Friday, March 16, 2012

March 1, 2012 Outreach Committee minutes

Public Outreach Meeting
Ironhouse Sanitary District
March 1, 2012

A. Public Comments
None.

B. Planning for future and ongoing District Public Outreach efforts

1. Continuation on FOG campaign and where to go from here on the promotion
 Look into putting the FOG info on the City’s electronic board
 Begin promotion for the next Saturday drop-off day April 28
 Work with Delta Household Hazardous Waste on developing a satellite event to pick up all hazardous was waste (paint, batteries, etc.) at the ISD offices on a Saturday in the spring.
 See about adding a non-profit group to raise money at the event for e-waste pick-up as well. Look into sponsorship for the program from DHHW and the City of Oakley.
 Dates for consideration Memorial Day weekend May 26-28. Check with Central Sans and Delta Diablo Sanitation District about similar models.
 Clean Water Program: see about tapping into the funds provided through the Clean Water Program.

2. Delta Conservancy’s “Delta Grants Coalition”
a. Explained program, offering information such as what the program is about and how it might be useful for ISD.
b. Committee gave suggestions on current project ideas that might benefit from sponsorship including:
 Recycled water: Developing a program that can utilize the District’s Resource Recovery Facility.
 Utilizing energy sources like solar and wind power.
 Becoming a source of water for industrial use irrigation, and other areas such as vineyards.
 Becoming a source of water during times of drought conditions
 Check into Water District Recycled water 2020

3. Salt reduction program
 Establishing a program that will offer rebates to homeowners who trade their current salt generating water softeners to non-salt generating devices.
 Establishing an educational salt reduction campaign for both Oakley and Bethel Island.
 Establishing an education program on pollution prevention

4. PG&E check and how we want to promote it publically
 Work with Jenny to interview PG&E representative about the program and how it can be beneficial for the District.
 Check with board on how the money is to be spent. Ask that the money be used to reduce rates for ratepayers and reinvesting into other uses of energy including water, wind, solar.
 Develop a press release that can be sent to local newspapers about the program using key words such as example of ongoing efforts to keep your rates down, energy conservation and award-winning district. Give quote from PG&E about using ISD as an example of programs for other Districts.

5. Education Program
 Continue working with Joe on the Sewer in the Classroom and elementary program.
 Work with CCTV or other video programming service to complete a video tour of the Water Recycling Facility
 Develop a 3 minute video on the district with information on the district and the facility to place on website

Not on topic but also discussed for this program:
 was to begin finding out information on the Green Business Program and working to see if the District can become a member; develop a program to off awards to businesses for being good partners with ISD.
 Service awards for ISD: look into applying for awards through CASA, CWEA, etc. Get deadlines for awards, applications and packets together to discuss which to apply for.


6. April Newsletter
 Push PG&E to front page story
 Keep regular stories like SSMP, FOG, etc.
 Make sure emergency number is in place on front page. Add a story on reasons to call the office beyond business hours for an emergency and what questions to ask for help. What services the district provides to residents.
 Important dates to be placed on back cover in the mailing box.

7. Next meeting:
Special meeting for outreach set for March 15, 2012—9 a.m. for newsletter prep, awards and answers to various questions asked at March meeting.
Next regular meeting April 6, 2012—9 a.m.
Special April meeting April 19, 2012—9a.m. for Oakley Science Week prep.

Thursday, March 8, 2012

ISD Board Meeting December 6, 2011 Minutes

MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE
IRONHOUSE SANITARY DISTRICT

December 6, 2011

The Ironhouse Sanitary District (ISD) Board of Directors met in regular session on Tuesday, December 6, 2011.

The place of meeting was the Ironhouse Sanitary District office at 450 Walnut Meadows Drive, Oakley, California.

1. Call to Order
The meeting was called to order by President Michael Painter at 6:32 p.m.

At 6:32 p.m. the Board entered into Closed Session
2. Closed Session
Conference with District Counsel as authorized by Government code Section 54956.9(c) in regard to possible initiation of litigation.

3. Report of Action Taken in Closed Session
At 7:06 p.m., the Board reconvened from Closed Session to Open Session and President Painter, announced the Board unanimously directed staff to:
1. Hire a third party consultant to design the permanent repair for the HDPE pipe/expansion joints for Bethel Island Bridge forcemain pipe.
2. Have ISD attorney send a letter to Harrison Engineering requesting follow-up information.

4. Roll Call
Directors present: David Contreras, Doug Hardcastle, David Huerta, C. Lauritzen and Michael Painter

Directors absent: none

Staff/Consultants present: Tom Williams, General Manager
Dave Dal Porto, Reclamation, Levee and Ranch Superintendent
Jenny Skrel, District Engineer
Joe Mueller, Environmental/Process Compliance Manager
Susan Walde, District Secretary
Dominick Gardiner Maintenance Worker I
Michael Welty, Utonomy, Inc.
Fred Etzel, District Counsel

Interested Parties: Randy Pope, City of Oakley
Michael Kerns, ABA Energy Corporation
Debbie Bordeau, Oakley, CA

5. Presentation of 5 year Service Award – Dominick Gardiner
President Painter on behalf of the Board and staff thanked Mr. Gardiner for his dedication and hard work to the District on the Maintenance team.

6. Presentation of Proclamation honoring Debbie Bordeau – Teacher of the Year
Director Huerta presented a Proclamation honoring Debbie Bordeau, teacher at Oakley Elementary as the Contra Costa County Teacher of the Year.

7. Approval of the Agenda
M/S D. Huerta, D. Contreras and the Board voted to approve the agenda.

8. Approval of the Minutes of the September 6, 2011 Regular Meeting
Approval of the Minutes of the November 1, 2011 Regular Meeting
M/S D. Contreras, D. Hardcastle, with D. Huerta and M. Painter abstaining, voted to approve the minutes of the September 6, 2011 regular meeting of the Board.
M/S M. Painter, D. Huerta with C. Lauritzen abstaining, voted to approve the minutes of the November 1, 2011 regular meeting of the Board.

9. Public Comments – Communications from the public on subjects not on the agenda.
There were no comments from the public at this time.

10. CONSENT CALENDAR

A. Approval of Payment Order, Income/Expense Statement & Bank Balances.
B. Acceptance of Offer of Dedication from Discovery Builders for Tract Number 7655 – Amberwood 5/Between Live Oak & Empire (Res. No. 11-15)
Staff Report – M. Welty
Mr. Welty updated the Board that the Bank transfer form has been modified as suggested by ISD’s auditor, Mann, Urrutia & Nelson, to enhance internal control. Director Contreras asked if there could be a memo column added to the check disbursement report. Director Lauritzen asked if moving the accounting system to QuickBooks would help generate the reports requested by the Board. Mr. Welty stated that he could provide the information easily through QuickBooks.

M/S C. Lauritzen, D. Huerta and the Board voted unanimously to approve the consent calendar.

11. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

11A. CONSIDERATION OF PAYROLL SERVICES WITH ADP WORKFORCE. APPROXIMATE ANNUAL COST OF $4,837.25

Mr. Welty addressed the Board, with the recommendation of ISD’s auditor, proposing to change the current payroll system from an in-house operation to a contracted process with Automatic Data Processing, Inc. (ADP). He outlined the benefits to the District; total tax plus services, system efficiencies and system integrity and security. Staff’s recommendation is to approve the proposal by ADP and authorize ISD’s General Manager to execute the Major Accounts Agreement with ADP and other related ADP authorization forms. ADP’s annual fee estimate is $4, 837 based on 32 employees and 5 directors.
Director Lauritzen commented that his business uses ADP, believes the service to be state of the art, and highly recommends the District using their service.
M/S D. Contreras, C. Lauritzen and the Board voted unanimously to accept staff recommendation and accept the proposal by ADP authorizing the General Manager to execute the Major Accounts Agreement and other related ADP authorization forms. (B.O. 11-49)

11B. CONSIDERATION OF MODIFICATION OF ISD OIL AND GAS LEASE WITH ABA ENERGY (Res. No. 11-16)
Mr. Fred Etzel spoke to the Board regard the Modification of the ISD Oil and Gas Lease with ABA Energy. He gave a brief overview of the exiting lease and the existing wells on Jersey Island. The extension of the lease will extend the lease for three years and allow access to all the wells. He introduced Mr. Michael Kerns, Vice President of Land of ABA Energy Corp. Mr. Kerns is very pleased to be working with ISD.
Staff’s recommendation is to renew the proposed Modification of Oil and Gas Lease and the Partial Surrender of Oil and Gas Lease and recommends the Board approve Resolution No. 11-16 and Certification of Acceptance pertaining to the Partial Surrender of Oil and Gas Lease.
M/S D. Hardcastle, C. Lauritzen and the Board voted unanimously to approve the Modification of the ISD Oil and Gas Lease with ABA Energy, adopting Resolution No. 11-16 and Certification of Acceptance pertaining to the Partial Surrender of Oil and Gas Lease. (Res. No. 11-16)

11C. CONSIDERATION OF BAY AREA BIOSOLIDS RECYCLING FACILITY CONTRACT AMENDMENT.
Ms. Skrel spoke to the Board explaining that the cities of Santa Rosa and San Jose have expressed interest in joining the Bay Area Biosolids Recycling Facility coalition. Adding new members will add strength and economy to the group’s efforts. In order to add new members, a contract amendment needs to be processed. Staff’s recommendation to the Board is to approve the contract amendment and authorize the General Manager and District Council to sign the Bay Area Biosolids Recycling Facility Contract Amendment.
M/S D. Contreras, D. Hardcastle and the Board voted unanimously to approve the Contract Amendment and Authorize the General Manger and District Council to sign the Bay Area Biosolids Recycling Facility contract Amendment (B.O. 11-50)

11D. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVING THE WESTSIDE BRIDGEHEAD ROAD ANNEXATION. (Res. No. 11-17)
Ms. Skrel spoke to the Board regarding approving the Westside Bridgehead Road Annexation to include three properties in the area. These properties were not included when the DuPont property was annexed. Staff recommends the Board approve the Notice of Exemption, allowing the General Manager to sign the Notice of Exemption.
M/S D. Hardcastle, C. Lauritzen and the Board voted unanimously to approve the Notice of Exemption, authorized the General Manager to sign the Notice of Exemption directed the District Secretary to file the proper Notice with the County, and directed staff to submit the necessary application for the Annexation. (B.O. 11-51)



11E. CONSIDERATION OF PURCHASE OF SHARP BUSINESS SYSTEMS COPY MACHINE TO SUPPORT NEEDS OF NEW TREATMENT PLANT REPORTING REQUIREMENTS, COST OF NEW MACHINE NOT TO EXCEED $9,700.
Mr. Williams reported that he was approached by staff with a need for a copy machine/printer for the new Water Recycling Facility due to the lab reports and related documents they need to prepare on a regular basis. Mrs. Walde worked with Sharp, (our existing copier company) to negotiate a contract for a new machine for the office and move the existing machine to the new recycling facility. The funds would be distributed from a combination of expansion funds (approx. $6,200) and operating funds for office equipment (approx. $3,500). Staff’s recommendation is to approve the purchase proposal for a new copy machine for an amount not to exceed $9,700 and authorize the General to sign the purchase contract.
M/S D. Contreras, D. Huerta and the Board voted unanimously to approve the purchase of a new copy machine from Sharp Business Systems for an amount not to exceed $9,700., authorizing the General Manger to approve the contract.

11F. CONSIDERATION OF ATTENDANCE AT CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF SANITATION AGENCIES MID YEAR CONFERENCE (January 18-20, 2012)
Mr. Williams reported that he and Ms. Skrel will be putting together a power point presentation for their presentation on the Technological Innovation and Achievement Award ISD received. Mr. Williams asked the Board to please contact Mrs. Walde if they are interested in attending the conference.

12. Staff Reports

President Painter thanked all staff for their written staff reports. He explained it helps keep the Board informed and give them the opportunity to follow-up with staff and managers.

Director Contreras commended Dave Smith on the letter sent to property owners on the collection system repair. He asked about investigation as to who did the damage and would like staff to follow-up on the Underground Service Alert (USA) tickets, and the City/County for patch and repair to further track how the damage may have occurred, and by which agency.

Joe Mueller – Mr. Mueller reported that all staff at the treatment plant now have ipads to monitor the SCADA system. He is working on revamping the on-call system. Staff are able to see the security cameras and are fine tuning with Scheer security. Mr. Mueller gave a report on the security of the laptops with individual logins, multiple password protected layers, and tracking of individual operator adjustments.

Fred Etzel – Mr. Etzel had no further report at this time.

Jenny Skrel – Ms. Skrel reported that she met with PG&E regarding the incentive program set up during initial design of the plant. They came out to complete an evaluation of the installed equipment and possible incentives and we may be close to a $200,000 rebate. The current monthly charge is approximately $60,000 and does not include a couple pieces of equipment. Ms. Skrel anticipates the monthly charge after all equipment is online will be approximately $70,000.

Susan Walde – Mrs. Walde reported the Christmas dinner will be held on December 11th at 4:00 p.m. with approximately 65 people planning to attend. She also reported that the Board and staff managers will need to participate in ethics training during 2012.

Tom Williams - Mr. Williams reported on Reclamation District 830-Jersey Island, and how they have received approval of $2.3 million for levee work, and approval of their proposed “scope of work”. The approved scope of work will allow as much as 90% of the grant money to be advanced to the District in the near future. Construction work under this agreement should begin in the late spring of 2012. On November 30th RD 830 submitted a grant application to DWR proposing to coordinate the bulk purchase of mitigation credits, through Westervelt Ecological Services, in support of the Delta Levees Program. In return, RD 830 receives money to manage the grant over the next 4 years, which can be used to satisfy its own mitigation needs. He also reported he is still working on the $8.2 million budget for the Marsh Creek Enhancement Project grant. The enhancement project will purchase approximate 600,000 cubic yards of fill material from ISD for approximately $2.5 million. Mr. Williams will give an updated presentation to the Board in January 2012.
Mr. Williams reported he has been working with Jenny on the RD 830 pump station relocation. He attended the CC Economic Development Trade Conference with Director Hardcastle which was very interesting. He attended the CC Water Shed Symposium in Antioch with President Painter. He also reported on the opening day of Pheasant Season; approximately 40 passes written on opening day. The hunters with dogs were the most successful.
He reported that he facilitated the General Manager’s roundtable at ISD last Monday with 15 Managers attended and 9 or 10 were able to tour the new facility.
The grease collecting event day was very successful and staff were able to collect 140 gallons. There are plans to hold another event.
The strategic plan review by the Board will be delayed until sometime in January due Mr. Williams having to focus on the multiple grant applications for RD 830.
Mr. Etzel and Mr. Dave Dal Porto are working with Nate Hershey on the removal of the tanks at Jersey Island. They are waiting until the spring/summer of 2012 when the weather, groundwater and tidal conditions are better.

13. Board Member Advisory Reports

Director Contreras –Director Contreras reported on behalf of the Public Outreach Committee. They had 20 vehicles at the grease recycling event, taking in 140 gallons, which filled ½ of the container. The committee received good comments and another event is scheduled for January 7th.
The photos of the Grand Opening are up on the website, KTV News has published the event, an article was published in the ISD newsletter and also articles in the paper. The committee has been working on proposed changes to the website; less text, more graphics and more accessibility. The newsletter has been sent to CASA to be uploaded on the CASA website. It was suggested we continue to provide links to maps and graphics.

Director Hardcastle – Director Hardcastle reported he attended the East County Water Management Board meeting. They are raising the dam at Los Vaqueros and have information on their website.

Director Lauritzen – Director Lauritzen reported there is a Delta Stewardship Council meeting on Thursday at 5:30 pm and it should be a full house. He reported on the salmon population and the report of the striper bass with possibly increasing limits to protect the salmon. He reported on a fairly new invasive species of plant; the sponge plant looks like a water hyacinth and is just as prolific. There are no funds to control the weed problems in the Delta.

President Painter – President Painter reported on the Delta Science Center – Supervisor Mary Piepho had five counties of supervisors on a tour with a stop at the Delta Science Center. Mr. Williams gave a presentation on the Water Recycling Plant. President Painter reported on the building; the walls are up and the windows are in. The center is progressing along.

President Painter extended a thank you to City Council member Randy Pope for attending our meetings.

14. Adjournment

President Painter adjourned the regular meeting at 9:20 p.m. until Tuesday, January 3, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. for the next regular meeting in the Ironhouse Sanitary District offices at 450 Walnut Meadows Drive, Oakley, California.

ISD Board Meeting February 7, 2012 Minutes

MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE
IRONHOUSE SANITARY DISTRICT

February 7, 2012

The Ironhouse Sanitary District (ISD) Board of Directors met in regular session on Tuesday, February 6, 2012.

The place of meeting was the Ironhouse Sanitary District office at 450 Walnut Meadows Drive, Oakley, California.

1. Call to Order
The meeting was called to order by President Doug Hardcastle at 7:00 p.m.

Roll Call
Directors present: David Contreras, Doug Hardcastle, David Huerta, C. Lauritzen and Michael Painter

Directors absent: none

Staff/Consultants present: Tom Williams, General Manager
Jenny Skrel, District Engineer
Dave Smith, Maintenance Superintendent
Susan Walde, District Secretary
Michael Welty, Utonomy, Inc.
Bob Henn, District Counsel
Brian Connelly, Maintenance Worker II
Roni Gehlke, RandG Promotions

Interested Parties: Monica, Dylan and Gavin Connelly
Andrea Schumer, PG&E
Michael McGill, Central Contra Costa Sanitary District

2. Presentation of Awards
10 Year Service Award – Brian Connelly, Maintenance Worker II
On behalf of the Board and staff President Hardcastle recognized and presented Mr. Connelly with a 10 year service award and thanked him for his hard work and dedication to the District.

3. Approval of the Agenda
Mr. Williams stated that Mr. McGill would be here closer to 7:30 and asked that Item 7B be tabled until his arrival. M/S M. Painter, D. Hardcastle and the Board voted to approve the agenda with the change of moving Item 7B.

4. Approval of the Minutes of the January 3, 2011 Regular Meeting

M/S D. Contreras, C. Lauritzen and the Board voted to approve the minutes of the January 3, 2012 regular meeting of the Board.


5. Public Comments – Communications from the public on subjects not on the agenda.
There were no comments from the public.


6. CONSENT CALENDAR

A. Approval of Payment Order, Income/Expense Statement & Bank Balances.
Staff Report – M. Welty
Mr. Welty reported to the Board that the transition to ADP was successful and the transition went very smoothly. Mr. Welty gave an explanation of charges and account activity on licenses and permits to Director Huerta. The Board asked if staff is still considering transitioning to QuickBooks and Mr. Welty reported that staff is planning to make that transition as of July 1.

M/S C. Lauritzen, D. Huerta and the Board voted unanimously to approve the consent calendar.


7. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

7A. PRESENTATION OF CHECK BY PG&E FOR STATEWIDE SAVINGS BY DESIGN PROGRAM INCENTIVE FOR THE WATER RECYCLING FACILITY IN THE AMOUNT OF $280,199.


Ms. Skrel reviewed with the Board the incentive plan from PG&E for the new wastewater treatment plant. Ms. Skrel introduced Ms. Andrea Schumer the account manager for ISD. M.s Schumer presented the Board with a check in the amount of $280,199. She stated that the incentive was substantially higher than anticipated based on the higher energy saving for the efficient equipment installed at the new plant. She thanked Ms. Skrel for inviting her here to present the check and shed some light on ISD team’s success in creating the participation in PG% E. Saving by Design program, ISD successfully diverted 2,740,337 KWh per year and avoided 335.7 KW of peak energy demand. This equates to powering 424 homes for 1 year. The incentive amount from PG&E for implementing our recommended energy efficient measures is $280,199.

7C. CONSIDERATION OF DESIGNATED SIGNERS ON DEPOSITORIES, PUBLIC AGENCY RESOLUTION FUNDS TRANSFER ON ORAL INSTRUCTIONS, BANK DEPOSITOR AGREEMETN AND CONTRACT FOR D3EPOSIT OF MONIES.
Mr. Williams proposed to the Board to update the designated signers on the Bank account removing Board member Don Lew and adding member David Contreras and adding staff member Jennifer Skrel for an additional staff signer. M/S M. Painter, C. Lauritzen, and the Board voted unanimously to approve B. O. 12-03 updating signers on the Bank account to remove member Don Lew and add Board member D. Contreras and staff member Jennifer Skrel. (B.O. 12-03)


7D. REVIEW OF RENEWAL OF LICENSE AGREEMENT WITH M&G PARK MARINA, MARIO CASTRO, LICENSEE AND LICENSE AGREEMENT WITH THE LAST RESORT AND MARINA LLC, LICENSEE.
Mr. Williams stated that the annual renewal of the two license agreements for M&G Park Marina and The Last Resort are up for review. These agreements allow each owner to access their property and ISD to allow access to the ponds. Mr. Dave Smith reported that the right-of-way access area is clean and free of debris. M/S D. Contreras, C. Lauritzen and the Board voted unanimously to renew the License Agreements with M&G Park Marina and License Agreement with The last Resort. (B.O. 12-04)

7B. CONSIDERATION OF NOMINATION OF MICHAEL R. MCGILL FROM CENTRAL CONTRA COSTA SANITARY DISTRICT, AS NOMINEE FOR THE SEAT OF “COMMISSIONER” FOR THE CONTRA COSTA LOCAL AGENCY FORMATION COMMISSION (LAFCO), AND CONSIDERATION OF THE ISD VOTING A REPRESENTATIVE AND ALTERNATIVE FOR LAFCO VOTING. (Res. 12-01) (Res. 12-02)

Mr. Williams introduced Mr. Michael McGill of Central Contra Costa Sanitary District to the Board. Mr. McGill stated he has been here to see the new Recycled Water Facility and congratulated the Board on the new facility. Mr. McGill stated that he is here before the Board to solicit nomination for the seat of Special District’s Representative on LAFCO. He is a Central Contra Costa Sanitary District Board member and in support of recycled water. President Hardcastle thanked Mr. McGill for his support of ISD and continued support of Special Districts.
M/S D. Contreras, C. Lauritzen and the Board voted unanimously to nominate Mr. Michael McGill as a candidate for the LAFCO special district regular seat for the election to be held on April 16, 2012 and adopt Resolution No. 12-01.
M/S D. Hardcastle, C. Lauritzen and the Board voted unanimously to designate Doug Hardcastle, President of the Board, to represent the District and David Contreras, David Huerta, Chris Lauritzen and Michael Painter, members of the Board of this District, as alternates, and vote on its behalf at the Independent Special Districts Selection committee election for Special District Representatives to the Contra Costa county Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) on April 16, 2012 and adopt Resolution No. 12-02.

7E. CONSIDERATION TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 12-03 ACCEPTING ALL OF VOLUME 1 AND THE DISTRICTS PORTION OF THE VOLUME 2 WITHIN THE CONTRA COSTA COUNTY HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN. (Res. 12-03).
Mr. Dave Smith gave a brief overview of the Hazard Mitigation Planning for the Contra Costa County Operational Area. There are 39 planning partners involved in the program. The planning area for the hazard mitigation plan encompasses the contra Costa County Operational Area. The result of the organization efforts has been to produce a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the California Emergency Management Agency (CalEMA)-approved multi-agency, multi-hazard mitigation plan.
Mr. Smith recommended the Board adopt Resolution No. 12-03 accepting all of Volume 1 and the Districts portion of the Volume 2 within the contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan.
M/S D. Huerta, D. Contreras and the Board unanimously voted to Adopt Resolution No. 12-03 accepting all of Volume 1 and the District’s portion of Volume 2 within the Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan. Resolution No. 12-03.

7F. CONSIDERATION OF ADOPTING AMENDED DEFERRED COMPENSATION PLAN WITH THE HARTFORD. (Res. 12-04)
Mr. Williams review with the Board the Deferred Compensation Plan the District has with The Hartford. The Plan receives updates and changes in the law periodically and staff had District Council review the recent changes submitted to us by The Hartford. There will be no changes to the plan or to any participant’s contributions or benefits. Staff recommends the Board adopt the Resolution amending the Deferred Compensation Plan with the Hartford.
M/S M. Painter, C. Lauritzen and the Board voted unanimously to adopt the Resolution No. 12-04 adopting the amended Deferred Compensation Plan with The Hartford effective November 1, 2011. Resolution No. 12-04.

8. Staff Reports

Jenny Skrel – Ms. Skrel reported that Dave Dal Porto is in the process of locating a mobile home for the Caretaker on Jersey Island. The PG&E hook-ups are set up. She has been working on the Land Management and Bio-Solids Annual Report. She reported that the lab in the process of being finished. She hopes to have a list from staff of supplies to order to stock the lab.

Dave Smith – Mr. Smith gave a written staff report to the Board. He reviewed that all staff have been trained and certified in Blood borne Pathogens and CPR, AED, and First Aid for adults. Staff is moving forward on the demolition of the old plant. They have collected over $6,000. for recycled materials, and previously 21,000 for recycled wire. Staff has been installing impellor pumps that pass the rags on to the new plant.

Tom Williams - Mr. Williams reviewed his written staff report in detail with the Board. He reported that he has been working with Michael Welty to simplify the budget and its process reviewing some of the changes. He will have a revised report for Board review at the next meeting. Mr. Williams reviewed with the Board the RD830 Grants for the Dutch Slough Tidal Marsh Restoration project. He reported the project is moving forward with RD830 as the lead agency for the mitigation credits for the Delta Levee program. They are working with Westervelt Ecological Services and have amended the contract for $350,000 in administrative fees for purchasing the mitigation credits.
Mr. Williams reported he will be meeting with Brent Ives of BHI Management Consulting to work on the Strategic Plan this Thursday, February 9th.
Director Huerta asked where staff is on the Solar involvement and Mr. Williams reported that staff are working forward with a plan. They are working on getting estimates for a power purchase agreement which would include outright purchasing of solar equipment.

Bob Henn – Mr. Henn had no further report at this time.

9. Board Member Advisory Reports

President Hardcastle – Director Hardcastle reported he attended the City Council meeting and the City approved more units for housing.

Director Contreras –Director Contreras reported on behalf of the Public Outreach Committee which met on Monday February 6th. They are working on the forecast for the new budget, the date for science day, next month committee will be making new changes to the website, and reported there will be 3 issues of the newsletter; April, August and November. The committee is working on developing a school awareness program. Ms. Gehlke reported on behalf of the committee that the last grease collection included 300 gallons, which was mostly turkey fryer oil. They will be having a regular collection and inviting the public to come out and drop off grease during business hours. There will be an article in the newsletter and online.

Director Lauritzen – Director Lauritzen reported on the concerns of the water issues of the Delta. He reported that he wrote a letter supporting AB1540 which is being supported by Joan Buchanan. AB1540 will help fund needed support for the control of the south American Sponge Plant. He reported on the effort to lower the length of the striped bass to 12” and increase the minimum. The Bass have co-inhabited with the salmon since 1870.

10. Adjournment

President Hardcastle adjourned the regular meeting at 8:45 p.m. until Tuesday, March 67, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. for the next regular meeting in the Ironhouse Sanitary District offices at 450 Walnut Meadows Drive, Oakley, California.

ISD Board Meeting January 3, 2012 Minutes

MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE
IRONHOUSE SANITARY DISTRICT

January 3, 2012

The Ironhouse Sanitary District (ISD) Board of Directors met in regular session on Tuesday, January 3, 2012.

The place of meeting was the Ironhouse Sanitary District office at 450 Walnut Meadows Drive, Oakley, California.

1. Call to Order
The meeting was called to order by President Michael Painter at 7:03 p.m.

2. Roll Call
Directors present: David Contreras, Doug Hardcastle, David Huerta, C. Lauritzen and Michael Painter

Directors absent: none

Staff/Consultants present: Tom Williams, General Manager
Jenny Skrel, District Engineer
Susan Walde, District Secretary
Michael Welty, Utonomy, Inc.
Bob Henn, District Counsel

Interested Parties: None


3. Approval of the Agenda
M/S D. Huerta, D. Contreras and the Board voted to approve the agenda.


4. Approval of the Minutes of the December 6, 2011 Regular Meeting

M/S D. Contreras, C. Lauritzen and the Board voted to approve the minutes of the December 6, 2011 regular meeting of the Board.


5. Public Comments – Communications from the public on subjects not on the agenda.
There were no comments from the public.


6. CONSENT CALENDAR

A. Approval of Payment Order, Income/Expense Statement & Bank Balances.
Staff Report – M. Welty
Mr. Welty reported to the Board on the purchase of question at the last meeting. The purchase was for a RC72 rotary mower w/front wheel kit for use on J.I.
He also reported that the current accounting system cannot accommodate a memo column, but he reported that this could be provided easily through QuickBooks.

M/S C. Lauritzen, D. Hardcastle and the Board voted unanimously to approve the consent calendar.


7. BUSINESS BEFORE THE BOARD

7A. ANNUAL ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS TO ELECT A PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENT.

President Painter reviewed with the Board the ISD Board By-Laws Item 4.4 Annual Organizational Meeting. After review of the by-laws, President Painter called for nominations to elect a President and Vice President. Director Painter nominated Doug Hardcastle for President. Director Hardcastle nominated Chris Lauritzen for Vice Chairman. Hearing no other nominations, the nominations were closed.
The President called for a secret ballot vote, and the result of the voting was, Doug Hardcastle was voted to the position of President and Chris Lauritzen was voted to the position of Vice President.
Director Painter surrendered his gavel and position of President to Director Hardcastle.

7B. CONSIDERATION OF DEVELOPING AN ISD SCHOLARSHIP FUND.

Director Painter addressed the Board with the idea of developing a scholarship fund for graduating students of ISD employees. The concept of each director contributing a nominal amount and a committee to be appointed to review the application process. It was proposed that each director contribute $100 a year of their own funds to the scholarship fund. After much discussion on the possible form and structure of a scholarship program, Directors Painter and Huerta volunteered to form an ad hoc committee to review other scholarship programs and get back to the Board with their findings and recommendations.

7C. CONSIDERATION OF CALIFORNIA SPECIAL DISTRICTS ASSOCIATION (CSDA) MEMBERSHIP 2012. Membership amount $4,581.

Mr. Williams spoke to the Board regarding our local membership in the Contra Costa Chapter of the Special District Association (CCSDA) and the benefits of being a member of the state organization of California Special Districts Association (CSDA). The benefits to the District extend to Board and staff in training and classes and support of regulatory issues. Director Contreras stated he is very supportive of submitting membership and his past experience has been very positive with CSDA. Director Huerta stated he is in favor of obtaining membership in this State regulated organization.
M/S D. Huerta, D. Contreras and the Board voted to approve Ironhouse Sanitary District becoming a member the California Special Districts Association in an amount not to exceed $4,581.00 and authorize the general manager to submit the membership application. (B.O. 12-02)

7D. CONSIDERATION OF PRESENTATION BY GENERAL MANAGER TOM WILLIAMS REGARDING THE PROPOSED MARSH CREEK ENHANCEMENT PROJECT ON ISD PROPERTY.

Mr. Williams presented to the Board a proposal on the Marsh Creek Delta Restoration Project which included an updated budget as of 12/2011. The project is being proposed by RD830, which has applied for a State grant through the Department of Water Resources (DWR) Delta Levees Program to fully fund the approximately $9,000,000 project. RD 830’s proposal is to utilize approximately 100 acres of land owned by ISD adjacent to Marsh Creek to implement up to 90 acres of habitat restoration. The key component of the project is to excavate approximately 600,000 cubic yards (cyds) of fill material (dirt) from the ISD property on the west side of Marsh Creek and transport it to the east side of Marsh Creek to advance the Dutch Slough Tidal Marsh Restoration Project. In addition to the approximate 90 acres of restoration habitat Mr. Williams said the project would create on the ISD property, Mr. Williams indicated the project would also create between 100 and 200 acres of additional shallow water/tidal marsh habitat on the adjacent Dutch Slough site. Mr. Williams indicated another key component of the proposal is the purchase of the 600,000 cyds of ISD fill material, which as currently proposed would bring in approximately $2,500,000 for ISD. In the end, Mr. Williams indicated ISD would continue to own the 100 acres where the fill material will be excavated, and that the project will benefit the DWR Delta Levees Program, the environment, the ISD rate payer, and the community via additional preserved habitat as well as outdoor educational opportunities.
Mr. Williams indicated the idea for this project emerged in approximately 2005 in coordination with John Cain (then from the Natural Heritage Institute, now with American Rivers) and the Department of Water Resources. Both the Department of Water Resources and John Cain strongly supported ISD when ISD went for its NPDES permit hearing at the Regional Water Quality Control Board in Sacramento in April 2008. Mr. Williams said he believed ISD’s success in receiving its NPDES permit that day in 2008 was in equal part due to the support of DWR and John Cain, and that they supported ISD’s Water Recycling Facility project because they understood without an NPDES permit, ISD would not be able to consider providing the 600,000 cyds of fill material necessary to enhance the Dutch Slough project and the DWR levees program. Mr. Williams indicated if the proposed RD 830 grant and project is successful, ISD will be able to assist the Dutch Slough Project and Delta Levees Program, like DWR and John Cain assisted ISD in permitting its Water Recycling Facility project.
Mr. Williams indicated the RD 830 project is still a long way from success, and a lot of work and details still need to be hammered out but, he felt the grant application was getting to a point where it may soon be approved by DWR. Should DWR finalize the grant soon, RD 830 will need to shortly thereafter come to ISD to negotiate the necessary access, fill purchase and short and long term maintenance agreements. It was because of the RD 830 progress on DWR grant, and because of the recent addition of ISD Board member David Contreras (who had not yet formally heard about the proposed project), that Mr. Williams felt the time was right to discuss the latest details of the project with the ISD Board.
Mr. Williams asked for support of the Board going forward with the project. After much discussion the Board asked Mr. Williams to continue forward with the project and report back to the Board in the near future as to progress of the RD 830 grant.

8. Staff Reports

Bob Henn – Mr. Henn had no further report at this time.

Jenny Skrel – Ms. Skrel reported that the electrical power is complete by PG&E and has been supplied to the caregiver site on Jersey Island. Staff is waiting for the mobile housing to arrive for further electrical set-up. Ms. Skrel continued to report that she and the Operation’s staff are working with Western Water to complete the punch list on the new water recycling plant.
The annexation process for the three parcels along Bridgehead Road is moving forward and will be included on the agenda of LAFCO this coming month. She also reported that the testing for the quality of the effluent water is better than what was anticipated in the NPDES permit process.
Ms Skrel reported that she and Mr. Williams are working with Roni Gehlke from R&G Promotions on the CASA presentation and it is in the process of being finalized for presentation at the conference in Desert Springs on January 19, 2012.

Tom Williams - Mr. Williams reported on Reclamation District 830-Jersey Island, and how they have almost received approval of a $6 million grant from DWR, for RD 830 to serve as the lead agency for the bulk purchase of mitigation credits (in partnership with Westervelt Ecological Services).
He reported he attended a fund raiser for Mary Piepho. At that event he met a solar contractor, Jamie Duran of Solar Harmonics, who came and met with him and Jenny Skrel and toured our facility. He is working with staff on a preliminary layout for solar panels and implementing an alternative energy project for our facility to help reduce electrical costs for the new facility.
Mr. Williams reported he attended, along with Chris Lauritzen, the Antioch Rotary Club and gave a presentation on our new water recycling facility.

President Hardcastle thanked Mrs. Walde for her work in helping ISD have such a successful Christmas party.

9. Board Member Advisory Reports

Director Contreras –Director Contreras reported on behalf of the Public Outreach Committee. They will be meeting on Thursday, January 5. He also reported he attended the LAFCO meeting and received updates.

Director Lauritzen – Director Lauritzen reported he attended along with Director Huerta, the Delta Protection Commission meeting in Stockton on Thursday 12/8. Mr. Phil Isenberg, head of the Delta Stewardship Council addressed the meeting regarding the Delta Plan.

President Painter – President Painter reported on the Delta Science Center – Director Painter issued a calendar to each Board member from the Delta Science Center. They are issuing calendars to all schools and extending their outreach to include the areas of Rio Vista and Walnut Grove. DSC is issuing 7,500 calendars this year, up from 5,000 calendars issued in 2011.

Director Hardcastle – Director Hardcastle reported he attended the City Council meeting and attended the swearing in of the new Mayor and Vice Mayor of Oakley; Mayor, Kevin Romick and Vice Mayor, Carol Rios.

10. Adjournment

President Hardcastle adjourned the regular meeting at 9:28 p.m. until Tuesday, February 7, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. for the next regular meeting in the Ironhouse Sanitary District offices at 450 Walnut Meadows Drive, Oakley, California.