LAFCO
Orange Cove Fire
Read the report at Local Agency Formation Commissions ↗
ORANGE COVE FIRE PROTECTION
DISTRICT
MUNICIPAL SERVICE REVIEW AND
SPHERE OF INFLUENCE UPDATE
Report to the
Fresno Local Agency Formation Commission
MSR-17-01 / SOI-171
David E. Fey, AICP, Executive Officer
George W. Uc, Senior LAFCo Analyst
Juan Lara, LAFCo Analyst
Amanda Graham, Office Assistant
2607 Fresno Street, Suite B
Fresno, CA 93721
February 8, 2017
ORANGE COVE FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
Fire prevention, suppression, investigation, search and rescue, hazardous materials, and first responder services
Contact Information for Department & District Business
Manager: Tom Greenwood, Fire Chief
Address: Orange Cove Fire Protection District
550 Center Street
Orange Cove, CA 93646
Phone: (559) 626-7758
Alternative contact: Heather Alvarez, Office Manager/Bookkeeper
Phone: (559) 626-7758
Fax: (559) 626-3909
Management Information
District formed: 1941
Principal act: Fire Protection District Law of 1987 (Health and Safety Code Sec. 13800)
District powers: Prescribed in Health and Safety Code Sec. 13861-13879
Governing body: Three-member board of directors, elected at large
Board members: Lee Chase Bailey, President Elected 2011 - Expires 2020
James C. McKinney Appointed 2013 - Expires 2018
Manuel J. Ferreira Appointed 2013 - Expires 2018
Board meetings: Held second Monday of each month beginning at 7:00 p.m. at District Office
Staffing: 1 full-time, 3 part-time, 31 volunteer paid-call firefighters
Service Information
Population served: 12,000 estimate
Acres served: 27,200 acres (14,434 acres in Fresno County and 12,766 acres in Tulare Counties)
SOI Area: 27,200 acres
Infrastructure: Fire station is leased from City of Orange Cove, one water tender, three fire
engines, four truck/vehicles
Fiscal Information
Budget: $421,539
Sources of funding: Property taxes, state and federal grants, and Measure O Special Tax
Administrative Policies
Policies/Procedures: Yes By-laws: Yes District Formed: 1941 SOI Updated: 2017
MSR and SOI update Orange Cove Fire Protection District
2
Table of Contents
1. MUNICIPAL SERVICE REVIEW ...................................................................................................................... 5
Principal Act ............................................................................................................................................................. 5
District Service Area ................................................................................................................................................. 5
District Mapping Information ................................................................................................................................... 6
Authorized District Services ..................................................................................................................................... 6
District Growth and Population Projections ............................................................................................................ 7
District infrastructure ............................................................................................................................................... 9
District finances ...................................................................................................................................................... 10
Public facilities, opportunities for shared facilities ................................................................................................ 13
Government accountability .................................................................................................................................... 13
2. MSR DETERMINATIONS ................................................................................................................................. 16
1. Growth and population projections for the affected area ............................................................................... 16
2. The location and characteristics of any Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities within or contiguous to
the sphere of influence .......................................................................................................................................... 17
3. Present and planned capacity of public facilities and infrastructure needs or deficiencies ............................. 17
4. Financial ability of agency to provide services .................................................................................................. 18
5. Status of, and opportunities for, shared facilities ............................................................................................. 19
6. Accountability for community service needs, including government structure and operational efficiencies . 19
7. Any other matter related to effective or efficient service delivery, as required by Commission policy .......... 20
3. SPHERE OF INFLUENCE DETERMINATIONS ........................................................................................... 21
1. Present and planned land uses, including agricultural and open-space lands ................................................. 21
2. Present and probable need for public facilities and services in the area ......................................................... 22
3. Present capacity of public facilities and adequacy of public services that the agency provides or is authorized
to provide ............................................................................................................................................................... 22
4. Existence of any social or economic communities of interest in the area if the commission determines that
they are relevant to the agency ............................................................................................................................. 22
5. The present and probable need for those public facilities and services of any disadvantaged unincorporated
communities within the existing sphere of influence ............................................................................................ 22
4. RECOMMENDATIONS ..................................................................................................................................... 23
5. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS ................................................................................................................................... 23
MSR and SOI update Orange Cove Fire Protection District
3
MSR and SOI update Orange Cove Fire Protection District
4
1. MUNICIPAL SERVICE REVIEW
PRINCIPAL ACT
The Orange Cove Fire Protection District (District) was formed in 1941 to provide fire protection
services for the City of Orange Cove and the unincorporated rural lands near the Orange Cove
area. The District operates under the Fire Protection District Law of 1987.1 The District’s service
area and sphere of influence (SOI) are conterminous and encompass 27,200 acres located within
Fresno and Tulare Counties. Fresno County contains 14,434 acres which includes City of Orange
Cove, while County of Tulare contains 12,766 acres of mostly agricultural land. Fresno County is
the principal county as defined by California Government Code (GC).2
The District provides structural fire suppression, wildland fire suppression, emergency medical
response, basic life support, hazmat operational and technical Level, rescue and extrication
operational and technical level, year-around fire prevention program. The District contracts
with Fresno County Fire Protection District for specific services such as arson investigation,
enforcement of fire codes, and emergency 911 dispatch. The District responds to emergency
911 calls and other calls related to medical emergencies. The District also provides fire
information reporting required under the California Fire Incident Reporting system.
The District is an independent special district governed by three-member elected board of
directors. The District is not governed by another legislative body (either a city council or a
county board of supervisors). Candidates eligible to serve on the board of directors must be a
register voter and a resident within the District boundaries. The District’s daily operations are
managed by the fire chief and supported by volunteer department staff.
DISTRICT SERVICE AREA
The District is located in the south-central portion of Fresno County in and around the City of
Orange Cove. The District’s service area encompasses 27,200 acres and spans the Fresno-Tulare
County line. Approximately 14,434 acres of the District are in Fresno County, while 12,766 acres
are in County of Tulare. The Commission’s adopted SOI for the District is coterminous with the
District’s service area. The District’s western portion lies in the valley floor and its eastern side is
adjacent to the Sierra Nevada foothills.
The District is located south of State Route 180 (Kings Canyon Road), east of Cove Avenue, north
of Dinuba Avenue, and west of Road 136 (in Tulare County). The City of Orange Cove is the only
incorporated city inside the District. The City of Reedley is located approximately four miles
west of the District, City of Dinuba is approximately two miles southwest, and the
unincorporated community of Orosi is two miles south of the District.
1 California Health and Safety Code Section 13800 et seq.
2 California Government Code Section 56066 –"Principal county" means the county having the greater
portion of the entire assessed value, as shown on the last equalized assessment roll of the county or
counties, of all taxable property reorganization is proposed.
MSR and SOI update Orange Cove Fire Protection District
5
Primary roads into the District service area include California State Route (SR) 180/ E. Kings
Canyon Road, SR 63/ S. Hills Valley Road, E. Manning Avenue, and E. Adams Avenue. California
SR 99 is located approximately 18 miles west of the District, SR 41 is approximately 24 miles
further west of the District, and SR 198 (Visalia/Sequoia National Park) is located 20 miles south
of the District.
Majority of the District’s service area is unincorporated and developed with agricultural land
uses. The City of Orange Cove’s urban footprint overlaps 1,150 acres within the District
boundaries. Territory in the City is urbanized with various land uses including but not limited to
commercial, open space/recreational, multi-family, and single family-residential uses.
DISTRICT MAPPING INFORMATION
The 2007 OCFPD MSR stated that the District encompassed 14,434 acres in Fresno County and
noted that a portion of the District extended into Tulare County but did not specify acreage. In
the development of the current MSR, Fresno LAFCo staff worked closely with Tulare LAFCo to
identify accurate acreage for the Tulare County portion of the District’s service area.3
Additional research into the Commission’s record did not reveal any applications with regard to
reorganizations, annexations, SOI Revisions, or detachments that would have modified the
District boundaries. Therefore, LAFCo observes that the District has not experienced any
boundary modifications since the Commission determined the District’s SOI in 1975.
For this reason, LAFCo estimates the District’s actual boundaries encompass a total of 27,200
acres, approximately 14,434 acres in Fresno County, and 12,766 acres in Tulare County.
AUTHORIZED DISTRICT SERVICES
LAFCo observes that under GC section 56425(i) states, “when adopting, amending, or updating a
sphere of influence for a special district, the commission shall establish the nature, location, and
extent of any functions or classes of services provided by existing districts.” Under the Fire
Protection District Law, a fire protection district may exercise all rights and powers, expressed or
implied under HSC section 13860-13879.
According to District records the agency provides wide range of services associated with the
protection of lives and property through fire prevention, suppression, and medical response.
Additional services authorized by statute include, but are not limited to:
Structural fire suppression,
Wildland fire suppression,
Emergency medical response and basic life support,
Hazardous material and operational and technical level,
Rescue and extrication operational and technical level,
3 Orange Cove Fire Protection District - May 1975 Sphere of Influence Reports, Special Districts.
MSR and SOI update Orange Cove Fire Protection District
6
The District informed LAFCo that it contracts with Fresno County Fire Protection District for
additional services such as emergency fire dispatch. The District participates has various signed
mutual aid agreements for emergency response with neighboring agencies including: Fresno
County Fire Protection District, Tulare County Fire Protection District, County of Fresno, County
of Tulare, and the State of California Fire.
DISTRICT GROWTH AND POPULATION PROJECTIONS
The Counties of Fresno and Tulare are the land use authorities for territory in the District’s
service area. The Fresno County General Plan designates majority the land within the District
for agricultural uses. The Tulare County General Plan likewise designates its portion of the
District service area for agricultural use. Most of the land within the rural portions of the
District is occupied by large-scale farming operations with permanent row crops. Also, a
majority of the agricultural land within the District’s service area is under Williamson Act
Contract.4
According to U.S. census tract data, the District’s estimated population (Fresno and Tulare
County combined) is 23,400; with approximately 14,051 people in the unincorporated part of
the District,5 and approximately 9,349 people residing in the City of Orange Cove.6 Future
population growth relative to the eastern portion of Fresno County is most likely to occur inside
the City of Orange Cove, City of Reedley, and neighboring cities, a growth pattern consistent
with Fresno County policy to direct growth to the cities due to a wider range of municipal
services they offer.7 In Tulare County, the City of Dinuba, and the unincorporated communities
of Orosi and Cutler are the nearest communities outside the District’s service area in Tulare
County that would potentially host future growth. It is noted, however, that the Tulare County
General Plan cites the Tulare County Association of Governments (TCAG) projection that the
percentage of Tulare County’s population living in unincorporated areas will decrease by 2030.8
The District coordinates with the City of Orange Cove, Fresno County, and Tulare County on
development proposals that potentially could affect land uses and District service levels.
Population growth in the Orange Cove area is conservative and balanced extensively by
protected agricultural land. The majority of agricultural land within the District contains
permanent row-crops and it is anticipated that land uses will remain the same over time. The
District coordinates with local agencies through the City and Counties application review process
so that development is adequately served by the District.
The District does not anticipate significant growth to occur for the next five to ten years,
however, the District projects an increase needs for public safety services in and around the City
4 California Department of Conservation, Data and Maps,
http://www.conservation.ca.gov/dlrp/lca/Pages/Index.aspx.
5 United Stated Census Bureau, American Community Survey Information, 2009-2013- Fresno County.
Tract 65.01 and 65.02 population estimates and Tulare County Tract 2.02.
6 United Stated Census Bureau, American Community Survey Information, 2009-2013-City of Orange Cove
Population. Comments by District staff estimate the District’s total population in both counties as
approximately 12,000, though no source of this data was provided.
7 County of Fresno, Housing Element, pg. 7-58 – East Valley Market Area.
8 County of Tulare, General Plan Background Report February 2010, page 2-31.
MSR and SOI update Orange Cove Fire Protection District
7
of Orange Cove. Using the commission’s 20 to 25-year planning horizon for SOIs, the District
boundaries are relatively fixed and not anticipated to require revision.
DISADVANTAGED UNINCORPORATED COMMUNITIES
The Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Local Government Reorganization Act of 2000 (CKH) requires LAFCo
to make determinations regarding "disadvantaged unincorporated communities" ("DUCs") when
considering a change of organization, reorganization, SOI expansion, and when conducting
municipal service reviews.
For any updates to a SOI of a local agency (city or special district) that provides public facilities or
services related to sewer, municipal and industrial water, or structural fire protection, the
Commission shall consider and prepare written determinations regarding the present and
planned capacity of public facilities and adequacy of public services, and infrastructure needs or
deficiencies for any disadvantaged unincorporated community within or contiguous to the SOI
of a city or special district.
GC sec. 56033.5 defines a DUC as: i) all or a portion of a “disadvantaged community” as defined
by sec. 79505.5 of the Water Code (territory with an annual median household income (MHI)
that is less than 80 percent of the statewide annual median household income and as defined in
GC sec. 56046 and WC sec. 79505.5); and a status of ii) “inhabited territory” (12 or more
registered voters), as defined by GC sec. 56046, or as determined by Commission policy. Fresno
LAFCo policy further refines the definition of a DUC as having at least 15 dwelling units at a
density not less than one unit per acre.
GIS files were derived from the US Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS) compiled
for the five-year period 2010-2014 to identify the demographic composition for the various
census geographies. Although the ACS provides annual and three-year estimates, the five-year
reports between years 2010-2014 provide more precise data and mapping information for
analyzing small populations. The five-year reports are the most reliable form of information
generated by the US Census bureau.9 The statewide MHI reported for years 2010 through 2014
was $61,489. Hence, the calculated threshold for a DUC is any geographic unit with a reported
MHI that is less than $49,191. The census block group data was utilized to provide the economic
and population backgrounds for this section of the MSR.
The District’s service area lies within various census geographic units in Fresno and Tulare
Counties. Based on the census datasets obtained during the preparation of this report, the
District’s service area is located in various census geographic units that meet the MHI threshold
consistent with the standard definition established for Disadvantaged Communities. 10
The District provides public safety, protects lives, and protects property within its limited
boundaries, which includes the City of Orange Cove. The District has automatic aid agreements
with neighboring agencies, such as, Fresno County Fire Protection District and Tulare County Fire
Protection District to provide fire protection and emergency response to location near Orange
9 US Census Bureau, http://www.census.gov/acs/www/guidance_for_data_users/estimates/.
10 Department of Water Resources- Disadvantaged Communities WC sec. 79505.5.
MSR and SOI update Orange Cove Fire Protection District
8
Cove. LAFCo observes that majority of the land in the District is rural agricultural land, while the
City of Orange Cove holds the vast majority of the District’s population. For the purpose of this
MSR, the District serves an area considered by water code as Disadvantaged Communities;
however, no DUC as defined by Fresno LAFCo DUC Policy were identified during the preparation
of this report.
DISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURE
The District offers a number of services to its community residents including but not limited to
fire suppression, rescue services, fire prevention, and emergency medical services. The District
benefits from a share facilities contract with the City of Orange Cove which provides the District
the fire station headquarters located at 550 Center Street, in the City of Orange Cove. The
District entered into a 10-year lease agreement with the City of Orange Cove on September 12,
2012, for a portion of the facilities for a term of 20 years with no annual payments. The City of
Orange Cove leases the other portion of the station to Orange Cove Police Department.
The District employs one full time staff member, two part-time employees, and 31 volunteer
paid-call firefighters. The District is managed by the District Fire Chief, and daily operations are
overseen with the assistance of the District’s Office Manager/Bookkeeper.
The District’s Fire station is leased from City of Orange Cove, which also houses the Orange Cove
Police Department. The District owns one water tender, three fire engines, four truck/vehicles
which are listed below. The District owns and houses the following apparatuses at the fire
station:
2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
2014 Ford F-550
2013 Chevy Silverado
2005 Sterling - 1T9500
2003 Ford F550
2001 Freightliner Pumper
1985 Ford FMC Van Pelt Pumper
1980 lnternational S1824
1942 Ford Fire Truck (Parade vehicle only)
The District contracts with Fresno County Fire Protection District and City of Orange Cove for
additional services.
The District operates and drives to and from incidents using emergency response vehicles. The
District informed LAFCo that approximately 79% of its emergency response calls are within the
Orange Cove city limits, and fewer emergency calls are in the rural areas of the District.
The District informed LAFCo various station improvements have been completed; specifically,
shower facilities have been installed at the station for paid-firefighters to use during extended
work shift periods and the station’s sleeping quadrants have been increased to add more space
for paid-firefighters working overnight hours.
MSR and SOI update Orange Cove Fire Protection District
9
The District draws its water resources for its fire engine/water tenders from various hydrant
locations throughout the City of Orange Cove. In the more rural areas, during an emergency the
District engines are capable of drawing water from canals or natural waterways.
The District serves an area approximately 27,200 acres in size, and has a class rating of “Class
5/5Y” through the Insurance Service Office (ISO).11 The ISO is an agency that evaluates fire
protection features for all fire departments to establishing rates for underwriters, such as
property insurance providers. ISO uses a rating system that is based on a scale of one through
10, with one being the best fire protection rating and 10 being the worst. The ISO rating “Class
5/5Y” is based on ISO Public Protection Classification Program’s assessment and scoring of the
District in four primary areas: 1) Emergency communications, 2) Water supply, 3) Community
risk reduction, 4) Fire department. The “Class 5” rating is assigned for the urban area in the
District, while the “Class 5Y” rating corresponds to the rural areas in the District.
The District’s general response time within the City of Orange Cove is three to five minutes.
Response times in the rural areas of the District fall within 10 minutes once notified of the event
to arrival at the scene of the incident.
During the preparation of this MSR, the District informed LAFCo it does not have plans to
purchase new equipment or firefighting apparatuses due to annual limited funding available to
the District. However, the District seeks opportunities to secure state and federal grants or
enter into shared buying power agreements with CAL Fire to purchase large equipment and
machinery on an as needed basis. The District informed LAFCo that it works with the City of
Orange Cove and various agencies to keep the adequate service level deliveries.
The District has a capital improvement plan that assists the District to monitor its facility
maintenance expenses, and identify funding to be set aside each year so that equipment and
facilities are continuously maintained and operating efficiently. The District has a system in
place that allow for funds to be used to support and enhance the levels of service and
operations of the District.
DISTRICT FINANCES
This section of the MSR includes financial information provided by the District’s Management on
behalf of the District. The District provided financial data to LAFCo so that it can determine if the
District has sufficient revenues and financial systems to continue its provision of services to its
customers. The following information and analysis section is based on annual budgets, and
supportive documents available through the District’s participation with the Commission’s MSR
Program.
The District prepares and adopts an annual budget on or before October 1st of each year
consistent with the District’s By-laws and Government Code.12 The District’s budget projects
anticipated revenues and expenditures using detailed line items for the upcoming year.
11Insurance Service Office- Public Protection Classification Survey Results-Letter to OCFPD dated March 28,
2016.
12 GC sec. 7900-7914.
MSR and SOI update Orange Cove Fire Protection District
10
The District’s primary source of revenue is annual property taxes charged to all parcels within
the District. The District receives those fund through the Fresno County Auditor-
Controller/Treasurer–Tax Collector from both Fresno and Tulare Counties. At the time this
service review was prepared, the District showed its total operating revenues greater than its
anticipated total operating expenditures. The District reported to LAFCo that it has debt, which
will be described later in this section.
The District informs LAFCo that though annual property taxes make up majority of the District’s
budget these revenues are minimal and generate minimal revenue to finance the District’s
operation. The District also pursues state and federal funding when opportunities arise
agreeable to the District, primarily for capital projects and firefighting equipment. According to
the District, it does not have an active fee program in place for services provided by the District.
According to the District’s FY 2016-17 Budget, the District received $421,539 in revenue for the
fiscal year. District revenues are obtained through various means including the following
general categories:
Property tax secured and unsecured (both Counties) $112,288, homeowners
appropriations $2,875, interest distributions $2,244, Measure O $47,700, Federal
Housing $30, Fish and Game $30, Taxes $11, Teeter $118,475 Redevelopment funds
$33,153, and miscellaneous income $ 30 totaling to $316,811;
Grant income, Homeland Security, miscellaneous grants ($37,320); and
Other ($67,408).
The District accounts for various expenditures line items in its budget. For FY 2016-17, the
District’s total expenses amounted to $366,476. The following general categories identify the
District’s largest expense during FY 2016-17.
Capital Overlay/Grant Expenses, Volume Fire Assistance, Computers, Fuel, Others
($69,869);
Insurance, Payroll, Facility Repairs and Maintenance, Supplies and Equipment - Station
and Office, and Training ($296,607).
The District’s budget shows $55,063 as anticipated net income for FY 2016-17, of which $12,000
is anticipated budget is planned to be allocated toward a previous CalPERS plan repayment. The
District’s FY 2016-17 budget estimates a net income of $43,063.
LAFCo staff was provided a copy of the District’s recent independent financial statements, and
supplementary information prepared by an auditor for fiscal years ending June 30, 2014.
Although the auditor’s report accounts for a different time periods than the District’s FY 2016-17
budget, it provides LAFCo an overview representation on the District’s financial practices.
According to the Audit, the District accounts are organized on the basis of fund accounting, and
it utilizes a “general fund” structure for its appropriations. Under fund accounting, different
types of District operations are accounted for in different funds, each with a separate set of self-
balancing accounts that comprise its assets, liabilities, fund balance, revenues and expenditures
as appropriate.
MSR and SOI update Orange Cove Fire Protection District
11
The District invests the majority of its cash with the Fresno County Treasurer, as part of the
Fresno County Investment Pool and the rest of the amount in an account held with Union Bank.
As of June 30, 2014, the Fresno County Investment Pool showed a District balance of $337,371
and Union Bank showed a balance of $64,289. All pooled funds are regulated by the California
Government Code.
The auditor’s report indicates that at the time the financial audit was preformed, the District’s
financial practices conformed to generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). Additionally,
the auditor’s report notes that the District at that time was analyzing its accounting practices to
determine potential impacts on establishing accounting and financial reporting standards
related to government combinations and disposals of government operations.13
A review of the Fresno County Auditor Controller/Treasurer-Tax Collector’s schedule of levies
for FY 2015-16, states that the District received a Net Levy amount of $151,259, from properties
in the District and in Fresno County.14 Likewise, Tulare County Auditor Controller/Treasurer-Tax
Collector’s Property Tax Review Estimate report for FY2015-16 shows that the District received a
net revenue of $95,300 from properties in the District and in Tulare County.15
On November 4, 2014, the City of Orange Cove proposed “Measure O” to the voters of the City,
Orange Cove Department, and the District to authorize the City to impose a special property tax
that would increase funding for police and fire protection services. Measure O resulted in a
majority two-thirds supermajority vote in support of the expenditures.16 The special tax was
designed to be imposed annually with the an annual rate of: $95 per single-family residential
unit, $65 per unit in a multi-family residential building, $95 per agricultural parcel, $495 per
commercial parcel, and $750 per parcel for areas zoned for industrial or manufacturing uses.17
LAFCo observes that that although the District expressed that it could benefit from additional
revenues, there appear to be sufficient annual revenue that allows it to for its service levels to
continue operating. Based on available financial information, the District’s total revenues
appear to exceed its liabilities at the time this MSR was prepared. It appears that the District is
able to meet its financial obligations, and is available to meet the District’s ongoing
commitments to residents and creditors.
13 Government Account Standard Board Statement No. 69, OCFPD Notes to the basic financial Statements
June 30, 2014 page 15.
14 County of Fresno Schedule of Levies 2015-16, Orange Cove FPD,
http://www.co.fresno.ca.us/ViewDocument.aspx?id=67521.
15 County of Tulare, Property Tax Revenue Estimates for FY 2015-16,
http://tularecounty.ca.gov/treasurertaxcollector/index.cfm/property-tax-accounting/reports/property-
tax-revenue-estimates/2015-16-revenue-estimate/.
16 Fresno County, California November 4, 2014 Statewide General Election Official Report by County
Clerk/Registrar of Voters, published December 2, 2014,
http://www.co.fresno.ca.us/DepartmentPage.aspx?id=59440.
17 City of Orange Cove, Ordinance No. 368, Resolution No. 2014-37,
http://www2.co.fresno.ca.us/2850/post/2014NovMeasureOFullText.pdf.
MSR and SOI update Orange Cove Fire Protection District
12
PUBLIC FACILITIES, OPPORTUNITIES FOR SHARED FACILITIES
The District is an independent special district governed by a three-member board of directors.
The District already benefits from various mutual and shared facilities agreement with the City
of Orange Cove. Additionally, the District has mutual aid agreements for dispatch and
emergency response with Fresno County Fire Protection District, Tulare County Fire Protection
District, Fresno County, Tulare County, and the state of California.
Other Districts that overlay the District include:
The Fresno County Library - District provides library services;
Consolidated Mosquito Abatement District;
Alta Cemetery District;
Orange Cove Irrigation District;
Orange Cove Police Protection District; and
Hills Valley Irrigation District.
Districts near OCFPD boundaries that provide municipal services and/ or fire protection:
Fresno County Fire Protection District.
GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY
This section of the MSR considers various topics, such as compliance with state disclosure laws,
the Brown Act, public participation, i.e. open meetings, accessible staff, election processes, and
the agency’s governing structure. Additionally, this considers the agency’s level of participation
with the Commission MSR program.
Health and Safety Code, Section 13800 et seq., (Fire Protection District Law of 1987) enables the
formation of fire protection districts. The District has adopted bylaws, agency policies, and rules
of conduct that govern the District’s operation, and assist the District implement the fire
ordinance consistent with the California Fire Code and the International Fire Code. Citizen
participation in the election process is an essential component of local government
accountability. Any register voter residing within the District boundaries is eligible to be a
candidate to serve on the District board, as known as the Commission of the District. For the
purpose of this report, the District’s Commission and Commissioner will be referred to as board
of directors and board member.
The District is an independent special district with its separate board of directors, not governed
by other legislative bodies (either a city council or a county board of supervisors). A body of
three elected officials serve as the governing body of the District. The three members of the
board are elected by voters within the District boundaries to four-year terms or until their
successor qualifies and takes office.18 The three District board seats are filled, two are set to
expire late 2018, and one term set to expire in 2020. The District board members are
volunteers, and serve on the Board without compensation.
18 Health & Safety Code sec. 13843 (a) The term of office of each member of a district board is four years or until his
or her successor qualifies and takes office, except as provided in subdivision (b).
MSR and SOI update Orange Cove Fire Protection District
13
The board of directors creates District policy by adopting resolutions and ordinances through
duly-noticed public meetings. The District board meets on the second Monday of each month at
7:00 p.m., at the District office conference room. All District board meetings take place at 550
Center Street, Orange Cove, California 93646. From time to time, the Board has the authority to
change the Board meeting location and time with proper notice. Meetings are noticed
consistent with Brown Act requirements, which include postings notice of hearing in public
places. The District’s Board agendas and meeting notice are posted 72 hours prior to the regular
meetings at the District’s office, Orange Cove U.S. Post Office, and at the Orange Cove - County
of Fresno Library. Public notices are displayed in a clear visible and accessible site at the
District’s principal office.
The District board meetings are open to the public and residents are invited to attend the
monthly board meetings. Opportunity to address the District board on items not on the agenda
is provided on each meeting agenda. If a public member desires to present to the board, the
person is encouraged to contact the District Office Manager or the Fire Chief in advance to place
the item/concern on the next month’s agenda. Board meetings are conducted using the current
edition of Robert’s Rules of Order. Each Board member is required to receive board member
training which includes conflict of interest and ethics training.
The District’s mission statement is, “The Orange Cove Fire Protection District protects life,
property and the environment through emergency response, prevention and community
awareness.” The Board’s adopted vision statement is, “The Orange Cove Fire Protection District
embraces public service and will be recognized as a leader who responds effectively with well-
trained and compassionate professionals.”
The District is managed the District’s Fire Chief, and daily office operations are overseen with
the assistance of the Office Manager and assisting staff. The District informed LAFCo that it has
one part-time fire chief, one full-time battalion chief, one part-time employee, and
approximately 31 volunteer – paid-call firefighters. The District heavily relies on its volunteers;
however, the District actively seeks/applies for grants to help fund additional staff & fire
prevention programs within the community. The District’s Battalion Chief identified the number
of paid-call firefighters on as needed basis and availability of each volunteer to schedule
reporting firefighters during an emergency incident. The District is an active member in the
South Valley Training Officers Association, and the District requires each volunteer to attend
training consistent with the District’s personnel/officer policies.
The District was subject to a 2009 Fresno County Grand Jury (GJ) Report that noted various
concerns associated with local governance.19 The GJ undertook the investigation to determine
whether or not proper management practices, procedures, and policies had been established by
the District, and whether or not they were being followed. The GJ report concluded with five
recommendations for the District, summarized as follows:
19Fresno County 2009-2010 Grand Jury Report #9, Orange Cove Fire Protection District,
http://www.fresno.courts.ca.gov/_pdfs/Grand%20Jury%20Reports/Grand%20Jury%20Final%20Report%2
02009-2010.pdf.
MSR and SOI update Orange Cove Fire Protection District
14
Written “Policies and Procedures” need updating to comply with current regulations
changes. A “Volunteer’s Reference Manual” Should be developed.
The District should ask City of Orange Cove for inclusion on their website. District
should disclose public records on the website, meeting agenda, job openings, policy
documents, in pdf formats.
Board and Fire Chief should approach the City of Orange Cove for annual finance
support, assistance for the District’s endeavor to impose its ISO classification.
Amend District Bylaws to prevent former fire chiefs from serving on the District board,
eliminate the Assistant Fire Chief and identify a replacement to cover the Fire Chief’s
responsibilities.
GJ Recommendation “R905” addressed various local governance options for the District
to consider ranging from increasing the Board membership, digitizing agency record,
ethics and sexual harassment training, and updating District policy on a three to four-
year frequency.
After reviewing the District’s 2009 Grand Jury report, the 2009 CalPERS audit20, and conducting a
November 29, 2016, telephone conversation with District Office Manager Heather Alvarez,
LAFCo staff concludes that the District has made a good-faith effort to resolve the issues raised
in the Grand Jury’s report.
20Office of Audit Services, Public Agency Review OCFPD, Feb. 2013,
https://www.calpers.ca.gov/docs/forms-publications/compliance-orange-cove-fire.pdf.
MSR and SOI update Orange Cove Fire Protection District
15
2. MSR DETERMINATIONS
This portion of the report addresses the factors specified in the governing statute for Municipal
Service Reviews and provides analysis in conformance with GC sec. §56425 and Fresno LAFCo
policy. Pursuant to GC sec. §56430, the Commission has prepared the following written
determinations.
1. GROWTH AND POPULATION PROJECTIONS FOR THE
AFFECTED AREA
The District’s service area and sphere of influence (SOI) are conterminous and
encompass 27,200 acres located within Fresno and Tulare Counties. Fresno County
contains 14,434 acres which includes City of Orange Cove, while County of Tulare
contains 12,766 acres of mostly agricultural land.
The District SOI and service area encompass portions of both the County of Fresno and
the County of Tulare. These counties are the respective land use authority for the
unincorporated territory within the District and their respective General Plan Land Use
Elements designate the majority of the District’s territory for agricultural uses.
The City of Orange Cove overlaps 1,150 acres within the District boundaries. Territory in
the City is urbanized with various land uses including but not limited to commercial,
open space/recreational, multi-family, and single family-residential uses.
The District’s estimated population (Fresno and Tulare County combined) is 23,400; with
approximately 14,051 people in the unincorporated part of the District, and
approximately 9,349 people residing in the City of Orange Cove. Future population
growth relative to the eastern portion of Fresno County is most likely to occur inside the
City of Orange Cove, City of Reedley, and neighboring cities, a growth pattern consistent
with Fresno County policy to direct growth to the cities due to a wider range of
municipal services they offer. In Tulare County, the City of Dinuba, and the
unincorporated communities of Orosi and Cutler are the nearest communities outside
the District’s service area in Tulare County that would potentially host future growth. It
is noted, however, that the Tulare County General Plan cites the Tulare County
Association of Governments (TCAG) projection that the percentage of Tulare County’s
population living in unincorporated areas will decrease by 2030.
The majority of agricultural land within the District contains permanent row-crops.
Based on the Fresno and Tulare County General Plans it is anticipated that these land
uses will remain the same over time.
The District does not anticipate significant growth to occur for the next five to ten years,
however, the District projects an increase demand for public safety services in and
around the City of Orange Cove.
MSR and SOI update Orange Cove Fire Protection District
16
Using the Commission’s 20 to 25-year planning horizon for SOIs, the District boundaries
are relatively fixed and are not anticipated to be revised.
2. THE LOCATION AND CHARACTERISTICS OF ANY
DISADVANTAGED UNINCORPORATED COMMUNITIES
WITHIN OR CONTIGUOUS TO THE SPHERE OF INFLUENCE
The District’s service area lies within various census geographic units in Fresno and
Tulare Counties. Based on the census datasets obtained during the preparation of this
report, the District’s service area is located in various census geographic units that meet
the MHI threshold consistent with the standard definition established for Disadvantaged
Communities.
1. For the purpose of this MSR, the District serves an area considered by water code as
Disadvantaged Communities; however, no Disadvantaged Unincorporated
Commmunities as defined by Fresno LAFCo DUC Policy were identified during the
preparation of this report.
2. The District provides public safety, protects lives, and protects property within its
limited boundaries, which includes the City of Orange Cove. The District has automatic
aid agreements with neighboring agencies, such as, Fresno County Fire Protection
District and Tulare County Fire Protection District to provide fire protection and
emergency response to location near Orange Cove. LAFCo observes that majority of the
land in the District is rural agricultural land, while the City of Orange Cove holds the vast
majority of the District’s population.
3. PRESENT AND PLANNED CAPACITY OF PUBLIC FACILITIES
AND INFRASTRUCTURE NEEDS OR DEFICIENCIES
The District offers a number of services to its community residents including but not
limited to fire suppression, rescue services, fire prevention, and emergency medical
services.
The District entered into a 10-year lease agreement with the City of Orange Cove on
September 12, 2012, for a portion of the facilities for a term of 20 years with no annual
payments. The City of Orange Cove leases the other portion of the station to Orange
Cove Police Department.
The District has identified needed station improvements and has completed
improvements to its station to accommodate its paid-firefighters working overnight
hours.
The District is managed by the District Fire Chief, and daily operations are overseen with
the assistance of the District’s Office Manager/Bookkeeper. The District employs one
part-time fire chief, one full-time battalion chief, one part-time employee, and
approximately 31 volunteer – paid-call firefighters.
MSR and SOI update Orange Cove Fire Protection District
17
The District owns one water tender, three fire engines, four truck/vehicles which are
listed below. The District owns and houses the following other apparatuses at the fire
station.
The District informed LAFCo that approximately 79% of its emergency response calls are
within the Orange Cove city limits, and fewer emergency calls are in the rural areas of
the District.
The District draws its water resources for its fire engine/water tenders from various
hydrant locations throughout the City of Orange Cove. In the more rural areas, during
an emergency the District engines are capable of drawing water from canals or natural
waterways.
The District has a class rating of “Class 5/5Y” through the Insurance Service Office (ISO).
The District’s general response time within the City of Orange Cove is three to five
minutes. Response times in the rural areas of the District fall within 10 minutes from
notification of the incident to arrival at the scene.
The District seeks opportunities to secure state and federal grants or enter into shared
buying power agreements with CAL Fire to purchase large equipment and machinery on
an as needed basis. The District informed LAFCo that it works with the City of Orange
Cove and various agencies to keep the adequate service level deliveries.
4. FINANCIAL ABILITY OF AGENCY TO PROVIDE SERVICES
The District has a capital improvement plan that assists the District to monitor its facility
maintenance expenses, and identify funding to be set aside each year so that equipment
and facilities are continuously maintained and operating efficiently. The District has a
system in place that allow for funds to be used to support and enhance the levels of
service and operations of the District.
The District prepares and adopts an annual budget on or before October 1st of each
year consistent with the District’s By-laws and Government Code.
The District’s primary source of revenue is annual property taxes charged to all parcels
within the District. The District receives those fund through the Fresno County Auditor-
Controller/Treasurer–Tax Collector from both Fresno and Tulare Counties.
The District’s FY 2016-17 Budget projects revenue of $421,539 and expenses of
$366,476. $12,000 of the District’s anticipated budget is allocated toward monthly
payments to CalPERS. The District’s FY 2016-17 budget estimates a net income of
$43,063.
MSR and SOI update Orange Cove Fire Protection District
18
The District pursues state and federal funding when opportunities arise agreeable to the
District, primarily for capital projects and firefighting equipment.
The District does not have an active fee program in place for administrative services it
provides.
The District’s most current independent auditor’s report, financial report, and
supplementary information for was for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2014. The
auditor’s report indicated that at the time the financial audit was preformed, the
District’s financial practices conformed with generally accepted accounting principles
(GAAP). The auditor’s report notes that the District was analyzing its accounting
practices to determine potential impacts on establishing accounting and financial
reporting standards related to government combinations and disposals of government
operations.
The respective County Auditor Controller/Treasurer-Tax Collector’s schedule of levies
for FY 2015-16, identifies a District net revenue of $151,259 from properties in Fresno
County and revenue of $95,300 from properties in Tulare County.
On November 4, 2014, the City of Orange Cove proposed “Measure O” to the voters of
the City, Orange Cove Department, and the District to authorize the City to impose a
special property tax that would increase funding for police and fire protection services.
The District receives sufficient annual revenue to support its current service levels, meet
its financial obligations.
5. STATUS OF, AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR, SHARED
FACILITIES
The District benefits from a share facilities contract with the City of Orange Cove which
provides the District the fire station headquarters located at 550 Center Street, in the
City of Orange Cove.
The District contracts with Fresno County Fire Protection District and City of Orange
Cove for additional services.
6. ACCOUNTABILITY FOR COMMUNITY SERVICE NEEDS,
INCLUDING GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE AND OPERATIONAL
EFFICIENCIES
The District’s government structure appears to be appropriate to ensure services are
adequately provided and managed. At the time preparing this MSR, the District and City
of Orange Cove’s interaction demonstrate effective collaboration to ensure public safety
is maintained and continue operating at reliable service levels in the Orange Cove area.
MSR and SOI update Orange Cove Fire Protection District
19
The District’s adopted core values emphasize, accountability, dedication, service, and
trust with the Orange Cove community. At the time LAFCo prepared this MSR, the
District’s government structure appeared to be adequately structured, operates, and
fulfills its role as a services provider within the Fresno County area.
The District is an independent special district with its separate board of directors, not
governed by other legislative bodies (either a city council or a county board of
supervisors). A body of three elected officials serves as the governing body of the
District. The three members of the board are elected by voters within the District
boundaries to four-year terms or until their successor qualifies and takes office.
The District board meets on the second Monday of each month beginning at 7:00 p.m.
at the District Office at 550 Center Street, Orange Cove, CA 93646.
Meetings are noticed consistent with Brown Act requirements, which include postings in
public places, such as the District headquarters. Public notices are displayed outside of
the District office ten days before each meeting.
Opportunity to address the District board on items not on the agenda is provided on
each meeting agenda.
The District’s government structure appears to be appropriate to ensure services are
adequately provided and managed.
7. ANY OTHER MATTER RELATED TO EFFECTIVE OR
EFFICIENT SERVICE DELIVERY, AS REQUIRED BY
COMMISSION POLICY
This MSR identifies the complete service area and SOI of the District, including portions
in Tulare County.
Fresno County is the principal county as defined by California Government Code Section
56066 (GC).
The District was subject to a 2009 Fresno County Grand Jury (GJ) Report that noted
various concerns associated with local governance. Since that time, the District has
made a good-faith effort to resolve the issues raised in the Grand Jury’s report.
MSR and SOI update Orange Cove Fire Protection District
20
3. SPHERE OF INFLUENCE DETERMINATIONS
In order to carry out the Commission’s purposes and responsibilities for planning and shaping
the logical and orderly development and coordination of local governmental agencies subject to
its jurisdiction, the Commission shall develop and determine the sphere of influence of each city
and each special district within the County and enact policies designed to promote the logical
and orderly development of areas within the sphere. A sphere of Influence is defined as “a plan
for the probable physical boundaries and service area of a local agency, as determined by the
commission.”
In determining a sphere of influence, the Commission may assess the feasibility of governmental
reorganization of particular agencies and recommend reorganization of those agencies when
reorganization is found to be feasible and if reorganization will further the goals of orderly
development and efficient and affordable service delivery. The Commission shall make all
reasonable efforts to ensure wide public dissemination of the recommendations.
When adopting, amending, or updating a sphere of influence for a special district, the
Commission shall establish the nature, location, and extent of any functions or classes of
services provided by existing districts. The Commission may require existing districts to file
written statements with the Commission specifying the functions or classes of services provided
by those districts.
Section 1 of this MSR provides the foundation for the SOI determinations. In determining the
sphere of influence of each local agency, the Fresno LAFCo shall consider and prepare a written
statement of its determinations with respect to each of the following:
1. PRESENT AND PLANNED LAND USES, INCLUDING
AGRICULTURAL AND OPEN-SPACE LANDS
The District provides public safety, protects lives and property within its limited
boundaries.
The District’s service area and SOI are coterminous and encompass 27,200 acres in
Fresno and Tulare Counties. Land within the District varies from agriculture, residential,
and commercial facilities. The City of Orange Cove is the only incorporated are in the
District.
The Counties of Fresno and Tulare are the land use authority for the unincorporated
land within the District; their respective General Plan Land Use Elements designate
majority of the District’s territory for agricultural use with the exception of the
incorporated City of Orange Cove. The City is the land use authority for territory within
its corporate limits.
MSR and SOI update Orange Cove Fire Protection District
21
2. PRESENT AND PROBABLE NEED FOR PUBLIC FACILITIES
AND SERVICES IN THE AREA
The District informed LAFCo that while its growth projections are relatively minimal, it
anticipates an increased need for public safety services within and around the City of
Orange Cove.
The District has a capital improvement plan that assists the District to monitor its facility
maintenance expenses, and identify funding to be set aside each year so that equipment
and facilities are continuously maintained and operating efficiently. The District has a
system in place that allow for funds to be used to support and enhance the levels of
service and operations of the District.
The District serves an area approximately 27,200 acres in size, and has a class rating of
“Class 5/5Y” through the Insurance Service Office (ISO).
The District’s general response time within the City of Orange Cove is three to five
minutes. Response times in the rural areas of the District fall within 10 minutes once
notified of the event to arrival at the scene of the incident.
The District contracts with Fresno County Fire Protection District for specific services
such as arson investigation, enforcement of fire codes, and emergency 911 dispatch.
The District responds to emergency 911 calls and other calls related to medical
emergencies. The District also provides fire information reporting required under the
California Fire Incident Reporting system.
3. PRESENT CAPACITY OF PUBLIC FACILITIES AND
ADEQUACY OF PUBLIC SERVICES THAT THE AGENCY
PROVIDES OR IS AUTHORIZED TO PROVIDE
The District facilities are adequate to support its public safety mission.
4. EXISTENCE OF ANY SOCIAL OR ECONOMIC COMMUNITIES
OF INTEREST IN THE AREA IF THE COMMISSION
DETERMINES THAT THEY ARE RELEVANT TO THE AGENCY
No community, exclusive of the Disadvantaged Community, exists.
5. THE PRESENT AND PROBABLE NEED FOR THOSE PUBLIC
FACILITIES AND SERVICES OF ANY DISADVANTAGED
UNINCORPORATED COMMUNITIES WITHIN THE EXISTING
SPHERE OF INFLUENCE
The District provides public safety, protects lives, and protects property within its
boundaries, which includes the City of Orange Cove.
MSR and SOI update Orange Cove Fire Protection District
22
The District serves an area considered by water code as Disadvantaged Communities;
however, no DUC as defined by Fresno LAFCo DUC Policy were identified during the
preparation of this report.
4. RECOMMENDATIONS
In consideration of information gathered and evaluated during the Municipal Service Review, it
is recommended the Commission:
1. Receive this report and any public testimony regarding the proposed Municipal Service
Review and proposed Sphere of Influence update.
2. Find that the Municipal Service Review is exempt from the California Environmental
Quality Act pursuant to section 15306 (Information Collection).
3. Approve the recommended Municipal Service Review determinations, together with any
changes deemed appropriate.
4. Approve the recommended Sphere of Influence determinations, together with any
changes deemed appropriate.
5. Affirm the existing Orange Cove FPD SOI.
5. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
This Municipal Service Review update was prepared by Fresno LAFCO. Orange Cove Fire
Protection District administration provided substantial information included in this service
review. Supporting documentation was made available through the effective partnership
between the District and Fresno LAFCo. Fresno LAFCo staff extends its appreciation to the
District Board, Tom Greenwood, District Fire Chief, and Heather D. Alvarez, Business Manager of
the District for their assistance and active participation in the development of this Municipal
Service Review.
Available Documentation – documents used for the preparation of this report consist of public
records and are available at the Fresno Local Agency Formation Commission Office located at:
Fresno Local Agency Formation Commission
2607 Fresno Street, Suite B
Fresno, California 93721
The Municipal Service Review is available on Fresno LAFCo’s website,
http://www.fresnolafco.org/default.asp
G:\LAFCo Projects\Districts\FPD\Orange Cove FPD\OCFPD_MSR_FINAL.doc
MSR and SOI update Orange Cove Fire Protection District
23