2008-02-11 Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission Minutes

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commented that there needs to be a motion to authorize someone on the Commission to speak on behalf of them, if not they can speak as an individual. Ms. Schuster added that the Commission writes a letter to the Mayor addressing their concerns in regards to management and maintenance. Recess 12:33 p.m. Reconvened 12:57p.m. Ms. Springer summarized that the Commission is looking at ways that they can have someone from the Commission present to answer questions at the Council meeting when he presents the Annual Report. Mr. Campbell added that he is not in favor of amending the code. Ms. Garcia added that she too feels that the open space fund should be kept for acquisitions and that the Commission considers alternative funding. Ms. Springer suggested that they take this year to focus more on processes of the Commission and asked the sub - committee to start working on funding sources. Ms. Garcia asked if it's feasible to talk to grant writers from the County. Mr. Yada told her that Lea Hong of Trust for Public Lands (TPL) has been instrumental in helping the County put together grant applications. Mr. Yada added that TPL and land trusts have a good handle on funding and the Commission needs to focus on resources needed for individual properties to identify potential sources of funding. Mr. Flores suggested that they schedule a meeting with the Council after the report is submitted to give them some time to review first. Ms. Springer asked Mr. Yada if he attends the Council meetings and if he's present can he answer questions. Mr. Yada replied yes. Motion: Commissioner Flores moved to have Mr. Yada present at the Council meeting to answer questions to the best of his ability and bring back questions to the Commission, if any. Seconded by Commissioner Gilmartin. All members voted aye, motion carried. Ms. Springer then talked about submitting a letter to the Mayor that includes alternative funding sources. Mr. Campbell stressed the urgency of this since the budget process has already started. Mr. Yada added that it might be too late since they're already in the middle of the budget. Mr. Flores noted that this may be too premature and feels the Commission needs to give specifics in detail saying what is necessary. Mr. Yada added that since the Commission doesn't know what the cost of maintenance will be, the key issue is to come up with a management plan. -8-