Board Meeting Minutes

LIVERMORE AREA RECREATION AND PARK DISTRICT
4444 East Ave.
LIVERMORE, CALIFORNIA 94551-4931

BOARD OF DIRECTORS
REGULAR BOARD MEETING

Wednesday, April 13, 2005
7:00 p.m., Council Chambers
3575 Pacific Avenue
Livermore, California

MINUTES

LARPD BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: David Furst, Dale Turner, Maryalice Faltings, Steve Goodman, and Scott Kamena (5)

LARPD BOARD MEMBERS ABSENT: None

STAFF MEMBERS PRESENT: Tim Barry, Michael Kyle, Pat Kasberg, Rich Lange, Felix Errico, Barbara Kraybill and Mike Nicholson

CITY CONTRACT STAFF PRESENT: Eric Brown and Pamela Lung

1. CALL TO ORDER—ROLL CALL—PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

Meeting was called to order at 7:04 p.m. by Chair Furst, who led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance. Director Kamena was absent at the time of roll call, but arrived at 7:30 p.m.

2. PUBLIC FORUM

Chair Furst asked for public comment for any item not on the agenda. No public comment was received. Chair Furst closed public comment.

3. CONSENT AGENDA

3.1 Board Minutes

3.1.1 Regular meeting of March 9, 2005.

3.2 Communications:

3.2.1 A letter from Clarence L. Hoenig regarding the Pardee/Weyhauser Corporation initiative based housing tract in North Livermore.

3.2.2 A letter from Craig T. Taylor, President of the Tsunami Aquatics thanking LARPD for keeping the RLCC pool open through November 2005 for their swim meet.

3.2.3 A letter from Barbara and Joe Carlson praising Ranger Pat Sotelo for his excellent work for the District.

3.2.4 A letter from Mike Limbaugh, Awards Chairman of the California Association of Recreation and Park Districts informing LARPD that the District’s nominee Katrina Cruz (President of the Youth Commission) has been selected to receive the Outstanding Youth Award and the Community Gardens has been selected to receive the Outstanding Group Award for the CARPD 2005 Awards of Distinction Program.

3.2.5 A letter from Linda Jeffery Sailors, President, Livermore Art Association, regarding LARPD’s possible increase in facility rental fees.

3.3 General Manager’s Monthly Report (#57/9).

3.4 Payroll and Claims.

At the request of Director Turner, item 3.2.3 was removed from the Consent Agenda. Chair Furst opened public comment on the Consent Agenda. No public comment was received. Chair Furst closed public comment.

On a motion by Director Turner, seconded by Director Faltings, approved the Consent Agenda items, minus item 3.2.3, passing 4-0. Director Turner inquired if a response to the letter would be sent to Barbara and Joe Carlson and if Ranger Pat Sotelo has received a copy of the letter. General Manager Barry responded that a letter acknowledging receipt of the letter will be sent to Barbara and Joe Carlson and a copy of the letter was given to Pat Sotelo and a copy was also filed in his personnel file.

On a motion by Director Turner, seconded by Director Faltings, accepted item 3.2.3, the communication from Barbara and Joe Carlson, passing 4-0.

4. CONSENT AGENDA: RESOLUTIONS:

On a motion by Director Faltings, seconded by Director Turner, adopted and approved

Consent Agenda Resolutions by the following roll call vote:

AYES: Directors Faltings, Goodman, Turner, and Chair Furst (4)

NOES: None (0)

ABSENT: Director Kamena (1)

Resolutions Adopted:

4.1 Resolution No. 1951, a resolution opposing any further shift of Recreation and Park District funding.

5. BIDS AND PUBLIC HEARINGS: None

6. OLD BUSINESS: None

7. NEW BUSINESS:

7.1 APPLICANT FOR PERSONNEL COMMISSION

Director Faltings reported that the Personnel Committee met on March 30th and interviewed Michele Walker for a position on the District’s Personnel Commission. Based on her qualifications, experience, personal presentation, and interest in serving on the Commission, the Personnel Committee recommends appointment to a four year term.

On a motion by Director Faltings, seconded by Director Goodman, appointed Michele Walker to serve on the Personnel Commission, passing 4-0.

7.2 RECLASSIFICATION OF AN EMPLOYEE

Director Faltings reported that the Personnel Committee met and reviewed the reclassification of the Custodial Maintenance Worker to Senior Recreation Maintenance Technician. Additional duties have been assigned to Mike Davi, Custodial Maintenance Worker, because of the District’s need to provide quick service for HVAC issues and Mike’s skill level in the maintenance and repair involved in the HVAC systems has saved the District substantial funds by not requiring the hiring of contract services. Mr. Davi will be primarily assigned to the RLCC, requiring a broader spectrum of responsibilities for building maintenance including all HVAC maintenance and repair. These are skills expected of and included in the job description for the Senior Recreation Maintenance Technician. Director Faltings stated that the Personnel Committee recommends reclassification of the Custodial Maintenance Worker to Senior Recreation Maintenance Technician.

On a motion by Director Turner, seconded by Director Faltings, approved the reclassifications of Mike Davi from Custodial Maintenance Worker to the position of Senior Recreation Maintenance Technician, passing 4-0.

7.3 JOB DESCRIPTIONS FOR THE REGIONAL PARK UNIT

Director Faltings reported that the Personnel Committee met and reviewed the Regional Park Unit job descriptions. The current job descriptions for the positions of Park Ranger, Ranger/Naturalist, and Open Space Maintenance Technician need to be updated and a job description for the position of Park Ranger Aide needed to be developed. Director Faltings stated that it is the recommendation of the Personnel Committee to approve the proposed Regional Park job descriptions of Park Ranger, Ranger/Naturalist, Open Space Maintenance Technician I and II, and Park Ranger Aide.

On a motion by Director Faltings, seconded by Director Goodman, approved the Regional Park Unit job descriptions, passing 4-0.

7.4 FINAL ACCEPTANCE OF BRUNO CANZIANI PARK

General Manager Barry reported that the Board approved an agreement between the City of Livermore, LARPD and Signature Properties at their October 27th Board meeting, for dedication and partial acceptance of Bruno Canziani Park. In the agreement, the District accepted all aspects of the project except the turf area of the storm drain detention pond, which was to have a drainage system and new sod installed by the developer. This work has been completed, and the sod has achieved the minimum root depth for acceptance, and staff recommends approval.

On a motion by Director Turner, seconded by Director Goodman, approved the final acceptance of Bruno Canziani Park.

Resolution: On a motion by Director Turner, seconded by Director Goodman, adopted and approved Resolution No. 1952, a resolution approving the final acceptance of Bruno Canziani Park, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: Directors Goodman, Turner, Faltings, and Chair Furst (4)

NOES: None (0)

ABSENT: Director Kamena (1)

7.5 FACILITY RENTAL FEES AND FEES FOR YEAR ROUND RENTAL GROUPS

Community Center Director Lange reported that the rental fees need to be adjusted for Ravenswood Historic Site, Veterans Memorial Building, Carnegie Building and the Barn. The last time fees were adjusted was in 2001. Since that time the CPI has risen 9%. Staff recommends a 9% increase across the board, with the following exceptions:

Veterans Building: Increase the rental fee by 28% for use by non-profits with less than 150 people. Staff has determined that after adding the direct costs for a building attendant, facility clean-up, and building maintenance and operation, the rental fee is not covering costs.

The Barn: Increase the rental fee by $42% for non-profit groups ($175 per day to $250 per day), and 22% for residents ($420 per day to $515 per day). These increases are needed to cover additional staffing costs. In prior years LARPD has not provided a building attendant for Barn rentals. Over the past few years there has been an increase in missing chairs and tables, damage to restrooms, and frequent disagreements with renters regarding the clean-up condition. Most recently the Police Department has been called out and shut down two events for excessive noise. Staff feels these events and equipment can be better monitored by having an attendant on duty.

Community Center Director Lange also reported that staff recommends rental fee adjustments for year round rental groups (facilities other than RLCC) and adjustment of rental fees for Saturdays at Robert Livermore Community Center. Saturdays are the most popular day for rentals of the Cresta Blanca, Larkspur and Palo Verde rooms in the RLCC. Staff recommends increasing Saturday rental fees by 25%, and feels the market will support this increase.

Director Turner referred to the letter sent by Linda Jeffery Sailors, President of the Livermore Art Association, stating that the Art Association members are in agreement with the fee increase for the Carnegie Building but feels the proposed fee increase for the Barn is not appropriate for their non-profit group because a) the entry and bathrooms are not ADA complaint; b) their group, for the past three years, have voluntarily repaired and painted the walls contributing to the maintenance and upkeep of the facility which benefits all rental groups; and c) they have never violated the rules by causing excess noise or leaving trash. Director Turner requested that General Manager Barry send a letter to Ms. Sailors addressing the concerns of the Art Association.

General Manager Barry stated that the City of Livermore is currently working on plans to upgrade the access points and restrooms at the Barn making them ADA compliant and will inform Ms. Sailor by letter.

General Manager Barry stated that he would like to address the Ravenswood Master Plan that talks about converting the Main House into a museum. Functions would continue to be conducted outdoors and the kitchen could still be used. He will present this to the Facilities Committee and come back to the Board for a decision on when would be the right time to convert the Main House into a museum rather than functionary.

Chair Furst opened public comment. No public comment was received. Chair Furst closed public comment.

Resolution

On a motion by Director Faltings, seconded by Director Turner, approved Resolution 1953, a resolution adjusting Facility Rental Fees and Fees for Year Round Rental Groups by the following roll call vote:

AYES: Directors Turner, Faltings, Goodman, and Chair Furst (4)

NOES: None (0)

ABSENT: Director Kamena (1)

7.7 R. E. MERRITT BUILDING AND THE BOTHWELL RECREATION CENTER

General Manager Barry stated that staff met with Joan Seppula and other members of the Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center and discussed the results of recent city inspections of the Bothwell building as they relate to proposed plans LVPAC had for modifying the facility for its needs. Ms. Seppula indicated that LVPAC is interested in leasing the facility and will accommodate the scheduling of LARPD preschool classes and the teen dances. LVPAC would like to move in by August 2005. Staff has begun the process of formulating a draft lease agreement for review by the Facilities Committee at their May meeting.

General Manager Barry stated that due to preparations in moving the District Office to the new Community Center, staff has not made progress in determining the re-use of the R. E. Merritt Building and Little House. Director Turner recommended engaging a property manager to market the property. Director Goodman recommended having a home inspection done on Little House to determine its condition. It was the consensus of the Board that it is in the best interest of the District to renovate Little House to a residence and sell it to provide money for other capital development projects.

Director Faltings stated if it becomes necessary to move the Friendship Center the Merritt Building could be a consideration.

Director Kamena asked if the $1,000 per month rent for the Bothwell Center would cover maintenance costs. General Manager Barry stated that LARPD would be responsible for major repairs and the tenant would be responsible for minor repairs and custodial.

General Manager Barry will prepare a staff recommendation for the Facilities Committee in May and come back to the Board with a recommendation in June.

7.8 STATUS OF THE FOUR PARKS IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT

General Manager Barry reported that staff and Legal Counsel Kyle met with representatives of the bond counsel of the contractor’s firm for J. W. Riley and Sons, the contractor engaged by the District to construct improvements at Ravenswood Park, Summit Park, Livermore Downs Park and Vista Meadows Park. The meeting was held at the contractor’s bond representative’s request to offer assistance, at the contractor’s cost, to finish the projects in a timely manner. Legal Counsel Kyle stated he would like the opportunity to verify the information provided, including examples of their services provided to other public entities with similar situations and make a recommendation to the Board at the Special Board meeting on April 27th.

The Board unanimously agreed to authorize staff and Legal Counsel to analyze the information and references and determine actions in the best interests of the District to finish these projects while still reserving the District’s rights.

8. RESOLUTIONS:

8.1 RESOLUTION NO. 1955, NOMINATING DIRECTOR FALTINGS AS PRESIDENT-ELECT OF THE CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF RECREATION AND PARK DISTRICTS.

On a motion by Director Turner, seconded by Director Kamena, adopted and approved Resolution No. 1955, a resolution nominating and supporting the nomination of Maryalice Summers Faltings as President-Elect of the California Association of Recreation and Park Districts Board of Directors, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: Directors Goodman, Turner, Faltings, Kamena and Chair Furst (5)

NOES: None (0)

ABSENT: None (0)

9. ORAL REPORTS

a. General Manager Barry reported that the RLCC Grand Opening was a great success. The public response has been wonderful. The HVAC is still being worked on and the contractor continues to work toward completing the punch.

10. COMMITTEE REPORTS

Board received reports on the nine committee meetings attended since the Regular Board meeting of March 9, 2005, as follows: Facilities, Program, Personnel, Sports Park, Alameda County Special District Association, Downtown, Inc., ESS Parent Advisory Commission, LCAC, and Scottish Games.

11. MATTERS INITIATED BY THE DIRECTORS

a. Director Goodman recommended more media exposure for the RLCC and commended staff for their extra work.

b. Director Turner would like the Board meetings held at the RLCC.

c. Director Turner would like Legal Counsel to attend all Board meetings.

d. Director Faltings would like a copy of the fees for swim passes.

e. Director Faltings would like staff to investigate printing news releases in other languages to cover the diverse ethnicity of the community.

f. Director Kamena would also like to have the Board meeting held at the RLCC.

General Manager Barry stated he will arrange to have the Board meetings held at the RLCC beginning with the May 11th regular meeting.

g. Chair Furst would like an update from staff regarding the coordination with Zone 7 regarding the Sycamore Grove Recovery Program Phase II Scope.

h. Chair Furst would like to know the status of the letter sent to property owners to have trail connectors.

12. MATTERS INITIATED BY THE GENERAL MANAGER: None

13. EXECUTIVE SESSION: Meeting convened to Executive Session at 8:20 p.m.

14. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION: Meeting reconvened to Open Session at 9:00 p.m.

15. REPORT OF ACTION TAKEN IN EXECUTIVE SESSION:

Chair Furst announced that no action was taken in the Executive Session.

16. ADJOURNMENT:

Meeting adjourned at 9:01 p.m.

APPROVED:

_____________________________________

Chair, Board of Directors

ATTEST:

______________________________________

General Manager and ex-officio

Clerk to the Board of Directors

Livermore Area Recreation and Park District
4444 East Ave.
Livermore, California 94550-5053
(925) 373-5700
Open 8 a.m.-6 p.m. M-Th.
8 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday
9 a.m.-noon Saturday
E-mail: info@larpd.dst.ca.us
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