HomeMy WebLinkAboutBOARD MINUTES 11-15-01
13
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR BOARD MEETING
OF THE DISTRICT BOARD OF THE
CENTRAL CONTRA COSTA SANITARY DISTRICT
HELD ON NOVEMBER 15, 2001
At 10:00 a.m., prior to the regular Board Meeting, a site visit to the San Ramon Pumping
Station Renovation Project and the Dougherty Tunnel and Trunk Sewer Project was held.
Members Boneysteele, Lucey, and Hockett traveled to the San Ramon Pumping Station,
where Mr. Henry Thom, Senior Engineer, and Mr. Mike Fuller, Principal and Chairman of
Mountain Cascade, described the work in progress. Member Nejedly arrived, and the
Board Members, General Manager Charles W. Batts, Capital Projects Division Manager
William E. Brennan, Senior Engineer Henry Thom, and Pumping Stations Superintendent
Steve Considine met informally with residents in the area. Topics discussed included
removal of eucalyptus trees on the pumping station site, concerns about increased odors
(although the resident indicated that presently odors are not normally a problem), concerns
about possible overflows, and the modifications that have been made to minimize the
potential for future overflows in the street. Board and staff, with the exception of
Member Nejedly, then viewed the west portal, the east portal and the site where the
tunneling machine was being assembled. Mr. Tony DeBenedetto, owner of the Walter C.
Smith Company, described the tunneling machine and operation. Messrs. Paul Kelly and
Bill Gay, Engineering Assistant Ill's, joined the group and described the development
planned for the area.
Members Boneysteele, Lucey, and Hockett commended and thanked staff for the
informative overview of these projects. Board and staff returned to the District offices
for the regular Board Meeting.
The District Board of the Central Contra Costa Sanitary District convened in a regular
session at its regular place of meeting, 5019 Imhoff Place, Martinez, County of Contra
Costa, State of California, at 2:00 p.m. on November 15, 2001.
President Hockett called the meeting to order and requested that the Secretary call roll.
1. ROLL CALL
PRESENT:
Members:
Nejedly, Menesini, Lucey, Boneysteele, Hockett
ABSENT:
Members:
None
a.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG
Member Nejedly led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
b.
INTRODUCTIONS
.
RECOGNIZE BA THAN ON HIS PROMOTION TO SENIOR ENGINEER
President Hockett and the Board of Directors congratulated Mr. Ba Than, Senior Engineer,
on his recent promotion.
2. PUBLIC COMMENTS
None
3. CONSENT CALENDAR
It was moved by Member Menesini and seconded by Member Boneysteele, that the
Consent Calendar, consisting of Items a. through c., be approved as recommended.
11
15
01
14
a.
The contract work for the Furnace Total Hydrocarbons Monitoring System
Project, DP 7195, by HSQ Technology, was accepted and the filing of the
Notice of Completion was authorized.
Motion unanimously approved on the following vote:
AYES: Members:
NOES: Members:
ABSENT: Members:
Menesini, Boneysteele, Nejedly, Lucey, Hockett
None
None
b.
Staff was directed to secure the services of an arbitrator to hear the Step
Four grievance of Wilson Brooks, Maintenance Crew Member I.
Motion unanimously approved on the following vote:
AYES: Members:
NOES: Members:
ABSENT: Members:
Menesini, Boneysteele, Nejedly, Lucey, Hockett
None
None
c.
The Board received notification of the Management Support/Confidential
Group (MS/CG) officers for the period 2001-2003. This item was presented
for the Board's information. No action was taken.
4. CALL FOR REQUESTS TO CONSIDER ITEMS OUT OF ORDER
Mr. Charles W. Batts, General Manager, requested that Item 8., Real Property, be taken
out of order to accommodate interested persons in the audience. President Hockett
proceeded to Item 8., Real Property.
8. REAL PROPERTY
a.
AUTHORIZE STAFF AND LEGAL COUNSEL FOR THE DISTRICT TO EXECUTE A
PROPERTY LEASE WITH MR. AND MRS. JOE QUIGLEY
Mr. Batts, General Manager, reviewed the staff recommendation and distributed a map
showing the location of the property.
Following discussion, it was moved by Member Menesini and seconded by Member
Nejedly, that staff and Legal Counsel for the District be authorized to execute a five-year
property lease for the District property identified as the Lagiss Property, Parcel L,
Assessor's Parcel No. 159-140-042.7, with Mr. and Mrs. Joe Quigley for grazing cattle.
There being no objection, the motion was unanimously approved.
At this time, President Hockett reverted to the order of the agenda.
5. BIDS AND AWARDS
a.
AUTHORIZE AWARD OF A CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT TO KAWEAH
CONSTRUCTION COMPANY FOR THE WASTE ACTIVATED SLUDGE PUMP
REPLACEMENT PROJECT. DP 6149A
Following explanation by Mr. Batts, General Manager, it was moved by Member Lucey and
seconded by Member Nejedly, that award of a construction contract in the amount of
$98,449 for the Waste Activated Sludge Pump Replacement Project, DP 6149A, be
authorized to Kaweah Construction Company, the lowest responsible bidder. There being
no objection, the motion was unanimously approved.
11
15
01
15
b.
AUTHORIZE AWARD OF A CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT TO D&D PIPELINES FOR
THE AERATION AIR LEAKS DAMAGE ASSESSMENT PROJECT. DP 6157A
Mr. Batts, General Manager, stated that the aeration air system is a part of the secondary
process that carries pressurized air to support biological activity in the A&N tanks. Major
leaks have been found in this system and repaired where possible, but some leaks remain.
Mr. Batts introduced Mr. James M. Kelly, Director of Plant Operations, who reported that
in the late 1980's the first repairs were done to the aeration air system. Staff knew there
were still leaks but did not know the significance of those leaks until the Mixed Liquor
Pipeline Replacement Project was done last spring. An excavation for pipe installation
revealed a substantial void where leaking air had excavated backfill around the piping.
One leak was found and repaired. Mr. Kelly used drawings and photographs to show the
potential locations of the leaks and signs of leaks, and described the resulting problems
with differential settlement, spouting water, and sandy material being blown to the
surface. The Aeration Air Leaks Damage Assessment Project will investigate four of the
likely sources of air leaks to help define the problem and cost to fix it. Some contingency
funds have been included in the project to fix problems that are found. If the contingency
funds included in the project are not sufficient to cover the cost of the repairs, staff will
return to the Board for additional authorization.
Following discussion, it was moved by Member Menesini and seconded by Member
Boneysteele, that award of a construction contract in the amount of $94,000 for the
Aeration Air Leaks Damage Assessment Project, DP 61 57 A, be authorized to D&D
Pipelines, the lowest responsible bidder. There being no objection, the motion was
unanimously approved.
a.
i. REPORTS
,
GENERAL MANAGER
1 )
Mr. Batts, General Manager, stated that the District is now completing
construction of the sewer portion of the Dougherty Tunnel and Trunk Sewer
Project, DP 5902. Mr. William E. Brennan, Capital Projects Division
Manager, has made several presentations to the San Ramon City Council
and most recently to the San Ramon Planning Commission. Mountain
Cascade continues to make good progress on all aspects of this project as
Board Members saw when they toured the site today. Mr. Batts introduced
Mr. William E. Brennan, Capital Projects Division Manager, who distributed
and reviewed Dougherty Tunnel and Trunk Sewer Project Report No.7. The
wetwell extension and sewer piping work on the San Ramon Pumping
Station site is essentially complete. Trunk sewer installation along
MangoslEstero is complete, open cut construction is complete, and paving
over the trench is complete. The street overlay is scheduled to be done in
December if weather permits. With regard to the Dougherty Tunnel, Mr.
Brennan reported that the tunneling machine arrived yesterday and is in
place and will soon be ready to begin tunneling from the east to the west
portal. In terms of public contacts, at the last Board Meeting it was
reported that there had been 33 public contacts. There have been seven
more public contacts since that time. Six of those were complaints and one
was a request for information.
Mr. Brennan reported that last week the San Ramon Planning Commission
reviewed the District's San Ramon Pumping Station Renovation Project. Mr.
Brennan stated that he, Senior Engineering Ba Than, General Manager
Charles Batts, Associate District Counsel Lisa Wiggins, and the District's
Architect, Landscape Architect, Montgomery Watson project consultant,
and noise control and odor control peer review representatives attended that
meeting. A substantial package of information was provided to the City
Planner who wrote a fairly positive staff report. Because of the compressed
time, it was difficult to get all the information communicated and for the
City Planner to complete his report. Some members of the Planning
Commission had difficulty with the idea that they would only hear from the
11
15
01
16
11
District once and then pass the project to the City Council in accordance
with the settlement agreement. It was a lengthy meeting, lasting until
about 11 :30 p.m. Mr. Brennan stated that issues include the overall building
height and further studies and documents on noise and odor mitigation. Mr.
Brennan stated that the District had further information that could have been
provided if we had known what the Planning Commission wanted. That
information has now been provided to the City Planner. The Planning
Commission will rehear the matter on Tuesday, November 20, 2001. Per
the settlement agreement, the Planning Commission will provide a
recommendation for approval or disapproval to the City Council. Normally
the Planning Commission approves or disapproves a project and the
applicant appeals to the City Council if they disagree. Mr. Brennan stated
that the postponement gave District staff and Counsel an opportunity to
review the conditions of approval proposed by City staff and make some
modifications. On November 13, 2001 District staff and Counsel met with
City representatives to review the proposals and counter proposals around
construction requirements. It was a productive session. Mr. Brennan stated
that if the document is approved in its present form, he believes the District
can meet its conditions and requirements.
Mr. Brennan stated that this past weekend there was an odor complaint at
the San Ramon Pumping Station. San Ramon City Council Member Abram
Wilson was contacted and came to the site and found odors coming from
the site. Mr. Brennan stated that there are a couple structures under
construction. After work on Friday those structures were covered and
sealed as best as possible. On Saturday because of the rain, a contractor's
employee came on site and moved some of the covers and did not properly
replace them. In addition, there was a laminated poster at the site listing
Community Affairs Representative Jackie Zayac's telephone number which
is answered only during regular business hours, rather than the emergency
telephone number that calls out a Collection System Operations Department
crew. That sign has been modified to include emergency numbers. There
was a smaller sign on the fence with the emergency numbers but it was not
so visible as the larger sign. Mr. Brennan stated that a letter has been
prepared and sent to San Ramon staff to explain the situation and what has
been done to correct it.
2)
Mr. Batts, General Manager, stated that the District is about to publish the
draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for public comment on the effluent
discharge increase. Board Members will be receiving a copy of the
document for review in the near future. Mr. Batts introduced Dr. Gail
Chesler, Associate Engineer, who stated that an increase in the District's
effluent discharge limit from 45 MGD to 53.8 MGD was requested in the
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit renewal,
and it was included in the District NPDES permit. However, before the
District can discharge more than 45 MGD, an antidegradation analysis is
required and approved. The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
applies to this increase and possible environmental consequences must be
considered. Initial Study results indicated no direct impact on aesthetics,
cultural resources, hydrology, mineral resources, public services, agricultural
resources, geology and soils, land use and planning, noise, and recreation.
Less-than-significant, direct impact was found with regard to air quality,
biological resources, hazards and hazardous materials, population and
housing, transportation and traffic, utilities and service systems, and water
quality. Potentially significant, indirect impacts were identified relating to
impacts associated with additional residential and non-residential growth
allowed by local land use plans and accommodated by the project. Dr.
Chesler noted that these local land use plans and decisions will be made by
the appropriate land use planning agencies and are not decisions that the
District would be involved in. The draft EIR document addresses the
impacts of the District's increased treatment capacity and effluent discharge
on the environment. To date the District has completed multiple studies
15
01
17
including water quality studies, the Initial Project Study, Notice of
Preparation, and several dr~fts .of sections for review and comment. EIR
Scoping sessions were 'J~ê'fd~j!ríi';'l\IIarch 2001. Late responses to the initial
drafts were received from Fish and Wildlife have been included, and a letter
is forthcoming from Contra Costa Water District on their concerns. The
draft EIR will be released for public review in the next few days. A public
meeting has been scheduled for December 12, 2001 at the Collection
System Operations Department offices in Walnut Creek. The comment
period closes January 9, 2002 and the final EIR will be distributed
approximately February 22, 2002. The public hearing and Board
consideration and decision are scheduled for March 22, 2002.
3)
Mr. Batts, General Manager, stated that District staff has been updating the
Five Year Plan, dealing mainly with Operations and Maintenance (O&M)
expense and revenue projections. These and updated Capital Improvement
Plan items will be discussed in detail with the full Board at a Board
workshop in January 2002 as the District prepares for the 2002-2003
budget. As stated previously, the Five Year Plan is an internal management
tool used to provide fiscal planning and control, and to help the Board
determine appropriate Sewer Service Charge rates. Mr. Batts i~troduced
Ms. Deborah Ratcliff, Controller, who stated that staff is working on the
Five Year Plan which will be presented in detail at a Board Workshop in
January 2002. Bond financing issues are being considered to meet fiscal
requirements and they will come to the Board in January as well. Currently
the O&M and capital numbers continue to be refined. Staff is reviewing the
budget, continuing to look for expense areas that can be cut as well as
capital expenditures that may be delayed. Since a major portion of the O&M
budget is related to salaries and benefits, all personnel requests are being
carefully scrutinized. Ms. Ratcliff stated that it appears that over the next
five years, expenses continue to slowly increase and revenues are down
primarily as a result of interest income decreasing and the fund balance on
which interest is earned being smaller as well. Connection fees are
projected to be only about $3 million instead of $6 million as originally
projected due to a s slow down in the economy. In the following year,
connection fees are projected to be down another $1 million. The delay of
construction in Dougherty Valley and the slowing of the economy are
contributing factors. Ms. Ratcliff stated that it appears that staff will be
recommending the $24 Sewer Service Charge increase as projected and
approved by the Board last year. That $24 increase will not cover all of the
capital expenditures, however. The fact that the District is moving up the
San Ramon projects in accordance with the settlement agreement with the
City of San Ramon and the developers will make up to $20 million in bond
financing necessary. Ms. Ratcliff stated that staff wants to ensure that the
Board is comfortable with the financial planning process and financing
issues. As the numbers are refined, staff will continue to discuss options
with the Budget and Finance Committee and the issues will be discussed in
detail with the full Board at the January workshop.
Member Lucey expressed concern that the full $24 Sewer Service Charge
increase is being discussed. Member Lucey stated that he was hopeful that
the $24 was only going to last for one year. We are in a recession, non-
profits are failing right and left. Member Lucey stated that it will be very
difficult or impossible for him to agree to increase the Sewer Service Charge
again. Member Lucey asked that staff look at what happens if we do not
increase the Sewer Service Charge; what happens if we push the San
Ramon projects back five or ten years; what happens if we cut 10 percent
across the board in areas other than salaries and benefits?
Mr. Batts stated that last year when the rate increase was discussed, we
said we would go through the full rate setting process this year, including
a public hearing. This item is just to let the Board know that the process is
beginning.
11
15
01
18
b.
c.
11
4)
5)
6)
7)
8)
9)
Mr. Batts, General Manager, reported that he has had several meetings with
the new Contra Costa County Administrative Officer John Sweeten, to
discuss areas of mutual concern and common interest such as cooperation
on permitting activities, interaction with staffs on public works and flood
control projects, the impact of the retirement program on the finances of our
agencies, funding issues, and recent events such as the impact of energy
costs and increased security. One issue of concern to the County is the
Animal Control Facility, which is leased to the County until December 2002.
The County believes that it cannot vacate the property for six to twelve
months after the lease expires. The terms of the current lease place a
substantial financial penalty on the County for occupation of the property
after the lease expires. The intent of the lease structure was to motivate
the County to expedite the move to their new facility. Mr. Batts stated that
in the interest of promoting and strengthening our relationship with the
County, he would ask the Board to consider holding the current lease in
effect for an additional year in exchange for the County making site
improvements when the facility is turned over to the District. Mr. Batts
stated that he will continue to meet with Mr. Sweeten and keep the Board
informed of significant developments.
Mr. Batts, General Manager, reported that work on the Orinda Trunk Sewer
Cured-in-Place Pipe Project intended to be done during low traffic hours was
delayed due to rain last weekend. The installation is tentatively scheduled
for this weekend if rains do not increase flows to the point where the
bypass system cannot handle the increase.
Mr. Batts, General Manager, stated that Monday, November 12, 2001, was
the first wet weather event of the season. There was 1.2 inches of rain
and maximum flow was held to 75 MGD by what is called peak shaving,
holding back some of the flow in the interceptor. Normal high flow for the
District is 45 MGD. The plant functioned well and no problems were
experienced.
Mr. Batts, General Manager, reported that during the District's routine
November receiving water monitoring on November 14, a boil was observed
about 120 feet from shore near one of the outfall manholes. The boil may
be due to a leak or to unusual hydraulic conditions in the area. Staff will
investigate further on Monday, November 19, 2001, using contract divers.
Although staff does not believe this is a violation of the District's National
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit, the situation has
been reported to the Regional Water Quality Control Board.
Mr. Batts, General Manager, announced that the Employee Service Awards
luncheon is scheduled for 11 :30 a.m. on Friday, November 30, 2001 at Vic
Stewart's in Walnut Creek. The Board is invited to attend.
Mr. Batts, General Manager, distributed photos of the District's Integrated
Pest Management (lPM) Gardening display and the District's Sewer Science
display. The IPM Gardening display will be at the Lindsay Museum and
various libraries in the District service area. The Sewer Science display was
used at the Water Environment Federation (WE F) Technical Conference in
Atlanta, Georgia, where the District received expressions of interest in that
program from other agencies from around the country.
COUNSEL FOR THE DISTRICT
None
SECRETARY OF THE DISTRICT
1 )
Ms. Joyce E. Murphy, Secretary of the District, distributed the 2002 District
calendar for the Board's information.
15
01
d.
a.
b.
c.
d.
19
2)
Ms. Murphy, Secretary of the District, announced that her current contract
will expire on June 30, 2002. As required by that contract, the Board must
","4I.~,~i,"""..'"
be notified prior to the' end of November each year that the term of the
contract will be extended automatically for one year unless either party
notifies the other before December 31 of its intention to modify or not to
extend the contract. Ms. Murphy stated that she would not propose any
changes to her contract. If the Board wishes to modify or intends not to
extend the employment contract, they were asked to advise staff before
December 31, 2001 so the matter can be placed on the Board agenda.
Otherwise, the employment contract will automatically be extended for one
year until June 30, 2003.
BOARD MEMBERS
1 )
Member Lucey reported that he saw the District's Integrated Pest
Management (lPM) Gardening display in the Moraga library. Member Lucey
stated that he was extremely impressed with the display and he
commended Community Affairs Manager Harriette Heibel and her staff.
Member Lucey offered one suggestion, that the District's name be displayed
more prominently.
2)
Member Menesini reported on the November 15, 2001 meeting chaired by
Dr. Larry Kolb, Assistant Executive Officer of the San Francisco Regional
Water Quality Control Board, on degradation of the estuary and dischargers'
potential responsibility for that degradation. Member Menesini stressed the
importance of the District's pollution prevention efforts and education
programs in this regard.
3)
Member Menesini announced that Dr. Larry Kolb, Assistant Executive Officer
of the San Francisco Regional Water Quality Control Board, will be the
featured speaker at the November 19, 2001 Environmental Alliance
Discussion Series.
7. HUMAN RESOURCES
ADOPT RESOLUTION APPOINTING RANDALL M. MUSGRAVES TO THE POSITION
OF DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION (M-20. $9.383-$11.852), EFFECTIVE
DECEMBER 1. 2001
CREATE AND ADD THE POSITION OF DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS (M-20. $9.383-
$11.852): ADOPT CLASS DESCRIPTION: DELETE PLANT OPERATIONS AND
COLLECTION SYSTEM OPERATIONS DIRECTOR JOB CLASSIFICATIONS: ADOPT
RESOLUTION APPOINTING JAMES M. KELLY TO THE POSITION OF DIRECTOR OF
OPERATIONS. M-20
DELETE PLANT MAINTENANCE DIVISION MANAGER JOB CLASSIFICATION
DESCRIPTION (M-26. $8.097-$9.842): CREATE AND ADD ONE COLLECTION
SYSTEM OPERATIONS DIVISION MANAGER JOB CLASSIFICATION DESCRIPTION
(M-26. $8.097-$9.842): ADOPT RESOLUTION APPOINTING JOHN C. PEARL TO
THE POSITION OF COLLECTION SYSTEM OPERATIONS DIVISION MANAGER. M-
26: ADOPT MODIFICATIONS TO PLANT OPERATIONS DIVISION MANAGER JOB
CLASSIFICATION DESCRIPTION (M-26. $8.097-$9.842)
ADD ONE ASSOCIATE ENGINEER POSITION (S-77. $5.813-$7.044) AND ONE
SHIFT SUPERVISOR POSITION (S-73. $5.292-$6.402)
Mr. Batts, General Manager, stated that he is proud and excited to inform the Board that
Mr. Randall Musgraves has accepted the position of Director of Administration pending
Board approval. Mr. Batts stated that he has talked to Mr. Musgraves several times and
Mr. Musgraves has met with District staff. Mr. Musgraves is anxious for the opportunity
to be part of the District's management team.
11
15
01
20
Mr. Batts stated that next he would like to address the issues dealing with the proposed
changes in the operating areas of the District. The Board has been provided with
memoranda relating to the rationale and reasons for the proposed changes. Other sanitary
districts use the same operating organization, both Delta Diablo Sanitation District and
Dublin San Ramon Services District have similar operating departments. Mr. Batts stated
that he wished to depart from what he had planned to say about the responsibilities and
requirements that justify these requests. There is something more critical for both staff
and the Board to recognize. There have been many changes within the District in the last
three years. District staff, through Work Redesign/Continuous Improvement, is
emphasizing the District's strategic goals of excellent customer service, full regulatory
compliance, responsible rates, and being a high performance organization. Every
Department Director is in a new position with increased responsibilities, and this is also
true in many other areas throughout the organization. One third of the District workforce
is new or in new positions and we are all learning from each other. The District is involved
in numerous construction projects, dealing with the public and the Cities of San Ramon,
Pleasant Hill, Lafayette, Orinda, Moraga, and Martinez. The District is also moving
forward on internal projects such as the seismic upgrade, the new Laboratory, and
geographic data integration. Focus remains on what is important: customer service,
compliance, and reasonable rates. During this time the District has won three Association
of Metropolitan Sewer Agencies (AM SA) Gold Awards for 100 percent permit compliance,
pretreatment awards, and pollution prevention awards. Mr. Batts stated that he is trying
to get things done in real time, bringing things to the Board in a reasonable manner, and
giving the Board the information needed to make decisions. Mr. Batts stated that he is
asking staff to do more work but he is also asking the Board to do more. So rather than
listing detailed things that these requested positions will be doing, Mr. Batts stated that
the real issue is that he is asking the District to work harder to do what is required for us
to meet regulations, serve the public, and interface with city staff and residents. Mr.
Batts stated that he appreciates the willingness of the Board to assist staff in these areas.
The full Board has accompanied staff on project presentations even when it was
unfriendly. Mr. Batts stated that in looking at the jobs and increasing responsibilities, the
changes being requested reflect what he is asking of staff: To become a high performance
organization with reasonable rates, excellent customer service, and full regulatory
compliance. Mr. Batts stated that he wants to give the Board a vision of where the
District is going and what staff is doing to try to look at every possible way to reduce
costs, combine positions, reduce staff, and defer capital projects while still providing
excellent service to the public and protecting the public health.
Member Lucey stated that he thinks there are some individual changes that he would not
agree with but he will defer to the General Manager and will support his recommendation.
Member Nejedly stated that he agrees that it is the General Manager's position to make
these decisions, but he cannot agree with the proposed consolidation of Collection System
Operations (CSO) and Plant Operations into one department and will vote no on that
portion of the recommendation. Member Nejedly expressed concern with the continuing
CSO backlog, the increasing number of overflows, the span of control that would be
asked of the proposed Operations Department Director, the need for someone at CSO, and
the length of time it has taken to fill the Director of Administration position. Member
Nejedly stated that you cannot expect people to do more and not compensate them for
it. Member Nejedly stated that he will vote no on the personnel actions relating to the
proposed consolidation.
Member Menesini stated that he looks at the proposed organization as a very logical one
and one that will bear fruit. Member Menesini stated that he expects that the outstanding
CSO team with oversight by a division manager will be an effective organization. Member
Menesini stated that it is true there will be more responsibility but the responsibility
becomes one of logical administration. Currently the Laboratory reports through a division
manager to the department director. The proposed direct reporting structure of the
Laboratory to the department director is an excellent idea, and one person with
responsibility for the plant and the organization of the plant is a logical relationship. With
regard to Member Nejedly's concerns about CSO backlog and spills, Member Menesini
suggested that perhaps some objectives be established for the new structure and
11
15
01
21
management. Member Menesini stated that he supports the proposed organization and
believes that it makes sense.
President Hockett stated that there are many new employees at the District, and there
have been cut backs and streamlining for a number of years. President Hockett asked the
status of the CSO backlog and whether CSO is adequately staffed to perform the work.
Mr. Batts stated that the Board did authorize one additional crew at CSO (three people).
The cost for that crew is about $3 on the Sewer Service Charge. That crew has reduced
the backlog, and staff is working to reduce it further. Recently the crew has been
reassigned to cleaning because of the high number of overflows. New maintenance
scheduling software is being installed to help prevent overflows. Mr. John Pearl, Plant
Maintenance Division Manager, was instrumental in setting up a similar system for the
Plant. Mr. Batts stated that CSO is wrestling with a number of issues; and as discussed
previously with the Board, CSO is looking at other new tools to improve service and
reliability such as crown spraying, chemical root control, pipebursting in small backyard
easements, using a TV camera on a cleaning tool to ensure that roots are really out,
locating hidden manholes, and continuation of the grease control program.
In response to a question from Member Hockett, Mr. Don Rhoads, Field Operations
Superintendent, stated that he believes that CSO has sufficient staff at this time. Mr.
Rhoads stated that new methods are being tested before any additional staff would be
requested. Crews have been moved to cleaning to try to reduce the number of overflows,
but it will take time before the results can be seen.
In response to questions from President Hockett concerning succession planning, Mr.
James M. Kelly, Director of Plant Operations, stated that it would be his job to try to
develop the CSO staff, ensure that replacements are available when needed, and that
information is shared.
Member Lucey stated that this has been a good discussion even though there is not
agreement. Member Lucey stated that his position has not changed. This is the
responsibility of the General Manager. Member Lucey stated however that he does not
agree that with more responsibility comes more compensation; rather, more responsibility
means job retention.
Member Boneysteele stated that the nature of the work has changed and more oversight
is needed because much of the work has become automated. The District is a highly
technical operation. If everything is planned and administered correctly, the water flows
downhill to the Plant and through the outfall. CSO staffing was cut in the past because
the way work was approached has changed. The District must keep current and not
apply concepts from the past. Member Boneysteele stated that he knows the General
Manager has carefully considered this matter, reviewed it with the Board Personnel
Committee, and provided information to the full Board. Member Boneysteele stated that
he supports the recommendations of the General Manager.
It was moved by Member Menesini and seconded by Member Boneysteele, that Resolution
No. 2001-145 be adopted, appointing Randall M. Musgraves to the position of Director
of Administration (M-20, $9,383-$11,852), effective December 1, 2001. Motion
unanimously approved on the following vote:
AYES: Members:
NOES: Members:
ABSENT: Members:
Menesini, Boneysteele, Nejedly, Lucey, Hockett
None
None
It was moved by Member Menesini and seconded by Member Boneysteele, that the
Director of Plant Operations and the Director of Collection System Operations job
classifications (M-20, $9,383-$11,852) be deleted, that one Director of Operations
position (M-20, $9,383-$11,852) be created and added, that the Director of Operations
job classification description be adopted, and that Resolution No. 2001-146 be adopted
11
15
01
22
appointing James M. Kelly as the Director of Operations; that the Plant Maintenance
Division Manager job classification description (M-26, $8,097-$9,842) be deleted, that a
new Collection System Operations Division Manager job classification (M-26, $8,097-
$9,842) be created and added, that Resolution No. 2001-147 be adopted appointing John
C. Pearl to the Collection System Operations Division Manager position, and that
modifications to the Plant Operations Division Manager job classification description be
adopted; and that a new Associate Engineer position (S-77, $5,813-$7,044) be created,
and that a new Shift Supervisor position (S- 73, $5,292-$6,402) be created. Motion
approved on the following roll call vote:
AYES: Members: Menesini, Boneysteele, Lucey, Hockett
NOES: Members: Nejedly
ABSENT: Members: None
e.
CREATE TWO NEW POSITIONS OF SOURCE CONTROL INSPECTOR 1/11 (G-60.
$3.859-$4.787: G-65. $4.345-$5.397): RECLASSIFY KEN NULL TO THE
POSITION OF SOURCE CONTROL INSPECTOR I: DELETE THE POSITIONS OF
SOURCE CONTROL COORDINATOR 1/11 (G-47. $2.845-$3.510: G-51. $3.122-
$3.866) AND COLLECTION SYSTEM OPERATIONS TECHNICIAN (G-59. $3.771-
$4.677)
Mr. Batts, General Manager, stated that grease control programs are conducted by both
Source Control in the Engineering Department and the Collection System Operations (CSO)
Department. It is recommended that these two programs be combined into a single
comprehensive and uniform program to be administered by Source Control within the
Engineering Department. Correspondence on this issue from Public Employees Union Local
One was distributed to the Board.
Mr. Batts introduced Mr. Curtis W. Swanson, Environmental Services Division Manager,
who reviewed the proposal to consolidate pretreatment activities now in Engineering and
CSO into Source Control in the Engineering Department, and to add an additional inspector
by converting an existing vacant Source Control Coordinator 1/11 position to Source Control
Inspector 1/11. Mr. Swanson stated that this will provide a uniform approach in dealing
with businesses and industries, and it will provide increased field presence to help try to
reduce pollution and comply with the District's National Pollutant Discharge Elimination
System (NPDES) permit requirements. The contract services provided to the Contra Costa
County Clean Water Program are increasing and the increased cost of this proposal will
be more than offset by additional billable hours under that contract. It will also be possible
to expand the Industrial User Permit Programs to additional industries.
Discussion followed with regard to supervision provided for the Collection System
Operations Technician position, the requirements for the Source Control Inspector I
position, the requirements and certification needed to achieve the Source Control
Inspector II level, the appropriateness of combining the pretreatment functions in one
section, and the similarities and differences between the current functions performed by
the Collection System Operations Technician and Source Control Inspector positions.
In response to questions from the Board, Ms. Cathryn Freitas, Human Resources Manager,
stated that this has been discussed with Mr. Ken Null, Collection System Operations
Technician. As indicated by Mr. Swanson, Mr. Null has been doing grease control. Mr.
Null will be asked to learn all of the Source Control Inspector functions. Mr. Null does not
currently meet the Source Control Inspector I job classification requirements, but it was
felt that his experience would qualify him for the position. Mr. Null can then take the
courses and tests, get the pay increase, and advance to the Source Control Inspector II
level.
In response to questions from President Hockett, Mr. Null described the work he performs
in the position of Collection System Operations Technician and the supervision he
receives.
11
15
01
23
Member Lucey stated that as he understands the letter from Public Employees Union Local
One, the Union does not object to Mr. Null coming to Source Control and the Union
indicates that it will be a raise in pa\1' f)drñ"ót"êñ'ough of a raise.
Mr. Null stated that is correct.
Mr. Don Rhoads, Field Operations Superintendent, stated that he and Source Control
Program Superintendent Tim Potter support the proposed move. Mr. Rhoads stated that
Mr. Null has performed well in his present position and he is confident he will perform well
in Source Control.
In response to questions from Member Lucey, Mr. Jere Copeland, Business Agent for
Public Employees Union Local One, stated that the Union did meet and confer with the
District on the proposed move. Mr. Copeland stated that it is Local One's position that
Mr. Null should go to Source Control but as a Source Control Inspector II rather than
Source Control Inspector I. In response to further questions from Member Lucey, Mr.
Copeland stated that Local One represents Mr. Null and the other Source Control
Inspectors as well.
Following discussion, it was moved by Member Nejedly and seconded by President
Hockett, that one new position of Source Control Inspector 1/11 (G-60, $3,859-$4,787; G-
65, $4,345-$5,397) be created and that the position of Source Control Coordinator 1/11
(G-47, $2,845-$3,510; G-51, $3,122-$3,866) be deleted; and that action be deferred on
the recommendation that a second Source Control Inspector 1/11 position be created and
Collection System Operations Technician Ken Null be reclassified to the position of Source
Control Inspector I. There being no objection, the motion was unanimously approved.
Member Lucey left the meeting at the hour of 4: 17 p.m.
f.
DELETE THE AUTOMATED MAPPING AND PRODUCTION COORDINATOR
POSITION (5-68. $4.960-$5.687): CREATE ONE ENGINEERING SUPPORT
INFORMATION SYSTEMS ANALYST (S-72. $5.163-$6.2501 AND ADOPT A JOB
CLASSIFICATION DESCRIPTION: AND RECLASSIFY AUTOMATED MAPPING AND
PRODUCTION COORDINATOR DOUG DREWES TO ENGINEERING SUPPORT
INFORMATION SYSTEMS ANALYST
Mr. Batts, General Manager, stated that Mr. Doug Drewes, Automated Mapping and
Production Coordinator, applied for a reclassification in accordance with the Management
Support/Confidential Group (MS/CG) Memorandum of Understanding. The Director of
Engineering found merit in the request and Human Resources, through an outside
consultant, performed a classification study for Mr. Drewes' position. All computer-
related classifications were reviewed and analyzed in relation to the work done by Mr.
Drewes. It is recommended that Mr. Drewes be reclassified to the position of Engineering
Support Information System Analyst at Range S- 72.
It was moved by Member Menesini and seconded by Member Boneysteele, that the
Automated Mapping and Production Coordinator position (5-68, $4,960-$5,687) be
deleted, that one Engineering Support Information Systems Analyst (S-72, $5,163-
$6,250) be created and the job classification description adopted; and that Automated
Mapping and Production Coordinator Doug Drewes be reclassified to the position of
Engineering Support Information Systems Analyst. There being no objection, the motion
was approved with Member Lucey being absent.
BREAK
At 4:18 p.m., President Hockett declared a recess, reconvening at the hour of 4:32 p.m.
with all parties present, including Member Lucey.
11
15
01
24
8. REAL PROPERTY
a.
AUTHORIZE STAFF AND LEGAL COUNSEL FOR THE DISTRICT TO EXECUTE A
PROPERTY LEASE WITH MR. AND MRS. JOE QUIGLEY
This item was taken out of order earlier in the agenda.
9. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
a.
MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 1. 2001
It was moved by Member Menesini and seconded by Member Boneysteele, that the
minutes of November 1, 2001 be approved as presented. There being no objection, the
motion was unanimously approved.
10. APPROVAL OF EXPENDITURES
a.
EXPENDITURE LIST DATED NOVEMBER 15. 2001
Member Lucey, Chair of the Budget and Finance Committee, stated that he and Member
Nejedly reviewed the expenditures and found them to be satisfactory.
It was moved by Member Lucey and seconded by Member Nejedly, that the Expenditure
List dated November 15, 2001, including Self Insurance Check Nos. 101802-101805,
Running Expense Check Nos. 135144-135367, Sewer Construction Check Nos. 23931-
23989, Payroll Manual Check Nos. 48804-48806, and Payroll Regular Check Nos. 53866-
53902, be approved as recommended. There being no objection, the motion was
unanimously approved.
11. BUDGET AND FINANCE
a.
RECEIVE THE AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED
JUNE 30. 2001. AND APPROVE EXTENDING HOOD AND STRONG FOR AN
ADDITIONAL YEAR
Ms. Deborah Ratcliff, Controller, stated that the firm of Hood and Strong has completed
the audit for Fiscal Year 2000-2001. There were no changes to the final revenue and
expense numbers presented at year end. Ms. Ratcliff reported that there was no
management letter or recommendations for improvements in internal controls. A detailed
review of the audit was presented to the Budget and Finance Committee and issues
surrounding rotation of auditors were discussed. Ms. Ratcliff stated that the American
Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) has published a statement concerning
mandatory rotation of audit firms. The AICPA no longer recommends mandatory rotation
because audit rotation is disruptive and time consuming as staff has to re-educate auditors
on the entity, audit failure occurs more frequently in the first couple of years after rotation
of audit firms because the new firm is not acquainted with the new client, and key
individuals involved in the audit process rotate within audit firms in the normal course of
events. Ms. Ratcliff stated that based on discussions with the Budget and Finance
Committee, it is recommended that the audit term of Hood and Strong be extended for
one more year.
Following discussion, it was moved by Member Lucey and seconded by Member Nejedly,
that the audited financial statements for the Fiscal Year ended June 30, 2001 be received,
and that the audit term of Hood and Strong be extended for an additional year. There
being no objection, the motion was unanimously approved.
b.
APPROVE THE COMPREHENSIVE ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT AS OF JUNE 30.
2001 FOR SUBMISSION TO THE GOVERNMENT FINANCE OFFICERS
ASSOCIATION
Ms. Ratcliff, Controller, stated that the audited financials are included as part of the
Comprehensive Annual Financial Report that will be submitted to the Government Finance
11
15
01
25
Officers Association. This is a report which includes ten years of financial history and
statistical data. Ms. Ratcliff introduced Accounting Supervisor Colette Curtis-Brown and
Accountant Thea Almendralejo, the twO emþlbýees who were instrumental in producing
the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report.
It was moved by Member Lucey and seconded by Member Nejedly, that the
Comprehensive Annual Financial Report as of June 30, 2001 be approved for submission
to the Government Finance Officers Association. There being no objection, the motion
was unanimously approved.
12. EMERGENCY SITUATIONS REQUIRING BOARD ACTION
None
13. ANNOUNCEMENTS/SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Member Menesini requested a comparison of the District's Collection System Operations
to that of other agencies, including information on types of organizations, numbers of
overflows, backlog of work, and interactions and relationships.
President Hockett requested a copy of the manhole overflow diagram posted at CSO.
14. CLOSED SESSION
a.
EXISTING LITIGATION
The closed session was held to discuss existing litigation pursuant to Government Code
Section 54956.9(a). The title of the litigation discussed was CCCSD v. Joanne Lindroth
and related cross actions, Contra Costa County Superior Court Case No. C99-04092.
At 4:45 p.m., President Hockett declared the closed session to discuss existing litigation
pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(a) at noted above. At 4:52 p.m.,
President Hockett concluded the closed session and reconvened the meeting into open
session.
15. REPORT OF DISCUSSIONS IN CLOSED SESSION
No decisions were made or votes taken in closed session which require reporting at this
time.
16. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Board, President Hockett adjourned
the meeting at the hour of 4:53 p.m.
¿avhuA ~4v~
President of the Board of Directors,
Central Contra Costa Sanitary District,
County of Contra Costa, State of California
COUNTERSIGNED:
11
15
01