BRECA » Tag » meeting minutes

Tag Archives: meeting minutes

BRECA Steering Committee Meeting Minutes – July 28, 2020

By | | ,
Leave a comment

BUTTERFIELD-RIVIERA EAST COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
STEERING COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES

DATE: July 28, 2020
PLACE:  Internet, via Zoom
MEETING TYPE:  BRECA Steering Committee Meeting

STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT
James Adams
Lori Christensen
Ken Crawford
Bonnie Domeny
Rene Hamlin
Gay Jones
Lee Leavelle
Jim Morgan

STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBER ABSENT
Andrea White

NUMBER OF GUESTS/MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: 7

1. Call to Order by Chair Bonnie Domeny

2. Welcome and Introductions

3. Update on Casa Linda/Blossom Village

Rebecca Sloan, with Supervisor Don Nottoli’s office, gave an update on the Casa Linda/Blossom Village issue.  She stated that Casa Linda had their business license revoked about one year ago, reflecting about three years of code violations.  Supervisor Nottoli and several County Departments met with the new owner in February.  At the last BRECA meeting there was a presentation from Sacramento Self Help Housing (SSHH) about using the Blossom Village as homeless housing.  They had a lease agreement that was to begin on July 1.  However, the site was not ready, and the owner had not secured the needed approvals from County Departments.  The new owner must bring the site up to current codes.  Bottom line nobody is moving in anytime soon.  The owner would have to get a conditional use permit for the use proposed by SSHH.  It is possible the new owner will reopen Blossom Village as a hotel.

There were questions about Blossom Village and SSHH.  Gay Jones enquired about the kitchenettes that were discussed at the last BRECA meeting?  Ms. Sloan stated that some of the units already had kitchenettes, and that no new ones were to be added.  A member of the audience enquired about why multifamily is allowed in a commercial zone?  Ms. Sloan stated that is part of the zoning, although some standards need to be met.  Gay Jones enquired whether the use change would have to come before the Cordova Community Planning and Advisory Council (CORPAC)?  Ms. Sloan stated that she did not know, but can get that information.  At this point there is no actual proposal from the owner about use.  County Departments are watching the project closely.

4. Questions or Comments from the Community on Non-agenda items

A member of the audience stated that she had sent information on putting speed tables on Mira Del Rio Dr. at Riviera East Park and also on Bradshaw Rd. to Chair Bonnie Domeny, and was wondering where the process is?  Bonnie responded that the process starts with a petition circulated by local neighbors.  BRECA can support this, but the neighbors need to take the lead.

A member of the audience commented that there is a lot of trash along the Mayhew Drain where the bridge goes over the freeway.  This could end up in the Drain and then the river when it rains.

A member of the audience commented that more trash pickup is needed in the Parkway.

A member of the audience commented that there is a lot of Starthistle on the housing side of the American River Levee near their house.  Jim Morgan stated that the responsible agency is the American River Flood Control District.

5. Minutes of June 23, 2020

An amendment to the draft minutes of June 23, 2020 was proposed and accepted.  Rene Hamlin made a motion to accept the amended minutes.  James Adams seconded the motion.  The motion was approved unanimously.

6. Reports

a. Treasurer
There was no Treasurer’s report.

b. CORPAC
Lee Leavelle stated that there was a CORPAC (Cordova Community Planning and Advisory Council) meeting this month.  No issues of direct concern to BRECA were discussed.

c. Membership
Jim Morgan reported that BRECA had lost two memberships, but gained one, for a total of 92 memberships.

7. Old Business

a. Cal Am
Gay Jones stated that she had been contacted by Richard Rauschmeir with the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) Public Advocates Office concerning a proposed decision that would get rid of the Water Rate Adjustment Mechanism (WRAM) and other surcharges on the bills.  California American Water (Cal Am) opposes the proposed decision and has been urging others to oppose the decision.  Mr. Rauschmeir had asked for BRECA’s support.  Gay made a motion that BRECA support the proposed decision and send a letter or email to the PUC.  James Adams seconded the motion.  A member of the audience stated that this would be a good issue to take to the community.  We could go door to door.  Gay Jones stated that the proposed decision could be heard by the PUC as early as August 6, so there may not be time to take it to the community.  A vote on the motion was taken and the motion was approved unanimously.

b. From the Floor
There was no Old Business from the floor.

8. New Business 

a. PayPal, Mailchimp, and Website Backup
Bonnie Domeny stated that we need a person to serve as backup for the PayPal, Mailchimp, and BRECA Website accounts.  Rene Hamlin volunteered to do it.

b. American River Parkway
– Natural Resources Management Plan Survey
Bonnie Domeny commented that she has put a link to a survey on the Natural Resources Management Plan on the Parkway that is being conducted by County Parks.  Gay Jones commented that there are many issues that can be addressed in the survey, e.g. spraying of herbicides.  James Adams commented that there was recently some spraying for mosquitoes in our area.

– Request More Maintenance
Gay Jones requested that people go to the County Parks website and click on the Oak leaf, to request more trash pickup and address other issues.  James Adams commented that people are parking their vehicles by the river at Gristmill, which is not allowed.

– Bicycling on non-maintained Trails
James Adams stated that many people bicycle on the dirt trails.  They are not supposed to do that.  Maybe we should send a letter to County Parks about this.

c.  Vector Control Spraying
James Adams commented that he was surprised by spraying for mosquitoes.

d. From the Floor
Lori Christensen stated that we should consider putting a plaque on the Little Library in memoriam to Lynda Hammitt, who put in a lot of effort to get it to happen.  Rene Hamlin agreed, but added that it should be a plaque for more than one person: she would like to see one with Lynda Hammitt and Stan Mofjeld as well as other names.  She commented that we could have a large plaque to which smaller plaques could be attached.  Lori volunteered to follow up.

A member of the audience stated that some neighbors are getting together to put a tree with a plaque honoring Lynda Hammitt in the park.

James Adams commented that Cal Am is putting on a public forum on August 3rd about acquisition of the East Pasadena Water Company.

Bonnie Domeny stated that there is a new contact with the California Highway Patrol, and asked if we would like them to come to a BRECA meeting.  There was agreement to do so.

Rene Hamlin stated that she would like to do the Annual Meeting via Zoom.  Bonnie Domeny commented that it is unlikely that we can do a physical Annual Meeting in the fall.  It was agreed to have an Annual Meeting by Zoom in October.

Bonnie Domeny enquired whether we should put the recordings of BRECA Zoom meetings on the website.  It was agreed to do so.

9. Meeting adjourned.

The next meeting will be a Steering Committee Meeting on Tuesday, August 25, 2020, via Internet.

BRECA Steering Committee Meeting Minutes – June 23, 2020

By | | , ,
Leave a comment

BUTTERFIELD-RIVIERA EAST COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
STEERING COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES

DATE: June 23, 2020
PLACE:  Internet, via Zoom
MEETING TYPE:  BRECA Steering Committee Meeting

STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT
James Adams
Lori Christensen
Ken Crawford
Bonnie Domeny
Rene Hamlin
Gay Jones
Lee Leavelle
Jim Morgan
Andrea White

STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBERS ABSENT
None

NUMBER OF GUESTS/MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: 11

1. Call to Order by Chair Bonnie Domeny

2. Welcome and Introductions

3. Presentation from Sacramento Self Help Housing – Blossom Village

Judy Maraga with Sacramento Self Help Housing (SSHH) gave a brief presentation on Blossom Village.  She stated that the new owner of the Casa Linda Motel property is rehabilitating the property.  The new name will be Blossom Village.  There will be 19 units, including one “house leader.”  The intent is to house people who are currently homeless or about to become homeless.  This is a first step in getting back into society.  The leases will be month to month for up to one year.  There will be up to 18 clients, with likely no more than two people per unit, mostly one.  There will be a new kitchenette, heating and air conditioning, etc.  SSHH will take over July 1. 

Several people had questions about Blossom Village and SSHH.  A member of the audience asked how long people could stay for and what training they would receive?  Ms. Maraga responded that there will be no training as part of Blossom Village.  SSHH will pay the rent.  Some people will have vehicles.  This is not to be a program, it is just housing.  SSHH has a one year lease with the owner.

Gay Jones asked about interagency co-ordination, for example to secure employment?  Ms. Maraga responded that the individuals will be hand picked, and some, but not all, will likely have case managers.

Gay Jones asked who the person to contact in the event of concerns would be?  Ms. Maraga responded that it would be herself.

Rene Hamlin asked how a non-profit organization would work with SSHH?  Ms. Maraga responded that the non-profit would work independently with the client.  Blossom Village is to be independent living, not a facility.

Lee Leavelle asked where they would get the clients?  Ms. Maraga responded that SSHH would get a list from the County, which could contain referrals from various agencies, such as the “HOT team.”

A member of the audience asked what if there are problems with drugs or alcohol?  Ms. Maraga responded that it depends on the situation.  The leases are month to month, so if they need to exit somebody, that can be done, like any other housing complex.  Their goal is to get people off the street and allow them to become productive citizens.

Shauna Franklin, with the Sacramento District Attorney’s office, asked if SSHH has clients sign rules or code of conduct?  Ms. Maraga responded that the clients will sign a contract, like lease rules.

Shauna Franklin asked if the “house leader” is to be an employee of SSHH, and whether that would be a person to contact if there are concerns?  Ms. Maraga responded yes to both.

Shauna Franklin stated that the property is not zoned for long term housing, and asked if the County had changed that?  Ms. Maraga stated that the owner has assured them it is okay for a long term lease.  Ms. Franklin stated that a major reason the previous owner lost his business license was because he had people staying for longer than one month. 

Gay Jones asked the name of the new owner?  Ms. Maraga responded that the new owner’s name is Akash Lal.

Bonnie Domeny asked how this had worked out in other neighborhoods?  Ms. Maraga responded that one client in transitional housing had “challenges.”  That person is now married, and they have jobs.

Rebecca Sloan, with Supervisor Don Nottoli’s office, commented that they have not had the opportunity to bring this project to the neighborhood.  Casa Linda had many code violations over a three-year period.  The previous owner let homeless people stay when he did not have tenants.  She expressed surprise to be hearing about this project at the BRECA meeting.

Gay Jones commented that a lot of the previous issues involved fire codes.  She asked what is meant by “kitchenette?”  Ms. Maraga stated it means a range and refrigerator.  Gay stated that there could be electrical code issues.

Shauna Frankin asked whether there will be no tenants until there is code approval?  Ms. Maraga responded yes.

Gay Jones asked how many clients SSHH has in Sacramento?  Ms. Maraga stated they have 287 clients in housing, but they have other departments, and she could not give the numbers for the other departments.

4. Crime Statistics on Casa Linda

Shauna Franklin, with the District Attorney’s office, stated that generally crime in the BRECA area had decreased by about 15% since Casa Linda closed.  She said that was hopefully attributable to closing Casa Linda.  She also hoped that the crime would not return.  The new owner of the Casa Linda property, Mr. Lal, is a real estate developer, not a property manager.  He does the rehabilitation of the property, and then brings in someone else to manage the property.

Gay Jones commented that the crime statistics document that was provided to BRECA indicated that there were 39 calls for service in the last year that Casa Linda was open, as opposed to 5 in the year after it closed.  Ms. Franklin stated that when she first started working on the Casa Linda situation, there were a lot of calls for service, but they went down because the owner told the clients not to call the police.  Regarding the Blossom Village project, there does not appear to be a screening process.  The District Attorney’s office will not allow it to become a dumping ground.

Bonnie Domeny commented that she was hoping this would be a program for homeless people in the neighborhood, but apparently not.  A member of the audience expressed concern about the house manager.  Ms Franklin commented that if there are problems, one would probably go to Ms. Maraga.

Rebecca Sloan commented that Supervisor Nottoli’s office has been in contact with County Code Enforcement about the site.  She was surprised that SSHH would be able to move in by July 1.  Gay Jones commented that the new owner may have told SSHH things that are not true.  Ms. Sloan commented that Supervisor Nottoli is very concerned that we have a quality situation, but they have not heard about this specific program.  She also commented that SSHH is a major contractor with the County.

Jim Morgan asked, regarding the crime statistics for the area that were distributed to BRECA, what the terms “calls for service” and “reports taken” mean?  Ms. Franklin responded that when an officer arrives at a location, such as due to an alarm, a citizen call, or an officer’s observation, and logs it into the computer, that is a “call for service.”  If it is determined that a crime occurred, that is a “report taken.”

5.  Questions or Comments from the Community on Non-agenda items

Bonnie Domeny commented that there had been two catalytic converter thefts on Elmira Circle.

A member of the audience commented that trash and stuff was blocking the access road to the levee from the back of her house.  Jim Morgan commented that it would be the responsibility of the American River Flood Control District to maintain the access road.

6. Minutes of May 26, 2020

An amendment to the draft minutes of May 26, 2020 was proposed and accepted.  Gay Jones made a motion to accept the amended minutes.  James Adams seconded the motion.  The motion was approved unanimously.

7. Reports

a. Treasurer
Andrea White (Treasurer) reported that the balance in the BRECA checking account is now $4,977.80.
There was discussion about creating a new expense line to pay for the Zoom meetings, which now seem likely to continue for some time.  For this fiscal year, there would be 7 months, so at $15 per month that would be $105.  Gay Jones made a motion to approve a new expense line of $105.  James Adams seconded the motion.  The motion was approved unanimously.
There was discussion about how to present overages on the Treasurer’s report.  It was agreed that the budgeted expense would remain the same as originally approved, but that the overages would be approved by the Steering Committee.

b. CORPAC
Bonnie Domeny stated that there had not been a CORPAC (Cordova Community Planning and Advisory Council) meeting this month.

c. Membership
Jim Morgan reported that there was no change in membership numbers. 

d. American River Parkway Foundation Focus Group
Bonnie Domeny reported that the American River Parkway Foundation had hired a company to conduct a Focus Group concerning people’s desires for the Parkway.  The focus group was conducted by video.  Bonnie participated, and stated that her recommendation was to have a clean and safe Parkway. It seemed like the ARPF wants to spend some money posting signs along the bike trail.  The meeting did not seem very useful.  Gay Jones stated that she also participated, and concurred with Bonnie’s assessment.  It did not seem like the moderator knew much about the Parkway.  Gay commented that the American River Parkway Coalition had been discussing signage in the Parkway for some time now.

8. Old Business

a. Cal Am
James Adams reported that the question is when do we comment on the issues in the California American Water (Cal Am) rate case.  It is not useful to participate in the hearings.  BRECA is working with the Public Advocates Office.  Gay Jones commented that it is the same old story: Ratepayers pay for investments and cover financial risks.

b. From the Floor
There was no Old Business from the floor.

9. New Business 

a. Reporting Issues to the County
Bonnie Domeny commented that if people see issues, e.g. homeless people camping near Folsom Blvd., then they need to contact the County.  Gay Jones commented that she has been calling the County about a large yellow locker on the south side of Folsom Blvd. between Bradshaw and Butterfield for about a year with no response.  Lori Christensen enquired whether Gay had sent a picture?  Gay stated she has a picture, but has not sent it.  She will do so.

b. Steering Committee Officer Selection
Gay Jones made a motion to reelect the existing officers as a slate.  Lee Leavell seconded the motion.  Rene Hamlin enquired whether Ken Crawford would like to be treasurer.  Ken declined.  Gay’s motion was approved unanimously.

c. From the Floor
James Adams enquired of Rebecca Sloan, with Supervisor Nottoli’s office, how long the library would be closed?  According to James, she stated that it would be part of the Governor’s Phase Four reopening.  She does not know when that will happen.

A member of the audience commented that the signs and caution tape had been removed from the playgrounds at Riviera East Park and other parks, even though they are officially closed.

d. In Memoriam of Lynda Hammitt
A moment of silence was observed to reflect upon the passing of Lynda Hammitt.  Bonnie Domeny commented that as Chair she would miss Lynda.

10. Meeting adjourned.

The next meeting will be a Steering Committee Meeting on Tuesday, July 28, 2020, via Internet.

BRECA Steering Committee Meeting Minutes – May 26, 2020

By | | , ,
Leave a comment

BUTTERFIELD-RIVIERA EAST COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
STEERING COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES

DATE: May 26, 2020
PLACE:  Internet, via Zoom
MEETING TYPE:  BRECA Steering Committee Meeting
STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT

James Adams
Lori Christensen
Ken Crawford
Bonnie Domeny
Rene Hamlin
Gay Jones
Lee Leavelle
Jim Morgan
Andrea White 

STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBERS ABSENT

None 

NUMBER OF GUESTS/MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: 3

  1. Call to Order by Chair Bonnie Domeny
  2. Welcome and Introductions
  3. Questions or Comments from the Membership/Community on Non-Agenda items.
    A member of the audience commented that people are following the social distancing rules in the local park.
  1. Minutes of February 25, 2020
    Jim Morgan reported that the draft minutes for February 25, 2020 were circulated to the Steering Committee via email in March.  One change was proposed and accepted.  The majority of the Steering Committee voted in favor of the amended minutes, which were approved.  (Secretary’s note: 6 Steering Committee members voted in favor, and three did not respond.)
  1. Reports
    1. Treasurer
      Andrea White (Treasurer) reported that there have been few expenses due to the novel coronavirus stay-at-home orders, but some income.  The balance in the BRECA checking account is now $5,297.26.
    2. CORPAC
      Gay Jones reported that there was a CORPAC (Cordova Community Planning and Advisory Council) meeting via telephone conference this month.  The item of BRECA interest was the Bradshaw Apartments proposal, which was an information item for CORPAC.  She reported that there was nothing new to BRECA in the proposal, and that the proposal is still moving forward.  Bonnie Domeny commented that she made personal comments to the effect that the County is allowing variances and other deviations from codes, which reduce the protections for the community.
    3. Membership
      Jim Morgan reported that membership renewals in the first month were pretty good in March, but significantly down in April.  May brought some recovery.  Total current memberships are 93.
    4. Spring Fling Scavenger Hunt
      Bonnie Domeny reported that there were three people who completed the game cards, and that they all won something.  People enjoyed the event.
  1. Old Business
    1. Cal Am
      James Adams reported that they had participated in an update conference call.  They enquired about what all the service fees are for.  He stated that they think it is not worth participating in the hearings in San Francisco in July.  We can put together comments on a proposed decision with a brief on issues.
    2. From the Floor
      There was no Old Business from the floor.
  1. New Business
    1. BRECA 2020 Budget Adjustments
      Jim Morgan reported that the expenses for the 2019 membership year had exceeded the amount in the 2020 budget.  He noted that membership year expenses are paid in the following year.  The budgeted amount was $160, and the actual cost was $194.64.  The sources of the increase were an unusually high number of non-renewing members and an increase in printing costs.  Jim requested that an increase to $195 be approved.  Gay Jones made a motion to approve an increase to $195.  James Adams seconded the motion.  The motion was approved unanimously.Jim Morgan also reported that the expenses for the 2020 Steering Committee election had exceeded the budgeted amount.  The budgeted amount was $160 and the actual cost was $164.75.  The source of the increase was a large increase in printing costs.  Jim requested that an increase to $165 be approved.  Gay Jones made a motion to approve an increase to $165.  Andrea White seconded the motion.  The motion was approved unanimously.

      Bonnie Domeny reported that she had circulated to the Steering Committee via email some options for renewing the BRECA web site, but had received little response.  So, she went with a three year renewal at $305, which saves BRECA some money compared to one year.  Andrea White commented that the exact amount was $301.14.  BRECA has already paid $161.35, so in total we need to approve $462.49.  Rounded that would be $465.  Gay Jones made a motion to approve an increase to $465.  James Adams seconded the motion.  The motion was approved unanimously.

    2. Mira Del Rio Speed Bump
      Bonnie Domeny stated that she had received a request from a community member on Mira Del Rio Dr. who wants a speed bump at Riviera East Park.  Bonnie stated that as she understands the process, the neighbor must start a petition.  Bonnie stated that she is in favor, but the local residents need to take this on.  BRECA can support the effort.  Rene Hamlin stated that the community members need to come to our meeting to present their case.  Bonnie stated that she would just contact the community with information.  Ken Crawford stated that the people in the area need to work on it.
    3. Casa Linda
      Bonnie Domeny stated that she has no new information on Casa Linda.  She observed that people are working on it, and has sent an email to Supervisor Nottoli’s office enquiring what is going on.  Lee Leavelle commented that he has a friend who works with Sacramento Self Help Housing (SSHH).  They work to transition homeless people to permanent housing.  They are negotiating to rent the entire complex.  They would rent out rooms based on what the tenants can afford.  They try to move tenants on to permanent housing.  They can make a presentation to BRECA.  Generally SSHH works with homeless people, and neighbors often do not like the situation.  Lee’s question is whether SSHH would work with local homeless people, or bring more people in.Rebecca Sloan, with Supervisor Nottoli’s office, commented that the County is working on various facility issues and code violations at the site, and that there is a hold on the occupancy permit.  Supervisor Nottoli had a meeting with staff on the issues, especially concerning compatibility with the community.  Gay Jones stated that her overriding concerns would be supervision, the welfare of the clients, and the welfare of the community.  Lee stated that he would convey these concerns to his contact as SSHH.  James Adams commented that a reasonable development would be good.  Bonnie stated that she would hope to avoid problems.  Lee Leavelle requested crime data before and after Casa Linda closed.  Rebecca also commented that she has talked with Father Hezekaih, of the church next door, and requested that he keep and eye on the situation.
    4. Yellow Starthistle Eradication
      Bonnie Domeny commented that this year we cannot do a group Yellow Starthistle pulling event.  Gay Jones stated that she would like to do a post for the BRECA web site and maybe Next Door.  She stated that the main Starthistle resurgence is at the old staging area from the levee work at the Kansas Access.  There is also Italian thistle to be pulled.  She stated that one could leave the Starthistle where it is pulled.  Jim Morgan commented that, oddly enough, the emergence of Starthistle at the staging area is actually a good thing.  Prior to that, there were only sparse and stunted grasses, but no broadleaf flowering plants.  The Starthistle is being followed by purple vetches, which are legumes and fix nitrogen, preparing the way for more plants.  He recommended leaving the green material on the ground to add organic material to the clay and rock soil that exists there now.  Lee Leavelle commented that perhaps there could be a spread out event: we could make a grid of 10 feet by 10 feet areas, and have one family do one grid.  Gay stated that another thing that could be done is to take pictures of Starthistle and similar appearing plants, that are not to be pulled, and post them on the website.  Jim commented that that would be a good thing to do, so people do not confuse Starthistle with mustard.
    5. Steering Committee Elections: Provisional Ballots
      Bonnie Domeny stated that there is a need to discuss whether to accept three ballots that were not posted via U.S. mail, but were delivered to her today (May 26).  Gay Jones stated that these would be considered provisional ballots.  She stated there are two issues: This is an opportunity to clarify policies and procedures around elections, and what to do about the late votes this time.  She stated that some people likely looked at the instructions, realized they were past the cutoff date, and did not vote.  Jim Morgan stated that the ballots clearly stated that the envelope must be postmarked by May 21, 2020.  Similar statements have been on ballots for a long time.  Having a cutoff date does two things: It motivates people to get it done, and insures that the ballots arrive in time to be counted.  Accepting ballots late by four days would be unfair to the rest of the membership.Bonnie stated that she interpreted the postmark date as insuring that the ballot would arrive in time for the meeting, and was unaware that it was considered a cutoff date.  BRECA needs a written policy going forward.  She did not see a late drop off as unfair to the membership.  Lee Leavelle stated that he recalled the wording on the letter as a request, not a cutoff.  He also stated that he seemed to remember people bringing ballots to the meeting.  Lori Christensen stated that for any election to a non-profit there is a due date, and it should not be a surprise.  She did not see why we should make an exception.  Andrea White commented that policies need to be enforced consistently, and that she seemed to recall people submitting ballots at the Steering Committee meeting where they were to be counted.  Flexibility is needed due to the unusual situation we have with meetings.  Ken Crawford commented that he seemed to recall a ballot being dropped off at a Steering Committee meeting.  Bonnie commented that a cutoff date was not something the Steering Committee had voted on.  Gay commented that when the ballots were sent out there were no objections to the date, and this is not the sort of issue the Steering Committee normally votes on.

      Lee Leavell made a motion to accept the three provisional ballots, and table the discussion about policy.  The motion was seconded by James Adams.  The motion was approved by roll call with six (6) votes in favor and three (3) votes opposed.

    6. From the Floor
      James Adams commented that there had been spraying of herbicide in the Parkway, and that the incident had not been adequately dealt with.  Also, there have been many bikers on the dirt trail.Bonnie Domeny stated that it is considered good practice to make a web site a secure site, and that she will take care of that going forward.  There should be no cost associated with the changes.
    7. Counting of Steering Committee Election Ballots 

      Jim Morgan read off the votes for the Steering Committee members on the ballots that had been received by mail.  Bonnie Domeny read off the votes on the provisional ballots that had been given to her.  The votes were tallied by four Steering Committee members, and the results compared for accuracy.  The results of the Election were:James Adams – 29
      Lori Christensen  – 25
      Ken Crawford – 30
      Bonnie Domeny – 30
      Rene Hamlin – 30
      Gay Jones – 30
      Lee Leavelle – 27
      Carmen Mitchell – 23
      Jim Morgan – 24
      Andrea White – 29
      Write In (Mickey Mouse) – 1

      The result was that James Adams, Lori Christensen, Ken Crawford, Bonnie Domeny, Rene Hamlin, Gay Jones, Lee Leavelle. Jim Morgan, and Andrea White were elected to the Steering Committee.

  1. Meeting adjourned.

The next meeting will be a Steering Committee Meeting on Tuesday, June 23, 2020, via Internet.

BRECA Steering Committee Meeting Minutes – Feb 25, 2020

By | | , ,
Leave a comment

BUTTERFIELD-RIVIERA EAST COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
STEERING COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES

DATE: February 25, 2020
PLACE:  Rancho Cordova Library, 9845 Folsom Blvd., Sacramento, California
MEETING TYPE:  BRECA Steering Committee Meeting
STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT
James Adams
Lori Christensen
Ken Crawford
Bonnie Domeny
Rene Hamlin
Gay Jones
Lee Leavelle
Jim Morgan
Andrea White

STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBERS ABSENT
None

NUMBER OF GUESTS/MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: 9

1. Call to Order by Chair Bonnie Domeny
2. Welcome and Introductions

3. Questions or Comments from the Membership/Community on Non-Agenda items.
A member of the community commented that there is problem with sidewalks on Appalachian Dr.  They recommended calling 311 about problems, which they had done.

4. Minutes of January 28, 2020
One addition to the draft minutes of January 28, 2020 was requested and accepted.  Gay Jones made a motion to approve the amended minutes.  James Adams seconded the motion.  The motion was approved unanimously.

5. Reports

a. Treasurer
Andrea White (Treasurer) stated that there is no report for this month, and that the report from last month mostly carries forward.

b. CORPAC
Gay Jones commented that there was no CORPAC (Cordova Community Planning and Advisory Council) meeting this month.
Lee Leavelle stated that there had been a communication from the County that a plan to install a sidewalk on the north side of Folsom Blvd. from Butterfield to Mira Del Rio has been sent out to bid.  There were no other items directly relevant to the BRECA area.

c. Membership
Jim Morgan reported that a total of 56 Welcome Packets have been delivered.

Jim distributed a handout on BRECA membership changes for 2019.  In sum, there were an unusually high number of members who did not renew, and an unusually low number of new members.  This resulted in a significant loss of BRECA membership for the 2019 membership year.  The reason(s) for this are not clear: possibly the increase in dues, and also a change in how communications are distributed on Nextdoor, had an impact.

Bonnie Domeny commented that we need to do more to recruit new members.  Gay Jones commented that we really don’t know why people are not renewing.  Lee Leavelle asked whether we could make first year memberships free?

A member of the audience asked what are the benefits of joining BRECA?  Bonnie stated that we can influence local officials.  Lee Leavelle commented that one does not need to be a member to get the benefits of BRECA activities.  Jim stated that there are some tangible individual benefits of being a member, including receiving the Newsletter, having Agendas emailed to you, and also notices of events.  Rene Hamlin commented that one also gets to vote for Steering Committee members.  Lee commented that BRECA has a lot more pull than do individuals.

6. Old Business

a. Bradshaw Apartments
Bonnie Domeny reported that the proposal for apartments on Folsom Blvd, called the Bradshaw Apartments, had been submitted to the County last month.  The proposal seems about the same as what was recently presented to BRECA.  Lee Leavelle commented that it would be the first three story construction in the neighborhood, although the part of the apartments next to the residential properties would only be two stories.  Gay Jones commented that we need to keep a close eye on the proposal, and make sure it conforms to existing laws.  It may come to CORPAC.

b. Illegal and Non-residential Parking on Butterfield Way
Bonnie Domeny reported that nothing had been done on this issue.  Lori Christensen commented that if the No Parking sign on Butterfield Way is moved farther from Folsom Blvd., this would back the problem up onto Stoughton Way and other parts of the community.  Jim Morgan commented that the yellow line in the road could be moved to make more room for moving cars to get past parked cars.

c. Cal Am
Gay Jones reported that they had received a letter from the Public Advocates Office (PAO) of the California Public Utilities Commission that concluded that California American Water (Cal Am) surcharge accounts had become a pervasive method of obtaining rate increases, and that the accounts should be capped at 20%.  Gay requested authorization to send a BRECA letter stating that it should be 0%.  James Adams commented that our rates are going up to finance work in other districts.  Gay commented that, according to Richard Rauschmeir (with the PAO), our rates had gone up 9% each year for the last 10 years.  It was agreed that Gay could write a letter advocating 0% total surcharges.

d. From the Floor
There was no Old Business from the floor.

7. New Business 

a. BRECA 2020 Budget
Andrea White distributed a handout with a draft BRECA budget for 2020.  She stated that we are dealing with a continuing small deficit over the last few years.  The proposed budget made a number of small cuts in expenditures, but still has a net loss of $255 for the year.  A number of suggestions were made to improve the situation.  These included getting the developer of the Bradshaw Apartments to sponsor the BRECA picnic, reducing the raffle prizes at the picnic, and having ads in the Newsletter or coupons.  Bonnie Domeny commented that we had tried to get coupons from local merchants for the Welcome Packets, but there was no interest in doing that.  It was agreed to keep the discussion open.  Gay Jones requested that the expenditure Parkway Restoration be changed to Parkway Activities.  Ken Crawford made a motion to approve the draft budget with the amendment.  James Adams seconded the motion.  The motion was approved unanimously.

b. Annual Meeting
Bonnie Domeny asked what should the theme be for the upcoming BRECA Annual Meeting?  Suggestions included Crime and Homelessness, Community Improvement, Action for the Community, and Healthy Community.  Lee Leavelle commented that the latter would bring in Health and Wellness companies.  It was commented that someone has to do the footwork for the theme.  Bonnie Domeny stated that we should carry on the discussion by email.  Also, she would contact officials to save the date.

c. Easter Egg Hunt
Andrea White volunteered to be the chair of the Easter Egg Hunt committee.  Bonnie Domeny volunteered to do the flier.

d. May is Bike Month
It was commented that no date has yet been set for the neighborhood bike ride.

e. From the Floor
Ken Crawford asked for assistance with lobbying against a bill in the State Legislature.  AB1140, Stone, would put an unreasonable burden on individual California Registered Tax Preparers.  Specifically it would mandate that each client receive a letter in six languages with a quote on the cost of preparing the tax return, and any increased costs.  Ken requested that people contact Assemblyman Ken Cooley.

Bonnie Domeny reported that someone had sprayed Roundup on the grass in the American River Parkway in back of the home next to the Anderson property.  This has been reported to the Rangers.

8. Meeting adjourned.

The next meeting will be a Steering Committee Meeting on Tuesday, March 24, 2020, at the Rancho Cordova Library.

BRECA Steering Committee Meeting Minutes – Nov 18, 2019

By | | ,
Leave a comment

DATE: November 18, 2019
PLACE:  Rancho Cordova Library, 9845 Folsom Blvd., Sacramento, California
MEETING TYPE:  BRECA Steering Committee Meeting

STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT

James Adams
Lori Christensen
Bonnie Domeny
Gay Jones
Lee Leavelle
Jim Morgan
Andrea White

STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBERS ABSENT

Ken Crawford
Rene Hamlin

NUMBER OF GUESTS/MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: 8

  1. Call to Order by Chair Bonnie Domeny
  2. Bradshaw Apartments Presentation – Rashad MammadovRashad Mammadov gave a presentation on the proposed Bradshaw at Folsom Apartments, and answered questions afterwards.  He stated that the address for the proposed apartments is 9545 Folsom Blvd.  It will have two and three story apartments, with a total of 62 units.  These will include two bedroom, one bedroom and studio units.  The parts of the apartments facing Folsom Blvd. will be three stories, and the parts of the apartments facing the residential neighbors will be two stories.  Estimated rent for the two bedroom units is $1,700 per month, for the one bedroom units is $1,550 per month, and for the studio units is $1,100 to $1,200 per month.  He noted that the current plans are generally similar to the plans on the BRECA web site.One question concerned the sort of trees to be used as a barrier between the apartments and the residential area.  Mr. Mammadov responded that they have not determined this yet.  Another question concerned access for handicapped.  Mr. Mammadov responded that all apartments on the first floor are ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible, as is parking.  Another question concerned how long security will be provided.  Mr. Mammadov responded that they plan to have patrols every few hours once the apartments are constructed.  There will also be an on-site manager.A further question concerned the number of parking spaces.  Mr. Mammadov responded that there will be 72 parking spaces, including two motorcycles, and three ADA.  Another question concerned status of the application.  Mr. Mammadov stated that they have sent drawings to County Planning, and hope to submit an application next week.  Another question concerned traffic impacts and studies.  Mr. Mammadov responded that they are not required to do traffic studies for a design review application due to the size of the project.  Another question concerned prevailing wages.  Mr. Mammadov responded that they do not plan to pay prevailing wages.  A final question concerned timelines.  Mr. Mammadov responded that they expect to start 6 months after the project is approved, and complete construction in 12 months.  So, move in would be in 2022.
  1. Welcome and Introductions
  2. Questions or Comments from the Membership/Community on Non-Agenda items.
    There were no questions or comments from the membership or community.
  1. Minutes
    Some changes were proposed and accepted to the draft minutes of October 22, 2019.  Lori Christensen made a motion to adopt the amended draft minutes.  James Adams seconded the motion.  The motion was adopted unanimously.
  1. Reports
    1. Treasurer
      Andrea White (Treasurer) distributed a handout of BRECA profit and loss, budget vs. actual so far this year.  She noted that the BRECA bank balance was $4,633.05.
    2. CORPAC
      Lee Leavelle stated that there was no Cordova Community Planning and Advisory Council (CORPAC) meeting this month.  He stated that there was activity on the proposal from County Planning to change the way that the Community Planning and Advisory Councils (CPACs) work.  Two of the main concerns had been that the proposal would have eliminated the ability of the CPACs to file a free appeal of County Planning Commission decisions, and to eliminated votes on projects, but only have discussions.  A final proposal from County Planning was scheduled to go to the Planning Commission without having been reviewed by the CPACs.  Gay Jones (Chair of CORPAC) filed a formal request for delay so that the proposal could be reviewed by the CPACs.  The request was denied.  They were given the final proposal with 5 days to review before the Planning Commission meeting.  They took no exception to the proposed changes, which did not include either of the above proposals.  Gay Jones sent a note stating that they were okay with the final proposal.Gay Jones noted that the final proposal was approved by the Planning Commission, and now goes to the Board of Supervisors.  It turns out that other CPACs had similar concerns to CORPAC.Gay Jones also noted that the next CORPAC meeting would deal with a non-conforming use: The application for a Sober Living Transitional Housing on Wild Rose Way (in Rosemont).  The use would be non-conforming due to an excessive number of dwelling units for the area.
    3. Membership
      Jim Morgan reported that a total of 51 Welcome Packets have been delivered.
      Jim also reported that there were no changes in BRECA membership this month.  BRECA has 99 memberships.
  1. Old Business
    1. BRECA Newsletter Update
      Jim Morgan reported that the Newsletter is ready to go to Rick Sloan for pictures and graphics.  It should be coming out in early December.
    2. Tree Planting
      Bonnie Domeny stated that 60 people have volunteered for the tree planting in Riviera East Park.  Registration is now closed.  There will be 18 trees planted.  Lee Leavelle asked if the trees would need to be watered.  Andrea White volunteered to ask at the Cordova Registration and Park management meeting.  She stated that maintenance people keep an eye on the trees.
    3. From the Floor
      James Adams enquired whether the Bradshaw Apartments proposal is moving okay, and whether the people present are okay with the plan as submitted.  Lee Leavelle stated that it seems okay to him, we received no negative feedback from the community at the presentation earlier (see item 2).  Bonnie Domeny stated that she did not think we need to take a formal stand.  Gay Jones stated we should not rush to judgment: Let’s see what Mr. Mammadov actually submits to the County.  There may still be outstanding issues.  Jim Morgan stated that Mr. Mammadov needs deviations from County codes, which have to be approved by County Planning.  It is likely it will come before CORPAC.  Mr. Mammadov has made significant improvements compared to the June version of the proposal.  Lee Leavelle commented that this is an example of the community working with the developer to make it easier to get approval of the project.  However, there will be ongoing changes as the project progresses through the approval process.  Lori Christensen commented that we can revisit the issue at the next Steering Committee meeting in January.
      Gay Jones commented that the yellow locker is still on the south side of Folsom Blvd. opposite 9545 Folsom Blvd.  She urged people to call 311 and make a complaint.
  1. New Business
    1. Holiday Party Planning
      Bonnie Domeny commented that the meeting on December 17, Tuesday, is scheduled as the holiday party.  Lori Christensen commented that last year at Brookside was nice, and we ordered appetizers.  Bonnie volunteered to call Brookside and get a reservation.  Jim Morgan commented that we did a flyer last year.  There was discussion of the details.
    2. From the Floor
      Bonnie Domeny commented that the Hyannis Way Neighborhood Watch met.  About 30 people attended.
  1. Meeting adjourned.

The next meeting will be a Steering Committee Meeting on Tuesday, January 28, 2020, at the Rancho Cordova Library.