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Posted by: thepinetree on 03/06/2008 11:26 PM Updated by: thepinetree on 03/06/2008 11:30 PM
Expires: 01/01/2013 12:00 AM
:

Calaveras County Board of Supervisors Meeting Video and Summary for March 4, 2008

San Andreas, CA...This week's Calaveras County Board of Supervisors meeting video and summary is enclosed. The Meeting Video runs about an hour and fifteen minutes. The video and summary are enclosed...



If you would like to save or launch in external player click here!



SUMMARY OF THE MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
COUNTY OF CALAVERAS, STATE OF CALIFORNIA
HELD ON MARCH 4, 2008


PRESENT: Steve Wilensky, Chair; Russ Thomas, Vice-Chair; Bill Claudino, Merita Callaway and Thomas Tryon, Supervisors; James Jones, County Counsel; Robert Lawton, County Administrative Officer; and Madaline Krska, Deputy Clerk


ABSENT: None


C O N S E N T A G E N D A

1.Minutes of a regular Board of Supervisors meeting held on February 19, 2008 - Board action: approved 5-0
2.CORRESPONDENCE: February 15-21, 2008, - Board action: approved 5-0
3.MINUTE ORDER authorizing a BUDGET TRANSFER to increase budget revenues and expenditures, in the amount of $62,215.00, for payment of invoices for client-reimbursed building plan check and inspection services in excess of approved budget (requires 4/5 vote); Community Development Agency - Board action: approved 5-0 R E G U L A R A G E N D A
4.PUBLIC COMMENTS: a)Bob Dean, Calaveras County Water District(CCWD) Director, presented an update on the status of the Sandy Gulch Park proposal. In January an extension of 60 days was requested to accomplish the necessary preparation for making an application for Proposition 40 funds. The role of CCWD in this process was to accomplish an appraisal which will be completed in April.
Dean referenced the encroachment to the park and the 5 acres of surplus land given by CCWD to address this potential issue. The hope is to have this proposal submitted to the state by the end of April.
b) Chair Wilensky asked for Board support of the good faith approach that has been shown, for this project. Chair feels a request for additional time, due to inclement weather, is justified. The Board concurred, to extend the timeframe for this project.
c) Mickey Williamson, Coordinator, Community Action Project(CAP), spoke outlining the mission and focus of the project. The mission of the group is to promote citizen participation in local government. CAP believes that the General Plan Process is the primary process whereby citizens can translate their vision into policy.





Ms. Williamson stated that CAP is the sponsor for the Calaveras Planning Coalition that was founded in early 2006. Coalition members have taken workshops on the California Environmental Quality Act, the General Plan process and other state conferences and workshops.
Both CAP and the Coalition support thoughtful, responsible, well- planned growth that protects the history and character of the communities. The preservation of natural resources is encouraged.
The makeup of the members of the groups was outlined and represents a good cross section of the demographics of the County. All member groups of the Coalition have e-mail lists and many have websites. The members are dedicated and care about the County and its future.
d) Supervisor Callaway asked for clarification on the necessity for having two groups, as there appears to be an overlap.
e) Ms. Williamson responded, stating that at the present time there is almost a total overlap. When CAP was formed the General Plan Process had not begun and it was to encourage local groups with their concerns. The Planning Coalition then began to co-ordinate what became the focus at this time. In the future the focus may change to other issues but CAP would still be the oversight for these.
f) Joe Kelly, Oak Valley Estates Angels Camp, referenced financial concerns in the economy and salary surveys for Calaveras County. Kelly asked what the perimeters are for the salary surveys, if it relates to the County size and a range of economic benefits for employees. Kelly questioned the comparison to other SEIU counties, if the private sector was included in the surveys and how this relates to budget deficit.
Kelly questioned if the County’s retirement fund was fully funded. Concerns were expressed regarding retiree health care costs. Kelly asked for a full disclosure of the County’s economic condition.
g) Chair Wilensky referred Mr. Kelly to Francine Osborn, Director Human Resources for information regarding employee financial concerns.
h) Robert Lawton, County Administrative Officer, stated that Calaveras County does not offer retiree medical insurance. Currently, compliance is being addressed for the standard reporting requirement for obligations under post employment benefits.
CAO Lawton stated that the analyst and the County Administrative Office reports to the Board of Supervisors at mid-year on the County’s financial condition. A Report was given at last weeks Board meeting and they will continue to be given until the end of the current fiscal year. The County faces the same financial crunch that other cities and counties are experiencing relating to revenues and expenses. The report is available and Mr. Kelly is welcome to obtain a copy from the County Administrators Office.



i) Lisa Reynolds, Director, Calaveras Visitors Bureau(CVB), gave the Board an update on some of the major projects that CVB is currently involved. The Agri-tourism Program and a Farm Trails Map is being developed as this is popular experience that is suitable for this County.
Ms. Reynolds stated that a survey has been sent to Calaveras Grown members, Cattlemen’s Association and Farm Bureau for information to assist in this project. A new ad campaign “GO” is being implemented to direct visitors to the web site which is “GOCALAVERAS.COM”.
A new campaign in April will be launched respecting the current gas prices that will target areas that are within a short drive. Ms. Reynolds informed that CVB continues to partner with Gold County Visitors Association, a regional marketing group. This group is designated by the State of California and matches $30,000 for funds used in marketing.
Ms. Reynolds stated there are ongoing contacts and information requested by film commission regarding filming and photos of County areas. Discover Calaveras Events will begin with a focus on Bed & Breakfasts and Historic Hotels located throughout the County. Ms. Reynolds referenced other new events that have recently begun or will be occurring for the first time. Reference was made to the Transient Occupancy Tax(TOT)funds and how they assist the CVB with programs. Supervisor Thomas asked to have the TOT revisited for further public education regarding the value of these funds. The possibility of future increases to this funding source should be explored.
Stephanie Moreno, Director, Community Development Agency, responded to a question that was asked at last week’s Board meeting concerning plan check time frames. Plan check time is defined as the amount of time it takes from when the permit is accepted at the counter until the first contact is made; a letter back out to the applicant or approved plans ready to be picked up. This does not include the amount of time that may be needed if the applicant has failed to provide everything or if there are redlines on the plan check. Currently the plan check times are at two to four weeks for residential and commercial.
Ms. Moreno stated that more activity is being seen at the front counter. Questions are being asked regarding remodeling permits, new residential construction permits have been submitted and more calls are being received for building inspections on existing plans.
5.Discussion and possible action re: the adoption of an ORDINANCE adopting and approving changes consistent with the new contract with Service Employees' International Union (SEIU) for elected officials; Human Resources - Board action: approved 5-0





6.Discussion and possible action re: the adoption of an ORDINANCE adopting and approving changes consistent with the new contract with Service Employees' International Union (SEIU) for the Board of Supervisors; Human Resources - Board action: approved 5-0
7.Discussion and possible action re: RESOLUTION authorizing a joint use agreement between Calaveras County and the Jenny Lind Veterans Memorial District; Administration - Board action: approved 5-0
8.Discussion and possible action re: RESOLUTION authorizing application for a Local Adult Detention Facility Assembly Bill 900 Construction Grant; appointing the Sheriff as the person authorized to sign the grant application; appointing the County construction manager; the project financial officer; and the project contact person; Sheriff/Administration - Board action: continued to March 11, 2008
9.Review of correspondence, reports and various matters of concern: a) Supervisor Tryon tonight will attend an Angels Camp City Council meeting. The issue of having a CCWD permanent representative on LAFCO is on their meeting agenda again. The city is concerned about water rights on the UPA. Supervisor Tryon feels it is absolutely critical as a benefit to the County for CCWD to have a seat on LAFCO to address the sewer and water issues; Wednesday will attend a COG meeting; b) Supervisor Thomas on Wednesday will attend a Central Sierra Planning Council and Economic Development meeting. As a reminder a discussion still needs to be held regarding the County’s financial participation in the Council. c) Supervisor Callaway will attend the Ebbetts Pass Property Owners Council meeting; Wednesday will attend a COG meeting; Thursday will attend a Behavior Health forum in Avery; Saturday will attend the Arts Council reception for high school artists;
Supervisor Callaway referenced a letter received from Common Ground Senior Services. The agency stated that $15,000 more is needed from the County to continue the hot meal program. Common Ground has been advised in the past, that funding requests need to be presented during budget proposals. Supervisor Callaway, represents the Board on Area 12 Agency on Aging and was not aware of this situation until the letter arrived. Displeasure was expressed for the manner in which this situation has been presented to the County.
d) Supervisor Claudino confirmed that the request is for $15,000 more which is in addition to the $15,000 that has already been allocated. The request for next year will be $45,000 which is for the same level of service that has been provided in the past.
e) Chair Wilensky feels the meal programs are important to the community and understands the factors for costs to provide these to be escalating. The budget processes for these expenditures must be addressed and would like this to be an agenda item for discussion.


The Board concurred that all aspects of the programs being offered for seniors be discussed. Other agencies serving seniors would be invited to participate in this discussion that would need to be a 4/5ths vote if it were to be an action item.
f) Supervisor Claudino had nothing to report.
g) Chair Wilensky today, will attend the Behavioral Health Board meeting; Friday will attend a First Five meeting, an Ag Dispute Resolution meeting and the Save Our Senior Center benefit.
Chair Wilensky addressed the topic of agendizing the legal access issue. Chair confirmed that on March 18th a study session is scheduled regarding economic development h) CDA Director Moreno stated a presentation re: legal access will be prepared for March 25th Board of Supervisors meeting.
i) Supervisor Callaway opened discussion regarding affordable housing and asked the Board for their position on this issue. Protocol is needed on this serious concern.
j) Director Moreno referenced a use permit that was lost to a developer due to inability to negotiate with CalTRANS. In early April a General Plan Update will be brought to the Board which can include affordable housing. A committee could be formed to work on this as it is a comprehensive part of the General Plan. Current R-3 land uses was mentioned as being detrimental to potential apartment projects.
k) Chair Wilensky feels there are volunteer tools that have not been fully accessed in devising a Housing Element. Chair questioned what has been done to exercise the implementation measures that listed in the existing Housing Element. The effect of these components and have these tools been workable. What other Counties have implemented and what their plans have contained would be useful.
l) Supervisor Thomas would like input from the community and areas that have had success with their plans.
m) Director Moreno stated that a report will be completed on Aril 3rd. The target date for discussion will be April 8th. There will be information to contribute in a study session that will include the Housing Element.
n) Supervisor Claudino referenced 5 affordable housing units that were included in recently approved project in San Andreas. Since there is an infrastructure in the County there may have to be concessions and possibly subsidies to address this issue. Water and sewer limitations and expenses have added to the complexity of this concern.




o) CAO Lawton referenced the Thursday Behavioral Health Forum in Avery in regards to Prop. 63 and on Saturday the Arts Council reception for high school artists; last Wednesday he attended the Community Forum in West Point on prevention and early intervention presented by Behavioral Health. The staff and facilitators of this program were commended for their presentation.
p) County Counsel Jones had nothing to report.
10.CLOSED SESSION: pursuant to Government Code section 54956.9(b)(1); conference with legal counsel; anticipated litigation - significant exposure to litigation (two cases) - County Counsel; Board action: nothing to report
11.CLOSED SESSION: pursuant to Government Code section 54957.6, conference with labor negotiators: County representatives - CAO and Assistant CAO-Director of Human Resources and Risk Management; SEIU re: Miscellaneous Employees; Human Resources - Board action: nothing to report
12.CLOSED SESSION: CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS: PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54956.8; Property APN's as follows: 44-011-050; 44-011-049; 44-011-051; 44-011-052; Agency negotiator; Brent Harrington or alternate to be determined; Negotiating parties: Ryan Voorhees, Greg Opinski; Under negotiation: instruction to negotiator regarding potential purchase, price, financing options; County Counsel/Administration - Board action: nothing to report
12a. ADDENDUM-Discussion and possible action approving an agreement to purchase real property for the construction of a new adult correctional facility; County Counsel/Administration – Board action: continued to March 11, 2008
13.Discussion re: Sheriff's Department Staffing Analysis and Strategic Plan was cancelled.
14.Discussion of state and local fire safety regulations pertaining to emergency vehicle access; Public Works/Community Development Agency








_______/s/ Karen Varni____________
County Clerk and Ex-Officio Clerk
to the Board of Supervisors of the
County of Calaveras, State of Calif.



PUBLISH: March 11, 2008



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