County Rec Park MSR ADOPTED 9.21.16

Countywide Recreation and Park Services Municipal Service Review Adopted September 2016 TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.0 Introduction .........................................................................................................................1 1.1 Service Review and Determinations......................................................................................... 1 1.2 Uses of the Report ........................................................................................................................ 1 1.3 Spheres of Influence .................................................................................................................... 1 1.4 Review Methods ............................................................................................................................ 2 2.0 Recreation and Park Services Overview .......................................................................... 3 2.1 Existing Resources ......................................................................................................................... 3 2.2 Service Providers and Service Areas ......................................................................................... 5 3.0 Service Agency Profiles ....................................................................................................... 3.1 Rohner Community Recreation and Park District .................................................................... 3.2 North Humboldt Recreation and Park District .......................................................................... LIST OF FIGURES Figure 2-1 ........................................................................................................................................................... 16 Figure 3-1 ........................................................................................................................................................... 18 Figure 4-1 ........................................................................................................................................................... 31 LIST OF TABLES Table 2-1 Humboldt County Park Inventory ................................................................................................. 5 Table 2-2 City of Arcata Park Inventory ........................................................................................................ 6 Table 2-3 City of Eureka Park Inventory ........................................................................................................ 8 Table 2-4 City of Blue Lake Park Inventory ................................................................................................. 10 Table 2-5 City of Ferndale Park Inventory ................................................................................................... 10 Table 2-6 City of Fortuna Park Inventory ..................................................................................................... 11 Table 2-7 City of Rio Dell Park Inventory...................................................................................................... 11 Table 2-8 City of Trinidad Park Inventory..................................................................................................... 12 Table 2-9 Rio Dell Fire Protection District ..................................................................................................... 13 Table 2-10 Loleta Community Services District Inventory ........................................................................ 13 Table 2-11 Manila Community Services District Park Inventory .............................................................. 13 Table 2-12 McKinleyville Community Services District Park Inventory ................................................... 14 Table 2-13 Resort Improvement District No. 1 (Shelter Cove) Park Inventory ...................................... 14 1 Table 2-14 Scotia Community Services District Park Inventory ............................................................... 15 Table 2-15 Willow Creek Community Services District Park Inventory ................................................... 15 Table 3-1 RCRPD Overview ............................................................................................................................ 19 Table 3-2 RCRPD Contact Information and Governing Body ................................................................ 21 Table 3-3 RCRPD Revenues ........................................................................................................................... 23 Table 3-4 NHRPD Overview............................................................................................................................ 30 Table 3-5 NHRPD Contact Information and Governing Body ................................................................ 33 Table 3-6 NFRPD Revenues ............................................................................................................................ 36 Table 3-7 NHRPD Detailed Budget ............................................................................................................... 36 2 1 INTRODUCTION This report is prepared pursuant to legislation enacted in 2000 that requires Local Agency Formation Commissions (LAFCos) to conduct a comprehensive review of municipal services and update the spheres of influence of all agencies under LAFCo’s jurisdiction. The focus of this report is park and recreation service providers in Humboldt County. This chapter provides a background of the service review requirements and an overview of the process and methodology of the review. 1.1 Service Review and Determinations The Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Local Government Reorganization Act of 2000 (California Government Code Section 56000 et seq.) requires LAFCo to review and update spheres of influence no less than once every five years and to review municipal services prior to or in conjunction with sphere updates. The requirement for service reviews arises from the identified need for a more coordinated and efficient public service structure to support California’s anticipated growth. Effective January 1, 2008, Government Code Section 56430 requires LAFCo to conduct a review of municipal services provided in the county by region, sub-region or other designated geographic area, as appropriate, for the service or services to be reviewed, and prepare a written statement of determination with respect to each of the following topics: Growth and population projections for the affected area; o The location and characteristics of any disadvantaged unincorporated communities o within or contiguous to the sphere of influence (effective July 1, 2012); Present and planned capacity of public facilities, adequacy of public services, and o infrastructure needs or deficiencies (including needs or deficiencies related to sewers, municipal and industrial water, and structural fire protection in any disadvantaged, unincorporated communities within or contiguous to the sphere of influence); Financial ability of the agency to provide services; o Status of, and opportunities for, shared facilities; o Accountability for community service needs, including governmental structure and o operational efficiencies; and Any other matter affecting or related to effective or efficient service delivery, as required o by Commission policy. 3 1.2 Uses of the Report The service review process provides LAFCo with a tool to study current and future public service conditions and to evaluate organizational options for fostering orderly growth and development, promoting the efficient delivery of services, and encouraging the preservation of open space and agricultural lands. The potential uses of this report are described below. Update Spheres of Influence LAFCo will use this report as a basis to update the spheres of influence of the two recreation and park districts. With regard to the cities’ spheres of influence, LAFCo will use information from this report along with the information gathered in subsequent service reviews to update the spheres of influence of cities. Consider Jurisdictional Boundary Changes The report contains a discussion of various alternative government structures for efficient service provision. LAFCo is not required to initiate any boundary changes based on service reviews. However, LAFCo, other local agencies, or the public may subsequently use this report together with additional research and analysis, where necessary, to pursue changes in jurisdictional boundaries. Resource for Further Studies Other entities and the public may use this report for further studies and analysis of issues relating to recreation and park services in Humboldt County. 1.3 Spheres of Influence LAFCo is charged with establishing and updating the sphere of influence for each city and special district within the county. Spheres of influence designate the territory that LAFCo believes represents the affected agencies' appropriate future jurisdictions and service areas. Spheres are planning tools used to provide guidance for individual boundary change proposals and are intended to encourage efficient provision of organized community services, discourage the premature conversion of agricultural and open space lands, and prevent overlapping jurisdictions and duplication of services. All boundary changes, such as annexations, must be consistent with the affected agencies' spheres of influence with limited exceptions. In other words, the sphere of influence essentially defines where and what types of government reorganizations (e.g., annexation, detachment, dissolution and consolidation) may be initiated. If and when a government reorganization is initiated, there are a number of procedural steps that must be conducted for a reorganization to be approved. Such steps include more in-depth analysis, LAFCo consideration at a noticed public hearing, and processes by which affected agencies and/or residents may voice their approval or disapproval. The Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Act requires LAFCo to review and update spheres of influence every five years, as necessary. LAFCo is empowered to adopt, update and amend spheres of influence. They may do so with or without an application and any interested person may submit an application proposing a sphere amendment. LAFCo may recommend government reorganizations to particular agencies in the county, using the spheres as the basis for those recommendations. In determining spheres, LAFCo is required 1 to complete a service review and adopt the seven determinations previously discussed. In addition, in adopting or amending a sphere, LAFCo must make the following determinations: The present and planned land uses in the area, including agricultural and open-space o lands; The present and probable need for public facilities and services in the area; o The present capacity of public facilities and adequacy of public services that the o agency provides or is authorized to provide; The existence of any social or economic communities of interest in the area if the o Commission determines these are relevant to the agency; and The present and probable need for water, wastewater, and structural fire protection o facilities and services of any disadvantaged unincorporated communities within the existing sphere of influence (effective July 1, 2012). By statute, LAFCo must notify affected agencies 21 days before holding the public hearing to consider the sphere and may not update the sphere until after that hearing. The LAFCo Executive Officer must issue a report including recommendations on the sphere amendments and updates under consideration at least five days before the public hearing. A CEQA determination is made by LAFCo on a case-by-case basis for each sphere of influence action and each change of organization, once the proposed project characteristics are sufficiently identified to assess environmental impacts. 1.4 Review Methods Each agency reviewed as part of this service review process demonstrated full accountability in disclosure of information and cooperation with LAFCo. The following information was considered in the service review: Agency-specific data: responses to LAFCo requests for information, budgets, fee o schedules, maps, and district plans. Demographic data: U.S. Census Bureau; Department of Finance. o Population projections: Department of Finance. o Long-Term Debt: California State Controller. o Revenue: California State Controller; Humboldt County Auditor/Controller; o Comprehensive Annual Financial Reports. Information gathered was analyzed and applied to make the required determinations for each agency. All information gathered for this report is filed by LAFCo for future reference. 2 2 RECREATION AND PARK SERVICES OVERVIEW This chapter provides an inventory of recreation and park facilities and services in Humboldt County. 2.1 Existing Resources As a rural area, Humboldt County has a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities. More than 20 percent of the county’s 2.3 million acres are protected open space, forests, and recreation areas. Within the county boundaries, there are federal and state parks, 16 county parks and beaches operated by the Humboldt County Parks Division, recreational areas and reserves, city parks, and parks operated by special districts and non-profit organizations. These areas contribute to the quality of life in Humboldt County and provide needed recreation opportunities for residents of neighboring counties and visitors from all over the world.1 Community and neighborhood park facilities are described in the below tables. For the purposes of this document, the inventory of parks and facilities is classified by scale and function. This allows each resource to be viewed by the intended geographic range within which visitors travel to the site and by the amenities that are provided in the park. The review of existing resources includes a comprehensive list of park and recreation sites throughout Humboldt County. SCALE Scale is representative of the service area of a resource or the distance people are willing to travel to visit it. There are two scales in Humboldt County: regional resources that serve the entire county (and beyond) and local resources that are primarily used by a surrounding community. This distinction can be used to describe the role that the County and other entities should play in providing park and recreation facilities and services. Regional A regional facility is designed to appeal to residents from throughout the county and beyond. Regional facilities provide access to unique natural or cultural features and/or regional-scale recreation facilities that can accommodate large group activities. Regional facilities enhance the economic vitality and identity of the region. Most parks in Humboldt County are regional in scope. There are nearly 468,000 acres of Federally-managed parklands in the county including National Forest, National Parks, and National Wildlife Areas, and 7,600 acres of Bureau of Land Management Reserve Lands. There are also nearly 76,000 acres of State Beach, State Parks, and State Reserve Lands. The Humboldt County Parks Division operates approximately 850 acres of parkland that includes ocean beaches, river access, boat ramps, and trails.2 1 Humboldt County General Plan Update, Part 2 Chapter 5 Community Infrastructure and Services Element 2 Humboldt County General Plan Update PEIR, Chapter 3.14 Parks and Recreation 3 Local A local facility provides close-to-home recreation opportunities for nearby residents. Typically smaller in size, these facilities are designed to serve neighbors within walking and bicycling distance of the facility. Local facilities include amenities such as playgrounds, outdoor sport courts, sport fields, picnic tables, pathways and multi-use open grass areas. In Humboldt County, most local facilities are provided within incorporated cities. In addition, there are a number of special districts that provide recreation services throughout the county. Other recreation service providers include schools, non-profit organizations or private facilities. FUNCTION Function is the use of the facility/site and the role it plays in the recreation system in Humboldt County. The following categories have been identified for this discussion. It is important to note that many of the key resources serve many of these functions. The functions and a brief description are listed below. Boat/Water Access: These facilities provide opportunities for fishing, boating, water edge o play and access and swimming. Examples include Fields Landing County Park and Samoa Boat Launch. Natural/Scenic: These facilities provide viewpoints, rare or unique habitats and opportunities o to enjoy and explore nature. Examples include Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary and Centerville Beach County Park. Depending on the type of resource, these may be more or less accessible or protected. Trails: These facilities include access points such as trailheads and corridors as seen on the o Waterfront Trail in Eureka. Other examples include the recreational trails in the Arcata Community Forest. Camping: These facilities include overnight sites intended for RV, car or walk-in opportunities. o Examples include Big Lagoon County Park and Clam Beach County Park. Community Space: These facilities provide opportunities for picnicking, community o gatherings, and playgrounds. Examples include the facilities provided at Perigot Park in Blue Lake and Russ Park in Ferndale. Sports Fields/Active-Use: These sites provide outdoor sport fields, courts and other active-use o facilities. Examples include the Hiller Sports Complex in McKinleyville and the Rohner Park Pavilion in Fortuna. Indoor Facilities/Venue: These sites offer indoor facilities that provide recreational, social, o educational, and cultural activities within the community. Examples include the Humboldt Bay Aquatic Center and the Arcata Community Center. Swimming Pools: These sites provide swimming pool facilities. An example is the Arcata o Community Pool. Visitor Amenities: These facilities include information kiosks, restrooms and other features that o assist visitors and local users in enjoying travel and the exploration of Humboldt County. 4 Table 2-1: Humboldt County Park Inventory Park Name Location Park Type 5 sseccA retaW cinecS / larutaN sliarT gnipmaC ecapS ytinummoC esU-evitcA / stropS seitilicaF roodnI looP gnimmiwS seitinemA rotisiV Arthur W. Way County Memorial Park 36594 Mattole Rd, Honeydew Regional ✔ ✔ Big Lagoon County Park 505 A St, Big Lagoon Regional ✔ ✔ ✔ Centerville Beach County Park 4000 Centerville Rd, Ferndale Regional ✔ Clam Beach County Park 1100 Clam Beach Rd, McKinleyville Regional ✔ ✔ ✔ Crab County Park 4000 Cannibal Rd, Loleta Regional ✔ Fields Landing County Park 160 Railroad Ave, Fields Landing Regional ✔ ✔ Freshwater County Park Freshwater Rd, Freshwater Regional ✔ Hammond Trail McKinleyville Regional ✔ ✔ Luffenholtz Beach County Park Scenic Drive, Westhaven Regional ✔ Mad River County Park 150 Mad River Rd, Arcata Regional ✔ ✔ ✔ Margarite Lockwood Park Maple Hills Rd, Miranda Regional McKay Community Forest South West Eureka Regional ✔ ✔ Moonstone Beach County Park Moonstone Beach Rd, Westhaven Regional ✔ Pedrazzini County Park Pedrazzini Park Ln, Loleta Regional Samoa Boat Launch County Park New Navy Base Rd, Samoa Regional ✔ ✔ Table Bluff County Park Table Bluff Rd, Loleta Regional ✔ ✔ McKay Tract Community Forest (Proposed) Southeast of Eureka Regional ✔ ✔ Van Duzen County Park Hwy 36, Carlotta Regional ✔ ✔ ✔ Table 2-2: City of Arcata Park Inventory Park Name Location Park Type 6 sseccA retaW cinecS / larutaN sliarT gnipmaC ecapS ytinummoC esU-evitcA / stropS seitilicaF roodnI looP gnimmiwS seitinemA rotisiV Arcata Community Forest Arcata Community ✔ ✔ Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary 600 South G St, Arcata Community ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Arcata Ball Park 888 F Street, Arcata Neighborhood ✔ ✔ ✔ Arcata Community Park & Sports Complex 321 Community Park Way, Arcata Community ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Arcata Plaza 801 G Street, Arcata Community Arcata Skateboard Park 900 Sunset Boulevard, Arcata Neighborhood ✔ ✔ Bayside Park 930 Old Arcata Road, Arcata Neighborhood Bloomfield Park Zehnder Avenue, Arcata Neighborhood ✔ Cahill Park 1300 Stromberg Avenue, Arcata Neighborhood ✔ California Park California Street, Arcata Neighborhood Carlson Park Giuntoli Lane, Arcata Neighborhood ✔ ✔ Chevret-Vaissade Park 1760 Felix Avenue, Arcata Neighborhood ✔ D-Street Linear Park 1301 D Street (9th-14th), Arcata Neighborhood ✔ Ennes Park and Park Expansion 1851 Stewart Avenue, Arcata Neighborhood ✔ Forest Avenue Park Forest Avenue, Arcata Neighborhood Greenview Park 1116 Lewis Court, Arcata Neighborhood ✔ ✔ Janes Creek Linear Park Villa Way, Arcata Neighborhood Park Name Location Park Type 7 sseccA retaW cinecS / larutaN sliarT gnipmaC ecapS ytinummoC esU-evitcA / stropS seitilicaF roodnI looP gnimmiwS seitinemA rotisiV Janes Creek Meadows Park Janes Creek Drive, Arcata Neighborhood ✔ Jolly Giant Creek Alliance & 17th St, Arcata Neighborhood ✔ Larson Park 901 Grant Avenue, Arcata Neighborhood ✔ ✔ Mountain View Park 2117 Sandra Court, Arcata Neighborhood ✔ Pacific Union Park Spear Avenue, Arcata Neighborhood ✔ ✔ Redwood Park 490 East Park Road, Arcata Community ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Rotary Park 101 F Street, Arcata Neighborhood ✔ ✔ Shay Park 1385 Foster Avenue, Arcata Neighborhood ✔ Stewart Park 1090 15th Street, Arcata Neighborhood ✔ Sunny Brae Park Virginia Way / Marylin Street, Arcata Neighborhood ✔ Valley West Park 1340 Hallen Drive, Arcata Neighborhood ✔ Vinum Park 1450 F Street, Arcata Neighborhood ✔ Westwood Manor Park 2175 Wisteria Way, Arcata Neighborhood ✔ Windsong Park Maria Court, Arcata Neighborhood ✔ Woodland Heights Diamond Drive, Arcata Neighborhood Table 2-3: City of Eureka Park Inventory Park Name Location Park Type 8 sseccA retaW cinecS / larutaN sliarT gnipmaC ecapS ytinummoC esU-evitcA / stropS seitilicaF roodnI looP gnimmiwS seitinemA rotisiV 20/30 Park 2605 Pine Street, Eureka Neighborhood ✔ Adorni Recreation Center 1011 Waterfront Drive, Eureka Community ✔ Carson Park Carson and H Streets, Eureka Neighborhood ✔ ✔ Clara Mae Berry Park 3rd & O Streets, Eureka Neighborhood ✔ Clark Plaza 3rd & E Street, Eureka Community ✔ Cooper Gulch Park & Recreation Center 8th & R Streets, Eureka Community ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Elk River-Hikshari' Trail Elk River Access Area, Eureka Regional ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Eureka (PALCO) Marsh Del Norte & Railroad Ave, Eureka Regional ✔ ✔ Eureka Municipal Auditorium 1120 F Street, Eureka Community ✔ Eureka Public Marina 500 West Waterfront Drive, Eureka Community ✔ ✔ Eureka Waterfront Trail Waterfront Drive, Eureka Regional ✔ ✔ ✔ Halvorsen Park 1201 Waterfront Drive, Eureka Community ✔ ✔ Hammond Park 14th & E Streets, Eureka Neighborhood ✔ ✔ Hartman/Kennedy Ball Fields 3555 W Street, Eureka Neighborhood ✔ ✔ Highland Park Highland & Glen Streets, Eureka Neighborhood ✔ ✔ Jacob-Haney Ballfield 2605 Union Street, Eureka Neighborhood ✔ John Ryan Youth Center 1653 J Street, Eureka Community ✔ Park Name Location Park Type 9 sseccA retaW cinecS / larutaN sliarT gnipmaC ecapS ytinummoC esU-evitcA / stropS seitilicaF roodnI looP gnimmiwS seitinemA rotisiV Lundbar Hills Park 4708 Frederick Street, Eureka Neighborhood ✔ Municipal Golf Course 4750 Fairway Drive, Eureka Community ✔ ✔ ✔ Old Town Gazebo 2nd & F Street, Eureka Community ✔ Ross Park 12th and M Streets, Eureka Neighborhood ✔ ✔ Sacco Ampitheater 1101 Waterfront Drive, Eureka Community ✔ Sequoia Park Zoo W Street, Eureka Community ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Wharfinger Building 1 Marina Way, Eureka Community ✔ Table 2-4: City of Blue lake Park Inventory Park Name Location Park Type 10 sseccA retaW cinecS / larutaN sliarT gnipmaC ecapS ytinummoC esU-evitcA / stropS seitilicaF roodnI looP gnimmiwS seitinemA rotisiV Gymkhana Field 210 Chartin Road, Blue Lake Neighborhood ✔ ✔ Perigot Park / Prash Hall 312 South Railroad Ave, Blue Lake Neighborhood ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Tot Lot 4th and I Streets, Blue Lake Neighborhood ✔ Table 2-5: City of Ferndale Park Inventory Park Name Location Park Type sseccA retaW cinecS / larutaN sliarT gnipmaC ecapS ytinummoC esU-evitcA / stropS seitilicaF roodnI looP gnimmiwS seitinemA rotisiV Firemen’s Park & Community Center 100 South Berding Street, Ferndale Neighborhood ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Russ Park Bluff Street, Ferndale Community ✔ ✔ City Hall & The Village Green 834 Main Street, Ferndale Neighborhood ✔ ✔ ✔ Table 2-6: City of Fortuna Park Inventory Park Name Location Park Type 11 sseccA retaW cinecS / larutaN sliarT gnipmaC ecapS ytinummoC esU-evitcA / stropS seitilicaF roodnI looP gnimmiwS seitinemA rotisiV Rohner Park Park Street, Fortuna Community ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Newburg Park Rohnverville Rd @ Newburg Rd Community ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Overlook Park / River Lodge 1800 Riverwalk Drive, Fortuna Community ✔ ✔ ✔ Monday Club 610 Main Street, Fortuna Community ✔ Table 2-7: City of Rio Dell Park Inventory Park Name Location Park Type sseccA retaW cinecS / larutaN sliarT gnipmaC ecapS ytinummoC esU-evitcA / stropS seitilicaF roodnI looP gnimmiwS seitinemA rotisiV Memorial Park 600 block of Wildwood Ave Neighborhood Triangle Park 700 block of Wildwood Ave. Neighborhood ✔ Rio Dell Tennis Courts Rio Dell Elementary School Community ✔ Table 2-8: City of Trinidad Park Inventory Park Name Location Park Type 12 sseccA retaW cinecS / larutaN sliarT gnipmaC ecapS ytinummoC esU-evitcA / stropS seitilicaF roodnI looP gnimmiwS seitinemA rotisiV Trinidad Tennis Courts 409 Trinity Street, Trinidad Community ✔ Trinidad Head Lighthouse Road, Trinidad Community ✔ ✔ Table 2-9: Rio Dell Fire Protection District Park Inventory Park Name Location Park Type 13 sseccA retaW cinecS / larutaN sliarT gnipmaC ecapS ytinummoC esU-evitcA / stropS seitilicaF roodnI looP gnimmiwS seitinemA rotisiV Fireman’s Park and Bocce Ball 50 West Center Street, Rio Neighborhood ✔ ✔ ✔ Courts Dell Table 2-10: Loleta Community Services District Park Inventory Park Name Location Park Type sseccA retaW cinecS / larutaN sliarT gnipmaC ecapS ytinummoC esU-evitcA / stropS seitilicaF roodnI looP gnimmiwS seitinemA rotisiV Thomas Carr Park Loleta Drive, Loleta Community ✔ Loleta Fire Protection District Field Pershing & Lincoln, Loleta Special Use Area ✔ Railroad Park Main Street, Loleta Neighborhood ✔ Table 2-11: Manila Community Services District Park Inventory Park Name Location Park Type sseccA retaW cinecS / larutaN sliarT gnipmaC ecapS ytinummoC esU-evitcA / stropS seitilicaF roodnI looP gnimmiwS seitinemA rotisiV Manila Dunes Recreation Area & Community Center Peninsula Drive, Manila Regional ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Manila Community Park Lupin Ave & Peninsula Drive, Manila Community ✔ ✔ ✔ Table 2-12: McKinleyville Community Services District Park Inventory Park Name Location Park Type 14 sseccA retaW cinecS / larutaN sliarT gnipmaC ecapS ytinummoC esU-evitcA / stropS seitilicaF roodnI looP gnimmiwS seitinemA rotisiV Hiller Sports Complex 675 Hiller Road, McKinleyville Community ✔ ✔ ✔ Hiller Park 675 Hiller Road, McKinleyville Community ✔ ✔ ✔ Pierson Park and Azalea Hall 1608 Pickett Road, McKinleyville Community ✔ ✔ ✔ Larissa Park Larissa Circle, McKinleyville Neighborhood ✔ Hewitt Ranch North Bank Rd / Azalea Rd, Neighborhood ✔ ✔ McKinleyville Washington Avenue Property School Road and Washington Avenue Neighborhood ✔ Activities Center 1705 Gwin Road, McKinleyville Community ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Teen and Community Center 1705 Gwin Road, McKinleyville Community ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ MCSD River Property North Bank Road, McKinleyville Community ✔ ✔ ✔ Table 2-13: Resort Improvement District No. 1 (Shelter Cove) Park Inventory Park Name Location Park Type sseccA retaW cinecS / larutaN sliarT gnipmaC ecapS ytinummoC esU-evitcA / stropS seitilicaF roodnI looP gnimmiwS seitinemA rotisiV Shelter Cove Golf Course 1555 Upper Pacific Drive, Shelter Regional ✔ ✔ ✔ Cove Shelter Cove Community Clubhouse 9126 Shelter Cove Road, Shelter Community ✔ ✔ ✔ Cove Table 2-14: Scotia Community Services District Park Inventory Park Name Location Park Type 15 sseccA retaW cinecS / larutaN sliarT gnipmaC ecapS ytinummoC esU-evitcA / stropS seitilicaF roodnI looP gnimmiwS seitinemA rotisiV Soccer Field Between Railroad Avenue Neighborhood ✔ and the Eel River Community Forest Along Eel River Community ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Carpenter's Field Between Williams St and Neighborhood ✔ Railroad Ave Pocket Parks Adjacent to museum, and Neighborhood ✔ ✔ at Main & B Street Scotia Museum and Town Park 125 Main St. Scotia Community ✔ ✔ Winema Theater 113 Main Street, Scotia Community ✔ Firemen's Park Between Railroad Avenue Neighborhood ✔ ✔ ✔ and the Eel River Table 2-15: Willow Creek Community Services District Park Inventory Park Name Location Park Type sseccA retaW cinecS / larutaN sliarT gnipmaC ecapS ytinummoC esU-evitcA / stropS seitilicaF roodnI looP gnimmiwS seitinemA rotisiV Camp Kimtu & Kimtu Beach Kimtu Road, Willow Regional ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Creek Veteran’s Park 100 Kimtu Road, Neighborhood ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Willow Creek Creek Side Park Willow Road, Willow Neighborhood ✔ ✔ ✔ Creek Community Commons 38919 Hwy 299, Neighborhood ✔ Willlow Creek Del Norte Incorporated City Local Parks P a c State/Federal Pakrs Siskiyou if ic Tribal Land O 101 c e a n 96 TRINIDAD FACILITIES: Trinidad Tennis Courts Trinidad Head WILLOW CREEK FACILITIES: Camp Kimtu Veteran's Park Trinidad Creek Side Park Community Commons BLUE LAKE FACILITIES: Gymkhana Field Willow Creek Perigot Park McKinleyville Tot Lot 299 Blue Lake MCKINLEYVILLE FACILITIES: Arcata Hiller Park/Sports Complex 255 Pierson Park Eureka Larissa Park ARCATA FACILITIES: Community Forest Humboldt Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary Community Park/Sports Complex EUREKA FACILITIES: 211 Fortuna Cooper Gulch Sequoia Park Zoo Ferndale Proposed Community Forest Trinity Rio Dell FORTUNA FACILITIES: Scotia 36 Rohner Park Newburg Park Riverlodge FERNDALE FACILITIES: Russ Park Firemen's Park Village Green RIO DELL FACILITIES: Firemen's Park 101 SCOTIA FACILITIES: Firemen's Park/Soccer Field Garberville Community Forest Carpenter's Field Shelter Cove RID NO.1/SHELTER COVE FACILITIES: Community Golf Course Mendocino Community Club House 0 5 10Miles Figure Humboldt County Parks 2-1 Sources: Boundaries, Roads: Humboldt County GIS, Rivers - CA FRAP Date: 8/30/2016 3 SERVICE AGENCY PROFILES This chapter provides an in-depth review of two recreation and park districts in Humboldt County. Included is a description of the recreation services and facilities provided by each district, as well as growth and population projections, current and future service needs, infrastructure needs, service adequacy, and financing. 3.1 Rohner Community Recreation and Park District The Rohner Community Recreation and Park District (RCRPD) was formed on July 16, 1968 by the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors (Resolution No. 68-59), following a successful special election. The RCRPD is a dependent, single-purpose special district governed by a five-member board of directors. Since the special district includes both the City of Fortuna and unincorporated areas surrounding the City, the County Board of Supervisors and the Fortuna City Council share authority for appointing board members.3 Two board members are appointed by and serve at the pleasure of the County Board of Supervisors and three members are appointed by and serve at the pleasure of the Fortuna City Council (non-fixed terms). The principal act that governs the District is the Recreation and Park District Law.4 The principal act empowers recreation and park districts to 1) organize, promote, conduct, and advertise programs of community recreation, including, but not limited to, parks and open space, parking, transportation, and other related services that improve the community’s quality of life, 2) establish systems of recreation and recreation facilities, including, but not limited to, parks and open space, and 3) acquire, construct, improve, maintain, and operate recreation facilities, including, but not limited to, parks and open space, both inside and beyond the district’s boundaries.5 The principal act also defines the powers and duties of recreation and park districts in cooperating with other local governments.6 Districts must apply and obtain LAFCo approval to exercise latent powers, that is, those services authorized by the principal act but not provided by the district by the end of 2000.7 There are 107 recreation and park districts in the State. The RCRPD is one of two districts of its type in Humboldt County. The RCRPD was originally formed for the purpose of overseeing the planning, acquisition and construction of a community swimming pool. In 1969, the District was unsuccessful in receiving voter approval of a bond measure as well as federal grant funds for construction of the public swimming pool facility. No further attempts have been made by the District to raise the necessary funds for this purpose. Currently, the RCRPD oversees annual funds of approximately $15,000 annually that are levied from property taxes. These funds are used to offset recreation programs to the community offered by the City of Fortuna Parks and Recreation Department, including service to residents in the unincorporated Fortuna area. 3 California Public Resources Code §5783.5. 4 California Public Resources Code §5780-5791. 5 California Public Resources Code §5786. 6 California Public Resources Code §5786.11-5786.13. 7 California Government Code §56824.10. 17 101 L ittle S a lm o Humboldt n C re ek Salmon Creek 101 Creek R ohnerC reek P al m er Fork Strongs Creek h Nort 211 River Salt Fortuna JamesonC reek er v Ri el E Hydesville Barber Creek 36 k e e Cr k Oil 101 e e Cr e c Pri k e e Rivers Cr Incorporated Cities H o w e Slater C re Rio Dell e District Boundary k 0 0.5 1Miles Rohner Community Recreation Figure RioDell and Park District 3-1 Sources: Boundaries, Roads: Humboldt County GIS, Rivers - CA FRAP Date: 9/9/2016 Table 3-1: RCRPD Overview Rohner Community Recreation and Park District Recreation and Park District Law (California Public Resources Code PRINCIPAL ACT §5780-5791) FORMATION July 16, 1968 DISTRICT TYPE Dependent, Single-Function SERVICES PROVIDED Provides limited funds for recreation services to district residents AREAS SERVED Greater Fortuna area (see Figure 3-1) DISTRICT AREA 30 square miles (19,190 acres) POPULATION 13,806 residents (2010 census) Boundary and Sphere The RCRPD encompasses an area of approximately 30 square miles (19,190 acres) and historically included the entire City of Fortuna and the surrounding unincorporated areas along Tompkins Hill Road, Eel River Drive, Sandy Prairie Road, and Metropolitan Road. The City of Fortuna comprises less than 20 percent of the territory in the current District boundaries. In 2009 the City of Rio Dell expanded its boundary to encompass 267 acres within the RCRPD, north of the Eel River and east of Highway 101, known as the “Sawmill Annexation” (see Figure 3-1). As such, property taxes collected within the portion of the District that overlaps with the City of Rio Dell are essentially funding recreation programs administered by the City of Fortuna. As originally proposed, the RCRPD was to include all territory within the existing Fortuna Union High School District. However, the proposed boundaries were reduced at the time of formation to exclude the Bridgeville and Hydesville areas, due to concerns voiced by residents in those areas that they would be too remote from the proposed swimming facility to benefit from its construction. Therefore, the boundary was made contiguous with those of the Fortuna Union School District and the Rohnerville Union School District, as existed at that time. The District’s sphere of influence was first established by LAFCo in 1974 and is coterminous with the existing district boundary. The 1974 Sphere Report recommended that a reorganization committee be formed for purposes of studying dissolution of the district and incorporating its functions into the existing City of Fortuna recreation program. There is no record of whether a reorganization committee was formed. Type and Extent of Services Services Provided The RCRPD does not provide its own recreation facilities or programs. In past years the District has been awarded grant funding to support City of Fortuna park improvements and recreation programs. This included funding in the amount of $20,000 in fiscal years 1987/88 (1986 Bond Act) and 1989-90 (1988 Bond Act). These funds were used to support Rohner Park improvements including renovation of the Fireman’s Pavilion where public roller skating is available. 19 Below are excerpts of grant records administered by the California Department of Parks and Recreation Office of Grants and Local Services: Rohner Community Recreation and Park District: City of Fortuna: Service to Other Agencies The RCRPD does not have any contracts to provide services to other public agencies. Service Contracts The RCRPD does not have any contracts with public agencies for service delivery. Overlapping and Neighboring Service Providers The City of Fortuna Parks and Recreation Department is responsible for managing and maintaining city parks and recreational facilities, coordinating recreation programs and service club activities, and managing a senior bus program. Fortuna’s Parks and Recreation Commission acts in an advisory capacity to the City Council and is responsible for reviewing and recommending plans for the development of the City's parks, recreation facilities, programs, and services. The City of Rio Dell owns and maintains two small parks- Memorial Park and Triangle Park. Additionally, the City jointly manages the Rio Del Tennis Courts with the Rio Dell Elementary School. The Rio Dell FPD owns and operates the Fireman’s Park and bocce courts, located within the City of Rio Dell. Accountability and Governance The RCRPD is governed by a five-member Board of Directors, with two members appointed by Humboldt County Board of Supervisors and three members appointed by the Fortuna City Council. The RCRPD is a dependent special district, meaning board members do not have fixed terms but instead serve at the pleasure of the board of supervisors or the city council which made the appointments. As of 2014, there were two vacancies on the RCRPD Board. According to the Board President, there is no record of when the Board of Director appointments were 20 made by the City or the County; however, the current directors have been serving since before 2002. The RCRPD Board of Directors does not have regularly scheduled meetings. According to the Board President, the RCRPD Board has been not met for several years. Board meetings have historically been held at the City Parks and Recreation Office at Rohner Park in Fortuna. Board members serve in a voluntary capacity and do not receive compensation. Table 3-2: RCRPD Contact Information and Governing Body as Reported in 2014 Contact Information CONTACT Allan Baird, President MAILING ADDRESS PO Box 396, Fortuna, CA 95540 PHONE (707) 599-4776 E-MAIL ambaird@suddenlinkmail.com Board of Directors Five-member Board of Directors with two members appointed by GOVERNING BODY Humboldt County Board of Supervisors and three members appointed by the Fortuna City Council TERMS Non-Fixed Terms Member Name Position Began Serving Allan Baird President Prior to 2002 BOARD MEMBERS Charles Stoltz Director Prior to 2002 Jacques Debets Director Prior to 2002 Vacancy Director n/a Vacancy Director n/a BOARD MEETINGS Unscheduled Management and Staffing The RCRPD Board of Directors is responsible for the District management. The District has no employees. The RCRPD has not adopted a mission statement, bylaws, goals, objectives or long-range plans to guide district functions. Section 5788 in the Recreation and Park District chapter of the Public Resources Code dictates that a preliminary and final budget must be adopted for the District annually, in accordance public notice and processing procedures. It has not been the practice of the District to create, notice, or adopt an annual 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. According to the County Auditor, it has not been the practice of the RCRPD to file its budget with the County. Special districts must submit a report to the State Controller of all financial transactions of the district during the preceding fiscal year within 90 days after the close of each fiscal year, in the form required by the State Controller, pursuant to Government Code §53891. If filed in electronic 21 format, the report must be submitted within 110 days after the close of the fiscal year. This requirement is being met; however, it is unknown at this time whether the County Auditor’s Office or the City of Fortuna is submitting the District’s financial transaction reports. 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.8 According to the County Auditor, an audit has not been submitted in the last five years. As discussed above, funds collected by the RCRPD are used to offset recreation programs to the community offered by the City of Fortuna. The City has indicated an interest in formalizing its relationship with the District to maintain existing program funding. The City already has in place the governance and administrative structure needed to manage the incoming funds. It is also the most logical service provider for District residents that are within Fortuna city limits, as well as those district residents in the unincorporated areas surrounding the City who benefit from city recreation programs. Population and Projected Growth Land Uses The RCRPD encompasses the entire City of Fortuna and surrounding unincorporated areas along Tompkins Hill Road, Eel River Drive, Sandy Prairie Road, and Metropolitan Road. The District is comprised of a mixture of rural residential, agriculture and timber related uses, with urban uses predominantly within the City of Fortuna. Current Population As of 2010, the District’s population was approximately 13,806 residents, based on GIS analysis of 2010 Census data. Of the District’s population, approximately 11,926 residents or 86 percent reside in the City of Fortuna, while the remaining 1,880 residents or 14 percent reside in the unincorporated areas of the District. Projected Growth While population projections specific to the District are not available, future population may be estimated using population projections developed by the Department of Finance for California counties in January 2013.9 Using the average Humboldt County growth rate of approximately 0.4 percent per year, the RCRPD is anticipated to have a 2035 population of 15,255, or an additional 1,449 residents. Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities LAFCo is required to evaluate disadvantaged unincorporated communities (DUCs) as part of this service review, including the location and characteristics of any such communities. A DUC is defined as any area with 12 or more registered voters, or as determined by commission policy, where the median household income is less than 80 percent of the statewide annual median.10 The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) has developed a mapping tool 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 8 California Government Code §26909. 9 Department of Finance, Population Projections for California and its Counties 2010-2060, or Table P-1. 10 California Government Code §56033.5. 22 purposes of this report as an indicator of larger geographic areas that may meet the income definition of disadvantaged.11 Based on mapping information from DWR, the majority of the unincorporated area within the RCRPD is designated as disadvantaged. In addition, the Loleta, Scotia and Hydesville areas, which are located outside of the District to the northwest, south and southeast, respectively, are also designated as disadvantaged unincorporated communities by the DWR. Financing Revenues and Expenditures RCRPD’s revenues are funded through property taxes averaging $15,000 per year for the last five years. Property tax revenue is collected in both the incorporated and unincorporated areas within the District’s boundaries. The funds collected are transferred annually to the City of Fortuna’s General Fund to offset recreation programs offered by the City’s Parks and Recreation Department, including service to unincorporated residents in the greater Fortuna area. Table 3-3: RCRPD Revenues, FYs 2010-2015 Source: FY 2010-2015 annual financial reports, State Controller Budget The District does not adopt an annual budget. Reserves The District does not maintain a reserve. Debt The District does not have any long-term debt. 11 DWR maps and GIS files are derived from the US Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS) using different census geographies (Place, Tract, and Block Group) and are compiled for the five-year period of 2006-2010. 23 Infrastructure and Facilities The RCRPD does not own, operate or maintain an office building or recreation facilities. The District Board meets irregularly at the City of Fortuna Parks and Recreation Office located at Rohner Park in Fortuna. Other Recreation Facilities The City’s Parks and Recreation Department manages a range of recreation facilities and programs in the community. The Department administers the following city-owned facilities and activities: the Fortuna Depot Museum; the Fireman’s Pavilion; sporting and community activities; events at Rohner Park, the Monday Club, the River Lodge meeting/conference facility; and a range of year-round and seasonal programs for individuals, clubs, and organizations. The Parks and Recreation Department has a shared agreement with Fortuna high school and elementary schools to use gym and school field facilities for community soccer, basketball, and football programs with reciprocal use rights for school teams to use Rohner and Newburg Parks for certain track and athletic events. This partnership allows the community to maximize use of available parks and facilities. Demand for Services Given the projected population growth and potential for future residential subdivision and development within the Fortuna area over the next 20 years, community demand for additional parks and recreational facilities would correspondingly be expected to increase, particularly in the under 18 and over 64 age groups. In 2004, the City of Fortuna conducted a community needs survey which identified a list of recreational suggestions or needs for the community. Key needs identified included: a community swimming pool; skate park; teen center; bike and pedestrian lanes; senior activities; a series of mini parks or green areas; fitness and hiking trails; a park in Campton Heights area; land for parks to relieve use on existing parks; historic home tour; and more sporting fields. Currently, the McLean Foundation has plans to develop a Community Center near Newburg Park. Governance Structure Options In the Fortuna area, recreation facilities, services and programs are primarily administered by the City of Fortuna Parks and Recreation Department. As discussed previously, the RCRPD does not own, operate, or maintain recreation facilities, and has delegated its responsibilities to provide recreation services or programs. The District Board has not met in several years and there is little community participation or interest in the business of the District. The District oversees annual funds of approximately $15,000 that are levied from property taxes. The revenues collected from property taxes and grant funds (when available) are then transferred to the City of Fortuna. The RCRPD’s primary revenue source is a portion of the one percent property tax, meaning that City of Fortuna residents are funding two separate public entities for recreation services. Additionally, a small portion of the District overlaps with the City of Rio Dell, even though the property taxes collected from this area are benefiting the recreation programs administered by the City of Fortuna. Currently there is a disjunction between territory taxed and territory receiving service. At present, the Fortuna City Council is the de facto decision-making body for District funds. While it may be argued that District property owners who are not within the Fortuna city limits are benefitting 24 from recreation services provided by the City; these residents are not able to participate in the City of Fortuna voting process and are therefore not appropriately represented. LAFCo Process Humboldt LAFCo originally initiated this municipal service review in 2014. In the course of the review, LAFCo staff became aware of the District’s operational status and began consultation with the District to address shortfalls in administrative/governance standards. Multiple meetings were held with RCRPD board representation to identify constraints and provide avenues of improvement. Extended time was then given for the District to address the identified areas of improvement. During this process the City of Fortuna indicated that they were interested in taking on the additional responsibilities of administrating the District and creating a permanent arrangement. Operation and Government Alternatives Operation and governance alternatives exist for a more efficient approach to delivering recreational services to the Fortuna community. There are three governance structure options for RCRPD: 1. Maintain RCRPD as a dependent special district (status quo) 2. Establish the RCRPD as a subsidiary district of the City of Fortuna 3. Dissolve the RCRPD Maintain RCRPD as a Dependent Special District (Status Quo) The first alternative is maintaining RRRPD as a dependent special district, with steps to improve the transparency and accountability of the District. Under this alternative, the District could remain intact, and work to make improvements, including the following: Board Accountability and Governance: • Ensure board positions are properly filled and advertise board positions when there are vacancies • Hold regularly scheduled meetings on a quarterly basis • Establish a mailing address/contact information for District • Develop a plan to enhance outreach to District residents in an effort to increase interest in board activities. District Management and Staffing: • Adopt bylaws with administrative and financial protocol consistent with California Public Resources Code §5780-5791 (Recreation and Park District Law) and other applicable laws. • Establish long-term goals to guide district functions. • Develop a formal agreement with the City of Fortuna for administrative support services (optional). • Work to find a grant writer. District Financing: • Maintain/hold funds in District account • Confirm that annual audits are being completed • Approve annual budget and submit to County Auditor 25 In 2014-2015 LAFCo staff offered extended time for the District to work towards a long-term solution for improving transparency and accountability. The District has not shown progress in making the above referenced improvements. Furthermore, retaining the status quo for the District does not address the discontinuity between the District’s tax base and voter representation Establish the RCRPD as a subsidiary district of the City of Fortuna Another governance option may be establishing the District as a subsidiary district of the City of Fortuna. A subsidiary district means a district of limited powers in which the city council shall be designated as, and empowered to act as, the ex officio board of directors of such district (G.C. Section 56078). Establishing the RCRPD as a subsidiary district would not change the legal status of the District as a special district; however, it would exchange the existing appointed District Board for the City Council as the ex-officio board of directors. The City would assume all assets, functions and governance along with all debts and liabilities of the subsidiary district. The establishment of the District as a subsidiary district of the City would not change the designation of the share of the ad valorem property tax received by the District. This option may be initiated by LAFCo, the legislative body of the district wishing to establish itself as a subsidiary district, the legislative body of the city wishing to establish a subsidiary district, or by petition. In establishing a subsidiary district, the following territorial requirement must be satisfied in accordance with Government Code Section 57105: A. The entire territory of a district shall be included within the boundaries of a city; or B. A portion or portions of the territory of such district shall be included within the boundaries of a city, and such portion or portions shall both represent 70% or more of the area of land within such district and contain 70% of more of the number of registered voters who reside within the district. As discussed above, at least 70 percent of the territory within the District and 70 percent of registered voters of the District must be within the City, in order to meet legal requirements of establishing a subsidiary district. In the case of RCRPD, approximately 17% of the District’s territory is within the City and 86% of the District’s population is within the City, thereby meeting only the registered voter requirement needed to initiate a subsidiary district process. Staff evaluated the possibility of processing a detachment in conjunction with establishment of a subsidiary district for RCRPD. While a boundary reduction is possible, over 53% of the District would need to be detached in order to meet the 70% territorial requirement. Staff coordinated with the County Auditor-Controller's office and found the current tax rate area boundaries are arranged in such a way that meeting this 70% territorial threshold is infeasible unless the subsidiary district boundary were reduced to be coterminous with the Fortuna city limit. Doing so would retain a significant portion of the District’s tax base and provide significantly better voter representation in funding decisions and activities rendered via District funds. If the subsidiary district boundary matched the existing City boundary, it could be used as basis for a tax exchange agreement between the subsidiary district and the County, similar to the master tax exchange agreement between the City of Fortuna and the County. Such an agreement may be codified as a part of the subsidiary district formation process. 26 Dissolution of the RCRPD Another governance structure option for the RCRPD may be dissolution of the District and designating the City of Fortuna as the successor for the purpose of winding up the affairs of the district12. Designating the City as the successor (rather than the County) is based on the greater assessed value of taxable property within the incorporated area of the dissolved district. Dissolution is defined as the extinguishment or termination of the existence of a district and the cessation of all its corporate powers.13 This option may be initiated by LAFCo, the legislative body of the district, or by petition. Government Code Sections 57450 through 57463 provide detailed information and procedures for successor agencies in concluding the affairs of a dissolved district. Considering the RCRPD does not have property, assets, or indebtedness, this process would be limited to addressing the existing property taxes collected by the District. Typically upon dissolution, the increment of ad valorem property taxes that had been apportioned to the dissolved district would be redistributed among the remaining public agencies within the tax rate areas, including the City of Fortuna in incorporated areas and the County in unincorporated areas. However, LAFCo staff is coordinating with the County Auditor-Controller and the County Administrative Office to determine whether a property tax sharing agreement between the County and the City of Fortuna can be developed for the current property tax increment received by RCRPD within city limits. Recommendation As discussed above, LAFCo has been working to find a solution for the RCRPD. Maintaining the District as is, with a non-functioning governing board and a tax base that is not appropriately represented is no longer a feasible course of action. Doing so is not an appropriate use of government functions and services, nor is it in the best interest of the tax payers. The District should either be organized into a subsidiary district of the City of Fortuna or it should be dissolved. The subsidiary district option would formalize the responsibility for district management and services by the City, while retaining the current property taxes collected by the district within the incorporated area. The subsidiary district option retains some redundancy and duplication of service responsibility. Alternately, the dissolution option would dismantle the RCRPD entirely and redistribute the existing property taxes among the remaining public agencies within the tax rate areas. For both options, LAFCo staff is coordinating with the County Auditor-Controller and the County Administrative Office to determine whether a property tax sharing agreement between the County and the City of Fortuna can be developed to retain the current property tax increment received by RCRPD within Fortuna city limits. Given the current status, an interim sphere of influence that matches the Fortuna city boundary is proposed. An interim SOI would apply until either a subsidiary district is formed or a zero sphere that would precede the dissolution option is initiated. Ultimately, this identifies the City as the appropriate entity to continue to provide recreation services to the Fortuna community. 12 Government Code §57453. 13 Government Code §56035. 27 MUNICIPAL SERVICE REVIEW DETERMINATIONS As set forth in Section 56430(a) of the CKH Act- In order to prepare and to update the SOI in accordance with Section 56425, the commission shall conduct a service review of the municipal services provided in the county or other appropriate area designated by the commission. The commission shall include in the area designated for a service review the county, the region, the sub-region, or any other geographic area as is appropriate for an analysis of the service or services to be reviewed, and shall prepare a written statement of its determinations with respect to each of the following: (1) Growth and population projections for the affected area a) As of 2010, the District’s population was approximately 13,806 residents, based on GIS analysis of 2010 Census data. b) Approximately 11,926 residents or 86 percent reside in the City of Fortuna, while the remaining 1,880 residents or 14 percent reside in the unincorporated areas of the District. c) The RCRPD is anticipated to have a 2035 population of 15,255, or an additional 1,449 residents. (2) The location and characteristics of any disadvantaged unincorporated communities14 within or contiguous to the sphere a) The majority of the unincorporated area within the RCRPD is determined to be disadvantaged. b) The Loleta, Scotia and Hydesville areas, which are located outside of the District to the northwest, south and southeast, respectively, are also designated as disadvantaged unincorporated communities by the DWR. (3) Present and planned capacity of public facilities, adequacy of public services, and infrastructure needs or deficiencies including needs or deficiencies related to sewers, municipal and industrial water, and structural fire protection in any disadvantaged unincorporated communities within or contiguous to the sphere a) The RCRPD does not own, operate or maintain an office building or recreation facilities. (4) Financial ability of agencies to provide services a) RCRPD’s revenues are funded through property taxes averaging $15,000 per year. b) The RCRCD does not use its finances to provide district services. Instead, funds collected are transferred annually to the City of Fortuna’s General Fund to offset recreation programs offered by the City’s Parks and Recreation Department. (5) Status of, and opportunities for, shared facilities a) The RCRPC transfers all of its funds to the City of Fortuna. 14 A disadvantaged unincorporated community is defined as any area with 12 or more registered voters where the annual median household income is less than 80 percent of the statewide annual median household income (pursuant to Government Code Section 56033.5 and Water Code Section 79505.5). 28 b) There is an opportunity for the City of Fortuna to formalize the responsibility for district management via the formation of a subsidiary district. c) The City of Fortuna is the appropriate entity to continue to provide recreation services to the incorporated area of Fortuna. (6) Accountability for community service needs, including governmental structure and operational efficiencies a) The RCRPD has ongoing board member vacancies, does not hold public meetings, and lacks accountability to the public. b) As detailed in numerous examples throughout this MSR, the RCRPD does not meet the majority of standards and requirements necessary for the operation of a recreation and park district. c) With the Fortuna City Council as the de facto decision-making body for District funds, district residents in unincorporated territory or within in the City of Rio Dell are not appropriately represented. (7) Any other matter related to effective or efficient service delivery, as required by commission policy a) The District should either be organized into a subsidiary district of the City of Fortuna or it should be dissolved. A property tax sharing agreement between the County and the City of Fortuna may be developed to retain the current property tax increment received by RCRPD within Fortuna city limits. b) An interim sphere of influence that matches the Fortuna city boundary should be considered. An interim SOI would apply until either a subsidiary district is formed or a zero sphere that would precede the dissolution option is initiated. 29 3.2 North Humboldt Recreation and Park District The North Humboldt Recreation and Park District (NHRPD) is an independent special district formed on October 1, 1968 by the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors (Resolution No. 68-101) following a successful special election. The principal act that governs the NHRPD is the Recreation and Park District Law.15 The principal act empowers recreation and park districts to 1) organize, promote, conduct, and advertise programs of community recreation, including, but not limited to, parks and open space, parking, transportation, and other related services that improve the community’s quality of life, 2) establish systems of recreation and recreation facilities, including, but not limited to, parks and open space, and 3) acquire, construct, improve, maintain, and operate recreation facilities, including, but not limited to, parks and open space, both inside and beyond the district’s boundaries.16 The principal act also defines the powers and duties of recreation and park districts in cooperating with other local governments.17 Districts must apply and obtain LAFCo approval to exercise latent powers, that is, those services authorized by the principal act but not provided by the district by the end of 2000.18 There are 107 recreation and park districts in the State. The NHRPD is one of two districts of its type in Humboldt County. The NHRPD was formed for the purpose of overseeing the planning, acquisition, and construction of a community swimming pool. In 1975, the District completed construction of the Arcata Community Pool, located at 1150 16th Street in Arcata. The NHRPD contracts with the University Center at Humboldt State University for business and management services associated with daily facility operations. Table 3-7: NHRPD Overview North Humboldt Recreation and Park District Recreation and Park District Law (California Public Resources Code PRINCIPAL ACT §5780-5791) FORMATION October 1, 1968 DISTRICT TYPE Independent, Single-Function SERVICES PROVIDED Recreation services associated with public swimming pool AREAS SERVED Arcata, Manila, Jacoby Creek DISTRICT AREA 32 square miles (20,304 acres) POPULATION 21,523 residents (2010 census) 15 California Public Resources Code §5780-5791. 16 California Public Resources Code §5786. 17 California Public Resources Code §5786.11-5786.13. 18 California Government Code §56824.10. 30 k e e Cr ort o n WidowW hite Creek N 101 Squaw Creek Humboldt McKinleyville Mill Creek G rassy Creek L a n N. Bank Rd. E ssex G u lc h in d s a y C re e e k H a c ll C O re e k c W a i rre P a c i f a d Riv er Sl o u g h c D a niel Sl o ug h Jolly Gia J n a t n C es re C e re k e k n C re e k 299 Mad R vi e r Blue Lake M M Arcata Community Pool Slough 255 a n n o n al mer Creek G P Arcata ek Cre Puter e e k Cr Jacoby C B oundary re e k Humboldt Bay 101 Eureka Slough Fay Slough Eureka City of Arcata Rivers Creek Freshwate r C re e k a d y G ul c h Cl oney G u lch Jaco A b n y n C ex reek Incorporated City n e District Boundary R y a M c Cr 0 1 2Miles Figure North Humboldt Recreation and Park District 4-1 Sources: Boundaries, Roads: Humboldt County GIS, Rivers - CA FRAP Date: 9/9/2016 Boundary and Sphere The NHRPD encompasses an area of approximately 31 square miles (20,300 acres) and includes the City of Arcata, the town of Manila and the surrounding unincorporated areas along West End Road, Fickle Hill Road, and Jacoby Creek Road. The District’s sphere of influence was last updated in 2009 and is coterminous with the existing district boundary. Type and Extent of Services Services Provided The NHRPD provides all services via its single swimming facility, the Arcata Community Pool. The maintenance and operation of this building and property, including the delivery of swimming programs and services at that facility are the sole services provided by the District. The District offers the following recreation programs through a contract with the University Center at Humboldt State University: Recreational swim: Recreational swim is a drop-in swim program for all ages typically o offered daily from January until the end of August. Lap swim: Lap swim is offered year round for adults. o Water exercise: Water exercise classes are one-hour long, medium intensity aerobic o workouts offered Monday through Friday. Adaptive aquatics: Adaptive aquatic classes are offered on Fridays for children of o exceptional needs. Prenatal and post-partum exercise: Prenatal and post-partum classes are designed for o expectant and new mothers and are offered Monday through Friday. Swim lessons: Swim lessons are typically offered Monday through Thursday during the o summer/fall months, from mid-April through the end of October. The curriculum blends water safety and competitive swimming principles combined with conventional learn-to- swim programs. The program includes levels for infants and toddlers, and a core program of seven levels of proficiency that build upon each other. Classes are 30 minutes and 45 minutes for advanced levels. Certification programs: Certification programs offered include lifeguard, CPR/AED o rescue, first aid, and scuba programs. All programs are taught to American Red Cross standards. Facility rental: The swimming pool, waterslide and individual lap lanes are available for o rent. The barbecue/patio area is available during private functions. Swim club: This program is designed for beginning to advanced swimmers ages 18 and o over. Kayak instruction: Private kayak instruction and drop-in kayak roll sessions are provided. o Equipment is available to a limited number of people on a first-come, first-served basis. Others may bring their own equipment. 32 Contracts for Services Since 1993, the University Center (UC) at Humboldt State University (HSU) has contracted with the NHRPD to supply business and management services to the District. The UC’s Administrative and Business Office provides accounting, payroll, and audit management services, while Center Activities is involved with running the facility, programming, publicity, and risk management. The Arcata Community Pool provides a site for Center Activities’ kayak, lifeguard and scuba programs, and it employs a number of HSU students. This partnership brings funds back to campus in the way of fees NHRPD compensates the University Center to provide these services. The agreement contains indemnification language that protects the University Center from liability associated with services it provides to the NHRPD. The contract also allows for either party to terminate the agreement with a 90-day notice. Collaboration The District has a memorandum of understanding with Arcata High School for parking and student use of the Arcata Community Pool. Overlapping and Neighboring Service Providers The City of Arcata is almost entirely within the NHRPD boundaries. The City is a major provider of parks and recreation facilities such as community centers, sports fields and playgrounds. Additionally, public schools provide many active-use facilities in Arcata, including Arcata High School which is located adjacent to the District’s facility. The community relies on schools, Humboldt State University, and other providers to help meet facility needs. There are limited swimming pool facilities located in and around the District. The pool at Humboldt State University is free for students and $5 for community members. The swimming pool facilities at the Arcata and Eureka HealthSPORT locations are available for members only. Accountability and Governance The NHRPD is governed by a five-member Board of Directors elected to four-year fixed terms of office. There are no term limits. The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors appoints members to the District’s Board, if there is a lack of candidates for election. The District reports that it has difficulty finding board member candidates within current district boundaries. All five of the current Directors were appointed. As the four-year term of an incumbent board member expires, existing members have been re-appointed by the Board of Supervisors in lieu of an election. The current Board member names, positions, and term expiration dates are presented in Table 3-8. Table 3-8: NHRPD Contact Information and Governing Body Contact Information CONTACT Dave Nakamura MAILING ADDRESS 1150 16th Street, Arcata, CA 95521 PHONE (707) 822-6801 E-MAIL dwn1@humboldt.edu Board of Directors GOVERNING BODY Elected five-member Board of Directors TERMS 4-year fixed terms 33 Member Name Term Jan Ross 12/15- 12/19 BOARD MEMBERS Jo Anne Joy 12/15-12/19 Ronald Fritzsche 12/13 - 12/17 Harvey Kelsey 12/15- 12/19 Mike Morrison 12/13 - 12/17 Meets the third Wednesday of each month at 3:30 p.m. at the BOARD MEETINGS California Welcome Center, 1635 Heindon Road, Arcata The NHRPD Board typically meets on the third Wednesday of each month at 3:30 p.m. at the California Welcome Center, 1635 Heindon Road, Arcata. Agendas are posted 72 hours prior to every Board meeting at the meeting location. The NHRPD publishes the Board of Directors’ meeting agendas and minutes to the District’s website. The agenda is posted 72 hours prior to every Board meeting at the entrance of the California Welcome Center, and also on the District’s website. The District conducts constituent outreach in addition to legally required agenda posting via its website. The District posts a variety of information to its website, including a description of recreation services (e.g., aquatics, facility rentals); the phone and e-mail address for the District; a map of the District’s boundary; and the agendas and minutes for the Board of Directors meetings. The District also has a Facebook page to promote the programs and events held at the Arcata Community Pool. Management and Staffing The Board of Directors governs the District, while an operations manager and general manager oversee the day-to-day District operations. All business, accounting and management consultation services are provided by contract with the University Center at Humboldt State University. On a day-to-day basis, the NHRPD employs a good amount of HSU students that comprise a large portion of its payroll. The NHRPD Board has established a policy to cover health insurance benefits to the operations manager and general manager. The District has not adopted a mission statement, goals, objectives, long-range plans or performance measures. However, the District adopts policies and procedures to guide district programs and operations. Other documents that the District uses to guide efforts and services include the annually adopted budget. The District’s annual financial reports and annual budgets are not available on its website. 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 District has submitted its budget for the most recent fiscal year. Population and Projected Growth Land Uses The NHRPD encompasses the City of Arcata and surrounding unincorporated areas along West End Road, Fickle Hill Road, and Jacoby Creek Road. The District is comprised of a mixture of rural residential, agriculture, and timber related uses, with urban uses predominantly within the City of Arcata. Projected Growth 34 While population projections specific to the District are not available, future population may be estimated using population projections developed by the Department of Finance for California counties in January 2013.19 Using the average Humboldt County growth rate of approximately 0.4 percent between 2010 and 2035, the District is anticipated to have a 2035 population of 23,782, or an additional 2,259 residents. Current Population As of 2010, the District’s population was approximately 21,523 residents, based on GIS analysis of 2010 Census data. Of the District’s population, approximately 17,231 residents or 80 percent reside in the City of Arcata, while the remaining 4,292 residents or 20 percent reside in the unincorporated areas of the District. 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 registered voters, or as determined by commission policy, where the median household income is less than 80 percent of the statewide annual median.20 The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) has developed a mapping tool 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 larger geographic areas that may meet the income definition of disadvantaged.21 Based on mapping information from DWR relative to the location of community centers within and surrounding the NHRPD, the majority of the District does not meet the disadvantaged unincorporated community definition. However, the town of Manila, which is within the District boundaries, is designated as disadvantaged. Financing The NHRPD has reported that the current level of financing is adequate to provide services. District expenditures have generally exceeded revenues in recent fiscal years, as shown in Table 3-9. This is due in part to capital improvements conducted by the District. Revenues In fiscal year 2014, the District received $696,682 in revenues, as depicted in Table 3-11. NHRPD’s revenues are primarily funded through property taxes (22 percent) and service charges (76 percent). Other funding sources include interest income, grant funding, and community fundraising. Expenses In fiscal year 2014, the District expended a total of $712,372, with the majority of expenses attributable to salaries, wages and benefits (50 percent) and services and supplies (50 percent). 19 Department of Finance, Population Projections for California and its Counties 2010-2060, or Table P-1. 20 California Government Code §56033.5. 21 DWR maps and GIS files are derived from the US Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS) using different census geographies (Place, Tract, and Block Group) and are compiled for the five-year period of 2006-2010. 35 For the last several years, the District has invested in infrastructure and facility upgrades, such as new water heating systems, new facility windows, and a pool liner. Table 3-9: NHRPD Revenues and Expenditures, FYs 2010-2014 Financial records as reported to the California State Controller’s Office Table 3-11: NHRPD Detailed Budget, FY 2014 NHRPD Detailed Budget Expenditures Salaries, Wages, and Benefits $324,101 Services and Supplies $383,520 Other $7,196 Total Expenditures $ 712,372 Revenue Property Tax $167,128 Use of Money and Property $1,694 Intergovernmental (State) $2,526 Charges for Service $518,138 Other Revenue $7,196 Total Revenue $ 696,682 Debt The District does not have any long-term debt. 36 Infrastructure and Facilities The NHRPD owns and operates the Arcata Community Pool at 1150 16th Street, next to Arcata High School. This property and facility are the District’s sole assets. The Arcata Community Pool has four main sections which allow different programs to occur at the same time. Pool Area: The pool includes six, 25-yard lap lanes, a shallow area ranging from 2.5 to 4 o feet deep, and a deep area ranging from 7 to 12 feet deep, with a 1-meter diving board and observation seating area. Water Slide: Humboldt County’s only water slide offers a 122 foot ride with two 360 o degree turns. You must be 4 feet tall to enjoy. Fitness Center: The fitness center offers treadmills, steppers, elliptical, recumbent and o upright bike, graviton, universal machine, dumbbells, benches and stretching mats. This room is available for adults. Special arrangements can be made for youth 16 and older with both parent and management approval. Patio Area: The patio area has picnic benches, lounge chairs and two barbeques for o gatherings. There is a hot tub and sauna available for adult patrons. The Arcata Community Pool is open year around. The hours of operation are 5:30 am to 9:00 pm Monday through Friday, 8:00 am through 6:00 pm on Saturdays, and 1:00 pm through 4:00 pm on Sundays. The District has made a number of improvements, including installing sky windows in the facility, new handrails and stairs in the shallow pool area to meet ADA requirements, and a new pool liner to address drainage issues. The District is in the process of replacing the aging water boiler for heating the pool, the domestic water, and the building. The District continues to monitor and prioritize facility improvement needs. Demand for Services The District has a variety of special programs and activities for small and large groups and for different ages and levels of swimming proficiency. Drop in activities, such as the lap swimming, are well attended and designated classes are provided for different types of groups. The District provides varying admission rates and passes, including a one-visit, 10-visit, one-month, three- month, and season passes. Together, the programs and admissions are very accessible and appropriate for a broad range of visitors. The District distributes a newsletter, conducts advertising, and puts on fundraisers, such as “lap-a-thons” to raise money for such things as water climbing walls. Governance Structure Options There are no governance structure options for NHRPD. 37 MUNICIPAL SERVICE REVIEW DETERMINATIONS As set forth in Section 56430(a) of the CKH Act- In order to prepare and to update the SOI in accordance with Section 56425, the commission shall conduct a service review of the municipal services provided in the county or other appropriate area designated by the commission. The commission shall include in the area designated for a service review the county, the region, the sub-region, or any other geographic area as is appropriate for an analysis of the service or services to be reviewed, and shall prepare a written statement of its determinations with respect to each of the following: (1) Growth and population projections for the affected area a) The District is anticipated to have a 2035 population of 23,782, or an additional 2,259 residents. b) As of 2010, the District’s population was approximately 21,523 residents. c) Of the District’s population, approximately 17,231 residents or 80 percent reside in the City of Arcata, while the remaining 4,292 residents or 20 percent reside in the unincorporated areas of the District. (2) The location and characteristics of any disadvantaged unincorporated communities22 within or contiguous to the sphere a) The majority of the District does not meet the disadvantaged unincorporated community definition. However, the town of Manila, which is within the District boundaries, is designated as disadvantaged. (3) Present and planned capacity of public facilities, adequacy of public services, and infrastructure needs or deficiencies including needs or deficiencies related to sewers, municipal and industrial water, and structural fire protection in any disadvantaged unincorporated communities within or contiguous to the sphere a) The programs and admissions the District provides are accessible and appropriate for a broad range of visitors. b) The District reports that admissions are up and the District is able to fill up the classes it provides. c) The District has made a number of improvements to facilities and continues to monitor and prioritize facility improvement needs. c) Current facilities are anticipated to meet the needs of the community for the 5-10 year planning range of this document. (4) Financial ability of agencies to provide services a) The NHRPD has reported that the current level of financing is adequate to provide services. b) District expenditures have generally exceeded revenues in recent fiscal years. This is due in part to capital improvements conducted by the District. 22 A disadvantaged unincorporated community is defined as any area with 12 or more registered voters where the annual median household income is less than 80 percent of the statewide annual median household income (pursuant to Government Code Section 56033.5 and Water Code Section 79505.5). 38 (5) Status of, and opportunities for, shared facilities a) NHRPD contracts with the University Center at Humboldt State University to supply business and management services to the District. b) The District has a memorandum of understanding with Arcata High School for parking and student use of the Arcata Community Pool. c) No further opportunities for shared facilities are apparent at this time. (6) Accountability for community service needs, including governmental structure and operational efficiencies a) The District maintains a website where it provides meeting minutes, agendas, and program information. b) NHRPD holds regularly scheduled public meetings and regularly publishes detailed meeting minutes. c) NHRPD is governed by a 5 member board and demonstrates accountability in actively maintain a full board membership. d) All five Board members have been appointed by the Board of Supervisors. NHRPD could improve its accountability by holding member elections. (7) Any other matter related to effective or efficient service delivery, as required by commission policy a) The sphere of influence for the District is recommended to be updated to remain coterminous with the District boundary. b) No other matters related no District services have been fond relevant at this time. 39