Colusa Mosquito Abatement District MSR

COLUSA MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT Municipal Service Review www.nbvc.navy.mil/environ/programs/mosquitoAbate/lifecycle COLUSA LAFCO Adopted LAFCO Resolution 2008-13 October 2, 2008 TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE 1. INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 1.1 LAFCO's Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 1.2 Municipal Service Review Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 1.3 Sphere of Influence Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 1.4 Description of Public Participation Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 1.5 California Environmental Quality Act . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 1.6 Preparation of the MSR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 2. SETTING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 2.1 Colusa and Sutter Counties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 2.2 Colusa County Population and Growth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 2.3 City of Colusa Population . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 2.4 Sutter County Population and Growth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 3. COLUSA MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 3.1 CMAD Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 3.2 CMAD Description. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 3.3 CMAD Service Provision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 3.4 CMAD Governance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 4. CMAD MUNICIPAL SERVICE REVIEW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 4.1 CMAD Growth and Population Projections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 4.2 Present and Planned Capacity of Public Facilities and adequacy of Public Services Including Infrastructure Needs or Deficiencies MSR. . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 4.3 Financial Ability of agencies to provide service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 4.4 Opportunities for Shared Facilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 4.5 Accountability for community service needs, including government structure and operational efficiencies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 ABBREVIATIONS 16 DEFINITIONS 17 REFERENCES 20 EXISTING DISTRICT AND SPHERE OF INFLUENCE MAP 21 Colusa LAFCO – October 2, 2008 i Adopted Resolution 2008-13 Colusa Mosquito Abatement District MSR COLUSA MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT Municipal Service Review 1. INTRODUCTION 1.1 LAFCO's Responsibilities This Municipal Service Review (MSR) has been prepared for the Colusa Local Agency Formation Commission (Colusa LAFCO). Local Agency Formation Commissions are quasi- legislative local agencies created in 1963 to assist the State in encouraging the orderly development and formation of local agencies. A Local Agency Formation Commission is established in each county in the State. This MSR consists of a review of mosquito abatement services as provided by the Colusa Mosquito Abatement District. The MSR may be considered by the LAFCO in a subsequent review of the Sphere of Influence of the Colusa Mosquito Abatement District. The Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Local Government Reorganization Act of 2000 (Government Code §56000 et seq.) is the statutory authority for the preparation of an MSR, and periodic updates of the Sphere of Influence of each local agency. The Governor’s Office of Planning and Research has issued Guidelines for the preparation of an MSR. This MSR adheres to the procedures set forth in the MSR Guidelines. A Sphere of Influence is a plan for the probable physical boundaries and service area of a local agency, as determined by the affected Local Agency Formation Commission (Government Code §56076). Government Code §56425(f) requires that each Sphere of Influence be updated not less than every five years, and §56430 provides that a Municipal Service Review shall be conducted in advance of the Sphere of Influence update. 1.2 Municipal Service Review Requirements The Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Local Government Reorganization Act of 2000 (the Act) (Government Code §§56000 et seq.) is the statutory authority for the preparation of an MSR, and periodic updates of the Sphere of Influence of each local agency. The Governor’s Office of Planning and Research has issued a Final Draft of Guidelines for the preparation of an MSR. A Sphere of Influence is a plan for the probable physical boundaries and service area of a local agency, as determined by the affected Local Agency Formation Commission (Government Code §56076.) Government Code §56425(f) requires that each Sphere of Influence be updated not less than every five years, and §56430 provides that a Municipal Service Review shall be conducted in advance of the Sphere of Influence update. The statute and regulations call for a review of the municipal services provided in the county or other appropriate area designated by the LAFCO. The LAFCO is required, as part of the MSR, to prepare a written statement of findings of its determinations with respect to each of the following: 1. Growth and population projections for the affected area; 2. Present and planned capacity of public facilities and adequacy of public services, including infrastructure needs or deficiencies; 3. Financial ability of agencies to provide services; 4. Status of, and opportunities for, shared facilities; 5. Accountability for community service needs, including governmental structure and operational efficiencies; 6. Any other matter related to effective or efficient service delivery, as required by commission policy. Colusa LAFCO has a special policy regarding services, which are not growth inducing and districts providing non-growth inducing services. The Colusa LAFCO adopted policies and procedures related to municipal services on February 5, 2004. There were amended by action of the LAFCO on August 2, 2007. This municipal service review and sphere of influence meets the criteria contained in Section 3.5 of LAFCO’s adopted policies as follows: Section 3.5 – Districts and services, which are not growth-inducing The Commission may prepare abbreviated Municipal Service Reviews and Sphere of Influence Updates for agencies not providing growth-inducing services and districts providing non-growth inducing services, waive the requirement for preparation of a Master Services Element (see Section 3.3 above) and where appropriate determine Sphere of Influence affirmations to be exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act. Non-growth-inducing services are defined as all public services except water conveyance, treatment, extraction and use of ground and (or) surface water for domestic services or to facilitate urban development; and domestic wastewater collection, treatment and disposal to facilitate urban development; and fire protection and road construction and maintenance services. Districts providing non-growth inducing services normally would serve finite geographical areas, surrounded by public lands, provide limited specified services to residents or landowners, have coterminous district/sphere of influence boundaries and are not generally or routinely considered for expansion through annexations or sphere amendments for the purpose of providing services for existing or future urban development. Non-growth-inducing services is defined as all services excepting Colusa LAFCO – October 2, 2008 2 Adopted Resolution 2008-13 Colusa Mosquito Abatement District MSR 1. water conveyance, treatment, extraction and use of ground and (or) surface water for domestic services or to facilitate urban development 2. domestic wastewater collection, treatment and disposal to facilitate urban development 3. fire protection and 4. road improvements and maintenance. Districts providing non-growth inducing services normally would serve finite geographical areas, provide limited specified services to residents or landowners, have coterminous district/sphere of influence boundaries and are not generally or routinely considered for expansion through annexations or sphere amendments for the purpose of providing services for existing or future urban development. Sphere of Influence Plan reviews and affirmations for districts providing non- growth inducing services would normally not generate environmental impacts that would make them subject to heightened level of review California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), namely a Negative Declaration or Environmental Impact Report. Pursuant to CEQA Guideline Section 15320 the following may be applied, as appropriate. This section provides for an exemption (class 20) where changes in organization or reorganization of local governmental agencies (i.e. in the case of a Sphere of Influence affirmation for districts providing non-growth inducing services) where the changes do not change the geographical area in which previously existing powers are exercised. This exemption may also be applicable where the changes will not result in any substantive changes to the functions, operations or purposes of the districts; are not predicated on, or will result in, any land use changes that may be subject to CEQA review; and will not cause any reasonable foreseeable environmental consequences in that the Sphere of Influence affirmation will not directly create or cause any significant land use changes or other actions that could be detrimental to the environment. The Municipal Service Review precedes LAFCO action on a Sphere of Influence. Given the close relationship between an MSR and Sphere of Influence creation, amendment or update, the Sphere of Influence is discussed in more detail below. Colusa LAFCO – October 2, 2008 3 Adopted Resolution 2008-13 Colusa Mosquito Abatement District MSR 1.3 Sphere of Influence Requirements The Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Local Government Reorganization Act of 2000 requires the LAFCO to update the Spheres of Influence for all applicable jurisdictions in its jurisdiction and update Spheres of Influence, as necessary. Local governmental agencies, special districts and municipalities must have an adopted Sphere of Influence (SOI) boundary and territory that define the probable future boundary and service area of the agency. Inclusion of a particular land area within an agency’s SOI does not necessarily mean that the area will eventually be annexed. The Sphere of Influence is only one of several factors LAFCO must consider in reviewing individual proposals (California Government Code Section 56668 and Colusa LAFCO policies). In determining the Sphere of Influence for each local agency, LAFCO must consider and prepare a written statement of determinations with respect to each of the following: • The present and planned land uses in the area, including agricultural and open space lands; • The present and probable need for public facilities and services in the area; • The present capacity of public facilities and adequacy of public services which the agency provides, or is authorized to provide; and • The existence of any social or economic communities of interest in the area if the commission determines that they are relevant to the agency. 1.4 Description of the Public Participation Process Colusa LAFCO is a legislative body authorized by the California Legislature and delegated powers as stated in the Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Local Government Reorganization Act of 2000 (the Act). The LAFCO proceedings are subject to the provisions California’s open meeting law, the Ralph M. Brown Act (Government Code §54950 et seq.) The Brown Act requires advance posting of meeting agendas and contains various other provisions designed to ensure that the public has adequate access to information regarding the proceedings of public boards and commissions. Colusa LAFCO complies with the requirements of the Brown Act. The State MSR Advisory Guidelines provide that all LAFCOs should encourage and provide multiple public participation opportunities in the municipal service review process. Colusa LAFCO has discussed and considered the MSR and SOI process in open session, and has adopted a schedule for completing the various municipal service reviews and sphere of influence updates for Colusa County. Municipal Service Review policies were adopted by the Colusa Colusa LAFCO – October 2, 2008 4 Adopted Resolution 2008-13 Colusa Mosquito Abatement District MSR LAFCO on March 4th, 2004. These policies define an approach and scope, schedule and how the studies are to be conducted. Since that time many changes in state law have affected the MSR /SOI process. Each As stated in the MSR/SOI policies, each municipal service review will be prepared as a draft, and will be subject to public and agency comment prior to final consideration by the Colusa LAFCO. 1.5 California Environmental Quality Act The Municipal Service Review is a planning study that will be considered by LAFCO in connection with subsequent proceedings regarding the Colusa Mosquito Abatement District Sphere of Influence. Although there is no significant modification in its boundary, this Sphere of Influence review or update that follows has not been approved, or adopted by LAFCO. This MSR includes an analysis, to the extent required by Section 15262 of the CEQA Guidelines, of the environmental factors that may be affected by the Municipal Service Review process, and does not include the preparation of an environmental review document since this MSR is merely a study and not a project subject to CEQA. 1.6 Preparation of the MSR Research for this Municipal Service Review (MSR) was conducted over a six months period including the Summer of 2007. Since that time, several modifications have been made reflecting dynamic circumstances. This MSR is intended to support preparation and update of the District’s Sphere of Influence, in accordance with the provisions of the Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Act. The objective of this Municipal Service Review (MSR) is to develop recommendations that will promote more efficient and higher quality service delivery; identify areas for service improvement; and assess the adequacy of service provision as it relates to determination of appropriate Sphere of Influence boundaries. While LAFCO prepared the MSR document, LAFCO did not engage the services of experts in engineering, law enforcement, fire protection, recreation and other specialists in related fields, but relied upon reports and district staff for information. Therefore, this MSR reflects LAFCO’s recommendations based on available information during the research period and provided by district and county staff, to assist in its determinations related to promoting more efficient and higher quality service patterns; identifying areas for service improvement; and assessing the adequacy of service provision for the District. Colusa LAFCO – October 2, 2008 5 Adopted Resolution 2008-13 Colusa Mosquito Abatement District MSR 2. MSR SETTING 2.1 Colusa and Sutter Counties Colusa County, one of the original California counties, was organized in 1851. Colusa County is located in the heart of the Sacramento Valley 70 miles northwest of Sacramento. The City of Colusa, the County seat, is located in eastern Colusa County along the banks of the Sacramento River. The climate in Colusa County and the Sacramento Valley, and is generally described as semi- arid. Rainfall of the region is confined to winter months and varies from 15 to 20 inches per year. Winters can be very cold for short periods, with heavy frosts and dense fogs. Summers are hot and dry, with practically no rain from May to September. Colusa County has a total area of 737,920 acres or approximately 1,149 square miles. The County is bounded by Glenn County on the north, Yolo County on the south, Butte County and Sutter County on the east, and Lake County on the west. Sutter County was also one of the original counties of California, created in 1850 at the time of statehood. Sutter County was named after General John Sutter, a Swiss citizen, who obtained a large land grant from the Mexican government, and called his first settlement New Helvetia (now the City of Sacramento). In 1841, the general established a great stock ranch in this area to which he retired in 1850 when gold seekers deprived him of most of his holdings at Sacramento. 2.2 Colusa County Population and Growth As of the US Census of 2000, there were 19, 027 people, 6,097 households, and 4,578 families residing in the Colusa County. There were 6,774 housing units. The average household size in Colusa County was 3.01 and the average family size was 3.51. The median age was 32 years. The median income for a household in Colusa County was $35,062, and the median income for a family was $40,138. Males had a median income of $32,210 versus $21,521 for females. The per capita income for Colusa County was $14,730. 16.10% of the population and 13.00% of families were below the poverty line. 19.50% of those under the age of 18 and 8.20% of those 65 and older were living below the poverty line. According to the California Department of Finance, on January 1, 2008 Colusa County had a population of 21,910 and 7,760 households (Department of Finance - Tables E-1 and E-5). Colusa LAFCO – October 2, 2008 6 Adopted Resolution 2008-13 Colusa Mosquito Abatement District MSR Colusa County Population Projections Year Population 2000 19,027 2010 23,787 2020 29,855 2030 34,448 2040 38,131 2050 41,662 (Source: California Department of Finance, Table P-1) 2.3 City of Colusa Population The City of Colusa had a 2000 population of 5,402 within 1.67 square miles. According to the California State Department of Finance Tables E-1 and E-5 , the City of Colusa had a population of 5,727 and 2,120 households on January 1, 2008. 2.4 Sutter County Population and Growth As of the Census of 2000, there were 78,930 people, 27,033 households, and 19,950 families residing in Sutter County. The average household size was 2.87 and the average family size was 3.35 in Sutter County. The median age was 34 years. The median income for a household in Sutter County was $38,375, and the median income for a family was $44,330. Males had a median income of $35,723 versus $25,778 for females. The per capita income for Sutter County was $17,428. About 12.10% of families and 15.50% of the population were below the poverty line, including 21.30% of those under age 18 and 7.70% of those aged 65 or over.1 As of January 1, 2008, Sutter County had a population of 95,878 and 33,491 households (Tables E-1 and E-5 California State Department of Finance). Colusa LAFCO – October 2, 2008 7 Adopted Resolution 2008-13 Colusa Mosquito Abatement District MSR 3. COLUSA MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT 3.1 COLUSA MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT (CMAD) AREA The Colusa Mosquito Abatement District includes approximately 140 square miles of land in Colusa County and 20 square miles of land in Sutter County. The area includes many rice fields and areas along Butte Slough and the Sacramento River which may function as breeding grounds for mosquitoes. The population within the District Boundary is approximately 12,000 people (Colusa Mosquito Abatement District, David B.Whitesell, District Manager, September 7, 2007). www.tommyersphotography.com/data/photos/agv00102 3.2 CMAD Description The Colusa Mosquito Abatement District was organized in 1958. The Sutter County was annexed to the District in 1963. The District was organized under the Provision of Division 3, Chapter 5 of the California Health and Safety Code, §220-2406. Mosquito and vector control districts exist to prevent mosquitoes and other pest populations from transmitting infectious diseases (Malaria, West Nile Virus, Western equine encephalomyelitis) and to reduce their ability to cause annoyance and discomfort. To this end, the district administration sets up the program, laboratory-surveillance identifies the types of control needed, field operations undertake the control activities, shop-facilities keeps all equipment ready for use, and public education keeps residents informed on the need for control and the methods used. Colusa LAFCO – October 2, 2008 8 Adopted Resolution 2008-13 Colusa Mosquito Abatement District MSR 3.3 CMAD Service Provision The Colusa Mosquito Abatement District provides mosquito abatement services for the area within the District. The District has a 2008-09 budget of $570,330. The District also received additional funding from the State to combat the West Nile Virus. On July 13, 2007 Gov. Schwarzenegger announced that Colusa Mosquito Abatement District would receive $30,830 for mosquito control (in addition to the $150,000 for mosquito control and $38,904 for surveillance awarded the previous week) (www.gov.ca.gov/index.php?/press-release/7151). Costs and complexity of mosquito control have increased markedly since the passage of the Environmental Protection Act in 1969. The increasing number of governmental regulations and permitting bodies, rising costs of alternative chemicals, and the spreading resistance of many vector species to existing pesticides have almost completely changed or eliminated the use of chemical control agents. Chlorinated hydrocarbons like DDT and Chlordane are very much a thing of the past and were removed from the US market in 1964. The technique used for adult mosquito control is known as ultra-low volume (ULV) spray. A small quantity of the pesticide is atomized into micron size particles and broadcast in a fog that drifts into sites where the adult mosquitoes hide. The district can control up to 3/4 of a mile with this technique during good weather. The pesticide used for ULV spraying is pyrethrum (sold as Pyrocide), a naturally occurring substance harvested from two species of Old World chrysanthemums, or pyrethrum flowers. This material is the least toxic available for mosquito control, and it degrades into non-toxic by- products within 4 to 6 hours after spraying. 3.4 CMAD Governance The Colusa Mosquito Abatement District is governed by a five-member Board of Directors. All Directors are appointed. Four Directors are appointed by the Colusa County Board of Supervisors and one Director is appointed by the City of Colusa. The Directors as of June 30, 2007 were as follows: Director Position Term William B. Ash President 03/19/06-03/18/10 Daryl Brown Director City Appointee Jack Critchfield Director 01/26/04-01/26/08 Dr. Antonio Balatbat Director 08/03/07-08/04/112 Vic Townzen Vice-President 02/29/04-02/28/08 Source: County of Colusa, Board of Supervisors, Yolanda Tirado, E-Mail: September 10, 2007. Colusa LAFCO – October 2, 2008 9 Adopted Resolution 2008-13 Colusa Mosquito Abatement District MSR The Board of Directors meets on the last Monday of each month at noon at the District Office, 713 “D” Street, Colusa, California. The Directors are paid $45.00 per month. The agendas are posted and minutes are kept of each meeting Colusa Mosquito Abatement District, David B. Whitesell, District Manager, September 7, 2007). The District has three full-time employees (Manager and two Technicians) and seven seasonal employees. The Manager and the Senior Technician have all of the State Certification needed, levels A, B, C and D. The other Technician has levels A and B and is in the process of working for the additional State Certification (Colusa Mosquito Abatement District, David B. Whitesell, District Manager, September 7, 2007). Contact information for the Colusa Mosquito Abatement District is as follows: Mail: PO Box 208, Colusa CA 95932 Phone: 530-458-4966 Fax: 530-458-0818 E-Mail: colmad@frontiernet.net www.flickr.com Colusa LAFCO – October 2, 2008 10 Adopted Resolution 2008-13 Colusa Mosquito Abatement District MSR 4. CMAD MUNICIPAL SERVICE REVIEW The Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Act identifies five factors to be addressed when preparing a Municipal Service Review (a sixth factor may be required if the Commission desires any other determinations to be made). For each factor, information is gathered and analyzed, with written determinations prepared for LAFCO’s consideration. This Service Review will be used as an information base to update the District’s Sphere of Influence, including any annexation considerations, and provides a basis for the public, County and LAFCO to discuss changes to the Sphere of Influence. 4.1 Growth and population projections for the affected area Purpose: To evaluate service needs based upon existing and anticipated growth patterns and population projections. 4.1.1 Growth and Population Projections for the Affected Area Background The City of Colusa had planned growth areas delineated in its recent General Plan Update (2007). Most of the unincorporated land in the District is zoned and planned for agriculture with minimal population growth expectations. Mosquito abatement is more difficult and more expensive in agricultural areas than in urban areas for density reasons. The district is contemplating annexation of the valley portion of the County, which would be supported by a special assessment. Should the district eventually serve the refuges within the Sacramento Wildlife Refuge Complex area it would receive $2,139.12 in revenue based on the 20 refuge parcels to be assessed (Colusa Mosquito Abatement District, David B. Whitesell, District Manager, September 15, 2008). 4.1.2 Growth and Population Projections for the Affected Area MSR Determinations 1-1) The population in the Colusa Mosquito Abatement District Service Area will be greatly influenced by population increases within the City of Colusa. 1-2) The City of Colusa is about half of the population within the District. 1-3) As other areas within Colusa County are annexed to the district, population increases will most likely occur in the community areas. 4.2 Present and planned capacity of public facilities and adequacy of public services, including infrastructure needs and deficiencies. Purpose: To evaluate the district’s capacity to provide the service including any infrastructure needs and deficiencies in terms of supply, capacity, condition of facilities and service quality. Colusa LAFCO – October 2, 2008 11 Adopted Resolution 2008-13 Colusa Mosquito Abatement District MSR 4.2.1 Present and planned capacity of public facilities and adequacy of public services, including infrastructure needs and deficiencies background A. Capacity Analysis and Sufficiency for Present and Projected Need The Colusa Mosquito Abatement District has adequate employees, equipment and funding to meet the present need. The District has been able to use Federal and State Funding to hire additional seasonal employees to combat the West Nile Virus. B. Adequacy to Meet Current and Known Future State and Federal requirements The District has nine vehicles, eight with sprayers. The District contracts for airplanes for additional spraying as necessary. C. Plans for Upgrades According to District staff, if it were to expand to include the entire valley area of Colusa County, two additional full-time and two additional seasonal employees would be needed. The start-up costs would be approximately $207,200 and an additional $200,000 for chemicals (Colusa Mosquito Abatement District, David B. Whitesell, District Manager, September 7, 2007). 4.2.2 Present and planned capacity of public facilities and adequacy of public services, including infrastructure needs and deficiencies MSR determinations 2-1) The Colusa Mosquito Abatement District has adequate equipment, employees and funding necessary to perform the work of a mosquito abatement in the District. 2-2) The District is in a good position to include additional territory since the District has developed knowledge and experience in Colusa County, which would benefit the additional population if the District were increased in size. 4.3 Financial Ability of agencies to provide service Purpose: To evaluate factors that affect the financing of needed improvements and services as well as to identify practices or opportunities that may help eliminate unnecessary costs. LAFCO should consider the ability of the community to pay for improvements or services associated with annexed sites. This planning can begin at the Sphere of Influence stage by identifying what opportunities there are to identify infrastructure and maintenance needs associated with future annexation and development, and identifying limitations on financing such improvements, as well as the opportunities that exist to construct and maintain those improvements. Colusa LAFCO – October 2, 2008 12 Adopted Resolution 2008-13 Colusa Mosquito Abatement District MSR 4.3.1 Financial Ability of agencies to provide service background The Colusa Mosquito Abatement District receives funding from property taxes. For 2008-09 the District received 0.9012% of Secured taxes generated by the Colusa Countywide rate. This tax generated $210,000 from Colusa County and $9,500 from Sutter County in 2008-09. (County of Colusa, “Final Budget, June 30, 2008.”). The District also receives a parcel tax of $20 per parcel, which generated $67,620 from Colusa County and $1,800 from Sutter County in 2008-09. The total Revenue for the 2008-09 Budget is estimated to be $508,177. The Actual budget for 2008-2009 was $570,330. In addition the District received special funding from the State to combat the West Nile Virus. The District continues to do everything possible to secure adequate funding. The District often submits news articles to the local paper to generate understanding of the mosquito abatement activities and programs to generate support for the District. The District also informs the public of times of spray activity through news articles. The Colusa Mosquito Abatement District operates on a pay-as-you go basis so the District will not have to pay interest in addition to the cost of improvements. The District is in the process of constructing a new building for vehicle storage. The District maintains a fully equipped shop and is able to fabricate custom spray machines that can be placed in the pick-up trucks and controlled from the cab of the truck. This saves the District money because the cost of purchasing this type of equipment would be at least three times greater than the $3,500 cost of construction of their own machines. The District has a bid process for the purchase of chemicals but the allowed chemicals are not widely available so that keeps the price high. The 2008-09 Budget for chemicals was $250,000. The District is insured under a Joint Powers Agreement with other mosquito abatement districts in the State, which is administered by Vector Control Joint Powers Agency (VCJPA). This includes liability insurance as well as worker’s compensation insurance. Insurance is budgeted for $9,745 for 2008-09. The District has won several safety awards from the VCJPA. 4.3.2 Financial Ability of agencies to provide service determinations 3-1) The District has enacted a special parcel tax to generate additional income to cover core services. Colusa LAFCO – October 2, 2008 13 Adopted Resolution 2008-13 Colusa Mosquito Abatement District MSR 3-2) The District receives funding from the State to combat the West Nile Virus as well as other funding as is needed. 3-3) The Colusa Mosquito Abatement District uses as many cost avoidance opportunities as possible. 3-4) If additional lands were annexed to the District they would benefit from the knowledge and experience of the District. 3-5) The District saves money by building custom spray equipment in the District shop 3-6) The Colusa Mosquito Abatement District does not provide services to individuals or to specific households but to the entire area of the District. 3-7) The County of Colusa collects the special parcel tax of $20 per parcel for the District; however, the County only remits $19 per parcel to the District. Perhaps this could be reduced to a flat fee for this service. 4.4 Status of, and Opportunities for Shared Facilities Purpose: To evaluate the opportunities for a jurisdiction to share facilities and resources to develop more efficient service delivery systems. In the case of annexing new lands into the District, LAFCO can evaluate whether services or facilities can be provided in a more efficient manner. In some cases, it may be possible to establish a cooperative approach to facility planning by encouraging cooperation in such efforts. 4.4.1 Opportunities for Shared Facilities Background The work of mosquito abatement is primarily during the summer months so all mosquito abatement districts use the equipment at the same time. The equipment is specialized so cannot be shared with other government agencies. It would not be practical for the Colusa Mosquito Abatement District to share facilities with another agency. The District does use seasonal employees and rents aircraft for air spraying. The District uses the County to maintain accounts and process claims. 4.4.2 Opportunities for Shared Facilities MSR Determinations 4-1) The Colusa Mosquito Abatement District shares facilities to the extent possible. 4.5 Accountability for community service needs, including government structure and operational efficiencies. Colusa LAFCO – October 2, 2008 14 Adopted Resolution 2008-13 Colusa Mosquito Abatement District MSR Purpose: To consider the advantages and disadvantages of various government structures that could provide public services; and To evaluate the accessibility and levels of public participation associated with the agency’s decision-making and management processes; and To evaluate the management capabilities of the organization. LAFCO may consider the agency’s record of local accountability in its management of community affairs as a measure against the ability to provide adequate services to the SOI/Annexation areas. 4.5.1 Government Structure Options Background The Colusa Mosquito Abatement District benefits from operating under local control with a small staff. The appointment of directors saves on the costs of elections. Changing the governmental structure would not provide better mosquito abatement services. Annexing additional land to the District would allow the provision of services to more people with less cost than establishing separate district. There are no overlapping services. In fact, there is a large area of Colusa County which does not have mosquito abatement services and with the threat of the West Nile Virus this area would now like to be annexed to the District. The management of the Colusa Mosquito Abatement District is very efficient. This is primarily due to the long-term leadership of the District Manager, David B. Whitesell. Working for a small district requires a variety of skills. The District has been fortunate to have Mr. Whitesell, who is well-educated in the technical areas of mosquito abatement and is also able to manage the employees, the budget, and the public relations for the District. The Colusa Mosquito Abatement District has regular Board meetings that are accessible to the public. The District follows the requirements of the Brown Act. The District communicates with the public through news articles in the local press. 4.5.2 Government Structure Options MSR Determinations 5-1) The present governmental structure is the best way to provide mosquito abatement services for this area. 5-2) The Colusa Mosquito Abatement District has efficient Management. 5-3) The District has good government and is accountable to the voters and tax-payers. 5-4) The District should budget for the development of a website in the future. Colusa LAFCO – October 2, 2008 15 Adopted Resolution 2008-13 Colusa Mosquito Abatement District MSR 5-5) The District should consider a periodic newsletter. Colusa LAFCO – October 2, 2008 16 Adopted Resolution 2008-13 Colusa Mosquito Abatement District MSR ABBREVIATIONS CKH Act Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Local Government Reorganization Act of 2000 CMAD Colusa Mosquito Abatement District District Colusa Mosquito Abatement District DHS Department of Health Services JPA Joint Powers Authority LAFCO Local Agency Formation Commission MSR Municipal Service Review SOI Sphere of Influence ULV Ultra-Low Volume (spray) VCJPA Vector Control Joint Powers Agency WNV West Nile Virus www.moradadecriaturas.blogia.com/upload/mosquito Colusa LAFCO – October 2, 2008 17 Adopted Resolution 2008-13 Colusa Mosquito Abatement District MSR DEFINITIONS Agriculture: Use of land for the production of food and fiber, including the growing of crops and/or the grazing of animals on natural prime or improved pasture land. Biological Control: The introduction, conservation or encouragement of natural predators, pathogens or parasites for the purpose of preventing, reducing or eliminating mosquito populations. Bond: An interest-bearing promise to pay a stipulated sum of money, with the principal amount due on a specific date. Funds raised through the sale of bonds can be used for various public purposes. Breeding Source: Any water-holding site or container which supports a population of aquatic (immature) mosquitoes. California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA): A State Law requiring State and local agencies to regulate activities with consideration for environmental protection. If a proposed activity has the potential for a significant adverse environmental impact, an environmental impact report (EIR) must be prepared and certified as to its adequacy before taking action on the proposed project. Chemical Control: The application of pesticides, include microbial pesticides such as Bacillus thuringensis var. israelensis or growth regulators such as methoprene, to the environment for the purpose of preventing, reducing or eliminating aquatic (immature) or adult mosquito populations. Community Facilities District: Under the Mello-Roos Community Facilities Act of 1982 (Government Code §53311, et seq.), a legislative body may create within its jurisdiction a special tax district that can finance tax-exempt bonds for the planning, design, acquisition, construction, and/or operation of public facilities, as well as public services for district residents. Special taxes levied solely within the district are used to repay the bonds. Environmental Impact Report (EIR): A report required pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act that assesses all the environmental characteristics of an area, determines what effects or impact will result if the area is altered or disturbed by a proposed action, and identifies alternatives or other measures to avoid or reduce those impacts. (See California Environmental Quality Act.) Impact Fee: A fee, also called a development fee, levied on the developer of a project by a county, or other public agency as compensation for otherwise-unmitigated impacts the project will produce. California Government Code §66000, et seq., specifies that Colusa LAFCO – October 2, 2008 18 Adopted Resolution 2008-13 Colusa Mosquito Abatement District MSR development fees shall not exceed the estimated reasonable cost of providing the service for which the fee is charged. To lawfully impose a development fee, the public agency must verify its method of calculation and document proper restrictions on use of the fund. Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO): A five-or seven-member commission within each county that reviews and evaluates all proposals for formation of special districts, incorporation of cities, annexation to special districts or cities, consolidation of districts, and merger of districts with cities. Each county’s LAFCO is empowered to approve, disapprove, or conditionally approve such proposals. The LAFCO members generally include two county supervisors, two city council members, and one member representing the general public. Some LAFCOs include two representatives of special districts. Mello-Roos Bonds: Locally issued bonds that are repaid by a special tax imposed on property owners within a community facilities district established by a governmental entity. The bond proceeds can be used for public improvements and for a limited number of services. Named after the program’s legislative authors. Minimal Disruption of Natural Environment: Maintenance to the fullest extent possible of the full range of plant and animal life characteristic of adult or immature mosquito habitats, while still reducing, preventing or eliminating mosquito populations. Minimization of Pesticide Use: The application of physical or biological control measures, or the application of chemical control when physical or biological control is impractical or undesirable, where and when needed as indicated by standard mosquito sampling methods. Mosquito Abatement: The prevention, reduction or elimination of mosquito populations, synonymous with the term "mosquito control.” Mosquito Abatement (Control) Program: An approved schedule of planned and continuing work activities utilizing a variety of preventive and long-term control measures and having the objective or reducing mosquito biting. Work activities are carried out only when and where necessary as determined by standard mosquito sampling methods. Nuisance Area: A recreational or population area infested by the adults of one or more nuisance species as documented by standard data collection methods. Nuisance Species: Mosquito species which feed preferentially on humans. Physical Control: The physical alteration of a breeding site through management of wet-dry cycles, regrading, draining, filling, flushing, or removal or alternation of plant Colusa LAFCO – October 2, 2008 19 Adopted Resolution 2008-13 Colusa Mosquito Abatement District MSR growth so as to render it unsatisfactory for the production of the aquatic (immature) life stages of mosquitoes. Preventive Control: Application of any biological, physical or chemical mosquito control measure to a breeding source for the purpose of preventing, reducing or eliminating production of the aquatic (immature) life stages of mosquitoes, or application of any legal or administrative action for the purpose of preventing, reducing or eliminating the creation of mosquito breeding sources. Sanitation: The elimination of breeding sources on personal property such as by flushing, covering or removing water-holding containers or filling or regrading poorly drained areas. Self Protection: Individual action to reduce exposure to mosquitoes such as thorough application of repellents, installation of window and door screens, or avoidance of outdoor activities during the early morning and evening hours when mosquitoes are most active. West Nile Virus (WNV): West Nile Virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne disease that has been found in parts of Asia, Eastern Europe, Africa and the Middle East. The virus was first detected in the United States in 1999 in New York City and has since spread throughout most of the country. Most people and animals who become infected with the virus have only a mild illness or no symptoms, but in rare cases can become seriously ill. Colusa LAFCO – October 2, 2008 20 Adopted Resolution 2008-13 Colusa Mosquito Abatement District MSR REFERENCES California State Department of Finance. Demographics Research Tables E-1, E-5 and P1. Colusa Mosquito Abatement District, “2008-2009 Budget.” Colusa Mosquito Abatement District, “Resolution of the Board of Trustees, Colusa Mosquito Abatement District, December 16, 1963.” Colusa Mosquito Abatement District, David B. Whitesell, District Manager, September 7, 2007. County of Colusa, Board of Supervisors, Yolanda Tirado, E-Mail: September 10, 2007. County of Colusa, “Final Budget, June 30, 2008.” County of Colusa, “Resolution Declaring the ‘Colusa Mosquito Abatement District’ Duly Organized under the Mosquito Abatement Districts Law, Giving the Name of the District and Describing the Boundaries,” April 14, 1948. County of Colusa, “Special District Audits Fiscal Year 2005-2006.” City of Colusa General Plan, 2007 www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colusa_County,_California, March 24, 2006. www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sutter_County,_California, September 9, 2007. www.gov.ca.gov/index.php?/press-release/7151, September 10, 2007. www.epodunk.com/cgi-bin/popInfo.php?locIndex=10016, September 11, 2007. www.msmosquito.com/moscontr.html, September 11, 2007 www.mosquitoes.org/west_nile_virus.htm#whatsis., September 10, 2007. www.nbvc.navy.mil/environ/programs/mosquitoAbate/lifecycle, September 9, 2007. www.dem.ri.gov/pubs/regs/regs/agric/mosqgrnt, September 9, 2007. Colusa LAFCO – October 2, 2008 21 Adopted Resolution 2008-13 Colusa Mosquito Abatement District MSR Colusa LAFCO – October 2, 2008 22 Adopted Resolution 2008-13 Colusa Mosquito Abatement District MSR