Agenda

6:00 Doors open-pizza available for $5 per person
6:30 Call to order
6:35 Approval of Minutes from August 28, 2018 Meeting
6:40 Treasurer’s Report
6:45 October 20 Dinner – Mark your calendar and signup
6:50 Fall precinct walking volunteers – Signup to assemble and to walk
6:55 Announcements
7:00 Matt Duffy, Superintendent of West Contra Costa Unified School District
7:30 ECDC Endorsement Panel: AC Transit Director at Large
7:30 California Proposition Endorsements (#3, #5, #7, #10)
8:30 Adjourn

Minutes

1. 630 Meeting called to order
2. 639 started taking minutes.
3. Volunteers needed for Precinct Walking

3.1. Volunteers are asked to just ensure that packets get delivered to homes by October 8th. This is when the absentee ballots arrive at homes.
3.2. Our goal is to reach out to new members of the El Cerrito/Kensington Community.
3.3. Another goal is to market our club endorsements.
3.4. There was a signup sheet at the meeting.
3.5. We need volunteers to prepare packets on Thursday September 27, 2018 at 7pm.
3.6. Sign up to walk one or multiple precincts.
3.7. See Greg Lyman for more information.
3.8. Do not place packets on screen doors.
3.9. Do not place packets in the mailboxes.
3.10. We will provide create ways to leave the packets at the door.
3.11. There are 121 different walks, so we need at least 26 volunteers.
3.12. Pick up packets from 7 Pomona starting Tuesday, October 1, 2018.

Announcements

4. Betty makes motion to suspend the 10 day noticing rule and vote on Measure FF. Hilary amends motion to include endorsement of one candidate for the US Senate Race.

4.1. Champagne seconds the motion as amended.
4.2. A unanimous vote carried motion

5. Betty brought our attention to the Mailing on measure FF – She asks that we consider endorsing Measure FF to support the East Bay Regional parks. Measure FF will continue existing voter approved taxes to support local parks. It is just an extension of an existing tax and it is not an increase in taxes.
6. Al Miller announces that the El Cerrito Library friends are sponsoring a local book titled the “The 57 Bus”.

6.1. Multiple books have been donated to readers.
6.2. These books tend to be available at the Community Center, City Hall, or the Library.
6.3. “The 57 Bus: a True story of two teenagers and the crime that changed their Lives”, Dashka Slater, 2017
6.4. Please return any read books back to Al, the Library, or any associate from the Library so that the books can be distributed to other readers.
6.5. In addition, there is an event sponsored by and at the Library on October 9th. There will be two student discussion student groups from 6:30-8:00 pm.
6.6. Once the community is done reading the books, the Friends of the Library would like to take custody of the books at end of program. These books will then be going to English teachers at El Cerrito High School.
6.7. The book is about two 14-year old Oakland teenagers, Sasha and Richard and the crime that occurred on the 57 Emeryville – MacArthur Blvd AC Transit Bus. The author describes an event in Oakland, “where Sasha’s skirt is set on fire. The author is telling a story of each individual and on how they came together and the subsequent trial”.
6.8. It made Al aware of new words and it helped to get his language updated on newer terms; in terms of modern pronoun use.

7. Michael announces that the county democratic central committee has noticed each club.

7.1. We can have a vote at the county central committee, but we need to change our bylaws to indicate how to select that one person.
7.2. The candidate selected will have to attend central committee sessions to vote.
7.3. See note from Sue Hamil on the Central Committee re-organization meeting in January.
7.4. There was a question about club officers being allowed to represent club?
7.5. The answer will be in our bylaws.
7.6. There is a deadline for action as specified in email sent to club board.
7.7. Greg is the bylaws keeper.
7.8. He was planning to bring up the topic of the club bylaws at the October 20th dinner.
7.9. See the upcoming newsletter for more details.
7.10. The information from the central committee sent to club leaders has some language. We just have to review two sentences.

8. Hari announces his proposed resolution on stronger jobs and economy.

8.1. Hari self-published his own book: “Rejuvenating America”.
8.2. Download the 20 page free guide from www.rejuvenate-america.com
8.3. Provide your feedback to improve both, first by email and then later on the blog “Rejuvenate Talk” – hlamba101@gmail.com
8.4. The aims of the guide and book include:
8.4.1. Understanding and overcoming the dangers posed by Trump and his Republicans.
8.4.2. Uniting the movements that have arisen in opposition to them.
8.4.3. Detailing a bold, courageous and constructive vision.

9. Champagne Brown, Membership Vice President,

9.1. Renew your club membership today and it is good until the end of 2019.
9.2. Dues are: $20 for a single, $30 for two people at the same address, and add $12 to each for printed mailings of the newsletter.

10. October 20 Annual Club Dinner

10.1. Dinner payments are also available online or Greg can take cash payments.
10.2. Dinner tickets are $20 for a single or $40 for two.

Matt Duffy

11. Our Superintendent will present an overview of the West Contra Costa Unified School District and the many challenges that face the district going into the new school year. Those challenges include: limited budgets, security concerns, curriculum, discipline issues, and the ongoing issues involving Charter vs. Public Schools.
12. Duffy spent nine years in the Oakland Unified School District serving as a principal and an Area Superintendent. As an Area Superintendent, he saw a portfolio of 15 schools including middle and high schools throughout the city. Before coming to WCCUSD in 2016, Duffy served as the Assistant Superintendent in Milpitas Unified. He was in charge of teaching and learning, leadership, enrollment, technology, special education, and Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP) development. Superintendent Duffy is the ninth Superintendent in WCCUSD history. He lives in Oakland with his wife Tamara and their three children.
13. Mister Phillips presents and introduces Matt Duffy as the Superintendent for the West Contra Costa Unified School District.

13.1. Matt was a teacher in Harlem.
13.2. He was also a Principal in the Oakland Unified School District Principal.
13.3. Matt also spent time in the Milpitas School District.
13.4. And now Matt has over three years as the West Contra costa Unified School District Superintendent.

14. Matt started by describing general school district in broad strokes.
15. See his Roadmap handout.
16. Today WCCSUSD has over 30,000 students.
17. It serves five cities: El Cerrito, Pinole, Richmond, San Pablo, Kensington, and El Sobrante.
18. There are six comprehensive high schools.
19. Goal: Achieving students.
20. Goal: Thriving employees.
21. Goal: Engaged communities.
22. Over one third of the student population is classified as English learners.
23. Goal: Increase the quality of teaching and learning.
24. Improved salaries will help schools.
25. Goal: Make salaries competitive in West Contra Costa School District.
26. We have a mandarin-immersion school, which started last year run. This is a first from a traditional school district.
27. District enrollment is growing, especially at Fairmont & Korematsu.
28. Enrollment is flatter in Richmond. Could it be housing, gentrification, and charters in Richmond?
29. There are nine new Principals.

Questions for Matt

30. Al says thank you for your continued support in truth and your recruiting program.
31. Betty Brown asks: “What requirements does District impose on additional funding for English learners, homeless or fostering? How do we document what the sites are spending with their money?

31.1. A: We have increased and given more agency to a single plan for student achieve for foster youth, English learners. Check the plan and it goes to the board for approval.

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32. Mike:”1. Talk about more retention for teachers. Are you eliminating nurses or are you looking at certificated teachers?”

32.1. A: Certificated teachers, but nurses are struggling because they make more outside the school district.
32.2. We are having trouble retaining across the board and this includes those that are certificated.
32.3. The Kennedy family of schools is losing the most teachers. We are trying to provide extra support there.
32.4. We do not have a problem retaining counselors.
32.5. We do have statistics on UC/state acceptance but we do not track community college enrollment. I have statistics of UC/CSU but don’t have data on community college.

33. Question: It can’t be easy to raise teacher salaries. How did we do it?

33.1. A: We had extra money from the state and used it to improve teacher salaries. We also looked for any extra money and scrubbed the budget to close vacant positions. This reduced $10 million for now but need to plan for future. We have hard choices around shifts as a district and we are streamlined with resources. We have to stick to core business.

34. Dollene Jones asks – “Is there any concern about AC Transit cutting bus service to schools”

34.1. Working on situation to get more busses to Korematsu for after school programs. Not aware of any reduction in bus lines. Will go back and ask to ensure there no reductions to servicing schools.

35. Charter school deficits – We cannot deny charter school applications.

35.1. Charter schools cause loss of enrollment and loss of funding for public schools.
35.1.1. Yes charter schools do worry Matt Duffy on future funding.
35.1.2. 100 kids going to charter schools is a loss of $1 million dollars.
35.1.3. Helms Middle School lost 100 kids. Matt Duffy is doing what is under his control. That is to make WCCUSD schools as attractive schools.
35.2. Rocket ship Charter was denied by board, county, and rejected by state which helped local schools.
35.3. Why are schools choosing out?
35.3.1. Enable district or enable legislation that reviews fiscal impact for granting charter schools.
35.4. Retirement benefits costs $20 million.
35.5. Each kid’s contribution is greater when WCCUSD loses kids to charter schools.

36. What is the reason for lack of achievement in Math for African American students in students?

36.1. A: I would like to argue that there are a lot of factors
36.1.1. What is quality of teaching? Quality is significant. Our goal is to improve the quality of teaching.
36.1.2. I need to get the core instruction to be better. We are doing stuff to increase funding so as to improve the quality of teaching.
36.1.3. How do you get people to stay? How do you raise money to cover salaries?
36.2. Get quality teachers in order to improve student achievement.
36.3. We provide an additional five days of professional training.
36.4. We also provide two day early literacy training.
36.5. It is fundamental of teaching to improve literacy.
36.6. We prefer to get away from teacher housing to shift focus and to be an organization about teaching and learning. But we need teacher housing to remain competitive in the Bay Area.

37. Music do you have course in Music starting in 4th grade?

37.1. A: Yes, we do play and grow music programs as well. We do have coral and orchestra programs at schools.
37.2. There can never be enough music. My son plays the violin.

38. Dwight asks: “As a former high school teacher, I understand the importance of high school. Is the K-8 program the same in depth as the high school experience?”

38.1. A: We do monitor the junior high school experience.
38.2. Korematsu likes the smaller intimate environment.
38.3. Pre-high schools do have a comprehensive environment.
38.4. Chinese-English learners do have options including dual immersion at three kindergarten programs and at Serra Adult School.
38.5. East Richmond hills have three new classes of kinder for mandarin and for racial/ethnic and social economic diversity. We do have a high number of low income students.
38.6. Mandarin immersion is carried and supported by parents.

39. Last question is about volunteers at Lovogna DeJean. Why was the writing program discontinued?

39.1. The local sites make to make their own decisions on what they do with funds.
39.2. DeJean voted to not support a writing coach – another school said yes.

40. Thank you for coming for Contra Costa schools and we are looking at different food options at schools. We are looking at organic locally grown food and many other choices.

Endorsements

41. Motion to endorse local Measure FF.

41.1. It provides for wildflower protection, visitor use, public access, trails, and creeks.
41.2. It is $12 per parcel per year.
41.3. Funds go to upgrading Huber Park it does benefit us directly.
41.4. Support: 20 hands
41.5. Opposed: none opposed
Two abstentions
41.6. Motion passes

42. Deleon versus Feinstein

42.1. Hilary endorses Senator Dianne Feinstein to be our Senator – she is the ranking Democrat on the Finance and Judiciary committees.
42.2. She also supports the Desert protection act and gun control.
42.3. Deleon fought to protect the Giudice reservoir in California but he could not get through the committee.
42.4. Deleon co–authored the bill on allowing Charter school funding from state funds. Deleon is for STEM research and he supports clean energy.
42.5. All in favor of Feinstein 17
42.6. All in favor of Deleon 4
42.7. Abstentions 1
42.8. Feinstein is endorsed

Dollene Jones, candidate for AC Transit Board at Large

43. Candidate Jones is Co-Founder and CEO of Abundance Worldwide Enterprises and was an AC Transit bus operator for more than 21 years.
44. In her introduction, Dollene shares her experience driving an AC Transit bus over the Bay Bridge during the Loma Prieta earthquake.

Questions for Candidate(s)

45. With the baby boomers retiring – how do you propose improving a diverse workforce?

45.1. A: Retention of drivers is a challenge in light of a new marijuana bill.
45.2. Create a Re-entry program.
45.3. We need bus cleaners.
45.4. Go should go to where the people are.
45.5. This has never done before.
45.6. Bring interest back into transit.

46. What is the five year infrastructure plan?

46.1. I got this at the AC Transit Board Meeting: The budget year-end update report.

46.2. According to the report we have an unaudited financial results of a $12 million surplus. This is due to $4.1 million higher than expected revenues.
46.3. Capital of $11.2 million is leaving a surplus.
46.4. AC transit has new home. The Salesforce lease of $2.2 billion.
46.5. How does the agency coordinate with BART; because BART gets the biggest piece of the pie?

47. What can the agency do about the housing crisis?

47.1. We should use AC Transit driving. For example, run the busses late at night and use busing for housing the homeless. The whole bus can be filled up.
47.2. We should use the building at 106 and International to refurbish the buses.
47.3. Drivers are not showing to work. Drivers live in Pittsburgh/Antioch. Many drivers have to sleep at AC Transit due to their long commutes.
47.4. I live out in Richmond, and I say “NO on Proposition 10”. Rents are too high.
47.5. Get the corporations like Chevron to help out more because it does not contribute enough to the community. Chevron should build right here.
47.6. I am currently into driving a dump truck and I’m learning about construction and engineering.
47.7. This is my fifth time running for this seat.
47.8. I say No on Prop 6 – do not screw Transit. California is so big and we have so many roads to build.
47.9. I support a bus only lane across the bay bridge.

48. What are the significant budget challenges of AC Transit?

48.1. Contract services with BART. The budget says $858,000 is spent on BART Bay Bridge activity.
48.2. Starting in February from 4am to 5am use AC transit to pick up service due to BART track closures. AC transit will pick up slack. I tell the people of Vallejo, what happens when this train does not show up?

49. Final Words from Dollene Jones running for AC Transit Board Directors at large. In her summary, Dollene is endorsed by the East Bay Women’s club and San Francisco Evolve. And more importantly she is endorsed by Mister Phillips, our club and board member.
50. Candidate Joel Young was invited but not present.

Remaining California Proposition Endorsements (#3, #5, #7, #10)

#3 Water Bond Measure

51. Do we wish to take a different position on Proposition 3 on the Water Bond?
52. The state Democratic Party took a no position because it did not get a 60% approval. It did get a majority vote but it was not enough for the endorsement.
53. Environmentalist Jerry Merrill wrote this proposition for: long term drought preparedness, repair Oroville Dam and other run offs. This would not build a new dam. Supported by Garamendi.
54. Ducks Unlimited supports it.
55. Total cost will be $17 billion over long term.
56. In terms of dam building – it carries through for the life of the bond.
57. Sierra club opposed, because it could be used to build dam.
58. Safe the Bay Save San Francisco is strongly in favor of this bond.
59. A support a lot of clean safe drinking water.
60. Al is troubled by tolls; this bond is paid for by us. This competes for the same funds that goes to general obligation bonds. The nature of bonds are to be repaid in the future.
61. Hilary is requests clarification about the comment “who are the beneficiaries”. The State of California are not specific beneficiaries but they are to pay the bond. This dilutes the money and there is no new revenue for this bond.
62. A label of supported by environmentalist does not necessarily make it environmentally friendly.
63. The measure does not ensure that we get the type of clean water and it does not really address the drought issues.
64. One member says opposed because program does not address the exact issues
65. Betty is recommending a no vote based on her research into past California bond measures. While many are worthy projects, according to the Sierra club, the proponents have added many items to help rich investors profit at taxpayer’s expense. We all have previously approved $31 billion for various water projects, and roughly 1/3rd of those bonds are still available to use as of June 2018. These statements were signed by the Chairman and Executive Committee of the Sierra Club.

#5 Transfer Tax

66. Proposition 5 – The state Democratic Party said we should oppose the transfer tax assessment.
67. It was previously called the moving penalty for the elderly.
68. California Teachers oppose it because money will leave local cities.
69. Rental association supports it. Richer can take away downsized home from poorer services.
70. It further raises cost of housing.
71. Money not coming back to the local community.
72. Question is why 55 when everyone else is 65?
73. Only 11 counties in California do this.

Proposition #7

74. Members had lively discussion about understanding how this measure would work out.
75. We get more sun late in summer and more morning sun in the winter with daylight savings time.
76. Minute Taker left meeting around 8:30 before the meeting was adjourned. Discussion on the remaining propositions continued past 8:30pm. For more information check the final endorsements at our club website.

Announcements

• The library is introducing new events.
  • September 4th the library is introducing the first ever LGBT collection.
  • The library now has a full staff for children’ programs.
  • Don’t forget to visit the library because it has much more programs.

Fossil Fuel Money Resolution Proposal

• Hari submits “Draft Resolution on DNC Not Accepting Fossil Fuel Money”.
  • Crosby/Liz in favor
  • There are comments that it may not work.
  • Another comment was made regarding the source of individual money.
  • Vote count: 13 for, 8 against, 4 abstentions.

Environmental Proposals

• Hari announced the latest environmental legislation including Senate Bill 100 on seeking Clean Energy by 2045. SB 100 calls for all energy produced to be renewable energy.
  • Bill just passed assembly with over 100 votes.
  • See handout.
  • SB-100 California Renewables Portfolio Standard Program: emissions of greenhouse gases.
• Hari proposes Action #1: urge more California senator to vote for SB100. See senate.ca.gov for more links because it needs to vote for SB 100
• Hari proposes Action #2: Urge senators to also pass AB-1775 (State lands: leasing: oil and gas.) and SB-834 (State lands: leasing: oil and gas) to prevent offshore drilling of the coast.

John Gioia Presentation

• Thanking club for support on projects that the club and John accomplish together.
• Accomplishments are results of teamwork with current club members.
• John came in person to thank the club for all the accomplishments from the past such as:
  • Voting for a more progressive DA in the county.
  • Fighting the Sherriff on expanding the jail (even if it passed),
  • But ended ICE contract.
  • Contra Costa Cares passed.
• Current projects include:
  • Producing Video to visit Canadian Tarzans – to fight proposal to restore pipeline to bring oil to California.
  • Air Quality Work.
  • Climate Change – sued EPA for trying to take away our authority on climate change.
• Thanked us, again, for partnership on projects that we work together on.
• Just before finishing, John noted that Greg Lyman would make a great member of the local Air Quality Board.

Ten day Notice Waiver Request

• Greg requests waiving of 10 day notice rule to present the endorsements listed below:
  • Andy Katz
  • Endorsing all Democrats in statewide races
  • Endorsing El Cerrito’s Measure B for the Charter City Amendment
  • Endorsing statewide ballot measures
• Motion made by Peter and seconded by Dwight to waive the 10-day notice rule on the four endorsements listed above.
• Motion Passed with most present raising hand with one abstention.

Waiver/Endorsement Discussion

• Michael requests clarification on Andy Katz’ party registration. Has Andy Katz re-registered as no party preference as of July 10th?
• Hilary says don’t even vote on it.
• Peter says that he emailed Andy Katz, asking him about his party registration, and there was no response.
• Greg says to skip the Andy Katz vote.
• Andy Katz is not endorsed, today, because he now filed as independent.

El Cerrito Charter Amendment Endorsement

• Yes 29 votes

Endorse Democrats

• Yes, 32 votes list of democrats

Diana Becton, Contra Costa District Attorney (DA)

Diana’s comments:

• “Thank you, Janet, and thanks for letting me go out of order. Thank you very much for all your support that allowed me to be selected by the Board of Supervisors to fill an empty seat. I am the first woman, black, African American to fill the DA seat. So many things working on, while in office:
  • Governor signed SB-10 for bail reform.
    • Taking one step on addressing money and why people can’t get ahead.
  • Youth reform: Visiting youth ranch, which is full of black and brown children.
  • Working to bring diversion and supportive programs.
  • Addressing mental health issues, and
  • Implementing new efficiencies.
• Thank you all from bottom of my heart.”
• This is the first time that we had a DA Candidate visit our club.

Stege Sanitary District Candidate Forum

Introductions

• Juliet Christian-Smith is introduced first.
  • Over thirty thousand women running for office this year.
  • First reason to support Juliet is: 1. Represent a different perspective instead of being plagued by uncontested stagnation.
  • Check out three books from the library on the Stege Sanitary District.
  • Second reason to support Juliet is: she is focused on climate change and she wants waste water agencies to adapt system infrastructure to meet drier dry periods and wetter wet periods.
  • The district is heavily dominated by engineers that do not have climate change experience.
  • PhD UCB in Environmental Science.
• Dwight Merrill, running for re-election
  • Chemist and has been running a company.
  • Is smart and used a targeted approach to spend less money and achieve better results.
  • Is pro-active and innovative.
  • Implemented innovative contract.
  • Sewer lines are replaced cheaply under this innovative contract.
• Jay James, Director
  • Engineering professorship in South Korea lives in Kensington, past Stege Director, Director of California Waste Water, Waste management facilitator for Oakland Airport.
  • Experience with sewer upgrades.
  • Has financial management skills and full management training.
  • Lower technical innovation, has not raised sewer rates in past three years.
• Al Miller – running for Stege re-election
  • Appointed to Stege in 1985 and has been on Board since then.
  • BS in Chemical Engineering, Post-Doctoral Master’s degree in Naval Acoustics.
  • EPA sued us and it resulted in EBMUD building weather facilities for inflow infiltration.
  • The work caused an investment from $750k to over $2 million now.
  • Will continue without bonded indebtedness.

Questions and Answers

• .Question #1: How to deal with draught
  • Juliet Christian-Smith – Be aware of Climate Change. EBMUD is about to get regulated by the EPA on nutrient filtration. We need to create a horizontal levee to hold nutrients back to treat them with natural filtration methods. Maintain water where it falls. Work with different filtrations.
  • Dwight Merrill – Juliet is correct; we will continue to cooperate with EBMUD. We currently work with Richmond to recycle water. Recycling water is currently very popular.
  • Jay James
    • James was asked if he was a registered democrat? No, Jay James responded that he is not a registered democrat.
    • Club members voiced that they would like to hear from all candidates running for boards.
    • How to guard against drought. EBMUD is not interested in our water so only way to improve is to use less of it ourselves. Work with EBMUD to persuade consumers to use less flushing water because it is also hard on our sewers.
  • Al Miller – Stege is focused on the wastewater. Stege was first water district to use recycled water to clean sewers. In first suit from EPA, the district response was to create a special sanitary district with cooperation from other districts in: Albany, Alameda, and Berkeley to respond to suit. The same group still exists with the same level of participation. Will continue to work with other cities and EBMUD to continue working on that effort.
• #2: Proposition 218 created a situation where you cannot use one ratepayer to subsidize other ratepayers. How would you handle low-income payers?
  • Dwight: We are an enterprise district so look at factors such as amount of sewage discharge, distance to run mains to service, look at departments with short laterals, apartment units per foot of main. Have some flexibility to interpret rates.
  • James: Look at sewer usage. Apartment dwellers use less of the sewer and apartment units get 25% discount because they are closer to main line and have less sewer. It is based on cost of service.
  • Al: Never thought of this question. Similar to PGE, pay less if use less to support those that need it less.
  • Juliet: Agrees with Al. Offer voluntary programs on gas bill and electricity so one ratepayer can help. Offer programs to opt in to defray costs for others customers. There is another interesting infiltration and inflow (INI) suit taken over by the EPA. Infiltration due to large lots and other choices that homeowners make that can have costs for sewer system. Are there huge differences in rates between different customers? Stege was charged over $28k for being out of compliance and for having an overflow.
• #3: What are major budget issues and how do we solve them?
  • Jay: We are over target reserves. Trying to get reserve funds down to target, which is a nice problem to have. We have this problem because we are getting great contract prices for rebuilding sewers. We get these rates because we are more flexible on using contract work and can be used as fill in so get half (1/2) the rate as Berkeley. We charge $17/month compared to Berkeley, because we have consent decree construction pricing. This is a nice problem to have.
  • Al: Yes, don’t agree with question because we don’t have a budget issue. We have a great savings rate and we are not raising rates.
  • Juliet: Consent decree is based on normal conditions and those predictions are changing. What was a five-year flood is now a yearly flood. So we need a performance based standard. We have too much flow going through the system. We need to consider replacing all the sewer laterals; because, we have a leaky system especially with being on a fault zone. We need to accelerate that.
  • Dwight: Financial condition is good. We are an enterprise system. We have tried to be efficient.
• #4: What is your Five-Year Plan?
  • Al: Replace main line sewers as recorded by video van. This will cost over $2 million a year. Not contemplating to use public funds to replace private laterals until see it as a benefit to the district as a whole. Operate with lower rates. Maintenance crew of five has less worker’s compensation claims that other organizations. Wastewater collection operators are considered dangerous work and the ten (10) employees at Stege are long term working workers.
  • Juliet: 2020 is next check; so don’t have to waive benefits or costs. You get three votes for this position. You have 20 or more years of experience on this board. I have an environmental scientist perspective. Not functional but also safe for the fish and for the environment.
  • Dwight: The latest rate structure is based on ten-year infrastructure improvement plan. Do have 20-year infrastructure plan and don’t like to show it because things change. 7 cities and EBMUD share infrastructure improvements.
  • James: Doing now what will be doing for next five years. Replacing five more feet per year just to keep the ratchet in. Still have a target rich environment. Not replacing systems that do not need to be replaced. System is aging as it is getting replaced. Sewers are 30 years old now. It is working. Not sure that it will work in the long run because the structure of the consent decree is the real source of the problem.
• #5: Now that the baby boomers are retiring; how will you recruit a diverse workforce for all 10 people?
  • Juliet: Very competitive to find people with the required background in this field. Very exciting job. Bay Area Water Supply association has series of training in High Schools and elementary schools to raise profile of Stege. Understand the pool of applicants. Use social media to promote district. Free advertising for people.
  • Dwight: We do have a diverse work force. Don’t know how it happened but staff have diverse backgrounds. Pay $12,000 per year to work with school outreach program to teach wastewater to young school children and do promote careers in sewage treatment.
  • James: Stege staff have an average rate of 12.7 years in the job. This is the highest since we started tracking. Don’t have tons of turnover. Have a diverse work force. Stege is known in the Bay Area sewer community as a place to work; because, management listens to labor and board listens to management. Stege is careful not to have toxic members in the board, management and work force.
  • Al: Good question. It does not reflect condition of work force. Only Special district that does not have a union. One employee tried to organize union and existing workers voted it down. Plan ahead and have someone lined up to backup general manager. Also trained senior maintenance managers as backups.

Final: Closing Statements

• Al: Posters from City about San Pablo avenue development; spending $14 million on San Pablo development area. Wants to run again so that developers pay cost of expanding system instead of existing ratepayers paying higher fees to increase costs to expand system. Asking for endorsement to do just that.
• James: Stege Mission statement is to plan and operate a safe and efficient system. It is a Utility function. In charge of a utility, to run a safe, efficient, and low cost operation of the sewage. Have done that for the past 35 years.
• Dwight: The San Pablo Specific Plan fee is probably too high. 10% of $9 million was $480k. It does not look like good math. Will review impact fee and perhaps adjust it. I am the 4th member of longevity. Jay, Al, and Beatrice O’Keefe have been doing a good job.
• Juliet: Very happy to be running. Tried to be a scientist for a long time and doing it because it is good. The district could be done better and new ideas could help. Want to help community. It is not a spectator sport. Appreciate endorsement. I offer: 1. Different perspective 2. Understand challenges, and am 3. Qualified.

Endorsement Results

34 ballots distributed. 20 is 60%, so need at least 20 votes for Endorsement

• Al Miller, 29 endorsements
• Dwight, 28 endorsements
• Juliet, 29 endorsements

California State Propositions

• Proposition 1. Housing Bond
• Proposition 2. Millionaire’s Tax
• Proposition 3. Water Bond
• Proposition 4. Bond for Children’s Hospitals
• Proposition 5. Assessment transfer for elderly/disabled
• Proposition 6. Repeals
• Proposition 7. Repeals daylight savings time
• Proposition 8. Dialysis Refunds
• Proposition 9. Not on ballot
• Proposition 10. Allows local rent control
• Proposition 11. Ambulance employee break restrictions
• Proposition 12 Farm Animal meet/egg ban

Proposition 1. Housing Bond

Issues $4 billion in bonds for housing programs and veterans home loans.
State club said, Yes.

Proposition 2. Millionaire’s Tax

Authorizes state to use revenue from millionaire’s tax for $2 billion in bonds for homelessness prevention housing. Could be Prop 63 money.
State club said, Yes.

Proposition 3. Water Bond

Issues $8.877 billion in bonds for water-related projects.
• Hillary recommends supporting Proposition 3. Some environmentalist like /don’t like.
• Hillary makes motion that it be moved to September Agenda
State club has no position.

Proposition 4. Bond for Children’s Hospitals

State club said, Yes.

Proposition 5. Assessment transfer for elderly/disabled

Opposed by California Teachers association
• Al has questions about proposition 5.
State club said, NO.

Proposition 6. Repeals – Negative because it would repeal Vote

Repeals 2017’s fuel tax and vehicle fee increases and requires public vote on future increases.
Vote No so that it does not repeal.
State club said, NO.

Proposition 7. Repeals daylight savings time

• Dwight would like pull and request that it be discussed in September
State club said, Yes.

Proposition 8. Dialysis Refunds – state and county

Requires dialysis clinics to issue refunds to revenue.
Pro labor, SEIU supports this.
State club said, Yes.

Proposition 9. No go Splitting California into three

Not in ballot.

Proposition 10. Allows local rent control

Would get rid of Contra Hawkins, which limits local city rent control.
State club said, Yes.

Proposition 11. Ambulance employee break restrictions

Opposed because against labor
Allow ambulance providers to require workers to remain
Require that employees that take a break they still be on call. Employers got this on there.

• Greg Motions that it be moved to September agenda.

State club said, NO

Proposition 12. Farm Animal meet/egg ban

Ban sale of meat from animals confined in spaces below specific sizes
These are already in the door handles.
State club said, Yes

• Janet moves that we consent and endorse county and state endorsements except for: To Be Discussed in September Meeting
  • Proposition 3. Water Bond
  • Proposition 5. Assessment transfer for elderly/disabled
  • Proposition 7. Repeals daylight savings time
  • Proposition 10. Allows local rent control
• Peter seconds
• Motion Passed

Precinct Walking

• Walking will be printing the endorsement pages on Wednesday September 26th;
• Get together on Thursday night 9/27 after 7 pm at Janet’s House.
• Need more walking volunteers.

Proposed Agenda

• 6:00     Doors Open: Pizza Available $5 per person
• 6:30     Call to Order – Janet Abelson
• 6:30     Approval of Minutes of June 26, 2018 Meeting
• 6:35     Treasurer’s report – Greg Lyman
• 6:40     Summary of EBoard actions of June 4, 2018 – Janet Abelson
• 6:45     Committee reports
• 6:55     ECDC board for next year – Peter Chau
• 7:00     Upcoming endorsement meetings – Peter Chau, Mister Phillips
• 7:05     October 20 Dinner  – Mark your calendar
• 7:10     Fall Precinct Walking Volunteers
• 7:15     Announcements

Program Presentations

• 7:25     Charter City            Greg Lyman and Paul Fadelli, El Cerrito City Council Members
• 7:55     Rising Sea Levels     Robert Cheasty, Executive Director, Citizens for East Shore Parks

Meeting Minutes: Started Taking meeting Minutes at 6:45pm

• Annual Dinner
  1. Question: What is the price for Annual Dinner? Answer: $20/person, $40/two people.

Announcements

• League of Women voters at Rockefeller Lodge on San Pablo on August 25 from 11 am to 2p
  1. Nancy skinner, guest speaker, Diana Becton, and Fiona Ma
• August 5^th invitation and all are welcome to the Annual Reception for Mark DeSaulnier, in Walnut Creek, at the ShadeLands Ranch Museum
  1. The cost is pay what you can pay
  2. 2660 Ygnacio Valley, Walnut Creek
• Rita Xavier, running for Richmond City Council
• Joan is not getting Newsletter in the mail
  1. Hari Lamba will double check email address to ensure that members are getting the Newsletter
• The Truth Act Forum newsletter was presented (Exhibit 1).
  1. It is from Aaron Davis, Bay Area News Group, on requests to the Contra Costa County Sherriff to share ICE data in regards to the California Truth Act.
  2. An Excerpt from the flyer is “in denying those requests, the Sheriff’s department has declared in a June 12 response to the News organizations requests for public information under the Truth Act that “it does not track or compile such data and would be burdened if forced to turn over …”
  3. See California State Law AB-2792 “Local law enforcement agencies: federal immigration policy enforcement: ICE access. (2015-2016): “

“This bill, the Transparent Review of Unjust Transfers and Holds (TRUTH) Act, would require a local law enforcement agency, prior to an interview between the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and an individual in custody regarding civil immigration violations, to provide the individual a written consent form, as specified, that would explain, among other things, the purpose of the interview, that it is voluntary, and that the individual may decline to be interviewed. The bill would require the consent form to be available in specified languages. The bill would require a local law enforcement agency to provide copies of specified documentation received from ICE to the individual and to notify the individual regarding the intent of the agency to comply with ICE requests. The bill would require that the records related to ICE access be public records for purposes of the California Public Records Act. The bill, commencing January 1, 2018, would require the local governing body of any county, city, or city and county in which a local law enforcement agency has provided ICE access to an individual during the last year, to hold at least one public community forum during the following year, as specified, to provide information to the public about ICE’s access to individuals and to receive and consider public comment. By requiring these local agencies to comply with these requirements, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program.”

• Barbara shared that there is a Thursday night demonstration to keep families together at San Pablo at Peet’s Coffee at the Plaza. This demonstration is just this Thursday.
• City Council member Gabe Quinto mentioned that he supports the demonstration and would attend except that there is conflict with another Thursday meeting.
• Hari announced his thoughts on climate change. He supports SB 100 and promotes that we become more aggressive on global climate change.
  1. He supports the “60/20/20” solution. He promotes 60% energy efficiency.
  2. He also promotes a massive state program to get ready for each fire season.
• Michael responds:
  1. Awesome presentation. But the power of the carbon dioxide “C02” is incorrect. “The power of two (2) is not exponential but arithmetic… increase to 400×400”

Presentation 1 of 2

Charter City: Greg Lyman and Paul Fadelli, El Cerrito City Council Members

Forward questions to gblyman@comcast.net

• El Cerrito is presently a “General Law City” but is considering becoming a “Charter City”. Last week the City Council voted to place such an option on the November ballot, so residents will vote in November whether to make such a change.  As a Charter City, El Cerrito would have more options for funding important local services or important capital projects.  Potentially, the biggest impact for El Cerrito would be the ability to implement a Real Property Transfer Tax (RPTT).  An RPTT could generate approximately $2.7 mission annually and would be levied one time whenever a property is sold and changes ownership.  El Cerrito Council members Greg Lyman and Paul Fadelli will discuss the background and impacts of becoming a Charter City.  They will review the ballot language and the ramifications of a yes or no vote.  Both Council members were on the City’s special Charter City Committee.
• Introduction: Greg Lyman is a Civil Engineer for the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission, the Environmental Civil Engineering department.
• City council placed measure on November Ballot – Why consider a city charter now?
• Today’s budget balanced because we have six positions vacant 4 police officers and 2 firemen ($1 million savings in budget)
• A general law city has authority and can act locally but it follows the state constitution.
• Charter city has authority to enact laws equal to state within its jurisdiction as long as the laws are consistent with state and federal laws.
• The Ballot Measure would add a real property transfer tax. Albany, Berkeley, Emeryville, Richmond have real property transfer tax as charter cities. If enacted, this tax would potentially collect $2.7 million annually in one-time transfers.
  1. The purpose of the charter city amendment is to generate additional city revenue. Funds can go to: Refurbish the El Cerrito Police and Fire Station, Programs for club houses, and Low-income housing
• Introduction: Paul Fadelli was last elected to the El Cerrito City Council, Paul was also at the BART as a Legislative representative.  He has a degree in Political Science from UC Davis and a Ph.D. in Journalism from UCLA.  Paul was also a Charter City Committee member.
  1. Charter City Committee membership: Two council members, Member of financial board (FAB) chair, Labor representative local 1230,Local realtor (vice chair), Two members of Public (FAB member and former Mayor)
• Committee selected Chair and Vice Chair, approved minutes and followed Brown Act and
  1. Committee focus: Form of government, Municipal revenue, Prevailing wages, labor relations and elections
• Committee met on five separate occasions, Meetings were noticed and advertised widely, Public given opportunity to speak during public comment and specific items, Committee reviewed other relevant charts and a full list of powers including financial powers, and Residents of El Cerrito would have the ability to change the Charter in the future should the need or desire arise.
  1. The Charter benefits include: Programs for seniors, Club houses, Funding Officer positions, Disaster emergency reserves, Affordable Housing assistance, and Seismic upgrades
• A rebate program for Solar panel installation, Water and Energy conservation, and Electric Vehicle (EV) charging can help homeowners offset the cost of the transfer tax
  1. Note that benefits cannot exceed 1/3 value of RPTT
  2. These upgrades must be done within one year
• Statement of purpose: Establishment of home rule power, Municipal revenue, Prevailing wages, Labor relations, Elections (do not change), Interpretation, severability and protection

Members clapped after reading statement of purpose

• Ballot measure quote: “To better maintain emergency 911 fire, medical, and response times; city parks, paths, and open space; programs for children; library programs, earthquake and disaster preparedness programs, and reserves, and other measure, shall adopt El Cerrito as a Charter. Enact a Transfer tax of $12 per every $1000 paid by buyers or sellers of property all benefiting El Cerrito.”
• Transfer tax only applies when property exchanges for greater than $100.
• The following transfers will not be subject to the transfer tax:
  1. Transfer to trust fund (no, because money is not exchanged)
  2. Transfer from parent to child – bequeathment
• Seller can get rebates for Seismic upgrades
• El Cerrito offers water, energy and seismic rebates to homeowners that improve homes.
• Buyers can place transfer tax payment into loan agreement
• Hari asks – “Is charter the same as home rule; are the words synonymous?”
  1. Yes, see the Charter City website for more information.
• 2^nd major source of revenue for El Cerrito. Other revenue comes from sales tax, property tax, governmental fees, recreation fees, grants from other entities, and properties seized during police activity.
• Al asks – “Address current municipal rules and ordinances that will be part of charter. How do current ordinances roll over into Charter?” Answer: In the Charter maintain all current ordinances, so no change in current land use, no change in general plan, no change in tree ordinance, no change in the annual plan.
• Question on 1.2% transfer tax: Answer: A house that sells for $1million will generate $12,000 in transfer tax if this passes.
• Have one year to get that permitted work that is eligible for rebate. No discretion over the amount. Transfer tax is 1.5% in Albany, Transfer tax is 0.7% in Richmond. Transfer tax is locked in through Charter in El Cerrito proposal. The tax rate was based on neighbors and did not slow down market, Real estate agents say that it suppresses market, and there is a Prevailing wage argument
• Question: Does ballot measure require simple majority? Answer: Yes votes must be 50% plus 1 to pass the Charter. Will go into effect probably January 2019. Greg will do research on this question.
• FAB=Financial Advisory Board

~ End of this Presentation ~

Presentation 2 of 2

Robert Cheasty, Executive Director, Citizens for East Shore Parks

Check out EastShorePark.org  510-524-5000

Robert Cheasty, Executive Director of Citizens for East Shore Parks (CESP), discussed the impacts of climate change and global warming on our East Shore coastline and parks and what can be done about it.  He is the former President and a founding member of the organization.  CESP focuses on the acquisition and preservation of parkland in the San Francisco Bay Area.  CESP works to protect open space along East Bay Shoreline for natural habitat and recreational purposes through advocacy, education, and outreach.  The mission of CESP is to preserve and enhance the natural resources and recreational and educational opportunities of the east shore of San Francisco Bay, creating a necklace of shoreline parks from the Oakland Estuary to the Carquinez Straight.

• Introduction of Robert Cheasty: Prior Albany City Council, Past Mayor of Albany, Attorney, Founding director of Citizens for East Shore Parks (CESP), Albany Earthquake Preparedness Committee, Solano Avenue Association
• Project for Citizens for East Shore Parks (CESP). 25 years to get the East Shore Parks done
• Sylvia McLaughlin volunteer of Save the Bay. Preserving the bay’s 9 miles
  • Scientists predict 10.5 feet sea level rise by end of century: Loss of Boston Harbor
  • Both Bay Area major Airports will be under water
  • One solution to combat sea level rise is to restore marshes: Build, restore, and support marshes throughout the Bay, Restore Oyster Bay, Move land from one point to next
  • Question: Restore the marshes to lower sea level rise? Answer: Restore oyster bays
  • Are we restoring marshes near Oakland? In addition to the marshes, Oakland Airport does need levees for their own specific needs. But overall, we just functioning marshes and oyster beds in the Bay
• We Require army corps of engineers to move dirt
  • Question: Sea level rise is ice melting; having hard time understanding how to fight back sea level rise? Answer: Marshes absorb 2-3 feet of water.
  • Without action expect Emeryville housing to be under water. What will happen to Emeryville even if we take care of our area? Answer: pass a Resolution to support El Cerrito rise program
  • Question: Aside from levees do we need retaining walls? Answer: Developing and pumping only does so much.
• Right now, Miami fish are swimming in streets of Miami. It is cheaper and more effective to restore marshes. “Drain the swamp” is not very healthy for ecology; It is better to say to “Drain the garbage out of the swamp”
• Pass ordinances preventing from building into the shoreline and build more marshes
• Point Molate is an amazing resource! Building housing in point Molate not a good idea because you need marshes, instead. Point Molate has an old Wine haven, an Indian burial ground, and there are many historical locations at Point Molate and Richmond. The Point is a regional treasure. There is an untouched watershed in Richmond. Not against developing but Against developing in the shoreline. There is political opposition to marshes due to development pressures
• Supported lawsuit under Brown Act to prevent Richmond from building Casino. There was a settlement and judgement to agree on development. There were two (2) separate $80 million deals in which Chevron buys land and manages Park.  The Winehaven business district will preserve cottages. It is not true that Robert Cheasty supported a Casino in Richmond.   Richmond City Council, turned down offer because they wanted a Casino.  The Lawsuit stopped it.  Robert Cheasty is willing to protect and preserve habitat over a lawsuit if forces insist on a Casino.   Despite the rejection of Cheasty’ deal, citizens passed a NO Casino measure; and the Casino development proposal was removed.
• The Sierra club was never in favor of the Casino.

~ End of this Presentation ~

Meeting Adjourned 9pm.

Several exhibits and flyers were distributed in at the meeting