LAFCO
Coalinga-Huron Mosquito Abatement District
Read the report at Local Agency Formation Commissions ↗
FRESNO LOCAL AGENCY FORMATION COMMISSION (LAFCO)
EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S REPORT
AGENDA ITEM NO. 10
DATE: October 9, 2013
TO: Fresno Local Agency Formation Commission
FROM: David E. Fey, AICP, Executive Officer
SUBJECT: Consider Adoption – Municipal Service Review and Sphere of
Influence Update Prepared for the Coalinga-Huron Mosquito
Abatement District.
Recommendations:
A) Acting as Lead Agency pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
Guidelines, find that prior to adopting the written determinations, the Municipal Service
Review and Sphere of Influence determination under consideration are Categorically
Exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under
Section 15306, “Information Collection” and Section 15061(b)(3), “General Rule
Exemption.”
B) Find that the Municipal Service Review and Sphere of Influence Update prepared for the
District are complete and satisfactory.
C) Find that the written determinations within the Municipal Service Review and Sphere of
Influence Update satisfy State Law.
D) Pursuant to Government Code Sections 56425 and 56430 make the required
determinations for the Municipal Service Review and District Sphere of Influence, adopt
the Municipal Service Review prepared for the District, and update the Sphere of
Influence for said District by reaffirming the current boundaries.
Description:
The Coalinga-Huron Mosquito Abatement District encompasses 550,200 acres in southwestern
Fresno including the Cities of Coalinga and Huron. The District provides mosquito abatement
services to the residents in the District.
Summary / Background
The Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Local Government Reorganization Act of 2000 requires LAFCo to
review and update, as necessary, special district Spheres of Influence (SOIs) every five years.
Prior to, or in conjunction with an agency’s SOI update, LAFCo is required to conduct a
Municipal Service Review (MSR) for each agency.
1
Municipal Service Reviews provide a comprehensive review of the services provided by a city or
district and present recommendations with regard to the condition and adequacy of these
services and whether or not modifications to a city or district’s SOI are necessary. MSRs can be
used as informational tools by LAFCo and local agencies in evaluating the efficiencies of current
district operations and may suggest changes in order to better serve the public.
Sphere of Influence updates may involve an affirmation of the existing SOI boundaries or
recommend modifications to the SOI boundaries. LAFCo is not required to initiate changes to
an SOI based on findings and recommendations of the service review, although it does have the
power to do so.
State law requires that the Commission adopt written MSR determinations for each of the
following seven criteria:
1. Growth and population projections for the affected area.
2. Location and characteristics of any disadvantaged unincorporated communities,
3. Present and planned capacity of public facilities and adequacy of public services,
including infrastructure needs or deficiencies.
4. Financial ability of agencies to provide services.
5. Status of, and opportunities for, shared facilities.
6. Accountability for community service needs, including governmental structure and
operational efficiencies.
7. Any other matter related to effective or efficient service delivery, as required by
commission policy.
As part of the SOI update, the Commission is required to consider the following four criteria and
make appropriate determinations in relationship to each:
1. The present and planned land uses in the area, including agricultural and open-space
lands.
2. The present and probable need for public facilities and services in the area.
3. The present capacity of public facilities and adequacy of public services that the agency
provides or is authorized to provide.
4. The existence of any social or economic communities of interest in the area if the
Commission determines that they are relevant to the agency.
Environmental Determination
The California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") requires that the Commission undertake and
review an environmental analysis before granting approval of a project, as defined by CEQA.
This MSR is categorically exempt from the preparation of environmental documentation under a
classification related to information gathering (Class 6 - Regulation section 15306), which states:
"Class 6 consists of basic data collection, research, experimental management, and resource
evaluation activities which do not result in a serious or major disturbance to an environmental
resource. These may be strictly for information gathering purposes, or as part of a study leading
to an action which a public agency has not yet approved, adopted, or funded." Indeed, MSRs
collect data for the purpose of evaluating municipal services provided by the agencies. There
are no land use changes or environmental impacts created by such studies.
2
Furthermore, this MSR qualifies for a general exemption from environmental review based upon
CEQA Regulation section 15061(b)(3), which states: "The activity is covered by the general rule
that CEQA applies only to projects which have the potential for causing a significant effect on
the environment. Where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity
in question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to
CEQA." Additionally, the SOI update qualifies for the same general exemption from
environmental review based upon CEQA Regulation section 15061(b)(3).
There is no possibility that this MSR or SOI update may have a significant effect on the
environment because there is no land use changes associated with the documents. If the
Commission approves and adopts the MSR and SOI update and determines that the project is
exempt from CEQA, staff will prepare a notice of exemption as required by CEQA Regulation
section 15062.
G:\LAFCO WORKING FILES\MSR 2nd Round\Consultant\Coalinga-Huron MAD Report.doc
3
FRESNO LAFCO
COALINGA-HURON MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT
C O A L I N G A - H U R O N M O S Q U I T O
A B AT E M E N T D I S T R I C T
M U N I C I PA L S E R V I C E R E V I E W
P U B L I C R E V I E W D R A F T
July 24, 2013
Prepared for the
Local Agency Formation Commission of Fresno County
by
Policy Consulting Associates, LLC
TABLE OF CONTENTS 0
FRESNO LAFCO
COALINGA-HURON MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT
TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S
1. AGENCY OVERVIEW .......................................................................................................................................... 2
FORMATION ............................................................................................................................................................... 2
BOUNDARY ................................................................................................................................................................ 2
SPHERE OF INFLUENCE .............................................................................................................................................. 3
ACCOUNTABILITY AND GOVERNANCE ....................................................................................................................... 5
MANAGEMENT AND STAFFING .................................................................................................................................. 6
GROWTH AND POPULATION PROJECTIONS ................................................................................................................. 7
FINANCING ................................................................................................................................................................ 9
2. MUNICIPAL SERVICES ..................................................................................................................................... 11
MOSQUITO ABATEMENT SERVICES .......................................................................................................................... 11
3. MSR DETERMINATIONS .................................................................................................................................. 13
4. SPHERE OF INFLUENCE UPDATE ................................................................................................................. 16
TABLE OF CONTENTS 1
FRESNO LAFCO
COALINGA-HURON MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT
1 . AG E N C Y OVE RV I EW
Coalinga-Huron Mosquito Abatement District (CHMAD) provides mosquito abatement
services in the southwestern corner of Fresno County. The most recent municipal service
review (MSR) for CHMAD was adopted in June 2007.
FFOORRMMAATTIIOONN
CHMAD was formed in 1952 as an independent special district. CHMAD was created to
provide mosquito abatement to the cities of Coalinga and Huron in Fresno County.
The principal act that governs CHMAD is the Mosquito Abatement and Vector Control
District Law, originally called Mosquito Abatement Act of California of 1915, that was
revised in 2003 (SB 1588).1 The principal act empowers such districts to conduct
surveillance programs and other studies of vectors and vector-borne diseases, take
appropriate actions to prevent the occurrence of vectors and vector-borne diseases, and
take necessary actions to abate or control vectors and vector-borne diseases. 2 All districts
must apply and obtain LAFCo approval to exercise latent powers or, in other words, those
services authorized by the principal act but not provided by the district at the end of 2000.3
BBOOUUNNDDAARRYY
CHMAD is located in the southwest portion of the County of Fresno, adjacent to Kings,
Monterey and San Benito counties, and encompasses approximately 560,246 acres (875
square miles). Included within the District’s boundaries are the cities of Coalinga and
Huron and surrounding unincorporated areas. The District abuts Fresno-Westside
Mosquito Abatement District to the north and Consolidated Mosquito Abatement District in
the northeast. Since the District’s formation, there have been no changes to its boundaries.
Extra-territorial Services
CHMAD does not provide mosquito abatement service outside its boundaries, although
it is allowed to cross agency boundaries in order to prevent mosquito populations from
dispersing into the District.
1 California Health and Safety Code § 2000-2093
2 California Health and Safety Code §2000-2093.
3 Government Code §56824.10.
AGENCY OVERVIEW 2
FRESNO LAFCO
COALINGA-HURON MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT
Unserved Areas
There are no areas within CHMAD’s boundaries that lack mosquito abatement services.
Overlapping Providers
There are two other agencies that overlap CHMAD’s boundaries and provide similar
pest and vector control services—West Fresno County Red Scale Protective District and the
Fresno County Department of Public Health. The West Fresno County Red Scale Protective
District provides control and eradication of citrus pests. The Environmental Health
Division of the County’s Department of Public Health offers a vector control program which
entails investigation of complaints related to flies, cockroaches, rats and mice. While the
services offered by these agencies are fairly similar to those provided by CHMAD, neither
offer services related to mosquito control.
SSPPHHEERREE OOFF IINNFFLLUUEENNCCEE
CHMAD’s SOI was established on March 24, 1973 as coterminous with the District’s
boundaries. No changes have been made to the SOI since its creation. During the 2007 SOI
update the Commission elected to reaffirm CHMAD’s coterminous SOI.
AGENCY OVERVIEW 3
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FRESNO LAFCO
COALINGA-HURON MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT
AACCCCOOUUNNTTAABBIILLIITTYY AANNDD GGOOVVEERRNNAANNCCEE
Accountability of a governing body is signified by a combination of several indicators.
The indicators chosen here are limited to 1) agency efforts to engage and educate
constituents through outreach activities, in addition to legally required activities such as
agenda posting and public meetings, 2) a defined complaint process designed to handle all
issues to resolution, and 3) transparency of the agency as indicated by cooperation with the
MSR process and information disclosure.
CHMAD is governed by a five-member Board of Trustees. All trustees are appointed by
the County Board of Supervisors to four-year terms. Trustees do not receive any
compensation. The District faces a challenge maintaining a full board, and at present there
are two vacant positions. Current board member names, positions, and term expiration
dates are shown in Figure 1-2.
The Board of Trustees meets once a month on the second Tuesday of the month during
the summer months when the District is operational. The time of the meeting depends on
the availability of the Trustees. Meetings are held at the Coalinga Feed Yard, which one of
the Trustees owns. Agendas are posted outside of the feed yard prior to each meeting, and
minutes are made available on request.
Figure 1-2: Coalinga-Huron Mosquito Abatement District Governing Body
Coalinga-Huron Mosquito Abatement District
District Contact Information
Contact: Ralph Baiza, General Manager
Address: PO Box 478, Coalinga, CA 93210
Telephone: 559-935-3198
Email: None
Website: None
Board of Directors
Began Term Manner of Length of
Member Name Position Serving Expires Selection Term
Bill Mouran Chair 1957 2016 Appointed 4 years
Theodore DenHartog Secretary 2001 2016 Appointed 4 years
Craig Finster Trustee 2012 2014 Appointed 4 years
Vacant Appointed 4 years
Vacant Appointed 4 years
Meetings
Date: Second Tuesday of each month, during open season
Location: Coalinga Feed Yard
Agenda Posted outside of Coalinga Feed Yard
Distribution:
Minutes Minutes made available on request
Distribution:
CHMAD does not conduct public outreach or education efforts in addition to the legally
required posting of its agendas. The District does not maintain a website where contact
information and district documents are made available to the public.
AGENCY OVERVIEW 5
FRESNO LAFCO
COALINGA-HURON MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT
CHMAD generally has not received complaints regarding its abatement services or staff
in any given year. In 2012, the District reportedly received approximately three or four
reports of potential mosquito sources, such as foreclosed houses with neglected swimming
pools. Complaints and service requests may be submitted to the general manager or sent
to the District in writing. Complaints and requests are not tracked. The general manager is
responsible for handling complaints and requests to conclusion.
CHMAD demonstrated full accountability and transparency in its disclosure of
information and cooperation with Fresno LAFCo during the MSR process. CHMAD
responded to questionnaires and cooperated with document requests. It is recommended
that the District devise a more formal means of receiving public requests and inquiries,
perhaps via an email account.
MMAANNAAGGEEMMEENNTT AANNDD SSTTAAFFFFIINNGG
While public sector management standards vary depending on the size and scope of the
organization, there are minimum standards. Well-managed organizations evaluate
employees annually, track employee and agency productivity, periodically review agency
performance, prepare a budget before the beginning of the fiscal year, conduct periodic
financial audits to safeguard the public trust, maintain relatively current financial records,
conduct advanced planning for future service needs, and plan and budget for capital needs.
CHMAD is staffed by a volunteer part-time general manager, a part-time bookkeeper
paid an hourly wage, and one or two seasonal employees hired as needed during the
summer months. The general manager is responsible for the administrative functions of
the District. The bookkeeper is paid approximately $300 every three months for limited
services. The seasonal staff performs all necessary mosquito abatement services. Both, the
bookkeeper and the seasonal staff report to the general manager, who in turn reports to
the Board of Trustees at the regular board meetings.
Due to the small size of the District’s operations, staff are not regularly evaluated.
However, the general manager is certified by the California Department of Public Health in
mosquito and vector control as required. Staff workload is not tracked in the form of a
timesheet or other workload log.
CHMAD’s management practices include annual financial reports to the State
Controller’s Office. The District does not conduct evaluations of district-wide performance,
such as benchmarking, annual reports or performance-based budgeting.
Other than the annual financial reports to the State Controller’s office, CHMAD has not
compiled other documents to guide district efforts, such as a mission statement, audited
financial statement, capital improvement plan, or budget.
Government Code §53901 states that within 60 days after the beginning of the fiscal
year each local agency must submit its budget to the county auditor. These budgets are to
be filed and made available on request by the public at the county auditor’s office. The
County has reported that the District has not submitted a budget since at least 2004. It is a
AGENCY OVERVIEW 6
FRESNO LAFCO
COALINGA-HURON MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT
recommended best management practice that the District adopt a budget prior to the start
of the new fiscal year in anticipation of estimated revenues and expenditures, and submit
the budget to the County as required by law.
All special districts are required to submit annual audits to the County within 12
months of the completion of the fiscal year, unless the Board of Supervisors has approved a
biennial or five-year schedule.4 In the case of CHMAD, the District must submit audits
annually. CHMAD has not submitted an audited statement to the County since at least
2003, when the County began tracking district submittals. Due to the District’s minimal
annual budget, it may be prudent for the District to request that the Board of Supervisors
approve a lengthier auditing schedule, such as biennial or every five years. It is also
recommended that the District initiate regular audits of its finances by a qualified CPA.
GGRROOWWTTHH AANNDD PPOOPPUULLAATTIIOONN PPRROOJJEECCTTIIOONNSS
This section discusses the factors affecting service demand, such as land uses, and
historical and anticipated population growth.
Land Use
CHMAD’s boundary area is approximately 875 square miles. The County is the land use
authority for the unincorporated areas. Cities are the land use authorities within the
respective city boundaries. CHMAD encompasses every land use designated by the cities.
In the unincorporated areas, land uses are generally agricultural with grazing lands, grain
and hay crops, other field crops, orchards, and berry crops.
Existing Population
As of 2010, the population of the area in CHMAD was approximately 25,224, based on
GIS analysis of Census 2010 data. Its population density—29 residents per square mile—is
lower than the countywide density of 159 people per square mile.
Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities
LAFCO is required to evaluate disadvantaged unincorporated communities as part of
this service review, including the location and characteristics of any such communities. A
disadvantaged unincorporated community is defined as any area with 12 or more
4 Government Code §26909.
AGENCY OVERVIEW 7
FRESNO LAFCO
COALINGA-HURON MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT
registered voters, or as determined by commission policy, where the median household
income is less than 80 percent of the statewide annual median.5
The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) has developed a mapping tool
based on census data to assist in determining which communities meet the disadvantaged
communities median household income definition. DWR is not bound by the same law as
LAFCO to define communities with a minimum threshold of 12 or more registered voters.
However, the DWR data can be used for the purposes of this report as an indicator of any
larger communities that may meet the income definition of disadvantaged. Based on
mapping information from DWR, there are at least two disadvantaged communities within
or adjacent to CHMAD; however these areas are the two incorporated cities (Coalinga and
Huron) within the District and are therefore not disadvantaged unincorporated territories.6
Projected Growth and Development
Based on population projections prepared for the Fresno Council of Governments, the
population of the County is anticipated to grow by 64 percent over the 40-year period from
2010 to 2050, with annual average growth of 1.2 percent.7 These projections are
countywide, and are not specific to the Coalinga and Huron areas; however, if these
projections are used to inform anticipated growth in the region, the population within
CHMAD is anticipated to increase to 40,358 by 2050. The City of Coalinga projects higher
growth rates of 3.5 percent annually through 2025 in its General Plan update; however,
these projections were made prior to the housing market crash and may be overestimated.
Potential development within the District is largely centered in the City of Coalinga.
There are some areas that have roads and other infrastructure with between 100 and 150
finished lots, where there is the greatest potential for new residential development in the
near future. In addition to these areas, the City reported that as of May 2013 there were
five tentative maps that had been approved in the past that had the potential to add
approximately 1,800 dwelling units to the area. However, these developments are
presently on hold and are greatly dependent on demand for new housing. The City is
working with the State on the Warthan Place multi-family housing project, which will add
162 multi-family units upon completion of two phases. If the City is approved for funding,
the project could move forward in the next year.8
5 Government Code §56033.5.
6 DWR maps and GIS files are derived from the US Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS) and are compiled
for the five-year period 2006-2010.
7 Fresno Council of Governments, San Joaquin Valley Demographic Forecasts 2010 to 2050, March 27, 2012, p.18.
8 Communication with Sean Brewer, Assistant Director of Community Development, City of Coalinga, May 14, 2013.
AGENCY OVERVIEW 8
FRESNO LAFCO
COALINGA-HURON MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT
Growth in population in the District has generally not impacted demand for CHMAD’s
services. CHMAD reported that there has been little change in demand for its services over
the history of the District, given that the area is quite dry meaning that there is minimal
need for mosquito abatement services. Demand for services is more dependent on weather
patterns, and in recent years, the number of foreclosed homes with pools needing services.
The mosquito population depends upon the existence of food, water and harborage. Any
major changes in weather, food supplies or habitat modifications have an impact on the
local mosquito populations. The District reported that it generally has the capacity to
address existing and anticipated future demand.
FFIINNAANNCCIINNGG
The financial ability of agencies to provide services is affected by available financing
sources and financing constraints. This section discusses the major financing constraints
faced by CHMAD.
CHMAD has a small budget of approximately $40,000 annually composed almost
entirely of property taxes. The District reported that while the budget was minimal it was
adequate to fund the current level of services provided. The District’s expenditures appear
to be modest with little room for additional cost avoidance opportunities. The District has
experienced little fiscal impact from the recent economic recession. Unlike other public
agencies around the State that rely on property tax revenues, CHMAD has experienced an
increase in property tax revenues, due to an increase in assessed value of property within
its boundaries. Between FY 06 and FY 13, the net assessed value of properties within the
District increased by 93 percent, and only experienced a slight drop in value between FYs
10 and 11. Prior to this increase in revenue, the District reportedly was on the verge of
closing. The additional revenue has made it possible for the District to continue operations.
CHMAD does not adopt an annual budget, but instead just aims to keep expenditures
within anticipated revenues. Additionally, the District has never conducted audit.
Consequently, the information in this section is based on the District’s financial transaction
report to the State Controller’s Office for FY 12.
Revenues
In FY 12, CHMAD had a total of $41,108 in revenues, comprised almost entirely of
property tax income and a minimal amount (less than one percent) from interest income.
The District does not charge any fees for its services.
Expenditures
CHMAD expenditures in FY 12 were $42,214 and consisted of services and supplies (57
percent), salaries and wages (37 percent), and employee benefits (six percent).
In FY 12, total expenditures exceeded total revenues by $1,106. CHMAD makes use of
its rollover cash balance to cover this excess in expenditures.
AGENCY OVERVIEW 9
FRESNO LAFCO
COALINGA-HURON MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT
Liabilities and Assets
CHMAD does not have a policy regarding maintaining reserve funds for contingencies
or capital uses. Any funds in excess of each year’s expenses are included in the District’s
unreserved undesignated fund balance and rolled over from year to year. At the end of FY
12, the District had a balance of $60,843, which equates to approximately 1.5 years of
operating expenses for the District.
The District did not have any long-term debt at the end of FY 12.
Financing Efficiencies
The District belongs to a common insurance program through the Vector Control Joint
Powers Authority that shares costs with other similar agencies. The District does not
belong to joint purchasing programs with other mosquito abatement districts in Fresno
County.
AGENCY OVERVIEW 10
FRESNO LAFCO
COALINGA-HURON MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT
2 . M U N I C I PAL S E RVI C ES
MMOOSSQQUUIITTOO AABBAATTEEMMEENNTT SSEERRVVIICCEESS
Service Overview
Services provided by the District include mosquito suppression and control, and
mosquito source reduction. Prevention services include spraying for larvae, introduction
of mosquitofish in pools and other standing water bodies, and use of pellet insecticides for
larvae prevention. The District also responds to public requests for services. All services
are provided generally from the beginning of April to mid-October. The District does not
provide mosquito and disease surveillance.
Demand for Services
A major factor influencing service demand, including control efforts, is the presence of
mosquitos and mosquito-borne disease agents within the County and neighboring areas.
There have been no public health advisories for vector-borne diseases in Fresno County in
2013. In 2012, there were 29 cases of West Nile Virus, which equates to 2.54 cases per
100,000 population. This ratio was above the statewide ratio of 1.27 incidents per 100,000
residents in that year.
CHMAD reported that demand for services is relatively low within its boundaries given
limited water bodies in the area, which leads to mosquito breeding. Demand for services
has reportedly remained constant over the last 30 years.
Infrastructure and Facilities
The District does not own any facilities. The District informally operates out of one of
the Board Member’s businesses (the Coalinga Feed Yard), where board meetings are held.
Requests to the District are submitted to the general manager via his personal home phone.
With regard to equipment used to provide services, the District owns two pickup trucks
and hand sprayers to spray larvae.
Infrastructure Needs or Deficiencies
It appears from the information provided, that the District is able to accommodate the
minimal service needs from its existing equipment.
MUNICIPAL SERVICES 11
FRESNO LAFCO
COALINGA-HURON MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT
Around 2005, the State provided funds to the District for use in combatting West Nile
Virus. The District used these funds to purchase the two pickup trucks. Eventually these
trucks will need to be replaced. The District has not made plans as to when this will occur.
Shared Facilities and Regional Collaboration
CHMAD does not take part in facility sharing or regional collaborations of any kind. The
District may wish to contact neighboring mosquito abatement districts to discuss
opportunities for contract services or collaborations. For example, Consolidated Mosquito
Abatement District offers lab services for disease surveillance, of which CHMAD may be
able to make use.
Service Adequacy
This section reviews indicators of service adequacy, including success rate in reducing
the outbreak of illnesses and response time to service requests.
As of the drafting of this report in early 2013, there had been no present or recent
public health advisories concerning mosquito-borne illnesses in the areas served by
CHMAD. CHMAD, like those in most other areas of the country, has been successful in
reducing the outbreak of illnesses, including plague and encephalitis.
Response times are another indicator of service adequacy. CHMAD reported that it
general responds to its service calls within hours of receiving a complaint or request. All
requests are responded to within one business day. Exact response times were not
available.
MUNICIPAL SERVICES 12
FRESNO LAFCO
COALINGA-HURON MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT
3. MSR DETERM INATIO N S
Growth and Population Projections
As of 2010, the population within Coalinga-Huron Mosquito Abatement District
(CHMAD) was 25,224.
Based on Fresno Council of Governments growth projections, the population of
CHMAD is anticipated to be 40,358 by 2050.
Most growth within CHMAD’s boundaries is anticipated in the City of Coalinga.
Location and Characteristics of Any Disadvantaged
Unincorporated Communities Within or Contiguous to the
Sphere of Influence
Based on the Department of Water Resources mapping system, though there are
two disadvantaged communities within or adjacent to CHMAD, they consist of the
two incorporated cities of Coalinga and Huron within the District. There are no
Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities within or contiguous to the Sphere of
Influence.
Present and Planned Capacity of Public Facilities and
Adequacy of Public Services, Including Infrastructure Needs
and Deficiencies
A major factor influencing service demand, including control efforts, is the presence
of mosquitos and mosquito-borne disease agents within the County and neighboring
areas. There have been no public health advisories for vector-borne diseases in
Fresno County in 2013.
The District does not adopt an annual budget prior to the start of the fiscal year. It is
a recommended best management practice that the District annually compile and
adopt a budget prior to the start of the new fiscal year in anticipation of estimated
revenues and expenditures and submit the budget to the County as required by law.
The District has not submitted an audited financial statement to the County at least
since at least 2003. Presently, the District is required to submit audits annually. It is
recommended that the District initiate a regular schedule of financial audits and
request that the County Board of Supervisors approve a lengthier auditing schedule
given CHMAD’s small annual budget.
MSR DETERMINATIONS 13
FRESNO LAFCO
COALINGA-HURON MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT
CHMAD reported that demand for services is relatively low within its boundaries
given limited water bodies in the area, which leads to mosquito breeding. Demand
for services has reportedly remained constant over the last 30 years.
It appears from the information provided, that the District is able to accommodate
the minimal service needs from its existing equipment.
As of the drafting of this report in early 2013, there had been no present or recent
public health advisories concerning mosquito-borne illnesses in the areas served by
CHMAD. CHMAD, like those in most other areas of the country, has been successful
in reducing the outbreak of illnesses, including West Nile Virus and encephalitis.
The District does not own any real property or structures but owns two pickup
trucks and larvae spraying equipment. Eventually the trucks will need to be
replaced. The District has not made plans as to when this will occur.
Financial Ability of Agency to Provide Services
The District reported that while the budget was minimal it was adequate to fund the
current level of services provided. The District’s expenditures appear to be modest
with little room for additional cost avoidance opportunities.
The District has experienced little fiscal impact from the recent economic recession.
Unlike other public agencies around the State that rely on property tax revenues,
CHMAD has experienced an increase in property tax revenues, due to an increase in
assessed value of property within its boundaries.
At the end of FY 12, the District had a balance of $60,843, which equates to
approximately 1.5 years of operating expenses for the District. It is recommended
that the District adopt a policy on the target level of contingency reserves to be
maintained and adopt a schedule for capital equipment replacement in order to
ensure adequate funds are available when necessary.
Status and Opportunities for Shared Facilities
CHMAD does not take part in facility sharing or regional collaborations of any kind.
The District may wish to contact neighboring mosquito abatement districts to
discuss opportunities for contract services or collaborations. For example,
Consolidated Mosquito Abatement District offers lab services for disease
surveillance, of which CHMAD may be able to make use.
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COALINGA-HURON MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT
Accountability for Community Services, Including
Governmental Structure and Operational Efficiencies
CHMAD demonstrated accountability and transparency in its cooperation during the
service review process. Improvements to transparency could be made by
establishing a district website where contact and meeting information is made
available to the public, and establishing a general email address to improve access
to district staff.
Two governance structure options were identified with regard to CHMAD—
consolidation with a neighboring provider of similar services, such as Consolidated
MAD, or consolidation into a newly formed community services district with other
special districts that serve the same geographical region as CHMAD, such as
Coalinga-Huron Cemetery District and Coalinga Huron Recreation and Park District.
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FRESNO LAFCO
COALINGA-HURON MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT
4. SPH ERE OF INF LUE NC E UP DATE
Existing Sphere of Influence Boundary
Coalinga-Huron Mosquito Abatement District’s (CHMAD) existing SOI is coterminous
with its boundaries.
SOI Options
Two options were identified with respect to CHMAD’s SOI.
Option #1 – Maintain existing coterminous SOI
If the Commission determines that CHMAD should continue to exist in its present form
and serve its current boundaries, then the existing coterminous SOI would be appropriate.
Option #2 – Adopt a zero SOI
If LAFCo desires to indicate that CHMAD should consolidate with either another
mosquito abatement provider or other municipal service providers in the region, a zero SOI
may be appropriate.
Recommended Sphere of Influence Boundary
CHMAD operates with a minimal budget, which limits the services that are offered, and
faces challenges maintaining a full board, likely due to lack of public interest in the
District’s activities.
Given the challenges faced by the District, it is recommended that CHMAD consolidate
with another larger more established district that offers professional staff allowing for
greater transparency, accessibility, and a higher level of services. Potential consolidation
options include consolidation with Consolidated Mosquito Abatement District or formation
of a new multi-service district to take on the service of several single service districts in the
area, including Coalinga-Huron Recreation and Park District and Coalinga-Huron Cemetery
District.
Consolidating CHMAD with the adjacent Consolidated MAD was previously considered
in 2006 but was generally not supported by the residents of CHMAD. If the two districts
were to consolidate, properties located within CHMAD would be subject to a special tax to
fund enhanced services that would be provided by the newly consolidated agency. At that
time the proposed parcel tax was estimated to be between $9 and $22 for a single family
residence. Consolidated MAD conducted a survey to residents within CHMAD in 2006 and
determined that a significant number of voters were opposed to consolidation of the two
districts if it would result in increased taxes and costs, even if the increases resulted in
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FRESNO LAFCO
COALINGA-HURON MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT
more services. Given this response, the districts agreed not to pursue consolidation at that
time. However, CHMAD reported that it was still interested in pursuing consolidation, as it
faces challenges in keeping a full governing body and is only able to provide minimal
services to residents, due to financial constraints. Consolidation with Consolidated MAD
would allow for a higher level of service as it already has professional staff, including
entomologists, and a lab, which allow for mosquito and disease surveillance and testing.
CHMAD reported that it would only consider consolidation if it were substantially
supported by the District’s residents.
Consolidation of the several special districts that serve the Coalinga and Huron areas
and have largely similar boundaries, including the Coalinga-Huron Mosquito Abatement
District, Coalinga-Huron Recreation and Park District, and the Coalinga-Huron Cemetery
District, may also offer several benefits. These agencies could be consolidated into a single
community services district that is authorized to provide all these services. Such a
consolidation would eliminate two governing bodies, which are struggling to maintain full
boards (CHMAD and CHCD), and may potentially allow for elimination of some duplicated
administration costs.
CHMAD has indicated interest in either of these reorganization options. As service
reviews are completed for the other districts discussed here, these options should be
considered further. It appears that it would be premature to adopt a zero SOI in
anticipation of consolidation or reorganization. It is recommended that LAFCo retain the
existing coterminous SOI, encourage consolidation discussions and efforts, and revisit the
feasibility of these options during the next SOI update.
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FRESNO LAFCO
COALINGA-HURON MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT
Proposed Sphere of Influence Determinations
Nature, location, extent, functions, and classes of services provided
Coalinga-Huron Mosquito Abatement District (CHMAD) provides mosquito
abatement services in the southwestern corner of Fresno County. Services provided
by the District include mosquito suppression and control, and mosquito source
reduction. CHMAD provides services throughout its bounded territory. The District
does not provide services outside of its boundaries.
Present and planned land uses, including agricultural and open-space lands
The County is the land use authority for the unincorporated areas. Cities are the
land use authorities within the respective city boundaries. CHMAD encompasses
every land use designated by the cities. In the unincorporated areas, land uses are
generally agricultural with grazing lands, grain and hay crops, other field crops,
orchards, and berry crops.
Land use plans in the County and its cities include land uses and population growth,
which will require continued mosquito abatement services. The recommended SOI
does not conflict with planned land uses.
Mosquito abatement services are needed in all areas, and do not, by themselves,
induce or encourage growth on agricultural or open space lands. No impacts upon
Williamson Act protected land will occur.
Present and probable need for public facilities and services
CHMAD reported that there has been little change in demand for its services over
the history of the District, given that the area is quite dry meaning that there is
minimal need for mosquito abatement services. Demand for services is more
dependent on weather patterns, and in recent years, the number of foreclosed
homes with pools needing services.
Any major changes in weather, food supplies or habitat modifications have an
impact on the local vector populations.
Present capacity of public facilities and adequacy of public services that the agency
provides or is authorized to provide
The District reported that it generally has the capacity to address existing and
anticipated future demand.
It appears from the information provided, that the District is able to accommodate
the minimal service needs from its existing equipment.
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FRESNO LAFCO
COALINGA-HURON MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT
Based on CHMAD’s reported speed of response to requests and its success in
keeping mosquito-borne illnesses at bay, the District’s services appear to be
adequate.
Improvements could be made to the District’s services by preparing an annual
budget before the start of the fiscal year, conducting regular audits, and submitting
these two documents to the County as required.
Existence of any social or economic communities of interest
All residents and land owners within the District are considered a community of
interest as customers benefitting from the District’s services and contributors of
property tax revenue to the District.
SOI DETERMINATIONS 19