MINUTES
 
El Dorado County Fire Safe Council
May 23, 2007
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Gold Hill Fire Station, 6051 Gold Hill Road

 

The meeting was called to order by Vicki Yorty at approximately 1:00 p.m. Directors and guests present were: Bob Berry, Bill Cave (Director), Mary Cornelison (Director), Janet Gastaldi (Director), Ray Griffiths (Vice-Chair), Penny Humphreys (Chair), Joan Jennings (Treasurer), Patrick McDaniel, Gene Murphy (Director), Barbara Rebiskie, Jim Stewart (Director), Walt Tyler (Secretary), Dave Crespo, Scott Flake, Lorelei Soria, Mike Reeves, Pat Johnson, David Jaramillo, Chris Anthony, Kathy Ince.

Those present introduced themselves.

Mary Cornelison proposed a motion to approve the agenda as submitted. Second by Penny Humphreys. Approved by all present.

A motion was proposed by Penny Humphreys to approve the minutes as submitted with the spelling correction of the name Edlvnd to Edlund. Second by Ray Griffiths. Approved by all present.

Penny Humphreys gave a review of the EDCFSC BOD meeting held prior to the EDCFSC meeting. (See minutes EDCFSC BOD 5-23-07)

Scott Flake presented an overview of the proposed hydroelectric project to be built above the American River near Camino. Included was an overview of SMUD/El Dorado County Cooperative Agreement. The proposed project is designed for the pumping and power producing facilities to be underground. The facility is designed to produce power, as needed using water that can be recycled as necessary. The underground plans were designed due to limited above ground space and the steep terrain above the river.

Barbara Rebiskie reported that USFS is already "maxed out" due to extremely dry conditions. Crews have already been sent to other states. Two helicopters have been added this year. Two lookouts have been opened. Fire danger is above historical levels.

Chris Anthony advised that Cal Fire is getting geared up due to early fire danger. He predicted that all burning would be closed out during mid June. Emphasis is being made when approving plans for residential development to assure that roads and availability of water necessary for fire control are included.

Patrick reported that $425,000 of Community Assistance Grants have been encumbered. Included is $50,000 for Gold Bug Park.

EID is continuing expanding fuel breaks. They plan to use spraying to reduce and maintain areas already cleared.

Bob Berry reported that the fly over maps could be available within a couple of months.

Janet reported that she and others are busy making Defensible Space visits. There is a need for Senior/Disabled Assistance Program help in the area. Vicki indicated that she hopes the funding to start the program will be available by July.

Penny stated that the green waste dumpsters are working well in the Rescue area.

Mary reported on activities and meetings within the Volcanoville area. Defensible Space consultations are expected to start soon. Most of the missing street signs have been located and returned. She is not aware of any arrests related to the stolen signs.

Gene reported on the Cameron Park CWPP and the Logtown plan.

David Jaramillo described Firewise progress within the various communities.

Bill Cave reported that current research indicates that Auburn Lake Trails is 100% in compliance with Firewise standards and State fire laws. They have been working towards this goal for the past four years.

Vicki reported that chipping has been somewhat slower this year than previously. Dumpsters are doing well and about half of the grant has been used. She has plans to update the fire prevention video. She has made some changes of internal processing of administrative activities to streamline and reduce workload. Things are working better.

Submitted by Walt Tyler, Secretary EDCFSC