Blog #10 - Free Compost Delivered to Fairfax

Compost Delivered on March 31, 2012 to Pavilion Parking Lot





On Saturday, March 31st FREE Compost will be delivered for all residents of Fairfax.

As part of the new Agreement with Marin Sanitary Service approved by the Town Council in December 2011 free compost is to be delivered to the Town three times per year.

It will be delivered to the Pavilion parking lot next to where the sand is stored for storm events. Residents are encouraged to bring a bag or a container for the compost. A shovel should be available at the compost pile and feel free to bring your own. Compost will be there as long as it lasts. Fifteen (15) tons will be delivered. If you can't make it for this delivery of compost there will be two more deliveries to the Town before next spring.

Blog #9 - Thirteenth Documentary Film Festival

Please join us for this popular film festival that is generously hosted annually by the Fairfax Theater. The Film Festival begins Friday, March 30 and ends on Sunday, April 1 at the Fairfax Theater. This year's films include:

After Happily Ever After is Emmy-winning filmmaker Kate Schermerhorn’s quirky, funny and moving personal quest for the secret to a happy marriage and for answers to some timely questions about an institution which might just be due for some review. This engaging doc features an eclectic mix of long married couples along with a lively and world-renowned group of marriage experts who piece together the history and possible future and motivations for marriage.

Way of Life follows the story of Michael Daube, a young man of modest means from small town America who finds a valuable piece of art in the garbage, sells it at auction and builds a hospital in one of the most remote areas of India. The film follows an organic path around the world, focusing on the aspects of Daube’s work that inspire us to consider and appreciate our own best intentions.

Interested in participating in the 48-hour, four-minute film challenge? The winning documentaries, and as many others as time permits, will be shown at a special screening during the Fairfax Documentary Film Festival on Sunday, April 1st. Winners for both Juried & Audience Favorite will be announced and prizes awarded at that screening. Read more:

http://town-of-fairfax.org/pdfs/events/2012/film_festival_challenge.pdf

Blog #8 - Town Council Actions from March 7, 2012

Town Refinances Measure K Bond

The Town of Fairfax authorized the sale of $2,880,000 of Revenue Bonds (Series 2012) to
(1) refinance existing bonds issued in 2002 at a more favorable interest rate and (2) finance the acquisition and construction of public capital improvements consistent with the intent of the original bond issue. The bond bidding and award was February 15, 2012.

Six bidders participated, each submitting bids with 16 interest rates for each of the years remaining on the bond. The individual coupon rates bid varied from 2% to 4%. The lowest overall interest rate bidder was Mitsubishi UFJ Securities of San Francisco which likely means the securities will be marketed locally. The highest bid was 2.627338% and the winning, or lowest bid was 2.118578%.

The Bond sale closed March 1st. The Town added $193,726 to funds available for capital improvements.

Collectively tax payers will realize savings for the remainder of the bond term in excess of $20,000 per year.

Other actions taken at the Town Council January 11, 2012 meeting:

• Appointed Natasha Riggens to the Cittaslow Committee;

• Adopted a Proclamation declaring April 8-14, 2012 National Library Week;

• Adopted a Proclamation declaring April as Fair Housing Month in Fairfax;

• Approved a low bid in the amount of $38,000 to Republic ITS for the Streetlight Energy Efficiency Project in Downtown Fairfax. The project involves replacing current streetlights with LED lights to achieve substantial energy savings;

• Authorized the Town Manager to sign an Agreement with Sustainable Fairfax in an amount not to exceed $10,000 for the implementation of a Zero Waste Grant. The Agreement with Sustainable Fairfax is fully funded by the Grant. No general fund monies will be used to implement this grant;

• Authorized the Town Manager to sign an Agreement with Community Media Center of Marin for installation of cameras, cabling and video distribution and to provide video production services during Town Council meetings;

• Authorized the Town Manager to sign an Agreement with Parisi and Associates for the Fairfax Bike Spine Project for an amount not to exceed $25,000. The Agreement is fully funded through the Bike Spine grant and no general fund money will be used to implement the grant;

• Heard a status report and discussed the Banking Service RFP process. The Town has narrowed the selection down to two banks. The selection of a bank for the Town’s banking needs will be on the Council agenda for the April 4, 2012 meeting.

• Adopted Resolution 12-15, adopting the Association of Bay Area Government (ABAG) Plan “Taming Natural Disasters” and the Town of Fairfax Local Annex (appendix), as the Town of Fairfax’s Local Hazard Mitigation Plan

• Tabled the discussion of the Mid-Year Budget Review to the April 4, 2012 Town Council meeting.

Other notes and announcements:

• Fairfax Festival/Ecofest Outreach Party for potential volunteers on March 15th at the Sleeping Lady, 6 – 8 p.m., Kyle Alden to provide the entertainment

• Public Workshop on Fairfax Schools Bike Spine Project on Saturday, March 17th facilitated by Traffic Engineer David Parisi, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., Fairfax Women’s Club

• Fairfax Festival Poster Contest entries due by April 1st – Prize of $350 and free Festival booth

• Fairfax Food Pantry – Saturdays 9-11 at the Fairfax Community Church, 2398 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, volunteers needed

• Fairfax Chamber of Commerce Annual Brewfest at the Pavilion, Saturday, March 17th, 1 – 5 p.m.

• One Vacancy for Community member on the newly formed Cittaslow Committee

• Vacancy on the Open Space Committee to complete an unexpired term to June 30, 2012

• Vacancies on the Fairfax Youth Commission for Ross Valley youth between 14 and 19 years of age

• Vacancy for a Youth Commissioner to serve on the Parks and Recreation Commission for a 2-year term

The next Town Council meeting will be April 4, 2012 at 7:00 PM at the Women’s Club.

Blog #7 - Town Siren Malfunction

Dear Town Residents:

The Town has discovered the reason for the siren sounding (malfunction) yesterday evening at about 8:45 PM.

The technician examined the siren system today. He discovered a considerable amount of condensation (large drops of water within the box and on the electronics) on the computer boards and relays that he is rather certain caused the siren to activate. He will be returning to weather proof the two boxes containing these electrical components.

The Town will also be working to provide more timely information on our Home Page in the future.

Blog #6 Community Meeting on Fairfax Bike Spine Project

FAIRFAX SCHOOLS BIKE SPINE PROJECT
PUBLIC WORKSHOP
Saturday, March 17, 2012
9:30—11:30 a.m.
Women’s Club, 46 Park Road

Residents of the Fairfax community are encouraged to attend an upcoming workshop to discuss the proposed Schools Bike Spine Project. This past October, the Transportation Authority of Marin granted the Town of Fairfax $110,000 to install signage and street markings for identified bicycle routes to school. The Schools Bike Spine will connect much of Fairfax to three schools—Cascade Canyon, Manor Elementary, and White Hill Middle schools. The overall goal of the project is to improve the safety of the Town’s streets for student bicyclists, as well as increase awareness of motorists who share the road with them.

The first phase of the Fairfax Schools Bike Spine will begin at Bolinas Road to the south, run along Park Road, Arroyo and/or Sequoia roads, Manor Road, Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, Oak Manor Drive, and end on Glen Drive (see map). A future phase of the project may extend along Olema Road. The intent of the public workshop is to inform the community about the proposed changes and to solicit input prior to finalizing the project. The workshop will consist of a presentation, as well as discussion and input from residents.

To learn more about the project or view a map of the project area please visit www. townoffairfax.org or contact Michael Rock at mrock@townoffairfax.org or call 453-1584.

Blog #5 - Smart Meter Update

The Town Council held a special meeting on February 13th and discussed the recent order by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) that requires a one time $75 fee and an ongoing $10/month fee to opt out of the Smart Meter program. There is a second round of hearings scheduled with the CPUC to ocurr in the next five to six weeks to discuss this order and to discuss the possibility of allowing communities to opt out. These Phase 2 hearings could last four to five months.

The Town Council directed the staff to have our pro bono attorney be prepared to file a stay of the order in case it is needed. The Town Council committed to keeping the lines of positive communication open with PG&E and has assurances from PG&E that no smart meters will be installed in Fairfax per the Moratorium Ordinance passed by the Council.

Residents in Fairfax who are on the delay list should have received a letter from PG&E recently asking them to opt out. Twenty-three persons addressed the Council on the Smart Meter issue. The vast majority of those speakers supported the Council's decisions to date on this issue.

Please see the Town's Home Page for much more information about the Smart Meter issue at:

www.townoffairfax.org

Blog #4 Town Council Actions February 1, 2012 Meeting

Council passes resolution objecting to the Military Detention Provisions of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)

The Council adopted a resolution objecting to the NDAA over grave concerns about violations within NDAA of several sections of the U.S. Constitution. NDAA could allow for indefinite detention without trial of any person, including US citizens. The FBI Director, the Defense Secretary, the Department of Defense, and many of our nation’s generals, admirals, and service men and women have opposed the NDAA’s detention provisions.

The Town of Fairfax has an extensive history of protecting its residents’ civil rights and liberties embodied in its rejection of the USA PATRIOT Act, which led hundreds of other municipalities across the nation to emulate our example. The NDAA could allow the recurrence of torture in military detention in violation of the Eighth Amendment and could force US military service members to serve as domestic jailers. The Resolution will be sent to our U.S. House and Senate representatives and to the President who signed the NDAA.

Planning Commission and Design Review Board Functions

The Town Council, on a 4-1 vote, (Council Member Bragman dissenting) adopted Ordinance 764 which adds the current functions of the Design Review Board to the Planning Commission. This will allow for the Planning Commission to have a more comprehensive and holistic review that evaluates project design at the same time it evaluates other code requirements thus reviewing all aspects of a project in a more streamlined way. The Town Council gave direction to staff to have the Chair of the Planning Commission report to the Town Council on a regular basis on how the newly constituted Planning Commission is working.

Other actions taken at the Town Council January 11, 2012 meeting:

• Re-appointed Barbara Coler to the Planning Commission;

• Adopted Resolution 12-08, a resolution authorizing the issuance and sale of its 2012 General Obligation Refunding Bonds

• Authorized the Town Manager to apply for the Cal Recycle Beverage Container Annual funding in the amount of $5,000.

• Decided to utilize PEG funds for the purchase of video equipment for the Town Council Chambers for broadcasting and webcasting of Town Council meetings.

• Formed an Ad Hoc Committee of Vice Mayor Reed and Council Member Weinsoff to meet with residents living on Hawthorne Court to discuss the possibility of a pedestrian bridge connecting Hawthorne Court to Sir Francis Drake Blvd. A pedestrian bridge would allow school children to cross Sir Francis Drake at a controlled intersection rather than going all the way through the neighborhood to cross Drake to get to Manor School.

• Continued a public hearing declaring 39 Wood Lane a Public Nuisance. The hearing was continued to allow the property owner more time to abate the nuisance. The owner started clearing the property a few days before the meeting and will have to appear before the Council on March 7th with all items in the abatement notice completed to avoid triggering the abatement process.

• Other notes and announcements:

• Fairfax Food Pantry – Saturdays 9-11AM at the Fairfax Community Church, 2398 Sir Francis Drake Blvd-Volunteers needed!!

• Vacancy on the Fairfax Youth Commission for Ross Valley youth between 14 and 19 years of age

• Vacancy on the Volunteer Board to complete an unexpired term to 12-31-12

• Vacancy for a Youth Commissioner

• Two vacancies for community members on the newly formed Cittaslow Committee

• Jolly Hill Cleanup – Invasive Plant Eradication is scheduled for Saturday, February 11, 2012 at 9:30 AM sponsored by the Open Space Committee in Cooperation with the “Gift of Love” Countywide Event

The next Town Council meeting will be a Special Meeting to discuss the most recent ruling by the CPUC on Smart Meters on February 13, 2012 at 7:00 PM. The next regular meeting will be March 7, 2012 at 7:00 PM at the Women’s Club.

Blog #3 Free Homeowner Workshop on Making Your Home More Energy Efficient

You are invited to the following event:
Is your house leaking energy and money?
A Free Fairfax Homeowner Workshop

When:
Thursday
February 9, 2012
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.

Where:
Women’s Club
46 Park Road,
Fairfax, CA 94930

For more info contact:
Napallo Gomez-Somer
(650) 796-4148
napallo@ecoact.org

Learn more:
EnergyUpgradeCA.org

Attention Homeowners:

Did you know that the average California home wastes 30% of heating and cooling energy? Want to fix your home?

Join us for a Community Energy Workshop and learn how to make your home more healthy, comfortable and energy efficient. Find out how your neighbors are taking advantage of rebates up to $4,500 and how you can too!

Featured Presentations:

• Hear from a Fairfax resident who completed a home energy upgrade and received rebates

• Learn from a Participating Contractor how to address comfort and health concerns while lowering energy use in your home

• Speak with an Energy Upgrade California Specialist about how you can save money with rebates up to $4,500

To Register for this workshop go to this web page: http://fairfax-euc.eventbrite.com/

This is sponsored by Energy Upgrade California partnering with Sustainable Fairfax and through the Marin Energy Authority.


For more info and
useful resources
join us on Facebook

Blog #2 Town Council Actions January 11, 2012 Council Meeting

Fairfax Town Council Releases Plans and Specifications for three capital projects

Plans and Specifications Released for Bid on Pastori Sidewalk, Drake Bike Lane Striping Project and Street Light Energy Efficiency Project

Pastori Sidewalk: This project includes installation of a new sidewalk on Pastori Ave. from Center Blvd. to Sir Francis Drake Blvd on the west side of Pastori Ave. on the side of the street where the new Good Earth Natural Foods store will be located very soon. It will also include natural swales for improved drainage and will preserve all of the liquid amber trees along Pastori Ave. A short retaining wall will be needed to stabilize the sidewalk area and provide the appropriate slope needed for disabled access and drainage.

Sir Francis Drake Blvd. Bike Lane Striping Project: This project consists of restriping Sir Francis Drake Blvd between Olema Road and Claus Drive, including minor shoulder paving and widening in certain areas. Street markings will be painted with Thermoplastic for better visibility and for longevity. Thermoplastic typically will last about six years while conventional paint only one or two years. Markings will include “BIKE LANE”, “PED XING” and “STOP”.

Street Light Energy Efficiency Project: The work entails removing the lamp or post and replacing downtown street lights with energy efficient LED lights. LED lights are about twice as efficient as regular sodium or incandescent lights and thus will last about twice as long and save the Town significant money on energy costs.

Abolishing Corporate Personhood

The Town Council adopted a resolution calling for an amendment to the United States Constitution abolishing corporate personhood. The resolution calls for federal legislators to join tens of thousands of citizens, grassroots organizations and local governments across the country in the “Move to Amend” campaign to call for an Amendment to the United States Constitution to Abolish Corporate Personhood and return our democracy, our elections, our communities back to America’s human persons and thus reclaim our sovereign right to self-governance.

Report from Fire Chief on adding the Town of Ross to the Ross Valley Fire Department Joint Powers Authority

The Town Council received a presentation from Ross Valley Fire Chief Roger Meagor on the possible addition of the Town of Ross as a member of the Ross Valley Fire Department (RVFD). Formal discussions have begun with the Town of Ross and with the RVFD Board of Directors. Many details are being worked on including assets, liabilities and labor issues. There are significant financial savings and improvement of service with the addition of the Town of Ross because it would add another Fire Station to the RVFD and add personnel including paramedics that would enhance service for the whole Ross Valley. Both the Town of Ross and the RVFD are working towards a possible merger by July 1, 2012. There will be much more discussion over the next few months with the Town Council.

Other actions taken at the Town Council January 11, 2012 meeting:

• Appointed Laura Kehrlein to the Planning Commission; Appointed Michael Aaronson to the Marin Commission on Aging; Appointed Bruce Ackerman to the General Plan Implementation Committee; and Appointed Mia Andler to the Open Space Committee.

• Discussed the concept of combining the Design Review Board with the Planning Commission. After a fairly lengthy discussion the Council voted to conduct the first reading of Ordinance 764. A second reading and adoption of the Ordinance is scheduled for February 1, 2012.

• Council conducted a public hearing on how to allocate the proceeds from the refinancing of the 2002 General Obligation Bonds (Measure K Bonds). After a short discussion the Council directed staff to give partial savings to taxpayers and to cash out part of the proceeds for use in future Measure K projects. The Town will receive approximately $220,000 for new capital improvement projects.

• The Council signed a petition urging the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) to delay consideration of CPUC President Peevey’s preliminary decision to charge fees to customers who elect to opt out of the SmartMeter program.

• Adopted a resolution urging Congress and the Drug Enforcement Administration to reschedule cannabis as a drug with recognized medical benefits.

• Approved a letter be sent by the Mayor to the Marin County Board of Supervisors and the Marin County Sheriff supporting the right of private ownership of farm animals.

Other notes and announcements:

• Fairfax Food Pantry – Saturdays 9-11AM at the Fairfax Community Church,1000 Sir Francis Drake Blvd-Volunteers needed!!

• Vacancy on the Fairfax Youth Commission for Ross Valley youth between 14 and 19 years of age

• Vacancy on the Volunteer Board to complete an unexpired term to 12-31-12

• Two vacancies for community members on the newly formed Cittaslow Committee

• Jolly Hill Cleanup – Invasive Plant Eradication is scheduled for Saturday, February 11, 2012 at 9:30 AM sponsored by the Open Space Committee in Cooperation with the “Gift of Love” Countywide Event

The next Town Council meeting will be February 1, 2012 at 7:00 PM at the Women’s Club.

Blog #1 - Happy New Year!!

Happy New Year Fairfaxians!

What a great start to the new Year. It will be about 64 degrees tomorrow!! Hope all of you had a great holiday season. Looking for a fun activity for you and your kids this weekend? How about starting the New Year with Ice Skating. See details below:

Ice Skating in Fairfax? You bet! Saturday and Sunday, January 7 & 8, 2012

The Pavilion turns into an indoor ice skating rink, courtesy of the Parks & Recreation Commission. The synthetic ice rink is set up for young & old alike! Minimum age to skate is 5 years old. The event runs from 12 noon to 5 p.m.

Skating slots are in 30 minute increments, and the cost is $5 per session. Tickets will be available at the door. Skates are included in the price of the rental. For younger kids, a jumpee house will be on-site. Additionally, baked goods, popcorn, hot cocoa, coffee and other treats will be available for purchase. All proceeds go to fund the event. Hope to see you there! For more information, contact Maria Baird at 456-5652.

Blog # 32 Year in Review- 2011

The Year in Review – 2011


Another year has gone by in our great Town and you may wonder what has the Town accomplished this year? Certainly there are few dull moments in Fairfax. Here is a list of some of the highlights of 2011 in chronological order:

JANUARY- MARCH 2011

FairBuck Coin Created

Heard a presentation from Polla Pratt and David Bernard regarding FairBuck - a local currency project being sponsored by the Fairfax Chamber of Commerce, Sustainable Fairfax and the Town of Fairfax. The basic idea is that special coins are minted for use only in a specified area (such as businesses in Fairfax). The coins have a face value of three dollars, and can be used at all participating businesses. Coins kept as souvenirs and not recirculated net slightly less than two dollars in profit which can be used by the sponsors for the local benefit. It is legal and can be a source of much needed funds for the Chamber of Commerce, Sustainable Fairfax and the Town.

Short Term Staff Reorganization

The Town Council directed the Town Manager to return on February 2, 2011 with a job specification and salary schedule for a newly created position of Chief Building Inspector/Public Works Manager and a newly created position of Building Inspector/Senior Maintenance Worker. These newly created positions will be filled by existing staff persons to balance the budget. The position of Public Works Director will not be filled. The Town Manager will act as the Public Works Director.

The Council approved resolutions approving an overall financial policy and a reserve policy for the Town.

SMART METER BATTLE

Michael Peevey, Chair of the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has asked in a letter the following of PG&E:

“I have asked PG&E to bring to this commission a proposal or a series of proposals that will allow customers with an aversion to wireless devices the option of being metered without the use of wireless technology,” said CPUC President Michael Peevey in a statement before the CPUC’s meeting March 10 in San Francisco, where dozens of people spoke about the health risks associated with the meters. PG&E's proposal is expected within two weeks.

“This is fantastic news,” said Sandi Maurer, founder of the EMF Safety Network, who had previously filed a motion with the CPUC asking for a moratorium on the installation of the meters.

The wireless digital meters have come under fire over the last year because of concerns about accuracy, security, privacy and health effects. The meters use a combination of radio and microwaves to transmit data from the digital meter attached to your house to a transponder on a nearby telephone pole. That data is then transmitted via a cellular mesh network back to PG&E.

Because of concerns primarily focused on the health questions related to electro-magnetic frequencies and radio frequencies, PG&E has said in the past that it was considering developing alternatives, such as wired meters. PG&E has maintained, however, that the meters are safe and meet FCC standards for such devices.

Peevey also said in his statement that PG&E’s proposal for “some form of opt-out for customers who object to these devices” could be achieved at a “reasonable cost” that will be paid for by the customers that choose to opt-out.

Statewide, PG&E has installed over 7.65 million meters, with the goal of installing 10 million gas and electric meters by mid-2012. In Marin, 88,927 electric SmartMeters have been installed and 66,334 gas – as of March 4. That leaves just over 60,000 gas and electric to still be installed.

But, in towns that have been particularly vocal in their opposition the numbers are much lower.

In Fairfax, where PG&E has voluntarily been delaying installation while community meetings attempted to answer residents’ questions, just 67 electric and 217 gas SmartMeters have been installed. The Fairfax Town Council also passed a moratorium on the meters last year, but it has not yet been challenged in court.

APRIL - JUNE 2011

General Plan Implementation Committee Created

Town Council created a General Plan Implementation Committee (GPIC). The GPIC’s charge will be to monitor and facilitate the goals, objectives, policies and programs contained in the 2010 General Plan. The GPIC will meet monthly to review and monitor the proposed timelines contained within the General Plan and to provide or recruit assistance as needed. The GPIC will report to the Town Council quarterly, at least through the first year of implementation after the General Plan is adopted. It is expected that one meeting would be held per month, for approximately two hours in duration.

Volunteers Help Create a Food Bank for the Community

The Fairfax Volunteers have partnered with the Town, the Marin/San Francisco Food Bank and the Fairfax Community Church to provide a Farmers Market style food bank for the community. The Food Bank will provide free groceries including fresh produce, dry goods and USDA surplus foods.

•When: Every Saturday 9-11 AM
•Where: Fairfax Community Church, 2398 Sir Francis Drake Blvd
•How you can help: Contact hollybragman@yahoo.com or call 456-5652

Smoking Restrictions Tightened, Marijuana Dispensary Ordinance Adopted

The Town Council at its regular meeting on June 1, 2011 adopted an ordinance that tightens smoking restrictions in Fairfax. The key change to the ordinance is that a minimum of 75% of units in a multi-unit residence must be permanently designated as non-smoking, including exclusive areas of the units such as private balconies, porches, decks, or patios. All units may be designated as non-smoking. The non-smoking units must be grouped together and physically separated from the smoking units to the maximum extent possible.

The other key change is that smoking is prohibited within a reasonable distance from any entrance, opening or exit of any enclosed area within which smoking is prohibited, except while passing on the way to another destination. Smoking is also now prohibited in Town parks, including, but not limited to, Contratti Field, Fairfax Park and Peri Park and Playground and at public events such as the Farmer’s Market and the Fairfax Festival.

The Town Council also passed an Ordinance that regulates the location, number and operation of medical marijuana dispensaries. The key points are that there will not be more than three dispensaries in the Town. The other key point is that dispensaries shall be located only within the Central Commercial (CC), Highway Commercial (CH), and Light Commercial (CL) area as designated in the General Plan and Zoning Map. In addition, a dispensary cannot be located within 600 feet of a school or directly abutting a residential property unless there is a fence or an intervening natural landform between the commercial property and the residential property such as a creek or significant undeveloped parcel of land.

Pedestrian Bridge Replaced, Creek Bank Stabilized, Tennis Courts Resurfaced

After a long period of planning and construction the pedestrian bridge that fell into Fairfax Creek during the great New Year's Eve flood of 2005 has finally been replaced. A concurrent project to the pedestrian bridge was stabilizing the bank so that the tennis courts do not slip into the creek. After the bridge was replaced and the bank stabilized the tennis courts were resurfaced.

Good Earth Project Approved

The Town Council adopted a resolution approving the initial study, draft mitigated negative declaration and traffic impact permit for a project encompassing remodeling the existing commercial building and adding exterior improvements and landscaping and resurfacing the parking lot at Center Blvd. and Pastori Ave where the old Albertson’s grocery store operated many years ago. Twenty-four speakers addressed the Council, virtually all in support of the project. The Town staff, the applicant and the neighbors living across the street from the future Good Earth grocery store all worked together on several mitigation measures aimed at reducing noise and traffic. One change already made is the removal of a “no turn on red” sign from Pastori to eastbound Sir Francis Drake Blvd.

The new Good Earth store will be about twice the size as the current store at Sir Francis Drake and Claus Drive. The natural foods store is planning to open at their new location in mid to late January 2012.

JULY - SEPTEMBER 2011

Local Sales Tax Measure for Fairfax

On July 27, 2011 the Town Council, on a unanimous vote, adopted a resolution and the accompanying ordinance to place a local one half cent sales tax on the November 8, 2011 ballot. Fairfax voters will decide on a majority vote whether to approve the local sales tax that is estimated to generate about $200,000 per year. All revenues generated will remain in Fairfax and cannot be taken by the State to balance their budget.

Town Budget and Labor Agreements Adopted

The Town Council, after many public hearings and months of discussing the Town budget, adopted the Fiscal Year 2011/12 budget on August 17, 2011 at their regular meeting. The budget is balanced but required a number of painful cuts to the operating budget; leaving four full time positions vacant, requiring major sacrifices from all employees in the form of a loss of compensation by requiring employees to pay for part of their retirement benefits out of pocket, and the borrowing of $226,836 from the Town’s “Dry Period Fund” also technically known as the unrestricted reserve of the General Fund.

All employee groups signed a two-year labor agreement, which the Town Council also approved at the same council meeting. The second year of these agreements requires employees to pay 5% of the 8% toward the employee paid portion of their retirement. This will save the Town more than $80,000 per year moving forward helping to stem the tide of rising health care and retirement costs. The deficit is caused by four straight years of declining property and sales tax revenues and increasing costs for health care and retirement.

Chamber hosts meeting on the proposed Terrapin Crossroads Project

The Fairfax Chamber of Commerce with assistance from Town staff held an informational meeting on September 1, 2011 to discuss the Terrapin Crossroads project. More than 200 community members were in attendance. The project manager, Bruce Berman discussed the vision of Terrapin Crossroads and had drawings of the floor plan and site drawings as well. The meeting was productive in that community members were able to gain valuable information and also ask questions. In early November Phil Lesh decided not to move forward with Terrapin Crossroads in Fairfax.

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2011

Resource Recovery Agreement

The Town Council approved a ten year franchise agreement with Marin Sanitary Service (MSS) on November 2, 2011. The Agreement covers all aspects of resource recovery, getting to zero waste, and other special programs such as household hazardous waste, medical waste, paper shredding and many other programs. The current Solid Waste, Recycling and Resource Recovery Agreement was written and approved on April 19, 1993 and was with a different garbage hauler. MSS took over this Agreement without any changes. Much has changed in the solid waste, recycling and resource recovery world since 1993 and the Town Council and MSS felt it was time to create an Agreement that better reflects the services that are being provided and can be provided today that were not possible in 1993 such as the pilot food waste recycling program started in Fairfax last year.

This Agreement offers the following new services:

Brush Clearing/Fuel Reduction Program: This involves removing, chipping and redirecting heavy brush that may pose a fire threat to the Town. Town will determine, based on need for creating defensible space, which areas of Town will receive the brush clearing each year, as there is limited funding

Free Compost for Residents: Marin sanitary Service (MSS) shall distribute 15 tons of compost three times per year, spring, summer, and fall. Town will come up with designated location and will provide bunker. A list of compost bin suppliers may be found at: www.calrecycle.ca.gov/organics

Food Waste Pilot Program: MSS will develop a food waste pilot program at three multi-family complexes in Town. Locations will be mutually agreed upon by Town and MSS.

Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) On Call Pick-Up Program: MSS shall provide residential customers (businesses are excluded from this program) HHW on-call pickup each calendar year at no additional charge by prearranged appointment on their regularly scheduled collection day. There will be no charge for the following items: household batteries; latex paint in sealed containers (limit of 3 gallons); motor oil in sealed or capped containers (limit of 2 gallons); oil filters; pesticides (limit of 3 gallons); fluorescent lights or tubes; aerosol cans partially filled (empty cans may be placed in dual sort cart); computers and monitors; printers; televisions; and cell phones. No flammable, toxic, or hazardous material will be accepted. All items must be contained in boxes or bags. Customers must call Monday-Friday during normal business hours at least 24 hours in advance to schedule an appointment. MSS shall implement the program no later than January 1, 2012.

Larry Bragman Re-Elected, Ryan O'Neil elected for first time to Town Council

Larry Bragman was re-elected for a third term of four years last night. He received 1408 votes or 43.88% of the vote. Ryan O'Neil received 1342 votes or 41.82%. Congratulations to both candidates on their successful election. Chris Lange received 432 votes or 13.46%.

Local Sales Tax Measure D Passes

Measure D - a local one half cent sales tax passed last night with 1250 voters approving the Measure or 64.53%. This was a majority vote and will generate approximately $200,000 a year in new revenue for the Town for the next five years.

Thank you Fairfax voters for approving Measure D and allowing the Town to continue to provide quality services to you. All of the Town staff are very appreciative of the passage of this measure. And thanks to all five Town Council Members for supporting this measure and to the Yes on Measure D Campaign who gave so much of their personal time and energy to pass this Measure.

Town Clerk and Town Treasurer Elected

Judy Anderson was re-elected (unopposed) Town Clerk and Barbara Petty, appointed to the Town Treasurer position by the Town Council nearly two years ago was also elected unopposed. Both positions will serve four year terms.

Town Council Commends Lew Tremaine; Appoints new Mayor and Vice Mayor

At a special Town Council meeting on November 30, 2011 the Town Council certified the election of November 8, 2011 and passed a resolution commending Lew Tremaine for twelve years of service to the Town Council.

The Council then reorganized by appointing Pam Hartwell-Herrero as the next Mayor and John Reed as the Vice Mayor. Both will serve one year as Mayor and Vice Mayor. Both votes were unanimous.

Police Dispatch Services for Town of Ross

The Town Council approved a five-year agreement with the Town of Ross to provide police dispatch services. The Town of Fairfax, without adding any additional staff, will be able to provide this service to Ross for a fee of $21,000 per year for the first three years and $31,000 each year thereafter. This agreement also saves Ross some money as they currently are being dispatched through the Marin County Sheriff’s department. The Council also approved an agreement to share police supervisory services (vacation relief) with the Town of Ross at no cost to either Town.

Blog #31 - Town Council Actions - December 7, 2011 Meeting

Fairfax Town Council Approves Providing Police Dispatch Services to Ross, Approves Rate Increase for Solid Waste

Police Dispatch Services for Town of Ross

The Town Council approved a five-year agreement with the Town of Ross to provide police dispatch services. The Town of Fairfax, without adding any additional staff, will be able to provide this service to Ross for a fee of $21,000 per year for the first three years and $31,000 each year thereafter. This agreement also saves Ross some money as they currently are being dispatched through the Marin County Sheriff’s department. The Council also approved an agreement to share police supervisory services (vacation relief) with the Town of Ross at no cost to either Town.

Solid Waste and Recycling Rate Increase Approved

The Council approved a 17.41% rate increase for solid waste, recycling, and yard and food waste programs to become effective January 6, 2012.

Marin Sanitary Service (MSS) assumed a Solid Waste and Recycling Agreement in 2006 from Fairfax Disposal Service. From 1993 to 2009 Fairfax did not see any rate increases directly related to the cost of providing the garbage and recycling service because Marin Sanitary did not petition for increases it was entitled to receive to cover its cost. Beginning in 2009, Fairfax and MSS have worked together to get rates set at a level that covered MSS costs without causing undue hardship to customers. According to the independent consultants, even with our last rate adjustment of 10%, Marin Sanitary is not receiving sufficient revenue to cover its operating costs. Thus, the proposed increase is intended to get rates caught up to a break-even point and to a lesser extent cover some new and exciting services included in the new franchise agreement.

The rate adjustment analysis produced by Hilton Farnkopf and Hobson (HF&H) Consultants in March 2011 recommended a 24.23% rate increase for garbage and recycling services in Fairfax.

At the April 2011 Town Council meeting the Council increased the garbage and recycling rate by 10% with the understanding that the Council would be reviewing the rates as soon as the new Franchise Agreement was approved. The Town Council approved a new Franchise Agreement with MSS at the November 2, 2011 Council meeting that includes new waste reduction and recycling programs. Thus, there remains 14.23% of the recommended rate increase from the HF&H study for consideration in addition to determining compensation for MSS’s additional obligations under the new Franchise Agreement.

Listed below are the garbage hauling, waste reduction and recycling programs that make up the recommended rate increase of 17.41%:

HF&H Study 14.23%
Brush Clearing Program 1.06%
Delivering of Compost 3x/year 0.13%
Paper Shredding/E-Waste/Prescription Medication 1x/year 0.30%
Household Hazardous Waste Pick-Up by Appointment 0.49%
Special Events-Waste Reduction/Recycling/Reuse 0.60%
Education and Promotion of all programs 0.60%

TOTAL 17.41%

In addition to the benefits to residential customers there are many services available only to commercial customers as outlined below:

1. Container sizes from 32 gallon to 6 cubic yard to accommodate varying levels of service.

2. No distance charges for commercial customers. MSS retrieves carts and returns them; curbside service is preferred, but not mandatory for commercial.

3. Under the new contract MSS will collect 6 days per week from Town owned solid waste containers placed throughout the downtown area to ensure areas are clean and containers empty at the beginning of the business day.

4. Availability of Waste Audit. MSS Commercial Recycling Coordinators will arrange for a series of free waste audits to characterize material for recycling.

5. Unlimited Commercial Recycling. All MSS commercial customers are eligible for unlimited recycling services up to 6 days per week regardless of garbage cart size included free in their rates. A commercial customer may have only 1-32 garbage carts picked up once per week, but are able to set out unlimited amounts of recycling material up to 6 days per week.

6. The services of a dedicated commercial cardboard truck scanning the Town 6 days per week. This service includes on-call collection and container sizes up to 2 cubic yards and is not available to residential customers

7. Bulky item collection is available to all commercial customers Monday-Friday and not subject to the Off-Day collection requirements for residential customers.

8. Unlike other jurisdictions MSS serves, the Quarterly Residential Newsletter has always been sent
to commercial customers in Fairfax to ensure they are knowledgeable of available services. The new Commercial Newsletter is being sent to all commercial customers explaining the full range of service available to them.

Other actions taken at the Town Council October 5, 2011 meeting:

• Approved the creation of a Cittaslow Committee and directed staff to advertise for committee members

• Discussed the concept of combining the Design Review Board with the Planning Commission. After a fairly lengthy discussion the Council agreed to bring this item back to the Council on January 11, 2012 for further discussion. Currently the Planning Commission and the Design Review Board are two separate bodies that applicants must receive decisions from and combining the two functions would allow for a more efficient and synergistic review of applications.

• Gave direction to staff on refinancing the General Obligation Bonds (Measure K). The Council elected to use the refunded monies on additional Measure K capital projects.

• Approved the release of a Request for Proposal (RFP) for banking services. The Town has been banking with Bank of America for many years and the Council felt it was time to seek proposals from all banks in the area. The Council is seeking a bank that is local and active and vested in the community.

• Reviewed the Council committee assignments for the upcoming year and all council members decided on which council member will serve on each committee. Some of the committees are the Ross Valley Fire Board, Transportation Authority of Marin, Marin Telecommunications Committee, Marin Energy Authority, Zero Waste Committee, Flood Zone 9, and Ross Valley Paramedic Authority.

• Other notes and announcements:

• Fairfax Food Pantry – Saturdays 9-11AM at the Fairfax Community Church,1000 Sir Francis Drake Blvd-Volunteers needed!!

• Vacancy on the Fairfax Youth Commission for Ross Valley youth between 14 and 19 years of age

• Vacancy for a Fairfax Representative to the Marin Commission on Aging to June 30, 2012

• Vacancy on the Volunteer Board to complete an unexpired term to 12-31-12

• JACKED! An original play, based on a fairy tale, to poke fun at politicians and current affairs, December 29, 30 and 31, at the Fairfax Pavilion, created and presented by Fairfax Artists-in-Residence Sam and Shoshanna Parry

• Town Offices are closed from December 27th to January 3rd. All emergency services will be provided during this time. Police and Fire will work their normal schedule.

The next Town Council meeting will be January 11, 2012 at 7:00 PM at the Women’s Club.

Blog #30 - Mayor and Vice Mayor Appointed

Town Council appoints new Mayor and Vice Mayor

At a special Town Council meeting on November 30, 2011 the Town Council certified the election of November 8, 2011 and passed a resolution commending Lew Tremaine for twelve years of service to the Town Council.

The next item on the agenda was the oath of office for re-elected Council Member Larry Bragman and newly elected Council Member Ryan O'Neal. They were sworn in at the same time.

The Council then reorganized by appointing Pam Hartwell-Herrero as the next Mayor and John Reed as the Vice Mayor. Both will serve one year as Mayor and Vice Mayor.

The next regular meeting of the Town Council will be December 7, 2011.

Blog #29 - Special Council Meeting November 30, 2011

Town Council to hold Special Meeting November 30th

The Town Council will hold a special meeting on November 30th at the Women's Club beginning at 7:00 PM. The meeting is to honor the twelve years of service from Council Member Lew Tremaine and to swear into office Larry Bragman and Ryan O'Neil. Larry and Ryan were elected to serve on the Town Council on November 8, 2011. This is Larry's third term on the Council and Ryan's first. There will be cake served after the swearing in. Please join the Town Council on this important occasion.

Ryan O'Neal served on the Planning Commission and Open Space Committee. These two positions are now available. If you are interested in serving the Town of Fairfax on either of these Committees please contact the Town Clerk, Judy Anderson. Or you may go on-line and fill out the application at: http://town-of-fairfax.org/pdfs/Application%20Form.pdf.

The next regular meeting of the Town Council will be December 7, 2011.

Blog #28 - Election Results

Larry Bragman Re-Elected, Ryan O'Neil elected for first time to Town Council

Larry Bragman was re-elected for a third term of four years last night. He received 1408 votes or 43.88% of the vote. Ryan O'Neil received 1342 votes or 41.82%. Congratulations to both candidates on their successful election. Chris Lange received 432 votes or 13.46%.

Measure D Passes

Measure D - a local one half cent sales tax passed last night with 1250 voters approving the Measure or 64.53%. This was a majority vote and will generate approximately $200,000 a year in new revenue for the Town for the next five years.

Thank you Fairfax voters for approving Measure D and allowing the Town to continue to provide quality services to you. All of the Town staff are very appreciative of the passage of this measure. And thanks to all five Town Council Members for supporting this measure and to the Yes on Measure D Campaign who gave so much of their personal time and energy to pass this Measure.

Town Clerk and Town Treasurer

Judy Anderson was re-elected (unopposed) Town Clerk and Barbara Petty, appointed to the Town Treasurer position by the Town Council nearly two years ago was elected unopposed.

Measure B - TAM Union High School District Measure Passes

Measure B passed with 17570 votes or 72.38%. A two-thirds vote was needed. Congratulations to the Yes on B Campaign for running such an effective campaign.

Blog #27 Council Actions from November 2, 2011

Fairfax Town Council Approves Solid Waste/Resource Recovery Agreement with Marin Sanitary Service


Resource Recovery Agreement


The Council approved a ten year franchise agreement with Marin Sanitary Service (MSS) on November 2, 2011. The Agreement covers all aspects of resource recovery, getting to zero waste, and other special programs such as household hazardous waste, medical waste, paper shredding and many other programs. The current Solid Waste, Recycling and Resource Recovery Agreement was written and approved on April 19, 1993 and was with a different garbage hauler. MSS took over this Agreement without any changes. Much has changed in the solid waste, recycling and resource recovery world since 1993 and the Town Council and MSS felt it was time to create an Agreement that better reflects the services that are being provided and can be provided today that were not possible in 1993 such as the pilot food waste recycling program started in Fairfax last year.

This Agreement offers the following new services:

Brush Clearing/Fuel Reduction Program: This involves removing, chipping and redirecting heavy brush that may pose a fire threat to the Town. Town will determine, based on need for creating defensible space, which areas of Town will receive the brush clearing each year, as there is limited funding

• Free Compost for Residents: Marin sanitary Service (MSS) shall distribute 15 tons of compost three times per year, spring, summer, and fall. Town will come up with designated location and will provide bunker. A list of compost bin suppliers may be found at: www.calrecycle.ca.gov/organics

• Food Waste Pilot Program: MSS will develop a food waste pilot program at three multi-family complexes in Town. Locations will be mutually agreed upon by Town and MSS.

• Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) On Call Pick-Up Program: MSS shall provide residential customers (businesses are excluded from this program) HHW on-call pickup each calendar year at no additional charge by prearranged appointment on their regularly scheduled collection day. There will be no charge for the following items: household batteries; latex paint in sealed containers (limit of 3 gallons); motor oil in sealed or capped containers (limit of 2 gallons); oil filters; pesticides (limit of 3 gallons); fluorescent lights or tubes; aerosol cans partially filled (empty cans may be placed in dual sort cart); computers and monitors; printers; televisions; and cell phones. No flammable, toxic, or hazardous material will be accepted. All items must be contained in boxes or bags. Customers must call Monday-Friday during normal business hours at least 24 hours in advance to schedule an appointment. MSS shall implement the program no later than January 1, 2012.


At the next Town Council meeting on December 7th the Council will consider the solid waste and resource recovery rates. The new franchise agreement calls for new programs and will require additional funding to implement these new programs.


Other actions taken at the Town Council November 2, 2011 meeting:
• Approved the Town Council meeting schedule for 2012

• Closed Town Offices from December 27 to December 30. All emergency services will be provided during this time. Police and Fire will work their normal schedule.

• Adopted Resolution 11-56 in support of establishing a State of California Investment Bank;

• Adopted Resolution 11-57 in support of HR 192, Gulf of the Farallon and Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuaries Boundary Modification and Protection Act (Congresswoman Woolsey);

• Adopted Resolution 11-58 in opposition to Department of Justice Crackdown on Medical Marijuana Clinics;

• Approved a Proclamation honoring Sharon Sagar for her contributions as a member of the Ross Valley School Board

• The Mayor gave a status report on the Fairfax Bike Spine Project which was approved by the TAM Board. This grant awards the Town $110,000 to install signage and street markings for identified bicycle routes to school. The overall goal is to improve the safety of our Town streets for student bicyclists and increase awareness of motorists who share the road with them. The street markings would include colored thermo-plastic markings for maximum visibility.

Other notes and announcements:

• Fairfax Food Pantry – Saturdays 9-12 Noon at the Fairfax Community Church,1000 Sir Francis Drake Blvd

• Vacancy on the Fairfax Youth Commission for Ross Valley youth between 14 and 19 years of age

• Vacancy for a Fairfax Representative by the Marin Commission on Aging to June 30, 2012

• SAVE THE DATE: Sunday, December 4th, Deer Park Villa, Appreciation Dinner for Lew Tremaine

The next Town Council meeting will be December 7, 2011 at 7:00 PM at the Women’s Club.

Blog #26 Town Council Actions from October 5, 2011

Fairfax Town Council Appoints Planning Commissioner, Discusses Solid Waste and Resource Recovery Agreement

Planning Commissioner Appointment

The Town Council interviewed two candidates for one Planning Commissioner vacancy. After the interviews and considering the written applications turned in by both candidates the Council appointed Barbara Coler. Barbara has served on the Open Space Committee for a number of years and currently works for the Bay Area Air Quality Management District as a Program Manager. Barbara holds a Master’s Degree in Arts and a Bachelor’s Degree in Systematics and Ecology. Barbara is filling the seat that was vacated by Peter Ramsey who moved out of Town.

Solid Waste and Resource Recovery Agreement

A draft Resource Recovery Agreement with Marin Sanitary Service (MSS) was discussed by the Council and public input was taken. The current Solid Waste, Recycling and Resource Recovery Agreement was written and approved on April 19, 1993 and was with a different garbage hauler. MSS took over this Agreement without any changes. Much has changed in the solid waste, recycling and resource recovery world since 1993 and the Town Council and MSS felt it was time to create an Agreement that better reflects the services that are being provided and can be provided today that were not possible in 1993 such as the pilot food waste recycling program started in Fairfax last year.
This draft Agreement is proposed for ten years and would offer the following new services:

Brush Clearing/Fuel Reduction Program: This involves removing, chipping and redirecting heavy brush that may pose a fire threat to the Town. Town will determine, based on need for creating defensible space, which areas of Town will receive the brush clearing each year, as there is limited funding.

Free Compost for Residents: Marin sanitary Service (MSS) shall distribute 15 tons of compost three times per year, spring, summer, and fall. Town will come up with designated location and will provide bunker. A list of compost bin suppliers may be found at: www.calrecycle.ca.gov/organics

Food Waste Pilot Program: MSS will develop a food waste pilot program at three multi-family complexes in Town. Locations will be mutually agreed upon by Town and MSS.

Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) On Call Pick-Up Program: MSS shall provide residential customers (businesses are excluded from this program) HHW on-call pickup each calendar year at no additional charge by prearranged appointment on their regularly scheduled collection day. There will be no charge for the following items: household batteries; latex paint in sealed containers (limit of 3 gallons); motor oil in sealed or capped containers (limit of 2 gallons); oil filters; pesticides (limit of 3 gallons); fluorescent lights or tubes; aerosol cans partially filled (empty cans may be placed in dual sort cart); computers and monitors; printers; televisions; and cell phones. No flammable, toxic, or hazardous material will be accepted. All items must be contained in boxes or bags. Customers must call Monday-Friday during normal business hours at least 24 hours in advance to schedule an appointment. MSS shall implement the program no later than January 1, 2012.

The Resource Recovery Agreement will return to the Town Council for approval on November 2, 2011.

Other actions taken at the Town Council October 5, 2011 meeting:

• Directed staff to write a Request for Proposals for banking services for the Town;

• Adopted Resolution 11-55 calling on Congress to re-direct military spending to domestic priorities;

• Directed staff to enter into negotiations to provide police dispatch services for the Town of Ross;
Other notes and announcements:


• Fairfax Food Pantry – Saturdays 9-12 Noon at the Fairfax Community Church,1000 Sir Francis Drake Blvd

• Vacancy on the Fairfax Youth Commission for Ross Valley youth between 14 and 19 years of age

• Peri Park Playground Clean-up Day is Saturday, October 8th from 9:00 a.m.-Noon, sponsored by PARC

• October 10, 2011 is the 100th Anniversary of California granting women the right to vote; register by October 24th to vote on November 8, 2011.

• SAVE THE DATE: Sunday, December 4th, Deer Park Villa, Appreciation Dinner for Council Member Lew Tremaine's twelve (12) years of service to the Town as a Council Member and Mayor.

The next Town Council meeting will be November 2, 2011 at 7:00 PM at the Women’s Club.

Blog #25 - PCE Cleanup at Fair Anselm

As many residents and business owners may recall there was an investigation into possible PCE contamination at the site that was the Broadway Video store at the Fair Anselm Plaza. The Department of Toxic Substances Control has been involved for more than a year and has finally finished soil gas samples taken from underneath the building. The results of the sampling will be posted tomorrow at the following link: www.envirostor.dtsc.ca.gov/public.

The results indicate there is PCE in the soil under the building and at high enough levels to warrant an expedited removal action. The cleanup will involve the following process:

DTSC will remove the PCE by installing a sub-slab vapor collection and treatment system in units located at 709 and 711 Center Blvd. This system will extract and treat air from a gravel layer in the sub-slab area that was found to be contaminated with PCE, a common dry cleaning solvent. Gas extracted from the sub-slab area will be passed through three drums of carbon. PCE will be captured on the carbon. The treatment system, including the carbon drums and other equipment will be located inside a fenced area in the southeast portion of the Site's parking lot near the dumpsters. Clean air will be released from an exhaust stack. The entire setup is called a sub-slab vapor collection system. This process will begin in early November 2011.

If you have any questions about the Site or upcoming work please contact DTSC's Project Manager, Milly Pekke, at 510-540-3777.

DTSC believes there is no immediate public health risk. However, the elevated PCE levels below the building pose a problem that should be addressed in the short term, as long-term exposure to the contaminates at the Site at elevated levels may cause negative health impacts.

Blog #24 - Town Council Sets Master Fees and Discusses Smart Meters

Master Fees


The Town Council adopted the master fee schedule for the next twelve months on September 7, 2011. Only a few fees were changed from last year. The significant change was the banner installation fee was reduced from $456 to $250. Other fee changes include: Basic Sign Permit Fee was raised from $88 to $100 and variance fees were raised to reflect actual costs. Residents and businesses can review the entire master fee schedule at the Town’s home page with a link to the Finance Department.

Smart Meters

This item put on the agenda by Mayor Bragman was a discussion and request to delegate authority to the Town to register residents on PG&E’s SmartMeter Opt-Out List. After some discussion by the Council it was agreed to direct staff to collect the emails that residents can volunteer to send the Town so that the Town has a record of the customer’s request to PG&E to opt-out. The overall matter of whether SmartMeters will be installed in Town by PG&E is being handled through the California Public Utilities Commission. PG&E, in a letter from their Attorney which was written a few weeks ago states that there will be no installation until next calendar year and there will be notice to the Town before any such installations occur. Please be aware that PG&E is replacing old meters with SmartMeters in Fairfax because PG&E does not manufacture the analogue meters anymore.

Other actions taken at the Town Council September 7, 2011 meeting:

• Appointed Merrell Maschino to serve another three year term on the Volunteer Board.

• Appointed Jonathan Bornstein to serve a three year term on the Design Review Board.

• Approved Town Council minutes from the July 13and July 27 meetings with changes requested by Mayor Bragman;

• Accepted the monthly financial report for June 2011.

• Adopted a resolution proclaiming September 2011 as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.

• Adopted a resolution to extend the Marin County Abandoned Vehicle Authority Vehicle Registration Fee until April 2022.

• Adopted a resolution setting the living wage pursuant to the annual review requirements of Section 8.56.020 of the Town Code.

• Adopted a resolution approving the Police Department Plan to allocate funds for the Citizens Option for Public Safety (COPS) program.

• Heard a presentation from a Marin General Hospital spokesperson Jon Friedenberg regarding the future plans for upgrading the hospital campus to meet seismic requirements.

• Adopted a resolution approving criteria that was crafted by the Open Space Committee when evaluating potential open space properties to be purchased by the Town.
Other notes and announcements:

• Chipper Days scheduled for clearing the weekend of September 10 & 11; removal and chipping on Monday, September 12th, in the Scenic/Tamalpais, Deer Park and Cascade neighborhoods

• Fairfax Food Pantry – Saturdays 10-12 Noon at the Fairfax Community Church,1000 Sir Francis Drake Blvd

• Vacancy on the Fairfax Youth Commission for Ross Valley youth between 14 and 19 years of age

• Town Picnic sponsored by the Volunteers for Fairfax on Sunday, September 18th, Noon to 5 p.m.

• Workshop on SmartMeter Opt-Out options at the California Public Utilities Commission, September 14 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 505 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco

The next Town Council meeting will be October 5, 2011 at 7:00 PM at the Women’s Club.