Categories2024 Minutes by

Draft Minutes | April 18, 2024

COBB AREA COUNCIL

PUBLIC MEETING

*****Thursday April 18, 2024 at 6:00pm***** (special start time)

In-Person and Online Participation Available

 

DRAFT MINUTES

 

CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:10pm

ROLL CALL:

Present: Cathy McCarthy, Chris Nettles, Darlene Warner, Jake Strickler, Joe Schneider, Mel McMurrin

Absent: None

Pledge of Allegiance

Approval of Agenda – Motion by: Chris, 2nd by: Darlene. All in favor, Agenda approved.

Amendments: None

Approval of Minutes – Motion by: Chris, 2nd by: Mel. All in favor. Minutes approved.

Amendments: None

[Secretary’s Note: Treasurer’s Report submitted. Attached and incorporated herewith as “Attachment A.”]

 

Short Announcements

Robert – Lions Club will be having a campfire sing-along with mac & cheese on April 26th from 5:30pm to 10pm.

Magdalena – May 4th is National Wildfire Preparedness Day

Paul – April 27th is the SLFPD’s Open House from 10am to 3pm. Permitted burning ends April 30th.

Mel – Cobb Alert Net radios will be available in May.

 

Public and Board Comment on Non-Agenda Items (3 mins./individual)

None

 

Cobb Area Plan Kickoff– Michelle Irace, Principal Planner, Community Development Department

The County of Lake is beginning the exciting journey of updating all eight local area plans (in addition to the General Plan). CDD Staff and the planning consultant, PlaceWorks, will provide an overview presentation, answer any questions folks may have, and seek public input about the plan update.

Director of Community Development Department, Mireya Turner, presented an overview of Lake County’s General Plan and Area Plans process and timing. The Draft LAPs (Local Area Plan) should be ready between Fall 2024 and Spring 2025. The Environmental Impact Report (EIR) should be between Spring 2025 and Spring 2026. Public review and adoption should occur in the Spring-Fall of 2026, with a Noticed public hearing in the Fall of 2026.

The last Local Are Plan for the Cobb Area was in 1989. It is available on the County’s website: www.lakecountyca.gov/cdd/planning/planningdocuments

All in attendance broke into small workgroups to answer visioning questions presented by the CDD to gain input from the Cobb community. Each workgroup gathered at a table and came up with ideas which were written on large pads of paper and presented by each group to all in attendance. These written ideas were then gathered by the County to be compiled. For video of these presentations, please visit the Lake County Board of Supervisors YouTube channel or visit www.LakeCounty2050.org.

 

Closing announcements

North Coast Opportunities will be having a Volunteer Fair on April 30th from 4 to 6pm.

Glenneth will be having more clay classes available.

 

Next Meeting: May 16, 2024

ADJOURNED AT 8:13pm

 

Respectfully submitted,

Darlene Warner, Secretary

Categories2024 Minutes by

Minutes | March 21, 2024

COBB AREA COUNCIL

PUBLIC MEETING

Thursday March 21, 2024 at 6:30pm

In-Person and Online Participation Available

 

MINUTES (Approved 4-18-2024)

 

CALLED TO ORDER at 6:32pm

ROLL CALL

Present: Cathy McCarthy, Darlene Warner, Jake Strickler, Joe Schneider, Mel McMurrin

Absent:  Chris Nettles

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

APPROVAL OF AGENDA Motion by: Darlene, 2nd by: Jake. All in favor, Agenda approved with Amendment.

Amendments: Suggestion made by Darlene to move guest speakers to 6:40 position, with Jessica and Paul’s reports afterwards in respect of guest speakers’ time. All in agreement.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES Motion by: Jake, 2nd by: Paul. All in favor, Minutes approved.

SHORT ANNOUNCEMENTS

Robert – crab feed was a success. On Saturday, March 30th at Mountain Meadow, there will be an Egg Hunt with Easter Bunny for pictures, and Mountain Meadow will be open during the event. There will be 1,400 eggs to be found and separate sections for infants and toddlers. Age-appropriate toys in the eggs. On April 26th there will be a Campfire sing-along at the Mountain Lions Club.

Public and Board Comment on Non-Agenda Items (3 mins./individual)

Greg, Mountain High Coffee – thanked CAC for the Cobbite business of the Year Award. Feeling disenfranchised with the additional rate hikes from PG&E, it’s hurting his small business. Would like to see an independent panel with the State, and CAC’s small business loan fund money loaned out.

Lake County Community Foundation – Annette L. Kamaloni, Chuck Bevin

Lake County had no way to receive funds, now we do with Lake County Community Foundation, started in August 2023, acting as a fiscal agent for the County. www.lccf.org

Building of H.O.P.E. Center in Clearlake. Urgent need for housing (projects in the works), workforce training, grants. LCCF will provide a roundtable for Lake County for Agencies to talk together. LCCP is in it for the long-haul. Jessica’s comments: planning in times of blue skies. Will prevent our money from going to other Counties, such as Sonoma County after the fires because Lake County did not have a fiscal agent. LCCP will now be our fiscal agent, after several years of work.

Supervisor’s Comments – Jessica Pyska

Commented on Greg’s Public Comment regarding PG&E rate hikes – that they are authorized through the CPUC and are supposed to be for recouping money for vegetation management. The CPUC is the place to give comments and participate in working groups. Also commented on the decommissioning of landlines by ATT and hearings being held at the CPUC. We have a new Government Affairs Representative for PG&E, his name is Jason, and we hope to have him at our May meeting. This summer, PGE will be undergrounding lines from Bottlerock Road to Sulpher Creek Road. Anyone with leftover PGE trees (approximately 1,100) from their vegetation management efforts, contact/email Jessica. Two weeks ago, the generator was installed at Little Red, with thanks to the Red Cross, the Lake County climate team, and Lions Club. The Lions Club can now be utilized as an emergency shelter. Happened quickly, start to finish in about 2 weeks. Our next meeting will start early at 6PM and will be a presentation by the County’s Community Development Department – kicking off our Cobb Area Plan – our local area plan, which is our portion of priorities and ideas for the Cobb Area Plan, to be included in the larger County General Plan, which will take place over the next 2 years or so. A new MAC was just formed for the Kelseyville area – the Big Valley Area Council (BVAC) – last week. In parallel we will be updating the County General Plan over the next 3 years. Escrow on the park property closed on Friday. Cobb Park received a federal grant to cover approximately half the purchase price of the park property. Calpine turns 40 this year. This year, Boggs Forests turns 75 years old; possible celebration (hike, lunch, music, more) on June 22nd.

Fire Season Update – Paul Duncan

The National Weather Service (NWS) is looking for 10 people to be weather spotters for the Cobb area; 2 hours of training provided by NWS, most likely will be at Cobb Fire Station. We do not have a RAWS station, so we there will be one going into Boggs. There will be more clearing up in Boggs, and the work behind the school in the amphitheater area is looking amazing. Copter crews are getting their night-vision qualifications done this year. Burn permit period ends April 30th.

Treasurer’s Report – Chris

Darlene reported that there was no treasurer’s report from Chris, but Chris said there wasn’t any change from last month and that normal monthly expenses would be reflected in next month’s report. Chris had a family emergency.

Committee Reports (3 minutes/individual)

Firewise Communities – Magdelena, Cindy, Glenneth, David, Laurie

Eliot – May 4th is National Wildfire Cleanup Day. Grant received via SSCRA from NFP to assist community Firewise Groups in clearing out flash/brush and cleanup over the next couple of months in preparation for National Wildfire Cleanup Day. Check with your neighborhood Firewise Group.

Communications Committee – Darlene

Mel – had two deep-cycle auto batteries donated for backup power to Mountain repeater. Monthly check-ins still the same amount, would like to hear from people once per month. Asked if there were videos and/or classes on “how to” operate the radios – visit the website: www.cobbalert.net. Getting a 3rd “Ridge” repeater up and running. Darlene – answered a question about emergency siren not being heard well. Mentioned well aware of situation, ideal situation would be additional siren at helitack base, but a new siren costs approximately $50K.

Forest Health Committee – Eliot

No report.

Economic Development Committee – Chris

None. Chris was absent due to a family emergency.

Blackberry Cobbler Festival – Cathy

Met with Jennifer Gayda two weeks ago, will meet with her again next Thursday.

Cobbler Festival will be Saturday, August 24th from 11A to 4P. The new owner of Mountain Meadow venue has agreed to have the festival there still.

CalTrans emailed Cathy asking what we thought of the new bridge: Paul said the bridge is amazing, can’t see it, but there’s beautiful artwork on the side of the rock wall portion. Reflectors are raised rather than inset. Won’t survive snowplows, need to be in-ground, inset. There is a grinder that will inset the reflectors. Jake commented that CalTrans has been going above and beyond with cleaning up fallen tree debris beyond the right-of-way.

 

Next Meeting: April 18, 2024 at 6:00 *** Early Start time for Community Development Department

 

ADJOURNED AT 7:52pm

 

Respectfully Submitted,

Darlene Warner, Secretary

Categories2024 Minutes by

Minutes | February 15, 2024

COBB AREA COUNCIL

PUBLIC MEETING

Thursday February 15, 2024 at 6:30pm

In-Person and Online Participation Available

 

MINUTES (Approved 3-21-2024)

 

CALLED TO ORDER at 6:37pm

Roll Call

Present: Cathy McCarthy, Chris Nettles, Darlene Warner

Absent: Jake Strickler, Joe Schneider, Mel McMurrin

Pledge of Allegiance

Approval of Agenda: Motion by Paul, 2nd by Magdalena, All in favor, Agenda approved.

Approval of Minutes Motion by Paul, 2nd by Chris, All in favor, Minutes approved.

In January of each year, the C.A.C. Board of Directors will hold a roll call election from its regular members to select the Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Secretary and Treasurer. No meeting was held in January, therefore we will select these roles tonight.

Cathy McCarthy: Chairperson

Jake Strickler – Vice Chair

Chris Nettles: Treasurer

Darlene Warner: Secretary

Joe Schneider: Member at Large

Mel McMurrin – Alternate

Chris suggested we vote for the positions/roles as a slate. Jessica nominated Jake as Vice Chair. Vote on above positions was made as a slate: Chris made motion on slate vote to approve, Robert made 2nd. All in favor of slate, Motion passes unanimously, members assigned roles as above.

Short Announcements

Robert – tickets are available and almost gone for the Crab Feed. Purchased Alaskan half-crabs at $8.95/pound. Please take free food leftover from food giveaway.

Public and Board Comment on Non-Agenda Items (3 mins./individual)

Cathy acknowledged Greg and Allison from Mountain High Coffee as Cobbites of the year for their long-term commitment and support to Cobb. Inez thanked them as well.

Duncan – question regarding Big Canyon Road/Perini Road/Ettawa Springs, and what parts are in which district.

Supervisor’s Comments – Jessica Pyska

Thanked the Lions Club and everyone involved for opening up as a warming center during the storm. With the help of the Lions Club and the Red Cross, the application for a new generator will be presented next week. Lots of crews were out during the storm: DPW, Lars, Chief Duncan, PGE, tree crews, CHP, helitack crews, many crews responded and did incredible work. Declared local disaster. Damage – get damage reports of personal property in. County needs total damage assessment. There were 25 homes destroyed in Lake County. If you need assistance with this, contact Jessica. Damage reports can be made at: www.lakesherrirff.com. Went to DC for the NACO (National Association of Counties) conference with a delegation representing Lake County: Bruno, EJ and 2 staff members. The first day was a full day (8am to 5pm) of FEMA training, learning how to build more resilient communities, how we get funding in pro-active work: for every $1 spent saves us $7 down the road. There was a significant amount of defensible space cleanup after the storm. Defensible Space Clearing – grant funds available of up to $2,500 per home – EJ and Jessica put some of their discretionary funds into this program, there’s about a half-million available. Tree mortality – removing from rights-of-way – working with CalOES for two years now on this; Senator McGuire gave us $1M to get the program started, Disaster Act funding. We’ve been working on a park for the Cobb community for a long time – introduced Lars Ewing.

Cobb Park Update- Lars Ewing and Celia Hoberg

The Public Services Department includes the Parks and Recreation Department

Public Notice has been issued of a hearing at the BOS Meeting on March 27th regarding the purchase of this 13-acre property SE of the golf course. Will be closing escrow a few weeks after that. The parking area will be in front, at the corner of Hwy 175 and Golf Road where the existing building is. Amenities – ideas presented: restrooms, a forested, cabin feel, shaded picnic areas, majority of park will be trails, trail up over the creek, natural playground, amphitheater, and native garden. Eliot commented to include creek ecological restoration and partnering with SSCRA and TERA. Going to use a phased approach. There will be more formal opportunities for further input. The first phase is to open the park, which includes initial amenities and some of the trails. Maintenance and long-term/ongoing funding are a concern. The Concept Plan is developed.

Fire Season Update: Winter Storm Edition- Paul Duncan

More significant storm than the NWS out of Eureka predicted. Has not been pleased with Eureka (vs Sacramento), they’ve been underestimating the wind. NWS may be asking for weather spotters. Reminded everyone to always call 911 first – that way your location is logged and there’s medical aid available over the phone. Another significant event this weekend, be prepared. Boggs forest is a mess, crews are working on that. Would like to know why the permanent ATT keeps going down. Lake County received 400 calls for service, 68 is normal. Snowplow was very busy; Chief Duncan is still dispatch on that. The helicopter will be back in March. Working with CLERC to get ACI back up and running, have fence up around it now. Pine, fir, and cedar trees don’t like to be alone.

Robert commented about ways PGE can better notify the public when an emergency shelter is opened up when the power goes out. Mentioned it was the first time he saw County plows in the area and praised Public Works for that.

Treasurer’s Report – Chris

See attached report incorporated herewith as “Attachment A”

Overall decrease to Profit & Loss Statement of $3K. Funds in Blackberry Cobbler Fest are $17.9K.

Discuss/Approve Authority to continue rent storage for HUB materials until new location is determined.

Monthly rental at Empire Storage in Middletown is $130/month. Approval is to continue renting storage unit, and to review this rental in another quarter. Motion made by Chris, 2nd by Eliot. All in favor. Motion approved.

Committee Reports (3 minutes/individual)

Firewise Communities – Magdelena, Cindy, Glenneth, David, Laurie

Cathy – Jones Creek is renewed and in good standing.

Magdalena – getting Firewise communities active and focused on getting renewals in. Heard Firewise discounts on homeowners’ insurance is 10% off CA Fair Plan, with 25% off the wildfire portion of policy. Community Organizations in Active Disasters (including non-profits) with CERT training are people who help and are looking at making more CERT classes available. Worked with NCO to get an AmeriCorp crew out to– 5 or 6 properties. The crew were young and energetic – we need more crews. We are overdue for a community event. Marin County is no longer #1 for number of Firewise Groups. Nevada County is #1 for number of Firewise groups now with 91 groups. We have almost 20.

Communications Committee – Darlene

Mountain repeater got wet due to a roof leak with the storm. Operating on a backup repeater, and on generator power when PGE was out. During winter, having a radio is a good idea too, but always call 911 first if you can. Had a call for help on the radio from a new member and was able to help people with a large tree through their roof which trapped them in their bedroom. Information was relayed to get them help. Noted how information was stated clearly and calmly in a stressful time. Communications Committee meeting will be either Friday 2/23 or 3/1. Mel would like to find people interested in getting their HAM license, call him at (415) 302-6896. An informal, post-storm meeting will be held tomorrow at 5pm online. Duncan had a question about linked repeaters.

Forest Health Committee – Eliot

No report

Economic Development Committee – Chris

Chris attended Lake County Business Association Round Table – money/loan programs available to small businesses, and technical assistance available. Working hard at getting presentations at the Economic Development Committee meeting and putting on calendar. 

Blackberry Cobbler Festival

Noted that Mountain Meadow venue is in escrow, and new owners are willing to host the Blackberry Cobbler Festival 2024.

Discuss/Approve process for appointing next chair of the Blackberry COBBler Festival

Motion made by Magdalena to delegate Economic Development Committee to be tasked with this, Chris made 2nd. All in favor, motion passes.

Discuss/Approve chair of Blackberry COBBler Festival as a paid position

Eliot asked whether we were going to hire outside to manage. Chris and Cathy noted to do as we’ve done before and hire local – ideally someone who has been involved before and knows Cobb. Clarified this position is not only chairing, but administering all functions related to Cobbler Fest 2024. It is noted that a job description and duties need to be defined. Motion made by Chris, 2nd made by Jessica, all in favor, motion passes.

Next Meeting: March 21, 2024 at 6:30

Adjourned at 8:03pm

 

Respectfully Submitted,

Darlene Warner, Secretary

Categories2023 Minutes by

Minutes | December 21, 2023

COBB AREA COUNCIL

PUBLIC MEETING

Thursday December 21, 2023 at 6:30pm

In-Person and Online Participation Available

 

MINUTES (Approved 2-15-2024)

 

CALL TO ORDER at 6:40pm

ROLL CALL

Present: Cathy McCarthy, Chris Nettles, Darlene Warner, Joe Schneider, Mel McMurrin

Absent: Jake Strickler

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

APPROVAL OF AGENDA Motion by Chris, 2nd by Eliot. All in favor. Agenda approved as Amended.

Amendment(s): Amend to include Supervisor’s Report, Alternate’s term ends 12/31/24

 

APPROVAL OF MINUTES Motion by Mel, 2nd by Chris. All in favor. Minutes approved as Amended.

Amendment(s): correct the spelling of Magdalena’s name and email address. Correct the spelling of David Dolezal’s name. Mountain Of Ascension should be Mountain Of Attention.

 

SHORT ANNOUNCEMENTS

Robert – Lion’s Club is having a Campfire event with singing, 2 firepits on January 20th either 6-9pm or 7-10pm.

There is food leftover from food giveaway, please take some. The rain total from recent storm was 10.54 inches, and 20.82 for the season.

Paul – there will be clearing/prescribed burns by the elementary school and Boggs Forest

 

PUBLIC AND BOARD COMMENT ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS (3 mins./individual)

Magdalena – Giant Steps is having a Holiday tree lighting ceremony and lights contest on January 22nd at the Mountain Meadow venue, 5pm; winners will be announced December 27th. County of Lake survey due January 31st.

[Added Item]

SUPERVISOR’S COMMENTS (Jessica Pyska)

Last month we found out from the Governor’s Office of Planning and Resources (OPR) that we became the 6th pilot biomass project. We will be working with OPR and 5 other pilot programs in the State, and as a Region developing a biomass strategy – we’ll be looking at industries that can thrive here. Has been working on this for the last couple of years and took the Director on a dead trees tour in October. We basically have no biomass infrastructure (i.e. no sawmills). We’ll be doing an asset analysis and developing the strategy on what types of businesses can come here and market to these businesses, then develop sites all around the County. This will be a 3-year program, and will be working with the Governor’s Office to get all necessary paperwork together within the next couple months. Hopefully we can kick this off in April 2024. The next round of funding would be seed money to implement and then work on sustainable funding for all the programs. This is non-competitive, we’re already in the program, we just need to get the paperwork in.

Cobb Park – close to land acquisition. Should be coming to the BOS in February 2024. The notification period should start very soon. Initial design concepts will be presented by Lars and staff with CAC as early as late January or February. Thanked CAC board members.

 

NOMINATIONS AND ELECTIONS

  • Nominations and Elections of New Board Members to serve the two-year term (1/2024 through end of 12/2025).

Cathy, Darlene, and Joe’s terms are expiring. Alternate expires at the end of each year. Nominations were accepted. Chris suggested we vote by Slate rather than individually. The slate was as follows: Cathy McCarthy, Darlene Warner, and Joe Schneider for reelection to two-year terms, Mel McMurrin for a one-year term as Alternate. Motion by Eliot, 2nd by Laurie Lincoln. All in favor, none opposed. Cathy, Darlene, Joe and Mel were reelected. Jessica noted that all Board Applications must be submitted to the County before the January 9th BOS meeting to be appointed before the next CAC meeting.

  • Nominations and Elections of New Alternate to serve the one-year term (1/2024 through end 12/2025).

Mel McMurrin was nominated and reelected for a one-year term as Alternate (see above).

 

For submission to the Cobb Area Council: Recommendations from the Cobb Watershed Education and Restoration Program

Eliot presented a document to CAC with recommendations outlined and read aloud in its entirety by Eliot.

Recommendations document received by CAC.

 

Cobbite of the Year – Committee presents its selections

Individual: Kelly Fletcher was presented with the Cobbite of the Year award

Business:  Mountain High Coffee and Books was announced as Cobbite of the Year

 

Next Meeting: January 18, 2024

ADJOURNED at 7:26pm

 

Respectfully submitted,

Darlene Warner, Secretary

 

Categories2023 Minutes by

Minutes | November 16, 2023

COBB AREA COUNCIL

PUBLIC MEETING

Thursday November 16, 2023 at 6:30pm

In-Person and Online Participation Available

 

MINUTES

 

 

CALLED TO ORDER at 6:33pm

ROLL CALL:

Present: Cathy McCarthy, Chris Nettles, Darlene Warner, Mel McMurrin, Jake Strickler

Absent: Joe Schneider

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Motion by Paul, 2nd  by Eliot. All in favor, Minutes Approved as Amended.

Amendment: Chris Nettles was marked “present” at last meeting when he was in fact absent. Minutes will reflect that he was absent.

 

APPROVAL OF AGENDA: Motion by Paul, 2nd by Chris. All in Favor, Agenda approved. Strike Supervisor’s comments, Supervisor Pyska is at a conference.

 

SHORT ANNOUNCEMENTS

John/Lion’s Club – Breakfast with Santa at the Lion’s Club at 9am on 12/9. Supports the PTO for Cobb Elementary School. Tentative bonfire on January 20th.

 

PUBLIC AND BOARD COMMENT ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS (3 MINS./INDIVIDUAL)

None

Supervisor’s Comments – Jessica Pyska

Not present – at CSAC conference

Fire Season Update – Paul Duncan

At reduced staff – one engine per station. Copter: not staffed daily, but still flying around. State excavator is at Boggs Forest; trying to get into Gifford Springs area. If you see them working, stay back about 300 feet. Had three large prescribed burns: 13 acres with TERA on Bottlerock Road, 53 acres in Lower Lake, and 3 acres in Loch Lomond. Positive, very good fire. Natives call it “fire medicine.” Good to have TERA involved; Cobb is the hub for 6 tribes that were involved. ACI has been relocated to Hwy 175 just north of the settling ponds just outside Middletown. Should be up and running first part of 2024, have to put fencing up around it. The intent is for it to be free of charge. Cobb area Candy Cane Run will be on December 8th, weather permitting.

Treasurer’s Report – Chris

Attached and incorporated herewith as “Attachment A”

Discuss/ Approve: RFP Explore Cobb webpage/ social media management recommendation of Economic Development Committee

Chris recapped issue. Received 2 proposals and main difference between the 2 was cost. Economic Development Committee reviewed both proposals and recommends accepting the proposal from Sally Wiatrolik. It was noted that Glenneth recommended Sally during last month’s CAC meeting. Eliot recommended adding maintenance of CAC website to duties covered by proposal. Motion to accept proposal from Sally Wiatroliak made by Chris, 2nd by Darlene. All in favor (10 votes aye, 0 votes nay). Motion Approved. Chris will inform Sally. Cathy acknowledges and thanks Abby.

Committee Reports (3 minutes/individual)

Firewise Communities – Magdalena, Cindy, Glenneth, David, Laurie

Magdalena – 6 Firewise Communities in the Cobb Area. One Firewise community has received renewal – Firewise Group 2. Deadline has been extended to December 15, 2023 due to website glitches. Waiting for Cobb View (in process), Seigler Springs, Loch Lomond, Jones Creek (in process), and Gordon Springs is completed. For a list of Firewise communities, visit: www.firesafelake.org. Can also email Magdalena with questions: magdalenavh@sscra.org. David Dolezal is the new Firewise Ranger from the Bureau of Land Management to conduct the community risk assessments. Pay attention to how current your Action Plan is; these Action Plans must be renewed every 3 years instead of the nationally required 5 years.

Communications Committee – Darlene

Mel – reminder that CAN (Cobb Alert Net) hours are Firewise hours. Communications Committee meeting tomorrow at 5pm – Bit.ly/coms.meet/nov2023 to attend online. Need new members; looking at members at large to participate – actively recruiting for 4 open positions. FireAdaptiveNetwork.org (FAN) has an article about CAN (Cobb Alert Net) thanks to Magdalena. FAN is a national organization. Please visit to read and comment on article, it needs comments. Check-ins are in the 15-30 range, the usual. Winter is a fun time to practice and check-in. Visit our website at: CobbAlert.net and email us at: cobbalertnet@gmail.com. We monitor controlled burns, so check your radio first. CAN is a very good resource for winter storm information as well.

Comment from Duncan – new fire Marshal for Mountain Of Attention – if we had better communication, we would have saved more structures. Positive comments about Cobb Alert Net.

Forest Health Committee – Eliot

Reminder: committee meets last Friday of every month. Now meeting at Loch Lomond fire house. SSCRA submitted a 20-page CWPP application for a grant; expecting to hear back in February. Attended CalFire research meeting – fire research done on Cobb, there’s 9 years of data. Watershed Restoration Public Forum will be December 18th from 5-7pm at Mandala Springs – reviewing first year of operations.

Economic Development Committee – Chris

Has not met since review of website/social media proposals.

Blackberry Cobbler Festival – update on financials – Chris

Still have not closed the books. Beginning balance approx. $14K, ending approx. $18K, we made approximately $4K overall – about a 29% profit margin. Sending Thank You’s to sponsors.

Cobbite of the Year – Committee Nomination Meeting November 30th at Cobb Mountain Pizza at 6pm.

If you’ve received award before, you’re automatically on the committee this year.

Candidates needed for nomination/election and appointment to CAC board. Terms start in January 2024, staggered terms. County has incorrect information on their website (says non-staggered, and all up in January 2025). Cathy, Joe, and Darlene’s terms are up this year (12-31-2023). Alternate is a one-year term, so Mel is up. Chris and Jake are not up until 2025. Need 4 nominees. Robert suggests we put out a public notice for recruitment/nominations. Press release, flyer, social media. Include committees that need members. Nominations can be emailed to: cobbareacouncil@gmail.com. This will be on next month’s Agenda. Process: Nomination, election by CAC, then appointment by BOS.

Next Meeting: December 21, 2023 – Brief Agenda and Social Hour to follow. Wear an ugly sweater.

ADJOURNED at 7:28pm

 Respectfully submitted,

Darlene Warner, Secretary

Categories2023 Minutes by

Minutes | October 19, 2023

COBB AREA COUNCIL

PUBLIC MEETING

Thursday October 19, 2023 at 6:30pm

In-Person and Online Participation Available

 MINUTES (Approved 11-16-2023)

CALLED TO ORDER at 6:34pm

ROLL CALL:

Present: Cathy McCarthy, Darlene Warner, Mel McMurrin

Absent: Chris Nettles, Jake Strickler, Joe Schneider

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

Approval of Agenda: Motion by Robert, 2nd by Eliot. All in favor. Agenda approved as Amended.

Amendments: Strike 7:10pm item

Approval of Minutes: Motion by Eliot, 2nd by Inez. All in favor. Minutes approved.

 

Short Announcements

Cathy: Lion’s Club had food distribution today. Cobb Elementary School Garden Harvest Gala is this Sunday (can donate gift)

Friends of Boggs Mountain – event at Little Red. Introduction to Map reading/Navigation lessons by Richie Bucher, free, about an hour-long class. Bring a real compass if you have one. Will be on November 4th at 10am. RSVP via email FOBM@boggsmountain.org No age limit, children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Glenneth: Sculpture Jam started last weekend. One more weekend to go, will be both Saturday and Sunday. Has donated piece for auction. Contact Glenneth at 707-295-6934

Public and Board Comment on Non-Agenda Items (3 mins./individual)

Jessica is running for District 5 Supervisor again. A lot of wonderful things happening, and many projects to continue. www.supervisorjessicapyska.com

Richie Bucher: giving the community notice we are in the summer to winter transition beginning November 1st to typically April 1st.  The Boggs Mountain voicemail (707-928-4378) will reflect road conditions. Camping remains closed; day use is permitted from sunrise to sunset. There will be road closures when (greater than ½ inch) wet to prevent road damage and for public safety. Roads may be closed for extended periods after snow or atmospheric river events to allow roads to dry out. Special use permits to be coordinated with FOBM.

Supervisor’s Comments – Jessica Pyska

Missed last month’s meeting due to a lot of traveling to meetings and conferences. Attended a CPUC hearing on POTS/cellular/broadband lines in rural areas, attended the Rural Counties Caucus (3-day event), went to Sonoma for “Rebuild Northbay” where Senator McGuire was keynote speaker, went to Redding for the Governor’s Wildfire Task Force, was out with TERA this morning at Middletown Rancheria prescribed burn. Will be gone to NACO conference twice per year – February in D.C. and July in TX. Going to CSAC in November. Golf Road/Cobb Blvd. – getting new roads from PG&E due to undergrounding lines. PG&E has one contractor doing the roads where undergrounding was done, and they have another contractor coming back to pave the damaged roads. Bottlerock Road – lots of grinding happening. Due to undergrounding as well. Lanes will be replaced. County has a 10-year repaving plan. Cobb roads should be happening within next 2 years – top of the list. Rainbow to Sulphur Creek undergrounding is slated next year. Need to seek outside funding. There is 5-year moratorium on new roads. Resource Conservation District (RCD) received a grant to do vegetation abatement work in three areas of South County. The area in the Cobb Area is along Seigler Canyon Road. Will have masticator out there the first week of November. Fire Safe Council (www.firesafelake.org) just received a $500,000 grant for defensible space that will help low-income/seniors; will be about $1,500 per home (County-wide program). Approved $1.7M contract with consultant to update General Plan and Area Plans. Cobb’s Area Plan was created in 1989. Consultant will come to Cobb Area Council and have open meetings, surveys, many ways for public to provide input and participate in the Cobb Area Plan. The consultant will then write the plan and bring it back to the Council for more input before final adoption by the County. The Safety Element will be first, very aggressive schedule. Part of the funding is from ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act). Updated and Adopted CWPP (Community Wildfire Protection Plan). Originally created in 2009 and hasn’t been updated since. Was a massive effort. This document is used to apply for grants. Hazard Mitigation Plan – another guiding document for grants. Has been submitted to FEMA. Awaiting FEMA comments. Coming back mid-November for Board adoption. Cities want to join in a multi-jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan, developing a multi-jurisdictional plan as well. Hired Housing Deputy this week, after searching nationwide for a year. Housing Strategic Plan attracting developers, working only on housing projects. Melinda Rivera is no longer our representative with PG&E, no new rep yet.

Fire Season Update – Paul Duncan

Next week the burn ban will be lifted on Monday at 8am. Permits are required, and available via website. There will be smoke in the air. Staffing remains the same, no changes. Theme: fuels projects, Seigler ingress/egress will have masticator working on road first week of November. Boggs Forest staff is moving to the where the Hub is now. ACI: will be moved to Hwy 175 just north of sewer ponds and across from Bear Canyon in the Spring of 2024.

Treasurer’s Report – Chris

Chris (via Darlene) – still some checks outstanding from the Blackberry Festival; not much has changed from last month.

Discuss/Approve to continue rental of storage for HUB materials until new HUB location is determined. Report progress on finding new location for Hub

Eliot and others met with Paul at Loch Lomond Fire Station for storage, found usable space, but not for all of the Hub items. Meeting room also available for us to use. Obtained a storage unit in Middletown.

Continue rental of storage unit in Middletown: Motion by Eliot, 2nd by Paul. All in favor, Motion approved.

Discuss/Approve continuance of rental of storage space to be voted upon on a quarterly basis instead of monthly

To be discussed quarterly, to be voted on again at the January 2024 meeting. Motion by Magdelena, 2nd by Inez. All in favor, motion passes.

Winter Recreation Operations Plan: presented by Richie Bucher, Assistant Forest Manager at Boggs Mountain Demonstration Forest  [Struck from Agenda]

Discuss/ Approve: RFP Explore Cobb webpage/ social media management proposals

Economic Development Committee received two proposals: recommended Sally. Abby with a score of 59/100 and an hourly rate of $40/hour, and Sally with a score of 68/100 and a rate of $35/hour. Sally provided resume and letter of reference. The proposals were not available to view at meeting. Glenneth recommends Sally.

Motion to Table until next meeting: 1st by Paul, 2nd by Inez. All in favor, Motion passes.

Committee Reports (3 minutes/individual)

Firewise Communities – Magdelena, Cindy, Glenneth, David, Laurie

Magdelena – received notice from Firewise USA that 5 of our Firewise groups are due for renewal: Seigler Springs, Cobb Mtn Group 2, Cobb Mountain View, Jones Creek Crossing, Loch Lomond

Lake County Fire Safe Council holding conferences in the near future.

Communications Committee – Darlene

Not much to report. Check-ins remain around 30 per week. Mel is back from Australia.

In the process of transferring funds from SSCRA to CAC, working with Chris and Magdelena on that. Mel: a lot our fire awareness has dwindled since 2015. We need help this winter. We need to re-invigorate people.

Forest Health Committee – Eliot

Now that we have a County-wide plan, we are putting together a Cobb-specific plan. Goal is long term, fire-resilient communities. Up to $250M available in grant money. SSCRA will be developing a plan, identifying priority parcels, local ecology, topography, fire history, tribal partnerships. This is at a landscape level. 100 high-priority treatment parcels. Local CWPP. Economic development. SSCRA will be applying for this grant at the end of this month; there is a 10% match; CalFire (planning funds, Mike Wink) and others are willing to contribute in-kind contributions from local Firewise and the Forest Stewardship Committee to meet this match. Asking for $5K non-Federal match from CAC.

Approve/Disapprove: Letter of Support from CAC for Community Wildfire Defense Grant

Motion by Paul, 2nd by Jessica. All in favor, Motion approved.

 Approve/Disapprove: CAC matching grant funds of $5,000

Jessica moved to approve matching funds from CAC Small Business loan funds to SSCRA, with an MOU to be in place. Paul 2nd. All in favor, Motion approved.

Economic Development Committee – Chris

Chris (via Darlene) Met and discussed RFP proposals, with a recommendation.

Blackberry Cobbler Festival – update on financials

Chris (via Darlene) – still a few checks outstanding

Cobbite of the Year

Committee Nomination Meeting November 30th at Cobb Mountain Pizza

If you are a previous recipient, you are on the committee. You can also email Cathy.

Next Meeting: November 16, 2023

ADJOURNED AT 8:01pm

 

Respectfully Submitted,

Darlene Warner, Secretary

Categories2023 Minutes by

Minutes | September 21, 2023

COBB AREA COUNCIL

PUBLIC MEETING

Thursday September 21, 2023 at 6:30pm

In-Person and Online Participation Available

MINUTES (Approved 10-19-2023)

CALL TO ORDER at 6:31pm

ROLL CALL

Present: Darlene Warner (Acting Chair), Chris Nettles, Joe Schneider

Absent: Cathy McCarthy, Jake Strickler, Mel McMurrin

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

APPROVAL OF AGENDA Motion by Chris, 2nd by Eliot. All in favor, Agenda Approved.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES Motion by Robert, 2nd by Chris. All in favor. Minutes approved as amended. Amendment: Regarding Tom S. non-agenda comment item, add the words: “Asked Jessica to respond to the book “Cause Unknown.”

SHORT ANNOUNCEMENTS

Robert – October 14th the Lions Club is having October Fest. Tickets are$20. Poster is at Post Office and coffee shop.

Inez/Rosie – fire mitigation measures have caused stumps to remain, causing insurance companies to deny discounts for homeowners. How do we get rid of stumps? Are there funds available for stump removal?

Public and Board Comment on Non-Agenda Items (3 mins./individual)

Robert – regarding the PG&E undergrounding work on Bottlerock Road at Hwy 175 in Cobb (South end). Has not seen any County inspectors, it’s the worst work he’s seen, would like to see it fixed now. Inez agrees.

John Wilcox – introduced himself, is here to observe, is a member of the County Grand Jury, and had a fantastic time at the Blackberry Cobbler Festival.

Supervisor’s Comments – Jessica Pyska

No Report

Fire Season Update – Paul Duncan

The weather has been favorable, did not get the high wind as expected. There will be some precipitation come Monday. We’ve sent some resources to Northern California to assist with the wildfires. If you’re planning on doing any yardwork on a red flag day – do it another day. Plastic string trimmers can start fires. Remember to mow early in the morning. Tom S. had question regarding PG&E reclosers – used to try 3 times to stay on. We now have EP circuits that don’t try to stay on, they will shut off power within 1/10 of a second.

Treasurer’s Report – Chris

Operating Budget Balance at July meeting $27,117.12

Transactions since 7/27/2023

General Fund, Received:       $  19.02 (Hub community group)

General Fund, Paid:   $500.00 (Toye, August 2023)

530.00 (Toye, September 2023)

129.85 (Cobb Water)

59.88 (Quicken)

97.18 (PG&E)

Total from General Fund <$1,297.89>

Blackberry Cobbler Festival, Received:         $13,250.65 (+ $1,500 = $14,750.65)

Blackberry Cobbler Festival, Paid:                 <10,869.47>

Total to Festival Account:      $3,881.18

Sculpture Jam: No transactions since 7/27/2023

Current Account Balances

$10,052.74      General Fund

16,980.05      Blackberry Cobbler Festival

  • Cobb Resource Hub (no currently restricted grant money)

2,417.62      Emergency Preparedness Fund

250.00      Sculpture Jam

$29,700.41      Operating Budget Balance (9/21/2023)

$48,082.63      Small Business Loan Fund (originally from S.F. Home Loan Bank grant)

$77,783.94      Net Assets

            $2,583.09 Increase to Net Assets since 7/27/2023

Laura asked about use of funds to support the Cobb Community Center

Mary asked about use of small business grant funds

Discussion/Approve: CAC to pay Cobb Community Center for use of facilities for monthly CAC meetings: $300 per meeting

Had discussion. Motion by Eliot, 2nd by Chris. All in favor, motion approved to begin paying the Cobb Community Center (Lions Club) $300 per month to hold CAC meetings at facility. Motion Amended to add: starting with this meeting (September 21, 2023). Motion Approved as Amended. Chris noted it is within the budget to do so.

Update: Report progress on finding new location for Hub

Eliot/Ad Hoc Committee had full and frank discussions. Eliot, Chris, Robert, and other Lions will be meeting on Monday and will be looking at the needs of the Lions Club, the old portion of Little Red, and other possible facilities.

Discussion/Approve: CAC to terminate lease for the Resource Hub

Had discussion. Motion by Eliot, 2nd by Laura. All in favor, motion approved to submit 30-day notice of termination October 1, 2023, to terminate lease (month-to-month) effective October 31, 2023.

Discuss/Approve Authority to rent storage for HUB materials until new location is determined.

Motion by Chris, 2nd by Laura. All in favor, motion approved to give CAC the authority to rent a storage unit for Hub items should it become necessary. Chris stated there are funds available to do so. Motion Amended to be a recurring Agenda item for monthly reauthorization. Amended Motion made by Robert, 2nd by Eliot. All in favor, Amended Motion approved.

Offer of space at the Loch Lomond Fire Station to be used as storage at no charge (in kind) made by Chief Duncan. Suggested building a 10×12 foot shed from Kelseyville Lumber (they will build it on-site for us for $4-6K) to be used for the Hub in the Cobb Community Center parking lot. Also recommended using PODS container.

Discuss/ Approve: RFP Explore Cobb webpage/ social media management proposal

Had discussion. Motion by Chris, 2nd by Mary. All in favor, motion approved to disseminate Request for Proposal with suggested edits, with a 30-day submittal period.

Committee Reports (3 minutes/individual)

Firewise Communities – Magdelena, Cindy, Glenneth, David, Laurie

No reports

Communications Committee – Darlene

Check-ins continue to be about the same number. Had interesting thing happen with mountain repeater during last night’s check-ins when alert tones went over the air. Mountain repeater responded by shutting off. Larry physically went to site and manually rebooted the repeater. Had repeater back up within the hour. Mary P. commented that she/family has been experiencing interference on their private family GMRS network and suggested that we talk privately with Mel.

Forest Health Committee – Eliot

Reviving the Committee. Next meeting is Friday, September 29th. Committee will now meet the last Friday of every month. Will be applying for a significant grant to do the Community Wildfire Protection Plan. October 3rd the County is adopting a County-wide plan.

Economic Development Committee – Chris

Was out of town the entire month of August. The Economic Development Committee will evaluate RFP (Request for Proposal) for the Explore Cobb Facebook page and social media management.

Blackberry Cobbler Festival – update on financials

Chris – a few checks are still floating, so final amount may differ by $100-$200. Net income was $9,918. Chief Duncan estimates attendance to be between 4K and 5K people. Last year’s net income was approximately $7K, have been seeing an increase each year.

Next Meeting: October 19, 2023

ADJOURNED at 7:53pm

Respectfully Submitted,

Darlene Warner, Secretary

Categories2023 Minutes by

Minutes | August 17, 2023

COBB AREA COUNCIL

PUBLIC MEETING

Thursday August 17, 2023 at 6:30pm

In-Person and Online Participation Available

 MINUTES (Amended, Approved 9-21-2023)

 

CALL TO ORDER at 6:39pm

ROLL CALL:

Present: Cathy McCarthy, Darlene Warner, Jake Strickler, Joe Schneider

Absent:  Chris Nettles, Mel McMurrin

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

APPROVAL OF AGENDA – Motion by Paul Duncan, 2nd by Jake Strickler. All in favor. Agenda Approved.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES – Motion by Paul Duncan, 2nd by Jake Strickler. Letter attached to previous minutes had edits, primarily grammatical – not changing anything substantial to overall letter. All in favor. Minutes approved.

SHORT ANNOUNCEMENTS

Cathy – restaurant at Mountain Meadow venue is now open. Wayne from Cobb Mountain Pizza is now open at Mountain Meadow. Wayne sold Cobb Mountain Pizza to Sean who used to work for Pogo’s Pizza in the Rivieras. The new restaurant will be called Parmesan & Peppers.

Inez – commented on Air Quality requiring an additional permit for commercial burns, expressed that the guidelines of what can and cannot be burned must be followed. There is a burn ban in effect.

Cathy – Blackberry Cobbler Festival is August 26th. Talked about traffic congestion last year, and measures being taken this year.

Bottlerock Road – undergrounding road project is to begin soon: will be 6-day per week work.

 

PUBLIC AND BOARD COMMENT ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS (3 MINS./INDIVIDUAL)

Tom S. – expressed concern regarding solo accidents, Jessica advised to contact our new public health officer. Commented about transparency in use of name and last initial. Asked Jessica to respond to the book “Cause Unknown.”

Mike Davis – commented on the poor condition of Pine Summit Road. Inquired about road paving plan for Cobb area. Jessica commented and referred to the County website for more information.

 

SUPERVISOR’S COMMENTS – JESSICA PYSKA

Missed last month’s meeting due to being at the National Association of Counties conference in Austin, Texas for four days. IRA money for housing, broadband, climate. Important to be ready, proactive planning. Tree Mortality Plan – submitted package to CalOES May/June. Visited Tuolumne County Resiliency Center; Lake applying for planning grant due beginning of September for Community Resiliency Center funds. The Red Cross has dedicated funds available to resiliency centers – available to Lions/Little Red. Hired a full-time Public Health Officer. JPA: Marin, Mendocino, Napa, with Lake – Career Point Office Building, Monday-Friday 8am-5pm, next to Library Park. More grants are being worked on. Road Plan – there was a presentation back in May from DPW, cost for entire road projects in the County is $340M. According to the Concrete Paving Index, most of the County’s roads are at the failure point. The proper way to submit a complaint about road conditions is through the DPW website. The water company must first do their consolidation project(s) before roads can be improved, and PG&E must finish their undergrounding. There is a moratorium on new roads. Our Tax Collector has onboarded an Asset Management firm; previous County revenue per Quarter was $80K/Q. Our current County quarterly revenue is $2M/Q.

 

FIRE SEASON UPDATE – PAUL DUNCAN

Rainbow Fire cause is under investigation. Local resources are still here. Cyclone Hillary is current focus. There will be a funeral for the Captains and Pilot lost in the fire down south. IC-1 sent a Strike Team to assist with Maui fire. 4×4 feet is a residential burn. 4291 PRC – PG&E tree removal issue: PG&E is responsible for removing the trees. Requests must come from the property owner. CPUC Advocacy – on 8/31 the BOS will be addressing the CPUC.

 

TREASURER’S REPORT – CHRIS

NO REPORT

Discussion/Approve: CAC to possibly take over lease for the Resource Hub

Rent is $540. Corrected: rent is $530 per month. Hub being underused; not worth keeping open. Can it be at Lions Club; Lions Club is willing to support. The number of people visiting the Hub is approximately 6 people per day, 3 days per week. Lions Club needs financial help from CAC. $300 rental fee for CAC meetings at the Lions club. Jessica added that there are funds available from the Red Cross and suggested considering other resources within the Ad Hoc Committee. Motion to continue a month-to-month lease at the Hub (if acceptable with Timothy Toye) until such time an Ad Hoc Committee is formed to work out alternatives with Lions Club/Little Red to serve the purpose of the Hub. Motion by Eliot, 2nd by Mary P. All in Favor. Motion approved. Chief Duncan offered to host CAC meetings in their training/conference room at the Cobb Fire Station as an alternative and suggested purchasing 10×12 foot shed(s) (as the FD uses) to put in Little Red parking lot to serve as the Hub.

Discuss Explore Cobb Facebook Page management Proposal

Consensus is the current offer is too expensive. Glenneth suggested getting other bids. Cathy mentioned internship or Communications major graduate. Cathy appreciates the relations cultivated by Abby. Jim W. suggested exploring options with Kelseyville schools/student programs. Jessica suggested partnering with high school students; Freshman dual-enrollment. Motion to refer to Economic Development Committee with recommendations. Motion by Paul, 2nd by Eliot. All in Favor. Motion passes.

Discussion/Approve Donation of Funds to Mountain Lions

Folded into Ad Hoc Committee formed above.

 

COMMITTEE REPORTS (3 MINUTES/INDIVIDUAL)

Firewise Communities – Magdelena

Two events coming up: 1) Firewise USA – has a set of Regional Community Coordinators (Magdelena is one of them). They’re Having a quarterly meeting, which is scheduled for 9/5. Covering a guide for the regional coordinators which includes a bunch of CalFire coordinators, who are the official coordinators; also covering risk assessment and 3-year action plan. CalFire now has an agreement with Firewise USA that any community in this State must meet a 3-year action plan instead of the normal 5-year action plan. Several of our Firewise communities are up to task. Also going over Spanish Firewise resources. Resources for Firewise leaders to track risk reduction investments. When asking for a grant must show dollar equivalent. Must prove that the community has invested the time and work when asking for financial assistance. Did that as a group of Firewise communities at the beginning of this year. Still waiting to hear from the Resource Conservation District whether the grant money is coming through. 2) Firesafe Marin has put together a Wildfire Watch Special coming up on Monday from 6-7pm. Email Magdelena if interested.

Communications Committee – Darlene

The new repeater is on the Mountain. Had first week of check-ins on the new repeater. Some users had issues being on the correct channel, overall, it went well. People can hear each other better and further away from each other. Still have a few GMRS users needing their radios reprogrammed. Mel will be gone to Australia for 6 weeks. Cathy commented on the Rainbow Fire that Cobb Alert Net put out an alert, and that Watch Duty post was 15 minutes after Darlene put out Alert on the radio. Darlene commented on the communications during the Rainbow Fire. Darlene clarified with Chief Duncan who puts out evacuation warnings, orders, and asked what an evacuation request is. The Sheriff issues all notifications related to evacuations.

Forest Health Committee – Eliot

Will resume activities in September

Economic Development Committee – Chris

No report

Blackberry Cobbler Festival – August 26th – Cathy

Cathy – mentioned all the activities offered, the restaurant at Mountain Meadow will be open during the festival, listed all the sponsors. Boggs Mountain guided hike the following day (Sunday), Lake County Amateur Golf Tournament at Adam Springs Golf Course opens on the 25th (Friday). Lions Club will become a “cobbler factory” on Friday the 25th – making 1,400 cobblers. 2 shifts, 9A and 1P. There will be Bingo after the festival.

 

NEXT MEETING: September 21, 2023

Cathy (Chair) will be absent, Jake (Vice-Chair) will be unavailable, Darlene (Secretary) will chair.

ADJOURNED at 8:20pm

Respectfully Submitted,

Darlene Warner, Secretary

Categories2023 Minutes by

Minutes | July 27, 2023

COBB AREA COUNCIL

PUBLIC MEETING

Thursday July 27, 2023 at 6:30pm

In Person Only

MINUTES (Approved 8-17-2023)

 

 

CALLED TO ORDER at 6:39pm

 ROLL CALL

Present: Cathy McCarthy, Darlene Warner, Mel McMurrin

Absent: Chris Nettles, Jake Strickler, Joe Schneider

 

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

 

Approval of Agenda Motion by Glenneth, 2nd by Robert. All in favor. Agenda approved.

Approval of Minutes Motion by Robert, 2nd by Glenneth. All in favor. Minutes Approved.

 

Short Announcements

Cathy – commented regarding PegTV technical difficulties; should be back to normal in August.

Inez – AmeriCorps visited the Hub and was very impressed with it. Hours are Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from Noon to 4pm. Eliot is there until 6pm sometimes on Thursdays.

Rich C. – commented that the tools at the Hub worked so well, he purchased his own.

Glenneth – call for artists for Sculpture Jam. Interested persons contact via Fine Art Café Facebook page.

Robert Thomas (via Cathy) – the ACI will be able to intake material soon

 

Public and Board Comment on Non-Agenda Items (3 mins./individual)

Inez – July 4th there were gunshots and fireworks in the Meadows neighborhood, needs to stop. Has been going on for the past 3 years.

Tom S. – has been listening to scanners and commented on his notice of single-vehicle traffic collisions and solo falls with head injuries. Presented the book, “Cause Unknown.”

Mel – there was a large male mountain lion at 6am on Shenandoah in Loch Lomond

 

Fire Season Update – Paul Duncan

No report – Paul out of area

TREASURER’S REPORT – Chris

[Report read by Darlene. Typo discovered, clarified totals are correct]

Operating Budget Balance at June meeting: $22,969.14

Transactions since 6/15/2023

General Fund: Received – $53.00 (Hub meetings)

Paid – $500 (Hub rent)

Total – $447 from General Fund account

Blackberry Cobbler Festival:

Received – $1,585.08 (vendor fees)

6,000.00 (sponsorships)

Paid –   $  220.45 (Square fees)

14.00 (Payable app fees)

3,005.45 (K cups)

Total – $4,344.98 to Cobbler Festival account (should be $3,240.10 per Darlene)

Sculpture Jam Fund:

Received – $250 donation. Balance is $250 (new account)

 Current Account Balances

$ 11,350.63     General Fund

13,098.87     Blackberry Cobbler Festival Fund

0                       Cobb Resource Hub (no currently restricted grant money)

2,417.62      Emergency Preparedness Fund

       250.00      Sculpture Jam Fund

$27,117.12      Operating Budget Balance (7/27/2023)

$48,082.63      Small Business Loan Fund (originally from S.F. Home Loan Bank Grant)

$75,199.75      Net Assets (increase of $4,147.98 to net assets since 6/15/2023)

 

Discussion: CAC to possibly take over lease for the Resource Hub

Rich C. would like to table item. SSCRA is pulling out. Current rent is $500/month. Utilities are approximately $75/month. Rent is to increase by $40/month. Rent is anticipated to be $615/month at its highest. Discussion about continuing current Hub location, possible alternative locations, doing a month-to-month v lease, and outreach ideas.

 

TABLED: Approve/Disapprove Explore Cobb Facebook Page management Proposal

Motion made by Robert, 2nd by Laura to table this item. All in favor, motion passes. Tabled until such time we receive results from Abby of previous efforts. The proposal is for a contract of $800/month to provide online presence, analytics, reports, marketing, public relations, annual event promotion. Any additional work would be $40/hour.

 

Approve/Disapprove Letter to County of Lake regarding property taxes for Little Red Schoolhouse (Attachment “A”)

Motion by Laura, 2nd by Frank. All in Favor. Letter Approved. Letter read aloud by Cathy and is attached herewith as “Attachment A.” Discussion regarding the issue.

 

Approve/ Disapprove Donation of Funds to Mountain Lions to aid tax payment- Laura Patrick

RESCINDED – NO ACTION TAKEN

After the previous discussion approving the Letter, the understanding is that the Lions Club has paid all properties taxes in arears and is taking appropriate measures to address future taxes and tax status due to the Little Red Schoolhouse being utilized as a community center first and researching questions regarding historic site designation and ownership/title.

 

Committee Reports (3 minutes/individual)

[Secretary’s note: we no longer had a Quorum present, so no Committee Reports were presented]

Firewise Communities- Magdelena, Cindy, Glenneth, David, Laurie

No report

Communications Committee- Darlene

No report

Forest Health Committee- Eliot

No report

Economic Development Committee- Chris

No report

Blackberry Cobbler Festival August 26 – Cathy

Next committee meeting is Thursday, August 3rd at the Loch Lomond Roadhouse, 6:30p

 

Next Meeting: August 17, 2023

ADJOURNMENT at 7:55pm

 

Respectfully submitted,

Darlene Warner, Secretary

Categories2023 Minutes by

Minutes | June 15, 2023

COBB AREA COUNCIL

PUBLIC MEETING

Thursday June 15, 2023 at 6:30pm

In Person and Online Participation Available

Minutes (Approved 7-24-2023)

 CALL TO ORDER at 6:42pm

Roll Call

Present: Cathy McCarthy, Chris Nettles, Darlene Warner, Mel McMurrin

Absent: Jake Strickler, Joe Shneider

Pledge of Allegiance

Approval of Agenda

Motion by Chris, 2nd by Robert Stark. All in favor, Agenda approved.

Approval of Minutes (As Amended)

Motion by Chris, 2nd by Paul Duncan. Minutes approved as Amended.

[Amendments: Public Comment by Tom Slaight wording correction; Adjournment Motion at last meeting was made by Chris, not Cathy. Determination made a Motion is not necessary in order to Adjourn, per Rosenberg’s Rules of Order.]

Short Announcements

Robert Stark – Bingo every Saturday night at the Mountain Lions Club. Free food to take at the front door.

Austin/PEG TV – will be doing setup at meetings to bring community together. Little Red Schoolhouse does not have the internet bandwidth. Internet speed needs improvements. Recordings of meetings will be available on PegTV website and County YouTube channel.

Public and Board Comment on Non-Agenda Items (3 mins./individual)

California Allen, Cobb Area County Water District will be taking care of the pipeline under the Rainbow Bridge, not the road itself. Geothermal Commission (Pyska and Simon) will be contributing the financial difference for the work to the road submitted by Rees Winkleman. Cory Draper offered to pay for repair, along with Calpine sharing the cost. Open Mountain (Bottlerock Power) will be at our July meeting.

Robert Thomas – able to get through the log deck at the ACI and was able to “rehome” the chips; post-fire there was lots of energy in the product; would like to see this and biochar blended together, working with SLCFD on food composting. Asking for support from SLCFD and CAC. 707-928-8082. robertthomas@R2company.com.

Supervisor’s Comments- Jessica Pyska

Thanked PEG-TV for providing audio/video. Thanked Cathy for her presentation to the County BOS. CLERC has asked every MAC to come do a presentation now that Cathy/CAC has “set a high bar.” Budget hearings wrapped up this evening, adopting a $380M budget, not all discretionary. Hazardous trees – IRA Grant application submitted to BOS 6/27/23 to offset OES 25% with the full support of Congressman Mike Thompson. A few million have been set aside to start work, and for when project is accepted by CalOES. Bottlerock work – thanks to CLERC, North Shore Fuels, CalFire, Paul Duncan, and timber operators. The Risk Reduction Authority (Pyska is Vice-Chair) along with the County’s Climate Resiliency Officer, has applied for $649K grant. This will be building in capacity, diversity, equity, and inclusion in our programs. Priority is assessing vulnerabilities in developing our Climate Action Plan (CAP), implementing specific actions identified in our local Hazard Mitigation Plan, providing for enhanced public education and awareness of natural hazards, and increased public understanding of disaster preparedness. The CAP also includes a County-wide Evacuation Plan, as well as a Climate Adaption plan. The Climate Resiliency Officer is funded via a grant through the Jumpstart program. We are mandated to update safety element. Pilot project will be the Soda Bay corridor. Next Monday the County is adopting Juneteenth (June 19th) as a County holiday. There will be no BOS meeting next Tuesday, and County offices will be closed.

Fire Season Update – Paul Duncan

Middletown Days is this weekend and will be in the parade. By the 19th staffing will be at 1 Engine per Station, by July 1st will be at 2 Engines per Station. Boggs landing zone clearing is almost complete. Operation Force Multiplier extinguisher and hand tool distribution will be Sunday, June 18th from 9am to 3pm at Station 60. Highway 175 repairs – flaggers will be 24/7, anytime there’s single-lane traffic during peak fire season, there cannot be lights, it must be manned. Highway 175 bridge work (by Hardester’s) is supposed to begin 6/15 – 6/16, per Jessica. Burn permits have been suspended – unless there is an urgent need to burn. This needs to go to Paul and must articulate the need to burn and have an inspection first to obtain an exemption permit.

Treasurer’s Report- Chris

 Operating Budget Balance at May meeting $22,050.61

Transactions since 5/18/2023

General Fund:   Received $0.00

Paid from General Fund: 835.36 – rent at Hub $500, electric bill for Hub $230.43, Zoom $104.93

Blackberry Cobbler Festival Fund

Received: $1,825 in vendor fees

Paid: Square fees $71.11, Payable app $8.25

Net addition to Festival account: $1,753.89

Current Account Balances

$ 11,797.63 General Fund

8,753.89 Blackberry Cobbler Festival

0.00 Cobb Resource Hub (no currently restricted grant money)

     2,417.62 Emergency Preparedness Fund

$ 22,969,14 Operating Budget Balance (6/15/2023)

$ 48,082.63 Small Business Loan Fund (originally from S.F. Home Loan Bank grant)

$ 71,051.77 Net Assets (30-day increase to net assets of $918.53)

 

Approve/Disapprove Letter re: Cobb Mountain Water’s decision to cease maintenance of Rainbow     Bridge- Robert Stark

This is still in progress – no action taken. Question by Jessica regarding Lions Club/Friends of Cobb funds balance and meetings: funds balance is approximately 61K; there are 6 members that meet once per year.

Committee Reports (3 minutes/individual)

Firewise Communities – Magdelena, Cindy, Glenneth, David, Laurie

Inez – PG&E removed 3 trees in 2 days in the Rainbow-Estates neighborhood; there’s a new Firewise sign on Rainbow Drive.

Glenneth – Daniel/CERT teams are in-process of getting activated.

Chris – Magdalena reports that some Firewise communities have signed up for an AmeriCorps team.

Communications Committee – Darlene

Starting to see an increase in the number of weekly check-ins. New repeater is still at the “Hill” location; still planning to move it to “Mountain” location in July. Approximately half of the GMRS radios have been reprogrammed. Have 3 new GMRS licensed users, and Boggs leader is back. CAN is chasing down the source of the static being heard on the radio. Mel commented to be sure to leave radios on, turn to alert channel. All hours volunteering with CAN count towards Firewise hours.

Forest Health Committee – Eliot

No report

Economic Development Committee – Chris

Meets last Tuesday of each month. Next meeting is June 29th at 6pm at the Hub.

Blackberry Cobbler Festival – Cathy

Vendor applications are available, email cobbareacouncil@gmail.com. Sponsorship request letters have gone out; received verbal notice that Calpine will be sponsoring this year (first sponsor). The festival is Saturday, August 26th, from 11AM until 4PM. Next meeting is July 6th at 6pm at Cobb Mountain Pizza.

Next Meeting: July 20, 2023

Adjournment at 7:34pm by Chair, Cathy McCarthy

 

Respectfully submitted,

Darlene Warner, Secretary