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HomeMy WebLinkAboutM081078August 10, 1978 RECONVENED: The Board reconvened at 8:00 a.m. pursuant to recessed meeting of August 8, 1978. Present: Supervisors Lemke, Moseley, Richter and Chairman Winstono Clif Mickelson,.lirrinistrative Officer; Dan Blackstock, County Counsel, and Clark A. Nelson, County Clerk, Margie Catt, Asst, Clerk of the Board. 78-1490 DISCUSSION OF COUNTY ASSUMING RESPONSIBILITY OF MAINTENANCE AREAS 5., 7, 13 and 15 Dan Blackstock, County Counsel, reported that in reviewing the law conceming the maintenance of Maintenance Areas 5, 7, 13 and 15, the Board had given assurance that the work would be maintained. The Board had requested that the State Board of Reclamation form these districts. He explained how the areas could be maintained. Mr. Blackstock said he did not see how the County would be in a position this year to maintain the levees with Public Works crews. Clif Mickelson, Administrative Officer, reported that there would only be 50°l0 of the monies available so Public Works would have to be able to do the work at z the cost of the State. He stated fhat Bob Middleton, State Reclamation Board, would be present at 9:00 aom. to report on this matter. Supervisor Richter felt that the Board should state that the County does not have the money to maintain the districts and that the State does have the money and that it is their responsibility to maintain the areas. Matter to be discussed when Mr. Middleton is present at 9:00 a.m. 78-1491 DISCUSSION OF FUNDING FOR STREET LIGHT MAINTENANCE DISTRICTS, COUNTY SERVICE AREAS FOR STREET LIGHTING, AND BALLOT MEASURE .,FOR [~dC-itfBASING MAXIMUM TAX RATE LIMITATIONS FOR COUNTY SERVICE AREAS 13 Mr. Mickelson explained this item. Have only 50% of the funds to maintain the districts. He set out alternatives to handle these districtso Should the County subvent the districts or let the lights run until January and then turn them off? Should an assessment be placed on each lot in the district for the maintenance of the lights? Determine if there is some way that these districts could be funded through an assessment. The Board requested that Mr. Mickelson go forward with the alternative of having assessment placed on each lot to maintain the lights. Safety lighting is paid by the County. Discussed a memo sent to the Board members. Supervisor Madigan had requested that a letter be written conceming "No man's land " in the Sacramento River. This is to be discussed at the August 14th meeting. Mr. Mickelson stated that a special letter had been sent to Supervisor Madigan's home advising him of this meeting and requesting that he address this meeting conceming this matter. Mr. Mickelson stated that Supervisor Madigan should be home today and he will call himo Hal McDonald, Public Works, stated that there would be a tour of the Sacramento River up to Red Bluff on August 16th. The Boarr] will ask Supervisor Madigan to make the tour on behalf of this County. 78-1492 APPROVE JANITORIAL CONTRACT Bids have been secured for the performance of janitorial services at 2243 and 2269 Del Oro Avenue with the low bidder being J and J Enterprises in the amount of $75 per month for the cleaning of both officeso The period of the contract is from July I through December 31, 1978. Page 151. August 10, 1978 On motion of Supervisor Richter, seconded by Supervisor Moseley and carried, bid for janitorial contract was awarded to J and J Enterprises in the amount of $75 per month. for the cleaning of offices at 2243 and 2269 Del Oro Avenue, to commence August I, 1978 and to run through December 31, 1978 and the Chairman was authorized to sign. 78-1493 REPORT ON COMPLAINT OF BEECHER B. GILBERT: DISCUSSION OF USE OF HERBICIDES Joe Bandy, Ag Commissioner, reported on the complaint of Beecher B, Gilbert. He sfafed he had sent the Board a memo setting out the result of the study of the complaint. This is the second year that the County has had a drift problem. Action has been taken against the pest control opecaitor for a violation. Studies of the matter is being made and samples have been taken and the problem is being investigated. Once the presence of a chemical is established, they try to determine the source. If it is found that a misuse has occurred, then action is taken. Investigation has not been completed this year. When that has been accomplished, then the appropriate action will be taken. Supervisor Richter stated he had received a call about the Victor Industries in Chico about a puilution problem. Victor Industries have stated they will close their operation down and this will put many people out of work, Mr. Bandy stated there have many complaints received about the odors and noxious fumes from the neighbors. Mro Bandy explained the matter of the operation of spraying herbicides in this County. They use the same herbicide in the orchards as on the rice. The Board asked Mr. Bandy if they would receive a report on the investigation on the area of Fortier and Mutfless properties. A report will be received. They are continuing to take samples and will make a study of the findings. They will be able to determine if there has been a mis-application of herbicides and if it has caused a problem. Aerial application of sprays explained. 78-1493 DISCUSSION: FILING FEE REFUNDS Requests for fi ing fee refunds have been received for the fol Irp,ving candidates for the office of Recorder: Nancy Lueder, $407.68; Betty Barrett, $35.68; and Sharon Meyer, $184.93. Discussed request. It was felt that if they filed for this office prior to the Board taking action to combine this office with that of the County Clerk, then the filing fee should be refunded. Board requested that a report be made back to them by Administrative Officer. 78-1493 PUBLIC WORKS ITEMS APPROVED On motion of Supervisor Richter, seconded by Supervisor Lemke and carried, the following action was taken: I. Approved agreement for sale, authorized the Chairman to sign and authorized the Auditor to issue warrant upon demand of County's escrow agent on the following: Skyway FAS 742(1) Baldwin Contracting Co., Inc. 1.77 acre $7,700 Impr. $400 Total $8,100 Page 152. August 10, 1978 2. Approved release of maintenance bond for Eden Pines Subdivision , Unit No. I-road and drainage improvements, and accept roads in subdivision for maintenance. ' 3. Approved Change Order No. I, Superior Caurt Building parking lot, Project No. PL-77-I, in the increasing amount of $516.30 which provides for additional grading to widen the parking lot if needed and authorized Chairman to sign, 4. Approved Change Order No. 2, "D "Elgin, Ft. Wayne Streets and Roseben Avenue (HUD), in the increasing amount of $2,455.53 which provides for . removing unsuitable material and 6ackfilling with suitable material and the Chairman was authorized to sign. 5. Accepted the work of Robinson Construction Co., Inc. for construction of a parking lot at the Superior Court Building in Oroville, authorized Chairman to sign the CL`iotice of Completion and authorized the Clerk to record said Notice with the County Recorder. 6. Accepted the work of Baldwin Contracting Co., Inc. for construction of curb, gutter, sidewalk, drainage and street facilities on "D "Street, Elgin Street and Ft. Wayne Street from Spencer Avenue to Fallbrook Avenue and Roseben Avenue from Ft. Wayne Street to Greenville Street, authorized Chairman to sign the Notice of Completion and authorized the Clerk to record said Notice with County Recorder, 78-1494 DISCUSSION OF ASSIGNMENT OF INTEREST-PARADISE STAGE Public Works requests that the Board approve assignment of Alan Dale's interest in the Paradise Stage to ICen Woodall as sole owner and operator as they apparently have split the partnership. It was asked if there would be any problems with the performance. Mr, McDonald reported that there have been several violations and Mr. Castleberry has written to Mr. Woodall to notify him to take care of these violations. Supervisor Richter asked County Counsel if there was any way the County could require a performance bond to be filed ;vSift~h would be forfeited if the operator does not perform. In the future he would like this to be made a part of the contract, Supervisor Richter wondered what affect this assignment of interest would have on the capabif ity of the company to do the required service. County Counsel will send the Board a written opinion on this matter. Action put over one week, 78-1495 DISCUSSION: COMPLETION OF PARADISE COUNTY BUILDING ADDITION Supervisor Lemke stated that#hey have pretty well completed the addition to the Paradise County building. He noticed that when the addition was put in, one of the ramps for the handicap had been taken out and another one leading into the court section was erected. In order for a handicapped person to get to the other offices, he now has to go through the Cour# section of the building. He requested that another ramp be placed at the area of the other officeso Administrative Officer to handle this. Page 153. August 10, 1978 ------------- August 10~ 19_78 ------------------ 496 PUBLIC WORKS CREWS AUTHORIZED TO DO STRIPING & PLACING OF PARKING BUMPER S AT SUPERIORCOURT PARKING LOT Hal McDonald, Public Works, reported that Public Works would like authorization for County crews to do the striping and placement of parking bumpers at the Superior Court parking lot. This would increase the change order about $4009 On motion of Supervisor Lemke, seconded by Supervisor Richter and carried, County crews were authorized to do the striping and placement of parking bumpers at the Superior Court parking lots, :b~C3foroc'ed:rc>~au, ¢fta~r~~st'rr}rsstdd 1~tamfa0:f 497 DISCUSSION: SPECIAL ELECTION -LOW INCOME HOUSING -SOUTH OROVILLE A resolution has been prepared calling a special election for the purpose of submitting a ballot measure regarding the. construction, development and acquisition of low income housing and ordering the consolidation of the election with the General Election to be held November 7. Dan Blackstock, County Counsel, reported on a telephone conversation he had with Red Melton, Mousing Authority, Resolution explained. Mr. Melton takes exemption to the wording in the resolution. Chairman Winston stated that Mr. Melton is upset about the matter. It was suggested that the Resolution should be modified and that there be two different ballot measures. Mr. Connerly and Mr. Melton will be requested #o appear next week at the Board meeting to discuss fhis matter. Supervisor Richter and Chairman Winston will meet with these two men to discuss this situation prior to next weeks meeting. Resolution placed back on the agenda for Tuesday, August 14ii, 1978 . -1 X98 DISCUSSION OF WATER CONTRACT Dan Blackstock, County Counsel, stated he had sent the Board members a letter pointing out areas that need the Board direction. Strategy as to unsold water entitlement explained. Mro Blackstock stated they have entered into discussion with Water Resources to try to come up with something so the County can retain its entitlement under the contract. The State has told the County they cannot sell this water. Mr. Blackstock stated that another meeting will be set up to further discuss this contract, The County needs to get some sort of answer so action can 6e taken. P.G. & E. has expressed an interest in purchasing the water. County Counsel was instructed to pursue the contacts with the State Legislature and come up with an answer. A Board member will be appointed to attend the meeting when it has been arranged. -199 DISCUSSION OF PROPOSED ADVISORY MEASURES FOR PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS IN CHICO: ADOPT RESOLUTION 78-135 Mr. Blackstock set ouf proposed language that had been suggested at a meeting between Supervisor Richter and Mayor Thorn of Chico. The proposed resolution has some blank figures that will have to be filled in; they will be filled in prior to being placed on the ballot. Supervisor Richter suggested that on the last line, after the word 'ride" it should state " so many dollars per ride, 'to be paid for by the tax payer ". He felt the people would then know what that meant. There is going to be a difference between the total cost of the ride and that which the rider will pay. The first figure would be "$1.40 ", second figure - " .25 "and the last figure would be "$1.15 ". Mr. Blackstock will contact the Mayor of Chico and determine if he agrees Page 154. August 10, 1978 __________.~_____Au~ostl0L1978_____.~____ ________ to the resolution wording. On motion of Supervisor Richter, seconded by Supervisor Lemke and carried, Resolution 78-135 placing the advisory measures for public transportation systems in Chico on the ballot in November was adopted and the Chairman authorized to sign. 78-1500 COMPLAINT PRESENTED BY SUPERVISOR RICHTER Supervisor Richter reported that yesterday an individual went into his store with petitions relating to the coal fired plant measure. He then proceeded to present a statement to his employees to the effect that Don Blake had told him that the Board had been making money on this coal fired plant project; that the Board was getting money under the table from P.G. & E. for this plant. Discussed; no action taken. 78-1501 APPROVE APPOINTMENT TO PINE CREIKK CEMETERY DISTRICT On motion of Supervisor Lemke, seconded by Supervisor Moseley and carried, the following were re-appointed to the Pine Creek Cemetery District: Wayne Yuhnke, Chico Elwin A. Roney Caleb Baker For terms of four years, commencing July I, 1978, 78-1502 APPROVE APPOINTMENT TO TWE BUTTE COUNTY COUNCIL FOR SENIOR CITIZENS On motion of Supervisor Moseley, seconded by Supervisor Lemke and carried, Chief Meyer, Palermo, was appointed a member of the Butte County Council for Senior Citizens. 78-15.03 APPOINTMENTS"PUT OVER ONE WEEK Appointments to the Housing and Community Development Advisory Committee and to the Human Services Advisory Commission were put over to Tuesday, August 15, 1978. 78-1504 REPORT ON LETTER FROM BUTTE GLENN FOUNDATION FOR MEDICAL CARE RE ESTABLISHING A HMO Letter from Butte ~~enn Foundation for Medical Care re establishing a HMO discussed. They are requesting a letter of support from this Board, Supervisor Lemke said he was opposed to the letter of support as it is a further step towards socialized medicine. It was moved by Supervisor Lemke and seconded by Supervisor Moseley that the Board not send a letter of support for funds to make a HMO study. AYES: Supervisors Lemke and Moseley NOES: Supervisor Richter and Chairman Winston ABSENT: Supervisor Madigan Motion fails. Matter to be placed back on Board agenda when Supervisor Madigan is present. Page 155. August 10, 1978 78-1505 REPORT ON LETTER FROM LES. H. COHEN AND ASSOCIATES CONCERNING BILL 3405-~KEENE Report on letter from Les H. Cohen and Associates concerning Assembly Bill 3405- Keene acknowledged. Mr. Mickelson stated this would have iroaffect on Butte County. No action needed. 78-1506 CONTINUATION OF DISCUSSION OF COUNTY ASSUMING RESPONSIBILITY OF MAINTENANCE AREAS 5, 7, 13 and 15 Mr. Middleton reported on the maintenance of Maintenance Areas 5, 7, !3 and 15. The Reclamation Board would support any County or District that would wish to take aver the maintenance areas. They would have to give assurance to the Reclamation Board that they would maintain the district at the same level as the Corp of Engineers demands. The State has a large overhead cost; the County could cut down a little of the cost. The County would assume liability if .they took over the areas. There would be liability during flood periods. It usually takes from five to six months for the State to tum over the maintenance to the County after the . request is received. At Phis time the funds come from property taxes to maintain the districts. Supervisor Lemke stated that some of these districts cross county lines. How would this be handfed ? Supervisor Richter stated that the County does not have any money to supply the maintenance.. He felt that These areas are the State's responsibility, has Chairman Winston set out the- problem the County/regarding these districts. The State will maintain the areas under the level of services provided .under Prop. 13. No action taken . RECESS: 9:35 RECONVENE: The Board reconvened at 9:47 a.mo Present: Supervisors Lemke, Moseley, Richter and Chairman Winston. Clif Mickelson, administrative dfficer; Dan Blackstock, county. counsel; William R, Lawrence, auditor; and Clark A. Nelson, county clerk by Cathy Pitts,.-assistant clerk to the Board. 78-1507 CONTINUED PUBLIC IiEARINC - FOR SPECIAL DISTRICTS - SB 154 The public hearing on funds for special districts was DISTRIBUTION OF STATE SURPLUS FUNDS. distribution of SB 154 state surplus held as continued. Appearing: Fire Districts 1. Richard Nystrom, E1 Medio Fire District. Mr. Nystrom stated that the district was appealing the decision of Mr. Lawrence regarding distribution by using accumulated outlay funds. The district would like to use a portion of the funds for building a larger station. This has been accumulating for the past 15 to 18 years for this purpose. The district has five engineso The present facility will only hold three engines. It is estimated that the building will cost an estimated $100,000. If the accumulated outlay fund is used there will be no means to raise the reserve back up to $100,000 for the building. The district feels these Page 156. August 10, (978 August 10, 1978 funds should not be used for the bail-out funds. Mr. Lawrence's letter stated that no contractual expenditures have been made. Clif Mickelson, administrative officer, stated that this is similar the the Chico Libxary funds. This is considered as reserve and not monies Set aside for expenditures. Bi11 Lawxe~ce, auditor, stated that committed funds refer to funds committed for capital outlay approved prior to June 6 by the governing body, The definition of committed has been int@rpreted as obligated in contractual nature that you cannot retrieve yourself. The funds that Mr. Nystrom is talking about are not the type of reserve that can be directly expended for capital outlay, They would have to be transferred from the reserve to fixed assets before they can be obligated. This has not occurred. Mr. Nystrom stated that the district purchased the property and asked that this be transferred from the reserve to fixed assets. This is part of the reserve. The minutes of the district reflect that the money was to be spent for the building, Mro Lawrence stated that this is a continuing resexve from the residual amount to go into the reserve as long as the district takes actions annually. He was not questioning the accrual of the money. These monies have been accumulated over the years without direct order for expenditure of the money. Dan Blackstock, county counsel, stated that the basic problem the Board is facing is the potential audit and claim cut by the State. In regard to the term committed, he would have to say that the way the language is used if the funds have been irrevocably committed to a project then the funds would not be considered reserve. For example, if an architect has been hired and there is a contract, the funds have been committed. The district has determined that they want to go ahead with the project but they have not put the project out to bid, 2. John Tolle, Paradise Fire Department. Mr, Tolle stated that the district had bought a piece of property. There was money in the reserve to pay off. The district decided to keep their reserve and pay the property off with a no interest payment. The district authorized a letter to the Auditor asking that $35,000 be taken out of the accumulated capital outlay ,and put into fixed assets. Mr. Lawxence felt that this was another matter. The property was not purchased under budgetary conditions. They acquired title to the land and made a loan over a four year period, The issue is an accomplished fact with an annual payment of $10,000. This is not shown. in their budget.- Without this shown in the budget the Auditor's office could not make payment. The districts have until September 30 to adjust their budgets. Mr. To11e stated that the district bought the property with the full knawledge of the Auditor and with help from Counselo This is a firm committment. The district realizes that they are going to have to keep a zero reserve. The district needs $10,000 for the payment and $6745 out of sales tax subventions. The district had planned to make a transfer out of the reserve for the payment and therefore did not put the item into their budget. Mro Lawrence stated that the district could increase their budget by $10,000 to show the payment required for the property. Page 157. August 10, 1978 August 10, 1978 3. Bill Spruance, Attorney representing Thermalito and Oroville Wyandotte Trrigaticn Districts. Mr. Spruance stated that he was here as a follow up on the letter received pointing out that the districts are providing fire service. These districts fall within the meaning of Section 16275 of the Government Code. This is part of SB 154. Tt appears that either no consideration was given or prioritizing was decided against. Supervisor Richter stated that the Board position agreed the benefits flow to the people who live in the area of the hydrants and that there could be a~.evy or charge for the maintenance of the hydrants. Mr. SpJ/ruance stated that the districts had levied a charge which up until now the fire districts had refused to pay. Mr. Lawrence stated that consideration was not given to the districts. The districts had a tax rate levied in 1977-78. 4, Hank Marsh, representing Gridley Ambulance Service. Mr. Marsh filed a number of petitions with the clerk relative to continuing service for the Gridley Ambulance Service. The Ambulance Service has an existing contract with the district created by the people. Tt has been shown that this is the only way the service can be provided. The people are willing to gay for this service. The district may fall within the fire district. One of the items addressed was the loss of paramedics and types of services provided by paramedics. Chairman Winston stated that the Board is looking at a deficit of $1,200,000 in the fire district budgets. The estimated amount of SB 154 funds would be $385,800 leaving same $180,000 for the other districts. Mr. Lawrence stated that the Board has used sales tax in the past to subvent the fire districts. Tf the Board were to use sales tax it would reduce the amount of 5B 154 funds given to the €ire districts and increase the amount to the other districts. There is another fund in the State gool that provides for making money available for payment of debts, SB 2246 would provide additional money to districts that had unmet needs. Mr. Blackstock stated that the concept to maintain the same level of service does not mean they should receive the same amount of money. The amount of money and the amount of services do not necessarily coincide. Mr. Lawrence set out the difference between the operations of El Medio and Paradise k'ire Department. There may be a higher level of people manning each engine and some districts are using more volunteers. Mr, To11e spoke regarding Paradise fire protection. They are evaluated every ten years. The district provides Class 4 fire protection. The other areas of the county do not provide Class 4 fire protection. There is 18 square miles to be covered. The district made adjustments at the tap level of staffingo They have taken $60,000 out of the budget. The district determined that if they had to go to one-man engines they would close a station instead. RECESS: 10:47 a.m. RECONVENE: 10:55 a:~me Page I58. August 10, 1978 August 10, 1978 Administrative Officer to contact Bob Paulus, fire warden, to ask him to act as chairman to call a meeting of the fire chiefs from the fire districts and make a determination of the level of service offered. Mr. Lawrence stated that the list before the Board show projected figures. The districts are listed in priorities of their dependence on the ad valorm tax, The list considered their relationship as to their ability to dependence in the past on fees and services and status of fund balances. The figures are still not complete. Cemeterv Districts 1. Elwin Rooney, Pine Creek Cemetery District. Mr. Rowney stated that the district did now own a lawnmower or hoses. These were owned by private citizens. There is a charge for outside grave sites and a minimum:. charge for those within the district, The district can get by without the SB 154 funds. 2. Candice Grubbs, Oroville Cemetery District. Mrs. Grubbs stated that the matter of the SS 154 funds were discussed. The district feels they are financially solid and the district can get along without any funds. There is a carry over from last year, Tf the District does not receive any funds,, can the salaries be increased? Mr. Blackstock stated that he did not feel that the salaries are controlled by this. 3. Robert Thomas, Gridley-Biggs Cemetery District, Mr. Thomas stated that the district could raise the plot charges to operate the district. Cemetery Districts are capable of increasing fees and conducting business. Not to be considered in sharing any of SB 154 fees. Li~htinR Districts Lighting districts can make service charges against each parcel of property within the districtso The lighting districts to be excluded from consideration for SS 154 funds. Water Districts Water districts have capability of raising fees for services. Discussion of Magalia County Water District held at this time. This is slightly different. They have charges that have to be met from tax sources. They also have a debt. Water districts to be excluded from consideration for SB 154 funds. 1. Mr. Fisher, Lime Saddle Water District. Mr. Fisher stated that the district is not yet operational and they cannot levy fees. There is an indebtedness which is not voter approved. Some consideration should be given to the accumulated reserve. This is the only way to pay the loan payment. Mr. Lawrence stated that if the Board does not make an appropriation out of the subvention funds then the district will revert back to normal' statuso The reserves will be retained. Tf the districts do not get part of the 5B 154 funds they will retain their reserves. Page 159. August 10, 1978 August 10, 1978 Swimming Pools Put over at this time. Fire Hydrant districts Chico fire hydrant district to be excluded from SB 154 funds. Cemetery Districts Mr. Lawrence stated that his office has been recommending that the cemetery districts start creating permanent care endowment fundso Drainage Districts It was felt that if the districts could charge service fees they should be excluded from SB 154 fundso Dan Blackstock to make written report to the Board next week regarding legality of districts charging service fees. Maintenance Areas Mr. Lawrence reported that the counties are responsible for' maintenance of the:7eroe:, by contracting. As long as the counties are responsible for maintenace of the levees, they have to be maintained to federal standards. There could be assessments based on other than ad valorm tax. Possibly the county could do the maintenance themselves and not have to contract out the work. Mr, Lawrence felt the Board would have to consider maintenance areas as being eligible for a portion of the money unless it was overrides by some service with priority, The total maintenance areas have been reflected for Maintenance Areas 7 and 15. These have zones of benefit. There are several zones that overlap. They fall into the multi-county district funds and would have to be reduced by the amount received from those funds. The Reclamation Board has a revolving fund to operate all of the maintenance areas. The Controller's Office will audit and if the districts have not given their fair share in compliance with the statutes there could be a disallowance that would be a charge back against the county, Matter left open to be discussed at a later time. 78-1508 CANCEL HEARING DATE SET FOR AUGUST 22, 1978 AT 10:30 A.M. RE: STEPHEN R, WHITE AND MARVIN TURNER APPEAL OF CONDITION ~~1 ItE: FIRE HYDRANTS ON USE PERMIT TO ALLOW A VETERINARY HOSPITAL ON PROPERTY ZONED "C-2" (GENERAL COMMERCIAL) LOCATED ON THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF MANGROVE AVE. AND' 9TH AVE „ IDENTIFIED AS AP 45-035-3, 4 & 7, CHICO - On motion of Supervisor Lemke, seconded by Supervisor Richter and carried, the public hearing date of August 22, 197$ at 10:30 a.m. regarding Marvin Turner and Stephen R. White appeal of condition 4k1 regarding fire hydrants on use permit to allow a veterinary hospital on property zoned "C-2" {general commercial) located on the northeast corner of Mangrove Ave, and 9th Ave., identified as AP 45-035-3, 4 & 7, Chico was cancelled. 78-1509 CONTINCiED PUBLIC HEARING - DISTRIBUTION OF STATE SURPLUS FUNDS FOR SPECIAL DISTRICTS - SB 154 The public hearing on distribution of state surplus funds for special district, SB 154 was held as continued, Mosquito Abatement Districts 1. Dr. William Hazeltine, Butte County Mosquito Abatement District. Dr. Hazeltine stated that the Board adopted a position that they will operate at 70% of the full effort level. There has been attrition of Page 160. August 10, 1978 August 10, 1978 people leaving. The^district feels that they can operate until July or August of next year. If the Board decided a higher level of service is necessary then the district would require mare funds. 2, Barbara Shaffer, Oroville Mosquito Abatement Districto Mrs. Shaffer stated that the district's budget is very small. She asked the Board°s indulgence to come back on Monday to let them know how the district stands. County Service Area ~~37, Gridley-Bi~~s Ambulance This matter was discussed earlier in the meeting. Recreation Districts 1. Jerry Hughes',. Chico Area Recreation and Park District. Mr, Hugheststated that the projection figures would show that CARD has a $124,000 surplus. The projections indicated that CARD would receive about $200,000. The increased proposed fees would be about $150,000 over last year of $130,000. This would project about $240,000 to $260,000. Mr. Hughes asked how correct the figures were. Mr. Lawrence set out the method fox calculating the figures. The Auditor's Office took the prorata share at the $4 tax rate and applied this to the 1977-78 roll. Plumas County had an increase of 16% over the 1977-78 figures after adjustments were made. The unsecured tax rate was done at the $4 rate. The final figures will have to wait until the assessment roll is out. There will be a great many adjustments to be made. 2. Sonny Brandt, Feather River Recreation and Park District. Mr. Brandt stated that he was surprised to see the figures that show on the sheet. He hoped that the district realized the figures. Feather River Recreation and Park District is similar c; to the position of CARD by elimination of the reserves and cutting captial outlay and increasing charges this will not be a critical year, The problems will be down the road. 3. Terry Ashe, Paradise Recreation and Paxk District. Mr, Ashe stated that the figures did not come as a surprise to him. They are looking at about 30% shortfall as this shows on $155,OOO,based on last year's budget. The districts hopes there will be some way to assist them in the state money available. The district approved a new fee schedule which is an increase of about 100%. The increase is about the same in all districts. There is a different kind of area in Paradise. Supervisor Richter felt that Paradise Recreation and Park District should show the Board they have less capability to generate funds than the other districts. Mr. Ashe stated that the capabilities of the other recreation districts to raise revenue was greater than for Paradise. They have more facilities. Mr. Brandt felt that the biggest difference would be in the types of facilities. The rates are similar. Supervisor Richter would like to see a comparison between the three districts. 4. Judy Wagoner, Durham Recreation and Park District. Ms. Wagoner stated that $95,000 of their budget is for notes and interest payments. Page 161. August 10, 1978 August 10, 1978 The district has a swimming pool and charge for the Durham Park. The total budget is $183,000. The loan is a ten-year loan. The district is three years into the loan. The district cannot get an extension on the loan,~_There is an agreement between the school district and the recreation and park district for use of the pool. The recreation and park district have first rights and the school district has second rights to the pool, The recreation and park district's office is located in the school building with no rent being char?ged:;~ 78-1510 DISCUSSION: PROPOSAL ON ANIMAL CONTROL CONTRACT Supervisor Richter stated that the proposal before the Board on animal control is an agreement for collecting all of the fees and a set amount per month. Supervisor Richter favored the concept of the proposal. Clif Nickelson, administrative officer, stated that the resgonsibility for collecting the fees could not be turned over to Mrs, Coleman. The Board could authorize gaying the fees collected to Mrs. Coleman less the administrative charges for collecting said fees. ban Blackstock, county counsel, stated the Board had no authority under the codes whereby the county can contract away their licensing authorityo RECESS: 12:27 p.m. RECONVENE: '1;45 p.m. ABSENT: Supervisor Richter 78-1511 DISCUSSION: CONTRACT PROPOSAL ON ANIMAL CONTROL Clif Nickelson, administrative officer, set out the research done on the proposed contract for animal control in the county. Mrs. Coleman has run operations in the San Diego area for the cities and not the counties. He is satisfied with the operation she runs. There was a conflict with one organization looking to expand the sphere of influence. Otherwise, there were no adverse counaents. Some people did not think she had as plush a dog pound. The Administrative Office had some concerns as to efforts to co~7-eet~ dog revenue. The proposal originally would have given her the fees from dog licensing. There is a negotiated agreement that states the funds reflected this year the county would keep. There was a question of dog bite reports. Mrs. Coleman has said that she would follow these up. There is a problem as to whether she could collect the county's fees. There would have to be an agreement to collect the fees and deduct the administrative costs and pay her the difference. Mrs. Joan Coleman was present to discuss the proposal. She is the executive director of the San Gabriel Humane Society and the Superior California Humane Society. Her organization services over 200 square miles and 850,000 people. She set out the length of time her organizaC~ons have had contracts. The dog pound was built in 1922 and is in good repair, -She presented an alternative contract proposal to the Board at this time. The county would be allowed to collect the license fees and keep them. She would charge a flat fee of $12,500 per month. .She would take over the entire pound operation and also would :!.include large animals. She commutes about every three weeks to check on her operations in Sauther[x California. She will relocate wild-:- animals and pursue ar. humane program in Butte County. Mrs. Coleman stated that she would like a lease on the 194 acres on the Clark Road dump site. Most is unusable ground. Mrs. Coleman stated that if the employees come up to her standards she will be happy to absorb. them in her operation, Mrs. Coleman presented copies of letters from the Butte County Humane Society and the City of Biggs. Administrative Officer to hold meeting with the City of Oroville and Chico. Page 162. August 10, 1978 August 10, 1978 The matter is continued to August 14, 1978 at 1:00 p.m. 781512 DISCUSSION: HICKS yS ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS CASE Dan Blaekstock, county counsel, set out the background of the Hicks vs Orange County Board of Supervisors case. The Orange County " Board of Supervisors decided to transfer the investigative functions out of the District Attorney's Office and into the Sheriff`s Office. The decision is based upon whether the Board could transfer the investigative functions of the District Attorney to the Sheriff. The court held no they could not. This was a District Court of Appeals decision. The court looked into what was in fact transpiring, This case would not apply to what your Board is involved in now. The case is not concerned with the situation where the District Attorney is left without adequate investigative staff. Government Code section 2901 says that where the District Attorney has to go out and incur expenses that this is a county charge, It must be paid for. Government Code section 25303 which was amended last year, relating to all county offices provided that the Board shall not obstruct investigations. There is nothing on the budgetary limits of the Sheriff and District Attorney. He did not believe the Hicks case would be applicable to the situation unless the Board got into a discussion relative to whether the Board were trying to eliminate the ability of the District Attorney to investigate a particular type of crime or a motion was made on that basis. Supervisor Lemke stated that last week when Mr. Leach was before the Board he was asked in light of the dissolution of the land fraud unit would he be required to investigate. He said yes. As part of the District Attorney's functions he would be doing this, This would not preclude the District Attorney from investigating land fraud cases. 78-1513 BUDGET SESSION Chairman ~inston~., stated that the Board had. received correspondence about the library. There is no intent of this Board to shut the libraries down. However, in view of what has transpired here in the last few weeks the Library is going to have to make a reduction in services. At the Board's request the Administrative Office prepared a budget adjustment for the Library, Jo Terry, librarian, stated that the letters said what the library service is. The fines could be raised to $.05. It is impassible to predict any additional income. She suggested the libraries have a fine free week and maybe the libraries could get back valuable material. She would like to initiate this as soon as possible. The fines have been $.02 per day. Many libraries have initiated a no fine system. The fines pay the utilities. Discussion of xenting the rooms at the library out held at this time, Mrs. Terry stated that Headquarters and Paradise are the only ones that have zooms. Most libraries use the meeting rooms for cultural and educational services. The county offices have been using these rooms almost exclusively. Mrs. Terry stated that the library would be losing at the. 21% cut level $200,000. The biggest loss is going to be new book stock, This has a 35% reduction. This brings the level of service down to what it was three years ago, The library can buy around 8,000 or 9,000 volumes. For several years the library has provided one new volume for every eleven people in populations. This reduction would bring the average down to eighteen people. The Library will be lasing the film circuit. She felt the Board should. reconsider this item. Feather Falls Library has been provided to the County gratus for 20 years. She would like to see this reinstated. There will be a reduction in the bookmobile Page 163. August 10, 1978 August 10, 1978 schedule. The operating expense for the bookmobile was about the same as the Gridley Branch Library. If the Board is going to close the small stations the bookmobile is important in filling in the gaps: This reduction would reduce the hours in Chico. The county is operating two branches in Chico. Mrs. Terry suggested that the Board add an additional $55,000 to her budget. C1if Nickelson, administrative officer, stated that he had received a call from Chico's attorney who was concerned about closure of the library in Chao. Any reduction in the budget less than 46% is going to cause the Board to subvent by general government. Mrs. Terry stated that she would like to see the California County Cooperative System be continued. She will be asking the Board to pass a resolution to rejoin the system. Funding from that sources is primarily from the Cooperative. There is a possibility of state funds. The Cooperative is funded by state and federal funds. Discussion of travel items Clif Nickelson, administrative afficer, stated that his office has be innundated by departments relative to tr~vela The code section makes it mandatory for the Board to fund for a group of department heads for conferences. The codes require the Board to pay for out of county travel to these conferenceso Nr. Nickelson presented several possible solutions; 1. The Board could say no out of county travel except that which is mandated. 2. Have all requests for out of county travel came before the Board. 3o Cut all out of county travel by 50% instead of 100%. Instruct _~department heads that they will stay within the budgets as there will be no transfers made. 4. The Board not reinstate all travel. 5. Allow out of county travel to be authorized by department heads. Nr. Nickelson stated that he recommended the 50°/ cut of travel. Discussion of department heads vehicles held at this time. No action taken. RECESS: The Board recessed at 3:15 p.m. to reconvene on Monday, August 14, 1978 at 1:00 p;m. to consider budget items. Page 164. August 10, 1978