Category Archives: Meeting Minutes

BUTTERFIELD-RIVIERA EAST COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
STEERING COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES

download the original minutes in doc format: Min F 9-23

DATE: September 26, 2023
PLACE: Rancho Cordova Library

9845 Folsom Blvd., Sacramento, CA

MEETING TYPE: BRECA Steering Committee Meeting
STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT
James Adams
Paul Bowers
Lori Christensen
Rene Hamlin
Jim Morgan
Debbie Purvis
Andrea White
STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBERS ABSENT
Ken Crawford
Gay Jones
NUMBER OF GUESTS/MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: 5
1. Call to Order by Co-Chair Rene Hamlin
2. Welcome and Introductions
3. New Business
None
4. Old Business
a. American River Clean Up
Lori Christensen reported on the American River Clean Up. BRECA worked with the
American River Parkway Foundation (ARPF) on the clean up at the Gristmill site. Lori gave
out bags, had people sign waivers, etc. Comcast sent about 30 volunteers to the Gristmill site,
many from far away. Lori estimated about 1,000 pounds of trash and recyclables were picked
up, although there was not a scale for measurement. ARPF estimated around 23,000 pounds
were picked up at all sites. Altogether there were a total of 43 people at the Gristmill site.
James Adams commented that there was a homeless camp that had moved and left stuff
behind. They cleaned up the stuff that was left. Lori further commented that they did a good
job, with about twice as many people and pounds of trash and recyclables as last year.
b. Picnic in the Park

Min F 9-23.doc 2
Lori Christensen stated that next Sunday, October 1, is the date for the annual BRECA picnic.
Andrea White commented that she is working on games, including a piñata with candy. She
got a permit from the Cordova Recreation and Park District (CRPD). She also commented
that most groups that use the park have insurance, and we may need it next time.
Rick Sloan, a member of the CRPD Board, commented that the new Little Free Library
should be installed by Sunday. Andrea stated that the base had been poured today, and the
Little Free Library should be installed Thursday.
c. Web Site
Jim Morgan reported that the BRECA web site is looking good, although there is still work to
do. It needs more articles about local events. The web site committee wants to bring a
question about approval of items for the web site. By default, regular content such as meeting
agendas, approved minutes and event notices (e.g. the clean up and the picnic) are being
posted. For unusual content, such as the proposed Butterfield Station Apartments article, the
web site committee wants to know if the Steering Committee prefers a designated individual,
the web site committee, or the Steering Committee to approve posting. Andrea White stated
that she would like the articles be approved by the Steering Committee. Rene Hamlin agreed.
Debbie Purvis commented that immediate events, such as a meeting to attend, should just be
posted. It was agreed to do postings this way.
A member of the audience commented that there is no BRECA logo on the home page. Paul
Bowers stated that the logo is on all other pages, and they are working on putting it on the
home page.
Andrea commented that our web site administrator is to provide some instruction on how to
work on the web site. We should have more than one person able to do things.
d. Trumark Project
James Adams stated that the Trumark proposal is to build a large number of homes on a large
property on the west side of Rancho Cordova. It involves building in the flood plain. Rancho
Cordova is the lead agency on the project. The group Preserve the American River is putting
on an event about this on October 1. In late October the Rancho Cordova City Council is to
make a decision on the project. The head of the Planning Commission has stated that they
will recommend that an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) be prepared. It is also possible
that a Negative Declaration or Mitigated Negative Declaration would be prepared instead.
Debbie Purvis asked whether the Rancho Cordova City Council would give us weight, as we
are outside of Rancho Cordova? A member of the audience commented that there would be
traffic impacts on our community, so we should have a say. Another member of the audience
commented that there are too many impacts to do a Mitigated Negative Declaration. An EIR
is better, as it would have a public comment period.
Rick Sloan, a member of the Cordova Recreation and Park Board, commented that there is not
enough park land dedicated in the proposed plan.
James commented that many people believe that the Rancho Cordova City Council is pro-
business, and will likely approve the project. Jim Morgan asked that James notify the
Steering Committee when the City Council meeting is to happen. He agreed to do so.
e. Special December BRECA meeting

Min F 9-23.doc 3
Rene Hamlin reported that Gay Jones has reserved the Library meeting room for December
12, in case we need a meeting.
f. Holiday Gathering at Brookside December 19
Rene Hamlin reported that arrangements have been made to have a holiday gathering at
Brookside on December 19.
5. Minutes of August 22, 2023
Jim Morgan reported that an amendment to the draft minutes for August 22, 2023 had been
proposed and accepted. Andrea White made a motion to adopt the amended draft minutes.
James Adams seconded the motion. The motion was approved unanimously.
6. Reports/Updates
a. Treasurer
Andrea White stated that there were no changes in the most recent period. The bank balance
is $7,287.58.
b. Membership
Jim Morgan reported that BRECA has a total of 85 memberships.
c. Neighborhood Watch
Debbie Purvis reported that there is a new person running the Neighborhood Watch program.
She encouraged people to form Neighborhood Watches in their neighborhoods.
7. From the Floor
None.
8. Meeting adjourned.
The next meeting will be a Steering Committee Meeting at the Rancho Cordova Library on
October 24, 2023.

BUTTERFIELD-RIVIERA EAST COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

STEERING COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES

download the original minutes in doc format: BRECA Steering Committee Meeting Minutes 8-23

DATE: August 22, 2023

PLACE:  Rancho Cordova Library
9845 Folsom Blvd., Sacramento, CA

MEETING TYPE:  BRECA Steering Committee Meeting

STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT

James Adams

Paul Bowers

Lori Christensen

Ken Crawford

Rene Hamlin

Gay Jones

Jim Morgan

Debbie Purvis

Andrea White

STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBERS ABSENT

None

NUMBER OF GUESTS/MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: 17

1. Call to Order by Chair Gay Jones
2. Welcome and Introductions
3. Guest Speakers: Sacramento County Planning

Gay Jones stated that we want to understand the process of proposed project approval, and noted that there is a Pre-Application meeting Thursday for the proposed Butterfield Station Apartments.

Jessica Brandt, Principal Planner for Sacramento County, stated that the process she will describe is for unincorporated Sacramento County.  Planning staff encourages applicants to talk to them in a Pre-Application meeting to get initial feed back from several County departments and special agencies.  These include the Department of Transportation, Environmental Review, and Water Resources.  If the project proponents want to go forward, they will submit a full application.  The County has several levels of review: Planning Director, Zoning Administrator, Planning Commission, and Board of Supervisors.  Which of these levels of review makes the final decision depends on the size and significance of the project. The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) is part of the review.  A step up from the Planning Director will have the proposed project heard by the Community Planning and Advisory Council (CPAC).  That is a time the community gets to provide feedback on the proposed project.  If the proposed project goes to a CPAC, neighbors within 500 feet of the proposed project will be notified.

There were questions and further discussion.  Paul Bowers asked whether Cordova Parks was invited to the Pre-Application meeting?  Ms. Brandt stated no, but Cordova Parks have been notified and the applicant may talk to them.  Rebecca Sloan, with Supervisor Hume’s office, noted that the Pre-Application meeting is informational and that a complete application can come months or years later.  They can invite the developer to talk with the community.  Jim Morgan asked what level of review would the Butterfield Station Apartments proposal go to?  Ms. Brandt stated that she could not tell, as not enough information was submitted.  Ms. Sloan pointed out that there are different authorities for projects in the unincorporated County as opposed to Rancho Cordova. The County makes a commitment to hear from the community.

Jofil Borja, the Sacramento County Planning Commissioner for this area, commented that he personally got involved in the process due to a park project near his home.  It is important for the community to be involved.  The park near his home took six years to build.  Ms. Sloan noted that any development like the proposed Butterfield Station Apartments would require an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) due to traffic issues.

James Adams asked whether access to the project from Butterfield Way and Linda Rio was a question at the Pre-Application meeting?  Ms. Brandt pointed out that there would be only emergency access from Butterfield Way.  Lori Christensen stated that some of us were around for the previous Riverstone Square proposal: There were many meetings with the developer and then Supervisor Nottoli.  Now there is a lot more push for development, such as SB 330.  She asked how SB 330 fits in?  Ms. Brandt stated that there has been a lot of movement on the State end to pre-empt local control.  SB 330 does not pre-empt the process.  It does lock in fees and regulations at the time that the application is submitted.  It also streamlines the process, and only five public meetings are allowed.  That would include the CPAC meeting and the Board of Supervisors meeting.

Jim Morgan pointed out that the crunch point for traffic for the proposed Butterfield Station Apartments could be the single regular entrance on Folsom Blvd.  One could imagine at 5:30 pm some 400 cars trying to get into the one entrance as the gates open and close for each car.

A member of the audience stated that for the Trumark/Kassis proposed project in Rancho Cordova that they do not know where to turn.  Mr. Borja commented that Sacramento County traffic department could have some input on traffic impacts in the unincorporated County.  Another member of the audience commented that their main concern is impact on Bradshaw Road.  When a developer comes in with a project, planners only look at one project, not cumulative impacts.  So what is saturation on Bradshaw Road?

Gay Jones commented that there is a 500 feet minimum requirement for notification but the County could send out farther.  Ms. Brandt stated that the County has a project notification email that people can sign up for.  Ms. Sloan pointed out that Rancho Cordova should have the same.  One could find this through one’s City Council member.

Paul Bowers stated that he had previously been on the Cordova Community Planning and Advisory Council, and that he did not see the needed effects.  For example, the large developments around Jackson Road will not have improved roadway until after the developments are built.  Mr. Borja stated that they are making sure that the transportation impact fees are being collected.  Cal Trans does an analysis every 12 yeas, but they have to look only at existing and permitted projects.  If one sees bottlenecks, please let them know.

A member of the audience asked if there were any examples of development that the community likes?  There was agreement that there have been no residential developments in the area since Stoughton Way in the 1980s.

Another member of the audience asked about the five meetings allowed under SB 330?  Ms. Brandt stated they could be the CPAC, the Design Review Advisory Committee, Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors.  The member of the audience stated that they had tried to talk to California legislators about SB 330, but received no responses, except for new Assemblyman Harder.  Do they know when the proposed Horn Road Light Rail Station is to be built?  Ms. Sloan stated that would be a Regional Transit issue.  Supervisor Hume could get an answer.  Debbie Purvis asked if the developer says that they will mitigate traffic via the new Light Rail station, how would they be held to making it happen?  Ms. Brandt stated that paying for the station could be made part of the project.  Mr. Borja stated that they could require shuttles.

A member of the audience asked if SB 330 allows the developer to skip an EIR, and who would prepare the EIR?  Mr. Borja stated that there is no sidestepping of the EIR.  He does not know who would do the EIR in Rancho Cordova.

Gay Jones stated that she is also a member of the Metro Fire Board.  They have concerns about the emergency entrance/exit to the Butterfield Station Apartments project: Bollards are not adequate.  She is also on the Local Agency Formation Commission, which has done a Municipal Services Review of the Cordova Recreation and Park District.  The District has not met its goals for park acreage.  She further stated that there are two sets of apartments near the Butterfield Light Rail Station, and she would like to know how many of the people in those apartments actually use Light Rail?  There is an existing traffic problem on south bound Bradshaw Road entrance to west bound Highway 50, which already backs up.

Gay continued that BRECA has three guidelines for development in our area: 1. It must blend with the existing community, 2. It must have interconnectivity with the neighborhood, and 3. It must have full park land dedication on site.

4. Minutes of July 25, 2023

Jim Morgan reported that an amendment to the draft minutes for July 25, 2023 had been proposed and accepted.  Debbie Purvis made a motion to adopt the amended draft minutes.  James Adams seconded the motion.  The motion was approved unanimously.

5. Reports/Updates
6. Treasurer

Andrea White discussed the current budget situation.  BRECA has met our budgeted income for the entire year already.  The bank balance is $7,287.58.

1. Membership

Jim Morgan reported that BRECA has a total of 85 memberships.

1. Web Site

Andrea White reported that Site Ground has been transferred to her, and she is now administrator.  She asked how things are routed to be posted on the web site?  Gay Jones stated that the web site administrator will not post items until he hears from us.  It should be okay to post agendas, approved minutes, special events, and pressing issues.  There was discussion of posting the budget.  It was agreed not to post the budget.

There was discussion about posting an item on the web site about the proposed Butterfield Station Apartments.  Part of the purpose in posting it would be to inform the wider community and attract new members.  It was agreed to post an article, but the author needs to be careful about terminology, e.g. pre-application meeting.  Jim Morgan volunteered to write the article.

1. Little Free Library

Gay Jones reported that the Little Free Library for Riviera East Park has been painted and is on track for installation.  We should have a ceremony when it is installed.

1. Trumark (Kassis) Proposal

James Adams reported that he had spoken with Arlene, a planner with Rancho Cordova.  Trumark submitted a lighting plan for the project on July 27, and Rancho Cordova Planning has until August 27 to respond if their application is complete.  Then there will be 60 days to make a decision on whether to do an Environmental Impact Report (EIR).  It is not clear who would actually write an EIR.

Rick Sloan, a member of the Cordova Recreation and Park District Board, commented that the last proposal does not have sufficient park land.

A member of the audience commented that the Rancho Cordova City Council is considering a proposal to rewrite the code on development in the flood plain.  This could impact the proposed project.  An attorney has written a letter stating that a rewrite of the code would require an environmental document, and threatening legal action.  Paul Bowers commented that the SB 330 process locks in existing codes, so a new code should not apply to the Trumark proposal.  The member of the audience commented that there is a place on the Preserve the American River web site (preservetheamericanriver.org) to send letters to agencies, politicians, etc.

6. Old Business
7. Picnic in the Park

October 1 was selected as the date for the annual BRECA picnic.

1. American River Clean Up

Lori Christensen reported that The Great American River Clean Up will occur on September 23.  BRECA will host the Gristmill site.  The American River Parkway Foundation has signed up 50 people for the site, apparently from a company.  That is more than is needed, unless they work the river from boats.

7. New Business
8. BRECA September Meeting

Rene Hamlin will chair the September BRECA meeting.  Debbie Purvis will get the key.

1. BRECA December meeting

There was discussion about whether we need a meeting in December, or should just have a holiday party.  It was agreed to have a party at Brookside on December 19, and to get a reservation for the Library Community Room for December 12, in case we decide to have a meeting in December.

8. From the Floor

None.

9. Meeting adjourned.

The next meeting will be a Steering Committee Meeting at the Rancho Cordova Library on September 26, 2023.

BUTTERFIELD-RIVIERA EAST COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

STEERING COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES

DATE: July 25, 2023

PLACE:  Rancho Cordova Library
9845 Folsom Blvd., Sacramento, CA

MEETING TYPE:  BRECA Steering Committee Meeting

STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT

James Adams

Paul Bowers

Lori Christensen 

Ken Crawford

Rene Hamlin

Gay Jones

Jim Morgan

Debbie Purvis

STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBER ABSENT

Andrea White

NUMBER OF GUESTS/MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: 9

1. Call to Order by Co-chair Gay Jones
2. Welcome and Introductions
3. Presentation by Psynergy Representative

Lynda Kaufmann, representing Psynergy Programs, spoke about the newly established operation just east of the BRECA area.  (Secretary’s note: This was the former site of Stacie’s Chalet, an assisted living facility.)  She stated that the site is a licensed board and care facility.  Individuals have mental health diagnosis, but about 55% of clients have other medical conditions as well.  It is a modified therapeutic community with rehabilitation support including psychiatrists and nurses.  The clients generally have court ordered treatment under the Lanterman/Petris/Short Act.  Each client has an individualized treatment plan.  The plan can include education and vocational training as well as therapeutic interventions.  Clients have the right to say no to being in the program.  She invited us to tour the facility.  She stated that Psynergy has a number of other locations.

There were several questions from the audience.  Lori Christensen asked how may people they are licensed for?  Ms. Kaufmann stated that this facility is licensed for 80 people, and actually has 60 people currently.  Debbie Purvis asked whether there is someone who manages activities?  Ms. Kaufmann stated that they have a program manager and coordinator.  Debbie also asked about staff turnover?  Ms. Kaufmann stated that it is high.  Debbie also asked about clients walking around the neighborhood, and whether they have supervision?  Ms. Kaufmann stated that they have graduated supervision, depending upon the individual client.  Gay Jones asked how many staff they have?  Ms. Kaufmann they have 32 staff at this facility, but also have reserves when someone is out.  Jim Morgan asked further about supervision of clients when outside the facility?  Ms. Kaufmann stated that clients have the right to leave when they want.  They may walk with staff, with a peer leader, or with clinicians.  Psynergy does not encourage people to go outside the facility.  

A member of the audience stated that it scares him that clients may have a psychotic episode, or bad drug reaction, and that the facility is next door to a library with kids.  They asked shouldn’t we have been notified when they moved in?  Ms. Kaufmann stated that they had to move quickly when the previous facility closed, and that it was a challenging process.  She further stated that this facility does not have registered sex offenders.  Debbie Purvis stated that she lives on the street that backs up to the Psynergy facility and she sees people from the facility on the street.  She has grandchildren at her house, and it is not a positive experience.  Ms. Kaufmann stated that staff from the facility should have name tags.

Gay Jones asked what to do if there is an issue with the clients?  Ms. Kaufmann stated that if it a dangerous situation call 988, which is better than 911, because they can get psychiatric help.  If there are concerns about this facility, call Crystal Roberts at 408-767-8171 or herself at 408-833-5115 or Ednita Gardenhire at 408-465-8280 extension 3.

Paul Bowers asked if they have smoking in the building?  Ms. Kaufmann stated yes.  They do not want clients outside of the building smoking.  Paul also asked if people leave and not come back?  Ms. Kaufman stated yes.  Paul also asked what is the average stay at the facility?  Ms. Kaufmann stated it is from 18 to 24 months.  They want clients to graduate, but often they can’t find a place to move people to.  Debbie Purvis stated that she would encourage them to minimize smoking outside the facility.

4. Presentation from SMUD Representatives Regarding Proposed Rate Hikes

Trevor Derrett, a Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) representative, stated that SMUD has a Board of Directors that live in the community.  SMUD wants rate increases for a number of reasons, including downed power lines and inflation.  They have tried to find savings in expenditures by refinancing bonds and getting grants.  The proposed rate increases are 2.75% in January 2024 and 2.75% in May 2024, with the same in 2025.  He pointed out that Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) has about 40% higher rates than SMUD does.  They also intend to improve the situation for low income people.  They help customers with rebates for energy efficiency: Google SMUD and rebates.  There will be a workshop on the proposed increases on August 3.

There were a number of questions and comments from the audience.  A member of the audience asked whether the high rate from 5 to 8 pm has had an impact on use of electricity?  Brett Korven, another SMUD representative, responded yes, and the effect has increased every year.  Another member of the audience stated that for California American Water (Cal Am), when water use went down during the drought, they increased the water rates to make up for it.  Mr. Derrett stated that that has an effect, but they expect more use incoming from the transition to electric power, e.g. the electric car mandate.  Paul Bowers commented that SMUD talks about cheap electricity, but 32 cents/kilowatt hour from 5 to 8 pm is not cheap.  Mr. Korven commented that SMUD’s General Manager works hard to keep rates down.  Paul also commented that splitting up the rate increase makes it seem smaller, but the compounded increase comes to 11.5%.  Another member of the audience asked whether the base fee for service is going up?  Mr. Korven stated that both the base fee and the usage fee are going up.  Jim Morgan pointed out that the comparison to PG&E is not entirely fair, as PG&E pays property taxes, and SMUD does not.  A better comparison would be to Roseville Electric, which has essentially the same rates as SMUD.  He also asked how much of the rate increase is due to SMUD’s effort to achieve zero net carbon by 2030?  Mr. Derrett commented that some of it is.  The SMUD representatives did not know how much, but promised to get back to us with an answer.  Paul Bowers asked whether they pay PG&E for use of their transmission lines?  Mr. Korven responded yes, but it is a complicated interconnection.  Gay Jones asked how much does SMUD use other transmission lines?  The SMUD representatives did not know, but would get back with an answer.

5. Non-agenda Items From the Public

A member of the audience stated that they do gardening work on the triangle of land at the intersection of Butterfield Way and Linda Rio Dr.  They have been working on it for 8 years, and it looks nice.  They asserted that a number of years ago the land was offered to BRECA, but BRECA declined the offer because nobody wanted to maintain it.  Gay Jones stated that BRECA was not offered that small parcel of land.  Paul Bowers asked if Cordova Park and Recreation District (CRPD) accepts donations?  Rick Sloan, a member of the CRPD Board, stated that it is too small, and maintenance and development would be a problem.  Jim Morgan stated that he would be okay with the member of the audience owning it, but not BRECA, owing to taxes, insurance, and other issues.  Gay Jones stated that she would support BRECA supporting the member of the audience obtaining ownership.  Paul Bowers stated that we should get some entity to own in perpetuity, e.g. the County or CRPD.  James Adams stated that there is no urgency, as nobody has plans to develop the large property adjacent to the small parcel at Butterfield and Linda Rio.  Lori Christensen stated that about 15 years ago the Riverstone Square proposal included an entrance from Linda Rio, so potentially someone would be interested in it.  It might be better to just leave alone, as BRECA would not want it due to taxes and insurance issues.  Gay Jones reiterated that she can support the member of the audience getting ownership, and it would be better to do now, before a proposal for the big project comes up.  James Adams stated we would need to do outreach, and find out if the owner of the small parcel is willing to donate or sell the small parcel.  The member of the audience commented that they have the name of the owner.  Gay Jones suggested that the member of the audience get specifics and get back to BRECA.

6. Report on Supervisors’ Meeting Regarding Transportation Issues

James Adams reported on a recent meeting conducted by Supervisors Hume and Desmond focusing on funding for work on street pavement.  County wide, many streets are in poor or very poor condition.  The worse the condition, the more it costs to fix.  The audience was mostly interested in Watt Ave.  The Supervisors want to put $100 million into work on Watt Ave.  Ken Crawford commented that the County does not have enough money, so roads continue to get worse.  Road repair is one of the lower priorities.  Sidewalks and bike lanes have higher priority.  James Adams commented that the meeting was held at the Rancho Cordova Library, and the room was about three quarters full.

7. Minutes of June 27, 2023

Jim Morgan reported that an amendment to the draft minutes had been proposed and accepted.  Ken Crawford made a motion to adopt the amended draft minutes for June 27, 2023.  James Adams seconded the motion.  The motion was approved unanimously.

8. Reports/Updates
9. Treasurer

None. 

1. Membership

Jim Morgan reported that BRECA has a total of 85 memberships.

1. CORPAC

Gay Jones reported that there was no meeting of the Cordova Community Planning and Advisory Council (CORPAC).

9. Old Business
10. Eclectic Center Report and Possible Outreach

There was no additional action on the Eclectic Center.

1. Little Free Library Update

Gay Jones and Debbie Purvis stated that members of the community were working on the Little Free Library.

1. Website

Gay Jones reported that we have a volunteer who is working on the website.  We need to have a meeting with the current web site “owner” to transfer ownership.

10. New Business
11. New Neighborhood Watch

Debbie Purvis reported that there is a new person in charge of Neighborhood Watch programs.

1. Zoom Account

Gay Jones commented that the BRECA Zoom account has been cancelled.

11. Details of August and September BRECA Meetings

There was discussion about some details of the upcoming August and September BRECA meetings.

12. From the Floor

None.

13. Meeting adjourned.

The next meeting will be a Steering Committee Meeting at the Rancho Cordova Library on August 22, 2023.

BUTTERFIELD-RIVIERA EAST COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

STEERING COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES

DATE: June 27, 2023

PLACE:  Rancho Cordova Library
9845 Folsom Blvd., Sacramento, CA

MEETING TYPE:  BRECA Steering Committee Meeting

STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT (2022/2023)

James Adams

Lori Christensen 

Ken Crawford

Rene Hamlin

Gay Jones

Jim Morgan

STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBERS ABSENT

Debbie Purvis

Andrea White

NUMBER OF GUESTS/MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: 12

1. Call to Order by Co-chair Gay Jones
2. Welcome and Introductions
3. Seating of Incoming Steering Committee Members and Selection of Officers

Jim Morgan read out the names of the incoming (2023/2024) Steering Committee members:

James Adams
Paul Bowers
Lori Christensen
Ken Crawford
Gay Jones
Rene Hamlin
Jim Morgan
Debbie Purvis
Andrea White

Gay Jones nominated Jim Morgan for Secretary and Andrea White for Treasurer.  James Adams seconded the nominations.  The nominations were approved unanimously.  Lori Christensen nominated Gay Jones for Chair and Rene Hamlin for Co-Chair.  James Adams seconded the nominations.  The nominations were approved unanimously.

4. Community Emergency Response Team (Metro Fire CERT) Presentation

Gay Jones stated that members of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) assist emergency responders.

Linda Ford, a CERT team member, stated that CERT is an all-volunteer group.  They support Metro Fire.  They have put in 300 volunteer hours this year.  They might do things like sit at downed power lines and warn people away while waiting for Sacramento Municipal Utility District personnel to arrive.  They also do standby medical at public events.  There is a basic class one must have to become a CERT volunteer.  It includes disaster preparedness, fire suppression and search and rescue.  There is an emergency scenario drill.  The next class starts in October.

Ken Sakamoto, also a CERT team member, stated that he is a medical trainer, and they do support for Emergency Medical Technicians.  For example, at a recent Bayside Church gathering there were about 1,000 people, and CERT did first aid.

Ms. Ford stated that there is an expectation of each member to contribute 24 hours of volunteer time each year.  She noted that volunteers run the program.

5. TruMark (Kassis) Project Update

Mark Berry with Preserve the American River (PAR) stated that the TruMark (Kassis) project is at a critical stage.  The original proposal landed in August 2020.  Rancho Cordova asked for a California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) document for the proposal.  More recently there was a revised proposal under SB 330, with twice as many homes.  It is the authority of the city to review the project.  The main problem with the proposal remains that it would build in a designated floodway of the Central Valley Flood Protection Board (CVFPB).  They would fill in part of the project area, moving about 275,000 cubic yards of fill.  The potential for flooding is a health and safety issue.  Rancho Cordova Planning has until July 12 to review the submittal to see if it is complete.  Later on there will be a chance for public comment.  Documents on the project can be found on the Rancho Cordova web site under SB 330 application.  Prominent issues include flooding potential and traffic impacts.  Also, the Save the American River Association has hired a biologist who has observed 123 species on the land, some with special status.

Brenda Gustin, also with PAR reiterated that there is a health and safety risk.  This January, the river was about 4 feet below the land surface elevation.  The TruMark proposal is to build up the lower area of the project.  Flood control people are concerned about losing the infiltration area.  The new plan from the CVFPB emphasizes not filling in floodways, but trying to expand them.

Mr. Berry commented that the project would have houses 20 feet back from the edge of the river bluff.  Recreational use would erode the bank, and they would eventually need rip rap to protect the bluff.

Paul Bowers enquired how many entrances would there be.  Mr. Berry responded that there would be two entrances, one off of Folsom Blvd. and another off of Sterling Park Dr.  James Adams enquired whether TruMark is preparing an environmental document?  Mr. Berry responded that TruMark is saying that a negative declaration is adequate.  A member of the audience enquired how far the bluff has receded in the last 10 or 20 years?  Mr. Berry responded that an adjacent property lost 10 feet in one storm.  Ms. Gustin stated that they have photos from 1986 showing the lower terrace flooded.

Jim Morgan commented that SB 330 envisions preparing a CEQA document when needed.  Also, a permit from the CVFPB is needed for the infill.  Another issue is that the amount of urban parkland is way too small: 1.9 acres compared to a required 4.7 acres based on the Rancho Cordova Municipal Code.

Mr. Berry stated that this is game day.  TruMark is not going away and not going to do anything they are not forced to do.  He also stated that they would like Sacramento County to maintain the easements that run through the property.  There is a strong argument that the County owns the easements, not Rancho Cordova.  Rancho Cordova wants to abandon the easements.

Gay Jones commented that the head of the Cordova Recreation and Park District, Patrick Larkin, has stated that they want full parkland dedication on site, no in lieu fees.

Ms. Gustin stated that there is a petition opposing the project, which was circulated at the meeting.  She also pointed out that the Rancho Cordova General Plan under Health and Safety discourages the use of fill to create housing.

Mr. Berry gave out his phone number (916-704-2238) and email address ().

6. Non-agenda Items From the Public

None.

7. Minutes of April 25, 2023

Ken Crawford made a motion to adopt the draft minutes for May 23, 2023.  Gay Jones seconded the motion.  The motion was approved unanimously.

8. Reports/Updates
9. Treasurer

Treasurer Andrea White was not present.  A profit and loss statement to June 27, 2023 was distributed.  As of June 27, the bank balance was $7,221.96. 

1. Membership

Jim Morgan reported that BRECA has added one member, for a total of 85 memberships.

1. CORPAC

Gay Jones reported that the meeting of the Cordova Planning and Advisory Council (CORPAC) did not consider any issues directly relevant to the BRECA area.

9. Old Business
10. Eclectic Center Report and Possible Outreach

A member of the audience reported that Gay Jones and her went to the Eclectic Center and took photos, etc.  Eight out of 18 storefronts are currently for rent.  Problems include a large, wet pothole, overgrown vegetation and graffiti.  One shop owner called the property manager, but the property manager turned it back to the shop owner.  Gay Jones stated that they have the property manager’s name and contact information.  She would like to send a letter to the property manager in an effort to improve the situation.  It was agreed to do so.

1. Little Free Library Update

A member of the audience stated that the new Little Free Library for Riviera East Park is in Debbie Purvis’s garage.  Rick Sloan, with the Cordova Recreation and Park District, commented that he had talked with Patrick Larkin, and they will work with BRECA to get the work done.

1. Website

Gay Jones reported that we may have volunteers to work on the website.  She worked with the current website manager to post the agenda.

10. New Business
11. Outreach to New Business Next to Library

A member of the audience reported that the Chalet has been taken over by another company: Psynergy.  It is now a residential facility.  Residents have been observed sitting on the Library lawn and smoking.  She stated that she would like to have the manager of the facility come talk to BRECA.  She would like to know what sort of supervision of the residents there is.  It was agreed to ask the manager to come talk to BRECA.

1. Great American River Clean-Up

Lori Christensen reported that the Great American River Clean-Up is scheduled for the third week in September.  She may be able to organize it for BRECA, pending vacation plans.

1. Sacramento Municipal Utility District Rate Increase

Jim Morgan circulated a copy of a notice from the paper about proposed Sacramento Municipal Utility District rate increases for 2023 and 2024.

11. Floor

James Adams commented that he had received an email to the effect that BRECA should consider buying the triangle of land at Butterfield and Linda Rio.  Lori Christensen commented that a member of the community has been doing “guerilla gardening” there, including planting native plants.  James Adams commented that he does not want to buy the property, but would not mind helping the person with what they are doing.  Jim Morgan volunteered to put them in touch.

Lori Christensen enquired whether anybody knows about what is going on next to the Orthodox church.  The area has been cleared of vegetation.  Nobody had any information.

A member of the audience commented that the County judge had granted a restraining order regarding a person who had been sitting in their driveway and causing a disturbance.  Since then they have not seen the person.

12. Meeting adjourned.

The next meeting will be a Steering Committee Meeting at the Rancho Cordova Library on July 25, 2023.

BUTTERFIELD-RIVIERA EAST COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

STEERING COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES

DATE: May 23, 2023

PLACE:  Rancho Cordova Library
9845 Folsom Blvd., Sacramento, CA

MEETING TYPE:  BRECA Steering Committee Meeting

STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT

James Adams

Lori Christensen 

Ken Crawford

Gay Jones

Jim Morgan

Debbie Purvis

Andrea White

STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBER ABSENT

Rene Hamlin

NUMBER OF GUESTS/MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: 6

1. Call to Order by Co-chair Gay Jones
2. Welcome and Introductions
3. Non-agenda Items from the Floor

A member of the audience commented that there is a person in her area who has been sitting in their driveway and yelling and playing loud music for 23 years.  Neighbors have called the Sheriff 28 times, but they did nothing.  So, 12 of the neighbors are getting a restraining order for disrupting the peace.  They have a court date Friday.  Assuming the order is granted, the next time there is a complaint the person will get arrested, and probably get some mental health help.  The person’s family supports the neighbors.  There was no lawyer, the court fees were waived, and the clerk at the courthouse helped the neighbors fill out the form.  Another member of the audience commented that he had tried to talk to the person, and the person has a problem.

4. Minutes of April 25, 2023

Ken Crawford made a motion to adopt the draft minutes for April 25, 2023.  James Adams seconded the motion.  The motion was approved unanimously.

5. Reports/Updates
6. Treasurer

Treasurer Andrea White reviewed the budget statement.  As of May 23, 2023, BRECA has $7,436.30 in the bank. 

1. Membership

Jim Morgan reported that BRECA has added one member, for a total of 84 memberships.

1. Metro Fire

Gay Jones distributed information cards from Metro Fire. She commented that they are getting a new fire chief.

1. California American Water

Gay Jones reported that she had contacted Evan Jacobs at California American Water concerning the vegetation on their property at the entrance to the Gristmill Recreation Area.  They removed the undesired vegetation (e.g. purple thistle) but left the growing trees.  Gay requested authorization to send a thank you letter to California American Water.  Andrea White made a motion to send a thank you letter.  James Adams seconded the motion.  The motion was approved unanimously.

1. CORPAC

The meeting of the Cordova Planning and Advisory Council (CORPAC) was canceled.

6. Old Business
7. Steering Committee Election

Jim Morgan reported that 9 people had been nominated for the Steering Committee.  As of this meeting, only 8 had accepted the nomination.  Steering Committee members take office in June, and officers will be chosen at that time.

1. Website Renewal Notice

Andrea White reported that we need to renew the BRECA web site.  For one year it would be $179, and two years would be $287.  In addition, we need to renew two domains, for one year each.  The total would come to $313.40.  Ken Crawford made a motion to renew the web site for two years and the domains for one year.  James Adams seconded the motion.  The motion was approved unanimously.

There was discussion about the fact that the web site has not been kept up, and efforts to recruit a new person to work on the web site.  Paul Bowers volunteered to put together a conference call with the relevant people.  It was suggested that a Zoom call would be better.  It was agreed to do so.

1. Mobile Welding Classroom

Gay Jones reported that Supervisor Patrick Hume had informed her that there will be an interagency and interdepartmental meeting on June 22 to collaborate on a finding Regional Transit Light Rail Station location for the proposed mobile welding classroom.

A member of the audience commented that he had taught welding at a college and in prison for years.  The mobile welding classroom is a fast track training program.  It is a four week course, Monday through Friday from 9 am to 3 pm.  It started in Los Angeles on Skid Row, and had a high percentage of completion.  They are looking for volunteers to help with lunch, resumes, math, etc.  It is a program to get people employed.

7. New Business
8. Little Library Rebuild

A member of the audience reported that the first time the Little Free Library was destroyed a skate board was used as a weapon.  The member of the audience put it back together.  This time it looks like someone hit the box, and it did not look like someone tried to destroy it.  The Cordova Recreation and Park District (CRPD) expects BRECA to maintain the box.  However, there is no putting it back together this time.  The member of the audience stated that he and his wife can buy an old Sacramento Bee box and donate it to the community.  Lori Christensen enquired whether the Bee box has a stand, or is just on the ground.  The member of the audience responded that it sits on the ground, and provided a picture of a similar Little Free Library box on Tucumcari.

Andrea White stated that CRPD would help to reinstall the Little Free Library box by removing the existing pad and replacing it with a new one.  Another member of the audience suggested putting a roof on the box.  Ken Crawford offered that his wife could paint a new BRECA logo.  Andrea White made a motion to move forward with the Bee Box, with CRPD’s help.  James Adams seconded the motion.  Gay Jones requested an amendment to the motion to authorize incidental costs up to $100.  The amendment was accepted.  James Adams seconded the amended motion.  The motion was approved unanimously.

1. Thank You Letter to county departments for Folsom Blvd. Cleanup

Gay Jones reported that she had received a list of County Departments and people who were responsible for cleaning up Folsom Blvd.  She made a motion to write a thank you letter to those Departments and people.  James Adams seconded the motion.  The motion was approved unanimously.

8. Floor

Debbie Purvis enquired whether we should send a thank you letter to the Sacramento Municipal Utility District representatives for their presentation?  The consensus was no.

Debbie Purvis enquired whether there is any news on the proposed Kassis/Trumark development?  Jim Morgan responded that Trumark needs to submit a final plan in June.

James Adams commented that he has seen many bicyclists on dirt trails on the Parkway.  He enquired whether there has been any change since the BRECA request?  Gay Jones commented that she has made four complaints to 311 in the last two months.  We need more people to complain to get action.

A member of the audience commented that the Eclectic Center on Folsom Blvd. has become a deteriorating mess.  In particular there is graffiti, the vegetation is not being maintained and there is a large pothole.  Lori Christensen commented that BRECA had been active before in reporting homeless camps behind the center, which were eventually cleaned out.  Gay Jones commented that BRECA had also worked on eliminating loud music coming from the Hookah place.  Another member of the audience commented that they could talk to a couple of the business owners there about talking to the management to improve maintenance.

9. Meeting adjourned.

The next meeting will be a Steering Committee Meeting at the Rancho Cordova Library on June 27, 2023.