unedited 1/08 Tahoe Mt. News story:
Editor's note: This is a monthly article following one of the hundreds of people who lost their homes in the Angora Fire in summer 2007.
By Kathryn Reed
Sprinklers. It’s the one word that is preventing John Mauriello from being able to say he will rebuild.
At a meeting last month regarding rebuilding in the burn area he and a couple friends sat with body language that looked like they wanted to hurt the speakers who explained the rules about when sprinklers are needed in single family residences.
“Everyone says you people are not fire victims, you are fire survivors,” Mauriello said in early January. “And they are right. But because of the stupid politicians they make us the victims. You don’t know how livid I am because of those sprinklers.”
He doesn’t understand why Lake Valley Fire Department didn’t grant a reprieve of sorts for Angora re-builders – at least the ones who will have less than 5,000 square feet. At that size state law requires sprinklers. And as of Jan. 1, the state’s codes are as strict as the fire department’s.
Water pressure from fire hydrants plays a significant role along with square footage as to who needs sprinklers.
After Mauriello had time to digest what was said at the Dec. 17 meeting, he was still angry.
On Dec. 22 he said, “Give every property owner a special assessment to update the water system. Give us five years to pay it off with a tax bill or grandfather us in. Why should I have to spend $20,000 (on sprinklers) because of an antiquated water system? Insurance premiums will go up with sprinklers because of water damage.”
Despite his bitterness and caustic vocabulary when it comes to sprinklers, Mauriello filed plans with the county building department on Dec. 28. The place would be about 1,800 square feet – 100 more square feet than what he had on Mount Olympia Circle.
Having the paperwork in by the end of the year means he gets in under the old building codes. Plans are valid for a year. But he’s not sure if the plans will collect dust.
Holiday spirit
Mauriello is finding camaraderie among the 256 homeowners who lost their homes when an illegal campfire set off a 3,100 inferno that ripped through the middle class neighborhood.
He went to the now closed relief center at the old Mikasa building for a party for survivors in early December.
“No one ever talks about the kids. I know how I would be if I was yanked out of my whole environment and not old enough to understand,” he said days after the event.
Later in the month he had a party at his rental, which is walking distance from his vacant lot.
“I’m so rusty it’s ridiculous,” Mauriello said as he stroked the ivory keys of his grand piano to an appreciative crowd that had gathered.
It seemed so appropriate he delved into “White Christmas” because forecasters said that’s what we’d have – and they were right.
The piano is situated such that he can either hide behind the sheet music or look to his right to see Angora Ridge.
In the short time he has resided at the Snow Mountain Drive residence it has the feel of home. Art is on the walls. Furniture invites guests to spend time in front of the fire. Smells wafting from the kitchen are evidence his culinary prowess has not been lost.
Losing everything does put things into perspective. A couple wall hangings and pieces of kitchenware Mauriello had given his friend and now roommate Bob have been reclaimed. They represent the few tangible things he had from his life pre-June 24.
Christmas day was quiet for the retired 69-year-old bachelor. New Year’s Eve was spent with friends at his place.
Life in Tahoe
Mauriello hand wrote a thank you note to the Lake Tahoe Angora Fund board for money they gave him. In part it says, “Feeling alone with no clothing, no money, no spirit and in complete despair, volunteers and organizations like yourself were there not only to offer help, but more important to offer hope.”
Keeping with tradition, he made no New Year’s resolutions. But he knows this month will be full of appointments – doctors and insurance related.
He’s getting back outside to enjoy winter at the Lake. A cross country ski class may be part of his routine this quarter at Lake Tahoe Community College.
“I went snowshoeing the other day. That was fantastic,” Mauriello said. “The gym is paying off. It was not half as difficult as it was a couple years ago.”
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Angora -- Update on where the money is going
unedited 1/08 T. Mt.News story
By Kathryn Reed
Money can buy a little happiness. Just ask a survivor of the Angora Fire.
Letters of thanks keep filling up the Lake Tahoe Fire Fund post office box. Monetary donations arrive and soon thereafter checks are written to the hundreds who’ve requested assistance after losing their worldly belongings in the June 24 inferno.
The following are excerpts from a sampling of those letters:
“I cannot tell you how wonderful it was to receive the second check from this fund. It could not have arrived at a better time. I was in the process of settling down into a new home, unfurnished, and was not sure how I would be able to purchase all the necessary things that we needed. And with Christmas coming up soon, I was not sure how I would be able to provide a Christmas for my sons – one that would be the beginning of new memories and traditions for us, since all of the things we cherished so much is past Christmas’s were lost in the fire.” – Jeralee Callian
“Thank you for your generous check of $1000, your support is so kind. John used the money to begin replacing his tools & electrical equipment. We are so blessed to live in such a caring community.” -- John and Susan Baker
“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your support. We are truly indebted to our great community.” – Bill, Karen and Kelly Haslam
“I wish to say thank you for all you are doing for those of us who have lost our homes. Although June 24th was a dark day in South Lake Tahoe history, June 25th was a ray of sunshine. We live in a great community of caring families and business. While we may have lost our home, our spirit soars with the outpouring of love and well wishes. Thank you for what you are doing for us.” – Tom, Carry and Sid Loomis
“A total loss of property from a wildfire is only the beginning of a very long recovery. Even though the event is external, the impact is almost as severe as losing a loved one. The only difference is that the loss of property is the beginning of the tailspin. Everything gets WORSE after the fire. … The Angora Fire Fund proves how strong this community is … I can’t even being to express how much you all have helped us. It’s not just the financial aid, it’s the fact that the Community created a sense of healing for all of us.” – Solange Schwalbe
It’s a bittersweet job for the 11 board members of the nonprofit that spawned from the South Shore Chamber of Commerce’s initial efforts to help raise cash. Giving is wonderful; it’s the circumstances that make it difficult.
The board thought it was almost out of business in November when the last round of checks went out – about $300,000 in increments ranging from $1,000 to $6,000. Just as the account was about depleted, more money arrived. The $100,000 pledged by Charles Barkley during the celebrity golf tournament is supposed to arrive any day.
As of late last year, the group had collected $622,000 and distributed $480,000. To qualify for funding, people had to fill out an application. About 135 households have received money.
The board will meet again this month to decide how to distribute the next round of money as well as how to merge with the Community Disaster Resource Center. Carrie Reiter is running the CDRC, which came about as a subcommittee of the Fire Fund to address long-term needs of survivors.
Reiter and a handful of volunteers are helping with current and anticipated needs of Angora survivors. She works with local agencies to assist survivors, is writing grant proposals and is essentially a case worker for those in need.
“I would say a lot of people have the same requests, but every situation is entirely unique. There is no cookie-cutter situation,” Reiter said.
Before the holidays, people were inquiring about counseling. Tahoe Youth & Family Services is the primary resource for those with children. Private therapists have donated time to others.
Needs keep changing. Early on it was money for rent and deposits. In the spring and beyond when people start moving into their rebuilt homes Reiter expects landscaping to be the major concern because she already has 150 requests for help in that arena.
“And some will need contents,” Reiter said. “I’m putting out grant (requests) for furniture, appliances, that type of thing.”
With paperwork and disc drives all gone up in smoke, April 15 seems more ominous than most years for many people.
“I need people who specialize in accounting for tax season. I’ve had a lot of questions about taxes and accounting,” Reiter said.
Reiter has 310 active cases, which accounts for more than 600 people. She says most people are underinsured – the average being $150,000 underinsured, and the range between $40,000 and $400,000.
No timetable exists for either group to disband. Reiter expects people will have needs through fall 2009 that she can help with.
She sees people by appointment only. Call (530) 542-4656. Reiter would also like to hear from people who have services to donate, though she does not have space to take donated goods. Her office is in the Pine Cone Plaza on Highway 50 in South Lake Tahoe.
To donate to the Angora Fire Fund, go to www.helptahoe.com or call (775) 588-1728, ext. 300.
By Kathryn Reed
Money can buy a little happiness. Just ask a survivor of the Angora Fire.
Letters of thanks keep filling up the Lake Tahoe Fire Fund post office box. Monetary donations arrive and soon thereafter checks are written to the hundreds who’ve requested assistance after losing their worldly belongings in the June 24 inferno.
The following are excerpts from a sampling of those letters:
“I cannot tell you how wonderful it was to receive the second check from this fund. It could not have arrived at a better time. I was in the process of settling down into a new home, unfurnished, and was not sure how I would be able to purchase all the necessary things that we needed. And with Christmas coming up soon, I was not sure how I would be able to provide a Christmas for my sons – one that would be the beginning of new memories and traditions for us, since all of the things we cherished so much is past Christmas’s were lost in the fire.” – Jeralee Callian
“Thank you for your generous check of $1000, your support is so kind. John used the money to begin replacing his tools & electrical equipment. We are so blessed to live in such a caring community.” -- John and Susan Baker
“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your support. We are truly indebted to our great community.” – Bill, Karen and Kelly Haslam
“I wish to say thank you for all you are doing for those of us who have lost our homes. Although June 24th was a dark day in South Lake Tahoe history, June 25th was a ray of sunshine. We live in a great community of caring families and business. While we may have lost our home, our spirit soars with the outpouring of love and well wishes. Thank you for what you are doing for us.” – Tom, Carry and Sid Loomis
“A total loss of property from a wildfire is only the beginning of a very long recovery. Even though the event is external, the impact is almost as severe as losing a loved one. The only difference is that the loss of property is the beginning of the tailspin. Everything gets WORSE after the fire. … The Angora Fire Fund proves how strong this community is … I can’t even being to express how much you all have helped us. It’s not just the financial aid, it’s the fact that the Community created a sense of healing for all of us.” – Solange Schwalbe
It’s a bittersweet job for the 11 board members of the nonprofit that spawned from the South Shore Chamber of Commerce’s initial efforts to help raise cash. Giving is wonderful; it’s the circumstances that make it difficult.
The board thought it was almost out of business in November when the last round of checks went out – about $300,000 in increments ranging from $1,000 to $6,000. Just as the account was about depleted, more money arrived. The $100,000 pledged by Charles Barkley during the celebrity golf tournament is supposed to arrive any day.
As of late last year, the group had collected $622,000 and distributed $480,000. To qualify for funding, people had to fill out an application. About 135 households have received money.
The board will meet again this month to decide how to distribute the next round of money as well as how to merge with the Community Disaster Resource Center. Carrie Reiter is running the CDRC, which came about as a subcommittee of the Fire Fund to address long-term needs of survivors.
Reiter and a handful of volunteers are helping with current and anticipated needs of Angora survivors. She works with local agencies to assist survivors, is writing grant proposals and is essentially a case worker for those in need.
“I would say a lot of people have the same requests, but every situation is entirely unique. There is no cookie-cutter situation,” Reiter said.
Before the holidays, people were inquiring about counseling. Tahoe Youth & Family Services is the primary resource for those with children. Private therapists have donated time to others.
Needs keep changing. Early on it was money for rent and deposits. In the spring and beyond when people start moving into their rebuilt homes Reiter expects landscaping to be the major concern because she already has 150 requests for help in that arena.
“And some will need contents,” Reiter said. “I’m putting out grant (requests) for furniture, appliances, that type of thing.”
With paperwork and disc drives all gone up in smoke, April 15 seems more ominous than most years for many people.
“I need people who specialize in accounting for tax season. I’ve had a lot of questions about taxes and accounting,” Reiter said.
Reiter has 310 active cases, which accounts for more than 600 people. She says most people are underinsured – the average being $150,000 underinsured, and the range between $40,000 and $400,000.
No timetable exists for either group to disband. Reiter expects people will have needs through fall 2009 that she can help with.
She sees people by appointment only. Call (530) 542-4656. Reiter would also like to hear from people who have services to donate, though she does not have space to take donated goods. Her office is in the Pine Cone Plaza on Highway 50 in South Lake Tahoe.
To donate to the Angora Fire Fund, go to www.helptahoe.com or call (775) 588-1728, ext. 300.
Angora -- Bringing people up-to-date
unedited Jan. Tahoe Mountain News article
but first the correction that ran in the feb. issue:
Correction: No meth labs after all
Information supplied to the Tahoe Mountain News by El Dorado County Supervisor Norma Santiago that was printed in the January issue was wrong. According to sheriff’s Lt. Les Lovell, no meth or other illegal drub labs were found in the Angora burn area.
Lovell said he inspected the two areas in question while debris was being removed. Even though a hydraulic press, chemical containers and other items that might point to a meth lab were found, he said there was “a reasonable explanation” for it being there.
Lovell is experienced in sniffing out such illegal drug activity from his days with the DEA.
By Kathryn Reed
Every day the landscape in the Angora burn area seems to change – and it’s not just the fresh lumber being transformed into new homes or the carpet of snow.
While some rebuild, others are less sure about what to do on a permanent basis. State building codes that took effect this month will add to the cost of most construction. Insufficient water pressure may necessitate sprinklers – another hefty expense.
Months ago El Dorado County Supervisor Norma Santiago promised a one-stop location for all things related to Angora building concerns. But her cohorts who all hail from the West Slope are wary of establishing a separate permitting center, what it may cost and the potential backlash from union workers.
The Board of Supervisors was expected to revisit the issue Jan. 8, but press deadlines prohibited coverage of the meeting. Jan. 24 marks seven months since the devastating blaze erupted and still people are in a state of confusion.
Rebuilding headaches
About three dozen people attended a meeting at Lake Tahoe Community College last month put on by the El Dorado Builders’ Exchange and Santiago.
Bob Green, with El Dorado County development services, said as of Dec. 17, 74 building permits had been issued in the Angora Fire area. About 12 of those were for homes not totally destroyed in the June 24 inferno.
He explained allocation certificates, which allow someone to rebuild, are only good for18 months – or until Dec. 23, 2008.
After that, Tahoe Regional Planning Agency policy dictates the paperwork reverts to a development right. A document exists for about $220 where a property owner can “bank the unit of use” until they are ready to build so they don’t have to go through the process from scratch.
The point is Angora survivors don’t get to build after Dec. 24 without doing some legwork first.
Green reminded folks that once an application (which includes a TRPA site plan, floor plan and elevation plan) is on file with his office, it is good for one year. Building permits are valid for three years.
Theresa Avance, senior planner with TRPA, urged people to think beyond the basics when it comes to putting in best management practices and to tap her agency’s brainpower as well as the employees’ at Tahoe Resource Conservation District.
Although many think the area is now immune to a wildfire, those in the know said just the opposite is true. For the next 50 years brush will be the predominant vegetation – towering pines will take decades to re-establish themselves. And low growing plants can be fuel for a fire and tends to burn hot.
“One of the big issues is invasive weeds,” said Susie Kocher, natural resources advisor with UC Extension. She said the county treated the area before the snow fell. “We could have new infestations. With equipment brought in to fight the fire, they could have seeds on them.”
Homeowners were also reminded to be cognizant of defensible space. A spokeswoman from the Nevada Fire Safe Council, which operates in California, said she expects the issue of pine needles to be resolved this spring. (TRPA uses them for erosion and fire marshals see them as flammable.)
Hydrants and sprinklers
The most venom hurled at panelists during the December meeting came during the sprinkler discussion. Audience members belittled the antiquated water system, asked Lake Valley Fire to suspend its rules and lambasted those favoring sprinklers.
South Tahoe Public Utility District recognizes it doesn’t have the capacity at each hydrant to fight fires according to Lake Valley’s requirements. Partly this is because the systems it acquired were never designed for firefighting capabilities. The district is working on upgrading lines throughout the area.
Lake Valley’s sprinkler ordinance has been on the books since 2000. All homes more than 5,000-square-feet require sprinklers. Then it comes down to water flow from hydrants to determine if sprinklers are needed. What it has required since the turn of the century is essentially part of the state fire code as of Jan. 1 so there is no going back at the local level even if the department’s board of directors so desired.
South Tahoe PUD will put hydrants every 250 feet in the burn area, but can’t promise it will provide 1,000 gallons of water per minute for two hours – what’s required for fire suppression for a house up to 2,700-square-feet.
“We want our community to be as safe as possible. There isn’t enough water in hydrants to combat a fire. We want our constituents to live in an environment that is as safe as it can be,” said Gareth Harris, Lake Valley fire marshal and battalion chief, after the meeting. “Statistically, 4,000 people die in residential structure fires in the United States every year. With fully functioning sprinkler systems and smoke alarms, your chances of surviving improve up to 90 percent. There has never been a documented fatality in a residential fire with a fully functioning sprinkler system and smoke alarms.”
To prevent water in sprinklers from freezing the systems are injected with food grade glycerin.
“There are types of anti-freezes that are dangerous. We don’t allow them to be used,” Harris said.
Federal dollars for STPUD
Portions of the $555 billion spending bill signed by President George W. Bush on Dec. 26 while he flew to his ranch in Crawford, Texas, will trickle to South Tahoe PUD this year.
The district will receive $1 million that will go toward water lines to increase firefighting capabilities. As with most federal dollars, the district must match the funding with $1 million from its budget.
The combined $2 million is enough to install about 7,000 feel of water lines. Included will be hydrants about every 500 feet. It will probably take two years to complete this round of work.
The U.S. Forest Service through the Tahoe Restoration Act secured the money for South Tahoe PUD.
Dennis Cocking, spokesman for STPUD, said the agency plans to pursue other federal funds this year to lineup dollars for continued water line replacement. A possible avenue is the Army Corps of Engineers.
Which areas get the upgraded water lines depends on the age of the current line, the condition of it, its size and proximity to the wildland urban interface.
but first the correction that ran in the feb. issue:
Correction: No meth labs after all
Information supplied to the Tahoe Mountain News by El Dorado County Supervisor Norma Santiago that was printed in the January issue was wrong. According to sheriff’s Lt. Les Lovell, no meth or other illegal drub labs were found in the Angora burn area.
Lovell said he inspected the two areas in question while debris was being removed. Even though a hydraulic press, chemical containers and other items that might point to a meth lab were found, he said there was “a reasonable explanation” for it being there.
Lovell is experienced in sniffing out such illegal drug activity from his days with the DEA.
By Kathryn Reed
Every day the landscape in the Angora burn area seems to change – and it’s not just the fresh lumber being transformed into new homes or the carpet of snow.
While some rebuild, others are less sure about what to do on a permanent basis. State building codes that took effect this month will add to the cost of most construction. Insufficient water pressure may necessitate sprinklers – another hefty expense.
Months ago El Dorado County Supervisor Norma Santiago promised a one-stop location for all things related to Angora building concerns. But her cohorts who all hail from the West Slope are wary of establishing a separate permitting center, what it may cost and the potential backlash from union workers.
The Board of Supervisors was expected to revisit the issue Jan. 8, but press deadlines prohibited coverage of the meeting. Jan. 24 marks seven months since the devastating blaze erupted and still people are in a state of confusion.
Rebuilding headaches
About three dozen people attended a meeting at Lake Tahoe Community College last month put on by the El Dorado Builders’ Exchange and Santiago.
Bob Green, with El Dorado County development services, said as of Dec. 17, 74 building permits had been issued in the Angora Fire area. About 12 of those were for homes not totally destroyed in the June 24 inferno.
He explained allocation certificates, which allow someone to rebuild, are only good for18 months – or until Dec. 23, 2008.
After that, Tahoe Regional Planning Agency policy dictates the paperwork reverts to a development right. A document exists for about $220 where a property owner can “bank the unit of use” until they are ready to build so they don’t have to go through the process from scratch.
The point is Angora survivors don’t get to build after Dec. 24 without doing some legwork first.
Green reminded folks that once an application (which includes a TRPA site plan, floor plan and elevation plan) is on file with his office, it is good for one year. Building permits are valid for three years.
Theresa Avance, senior planner with TRPA, urged people to think beyond the basics when it comes to putting in best management practices and to tap her agency’s brainpower as well as the employees’ at Tahoe Resource Conservation District.
Although many think the area is now immune to a wildfire, those in the know said just the opposite is true. For the next 50 years brush will be the predominant vegetation – towering pines will take decades to re-establish themselves. And low growing plants can be fuel for a fire and tends to burn hot.
“One of the big issues is invasive weeds,” said Susie Kocher, natural resources advisor with UC Extension. She said the county treated the area before the snow fell. “We could have new infestations. With equipment brought in to fight the fire, they could have seeds on them.”
Homeowners were also reminded to be cognizant of defensible space. A spokeswoman from the Nevada Fire Safe Council, which operates in California, said she expects the issue of pine needles to be resolved this spring. (TRPA uses them for erosion and fire marshals see them as flammable.)
Hydrants and sprinklers
The most venom hurled at panelists during the December meeting came during the sprinkler discussion. Audience members belittled the antiquated water system, asked Lake Valley Fire to suspend its rules and lambasted those favoring sprinklers.
South Tahoe Public Utility District recognizes it doesn’t have the capacity at each hydrant to fight fires according to Lake Valley’s requirements. Partly this is because the systems it acquired were never designed for firefighting capabilities. The district is working on upgrading lines throughout the area.
Lake Valley’s sprinkler ordinance has been on the books since 2000. All homes more than 5,000-square-feet require sprinklers. Then it comes down to water flow from hydrants to determine if sprinklers are needed. What it has required since the turn of the century is essentially part of the state fire code as of Jan. 1 so there is no going back at the local level even if the department’s board of directors so desired.
South Tahoe PUD will put hydrants every 250 feet in the burn area, but can’t promise it will provide 1,000 gallons of water per minute for two hours – what’s required for fire suppression for a house up to 2,700-square-feet.
“We want our community to be as safe as possible. There isn’t enough water in hydrants to combat a fire. We want our constituents to live in an environment that is as safe as it can be,” said Gareth Harris, Lake Valley fire marshal and battalion chief, after the meeting. “Statistically, 4,000 people die in residential structure fires in the United States every year. With fully functioning sprinkler systems and smoke alarms, your chances of surviving improve up to 90 percent. There has never been a documented fatality in a residential fire with a fully functioning sprinkler system and smoke alarms.”
To prevent water in sprinklers from freezing the systems are injected with food grade glycerin.
“There are types of anti-freezes that are dangerous. We don’t allow them to be used,” Harris said.
Federal dollars for STPUD
Portions of the $555 billion spending bill signed by President George W. Bush on Dec. 26 while he flew to his ranch in Crawford, Texas, will trickle to South Tahoe PUD this year.
The district will receive $1 million that will go toward water lines to increase firefighting capabilities. As with most federal dollars, the district must match the funding with $1 million from its budget.
The combined $2 million is enough to install about 7,000 feel of water lines. Included will be hydrants about every 500 feet. It will probably take two years to complete this round of work.
The U.S. Forest Service through the Tahoe Restoration Act secured the money for South Tahoe PUD.
Dennis Cocking, spokesman for STPUD, said the agency plans to pursue other federal funds this year to lineup dollars for continued water line replacement. A possible avenue is the Army Corps of Engineers.
Which areas get the upgraded water lines depends on the age of the current line, the condition of it, its size and proximity to the wildland urban interface.
Monday, February 11, 2008
South Tahoe business regulations
STAFF REPORT
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF FEBRUARY 12, 2008
Date: February 5, 2008
TO: Honorable Mayor and Council
FROM: City Manager
RE: REQUEST FOR AUTHORITY TO DEVELOP CITY CODE CHANGES TO STRENGTHEN COLLECTION OF REVENUE OWED THE CITY, PREFERENCE TO LOCAL PROVIDERS OF SERVICE, AND INCENTIVES TO PEOPLE TO IMPROVE THEIR BUSINESS PROPERTIES
RECOMMENDATION:
1. Hear staff Report
2. Take public comment
3. Approve in concept the proposed policy initiatives and direct the City Manager to have prepared the specific code language changes needed by no later than your second City Council meeting in March 2008.
ISSUE AND DISCUSSION:
We are in the process of reviewing and preparing proposed amendments to our business license and procurement ordinances. During this review, I am requesting City Council direction in support having prepared the following clarifications and changes to the City’s business license and procurement practices:
1. Strengthen the process for collecting fees owed the City - Tighten up the business license ordinance for clarity to provide specifically (and in one place in the ordinance) that it is illegal for any business to operate within the City limits unless it has a business license and pays all fees legally imposed by the City (e.g. business license, BID, multi-family inspection program as applicable). Should a business fail to pay all fees in a reasonable period of time, the City Manager or his designee is authorized to take all legal steps in accordance with the law to collect funds owed and/or action to see that the business is closed for non-payment including the filing of civil and/or criminal actions (the latter in the case of fraud).
The current business license ordinance has been found who use it on a daily basis to be too cumbersome and deficient in defining City government’s intentions to collect all fees owed it in a timely manner and providing a process for Finance staff to achieve the objective.
The intent of the code change is not to punish business but rather to ensure collection of revenues owed the City. A vast majority of business owners and operators pay all legally assessed City fees, and it is unfair for them who pay on time for others not to do so.
2. Give preference in purchasing to City businesses - In regard to the purchasing of products by City government, it is proposed that the City shall grant to businesses located within the City limits and holding a valid City business license a 5% preference margin if the product and/or service being procured is of equal quality or better than from a non-City vendor. The City Manager is authorized to prepare and promulgate administrative policy to ensure implementation of this City Council direction.
At the present time, the City code (Section 22-15) provides for a 1% preference. I suggest and recommend that the amount of preference be increased to 5% assuming that the proper findings can be made. I am informed that there is a 9th Circuit case that upheld a limited local preference in San Francisco on the basis that there was a legitimate public purpose for the preference due to the higher cost of doing business in San Francisco and the limited scope of the preference that was given (5%). Doing business in South Lake Tahoe is clearly more expensive than outside of the City and State. The reason for suggesting a 5% preference is because there is authority by the court that such a preference is legal under certain circumstances. The current 1% incentive is also not much of one according to our Purchasing Manager.
3. Create an incentive for businesses to remodel and expand - Business owners and operators within the City limits who apply to remodel or expand their existing small businesses (needs to be defined) will be given a 5% reduction in their City permit fees. The purpose is to support and encourage the remodel and expansion of existing smaller local businesses.
To the extent that business expansion creates new permanent jobs, local businesses may also be eligible for grants and loans under the City’s existing or evolving business assistance program (e.g. CDBG, RDA).
If the City Council agrees in concept with these policy initiative proposals, the City Manager should be directed to bring back a report and proposed policy change language by no later than your second meeting in March 2008.
FINANCIAL AND/OR POLICY CONSIDERATION:
There will be some administrative time and cost needed to proactively collect dollars owed the City on business license and other legally assessed City fees, but this should be offset by receiving dollars owed City government in a timely manner.
The local preference provision for procurement should have a minimum impact on City costs that might well be somewhat offset by more local firms getting City business.
The reduction of fees proposal for local business should have minimum financial impacts if the policy initiative results in more reinvestment in improvements to private business properties.
DAVID M. JINKENS
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF FEBRUARY 12, 2008
Date: February 5, 2008
TO: Honorable Mayor and Council
FROM: City Manager
RE: REQUEST FOR AUTHORITY TO DEVELOP CITY CODE CHANGES TO STRENGTHEN COLLECTION OF REVENUE OWED THE CITY, PREFERENCE TO LOCAL PROVIDERS OF SERVICE, AND INCENTIVES TO PEOPLE TO IMPROVE THEIR BUSINESS PROPERTIES
RECOMMENDATION:
1. Hear staff Report
2. Take public comment
3. Approve in concept the proposed policy initiatives and direct the City Manager to have prepared the specific code language changes needed by no later than your second City Council meeting in March 2008.
ISSUE AND DISCUSSION:
We are in the process of reviewing and preparing proposed amendments to our business license and procurement ordinances. During this review, I am requesting City Council direction in support having prepared the following clarifications and changes to the City’s business license and procurement practices:
1. Strengthen the process for collecting fees owed the City - Tighten up the business license ordinance for clarity to provide specifically (and in one place in the ordinance) that it is illegal for any business to operate within the City limits unless it has a business license and pays all fees legally imposed by the City (e.g. business license, BID, multi-family inspection program as applicable). Should a business fail to pay all fees in a reasonable period of time, the City Manager or his designee is authorized to take all legal steps in accordance with the law to collect funds owed and/or action to see that the business is closed for non-payment including the filing of civil and/or criminal actions (the latter in the case of fraud).
The current business license ordinance has been found who use it on a daily basis to be too cumbersome and deficient in defining City government’s intentions to collect all fees owed it in a timely manner and providing a process for Finance staff to achieve the objective.
The intent of the code change is not to punish business but rather to ensure collection of revenues owed the City. A vast majority of business owners and operators pay all legally assessed City fees, and it is unfair for them who pay on time for others not to do so.
2. Give preference in purchasing to City businesses - In regard to the purchasing of products by City government, it is proposed that the City shall grant to businesses located within the City limits and holding a valid City business license a 5% preference margin if the product and/or service being procured is of equal quality or better than from a non-City vendor. The City Manager is authorized to prepare and promulgate administrative policy to ensure implementation of this City Council direction.
At the present time, the City code (Section 22-15) provides for a 1% preference. I suggest and recommend that the amount of preference be increased to 5% assuming that the proper findings can be made. I am informed that there is a 9th Circuit case that upheld a limited local preference in San Francisco on the basis that there was a legitimate public purpose for the preference due to the higher cost of doing business in San Francisco and the limited scope of the preference that was given (5%). Doing business in South Lake Tahoe is clearly more expensive than outside of the City and State. The reason for suggesting a 5% preference is because there is authority by the court that such a preference is legal under certain circumstances. The current 1% incentive is also not much of one according to our Purchasing Manager.
3. Create an incentive for businesses to remodel and expand - Business owners and operators within the City limits who apply to remodel or expand their existing small businesses (needs to be defined) will be given a 5% reduction in their City permit fees. The purpose is to support and encourage the remodel and expansion of existing smaller local businesses.
To the extent that business expansion creates new permanent jobs, local businesses may also be eligible for grants and loans under the City’s existing or evolving business assistance program (e.g. CDBG, RDA).
If the City Council agrees in concept with these policy initiative proposals, the City Manager should be directed to bring back a report and proposed policy change language by no later than your second meeting in March 2008.
FINANCIAL AND/OR POLICY CONSIDERATION:
There will be some administrative time and cost needed to proactively collect dollars owed the City on business license and other legally assessed City fees, but this should be offset by receiving dollars owed City government in a timely manner.
The local preference provision for procurement should have a minimum impact on City costs that might well be somewhat offset by more local firms getting City business.
The reduction of fees proposal for local business should have minimum financial impacts if the policy initiative results in more reinvestment in improvements to private business properties.
DAVID M. JINKENS
Better mammograms
Feb. 8, 2008
Barton HealthCare System
Denise Sloan Smart
530-543-5617
dsloan@bartonhealth.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Stateline Medical Center enhances diagnostic capabilities with full-field digital mammography
By Denise Sloan Smart
Barton HealthCare System
In order to provide patients with optimal breast imaging and comfort with lower x-ray dosage, the Barton HealthCare System installed a MAMMOMAT NovationDR digital mammography system from Siemens Medical Solutions at Stateline Medical Center . The digital mammography equipment is now running full scale.
According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, breast cancer incidence in women has increased from one in 20 in 1960 to one in eight today. If detected early, the five-year survival rate for this disease exceeds 95 percent.
MAMMOMAT NovationDR enables physicians and clinicians to better pinpoint the disease and plan treatment. The system also meets the demands of modern mammography practices like Barton’s, by providing the latest in digital screening and diagnosis — all in one system.
“Regularly scheduled mammograms are not only highly recommended but can often detect a lesion long before it can be felt,” said Tim Gilliam , director of Barton’s Medical Imaging Department. “With this innovative new system, screening and diagnostics can be performed on a single unit, while both image quality and dose exposure reduction achieve an optimum level,” he said.
“Our new mammography system will help the Barton HealthCare System provide women with the best possible exams. In addition to increased diagnostic capabilities, NovationDR is also designed to reduce the discomfort associated with mammography,” he said.
At 24 by 29 centimeters, the size of the NovationDR image detector allows imaging of a wider range of patient breast sizes and its new paddle design provides easier and more comfortable patient positioning. The system enables a direct conversion of X-ray to digital information and features MammoReportPlus, a multi-modality workstation with the ability to accept Computer Assisted Diagnosis (CAD) markers — which helps increase cancer detection rates.
MammoReportPlus provides ultra-fast, high-volume mammogram reading, permitting users to switch between eight-view mammographic studies in less than one second, there by improving workflow in the process.
The Barton Memorial Hospital will go digital with its mammography equipment in late February. Cost for the two new pieces of equipment exceeded $650,000.
“We are committed to providing the latest mammography technology possible for our community at prices that are competitive with anyone else,” said Gilliam.
Funding for the equipment was provided in part by the Susan G. Komen for the Cure foundation, Northern Nevada affiliate in the form of a grant to the hospital for its Breast Health Program. That program includes free mammograms to all women and men who qualify regardless of age. Call 543-5537 for an application.
For more information on digital mammography, call Stateline Medical Center at (775) 589-8952. www.nationalbreastcancer.org
###
Barton HealthCare System
Denise Sloan Smart
530-543-5617
dsloan@bartonhealth.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Stateline Medical Center enhances diagnostic capabilities with full-field digital mammography
By Denise Sloan Smart
Barton HealthCare System
In order to provide patients with optimal breast imaging and comfort with lower x-ray dosage, the Barton HealthCare System installed a MAMMOMAT NovationDR digital mammography system from Siemens Medical Solutions at Stateline Medical Center . The digital mammography equipment is now running full scale.
According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, breast cancer incidence in women has increased from one in 20 in 1960 to one in eight today. If detected early, the five-year survival rate for this disease exceeds 95 percent.
MAMMOMAT NovationDR enables physicians and clinicians to better pinpoint the disease and plan treatment. The system also meets the demands of modern mammography practices like Barton’s, by providing the latest in digital screening and diagnosis — all in one system.
“Regularly scheduled mammograms are not only highly recommended but can often detect a lesion long before it can be felt,” said Tim Gilliam , director of Barton’s Medical Imaging Department. “With this innovative new system, screening and diagnostics can be performed on a single unit, while both image quality and dose exposure reduction achieve an optimum level,” he said.
“Our new mammography system will help the Barton HealthCare System provide women with the best possible exams. In addition to increased diagnostic capabilities, NovationDR is also designed to reduce the discomfort associated with mammography,” he said.
At 24 by 29 centimeters, the size of the NovationDR image detector allows imaging of a wider range of patient breast sizes and its new paddle design provides easier and more comfortable patient positioning. The system enables a direct conversion of X-ray to digital information and features MammoReportPlus, a multi-modality workstation with the ability to accept Computer Assisted Diagnosis (CAD) markers — which helps increase cancer detection rates.
MammoReportPlus provides ultra-fast, high-volume mammogram reading, permitting users to switch between eight-view mammographic studies in less than one second, there by improving workflow in the process.
The Barton Memorial Hospital will go digital with its mammography equipment in late February. Cost for the two new pieces of equipment exceeded $650,000.
“We are committed to providing the latest mammography technology possible for our community at prices that are competitive with anyone else,” said Gilliam.
Funding for the equipment was provided in part by the Susan G. Komen for the Cure foundation, Northern Nevada affiliate in the form of a grant to the hospital for its Breast Health Program. That program includes free mammograms to all women and men who qualify regardless of age. Call 543-5537 for an application.
For more information on digital mammography, call Stateline Medical Center at (775) 589-8952. www.nationalbreastcancer.org
###
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Snowmobiling at Tahoe
I've been on this snowmobile route ... fabulous. The views of Lake Tahoe are incredible. It's the best I've been on on the South Shore. ...kr
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Lisa Epstein
Allison & Partners
(619)533-7973
lisa@allisonpr.com
Plenty of Snow Means Plenty to do at Lake Tahoe
Zephyr Cove Resort Entices Winter Season Visitors
With New Snowmobiling and Lodging Package and More Than 30 Percent in Savings
Lake Tahoe, NV – February 6, 2008 – In response to recent snowfall and current snow conditions in the Lake Tahoe area, Zephyr Cove Resort and Snowmobile Center , operated by ARAMARK Harrison Lodging, is offering a new Winter Snowmobile package to encourage visitors to try some of the various activities Lake Tahoe has to offer, in addition to skiing.
“With the recent abundance of snow in the area, now is the time to try new activities like snowmobiling and take in more of what Tahoe has to offer,” said Carol Chaplin, director of sales and marketing for Zephyr Cove Resort and Lake Tahoe Cruises. “This year’s above average snowfall makes our winter wonderland more awe-inspiring than ever.”
For just $218 for two people, a savings of $100 off of rack rates, the Winter Snowmobile package is available now through April 15, 2008* and includes:
- One night lakeside accommodations in a classic Lake Tahoe cabin at the Zephyr Cove Resort
- A double-rider Lakeview Snowmobile Tour for two
Snowmobiling is a unique winter adventure activity for groups, couples and families of all ages; kids can ride with their parents on a double-rider snowmobile. Zephyr Cove’s Lakeview tour affords riders spectacular views of Lake Tahoe from over 9,000 feet above the lake. As the largest snowmobile tour center in the United States , Zephyr Cove maintains a fleet of more than 150 state-of-the-art snowmobiles with superior performance and safety features. Professional, experienced guides provide specially designed tours for riders of all skill levels.
Located lakefront on Tahoe’s popular South Shore , Zephyr Cove Resort features quaint cabin accommodations, a historic lodge and restaurant, a full-service marina in the summer, and year-round cruise adventures aboard Lake Tahoe Cruises’ authentic and replica paddlewheelers. Zephyr Cove is just minutes from world-class casinos, shopping and dining, perfect for anyone looking to escape a city winter and take in the breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe in the winter.
Guests can book their Tahoe getaway with the Winter Snowmobile Package by calling
1-800-23-TAHOE or online at www.zephyrcove.com. For more information about the Zephyr Cove Resort and Snowmobile Center , please visit www.zephyrcove.com.
* Based upon double occupancy; available Sunday through Thursday. Double rider snowmobile. Limited availability on some dates and snowmobile tours. Applies to 9:30 a.m. tour only. All tours are subject to change due to hazardous weather conditions. Taxes not included. Upgrades to lodging and single rider machines available.
###
Editor’s Note: High resolution images are available upon request.
About Zephyr Cove Resort
Located on the South Shore of Lake Tahoe just four miles from Stateline, Nevada, Zephyr Cove Resort & Marina (www.zephyrcove.com) has been a historic recreational destination for more than a century, and today offers everything from camping and lakeside cabins to snowmobiling, boating and cruises to Emerald Bay. The Zephyr Cove Marina , which offers a host of boat and watercraft rentals, also serves as the departure point for the M.S. Dixie II, voted “Best of Tahoe,” and offering daily cruises ranging from the historic breakfast buffet, champagne brunch, sightseeing and dinner/dance cruise.
About ARAMARK Harrison Lodging
ARAMARK Harrison Lodging, a division of ARAMARK Corporation, provides a wide range of managed services, including meeting and recreational support services to conference and corporate training centers, specialty hotels, national and state parks, resorts and other tourist destinations throughout the United States . ARAMARK Harrison Lodging is a single source provider for educational environments, event and meeting planning, premium dining needs and catering, on-site restaurants, retail merchandise sales and facilities management.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Lisa Epstein
Allison & Partners
(619)533-7973
lisa@allisonpr.com
Plenty of Snow Means Plenty to do at Lake Tahoe
Zephyr Cove Resort Entices Winter Season Visitors
With New Snowmobiling and Lodging Package and More Than 30 Percent in Savings
Lake Tahoe, NV – February 6, 2008 – In response to recent snowfall and current snow conditions in the Lake Tahoe area, Zephyr Cove Resort and Snowmobile Center , operated by ARAMARK Harrison Lodging, is offering a new Winter Snowmobile package to encourage visitors to try some of the various activities Lake Tahoe has to offer, in addition to skiing.
“With the recent abundance of snow in the area, now is the time to try new activities like snowmobiling and take in more of what Tahoe has to offer,” said Carol Chaplin, director of sales and marketing for Zephyr Cove Resort and Lake Tahoe Cruises. “This year’s above average snowfall makes our winter wonderland more awe-inspiring than ever.”
For just $218 for two people, a savings of $100 off of rack rates, the Winter Snowmobile package is available now through April 15, 2008* and includes:
- One night lakeside accommodations in a classic Lake Tahoe cabin at the Zephyr Cove Resort
- A double-rider Lakeview Snowmobile Tour for two
Snowmobiling is a unique winter adventure activity for groups, couples and families of all ages; kids can ride with their parents on a double-rider snowmobile. Zephyr Cove’s Lakeview tour affords riders spectacular views of Lake Tahoe from over 9,000 feet above the lake. As the largest snowmobile tour center in the United States , Zephyr Cove maintains a fleet of more than 150 state-of-the-art snowmobiles with superior performance and safety features. Professional, experienced guides provide specially designed tours for riders of all skill levels.
Located lakefront on Tahoe’s popular South Shore , Zephyr Cove Resort features quaint cabin accommodations, a historic lodge and restaurant, a full-service marina in the summer, and year-round cruise adventures aboard Lake Tahoe Cruises’ authentic and replica paddlewheelers. Zephyr Cove is just minutes from world-class casinos, shopping and dining, perfect for anyone looking to escape a city winter and take in the breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe in the winter.
Guests can book their Tahoe getaway with the Winter Snowmobile Package by calling
1-800-23-TAHOE or online at www.zephyrcove.com. For more information about the Zephyr Cove Resort and Snowmobile Center , please visit www.zephyrcove.com.
* Based upon double occupancy; available Sunday through Thursday. Double rider snowmobile. Limited availability on some dates and snowmobile tours. Applies to 9:30 a.m. tour only. All tours are subject to change due to hazardous weather conditions. Taxes not included. Upgrades to lodging and single rider machines available.
###
Editor’s Note: High resolution images are available upon request.
About Zephyr Cove Resort
Located on the South Shore of Lake Tahoe just four miles from Stateline, Nevada, Zephyr Cove Resort & Marina (www.zephyrcove.com) has been a historic recreational destination for more than a century, and today offers everything from camping and lakeside cabins to snowmobiling, boating and cruises to Emerald Bay. The Zephyr Cove Marina , which offers a host of boat and watercraft rentals, also serves as the departure point for the M.S. Dixie II, voted “Best of Tahoe,” and offering daily cruises ranging from the historic breakfast buffet, champagne brunch, sightseeing and dinner/dance cruise.
About ARAMARK Harrison Lodging
ARAMARK Harrison Lodging, a division of ARAMARK Corporation, provides a wide range of managed services, including meeting and recreational support services to conference and corporate training centers, specialty hotels, national and state parks, resorts and other tourist destinations throughout the United States . ARAMARK Harrison Lodging is a single source provider for educational environments, event and meeting planning, premium dining needs and catering, on-site restaurants, retail merchandise sales and facilities management.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
.jpg)