Blog #20 - Town Council Actions - July 16, 2008

The Town Council met on July 16th and took the following actions:

1. Appointed Mallory Geitheim to the Design Review Board. Congratulations to Mallory.

2. Received a report from Pam Gibson, the Town's Economic Sustainability Consultant on the Town's Economic Sustainability DRAFT Plan. After Pam gave her presentation public comment was taken. The DRAFT Plan recommends five goals and strategies to achieve the goals:

GOAL ONE: Assist and promote business retention and expansion so existing businesses can be successful and remain in the community.
STRATEGY ONE: Provide programs and incentives for improving the physical appearance of existing businesses and their environment
STRATEGY TWO: Market existing businesses to residents through promotions and activities that encourage shopping, dining and conducting business in the local area
STRATEGY THREE: Market existing businesses to visitors through special events that encourage a longer stay in Fairfax by celebrating those elements that make Fairfax special.
STRATEGY FOUR: Encourage entrepreneurship through the “business gardening” approach to retention and expansion.

GOAL TWO: Target and attract new businesses that complement those that are already in Fairfax, and are compatible with “community character.”
STRATEGY ONE: Identify businesses that might occupy vacant spaces and develop marketing techniques to attract them to Fairfax.
STRATEGY TWO: Inventory other infrastructure needs to determine adequacy for business attraction.

GOAL THREE: Enhance the image of Fairfax as “business friendly”
STRATEGY ONE: Create a formal business sustainability partnership between the Town of Fairfax and the Fairfax Chamber of Commerce
STRATEGY TWO: Maintain and provide a list of financial resources available to businesses that are starting, or existing and in need of expansion or retention assistance.
STRATEGY THREE: Establish business recognition programs to show appreciation for businesses in the community.

GOAL FOUR: Support and pursue economic enterprises that maintain or improve the environment.
STRATEGY ONE: Recognize and assist businesses with their environmental protection and pollution prevention efforts.
STRATEGY TWO: Develop a program of incentives for those who are incorporating green building into new construction or renovations and find ways to use these methods for Town projects
STRATEGY THREE: Provide for transportation alternatives to help air quality so that those who are able to move around the Town without cars can do so

GOAL FIVE: Investigate the feasibility of forming a Redevelopment Agency to sustain the economy in the downtown core
STRATEGY ONE: Hire a consultant to review the downtown and determine if there is enough “legally-defined-blight” to warrant the formation of a redevelopment agency.
STRATEGY TWO: Keep communication lines open so community is continually informed
STRATEGY THREE: Identify other sources of funding for the downtown improvements, if redevelopment agency formation is determined not to be the best option

The Town Council will hear more public comment and consider adopting the Economic Sustainability Plan at the August 6th Town Council meeting.

3. Authorized issuance of a Request for Proposals for Non-motorized Transportation Pilot Program (NTPP) Fairfax-San Rafael Bicycle Connector Study

4. Authorized issuance of a Request for Proposals for a NTPP Parkade Circulation Study

5. Authorizated the release of plans and specifications for 300 Olema Road – Fairfax Creek Restoration Project

6. Adopted Resolution No. 2562 Urging the State of California to Repeal the Local Preemption Ban which Prohibits Local Jurisdictions from Banning Pesticides throughout their City and County Limits

7. Conducted a public hearing on the Mixed Use Overlay Zone and the proposed mitigated negative declaration (CEQA) for the Mixed Use Overlay Zone. There was considerable public testimony on both issues and the Town Council has schedule a special Town Council Meeting on September 27th at 9 AM to discuss the Mixed Use Overlay Zone that is proposed.

8. Transferred $29, 966 from the General Fund to the Open Space Fund for the purpose of acquiring future open space in the Town of Fairfax.

The next Town Council meeting is August 6th at 7:30 PM.

Blog #19 Fire Season Upon Us

The Ross Valley Fire Department reminds us all that the fire season is already upon us. It is a good time to evaluate your property against the threat of wild land fires. Our climate and topography conspire to promote summer fires.

You can assist the Ross Valley Fire Department and yourself by completing the following:

1. Clear all flammable vegetation a minimum of 30 feet away from structures
2. Clean all needles and leaves from the roof, eaves, and rain gutters
3. Trim tree limbs within 10 feet of a chimney and trim all dead limbs hanging over your home or garage
4. Cover your chimney outlet or flue with a spark-arresting 1/2 inch mesh screen
5. Stack firewood at least 30 feet from buildings, fences, or other combustible materials
6. Clear all vegetation and other flammables from under decks or patios
7. Trim all tree branches up to 15 feet to assure fire-engine clearance
   

If you would like to schedule an inspection or would like more information call the Ross Valley Fire Department at 258-4686.

Blog #18 - Town Council Actions - July 2nd Meeting

The Town Council met on July 2nd for its regular meeting and took the following actions:

1. The meeting started at 7 PM and the entire audience at the Council Meeting was invited to participate in the reading of the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights. It was a great ceremony and a wonderful reminder of how fortunate we are to live in a country that allows for freedoms and a democratic form of government.

2. The Council Appointed Matthew Jaspering to the Fairfax Youth Commission. Matthew is a junior at Sir Francis Drake High Schoool and is a welcomed addition to the Youth Commission.

3. The Council passed a resolution creating an Affordable Housing Committee. The purpose of the Committee is to advise the Council on matters relating to affordable housing and provide professional expertise in the complex area of affordable housing. If you are interested in applying please see the town's webpage for more information or drop by Town Hall for an application.

4. A Resolution promoting voluntary water conservation was approved by the Council. A key point of the resolution encourages business owners to only serve water to patrons when requested. The Resolution also encourages residents to conserve water. According to Marin Municipal Water Conservation District Water Conservation Manager Mr. Carney the three most wasteful water appliances in our homes are toilets, washing machines and our irrgation systems. Low flow toilets are easy to find and front loading washing machines use less than half the water of conventional washing machines.

5. The Town has hired Wulff, Hansen and Company to assit the Town in refinancing the 2000 Measure K Bonds. The reason for this decision is that when the bonds were issued in 2000 they were issued at an interest rate that is about 3% higher than the current rates. The Council be asked to make a decision about what to do with the savings estimated to be between $150K-$200K. There are basically three options for the Council. One is to refind the entire amount to taxpayers. The other is to refund part of the money to taxpayers and put the remaining monies back into Measure K projects. The other option is to put all the savings into more Measure K projects.

6. The Clean Renewable Energy Bonds were approved in the amount of $249,000. The bonds will be used for the installation of solar panels on the Pavalion which will power the Pavalion, Town Hall, the Youth Center, Police Station and the Fire Station. The Town is anxious to get the solar panels installed so we can walk the talk of a sustainable Town and reduce our energy bills.

Blog #17 - Capital Project Updates

There will be a lot of activity this summer in Fairfax related to the continuing flood recovery projects (FEMA) and Measure K funded projects. See below for details of already scheduled projects and projects coming soon.

Center Boulevard - This project is substantially complete. However, the existing driveways have created some difficulties for turning vehicles. As a result, the driveways will be widened about one foot on each side and the radii of the curbs will be increased to make it easier to turn in and out. In order to do this, we need to move some irrigation lines and slightly reduce the amount of new landscaping. The final design will still have a traffic calming effect and will facilitate better flow in and out of the driveways.

Pastori Storm Drain Replacement – Bay Pacific Pipelines, Inc. will be replacing the existing 24 inch storm drain pipe under Pastori Avenue with a 48 inch pipe. The project will begin at the south end near the creek on June 23, 2008 and will work towards Sir Francis Drake. Work should be completed by September 30, 2008. Traffic delays should be expected in the area. Some properties in the area will experience periods of water and sewer shut downs, however, affected owners will be notified in advance.

Creek Road Bridge Bank Stabilization – Team Ghilotti has been awarded the contract to install new materials to stabilize the creek bank under Creek Road Bridge. The project will be completed between July 15 and October 15, 2008. Once the work is completed, Creek Road Bridge will once again be open to traffic.


Other projects coming this summer:

300 Olema - Creek Restoration Project
2008 Street Resurfacing (Mono, Inyo, Main, Hillside, and Spring)
San Rafael Bicycle Corridor Study
Parkade Circulation Study

Blog #16 Fairfax Festival

The Fairfax Festival was a huge success this year and there are many people to thank for this success.

Richard Pedamonte was the Chair of the Fairfax Festival Committee and I am taking this opportunity to personally thank him for organizing such a great event. The whole Festival Committee deserves recognition for such a smooth event.

Many thanks to all the sponsors of the Festival including: Bradley Real Estate, Delano's IGA, Grilly's, KFOG, Lagunitas Brewing Company, Marin County Bicycle Coalition, Marin IJ, Marin Sanitary Service, North Bay Bohemian, Toyota Marin and the Town of Fairfax.

The Festival began with the re-opening of Center Blvd. with a ribbon cutting ceremony performed by the Mayor and Council Members. The parade began shortly after the ribbon cutting ceremony and it was great to see all five council members walking in the parade together. There were some fantastic floats this year and many thanks to so many people who took the time to make such original and unique floats.

The Eco Fest was also a huge success and many thanks to Larry Bragman, Holly Dines and many others for making the Eco Fest both educational and fun. There were many hands on projects for children and adults at the Pavilion and the organic spirits were top notch.

Yvonne Roberts was very instrumental in creating the children's play area on the ball field this year complete with a magic show and gigantic bubble show, bounce houses, arts and crafts and more.

Rudy Contratti was the music director and was able to convince some really great bands to come to Fairfax. They did not disappoint as the music this year was outstanding at all the venues. Thank you Rudy.

A special thanks goes out to the Town of Fairfax Public Works and Police Departments for working overtime and on the weekends preparing for the event and working the Festival.

Tonight is the Farmer's Market so please come out to Bolinas Park for more fun and food. There is also a Town Council Meeting tonight. There are no shortage of activities in our Town!!

Blog #15 - Council Meeting Summary of June 4th

The Town Council Took the following actions on June 4th:

Re-appointed members of the Open Space Committee and appointed Shoshana Perry and Sam Perry as Co-Artists in Residence.

Received a report from the Town's outside auditing firm on the Town's fiscal year 2006-07 audit.

Heard a presentation from PG&E representative regarding PG&E's perspective on the formation of the Marin Clean Energy JPA.

Awarded the low bid for the Creek Road Bridge Bank Rehabilitation project which will begin construction in mid July and will be completed before October 15th.

Adopted a resolution urging the cessation of customs enforcement sweeps in our community

Opened a public hearing on the Town's Flood Mitigation Plan and took public testimony.

Open Space Committee requested and the Town Council approved the designation of the Ben Ross property at the end of Toyon Road (approximately 11 acres) be a priority for acquisition as open space.

Adopted a resolution supporting the withdrawal and redeployment of United States Troops from Iraq and in opposition to expansion of the War to Iran.

The next Town Council Meeting is June 18th. One of the items the Council will be considering is accepting Upper Scenic Road as a Town maintained road.

Blog # 14 - Council Actions of May 21, 2008

Mayor Mary Ann Maggiore announced that there are openings on the General Plan Advisory Committee, Fairfax Youth Commission, Volunteer Board, Design Review Board, Open Space Committee and the Measure F Oversight Committee.

The Town Council appointed Nicole Marsden to the Fairfax Youth Commission. Congratulations to Nicole!

The Town Council approved sending a letter to Marin County requesting the final draft ordinance be sent to the Town so that the Town Council may vote on the issue of joining the soon to be created Marin Clean Energy Authority Joint Powers Agency. Before the vote was taken Rebekah Collins of Sustainable Fairfax and Dawn Weisz, Principal Planner for Marin County and the Coordinator of the Marin Clean Energy Project spoke to the Council about the benefits of creating such an agency including the use of far more renewable energy to reduce the carbon footprint in Fairfax.

The Council had a productive discussion about the Mixed Use Overlay and directed staff to begin the initial study for the environmental review process. The approval of the Mixed Use Overlay will be returning to the Council for approval in a couple of months.

The Council voted to approve in concept the recommendation of the Ross Valley Fire Service Board to include Sleepy Hollow Fire Protection District as a full member of the Ross Valley Fire Service.

The next Town Council Meeting will be June 4th. The Council will be conducting a public hearing on the Flood Mitigation Plan and considering an award of low bid for the Creek Road Bridge Bank Rehabilitation Project. There will also be more information and public input on the Marin Clean Energy Project (Community Choice Aggregation).

Blog #13 Center Blvd. Paving to Begin

Beginning on Monday, May 19th grinding and paving will begin on Center Blvd. This is the last major construction phase of the project and will last about one business week. The entire Center Blvd. Improvement Project will be substantially completed before the Fairfax Festival which begins June 14th.

To accommodate commute traffic please be advised that beginning May 19th during the morning commute hours only eastbound traffic will have access to Center Blvd between Pacheco and Pastori. Westbound traffic will be detoured at Center Blvd turning right on Pastori and then left on Sir Francis Drake Blvd.

During the afternoon commute hours westbound traffic will have access to Center Blvd. but eastbound traffic may be detoured to Sir Francis Drake Blvd.

The grinding and paving is scheduled for five days - from May 19-23. As long as there are no unforeseen circumstances (equipment failure) the work should be completed in this time frame.

Your patience and cooperation is very much appreciated by the Town.

Blog #12 - Town Council Actions from May 7th

Highlights of the May 7th Meeting:

Mayor Maggiore announced there will be a community meeting to discuss possible shared police dispatch/records services with the Town of San Anselmo on May 15, 2008 at 7:00 PM at the Isabel Cooke Community Center, 1000 Sir Francis Drake Blvd. in San Anselmo.

The Town Council awarded the low bid for the Pastori Storm Drain Replacement Project to Bay Pacific Pipelines, Inc. for a total project amount of $394,335. This project will involve removing the existing 24 inch storm drain pipe that runs down the middle of Pastori Ave (from Sir Francis Drake Blvd. to the Pastori Bridge) and replace it with a 48 inch pipe. The objective is to alleviate chronic flooding in the neighborhood. Construction work should begin in June.

The Town Council adopted a resolution opposing state Proposition 98 and adopted a resolution supporting Proposition 99. Both propositions deal with eminent domain and land use issues.

An update from Council Member Bragman was given regarding the Light Brown Apple Moth (LBAM). He announced that the state had decided to postpone any spraying in Marin County and other counties until further testing on the proposed pesticides can be completed. The State could not prove that an emergency existed and therefore that the CEQA process could be postponed. There will be more updates on the LBAM as this drama unfolds.

The Council also received an update from the Town Manager regarding the Strategic Plan. The update described all the accomplishments since the Strategic Plan was adopted in December 2007. The Town has managed to accomplish quite a bit even with some key vacancies. If you are interested in reading the updated Strategic Plan it is on line at http://www.town-of-fairfax.org/TownCouncil/TownCouncilPacket/Item%2011%20Strategic%20Plan%20Update.pdf.

The next Town Council Meeting will be May 21st starting at 7:30 PM. If you are interested in Marin Clean Energy (Community Choice Aggregation) you will want to attend this meeting.

Blog #11 - Economic Summit Meeting a Success

The Town Council Meeting on Saturday, April 26th dubbed the "Economic Summit" was a success. There were over 30 residents and merchants in attendance. The meeting began with Pamela Gibson, a consultant specializing in small town businesses giving her presentation on how to sustain businesses in Fairfax. The focus for Fairfax will be on "business gardening" (growing your own) which involves nurturing and growing the business we already have. It also includes a business mentoring program and connecting businesses to the Small Business Administration.

After Pamela Gibson gave her presentation the Town Council and then the public made comments. Chamber of Commerce President, Chris Lang and Executive Director Ingrid Weiss as well as Chamber Board Members Morgan Hall, Mark Squire, Richard Pedemonte, Anakala Carmassi, and Matthew Edwards all addressed the Council on ideas to improve the business climate. There was considerable discussion about building on the Town's growing organic-oriented economy.

Overall the meeting was very upbeat and there was a consensus from the merchants and the Town that a stronger partnership between the business community, the Chamber of Commerce and the Town will be forthcoming. There was also consensus that the idea of a redevelopment agency (RDA) is something that could be a great benefit to Fairfax. An RDA allows a Town to offer low interest loans to businesses and to provide businesses with many other services such as business counseling, how to start a business class, etc.

The next regular Town Council meeting will be May 7, 2008. The agenda for this meeting will be posted on the Town's website on Friday, May 2, 2008.

Blog #10 Town Council Meeting Summary (April 2, 2008 Meeting)

The Town Council met on April 2nd and took the following actions:

Appointed Morgan Hall to the Design Review Board

Appointed Vicki Burns to the Park and Recreation Commission

Proclaimed April 13-19 National Library Week for the Town of Fairfax

Approved the expenditure of $8,333 from the Dry Period Fund for the Town's share of the Shared Dispatch Services Study Consultant Contract. This involves a thorough study of both San Anselmo and Fairfax 911 dispatch operations. The goal will be to see if there is any cost savings by combining the two 911 dispatch centers into one. The consultant will perform a very in depth analysis of both operations and interview staff from both Towns and Council Members.

Approved a Consultant Services Agreement with Pamela Gibson to create an Economic Sustainability Program for the Town in an amount not to exceed $3000

Approved a letter to Dr. Wall requesting further discussion of a possible greenbelt around the Town of Fairfax

Adopted the Proposition 1B Project List and amended the Town Budget to accept $400K in Proposition 1B monies

Accepted a 100 foot by 20 foot portion of Scenic Road as Town maintained for the purpose of receiving reimbursement from FEMA for the Upper Scenic Slope Stabilization Project

Adopted Resolution 2528 setting policy for Town assistance towards cooperative efforts in pavement improvement projects. If you are interested in the details of this program please contact the Public Works Department at 453-0291 or by email at publicworks@townoffairfax.org.

Special Announcement

The Town Council will be holding a special Town Council Meeting: Economic Summit: July 26, 2008 at the Women's Club. The Council will be discussing economic sustainability and award winning consultant Pamela Gibson will be offering her advice on how to improve economic sustainability in the Town. This Special Meeting will start at 9 AM.

Blog #9 - New Public Works Director Hired

Kathy Wilkie is the next Public Works Director

I am very pleased to announce that the Town has hired Kathy Wilkie as the next Public Works Director. She currently is working for the City of Fairfield as a Management Analyst in the City Manager's Office. She brings more than 20 years of public service to Fairfax. She has spent more than 17 years in public works. Please see below the press release for more information about Kathy. Her first day with the Town will be April 28th and she will be introduced at the May 7, 2008 Town Council Meeting.


PRESS RELEASE

Town of Fairfax appoints new Public Works Director

April 3, 2008 – Today, Fairfax Town Manager Michael Rock announced the appointment of Kathy Wilkie as the Town’s new Public Works Director. Kathy is currently the Senior Management Analyst for the City of Fairfield, CA, a position she has held for over a year and a half. Prior to working for the City of Fairfield Kathy worked for the City of Walnut Creek for over 19 years in Community Development and Public Works Departments.

Over her career Kathy has performed traffic engineering, project management and administrative analyst duties including solid waste contract management and grant administration.

Kathy was awarded “Employee of the Year” for the City of Walnut Creek in 2002 and received a resolution from the Walnut Creek City Council for her outstanding work coordinating the Safety Faire in 1998. Kathy has a Bachelor of Arts degree from St. Mary’s College in Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from California State University at Hayward. Her Master’s Thesis was titled Engaging Citizens in Governing, The Case of Walnut Creek.

Kathy’s responsibilities will include oversight of all public works projects, parks projects and maintenance, storm drainage, and Town facilities. She will continue work on the Town’s disaster recovery projects, Measure K infrastructure bond priorities, street improvements, and ensure that day to day service requests are fulfilled.

“Kathy’s skills and experience is a good match for the many infrastructure issues she will manage in Fairfax. I am especially impressed with her understanding of how to work with the community and her many years of local government experience” said Town Manager Michael Rock.

Kathy is filling a vacancy in the Public Works Director position that occurred after former Director Michael Rock accepted the Town Manager position.

Her first day with the Town will be Monday, April 28th and she will be introduced to the community at the regular Town Council meeting of May 7th.

Blog #8 Center Blvd Project Update

As many residents and visitors have noticed the Center Blvd. Improvement Project is in full swing. Concrete has been poured and new sidewalks are in along with new ramps for disabled access. There has been much discussion about how many crosswalks are being installed and at what locations. There are three crosswalks being installed as I write this. One will be at the Post Office, one at the main entrance to the Fair Anselm and one at the corner of Center Blvd. and Pastori.

The contractor, Ghilotti Brothers estimates they will complete Center Blvd. at the end of May of this year. There will still be work on Pastori well into the summer, including the overlay of Pastori once the new storm drain is installed.

Please be reminded that all businesses are open for business throughout the construction period and there will be access at all times.

Blog #7 - Town Council - Strategic Planning, Public Works Director Recruitment

STRATEGIC PLANNING WORKSHOP

The Town Council met on Saturday, March 15th to discuss the Town's Strategic Plan. The discussion was very productive. The discussion focused on the business community and what can be done to maximize opportunities for all business owners. The Council agreed the Town will become a stronger partner with the Chamber of Commerce and others in assisting the business community. There will be more information on this subject in future blogs.

PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR RECRUITMENT

Also on Saturday, March 15 the Town Council in a closed session interviewed the final two candidates for Public Works Director and gave direction to the Town Manager. At the April 2nd Town Council Meeting the Council will ratify the appointment of the next Public Works Director. There will be a press release and more information for the community in early April.

MEET THE TOWN MANAGER MEETINGS

A reminder I will be at Barefoot Cafe today from 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM for another "Meet the Town Manager" meeting. Please feel free to drop by and chat about anything that is on your mind. I will also be at the Fair Fix Cafe March 31st from 7:00 PM-8:30 PM. I will be at Chad's Cafe on April 8th from 1:00 PM-2:30 PM.

Blog #6 - More Meet the Town Manager Meetings, Town Council Meeting Highlights

As promised I have scheduled more "Meet the Town Manager" meetings at the following locations:

Barefoot Cafe: Tuesday, March 18th from 1:00 PM-2:30 PM at 1900 Sir Francis Drake Blvd.

Fair Fix Cafe: Monday, March 31st from 7:00 PM-8:30 PM at 33 Broadway

Chad's Grill Garden Cafe: Tuesday, April 8th from 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM at 85 Bolinas Rd, Suite 4


Highlights of the Town Council Meeting of March 5, 2008:

• Adopted Resolution 2532 opposing Governor Schwarzenegger's proposed Across-the-Board Budget Cuts and Supporting the Alternate Budget of the Legislative Analyst which provides Full Funding for Local Schools



• Adopted a Proclamation declaring April as Fair Housing Month in Fairfax
  
  
• Awarded a Bid for $31,650 to Linscott Engineering for the Upper Scenic Road Stabilization Project
  
  
• Adopted Resolution 2534 Opposing the California Department of Food and Agriculture Aerial Spray Program to Eradicate the Light Brown Apple Moth



• Discussed a formal policy/ordinance regarding resolutions on state and national issues

Blog #5 - Emergency Blog

I am sorry I missed the first of a series of Meet the Manager sessions I set up. I was supposed to be at the Barefoot Cafe yesterday afternoon (Feb 25) but I came down with the flu very suddenly and was unable to get out of bed on Monday. I will be available tomorrow at 9 AM at the Coffee Roastery as planned. I will schedule a make-up day at the Barefoot Cafe in the near future. I am sorry for the inconvenience this caused any of you.

Blog #4 Meet the Town Manager

As promised in Blog #3 I am setting up time to allow the public to meet me and discuss anything you would like to that is related to the Town of Fairfax.

The first meeting place will be the Barefoot Cafe (1900 Sir Francis Drake Blvd.) from 1:30-3:00 PM on Monday, February 25, 2008.

My second location will be the Coffee Roastery (4 Bolinas Rd) from 9:00-10:30 AM on Wednesday, February 27, 2008.

Location three will be the Bookbeat (28 Bolinas Rd) from 7:30-9:00 AM on Tuesday, March 4, 2008.

I will schedule more locations in the future as time permits and if there is interest. Please feel free to email me about anything in the blog and any suggestions you have for the blog.

Project Updates

Some folks have been asking about the removal of the three parking spaces on Sir Francis Drake that the Council approved for removal a few weeks ago. This will be done in the next few weeks. Sorry it has taken so long, but we had to resolve all of the issues with the Sir Francis Drake Pedestrian Crossing Projec at Oak Tree Lane. All of the technical issues have been resolved and we will proceed with this project to create the solar powered overhead flashing light and pedestrian cross walk and the restriping of the area where the three parking spaces will be removed.

Park and Hill streets will be overlayed in the coming month or so. This will involve the removal of the existing asphalt concrete (pavement) and then the application of brand new asphalt concrete.

The Slope Stabilization Project on Upper Scenic Rd will also begin construction in the next month or so. The Town Council first must approve of the low bid at the March 5, 2008 meeting.

Blog # 3 - Town Council Meeting - February 6, 2008

For blog posting number 3 please see the summary below of actions taken by the Town Council at the February 6, 2008 meeting:

• Approved a change order to install solar powered overhead flashing signal for the Sir Francis Drake and Oak Tree Lane pedestrian project. This means this project can commence construction very soon. As part of this change order the three parking spaces on SFD right behind the bus stop (that Town Council voted to remove at the January 2008 meeting) will be removed and the street will be retriped.
  


• Approved low bid for the overlay of Hill Ave. and Park Road. The exisitng asphalt will be removed and brand new asphalt overlayed. This project will start construction within the next month, weather permitting.
  


• Denied the appeal on 183 Frustuck which allows for the construction of a "super green" home on this private property.
  


• Created a Floor Area Ratio (FAR) Ordinance Review Committee consisting of two Council Members (Larry Bragman and Lew Tremaine), two Planning Comission Members (Pam Meigs and Brannon Ketcham) and two Design Review Committee Members (Shane Deal and Laura Kehrlein).
  


• Appointed Lini Bodian to the General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC). Congratulations to Lini!

• The full Council gave direction to Ross Valley Fire Board Members Maggiore and Tremaine to submit an offer to Sleepy Hollow to become a full voting member of the Ross Valley Fire Joint Powers Authority. Sleepy Hollow's Fire Board must still review the proposal and then it must return to the Ross Valley Fire Board and to both Fairfax and San Anselmo Town Council's for final approval. You may view the details of this proposal at: http://www.town-of-fairfax.org/TownCouncil/TownCouncilPacket/RVFS%20Sleepy%20Hollow%20Report.pdf
  


• Voted to send a letter to the California Department of Food and Agriculture notifying the department of Fairfax's policy requiring notifcation and prohibitng the use of pesticides on or in the commons (open space and public lands) to erradicate the light brown apple moth.

There is a Town Council meeting scheduled for February 20, 2008 at 7:30 PM in the Women's Club. Agenda for this meeting will be posted on late Friday, February 15, 2008.

In Blog #4 I will be setting up office hours for folks to discuss any matters related to the Town they wish.

Blog # 2 - Center Blvd. Improvement Project

For my second blog posting I am highlighting the Center Blvd. Improvement Project. The $1 million capital improvement project entails work on 1,500 lineal feet of Center Blvd. The project encompasses the design of new curbs, gutters and sidewalks, accessibility ramps, street lighting, landscape design, and bike lanes to complete the restoration of this major thoroughfare in downtown Fairfax. The project also includes pavement removal, grinding, and overlay.

In addition, Pastori Ave. is being upgraded with a new storm drain pipe, pavement removal, grinding, and overlay between Sir Francis Drake Blvd. and the entrance of the bridge. The entire project is expected to be completed at the end of April 2008. Please be advised it will be easier to use Sir Francis Drake Blvd. during construction on Center Blvd. and Pastori Ave.

The February 6, 2008 Town Council Meeting Agenda is posted on the Town Home page and the link is http://www.town-of-fairfax.org/TownCouncil/TownCouncilPacket/

Many thanks to the Public Works Department staff that worked very hard cleaning up the Town after the heavy rains on January 4th and again on January 25th. They worked 16 hours straight at one point removing branches from our streets and clearing storm drains. Many thanks also to the Police and Fire staff that also worked around the clock.

Michael Rock
Town Manager
Town of Fairfax

New Town Manager's First Blog - STORMY!!

Hello from Town Hall:

As I sit here writing my first blog I am grateful we survived last night without significant flooding. The Fairfax Creek level under Town Hall crested at about 7.9 feet just mere inches from flooding over the top. We are expecting more rain today but the creek level is 2.2 feet right now (NOON) so we should be OK for now. Thanks to the Town Council and Town staff and residents and businesses who helped get us through last night.

I apologize this first blog is coming more than two weeks after I started as Town Manager but I am also the Public Works Director until we can hire a new one. So please bear with me as I try to update this blog as often as I can get to it. We hope to have the position of Public Works Director filled by April.

Residents and businesses are reminded to have on hand battery operated radios, flashlights and candles at all times.

I will be setting up office hours in the upcoming couple of weeks so residents can drop in and talk about anything they would like. These office hours will take place at various businesses throughout the Town. Stay tuned.

Michael Rock
Town Manager

Final Blog post from Linda

This will be my final post as Fairfax Town Manager. Our new Town Manager Michael Rock will continue the blog.

I'd like to take this opportunity to thank all of the blog readers out there. This has been a lot of fun for me and I have appreciated everyone's feedback on this blog.

I know the Town will enjoy the leadership and guidance of an excellent new manager and I wish everyone a great 2008!

Linda

Strategic Financial Plan approved by Council Dec. 5th 2007

The Strategic Financial Plan has now been posted on the Town's website at
http://www.town-of-fairfax.org/TownCouncil/Strategic_Plan_web.pdf

Town Council adopts Goals and Strategies

The Town Council's Goals and Strategies document is now posted on the Town's website here
http://www.town-of-fairfax.org/TownCouncil/Goals_Strategies_2007_Adopted.pdf

This was accepted by the Council at its meeting of December 5, 2007.

Appointment of new Management Analyst

Please click to read the press release regarding the appointment of Yvonne Roberts as Management Analyst.

Town Treasurer Appointment

Please click to read the press release regarding new Town Treasurer Barbara Petty.

Strategic Planning Workshop - Sat., Jan. 12th

The Council will hold a workshop this Saturday, Jan. 12th from 9 a.m. - Noon at the Women's Club with the following agenda:

9 – 10:45 a.m. - Discussion with Catlin Properties regarding ideas for former Albertson’s site and Fair-Anselm property

10:45 – 11 Break

11 – Noon – Future Planning: Non-motorized transit / green issues – How to accomplish goals

The meeting is open to the public.

Ice Skating a big hit!

All told, we accommodated about 800 ice skaters over our two day "ice skating" event at the Pavilion this past weekend. Click to watch a brief video. Thank you to Fairfax Parks and Recreation Commission for coordinating and staffing this fun event!

Agenda for Jan. 9th meeting

The agenda for the next Council meeting on Jan. 9th is posted here:
http://www.townoffairfax.org/TownCouncil/TownCouncilPacket/

Storm Update - Fri. at 4:30 p.m.

The Fairfax Creek peaked at 9:45 a.m. this morning at six feet and subsequently subsided thereafter over a period of four to five hours. No major flooding was reported. Wind and downed trees caused most of the damage, with an awning detaching from a downtown business, and trees falling on homes, on vehicles and in several roadways. Several downed power lines were reported to PG&E. Fairfax Public Works cleared a large debris jam in Fairfax Creek at Town Hall and worked all day removing trees from roadways and clearing storm drains. Here is a photo of Public Works employee Tom Bruce using a chainsaw on the debris jam.

At this time, we have no closed roads in Fairfax and no reported flooding threatening private or public property.

The flood advisory expires at 5 p.m. today and the wind advisory expired at 4 p.m. The next storm is expected tomorrow (Saturday) in the late morning, with not as much force and predicted under two inches of rain.

The National Weather Service Forecast Discussion is located here http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/total_forecast/getprod.php?wfo=mtr&sid=mtr&pil=afd

The Fairfax Creek Gauge is located here (the gauge was inoperable for two hours today and is now back working)
http://www.rossvalleyfire.org/ffx_creek.html

American Red Cross Emergency Services can be reached at (866) 272-2237 and can provide assistance if anyone is unable to stay in their home due to the storm conditions.

Call 911 in the event of a life-threatening emergency

Fairfax Police Department 453-5330

Ross Valley Fire Department 258-4686

Fairfax Town Hall 453-1584 (Mon-Fri)

Fairfax Public Works 453-0291 (Mon-Fri)

Council Announces selection of new Town Manager

Amidst the stormy day, the Town of Fairfax has a positive announcement! Please click to read the 2-page press release.

Storm Update

Power outages are ensuing due to high winds. Keep flashlights at the ready.

From the National Weather Service: http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/total_forecast/getprod.php?wfo=mtr&sid=mtr&pil=afd
AN URBAN AND SMALL STREAM
FLOOD ADVISORY HAS BEEN ISSUED FOR SONOMA...MARIN...AND NAPA
COUNTIES BEGINNING AT 4 AM PST FRIDAY MORNING UNTIL 4 PM PST FRIDAY
AFTERNOON. A SECOND URBAN AND SMALL STREAM FLOOD ADVISORY WAS
ISSUED FOR THE REMAINING COUNTIES IN OUR CWA FROM SAN FRANCISCO SOUTH
BEGINNING AT 4 AM PST FRIDAY MORNING UNTIL 10 PM FRIDAY EVENING.
RAINFALL TOTALS WILL EASILY REACH 2 TO 6 INCHES BY FRIDAY AFTERNOON
AS THE FRONT MOVES ACROSS THE REGION. HIGHER ELEVATIONS HAVE THE
POTENTIAL FOR HIGHER RAINFALL TOTALS. BECAUSE OF THE POTENTIAL FOR
HEAVY RAINFALL WITH THIS SYSTEM WE HAVE ALSO ISSUED A FLASH FLOOD
WATCH FOR THE NORTH BAY COUNTIES OF SONOMA...MARIN AND NAPA FROM 4 AM
FRIDAY MORNING TO 1 PM FRIDAY AFTERNOON.


Fairfax creek level gauge:
http://www.rossvalleyfire.org/ffx_creek.html

Storm Watch

Happy New Year...and we are now facing a heavy storm. The latest weather forecast is that we are due for three storms within the next five days. County Office of Emergency Services informed us of these storms on a conference call today – here is what is expected, given the latest information:

- First storm - Thursday night – high wind watch to 45 mph, 1 inch of rain

- Second storm – Friday Noon – up to 65 mph winds, 3 inches of rain, flash flood and small stream advisory. Tides could rise on Friday. The County OES may put out a telephone automated notification in the Ross Valley on Friday if there is a flood watch.

- Third storm – Sunday night – 1 inch of rain

Total possible 4-6 inches of rain, with 8-10 inches possible in high threat areas.

As far as what we are doing at the Town,

- We have sand and sandbags at the parking lot below the Pavilion, free for anyone who needs them.

- We will have temporary flood gates ready for installation at Town Hall tomorrow (the permanent ones have been custom ordered and they are not here yet). We can put up the flood gates Friday at the end of the day if needed.

- Staff will be on call at night and through the weekend. Public Works staff has been keeping the storm drains clear.

Good news - our new creek level warning gauge is active and live! The link for Fairfax is: http://www.rossvalleyfire.org/ffx_creek.html and the link for San Anselmo is: http://www.rossvalleyfire.org/sa_creek.html . The gauge will send out an automatic notice to Ross Valley Fire and designated Town staff if the creek rises to threatening levels.

We can also activate our downtown warning siren if flooding is imminent.

I am also making contact with our volunteers to enlist their assistance if needed.

MMWD Workshop on Water Supply and Desalination

Message from the Marin Municipal Water District:

The Marin Municipal Water District will be holding a workshop on water supply and demand and the desalination option on January 10, 2008. The workshop will be held from 6:30 pm until 9:30 pm in Olney Hall at the College of Marin Kentfield Campus.
The workshop will consist of four concurrent sessions to allow participants to get their questions answered by MMWD experts. The workshop will cover the topics of water supply and demand, quality of water produced by desalination, San Francisco Bay ecosystem and energy use/cost of desalination. MMWD customers and other interested parties are urged to come to this workshop to have a dialogue with MMWD Board members and staff on this important topic.

Shop Locally – Save Gas – Help our Merchants

Hit the brakes before you take Drake to that big box!

As you look to do your holiday shopping, please first consider shopping locally. Shopping in town is a tangible way you can help our merchants and support our local economy. Did you know that one cent (1¢) of every dollar you spend purchasing taxable merchandise at Fairfax businesses makes its way back to the Town into our General Fund, the fund from which we finance most Town services? The rise in internet shopping is not good news for city governments and local economies since many internet sales transactions do not charge local sales tax, and moreover, the small, locally owned shops that make up the heart of most downtowns miss out on critical sales. Thank you for helping our local, unique Fairfax businesses survive and thrive.

Dec. 19th Council meeting

The agenda packet for the Dec. 19th special meeting of the City Council is posted here http://www.townoffairfax.org/TownCouncil/TownCouncilPacket/

Teen Event - "Poetry Slam & Open Mic Night"

Click the flyer to read about the December 21st event for teens age 14-19, sponsored by the Fairfax Youth Commission.

Spare the Air Tonight

The Air District advises everyone in the San Francisco Bay Area to avoid burning wood tonight, and to drive less, as air quality is forecast to reach unhealthy levels. Wood burning and driving are the major winter sources of particulate pollution.

This is one of our two signs to advise residents to skip the woodburning on Spare the Air nights.

Ice Skating at the Pavilion

Yes, you read that right! We will have ice skating right here in Fairfax on Saturday, Jan. 5th from 2-5 p.m. and Sunday, Jan. 6th from Noon-5 p.m. at the Pavilion. This is the last weekend of Winter break for the Ross Valley School District, so this should be an extra special way to celebrate before the kids return to school.

BH Skating will set up an 1,800 square foot rink made of recycled synthetic material, i.e. the "ice," an eco-friendly process which requires no refrigeration or electricity. Skates will be provided. We will also have family board games and hot cocoa.

Bring the kids and try out the ice!! This is a free event sponsored by the Fairfax Parks and Recreation Commission.

Council accepting applications for Town Treasurer

Click to read the press release.

Job Announcement

Management Analyst

Part-time, limited term (one year)

The Town of Fairfax is seeking a self-directed professional to assist the Town with a variety of complex, professional administrative duties. Primary job duties will center on tracking and organizing all federal and state disaster recovery information for reimbursement by FEMA and writing and administering state and federal grants for flood recovery and other public works projects, as well as coordinating a flood gate grant program.

Education and experience expected is a bachelor’s degree in public or business administration or related field and four years of experience in program administration or any combination of education and experience that would provide the requisite skills and experience necessary to carry out the position responsibilities.

Compensation is $35-$40/hour (no benefits), approximately 20 hours per week. The limited term is one year. The position is being funded through one-time SB418 (Sen. Migden) funding.

Resumes accepted on a continuous basis with the first review of resumes by December 21, 2007. Submit resumes to publicworks@townoffairfax.org.Finalist candidates will be asked to submit of a Town of Fairfax Application for Employment. For further information, please contact Public Works Director Michael Rock at 453-0291. EOE.

New Year's Eve Costume Arts Ball

Mark your calendar for Dec. 31st as the Fairfax Artist in Residence Shoshanna Parry, in conjunction with the Fairfax Parks and Recreation Commission, invites you to a New Year's Eve party that is not to be missed! The event will be held at the Pavilion from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. and promises fun for the entire family.

Agenda packet for Dec. 5th posted

The Council's next regular meeting is Wednesday, Dec. 5th at 7:30 p.m. The agenda packet is posted here http://www.townoffairfax.org/TownCouncil/TownCouncilPacket/.

Voluneers to host Holiday Potluck Party

The Fairfax Volunteers are hosting a wonderful Holiday Potluck Party on Sunday, December 16th from 3-7 p.m. in the Pavilion. Santa will be arriving at 3 p.m. sharp, and there will be sing-alongs, wreath-making, art projects using recycled materials, and information about sustainable gift-giving. Bring a dish to share and evergreen clippings if you'd like to make wreaths. For more information, call Community Resources Coordinator Maria Baird at 456-5652.

Announcement

It is with mixed emotions that I announce that I have accepted the position of City Manager of Sonoma. I will be leaving the Town of Fairfax in mid-January. I have appreciated and been honored by the strong support of the Fairfax Town Council and the able assistance of an excellent staff, each and every one giving 110% to continue to deliver community services on a very limited budget. I have been inspired, encouraged, and have learned a great deal from our elected officials and residents. I’ve been challenged and enlightened by different viewpoints that have enlarged my perspective and that have enriched me personally as a human being. It’s been a privilege to see visions shared, people coming together - young and old, long-time residents and newcomers - all treasuring and caring about the unique community that makes being in Fairfax a rich experience.

Over the last two years the Council and staff have endured a very trying time with the flood recovery; our administrative and planning staff worked out of a portable trailer for 18 months. I’ve appreciated the Council, volunteers, and staff pulling together and succeeding in serving our residents despite these obstacles. There were many lessons learned through the disaster that have now become a part of the community’s collective consciousness.

Thanks to Senator Migden’s efforts with the SB418 ERAF funding, I am finally able to propose to the Council next week the hiring of a part-time employee to take over the FEMA paperwork and disaster mitigation process, which the Public Works Director and I have been handling. It is essential for the Town to continue tracking that process so that every dime owed to the Town is secured.

I am very proud of what our Council has been able to accomplish over the past two years. It was my privilege to support them through a strategic planning process - we opened dialogue on a number of critical issues, and the Council is working effectively together in leading this community. I think the Town is strongly poised to study its options even further as we move into the future.

New Mayor and Vice Mayor

At a special meeting held on November 28th, Council Members selected Mary Ann Maggiore to serve as Mayor and David Weinsoff to serve as Vice Mayor, each for one-year terms. Re-elected Council Members Larry Bragman and Lew Tremaine also took the oath of office.

Congratulations to Mayor Mary Ann Maggiore, Vice Mayor David Weinsoff and re-elected Council Members Bragman and Tremaine!

In Memoriam - Edward J. Kelly

It is with much sadness that the Town of Fairfax and Ross Valley Fire announce the passing of Retired Fire Captain Ed Kelly, who also served as Town Treasurer of Fairfax. Ed passed away last evening following a 4-year battle with bone cancer.

Memorial services will be handled by Marin Professional Firefighters Local 1775. Please check www.iaff1775.org for updated funeral information.

Special Council Meeting, Wed., Nov. 28th

Click to view the meeting agenda.

New Wintertime Spare the Air public notification program

The Town of Fairfax has begun to notify residents of unhealthy air quality nights and to advise them not to build fires in their fireplaces and to drive as little as possible on these nights especially. This effort is in support of the Bay Area Air Quality Management District’s (BAAQMD) “Spare the Air Tonight” program and is mandated by the passage of Fairfax Ordinance No. 720 (2007) which in part provides, “The Town shall endeavor to provide public notification requesting that residents curtail the burning of wood during poor air quality episodes as determined by the Bay Area Air Quality Management District…” “Spare the Air” banners have been produced that will be posted at the entrance to Fairfax on Sir Francis Drake and at Bolinas Park on the days designated by BAAQMD from November through February. The Town of Fairfax and BAAQMD ask residents to refrain from burning wood in their fireplaces and to drive less for 24 hours from the declaration of a “Spare the Air” night. To add your name to the BAAQMD email notification list for the Spare the Air Tonight alerts to help reduce winter air pollution, you may sign up at www.baaqmd.gov by clicking on the “E-Mail Sign-up” section of their home page.

Town joins Mayors for Peace

The Town recently joined an international effort called Mayors for Peace. This is from their website:

What is the Mayors for Peace? In August 1945, atomic bombs instantaneously reduced the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki to rubble, taking hundreds of thousands of precious lives. Today, more than fifty years after the war, thousands of citizens still suffer the devastating aftereffects of radiation and unfathomable emotional pain. To prevent any repetition of the A-bomb tragedy, the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki have continually sought to tell the world about the inhumane cruelty of nuclear weapons and have consistently urged that nuclear weapons be abolished. On June 24, 1982, at the 2nd UN Special Session on Disarmament held at UN Headquarters in New York, then Mayor Takeshi Araki of Hiroshima proposed a new Program to Promote the Solidarity of Cities toward the Total Abolition of Nuclear Weapons. This proposal offered cities a way to transcend national borders and work together to press for nuclear abolition. Subsequently, the mayors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki called on mayors around the world to support this program. The Mayors for Peace is composed of cities around the world that have formally expressed support for the program Mayor Araki announced in 1982. As of November 1, 2007, membership stood at 1,828 cities in 122 countries and regions. In March 1990, the Mayors Conference was officially registered as a UN NGO related to the Department of Public Information. In May 1991, it became a Category II NGO(currently called a NGO in "Special Consultative Status") registered with the Economic and Social Council. http://www.mayorsforpeace.org/

MMWD Volunteer campaign

The Marin Municipal Water District wishes to get the word out on their enhanced volunteer effort as part of their "Everything starts with water - everything starts with you" campaign. Volunteer opportunities and events are posted on their web page here http://www.marinwater.org/controller?action=menuclick&id=253

MMWD Board President Cynthia Koehler has stated that many residents of Fairfax have been among the most active participants in the dialogue surrounding weed control options on Mt. Tamalpais. They have urged the District to avoid the use of all herbicides, and many have encouraged the District to look to volunteers as a means of cultivating a sustainable weed control program.

MMWD is recruiting volunteers to partner with them in the hands-on work of habitat restoration. Visit the link above for more information about how to become involved.

Holiday office hours

Town Hall administrative and Public Works offices will be closed for the Thanksgiving holiday and the day after, Nov. 22 & 23. We will reopen on Monday, Nov. 26th. I wish everyone a happy, healthy, and safe holiday weekend.

Snow in Fairfax?

Manor School put on an awesome Winter Faire today, and thanks to the volunteers' dedication and creativity, real snow came to Fairfax!

Column Preview

Here is what I've submitted for publication in next week's Ross Valley Reporter:

Special Council Meeting: The Town Council has called a special meeting for Wednesday, November 28^th at 7:30 p.m. for the purpose of certifying the November 6^th election results plus selecting Council Members to serve as Mayor and Vice Mayor for 2008. Staff will also be asking Council to award a construction contract for the Center Boulevard redesign project combined with the Pastori Avenue overlay.

Flood Workshop: A Community Workshop on the Town’s Flood Hazard Mitigation Plan will be held on Thursday, Nov. 29^th from 7 – 9 p.m. in the Fairfax Women’s Club at 46 Park Road.

This is the second of two public workshops regarding the update to the Town’s Flood Hazard Mitigation Plan, funded through a FEMA grant. Consultant Paula Schulz of Natural Hazards Mitigation will present the flood damage survey results, the draft flood mitigation plan, the community’s role in implementation of the plan, and the proposal for Fairfax to join the Community Rating System (CRS) for flood insurance. The meeting is open to everyone and public participation in the process is encouraged.

Creek Reports Available: A CD with copies of the following reports is now available for purchase at Town Hall: (1) Fluvial Geomorphology Assessment of Fairfax Creeks by Matt Smeltzer, Geomorph and Greg Orum, Stetson Engineers, conducted in 2006; and (2) Fishery Resources Assessment by Dr. Alice Rich, PhD, A.A. Rich and Associates, also conducted in 2006. Both studies cover Fairfax and San Anselmo Creeks within the Town of Fairfax limits. The CD is $4.00 (the Town's cost for having the copies made), and you may purchase the CD at the Town Hall reception counter.

Joint Fairfax-San Anselmo Subcommittee: The Town Councils’ Joint Fairfax-San Anselmo Subcommitee on Service Sharing met on November 15^th and directed the Town Managers and Police Chiefs of Fairfax and San Anselmo to work on a draft request for proposals to hire a consultant to study the cost savings and service implications of a consolidated police dispatch operation. The study is to cover both options of locating such an operation in Fairfax, and the cost of locating the operation in San Anselmo. The Subcommittee will reconvene on January 17^th at 6:30 p.m.

Volunteers Holiday Caroling: It’s not too early to plan for the holidays! The Fairfax Volunteers will be hosting its Annual Holiday Caroling Event on Sunday, December 16^th from 3-7 p.m., this time indoors at the Pavilion. The Volunteers are pairing with Sustainable Fairfax and the Marin Conservation Corp to bring this event to the community. Come and join in for singing, wreath making, card making, and gift making, as well as a potluck plus catering by Chad’s Grill.

Citizens’ Disaster Council: The next Disaster Council meeting is scheduled for Friday, December 7^th at 11:45 in the Youth Center. The agenda will include the progress of the Get Ready disaster preparedness program and the update of the Flood Hazard Mitigation Plan.

Amended Plastic Bag Ordinance: Due to the North Bay Coalition lawsuit that was filed against the Town as a reaction to the proposed plastic bag ban ordinance, the Town Council chose to not fight the lawsuit, which would have cost thousands in taxpayer dollars. Instead, the Council is moving forward on an ordinance making the discontinuation of plastic bag use by retailers in town voluntary. The second reading of this ordinance is scheduled for the Council’s December 5^th meeting.

Funding Assists Cities: On October 11, Senator Carole Migden announced that “Governor Schwarzenegger signed the Senator’s bill, SB 418, removing about 40 percent of Marin County’s responsibility for paying the costs of licensed children's institutions (LCIs) in the county, which will result in county coffers receiving another $1.7 million in perpetuity.” What this also means is that some Educational Revenue Augmentation Fund (ERAF) monies that had been held in trust by the County of Marin will now be released to the cities of Marin. As a result, the Town of Fairfax will receive $187,000 in one-time, unplanned funding this fiscal year. The Town Council will consider the best use of this funding by reviewing our project needs and projections for this year as well as our disaster recovery funding needs. We thank Senator Migden for her tireless efforts to move this legislation forward, which took a period of years.

Nov. 29th Flood Mitigation Planning Workshop

Click to view the flyer regarding the second public workshop on the Town's Flood Hazard Mitigation Plan.

Creek Study CD available

A CD with copies of the following reports is now available for purchase at Town Hall:
- Fluvial Geomorphology Assessment of Fairfax Creeks by Matt Smeltzer, Geomorph and Greg Orum, Stetson Engineers, 2006
- Fishery Resources Assessment by Dr. Alice Rich, PhD, A.A. Rich and Associates, 2006
Both studies cover Fairfax and San Anselmo Creeks within the Town of Fairfax limits.
The CD is $4.00 (the Town's cost for having the copies made), and you may purchase the CD at the Town Hall reception counter.

Town Holiday Nov. 12

Town offices will be closed in observance of Veterans' Day on Monday, Nov. 12th.

Want to volunteer to help the wildlife hurt by the oil spill?

Click to read about meetings being held on Saturday, November 10th.

Council Actions from Nov. 7th Meeting

Report of actions from the November 7^th regular Town Council meeting:

Council granted a request for waiver of a use permit application fee from Sustainable Fairfax for 141 Bolinas Road.

Held second reading and adoption of Ordinance No. 725, A Social Host Liability Ordinance for Underage Drinking. This item was sponsored by Vice Mayor Mary Ann Maggiore. The administrative fines for violating the ordinance are $750 for the first violation, $875 for the second and $1,000 for the third. Violators may apply for community service to work off a fine.

Introduced and held first reading of Ordinance No. 726, An Ordinance Amending Chapter 8.18, Sections 8.18.010 through 8.18.100 of the Fairfax Town Code regarding the use of compostable plastic, recyclable paper and/or reusable checkout bags by shops, stores, eating places and retail food vendors located in Fairfax. This ordinance amends the existing regulatory plastic bag ordinance which was challenged through a lawsuit by a coalition including plastics manufacturers who purported that the Town needed to prepare an environmental impact report prior to enacting the ordinance. The case would have cost the Town significant attorney’s fees to resolve. The amended ordinance leaves in place the detailed findings and standards for more environmentally protective bag use, but removes the penalties and mandates of the ordinance.

Introduced and held first reading of Ordinance No. 727, an ordinance deleting in its entirety the current Title 15 of the Town Code and adopting a new Title 15 in its place, adopting and amending the California Building Code. This ordinance is a standard procedure to update our building codes by referencing the new State updated codes.

Introduced and held first reading of Ordinance No. 728, An ordinance adopting the California Fire Code, International Fire Code, and Uniform Fire Code prescribing regulations governing conditions hazardous to life and property from fire or explosion; providing for the issuance of permits for hazardous uses or operations; and establishing a Fire Prevention Bureau and providing officers therefore and defining their powers and duties. Similar to the Building Code, this ordinance adopts the newly updated State fire code.

Introduced and held first reading of Ordinance No. 729, An Ordinance creating Chapter 8.06 of the Fairfax Municipal Code, adopting the 2006 Edition of the International Wildland Urban Interface Code, regulating and governing the mitigation of hazard to life and property from the intrusion of fire from wildland exposures, from adjacent structures and prevention of structure fires from spreading to wildland fuels in the Town; and further providing for the issuance of permits and collection of fees. This ordinance provides for strengthened building standards for property areas with high fire danger.

Discussed and considered an ordinance regulating Surface Mounted Utility Facilities in the Public Right-of-Way, requested by Mayor Larry Bragman. Council directed staff to use the model ordinance of the Marin Telecommunications Authority to draft an ordinance regulating the placement, noise impacts and other aspects of utility boxes used for deployment of new broadband technology.

Discussed and considered the expansion of the Ross Valley Fire Joint Powers Authority (JPA) to include the Sleepy Hollow Fire Protection District as a voting member, requested by Council Member Lew Tremaine. Council requested more information on data regarding operating costs, capital costs, and financial statements of the JPA, and information regarding any potential financial impacts on the Town.

Bay oil spill

Click to read the press release issued by the Marin County Office of Emergency Services.

House destroyed by fire

Attached is a press release regarding a fire last night on Tamalpais in Fairfax.

Town Council Meeting Nov. 7th

The next regular Town Council meeting will be held on Wed., Nov. 7th at 7:30 p.m. in the Women's Club. The agenda packet is posted here http://www.townoffairfax.org/TownCouncil/TownCouncilPacket/