The regular meeting of the San Lorenzo Village Homes Association Board of Directors was held Thursday, April 19, 2003.

1.1 CALL TO ORDER -- President Kathie Ready called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m.

1.2 SALUTE TO THE FLAG -- President Ready led the Board and the audience in the pledge of allegiance.

1.3 ROLL CALL -- Directors Kathie Ready, Jim Sherman, Pat Pebelier, Enrique Barboza and Peggy Sheridan were present.

2.O MINUTES FROM THE PREVIOUS MEETING -- Director Sherman moved to approve the minutes from the March, 2003, meetings Numbers 1078. Director Barboza seconds the motion. The minutes are approved unanimously.

3.0 COMMENTS FROM PUBLIC AGENCIES

3.1 Alameda County Sheriff's Dept. -- Freda Jones with Sheriff's office reported on stats for March 2003:

	                               Change from
Crime                      Number      last month    Affected Street
Stolen vehicles              4            -1         Paseo Del Campo, Cia Cordoba, Via Dolorosa, Via Rincon
Attempted Stolen Vehicle     2            +1         Via Amigos, Via Arroyo
Recovered Stolen Vehicles    4         No change     Baumann/Worthley, Hesperian/Paseo Grande, Washington (2)
Residential Burglary         3            +1         Via Buena Vista, Via Chiquita, Via Tomar
Commercial Burglary          1         No Change     Hesperian
Attempted Burglary          11            +5         Bockman, Grant (2), Hesperian (3), Paseo Del Campo, Via Catherine,
                                                     via La Jolla, Via Marlin, Via Perdido
Grand Theft                  6            +3         Hesperian (4), Hacienda, Via Coralla
Graffiti                     3            +1         Bandoni, Hesperian (2)
Robbery                      0            -2

A resident asked if the Sheriffs had been down Via Media where there are many vehicles parking up on the sidewalk blocking pedestrian access. Jones stated that she would report this to patrol. Director Ready asked that the patrol officer also look at Via Alamitos, which has ongoing parking problems.

Another resident asked whether the burglaries reported were done when the residents were home or not. Jones stated that all the burglaries were attempted when the residents were not home. The Sheriff's department thinks that it is young kids that are doing these robberies and they are trying to prove this.

3.2 CHP -- Officer Plant reported the following statistics:

CHP Statistics for March 2003

                                        Unincorp.     
Type of Infraction       San Lorenzo     County

Collisions                   16           125
Tickets                     163           912
Parking Tickets              43           147
Storage/Impounds              6            66
Stolen Recoveries             1            10
Parking Complaints          N/A           N/A
Total Warnings for CHP                   1439

Resident Liz Thayer stated that she still does not want the bus stop in front of her house. The county was supposed to paint the area red where the bus top picks up people and this still has not been done. Officer Plant stated that he would find out more details about the curb and ask the appropriate agency to look into it for her.

3.3 Supervisor Alice Lai-Bitker -- Staff member Kevin Dowling reported that he is working with Bob Preston, County Traffic Engineer to help resolve the issue with the pavement problems on the railroad tracts at the end of Grant Avenue. He is stated that he hopes the pavement will be repaired sometime in the near future. He thanked all those residents who participated in the beautification day there were 100 people who showed up to participate. They planned on targeting 10 areas, and only got to 5 areas due to the rain. He stated that they are planning another beautification campaign in the fall and want San Lorenzo to host this campaign.

Dowling also reported that Lai-Bitker's staff is working with Lorenzo Manor Shopping owner, Lisa Lowe on facade and other improvements to the shopping area. They had a productive meeting with redevelopment staff and Ms. Lowe and hope to see improvements to that area soon.

Director Sheridan asked whether Dowling has had been able to work with county zoning regarding the median signs along Bockman and Hesperian. Dowling said that zoning staff had warned businesses twice about the signs and next they will confiscate any signs that are still not in compliance.

The Administrator reported that $25,000 was needed from the community for the San Lorenzo Skateboard park in order for HARD to match funds for the project. With the help of resident Tina Roussel, her son Cameron, Supervisor Lai Bitker's staff, as well as the Homes Association Staff, there have been $10,000 in donations. The Community BBQ raised over $4,000, Supervisor Lai Bitker donated another $5,000 and $1,000 in-kind donations in stamps and manpower and Supervisor Gail Steele donated another $6,000. The Administrator stated that the community now has raised at least $25,000 in funds.

Kevin Dowling presented a check for $7,600 (part of the funds raised) to HARD General Manager Board Wes Asmussen and Board Member Minane Jameson. He thanked everyone on behalf of Supervisor Lai-Bitker for their participation in fund-raising for the project. Asmussen also thanked everyone including Cameron Roussel who brought the initial idea and project to the HARD Board. He stated that construction would start sometime in the summer of this year.

Cameron Roussel thanked everyone who helped with raising funds for the park. Tina Roussel thanked the organizations in the community for their generous donations.

3.4 Public Comment -- Items not on the Agenda

Resident Keith Barros stated that there have been several large bright yellow posters announcing a jazz band tacked on telephone poles up and down the east side of Lewelling Blvd in the last few days. He had spoken to Dowling about this but wanted to let the community know so that others can help find out information about who is doing this.

4.0 FINANCIAL REPORT

4.1 Approval of March 2003 Expenditures and discussion of significant variances -- The Administrator stated that there have been no significant variances. Director Sherman moved with a second by Director Sheridan that the Board approve the expenditures for March 2003. The motion was passed unanimously.

5.0 LIEN AND VIOLATION REPORT -- The Administrator reported that there have been no liens released since the last March 2003 Board meeting.

Director Ready announced the decisions on the variances that went before the Board in the work session prior to the board meeting:

A. 17336 Via Carmen -- Garage door painted like a flag. Denied
B. 15993Via Granada -- Exterior paint. Approved .
C. 17641 Via Arriba -- 2nd story. The board needs to discuss the condition of the property prior to giving approval and the plans need to have the county's approval.
D. 15723 Paseo Del Campo -- single story addition. Approved.

Director Ready also noted that there was also a second story that went up on the corner of Paseo Del Campo and Grant that has not been approved by the Association. The Association office is investigating these plans and has sent a letter to the owner per Ready's request.

                    March 2003 Violation Report

Number  Violation                           # of Letters
1/19    Inoperable Vehicles in driveway         14
2/22    Recreational veh/trailer in driveway     6
6       Lack of Gen Maintenance                 10
10      Lawn Height                              9
11      Dead Trees                               0
12      Overgrown Vegetation                     2
13      Holiday Lights                           5
15      Building Exterior                       11
16      Dirt Accumulation                        5
17      Attractive Nuisances                     3
18      Lean/miss fence                          2
20/7    Unpaved parking                          2
21      Working on vehicles                      0
23      Dogs/Cats more than                    2,0
24      Barking dogs                             0
25      Prohibited animals                       0
26      Excess noise                             0
27      No Home Business                         1
28/99   Other comments                           3
Total                                           73

Director Ready noted that there is a planned development that is being proposed for another part of San Lorenzo which is not in the Association area. This development is asking for 14 single family homes on less than 1 acre of land. The issue is being heard before the BZA on April 21st. She urged residents to object to this. The density of housing is an issue that is important to any development being proposed in this area as well as others. Ready said that she hoped that the county will look at this project carefully and consider how dense it will be.

Resident Howard Beckman stated that the proposal for the lot on Bockman near the Middle School has been withdrawn. He suggested that the Homes Association contact the owner and ask what they are planning to do with that lot. He said that there are three (3) structures on that lot which are historical. Now would be the time to talk with the owner about these structures to see what he wants to do with them. The Administrator noted that she had spoken with the owner and he indicated that he would be happy to help restore the buildings if the "Association" paid for the restoration.

8.1 Garage Conversions -- Daryl Gray (Timed Agenda item 8:15 p.m.)-- Daryl Gray gave a history of county policy on garage conversions-see attachment A. There are several proposals to change the existing garage conversion policy that Gray addressed in the handout. His main objective in presenting them to the Association at this time was to get input as to which change they would prefer. These changes ranged from and amnesty program to grandfather all existing conversions for one last time and disallowing any other conversions to granting special variances to retaining the status quo policy.

Gray stated that he is in the process of collecting community input and then putting it all together in one final report. Director Ready stated that she notices that one a garage is converted the homeowner then leaves debris and items which would normally be stored in the garage, out in the front of the property. She was also concerned about the number of parking spaces for each residence. Parking is an issue in many areas of the Village, she would not agree with a policy that would encourage less-off street parking than the Village already has. Director Sheridan agreed that one of the largest complaints by residents in the Village is inadequate parking, and other residents taking up parking spaces in front of another's home. Gray questioned the board and audience about whether it would approve an amnesty program, or a program that would allow conversion as long as there was adequate parking at a residence. Director Ready stated that she would no have a problem with a garage conversion as long as they did not pave their front yard. Director Sheridan stated that she has seen very few garage conversions that are aesthetically attractive. Gray asked that if approval of a garage conversion was dependent upon enough parking space and if it had some design restrictions, would the board be receptive to this policy. The Board had no objections to this policy if parking and design were considered in the approval.

Resident Howard Beckman objected to any garage conversions. He stated that he believes that Association has ignored the garage conversions in terms of its CC&Rs.

Resident Keith Barros stated that he would like to keep our community from being overcrowded and over parked. He stated that he has a problem with the amnesty program. When a homeowner buys a home it should be disclosed about the conversion, they should know what they are purchasing.

Resident Lisa Gudjohnsen noted that cars all over the street are unsightly and unsafe. She suggested that each house with garage conversions be considered on an individual basis. Some of these homes do not have big enough cars for the type of vehicles families are purchasing (i.e., SUV's and Vans).

Director Sheridan stated that she felt that this issue is more of a storage issue than a parking issue. If residents do not have a garage to store things in they leave them around and in front of the property which is unsightly.

Beckman stated that this issue that we need to build more room for cars is problematic. It is coupling housing with cars instead of housing with people.

Director Ready stated that parking is a serious issue and any ordinance should provide at least a two (2) car provision for off-street parking .

7.0 ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT

7.1. Informational Items -- The Administrator announced that there will be a Library fund-raiser at the Community Hall on Sunday, May 18th-Pianist Lanny Quidley will perform as well as the New Dimension Chorus and the Eden Aoba Taiko. She urged all residents to attend. The funds raised by this event will go towards the Summer Programs and reading game for children.

8.0 OTHER BUSINESS

8.1 Garage Conversions (8:00 p.m.)-- see report above.

8.2 Presentation by Dennis Botelho -- Mr Darcy (a Castro Valley resident) presented a draft objective for Dennis Botelho who was in the audience. Darcy stated that he and Botelho are going to local Homeowners Associations asking for their input into establishing a solid group which would represent the interests of all the unincorporated areas in West County. Darcy stated that each community has concerns with respect to how the county reviews variances, and establishes governmental control on its respective area. If the communities could "band together" then it would help to make each of their individual voices louder as a larger, cohesive, united group.

Resident Keith Barros questioned whether there wasn't a group of individuals in Castro Valley who wanted to create their "own" group apart from other unincorporated areas in West County. Darcy stated that there is a faction of the population that wants incorporation. However, he stated that they are not part of that faction. Their focus is on uniting all the unincorporated areas on county issues that affect all of them. Darcy stated that there are approximately 170,000 residents in West County. This many residents united could have an impact on county politics and government. The same issues that affect Castro Valley, affect San Lorenzo and other areas. Castro Valley is concerned about 0-lot-lined homes being built in small areas just as is San Lorenzo. Barros stated that he felt it was a good idea to "band together" as one group. In this way other unincorporated areas could watch "each others back".

The Administrator asked if they have presented this idea to the Castro Valley Municipal Advisory Council (MAC). Darcy stated that they are taking it to the community organizations first. Dennis Botelho stated that the Castro Valley MAC is an advisory committee to the Supervisor and not an Association for the a particular community. They are trying to get input from all the homes associations in Castro Valley, Ashland and Cherryland to see what their response is to this idea.

Director Ready suggested that they speak at the Unincorporated Services meeting which many residents from the unincorporated area attend. She stated that it is a good idea that the communities of West County band together. Ready stated that the Castro Valley MAC is being paid to do their job. They were supposed to handle more community issues but now handle only planning issues. A new group made up of all the communities would benefit each individual community and help to incorporate those areas that are not in a homes association or MAC area.

Darcy stated that they would be gathering information from all groups prior to finalizing their proposal and he thanked the San Lorenzo Association for its input.

8.3 Remodeling the exterior of Homes Owner Association Building and Grounds

President Ready announced that the decision to retain the Association grounds instead of trading it for a 5,000 square foot building left the Board and Staff with the idea of how it could improve the existing buildings and grounds. The Board and the Administrator had contacted county redevelopment and had investigated whether they could finance some of the improvements with redevelopment funds. The Board found that there is money in redevelopment for facade improvement and that if it is not allocated soon these funds may be taken by Governor Davis to help with the State's deficit. Through Redevelopment the Board had an architectural firm, Trachtenberg Architects draw up some plans for facade and ground improvement. (A poster of the proposed improvements was shown to the audience). It would be up to the Redevelopment Committee to approve any use of its funds for these improvements. Ready stated that if the Association could come up with $30,000, redevelopment would match funds at $60,000. The Association wants to raise $60,000 through a one-time special assessment, and then to receive redevelopment matching funds of $120,000. The Board would ask each homeowner to pay an additional $10 on top of their 2004 assessment of $65 to raise these funds. This information would be contained in the next newsletter mailed out to the residents, and would only be assessed if Redevelopment agreed to fund the project. If Redevelopment did not agree to the matching funds then there would be no special assessment.

A resident asked if the grounds get improved could the Association take into account a light for the flag pole so that it can be flown continuously. Director Ready stated that they could incorporate this in the plan.

Resident Beckman stated that he is opposed to this idea. He stated that this is premature and is an outgrowth of what he sees as an informal decision by the Board to retain the Homes Association property outside of the development. He stated that eventually the Homes Association will be annexed and this community needs more civic space. Beckman said that the Homes Association gets very little revenue for this property as it is right now. This community needs to look for the optimal commercial potential for the area. If the Association land is removed from the project it affects negatively on any business development on the east side of the area.

Director Ready stated that the Association gets substantial revenue from its rental fo the fire station, Lollipop Lane Preschool, and the rental of the Community Hall. She pointed out that this is one of the reasons that the Board can keep assessments so low in the Association. Ready pointed out that it is important to get this special assessment into the budget now, so that redevelopment funds can be allocated prior to the state government taking them. The Administrator added that after June 30, 2003 the Governor has stated that any money that is not committed can be taken away by the state. She stated that if money can be committed then the Board would hope to have something resolved with Civic Partners by the end of the year.

8.4 Final Budget Approval FY 2003-04

(See Attachment B) The Administrator stated that she sent out the draft budget to all homeowners in the last newsletter. She had only one resident who had come into the office wanting to know if assessments would be increased. The budget stands as is, however the Board determined that the staff increase would be reduced from 5% to 2.5%. Also, the issue of a one-time only special assessment for 2004 assessment dues would be included. Thus, each homeowner would be asked to submit an additional $10.00 for ground and facade improvements to the Homes Association property.

Resident Howard Beckman questioned where the money for litigation comes from. He noted that there was a decrease in amount of money allocated for legal funds from a few years ago. He wanted to know whether this decrease was due to enforcement working, and therefore cases not being forwarded to the attorney, or what the reasoning was. The Administrator stated she and her staff have gone to court several times since the beginning of the year, and are committed to doing whatever it takes to enforce the CC&Rs. She and her staff do try to work with homeowners on an ongoing basis to prevent court costs when necessary and when they have homeowners who are responsive to requests for meeting about a CC&R violation.

Director Ready stated that this Board is committed to changing the way San Lorenzo looks and in maintaining property values of the homes. She stated that if more education more legal fees are needed to resolve issues, this Board will do whatever is necessary to see these changes take place.

Director Barboza makes a motion to approve the final draft of the 2003-04 budget with the reduction in staff pay raises from 5% to 2.5% and a special assessment for 2004 only for renovation of the Homes Association office, community center and grounds. Director Pebelier seconds . The motion carries unanimously.

8.5 Board appointment to Committees -- The Administrator stated that each Board member will continue to attend the meetings they attended last year as representatives of the Homes Association.

8.6 President's Report -- (See attachment C) President Ready noted that the Board members represent the community on a variety of issues. She also noted that the number of CC&R letters had declined this year and that the Board was determined to focus on CC&R enforcement as a top priority in the coming year.

9.0 PUBLIC COMMENT -- A resident on Via Alamitos wanted to know the status on one of his neighbor's property, who constantly parks cars on the lawn and has an inoperative motorhome in the driveway. The Administrator stated that her staff was aware of the residence and was in the process of talking with the resident of that property. She asked that the resident speak with her staff after the meeting so that he could be instructed as to what they would do or have been doing.

10.0 COMMITTEE REPORTS

10.1 Airport Committees

10.2 Library Committee -- Director Sheridan stated they had an architect at the meeting who had design plans for the library. Many of the members gave their input into the designs by visiting other local libraries to see what they liked and did not like about their respective designs. The county will bring these draft designs to the Association Board in the near future.

11.0 COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS -- President Ready thanks all the residents in attendance.

12.0 ADJOURNMENT -- The meeting is adjourned at 10:16 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted,

Pat Pebelier
Secretary-Treasurer

Recorded & Transcribed By: Kathleen Harrigan, Sr. Admin. Assistant
Reviewed By: Nancy Van Huffel, Administrator