Central Plumas Fire Agencies Spheres of Influence (adopted August 11, 2014)

PLUMAS LAFCO CENTRAL PLUMAS FIRE PROTECTION SPHERES OF INFLUENCE Greenhorn Creek Community Services District La Porte Fire Protection District Long Valley Community Services District Meadow Valley Fire Protection District Quincy Fire Protection District Adopted August 11, 2014 Resolution 2014-0004 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 2 GREENHORN CREEK COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 3 LA PORTE FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 4 LONG VALLEY COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 5 MEADOW VALLEY FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 6 QUINCY FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 ABBREVIATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 REFERENCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 PREPARERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 1 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 1 INTRODUCTION 1.1 LAFCO's Responsibilities This Sphere of Influence (SOI) Study has been prepared for the Plumas Local Agency Formation Commission (Plumas LAFCO). Local Agency Formation Commissions (LAFCOs) are quasi-legislative local agencies created in 1963 to assist the State in encouraging the orderly development and formation of local agencies. This SOI Study consists of a review of the districts which provide fire protection service in central Plumas County. These districts are as follows: Greenhorn Creek Community Services District (GCCSD) La Porte Fire Protection District (LPFPD) Long Valley Community Services District (LVCSD) Meadow Valley Fire Protection District (MVFPD) Quincy Fire Protection District (FPD) The Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Local Government Reorganization Act of 2000 (Government Code §56000 et seq.) is the statutory authority for the preparation of an Municipal Service Review (MSR) and periodic updates of the Sphere of Influence of each local agency. A Sphere of Influence is a plan for the probable physical boundaries and service area of a local agency, as determined by the affected Local Agency Formation Commission (Government Code §56076). Government Code §56425(f) requires that each Sphere of Influence be updated not less than every five years as necessary, and §56430 provides that a Municipal Service Review shall be conducted in advance of the Sphere of Influence update. 1.2 Sphere of Influence Requirements In determining the Sphere of Influence for each local agency, LAFCO must consider and prepare a written statement of determinations with respect to each of the following: 1. The present and planned land uses in the area, including agricultural and open space lands 2. The present and probable need for public facilities and services in the area 3. The present capacity of public facilities and adequacy of public services which the agency provides, or is authorized to provide 4. The existence of any social or economic communities of interest in the area if the commission determines that they are relevant to the agency 5. Present and probable need for public facilities and services of any disadvantaged unincorporated communities within the existing Sphere of Influence 1 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 1.3 LAFCO Policies and Procedures Related to Spheres of Influence Plumas LAFCO has adopted policies and procedures related to spheres of influence that are included as part of an overall Plumas LAFCO Policy, Standards and Procedures document adopted on June 16, 2010. Plumas LAFCO has discussed and considered the SOI process in open session, and has adopted a schedule notwithstanding budget appropriations for completing the various municipal service reviews and sphere of influence updates for Plumas County. In this case the fire chiefs met with LAFCO staff and a map was drawn showing the proposed Sphere of Influence area. The draft map was prepared for the chiefs to review the proposed Sphere of Influence with their respective Boards of Directors. This action does not include changing or amending the Emergency Services Boundaries. That process is distinct from the LAFCO process and will be approved by another legislative body. 1.4 Description of Public Participation Process Plumas LAFCO is authorized by the California Legislature and delegated powers as stated in the Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Local Government Reorganization Act of 2000 (the Act). LAFCO proceedings are subject to the provisions California’s open meeting law, the Ralph M. Brown Act (Government Code Sections 54950 et seq.) The Brown Act requires advance posting of meeting agendas and contains various other provisions designed to ensure that the public has adequate access to information regarding the proceedings of public boards and commissions. Plumas LAFCO complies with the requirements of the Brown Act. 1.5 Possible Approaches to the Sphere of Influence Plumas LAFCO may recommend government reorganizations to particular agencies in Plumas County, using the SOIs as the basis for those recommendations. Based on review of the guidelines of Plumas LAFCO as well as other LAFCOs in the State, various conceptual approaches have been identified from which to choose in designating an SOI. These seven approaches are explained below: 1) Coterminous Sphere: A Coterminous Sphere means that the Sphere of Influence for a city or special district that is the same as its existing boundaries of the city or district. 2) Annexable Sphere: A sphere larger than the agency’s boundaries identifies areas the agency is expected to annex. The annexable area is outside the district boundaries and inside the sphere of influence. 2 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 3) Detachable Sphere: A sphere that is smaller than the agency’s boundaries identifies areas the agency is expected to detach. The detachable area is the area within the agency bounds but not within its sphere of influence. 4) Zero Sphere: A zero sphere indicates the affected agency’s public service functions should be reassigned to another agency and the agency should be dissolved or combined with one or more other agencies. 5) Consolidated Sphere: A consolidated sphere includes two or more local agencies and indicates the agencies should be consolidated into one agency. One of the goals of LAFCO is to consider consolidation of districts. 6) Limited Service Sphere: A limited service sphere is the territory included within the SOI of a multi-service provider agency that is also within the boundary of a limited purpose district which provides the same service (e.g., fire protection), but not all needed services. Territory designated as a limited service SOI may be considered for annexation to the limited purpose agency without detachment from the multi-service provider. This type of SOI is generally adopted when the following conditions exist: a) The limited service provider is providing adequate, cost effective and efficient services b) The multi-service agency is the most logical provider of the other services c) There is no feasible or logical SOI alternative d) Inclusion of the territory is in the best interests of local government organization and structure in the area Government Code §56001 specifically recognizes that in rural areas it may be appropriate to establish limited purpose agencies to serve an area rather than a single service provider, if multiple limited purpose agencies are better able to provide efficient services to an area rather than one service district. Moreover, Government Code Section §56425(i), governing sphere determinations, also authorizes a sphere for less than all of the services provided by a district by requiring a district affected by a sphere action to “establish the nature, location, and extent of any functions of classes of services provided by existing districts” recognizing that more than one district may serve an area and that a given district may provide less than its full range of services in an area. 7) Sphere Planning Area: LAFCO may choose to designate a sphere planning area to signal that it anticipates expanding an agency’s SOI in the future to include territory not yet within its official SOI. There are no anticipated sphere planning areas within Plumas County at this time. 3 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 1.6 SOI Update Process LAFCO is required to establish SOIs for all local agencies and enact policies to promote the logical and orderly development of areas within the SOIs. Furthermore, LAFCO must update those SOIs every five years, as necessary. In updating the SOI, LAFCO is required to conduct a Municipal Service Review (MSR) and adopt related determinations, which was adopted on December 9, 2013.1 This report identifies SOI determinations and recommends a SOI for the seven districts providing fire protection services in the central Plumas County area. LAFCO must notify affected agencies 21 days before holding a public hearing to consider the SOI and may not update the SOI until that hearing is closed. The LAFCO Executive Officer must issue a report including recommendations on the SOI amendment and update under consideration at least five days before the public hearing. 1.7 SOI Amendments and CEQA LAFCO has the discretion to limit SOI updates to those that it may process without unnecessarily delaying the SOI update process or without requiring its funding agencies to bear the costs of environmental studies associated with SOI expansions. Any local agency or individual may file a request for an SOI amendment. The request must state the nature of and reasons for the proposed amendment, and provide a map depicting the proposal. LAFCO may require the requester to pay a fee to cover LAFCO costs, including the costs of appropriate environmental review under CEQA. LAFCO may elect to serve as lead agency for such a review, may designate the proposing agency as lead agency, or both the local agency and LAFCO may serve as co-lead agencies for purposes of an SOI amendment. Local agencies are encouraged to consult with LAFCO staff early in the process regarding the most appropriate approach for the particular SOI amendment under consideration. Certain types of SOI amendments are likely exempt from CEQA review. Examples are SOI expansions that include territory already within the bounds or service area of an agency, SOI reductions, zero SOIs and coterminous SOI’s. SOI expansions for limited purpose agencies that provide services (e.g., fire protection, levee protection, cemetery, and resource conservation) needed by both rural and urban areas are typically not considered growth-inducing and are likely exempt from CEQA. Similarly, SOI expansions for districts serving rural areas (e.g., irrigation water) are typically not considered growth inducing. 1 Plumas LAFCO Resolution 2013-06 Approving a Municipal Service Review of Services Provided by Central Plumas Fire Agencies and Adopting Written Determinations Thereon, December 9, 2013. 4 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update Remy et al. write: “In City of Agoura Hills v. Local Agency Formation Commission (2d Dist.1988) 198 Cal.App.3d480, 493-496 [243 Cal.Rptr.740] (City of Agoura Hills), the court held that a LAFCO’s decision to approve a city’s sphere of influence that in most respects was coterminous with the city’s existing municipal boundaries was not a “project” because such action did not entail any potential effects on the physical environment.”2 1.8 Sphere of Influence Document Information contained in this Sphere of Influence is only current as of the date of adoption. Plumas LAFCO Policy 3-C calls for an updated Municipal Service Review at the time a proposal is made and essentially requires an updated Municipal Services Review anytime a change of organization is proposed provided significant changes in the Municipal Service Review baseline occur. 1.9 History of LAFCO Review of Fire Districts LAFCO’s were created in 1965 to discourage urban sprawl and to encourage orderly and efficient urban development patterns. To accomplish those objectives, LAFCOs were given two basic powers: 1) To establish spheres of influence of each local governmental agency within its county 2) To approve or disapprove proposals for annexation of territory In 1971 the Legislature modified certain statutory language to make the adoption of spheres of influence mandatory, but no deadline was set. In 1977 an opinion of the Attorney General concluded that, despite the absence of an explicit deadline, a LAFCO must adopt spheres within a reasonable time. The case Resource Defense Fund v. Local Agency Formation commission of Santa Cruz County (1983) 138 Cal.App.3d 987,989,994,188 Cal.Rptr.499) says before a Local Agency Formation Commission can approve an annexation, a Sphere of Influence must first be determined. During the 1980’s most LAFCOs completed Spheres of Influence for all agencies within their jurisdiction, including Plumas LAFCO. In 2001 with the passage of AB 2838 LAFCO’s were required to periodically update Spheres of Influence. However, in order to adopt a Sphere of Influence for an agency, LAFCO was required to do a comprehensive review of municipal services and prepare a Municipal Service Review (MSR). The statute was later amended to clarify the content of a MSR and to clearly state a deadline to prepare Spheres of Influence. The current statute states: “On or before January 1, 2008, and every five years thereafter, the commission shall, as necessary, review and update each Sphere of Influence”. 2 Remy, Michael H., Tina A. Thomas, James G. Moose, Whitman F. Manley, Guide to CEQA, Solano Press Books, Point Arena, CA, February 2007, page 111. 5 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 2 GREENHORN CREEK COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT 2.1 Greenhorn Creek Community Background Plumas County General Plan 2013 states the following: Rural Place: Representative areas include …Greenhorn Ranch, …Rural Places are defined as having little to no public infrastructure and services. If commercial services are present they tend to be small and often seasonal. Rural places may also consist of a grouping of homes. Planning area and rural place boundaries may be one in the same. There is little or no identified expansion area.3 Greenhorn Creek Guest Ranch is located in near Estray Creek within the Greenhorn Creek CSD. 2.2 Greenhorn Creek Community Services District Background4 2.2.1 Greenhorn Creek CSD Contact Information Greenhorn Greek Community Services District (GCCSD) provides fire and water. GCCSD adopted a mission, which states that the “Greenhorn CSD aims to provide safe, affordable and reliable drinking water and responsive fire service.” Contact information for the Greenhorn Creek CSD is as follows: Roy Carter, General Manager, roycarter@greenhorncsd.org Mailing Address: P.O. Box 346, Quincy, CA 95971 Fax: (530) 283-9671 Location: 2049 Red Bluff Circle, Quincy, CA 95971 Water Department: Roy Carter, (530) 283-4588 Billing or Finance Issues: Susan Scarlett, (530) 283-9670, scarlettbiz@yahoo.com In case of emergency, call (530) 283-5994 The Board of Directors meets on the third Thursday of the month at 6:00 in the evening at the Greenhorn fire station located at 2049 Red Bluff Circle, Quincy, CA. 3 Plumas County General Plan 2013, Page 25. 4 Plumas LAFCO, Central Plumas Fire Municipal Service Review Final, Adopted December 9, 2013, Prepared by Policy Consulting Associates, LLC, Page 49. 6 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 2.2.1 Greenhorn Creek CSD History In the 1960s, the Greenhorn Creek community relied on Quincy FPD for fire services. In the early 1970s, a former contractor working on road maintenance in the area gifted a 1942 Chevrolet water truck to Greenhorn Ranch. The truck was able to draft water from the pond and was used for dust control and for firefighting if needed. In the 1980s, two more fire trucks were obtained by the Ranch. In 1989, construction began on the fire station, and in 1990 Greenhorn Creek Valley Volunteer Fire Department was officially formed. GCCSD was formed in 1971 as a dependent special district (Board of Supervisors serves as Board of Directors) to provide water to the western portion of the Greenhorn Creek housing development known as Greenhorn II. In 1975, GCCSD was consolidated with Estray Creek Community Services District. The consolidation empowered GCCSD to provide domestic water for fire protection purposes and to collect, treat and dispose of sewage. In 1990, Greenhorn Creek Valley Volunteer Fire Department was formed, and in 1995, the fire department became a part of GCCSD. GCCSD took over the responsibilities of the Greenhorn Ranch Company in 1995 and began providing water to the eastern side of the development known as Greenhorn I, as well as Greenhorn Guest Ranch. In 2003, the citizens of Greenhorn Creek voted to become an independent special district with a Board of Directors from the Greenhorn Creek CSD. On April 8, 2013, Plumas LAFCO previously authorized GCCSD to start performing road maintenance services contingent upon the Greenhorn Creek CSD approving a special tax or assessment to provide this service. The CSD did not approve a special tax and as of December 31, 2013 the Board of Directors cancelled the contract/agreement for road services. Currently, the road associations are responsible for all road maintenance on their roads. 2.3 Greenhorn Creek Community Services District Sphere of Influence The Sphere of Influence (SOI) for the Greenhorn Creek Community Services District was first adopted in 1983. The SOI was last amended in 2013.5 The District’s SOI is 1.18 square miles in size compared to 0.4 square miles of boundary area. The SOI is coterminous with the District’s boundaries on the western side and extends beyond its bounds in all other directions. The recommendation for the Sphere of Influence for Greenhorn Creek CSD is that it remain the same as the previously adopted SOI. 5 Plumas LAFCO Resolution 2013-0001. 7 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 2.3.1 SOI Determinations on Present and Planned Land Use for the Greenhorn Creek Area 1-1] Land uses within the Greenhorn Creek CSD are mainly comprised of rural residential and low density suburban. There is one 6.26-acre area currently zoned for general commercial. Greenhorn Guest Ranch includes 26 guest rooms, a lodge, a saloon, and a kitchen. 1-2] The Greenhorn Creek Community Services District’s boundary encompasses approximately 0.4 square miles. 1-3] As of June 2013, there were 139 housing units constructed which consisted of and 214 unimproved lots within the Greenhorn Creek CSD owned by private parties. In addition there were 39 unimproved lots owned by the Greenhorn Creek CSD. 1-4] The Greenhorn Creek CSD is not a land use authority, and does not hold primary responsibility for implementing growth strategies. The land use authority for unincorporated areas is Plumas County. 1-5] GCCSD anticipates no growth in service demand within the Greenhorn Creek CSD in the next few years. 1-6] The Greenhorn Creek Community Services District reported that there were no planned developments within its boundaries. 2.3.2 SOI Determinations on Facilities and Services: Present and Probable Need for the Greenhorn Creek CSD 2-1] The total population of GCCSD is 209 residents. 2-2] The State Department of Finance (DOF) projects that the population of Plumas County will grow by four percent from 2010 to 2020. Thus, the average annual population growth in the County is anticipated to be approximately 0.4 percent. Based on these projections, the Greenhorn Creek CSD’s population would increase from 209 in 2010 to approximately 217 in 2020. It is anticipated that demand for service within the District will increase minimally based on the DOF population growth projections through 2020. 8 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 2.3.3 SOI Determinations on Public Facilities Present and Future Capacity for the Greenhorn Creek CSD Fire Protection 3-1] GCCSD operates one fire station. Greenhorn Creek Station, which was reported to be in good condition, is located at 2049 Red Bluff Circle, Quincy CA and was built in 1991. The station is not staffed. 3-2] The Greenhorn Creek CSD employs one part-time paid general manager, who also acts as the water operator and a fire captain. GCCSD retains an additional part-time paid water operator on staff. The fire chief is a volunteer as are the five firefighters. 3-3] GCCSD has no Firefighter I and no EMT I certified personnel. The Greenhorn Creek CSD has three firefighters who attended Quincy Fire Academy and two firefighters who are currently attending EMT training. 3-4] Marginal capacity is available to provide fire services to Greenhorn Creek residents. Although there is sufficient equipment, the Greenhorn Creek CSD is in need of more firefighters. 3-5] Of the $14,974 in fire-related revenue in FY-12, 40% came from property taxes, 58% from property assessments, and two percent of other sources. 3-6] The Greenhorn Creek CSD fire department is funded through a combination of property taxes and special tax. The Greenhorn Creek CSD charges a special tax of $50 per year for improved lots and $35 per year for unimproved lots. Water Service 3-7] Reportedly, GCCSD has sufficient capacity to provide water and road maintenance services. The Greenhorn Creek CSD has recently added a new water storage tank and a new well. 3-8 There are 137 service connections, of which 135 are residential and two are commercial (Greenhorn Guest Ranch). All residences and facilities within Greenhorn Creek Subdivision using water for human consumption are required to connect to the GCCSD water system. Road Maintenance 3-9] There are approximately four miles of dirt roads within the Greenhorn Creek CSD area where the road associations are responsible for road maintenance services. There are no signalized intersections. The condition of the roads was reported to be fair. 9 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 3-10] A challenge identified by GCCSD was that some of the roads were very steep and required special maintenance, which is the responsibility of the road associations. 3-11] The road associations own a 1962 Austin Western road grader with attached snowplow, a 1975 International Dump Truck with attached snowplow and a 1975 Kenworth 3,000-gallon water truck. All equipment was reported to be in fair condition. 3-13 There are approximately two miles of roads within the Greenhorn Creek CSD that are in need of rehabilitation. 2.3.4 SOI Determinations on Social or Economic Communities of Interest for Greenhorn Creek 4-1] Greenhorn Creek CSD Station is used as a fire station and a town meeting hall for community and road association meetings 4-2] Greenhorn fire department auxiliary hosts the website where it provides information about services provided by the Greenhorn Creek CSD, district finances, and the Board of Directors. The website is not sponsored or controlled by GCCSD. 4-3] In addition to the Greenhorn Creek CSD property tax and assessment revenue, the fire department receives donations. Greenhorn Fire Department Auxiliary is a private, volunteer organization that was established to raise private donations to support the Greenhorn fire department and to provide other volunteer assistance in support of the fire department. 2.3.5 Present and probable need for public facilities and services of any Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities within the existing Sphere of Influence 5-1 The population threshold and other requirements by which Plumas LAFCO will define a disadvantaged unincorporated community is yet to be determined. 10 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 2.3.6 Map of Greenhorn Creek CSD Sphere of Influence Rideout Trail Buckhorn Circle Pathfinder Trail Greenhorn Ranch Road 11 egdiR nreF 25N42 Shooting Star Lane Buckhorn Trail Greenhorn Road Harrison Road enaL llonK tseroF Greenhorn Creek Community Services District Plumas County 19 20 21 22 30 29 28 27 Sugar Pine Trail Red B B la l c u k f r f i d T g ra e i T l rail Running Springs La F n o e untain Spring Lane Crooked S C um re m ek it T L r a a n il e 31 32 C 3 ed 3 ar Lane 34 6 5 4 3 ² Legend Greenhorn Creek CSD Parcels Resolution: Highways Formed: 12/29/71 Major Roads Sectional Grid (MDB&M) Greenhorn Creek CSD (SOI) Stream / River Resolution: 2014-0004 Waterbodies Adopted: August 11, 2014 0 0.25 0.5 1Miles Source: Plumas LAFCo Map Modified 9/11/2014 htroN 42 pihsnwoT Range 11 East Greenhorn Creek CSD Location Map (Not to Scale) Fire Station htroN 32 pihsnwoT ·|þ} 70 Greenhorn Creek CSD Greenhorn Creek Fire Protection Provider (Adopted Sphere of Influence) PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 3 LA PORTE FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT 3.1 La Porte Community Background La Porte is accessible from Quincy via the La Porte/Quincy Road (unplowed in winter) or year-round from Marysville via Highway 20 and County Road E-21.6 Nearby the historic community of La Porte is the Little Grass Valley Reservoir. A former gold mining town, La Porte attracts numerous visitors to campsites, fishing holes, and swimming areas. During the late California Gold Rush in the 1870s and 1880s the town of La Porte had a population of approximately 10,000 people, and had its own bank (Bank of La Porte). Potable water was provided free through redwood mains (some of which are still in service) by wealthy local citizens. Civic leaders strongly opposed hydraulic mining in the area, citing potential damage to watershed land as legal means to stop most hydraulic mining. The community features the historic Union Hotel Sierra Retreat (open for groups), along with cabin rentals, a resort, a general store, deli, gas station, gift store, tavern, and a small museum. Boat, jet-ski, bike, ATV and snowmobile rentals are available. La Porte is a census-designated (CDP). The population was 26 at the 2010 census, down from 43 at the 2000 census. The 2010 US Census reported that 26 people lived in 15 households, out of which 3 (20.0%) had children under the age of 18 living in them, 7 households (46.7%) were made up of individuals and 3 (20.0%) had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.73. There were 8 families (53.3% of all households); the average family size was 2.38. The population was spread out in age as follows: LA PORTE AGE DISTRIBUTION 2010 Under the age of 18 4 people 15.4% 18 to 24 0 people 0% 25 to 44 3 people 11.5% 45 to 64 13 people 50.0% 65 years of age or older 6 people 23.1% The median age was 56.0 years. For every 100 females there were 100.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 100.0 males. There were 145 housing units of which 10 (66.7%) were owner-occupied, and 5 (33.3%) were occupied by renters. The homeowner vacancy rate was 16.7%; the rental vacancy rate was 0%. There were 17 people (65.4% of the population) living in owner-occupied housing units and 9 people (34.6%) living in rental housing units. 6 http://www.plumascounty.org/Communities/LaPorte.htm, March 4, 2014 12 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 3.2 La Porte Fire Protection District Background7 LPFPD is located in the southwest portion of Plumas County. LPFPD was formed on June 18, 1962 as an independent special district and confirmed by the Secretary of State in January 1963. The District’s purpose is to provide fire protection to the residents of the District. LPFPD is governed by a three-member board of directors elected at large. Board members are elected to staggered four-year terms. The Board meets the second Wednesday of every month at 5pm at the District’s fire station 2181 Cedar Lane, La Porte, CA 95981-0259. 3.3 La Porte Fire Protection District Sphere of Influence The Sphere of Influence for the La Porte FPD was first adopted on August 26, 1976.8 The SOI was further revised on March 24, 1983, in order to insure the orderly growth of the area.9 The current SOI is 2.1 square miles compared to about 0.4 square miles of boundary area, and extends outside of the La Porte FPD’s boundaries along Quincy-La Porte Road to the northeast, curving around to the west. 10 Of particular interest to the La Porte FPD are four subdivisions around the Little Grass Valley Reservoir and within the SOI that have indicated an interest in receiving service from LPFPD. LPFPD was approached by the four subdivisions—Pancake, Bourbon and Water, Answering Meadows, and Silvertip Springs—proposing to be annexed into the District. The proposed annexation includes approximately 100 structures requiring seasonal services. Previously, the La Porte FPD adopted a resolution to move forward with annexation of these subdivisions; however, nothing further has occurred since then. The recommendation for the La Porte FPD Sphere of Influence is for it to be increased in size about 15 square miles including most of the Little Grass Valley Reservoir and the land north and south along the Quincy-La Port Road. 3.3.1 SOI Determinations on Present and Planned Land Use for the La Porte Area 1-1] Land uses within LPFPD include recreation, forest and watershed, and suburban residential uses.11 1-2] The La Porte FPD reported that within LPFPD’s boundaries, La Porte Pines Division has the greatest potential for growth. Although there are a number of lots available, only one to two houses on average are being built per year. 7 Plumas LAFCO, Central Plumas Fire Municipal Service Review Final, Adopted December 9, 2013, Prepared by Policy Consulting Associates, LLC, Page 101. 8 Plumas LAFCO Resolution 83-29. 9 Plumas LAFCO Resolution 83-29. 10 Plumas LAFCO, Central Plumas Fire Municipal Service Review Final, Adopted December 9, 2013, Prepared by Policy Consulting Associates, LLC, Page 102. 11 Plumas LAFCO resolution 83-29, Exhibit A. 13 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 1-3] At one point in time, there was a development proposed outside of the La Porte FPD’s boundary near Little Grass Valley Reservoir; however, currently there is no active interest in pursuing the development. 12 1-4] The State Department of Finance (DOF) projects that the population of Plumas County will grow by four percent in the next 10 years. Thus, the average annual population growth in the County is anticipated to be approximately 0.4 percent. Based on these projections, the District’s population would increase from 26 in 2010 to approximately 27 in 2020. It is anticipated that demand for service within the District will increase minimally based on the DOF population growth projections through 2020. 1-5] The District is not a land use authority, and does not hold primary responsibility for implementing growth strategies. The land use authority for unincorporated areas is Plumas County. 3.3.2 SOI Determinations on Facilities and Services: Present and Probable Need for the La Porte FPD 2-1] The La Porte FPD reported that it had observed a decrease in service demand in the last five years. The La Porte FPD reported that it receives 17 to 18 calls per year; most of the calls are for emergency medical services. 2-2] The number of calls peaked in 2008 at 27 calls and subsequently returned to previous levels in 2009 and 2010. The La Porte FPD reported that service demand is always higher in the summer months due to tourism. 3.3.3 SOI Determinations on Public Facilities Present and Future Capacity for the La Porte FPD 3-1] The La Porte Fire Protection District has one acting fire Chief, one fire captain, three firefighters and one training officer. The position of assistant chief is currently vacant. The fire chief manages daily operations and an office assistant handles the bills and paperwork. The firefighters report to the chief, and the chief is accountable to the Board. All of the positions at the La Porte FPD are filled by volunteers who receive no financial compensation. 3-2] LPFPD has two Firefighter I certified personnel and four Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) I certified personnel. In addition to Firefighter I and EMT certifications, LPFPD has two firefighters certified in Emergency Medical Responder (EMR), seven certified in Incident Command System (ICS) 100, 200 and 7000, two certified in low angle rope rescue operational (LARRO), two certified in hazmat first responder and three certified as Wildland Firefighters. 12 Plumas LAFCO, Central Plumas Fire Municipal Service Review Final, Adopted December 9, 2013, Prepared by Policy Consulting Associates, LLC, Page 106. 14 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 3-3] LPFPD operates one fire station. La Porte Volunteer Fire Station, which was reported to be in good condition, is located at 2181 Cedar Lane in La Porte and was built in 1996. The station is not regularly staffed. 3-4] The La Porte Fire Protection District reported that it has the capacity to provide services in the current service area. The District reported further that it has the capacity to provide service to planned development in the future growth area provided that growth continued at the current rate. However, if a large subdivision was to be built, the District may not have adequate service capacity. 3-5 The La Porte FPD’s primary financing sources are property taxes and fundraisers. The La Porte FPD noted that relying solely on tax dollars does not provide sufficient financing to provide adequate service to LPFPD residents; therefore, supplementary financing in the form of fundraisers is necessary. To date, adequate funds have been raised; however, this is not a guaranteed revenue stream in the future. The La Porte FPD also noted that one of the financing challenges they face is the decrease in property values in the area. Another challenge of note for LPFPD is that they provide services to La Porte Pines subdivision, which is located in the La Porte FPD; however, LPFPD does not receive property tax revenue from the territory, due to the lack of a tax sharing agreement with Plumas County when the area was annexed in 1983. 3-6] The La Porte FPD’s total revenue for FY 11-12 was $21,459. Of this amount, 79% came from property tax revenue, 20 percent came from state and federal aid and one percent was from interest invested funds and other revenue. 3.3.4 SOI Determinations on Social or Economic Communities of Interest for the La Porte FPD 4-1] In addition to the required agendas and minutes, the La Porte FPD itself does not conduct further outreach; however, the La Porte Fire Department Auxiliary tries to reach residents by way of fundraisers and community events such as the 4th of July Tri Tip Dinner and the Pancake Breakfast. Additionally, the Auxiliary keeps residents apprised of local agency activities through a newsletter in late spring, as well as a safety message. 4-2] If a customer is dissatisfied with the La Porte FPD’s services, complaints may be submitted verbally and are handled at Board meetings. Depending on the nature of the complaint, either the chief or the Board would be responsible for handing the complaint to resolution. The La Porte FPD reported that there were no complaints in 2012. 4-3] The La Porte FPD’s fire station is open to the surrounding communities and organizations to periodically host events and meetings. 4-4] It is recommended that LPFPD develop a basic website or Facebook page in order to keep customers up to date on La Porte FPD happenings. This online presence may be a more efficient way of posting meeting notices, agendas and meeting minutes. 15 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 3.3.5 Present and probable need for public facilities and services of any Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities within the existing Sphere of Influence 5-1] The population threshold and other requirements by which Plumas LAFCO will define a disadvantaged unincorporated community is yet to be determined. 16 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 3.3.6 Map of La Porte FPD Sphere of Influence LA Porte Fire Protection District 25 30 29 28 27 26 25 Little Grass Valley Reservoir 36 31 32 33 34 35 County Road 514 kj Little Grass Valley 1 6 5 4 3 2 Quincy Laporte Rd 12 7 8 9 Quincy Laporte Rd 10 11 kj La Porte Saint Louis Rd 13 18 17 16 15 14 Port Wine Rd 21N58 24 19 20 21 22 23 Quincy Laporte Rd 25 30 29 28 27 36 31 32 ² Legend La Porte FPD Resolution: Formed: 6/18/1962 Sectional Grid (MDB&M) La Porte FPD (SOI) Stream / River Resolution: 2014-0004 Waterbodies Adopted: August 11, 2014 0 0.5 1 2Miles Source: Plumas LAFCo Map Modified 9/11/2014 17 htroN 22 pihsnwoT Plumas County Parcels La Porte FPD Highways La Porte FPD Major Roads (Adopted Sphere of Influence) htroN 12 pihsnwoT Range 8 East Range 9 East La Porte FPD Location Map (Not to Scale) kj Fire Station Communities PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 4 LONG VALLEY COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT The Long Valley Community Services District (LVCSD) is located in the south central part of Plumas County and includes the communities of Cromberg and Camp Layman. 4.1 Long Valley Community Background-Cromberg Cromberg (formerly, Twenty-Mile House, Taft, and Teft) is a census-designated place (CDP) located on the Western Pacific Railroad, 6.5 miles northwest of Blairsden. The Cromberg Post Office opened in 1880, closed in 1912, reopened in 1919, closed again in 1931, and reopened in 1950.13 The population was 261 at the 2010 census, down from 290 at the 2000 census. The 2010 US Census reported that 261 people lived in 121 households, out of which 19 (15.7%) had children under the age of 18 living in them, 29 households (24.0%) were made up of individuals and 14 (11.6%) had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.16. There were 81 families (66.9% of all households); the average family size was 2.56. The population was spread out in age as follows: CROMBERG AGE DISTRIBUTION 2010 Under the age of 18 29 people 11.1% 18 to 24 15 people 5.7% 25 to 44 42 people 16.1% 45 to 64 107 people 41.0% 65 years of age or older 68 people 26.1% The median age was 53.3 years. For every 100 females there were 91.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 88.6 males. There were 188 housing units of which 96 (79.3%) were owner-occupied, and 25 (20.7%) were occupied by renters. The homeowner vacancy rate was 5.0%; the rental vacancy rate was 19.4%. There were 206 people (78.9% of the population) living in owner-occupied housing units and 55 people (21.1%) living in rental housing units. 4.2 Long Valley Community Services District Background14 Long Valley Community Services District (LVCSD) provides fire protection, emergency medical and limited recreation services. The Long Valley CSD’s formation was approved in 1976, but was not recorded by the Board of Equalization until 1981. The Long Valley CSD contains 2.7 square miles and consists of two non-contiguous parts, the smaller of which is located to the southeast of the larger portion, along SR 70. The larger of the two areas contains an island,15 which lies outside of the Long Valley CSD. The island 13 Durham, David L. (1998). California's Geographic Names: A Gazetteer of Historic and Modern Names of the State. Quill Driver Books. p. 369. ISBN 9781884995149. 14 Plumas LAFCO, Central Plumas Fire Municipal Service Review Final, Adopted December 9, 2013, Prepared by Policy Consulting Associates, LLC, Page 117. 15 Plumas County APNs 122060047 and 122070005. 18 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update consists of two parcels, which are zoned as agricultural preserve and timber preserve and contain no structures. Since the formation of the Long Valley CSD, there has been one boundary change. In 1985, the Long Valley CSD annexed the territory of Camp Layman.16 LVCSD is governed by a five-member board of directors elected at large to four-year terms. The Board meets regularly on the second Tuesday or Wednesday of every quarter. The time of regular meetings depend on board member availability. Long Valley CSD Board members meet at the town hall or at the RV-park. Board meeting agendas are posted at the post office, at the fire station and at the town hall. 4.3 Long Valley Community Services District Sphere of Influence The current Long Valley CSD SOI is larger than the LVCSD boundary area and extends outside its boundary to the west of the larger portion of the Long Valley CSD, as well as includes the island within the Long Valley CSD.17 The Long Valley CSD’s SOI is 3.8 square miles in size, compared to 2.7 square miles of territory within its boundary. Two Rivers Soccer Camp is located outside of the Long Valley CSD’s boundary area, but within its service area. According to LVCSD, the camp is extremely difficult to access and the Long Valley CSD struggles to provide services there. The owner of the camp reportedly refuses to attend to the condition of the roads leading to the camp or discuss the possibility of annexation into LVCSD or the neighboring Graeagle FPD. The recommendation for the Long Valley CSD Sphere of Influence is to have it remain the same as it is now, an annexable sphere, larger than the Long Valley CSD. 4.3.1 SOI Determinations on Present and Planned Land Use for the Long Valley Area 1-1] Land uses within the Long Valley CSD are designated as suburban residential, secondary suburban residential, limited access rural residential, resort and recreation, mining and some wetlands. 1-2] There are approximately 261 permanent residents within the Long Valley CSD. 1-3] No new developments are planned within the Long Valley CSD boundary area and SOI. 16 Plumas LAFCO Resolution 8-ANNX-84. 17 Plumas LAFCO records are unclear as to whether the island that is excluded from LVCSD’s bounds is included within the District’s SOI. Two maps of the District’s SOI were found with not dates to identify which is the most recent. Given that the excluded area is also within the District’s service area, it was assumed by Plumas LAFCO that the area was also included in the District’s adopted SOI. 19 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 1-4] The State Department of Finance (DOF) projects that the population of Plumas County will grow by four percent from 2010 to 2020. Thus, the average annual population growth in the County is anticipated to be approximately 0.4 percent. Based on these projections, the Long Valley CSD’s population would increase from 261 in 2010 to approximately 272 in 2020. It is anticipated that demand for service within the Long Valley CSD will increase minimally based on the DOF population growth projections through 2020. 1-5] The Long Valley CSD is not a land use authority, and does not hold primary responsibility for implementing growth strategies. The land use authority for unincorporated areas is Plumas County. 4.3.2 SOI Determinations on Facilities and Services: Present and Probable Need for the Long Valley Community Services District 2-1] The Long Valley CSD reported that it had observed no change in service demand in the last few years with an average number of annual calls fluctuating between 30 and 40. 2-2] According to LVCSD, the number of residents has been fairly constant, consisting of an aging population, which can result in an increase in demand for medical emergency services. 4.3.3 SOI Determinations on Public Facilities Present and Future Capacity for the Long Valley Community Services District 3-1] The Long Valley CSD currently has 11 sworn personnel, of whom seven are firefighters, three are captains and one is fire chief. The firefighters report to the captains who are accountable to the chief. In addition to sworn staff, there is a non-sworn Board secretary and a general manager. All personnel are volunteers. 3-2] The Long Valley CSD reported that current financing levels were adequate for operations but not for capital improvements. All new equipment is funded through grants. 3-3] LVCSD reported that it had sufficient capacity to serve current and future demand; however, serving possible future growth may be challenging if more volunteers are not recruited. In addition, in the absence of any grants, the Long Valley CSD will face the problem of outdated and inoperable equipment. 3-4] To improve its current financing level, the Long Valley CSD is looking into billing for out-of-district calls and non-resident calls. This new source of funding is expected to aid operational costs but not cover capital improvement needs. 20 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 3-5] The Long Valley CSD’s principal source of funds is derived from a special tax, which consists of $50 per year on each parcel less than 10 acres without a residential dwelling, $60 on each parcel 10 acres or greater without a residential dwelling, $85 per year for each parcel with a residential dwelling and $35 for each additional residential dwelling. The Long Valley CSD charges $0.06 per square foot on structures or buildings over 100 square feet used in a business or trade, and $1.50 per trailer space for RV-parks. The Long Valley CSD voters approved an increase to the special tax in 2005. 3-6] LVCSD has five Firefighter I and two EMT I certified personnel. 3-7] LVCSD operates one fire station located at 58880 SR 70 in Cromberg. The station was constructed in the late 1970s and was reported to be in excellent condition. The Cromberg station is not staffed. Housed at the LVCSD Cromberg station are an old water tender (1981-1,600 gallons of water), a 1983 fire engine, a 2006 international diesel water tender (2,500 gallons), and two wildland engines. The Cromberg station is used to store equipment and vehicles; it also contains a small kitchen, restrooms and a shower. LVCSD makes its station available to USFS in during emergencies. 3-8] The Long Valley CSD’s water reserves are represented by a 10,000-gallon tank kept at the fire station. LVCSD also has access to a swimming pool at the local motel and a pond. 4.3.4 SOI Determinations on Social or Economic Communities of Interest for the Long Valley Community Services District 4-1] In addition to the required agendas and minutes, the Long Valley CSD tries to reach its constituents through community activities such as an open house in the spring, a pancake breakfast in June, and by placing notices in the newspaper. LVCSD encourages its constituents to attend regular board meetings. 4-2] LVCSD provides limited recreation services in the form of an insurance policy for a town hall building. The building is owned by LVCSD and located on land that belongs to a neighboring property owner. The town hall is managed by a small committee that provides regular updates to the LVCSD Board of Directors. The committee is not a part of LVCSD and provides updates as a courtesy to the Long Valley CSD. Building maintenance and insurance costs are financed through fundraising. LVCSD uses the town hall for its regular Board of Directors meetings; the building is also used for various meetings of community groups and organizations, which are occasionally charged for the use of the premises. The facility, which is about 10 years old and consists of meeting space, kitchen and event space was reported to be in excellent condition. Approximately three to four years ago, Plumas County administered improvements on the building financed by a rehab grant applied for and received by the town hall managing committee.18 18 Plumas LAFCO, Central Plumas Fire Municipal Service Review Final, Adopted December 9, 2013, Prepared by Policy Consulting Associates, LLC, Page 131. 21 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 4-3] The Long Valley CSD lacks a website where district information is made available to the public. It is recommended that every public service provider have a website to keep constituents aware of the agency’s activities. 4.3.5 Present and probable need for public facilities and services of any Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities within the existing Sphere of Influence 5-1] The population threshold and other requirements by which Plumas LAFCO will define a disadvantaged unincorporated community is yet to be determined. 22 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 4.3.6 Map of Long Valley Community Services District Sphere of Influence Long Valley Community Services District 32 33 34 35 36 31 5 4 3 2 1 6 Harrison Road 5 8 8 9 ·|þ} 70 10 Powderhorn 1 R 1 oad W A ag O p o r ld i n l L W S a t h a n e g e e e l R Ro o a a d dGill Ranch Road Little L 1 o 2 ng Valley Creek Road 7 Sloat Road Bixler Road kj 17 16 Poplar Valley Road Sloat McRay 1 R 5 oad 14 13 Cr M o id m dle b O F ld o e C rk ro r m F g b e er a g t R h o e a r d River Mount Tomba Roa ·|þ d } 18 20 21 22 23 24 19 70 Cub Valley Road 28 27 26 25 30 29 32 33 34 35 36 31 Two Rivers Road 23 htroN 32 pihsnwoT Range 11 East Range 12 East Long Valley CSD Plumas County Location Map (Not to Scale) Legend Parcels Long Valley CSD Boundary Long Valley CSD ·|}þ Major Roads Sectional Grid (MDB&M) L (A o d n o g p V te a d ll e S y p F h i e re re P o r f o I t n e f c lu tio e n n c P e r ) ovider R Ad e o so p l t u e t d io : n A : u 7 g 5 u - s 2 t 7 1 8 8 4 , 1981 70 C S A tr e S a ta m te / H R i i g ve h r way kj Communities Fire Stations ² L L A A o d n o F g p C t V o e a d R l : l e e A y s u o ( g l S u u O t s io t I ) n 11 : , 2 2 0 0 1 1 4 4 -0004 Waterbodies 0 0.25 0.5 1Miles Source: Plumas LAFCoMap Modified 9/11/2014 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 5 MEADOW VALLEY FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT 5.1 Meadow Valley Community Background Meadow Valley is located west of Quincy, between Quincy and Bucks Lake. Meadow Valley is a census-designated place (CDP). The population was 464 at the 2010 census, down from 575 at the 2000 census. The 2010 US Census reported that in Meadow Valley 464 people lived in 231 households, out of which 41 (17.7%) had children under the age of 18 living in them, 82 households (35.5%) were made up of individuals and 39 (16.9%) had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.01. There were 127 families (55.0% of all households); the average family size was 2.62. The population was spread out in age as follows MEADOW VALLEY AGE DISTRIBUTION 2010 Under the age of 18 62 people 13.4% 18 to 24 25 people 5.4% 25 to 44 84 people 18.1% 45 to 64 201 people 43.3% 65 years of age or older 92 people 19.8% The median age was 52.4 years. For every 100 females there were 106.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 104.1 males. In Meadow Valley there were 304 housing units of which 171 (74.0%) were owner- occupied, and 60 (26.0%) were occupied by renters. The homeowner vacancy rate was 3.4%; the rental vacancy rate was 3.2%. There were 351 people (75.6% of the population) living in owner-occupied housing units and 113 people (24.4%) living in rental housing units. 5.2 Meadow Valley Fire Protection District Background19 Meadow Valley Fire Protection District (MVFPD) was formed in 1955 for the purpose of providing fire protection to the residents of the District. Meadow Valley FPD provides structural and wildland fire suppression, rescue, medical first responder, public assistance, and some fire prevention services. MVFPD is governed by a three-member board of directors elected at large to staggered four-year terms. The Meadow Valley FPD Board meets once in a quarter. Board meetings have no specific time or place. Board meeting agendas are posted on the fire station door. The Meadow Valley FPD’s principal source of funds is derived from property taxes levied by Plumas County. MVFPD does not collect any special taxes or benefit assessments. MVFPD is a member of the Fire Safe Council and the Fire Chiefs Association. 19 Plumas LAFCO, Central Plumas Fire Municipal Service Review Final, Adopted December 9, 2013, Prepared by Policy Consulting Associates, LLC, Page 134. 24 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 5.3 Meadow Valley Fire Protection District Sphere of Influence The present boundary of the Meadow Valley FPD encompass approximately 34.8 square miles and includes the community of Meadow Valley and some U.S. Forest Service lands. The Sphere of Influence (SOI) for the Meadow Valley FPD was established on August 26, 1976. The SOI was further updated and reduced to exclude the USFS lands in 1983, indicating that LAFCO anticipated this territory would eventually be detached from the District. The current Sphere of Influence is smaller than MVFPD’s boundaries and includes only 2.5 square miles compared to 34.8 square miles of territory within the Meadow Valley FPD’s boundary. The recommendation for the Sphere of Influence for the Meadow Valley FPD is that it be coterminous with the Meadow Valley FPD boundary. MVFPD occasionally provides services outside of its boundary through an automatic aid agreement with the Bucks Lake Home Owners Association (HOA) fire department. At some point in the future this area may be added to the Meadow Valley FPD Sphere of Influence. 5.3.1 SOI Determinations on Present and Planned Land Use for the Meadow Valley Fire Protection District Area 1-1] Land uses within the Meadow Valley FPD are timber production zone, general forest, agricultural preserve, residential, and commercial. The Meadow Valley FPD’s boundary encompasses approximately 34.8 square miles. 1-2] There are approximately 464 residents within the Meadow Valley FPD.20 1-3] MVFPD anticipates limited growth in service demand within the Meadow Valley FPD in the next few years. A new road is being made off of Bucks Lake Road, which indicates to the Meadow Valley FPD that a potential new development is being planned. Additionally, should the Meadow Valley FPD annex the Bucks Lake community, there would be a larger population served and greater demand for services. 1-4] The State Department of Finance (DOF) projects that the population of Plumas County will grow by four percent in the next 10 years. Thus, the average annual population growth in the County is anticipated to be approximately 0.4 percent. Based on these projections, the Meadow Valley FPD’s population would increase from 464 in 2010 to approximately 483 in 2020. It is anticipated that demand for service within the Meadow Valley FPD will increase minimally based on the DOF population growth projections through 2020. 20 US Census Designated Place Meadow Valley in Plumas County. 25 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 1-5] The Meadow Valley FPD is not a land use authority, and does not hold primary responsibility for implementing growth strategies. The land use authority for unincorporated areas is Plumas County. 5.3.2 SOI Determinations on Facilities and Services: Present and Probable Need for the Meadow Valley Fire Protection District 2-1] The 464 residents of the Meadow Valley FPD will continue to require fire protection and emergency medical services. 5.3.3 SOI Determinations on Public Facilities Present and Future Capacity for the Meadow Valley Fire Protection District 3-1] MVFPD operates one fire station located at 6913 Bucks Lake Road, Meadow Valley, CA 95956. The original portion of the fire station was built in 1964. The second building was constructed in 1981, and the two joined together in 1999. The station is not staffed and was reported to be in fair condition. 3-2] The Meadow Valley FPD has 18 personnel, of whom 16 are sworn staff and the other two are a communications officer and an auxiliary staff member. None of the personnel are paid, with the exception of the chief who receives $500 a year for travel expenses. There are one fire chief, one assistant chief, two captains, two engineers, and 10 firefighters. 3-3] Meadow Valley FPD daily operations are managed by the assistant fire chief. The chief is accountable to the Board of Directors and directly oversees the assistant chief. The assistant chief is in charge of the captains, the communications officer and auxiliary staff member. The captains oversee the firefighters. 21 3-4] MVFPD has one Firefighter I, seven First Responder, and no EMT I certified personnel. 3-5] MVFPD reported that it had sufficient capacity to serve current demand; however, serving possible future growth may be challenging if more volunteers are not recruited. 3-6] The Meadow Valley FPD reported that current financing levels were adequate to cover operations but not for necessary capital improvements. 3-7] The Meadow Valley FPD reported that it either needed to upgrade or replace its existing fire station. The current station’s bays are too narrow, short and low to accommodate newer vehicles. To date, MVFPD has not upgraded or replaced its station, due to lack of funding. 21 Plumas LAFCO, Central Plumas Fire Municipal Service Review Final, Adopted December 9, 2013, Prepared by Policy Consulting Associates, LLC, Page 138. 26 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 3-8] The Meadow Valley FPD also has multiple vehicle needs. MVFPD would like to replace its type 2 engines with type 1 engines that are able to carry five to six firefighters. The District also needs vehicles with 1,000-gallon water storage; however, these vehicles would not be able to fit into the existing station. 3-9] MVFPD has difficulty providing fire services to the Toll Gate area, due to the steepness of the road. Other challenges include narrow access roads in select areas, difficulty in the winter due to accumulation of snow, and lack of available personnel during work hours. 5.3.4 SOI Determinations on Social or Economic Communities of Interest for the Meadow Valley Fire Protection District 4-1] In addition to the required agendas and minutes, the Meadow Valley FPD attempts to reach its constituents by participating in community events such as the Pancake Breakfast and Fourth of July parade and BBQ, which the Meadow Valley FPD sponsors. 4-2] The Meadow Valley FPD lacks a website where district information is made available to the public. It is recommended that every public service provider have a website to keep constituents aware of the agency’s activities. 5.3.5 Present and probable need for public facilities and services of any Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities within the existing Sphere of Influence 5-1] The population threshold and other requirements by which Plumas LAFCO will define a disadvantaged unincorporated community is yet to be determined. 27 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 5.3.6 Map of Meadow Valley Fire Protection District and Sphere of Influence Legend Meadow Valley FPD Resolution: Formed: June 7, 1955 Meadow Valley FPD (SOI) Stream / River Resolution: 2014-0004 Waterbodies Adopted: August 11, 2014 Source: Plumas LAFCoMap Modified 9/11/2014 28 htroN 42 pihsnwoT 2 1 7 8 9 10 11 12 7 8 kj Paxton 10 11 12 9 11 12 18 17 16 15 14 13 18 17 16 15 14 13 14 13 kj ·|þ} kj Keddie 19 20 21 70 22 Twain 24 19 20 21 22 23 24 23 23 24 30 29 28 27 26 25 30 29 28 27 26 25 26 25 31 32 33 34 35 36 31 32 33 34 35 36 35 36 Snake Lake 6 5 4 3 2 1 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 1 1 1 2 7 8 9 10 11 12 Snake Lake Rd 7 8 9 10 11 12 Bucks Lake Rd 18 17 16 15 kj14 13 18 17 16 15 14 13 kj Meadow Valley 14 13 Quincy 19 20 21 22 23 24 19 20 21 22 23 24 23 24 2 3 6 5 2 3 5 6 3 3 0 1 Bucks L 2 a 9 k 3 e 2 Rd Big Creek Rd 2 3 8 3 2 3 7 4 2 3 6 5 2 3 5 6 3 3 0 1 2 3 9 2 2 3 8 3 2 3 7 4 2 3 6 5 2 3 5 6 6 5 4 3 2 1 6 5 4 3 2 1 kj 2 Bucks Lake 1 7 8 9 10 11 12 7 8 9 10 11 12 11 12 18 17 16 15 14 13 18 17 16 15 14 13 14 13 Highways Major Roads htroN 32 pihsnwoT Meadow Valley Fire Protection District Range 8 East Range 9 East Meadow Valley FPD Plumas County Location Map (Not to Scale) ² Meadow Valley FPD 0 0.5 1 2Miles htroN 52 pihsnwoT Parcels Sectional Grid (MDB&M) Meadow Valley FPD (Adopted Sphere of Influence) Fire Station PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 6 QUINCY FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT 6.1 Quincy Community Background 6.1.1 Quincy History Quincy (formerly, Quinsy) is a census-designated place and the county seat of Plumas County. The population was 1,728 at the 2010 census, down from 1,879 at the 2000 census. Quincy started as a Gold Rush community just outside of Elizabethtown CA. Elizabethtown started in 1852 and slowly dissolved and moved a mile away into American Valley to form Quincy after 1858. Quincy is named after the City of Quincy, Illinois, named in turn after John Quincy Adams (1767 - 1848), the sixth president of the United States (1825 - 1829). The Quincy post office opened in 1855. James H. Bradley, one of the organizers of Plumas County, donated the land at Quincy for establishment of the county seat.22 Quincy is noted as being the home of the High Sierra Music Festival since 1998, which celebrated its 22nd year in 2012. Quincy contains the Plumas County Museum, which houses Maidu Indian and Gold Rush artifacts as well as many other items. 6.1.2 Quincy Population Data The Census reported that 1,673 people lived in 798 households, out of which 183 (22.9%) had children under the age of 18 living in them, 314 households (39.3%) were made up of individuals and 93 (11.7%) had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.10. There were 413 families (51.8% of all households); the average family size was 2.77. The population was spread out in age as follows; QUINCY AGE DISTRIBUTION 2010 Under the age of 18 341 people 19.7% 18 to 24 163 people 9.4% 25 to 44 350 people 20.3% 45 to 64 556 people 32.2% 65 years of age or older 318 people 18.4% The median age was 45.5 years. For every 100 females there were 84.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 81.1 males. There were 872 housing units of which 388 (48.6%) were owner-occupied, and 410 (51.4%) were occupied by renters. The homeowner vacancy rate was 2.7%; the rental vacancy rate was 5.5%. There were 872 people (50.5% of the population) living in owner-occupied housing units and 801 people (46.4%) living in rental housing units. 22 Durham, David L. (1998). California's Geographic Names: A Gazetteer of Historic and Modern Names of the State. Quill Driver Books. p. 410. ISBN 9781884995149. 29 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 6.2 Quincy Fire Protection District Background23 On December 19, 1878, the first organized fire department for the Quincy area was established as the Quincy Hose Company No. 1. Quincy FPD is governed by a three-member board of directors elected at large to staggered four-year terms. The Board meets on the second Thursday of every month at 7:30 in the evening at 237 Lawrence Street in Quincy. QFPD provides structural fire suppression, wildland fire suppression, airport rescue firefighting (ARFF), year-round fire prevention, emergency medical services (consisting of basic life support and advanced life support), hazardous material response (technical and operational level), and rescue (operational level). The Quincy Fire Protection District provides contract services to other agencies. QFPD contracts with and gets reimbursed from USFS for wildland fire suppression. The Quincy FPD also houses the Cal EMA engine and staffs it as needed. 6.3 Quincy Fire Protection District Sphere of Influence The current SOI is 16.1 square miles compared to 11.7 square miles within the Quincy FPD. The Quincy FPD includes the communities of Quincy and East Quincy. The recommended SOI would be expanded to include all of American Valley. There are four districts with which QFPD is interested in entering a JPA to share resources. These districts include Meadow Valley FPD, Bucks Lake private fire department, Greenhorn Creek CSD, and Long Valley CSD. 6.3.1 SOI Determinations on Present and Planned Land Use for the Quincy Area 1-1] The land uses within the Quincy Fire Protection District include residential, commercial, industrial, and some general forest and timber preserve. 1-2] There are approximately 5,444 residents within the Quincy Fire Protection District. 1-3] The State Department of Finance (DOF) projects that the population of Plumas County will grow by four percent in the next 10 years. Thus, the average annual population growth in the County is anticipated to be approximately 0.4 percent. Based on these projections, the District’s population would increase from 5,444 in 2010 to approximately 5,662 in 2020. It is anticipated that demand for service within the District will increase minimally based on the DOF population growth projections through 2020. 1-4 The District is not a land use authority, and does not hold primary responsibility for implementing growth strategies. The land use authority for unincorporated areas is Plumas County. 23 Plumas LAFCO, Central Plumas Fire Municipal Service Review Final, Adopted December 9, 2013, Prepared by Policy Consulting Associates, LLC, Page 151. 30 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 1-5] QFPD anticipates moderate growth in service demand within the Quincy FPD in the next few years, particularly due to some areas being rezoned from industrial into residential, increasing the potential for residential growth. 1-6] The Quincy FPD also reported that there was one development in northern Quincy, which currently includes about 25 units, but could potentially add 200 more. The Quincy FPD is anticipating providing services to this potential growth. 6.3.2 SOI Determinations on Facilities and Services: Present and Probable Need for the Quincy Fire Protection District 2-1] The Quincy FPD reported that it had observed an increase in service demand in the last few years, due to an increase in tourism, a revival of the timber industry, and aging population. This demand is expected to continue. 6.3.3 SOI Determinations on Public Facilities Present and Future Capacity for the Quincy Fire Protection District 3-1] The Quincy Fire Protection District has 51 personnel, of whom 40 are sworn staff and 11 are support staff. The chief, administrative secretary and the mechanic are full-time paid staff. The rest of the personnel are volunteers. Daily operations are managed by the fire chief with the support of the administrative secretary. 3-1] QFPD has three Firefighter I and seven EMT I certified personnel. The Quincy FPD is currently training its firefighters to the NFPA 1001 standard through a 156-hour program, which includes lecture, hands-on training, home study, and online course work. 3-4] QFPD operates three fire stations: Station 1, which was reported to be in fair condition, is located at 505 Lawrence Street in Quincy and was built in 1939 with additions made through the early 1970s. Station 1 is staffed by the fire chief, administrative secretary and mechanic/facilities manager Monday through Friday from six in the morning till five in the afternoon. Station 2, located at 49 Alta Avenue in Quincy, was built in 1948 with an addition completed in 1978. The station was reported to be in poor condition. Station 2 is unstaffed. Station 3 was built in 1979 and is considered to be in good condition. It is located at 1649 Chandler Road in Quincy. Station 3 is unstaffed. 3-5] The Quincy FPD reported that previous financing levels were not adequate to deliver services. QFPD required additional source of funding, as it was using its reserves to continue operations. In June 2013, district voters passed Measure A, a special tax on parcels to ensure continued satisfactory operations of the Quincy FPD. 31 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 3-6] Quincy FPD has sufficient capacity to provide adequate services within its boundary area; however, the ability to adequately address demand as a result of any future growth will greatly depend on a stable and adequate financing source. Although, there are sufficient facilities and equipment, lack of available water supply and limited staffing may present problems in the future. 6.3.4 SOI Determinations on Social or Economic Communities of Interest for the Quincy Fire Protection District 4-1] In addition to the required agendas and minutes, the Quincy FPD tries to reach its constituents by participating in the children’s fair and handing out books that teach fire safety, taking part in college career days and holiday functions, and sending the fire safety trailer to schools for educational purposes. 4-2] The Quincy FPD encourages voter participation by publishing notices in the local newspaper, posting them at the library and the courthouse, and placing them on bulletin boards and at the district fire stations. 4-3] The Quincy FPD makes information available on its website. 6.3.5 Present and probable need for public facilities and services of any Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities within the existing Sphere of Influence 5-1 The population threshold and other requirements by which Plumas LAFCO will define a disadvantaged unincorporated community is yet to be determined. 32 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update 6.3.6 Map of Quincy Fire Protection District Sphere of Influence 18 17 16 15 14 13 18 17 16 15 14 13 19 20 21 22 23 24 19 20 21 22 23 24 30 29 28 R 2 O 7 UNDHOUSE ROAD 26 25 30 29 28 MT HOUGH CRYSTAL LAKE 27 26 25 31 32 33 BLACKHAWK ROAD 34 35 36 31 32 33 34 35 36 6 5 4 3 2 ·|}þ 70 1 6 OAKLAND CAMP ROAD 5 4 3 2 1 7 8 9 10 PURDY LANE 11 12 CHANDLER 7 ROAD 8 9 10 11 12 18 17 16 GOL B D U E C N K S E A L G AK LE E A R V O E A N 1 D U 5 E BESKE L E A N W L R A E N N E 1 C 4 E STREET QUINCY J 1 UN 3 CTION ROAD BELL LANE LEE ROAD 18 17 CHANDLER ROAD 16 15 14 13 ·|}þ 70 19 20 21 22 23 24 19 20 21 22 23 24 QUINCY LA PORTE ROAD 30 29 28 27 26 25 30 29 28 27 26 25 31 32 33 34 35 36 31 32 33 34 35 36 6 5 4 3 2 1 6 5 4 3 2 1 12 7 8 9 10 11 12 7 8 9 10 11 18 17 16 15 14 13 18 17 16 15 14 13 ² Legend Quincy FPD Parcels Resolution: Highways Formed: June 1, 1971 Major Roads Sectional Grid (MDB&M) Quincy FPD (SOI) Stream / River Resolution: 2014-0004 Waterbodies Adopted: August 11, 2014 0 0.5 1 2Miles Source: Plumas LAFCoMap Modified 9/11/2014 33 htroN 42 pihsnwoT Quincy Fire Protection District Range 9 East Range 10 East Quincy FPD Quincy SOI Plumas County Location Map (Not to Scale) Quincy FPD Quincy FPD (Adopted Sphere of Influence) Fire Station htroN 52 pihsnwoT htroN 32 pihsnwoT PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update ABBREVIATIONS AB Assembly Bill ADA Americans with Disabilities Act ALS advanced life support ARFF Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting vehicle BOE Board of Equalization (State of California) CalEMA California Emergency Management Agency CALFIRE California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection CDP Census Designated Place CEQA California Environmental Quality Act CMFPD Crescent Mills Fire Protection District CPR cardiopulmonary resuscitation CSA County Service Area CSD Community Services District DOF Department of Finance (State of California) DUC Disadvantaged Unincorporated Community EMS Emergency Medical Services EMT Emergency Medical Technician FD Fire Department FPD Fire Protection District GCCSD Greenhorn Creek Community Services District HOA Home Owners Association ICS Incident Command System IMT Incident Management Team ISO Insurance Service Office 34 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update JPA Joint Powers Agreement LAFCO Local Agency Formation Commission LARRO low angle rope rescue operation LPFPD La Porte Fire Protection District LVCSD Long Valley Community Services District MSR Municipal Service Review MVFPD Meadow Valley Fire Protection District NFPA National Fire Protection Association QFPD Quincy Fire Protection District OASA out-of-area service agreement PG&E Pacific Gas and Electric Company RV Recreational Vehicle SFT State Firefighter Training SOI Sphere of Influence SR State Route SRA State Responsibility Area SUV Sport Utility Vehicle USFS United States Forest Service 35 PLUMAS LAFCO Resolution 2014-0004 Adopted Central Plumas Fire Protection August 11, 2014: Spheres of Influence update REFERENCES California Government Code Section 56301. Durham, David L. (1998). California's Geographic Names: A Gazetteer of Historic and Modern Names of the State. Quill Driver Books. ISBN 9781884995149. http://www.plumascounty.org/Communities/LaPorte.htm, March 4, 2014 Plumas County APNs 122060047 and 122070005. Plumas County General Plan 2013, Page 25. Plumas LAFCO, Central Plumas Fire Municipal Service Review Final, Adopted December 9, 2013, Prepared by Policy Consulting Associates, LLC. Plumas LAFCO Resolution 2013-0001. Plumas LAFCO Resolution 2013-06 Approving a Municipal Service Review of Services Provided by Central Plumas Fire Agencies and Adopting Written Determinations Thereon, December 9, 2013. Plumas LAFCO Resolution 8-ANNX-84. Plumas LAFCO Resolution 83-29. Plumas LAFCO Resolution 93-1. Remy, Michael H., Tina A. Thomas, James G. Moose, Whitman F. Manley, Guide to CEQA, Solano Press Books, Point Arena, CA, February 2007, page 111 State of California, RWQCB Waste Discharge Requirements 99-046 (Greenville) and 95-162 (Taylorsville). US Census Designated Place Meadow Valley in Plumas County. PREPARERS Plumas LAFCO, John Benoit, Executive Officer PO Box 2694, Granite Bay CA 95746 916-797-6003 johnbenoit@surewest.net Christy Leighton, Planning Consultant 555 E. Willow Street, Willows CA 95988 530-934-4597christyleighton@sbcglobal.net 36