COUNTY OF SAN MATEO

Inter-Departmental Correspondence

Department of Public Works

 

DATE:

June 8, 2005

BOARD MEETING DATE:

June 28, 2005

SPECIAL NOTICE/HEARING:

None

VOTE REQUIRED:

Majority

 
 

TO:

Honorable Board of Supervisors

FROM:

Neil R. Cullen, Director of Public Works

SUBJECT:

Road Fund Budget Set-Aside for the Reclamation of the Pescadero Quarry
 

Recommendation

Adopt a resolution authorizing the Director of Public Works to set aside $25,000 in Road Fund Contingencies as a financial assurance for the reclamation of the Pescadero Quarry.

 

Vision Alignment

Commitment: Responsive, effective and collaborative government.

Goal 20: Government decisions are based on careful consideration of future impact, rather than temporary relief or immediate gain.

 

The reclamation of the quarry, which includes the eradication of Pampas Grass, a noxious weed, will reduce the potential for this weed to continue to spread into the surrounding area while we meet our commitment to reclaim the quarry property.

 

Background

Previous Board Action

1.

Approved the reclamation plan for the Pescadero Quarry in 1993.

 

2.

Adopted similar resolutions authorizing a budget set-aside in previous Fiscal Years as financial assurance for the reclamation of Pescadero Quarry.

 

History

The Pescadero Quarry, located off of Bean Hollow Road, is owned by the County Road Fund. We are continuing with the reclamation of the property, which includes eradication and control of pampas grass on the property and maintaining the silt retention pond.

 

The State Surface Mining and Reclamation Act requires financial assurances to guarantee that operators of mines and quarries are able to finance State approved reclamation plans so that the public will not bear the cost of reclaiming these properties, irrespective of the fact that a quarry may be owned by the public.

 

Discussion

The State requires that we provide an assurance that meets their regulations which includes allowing the lead agency, Environmental Services, to expend these funds if it is determined that the operator, Public Works, is incapable of completing the reclamation. A specific set aside of contingency funds in the Road Fund budget meets the State guidelines of a financial assurance while still maintaining your Board’s authority over these County Funds.

 

A resolution has been approved as to form by County Counsel.

 

Fiscal Impact

We are recommending that $25,000 in the Road Fund Contingency be specifically set aside to provide the financial assurance required by the State. The funds will remain in the Road Fund and accrue interest while serving as the required assurance by the State. There is no impact to the Road Fund unless a demand is made and your Board determines that the funds should be spent.

 

There is no impact to the General Fund.