MINUTES

A. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

B. ROLL CALL

Roll call showed the following Directors present: Orth, Venturi, Monteleone, Estabrook, and Whitney. General Manager Williams was also present.

C. ADDITIONS/ ADJUSTMENTS TO THE AGENDA

None

D. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS

April 18, 2000

Director Orth moved to approve the minutes of April 18, 2000 as written, seconded by Director Estabrook. Motion was passed unanimously.

April 25, 2000

Director Orth asked that on page 3001, the second from the last paragraph, the phrase "firefighters have been able to extinguish grass fires much more quickly" be changed to"firefighters have been able to extinguish wild-land fires much more quickly."

Director Monteleone asked that on page 3001, in the first paragraph, the phrase "for public comment" be struck from the end of the first sentence.

Director Orth moved to approve the minutes of April 25th as amended. The motion was seconded by Director Monteleone and passed unanimously.

E. SPECIAL PRESENTATION - ROBERT GITLIN

Dr. Robert Gitlin took the podium and explained that his first goal was to clean up the property and bring all of the units up to code. He expressed optimism about the future of the property, and was open to public input as to possible uses. Noting the historical use of the cabins, he asked for the Board's support of legally converting the use of the cabins to rentals of more than 30 days.

Director Orth pointed out that the level of public input Dr. Gitlin received validates the need for the permit and review process. He voiced support for development of senior housing, and expressed his appreciation for the work being done.

Director Venturi commented that the public is eager to know what will be done with the facility.

Director Monteleone explained to Dr. Gitlin that any apprehension about converting the cabins to long term use is based upon past tenants. She also voiced support for senior assisted housing.

In response to Director Estabrook, Dr. Gitlin outlined the four month process involved to obtain the minor use permit required to rent out the cabins on a long term basis. He believed this would help protect the property from vandalism.

Suggestions from audience members included meeting places for professional groups, housing for seniors and the disabled, as well as spa and health related facilities. Dr. Gitlin encouraged people to offer their suggestions.

President Whitney thanked him for attending.

Note: District Counsel Neary arrived at 7:15 p.m.

F. PUBLIC HEARING

2. PROPOSED RATES AND FEES ADJUSTMENTS FOR USE OF THE GOLF COURSE

General Manager Williams summarized the rate increases recommended by the Finance Committee and Green Committee, necessary to bring the revenues in line with expenses.

President Whitney opened the public hearing at 7:55 p.m. No audience members came forward.

Director Orth voiced his appreciation for the Board's decision to raise rates in a three step process, and for the efforts of both committees.

Director Estabrook expressed concern that a mere 1% decrease in play would result in a budget deficit, possibly causing postponement of planned capital improvements.

President Whitney commented that he hoped maintaining present rates for Juniors would encourage more young people to utilize the facility.

Douglas Bath inquired about the quantity of water used by the Golf Course, whether it was treated, and if the Golf Course paid a water bill. He questioned its viability as a business enterprise, and suggested the District consider abandoning the facility.

Bill Edmondson pointed out that the Golf Course is an asset to the Community for both golfers and non-golfers.

In response to Bob Houtz's concerns about increased rates resulting in decreased play, Director Venturi pointed out that the Junior Golf program, and the various tournaments held each year should help bring in new golfers. Director Orth added that the re-opening of the Lodge will also be beneficial.

Mr. Houtz stated his appreciation for the Board's decision to raise rates in a three step process.

President Whitney closed the Public Hearing at 8:15 p.m.

G. PUBLIC COMMENTS

Bob Houtz inquired about the number of water meters at the Lodge property.

A break was then called to change the tape.

H. ACTION AGENDA

3a. CHRISTOPHER MARTIN - SPECIAL PRESENTATION FROM ROADWAYS WORK GROUP FOR ONE-TOWN-ONE-VISION

Local realtor Christopher Martin, resident of the District, and member of the Highway and Traffic Committee of One-Town-One-Vision, took the podium and gave a lengthy presentation on the feasibility of a two-lane bypass alternative in addition to benefits it may have over the four-lane freeway. Using an overhead projector, he presented charts based on growth rates and traffic studies from various sources, including CalTrans, which indicated that a two-lane bypass would not reach capacity for 113 years. He emphasized the need to include the alternative in the EIR/EIS, in order for it to be considered.

With regards to the TSM alternative, District Counsel Neary confirmed that, according to CEQA and NEPA provisions, in order for CalTrans to include an alternative in the EIR, it must be considered feasible. However, an audience member pointed out that in a 1995 study done by CalTrans, they did not consider it as such.

Mr. Martin felt that the two-lane bypass fulfills the purpose of the Willits Bypass project at less cost to the community and the valley. He pointed out that, as a State Agency funded by tax dollars, CalTrans is obligated to study a full range of alternatives and do what is in the public's best interest, and by State and Federal legislation they are obligated to consider the environmental impacts, and to consider all feasible alternatives.

Director Orth pointed out the bypass study is currently in the draft phase, as a preferred alternative has not yet been selected. He referenced a letter written by CalTrans which states that the two-lane idea constitutes a phase of construction option, and as such may be suggested once a preferred alternative is determined, at which time a complete study would be done. He felt that the final phase would be a more appropriate time for public input.

Ellen Drell, from the Willits Environmental Center, stressed the importance of including the two lane idea as a separate alternative in the draft phase, so that it would be compared with the other alternatives when the draft EIR is completed.

Director Venturi voiced concern about the safety of the two-lane bypass. Audience members Tony Melville, Douglas Bath, and Kris Wagner spoke in favor of requesting the two lane alternative.

In response to Bob Houtz, David Drell outlined the source of funds that would be used for the project.

Hal Wagenet, resident of Sherwood Road, commented that a wide range of alternatives are studied to provide a barrier from future lawsuits. He provided data indicating an increased accident rate on two lane roads, and questioned the projected growth rates used by Mr. Martin, his figures demonstrating that the two lane bypass would reach capacity in 56 years.

Director Monteleone pointed out that the National Environmental Policy Act requires agencies to develop reasonable alternatives, and states that the EIS must describe projects on an equal and comparable level of detail. She emphasized that two lane bypass was a reasonable alternative and should be studied.

Utilizing the overhead projector, Director Estabrook provided charts comparing accident rates on highways of different lane configurations, concluding that two-lane highways with center barriers had the lowest accident-related fatality rate. He also read quotes from a book published by the Federal Highway Administration encouraging flexible highway designs and cooperation with local agencies.

President Whitney commented that, as a local public agency, the Board has the responsibility to comment on projects of a regional nature that affect the residents of the District, and that CalTrans has the responsibility to listen. He felt that including the two-lane alternative in the EIR/EIS would benefit CalTrans by protecting them from future lawsuits, as mentioned by Mr. Wagenet, and spoke in favor of a Highway 20 interchange.

Also, he reported that Nancy Horowitz had written to express her support for the two-lane alternative.

3b. CONSIDERATION OF A RESOLUTION URGING CALTRANS TO INCLUDE A 2 LANE ALTERNATIVE WITH TWO ADDITIONAL INTERCHANGES FOR CONSIDERATION IN THE DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT BEING PREPARED FOR THE WILLITS BYPASS

Director Orth voiced opposition to the Resolution because of references to additional interchanges, and because he felt the preferred route should first be determined. He also felt that the District should wait for the City of Willits to take action.

Director Venturi also preferred to wait for the City of Willits, and voiced concern about the potential for loss of funds for the second access if a four-lane bypass was not built.

Director Monteleone asked that all references to additional interchanges be removed from the Resolution, striking "And Two Interchanges" from the title, "with only one north interchange and one south interchange" from the second Whereas, striking the word "two" from before the word additional, and "an interchange with East Commercial Street and an interchange with Highway 20" from the ninth Whereas, and striking "and two additional interchange access points, one for East Commercial Street and one for Highway 20" from the paragraph beginning with "Furthermore."

Sighting concern for noise, growth, and ease of connectivity to the second access, Director Estabrook spoke in favor of the Resolution. He also commented on the lack of sales tax revenues and the negative impact of growth on the Budget. He then moved to approve the Resolution as amended by Director Monteleone. Director Monteleone seconded the motion, and a vote was taken as follows:

AYES: Directors: Monteleone, Estabrook, Whitney

NOES: Directors: Orth, Venturi

ABSENT: Directors: None

Resolution No. 2000-20 Adopted.

A ten minute break was called, after which time President Whitney thanked the Fire Department volunteers and staff for their patience. Director Orth moved to extend the meeting until midnight. His motion was seconded by Director Venturi and passed unanimously.

4. CONSIDERATION OF CONDITIONS PRESENTED AT THE MEETING WITH REPRESENTATIVES OF LITTLE LAKE FIRE DISTRICT ON APRIL 19TH, WITH REGARDS TO CONSOLIDATION OF FIRE SERVICES

General Manager Williams summarized the meeting held with representative of Little Lake Fire District, and the pros and cons of consolidation. Fire Chief Thomen reviewed his memo to Director Monteleone on the subject.

Director Monteleone wished Chief Thomen had raised his concerns at the meeting. She felt that a decision on the matter should be deferred to give the Board time to consider Chief Thomen's comments, and to provide the new General Manager the opportunity to be involved in the decision.

Director Orth spoke emphatically in favor of maintaining the Fire Department, noting factors such as time of response, level of service to the residents, and the 20 year process of building the Department to its present level. Audience members applauded his comments.

Director Venturi spoke against consolidation, expressing disappointment in Little Lake's apparent reluctance to explore other options.

Director Monteleone spoke in favor of maintaining a good working relationship with Little Lake Fire District, even if consolidation did not occur.

Director Estabrook stated that he would need to be better convinced of the benefits of consolidation. District Counsel Neary clarified for him that Brooktrails' voters would have to approve annexation and the resulting tax increase. However, no vote would be needed for consolidation, and the surviving agency's tax rate would apply to the entire area. Director Estabrook stated his preference of maintaining Brooktrails Fire Department as long as the budget allows, which he felt would be for at least the next three to four years.

President Whitney stated his preference to focus on annexing the area within the District's sphere of influence to increase tax revenues to maintain the Fire Department.

Director Orth moved to close discussion on consolidation with Little Lake, and to negotiate a contract with Daryl Schoeppner as acting Fire Chief. His motion was seconded by Director Venturi.

Bob Houtz suggested that the Board offer the public a comparison of the costs of the various options versus the level of service to gain support of an increased tax.

President Whitney called for a vote on the motion, which passed unanimously.

5a. RESOLUTION OF INTENT TO AMEND PERS CONTRACT TO ALLOW MILITARY SERVICE CREDIT FOR LOCAL AND MISCELLANEOUS EMPLOYEES.

General Manager Williams commented that this was the formal action of a previously approved matter.

5b. REVIEW OF PROPOSED RENTAL AGREEMENTS FOR USE OF THE FIRE DEPARTMENT MEETING ROOM AND RECREATION GROVE.

General Manager Williams outlined the changes recommended by the Board and incorporated into the proposed agreements. Director Venturi felt that a $1,000,000 liability insurance policy should be a condition of rental, and recommended a security person be required if alcohol is served.

Director Monteleone voiced concern about the potential of noise across from the lodge, and fire hazards due to outdoor cooking. She also recommended that tacks, staples and tape not be permitted.

Director Estabrook suggested that the Fire Chief be able to waive fees for any group, at his discretion.

5c. CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST TO THE COUNTY TO PROVIDE FUNDING FOR THE UNDER- GROUNDING OF UTILITIES WITHIN THE DISTRICT'S MAIN FACILITIES

Director Orth explained that because of concerns about power lines above the Fire House, conduits were installed under the parking lot. He thanked President Whitney for identifying the availability of the Rule 20 funds for under-grounding of power lines.

President Whitney moved to adopt Resolution No. 2000-21, a Resolution of Intent to Amend PERS Contract to Allow Military Service Credit for Local and Miscellaneous Employees; to defer the approval of the rental agreements; and to approve the draft letter to the County as written. His motion was seconded by Director Orth, and passed by a unanimous roll call vote.

I. SPECIAL REPORTS - GENERAL MANAGER

i. Significant Correspondence received since last meeting:

ii. Personnel

iii. Finance

April Warrants and the aging report on Accounts Payable were reviewed by the Board. Director Monteleone questioned the telemetry charges on the telephone bill. President Whitney asked for a breakdown of the charges.

Director Monteleone also questioned the amount of money spent on rain parkas for the utility workers. General Manager Williams explained that the District was reimbursed by the insurance company with "Safety dollars."

Director Orth questioned the reimbursement to Richard White for boots.

iv. Planning

Brooktrails Lodge received Design Review approval from the District Architect for exterior changes to the buildings.

v. Possible upcoming agenda items

vi. Other

The Finance Committee agreed to meet next on May 30th.

J. PUBLIC COMMENTS

None

K. ADJOURNMENT

Director Orth moved to adjourn and President Whitney declared the meeting of May 9, 2000 closed at 12:00 midnight.

PAUL A. WILLIAMS

Secretary to the Board of Directors

BOB WHITNEY,

President