From the November lowdown

President's Message

Cary Wiest, HCA President

Veteran’s Day, like other holidays, has unfortunately become commercial, but I thought it only fitting to start by thanking every veteran (and spouse) for his or her service to this county. The freedoms that we have today would not be possible without their service. Please support our veterans. Also, I hope everyone has the opportunity to gather, celebrate, and express thanks for whatever is fitting over the Thanksgiving holiday.

We all know that November is election month. Congratulations to President-Elect Barack Obama for winning one of the longest presidential campaigns in history to become the 44th President of the United States. On a local note, congratulations to Supervisor Jerry Hill on winning a seat in the California State Assembly representing the 19th District. This community will miss his friendship, leadership, and willingness to work together with us. Supervisor Hill’s experience will be invaluable to our great state. After 19 years, San Mateo County Manager John Maltbie will be retiring on December 30. Earlier this month, the Board of Supervisors unanimously approved naming Assistant County Manager, David Boesch, Jr., to be the new County Manager.

Last year about this time, we were informed that the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCo) would be performing a Municipal Service Review (MSR) and Sphere of Influence Study in 2008. Due to the heavy workload, no review was completed this year. It is our understanding that the review process will restart in early 2009. As a reminder, this process will also include a review of the Highlands Recreation District services. LAFCo is an independent regulatory commission created by California Legislature to control the boundaries of cities and most special districts. Why are boundaries important? They are important because they assign the physical limits and define the identities of local governments. LAFCo has planning and regulatory powers. It plans by adopting and revising “spheres of influence,” which are planning documents that show city or special district’s future boundary and service areas.

There may be a sense of apprehension surrounding LAFCo’s studies because the recommendations that result from them may have very little to do with how the homeowners actually feel about their services. LAFCo is supposed to be neutral and is required by state law to perform reviews to encourage a more orderly government. However, a MSR does not include any measurement or place any value to the relationship the community has built through the years with our County government. We have worked very hard to be a part of better government by enhancing our relationship with the County, and our voice is being heard by the people that govern us.

Of course we do not know what the outcome of the LAFCo’s MSR and the subsequent recommendations will be, but what I do know is that it is a “governmental process.” Our community will need to be prepared to respond in anyway necessary to maintain the quality of our neighborhood and the services we receive. We are looking for volunteers to help ensure our community’s desires are heard. If you want to help, please contact me at wiestandassoc@ sbcglobal.net or 357-7121, or Dick Axen at 341-1828.

Volunteers are still working hard with the County on our sewer rates. The new test of our flow meter has found a problem with our existing meter. We are addressing all of the district’s current problems and future issues. As I explained last month, the Crystal Springs County Sanitation District (CSCSD) was recently sent a Cease and Desist order by the California Regional Water Quality Control Board (CRWQCB). The order was a result of sewage overflow and issues related to the overall system. A hearing will be held on December 10, in Oakland. County staff is working diligently to prepare a response to the order. The CRWQCB is in many ways an enforcer of regulations. As we go through this process, it is important to remember that any investigation takes time.

The holiday time is a good time to remind everyone to take the time to secure your cars and remove all valuables from plain view. Theft from unlocked cars is the most common problem we have in the Highlands over the holiday season. Be safe and responsible.

Finally, our thoughts go out to Jack and Jane Kundin on the recent loss of their son Abraham. As always, if you have any questions or concerns, contact me. Cary Wiest, HCA President