_Acquisitions.mxd Date: 12/26/2018

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59 AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

1. CONSENT CALENDAR

o. Acceptance of Regional Parks Foundation 2018 Donations and Commitments Report and the Continuance of the Donation Procedure for 2019 (Strawson O’Hara/Auker)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager and the Board Finance Committee (by unanimous vote at its November 28, 2018 meeting) recommend that the Board of Directors accept the Regional Parks Foundation 2018 Donations and Commitments Report and approves the continuance of the donation procedure through 2019.

REVENUE/COST

There is no revenue/cost impact associated with the acceptance of the report.

BACKGROUND

The Regional Parks Foundation (RPF) is the non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that supports the East Bay Regional Park District (Park District) by raising funds to encourage and facilitate park access, environmental stewardship, education and recreational programming, and acquisition of parklands. RPF donors have made invaluable contributions to the Park District in many ways: providing real property and equipment; funding programming in underserved communities; granting funds for projects to preserve habitat and wildlife; and assisting the Park District in making improvements to parks.

To streamline the process for utilizing donated funds, provide better documentation of donated funds from the RPF and confirm the process for acceptance of donations, Procedure 5.4.a - Regional Parks Foundation Donation Budget Adjustments up to $50,000 was approved by the Park District Board of Directors in May 2018 (Reso. 2018-05-101). This procedure allows the Park District CFO and Budget Manager to adjust budgets as RPF donations are approved throughout the fiscal year. This process has two major components:

• For Park District funding requests greater than $50,000 – The Park District Board of Directors will accept donations from the RPF by separate resolutions and authorize an

60 amendment to both revenue and appropriations as necessary documentation of the donation.

• For Park District funding requests up to $50,000 – The Park District CFO and/or Budget Manager is authorized to amend both revenue and appropriations for each approved RPF funding request up to $50,000 throughout the 2018 fiscal year which includes January 1, 2018 through December 31, 2018. These funding requests require approval by the Division Assistant General Manager. An annual report describing these donations/appropriations is to be provided to the Board Finance Committee and Board of Directors by Park District staff.

The procedure requires that District staff obtain the authority to amend the District Budget and accept donations under $50,000 per item from the Board of Directors annually.

2018 Results

Based on the procedure noted above the following charts detail the RPF donations and commitments during 2018.

Total of all Regional Parks Foundation Commitments for 2018 with details listed below:

1. Total adopted 2018 Budget 615,790$ 2. Total approved through separate action 864,500 3. Total pending Board approval in Q1 2019 450,500 4. Total paid for park projects 481,542 2,412,332$ 2,412,332$

1. RPF commitments approved in original Park District 2018 Budget (These are typically programs managed/hosted by Park District employees with some or all funding provided by the RPF):

Program Name: Org Key Adopted 2018 Budget Backpack Outreach Library Program 1015210000 $ 2,250 Comm Engagement Initiative 1015210000 7,500 Multicultural Training 1015210000 10,000 Outreach Program for Seniors 1015210000 7,500 Stay Healthy in Nature Everyday 1015210000 20,000 Youth Job Fairs 1015210000 10,000 Comm Outreach Outdoor Program 1015221000 14,000 Teen Eco Action Week 1015221000 24,000 After School Excursions to the Parks 1015228509 3,500 Exploring Watershed 1015228509 5,500 continued on next page

61 Continued from previous page:

Ash Street Summer Day Camp 1015228536 2,900 FLASH-Family Campfire-Ash St. Campers 1015228536 2,100 Fish Friends 1015228551 16,500 Parks to People Virtual Reality Equipmt 1015241547 12,500 Family Campfire Programs 1015241585 2,580 Family Campout Programs 1015241585 1,960 Fishing Derby 1015246000 16,600 Kids Healthy Outdoor Challeng 1015246000 74,000 Sub Total-Grant Programs $ 233,390 *Annual grant to the Park District 382,400 Total Adopted Budget $ 615,790 * Covers partial support of in-kind personnel & equipment

2. RPF commitments approved through separate Board resolution or action from January 1 through December 31, 2018.

Mid-year Budget Program Name: Org Key Appropriations 2018-07-172 - Remove Debris and Silt Project at Tilden 336-7420-105 $ 100,000 2018-07-188- Volunteer Trailers and Tools 101-5245-000 90,000 2018-07-193-Remodel Del Valle Visitor Center 333-7120-203 272,300 2018-07-194-Black Diamond Mine Exhibit 333-7140-502 402,200 Total Approved $ 864,500

3. Additional commitments expected to be presented to the Park District Board for approval in first quarter 2019:

Pending Budget Program Name: Appropriations Shadow Cliffs Pavilion Construction donation from Nancy and Gary Harrington $ 150,000 Shadow Cliffs Pavilion Construction donation from Wayne and Gladys Valley Fdn. 100,000 Sunol Visitor Center Renovation donation from Wayne and Gladys Valley Fdn. 125,500 Black Diamond Mines Exhibit donation from Andeavor 75,000 Total Pending Approval $ 450,500

62 4. RPF commitments paid (directly and indirectly) in 2018 for Park District projects:

Mid-year Budget Program Name: Appropriations Multi-Cultural Wellness Walks $ 25,000 Boating Safety and Instruction 6,850 East Bay Mountain Lion Project 20,000 Fuels Reduction/Management 25,000 Tree Planting at Oyster Bay working with Earth Team Youth 50,000 Crockett Hills Bridge Project 20,000 Camperships in State Parks 10,000 Life vests for Aquatic Safety 7,500 Pinole Shores Railroad Improvements 25,000 Childhood Obesity Program – Walk with a Doc San Pablo 43,000 Children in Nature Network Education Partnership 10,000 SHINE Program 5,000 Concerts at the Cove 7,500 Historic Fire Truck Restoration 8,900 UC Berkeley Outdoor Teaching Experience 5,000 Ardenwood Regional Park 5,558 Botanic Garden 14,134 Tilden Regional Park EEC - Tilden Nature Area 4,169 Tilden Regional Park - Little Farm 1,065 MLK Jr. Shoreline - Shorebird Sanctuary 12,942 Stewardship - General 3,224 Oyster Bay Regional Shorline 727 Operations - Coastal Clean Up 1,327 Operations - Senior Program 5,625 Crown Beach Regional Park - General 155 Del Valle Regional Park - General 3,159 Garin Regional Park - Operations 8,430 Hayward Shoreline Regional Park - Least Tern (Expenses) 2,767 Hayward Shoreline Regional Park - Least Tern (Fremont Bank) 15,000 Hayward Shoreline Regional Park - Least Tern 18,000 Lake Chabot - Habitat Helpers 1,237 Miller / Knox Regional Park - General 5,020 Point Pinole Regional Park - General 3,076 continued on next page

63 Continued from previous page:

Public Safety - Helicopter Unit 846 Public Safety Equestrian Unit 1,389 Public Safety K-9 Unit 4,069 Redwood Regional Park 6,897 Trails - General Fund (Ivan Inspired) 24,566 Tilden Regional Park - General 3,005 Aquatics Program 1,052 Youth Employment 7,500 Staying Healthy In Nature Everyday (SHINE) 15,000 Trails Challenge 42,853 Total Funds for Parks $ 481,542

In addition to the above, the RPF Board of Directors unanimously voted to support a capital campaign for the Tilden Environmental Education Center beginning in 2019. The Foundation looks forward to continuing this relationship.

The action requested provides that 2019 follow the same procedure as the prior year:

• For Park District funding requests up to $50,000 – The Park District CFO and/or Budget Manager is authorized to amend both revenue and appropriations for each approved RPF funding request up to $50,000 throughout the 2019 fiscal year which includes January 1, 2019 through December 31, 2019. These funding requests require approval by the Division Assistant General Manager. An annual report describing these donations/appropriations is to be provided to the Board Finance Committee and Board of Directors by Park District staff.

This item was discussed and approved by the Board Finance Committee at their November 2018 meeting.

ALTERNATIVES:

No alternatives are recommended.

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2019 – 001 -

January 15, 2019

ACCEPTANCE OF REGIONAL PARKS FOUNDATION 2018 DONATIONS AND COMMITMENTS REPORT AND THE CONTINUANCE OF THE DONATION PROCEDURE FOR 2019

WHEREAS, the Regional Parks Foundation (RPF) is the non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that supports the East Bay Regional Park District (Park District) by raising funds to encourage and facilitate park access, environmental stewardship, education and recreational programming, and acquisition of parklands; and

WHEREAS, RPF donors have made invaluable contributions to the Park District in many ways: providing real property and equipment; funding programming in underserved communities; granting funds for projects to preserve habitat and wildlife; and assisting the Park District in making improvements to parks; and

WHEREAS, East Bay Regional Park District Procedure 5.4.a Regional Parks Foundation Donation Budget Adjustments up to $50,000 approved by the District Board of Directors in May 2018 allows the District CFO and Budget Manager to adjust budgets as RPF donations are approved throughout the fiscal year, and requires an annual report describing donations/appropriations be provided to the Board Finance Committee and Board of Directors;

WHEREAS, the above procedure requires that District staff obtain the authority to amend the District Budget and accept donations under $50,000 per item from the Board of Directors annually; and

WHEREAS, on November 28, 2018, the Board Finance Committee reviewed the Regional Parks Foundation 2018 Donations and Commitments report, and unanimously recommended its favorable consideration by the Board of Directors;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby accepts the Regional Parks Foundation 2018 Donations and Commitments report; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors authorize the continuation of the donation policy including:

• For Park District funding requests up to $50,000 – The Park District CFO and/or Budget Manager is authorized to amend both revenue and appropriations for each approved RPF funding request up to $50,000 throughout the 2019 fiscal year which includes January 1, 2019 through December 31, 2019. These funding requests require approval by the Division Assistant General Manager. An annual report describing these

65 donations/appropriations is to be provided to the Board Finance Committee and Board of Directors by Park District staff.

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and approved this 15th day of January 2019, by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

66 PARK ADVISORY COMMITTEE AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

D. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

2. PARK ADVISORY COMMITTEE

a. Approval of Park Advisory Committee Goals for 2019 (Pfuehler/Doyle)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager, Board Executive Committee and Park Advisory Committee (both committees by unanimous vote) recommend the Board of Directors approve the 2019 Park Advisory Committee Goals.

REVENUE/COST

There is no cost associated with this action.

BACKGROUND

During 2018, the Park Advisory Committee (PAC) addressed several topics of significance to the East Bay Regional Park District (Park District) – including review of existing Ordinance 38 dog policies (specifically how they are being applied when new parks or amendments to park plans are being considered), the Park District’s wildfire hazard reduction and resource management plan, a trail user survey, funding measures and budget recommendations.

In 2019, the PAC proposes, among other things, to review crime prevention, grazing and grassland management, trail design and maintence, youth engagement and employment, and nighttime bicycle access. The PAC will also consider land use plan amendments and other ongoing goals as they come up.

At its October 22, 2018 meeting, the PAC reviewed and unanimously approved its proposed 2019 goals. On November 1, 2018, the Board Executive Committee and the PAC Chair jointly reviewed the proposed 2019 goals. The Board Executive Committee unanimously recommended favorable consideration of the 2019 goals. The proposed PAC 2019 goals, as delineated in the attached resolution, are presented for the Board’s input and approval.

ALTERNATIVES

None are recommended.

67 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2019 – 001 –

January 15, 2019

APPROVAL OF PARK ADVISORY COMMITTEE GOALS FOR 2019 WHEREAS, the East Bay Regional Park District (Park District) Park Advisory Committee (PAC) has developed and recommended goals and work plan activities for 2019; and

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

WHEREAS, the General Manager and Board Executive Committee have reviewed these goals and ensure they support the 2019 Board objectives and the Park District’s future direction;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby approve the following goals and work plan activities for the PAC for 2019:

1. Review proposed new Board policies to protect natural resources, enhance the natural and urban environment, and ensure an equitable, safe and diversified system of programs, trails and regional parks is available to meet a variety of community needs. • Crime Prevention, Security in Parking Lots, Trail Heads, etc. (new) • Grazing Review and Grassland Management (new) • Trail Design and Maintence Factors (new) • Integrated Pest Management in the Parks overview (new) • Infrastructure Study report (unmet 2018 goal) • Mountain Bikes and Other Jurisdictions overview (unmet 2018 goal) • Dog Use Policy Report update (continuation) • Capital Projects update (continuation) • Trails update (continuation)

2. Provide input and actively participate in the Board’s efforts to seek funding for the acquisition, development, maintenance and operations of the parks. • Measure FF (new) • Proposition 68 implementation (new) • Grants update (new) • Districtwide Survey results (new) • Legislative Priorities and Funding Measures (continuation)

3. Recommend policies and programs that foster community engagement relating to both park usage and employment opportunities particularly with youth and in disadvantaged communities. • 85th Anniversary – Foundation 50th Anniversary (new) • Youth Engagement and Employment (new) • Review Trail Safety Patrol program (unmet 2018 goal) • Review Volunteer program (continuation) • Community Relations Plan (continuation)

4. Provide early input and review of the Park District’s annual Budget, the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR), voter approved bond measures, 68 concessionaire agreements and Ordinance 38 policy issues. • Nighttime Bicycle Access to Transportation Trails (new) • 2020 proposed Budget and 2019 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (continuation) • Measure WW review (continuation) • Measure CC review (continuation)

5. Review and provide input on the Park District’s Master plan, land use plans, design plans or amendments proposed for adoption to planning documents, special use permits, and naming of Park District facilities. • Black Diamond Mines Land Use Plan (new) • Southern Las Trampas Land Use Plan (new) • Coyote Hills Land Use Plan (new) • Concord Hills Land Use Plan (unmet 2018 goal) • Miller Knox Land Use Plan (unmet 2018 goal)

6. Participate in community outreach and education as time allows. • Park District Ambassador program (continuation) • Bike and Trail Safety Patrols and other volunteer programs (continuation)

7. Undertake special projects as directed by the Board of Directors. • PAC Chair to meet with Regional Parks Foundation Chair (continuation)

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

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the PAC Goals align with the objectives of the Board of Directors, and the General Manager is hereby authorized and directed, on behalf of the 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 15th day of January, 2019, by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

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PARK ADVISORY COMMITTEE GOALS

Summary of 2018 and Proposed for 2019

Board Meeting January 15, 2019

I. ONGOING GOALS II. PROPOSED GOALS 2019

71 I. ONGOING GOALS - 2018 1. Review proposed new Board policies to protect natural resources, enhance the natural and urban environment, and ensure an equitable, safe and diversified system of programs, trails and regional parks is available to meet a variety of community needs. • Infrastructure Study report (new) – unmet goal • Mountain Bikes and Other Jurisdictions overview (new) – unmet goal • Capital Projects update (continuation) – unmet goal • Wildfire Hazard Reduction and Resource Management Plan review (new) – met April 23 • Impacts of Climate Change – District’s Resilience and Sustainability initiatives (new) – met January 22 • Trail User Survey report (new) – met October 22 • Dog Use Policy report (continuation) – met February 26 • Permitting Challenges update (continuation) – met April 23 • Trails update (continuation) – met October 22

2. Provide input and actively participate in the Board’s efforts to seek funding for the acquisition, development, maintenance and operations of the parks. • Measure CC Extension (new) – met January 22 and September 24 • Measure WW Urban Creeks program (unmet 2017 goal) – met April 23 • Regional Planning and Funding Measures (continuation) – met January 22, September 24 • Legislative Priorities (continuation) – met January 22

3. Recommend policies and programs that foster community engagement relating to both park usage and employment opportunities particularly with youth and in disadvantaged communities. • Review Trail Safety Patrol program (continuation) – unmet goal • Community Engagement update (new) – met February 26 • Multi-cultural Advisory Committee report (new) – met May 21 • Youth Employment initiatives (new) – met March 26 • Healthy Parks Healthy People update (continuation) – met May 21 • Community Relations Plan (continuation) – met February 26 • Review Volunteer program (continuation) – met July 23

4. Provide early input and review of the District’s annual Budget, the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR), voter approved bond measures, concessionaire agreements and Ordinance 38 policy issues. • 2019 proposed Budget and 2018 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (continuation) – met June 5, November 26 • Measure WW review and update (continuation) – met June 25 • Measure CC review (continuation) – met June 25 • Ordinance 38 changes (continuation) – met November 26

5. Review and provide input on the Districts Master Plan, land use plans, design plans or amendments proposed for adoption to planning documents, special use permits, and naming of District facilities. • Black Diamond Mines Land Use Plan (new) – unmet goal • Concord Hills Land Use Plan (unmet 2017 goal) – unmet goal 72 • Miller Knox Land Use Plan Amendment (2016 unmet goal) – unmet goal • Sibley Land Use Plan Amendment (continuation) – met July 23

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

7. Undertake special projects as directed by the Board – N/A

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

II. PROPOSED GOALS - 2019 1. Review proposed new Board policies to protect natural resources, enhance the natural and urban environment, and ensure an equitable, safe and diversified system of programs, trails and regional parks is available to meet a variety of community needs. • Crime Prevention, Security in Parking Lots, Trail Heads, etc. (new) • Grazing Review and Grassland Management (new) • Trail Design and Maintence Factors (new) • Integrated Pest Management in the Parks overview (new) • Infrastructure Study report (unmet 2018 goal) • Mountain Bikes and Other Jurisdictions overview (unmet 2018 goal) • Dog Use Policy Report update (continuation) • Capital Projects update (continuation) • Trails update (continuation)

3. Recommend policies and programs that foster community engagement relating to both park usage and employment opportunities particularly with youth and in disadvantaged communities. • 85th Anniversary – Foundation 50th Anniversary (new) • Youth Engagement and Employment (new) • Review Trail Safety Patrol program (unmet 2018 goal) • Review Volunteer program (continuation) • Community Relations Plan (continuation)

• 2020 proposed Budget and 2019 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (continuation) • Measure WW review (continuation) • Measure CC review (continuation)

5. Review and provide input on the Districts Master plan, land use plans, design plans or amendments proposed for adoption to planning documents, special use permits, and naming of District facilities. • Black Diamond Mines Land Use Plan (new) • Southern Las Trampas Land Use Plan (new) • Coyote Hills Land Use Plan (new) • Concord Hills Land Use Plan (unmet 2018 goal) • Miller Knox Land Use Plan (unmet 2018 goal)

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

7. Undertake special projects as directed by the Board • PAC Chair to meet with Regional Parks Foundation Chair (continuation)

74 FINANCE AND MANAGEMENT SERVICES AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

3. FINANCE AND MANAGEMENT SERVICES DIVISION

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends the Board of Directors take the following actions to finalize the formation of CFD No. A/C-3, which was approved by voters as Measure FF at the November 6th 2018 election.

1. Adopt a Resolution to Certify the November 6, 2018 Election Results for Measure FF;

2. Approve the Ordinance Authorizing the Levy of Special Taxes within Community Facilities District (CFD) No. A/C-3, as required by California Government Code; and

3. Direct the Recordation of a Special Tax Lien in Alameda County and Contra Costa County.

REVENUE/COST

Funds to cover the counties’ costs of the Measure FF election have been budgeted from the General Fund, Committed Fund Balance – Election Costs, Account 2842. Costs were originally estimated at $1.1 to $1.3 million; but will be calculated based on the number of measures and candidates on each ballot. The two counties have not yet calculated the amount due. Once these costs are known, a request to appropriate the required funds will be brought to the Board of Directors.

Beginning in July 2020, the Measure FF - Special Tax CFD No. A/C-3 will be levied on approximately 177,000 units within the Measure FF/CFD boundary. The tax is expected to generate $3.3 million in revenues per year, or approximately $65.7 million over the 20-year life of the measure.

75 Use of the tax revenues is restricted to the purposes described in the Resolution of Formation and the Expenditure Plan: Commitment List and Proposed Use of Funds which was approved by the Board of Directors on June 5, 2018. The funds will be managed in a Special Revenue Fund, separate from the District’s General Fund.

BACKGROUND

At the Statewide General Election on November 6, 2018, voters within the cities and communities of Alameda, Oakland, Piedmont, Albany, Richmond, San Pablo, El Sobrante, Kensington, Berkeley, Emeryville, and El Cerrito voted on a special tax levy called Measure FF. Measure FF was a 20-year extension of the existing Measure CC, a $12 tax on single-family parcels and $8.28 tax on multi-family units, which expires in 2020.

Measure FF was designed to match the existing Measure CC, except that it was structured as a Community Facilities District, called CFD No. A/C-3. The District is authorized to form a CFD and levy special taxes under the Mello Roos Community Facilities Act of 1982, as amended, Sections 53311 and following of the California Government Code. The final Measure FF election results stated that of the 262,960 votes cast in Alameda County 227,756 or 86.61% were yes votes; and of the 62,032 votes cast in Contra Costa County, 50,357 or 81.18% were yes votes; for a consolidated passage rate of 85.58%.

The District has already taken the following required steps to form the CFD: 1) Local Goals and Policies adopted by the Board of Directors on June 16, 2015.

2) The Resolution of Intention, which included the proposed boundaries of CFD No. A/C-3, the description of services to be funded, the Rate and Method of Apportionment (RMA), and the dates for public hearing, approved by the Board of Directors on May 1, 2018.

3) The Boundary Map for CFD No. A/C-3, approved by the Board of Directors on May 1, 2018 and recorded with the Alameda County and Contra Costa County Recorders Offices on May 2, 2018.

4) The Notice of Public Hearing regarding the District’s intention to form CFD No. A/C-3 was published in newspapers serving both counties during the week of May 18, 2018.

5) A Public Hearing was held at the Board of Directors meeting on June 5, 2018 at which the Board considered and adopted actions to form CFD No. A/C-3, including: • Expenditure Plan: Commitment List • Statement Regarding Annual Appropriations Limit and Accountability Measures • Resolution Ordering and Giving Notice of an Election • Special Tax Report for Community Facilities District No. A/C – 3.

6) The Election on the proposition of the levy of the special tax known as Measure FF - CFD No. A/C-3 was held on November 6, 2018 in conjunction with the Statewide General Election. Voters approved Measure FF by 86%.

76 To complete the formation of the new CFD No. A/C-3, two final actions are required, which are described below:

1) Approve a Resolution Declaring Results of the 2018 Measure FF Election & Directing Recordation of Special Tax Lien. This resolution takes the following actions: a. Approves the Statement of Results of the election. b. Confirms that the proposition was approved by more than 2/3rds of qualified voters. c. Declares the CFD to be fully formed with the authority to levy the special tax. d. Directs the Clerk of the Board to record the notice of special tax lien with the Alameda County and Contra Costa County Recorder.

2) Approve an Ordinance Authorizing the Levy of Special Taxes for CFD No. A/C-3. This ordinance takes the following actions: a. Authorizes and levies the special tax within the CFD in accordance with the RMA. b. Authorizes and directs the District’s Chief Finance Officer to determine the annual levy of taxes as provided in the Resolution of Formation. c. States details of the collection of taxes by Alameda and Contra Costa Counties.

If these items are approved at this meeting, all Board actions required for this formation process are complete. Remaining steps will be carried out by staff, and the Measure FF tax will be levied on parcels within CFD No. A/C-3 beginning in fiscal year 2020-2021.

ALTERNATIVES

None are recommended.

ATTACHMENTS

A. Resolution Declaring Results of the 2018 Measure FF Election and Directing the Recordation of Special Tax Lien Exhibit A – Consolidated Alameda and Contra Costa County Election Results

B. Ordinance Authorizing the Levy of Special Taxes for CFD No. A/C-3

77 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Resolution No.: 2019 – 001 -

January 15, 2019

A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT, CALIFORNIA, DECLARING RESULTS OF THE 2018 MEASURE FF ELECTION, AND DIRECTING THE RECORDATION OF A SPECIAL TAX LIEN

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT COMMUNITY FACILITIES DISTRICT NO. A/C-3

WHEREAS, on June 5, 2018, the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District (the “District”) adopted a Resolution No. 2018-06-129 entitled “A Resolution of the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District, California, Declaring the Formation of a Community Facilities District” (the “Resolution of Formation”), ordering the formation of the East Bay Regional Park District Community Facilities District No. A/C-3 (the “CFD”), defining the public services to be provided by the CFD, authorizing the levy of a special tax on property within the CFD, and preliminarily establishing an appropriations limit for the CFD, all pursuant to the Mello-Roos Community Facilities Act of 1982 (Sections 53311 and following, California Government Code; hereafter referred to as the “Act”); and

WHEREAS, on June 5, 2018, the Board of Directors adopted Resolution No. 2018-06-131 entitled “Resolution Ordering and Giving Notice of an Election to be Held in a Portion of the East Bay Regional Park District for the Purpose of Submitting a Measure to the Voters of Community Facilities District No. A/C-3 to Levy a Special Tax for Wildfire Protection, Safe Parks and Trails, Public Access, and Natural Habitat and Requesting the Boards of Supervisors of Alameda and Contra Costa counties to Consolidate the District Election with the Statewide General Election Being Held on November 6, 2018” (the “Resolution Ordering and Giving Notice of the Election”) the propositions of the levy of the special tax and the establishment of the appropriations limit were submitted to the qualified electors of the CFD as required by the Act; and

WHEREAS, under the Resolution Ordering and Giving Notice of the Election, which by this reference is incorporated herein, the election has been held and the Alameda County Registrar of Voters issued the Consolidated Statement of Results of Election for Alameda and Contra Costs counties, (the “Consolidated Results”) a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit A; and

WHEREAS, this Board of Directors has been informed of the Alameda County Results and Contra Costa County Results and finds it appropriate and wishes to complete its proceedings for the CFD.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby finds, determines, and resolves that all of the foregoing recitals are true and correct.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the issues presented at the 2018 Measure FF election were the levy of a special tax within the CFD and the approval of an initial annual appropriations limit of $3,300,000, all pursuant to the Resolution of Formation.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Board of Directors hereby approves and declares the Alameda County Results (86.61%=Yes votes) and Contra Costa County Results (81.18%=Yes votes) and finds that it shall be a permanent part of the record of its proceedings for the CFD. Pursuant to the Consolidated Results of both counties, the Measure FF proposition presented at the election was approved by 85.58% the qualified electors of the CFD which is more than two-thirds of the votes cast at the November 6, 2018 election.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, pursuant to the voter approval, the CFD is hereby declared to be fully formed with the authority to levy the special taxes and to have the established appropriations limit, all as heretofore provided in these proceedings and in the Act. It is hereby found that all prior proceedings and actions taken by this Board of Directors with respect to the CFD were valid and in conformity with the Act.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Clerk of the Board is hereby directed to complete, execute and cause to be recorded in the office of the County Recorder of the County of Alameda a notice of special tax lien in the form required by the Act, such recording to occur no later than 15 days following adoption of this Resolution by the Board of Directors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Clerk of the Board is hereby directed to complete, execute and cause to be recorded in the office of the County Recorder of the County of Contra Costa a notice of special tax lien in the form required by the Act, such recording to occur no later than 15 days following adoption of this Resolution by the Board of Directors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the General Manager and the Chief Financial Officer are 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 and appropriate to accomplish the intentions of this resolution.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Resolution shall take effect upon its adoption.

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and approved this 15th day of January, 2019, by the following vote:

FOR:

79 AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

82 83 84 85 86

87 88 89

92 93 94 95

96 97

100 Page Left Blank Intentionally

101 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Ordinance No.: 2019 – 001-

January 15, 2019

AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING THE LEVY OF SPECIAL TAXES IN COMMUNITY FACILITIES DISTRICT NO. A/C-3 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT COMMUNITY FACILITIES DISTRICT NO. A/C-3

WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District (the “District”) on May 1, 2018 adopted Resolution No. 2018-05-097 entitled “A Resolution of the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District, California, Declaring its Intention to Establish a Community Facilities District and to Authorize the Levy of Special Taxes” (the “Resolution of Intention”) and has conducted proceedings (the “Proceedings”) to establish the East Bay Regional Park District Community Facilities District No. A/C-3 (the “CFD”) pursuant to the Mello-Roos Community Facilities Act of 1982, as amended, Sections 53311 and following of the California Government Code (the “Act”) to finance the costs of the maintenance, improvement, and servicing of parklands, trails, open space, and related parkland access improvements; public safety protection services; recreation and open-space program services; flood and storm protection services; maintenance and operation of District property, including open space; and the construction, expansion, improvement, or rehabilitation of District property, including park, recreation, open-space, and flood and storm protection facilities within or in the vicinity of the CFD (the “Services”), as provided in the Act; and

WHEREAS, the Resolution of Intention called for a public hearing to be held on June 5, 2018, and as part of the Proceedings, the Board of Directors held a public hearing under the Act relative to the determination to proceed with the formation of the CFD and the rate and method of apportionment of the special tax (the “Special Tax”) to be levied within the CFD to finance the Services, and at such hearing all persons desiring to be heard on all matters pertaining to the formation of the CFD and the levy of the Special Tax were heard, substantial evidence was presented and considered by this Board of Directors, and a full and fair public hearing was held; and

WHEREAS, upon the conclusion of the hearing, this Board of Directors adopted Resolution No. 2018-06-129 entitled “A Resolution of the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District, California, Declaring the Formation of a Community Facilities District” (the “Resolution of Formation”), whereby the Board of Directors (i) established the CFD, (ii) authorized the levy of the Special Tax within the CFD, and (iii) preliminarily established an appropriations limit for the CFD, all pursuant to the Act; and

102

WHEREAS, on November 6, 2018, an election was held among the registered voters within the CFD at which the registered voters approved the Measure FF proposition (by 85.58%) relating to the levy of Special Taxes within the CFD and the establishment of an appropriations limit for the CFD by more than the two-thirds vote required by the Act, and such approval has been confirmed by resolution of this Board of Directors; and

WHEREAS, the Board of Directors ordered the recordation with the County Recorders of the Counties of Alameda and Contra Costa of a Notice of Special Tax Lien.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District as follows:

Section 1. The foregoing recitals are true and correct.

Section 2. By the passage of this Ordinance, the Board of Directors does hereby authorize and levy the Special Tax within the CFD pursuant to the Act, at the rates and in accordance with the rate and method of apportionment of Special Tax set forth in the Resolution of Formation, which is by this reference incorporated herein. The Special Tax is hereby levied commencing in fiscal year 2020-2021 through fiscal year 2039-40 to pay for the Services for the CFD and all costs of administering the CFD, as contemplated by the Resolution of Formation and the Proceedings.

Section 3. The District’s Chief Financial Officer or designee or employee or consultant of the District is hereby authorized and directed each fiscal year to determine the specific Special Tax to be levied for the next ensuing fiscal year for each parcel of real property within the CFD, in the manner and as provided in the Resolution of Formation.

Section 4. Exemptions from the levy of the Special Tax shall be as provided in the Resolution of Formation and the applicable provisions of the Act. In no event shall the Special Tax be levied on any parcel within the CFD in excess of the maximum Special Tax specified in the Resolution of Formation.

Section 5. All of the collections of the Special Tax shall be used as provided in the Act and in the Resolution of Formation, including, but not limited to, the payment of the costs of the Services, the payment of the costs of the District in administering the CFD, and the costs of collecting and administering the Special Tax.

Section 6. The Special Tax shall be collected in the same manner as ordinary ad valorem taxes are collected and shall have the same lien priority, and be subject to the same penalties and the same procedure and sale in cases of delinquency as provided for ad valorem taxes; provided, however, that the Board of Directors may provide for other appropriate methods of collection by resolution(s) of the Board of Directors. The Chief Financial Officer of the District is hereby authorized and directed to provide

103 all necessary information to the auditor/tax collectors of the Counties of Alameda and Contra Costa in order to effect proper billing and collection of the Special Tax, so that the Special Tax shall be included on the secured property tax rolls of the Counties of Alameda and Contra Costa for fiscal year 2020-2021 fiscal year 2039-40 to pay for the Services or until otherwise terminated by the District.

Section 7. If for any reason any portion of this ordinance is found to be invalid, or if the Special Tax is found inapplicable to any particular parcel within the CFD, by a court of competent jurisdiction, the balance of this ordinance and the application of the Special Tax to the remaining parcels within the CFD shall not be affected.

Section 8. This Ordinance shall be published once within 30 days after adoption, in a newspaper of general circulation printed, published, and circulated in the District.

Section 9. This Ordinance shall become effective immediately upon its adoption by the Board of Directors.

BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED that the General Manager and the Chief Financial Officer are 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 and appropriate to accomplish the intentions of this Ordinance.

Moved by Director , seconded by Director , and approved this 15th day of January, 2019, by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

104

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105 ACQUISITION STEWARDSHIP DEVELOPMENT AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

3. ACQUISITION, STEWARDSHIP & DEVELOPMENT DIVISION

b. Authorization to Enter into a Five-Year Memorandum of Agreement with the San Francisco Bay Restoration Authority to Partially Fund the Bay Restoration Regulatory Integration Team: District-wide (Graul/Alvarez)

RECOMMENDATION

The General Manager recommends that the Board of Directors authorize a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the San Francisco Bay Restoration Authority (Authority) to provide $75,000 annually for five years to support the implementation of the Bay Restoration Regulatory Integration Team (BRRIT). The BRRIT team is a multi-agency effort to streamline and expedite permitting for shoreline restoration projects eligible for funding from Measure AA, the San Francisco Bay Clean Water, Pollution Prevention and Habitat Restoration Measure.

REVENUE/COST

Through this action the East Bay Regional Park District (Park District) agrees to contribute a total of $375,000 to the Authority to provide partial funding for five years of operation of the BRRIT. The Park District will make an annual payment of $75,000 each year from 2019 through 2023. Funding for this agreement is available in the Stewardship Department’s operating budget (101-7420-000-6454). The contribution to support the formation and implementation of the BRRIT will help the Park District realize a cost savings based on avoiding increased costs for design, construction, and implementation of marsh and wetland restoration projects along the San Francisco Bay (Bay) due to permitting delays.

BACKGROUND

Measure AA was approved in June 2016 by voters of the nine-county San Francisco Bay Area. This Measure is a $12 per year parcel tax, which will raise approximately $25 million annually, or $500 million over twenty years, to fund shoreline projects that will protect and restore the Bay.

The regulatory process has been identified as one of the most significant hurdles to accelerating the pace and scale of wetlands restoration and shoreline resiliency projects in and around the

106 Bay that will be funded through Measure AA. The BRRIT has been established to streamline and expedite the permitting process for multi-benefit wetland restoration projects, associated flood management projects, and public access infrastructure construction, by dedicating resource agency regulatory staff to review project information and permit applications as a team, resulting in a coordinated approach. The BRRIT also commits to a finite timeframe for completing permit application review for restoration projects eligible for Measure AA funds.

The BRRIT would be composed of staff from each agency that is required to approve projects in the San Francisco Bay Area: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Marine Fisheries Service, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission, and San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board. The regulatory agencies commit to addressing policy issues that reduce flexibility in the design and permitting of restoration projects. The BRRIT represents a thoughtful and cost- effective solution to reduce permitting time for multi-benefit wetland and shoreline restoration projects while ensuring compliance with all applicable state and federal laws.

The Authority has identified the total annual cost to implement the BRRIT at $1.25 million. The Authority will provide just over half of the funding, contributing $650,000 per year. The remaining $600,000 per year will come from matching funds from other public agencies, including the Park District. The other participating agencies are expected to include the California Coastal Conservancy, the Santa Clara Valley Water District, and the Bay Area Toll Authority.

Park District staff considered proposed Measure AA projects and whether streamlining the permit process could reduce overall project costs. The analysis showed that avoiding permitting delays would provide an estimated net benefit to the Park District, based on increasing construction costs which are expected to continue to increase annually at a rate of 5-15% per year.

The Park District is planning to apply for Measure AA funding for at least one project a year for the next five years. Some potential projects that may benefit from this program are the Hayward Marsh restoration, Hayward Shoreline levee repairs, Coyote Hills wetland restoration, Point Molate shoreline repairs, and Rheem Creek restoration.

ALTERNATIVES

No alternatives are recommended.

107 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

RESOLUTION NO.: 2019 – 001 –

January 15, 2019

AUTHORIZATION TO ENTER INTO A FIVE-YEAR MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT WITH THE SAN FRANCISCO BAY RESTORATION AUTHORITY TO PARTIALLY FUND THE BAY RESTORATION REGULATORY INTEGRATION TEAM: DISTRICT-WIDE

WHEREAS, the regulatory process has long been identified as a significant challenge to restoration projects within the East Bay Regional Park District’s (Park District) shoreline parks; and

WHEREAS, the San Francisco Bay Restoration Authority (Authority) recommends assigning dedicated regulatory staff working in a collaborative team to accelerate the pace and scale for permitting of wetlands restoration and shoreline protection efforts, with a commitment by the regulatory agencies to address policy issues that reduce flexibility in the design and permitting of restoration projects; and

WHEREAS, the Park District wishes to enter into a Memorandum of Agreement with the Authority to support streamlined permitting with the Bay Restoration Regulatory Integration Team (BRRIT); and

WHEREAS, the Authority has estimated the total cost to implement the BRRIT at $1.25 million annually and adopted a resolution to contribute an amount not to exceed $650,000 annually for up to five years to fund regulatory agency staff participation and will collect an additional $600,000 annually for up to five years from participating agencies to support the BRRIT; and

WHEREAS, in addition to the Park District, other participating agencies are expected to include the California Coastal Conservancy, the Santa Clara Valley Water District, and the Bay Area Toll Authority; and

WHEREAS, the Park District agrees that contributing $75,000 annually from the years 2019 to 2023 to the Authority is expected to provide a cost savings to the Park District; and

WHEREAS, the Park District procedures require Board approval for funding partnerships and memorandum of agreements;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the East Bay Regional Park District hereby authorizes the General Manager to execute an Memorandum of Agreement with the San Francisco Bay Restoration Authority that will set forth the parameters by which the parties will cooperate on the formation of the BRRIT to accelerate the permitting of multi-benefit wetland restoration and public access projects on the shoreline in Alameda and

108 Contra Costa counties, and to do such acts as may be deemed necessary or appropriate to accomplish the intentions of this resolution, including contributing $75,000 annually from the Stewardship Operating Budget for the years 2019 to 2023 to the Authority; and

Moved by , seconded by , and adopted this 15th day of January, 2019 by the following vote:

FOR:

AGAINST: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:

109 BOARD AND STAFF REPORTS

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

D. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

5. BOARD AND STAFF REPORTS

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

City of Richmond – Change Area 12 (Northshore)

On December 18, 2018, the Richmond City Council adopted the Addendum to the General Plan Update Final Environmental Impact Report and General Plan Amendments and introduced an ordinance adopting associated zoning text amendments and rezoning for Change Area 12, totaling about 100 acres. Change Area 12 (Northshore) encompasses lands west of Richmond Parkway and south of the Dotson Family Marsh section of Point Pinole Regional Shoreline. Privately- owned properties within Change Area 12 have been suggested for a range of development proposals over a period of decades. The General Plan Amendment designates the privately- owned properties west of Richmond Parkway as Industrial Agriculture and Shoreline Conservation. The Shoreline Conservation designation provides for shoreline protection and restoration. The Industrial Agriculture designation will allow for the establishment of greenhouses and solar facilities. Currently, the City is considering an application to establish a cannabis operation within 45 greenhouses on the former Freethy Industrial Park site. The General Plan Update also provides for extension of the Bay Trail through the Change Area properties to connect the current Bay Trail on Richmond Parkway along the shoreline to Goodrick Avenue and the Dotson Family Marsh.

City of Alameda – McKay Avenue Land Use Change Initiative Measure

On January 2, 2019, the Alameda City Council voted to call a special election on April 9, 2019 for a citizens’ initiative measure that would change the land use designation for a 3.65-acre property, located at McKay and Central avenues, from Office to Open Space and the zoning from Professional to Open Space District. The property was formally owned by the Federal government and zoned for government use. In October 2015, the East Bay Regional Park District, the state of California, and the Federal government entered into a settlement agreement enabling the purchase of approximately 3.89 acres located adjacent to Crown Memorial State Beach. As part of the settlement agreement, the Federal government retained the 3.67-acres property and conveyed it to the Alameda Point Collaborative, a nonprofit that works with the homeless. A competing measure, “Caring Alameda Act,” which would uphold a recent City Council decision

110 to rezone the property and allow for a senior assisted living facility, will also be on the special election ballot. If both resolutions pass, then the one with the higher number of votes will prevail. On January 10, 2019, the City Council will hold a special meeting to review amendments to, and final language for the ballot. On January 15, 2019, at the regular City Council meeting, Council members will review the citizens’ initiative rebuttal arguments which will be included in the ballot. They will also discuss the funding mechanism, “McKay Avenue Open Space Fiscal Responsibility Measure,” and whether it should also go on the ballot or be adopted by the Council should the citizen’s initiative measure pass in the April special election.

111 GM COMMENTS

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

6. GENERAL MANAGER’S COMMENTS

STAFF PRESENTATION Regional Interpretive and Recreation Services Manager Ira Bletz will provide an overview of the Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG) course presented by Interpretation and Recreation staff to 30 staff members in December 2018. The CIG program is a professional certification offered through the National Association for Interpretation, designed for staff who present public programs. The presentation will also include a preview of the upcoming Certified Interpretive Host (CIH) training for park rangers to be hosted by Interpretive and Recreation staff.

GM COMMENTS Retirements October 2018 through December 2018: Kevin Takei Shoreline Unit Manager Operations 32 years Brian Smith Park Ranger II Sibley/Claremont 29 years Suzanne Lusk Senior Land Acquisition Specialist Land Acquisition 28 years Kecia Beverly-Leroy Dispatch Supervisor Public Safety 24 years Heather Segrest Park Ranger II Briones 23 years Paul Cutino Assistant Fire Chief Fire Department 20 years Janet Harkness Police Officer Public Safety 14 years Thomas Walsh Police Officer Public Safety 10 years Ronald Gartland Resource Analyst II Stewardship 10 years Jerry Liberty Senior Equipment Mechanic Pacheco Corp Yard 9 years Julie Gordon Administrative Analyst I Design & Construction 6 years

PUBLIC SAFETY From November 16, 2018 to December 15, 2018 the Public Safety Division handled 650 service calls and 1,410 total incidents. Highlights are included below.

Police There were 26 arrests made throughout the Park District for a variety of felony and misdemeanor offenses, including DUI, weapons possession, drug possession, violation of court restraining orders, disorderly conduct, public intoxication, and indecent exposure. Officers handled 52 field interviews (contacts without citations or arrests), issued 153 (81 parking) citations, and contacted 7 people on probation or parole to conduct compliance checks.

112 • Briones: On December 13, an officer responded to the report of shots fired. Shell casings were located but no suspects were seen in the area.

• Carquinez: On December 11, officers located a female who needed medical attention and was transported to the hospital for a mental health evaluation.

• Contra Loma: On December 14, officers cited a male for unauthorized camping and possession of drug paraphernalia.

• Don Castro: On November 17, an officer cited a male for failure to register as a sex offender.

On December 5, officers and medical personnel responded to the report of a deceased male. No foul play was suspected.

• Garin: On December 15, officers, Eagle 7, and staff responded to the report of two lost hikers, one a juvenile. Utilizing rapid SOS, the lost hikers’ GPS location was pin-pointed within 6 meters of their physical location, and they were found safe.

• Hayward Shoreline: On December 2, an officer arrested a male for vehicle theft and possession of controlled substance paraphernalia.

• Iron Horse Trail in Concord: On December 7, an officer arrested a male for an outstanding warrant.

• Lake Chabot: On November 23, an officer responded to the report of a naked male, who was warned for the violation. No charges were filed.

• Marsh Creek Trail: On December 3, an officer took a report of theft with staff reporting a third trail counter had been stolen within the last few weeks.

• Martin Luther King Jr. Shoreline: On November 20, an officer arrested a female for possession of a stolen vehicle and stolen property.

• McLaughlin Eastshore State Park: On December 1, officers and a sergeant assisted the Marine Mammal Rescue in rescuing a sea lion that was stranded on land.

• Miller-Knox: On November 17, an officer recovered a stolen vehicle

On December 12, an officer arrested a male for entering a restricted building and possession of a controlled substance.

• Redwood Road near Anthony Chabot: On December 1, an officer arrested a male for DUI.

113 • Sibley: On November 30, an officer arrested a male for violating a court order.

Fire Operations • Lake Chabot: On December 15, firefighters removed a fallen tree blocking the road.

Mutual Aid • On November 14, District fire personnel provided overnight coverage at Fire Station 1 at the request of Cal Fire due to the fires in-county and around California.

• On November 15, District fire personnel responded with Cal Fire and the San Ramon Fire Department to a vegetation fire on Morgan Territory Road. There was no damage to District property.

• On December 4, District fire personnel were requested by the Moraga Orinda Fire Department to provide response of a District Type 6 engine to assist with a structure fire in Canyon. The engine was requested due to the remote location which required access through narrow and overgrown fire trails.

Special Services • On November 23, District fire personnel provided Smokey Bear and a Type 6 engine at the Niles Festival of Lights event.

• On November 30, District fire personnel, police, and lifeguards represented the District at the Castro Valley Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Castro Village shopping center.

Fire Fuels Management • Brush and ladder fuels were reduced on several sites in Tilden, Wildcat, Sibley, and Claremont Canyon fuels treatment areas as part of the Civicorps contract to perform fuels management activities in support of the Alameda Whipsnake research project. This project is funded by the FEMA fuels management grant.

• Contractors completed the FEMA funded fuels reduction project in Tilden Park near homes adjacent to Summit Road.

Lifeguard Service • On November 29, Lifeguard Service provided CPR/First Aid training to police officers to meet state compliance for Title 22.

• On November 30, Lifeguard Service provided CPR/First Aid training to District fire personnel.

• On December 9, Lifeguard Service provided a seasonal lifeguard recruitment workshop at Encinal High School in Alameda, CA.

114 BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS AGENDA REGULAR MEETINGS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

8. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS

a. Board Legislative Committee (12.14.2018) (Rosario)

Present

Board: Dee Rosario, Dennis Waespi, Colin Coffey

Staff: Robert E. Doyle, Erich Pfuehler, Lisa Baldinger, Debra Auker, Jeff Rasmussen, Eric Holmes, Mona Koh

Consultants: Doug Houston

Public: Kelly Abreu, Eric Holmes

This meeting was called to order at 12:36 pm.

Public Comments Kelly Abreu highlighted the Stanford Avenue Staging Area expansion project. He stated it was recently removed from the District’s website. General Manager Robert E. Doyle responded there is no current funding for this project and, as such, no schedule. Advertisement of the project on the District’s website would be premature.

I. STATE LEGISLATION / OTHER MATTERS A. NEW LEGISLATION 1. AB 65 – Coastal Conservancy Climate Adaptation Funds (Petrie-Norris D-Laguna Beach) Legislative Advocate Doug Houston stated this legislation is a skeletal proposal trying to reallocate $40 million from Proposition 68 from the California Ocean Protection Trust Fund to the California Coastal Conservancy. The goal would be to add criteria for natural systems and co-benefits for adaptation to sea level rise. It does not aim to target particular areas of the state, but rather spread it out to places of most need. SB 5 and Prop. 68 specified 35% of the $40 million would be allocated to the San Francisco Bay Program. AB 65, as currently written, does not contain this specific allocation. Doyle added the District assisted in the creation of the Bay Program. It is important to the District the Bay Program receives its fair share of funding.

The Board Legislative Committee voted unanimously to SUPPORT.

115 2. SB 8 – State Park and Coastal Beaches Smoking Ban (Glazer D-Orinda) Houston recalled this legislation was introduced in previous years and vetoed. It seeks to ban smoking in California’s public state parks and beaches. The District has supported in the past.

The Board Legislative Committee voted unanimously to SUPPORT.

3. SB 20 – Napa County Regional Park and Open Space District (Dodd D-Napa) Houston began stating while this legislation is specific to Napa County, it would a “good neighbor” action for the District to support. Annually, there is a surplus property bill which considers a package of land transfers, but to date this particularly issue has not been addressed. Napa County Regional Park and Open Space District is seeking to acquire 850 acres of state surplus property as part of Skyline Wilderness Park. However; at this time, the Department of General Services does not have the right to sell the property. Director Dee Rosario questioned if there is a nearby transit hub. Doyle answered there is not.

The Board Legislative Committee voted unanimously to SUPPORT.

4. SB 45 – Wildfire, Drought and Flood Protection Bond Act (Allen D-Santa Monica) Houston mentioned Senator Allen sits on Senate Natural Resources and Water Committee and may become the Chair. He has introduced the $4 billion Wildfire, Drought and Flood Protection Bond Act. In its current form, the bill is skeletal in nature. It establishes ten different categories which would receive funding if the bond was successful. Specifics will be worked on during the legislative session and possibly reconciled with efforts by Assembly Member Eduardo Garcia.

5. Other Items – N/A

B. OTHER STATE MATTERS 1. Wildfire Legislation Doyle announced there has been a significant amount of discussion regarding wildfire protection and flammable vegetation reduction on the state and federal level. Director Rosario questioned if air quality, and specifically California Air Resources Board, is part of the discussion. Legislative Assistant Lisa Baldinger referenced SB 901, which was chaptered this year. The legislation outlines funding programs to be created by CAL FIRE and the State Air Resources Board with the intent to protect against future wildfires while balancing emissions. Baldinger continued the District is seeking to share with the East Bay delegation identified best practices for vegetation management in balance of environmental and economic concerns.

2. Retirement of Nonette Hanko Government Affairs Manager Erich Pfuehler shared Nonette Hanko, who played a key role in the passage of a two-county initiative to form the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, is retiring after 46 years of service. District Staff is proposing moving forward a Resolution of Honor for Ms. Hanko.

The Board Legislative Committee voted unanimously to SUPPORT.

3. Other Items Doyle announced CAL FIRE Chief Ken Pimlott, who grew up in the East Bay, is retiring.

II. FEDERAL LEGISLATION / OTHER MATTERS

116 A. NEW LEGISLATION 1. H.R. 7154 – Safe Drinking Water in Playgrounds and Parks (Meng D-NY) Pfuehler identified this legislation would allow funds from the Reducing Lead in Drinking Water Grant Program to be spent on water fountains in parks and playgrounds. The District would be eligible for such funds.

The Board Legislative Committee voted unanimously to SUPPORT.

2. S. 3499 – Outdoors for All Act (Harris D-CA) Pfuehler explained this legislation as a “new Land and Water Conservation Fund.” Based on legislation in the House, this Senate companion bill would seek to increase funding to acquire land, develop or renovate facilities and recreation programs. Director Rosario asked if this legislation would create new funding. Pfuehler confirmed.

The Board Legislative Committee voted unanimously to SUPPORT.

3. S. 3515 – Wildfire-Resilient Communities (Merkley D-OR) Pfuehler identified this program only applies to Federal lands, requiring the Department of Agriculture to conduct vegetation reduction to protect against future wildfires. Though the District would not receive funding, there could be indirect benefits from this program moving forward. District staff and advocates will be in communication with Senator Merkley’s office, as well as Senators Feinstein and Harris, to see if state and regional agencies might be made eligible.

The Board Legislative Committee voted unanimously to SUPPORT.

4. Other Items

B. OTHER FEDERAL MATTERS 1. Land and Water Conservation Fund Update Pfuehler began the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) expired at the end of September and no additional funds have been collected since that time. There are still millions in the current Fund, but an effort to reauthorize the program is necessary to continue collecting funding from resource extraction entities. There is also a need to appropriate money from the existing Fund for investment in nature resource preservation and recreation. At this time, proposals are moving forward both in a package of bills and independently. It has yet to be determined which pathway will be successful, if any. The District is in communication with its delegation and the Speaker-to-be’s Office on this important issue.

2. Other Items

III. MEASURE FF AND ELECTION RESULTS Pfuehler shared with the Board an overview of the November 2018 election results. He thanked the Board and General Manager for their leadership on Measure FF. Abreu commented a recent article was published questioning the District’s engagement effort. On the same page, however, it highlights the benefits of the District.

IV. 2019 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES Pfuehler and Baldinger provided an overview presentation about the Park District’s proposed federal, state and local priorities for 2019.

117 Federal • FEMA - Safe Healthy Forests / Wildfire Funding • Land and Water Conservation Fund • Concord Naval Weapons Station Transfer • Oakland Army Base Transfer • Infrastructure Package – Include Parks, Active Transportation • East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy • Alameda Point Park – Veterans Affairs • Tassajara Creek Trail – Army Camp Parks • Shoreline Protection – Water Resources Development

State • Legislative Budget Asks • Prop. 68 Implementation • Wildfire Legislation • Cap-and-Trade Investment Plan • Bay Area Delegation Engagement • State Parks Relationship • Blue – Green Algae Legislation • Tesla Legislation • Gateway Naming Legislation • Gun Range Clean Up Funding • Oakland Army Base – Department of Toxic Substances Control

Director Coffey mentioned he would like to see the District more engaged in Marsh Creek State Park. Doyle agreed it should be added to the list.

Local • Park and Pubic Interest Survey • BNSF and Miller-Knox • Explore Feasibility of Revenue Zones Throughout the District • Building Relationships – Parks Commissioners, City Councils • San Francisco Bay Restoration Authority • Bay Area Toll Authority Regional Measure 3 implementation • Measure BB implementation • Possible Contra Costa County Transportation Measure

Director Waespi stated he would like the District to be more involved with the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, particularly with regard to prescribed burns and wildfires. Doyle agreed it should be added to the list.

Pfuehler also clarified the BNSF and Miller-Knox issue is also a Federal issue given the Surface Transportation Commission’s role. There is also a role for the state, so it cuts through all three categories.

V. ADVOCATE CONTRACTS A. Strategic Research Institute Pfuehler recommended a continuation of the District’s consultation with Strategic Research Institute.

118 The Board Legislative Committee voted unanimously to SUPPORT.

B. E2 Strategies, LLC Pfuehler recommended a continuation of the District’s consultation with E2 Strategies, LLC.

The Board Legislative Committee voted unanimously to SUPPORT.

VI. ARTICLES

VII. OPEN FORUM PUBLIC COMMENT

VIII. BOARD COMMENTS

This meeting adjourned at 2:32 PM.

Respectfully Submitted:

Lisa Baldinger Legislative Assistant

119 Page Left Blank Intentionally

AGENDA REGULAR MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

E. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

8. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS

b. Board Executive Committee (12/6/2018) (Waespi)

Present

Board: Dennis Waespi, Ayn Wieskamp, Beverly Lane

Staff: Robert Doyle, Erica Fuerst, Jeff Rasmussen, Kelly Barrington, Kim Thai, Eric Holmes, Jim O’Connor, Brian Holt, Debra Auker, Matt Graul, Ana Alvarez, Carol Johnson, Monique Salas

Public: Ellen Barth, Pam Young

Board Executive Committee Chair Dennis Waespi called the meeting to order at 12:45 pm.

1. Asset Management Systems: Major Infrastructure Asset Inventory and Pavement Management Program

Jeff Rasmussen, Assistant Finance Officer, Management Services, presented this agenda item. Mr. Rasmussen presented on the Pavement Condition Index and Facilities Condition Index for the Park District’s infrastructure. He discussed the Street Saver Program, offered by Metro Trans Commission, that assesses the conditions of the Park District’s pavement and road networks, and VFA Software, an inventory system that also sends out professional engineers and architects to assess buildings. He specified that maintaining is cheaper than replacing, stating that the Park District has 17.4 million square feet of pavement. He discussed PCI ranges and mentioned that the Park District’s PCI is 77, and on a steady rise. In 2018, over 2.2 million square feet of pavement was maintained. Mr. Rasmussen reviewed all pavement projects that were completed in each park, referring to his presentation. A discussion followed regarding the maintenance of paved roads on Iron Horse Trail. Kelly Barrington, Chief of Maintenance and Skilled Trades, said that PCI can drop depending on how much land is purchased with poorly paved roads. Director Beverly Lane and General Manager Robert Doyle suggested gathering data of surrounding agencies’ PCI numbers. A conversation regarding parking lots, their maintenance, and costs followed. Mr. Doyle brought up Measure BB Grants, which Mr. Rasmussen said they do not receive. An explanation of Measure B and Measure BB resulted, with a discussion on misconstrued guidelines, making it difficult to receive money. Mr. Rasmussen touched on VFA

120 Major Infrastructure Asset Inventory; in 5 years every building in the Park District will be assessed, as they assess 20% of Park District buildings each year. Mr. Rasmussen then explained FCI, and the Park District’s numbers by park. Conversation on FCI numbers and responsibilities to upgrade these numbers ensued. Mr. Rasmussen discussed the next steps of the major infrastructure policy per the Government Finance Officers Association, as seen in the presentation. The Committee and staff discussed building inventory, demolition, and remodeling.

Recommendation: None. This was a discussion item.

2. Gateway Park Naming Update

Kim Thai, Planner, presented this agenda item. Ms. Thai mentioned that the item was previously brought to the Committee in September 2018. She gave an overview of the Gateway Park concept plan, and the collaborative work via other agencies for the naming process. Ms. Thai discussed the Bridge Yard Building, and Bay Bridge Trail; under construction is the Public Observation Platform, expected to open in Spring of 2019, with the full park expected to open in Fall of 2019. Ms. Thai reviewed the prior naming process and discussed what was presented at the September 24, 2018 PAC Meeting. Staff put together a presentation for PAC members that reviewed the history, geography, and mode of transportation of the area. From the PAC Meeting, three names resulted: Kerr-Gulick Gateway Regional Shoreline, Gateway Regional Shoreline, and Key Connector or Key Portal Regional Shoreline. Ms. Thai mentioned that in the future there will be an additional naming consideration for the Public Access Pier, which is owned by CalTrans, and will require State Legislative action. The Committee unanimously agreed that John Sutter’s name is highly recommended to be included in the park name. Mr. Doyle provided a history of Mr. Sutter’s original vision of Gateway Park. Director Ayn Wieskamp suggested that a history of Mr. Sutter’s background, and lengthy involvement in obtaining Gateway Park prior to his role with the Park District, is known to the public. Director Lane proposed Sutter Gateway Regional Shoreline, Sutter Regional Shoreline, and John Sutter Regional Shoreline. Mr. Doyle reminded the Committee that this is not an action, but a discussion; staff direction is allowed but should be discussed with Park District partners before any action is made. Brian Holt, Chief of Planning/GIS, discussed the importance of the “Key” name, and suggested that there is plenty of opportunity to incorporate the “Key” name in other parts of the park. Director Wieskamp stated that the Kerr-Gulick name also deserves recommendation, but other parts of the park provide ample opportunity for this.

Recommendation: None. This was a discussion item.

3. Park District Video Productions 2018

Carol Johnson, AGM of Public Affairs, presented this agenda item. Ms. Johnson briefly discussed the number of videos that were produced by Public Affairs in 2018, their purposes, and costs. She introduced the different videos that would be presented to the Committee during her presentation. The following short videos were shown: • Park Prescriptions and Our Health • Social media driven messages describing Measure FF • Educational feature on Coyote Hills Tule Boat building

121 • Public service feature on Park District fire prevention efforts in collaboration with PG&E • Videos featuring the Park District and Regional Parks Foundation with Doug McConnell • 2019 Special Parks District Forum (SPDF) informational sneak peak

All videos are on the Park District’s website; a separate website for SPDF will roll out to the public soon. A discussion regarding the Regional Parks Foundation sharing information at the SPDF of projects worked on followed. The Committee expressed appreciation of the videos.

Recommendation: None. This was an informational item.

4. Open Forum for Public Comments

Ellen Barth commented on the dredging of Jewel Lake and expressed her opinions on the importance of this matter, and its lack of funding for completion in the 2019 budget. She also shared her past discussions with both Bob Nisbet and Matt Graul regarding this topic.

Pam Young, with the Golden Gate Autobahn Society, also commented on the dredging of Jewel Lake. She requested that the dredging begin in 2019, or as soon as possible.

Matt Graul, Chief of Stewardship, responded to the public comments, addressing the importance, rough estimates of dredging, and the complexity of the project. The Committee and Mr. Doyle suggested educating and updating the public on the process of this project, and other similar projects.

Carol Johnson interjected that the Regional Parks Foundation’s interest is looking at Tilden EEC, and their Board has considered extending that to Jewel Lake for their Capital Campaign.

5. Board Comments

Director Lane stated that this was her last Board Executive Committee Meeting, and requested agendas still be sent to her.

6. GM Comments

Mr. Doyle discussed the next Board Executive Committee agenda item proposals, which would include an update on HR vacancies and recruitments, also Planning projects.

There being no further business, President Dennis Waespi declared the meeting adjourned at 3:15 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Erica L. Fuerst

122 NEWSCLIPS 123

124 Home Contra Costa County Park District Looks to Engage Area Youth with Hands-On Youth Job Fairs Park District Looks to Engage Area Youth with Hands-On Youth Job Fairs By ECT - Jan 7, 2019 Oakland, CA – For the 5th consecutive year, the East Bay Regional Park District will host two Youth Job Fairs, designed to raise awareness of employment opportunities for youth in the East Bay.

The fairs are scheduled in Oakley on Saturday, January 26, 2019, and in Union City on Saturday, February 2, 2019. Both events offer attendees an opportunity to learn about the specific Park District jobs available and interact with current employees to get insight into what it’s like to work for the Park District. Highlighted 2019 positions include: Interpretive Student Aides, Public Safety Student Aides, Recreation Leaders, Lifeguards, Gate Attendants, Park Services Attendants, Student Laborers, Field Interns, Interns, and Volunteers.

The Youth Job Fairs also include general information sessions on resume writing, application submittal, and job interviewing for youth looking to enter the workforce, whether at the Park District or elsewhere.

“The Park District’s Annual Youth Job Fairs are an important way for the District to engage with local youth looking for jobs,” said East Bay Regional Park District Ward 5 Director Ayn Wieskamp. “The Park District works very hard to ensure youth in the district are aware of the jobs the District has to offer.”

“These events are great for area youth looking for full-time work or seasonal jobs,” added Wieskamp.

2018’s youth job fairs were the biggest so far. Over 500 attendees learned about working for the District and the positions available. The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest employer of youth in the East Bay, hiring over 400 Bay Area youth each year to work in the District’s 73 regional parks and ten visitor centers. The Youth Job Fairs are key to filling seasonal summer positions, especially Recreation Leaders and Lifeguards.

“The Park District is interested in attracting qualified and energetic job candidates who care about parks, nature learning, and enjoy outdoor recreation,” said East Bay Regional Park District Chief Human Resources Officer Kip Walsh. “The Youth Job Fairs are a great way for the Park District to connect directly with interested job candidates.”

125

2019 Youth Job Fair Details:

Saturday, January 26, 2019 Saturday, February 2, 2019 Ruggieri Senior Center Big Break Visitor Center 10 a.m. to noon 10 a.m. to noon 33997 Alvarado-Niles Road, Union City, CA 69 Big Break Road, Oakley, CA 94587 94561 (In partnership with City of Union City)

The East Bay Regional Park District is a system of beautiful public parks and trails in Alameda and Contra Costa counties east of San Francisco Bay, established in 1934. The system comprises 121,000 acres in 73 parks including over1,250 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding and nature learning

126

Community News Park It: Fremont’s Ardenwood offers monarch butterfly programs Naturalists will emphasize how to preserve, increase insects’ numbers By NED MACKAY | East Bay Regional Park District PUBLISHED: January 6, 2019 at 5:00 am | UPDATED: January 6, 2019 at 7:40 am

Vern Fisher/Monterey Herald Park naturalists at Ardenwood Historic Farm in Fremont are offering programs highlighting monarch butterflies, above, with emphasis on how their numbers can be preserved and increased.

Although monarch butterflies have not arrived in great numbers this year to spend the winter at Ardenwood Historic Farm in Fremont, park naturalists are still offering programs highlighting the amazing insects, with emphasis on how their numbers can be preserved and increased.

Monarch spotting programs are scheduled from 2 to 2:30 p.m. Saturdays through Feb. 2, Sundays through Jan. 27, and from 11 to 11:30 a.m. Jan. 13 and 20. Meet at the greenhouse. “Marvelous Monarchs,” a slide show and walk to the eucalyptus grove where the monarchs cluster is at 10:30 a.m. Jan. 27 and Feb. 2. Meet at the granary.

In early February, the butterflies usually leave to resume their multigenerational migratory life cycle. “Farewell to the Monarchs” is from 1 to 3 p.m. Feb. 3 with naturalist Mindy Castle and the interpretive staff. Learn about how to protect the insects and make a monarch butterfly craft to take home. Meet at the granary.

Monarch butterflies live exclusively on milkweed. From 11 a.m. to noon Feb. 10 and again from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Feb. 17, there’s a program at the greenhouse during which you can obtain some milkweed seeds to take home for your own garden. Ardenwood is at 34600 Ardenwood Blvd., just north of Highway 84 (the Dumbarton Bridge approach). For more information on park programs and entry fees, call 510-544-2797. Parking is free.

Also in Fremont: Hummingbirds are the stars of a program from 9:30 to 11 a.m.Jan. 12 at Coyote Hills Regional Park in Fremont, with naturalist Kristina Parkison and photographer Don Jedlovec. Don will show photos, stop-motion video and techniques for capturing amazing images of the “flying jewels.” Designed for ages 12 and older, the program is free, but registration is required. To register, call 888-327-2757. Select option 2 and refer to program number 23495.

Kristina and Don also will host a sunrise photography program at Coyote Hills from 6:30 to 8 a.m. Jan. 19, also for ages 12 and older. Registration is required; refer to program 23515. Both programs are free. Coyote Hills is at the end of Patterson Ranch Road off Paseo Padre Parkway. There’s a parking fee of $5 per vehicle. For general information, call 510-544- 3220.

127 Sunol: Over at Sunol Regional Wilderness, the interpretive staff will host “Wild Wonders” from 2 to 3 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday in January and February, with games, activities and explorations on a different topic each week. Sunol is at the end of Geary Road off Calaveras Road, about 5 miles south of Interstate 680 in southern Alameda County. Call 510-544-3249.

Alameda: “Wonderful Watershed: Tree to Sea” is the theme of Family Nature Fun from 2 to 3 p.m. Jan. 12-13 at Crab Cove Visitor Center in Alameda. There’s a new program at that same time each week. Crab Cove is at 1252 McKay Ave. off Alameda’s Central Avenue. Call 510-544-3187.

Berkeley: Naturalist “Trail Gail” Broesder plans a nature walk at a different regional park from 9 a.m. to noon every Sunday in January for ages 8 and older. Wear hiking shoes and bring a snack to share. The Jan. 13 hike starts at the Lone Oak picnic area in Tilden Regional Park near Berkeley.

Gail also will lead a Wednesday Walk starting at 9:30 a.m. Jan. 16 at Carquinez Shoreline in Martinez, climbing to views of the town and the strait. Meet at the Nejedly Staging Area on Carquinez Scenic Drive just west of town. Rain or muddy conditions will cancel the hikes. For more information on either hike, call 510-544-2233.

Oakley: “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” is the mantra for a program from 2 to 3 p.m. Jan. 12 at Big Break Regional Shoreline in Oakley. The interpretive staff will show how you can reuse common household items and provide hints for recycling and reducing waste. Big Break is at 69 Big Break Road off Oakley’s Main Street. Call 888-327-2757, ext. 3050.

Online: No matter the season, there’s always a lot to see and do in the East Bay Regional Park District. For full listings, visit the district’s website at www.ebparks.org.

Ned MacKay writes a regular column about East Bay Regional Park District sites and activities. Email him at [email protected].

128 NEWS

Uploaded: Thu, Jan 3, 2019, 10:33 pm Try the East Bay Trails Challenge

The Castleridge Trailhead, which opened last year, is a new entrypoint to Pleasanton Ridge trails. (Photo by EBRPD)

by Dolores Fox Ciardelli / Pleasanton Weekly

The new year brings a renewal of the East Bay Regional Park District's always popular Trails Challenge program, which is entering its 27th year.

Trails Challenge is a free, self-guided way of exploring the parks. There is no need to register. Just pick up a guidebook at a park district visitor center or download one from the website, www.ebparks.org. Then hike any of the trails in the guide, turn in your trail log, and receive a commemorative pin while supplies last. Trails Challenge T-shirts also are available at visitor centers while supplies last.

Thousands of people have participated in the program since it began in 1993. You can hike, bicycle or ride horseback on challenge trails designed for all levels of ability. The guidebook also contains helpful hints on equipment and trail safety.

The Trails Challenge is sponsored by the Regional Parks Foundation in partnership with Kaiser Permanente.

The website also has full listings for activities in all the regional parks, or pick up a copy of the "Regional in Nature -- Activity Guide" at visitor centers.

129 Outdoors // Tom Stienstra Northern California weather phenomenon delivers crystal views Tom Stienstra Dec. 31, 2018 Updated: Dec. 31, 2018 12 a.m.

From a rock outcrop on the summit of Mount Tamalpais, Denese Stienstra takes in the view across the north bay to Mount DiabloPhoto: Tom Stienstra / Tom Stienstra / The Chronicle At the summit of Mount Diablo, cold air and a north wind Friday provided a rare phenomenon: You could see snow- blanketed 10,457-foot Lassen Peak, 185 miles away.

It’s part of a spectacle across the state right now, with the best long-distance views of the year.

The icy temperatures wick the moisture out of the air. The cold wind from the north blows out the haze and fog. What follows is tremendous clarity.

The phenomenon is forecast to deliver crystal-clear air through the week in many areas. By next weekend, the cycle will end when the next front, with overcast and a chance of rain, arrives Saturday, according to meteorologist Michael Pechner.

So if you want to take in the big views, go now:

Marin: Mount Vision, Sky Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore; Barnabe Peak at Samuel P. Taylor State Park; Mount Burdell at Olompali State Historic Park; Green Hill at Marin County Open Space; O’Rourke’s Bench, East Peak, Inspiration Point, Coast Trail at at Mount Tamalpais State Park; Hill 88, Hawk Hill at Marin Headlands; Mount Livermore at Angel Island.

San Francisco: Battery Godfrey, Coastal Trail to Eagle Point in Golden Gate National Recreation Area; Twin Peaks; Inspiration Point in the Presidio.

Peninsula: San Bruno Mountain; Sweeney Ridge in GGNRA; Montara Mountain out of San Pedro Valley County Park; Caltrans Skeggs Point and Vista Point on Skyline; Clouds Rest Trail at Coal Creek Open Space; Black Mountain in Monte Bello Open Space; Borel Hill at Russian Ridge Open Space.

East Bay hills: Franklin Ridge at Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline; False Gun Vista Point at Miller-Knox Regional Shoreline; San Pablo Ridge at Wildcat Canyon; Briones Peak in Briones Regional Park; Nimitz Way at Tilden; Mount Diablo summit, Mary Bowerman Trail, Juniper Lookout, North Peak at Mount Diablo State Park; Walker Ridge at Morgan Territory; Crest Trail at Los Vaqueros Watershed out of Brentwood; Rocky Ridge at Las Trampas Regional Wilderness; Pleasanton Ridge; Rocky Ridge, Rose Peak in Ohlone Regional Wilderness; Cerro Este in Sunol Regional Wilderness; Mission Peak.

130 NEWS Uploaded: Sun, Dec 30, 2018, 8:56 pm by Jeremy Walsh / Pleasanton Weekly Plans finalized for nature pavilion at Shadow Cliffs Groundbreaking set for April with designs approved, funding in place

Director Ayn Wieskamp joins Nancy and Gary Harrington at event marking approval of designs for new Shadow Cliffs nature pavilion. (Photo courtesy of EBRPD)

Sign includes renderings and description of new Shadow Cliffs Interpretive Pavilion, set to break ground in April. (Photo courtesy of EBRPD)

The East Bay Regional Park District is moving forward with building a new outdoor interpretive pavilion at Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area in Pleasanton next year.

Design plans have been finalized and funding has been fully secured for the estimated $900,000 project, which will add the 1,000-square-foot educational hub complete with exhibits highlighting the natural and cultural history of the park, as well as information about the recreational opportunities available in the park's nature area.

"During peak months, Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area sees 35,000-45,000 visitors per month, many for swimming, boating and fishing at the lake," EBRPD Board Director Ayn Wieskamp, whose district includes Pleasanton, said in a statement. "The nature pavilion will help better connect visitors to the park's larger nature area and its trails for walking, hiking, biking and nature-watching."

Wieskamp joined EBRPD officials and Nancy and Gary Harrington -- the Pleasanton arts and education benefactors who have championed the pavilion project -- to mark the project approvals with a photo-op at Shadow Cliffs earlier this fall.

131 "It's hard to believe that this pavilion is actually going to be built," Nancy Harrington told the Weekly. "It will be incredible."

"Since we've retired, Gary and I have discussed this hidden nature area in Shadow Cliffs," she added. "We wondered if there was anything we could do to help residents in our city learn about what there was to see and learn at the park. With the increased population in the Bay Area and traffic, how convenient it is to more fully utilize a park we have in our backyard."

Located off Stanley Boulevard in eastern Pleasanton, Shadow Cliffs includes a nature area with 116 acres of cottonwood and willow-lined creek open space, providing a natural oasis for a wide variety of wildlife.

In addition to the educational exhibits about the park's natural resources, the new pavilion will provide a shaded and weather-protected gathering place for school children that visit year-round on field trips, according to EBRPD officials. It will also help serve the growing number of public, non- school programs, including the monthly Lakeside Littles and "How Does Your Garden Grow" programs.

The groundbreaking is scheduled to occur in April, with the goal of having the project completed by the end of the year.

The Harringtons provided a lead donation of $200,000 to support the pavilion. Other funding came from state and nonprofit grants and individual contributions, including a California State Parks grant and a donation from the Wayne and Gladys Valley Foundation. The remainder was funded by the park district.

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The East Bay By Horseback by Lexi Pandell December 28, 2018 SPONSORED BY EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT A bird’s-eye view of the Briones to Mt. Diablo Regional Trail, near Diablo Foothills Regional Park. (Painting by Maria Schoettler)

We rounded a bend in the trail and Jinx’s ears flicked forward, attuned like satellite dishes. From the saddle, I felt his body tense as he eyed something coming up on the trail. He was excited, curious, a little scared. Honestly, a lot like me on most days. Our feelings are both rooted in evolution. His in being a horse, a prey animal, always ready to flee. Mine in being a human, always ready to analyze and process. Him, hyperconscious of the unpredictability of nature. Me, of the unpredictability of the modern world.

On that trail, Jinx had a chance to get out of the arena where we typically ride, cover new terrain, and, well, be a horse. For me, it was a chance to unplug and unwind. For these reasons and others, riders take to the trails in the East Bay Regional Park District, which have a combined 926 miles of routes accessible to horses. Though urban development radiating out from San Francisco has pushed barns into more rural areas, parts of the East Bay retain deep equestrian traditions. EBRPD trails are an important part of this heritage, including those that run through Diablo Foothills, where I rode Jinx that day.

I urged Jinx to continue and, soon, the object of his concern came into view: A boulder alongside the trail. Uninteresting to a human, but understandably concerning for a horse who might be frightened by a strangely-shaped, looming object, and wonder if a predator is hiding behind it.

Jinx is relatively small, just 16 hands high (about 5’3”, measured at the withers, the point where neck and back meet). Even though he was accompanied on the trail by Tanga, the biggest horse in the barn, Jinx led the way as the scout. He raised his head and blew his paisley-shaped nostrils at the boulder. Behind us, Tanga didn’t seem to notice it at all.

I put a hand on Jinx’s neck to reassure him.

“You’re okay, bud,” I said, nudging him forward. He relaxed. We walked on. Moments like that, communicating more-or-less seamlessly with an animal nearly 10 times my weight, remind me why I began riding as a child and why, nearly 25 years later, I’m still at it.

Horses have a complex history in California. They were brought here by the Spanish colonistsstarting in 1769. They quickly became synonymous with the missions and ranchos that popped up, says Amelia Marshall, a longtime horseback rider and co-author of Oakland’s Equestrian Heritage. Spanish law prohibited Native Americans from riding, but in California, over the objections of military officials, missionaries deliberately taught Native Americans to

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ride. Horses (and the unpaid Mexican and Native vaqueros who rode them) became essential to rancho families in the Bay Area, such as the Moragas (for whom the town is named), who dealt in hides and tallows.

Explore Trail Riding

While many horse owners set out on popular trails through Briones, Anthony Chabot, and other East Bay Regional parks, the number of trail riding operations for the general public have dwindled due to insurance issues and the high cost of maintaining horses. Though the majority of trail riding stables can be found south in Half Moon Bay or north in Marin County, several East Bay programs still take riders through the parks for an afternoon or even a whole day:

»Trail Rides: Classic, guided trail excursions with no equestrian experience necessary.

•Nola Giddings Peruvian Paso: Peruvian Paso horses are known for their magnificent gaited walk, which looks like a highstep and is incredibly smooth to ride. Trainer Nola Giddings and her team offer trail rides on this breed, and others, through various East Bay parks. ngpph.com

•Chaparral Ranch: Located in Milpitas, Chaparral Ranch offers trail rides throughout Northern California. Those who want a taste of East Bay trails can pick up a trail ride starting at Ed Levin Park, which goes north through EBRPD’s Mission Peak. chaparralcorporation.com

»Trail Lessons: These programs offer supervised trail rides for those who have already learned the basics in the arena.

•Las Trampas Stables: Located on the cusp of the Las Trampas Regional Wilderness, this stable offers lessons on the trail for their students. (925) 855-1570; [email protected]

•Castle Rock Arabians: Since 1971, this program has specialized in working with Arabians, spirited horses with distinctive dish-shaped heads. Trail lessons run through Diablo Foothills Regional Park. castlerockarabians.com

For more information on equestrian resources in the EBRPD visit ebparks.org/ activities/equestrian/default.htm

Horses were one of the most widely used forms of transportation until automobiles arrived in the 1920s. Even after the advent of mechanized vehicles, Oakland’s cowboys kept on, persisting through the 1970s. Mills College had a renowned equestrian program; ranches ran along Mountain Boulevard from Montclair Village to Knowland Park; and a woman named Beatrice Graham operated stables on Telegraph Avenue in Oakland, at the site of the John Muir Elementary School in Berkeley, and on the corner of Skyline and Redwood Road in the Oakland Hills.

Yet urbanization gradually pushed out equestrians. After the completion of the Caldecott Tunnel in 1937, the open ranchlands of Orinda and Contra Costa County began to transform into suburbs. The paving of the 580 freeway and of Highway 13 in the 1950s and 1960s required the demolishment of many of Oakland’s barns and ranches.

134 But riders continued to venture into the hills, the edges of Alameda and Contra Costa counties, and the EBRPD trails.

“It’s really cool that someone can still have this experience in a busy metropolitan area,” says Bridget Calvey, EBRPD park supervisor for Diablo Foothills. “It’s completely unique. There are many East Bay stables around here that were established 40 years ago, or later. It’s part of the culture of the area.”

Equestrians pose unique maintenance considerations for the park district. During the rainy season hooves can create potholes in trails. Manure disposal from stables and horse boarding facilities must be carefully managed on park land as it can disrupt the local ecosystem and pollute waterways. And when creating new trails, the EBRPD has to consider when paths may be too narrow for a horse and hiker to safely pass each other, either widening them or limiting access. Matt Graul, EBRPD chief of stewardship, says that horses don’t usually create ecological sustainability issues and that most riders observe the rules and regulations. (The National Park Service has found that horse manure can carry the seeds of invasive plants, meaning that horses defecating on trails could contribute to the spread of nonnative plant species. In Point Reyes National Seashore, the National Park Service asks riders to give their animals weed-free feed for a few days before visiting the park.)

I started riding in these parks. As a little girl in Oakland in the 1990s, my family often spent Sundays in Tilden Park. My dad took me to the miniature steam train or the antique carousel. But if I had my pick, we’d go to the pony rides. Even as a kid, I knew that these ponies were old and docile and totally uninterested in my antics, but I leaned down and petted their necks and encouraged them to walk faster, marveling at it all. I associated horses with freedom. I lived in a remote part of the hills without a sidewalk or kids to play with. I imagined that, with a pony of my own, I could go anywhere I wanted.

When I was 6, I attended the Culpepper Horse Camp, a Western-style summer program run out of Anthony Chabot Regional Park. My favorite mount was a black mare named Brave. On our final day of camp, we showed our parents what we’d learned. We walked around the arena unaided, navigated our way around a line of cones, and maybe trotted if we were lucky. My mom took pictures of me riding Brave; I trimmed one of the photos with scissors and placed it in a heart-shaped locket, which I still keep in a box of childhood trinkets.

From then on, I asked for money for birthdays and Christmas, did chores around the house, and saved every bit of allowance to pay for trail rides at Chabot. Often my parents would drop me off and I’d set out on the trail with random families and city slickers. I was in the Oakland Hills, mere minutes from where I lived, yet it felt like a world away.

Any parent of a horse-crazy girl knows that things can escalate quickly and, oh, did they ever. My riding moved from parks into arenas. I began English riding lessons and learned how to jump. I moved on from ponies to ex-racehorses. Then, at 16, I got a 4-year-old chestnut gelding named Jinx. He was pumpkin orange in the winter and copper like a penny in the summer. I was smitten.

Thirteen years later, we’re still a team. We have gone on trails together, but most of our effort is spent on show jumping. I hadn’t ridden the East Bay Regional Parks trails where I first learned how to ride for decades. Until now.

During this interval, the local equestrian community has struggled. The Tilden pony rides have shut down, as have Chabot’s trail operations and several area barns. Property is more expensive

135 than ever, increasing the costs of maintaining an already expensive animal. Barn owners near developed areas must carefully manage flies, dust, and manure to avoid bothering neighbors. Expenses also include pricey insurance and the increasingly costly gasoline and diesel fuel required to haul hay and run farm equipment. Many programs near city centers cater to English riders, who typically need less space than Western riders, and many Western riders have moved their mounts to areas with more space and cheaper boarding.

Considering the number of barns that have closed and fought to stay open, it’s remarkable that that EBRPD has kept so many trails open to riders.

“The East Bay Regional parks is arguably the finest parks system in the world,” says Marshall, who has volunteered with EBRPD for 19 years, and who rode with the district’s Volunteer Mounted Patrol for seven of those years. “The fact that equestrian use has been longstanding in the park district since its inception means that equestrians’ needs are kept in mind when the district formulates its land-use plans.”

Lexi Pandell and her horse, Jinx, in the East Bay Regional Parks.

We trailered Jinx and Tanga to Diablo Foothills, which is less than a 10-minute trailer ride from where they’re boarded in Walnut Creek. Nestled between Mount Diablo State Park and the Shell Ridge Open Space, Diablo Foothills Regional Park has 1,060 acres with grasslands, sandstone formations, established oak trees, and views of the East Bay. All of its trails are open to horseback riders.

The Diablo foothills were quiet when we arrived at the trailhead late Saturday morning. We trotted up hills and passed a big field with patches of low-slung spider webs on the ground.

Trail riding isn’t for everyone. It’s dominated by Western riders. Many English-style riders— those who do dressage, jumpers, and so on—have high-strung mounts and prefer the relative safety of the arena. Alarming stories about accidents on the trail abound. Broken bones, bad falls, even encounters with mountain lions. But many of the gravest dangers come from other humans—mountain bikers who zip around turns too fast or dog walkers who allow their pets off leash. “Many city dogs have never seen a horse before,” Marshall said. “Owners believe that their pet is very well trained and will come when called. I have seen the shock on the owners’ faces when their dog ignores the command to ‘come’ when it first encounters a horse on the trail.” In 2008, four dogs in Redwood Regional Park charged 74-year-old Ed Rorke, who was aboard his 24-year-old gelding. The horse spooked, bolted, and tumbled off the narrow trail, falling down a steep slope. Though Rorke got caught in underbrush, which slowed his descent, his horse fell hundreds of feet further, and died.

The trails Jinx and I traveled on in the past were, for the most part, privately owned and for horses only. The safety of our own barn was just a short jaunt away. Jinx was familiar with the route; if I fell off and Jinx bolted, he would likely run back to his stall. But not this trail. As I secured Jinx’s saddle alongside the trailer that morning, his antsiness made me nervous. He ignored the hay we’d brought for him, instead pawing the ground and tossing his head. But once we set out, he became focused. After the dreaded boulder, we passed dog walkers, bikers, and speedy ground squirrels. Nothing fazed him. Then we looped back through Buckeye Ravine and found ourselves traveling down a razor-narrow path. A steep gorge opened before us that was full of rocks. We would have to navigate carefully.

136 “Is it a slider?” Suzanne, Tanga’s owner, asked jokingly, referring to a trail that’s so vertical that your horse has to sit back on its haunches and basically sled down.

I told her that we could make it. I hoped so, anyway. So down we went. At first, Jinx seemed nervous. He glanced back at Tanga as if he wanted to turn back. Impossible, I thought, considering the narrow path.

I urged him forward and leaned back in my saddle to help him balance as we proceeded downhill. He seemed to know what to do. He lifted his feet, gingerly navigating around protruding rocks, recognizing when to travel laterally for a better grip.

When we got to the bottom, he and Tanga were both sweating from the effort, but content. Trees flashing autumnal yellows and oranges flanked us. The air was cool. We saw massive rock formations ahead and a flock of birds careening through the sky. We passed the peregrine falcon nesting area. Jinx easily traversed sections of smooth stone on the trail, even with his slippery metal horse shoes. I had underestimated him.

Back at the barn that afternoon, Suzanne and I bathed our horses and plotted our return to the trail. We had vacations, obligations, and scheduling conflicts, but we were determined to make it happen. I got in my car, turned on the AC, and headed home to Oakland on the 24, the freeway that had paved over so much of the farmland in Contra Costa County. Halfway home, traffic piled up. A grisly accident had shut down the freeway. As I sat in bumper-to-bumper traffic, I reminisced about when I was a little girl and believed a pony could transport me anywhere. I imagined getting out of my car, hopping aboard my horse, and riding off into the golden hills, leaving the glittering cars and hot asphalt behind.

About the Author

Lexi Pandell

Lexi Pandell is a writer from Oakland. Her nonfiction work has been published by The Atlantic, The New York Times, WIRED, Condé Nast Traveler, GQ, Playboy, Creative Nonfiction, and others.

137 Support Regional Parks with Memberships and End-of-Year Donations Posted: Thursday, December 27, 2018 12:00 am

Regional Parks Foundation memberships provide easy access to the Park District’s 73 Regional Parks on 121,000 acres of open space, 55 miles of shoreline, and 1,250 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and nature learning.

Membership benefits include a personalized Membership Card, unlimited day-use parking, an annual dog pass (good for up to 3 dogs), free swimming during swim season, camping discounts, free admission to Ardenwood Historic Farm on non-event days, and free horse/boat trailer permits (boat launch fees still apply).

Give the gift of membership and the Regional Parks Foundation will prepare a Gift of Membership package that can either be mailed directly to the recipient or back to you. Call (510) 544-2220 or email [email protected].

Memberships can be purchased at local REI stores, select regional parks, and online at www.RegionalParksFoundation.org/Join. In-park purchases are available at parking kiosks and point of sale locations at Contra Loma, Roberts, Lake Chabot, Shadow Cliffs, Quarry Lakes, Sunol, Coyote Hills, Tilden, Del Valle, and Ardenwood.

End of the year donations are also a great way to support regional parks and programs, including sending underserved kids to camp, restoring natural wildlife habitat, repairing hill and shoreline trails, and transporting the disabled, seniors, and children from low-income neighborhoods to parks. Visit www.regionalparksfoundation.org/donate to donate.

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Community Corner Shared From Rockridge, CA Redwoods In The East Bay: New Park Exhibit A group of especially tall redwood trees known as the "Navigation Trees" served as landmarks for early mariners in San Francisco Bay. By Bea Karnes, Patch Staff | Dec 24, 2018 6:00 am ET | Updated Dec 24, 2018 9:00 am ET

OAKLAND, CA — Are you looking for someplace new to take out-of-town guests?

The East Bay Regional Park District and Save the Redwoods League unveiled an Old Growth Redwood Heritage Viewing Deck and Interpretive Exhibit at Roberts Regional Recreation Area earlier this month, celebrating its dedication with redwood lovers from around the Bay Area. The exhibit, found along Roberts Ridge Trail, preserves and protects a remaining 18-foot diameter old-growth coast redwood footprint for nature learning and includes a 570-square-foot observation deck with interpretive panels. The exhibit is free and open to the public 365 days a year.

"These towering, majestic coast redwoods are one of the greatest natural treasures in the East Bay," said East Bay Regional Park District General Manager Robert Doyle. "For years, the East Bay Regional Park District has been working in partnership with the Save the Redwoods League to protect these magnificent trees and pay homage to their past through conservation and education."

"The new exhibit protects the old-growth footprint for future generations and allows for expanded educational programs on redwoods and climate change," added Doyle.

Redwoods are an important part of the entire Bay Area's history. From the early 1800s to mid-1800s a group of especially tall redwood trees known as the "Navigation Trees" served as landmarks that helped ships avoid underwater hazards and guided them safely through the San Francisco Bay. The Navigation Trees are no longer alive today but leave an everlasting legacy in the Bay Area. Nearly all old-growth redwoods in the East Bay were cut down by 1860 to construct homes and buildings.

"This new exhibit sparks the imagination, giving park visitors a glimpse into the forest of massive, ancient coast redwoods that once thrived in the East Bay," said League President and CEO Sam Hodder. "We're honored to unveil this exhibit to teach park visitors about the tallest trees in the world that once towered from these hills—and how they're growing back as we speak."

The giant redwood footprint has been a literal hidden gem at Roberts Regional Recreation Area for more than a century with limited opportunities to learn about its history and past.

— Announcement, photo from East Bay Regional Park District

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East Bay Military Bases Get a New Lease on Life Several shuttered military bases in the region offer thousands of open acres for development, a gold mine in this in-demand part of the Bay Area. But turning the outdated sites into modern communities requires huge amounts of time, money, and sheer will. BY ANDREA VASQUEZ NELSON // PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTIE HEMM KLOK Published: December 20, 2018 Edi Birsan, former Concord mayor

On an otherwise ordinary Friday late last June, a phone call woke then–Concord Mayor Edi Birsan from an afternoon nap. Time magazine was reporting that an internal United States Navy memo had Concord on a short list of potential locations to house tens of thousands of migrants caught illegally crossing the border—and the news reporter on the other end of the line wanted more details.

So did the mayor, who was hearing the news for the first time.

The reporter promptly sent Birsan the article, which outlined plans to hold up to 47,000 immigrant detainees in an “austere” detention center at the Concord Naval Weapons Station, a defunct military base in the northeast part of the city. This was in response to the zero-tolerance immigration policy the White House had declared the month before, which had triggered a surge of arrests separating nearly 2,000 migrant children from their parents, straining holding facilities, and exacerbating the backlog in immigration courts. If the Department of Homeland Security called on the military for help, the memo estimated, it would cost about $233 million per six months to build and operate a tent city to hold 25,000 people for up to a year.

Birsan was astounded at the suggestion: “I said, ‘Is this Time magazine or Time magazine: The Onion [edition]?’ I mean, are you kidding me?” Birsan has been involved in redevelopment efforts since before he was in city hall, and in more than a decade he had never heard plans like these.

Birsan knew his community would push back. Three hundred people flooded Concord’s next City Council meeting, where Birsan and his colleagues heard hours of public comment that persisted past midnight. East Bay Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-11) called the proposal “madness” and an “evil policy,” likening it to Japanese internment camps.

Amid the cacophony, Birsan also thought of all the work that would go out the window. The naval facility had stored weapons and ammunition for ships coming in and out of Port Chicago from World War II until its closure in 2005. After 12 years, roughly $24 million invested by the city and developer (among others), and thousands of hours of planning and community meetings, the city had formed a plan to repurpose the outdated military base into a residential, commercial, and community space and was about 12 months from getting the first parcel of land for the multiphase project. If the navy kept the property for a makeshift detention center, it could mean scrapping more than a decade of work.

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“We would have to restart,” Birsan says.

Within a few days, Contra Costa County Sheriff David Livingston said there were no plans “at this time” to use the former Concord Naval Weapons Station for relocation camps. Confusion and outrage receded, leaving the city to carry on with the redevelopment of more than 5,000 acres of hills, grassland, and old military bunkers—a task as immense as the site.

The military’s Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) commission shuttered more than 350 military bases nationwide between the late 1980s and mid-2000s. In the East Bay alone, the former Concord Naval Weapons Station, Alameda Naval Air Station, Oakland Army Base, and Naval Station Treasure Island present enormous opportunities—literally thousands of acres—to create jobs, build housing, and integrate cutting-edge technology into new communities. Just as formidable, however, are the challenges of designing a plan that both satisfies and serves the community on sites that often lack basic infrastructure and must be scoured for dangerous remnants of days long past (like the small World War II-era rockets found during a cleanup on the Concord base).

Concord officials are up to the task. Coincidentally, both Birsan and Carlyn Obringer—who became Concord’s mayor in December after a City Council reorganization—jumped into local politics because they wanted to help with the base redevelopment.

“I saw the incredible potential,” Obringer says. “One of the real benefits is you don’t have to rip out roads or build around existing infrastructure. You can start from scratch.”

Concord on the Rise

Concealed in a quiet Concord neighborhood of ranch-style homes, manicured lawns, and trimmed hedges, ghost towns of the base’s former military housing—with names like Victory Village and Quinault Village—decay behind chain-link fences with signs declaring “U.S. Government Property No Trespassing.” Beyond the fences, a paved road winds past single-story homes painted peachy tan and faded blue, the windows boarded and neglected lawns now yellow and brittle.

“There isn’t even running water at this point in time,” Obringer says.

Eventually, the 5,100-acre site will boast 13,000 housing units, six million square feet of commercial space, thousands of acres of parks, a sports tournament field, autonomous vehicle testing facilities, and a four-year university—each increasing Concord’s population and accessible land by 25 percent, says Birsan.

But that’s a long way out.

“This really is a 30-, 40-year process beyond the 12 years that have already been invested,” Obringer says.

Over the course of those 12 years and 84 public meetings, Concord residents told planning officials that they want green space, trails, parking, solar energy, fire and police stations, community gardens, and unobstructed views of Mount Diablo. Concord officials want the project to be economically sustainable and seamlessly integrated into the community. The master developer, Lennar, (which has taken on former bases in San Francisco and Irvine) funneled those wish lists into a multiphase plan, early iterations of which proposed

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transforming 500 acres into mixed-use buildings, housing, parks, and community centers and included a shuttle to the North Concord/Martinez BART station.

But before a single shovel hits dirt, the navy must inspect and clean any toxic contamination on the base. Nearly 50 years of weapons and ammunition storage exposed the land to such toxins as lead and arsenic. What’s more, a “special weapons” area on the base has drawn speculation that atomic bombs were once housed here.

Locals are watching closely after learning that contaminated soil samples were fraudulently replaced with nontoxic ones at a cleanup at San Francisco’s Hunters Point. The former naval shipyard was used for repairs, cleaning ships exposed to nuclear testing, and radiation experiments and was later listed as a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Superfund site, a label for contaminated areas that threaten human health and the environment. Some of the land had been given to the city and redevelopment was underway when the EPA and navy discovered the firm in charge of the remediation had falsified data.

The navy can only transfer land that is free of toxic contamination, so as cleanup continues at the Concord base (also a Superfund site), the navy will hand over parcels of the land in phases. The first 1,200 acres for Phase One are expected to transfer later this year.

Focus on West Oakland

Margaret Gordon knows that these projects take time. The no-nonsense West Oaklander was one of the first community members to sit on the redevelopment advisory group for the decommissioned Oakland Army Base, 360 total acres of industrial land situated by a freeway, a waste treatment center, and the Port of Oakland.

“One thing is for sure: This whole base conversion has not been a co-benefit to the most vulnerable of these communities,” Gordon says, since the development has not created as many jobs as expected.

Planning for the army base started several years ago, and proposals included an auto mall, casino, big-box store, hotel, movie theater, and theme park. The prevailing plan will create the Oakland Global Trade and Logistics Center, a nearly one-million-square-foot shipping hub where companies will transfer cargo between ships, trucks, and trains. (The second phase of construction wrapped up in 2017.)

But locals worry that the boost in industry will increase rail traffic and pollution in the neighborhood. As it is, life expectancy in West Oakland is nearly seven years shorter than the average for Alameda County, largely due to pollution-related diseases, and research shows that dirty air stunts children’s lung growth.

“Every day that goes by, kids are being permanently damaged,” says Brian Beveridge, a West Oaklander and the codirector of the West Oakland Environmental Indicators Project (WOEIP). Beveridge joined the nonprofit in 2004 and now works alongside Gordon, the cofounder and codirector. WOEIP, a community-based environmental justice group, advocates for the neighborhood’s residents—overwhelmingly low-income people of color.

“They may die because of this stuff. We can’t do it fast enough,” Beveridge says.

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To mitigate the pollution, the project allocates more than 20 acres for two large commercial recycling companies to relocate from West Oakland, as well as 30-plus acres of big-rig parking—all in an effort to pull the industrial activity (and exhaust fumes) out of the neighborhoods and centralize it on the base. The plan also calls for low-emission construction and operations equipment and restricts how long machines can sit idling.

Oakland Army Base has long been a bustling terminal, with tens of thousands of soldiers and about 25 million tons of supplies passing through to the Pacific during World War II. It became a city within a city, with a hospital, post office, library, grocery store, and bowling alley—and nearly 7,000 jobs were eliminated when the base closed in 1999.

Creating new jobs to replace the lost ones became a major focal point in the redevelopment, especially considering the site’s access to the port and freeway.

“Generally speaking, jobs in port-related logistics and warehousing were better paying, career-oriented jobs, whereas retail [and] commercial jobs … tend to be lower paying, shorter-term [noncareer] jobs,” says John Monetta, the project manager for the army base.

WOEIP and various other organizations spent roughly two years negotiating a Good Jobs Policy for the project, which demands living wages, 50 percent local hires, protections for subcontractors, and a Ban-the-Box policy (which removes the check box for criminal records from employment applications). The agreement also creates the West Oakland Job Resource Center, which trains low-income and disadvantaged workers for skilled construction, transportation, and distribution jobs.

In the first four years of construction, about half of the work was done by Oaklanders. But in the West Oakland neighborhood, Beveridge only counts about 22 people who got new jobs from this project.

“In a community that probably needs about 1,000 jobs, we managed to get [around] 22 people hired,” Beveridge emphasizes.

As the project trudges forward, the work continues on the base as well as in the local community.

Debbie Potter, community development manager for the city of Alameda

Alameda Point In nearby Alameda, public reaction has evolved since the former Alameda Naval Air Station shut down in 1997. At first, the community was focused on the 18,000 lost jobs, says Debbie Potter, the city of Alameda’s point person for the redevelopment of the base, now called Alameda Point.

“We were determined to develop a plan that replaced those jobs and rebuilt the vitality of the west end of town,” Potter says.

The following years brought ups and downs, with a couple of failed projects, two flopped master-developer plans, and ultimately a different approach: The city engineered its own master plan, bringing on specialty developers for smaller land parcels. Potter says this created a plan better tailored to the community’s priorities.

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“[It’s important to] put strong plans in place so that the community feels very tied to the outcome, and there’s a real sense that what happens at Alameda Point is going to have benefits for the surrounding neighborhoods and city as a whole,” Potter says.

Three main themes guided the planning process: jobs, transportation, and mixed-income housing.

The plan includes 800 housing units (a quarter of which will be affordable), more than a half million square feet of commercial space, 15 acres of parks and open space, and a new ferry terminal. The first “for rent” signs will be up as soon as 2021.

In Alameda—where average home values hover around $1 million—housing is scarce, as in the rest of the Bay Area. Projects like these will help, but they can’t fix the problem on their own, says Linda Mandolini, president of Eden Housing, an affordable housing nonprofit and development partner for Alameda Point.

“Projects like Alameda Point can make a significant difference,” she says. “They’re super important and, frankly, if we did more planning on that scale, I think we’d have more housing.”

Chris Meany, cofounder of development firm Wilson Meany

Sustainable Islands Chris Meany, cofounder of San Francisco-based development company Wilson Meany, faces the same reality as he creates the newest neighborhood in one of the Bay Area’s most crowded cities: San Francisco.

Meany’s firm is part of the redevelopment team for Yerba Buena and Treasure islands, collectively a major navy training center and embarkation point in World War II. The flat, man-made shores of Treasure Island will eventually hold as many as 8,000 homes (up to 27 percent affordable), open space, hotels, restaurants, retail, and a ferry terminal with service to San Francisco. Officials expect the current population of 2,500 to swell to about 25,000 by the time the 400-acre project wraps in 2032.

Meany hears his share of criticism about the redevelopment—that it will obstruct views of the bay from the San Francisco side and add to bridge traffic—but it is also getting praise for its green design, including small, walkable neighborhoods and minimal need for cars. In fact, it was awarded a LEED-ND Platinum Plan certification, the U.S. Green Building Council’s highest ranking for sustainable development.

“You have a lot of projects that aspire to be environmentally friendly,” Meany notes, “but they end up just tacking on eco-friendly technology like solar power, rather than building sustainability into the blueprint.”

For example, Treasure Island’s new residential streets will be angled to cut the wind and maximize the sunlight streaming into homes and powering solar panels; by the time lighting and ventilation are installed in those new homes, it will be under the best possible conditions.

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Meany is excited about the growth the development will bring to the Bay, but he is quick to add that no single project can alleviate the region’s housing crunch.

“We need to not put everybody into the exact same piece of land,” he says. “Use the extra land we’ve got; there’s plenty of it around.”

City 5.0

Concord’s top officials don’t have to look far to see what the future holds for their city—it’s already zipping around the base.

Several companies are researching driverless cars at the GoMentum Station, a testing ground on the former naval base. The approximately 20 miles of paved roadway provide ample track for the cars, with straightaways for high-speed testing and a range of road conditions to simulate real-world use. Plus, as new infrastructure is built, the sensors and technology needed to communicate with the autonomous cars can be installed in the roads and traffic signals.

“Our goal is ... to help this area become Autonomous Valley, if you will,” Obringer says. “We have Silicon Valley, but we really [want to be] a hub for driverless vehicle research and testing. [We want] to keep Concord on the technological, ecological, and academic forefront.”

The idea was born as a way to create local jobs with living wages, coupled with a four-year public university that is still in the conception phase. The school may have a polytechnic or biotech focus and is slated to be built on 120 acres within walking distance of the North Concord/Martinez BART station.

The university, the smart technology, the vast parks and open spaces, the mix of housing, and the potential for jobs—they’re all integral to creating the kind of “world-class” city that Concord officials are trying to engineer.

“We’re anticipating for this city to be on the forefront—not City 2.0, but 5.0,” Birsan says.

As for Concord residents, many are excited about what the development will bring to their city, even though the project won’t be finished until around 2050.

In the meantime, “at least we like to see [the city] aggressively get the land and have the groundbreaking and start making something,” says Ajit Kaushal, a Concord resident who sits on the community advisory committee for the project. “As long as we do what the people of Concord want, that’s all I want to see.”

Base-ic History

Alameda Naval Air Station In 1936, seeing the potential for a naval base, the city of Alameda sold the original 300-acre site to the federal government for $1.

Treasure Island Between 1936 and 1937, using mud dredged from the Bay, the Army Corps of Engineers

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built Treasure Island to hold San Francisco’s future airport. Those plans were abandoned, however, when the navy moved onto the island as America prepared for World War II.

The Oakland Naval Supply Depot under construction at the Oakland Outer Harbor in 1941. Photo courtesy of Oakland Public Library, Oakland History Room and Maps Division.

Oakland Army Base Between 1941 and 1952, 8.5 million tons of cargo passed through the Oakland Army Base during World War II, and more than 7 million tons of cargo during the Korean conflict.

Concord Naval Weapons Station In 1944, while loading explosives that had been stored at the base onto ships, more than 200 African American sailors were killed in the Port Chicago disaster. A total of 320 people died in the explosion, which was the biggest stateside disaster of the war and a catalyst for racial integration in the military.

Redevelopment Resources

If you live near one of the following redevelopment sites and want to learn more about what’s being built in your backyard, contact these community groups.

Alameda Point: Alameda City Council The Alameda City Council acts in place of a community advisory group. Council meetings are held bimonthly at city hall. For more information, call (510) 747-4700.

Concord Naval Weapons Station: Community Advisory Committee This 13-member group meets the third Tuesday of each month at the City of Concord Civic Center. For more information, contact Guy Bjerke, director of community reuse planning, at [email protected].

Oakland Army Base: West Oakland Community Advisory Group This group is comprised of West Oakland residents, businesses, and community organizations. Meetings are held on the fourth Thursday of the month and are open to the public. For more information, contact John Monetta at [email protected].

Treasure Island: Citizen Advisory Board The Treasure Island Development Authority’s advisory board meets the first Tuesday of each month at different locations. To learn more, visit sftreasureisland.org.

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The East Bay Pet Owner's Guide From the top dog-friendly trails, to local cat cafés, to products that help animals look and feel their best, here’s how to pamper and enjoy quality time with four- legged companions. By Peter Crooks and Morgan Mitchell // Illustrations by Chantal Bennett // Published: December 20, 2018

Photo courtesy of Stocksy/T-Rex & Flower

Pets give us more than we give them. Sure, they require attention and need a lot of maintenance—food, walks, shots, those donut-shaped beds, and the occasional administration of the plastic cone of shame. But what they offer is immeasurable: companionship, comfort, and unconditional love.

The East Bay has no shortage of amenities that enhance our lives with animals. From the fresh air and hiking trails of the East Bay Regional Park District, to a range of businesses that spark the economy with pet- friendly foods and products, to hospitals and rescue centers that let animals help kids learn to read and patients recover from illness, Diablo rounds up the many ways pets support people throughout our region.

Pets on the Go

Both you and Fido will feel rejuvenated after connecting with nature and spending quality time together. Here are some top local spots for bonding.

Five Fun Hikes

The East Bay’s abundance of rolling hills and open spaces makes for idyllic dog walking. In fact, Oakland was recently named the seventh-best city for dog parks in a ranking of the 100 largest United States cities, with Fremont also finishing in the top 40. From coastal roams to hillside romps to urban strolls, here are five notable places to walk your dogs. More information on each is available at ebparks.org.

Dog walkers love the sweeping open space at Briones. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

Briones Regional Park This is a massive, 6,255-acre park near Concord, Lafayette, Martinez, Pleasant Hill, and Walnut Creek. There are five major access points, but the two most developed are the Bear Creek Staging Area in Lafayette and the Alhambra Staging Area in Martinez. On-leash areas are marked, but it won’t take long to reach off-leash spots where dogs can roam.

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Del Valle Regional Park Situated 10 miles south of Livermore, this expansive oasis has a nice water element and tons of open space. If you go to the last parking lot on the east side, there’s a trail called Dog Run that connects to numerous other pathways.

Point Isabel offers miles of trails as well as a pet-friendly café. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

Iron Horse Regional Trail Running between Concord and Pleasanton, this 32-mile trail offers plenty of places to stop, get lunch, and do some shopping. Dogs need to be on-leash in certain designated areas, but the walkway is well paved and easy to navigate.

Point Isabel Regional Shoreline This 23-acre expanse next to the San Francisco Bay is heavenly for dog owners, as most of the park allows pups to remain off-leash as long as they are under voice control of their owners. There is even a dog-washing business (Mudpuppy’s Tub and Scrub) and an eatery (Sit and Stay Café). More than one million people visit each year, so you’re likely to see every imaginable dog breed on a weekend visit.

Pups can enjoy a scenic stroll along the bluffs at Point Pinole. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock. Point Pinole Regional Shoreline One of the lesser-known gems in the region, this waterfront parkland has beaches, bluffs, and eucalyptus forests for miles, with plenty of off-leash areas to let your dogs run free.

Relax with Fido in the outdoor beer garden at Drake’s Dealership. Photo by Madi Kaufman.

Pet-Friendly Restaurants

The roomy front patio of Coffee Shop Lafayette is an ideal place for dog owners to start the day. In Concord and Dublin, the outdoor sections at Lazy Dog Restaurant and Bar are well-known hangouts for pups and their owners. The open-air beer garden at Drake’s Dealership in Oakland is always dog-friendly (and an absolute must for beer lovers). Same goes for the porch at Danville Brewing Company on Danville’s Railroad Avenue. And Steve Burman, Steve Melander, and Steve Ziganti—the eponymous guys behind 3 Steves Winery in Livermore—invite you to bring your furry friends along for tastings or picnics at their winery on Greenville Road. coffeeshop411.com, lazydogrestaurants.com, drinkdrakes.com/dealership, danvillebrewing.com, 3steveswinery.com.

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Terry Noonan

The Great Outdoors

With 23 parks spanning more than 120,000 acres, the East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) offers myriad ways for animal lovers to get out and about. The parks boast a wealth of hiking trails for dog owners and give visitors numerous opportunities to see wildlife in their natural habitats.

“My observation is that people use parks that are close to where they live, and there [are many] nearby that offer scenery, exercise, and fresh air,” says Terry Noonan, the unit manager of interpretive parklands for EBRPD. “We try and offer a variety of experiences, regardless of what someone is looking for. In addition to dog owners, we have lots of options for equestrians. There are great places for bird-watchers to visit; along the shoreline you will see migratory birds in different environments.”

One more thing: These parks are still wild spaces, so make sure you and your dog treat them that way. “Be responsible by cleaning up after your dogs, keep them on-leash in developed areas, and bring water for them to drink,” Noonan advises. “Before putting them in your car, check them for ticks.”

Pet Fact: Maddie’s Fund in Pleasanton has awarded more than $225 million to animal- welfare organizations since Dave and Cheryl Duffield created the foundation in 1994.

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NEWS Livermore native appointed as fire chief for East Bay Parks Aileen Theile had led Fire Department since March as acting chief by Jeremy Walsh / Pleasanton Weekly / Uploaded: Mon, Dec 17, 2018, 11:05 am

Aileen Theile, a Livermore native, has been named permanent fire chief for the East Bay Regional Park District's Fire Department. (Photo courtesy of EBRPD)

East Bay Regional Park District officials have removed the interim tag off Aileen Theile's title, promoting her to become the district's permanent fire chief.

Theile, who served as acting fire chief since March, oversees all fire protection, fire prevention and firefighting activities for the district, which includes 73 regional parks on over 121,000 acres of open space in Alameda and Contra Costa counties.

"I am honored to be appointed fire chief," Theile said last week. "I look forward to continuing the district's significant efforts in wildfire protection and wildfire response. Planning and protecting against wildfires is a major focus of the park district's."

EBRPD leaders lauded Theile for her extensive experience in wildland fire management, which they say will be vital for the district given conditions seen throughout the state.

"Chief Theile's extensive experience with wildfire hazard reduction will be a major asset for the park district," General Manager Robert Doyle said in a statement.

"Chief Theile is an experienced wildland firefighter and fuels management expert. Her on-the- ground experience in statewide fires provides a precise and powerful perspective on what is needed to protect the residents and environment of the East Bay," said Anthony Ciaburro, EBRPD police chief and assistant general manager of public safety.

"Above all, she is a strong leader in an era of unprecedented challenges," Ciaburro added.

A Livermore native who now lives in Martinez, Theile started working for EBRPD as a park ranger at Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area in Pleasanton in 1994. She went to to be stationed at several other East Bay parks, including Sunol Regional Wilderness, Garin Regional Park and Cull Canyon Regional Recreation Area.

In 2002, she was promoted to resource analyst for the district's Stewardship Department.

During her tenure, Theile also focused on firefighting by joining the EBRPD Fire Department on special assignment as an industrial firefighter in 1995, pulling double duty within the district for years including as an industrial lieutenant firefighter after 2005.

She earned her first permanent assignment in the Fire Department in 2012 as a fire captain, a position she held until being named acting fire chief earlier this year.

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Theile, who is cited as an expert in fire fuels management and fire behavior, has been part of the district's prescribed fire program to prevent catastrophic damage from wildfire on its lands and surrounding communities. She has also led many cross-discipline teams -- internal and external -- where she has developed a reputation as a leader who fosters professionalism and collaboration.

Theile's department includes 68 full- and part-time on-call firefighters and nine fire stations. It manages fire protection and fire hazard reduction, including thinning and reducing hazardous vegetation on over 1,000 acres per year.

She attended Cal State East Bay, where she earned a bachelor's degree in environmental science with an emphasis in biology and ecology. She also holds a fire officer certification from the California State Fire Marshal's Office and has completed coursework for a chief fire officer certification.

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Community News Park It: East Bay varieties of toxic winter fungus among us Death Cap, Western Destroying Angel most dangerous commonly found in region By NED MACKAY | East Bay Regional Park District PUBLISHED: December 16, 2018 at 5:00 am | UPDATED: December 17, 2018 at 4:59 am

Getty Images

Now is the season when mushrooms appear in the woods and fields, and some of them are extremely poisonous. The most dangerous mushrooms commonly found in the Bay Area are the Death Cap, above, and the Western Destroying Angel.

It has been widely publicized, but it’s worth re- emphasizing — this is the season when mushrooms appear in the woods and fields, and some of these mushrooms are extremely poisonous. For starters, gathering mushrooms is against the rules in the East Bay Regional Park District. The regional parks are essentially nature preserves where plants and animals are supposed to be left undisturbed.

The most dangerous mushrooms commonly found in the Bay Area are the Death Cap (amanita phalloides) and Western Destroying Angel (amanita ocreata). Both contain amatoxins, which inhibit cellular metabolism in many animals. Symptoms don’t usually appear until up to 12 hours after consumption. Severe gastrointestinal distress progresses to liver and renal failure if treatment is not sought immediately.

“Both the Death Cap and Western Destroying Angel grow near oak trees,” said naturalist Trent Pearce, who works at Tilden Nature Area near Berkeley. “They can be lethal to both humans and pets if consumed.”

Dog owners should keep a close watch on their pets during the winter months and contact a veterinarian immediately if they believe the pet has eaten a toxic mushroom. The Death Cap is a medium-to-large mushroom that typically has a greenish-gray cap, white gills, a white ring around the stem and a large white sac at the base of the stem. The Western Destroying Angel is a medium-to-large mushroom that usually has a creamy white cap, white gills, a white ring around the stem that disappears with age and a thin white sac at the base.

Other mushrooms in this area that contain deadly toxins include the galerina and lepiota species. In sum, if you collect mushrooms in areas where it is permitted, expertise is a must. For most of us, the best place for mushroom gathering is the local supermarket. Trent and the interpretive staff will host the Tilden Fungal Fair from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Feb. 3 at the Environmental Education Center, which is at the north end of Tilden’s Central Park Drive. Hundreds of local mushroom specimens will be on display, and guest speakers will share mushroom lore. The event will be free and open to the public.

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Berkeley: Dec. 21 is the first day of winter in the northern hemisphere. Astronomically, it’s the shortest day of the year, when the sun appears at its furthest south in the sky. Several regional parks are marking the occasion with special programs.

For early risers, naturalist “Trail Gail” Broesder will lead a hike to greet the solstice sun from 6:15 to 8:30 a.m. Dec. 21, for ages 8 and older. Bring a flashlight and your own coffee, meet Gail at the Environmental Education Center and hike to the top of Wildcat Peak for spectacular views of the sunrise.

Oakland: If you miss Gail’s hike there’s also a sunrise hike from 6 to 8 a.m. Dec. 22 at Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve, led by naturalist Morgan Dill. Again, bring a flashlight for the 2- mile walk. Meet at the park’s staging area on Skyline Boulevard in Oakland, just south of the intersection with Grizzly Peak Boulevard.

Berkeley again: And there’s more. Gail plans a “Sort of Solstice” walk from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 23. The group will meet at the Tilden Steam Train overflow parking lot, which is off Lomas Cantadas near the intersection with Grizzly Peak Boulevard. From there the plan is to hike up to Vollmer Peak for a view of the Bay Area and to ring in the year ahead. For information on Gail’s programs, call 510-544-2233. For Morgan’s hike, call 510-544-3187.

Alameda: Crab Cove Visitor Center in Alameda plans a Holiday Traditions Open House from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 22. The program includes drop-in winter crafts from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., storytime with holiday and solstice traditions from 10:30 to 11 a.m., family nature fun — all about snow — from 2 to 3 p.m. and fish feeding at the center aquarium at 3 p.m. Crab Cove is at 1252 McKay Ave. off Alameda’s Central Avenue. For information call 510-544- 3187.

Fremont: At Coyote Hills Regional Park in Fremont, naturalist Francis Mendoza will lead a 2-mile walk from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Dec. 23 to the park’s restored Ohlone village site. It’s just after the solstice and full moon, so Francis will discuss indigenous peoples’ intimate relationship with astronomical events. The walk is for ages 18 and older and will be canceled if there’s heavy rain. Coyote Hills is at the end of Patterson Ranch Road off Paseo Padre Parkway. Call 510-544-3220.

Online: No matter the season, there’s always lots to do in the regional parks. Check out the park district’s website at www.ebparks.org.

Ned MacKay writes a regular column about East Bay Regional Park District sites and activities. Email him at [email protected].

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Community Corner Shared from Pleasanton, CA Nature Pavilion To Soon Enhance Shadow Cliffs Rec Area Groundbreaking planned for spring on $900K project that will provide shade for gatherings, along with exhibits, info on trails, activities. By Susan C. Schena, Patch Staff | Dec 13, 2018 5:16 pm ET | Updated Dec 13, 2018 5:23 pm ET

PLEASANTON, CA – Plans for a $900,000, outdoor pavilion at Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area in Pleasanton, that will be a gathering spot and will highlight park history, trails and activities, were recently finalized with a combination of grants and state funding, according to the East Bay Regional Park District.

Established with a lead gift of $200,000 from Nancy and Gary Harrington of Pleasanton, along with funding grants from California State Parks and the Wayne and Gladys Valley Foundation, the 1,000- square-foot, nature pavilion will provide educational exhibits and shaded shelter for visitors and school children on field trips, officials said.

Pavilion groundbreaking is scheduled for April 2019 at the 116-acre park on Stanley Boulevard, a former gravel quarry that straddles Pleasanton and Livermore and is home to cottonwood and willow-lined creek open space, a wide array of wildlife, a lake, swimming beach and picnic grounds.

"During peak months, Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area sees 35,000-45,000 visitors per month, many for swimming, boating and fishing at the lake," said East Bay Regional Park District Ward 5 Director Ayn Wieskamp. "The Nature Pavilion will help better connect visitors to the park's larger nature area and its trails for walking, hiking, biking and nature watching."

Thousands of school children visit the park district's Shadow Cliffs each year to participate in naturalist-lead walks of the area, park officials said, adding that the pavilion will help the district better serve youth with modern, up-to-date educational exhibits.

The pavilion will also host the growing number of public, non-school programs, including the monthly Lakeside Littles and "How Does Your Garden Grow" programs.

--Image of Nancy and Gary Harrington reviewing pavilion plans courtesy of EBRPD

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