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j�- OCT 19 2006 Trees L ALTOS HILLS Euca� lyptus in Los Altos Hills DOCUMENTATION ENTERED INTO THE PUBLIC RECORD ESTABLISHING THE DANGER AND LIABILITY OF EUCALYPTUS TREES SUBMITTED BY ALEXANDER ATKINS OCTOBER 19, 2006 INDEX Section 1 Eucalyptus Ordinance No. 503 and Supporting Arborist Report Section 2 Newspaper Articles about Dan Plummer Killed by . Eucalyptus Tree on Natoma Road Section 3 Town Council Meeting ,Jan. 12, 2006 Discussing Death of Dan Plummer Damage Caused by Eucalyptus Trees Section 4 Staff Notices to Askari Property on Natoma Road Section 5 Newspaper Articles on Storm and Eucalyptus Ordinance as Public Process Articles from the Internet on Dangers of Eucalyptus Trees Section 6 The Eucalyptus Tree in Politics Section 7 Townwide Tree Survey Report and Findings Section 8 Newspaper Articles on Liddicoat Fire Caused by Eucalyptus Trees Section 9 PGE and Eucalyptus Trees Section10 Eucalyptus Trees on the Berry Property Section 11 Eucalyptus Trees on the Andrews Property SECTION ORDINANCE NO. 503 ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS AMENDING SECTION 10-2.802 OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE WITH REGARD TO LANDSCAPING POLICIES WHEREAS,the City Council of the Town of Los Altos Hills ("Town,") wishes to preserve the rural qualities of the Town, to insure that structures, as viewed from off-site, blend harmoniously with the natural landscape and are unobtrusive; to maintain soil stability, to abate noises; to protect wildlife habitats; to retain aesthetic quality; and to protect properties against fire and other natural forces. WHEREAS, the City Council of the Town of" Los Altos Hills ("Town") has determined that eucalyptus trees are invasive, nonnative tree species which are not suitable within the vicinity of structures and roadways because they are potential safety and fire hazards. NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the Town of Los Altos Hills does ORDAIN as follows: I AMENDMENT OF CODE. Section 10-2.802 of Article- 8 (Landscaping) of Chapter 2 (Site Development) of Title 10 (Zoning and Site Development) of the Los Altos Hills Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as follows: See. 10-2.802.Landscaping policies (f) Tree preservation, Every feasible attempt should be made to preserve existing trees except those trees identified in the Los Altos Hills Landscape Guidelines invasive plant list. (g) Eucalyptus Trees- All existing Blue Gum (E. globulus), Pink Ironbark (E. sideroxylon rosea), River Red Gum (E. camaldulensis), Swamp Gum (E. rudis), Honey Gum (E. melliodora), and Manna Gum (E. viminalis) eucalyptus trees shall be removed at the time of the construction of a principal residence or at the time of the construction of any structure, combination of structures, addition or alteration to structures which individually or cumulatively equal or exceed twelve hundred(1,200) square feet of floor area. Exceptions shall be made for eucalyptus trees greater than 150' from any roadways or structures. 2. EFFECTIVE DATE AND PUBLICATION. This ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after adoption. Within fifteen days after the passage of this ordinance the City Clerk shall cause this ordinance or a summary thereof to be published once, with the names of those City Councilmembers voting for or against it in a newspaper of general circulation in the Town of Los Altos Hills,as required by law. INTRODUCED: July 13, 2006 l PASSED: July 27,2006 AYES: Mayor Warshawsky, Mayor Pro Tem Jones, Councilmember Kerr, Councilmember Mordo and Councilmember O'Malley NOES:None ABSTENTIONS:Nene ABSENT:None BY: Mayor ATTEST: City Clerk APPROV AS TO FORM: City Attorney olniejLT �Io�3j Sep �mber 206 PLANNING DIRECTOR'S REPORT am very honored and thrilled to begin my new position as the Planning Director. Over the last few months,we have com- pleted a number of significant projects: INCENTIVES FOR SOLAR PANELS-For those of you thinking about installing a photovoltaic system for your home,the Council has recently adopted several ordinances to promote energy conservation through the use of solar panels. •Free Building Permits(Reso. 1-06)-Building permit fees are waived for the construction or installation of solar energy generation equipment. •Development Area Exemption(Ord.4,46)-If you install a ground mounted photovoltaic system, up to 500 sq.ft.of the solar panels may be exempt from development area calculations. , •Development Area Bonus(Ord.500)-If you install a roof mounted solar system,you may qualify Debbie Pedro, for up to 500 sq.ft.of bonus development area. Planning Director To find out more,please contact the Planning Department at(650)941-7222. IMPROVED WIRELESS COVERAGE AT TOWN HALL-As you walk or drive by Town Hall,you may have noticed a new "tree"that has sprung up next to the HeritageHouse.The wireless communications facility consists of Cingular's wireless panel antennas as well as the Town's emergency communications antennas. The 70'tall tower is disguised as a pine tree to help it blend in with the surrounding environment and will improve the cell coverage for Cingular customers within an approximately 3/4 mile radius. EUCALYPTUS TREE ORDINANCE-The City Council has just adopted an ordinance requiring removal of eucalyptus trees that are within 150'of.any structures or roadways. The ordinance will apply to additions or remodel totaling 1,200 sq.ft.or more. Eucalyptus trees are invasive,non-native trees that are potential fire hazards. In addition,the shallow root structures of these tall trees make them unsuitable around the vicinity of structures or roadways. The following six species of eucalyptus are known for their propensity to drop limbs and susceptible to pest attacks and are subject to removal at the time of site development approval: 1.Blue Gum(E.globulus) 2.Pink Ironbark(E.sideroxylon rosea) 3.River Red Gum(E.camaldulensis) 4.Swamp Gum(E.rudis) 5.Honey Gum(E.melliodora) 6.Manna Gum(E.viminalis) MOREAMBYGUOUS`TERMINOLOG�'(HTGHLY V)(SIBLE LOTS)RRMOVED F120M TOWN CODES:;=AT IIIEIRfULS " ' ON:- AS DEEMDTHTIIT I" EOTEFERENCDINSFMOY2JiMINGTI CUV 2c]020FCIIETOWN STI'EDEVFLOPMENTORDINANC ,GOUIDNOTBEAGCURATELYDEFINF`D THECOUNCII'ORDEF2EDTFIEAMBIGU ': x O.USREFERENCETUBEREMOVEDFROMTHECODE NONEWOR'ADDTTIONAURESCRIGTIOLgSONHOSWE1tEAPPRO)Eb AM Looking ahead,our department has a number of significant long range projects on the agenda,including the comprehensive . General Plan update,and several ordinance amendments.Additionally,our staff will continue our commitment to provide efficient and effective services to applicants and residents in the development permit process. I look forward to hearing from you in the days and months ahead. Whether you have any comments,concerns,or just want to say hello,please feel free to contact me by email at dpedro@losaltoshills.ca.gov or by phone at 650-941-7222. —Debbie Pedro,Planning Director CITY COi7NCIL NELl'IEETIliTlm ._ The LAH City Council hasestabhshed a new meeting ttme:(6 30 PM)that Fill begtt wtth the September meetings. _; ', ` Public Hearings and.Presentactons from the,Floor will§tAft at 7PNf.. �' —_ 3 — ---� COATE Md ASSOCHATIES Howc uturat consatants M535 Surnrnit oaad Los GMS:C A 40813S3-1052 RECOMMENDATIONS REGARDING CONTROL OF EUCALYPTUS TREES IN LOS ALTOS HILLS Prepared at the request of: Debbie Pedro Town of Los Altos Hills 26379 Fremont Road' Los Altos Hills, CA 94022 Prepared by: Barrie D. Coate Consulting Arborist March 7`h,2006 Job#03-06-051 II� RECOMMENDATIONS RE:CONTROL OF EUCALYPTUS IN LOS ALTOS HILLS 2 Large specimens of Tasmanian Blue Gum(Eucalyptus globulus)may be seen throughout thearts of California in which winter temperatures remain above 26T. P P This species occurs naturally,however,only in the southeastern portion of Tasmania and in a few small areas on the southern coast of New South Wales on the mainland of Australia in areas of 1,000 foot elevation or less,with an average rainfall of 35"annually. In nature,it can reach 180 feet in height with a trunk diameter of 7 feet. Unfortunately,the higher nitrogen and phosphorous levels of the soils in many parts of the world where,it has been planted, such as the Nilgire Hills of India,many parts of Portugal.and California,have resulted in trees of 250' tall and 90' wide canopies. A specimen in the Alma Bridge Road area above Los Gatos reached a documented size of 130' in height and 30"tnmk diameter in 35 years. This species has many characteristics which make it a nuisance or even dangerous when it is near human habitation. It re-seeds into almost any soil,and then grows so rapidly that it produces a dense canopy over-topping the native trees,shading them out. As Tasmanian Blue Gum specimens reach 2' or more in trunk diameter,they are voracious feeders,commonly using all available water and nutrients resulting in the common complaint that"nothing will grow under a Eucalyptus". By the time specimens reach this size,the thousands of seed pods,each containing hundreds of tiny black seeds produce so much viable seed that many seedlings appear within a hundred feet of the parent tree. By this means,a grove of Tasmanian Blue Gums can become the dominant species in a large area within a period of a few years,reaching 30-50' tall in 10 years. This species,like.many other very large.Eucalyptus species such as E. camaldulensis, E. viminahs, E.-cladocalyc seem genetically predisposed to dropping 3-6"diameter, 15-20' long.branches on a regular basis and an occasional 6-12"diameter limb which can weigh several hundred pounds. The unfortunate practice of over thinning the interior of trees by uninformed arborists when applied to.large Eucalyptus species merely exacerbates the likelihood of limb drop by forming more and heavier end weight growth. The other unfortunate pruning procedure often used on large Eucalyptus is stub cutting in which whole tops of trees are removed down to 12"and 24"stubs. The trees response to this butchery is the production of water sprouts which often grow 10' per year,and are highly vulnerable to breaking off. PREPARED BY BARRIE D.COATE,CONSULTING ARBORIST MARCH 7'w,2006 RECOMMENDATIONS RE:CONTROL OF EUCALYPTUS IN LOS ALTOS HILLS 3 i In other words, there is no"right place"for one of these trees within falling distance of human-habitation.. All of that being said,all Eucalyptus species should not be considered;equivalent to Tasmanian Blue Gums. There are 700 species of Eucalyptus, some of them producing 4' high groundcovers, and many maturing at 35-40' tall and serving as important increments of the street tree and ornamental tree inventory. All_Eucalyptus species should not be vilified because Tasmanian Blue Gum is such a poor neighbor. It should also be pointed out that many of the non Eucalyptus species we commonly use in landscaping drop limbs,especially when not well cared for. Redwood trees commonly drop 3"diameter,20' long branches, and mature American .Sweet gum trees often drop one or two major limbs each winter. It deserves note that our venerated Coast Live Oak provides more tree failure reports for the Tree Failure Report System managed by the University of California Cooperative Extension Service than any other species;but that is possibly because of the large numbers of specimens which we encounter. In summary, Tasmanian Blue Gum, especially large specimens,or those which have been badly pruned are not suitable candidates for retention in the average property and the costs of remedial pruning are often so high that some owners cannot, or will not, have , pruning done which.can reduce(note,this is not remove the danger. Prepared by Barrie D. Coate ISA Certified Arborist Registered ASCA Member BDC/phlg f SECTION UP Y.+fid cyc ��@(J ` yP TUESDAY o SAN JOSE MERCURY NEWS o m JANUARY 3,2006 s ide ti RESEARCH SCIEW I.ST 39, STRUCK BY FALLING TREE By Sandra Goi ales 'Teopltitide.there all the 7vler�za yI:aa, time;",;Saltzixian said. "We Eric-Saltzman heard a load snap rd=de-tOpther.several times as he and a friend rode their bikes a:'week,amd that was one of on a familiar narrow roe.d in the Los ,our i eS% ul' . re-s.- Altos Hills. He turned around and : g7tixins,hacl.a distin- saw aeucalyptus tree hip an electri- ~N' " gi 'faseiaic pedi- calwire. "'gea„ H'i .lacl>::`:l?achelbr's Whep Saltzman, went back, he arid't faster.' <degrees from z 4_,s,;U: y found his friend, Dar:Pl.Irnmert , ini _ r ; , riiversit and a derneath the tree. He went to get 'doa €i tim elle t7nive'r- help,but it was too late. s. ,;;o.£- siornza'-Sari Die - Plummer, 89,_a charopion cyclist ! go,wl7 ric'h'e:also served on and research scientmt from Zed- the fa It of'tli School of wood City, died instantly Sunday morning on the Natorna Road route H7s,.j jography on the cy- they"rode.at,least once a weeli —'-a clisi nib's Web site lists ' victim of the vet,wild weather that pl"otography writing,read- socked the$ay,area during the past irYig,ai `.`var'`ious.technolo- gy ge�EktAuff"as his inter- ._.y r`Tt''sun-elievably freak- But liis real love was,c '1 thr?'sa1d.;Golin-Cooper, an- cling,fxiends'say. y t'9tlier frieritl£ vho regularly "He lived. r it:It was his i`a0ed=<<Ah Plummer on life. The cycling.team:.was Teaxw pine, .a Northern his family.out here," Coo- Cal%£ r<'na 'amateur road- per said. "He was-incredi- racii >cin.``IC's an abso- 1?ly deelcated'to the spo'rt." Bite ftagedy You're always PIffier,originally from >.•'.worr'°ed�about getting into 1Glassactrusetts, had. been a lj'ike' eclt; about getting cycling 'competitively for ,hi€;.}?y'a'car, but nobody about lQ`years."He was in- �voiTtd tFiinlc about a tree c'e6611y:sfnart, witty and f lling.tori you: That's the frieray Everybody''s really lash.Wing.7you would think deeastated by this" Coa- of:;, r`3aid The.Santa:Clara County The teamri planninga Corbrie?s Office couldn't nein vial:ride r him, left left ebn`:rm''thd---entity Mon- a tribute on its Web site: clay.:n g t ybe airse authori- 1 "Our friend, our team ties'had`;yeL to' teach any 1 mate; our brother, we'll ie 'o- miss.miss. yau. .Every pedal Raa'clrea°by:telephone at stroke�Tu are wrth us, in his Meril`o :Park home, our hearts and forever on altzrrian's'acl he was still the team." 5hakeii. . Plummer "was a great Contact Sandra Gonzales at guy; a 'gr::et friend, same sgonzales@rriercurynews. bddy.we:Will all miss very coin or 920-577$. rnuch," .he said. "We are stiff'str=uggling to come to i grips with this." I Neither of them were riding very fast on the hilly street near Black Moun- tain Road because it was wet and windy, Saltzman said. TORPHOT0.1U>:HWaVwrv�ttic,. — � doesn't , RIGHT PHOTO COURTESY OF 8EMPERv.IRENS FUND I 1n along time, but that do �. mean it's not happening" r�15 d l#�C doi, l irY hA hd1 �� ee The DA's investigation" is r among I.a series of developments, B Siiman Mudamula "It was tragic and freakish. It was very, capped the recent adaption of Special to the Towrt Crier very unusual, said-friend and Team-Spine the city''ss sewer,master plan that #r W member Eric.Saltzman,who Was.riding ahead' point to problems with the aging Flowers ,i system and the city's need to ad- " " "� aniel Plummer once wrote to a!news of Plummer. y mark the ku oar �� �? dress them. spot where t> paper editor that he wanted.to die The odds of'sucfi an accident occurring Fioretta told.the Town Crier ,r K " " Saltzman said. It Dan Plum- � ev; n while cycling. are phenomenally.low, that partof the reasonhe dropped ` � ' Sadly; that statement:.'became a self-.ful- was over'in a fracdoii-of'a.secoitd"'Plummer mer was f s y' the investigation was because it billed by ,1 ` wr atiP filling prophecy. Plummer;.•39, a. Redwood could have'escaped the deadly.tree.if he were was. his understanding that the a falling a, rya,x-.. City-..based xesearch scientist,.died'Jan. h on just a second,faster•• or a.second slower, he Adobe Creek spills and code.vio- tree Jan. Z t, Natoma Road in Los Altos Hills when a.eu- added. lations had been brought to the i' � � cal tus tree,branch fell on him while he. Saltzman.met:Plummer'.in Team..Spine, r .on Natoma r yp p' attention of the public and the Road in �' riding.his bike. three years ago. `We spent a lot.af time rid- ' "He died,doing what he-loved to do," said ing and traveling in races together.,"he said. city council erning hearings held Los Altos � .*� "t�}„,a. . ' - this fall concerning the city's new Hills: John Ford,,whorode-with Plummer on.Team Plummer was "a thoughtful person with a py` Spine, a.Northern California amateur road See CYCLIST,Page T See SEWAGE,Page fi { JOE HUI facing team•. .': TOWN CRIER _ _ - 41 sai CYCLsaid,adding that with eucalyptus, "usually this rl^Psn't happen. But t" l�� We are a. amil We j J. From Page 1 Y- l ,, there are r' -ariables:' lost a brother. We are all Some- may come �” very keen intellect.He was some- devastated and off due to oecay road improve- one you enjoyed spending time ment work. `But,"Morneau said ,heartbroken, with, Saltzman said. He was a we need to take into account �� very giving person, always will- —Kerri Kazala manager specific information about the ing to help others°' of Team Spine; Daniel specific tree and not make judg Kerri Kazala, manager of , mems.' - � Plummer's cycling team Team Spine,said she found it hard y g Most eucalyptus trees do not to talk about Plummer's death. fall,he said,but the fury of Moth- `We are a family. We lost a left last week for Walpole,'Mass., er Nature combined with variable €7 wl brother.We are all devastated and Plummer's.hometown, to attend factors such as wind.and-the extra heartbroken,"she said. funeral services. weight on branches due to inces- !l' " MA Plummer rode with the team Roy Morneau, an rode endent sant rains may have resulted in - ,', t fi r , since its inception in 2002. arborist in Mountain View, re- the fall of that particular,tree. I, Kazala said the teals has been members the route where the ac- `Team Spine members are plan- receiving supportive e-mails cident occurred, ning a memorial ride for Plum- frola the cycling community all "I haven't visited the road mer, beginning 9 a.m. Sunday at over the country. "The support is Foothill College. in the last six months. I am not g just phenomenal," she said. SheFor• more information visit sure about the species of the eu- � i and four other team members calyptus lining the long road, he rvwmteamspine.com. U " January ii tow-t os Altos l`dwn'cOer l Page 7 SECTION Town Council Meeting on Video The entire public meeting that occurred on January 12, 2006 that addressed the death of bicyclist Dan Plummer.by a falling Eucalyptus on Natoma Road, the power outages, and the damage caused by trees and debris is hereby incorporated by reference. The video can be found at http://www.hills2000.org/councilvideo/councill-12-06/ Council l-12-06.htm Meeting Minutes January 12, 2006 Town of Los Altos Hills City Council Regular Meeting Thursday, January 12, 2006 6:00 P.M. Town Hall Council Chambers, 26379 Fremont Road 1. CALL TO ORDER,ROLL CALL, AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Mayor Kerr called the City Council Regular Meeting to order at 6:00p.m. in the Council Chambers at Town Hall. Present: Mayor Breene Kerr, Mayor Pro Tem Dean Warshawsky, Councilmember Craig A. T. Jones, Councilmember Jean Mordo and Councilmember Mike O'Malley Absent: None Staff City Manager Maureen Cassingham,Assistant City Attorney John Bakker, Planning Director Carl Cahill, Administrative Services Director Sarah Ragsdale, Director of Public Works/City Engineer Henry Louie and City Clerk Karen Jost MOTION SECONDED AND CARRIED: Moved by Warshawsky, seconded by O'Malley and passed unanimously to limit the length of time for public comments to three minutes. 2. APPOINTMENTS AND PRESENTATIONS 2.1 Superintendent Tim Justus, Los Altos School District Superintendent Tim Justus, Los Altos School District, addressed Council. He explained that his appearance before the City Council had a two fold purpose: to introduce himself and to acquaint Council with the projects the District had slated for the coming year. He offered that an issue that was most relevant to Los Altos Hills' residents was the District's interest in reopening a regular K-6 school at the Bullis School site. Justus noted that the expectation was to have a K-6 school operating at Bullis by the 2008-2009 school year. Justus reviewed the elements that had guided the District in their new approach to the Bullis site that included: new District administration; majority of School District Board members are newly elected including one Los Altos Hills resident and a review of the history of the school's closure. Justus suggested that when campuses are closed, a date for re-opening the school should be considered. 1 City Council Meeting Agenda January 12,2006 Justus provided an overview of the District's current efforts to investigate the potential reopening of the campus. Faculty committees have been created to review the type of curriculum and instruction delivered and grade levels serviced at Bullis. He offered to keep the Council apprised of the District's progress in the venture as they reach appropriate benchmarks. Justus added that he viewed the Bullis campus as a wonderful site and an important asset to the community and District. Justus reviewed the additional factors in the District's new approach to the Bullis site: demographic studies have shown a potential for future increases in school enrollment and the campus could assist with maintaining an overall enrollment at each school that would be considered "educationally sound' ; funding projections have increased; and the site offers the opportunity to offer new programs to the community. He noted that the core curriculum would be continued at the site but the potential for a different delivery of instruction was being investigated. Justus added that the current program of extended day kindergarten had been slated to continue at Bullis for the next school year and could potentially be expanded to other sites. Council thanked Superintendent Justus for his presentation. Councilmember O'Malley explained that the residents of Los Altos Hills were instrumental in the successful passage of the school bond measure that was promoted to include the refurbishment of the Bullis campus. Residents were very frustrated to have the school site closed shortly after the measure was passed. Council and residents felt their interests were not considered by the District Board and have since become advocates for the Bullis Charter School. O'Malley encouraged the District to locate the Charter School at the Bullis campus. Councilmember Jones thanked Superintendent Justus for his appearance and added that open lines of communication were critical to a successful resolution of issues. He explained that the Town was divided between two excellent school districts and residents often feel they are in the minority in both. He had been active in the passage of the Measure H parcel tax and the closure of Bullis School was very unsettling. The closure was not due to a decrease in enrollment or for funding needs but because an additional school was built in Los Altos and the result was a large geographic area of the District (Los Altos Hills) did not have a school within its boundaries. Jones noted that he was pleased to hear the District publicly commit to reopen Bullis. He suggested that the Superintendent consider meeting with the Town's Standing Public Education Committee and encouraged an open dialogue and exchange of ideas with the membership. Justus offered that he believed the area should have an elementary school and added that the Bullis site was a unique asset as a community resource. He agreed that it would be beneficial to meet with the PEC. Mayor Kerr offered that the strong stand that City Council took in opposition to the District leasing the site to a private school was one of the reasons the school site was 2 City Council Meeting Agenda January 12,2006 available to the District. It potentially could have been lost with a long-term lease. He expressed his displeasure that the District was considering continuing operation of the extended day kindergarten at Bullis noting the increase in traffic and suggested that the program would be more appropriate at the individual school sites. Kerr added that since the reopening of Bullis was several years away, the District was afforded an opportunity to demonstrate their concern for fair treatment of the residents of Los Altos Hills by reviewing the Charter School's request for renewal of their Charter with respect. Justus responded that he had enjoyed to-date his working relationship with the Charter School and he expected that if the school met the required criteria of the sixteen elements, the Charter would be renewed. Justus deferred any additional comments regarding a long term site for the Charter School due to ongoing litigation. Council reiterated their appreciation for Superintendent Justus's forthcoming comments and dialogue. 2.2 January 1, 2006 Communications Report—Captain John Hirokawa Captain Hirokawa, Santa Clara County Sheriffs Department, addressed Council. He explained that he was before Council to brief them on the bicyclist fatality that had occurred on Natoma Road on January 1, 2006 at approximately 9:30 am. Hirokawa noted that the responding Deputy, immediately upon his arrival, had determined that the bicyclist was deceased. Hirokawa proceeded with a timeline and response summary for the incident. He noted several miscommunications and procedural errors at County Communications, including a request for the City of Los Altos to respond with a Public Works crew. This was outside the scope of Dispatch's authority. County Communications were under the misinterpretation that this was a rescue mission rather than a fatality and in error used an outdated "call out list" for the Town. He explained that if it had been a rescue or life-endangering emergency, the Deputy on site would have immediately secured a crew (County Fire Rescue Unit and Tree Service contractor) to assist the bicyclist. Hirokawa reminded Council that this was a very busy time for all First Responders and emergency providers due to the severe winds and stormy conditions. He added that there were additional concerns for public safety created by the downed power lines and weather related issues and his Deputies had provided safe rides home forseven different groups of Los Altos Hills' residents that had been out walking. Hirokawa reviewed the steps that have been taken to identify the problems and ensure that the miscommunication would not be repeated. Several meetings had been convened with County Dispatch and it had been determined that they did not follow procedures during the incident. Hirokawa believed the issues have been addressed and a strict protocol was in place. He explained that Lieutenant Calderon, Santa Clara County Sheriff's Department and Steve Garcia, Los Altos Hills Public Safe-ty Officer had worked with County Communications to develop a protocol on"call out"procedures. Mayor Kerr requested information on the signal outage at the intersection of El Monte. Hirokawa explained that the Sheriffs Department does not use boulevard (temporary) 3 City Council Meeting Agenda January 12,2006 stop signs during power outages, noting the issue of liability if the sign is not removed in a timely matter. He explained that the vehicle code required motorist stop at the limit line and then proceed if a signal light was out and the intersection was dark. Hirokawa added that he preferred to send his Deputies to patrol the neighborhoods during power outages to give the residents a sense of reassurance. Mayor Pro Tem Warshawsky asked what guidance the Sheriff would offer to Town residents if a similar situation or emergency were to occur and what was the best way to communicate.that there was a dangerous condition. Hirokawa responded that it was incumbent upon the resident to be self-reliant and take the appropriate emergency training courses i.e. CERT training. He noted that it was impossible for the Department to protect all residents in the Town. Council thanked Captain Hirokawa for his report. 2.3 PG&E Recap of Storm Impacts in Los Altos Hills—Darren Deffaer, Representative Government Relations Darren Deffiier, Government Relations Representative, addressed Council. He introduced Alynn Delisle, Director of Operations, Maintenance and Construction (OM&C) for PG&E. Deffner presented a PowerPoint presentation titled "Storm Impacts — January 2006." The presentation included review of resource allocation for the storm response and normal staffing; storm overview-system wide, Los Altos Hills storm outage impacts (residents affected and the duration of the outages); review of the restoration process; and damage assessment. Deffner explained that the storm was one of the largest in recent years in Santa Clara County and presented a distinct problem in the manner that it moved through the area in waves that prevented PG&E from responding to all of the outages in as timely a manner as they would have preferred. He noted that crews from all over the state and from neighboring states were called in to restore power. Deffner explained that of the 5500 customers in Town that were affected by the storm, fifty percent had their power restored within eight hours. Alynn Delisle, Director of OM&C, reviewed the power restoration process that PG&E follows during a major storm noting that crews work the initial thirty six hours continuously and then on a "rest-work" schedule for the remainder of the storm. Delisle explained the use of stand by personnel for emergency situations during major storms. Personnel were employed in different roles, including direct calls to customers. The storm tally included: 2500 locations with damaged equipment, 300 miles of downed power lines and 500 downed power poles damaged or destroyed. Mayor Pro Tem Warshawsky requested procedural information on the power outage update system employed by the utility. He wondered if it would be possible for the Emergency Communications Committee members to receive the information directly and be used as a resource for the Town. Delisle explained that PG&E does maintain a staffed emergency center but that the information they have was what was updated on their 4 City Council Meeting Agenda January 12,2006 emergency computer generated automatic telephone system for customers. She noted that the information on the automated line was accurate and up to date and if a customer sustains power outage for longer than 48 hours, they are personally contacted with a direct line to contact PG&E service. Deffner explained that during a storm situation with numerous outages they respond tcustomers who have been out the longest. Councilmember O'Malley thanked Deffner and Delisle for their efforts during the storm. He applauded their automated system and the continuous updates. Councilrriember Mordo concurred with O'Malley and congratulated PG&E for their quick response during the storm. Deffner thanked Council for their comments. He noted that in relationship to agenda item 9.2, PG&E reviews every mile of their wires each year to ensure that the system was potentially safe and reliable during winter storms with regard to tree growth. A regular maintenance crew would be reviewing the Los Altos Hills system during the next few weeks. Definer noted that they were supportive of any effort to remove the fast growing non native trees in the area and offered that PG&E would be willing to partner with the Town for resources for vegetation management. He added that they would review requests for assistance by residents (customers) on a case-by-case basis. 3. PLANNING COMMISSION REPORT Planning Director Cahill reported that the Planning Commission had not met since the last Council meeting. At their January 19, 2006 meeting, the Commission was scheduled to review the Cingular Wireless application for an antenna at Town Hall and an application from Cingular Wireless for an antenna on Purissima Road. Councilmember O'Malley suggested that the Council notification procedure for Fast Track and Planning Commission approvals be revised. Following a brief discussion, the Planning Director and City Clerk were directed to modify the meeting agenda face sheet and notification mechanism for better clarification. Councilmember O'Malley requested that the approved pathway on Lands of Malavalli be revisited at a future meeting and suggested that a designated wildlife corridor might be more appropriate for the terrain. 4. CONSENT CALENDAR MOTION SECONDED AND CARRIED: Moved b Mordo seconded b O'Malley and Y � Y Y passed unanimously to approve the Consent Calendar, specifically: 4.1 Approval of Minutes: Regular City Council Meeting December 15, 2005 4.2 Review of Disbursements: 12/3/2005 — 1/4/2006 $210,071.44 5 City Council Meeting Agenda January 12,2006 i 5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Due to the length of the City Council meeting, Mayor Kerr deferred updates on Items 5.1, 5.2, 5.3 and 5.5 to the next City Council meeting. Council concurred. 5.1 Town Goals 5.1.1 Implementation of Strategic Conservation Goals 5.1.2 Bringing Public Education Back to the Hills 5.2 Underground Project Status Report 5.3 Update on General Plan Review 5.4 Update on Improved Cell Phone Coverage 5.4.1 Request for Town Support in Development of a Request for Proposals for a Regional Wireless Broadband Network—Joint Silicon Valley Network, et.al. City Manager Maureen Cassingham introduced this item to Council. She explained that the request before Council was from the Joint Venture Silicon Valley Network seeking funding in the amount of$2,500 for the development of an RFP for a Regional Wireless Broadband Network. The request had also been sent to other cities in San Mateo, Santa Clara, Alameda and Santa Cruz counties. The estimated cost of the RFP development was $45,000 with $2,500 the Town's share. All participating agencies would have the opportunity to offer input on the RFP document. Following a brief discussion, Council consensus was that a high-speed wireless data network was _complementary to the City Council's goal of improving voice communications and a great solution for broadband connections for rural areas. MOTION SECONDED AND CARRIED: Moved by Jones, seconded by Warshawsky and passed unanimously to approve the request of$2,500 for the preparation of a Request for Proposals for Wireless Silicon Valley from the Joint Venture Silicon Valley Network. 5.5 Status of Town Pathways Projects Item continued. 6 City Council Meeting Agenda January 12,2006 6. NEW BUSINESS 6.1 Consideration of Solicitation of Current Email Addresses from Town Residents for Emergency Communications and Official Notices from the City Council City Manager Cassingham introduced this item. She provided a brief background on the inception of the Town's resident email database noting that they had been provided to the Town by residents with the assurance that the email would be used for emergencies only and remain confidential. The email database was most recently employed when the City Clerk disseminated information on the storm debris collection program. Approximately 2500 emails were sent successfully and approximately 200 were failed transmissions. Cassingham explained that the item before Council was consideration of re-soliciting Town residents current email addresses for emergency communications and official notices form the City Council. OPENED PUBLIC COMMENT John Harpootlian, Anacapa, requested that Civic organizations be included in the database and all email mailings. The City Clerk reported that his organization, Hills2000, had been included in the emergency storm clean-up email alert. CLOSED PUBLIC COMMENT Council discussion ensued. They suggested that a letter be sent to residents with options on how their email could be used by the Town. Suggestions included: emergency notices, official Town notices like public hearings, Town events and the Newsletter. Council consensus was to direct staff to move forward implementing the program. Interested local civic groups could be included in the database. 6.2 Proposed Agreement with the City of Los Altos for 25 Sewer Capacity Rights City Engineer Henry Louie introduced this item to Council. He explained that to provide emergency relief to residents with failing septic systems, Councilmember O'Malley and staff had been working with the City of Los Altos to develop an agreement to provide an additional 25 sanitary sewer connections in the Los Altos Sanitary Sewer Basin. The Town would accept the administrative responsibility for the additional connections The Town and the City were currently negotiating a new agreement which would be considered by both Councils in the next few months that would supersede the 1985 Sewer Agreement. Louie noted that in order to objectively evaluate and prioritize resident applications for the 25 sewer connections, staff had developed an application form to assess the existing septic systems and would require an engineering report describing the condition of the system with the application. Louie reviewed the additional factors in the proposed application process including a requirement that the connection must be made within sixty(60) days by those awarded connection rights. 7 City Council Meeting Agenda January 12,2006 Council discussion ensued. Council thanked Councilmember O'Malley for his efforts on acquiring the interim connections for residents. It was noted that the Town will now receive the fee for the sewer connection. The new fee schedule would be established following a public hearing at a future Council meeting. MOTION SECONDED AND CARRIED: Moved by O'Malley, seconded by Mordo and passed unanimously to authorize and direct the City Manager to act on behalf of the Town of Los Altos Hills in entering into an agreement with the City of Los Altos for an additional twenty-five residential sewer connections. Resolution 42-06 7. REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES, SUB-COMMITTEES, AND COUNCILMEMBERS ON OUTSIDE AGENCIES Councilmember O'Malley reported that the Board of Supervisors at their January 10, 2006 meeting had unanimously approved on their consent calendar direction to the County Executive to meet with representatives and consultants from Los Altos Hills, Cupertino, Saratoga and Monte Sereno to discuss their current Transportation Equity Act (TEA) agreement and to explore the possibility of developing a mutual beneficial amendment. Supervisors Kniss and Beall had sponsored the item. Council was pleased with the progress that was being made on this issue by Consultant Greg Sellars. O'Malley offered that the Mayors of the participating cities would be sending an email voicing their appreciation for their assistance and requested that Mayor Kerr extend his thank you as well. Kerr agreed. 8. STAFF REPORTS 8.1 City Manager City Manager Cassingham reported that the City of Los Altos had added a second Councilmember to serve on the subcommittee that is charged with reviewing the draft sewer agreement between the City and the Town. Cassingham suggested that it would be appropriate for another Town Councilmember to join if there was interest. Councilmember Mordo volunteered. Councilmember O'Malley offered to provide him with all pertinent materials to date. 8.2 City Attorney 8.3 City Clerk 8.3.1 Report on Council Correspondence The City Clerk advised Council that they had a letter before them on the dais authored by City Engineer Henry Louie. Louie's letter was in response to a letter from resident Maynard Stevenson that had been included in the Council correspondence. 8 City Council Meeting Agenda January 12,2006 9. COUNCIL-INITIATED ITEMS 9.1 Discussion of Holiday Storms and Emergency Response — Mayor Kerr and Mayor Pro Tem Warshawsky City Manager Maureen Cassingham introduced this item. She noted that Captain Hirokawa had provided a detailed report to Council earlier and she would provide a supplemental report highlighting the Town's response to the recent storms. Cassingham explained that the Town's contractors responded to downed branches and trees on December 31, 2005 and their efforts extended to New Year's Day, January 1, 2006. She offered that the Town's First Responders including the Sherrill s Department, County Fire, PG&E and the Town's contractors performed in an appropriate manner for the existing situation. A decision was made not to activate the EOC because the required criteria had not been met. Cassingham explained that the storm response commenced with the most urgent issues being addressed first; i.e. downed power lines, debris removed to the side of roadways to clear passage, blocked drainage culverts were cleared and failed culverts were addressed. A Town wide storm debris clean-up collection program was activated by the Los Altos Garbage Company and offered to Town residents on two consecutive Saturdays. Residents were advised of the collection of storm debris via press releases, Town website alert, email notification, mailing by LAGCo via the post office and banners at the entrances to Town. Cassingham noted that the operation was very successful and well received by residents. Cassingham gave special thanks to the Town's contractors, Mc Clenahan Tree Service, Aly's Tree and Casey Construction for their efforts. The estimated cost of the storm was approaching $80,000. $70,000 had been incurred for fallen tree clean-up, scheduled debris removal and the LAGCo collection program and the storm drain inlet was estimated at $7,500. Cassingham offered that $25,000 would be billable to residents and most costs would be supported by the Solid Waste Funds with relatively little impact on the General Fund. Cassingham reviewed the "lessons learned" from the storm response and the follow-up actions taken with Council. As explained by Captain Hirokawa, the protocol required fine tuning and had been reviewed and reiterated to County Communications. She added that it was unfortunate that the City of Los Altos was called out and she had sent a letter thanking the City for their efforts during the incident. In response to a question from Council, she explained that County Communications was regularly provided with an updated on-call list for the Town with one being forwarded on December 6, 2005 and recently refreshed with an additional contractor. Cassingham was confident with the recent discussions; County Communications would adhere to the proper protocol. Councilmember O'Malley thanked staff for their efforts during the storm. 9 City Council Meeting Agenda January 12,2006 Mayor Pro Tern Warshawsky concurred that response from staff was excellent and congratulated Cassingliam on her efforts to return the Town to business as usual. He questioned what would have activated the Emergency Operations Center. Warshawsky suggested that the storm was very severe and with the danger of the downed power lines he wondered why the Emergency Communications Committee was not used. Cassingharn explained that the storm was not a disaster. The Town had experienced a series of traffic related incidents compounded by downed power lines. The incidents were isolated. Cassingham referenced the Town's Emergency Plan and reviewed the criteria that must be met to activate the BOC and noted that at least five general criteria must exist to indicate when the EOC was activated. They included: 1) resources beyond the Town's capabilities are required; 2) the emergency is of long duration; 3) major policy decisions may or will be needed; 4) local or State emergency is declared; and, 5) that activation of an EOC would be advantageous to the successful management of an emergency. The City.Manager noted that in addition to staff, the Mayor,Mayor Pro Tern, Hams and City Councilmembers may activate the EOC. Cassingharn added that First Responders can also activate an EOC and that no First Responder indicated that the criteria had been met and in discussion with several of the ECC members they had concurred. Councilmember Mordo suggested that this was a good rehearsal for a "disaster" and it would be appropriate for Council to understand their role in an emergency. Mayor Pro Tern Warshawsky questioned why the ECC was not contacted during the storm. City Manager Cassingharn explained that she was in continuous contact with the First Responders and at no time did they indicate it was necessary to call for extra resources, including the ECC. She added it was important to rely on your experienced, trained, professionals to assess the situation. She urged Council to participate in the training and familiarize themselves with emergency operations. Mayor Kerr concurred that the storm was not a disaster. He was surprised there were communication glitches. Kerr complimented the Mayor Pro Tern for his efforts during the storm. He questioned what actions would be taken at County Communications in response to there errors and wondered if the Town would receive a rebate in their charges or if an employee would be terminated or reprimanded. Kerr wanted insurance that this would not happen during a disaster. City Manager Cassingliam responded that a protocol error was made and lessons were learned and a better system was in place because of the error. The response was appropriate but an unfortunate chain reaction of miscommunications lead to some confusion but did not affect the First Response. Councilmember Jones offered that he gleaned from Captain Hirokawa's report that there was a mistake made at the Emergency Communications Center but because the Sheriff=s Office was dealing with a fatality the situation was not a true emergency. A different response would have been activated if it was a rescue situation. 10 City Council Meeting Agenda January 12,2006 Kerr questioned if the Town was relying too much on contract services for it's after hours emergencies and if using 911 for all emergencies was appropriate. City Manager Cassingham clarified the 911 call-out protocol for Council and noted that it was very incident specific. She explained that County Communications had a list of contact staff that could respond quickly to any situation. Safety Officer Steve Garcia is first on the list. During business hours, residents should contact Town Hall and after hours, call 911 and they would contact the appropriate staff and vendors. Cassingham noted that the vendors were better equipped, had more man power and it was more cost effective to use these resources for after hours emergencies. She added that there has been an on-going effort since she came to the Town to improve the Town's emergency response. Mayor Kerr suggested that he would like another option for residents to call after hours other than 911. O'Malley noted that he would be against having residents contact staff directly after hours relating a past experience of a resident who logged 331 calls to 911. City Manger Cassingham offered that the Town's after hours phone message has contact information for residents according to their particular situation. OPENED PUBLIC COMMENT Dru Anderson, Emergency Communications Committee Chair, concurred with the First Responders assessment of the storm that it was not a disaster. The ECC was prepared to offer assistance if it was needed. Rick Ellinger, ECC member, drove the Town and reported that the streets were passable. Anderson suggested that the missing link during the storm response was communication and offered that a call liaison to the Committee might be an appropriate addition to an informal protocol. She suggested that a joint training session with the City Council and Emergency Communications Committee would be productive. Scott Overstreet, Emergency Communications,Committee, explained that the ECC was chartered to gather information and to provide communication from the Town to the County, hospitals, and Hams in the'Town who are called to mobilize and assist where needed as directed by staff. The Committee members are not rescuers but emergency communicators during a"time of need." He defined a"time of need" as a situation when communication systems are not functioning. If telephones and the internet are working, they are the preferable means of communication. Overstreet noted that the ECC would be very valuable when telephones are not functioning similar to the 1989 earthquake. Nancy Ginzton, Natoma Road, explained what she experienced was a storm. Her street had been impacted but she questioned why was eit bin discussed as a disaster. g CLOSED PUBLIC COMMENT 11 City Council Meeting Agenda January 12,2006 9.2 Discussion of Controlling Potential Issues with Eucalyptus Trees in Los Altos Hills—Mayor Pro Tem Warshawsky Mayor Pro Tem Warshawsky explained that following the recent storm and the numerous comments from residents regarding Eucalyptus trees, he had requested this item be agendized for Council discussion. During the investigative process for the pilot undergrounding project, he had acquired information on the non-native, fast growing trees that are extremely brittle, grow very large, prone to losing branches, susceptible to fire and collect in groves. Warshawsky reviewed options for discouraging eucalyptus trees, including: arborist evaluation of the Town's trees; consideration of a Town requirement that the trees be removed with the issuance of site development or building permits; potential incentives to residents to remove the trees; and,joining with PG&E in their vegetation management program to review the trees on a case by case basis. g en eral discussion of the item and that Council Mayor Kerr explained that this was ag would only be giving direction to staff on the subject or scheduling it for further discussion. OPENED PUBLIC COMMENT Jitze Couperus, Page Mill Road, cautioned the Council in taking action against all eucalyptus species, noting that the Blue Gum variety also known as the Silver Dollar was an excellent landscape-screening tree. Couperus added that the pine tree was also troublesome and suggested that the problem trees be identified as a"tree of interest". Nancy Ginzton, Natoma Road, explained that she has been concerned about the dangers of very large eucalyptus trees for years and suggested they be removed or heavily pruned. She would like to see all"unhealthy"trees receive the same consideration. Richard Simko, Black Mountain Road, stated that he was before Council at the suggestion of Councilmember Mordo. He had reported the leaning Eucalyptus trees on Natoma that may have been a factor in the bicyclist fatality to PG&E and to the Town on two different occasions. Simko spoke with Steve Garcia who explained that notices had been sent to the property owner. PG&E had returned his calls and left a message and he had retained the message tape. He suggested that the Town should move forward with a reasonable process to mitigate dangerous trees possibly by using an arborist to identify hazardous trees. Mr. Simko added that some responsibility was with the bicyclist for riding in the high wind conditions. He believed this was ill advised. Judy Anderson, W. Sunset Drive, shared her experience with a falling eucalyptus tree branch onto her car at Chapin and Burke Road. She provided photos of the incident to Council. She reported her concerns regarding hazardous trees in Town to Public Safety Officer Steve Garcia. She sited additional incidents that had occurred over the past three months. Anderson would like to see dangerous large trees removed or cut to a minimum of ten feet. 12 City Council Meeting Agenda January 12,2006 it Dru Anderson, Saddle Court, offered that it was not only eucalyptus trees that were a hazard. During the recent storm, a large pine fell on her property. She suggested that a program similar to weed abatement that required tree pruning for residents on ridge lines or on major roads in Town might be an appropriate solution. Scott Overstreet, Encinal Court, applauded the work by PG&E to restore the lines during the recent storm and noted that the issue had not been just eucalyptus trees during the high winds but oak and pine trees were also impacted. He suggested that any requirement not be specific to species but should be attributable to. hazardous trees. The tree management should be the responsibility of the homeowner. Tom Turner, Liddicoat Circle, shared his experience with the devastating 1985 fire in his Los Altos Hills neighborhood that had destroyed eleven homes. The fire had been started by an arsonist but was augmented by the groves.of eucalyptus trees in the area. Turner offered that the trees were instrumental in spreading the fire. The trees were the responsibility of Palo Alto and he had personally reported issues to the City. Following the fire, he was successful in litigation with Palo Alto. Alexander Atkins,Orchard Hill Lane, shared his concerns about eucalyptus trees on his neighbor's property. He believed they affected his quality of life and there was a moral and legal obligation of the Council to end the threat to residents created by the dangerous trees. Sandy Humphries, Environmental Design and Protection Committee, reported that they regularly comment on eucalyptus trees on sites when reviewing them for permits. She requested that when tall trees were slated to be removed, other tall trees due to their importance to nesting raptors replace them. Duffy Price, Anacapa Drive, noted she was in agreement with comments that had been made during the discussion and concurred that corrective action was needed. Price offered that the Los Altos Hills County Fire District, of which she was a Commissioner, had a proactive weed abatement program and she encouraged that a similarly strong mitigation plan for eucalyptus trees be developed. Councilmember O'Malley suggested that it would be beneficial to have a positive comment on such a program from the District Commissioners. Resident, Hilltop Drive, suggested that the Town consider working with the City of Los Altos and promote a campaign for the citizens to review and manage vegetation on their respective property. CLOSED PUBLIC COMMENT Council discussion ensued. Councilmember O'Malley suggested that the staff contact similiar rural neighboring Towns (Woodside, Portola Valley) to investigate what policies were in place on this issue and return to Council with their findings. 13 City Council Meeting Agenda January 12,2006 Planning Director Cahill suggested that the review of tree procedures and policies should be approached to consider two distinct issues; 1) trees in a public right-of-way; and 2) trees on private property and any requirements that the jurisdictions might have during the site development permit process for the removal of existing eucalyptus and the planting of new ones. Councilmember O'Malley added that any requirement to trim trees should be included in the investigation. Councilmember Mordo, agreed it would be beneficial to learn what was being practiced in other communities but regardless of what was being done, he believed the Town should take the initiative on hazardous trees noting that eucalyptus were a particularly dangerous species. Mordo suggested that it would be appropriate for the Town to investigate a method to assist residents with the cost on a case-by-case basis possibly by working with PG&E and offered that this was not a total subsidy because falling treesibranches do cause damage and debris clean-up whose costs are borne by the Town. In conclusion, Mordo, suggested this would be a positive way to honor Mr. Plummer. Councilmember Jones thanked Mayor Pro Tem Warshawsky for suggesting the timely discussion. He concurred with Councilmember O'Malley that it would be appropriate for staff to investigate the policies of surrounding communities. Jones suggested that the Environmental Design and Protection Committee or an Ad-Hoc Committee might also be a tool for in depth exploration on the topic and provide direction and guidance to the staff. He offered there were several issues he would like included in the review: 1) proposed ban on any planting of blue gum eucalyptus in the future; 2) potential site development condition of approval to remove existing blue gum eucalyptus; 3) strengthen the ordinance of resident responsibility with regard to dangerous trees or tree limbs on their property; 4) Town sponsored annual program of tree trimming on major roads in conjunction with PG&E's vegetation management program; and 5) the removal of blue gum eucalyptus trees on Town owned property. Mayor Pro Tem. Warshawsky thanked the audience and Council for their participation in the discussion. He concurred that all trees should be reviewed but suggested that the eucalyptus be considered as a priority noting that they were a fire danger and presented a real hazard from falling. He noted that Eucalyptus trees that were pruned still presented a danger. Warshawsky suggested that he would prefer staff begin the initial process and return to Council with their findings and draft ordinance and at some future time have the Environmental Design and Protection Committee refine the ordinance. Mayor Kerr suggested that the he was of the opinion that there were two aspects to the discussion: 1) the issues outlined by Councilmember Jones and he concurred that they should be referred to staff; and 2) the existing leaning eucalyptus trees as a result of the recent storm that were throughout Town. Kerr offered that the Town should move forward with a cursory inspection by an arborist of trees on major roadways to identify* dangerous trees. He suggested.that the Town move forward with some immediacy on the inventory and take corrective action on an emergency basis noting that it was appropriate to simultaneously review the development of an ordinance or modify the landscape guidelines but that this could be a lengthy process. 14 City Council Meeting Agenda January 12,2006 City manager Cassingham noted that the Municipal Code does have provisions for requiring property owners to take action on identified dangerous trees under their control. She added that the Town could proceed with the inventory. Mordo suggested that the existing code was not broad enough and does not include trees that were deemed dangerous by their height and he.would like to see a revised ordinance. City Engineer Henry Louie reported that he was scheduled to meet with PG&E to review trees near power lines throughout the Town. Following a brief discussion, Council directed the City Manager to move forward with an inventory of trees (tree condition) on the major thoroughfares. Due to the urgency of the issue, by consensus of Council, the signature authority of the City Manager was increased to $10,000 to hire an arborist/consultant for the study. Planning Director Cahill reviewed the direction given to staff by Jones He reviewed the current existing code enforcement for tree issues and suggested that one possible solution might be an ordinance similar to the view ordinance. Cahill suggested that any program that offered financial assistance to the property owner for tree maintenance would be under the purview of the Finance Depanntment. City Manager Cassinghain added that staff would need to provide Council with costs associated with the recommendations offered by Council and whether the Town's liability and insurance premiums would be affected. Councilmember Jones suggested that an incentive approach might be an appropriate solution to a Town financed program. Councilmember O'Malley added that the solid waste fund might be a source of funding for any tree management program. 9.3 Preliminary Report from Ad Hoc Committee on Parks and Recreation Facility Oversight—Councilmember Jones Councilmember Jones explained that he was before Council to present a preliminary report from the Council Ad Hoc Committee that was chartered-to study the management of Parks and Recreation facilities broadly and to focus initially on Westwind Barn. Jones proceeded with a PowerPoint presentation. He reviewed the areas of study that the Committee was tasked noting that a separate committee had been formed to determine the physical plant plans for the Barn whose meetings would be convened following the receipt of the renovation consultant's report. Jones identified the principles of the Ad Hoc Committee for Westwind Barn and other Town recreation facilities as transparency, accountability, accessibility and visibility by the City Council. The Committee's members included: Councilmember Jones-Chair, Mayor Kerr, and Parks and Recreation Standing Committee members Steve Johnson and Val Metcalf. The Committee had met twice and interviewed Friends of Westwind, Supporters of Westwind Community Barn and additional active participants at Westwind. The Committee identified certain current facts about the Barn. The existing governance structure had been in place since 1977 and was created for its simplicity and minimal 15 City Council Meeting Agenda January 12,2006 involvement of Town staff and Council and it limited the Town's liability. Community interest in the Barn had been historically relatively low, however, the current demographics of the Town have changed and there was.an increased interest in Parks and Recreation programs at the Barn. The Committee has also determined that riding was a major recreational asset in Los Altos Hills and Council and residents believe that it was, appropriate to maximize the valued asset for the greater community. The Committee had defined four objectives for the Barn: 1) to continue the accommodation of current users including the borders and 4H program; 2) expand the riding Parks and Recreation programs at the Barn; 3) to allow access to funds for renovation; and, 4) to maintain and enhance a viable revenue model in terms of ongoing revenue at the Barn. Jones assessed the current facts as they related to the noted objectives that included: the barn was in need of renovation and funding; the increased community demand for extensive youth programs at the Barn; funding was expected to be a continuing problem under the existing management structure; and, funding needs would require a change in the governance of the Barn. Jones added that the Friends of Westwind had been good stewards of the site and the facility and nothing nefarious had been going on at Westwind historically or presently. However, it was clear there was not adequate funding for upkeep and renovations. Jones explained that during the Committee's due diligence evaluation of Westwind, additional issues had been identified. The living conditions at the Barn for the full-time staff needed to be addressed and upgraded and the financial arrangements for non resident users of the facility needed to be evaluated for fair market charges. Jones offered that the Committee suggested three alternative approaches as possible solutions to the issues: 1) no change in governance but either request Friends address living conditions for their staff and/or the Town make immediate physical changes-in addition request the Friends ensure fair market was charged all non-resident users; 2) request that Friends consider a renegotiation of their lease and a change of their contract to a Management Service Agreement to be reviewed on an annual basis and additionally request changes in the Friends governance with a proposed change in their By-laws that non-residents could not vote for the Board of Directors and, potentially,.an increase in facility sharing obligations with the Town; and 3) Town manage the.Barn and allocates space to users including the Friends. Jones noted that if there was a successful resolution to the negotiations with Friends and an agreeable governance to the stakeholders, the potential for expansion of the facility was a viable possibility. Jones explained that the Committee was not recommending the first alternative offered but the second or third alternative or some variation of the two was amenable. Jones reviewed the Committee's "next steps" in the process with Council. They included direction to Town staff to ensure that a window was installed in the living quarters at Westwind; an external review'by the Ad Hoc Committee of management of other local 16 City Council Meeting Agenda January 12,2006 barns; final report on the findings to the Council by early March to be followed by public hearing and a City Council decision on the choice of options. Jones requested direction from Council and input on the Committee's effort to date. Mayor Kerr, AdHoc Committee member, requested that Susan Lam be considered as a member of the Committee. Council discussion ensued. They reviewed each of the identified "next steps". Council's unanimous consensus was to direct staff to proceed with item number one and move forward with the installation of a window in the living quarters. Councilmember Jones request as Chair to review other Barns and their respective management was supported by the Council. Staff was directed to add the final report of the Committee to the March agenda and to move forward with a public hearing and consideration of action by Council. . Council consensus was to appoint Susan Lam to the AdHoc Committee. Council consensus was to support Councilmember Jones approaching the Friends of Westwind to explore their interest in discussion of a possible change in their lease agreement to a Management Services Agreement. Councilmember O'Malley recused himself and did not participate in the discussion of this direction to the Chair of the Committee. Councilmember Mordo thanked Councilmember Jones for his presentation and acknowledged that it had addressed the major issues with the governance at Westwind. He suggested that it was his opinion that the success of any of the options was also dependant on the employment of a professional experienced barn manager whose employment was approved by Town staff and the City Council. Jones explained that a new barn manager had recently been employed by the Friends and he had not had an opportunity to meet him to date. Jones added that the recommendation offered by Mordo could be included in the MSA. 9.4 Consideration of Mayoral Appointment of Representative to Santa Clara County Cities Association—Councilmember Jones Mayor Kerr explained that Councilmember Jones was unable to serve as the Town's representative to the Cities Association due to the conflict of their meeting schedule with the Council's meeting schedule. He suggested that a Planning Commissioner be appointed to serve in this capacity. Kerr noted that the Association was currently reviewing their By-Laws to determine if a non-elected official could voter. Following a brief discussion, consensus of the Council was to have the Mayor inquire if any Planning Commissioners were interested in the position and to move forward with the appointment. If more than one expressed an interest, the appointment would return to Council for their consideration. 17 City Council Meeting Agenda January 12,2006 ' 10. PRESENTATIONS FROM THE FLOOR Dan Alexander, Elena Road, presented the Council with a check for $2,000 from the Los Altos Hills Historical Society to help defray costs for the Town's History Display project. Council thanked Alexander for the generous gift. Ed Smith, De Bell Road, expressed-his frustration with the recent actions of T-Mobile during their installation of the."COW" cell phone antenna at the California Water Service water tank that was located next to his property. He explained that they had used his driveway for the installation without his permission. Smith reported damage that was done to his retaining wall. He believed there were issues with legal setbacks, traffic, and safety. He provided Council with a series of photographs of the trucks traveling on his drive and the damaged retaining wall. Smith had not been contacted by T-Mobile. April Anair, De Bell Road, explained she was upset with the installation of the T-Mobile Cow. She explained that it was very unsightly and had been advised by realtors that it would negatively impact her property. T-Mobile had run the very noisy generator constantly for several days and large equipment including a cheery picker were left in her backyard. She provided photos to Council of the equipment. Planning Director Carl Cahill explained that the right-of-way issue that had been noted by Mr. Smith had put the project on hold. He added that both he and Debbie Pedro had visited the site immediately upon hearing of the issues and had contacted T-Mobile to shut down the generator. Sandy Humphries, Fremont Road, requested that when any generator was installed in Town, a condition that they be double insulated for noise to protect the solitude of the residents be considered. Ellen Smith, De Bell Road, requested that the City Council consider what impact cell towers have on the rural, quiet life style enjoyed by the residents of the Town. She offered that the towers were very invasive. Randy Harr,Miranda Way, explained that he was first made aware of the COW antenna's proposed installation in an article in the Town Crier. He notified staff and was informed that he would be contacted if the project moved forward. Harr informed his neighbors. He did.receive a notice ten days prior to the installation. He reported that the installation occurred over the Christmas holidays. Harr found fault with the staff for not informing him that a T-Mobile application had been submitted to the Town and he had not been notified. Mayor Kerr offered that Council had mailed a Town wide notice to residents and conducted an extensive public hearing on the issue of cell towers and cell phone coverage in Los Altos Hills. 18 City Council Meeting Agenda January 12,2006 Councilmember Jones suggested that perhaps the procedure/methodology for the placement of COWS should be reviewed. Planning Director Cahill offered that COWs have been installed in Town for approximately ten years. In response to the De Bell tower, Cahill noted that once staff was informed of the situation, California Water and T-Mobile were contacted and staff met with the neighbors on site the next day for approximately two hours. Copies of all documents on the project were provided to Mr. Harr and a CD of the documents was prepared for easier viewing of the information. Mayor Pro Tem Warshawsky explained that the purpose of the COW was to serve as a story pole and to judge technical capability for a proposed antenna. They are not meant to be permanent installations. 11. PUBLIC HEARINGS 11.1 Consideration of Fee Exemption for building Permits Issued by the Town for Solar Energy Generation Equipment Planning Director Carl Cahill introduced this item to Council. He explained that Council had unanimously approved the reduction in fees for solar pen-nits at the December 15, 2005 City Council meeting. Adoption of the proposed resolution would amend the schedule of"Fees, Deposits, Charges for Service and Other Assessments"accordingly. OPENED PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED PUBLIC HEARING MOTION SECONDED AND CARRIED: Moved by Jones, seconded by Mordo and passed unanimously to adopt Resolution #1-06 adopting a revised fee schedule to be effective on January 13, 2006. 11.2 Introduction of Proposed Ordinance Amendments to the Town's Zoning Code with Regard to Fences, Walls, Gates and Columns (Section 10- 1.5.507) (FIRST READING) Motion to waive further reading Motion to introduce ordinance Planning Director Carl Cahill introduced this item to Council. He offered that the proposed ordinance was the first charge of the Ad-Hoc Planning Committee. Cahill reviewed the major changes included in the proposed amendments that included: 1) the requirement of neighbor notification and a site development hearing for fences that require the removal of existing landscape screening; solid fences that impact neighbor views; and any other proposal that the Planning Director deemed appropriate for a hearing; 2) wildlife corridor fences located in or around officially designated wildlife corridors would be subject to the same requirements that apply to fences on the perimeter 19 City Council Meeting Agenda January 12,2006 of open space/conservation easements; and, 3) the replacement of existing legal nonconforming fences must conform to the requirements of the new ordinance. Cahill noted that the definition of a"view" was directly from the Town's View Protection Ordinance. The Ad Hoe Planning Committee and Planning Commission were in concurrence to recommend adoption of the proposed ordinance. OPENED PUBLIC HEARING Dru Anderson, Saddle Court, questioned whether the ordinance would regulate a solid wood fence that impacted a vista view. She believed a* broader notice would be appropriate if the fence had a greater impact like on a major road in Town. CLOSED PUBLIC HEARING Council discussion ensued. Councilmember Mordo thanked the Planning Director for his guidance during the development of the ordinance. As a member of the Ad Hoc Committee, he suggested that the proposed ordinance was a reasonable approach to the issue of f fencing in Town and was a successful compromise. Mayor Pro Tem Warshawsky, also a member of the Ad Hoe Committee, concurred with Mordo. He explained that the Committee had reviewed historical issues and controversial fences that had been constructed in the past. It was determined that notification of the immediate neighbors might have resolved 'many issues. Warshawsky noted that the identification of wildlife corridors was being addressed by the Open Space Committee. Councilmember O'Malley offered that he had been reluctant to make any changes to the existing code but felt that the suggested changes were reasonable. He noted that with the definition of view not being subjective but tied to the Town's view ordinance, he could support the amendments. Councilmember Jones explained that the suggestion of a revised fence*ordinance was first broached at the City Council's strategic planning meeting and discussed as a means to retain the rural nature of Los Altos Hills without being onerous to property owners. He believed the revisions to the existing ordinance were a first good step: MOTION SECONDED AND CARRIED: Moved by Mordo, seconded by Warshawsky and passed unanimously to waive further reading and introduce the ordinance amending Section 10-1.507 of Article 5 of Chapter I of Title 10 of the Los Altos Hills Municipal Code regulating fences, -walls, gates and columns. Staff was directed to schedule the second reading and adoption of the ordinance. 12. CLOSED SESSION 20 City Council Meeting Agenda January 12,2006 13. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the January 12, 2006 regular City Council meeting was adjourned by the consensus of the Council at 11:00 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Karen Jost City Clerk The January 12, 2006 City Council Meeting minutes were approved as presented at the February 9, 2006 Regular City Council Meeting. 21 City Council Meeting Agenda January 12,2006 0 SECTION LOSALTOS HILLS WOW CALIFORNIA March 8, 2004 Thomas Tompkins 27725 Black Mountain Road Los Altos Hills, CA 94022 Re: Tree Maintenance Dear Mr. Tompkins: I am writing in response to your complaint received by the City Manager on February 26, 2004. Please be advised that, if the tree in concern abuts the property line of your residence, pursuant to Los Altos Hills Municipal Code Section 12-2.201,the property owner is responsible for the care and maintenance of this tree. I have enclosed a copy of the ordinance for your information. Please call me if you have any questions regarding this matter at(650) 941-7222 x242. Sincerely, Steven Garcia, Public Safety Officer cc: Maureen Cassingham, City Manager 26379 Fremont Road Los Altos Hills California 94022 650 / 941 - 7222 Fax 650/941-3160 MEMO Date; March 31,2004 To: Maureen Cassingham From: Steven Garcia Re: LOS ALTOS HILLS CODE COMPLIANCE & ACTIVITY REPORT r 2-26-04. Maureen Cassingham received a complaint from Tommy Tompkins requesting j that the Town trim the eucalyptus trees adjacent to his property at 27725 Black Mountain Road. According to Mr. Tompkins, the Town's former City Manager agreed to trim the trees for Mr. Tompkins. City Ordinance requires the property owner to maintain trees along their property lines. A letter advising Mr. Tompkins of his responsibilities for the maintenance of trees along his property was sent along with a copy of the Town Ordinance. 3-1-04.Stephan Bowling, ,complained that a Town-owned tree was damaged by the last storm and maintenance of the tree is required_ Mr_ Bowling requested, through a registered letter sent to the City Manager,that the Town prune the tree or remove it i sent Mr. Bowling a letter explaining that the property owner is responsible for the care and maintenance of trees which abut their property- 3-2-04- Terry Egger, 1�, complained of improper compaction at the Alta Lane North sewer line and sandbags blocking the roadway.John Chau and I inspected the area and found no indication of improper compaction. We left a message for the property owner who set the bags up to remove them from the roadway. 3-3-04..Jill Low, ,complained that their neighbors at 25665 O'Keefe have improperly installed their drainage system John Chau and I inspected the neighbor's residence and found that their system does conform to the Town's specifications. Mrs. Low was not aware that the neighbors had made corrections to their drainage system. John did not see any further violations. Mrs. Low was given advice on how to prevent I further run-off damage. 3-3-04. Ray Enochs,IR� was concerned about an oak tree damaged in a traffic accident. The Town delayed any work on the tree for the responsible party's insurance purposes. Mr. Rnochs wanted upright the tree himself if the maintenance crew wouldn't AMMO Date:.Tune 30,2005 To:Maureen Cassingham, City Manager From: Steven Garcia,Public Safety Officer Re: LOS ALTOS HILLS CODE COMPLIANCE & ACTIVI'T'Y REPORT 6-1-05. Kathy Perga, complained that the realtor sign at 25751 Elena Road is too large.I inspected the site on 6-8-05 and found that the sign has been removed- 6-1-05. Robert Hall complained that the fencing at the intersection of Purissima and Elena Road creates a traffic hazard. I spoke to the workers on site and requested that the fence be moved an additional five feet away from the roadway. 6-1-05.Richard Simko,=complained that the eucalyptus tree at the intersection of Natoma and Black Mountain is leaning in a dangerous manner.I inspected the site and observed that the eucalyptus tree was leaning and may be a hazard. The property is currently for sale and once the new owner takes possession of the property, the removal of the tree may be required. 6-2-05. An anonymous letter complained that the residents at 26940 Orchard Hill installed an illegal drainage pipe. I spoke to the resident The pipe is for sewage connection and the water is from their defective Ieech field, which will be repaired once they are connected to the sewer line. 6-2-05. Joan Sobel,fa�complained of a loud attic fan coming from her neighbor's home_Upon my inspection,the issued was settled with the neighbor- 6-2-05. Sue Cho, JIM=and other neighbors complained of driveway construction possibly without a permit_ Planning Department issued the homeowner a permit. I inspected the site and saw no obstructions caused by the materials on their driveway. 6-6-05_ Dennis Russell, 1110M complained that her neighbors at Prospect are conducting charity events at their home that disrupt her neighborhood- I advised Ms. Russell that such events are legal,but if the noise is disruptive, she may call the Sheriffs Department I RLE No_ S-��-CLS RECEIVED To OF LOS ALTOS HILLS MAY 1 0 2005 SERVICE REQUEST� T iJ OF-LOS ALTOS HILLS d �1c7 G� ADDRESS DATE HOME PHONE DAY PHONE PREVIOUS CALLS RECEIVED BY TELEPHONE IN PERSON REQUEST '�r 7X� i 1Z Sz c,F7�.,/ ti F ,4 lv r+a A- 9 /� /1cG, �2►veld r174/� /ni L 2 G� S e,st l;> OY__ D/jS 01G ZL2M /-f J l t7,16T f Lo i 4+o.uS G f _ .3 ,4>r�r- i.-J REQUEST ASSIGNED TO TIS s G 36 ACTION TO BE TAKEN ACTION TAKEN E101 L6-JL6 -0 a606,0. MOST Cf- rni856 L L � REQUEST CONIPL.ETBD DATE REOUESI'ER NOT MIED DATE BY TELEPHONE IN PERSON MAIL FIN.1/96 LOSAIDS HILLS CALIFORNIA January 5, 2006 Adam Askari 13482 La Cresta Drive Los Altos Hills, CA 94022 Re: TREE MARiTENANCE NOTICE Dear Mr. Askari: Please be advised that pursuant to Section 12-2.201,you are responsible for care and maintenance of trees in the public right of way which abut your property at 27861 Natoma Road. The Town received neighbor complaints regarding the condition of the eucalyptus trees along Natoma Road. Maintenance is necessary to eliminate any possibility of root failure. To remedy this condition, you may hire a licensed tree arborist to provide tree maintenance to mitigate failure of the eucalyptus Vee roots. This will include the clearing of all branches and leaves in the drainage swale. This work must be completed on or before January 11, 2006. At this time, if such work has not,been completed,the Town may perform such work, and the cost thereof shall constitute a charge against you, and such charge will be a lien on your property. I have attached a copy of the Municipal Code Section 12-2.201.for your information. If you have any questions,please call me at(650) 941-7222:x242. Thank you for your cooperation on this matter. Sincerely, Steven Garcia Public Safety Officer 26379 Fremont Road Los Altos Hills California 94022 650 / 941 -7222 Pax 650/941-3160 SECTION �.EWS LAH evaluates storm res o se, eucalyptus bay NEWS ��R7EFS _ By Eliza Ridgeway . had a lot of people taking hikes and Town Crier Staff Writer walkingdogs we ha wires down ` Hrt and�run driver: g P { rtidt!' �t t a<rti yrs!$ trees corning down. We drove at least :iH, G \A r ! 4 t be sexiteced g et them.off the ity staff and residents reviewed seven groups home to h ,s} Ciaig ]3oY1r1S;t aLos Altos{ , Ch.e effects of the New Year's street.-Our main.concern was to make �t fey` 1'eSident A. 1I1 Ma StTUtk a C Cag'P d? as y tiS Y {' r ri d 41 , fr tik .y y • storm al the Jan. '12 city.coun- sure that pedestrians and other town k-' ,iii F Z, �� G 1 al l dist and sled the scene with 11ts cil meeting, and the city's members knew it was unsafe." 3 year old!sots�n low is §shed response to the, death of-a bicyclist, PG&F3•responded to the storms byy`!" r_ {°' ule°d io Ue senlencd at 1"30 m 5dr rte34r 'r+° ++ p Daniel Plummer,on Natoma Road. . calling in extra crews from Southern Mach 3'iii Santa:'ClararCotSnty Confused California,be- California, Las Vegas and Kansas Snpeuor 'Court San Jcise The tween emergency responders after according to company representa � d cyclist 72 year o1clRobertJames Plummer's death resulted in a break- tive Darren Defner. He reported that Beebe of sunnyv;ale died'' down of the chain of command. Los there were 5: 07 unique outages in 3otlik 40 leaded uilt Janand. N ,r, P g Y Altos emergency crews and former town over the stormy weekend �1 1 ' I U"to chaigcs of`clrrvrng while Hills Mayor Emily Cheng were both that more than 300'residents had'.1ost4" r b i,�r, �r LnlOxiC ateCl CaUSln reaC<,�Odllrespond PP g g Y contacted.in the attem t to to ower•for more than 24 hours. !saxtlr� injur y to ager son over theage of the accident and Los Altos diverted The. city spent approximately r 70; felony child cndangeiment one of its emergency contractors .to $77,500 in.storm cleanup most of it vel rcular.::manslaughter while Nat oma Road. on debris removal, according:to.City �Y,I,`, uilxicateEl and felony hit and Santa Clara. County Sheriff's Managei.MaureenCassingharri. r�f"°'xr :. tAi In cxchan g e; Jud c?Dtane ��F'. a g Department Capt: John Hirokawa After hearing from residents con- "On on- No. thway.;c apped the n�lx�trtum w re orted-to the Hills.city council.that corned about the danger posed by euxisr x sentence Borh'k can reserve at county communications operators calyptus. trees, the council approved `� M ka ` Mi.. .1 .111, ; had..been retrained in emergency re- an additional $10,000 to evaluate andtet' 4g``1' .. g sponse protocol since the incident. remove the most perilous trees around J Los Altos Hills contracts with.private town.. vendors such as PG&E,to respond to The council discussed possible 11' downed power lines and trees block-- towirwide.incentives for the removal {'+' p $ •�OS ' LTQS �• rLL�� Yl�i' r A ? y� �+- � a - 9'�s•{?1' i.ng roadways. The county dispatcher or heavy trimming of eucal ptus i tai should contact those vendors to .re- trees, a ban on new eucalyptus plant spond to emergencies Eike that on ings-and a possible permit requiring ` �x i=•K,�°.�=°` LA A H Ce`�1 t0 W2r ME'.MUTOWN,CRIER Natoma Road, according: to •Hiroka- major remodels and new residences ob;StaCJeS, Success wa• to remove existing eucalyptus stands. A tree maintenance crew prunes back a row of euca- :A tern- V , _'T Mobile cell ;. Hirokawa said that dispatch -had The council directed staff to survey lyptus trees in Los Altos Hills.The.Los Altos Hills City tower was;installd on a city wa fielded 192 calls from the north•coun- existing eucalyptus ordinances in oth- Council is considering measures to minimize dangers ter>tank oii Dc Bell Rodd%anflee ty area the morning: of Jan. 1. "We er towns for precedents. from the trees. ceilber but the future,of a poi mar}ent tower is in'questygn ' ' !a .='hc f�tcihty'rehesron4'a�pt'ivate Pinewood.School plans to PINEWOOD ''3 cif, tear down the old facilities on 1y ow}redrlc'cess oad,,pfbi}which;_} .,,,.. Jpnpwy p,rits lower Campus in Costello ilio rel,lt;xh'nne.-aniYinAnurlia(1.nnt: PrOm Page X s siSic ,rt un ._ .,t.': "•xE.3'1:•.. A.. Tl.n -r•}.il•nrF a rni�r�nr- ENT Comm , jDUVN Chi\,, �,I,Q( EDITORIALS . PEEK INTO THE PAST Chief Dick Bassett of the Los Altos Fire Department stands Town taking storm risks seriously next to the chief's car in this Jan- ,S nary 1954 photo at the Loyola We salute recent actions by the town of Los.Altos station.The other firefighters Hills to improve safety along streets by cutting pictured here are with a vehicle back problem trees vulnerable to collapse during known as a Mack pumper.The 4 winter storms. Loyola station opened in 1.953. It's unfortunate it took the death of a cyclist on Jan. 1 ' � FROM THE SANTA CLARA COIJ&rY ara to prompt action. However, we're glad to hear the council _ t' P b PIRFDEPARTMFNTWFUSITE-PHOTO FROM THE recently approved a$10,000 allocation,toward evaluating and GEORGE DUNHAM COLLEc.-60N 3� n removing the most dangerous trees around town. Clearly, f a.better system•needs to be in place for monitoring such ! trees. But we're encouraged to hear some problems are being dealt with. One resident told us town crews recently trimmed back overgrown, problematic eucalyptus trees at Chapin and Burke roads, which she. said had been dropping limbs for years. A branch from one such tree had landed on top of her LETTERS TO THE EDIr car. It was a branch from a falling eucalyptus that ended the Shock over pleasure by doing their charita life of cyclist Dan Plummer on Jan. 1 as he rode along Nato- loss of Stevie work on their way back to schc ma Road in the middle of a storm. He wasn't the only one t w with the wind at their backs. I Is a bio to all of us when out.According- to the sheriffs office, many people were out Les Earr. b . P P. a'life so promising as Stevie. . P g in the storm taking hikes and walking dogs despite the dan- Ste hanie Seli man's.is sud Los Altos H P ((Stephanie) Selig man's of downed power lines-and falling trees. denly gone (Ian. 25 Town Crier). Even in a storm, the chances of death by falling tree branch Our community feels the shock Appreciates call for are remote, but residents need to use better judgment about waves of this tragedy, and as we Bullis joint-use exercising in such conditions. The risks are greater, if less from Ponder and search for answers I applaud your editorial supl w falling tree debris than from skidding cars and slippery feet. we can all quietly unite in heart- last week for shared usage offelt prayer for her family and Bullis-Purissima site by both We can all do better. when preparing for stormy weather. friends — to all touched by. her Bullis Charter School and a i and-mourning-her loss. _ LASD elementary school: S Fong set Foothill"s bar high May God's tender care be felt support is a positive step tori by each and all. greaten- collaboration for.-edi othill College will be hard-pressed to..find a successor Manya Kaseroff-Smith tion in our community in M06 the ambition and ty drive, mb1 ion n accomplishments of cur- Los Altos , We highly value the a1tel g Y rent president Bernadine Chuck Fong. Fong just recently Christian.Science Church rive this public charter sch announced plans to retire this year after 12 years as president offers to :trad"i"tional put of the renowned Los Altos Hills community college. Answer is blowing schools for all of us with sch, Under Fong's guidance, Foothill embraced technology to in the wind aged children. The fact that keep in step with a rapidly evolving Silicon Valley. It was the I applaud the plan by Yale stn- not a financial drain on the first community college to offer credit courses online. She dents to do charitable work while ditional schools — since all s• bicycling home from school to vacated by kids who 'attend also oversaw, with Gay and Bill Krause, the creation of the the West Coast (Local Yale stn- charter school have been fi Krause Center for Innovation, which offers technology skills dent to join Habitat bike chaI- —is also important to us as m for K-12 teachers. lenge, Jan. 18) but suggest that bers of the broader communis Fong has made a major difference in personnel: She has that they reverse direction. The charter school is.do hired 80 percent of the current full-time teaching staff at I know from many bicycle great work creating a fer Foothill, which for four consecutive years has ranked No. 1 tours, including coast-to-coast, environment for kids to le that it is tough riding into a head- and grow. It deserves to hav( among community colleges with the highest number of stn- g g dents completing transfer and basic skills courses. Replacing wind. Given that the predominant future solidified with a per kind direction across the-U.S. nent site rather than contim Fong will be a great.challenge— they simply don't come any is west-to-east. I believe that in limbo at the camp schoc hoI than Rcrnariina .1. --7-- ...-1A 47:_:1 F.sYan. Villa Children at the Elid'den i � s, Q preserve in Los Altos Hills 6 4 An:'byinb the homeowners know if other j v' �$ cars and gather.for this undated photo. j. "I or eo le have been hit. cell:phone users. p The picture from the roller As a teenager at Homestead I asked the town of Los Altos �T FIills to lease request that the non of:Liz•Dana- daughter of ;1 �� • High School, couldn't agree P q b more with the, abuse of cell ftners cut those trees lower and Hidden Villa founders Frank s v> and Josephine Duveneck �� > phones "Cell phones an ,the trim them-up but clothing came ' invasion of the body snatchers," of'thAt'request.The other day,the -chronicles the•early days of the •- � �� reserve's trallblazina summer Dec.28 Town Criez)- same property owners''tree split p b ��" tell-• hone addicts defend camps.The multiracial camps ' in two and.landed in the street p encouraged.children to, apprecr � x, their dependence on the gadgets . and across thein driveway. ate diversity.Hidden Villa has and:claim that-tY}ey :are cone- These trees'ale not only a clan- nient and en s for the fast- aced g p p scheduled an.Apri129.eVent get to people/cars le/carson the street y. P to,celebrate 60 years,of camp _0 v lives of today.I be to differ. but also ar-e�veiy dangerous in a � . $ operatiops.For more informa l Of course the. are ve'. cone- fire_ It seems to me these trees t - Y 1Y t;on;see our story on Page 22 � t = . nrent in crowds where you need should be trirrimed to a'shorter W find sorimeone.or, as said in the height and maintained on a regu- ebvarESYOF.LIZ DANA article,stranded somewhere,but lar,basis. Ideally, they should'bie cell-phone use has become much removed: more than that. After our lunch There are events we cannot Go t.0 � .-OUT r'eun•1i bell rings, I see the wave of cell predict and.others we can–does .phones being flipped open to call it not behoove us to eliminate BS'Stacey Chaney friends to wonder where they the recurring problems that can r � • # -£ are. be predreted?-A lawsuit-cannjust got back from myot Hillsdale°High School My school is not that big,.it's bring back a life: reunion hinch in San � • just as,easy to ask your friend to Judy K.Anderson - - Los Altos Hills Mateo I.had a long list of meet you in front. of the class- reasons not to:go;but I'm room, or take the few minutes to so glad I."did,especially, look for them. Urges stlpP01E because I ran into some: Every class period I hear cell for new vets act class of 71-•ixtates that I phones ringing to the latest.hits. California has more•aetiye Ossed-at otherzeuruons.:z But a lot of the time,it's not even residents serving rn the.militaiy took rny.sister„Leslie,class A the. students; it's the teachers! today than 'any-other state. It's of'65,;as;iny.date:. e How hard Is it to tom off the cell -.no surprise then that.we have,a reconnected with her class' -E couRresxo: hone:,and'-show some':res e It tion Iusto of su ortrn our - hearkthz'ob Brad,-:who.said rom left; Chuck:Alaimio,Frank Aha R p, s g, zy. pR . ,g:. Millsa Stare 's and:courtesy? I am also waiting. milliary..comniunity.. : . .. sfie looked lietter than slie p y -srster);'Bob Alaimi for the next big. uake. I ho e Senator,Uiaclne:dein- did m school trice,–slie Chaney g4 p :Aria 8rinivasan, 14 stein and Senator Barbara Boxer nq longer wears braces or mate They f Los Altos can-continue this;tradition and : bangs)-; and they Kaye a"date”set fot..next;month. ended u -xrra M`relinion'The O1de-Kri t p rovid a d t r h s Lunch m i his::.• e: .1•.....o. §ick.veterans by. ....-: . .y, g ?.g;ts. , no, west —qr%g nous. ;.voting for the,Farin Asbes- were the scl gol.i7rascot);.was..a rtxe:es in LAH >:aos Imjury:ResolutiQh(FAIR]Act eombir ed gathering of all class= Thet,recent death:of a bicyclist when rt corrres to the Senate:floor es;starting with the school s:fiist caused by-a;fallen eucalyptus ,m early 2006 graduating class in 1955.The span 01C tree has me fuming. There are roughly awo and a of years afforded us thegppor- A,few:months ago,:a branch. ;Z,alf mrlhon veterans rn our state tuprty to%see upper and,lo er- f a .eucalyptus t1ee.::;Ianded;;,alone Dunng,the years between classmates we knew from band, directly.-on:..top of::our car while the Second World War and,the: drama and clubs:who we:would never have seen at Ch ucky and we:were dnixng 1~6rtunately the am.'cortfiict, California was p mdrvidual class reunions, ii%Los Altos. top was up:; ;;a major center fox military ship=. Don f be afraid to.go,to.•your reunion alone I: chased The.homeowner •-pai`d the building and.reparr From 194,1 to _cook my husband to my 20th reunaon aril stientaoo my-advic deductible for our.-car repairs 1974,..for,example.Hunters Point • mucn time wor:_7i�ag about.whether hetivas bored I. be amaaical a. but did not trim the trees..These Naval Shipyard rn San Francisco also blanched at t'�e s w-ries he•had* Pnc to about grew uptwtt trees;atahe corner of Burke and :and its::..n ed site concentrated my high scrnot :ca:.dat.a.I•took my elezrientary you are now. Chapin;have been>droppmg.;huge -school grlfrrend,Dana;to my 30th reunion as rrry. See L,E'�TTFR$,?age 9 date and we had.a much,better time and raised aimbs regularly for.years::Only '. 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She:and Killian plan to 1 Town Crier Staff. rites replant the area with native shrub- bery. 99ttrees may Barrie Coate,consulting arbor- { from public isi for Los Altos Hills, .prepared in Los AT.- a March_7 report that concluded., ailifrom the "Tasmanian Blue Gum ... are not 1� entire town to answer safety.con- `suitable candidates for retention in = }fi cerns. the average property.", fi A,town ordinance which would This eucalyptus (Eucalyptus ,Nn_ ban the. globulus) .occurs naturally in ar-Pantin of new eucalYPtus I �r. trees and mandate the removal of .eas of Tasmania and southeastr exiting;ones as a condition of new Australia. .More than 700 euca- Mix .,. i 4 site:d ment is under consid- 4 Y P lyptus species proliferate in Aus- t y_ eration Meanwhile some prop- tralia and surrounding islands,but z i erty owners aiad the town have be- the tasmanian blue gum is one of gun to tnm and remove eucalyptus the most common variants in they ' trees where they are hazards: United States. A � Orange cones and sawdust lit- Hills resident Judy Bakers ter the:roadside alongPae Mill g mourned the disappearance of the Road just beyond the intersection tall trees along Page Mill Road: i � xii with Altamont Road.Six eucalyp- "I've lived up here for 21 years, tus trees have been cut along the driving by, enjoying these trees. x . right-of-way by the homeowners, and their beauty,"she said. "What Waidy Lee and:Earl Killian;who if.the branch that had killed the live beneath them. y ( ) cyclist was from an.oak tree. rvx "I ain a tree lover, not a tree Would we ban all oak trees?" y killer' Lee said: "(But) the only Eucalyptus aren't the only trees4 ,. I' way to:guarantee safety with cer- to drop limbs and block roadways tainty is to remove these trees" in town. According to Coate'. The town became alert to the report, oak trees generate more + provlem of.eucalyptus trees•drop- incidents than any other,species F a Ding.limbs when a falling branch in the region. Redwood trees and killed cyclist Dan Plummer dur- American sweet gum trees also s a iiig the .New Year storms this drop limbs. January. Lee has been concerned Results of a townwide tree sur- about the trees along her proper- vey is expected to be presented at Joe HwrowN CRIER ty line for longer than .that — she the April 27 city council meeting. Judy Baker of Los Altos Hills enjoys the sight of eucalyptus said that falling limbs from the An ordinance limiting eucalyptus trees lining Page Mill Road and opposes the proposed ban on trees have struck her power lines may reach the council in June,city the trees. twice and burst into flame on her engineer Henry Louie estimated. #a ?;' s'p;re T� n.Graer-r• o�aY=141,w6 i Towne. rter www.latc.com Wednesday,July 19,2006 Community news for.Los Altos,Los Altos Hills and Mountain View since 1947 Vol. 60 No. 29 • 50 cents Los Altos .Hills. approves gradual removal of eucalyptuses By Eliza Ridggeway remodeling totaling 1,200 feet Councilman Craig Jones said that the ever, the arborist's report identified many Town Crier Staff Writer _' or more to remove all eucalyptus instigating factors behind the ordinance species of trees that drop dangerous limbs trees on their property within 150 were the trees' status as a fire hazard and and are common to Los Altos Hills. he Los Altos Hills Citys�}'3ti feet of roadways or structures. propensity to absorb water during heavy The staff report estimated that removal V1 t Council unanimously ap �+ , ,i,, $f,' The ordinance targets six spe- rainfalls, causing them to uproot or lose of an average eucalyptus tree would cost a Tproved the introduction cies of eucalyptus known to pres- branches. homeowner approximately $2,000. Some of a eucalyptus policy, mandat- ent a particular risk from fire The council cited the fire risk as the Los Altos Hills properties include as many ing their gradual removal, in the `yr.;; h and dropped limbs.The 150-foot most significant and unique threat euca- as 10 or 20 such trees. town's landscaping ordinance. distance was set on the basis of lyptuses pose to residents. The ban on the The council set the minimum remodel The ordinance requires hom- Jones the average 150-foot maximum- trees was set in motion by the death of a size to trigger the ordinance at 1,200 feet eowners doing construction or height of the trees. cyclist struck by a branch in January.How- See EUCALYPTUS,Page 5 EUCALYPTUS council that the amendment of the rest of the town keeps From Page 1 would unfairly affect only some theirs?" residents. of town. "New larger "I don't know any way around homes will be allowed to keep it.If we want to get rid of the trees in order to continue to encour- °unsafe' trees. We have lived eventually,we need to start some- age some affordable housing in in our older home' for over 25 where," Councilman Jean Mordo town,Jones said,allowing for the years. We hope to remodel. Why said. "granny unit" cottages built on should we be forced to spend the The town and homeowners town parcels. estimated•$15,000 to take down have begun to remove hazardous Maria Caffey wrote to the our lovely trees, while most eucalyptus along roadways. Fi W\ EWS Storm leaves Los Altos virtually undamaged Downed trees worst problem reported during season's first rains last week <+'. By Linda Taaffe Town Crier Staff Report Los Altos endured-the sea- son's first rainstorm last week with relatively few ` reported problems.Downed trees � t lv seemed to have created the most havoc in the area. G' Three days of rain with 45 t mph winds from Alaska appar- ently generated enough force to ; ' • down trees at one school and a ' Mountain View public park; At St. Nicholas Catholic School in Los Altos Hills, two eucalyptus trees fell Oct. 18 blocking the driveway at EI Monte Road. The winds and rain were too much for the first ,_ tree to withstand, according to `- t the cleanup crew.The tree fell a ainst a second tree,creating a +• , domino effect.The second tree fell against a sign, crushing it to the ground. Both trees were " full-grown,and about three sto- ries high, according to a school spokeswoman. She said no one was hurt.The• x . worst result was that parents exit- ing the school had to navigate yp xn.uutroWNCRIER around the trees and into com- A work crew cuts up two eucalyptus trees that fell across the entrance at St.Nicholas School during last weeks storm.No one muter traffic with limited visibil- was hurt,according to a school spokeswoman. ity,the spokeswoman said. A downed tree in Rengstroff she heard an explosion.An aca- cular area when it hit the metal. Park trapped Mountain View res- cia tree at the park had fallen on The wire blocked the only exit idents in their homes for about a transformer, she said. A few from her upstairs condominium. 30 minutes later that morning moments later,she noticed a bro- "By then, I was totally after a live electrical wire tangled ken electrical wire had ignite.d scared:'she said.Garrett praised in the tree snapped in front of some branches in two different the fire department for its quick their condominium complex. areas in front of her building. response. Firefighters told residents The wire eventually fell In Los Altos, Public Works to remain indoors until PG&E against a metal street lamp,ere- Director Brian McCarthy said he crews could repair the wire. ating a second explosion, received no reports of downed Resident Luz Guerra said she Garrett said the,wire created was in her condominium when sparks two to three feet in a cir- See RAIN,Page 5 problems to speak of,"he said: The season's first storm hit the RAIV The only reported power out- Peninsula earlier than usual. In From Page 4 age was at Los Altos High School 2002, the first storm hit Nov.7, and the surrounding neighbor- leaving 3,406 residents without hood. power and downing 64 trees. trees. The storm brought about one The average rainfall for the 'Besides a couple of minor inch of rain to the area, accord- Peninsula during this time of year drainage problems, Los Altos ing to reports from the National is 1.58 inches of rain. fared pretty well. Thcre are no Weather Service. i October 27,2004/Los Altos Town Crier/Page 5 , { NEWS & I LAH considers further I solar ordXnance � - In a further bid to support en- x✓r� �F5 ergy conservation in Los Altos 3 s Hills, the city council will evalu- z . are an ordinance amendment to promote solar panels April 27. The arnendment would ap- prove p prove a 500-square-foot maxi- mum development area exemp- tion for solar panel installation. g� "-^ „,.;- At present, solar arrays are . . . ,. among the development projects (� limited by ordinance. �.� LAH planners pursue T fr eucalyptus ban ,., Blue-gum eucalyptus trees, known for their speedy growth, dropped limbs and flammable na- ture,may be in their final days in 111 Ab'T.rTYy+���R- h4• g ,-• l {j , r Los Altos Hills. r F "r� �" " The planning commission x � � � has directed staff to prepare an ft ��' '' - �, } t amendment of the town Bevel- I;' KGF, �� ' � M . �" opment ordinance requiring the ll � h� u N _ rrr � fi removal of blue gum eucalyptus j SAW r �� � � '�' -`"`� "�w tI-ees as a condition of site devel- ;� t, s" opment permits. ' '42— � � ''`.> 3 �iw`�., 'Ww s...'�+ ', 'T4 �£�" ', Any homeowner applying for i ; s a_ �:� a significant development project t .,z'� h.r^?:$u1:s - }�-rS Y m `"'S�.4'"tC1; .'�":*-,�...s s�:i �`;.S r would be required to remove any TOWNCRIER ru,s rrr<nc' blue-gum trec;s on the property. Los Altos Hills resident l.an Earnest's photovoltaic system gener- The ordinance may allow for ex- j ates electricity for his house and pool.Later this month,the town emptions by appeal to the town. will consider amending its development ordinance to promote solar power. April..12,2006/Los Altos Town Crier/Page 5J Selected relevant readin material S g From the Audubon Society (found at http://magazine.audubon.org/incite/incite02Ol .html) If you smell like a cough drop when you stumble out of the California woods, it's because 100 of the world's 600 species of eucalyptus grow there. None is native. They were imported from Australia during the second half of the 19th century as we were hawking our redwoods to the Aussies. "Wonder trees," the eucs were called, because they shot up in coastal scrub and vast redwood clearcuts. Of the many eucalyptus species that evolved with fire, none is more incendiary than blue gum. "Gasoline trees," firefighters call them. Fire doesn't kill blue gums. Rather, they depend on fire to open their seedpods and clear out the competition. And they promote fire with their prolific combustible oil, copious litter, and long shreds of hanging bark designed to carry flames to the crowns. Blue gum eucalyptus doesn't just burn, it explodes, sending firebrands and seeds shooting hundreds of feet in all directions. Living next to one of these trees is like living next to a fireworks factory staffed by chain- smokers. The only native plants we encountered in the grove were shallow-rooted--mostly poison oak. I stuck my hand in euc leaf.and bark litter and couldn't find the bottom; in California it can be four feet thick because the microbes and insects that eat it are in Australia. Native plants that manage to push through the litter often get poisoned; as a natural defense against competition, eucs exude their own herbicide, creating what botanists call "eucalyptus desolation." Plants that are most immune include poison oak and pernicious aliens such as Cape ivy and English ivy. Eventually we heard a single ruby-crowned kinglet. Native birds do use eucalyptus groves, though the Point Reyes observatory has found that species diversity there drops by at least 70 percent. Eucs flower in winter, attracting insects and insectivorous birds. To deal with the sticky gum, Australian honeyeaters and leaf gleaners have evolved long bills. North American leaf gleaners such as kinglets, vireos, and wood warblers have not; so the gum clogs their faces, bills, and nares, eventually suffocating them or causing them to starve. Bird carcasses last only a few.hours in the wild; if you find a few, it probably means that lots of others died, too. One local bird author I talked to--Rich Stallcup,.who writes for the PRBO--told me that over the,years he has found about 300 moribund warblers "with eucalyptus glue all over their faces." Says Stallcup, "We see a large number of gummed- up Townsend's warblers, yellow-rumped warblers, ruby-crowned kinglets, Anna's and Allen's hummingbirds, and a few Bullock's orioles. Anyone who birds around eucalyptus trees sees it all the time." Bird artist and birder Keith Hansen, who illustrates some of Stallcup's work, has found about 200 victims. "The worst one was last year--a yellow-rump," he says. "At first I thought it was deformed, because there was such a dome of gum over its beak that it made a horn. The bird was hunched forward, breathing very heavily." If you try to remove the gum, the upper mandible will break off in your fingers. Gum isn't the only danger. Eucs give nesting birds a false sense of security, creating population sinks. For example, the PRBO has found that in encs, 50 percent of the Anna's hummingbird nests are shaken out by the wind. In native vegetation the figure is 10 percent. "Birds will use these trees year after year, nesting but producing almost no young, until the population crashes," says Geupel. Somehow the public isn't getting the message about America's largest weed. After the PRBO published a Stallcup-Hansen article entitled "Deadly Eucalyptus," the group got a call from a woman asking what kind of eucs she could plant that were good for birds. ""I kill eucalyptus," is what Russ Riviere, a dapper Bolinas arborist who wears a vest to work, told me when I asked him what he did. But Riviere is more than a euc euthanizer; he is a champion of native ecosystems. When he finishes a job he frequently turns the site over to his friend Ann Young, an energetic and upbeat restoration ecologist who spends her life planting everything that Bolinas and its vanishing wildlife are running out of. Riviere met me outside my room at the 151-year-old Smiley's Schooner Saloon, and we drove to the current job site, where, among crashing eucalyptus trunks and limbs, he introduced me to his crew. The streets on this "mesa," as the local plateaus are called, were named by easterners for trees that don't belong here. This site was on Elm Street. From Elm Street we moved down to Pine Gulch Creek--also eroded and dewatered by eucs, to the peril of its few remaining Coho salmon and steelhead (both threatened). On another creek--where eucs are protected because they're wrongly said to provide sanctuary to monarch butterflies--we encountered invading eucs, some being hauled down by Cape ivy. On both creeks the eucs have completely clogged the corridor to the sea, important habitat for all sorts of birds, including shorebirds that need to move up into creeks when the tide covers mudflats. Monarch butterflies do roost on certain eucalyptus trees in winter, a fact used to full advantage by those who believe that all trees are always good no matter where they came from or where they were planted. When the eucs weren't there, neither, apparently, were monarchs--at least not in noticeable numbers. Perhaps they migrated down the coast until they encountered native trees like Monterey pines. Geupel believes that eucs may create monarch sinks the way they create bird sinks--that is, monarchs are attracted to them, then get blown out by storms, perishing by the tens of thousands. "Monarchs are declining, and I would argue that eucs may be the reason," he says. Euc paintings by Molyneux's dead mentors--the "Eucalyptus School" of California impressionists--are much coveted by art collectors, especially because there are now so few of them. In 1991 many of the best examples were incinerated, along with the houses of the Berkeley professors who owned them, when real eucs fueled the Oakland Hills fire--which killed 25 people, destroyed 3,000 buildings, and is commonly cited as "the most destructive wildfire in U.S. history." Nine years earlier a report identifying the danger and recommending euc removal had been submitted to the city of Oakland by the East Bay Regional Park District and other fire authorities. The city ignored it. As a result Oakland got hit with a broadside of negligence suits. Liability risk to Marin County is even greater because it doesn't just ignore advice from fire experts, it spends money preventing that advice from being implemented. (Emphasis added.) Usually the only thing that happens when Santa Cruz fire marshal Mark Latham recommends euc removal to the city fathers is that it "gets studied," he says. "We have categories of flammable plants, and eucalyptus is way up at the top--almost off the scale. It's a nasty situation." From Wikipedia: Australian eucalyptus oil place. a vital part in the major forest fires that frequently occur in Australia, especially during the summer. As the temperature rises during hot summer days, the oil becomes vaporised and rise. This is way ,you can see a blue haze over the Australian bush and forest during hot days. The oil is highly flammable which means that once a bush fire begins it will spread rapidly from tree to tree as the vaporised oil catches fire. The eucalyptus trees also have a habit of shedding dry branches to conserve water during the dry season, which means that their will be plenty of dried wood around a eucalyptus tree. The eucalyptus trees are however highly adapted to forest fires and will not suffer from frequent outbreaks. A lot of the species actually rely on forest fires to regenerate and make their seeds grow. This means that the fires caused by Australian eucalyptus oil are worse for other species than for the eucalyptus. When other species have succumbed to the fire, the eucalyptus seed can grow rapidly without having to compete a lot with other species. The adult eucalyptus trees will also quickly recuperate after a fire, since they _keep buds guarded under their bark. This resilience to fires and the ability to actually spread fires via, the Australian eucalyptus oil is one of the reasons behind the eucalyptus domination at the Australian continent. From Expertsabout.com: On warm days vapourised eucalyptus oil rises above the bush to create the characteristic distant blue haze of the Australian landscape. Eucalyptus oil is highly flammable (trees have been known to explode) and bush fires can travel easily through the oil-rich air of the tree crowns. Eucalypts are well adapted for periodic fires, in fact most species are dependenton it for spread and regeneration: both from reserve buds under the bark, and from fire-germinated seeds sprouting in the ashes. From an Australian website (http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2003/01/29/1043804405093.htmi): A nation hostage to the gum January 30 2003 Can we talk about the war that has actually started, the one in this country, the one with real casualties and no easy slogans? The war we are losing. "We are basically at war," David Foster, the author and scientist, told me this week. He had seen the home of one his daughters destroyed in the recent Canberra inferno. "We're fighting this war with a bunch of amateurs, volunteers, and one day we'll need a professional service to fight for us and it will cost a fortune." Foster has written often about the cunning, adaptable, dangerous, selfish and toxic species - the eucalypt - that has just humbled us yet again. In The Glade Within The Grove, the novel which won Foster the Miles Franklin Award in 1997, he offered this warning, which, seems to foreshadow his own family's misfortune: "Eucalypts thrive on global warming. They are the tree of Siva. They are the treeof the future. They are the enemy of the farmer, the friend of the hunter-gatherer. 'Your days are numbered' they say to us ..." In this week of Australia Day celebrations and the aftermath of yet another bushfire tragedy - this time in the bushland national capital - and ongoing major fires it is worth reassessing the qualities of the nation-shaping eucalypt. It is a double-edged icon. As the American scholar Stephen Pyne wrote in The Burning Bush: A Fire History of Australia (1991): "Eucalyptus has given the bush its indelible character. It is not only the Universal Australian, it is the ideal Australian - versatile, tough, sardonic, contrary, self-mocking, with a deceptive complexity amid the appearance of massive homogeneity; an occupier of disturbed environments; afire creature." Don't be overly sentimental about the country's most successful. coloniser, with its glorious fragrance, the blue sheen it creates on distant forest canopies from the oil droplets on its leaves, or the array of familiar shapes and evocative names- the red gum, the blue, the grey, the black, the stringybark, the ghost, the scribbly, the ribbon, the coolibah, ironbark, bloodwood, jarrah, mugga, yellow box, red box, white mallee, yellow mallee, red mallee, rose, salmon, tallowwood, sugar, blackbutt, woolly butt, river red and river peppermint. Have a closer look, which people are belatedly doing in Canberra right now, where the fingers of combustible bush reached into the suburbs like insurgent forces. The triumph of the eucalypt as the dominant Australian species, made possible by its great alliance with fire, and with Aboriginal firestick farming, has made Australia a more arid country. The process is ongoing and has reached the point where rural Australia has a full-blown salinity crisis. "The reason why we Europeans have never been really comfortable here is that they [the eucalypts] don't approve of us," says Foster. "They are not compatible with our farming ways. They make the landscape more arid. They don't produce anything we eat. They spread fire. They encourage fire. I do believe the eucalypt is actively seeking to create a drier climate. It suits their purpose." Eucalypts are also toxic - most plants can't grow within 10 to 20 metres of them because of the toxins they drop into the soil around them, and these toxins leach downhill and into the river systems. They are not interested in the welfare of most other species, including us. In drought, the eucalypt, especially the stringybark, drapes-incendiary streamers of tinder. The oil in its leaves is flammable. Places disturbed by fire open areas to sunlight, allowing eucalypt seedlings a chanceto outgrow more shade-tolerant rivals. During fires, seeds rain down from the charred canopy. The fluffy ash buries them in an environment of mineralised biochemicals. Fire has swept competition away. Not all eucalypts are firebombers. Snow gums and alpine ash would have been devastated by the most recent conflagrations in the Snowy Mountains. But most eucalypts are prepared to endure in a hot and and climate. Their canopy drapes downward to reduce leaf temperatures. The leaves are hard, to reduce moisture loss. They are shed infrequently, to preserve energy. As dry periods extend, the root system expands, searching for new water sources, and can grow vast as it compensates for the poverty of the soil. It obsessively retains and recycles nutrients. The seedscan remain dormant for decades. Eucalypts are insatiable water-gatherers, while their root systems have an enormously important role (like those of other trees) in keeping the water table down and salinisation at bay, acting like an enormous hydrology system across the continent. But these benefits flow to us incidentally, and in the national battle against salinity, there are more potent natural weapons than eucalypts, most of which, in Professor Pyne's words, burn "readily, greedily, gratefully" and easily shed burning bark; their seeds require oven-like heat to germinate, and give menace to the migrating winds. No wonder the calendar of)Australian history is constantly updated with conflagrations: Black Thursday, February 6, 1851; Red Tuesday, February 1, 1898; Black Friday, January 13, 1939; Black Tuesday, February 7, 1967, Ash Wednesday, February 16, 1983, and now the Black Weekend, January 18, 2003, when fire rained down on Canberra, razing 500 homes and endangering hundreds more. It could have been much worse. David Foster was in Canberra on January 18 and saw what was possible: "Firebrands were settling all over the city but the wind hit late in the day and then dropped. If it had hit at midday, there could have been fires all over the city." The cycle of backburning, which will now intensify in the wake of these latest battles, will probably accelerate the primacy of the eucalypt, reduce biodiversity, and maintain i - the evolutionary march towards a drier continent. There are huge, emotional and fundamental issues about how to managefire in this country, and no easy answers. The National Parks and Wildlife Service and the Snowy Mountains Authority are bitterly criticised for destocking land and allowing massive build-ups of combustible understorey. The eucalypt hasn't been our most popular export, either. Ashley Hay's recent book Gum (Duffy & Snellgrove, 2002) records that Australian eucalypts have been exported around the world, sometimes with disastrous results. It is a hated tree in India and places around the Mediterranean. The eucalypt may be beloved here, it may be the great Australian, but unless we start t o understand the environment we share with it, the eucalypt could outlast the consumer society we have built here, and make a mockery of our vanities. psheehan@smh.com.au This story was found at: http://www.smh.com.aularticiesl2003101129110438044050 93.html And finally, from Dlctionary.com: Definition: weed' wid —noun 1. a valueless plant growing wild,esp.one that grows on cultivated ground to the exclusion or injury of the desired crop. 2. any undesirable or troublesome plant,esp.one that grows profusely where it is not wanted: The vacant lot was covered with weeds. =By Dr.Walter Barrows http://www.igin.com/Landscaping/l 102outonalimb.html It's a beautiful day, and you decide to take advantage of the sunshine and fresh air by taking a walk, maybe just in your neighborhood, or in a nearby park. As you're strolling along, enjoying the greenery, you hear a sharp, cracking sound, and look up to see a branch falling from a tree down the road, smashing the wind- shield of the car parked beneath it. Duringthe hot summer weather, the phenomenon known to ar-borists as "summer limb drop" takes lace in � P P P numerous species of trees including thecommon oak and eucalyptus trees. This type of limb drop generally Y occurs in the warmer climates where the newly formed branches grow very fast. In some cases, improperly topped tree branches are a major starting point for this type of limb drop. In other cases, cracks or decay may be a factor. The jagged end of the limb For example, in northern California a large limb that fell onto the highway involved limb drop. It was dark at the time and had been raining. Tragically, the jagged end of the limb broke through the windshield of a pass- ing car, killing the driver and seriously injuring the passenger. The court determined that the tree was part of a row of eucalyptus trees planted along the highway, and that the defendants knew that limbs had been falling from these trees for years. They also knew that the particular limb with which the plaintiffs' car collided on that dark night had previously extended over the highway for some 30 feet. A tree surgeon familiar with the area testified that the limbs of the tree involved were healthy and that he saw no evidence of rot, decay or disease. He did state, however, that in Napa County, California, eucalyptus trees grow very fast and become "rangy' —or, as Webster's New World Dictionary so aptly defines that word — "long-limbed and slender."The tree surgeon added that these eucalyptus limbs have a tendency to break dur- ing the hot days of summer because of the excessive flow of sap and, in the early fall, with the first rains and winds; and that the trees will drop their limbs— even good, healthy ones. He further testified that the standard method of preventing eucalyptus trees from becoming hazardous is to top them and shorten their limbs so as to reduce the amount of leverage at the points where the limbs are apt to break; and that he performed this service for 10 or 15 clients a year. The defendant testified she had been told that eucalyptus trees drop their limbs. She added that, as far as she could see, her trees were healthy. However, she admitted that she'd had no work done on them by a tree Years g YP surgeon for five although she well knew that eucalyptus limbs do fall at times. 9 The court found that the row of eucalyptus trees planted alongside the highway constituted a "non-natural or artificial condition" and stated the following rule: "A possessor of land is subject to liability for bodily harm caused to others outside the land (which included the adjacent highway) by a structure or other artificial con- dition thereon, which the possessor realizes or should realize as involving an unreasonable risk of such harm if ...(a) the possessor has created the condition or ...(b) the possessor when he takes possession knows or should know the condition which was created before he took possession." As the court pointed out, the distinguishing factor in this case is the natural propensity of healthy, untrimmed eucalyptus limbs to fall to the ground, and the defendant's knowledge of such propensity. The rule in California is that a landowner is liable for conditions occurring where he fails to exercise reasonable care to prevent an unreasonable risk of harm to users of the highway from trees on his property. On a rope swing In another case, the plaintiff, an 11-year-old minor, was injured while playing on a rope swing. The swing was located on property owned and maintained by the defendants. The rope swing was attached to an oak tree in a recreational area on the defendant's property. Six children jumped on a pole attached to the swing, and the supporting branch gave way, striking the plaintiff. Plaintiff contended that the defendants recognized the danger posed by the swing in the oak tree but failed to take adequate steps to remove the swing. It was also contended that, if the defendants had commissioned periodic inspections of the tree, such inspections would have revealed that the branch supporting the swing was rotted. An expert witness testified as to the dangers posed by older oak trees due to their propensity for rot and for shedding branches. He said many owners and managers of properties, with similar recreational use, schedule regular inspections on at least an annual basis. The expert witness also testified that particular training would be necessary to identify signs of rot in limbs, which some nurserymen, arborists and foresters may not have =sufficient training to recognize. The defendants contended that they owed the plaintiff no duty of care as he was a recreational user of the subject property; that they had no notice of the rotted condition and no information suggesting that they should conduct annual inspections of the tree; and that they took reasonable steps to prevent injuries on their premises. The plaintiff's attorney asked the jury for a finding of liability against the defendants. During settlement talks, the plaintiff demanded $500,000. The defendant offered to settle for $99,000. The jury was out for 45 minutes after a four-day trial and returned a verdict for the defendant. The injured child received nothing. Legislative intent The determinative factor in this case was most likely a section of California law that limits the duty of care owed by property owners to persons using the property for designated recreational purposes. These include tree climbing, fishing, hunting, camping, water sports, hiking, riding, rock collecting, nature study and viewing or enjoying scenic, natural or scientific sites: The purpose of the law is to encourage landowners to allow members of the general public to use their land for recreational purposes without incurring liability for permitting use. It is highly probable that, without the defense of this section, the defendant in this case would have been found liable under the circumstances, in view of the expert witness testimony regarding the dangers posed by older oaks, coupled with the fact that many owners and managers of properties with similar recreational use schedule regular inspections on at least an annual basis. It should also be noted that this section does not limit liability which otherwise exists for willful or malicious failure to guard or warn against a dangerous condition, use, structure or activity. Nor does it limit liability for injury suffered in any case where permission to enter for the recreational purpose was granted for considera- tion, i.e., admission fee, or to persons who are expressly invited rather than merely permitted to come upon the premises by the landowner. It should be further noted that public entities (municipalities such as cities and/or counties) are not protected by this section. Only private landowners are protected. This is in keeping with the legislative purpose to encourage private landowners to allow the general public to recreate free of charge on their property without risk of liability. Not just private landowners Today, it is the domain of the consulting arborist to provide professional evaluation and analysis of specific trees or plants involved in any given case. Often, this may require sophisticated forensic techniques to deter- mine tree health or condition at the time of the incident and the value of the tree, if that is a factor in the case. Increasingly, it is not just private landowners who are involved in litigation over trees. Public entities such as state agencies, cities, counties and other governmental bodies are frequent parties to litigation arising out of incidents relating to trees. Parties maintaining hazardous conditions on their premises are harboring potential for liability. Professional arborists are being called upon with increasing frequency to advise landowners regarding awareness of potential liabilities and appropriate remedies. Whether it be an insurance claim for a car damaged by a summer limb drop, a resulting lawsuit, a casualty loss assessment for tax purposes or expert testimony before a judge or jury, the specialized forensic tech- niques employed by arborists to make proper findings are available to modern litigators during both summer and winter. November 2002 SECTION r. pg IN r . �� a v.: THE LOS ALTOS HILLS CIVIC ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER SEPTEMBER 2006 LAHCQ�STEERINGy V11 CQi111 4 EE Council Out of Sync With Residents FormerLos�4ltos Hr!ls Mayors Mayors Recent history illustrates a disturbing trend in it was approved by a 5-0 vote of the council. Totts Casey,1989 90,96 97, Los Altos Hills politics:Our City Council mem- (See survey results story on p.5.) 01 02 bers have grown increasingly out of sync with Bob Fenwtt:k,2002 03 the beliefs and desires of the residents they ■ The council passed a tree ordinance that Steve Ftnn,20Q0 01f were elected to serve. requires the cutting down of eucalyptus Frorta Sanders trees standing in proximity to new homes Courtenay&Sean Gorngan Over the last several years, the council has or remodels.The ordinance was aknee-jerk DuBose&Nancy Montgomery passed several ordinances and taken other pre- reaction to the death of a bicyclist killed K Jim Abraham liminary actions that either contradict known when a eucalyptus branch fell on him dur- JanetUttu town-wide sentiment or simply sidestep any ing the ferocious storm last January. Ater- Bom,nic&Valente Guratala kind of public discourse. In other words it's rible tragedy?Yes.A reason to start ripping Hob&Michelle Dykes P Tom&EtIeB Harton time for a change. The agenda of Los Altos out eucalyptus trees all over town? Not harry MiEtelrnan Hills is being driven by the City Council and without town-wide input. Ralph&CatmenCotat not the residents. Town-wide notification has Lina&Sam Broytlo flown out the window and the silent majority ■ The council spent thousands of taxpayer BphSDatley of residents who care deeply about this town is dollars to hire a wildlife expert and conduct Pan[`&Lots Fortl t3tib Melntklf being ignored. a survey to find out what wildlife people Nan& lack Horton have seen in their yards. The moreperti- Rattn KatsatoS Consider some of the council's questionable nent question would have been whether Francis&Shelley4wan actions: they support a proposed ordinance to create Raymond&Sylvia"Leung Y P wildlife pathway corridors and restrict solid ', Moose&ahnreh Matek Patncrc$Bette Ng ■ The council passed an ordinance that re- j fencing. (See survey results story on p.5.) x @ill Kerns r : quires new home construction and remodels Mehtr&Nancy P.artkh to .exceed statewide energy-efficiency re- ■ The council spent more than$10,000 in ad- Pat&Btif Burger quirements by 15%.Not only did the council ditional taxpayer funds to have Godbe Re- George&Jutly Marcus not see fit to put this before a public vote it search conduct the October 2004 Town of Wtif&Sig€un Cotngan P Gerhard&Mona Sanders seemingly ignored public opposition.During Los Altos Hills Public Education Survey George<athertnetexander f a discussion of the topic at a council meeting, (accessible at www.lahca.com) to find out Rtckr&Zvi Alnn several residents spoke out against the ordi- Paula Bendel Carano nance,while no one spoke in favor of it.Still, >•► Council Out of Sync With Residents—Continued on page 4 Evan Wythe Amir& 0011'R Carl.&Cathie Clement Mai eMueller Nita&Jeff Logan ❑ Council Out of Sync with Residents ................................................................................1 -� Garot,&Herb Petty Joe )tGiovanni ]❑ John Vidovich Challenges Incumbents in November Election..........................................2 w Ls c[v�c - �oSe�� ❑ Opinion Corner—Public Education to Return to LAH by Dave Pefley..........................3 ;4 Z l Overwhehnirig Response to LAHCA Survey Supports Property Rights.........................5 • ❑ LAHCA Survey Results....................................................................................................6 �. U Calendar of Events............................................................................................................5 a. H.c• i "TOWN HAPPENINGS" NEWSLETTER DISTORTS THE TRUTH own Happenings,published by the Los Altos Hills Civic Association(LAHCA),arrives innocently enough in your mail. Its name sounds official.It even looks official with a tree logo at the bottom left. Most residents would - assume that it is published by a group of citizens sanctioned by town government,interested in letting you know what is happening around town.The problem is that it isn't an official publication authorized by the ppm rs .z town.It promotes one-sided views using inflammatory language,cleverly leaving out details and facts that would allow you to develop an informed opinion. It misleads the residents as to the > �– actions and intentions of the Council.To be clear,our newsletter is not an official town-sanctioned l � publication either,but Hills 2000 presents"the facts'according to the public record—in the interest of encouraging a more civil discussion of the issues by a better informed public.Below are some assertions from the Civic Associations newsletter followed by the facts they have Z- I " ignored.Additional commentary available on the Hills 2000 website:www.hills2Ooo.org Issue: Council Directi®n have a town survey/referendum on each only then if they are close to structures or LAHCAs Assertion:A"survey"shows and every issue.Council members are property lines.The targeted species are that the Council is out of sync with always available by phone and email to dis- native to Australia where soil and weather the town. cuss issues of interest to the residents,and conditions are quite different from ours The Facts:The answers to this"survey' of course everyone is always allowed to here on the peninsula.Here they grow to were pretty much ordained by the way the speak before the Council.Why do we both- enormous heights but without the deep survey was set up and how.the questions er to elect leaders if a survey should be roots to match.In winter,when rain has were formulated.The survey was not'con- required for every issue?The council recog- softened the soil,the larger and more dan- ducted over a random,scientific sampling nizes that more weighty issues,such as gerous limbs or even complete trees will of residents,but rather was an"opt in" public education,are so important that they come down in a windstorm.Additionally, type of survey,which has a strong tendency need to be put to a vote of the people.Our these trees are widely referred to as to pre-select the results.With questions current Council is more responsive to our "widow makers",especially by firefighters, like"Do you favor property rights?"is it any residents than any other Council in'recent because their rich sap causes the trees to surprise this survey may claim a strong memory. explode during fires.Eucalyptus trees were leaning in a given direction? the primary fuel in the devastating Los Issue: EnergyEfficiency Members of the currentrw LAHCAs Assertion:The Council :" Town Council are „ d extremely sensitive to imposed higher standards than they ; State,despite opposition. residents'opinions and feedback,and make The Facts:The energy efficiency ordinance E,,. overt efforts to keep the requires that new homes meet a high stan- ; . channels of communica- lard of energy efficiency that pays for itself 01 tion open,whether by per- in energy savings.The public hearing i sonal contact,email,the"Public showed very wide support by residents. See detailed article on page 6. Presentations From The Floor”item on the - agenda of every council meeting,or formal public hearings.Our current council is more Issue: Eucalyptus in sync with the community than any other Ordinance council in recent memory. �1 LAHCAs Assertion:The Council required cutting down eucalyptuses Issue: Resident Input trees as a knee jerk reaction to a Altos Hills fire of 1985 where 16 residences LAHCAs Assertion:The Council did not tragic accident. were destroyed or damaged.More than ask the residents about the various The Facts:Only in the case of a new 200 firefighters battled the fire,with 100- issues. development or a major remodel(>1,200 foot flames,for four hours. In all, 150 acres The Facts:A public hearing preceded sq.ft.)is the Council requiring anything at were burned,causing an estimated$9 mil- each of the ordinances mentioned.LAHCA all.In these cases,removal of certain vari- lion in damages and as many as 40 people seems to suggest that the council should eties of eucalyptus may be required,but were left homeless. SECTION 5.7 Memorandum Date: April 27, 2006 To: Mayor and City Council Members From: Henry Louie,Public Works Director Steven Garcia, Public Safety Officer Subject: Town-wide Tree Survey Report and Findings On January 12, 2006, City Council authorized and directed staff to retain an arborist to conduct a Tree Survey for Town's major roadways and hot spots. Town contracted with Arbor Resources and has completed the survey and evaluation work identifying trees that present an obvious, imminent risk of uprooting and/or large limb failure onto public streets and pathways within the short-term. The attached arborist report prepared by David Babby surveyed 433 trees. Of these trees, 70 have been identified as a safety concern requiring their removal. Three of these trees have been removed after receiving a notice from the Town. An additional 40 letters have been sent to the property owners with trees located in the public right of way that will be required to be removed. This Tree Survey Report will be available for public use at Town Hall. Staff is recommended to conduct a Town-wide tree survey annually. Attachment ARBOR RESOURCES Pi-qfes.001701 Arboricultural Consullina & Tree Core RESULTS FROM A TREE SURVEY WITHIN THE TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS LOS ALTOS HILLS, CALIFORNIA Prepared for: Town of Los Altos Hills Attn: Mr. Henry.W. Louie,Public Works Director 26379 Fremont Road Los Altos Hills, CA 94022-2624 Prepared by: David L. Babby,RCA ASC,4 Registered Consulting Arborist #399 ISA Certified Arborist #WE-4001A April 7,2006 P.O. Box 25295, San Mateo, California 94402 - Email: arboi-i-esOLirces@coiiieist.liet Phone: 650.654.335 1 Fax: 650.240.0777 Licensed Contractor #796763 David L.Babby,Registered Consulting Arborist April 7, 2006 TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION TITLE PAGE 1.0 INTRODUCTION ........................................................... I 1.1 Assignment and Purpose .............................................. 1 1.2 . Methodology ............................................................. 1 2.0 TREE COUNT AND COMPOSITION ..................................2 3.0 SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDED ACTIONS ...................... 3 3.1 Tree Removals ........................................................... 3 3.2 Tree Pruning ............................................................. 3 3.3 Further Investigation .................................................—3 3.4 Miscellaneous Specifications for Tree Services ...................4 4.0 TREE REQUIRING IMMEDIATE ATTENTION .................. 4 5.0 DISCUSSION OF EUCS AND MONTEREY PINES ............... 7 5.1 Eucalyptus Trees ................................................ ....... 7 5.2 Monterey Pines .......................................................... 8 6.0 TREE HAZARD ASSESSMENT STRATEGIES .................... 9 7.0 ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITS OF ASSIGNMENT ................9 8.0 DISCLOSURE ........................................................ 10 LIST OF TABLES TABLE HEADING PAGE 2-1 Tree Count and Composition .................................................2 4-1 Immediate Removals .......................... 5 4-2 Immediate Pruning ........................................................... 6 APPENDIX APPENDIX TITLE A TREE INVENTORY TABLE David L.Babby, g �Registered Consulting Arborist Aril 7,2006 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Assignment and Purpose I have been retained by the Town of Los Altos Hills to identify trees that present an obvious, imminent risk of uprooting and/or large limb failure onto public streets and pathways within the short-term (such as within the next three years). Most all trees viewed for my survey are situated along roadways specified by the Town as being primary routes of access for vehicles and/or pedestrians. Trees not along these routes were viewed, to my understanding, at the request of Town residents. The purpose of my assignment_ is to provide information that assists Town Staff in improving safety along primary routes of access. 1.2 Methodology The methodology in which I was contracted to perform my survey includes driving along roadways selected by the Town and viewing trees from my vehicle (essentially a "windshield survey"). At any time I observed an obvious, imminent risk, I parked and walked towards the tree(s) in question and documented any pertinent information. Observations were obtained from the ground and roadways only on the following dates: 1/27/06, 2/9/06, 2/15/06, 2/16/06, 2/21/06, 2/27/06, 3/11/06, 3/14/06 and 4/3/06. Please refer to Section 6.0 of this report for a detailed listing of my assumptions and limits of assignment for my survey. Examples of criteria I used to qualify an imminent risk includes deadwood typically one- inch and greater in diameter that is attached or suspended in a canopy, branches or trunks at significant risk of failure, trees having died or in the process of dying and being beyond recovery, trees with a weakened root system that predisposes the tree to falling, and encroachments into a roadway and/or pathway. Information collected for each tree is presented within the Tree Inventory Table of Appendix A and includes the following: site address; tree name; amount of trees at the specific location; trunk diameter; canopy spread; health condition; structural integrity; overall condition; recommended course of action; and whether immediate action should occur. Additionally, comments are provided to help identify the specific location of the trees(s), present any pertinent descriptors or details about the tree(s), and, if applicable, specify pruning criteria. Town of Los Altos Hills, California Page I of 10 Mr.Henry W. Louie, Public Works Director, Town of Los Altos Hills DavidL.Babby,Registered Consulting Arborist April 7, 2006 2.0 TREE COUNT AND COMPOSITION I viewed 433 trees 21 various tree types that qualify for inclusion into this report. They are identified within 171 entries] presented in Appendix A. The table presented below identifies the name, amount and percentage of each tree type. Table 2-1. Tree Count and Composition J. 4t- W Coast Live Oak 15 3% Cottonwood 1 0% Coast Redwood 10 2% Bailey Acacia 1 0% Unidentifiable 1 0% Deodar Cedar 1 0% Eucalyptus 281 656/6 Elderberry 1 0% Black Acacia 5 1% Walnut 5 1% Modesto Ash 1 0% Deodar Cedar 1 0% Monterey Pine 71 16% Other Various Pine 19 4% Willow 1 0% Siberian Elm 1 0% Silver Wattle 1 0% River She-Oak 2 0% Valley Oak 11 3% Willow 3 1% California Bay Tree 1 0% TOTAL 433 100% Each entry considers a particular type of tree or trees at a specific address that have the same prescribed recommendation. Often multiple trees of the same type located at a specific address are grouped together within a single entry. For example,there are 34 trees along El Monte Road NE of Hwy 280(see top of page 13 in Appendix A);each tree within this entry is grouped together and designated to be further examined. Town of Los Altos Hills, California Page 2 of 10 Mr.Henry W.Louie, Public Works Director, Town of Los Altos Hills David L.Babby,Registered Consulting Arborist April 7, 2006 3.0 SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDED ACTIONS 3.1 Tree Removals My survey revealed 108 trees should be removed due to either being dead, declining and beyond recovery, and/or showing obvious signs of falling over; this work should be performed in the near future, such as within the next three years. Of these, 70 are designated as trees that present an immediate risk to public safety and should be removed as soon as possible; details regarding each are presented in Section 4.0. 3.2 Pruning My survey revealed an additional 262 trees should be, at a minimum, pruned to help minimize the risk of dead or living branches and limbs from falling from the tree, and/or to clear any encroachment into the road and/or pathway; as with the removals, this work should be performed as soon possible. Of these, 73 should be pruned as soon as possible as they present an immediate risk to public safety; details regarding each are presented in Section 4.0. Please note there are a few situations where either pruning or removal would be appropriate and this is identified within the comments section of Appendix A. Additional review should also be considered in the event a tree specified for pruning within the table is requested by the tree's owner for removal. 3.3 Further Investigation Within five various addresses, I identified 68 trees in which further investigation should be performed. Their locations, types, number and comments regarding why further investigation is necessary is as follows: ■ 27861 Natoma Road (26 Eucalyptus along road): I observed several trees that should be considered for removal rather than retention. Due to the incident surrounding this location and the large number of trees adjacent to the ditch, home and road, I recommend an on-site meeting with Staff to review future work on these trees. ■ 27125 Altamont Road (2 Coast live oaks): These oaks are large and prominent. I observed sizeable cavities along their lower trunks and a decline in their health. Due to their irreplaceable size, I recommend they are more closely examined with possibly a decay detection device to better determine the extent of decay and whether the trees could be determined as safe and viable candidates to retain. Town of Los Altos Hills, California Page 3 of 10 Mr.Henry W.Louie, Public Works Director, Town of Los Altos Hills David L.Babby, Registered Consulting Arborist April 7, 2006 27575 Purissima Road (numerous Coast redwoods): This site contains a large grove of Coast redwood trees in very close proximity to the retaining walls of the creek. I identified five that are dead and should be removed. There 'are numerous others showing unusual signs of decline further back but within striking distance of the road. I recommend access onto the property is secured for a more detailed assessment of the grove and reasons contributing towards tree decline. A soil analysis test by a soil laboratory may be necessary to achieve an informed answer. • 23548 Ravensbury Avenue (1 Valley Oak): This very large Valley oak has a large cavity on the road side that should be more closely examined to better determine whether it could be possibly safe to retain this tree. • El Monte Road - northeast of Highway 280 (34 Eucalyptus along road): These trees serve as an effective screening element between the roadway and neighboring homes. Several are highly suitable for removal whereas pruning is suggested on others to minimize the risk of future limb failure. 3.4 Miscellaneous Specifications for Tree Services To achieve proper results, all work specified or related to the above Sections 3.1 thm 3.3 should be performed by a state-licensed tree service contractor that is insured (general liability and worker's compensation) and has an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist in a supervisory role. All work shall be performed to ANSI A300 Tree Care Standards and according to standards established by the ISA. Tools should also be sterilized as needed, such as when pruning or removing Monterey pines. Please note that in many instances, trees overhang or are immediately adjacent to high- voltage electrical .lines. Where this occurs, it may be essential for the work to be coordinated with PG&E prior to commencing (such as for a line drop or having the work performed by or in collaboration with their tree service contractor). 4.0 TREES REQUIRING IMMEDIATE ATTENTION There are 143 trees or parts thereof which I find to present immediate risks to public safety, not only imminent risks. Attention to these trees should be prioritized and addressed as soon as possible. The tables presented on the following pages categorize these trees and their general locations according to the recommended course of action, which specifies removal for 70 trees and pruning for the other 73. Town of Los Altos Hills, California Page 4 of 10 Mr.Henry W.Louie, Public Works Director, Town of Los Altos Hills David L.Babby, Registered Consulting Arborist April 7 2006 Table 4-1. Immediate Removals ADC?RESS-{ .; 26330 Fremont Road Monterey Pine 1 26525 Fremont Road Monterey Pine 1 26555 Fremont Road Monterey Pine 5 26555 Fremont Road Monterey Pine 1 27890 Via Feliz Monterey Pine 3 27890 Via Feliz Monterey Pine 1 12606 Page Mill Road Coast Live Oak 1 27411 Altamont Road Coast Redwood 1 27230 Natoma Road Valley Oak 1 27610 Natoma Road Valley Oak 1 27575 Black Mountain Rd Monterey Pine 3 13621 Burke Road Monterey Pine 1 12445 Robleda Road Eucalyptus 1 26220 Moody Road Deodar Cedar 1 13151 Cumbra Vista Monterey Pine 2 28011 Purissima Road Monterey Pine 1 12896 Viscaino Road Coast Live Oak 1 12715 Canario Way Black Walnut 1 27575 Purissima Road Coast Redwood 5 26645 Purissima Road Monterey Pine 1 12795 Alto Verde Lane Monterey Pine 1 12780 Camino Medio Ct C.I. Pine 2 26541 Taaffe Road Eucalyptus 5 26620 Purissima Road Monterey Pine 1 Along Purissima Road unidentifiable 1 26580 Taaffe Road Black Acacia 1 26580 Taaffe Road Black Acacia 1 26731 Elmberg Road Eucalyptus 1 Town of Los Altos Hills, California Page 5 of 10 Mr.Henry W.Louie, Public Works Director, Town of Los Altos Hills ' ^ ` David L.Babby, J00� , " � 24290 GurnrnerhU| Ave Modesto Ash 1 � i 11891Magdalena Ave Walnut 1 23O81RavanabVryAve Monterey Pine 1 230ODRavensbVryAve Monterey Pine 1 25522Willow Pond [)r Monterey Pine 11 12234TepoWay Monterey Pine 1 12030ViucoinoCourt Monterey Pine 2 12635 Corte Madera Ln VN\kow 1 12080ViacoinnRoad Aleppo Pine 1 12O82Roble VenonoLn Monterey Pine 1 25487 Adobe Lana Bay Tree 1 25100TepaWay Eucalyptus 1 251UOTepaWay Monterey Pine 1 Table 4-2. ([DDlediGt8 Pruning klil 122O5Altamont Road Eucalyptus 1 12205Altamont Road Eucalyptus 3 / �7801 NatornaRoed Eucalyptus 14 | � 1387DRobiedaRoad Eucalyptus 1 12445R0bledaRoad Eucalyptus 2 25580Altamont Road Eucalyptus g 12100Dawn Lane Eucalyptus 1 25751 Elena Road Coast Live Oak 1 � 27575PuhaSinnaRoad Eucalyptus 1 / 27575PurinsinnoRoad Coast Redwood 1 | 12798Camino Medio Court Monterey Pine 1 | 20541TaaffuRoad Eucalyptus 10 David L.Babby, Registered Consulting Arborist April 7 2006 gg J,1K n' NAME AMOU,NT..I 26620 Purissima Road Eucalyptus 1 26620 Purissima Road Eucalyptus 4 26870 Taaffe Road Eucalyptus 2 12415 Hilltop Drive Valley Oak 1 12271 Hilltop Drive Coast Redwood 1 12011 Hilltop Drive Eucalyptus 10 12151 Stonebrook Drive Coast Live Oak 1 25031 La Loma Drive Eucalyptus 2 25100 Tepa Way Eucalyptus 5 25100 Tepa Way Italian Stone Pine 2 5.0 DISCUSSION OF EUCALYPTUS AND MONTEREY PINES As evident in Table 2-1, Eucalyptus trees and Monterey pines present the greatest potential risks to public safety along the roads traveled. General information regarding each and possible management approaches are presented below. 5.1 Eucalyptus Trees Eucalyptus trees were found to be in extremely high numbers along the primary routes of access. They consist primarily of Blue gum (Eucalyptus globulus), Dwarf Blue gum (Eucalyptus g. `compacta') and Red gum (Eucalyptus ficifolia). Most of the Eucalyptus trees identified in this report are significant in size and extremely difficult and costly to maintain due to their heights and locations along and over the road. Please note that in general, Eucalyptus trees present a significant liability if not regularly maintained. They have inherently weak structures and frequently self-prune, which at times, large branches may burst away from the main trunk. As a result, they require frequent maintenance, such as every two to three years, to limit their risk to public safety. The pruning scope of work presented in the table of Appendix A specifies removing deadwood,reducing heavy limb weight, and clearing any encroachments. This seems to be the most practical and cost-effective measure to prune the trees. However, more Town of Los Altos Hills, California Page 7 of 10 Mr.Henry W.Louie,Public Works Director, Town of Los Altos Hills David L. Babby,Registered Consulting Arborist April 7 2006 aggressive approaches could certainly be implemented to even better lessen the risk, however, at likely significantly greater costs. One such approach involves reducing the trees' heights and canopies to levels where any targets frequently or constantly used, such as a home, would not be within striking distance if the trees failed (due to the trees' locations, they could not be reduced enough to avoid striking the roads). However, if this revision was employed, maintenance of the tree would increase as weakly-attached and rapidly-growing shoots will grow from the cut areas and along major limbs. Another approach to eliminate the risk involves removing the tree. In some instances, this appears to be a viable alternative to pruning, while in other instances, the removal of the tree may not appear necessary due to an intermittent or rarely used target. Regarding the Eucalyptus trees that failed during the January 2006 storm, the common trait I observed is that the trees were situated on the banks of relatively large drainage ditches (such as along Natoma Road and Altamont Road). Conversely, trees not situated within or near a ditch were found to have not failed and appeared stable. In general, a Eucalyptus tree is certainly at a significantly greater risk of uprooting and falling over during a storm event (or possibly any other time) when water has the capacity to saturate soil surrounding its root system. Combined with winds and a tall, top-heavy tree, the risk of failure can even further increase. 5.2 Monterey Pines In general, Monterey pines are short-lived trees, perform poorly, and are subject to natural causes of premature decline, particularly in warmer regions away from the coastal climate. During my survey, I identified 27 Monterey pines that have been affected and are either dead or severely declined to the extent that they will not recover. Based on my experience and research I have encountered, there is little to no evidence that indicates healthy specimens of these pines could not continue thriving. Conversely, healthy trees could also decline. To promote the longevity of these trees, one of the best measures is to provide them with supplemental watering during the dry months of the year (such as during May thru October). Placing a four-inch layer of mulch, such as coarse wood chips, over their root systems (but not against their trunks) could also provide benefits. Town of Los Altos Hills, California Page 8 of 10 Mr.Henry W. Louie, Public Works Director, Town of Los Altos Hills David L.Babby, Registered Consulting Arborist April 7 2006 6.0 TREE HAZARD ASSESSMENT STRATEGIES This letter has been prepared to provide information regarding a few possible management strategies that the Town could employ for identifying tree hazards or risks on a cyclical basis, such as every two to five years. The least costly approach involves having an arborist perform a "windshield survey" similar to what I have performed for this report. The costs could vary depending upon the level of detail (e.g. digital photographs could be incorporated into each line entry). This approach is very cursory and has the greatest chance of some hazards not being observed. However, it does enable a seemingly reasonable opportunity to identify the most obvious and potentially severe hazards. To minimize the risks of missing hazards, it may be desired for the more frequently traveled roads to be walked rather than traveled by car. The most involved and foreseeable costly approach involves establishing a comprehensive database of trees within the public right-of-way. The variables in cost for utilizing this approach can vary from inputting the data into an Excel spreadsheet and assigning numbers to each tree on a map to using tree database software and/or a GPS mapping system. To minimize costs, this might include only certain types of trees, such as Eucalyptus, Monterey pine and those of 6-inch and greater that are dead or dying. Trees located beyond the right-of-way but have parts at risk of failure onto the road or pathways could also be considered. 7.0 ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITS OF ASSIGNMENT 1. All information provided by David L. Babby covers only those items that were examined and reflects the condition of those items at the time of observation. 2. The type of survey employed is intended to exclusively serve as a rapid and extremely cursory approach to identify hazards or significant risks presented by trees observed along roadways. Observations are solely limited to what could be viewed from a vehicle at the time it was driven by David L. Babby at a safe and reasonable speed. As such, there is a reasonable degree of certainty that additional hazards or risks that are likely present but could not be observed due to the methodology David L. Babby was contracted to perform. 3. All observations were only obtained from the ground and specified roadways that the trees are located along. The observations are limited to visual examination of accessible items without probing, coring, Town of Los Altos Hills, California Page 9 of 10 Mr.Henry W.Louie,Public Works Director, Town of Los Altos Hills David L. Bobby,Registered Consulting Arborist April 7, 200 dissecting or excavating. David L. Babby cannot, in any way, assume responsibility for any defects - which may have only been discovered by performing the mentioned services in the specific area(s) where a defect is located(whether observed or not observed). 4. The assignment pertains solely to the trees specified in this report. David L. Babby holds no opinion towards other trees on or surrounding the proper-ties. 5. David L. Babby cannot provide a guarantee or- warranty, expressed or implied, that deficiencies or problems of the trees or properties in question may not arise in the future. 6. No assurance can be offered that if all the provided recommendations and precautionary measures (verbal or in writing) are accepted and followed, that the desired results may be achieved. 7. No analyses, investigation or testing was performed by another party, 8. The information provided by David L. Babby represents.his opinion and his fee is in no way contingent upon reporting a specified finding,conclusion or value. 9. This report is proprietary to David L.Babby and, with the exception of the Town of Los Altos Hills Staff, may not be copied or reproduced in whole or part without prior written consent. It has been prepared for the sole and exclusive use of the parties to whom submitted for the purpose of contracting services provided by David L.Babby. 10. If any part of this report or copy thereof be lost or altered, the entire report shall be invalid. 8.0 DISCLOSURE 1, David L. Babby, state the following to be true and correct: a I have personally evaluated the subject matter discussed in this report and it is my professional opinion that that the presented information is accurate and best describes the likely outcome.. To the best of my knowledge, I certify the information is true and correct. a I have no personal bias or interest with respect to the parties involved, subject matter evaluated, or outcome of this report. ■ My compensation is by no way contingent upon the outcome of findings, values, or conclusions presented in this report. Prepared By: Date: April 7, 2006 David L. Ba y, RCA Town o Los Altos Hills, California �f Page 10 of 10 Mr.Henry W Louie, Public Works Director, Town of Los Altos Hills SECTION 1 In]urfes x'43r Injuries. ss1' ratakatfr�e i, s5 �ata(ttlss N greak-down of Route 92 accidents i Source:Colkans The California Department of Transportation's statistics from Sept.30, 1982,to of the highway contain both uphill and downhill statistics. The department is -30, 1985 show the most dangerous parts of Highway 92.The hilly sections planning to improve an eight-mile stretch of Highway 92. � 3 { 50":0ents, Sunday, June 29, 1986 gs pn7 :{,f. ,q a' � •_x� :s.. �rS,s� -a x l �n ! � k 1 x � ,,as -,,w+y, 3�^' x �: .. l &� q . 15't yyo�b A DID 2W ver �NMI` x„z�l 3,,€^,t�j' .:�t z�'� � Yip 'S'e✓zrr c "" . ����A�S•ra+rs�,t�Y��,",'�tt.'f�4 is }rif�.4�.• ''� ✓'�,> �'� .�i A � .�.� n^' €, r :.'a: �g'�"Yr'i�y'1:•f s7 € lf. ,' Y- rc,.a+SnxN ?f 1F,sy,m-..t.7+. t. �� €' x {"S+t2 --€."�•C :.P'* e, �. :.t S ." 6. 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The fire's destruction can still be seen in the which was;.destfoyed one:year,ago by a h're`tfiat swept.throug8'the foothills of charred trees,in the background- ..aio filto,f.`amliy�maki .1 comaback N • �hu n d ., '� {. :. i- s s r r �r 'fir t-v�' y �."` s•d� By Tyrone.vad flooydonk "I think we bounced'back as well had to,go.back into the business to Times Tntiune siari as could be expected;"Lynd-Pugh cover expenses. o Among:the eu,calyptu's on a said. I still get avrfuhy depressed The.disaster still gives Lynd- about it.It's hard to tliink.we don't Pugh.nightmares,but she says she peZceful`atret4h of Arastradero E � k Road on1 some blackened trees have any pictures Arid•some at had some goad luck,too. remain a5_reminders.of the fire those sentimental items." . "u/hen I was leaving the fire r°� z N H r, :The Pughs had leased the 10 with Ashley,i didn't think we were , t ru ., that destroyed 1'50 acres in Palo acres of Flying Tail Farms and a going to:be able to,get.out alive;" mfr Alto and Los Altos Hills last July 1. home that hit 13y the fire.But she said. r °�d a Ya sr ai} r R g- -was t Aayba Lynn-Piigli will never t t � �' the couple owned everything in. After freeing penned-up horses forget. side. The structure was insured at the stable; Lynd-Pugh and her r } ' -Lynd=Pugh dost. her home and Tier I�pSine-ss the Flying Tail Farms and the cosb,was.carried by the daughter cued to drive off with a r gSat stables rn" the fire'She alsq dearly Pughs for the owner. babysitter and a neighbor but the s The contents however,-were un car was surrounded by fire n -lost,tier life and;that of her-miant daughter,Astileg. insured. I was.Just saying Please God: � x fKc TbdSy, Lynd Pugh.and her hus. Lynd-Pugh and her;-partner•,Jim don t let me See any horses barn in n rya yrz band .Steve Pugh,live in a brand= Hoffman, relocatedl-the 2-year=old front of me, and Iet me get Ashhey s shy £ new town douse Flying Tail-Farms.to smatter tem out OK sherecalied. ' if makes us look-,like we're pbrary stables.There, Lynd-Pugh Th.e neighbQr Lound•a way'to nom +OK/z Pu hsaid cantinues to tiriard,horses'and safet. b drivm throu h a lo,.w r w' t r it ,x = g g But tthe;year Since b6e big fire 'teach English style riziing to young spot int e inferno, g 3wa" y ..y1i hasbaon ope of slciggle for Lynd= show competitors. After the fire "the Tamil re- ➢` i 'F, �r* ' � ���' g The owner of the'lire-rava ed ceiyed mzny:donations"of.,furnit"ure Pu h and she,strllhas not man- g -" aged to replace what she lost: property still has no,t decided andclothes. Times7ribunephotobYGre9SNebl After spending a-year in friends' "wheth"er to let her rebuild, Lynd- dye stili,p iii items out of fhe Last`.July s ire. many:homes and'dther property homes and.an apartment trie•y''Pugh.s??d••' closet tnat'iye.don't know who.or:on: 15b'acrss m the foothdis ofPata..Aito,and.los 'Altos ilidn t-Iik'e the Pughs last'"week So;far;,al3'-the money sheds mak- (lilts. in from.ftie temporary-stable has'- - Please see�PUGHS,A-12 movedanto[he town•fiouse�.; K , Pro :esterst-u_rn Otit Russell 8 Baker....................A -9, i!A A-12—TIMES TRIBUNE ' Sunday,June 29, -198C Lowl ye' r-q fir as s recordsin .uallfornia' By Tyrone van Hooydonk nearly $43 million, Tulysewski have been burned. villesaid. ' the damage because they set fires tacked to each water outlet out'sid Times Tribune staff said. One of the worst fire seasons in But there is no way to predict that often destroy structures and the home. Last year was arecord-setting About$9 million of that amount United States history was in 1942, how bad this season will be. are difficult to extinguish,he said. a Re-roofing with flame-renis fire se yea.for the California De- was caused-b the Los Altos Hills when•10 million acres burned. "The ultimate,thing is-the weath- To reduce the chances of.grass Cant shingle or stone tile. fife se nt.of Forestry,which fought fire that destroyed 13 houses and This.year'sstatewide fire season,' er,"he.sald.'`Every.year has the and brush fire damage to homes, o Keeping unnecessary fuel; 7,200 wildfires that burned 223,000 burned'150 acres last Jul 1. which began in early May, could potential to:fie.disastrous." fire officials recommend: around the house at a minimum. Weather in the fall of 1985 was present as great a'danger as last High'pressiire and hot winds in- a Clearing roofs of leaves, pine • Never stacking garbage,news acres in the state's wildland pro,,dry enough to push Northern Cali- year's. crease the chances of a major fire, needles and other overhanging fection areas. j g g papers or combustibles against the fornia's regular fire season into "We'.have the potential for some he said, limbs that can catch,fire. house. "We just had a bad year due to mid-October, very serious grass fires," said The biggest-causes of fires in the 4 keeping,a 30-foot clearance • Using fireplaces only when weather and wind," said Bonnie Across the country-last year, 3.8 Bruce Turbeville, an information.California.Department of'F.orest-. around all structures. Topping necessary and covering chimneys Tuiysewski,a management service million acres were burned in ail officer at the California.Depart-•.ry's protection areas in 1986 were brush at 18 inches outside of the'30 with wire mesh. technician at the department. wildfires,according to.the U.S:De- ment of'Fbrestry. equipment-use,followed by arson. feet: o Identifying the home with A.Statewide total of 595,000 acres partment of Agriculture Forest,Ser- Heavy rains early this year ' Arson causes about 20.percent of e..Planting fire-resistant'foliage numbers on,the building.or the were burned in 10,'713 wildfires vice. mean that there is more grass to wildfires,T.iirbeville said.Howev- such as implant,ivy and oleander. sidewalk so firefighters can easily last year.The total dollar loss wag So far in 1980; 1.3-million acres dry out during the',sumhTer,Turbe- er, arsonists cause'50 percent of ® Keeping 50-t6.75-foot hoses at- find it. I no added that the city has stroyed in the fire. Even the sinks were gone." quired•to.have safety features such Firefighters. intention of settling any of.the Town Mana'ger'George Scar- Friends of the.Turners scoured as ceiling sprinklers which are not r1 {, �7 suits out of court. borough.said the committee al. their closets.for'old photographs required'in Los Altos Hills. contain 1 n i {JlC�L e Meanwhile,the process of're- lowed residents:to circumvent the and managed-to put together two Fire officials in Palo Alto and Continued from A-1 building along such streets as Lid- normal review.processand.thereby, albums of.rnemories.. Los Altos, the latter of which pro- to file any charges, dicoat Drive and Tracy Court has cut the length of the process by up "The.best thing-that came out of vides fire service for Los Altos at Yosemite - ",Chances are pretty slim" the continued. to six weeks. the fire for rite was our family and Hills, believe many of the house§ case will ever be solved, police friends,"Gayle Turner said;"They destroyed by last year's fire could P Ted Harris of the American Red The committee since.has be- � Associated Press 'Ga,pt. Lynne Johnson said. "There Cross, which offered emergency come.a permanent part of the were just so helpful.It.was.great to have been saved had they had isii.'.t any indication that we can aid,.food and shelter immediately town's bureaucracy and will be find out how wonderful people more fire-safety features. A roaring fire that charred about rove wlio did it." could be." 000 acres of wilderness near Yose- n.', after the fire, said most of the 13 ready if another.fire strikes. Keith Wadsworth is one of the About the only thing police and homes destroyed in the fire were With the reconstruction of mite National Park's scenic Gla- Y "There.just wasn't a realization fire victims:who agrees with local fireinvestigators are sure of is that insured. homes on:the hillsides has come a' tier Point finally was contained until this fire struck'of the prob- general'concern among local`fire fire officials. Saturday the::fire was deliberately set. However,.there were'reports lems residents go through when a after burning out o[tori: Johnson said the fire was.started that the size of the disaster lett fire destroys their house," Scar- officials. Wadsworth said he is rebuilding trol for nearly two days. in Cwo locations some.diStance Some insurance tom o Because'Los Altos Hills has few his Stanford Court house with a file Meanwhile, fire crews using air• panies reluc- borough said. regulations regarding fire preven- roof and fire-retardantlandsgaping craft struggled to hold the line on apart along Arastradero Road,thus tant to award large settlements, ' For Hugh Leo and his.family, tion in new home construction, to avoid a.repeat of last year's di- an 8,500-acre blaze in Utah's Pine ruling out a careless smoker or .preferring instead to offer.only some indirect support came from many of the new houses are being saster.. Valley Mountains. aonie other accident as the cause. minimum compensation. the Palo Alto Unified School Dis- built out of the.same materials as "We're making these changes About 200 firefighters, with'the Other reminders of the.fire.can "We had'to fight the insurance trict. before and without many safety because we're,going through an- aid of two helicopters, battled the �e.fiound in Santa Clara Cddnty Su- company every step of the way," After their Stanford Court home features. other trot spell," Wadsworth said. Yosemite fire, which had covered perior Court,where three lawsuits Turner said. was.destroyed, they moved to a Palo Alto Fire Chief Robert Wall "We're always aware of'the kooks the Yosemite valley with a blanket' liaJe been filed against tile'•ci.ty of Harris said such problems are rental unit in Los Altos,outside the said if the homes were being built out there'and the possibility of it of reddish smoke.Tlie fire was ex*-,Palo Alto, alleging negligence in common after disasters. Palo Alto school district. in Palo Al:to, they.would be re. happening'again." petted to be extinguished today, ediiriection with the fire. "Insurance companies tend to go Tile Leo children,already suffer- with the exception of a few-lint The suits,filed by residents,who low because they don't wantthe ing from nightmares because of the spots,said Mallory Smith,a Nation- lost their homes and an insurance cost," he said. "But (in this ease) [ire,were further upset at-the pros- I � back thereAessen." al Park Service spokeswoman. company, charge that Palo Alto they turned around.with a'little pects of having to attend a•differ- G S Many horse stables are closing, "did negligently and carelessly pressure'and a threat to go to the ant school that fall. and property is very expensive,slie Erratic winds had thwarted fi:e- maintain property"that resultedl,� press." After a short discussion with said. fighters'efforts to douse the flames damage to nearby private proper• Harris.said similar problems school officials, however, Continued from A-1 that began shortly after 12:30 p.m; the chit- The Flying Tail Farms.was just Friday. Firefighters finally man- ty is continue for many residents in the dren were given permission to where they came from," Lynd- starting to'make some money be- aged to contain the fire by burning Tire Turners, who filed one:.ot hills above Lexington Reservoir,an cross school district boundaries Pugh said. fore the fire. around the blaze Saturday evening, the suits, said they believe they:: area sou.th.'of Los Gatos that was and return to their Palo Alto dis- She and her husband.received a "We were hoping to be there for Smith said. might not have lost their home ifs devastated by a suspected arson trict school. goverhmen.t disaster loan of a long time," Lynd-Pugh said. The flames Iraq threatened wild= Che city had kept its adjoining land"Mire the same month as the Los ..I was really very pleased with $10,000 at 4 percent interest. And. "Where we'are now, it's just like fife,a few park ranger homes and clear of eucalyptus trees, iAltos Hills fire. how responsible they were'in get- Pugh still had his job as a driver camping out. We don't have elec- some exhibit structures. No camp- Together,the suits seek compen• :`; "There are homes that weren't ting the approval-for its,"Leo said. for United.Parcel Service: tricity. The stalls aren't very ens were endangered, but one fire- Clark in excess of$1 million. �'ven,on the tax rolls up there," "It.was a great comfort for the One thing that did'not burn in the good." 8 P fighter suffered heat exhaustion', Clark Guinan, the Palo Alto as= he said. kids." fire was Lynd-Pugh's mailbox, and ' And because of high rices at the Smith said. sistant city attorney overseeing the !(lmost asimportant as insur- For other victims, the.most fino she still picks up her mail there new stable,only the most loyal stu- city's defense, said, "We're in the ante coverage was the swift sup- portant support came from friends every day. dents are continuing their training In Utah, a fresh contingent of process of investigating the mat- poi.• the fire victims received from and family. Getting back-to the farm was"a there. 220 firefighters, aided by lielicop- ter.Our feeling has been from the offi;'als.in Los Altos Hilts. The Turners,for example, lost goal that we always thought would "I keep feeling I should quit and tern and tanker airplanes dropping beginning and has remained that In the weeks after the fire, the all their belongings in.the fire, happen," she said. "I guess that's bag groceries at Safeway or some- flame retardants, worked to main- the city.of Palo Alto has no respon- Town Council established a special "They say the house burned at just'being sort of optimistic,but the thing," Lynd•Pugh joked. "Some- fain the 70 percent containment of siblility or liability in this in- coninittee:to handle the review of 2,400 degrees," Torn Turner said. longer the time passes, I think the .times it doesn't seem right to work the 9-day-old Pine Valley Moun- stonce." reeons.Iruction plans for homes de- "Glass burned.•Everything.burned. chances that we're going to get as hard as I do for nothing." tains fire. qi •Pt !nom� rl..-�'0.J 9 �.,�'h.7' 9.!6/i Y .Y 1� 1 9.'.Li 64,1' Y f.-�i��..J ]..ail.�]@ 1.��' �,'�'L�''$.'Y 7.rL Y tl 4/l c n e f +a'�..i f� ' � ' i. 0 ver h e t e r o r of ,�`?w;Sr,,.>tt�§,,..tk,.���,t:<:>a�.:s;.r•F 3 7n•:?t3Lt•t�s,'ZrSt:..�ss�C".;ti'".,„.h..�5.H'.,N.x">?k.s*.p6C9tax.x�'.s�a.�'�.!�.�...>..�.c(7.>.k�itt�.t.EE�.ra�'1.�-It�S4l£,Y`I�'.y���.S<.t�,,�s,�?..�>l4r�^,'a',��k`�<.:.�2{�'��/,f✓�.`'>'�..,,"�t?,ny.��{'�'s�bsqarat5.4��,,Y.5.tt5.3�.2.�.r..1,5+��vi<+���i,�'s��+.�>�°r',>x,:>$S>k•v�>ckms'>'p:?::';v'wcSE,�L.>, •y,iv,b•��,$s'� � .5.'e.�:::.rj>, a r2'bt'.,,.ZrZP fi:�.,...s�5•,^Yys. ,ti:,�. 2 homes es l..” � :<, L�'�it 1��n�^k H.. 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A w v t :r .x yS: ..� ..�,; ✓ r` {<- w,S s.,,,,..<.4:,7r<r.x...•;a•,„yi> %Zt: 3,.?^i ...,,ras- � .a� :''x S a. >s >••�.; v7. ka�x,s:.�'eq,$. n.,v €�.'isu<.�t r at ,:,� fir.;_ .',�.rw r ks o x �S a "'F. ,,, isr �a"e`�' J.fi.�`�?�ar,�� Times Tribune staff { � x ..{'wxa ^,•s � v<t. ,i€, �c {, >;n3s�. � :a. 4 rr„a�s�: „� � Ys � s�.;F � ,';' �I� �i t.w�..,ry .,o°*¢:< k;..-.S::r a. .*J'L aS�S4 c-Y''sa��t'U a�.?.YF xy iaxs„ � .5�y.�F �'. E.E.tc�r }:-��-C,s.� ;r ai-a:Y � , :3 .3 :�”' { T1,t.,..,�f w'�;r�>ra:>.,<•F�. Mafia 120'a St00d n J o Page Mill ,Sc.:aJ '.Y... `n.�•.r.,.s ;.`Z..r' .s �.. ., �` :Y. :.s:3s ;'•1 5..:>yf s yk <at .,Y.xE. ° t� .r th ,+ a t;' fir _..BSc.x c'va X�i;', ,;;•kros . '�Road� e5 1 s..<,, rt b , u' �.bz .� n. ..:Y �, :^: , i•, ..,a >;. x e�`r?' z s'� k`. :;s � K K. i'at�i e "a-.'`:>.,sy eyed fixed blankly On tf1C k i. 'r t3 st:,3s, F i. t'S ::�-S. , 'S :-rY ,�,y 4:�4'.txr .✓h 5C' rN,.>.x?s. v, s } r S.es:'� t\ 's;n ,, < }f. 5 ,c, .4 E >.s;.. -'uc '} r.. r a: ., •f,<g.1.�S ,>ts 5,.<i' 'above praying the Smoldering o Bering hillra g P Y .r7^y sleeping s eepino family:she left an hour be- nd. •'i„ fore W �k as- v -�tstill alive: 'canJ I " tt.xz,s':Y' c' F v. ss' f� .s v'' .s?is` ,,'4 ,a.r :' w$ -.irk. ✓ a �s a.. y r z;:;.0 ,YZ_3 b. x &�'.s: ,k„rS, E.;z.•^,- t believe it”Ro'a said:"I E y �Y atr< tx..;r � ."t ars. ".a. ;i ? �•� a 3 sr:. zn 's s x X� �:; a��t.�. ei";�FraYitisn'tu pray P s.I ra it isn't us." .>�: :w Y c�. qs;.-,, yYN.^.r>>S .Z •^,. y _.1 r ,y.s'. ..,,,s<Y' r, .z {y, r 'Aye a. ?�E ..C�,r fr £'HSL'E::.1 > .EYh4�.F `<ra,, e z e(. u.� t ."r'xse•«-u',sl,>F •a' '.,,T+>`^>F a'�1� x. � 'x ,:�'� � ✓ax � 3. t 3 .-1 Ro' But it was. As a stood in the 1 'Gr Q l !)s t- '.t'x ',<�k::< .�„..k. ,<t'f "t€ .s✓"".i ..). �. r £ '' v)' 1 SF Si `rp F. 'y .FM1 w.y lx3 4,,<.S,c.. Q..S,.2 "�: K� t St, .i:"•. �Cr.-.S 'Y �.+` .,?iY�. .Jt C „ t {n < ,;c -T r S ."�1->y ecl air,, - -r =;r �s s tf. t rr �>. x s, k �^.��; �,s�. .�..��J'£s•. .�'}�. � ',�Y-. s Y.: } r•; 4 Ei. `>;� her b'rothe',-;n- t.�.:�."f :,M,>r. t..�. <,.h::�,ks. 4 ,;e� s s��-`� a':�a. sA'�';r. �7 Y.'3S.€ 'SK s,?�'c,.:a� •ti3 r3, �y;.fi'S'.s.,s. ..k'€. a,� .ti,,cY.?�k :��� .,::�"xa:e ta,, ;. e,....Y'.,Y .�3a s.> � ✓'l:'6 r X ,���c;, '�' ,:-ti x^ �"� a rr.:v.a a`ss. '.;.� S �s t..? nr, � x: z Y � ��.s f't5�w y^., �<�� 5,�.a. .r,'yx':. Ys,f). :t..>S a �, ;..a ,, g�3�.R'" a Y :+,.L�Y:`;3' � x. .2c.., -x 'v �� ,v sl <4,;•��s.4 .':u EF .,2 ':�,Fs b>As�.1 Fe �L. � i d ® San Bruno Mtn � ,�. x.;nx.,fi s,. ���� ,r`. .rpt. x,. �k' s Ji• i s--F.. ,s, a i 1•"iv ':.;; `� a '^c's. � s,cs s t:� .r^< �� :�<'l'r f �s ..x .,�"'^,�, '�: . fire—A-i- a :4�<s>.t a. :x,ti. '.'r' .a. c ,:,: x`'Ea1...,rysY ts`; a a: ,S." '.5,.. r'>s v y riT n s. y^4:.-f.Cs.m';n;,>,,r.s' �,. 'n .c SsMz :..:.5'.J;,, .!,E. :k,�s;c o•.b. s;`w,. ,, h-..t., r } ,.s a '�,? a '',rrrl:..� .X. s;. ✓3Yrt.:^,'.,.,k a r�k a ':i,r '�.c.s�. 4�.,,r .,>?„'<.,,,.:r. �.. � "�c,�� .u�z.5.��, ".,x,x.- a: ✓. y'v lX ash ,v..Sfly hs rz, x ..',. .4 C E.y.s z z s. tv.}.. r�,T .rs,2 .s,:..:lit .:u S:'C 5. JY aL .r.E �C, ,urz :v.'x'. ® The battle from the'alr—A- 6 t�2t`''Yff.'l"�s. 'r. u+<: k say 5.., 4.s<i4,�rwU v4,F'y � �m .rc'.xc,.sxN,. ,.y><'..?I .J t� k'ds: ,•} ^'t s - a 2 s �f � XY.;;s w 's> ,' ..?, s '.�H: {. ,t. s <,�' xa .xt''v <{'''>.+1".3':u�f Y'' '✓< .,>"ss..,¢. a-.s > �. .k'.v< .ovk- a?kz,'.:1, As �Krr c a k :¢ t ,^<. ,:. 3i z.1 r 3'.✓R'. $ ,t .� '.i r.,,i 1>.d: �^ Y v',wr"r 3>> d-i .x' , >r ',�.� u Y ` b �.r, .,'E,r ..xis ..�,�'. -$ '3i+4x�5'f t-i>�'y: -t� i.<na. �, 7•.a ';5x.` Sx,. �.Y12,� �i sS.° ,,.:,3> G Hot weather to stay— A- I 6 l�-4„r S<..',>. �,�Yy c?.5 q .s ,3,r.,. a �S,<. ::x,. ..:.z�. t::�•<L.�'sxl;f,S'ri3 SrrS*.�. �'.,>.,s. r ;K�.”, �3;<> ,.,kscb.,>``a �' �:�-0�,.1.' :ss'': X rS�,.��,.y.E.e".r,kf�e._•,.�3 ...� : law, dressed in T-shirt and shorts,orts, `�''.r:zs�' 6 'n�' :`<. s. v ar r ., ,rr. ..Fr„' �" ',s'. i, .,>ss;>.r �z3. .? &' .i. 3 a,.s.v..,s• �'"?,�>:s,fs: x t y, ;.<,� �tts.�” . rushed to embrace her. Y.' 3,fn `J Z5�i .Y .�te.v'f C F.`E 7.. 4'<T � !. 2 .:Y`h'1 .5. q,.'�a>d": �:��vS a 5:.k >TC S •1^ 2� S 1, 'A f .w,°><. '. Y:,:fE xu- , .y.s .syx'. e>sr 3. ��, ..;s:e.{ -•.f'> ,�:.. .`f rt3, v 4 ;'.xt 'iit?v�.'r+stxst'`.�,v��'�°s�. .qt• n_�a.a a.a•;.' .s - ri}•, r�, TS k, r"- E S>,1' �'..� K :>r "1 ',� x �,�.:,.5 -Sf'i, n�"a3',S l` �. •'wi�[?� :ona .^Fr. „t'i Y2,�;x .f�.�a y:x E�..v +' ,6 Yt' 5:.. �., ti�.{�,',•K. :b, P^'`�. \ 2) '!fit',F:C'� j l�.. �'.Fa t7.J' , ',:y'..''�Se t Y4 Y-a�.?�S,�4 f.. 5....f+. �i>'c���5__ "There was fire i' � �s:>`? �, x:. �` �- v. '�� ,n � r�'t ", tt•,7��c , ,n,��c;rX`x.•� ��Ir atm a�'.��'�`�� r��s.;l? ��5�.����tt,, �-rr ,��. all.over,all over f ':TJ. t. " .,z.a s �� .y�. r. ,y. J.4� •X?s,, ,,, 's�i.,..<'ts'�" .,�e; ��k✓'� :F�< yn,sF, 'h:.... .'a,< .:Y;- a5'.?+•�`` the walls,"Larr 'Aranas �. :.z.,...Y c., <.'`ai' s.Yj;* .r ...y.,yroA 5'.g y... ,ii`.'-C-• <i:';: -r-. P ;;?' s4'�'i,.�.Y x .,., .h.S.Y a.r, c'�,,, y,.,y "' E9f"..'$i.: .,. Y ,the broth- e� r.<a.,; x' ,y,,s,yu .,2'4,, .t.,F... ,b..g... ,,'4*YFs r?:"< Fye- c,f�' x,',?si-e•' :d.s'""ay� �.'*X .v. .. ?•,. rt F x t�. ,,r V ,. in.law said. ' �c..,ra{)�..g v .f. '�. Yr*� -.�.�'. � 'r k ,o. x^�'�"' s>. n...' r,4 a;i.+ct�..,:r..� t�lM:�.M qtr..-,,z�-�.��' ,: �✓•�, , z. '�`'€.`.�. :�3!'r '.��ver.yb.o.dy.was ,,£:. 5 x; .i° s. ys' tl ' ';: ;,:. .P z E ,,,� -1:��j• t,'. "�raz3;;•' d � 5' .I*>E.,y# sad G^U;a a. .s:. �, ,:_�ae. '3,''x` Sleep ing. I got tete kids out.I didn't, have time for anything else." s�i:ak'��{�n�u o xr ;d�� " ,� ��*� .1, � ��. •�- �. �<;� 'w�d`I*;� "x�� . ,, �4.s��. �"" "^�. �r''s.`,~ is>r.'•_ � s > Aranas, visiting from Canada ;with Roja's sister and their three ; k �,� ,��-•., .p,i x�, '_ children, recounted the grim tate. bz� n. 3"Y. uietlne Roja, 38, listed Quietly,, numbed { a"`'�ski e<<. .�,� .,k"' ! «y ?,, sa x; a.;,3 Lr c ,< =r y- '-' w,,;4 r'. max,.' "t".��*-•txx t by shock.She had taken.hersister for treatment at the Palo Alto Med- ( ical Center.and<escaped the or- �v'Ls�',v�a`r deal. Aranas said the house at 14377 Liddicoat Circle,purchased in Oc- r, As the surrounding hillside burns menacingly,'a Los Altos H.ills resident does his besf.to Freven"t the worsYfrom ha encs"fn une:p o ar ':. tober, was gone. Nothing was left pp.ening to hjs`.home. % but its blackened chimney and a ■ u charred foundation. �" ■' Pa n "I went to all of the houses, try-, p� � � Site of fire Alto .e ing to warn everybody," Aranas said."But I had to give up,the fire By Thomas G.._Keane the blaze were. worth:between .Palo'Alio'Ftre Chief IlohShaw.said ' 'In all only 150'acres were ,� got too hot. Times Tribune staff' 050,000-and'$500,000 each;not in- Q an untold number.olother•sfruc- 'burned,offictalssaid,butttieblaze' "The smoke was terrible. We A suspected arson fire'turned'th', 'cl.uding,furnishin''gs,Iand personal tures we're destroyed, including' skipped aer 1,000 dcres'o.f some tried to get inttie car,but the doors placid foothills of Palo:Alto an Possessions. barns sfabies and'tod sheds. of ahe•most';-valuable property on me elate were too hot to touch." osAltos Bills into a roaring infer_ Palo Alto Battalion Chief Denpt5 TwelVe'single=faz�tly dwellings the Peninsula,• 2D0 a The anguished scene was repeat- !10 Monday, causing an estimated Vander Maaten,'who toured the . More than 200 fire(i hters,some.. d over and over, as residents of is oui_best guest at'his tiirie," he B the neighborhood that became an $9 million damage to 12 luxury scene this morning said'the$9 mel said LhiS morning. responding,from as`far.away'as. homes and a large horse stabie in. lion damage estimate could climb. South.San Francisco-and•Morgan \,circle inferno saw their lives turned to n•l',000-acre area. by.the time-final figures,are to- Shaw and Vandei.'Maateri, ac- Hill, battled for more than four \g" \` ashes. 11•was one pf the worst arson taled•• compenied by Assistant City.Man- hours to control the'fire;'Helicop= �Da. ,. . At least 12 families, as many as crises in.;Santa CI'ara 'G.ounty,•his• The HI.ouses alliin Los Altos Hills,.•?ger;June FlemingJn'spected the ters'di-opped 300-gallon buckets of o° 40 people, were left homeless by tory,fire officials•said. were llo'cafed oq'Ltd lcoat.Ctrcler 'charred.area this cntrmng. water.scopped out of''Felt Lake .. \ y' the suspected arson fire that en- N.o official damage esciniate has Amherst Cour:t,:Arastrr,dgro Road" air lanes:Bum ed fii a retardant RaUcr `�' Lpg gulfed more than 150 acres of Palo ICs tl>e Dist fie stncefI Re p P negriGe Alto and Los Altos Hills, causing Open released, but fire investiga- Raddlifte Dri¢e and Tracy`Cotirt. ' been Rene and tb'ais the.last 24� arid;bulldozersplowe,':d the hills for q/ Altoe g tors'said the (tomes 'destroyed by In addition toahe liomes,'A ting years,`'Shaw said; pl`da'so'see DAkMAGE;A'12 estreyeroAoad, HIII9s Please see.FiRF..A-l2 TAsdey,July 2,-1985 Z—TIMES TRIBUNEFA--,M--0 A G,-E MEET Continued from A•1 R j i Continued from A-1 t + year,but this Will be his first meet. 'op Ing with the Soviet Union's top ++F.x 'Og a .ha l fire breaks. ;. ceder. • t xs�� "� � -- � ' � € � There had been speculation that "It was like a tornado of fire zign 3 a E � � .. said Pata a : .: tus„ e E�� , a 3 : w Reagan and Gorbachev would. zagging through a town," . " ' rk� 2 xrxd3'T s zy s1tts F E meet durin the opening session of Alto police Officer Dennis Ne. r « Y,1FY ylsta F �, g p '"". �� & r" t ' ?-�'7ijFv- x.. a ,.� �, .^ � -. ,tai' a one of the first patrolmen on F s f t s j T the United Nations General Assent verve,o s m ri§ bly this fail. But the Soviets said: d the scene. s , � last month that Gorbachev V0llt; The fire raged out of control .meetng.aot attend the U. near Page Mill and ArastraderoF' -Soviet summitwas The las . . roads (Or several hours in 100.de• `p held in June 1999 in Vienna,where : to20• gree heat,swept-alongby15 President Carter and Soviet Priest• s milean bout winds. ti7x t t k �A a Vis: 1s 3 u i a q +spa zo- .,: ^ f ? t r :« a r N ae{ :R s ? � Jaz dent'Leonid Brezhnev signet! the Flying red-hot embers,shot high E s x y :sj h ,, ;. > ;^ s if srnK F :e I } g ? II C. R.is k :;�?, r. 3 .. dT �t,:g ��i;u: �¢ �5 .h H9s >, rr tt SALT11 YI treaty limiting the two na d into the air by the fire's,thermai to �� r s r. sm�. + a t . - h, :'i! R#. k s@ z figs 3{ �+t' v§ J r k s, y xi, n 1 is s x 3 attacked the dry hillside #gide <:.•{ � „ $;° "fin+:,;, � � tions' nuclear weapons arsenals: �,;.� � +�' t t r x � �, ;�' was den*.. j� witiil, aft a ��v-��R "r�t4"sYfr�i r;,, s t..c�s e.� r^?x'�€(,�.,�' s si�t�k+ 3��`� ���� s �';s`za €r 'rlltil0Ug11 that treaty tf grass and brush, spreading the :" sue` t ,' , 4 ire s"l t u � u �€ x u s t. ter (Ilan could : £ s ;> sl . - �r� Y , i n a3n` sF ° Danced h Reagan and never raft p, blaze,fas � � �••` � �` �y �f ''i -�. rws��'� i 2 �`{L�` � * � �. �z h x ''t>�z'? fled,both sides have said they con-, v, .�?.� gr `m rYk't,s. ". _sF Ss`f'�.""' 9f '� ;�; 1 '�' - s�S keep up. l � ti s s. tinue to abide by its provisions. Patches of wooden rooftops ex S _. � q ,:: f> t§ cst u ' P �J ', tea. ' c the beak and eucalyptus x a a x > J r % Y Y8 x At the SOVtE1S' SCSSi011 tti MOS ploded in e, ' �f k.� K� 3 y ., ,.. 4pY .si to. tiff.n Fu �ysa ins. cow,Georgia party chief Eduard A. a h tree's erupted into 100-foot tall ora n �- € ; ;u;t` x <, 3� r xi t� as ti j �, F� t.a �'�.�, �f sn �;r�`rt�:� � � � �r �y� �s.. h'+'��•' � -� z ��� Shevardnadze,59,a new tali mem- fOUntains-of fire. ,£{ ,�Q.�s:;`• .,.'si vi ^,,.r.. ? 'fig 4 'fi?.fps .j>.',`3ays..,'1 5 asr: ani ti Yk y, tr+,'T ,. s��. �'dber a "That's what happens when it's �i�oy :� ��� �{ �� �6 t �a� G•_.. uta of the Politburo Lough has a rep- T. d ' ter"�' '�au�,���':3$������q t w �, ,"''�"� �.at�`�`"i��"�aai+- s �a� t ,�. (����� �z����+;,�t�z utation for being tough on eorrup- c so.dry and there's a pretty.goo s.?<,-;3a x 31w v,=, � c tion, was named to rep.iace r' wind — it's like a firestorm,' Los " %t "v s i i � � � �'� �� F tf.«�� °� z,'�� Gromyko, 75, in the Foreign Min- b Altos firefighter Bili Gibson said. iStry post. Residents armed themselves Gromyko's election was a major F wip garden hoses, buckets and o shovels in a frantic effort to keep departure from the recent I{remain: ,.;,,• .: practice of,having the party leader: u the blaze from-igniting their roof- � t: as �s <�t r r s -n itoa$e t0 % �`dir .�r@' ?s's�s S.s §e .z - also hold 112E title of chief of state. !tf 11 s 1 -tit0 tops.Teen-agers, running k�s ��,�,<�.,�� „j, �s ��� ss� k r .. �. z.• a ..� ;� r, �•� :`•"f lg �� �4� ��?� '� n. � ss �?moi: ;� t:; Yegor K. Liyachev,Drought house with brooms and buckets, rk .t €Yr x>7 to>v sw: , k i P�"'; siw a faces SYw. + t::=s la a iii Fst e#z a ,_,:rK 3 y $; y d s;, ttt6 Politburo Dy Gorbachev in tied shirts and rags over their sjr air �£ } v against the `�"� - ,• ,F. it,.�.;tt, -e4i-ts, ..k3ia.Tbe X44 ?:�` ` sr '.} '''i j'1:.:.- -r April,was elected chairman of the to protect themselves ag _ �k ,r; Foreign,Affairs Commission of kite tf ECS arked their cars a`^.f xe [.ti d3-z :i"s ^€ ." :q s t-r:.� i a '�:,,,a:P.' rkfl.;xsn, za :' � it:? Union OrtC Of two smoke.Strang p r x. t r# k � ltrr E .x ,, =Yzm°x Soviet of the a on Page Mill Road near Interstate ski ? r £r ��c< yFrykt sem .. ' ,n,,,.._.K:; tj.: C 230 and headed up the hilt to bei " t ` ' p , 01011 t �w�: c ,as •- Times Tribune staff VKolo by Renee Lynn houses of Parliament. k/estern oU e residents and firemen. servers said this seemed to confirm h Some residents refused to aban- returning home Monday.Such scenes were common during he is chief ideologist and second do and the afternoon as'the neighborhood became an inferno. Gorbachev, n flameseshotoup around their* feet. if's deputyo Palo itstopiiL ddicce loatsDr earesident returning Bu ler from There was speculation after tile. U Police were forced to pull them to p announcement that the naming Of i safety. r a block, near Harvard and 1 ate ort beams of lite burned insides Gromyko amountEd.to a graceful tin said.An investigation continues wasp"stings.Botit required medical The next three houses on the By 9 p.m., only the cttarre sup 1 treatment. were left standing. exit of a well-respected member of r "It was pandemonium out there today. said one smoldered and hissed along.Aras• the Kremlin "old guard" as the for awhile," Palo Alto police Lt. The American Red Cross Disse The blaze, which temporarily courts,were de histo - Moscow leadership swings to a new 11 Ron Louie said. ter Services unit ofepefocenIto tersat dren a dt stranded kforced ttiE evacuator olf firefighter ghter as 1 etemerged from tradero Road between Page-vfili ti Palo Alto police Agent John up an emergency eneraLion. about cars and pets and another!rouse up small'spot fires flickered in the g However, it also Showed that Costa rescued-two small boys who Gunn High School for the 40 people about 70.stable horses,'was brought smoke-fined area."We saved a few and Alpine Road, An ozens o Gorbachev, who has made domes eqing night. 11 were holed up in their homes left homeless. Dinner,was served undfourehourstrol aft at about was first report- could do about thoseere there, blit th three." we da Pacific Bell and Pacific Gas and tic economic issues his prime con - 0: under their,beds,and Officers Kate at the center to about' people, cernc is now ready to take canton- n; Salfitoim and Ann Comfort pulled said Red Cross volunteer Steve ed. of ttte field of foreign policy, al- one resident away whose pants Rooks. Trafficedfornm les atndepo3wer to roads made aiti diff cultdforn ire- damage and firefighters tpc pared for the long night of cleanup. Ser though Gromylto as president is 44 were on fire,.Lt.Ed Austin said. However,no one stayed through- clogged stili expected to be a major figure Officer Dan Ryan suffered burns out-the-night,The last group'of peo- area was shut off for the night. Hart of the first engine company on petted to return today, they said on the international scene' to his left arm as lie struggled to ple left around 1:30.a.m., Rooks Fontsa ed t Circleher with resident garden p Palo Alto firefighter company Olson, vice to residents in the area is id Gorbachev was elected to tete free horses from nearby stables. said. Bernstein, the scene at had star said the fire last night. Presidium of the Supreme Soviet, u "No one thought it was that bad, ,Most people found relatives or hose,assisted by Mickey. v' and they wouldn't leave,' Officer.friends they could stay with,, ire a Page Mill Road resident who apparently had started in some Ten Palo Alto firemen in tree which would allow itim to repre- ti p fits truck, up the hill toward Stanford Court fire.scenepovernight tomakesure sent the Soviet Union at interna- and they e said.l They watered down added. "Most people. refer not to stopped to help as he.drovE by his roadside grass.It already had shot engine companies remained at es ttonal gatherings in Gromyko" l Gtteir roof and trees, but to no sleep on a cot" was on the phone.catling Uy the time they arrived. w e extinguished. occurred after flames lace. avail." Several people,including 10 fire- I ^he ime th y ar hill and took'a were extinguished.Fire Capt.Gene were scheduled to re- Gorbachev, 59, thus capped two was a1! around the house," Font defensive stand on the first house Proletti said that more crows and days of major leadership changes. ti ors An arson suspect was arrested at fighters,were treated for heat by neighbors when all of the sudden it tt 5:30 p.m. by Palo Alto police, two haustioh and smoke inhalation byshe stood in Olsonsaid. turn the including the ouster of one•tintt ti hours after the blaze broke-out. paramedics at thE�mtnor�njune nes tearso- said astreaming downeherrface.a"I lines it reaOullly fight over us put o°thEfnumerAus hot spots Nat i ntt,er contender erigOry V. Ro if Phillip l�ummeii, 36,of La Honda, lice officer suffered onto the roof." werestiii on the ground. Malloy from the ruling Politburo. tl was released four hours later be- to his arm and a bulldozer.driver put the phone down and grabbed a — cause of insufficient evidence,Aus- had an anergic reaction'to several garden hose." "That's what happens wrien it's M Shevardnadze,57,a new[till,i nern- so dry and there's a pretty.good rep �N ber of the Politburo who has a wind it's like a firestorm," Los X utation for being tough on corrdp• Altos firefighter Bill Gibson Said. Residents armed themselves ti.on, was named to replace i Gromyko, 75, in .he Foreign Min- .1 Witt garden hoses, buckets and k��g, istry post. it snovels in a frantic effort to keep Gromyko's election was a major I the blaze from Igniting their roof- -10NMM w% R� departure from the recent Kreni!in tops.Teenwagoers, running house to I', I'M %� �&y practice of.having the party leader house with brooms and buckets, go IN also hold the title of chief of state. beds hirts and rags over their faces `0 g to protect themselves-agains 1� li�m "Ig ego, K. Ligacliev, brought into 4�. the Politburo by Gorbachev in. S molke.Strangers parked their cars on Page Mill Road near interstate April,was elected chairman of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the 280 and headed up the hill to hell, V-1 residents and firemen. I........... Soviet of tile Union, one of two. ........ Times Tribune sloff photo byRenee Lvnn houses of Parliament. Western ob-' E, Some residents refused to aban- 0 (ion'their homes, even While the Two Palo Alto police officers and aSanta Clara--County-cher-' returning home Monday,Such scenes were common during servers sat(]this seemed to confirm. flames shot up around their feet. Ill's deputy stop Liddicoat Drive resident'Paul Bu'tler from the afternoon as'the neighborhood became an inferno. lie is chief ideologist and second to. Police were forced to pull them to Gorbachev. tin said.An investigation continues wasp stings..Both required medical The next three houses.on.the By 9 p.m.,only the charred sup- There was speculation after tile. safety.was pandemonium out there today. treatment. block, near Harvard and Yale port beams of the burned houses announcement that the naming of: It for awhile," Palo Alto police Lt. The American Red Cross Disas-. The blaze, which temporarily C6urts,'were destroyed; Were left Standing. The hillsides Gromyko amounted to a graceful: it- "-Those-are hittory"" said one smoldered and hissed-along-Aras. exit of swell-respected member of: Ron Louie said. ter Services unit of Palo Alto set stranded more than 50 school ch .History;" Palo Alto police Agent John up an emergency relief center at dren and-forced ffe evacuation of firefighter as he emerged from tradero Road betweePage Mill the Kremlin "old guard" as tlie: Costa rescued two small boys who Gunn High School for-the 40.p6ople about 70,stable horses,was brought smoke-filled aiea."'We saved rr a few and Alpine Road. And dozens of Moscow leadership swings to a new were holed up in their homes left homeless. Din'ner'was served under control ai 6;:30 p.m., about cars and pets and anothef house up small'sliot fires flic�kered in the generation. under their beds,and Officers Kate at the center to about 70 people, four.hours alter ter it was first report- there, but there was nothing we darkening night. However, it also showed that 0 1 Sailholm and Ann Comfort pulled said Red Cross volunteer Steve ed. could do about those three." Pacific Bell and Pacific Gas and Gorbachev, who has made domes-. one resident away whose pants ROoks. Traffic on Intersiate'280 was The hills, tall'.trees and winding Electric Co. officials surveyed the tic economic issues his prime con-' 9, were on fire,Lt.Fd Austin said. However,no one stayed through- clogged for miles and*power to roads made it difficult for fire- damage and firefighters prepared cern, is now ready Co take control: I Officer Dan Ryan suffered burns out the night.The last grouV of peo- area was shut off for the night. fighters. for the long night of cleanup. Ser. of the field of foreign policy, a! - I to his left arm as he struggled to ple left around 1:3.0 a.m., Rooks Liddicoat Circle resident Lolly Palo Alto firefighter Klm.Olson, vice,to residents in the area is ex- though Gr6myko.as president is, -1 free horses from nearby stables. said. Font saved her home with a garden part of the first engine company on petted to return today, they said still expected to be a major figure li ."No one thought it was that bad, "Most people found relatives or hose,assisted by'Mickey Bernstein, -the scene' at-3:20 p.m.,said the.fire last night. on the international scene.' and they wouldn't leave," Officer.friends they'could stay with," he a Page Mill.,Roa!d resident who apparently had started in some - Ten.Palo Alto firemen in three Gorbachev was elected to the Neverve said."They watered down added. "Most people prefer not to stopped to help as he drove'by.his roadside grass.It already'.had.sh& engine.c6mpariles remained at the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet,.- their roof and trees, but to no sleep on a.cot." his truck.. up tild..hill'tow'ard Stanford Court fire.scene..e.ov.ernight to make sure which would allow him to Tel)re-. avaii." Several people,including 10 fire- "I was on the phone calling by the time.'they 'they arrived. .ri.o flar.eups occurred after flames sent the Soyiet Union at interna- t An arson suspect was arrested at .fighters,were treated for heat 6x- neighbors when all of the sudden it 'Alfe.dimtied:ttle hill and took:'a iVer6`extinguished.Fire Capt.Gene tional gatherings in Gromyko's'. tl 5;30 p.m. by Palo Alto police, two hatistio add smoke inhalation by was all 11 around the:house" Font defehsive sffind on the first house' Proietti!said that more crews and place. p . .. .. " . . . I Gorbachev, 54, thus capped two, t hours after the blaze broke out. paramedics at the-scene. One po- said as she in her driveway, with 6-garden hose because.our -inspectors were scheduled to re- leadership changes, it Phillip Hummell, 36, of La Honda, lice officer Suffered minor inj6fles tears;streaming�down her face' "I lines couldn't.reaq4," OlsQii said. turn to tfi4:flre•area.this fforping to days of major was released four:hours later be- to his ann.arid a: phone down and grabbed'a. "But it FeillY jumped• hot spots that including the ouster of one-time; cause of insufficient evidence,Aus- had an allergic rea'ctf6x�i't.o Several garden hose." onto the roof." '7w6re.S:;tiW6n the ground. power contender Grigory V. Ro manov from the ruling Politburo. The official report of Monday's tl The Rojas would spend thenight "We came to the United States said tite:hou77as"gone. 'Courtwas'Wred%such Worries,she session of theparty Central Com- e a iiriil5fe•cti�.bf.tea. mi.ttee said the Politburo remove& with fa mil.y,,Rdd-Cros6':of-h'6ials without a dime,"Mr.Sziragyi said. - "I used to,live on Stanford Court- si-i, :officials wife Js working. two Now I don'lt live anywhere," he e, omd from work at Romanov, 62,for FIR E said five.fire'victims.-would S "'When I got'home "health reasons" o the school. said. 'I did the W' at his own request,but it was clear• -aii g. e lost so rd Hospital; usual;ughter�are workin 9ta Jospital Much." Wadsworth,58,said he.befieved Mci.rityr6 S at d. I I [Ieilt.into the;. that he had been ousted. Continued from A-1 "We have only what' we..a.r.e .dup :SheVardhadze, 57, was elevated millions o�dollars in damage. wearing..But my brother and.`,the Mrs..Szir.agyi,like other victims, his home was.the first.to fail to fhe kltcli�n and:.iriade myself.a ,of' o thought of the precious details.of. searing,wind-lashed-flames. -tea..'-thank%Go. w6nt theAiving; 'frbrn Alt6rnard to-voting status 11. The victims lost irreplaceable children got out.alive," Roja'§Aid. life lost in t.he fire. "My wife Was at h6me when it room to rest.-I saw.the fire conning the Politburo at the Monday ses- mementos — baby pittures, wed- "We'll ptilf.through.I have had my "My one daughter.Was just mar- started,"lie said. "She called me at oyer the-hill.". Sion. Gromyko did not become a cry. I've been through tough timesull:member of the Politburo until ding pictures, taming heirlooms— ried,".she said."Her wedding press 3.p.m. to tell me the house was on McIntyreMcIntyre.called to her daughter, priceless bits of lives gone forever. before.We'll make.it.- erns were up at our house. And I fire. Luckily, she'could drive-out. Helen, to let'loose th6 family 1973,"l6 years after-lie took over I) Still,most were grateful they and When Joseph and Magda Szlraw had lots of knick-knacks from Bu. She is all rl.ght." horsds."Thenj she and-her husband., the-Foreign Ministry-portfolio. their loved ones escaped with their gyi lost the houge at 14422 Liddi- dapest,Lots.of things lost." Wadsworth, grateful for Ill.s Raymond',-began to spray the In Washington,U.S.State Depart- lives, coat Circle, they lost 1-2 years of. " 'T still can't believe it," Mr. wife's life,did not anguish over the- house with the-water she believes ment spokeswoman Anita Stock-Later Monday evening, Roja hard work built after fleeing tori,-. Sziragyl said to his Wife. The sunfok house. saved'her home of 13 years from man Said the government had no s a"fact. It' held her husband, Denny, at the munist Hungary. The couple sat was setting but, despite her pro- "It' a gone.-Any other disaster. Immediate comment oil Gromyko's emergency shelter set up by the under the bright lights of the make- tests, he insisted on g6inig-to look attitude would be unproductive,,". "We tried.to wet down the area electio.h. American Red Cross Palo AIto shift shelter;unable to believe at th6 rubble. H61said. as much as we could," McIntyre -.Gromyko, considered the Krem- Chapter at the Gunn High School their logs. "I will not Sleep until I.see with said. "I think that is what did'IC, tin's top expert on the West, sur- gymnasium. "If I had been there, I would my own eyes,"he said. "But It's the little things;It's.the Our house'ls still up. vived purges and six Kremlin lead- ..Victims wandered into the gym- have at least saved some valu- Keith Wadswofth had lived In -checkbook;•the bills, the Inteirial "BOt these people," she said of erships and has negotiated with nasium,often to be greeted by wor- abl6s,"Mrs.-Sziragyi said."But that the.hOuse at Stanford Court for 11. Revenue Service records.-How am others standing-nearby, "they're Western leaders from Winston rled friends, who offered their doesn't.matter.to be alive Is What years.Now,standing at the base of I'going to do my taxes?"he said. just ust watching their'houses go up In Churchill to Reagan administration homes for shelter. matters." the sm6ldering hill, Wa'.8sworth Anhe McIntyre of 14278 Amherst smoke.;' officials. Coast Of California,asetL_.,,., I U. U SOO"to become San Francisco. Yuy 'R Hydrogen gas is being discovered by Cavendish,and within seven M .......... years -it will be used for balloons that enable humans td'fly.N6x t year,oxygen gas will be identified arid separated by Priestljay.and SECTION emergency computer generated automatic telephone system for customers. She noted that the information on the automated line was accurate and up to date and if a customer sustains power outage for longer than 48 hours, they are personally contacted with a direct line to contact PG&E service. Deffner explained that during a storm situation with numerous outages they respond tcustomers who have been out the longest. Councilmember O'Malley thanked Deffner and Delisle for their efforts during the storm. He applauded their automated system and the continuous updates. Councilmember Mordo concurred with O'Malley and congratulated PG&E for their quick response during the storm. Deffner thanked Council for their comments. He noted that in relationship to agenda item 9.2, PG&E reviews every mile of their wires each year to ensure that the system was potentially safe and reliable during winter storms with regard to tree growth. A regular maintenance crew would be reviewing the Los Altos Hills system during the next few weeks. Deffner noted that they were supportive of any effort to remove the fast growing non native trees in the area and offered that PG&E would be willing to partner with the Town for resources for vegetation management. He added that they would review requests for assistance by residents (customers) on a case-by-case basis. 3. PLANNING COMMISSION REPORT Planning Director Cahill reported that the Planning Commission had not met since the last Council meeting. At their January 19,2006 meeting, the Commission was scheduled to review the Cingular Wireless application for an antenna at Town Hall and an application from Cingular Wireless for an antenna on Purissima Road. Councilmember O'Malley suggested that the Council notification procedure. for Fast Track-and Planning Commission approvals be revised. Following a brief discussion, the Planning Director and City Clerk were directed to modify the meeting agenda face sheet and notification mechanism for better clarification. Councilmember O'Malley requested that the approved pathway on Lands of Malavalli be revisited at a future meeting and suggested that a designated wildlife corridor might be more appropriate for the terrain. 4. CONSENT CALENDAR MOTION SECONDED AND CARRIED: Moved by Mordo, seconded by O'Malley and passed unanimously to approve the Consent Calendar, specifically: 4.1 Approval of Minutes: Regular City Council Meeting December 15, 2005 4.2 Review of Disbursements: 12/3/2005 — 1/4/2006 $210,071.44 5 City Council Meeting Agenda January 12,2006 ,, +R •-a .o It's the Law.State law requires PG&E to keep clearances HIGH 40LTAGE between high-voltage power lines and all vegetation. Q For Public Safety.Maintaining required clearances keep people safe from injury if they climb or work in trees located LOWER VOLTAGE r near power lines. ' For Fire Safety.Trimming trees to maintain required clearances prevents them from touching high-voltage power � Y Me, �-�� lines,which can start fires.Lower voltage lines,such as phone � 1; and cable TV lines,that are installed lower on the utility pole, AND CABLE dont require clearing because they present little or no fire 7 / hazard. Nn' ` �To Reduce Outages.Trimming trees to maintain required � •:: s clearances reduce outages caused by falling branches. Pacific Gas and Electric Company 4 Ways You Can Help Allow PG&E access to trees when Waidfare D�fensnble;Space heckh trimming is necessary`. California�i (Public Resources C6&6 42 req ><res the following Don't plant trees under or near overhead power lines. a Clear flatnmableVegetation from around your , home M nm ium,distancer'can range from 100-or Clear flammable vegetation from more depending on where you live: around your home. Remove all needles leai!es an&branches from roof s and guttgrs Never trim trees near high voltage power lines yourself Callus first at Scleeeii chiinney outlets,or flues with nonflammable Y•�®®•P($E•5®®® `screen of one half inch oismaller mesh. Reri►ove any portion of a tree,that is within 10 feet Failure to allow a utility to comply with the law can result in of chimney and.stovepipe outlets. liability to the homeowner for damages or injuries resulting from a vegetation hazard.Many insurance companies do not cover these types of damages if the policy owner has refused to allow g.os io5 Paedic it the hazard to be eliminated. © 66nd Elect&company.All tights reseivedr J, I Pacific Gas and Electric Company Pacific Gas and 701 Creekside Way Electric Campbell,CA 95008 Company Andy Alvis 408,282,7143 Distribution Supervisor Internal:621.7143 Area.3-GC Line Fax:408.282.7234 Cellular:408.204.6613 July 23, 2003 rowel, oLrt-AGC-5 -OV6 16 FA-(-Lwr, t5ur—,5- t tj v)CC- llrz� Los Altos & Los Altos Hills Residents: We sincerely regret any inconvenience that you may have suffered as a result of the most recent outages to your neighborhood. We at PG&E understand the significant impact that these outages have on Our customers and are continually working to improve your service. Your area has experienced a highly unusual number of equipment failure related outages during the past 12 months. In fact, over 60% of the outages you have experienced are due to this cause. To address this situation, I have personally instructed our local construction personnel to intensify their efforts to patrol the distribution facilities in your area to identify potential outage causes. They will be visually inspecting these facilities using the latest infrared technology to identify "hot spots" and subsequently repairing any faulty connectors or splices. In addition, our construction crews will be .working in your area to replace sections of cables and a number of underground equipment. Sectionalizing devices will also be installed on the circuit to sectionalize the circuit and reduce the number of customers affected during an outage. .1 am confident that these actions will result in improved reliability to your neighborhood. If you have any further questions or concerns regarding your electric service, please contact Omar Iqbal, our Electric Distribution Engineer, at (408) 725-2005. Sincerely, Laura Sellheim Construction Superintendent DeAnza Division Excite - Weather http://my.excite.com/weather/severe.jsp?id=USCA083( bleb Im r) . Ncc,,s rAudic rVideo mr i search: Sea Ali Quick Find Excite Lite Help w N lr�f I N'J G SIJ l,n'-C Provided by , k Severe Weather Alert for Palo Alto, CA mea Eharkm l�! Wind Advisory- URGENT-WEATHER MESSAGE HAS BEEN ISSUED FOR SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAINS VALID FROM SUN JAN 01 2006 03:17 AM PST . UNTIL SUN JAN 01 2006 03:15 PM PST. /O.UPG.KMTR.HW.A.0001.060101 T1800Z-060102T1200Z/ ` /O.NEW.KMTR.WI.Y.0001.060101T1800Z-060102T0600Z/ SAN ` FRANCISCO-COASTAL NORTH BAY...INCLUDING POINT REYES NATIONAL SEASHORE-NORTH BAY MOUNTAINS-SAN FRANCISCO PENINSULA COAST- { SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAINS- 317 AM PST SUN JAN 1 2006 ...WIND � , � $ ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 10 AM THIS MORNING TO 10 PM PST THIS EVENING...THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN SAN FRANCISCO HAS ISSUED A WIND ADVISORY...WHICH IS IN EFFECT FROM 10 AM TODAY TO a � S 10 PM PST THIS EVENING.THE HIGH WIND WATCH IS NO LONGER IN EFFECT.SUSTAINED WINDS OF 15 TO 30 MPH ARE FORECAST IN MOST f AREAS...WITH GUSTS TO 50 MPH POSSIBLE ESPECIALLY OVER EXPOSED , `> a �Ar HILLTOPS AND NEAR THE WATER.A WIND ADVISORY MEANS THAT WINDS A OF AT LEAST 45 MPH ARE EXPECTED.WINDS THIS STRONG CAN MAKE _ DRIVING DIFFICULT...ESPECIALLY FOR HIGH PROFILE VEHICLES.USE EXTRA ��' CAUTION.THERE COULD BE SOME DOWNED TREES AND POWER OUTAGES. 4x WWI Back to weather observations for Palo Alto, CA ff r ! � x a: 18 Track weather conditions for multiple cities X Add to My Excite Copyright © 1995-2005, The Weather Channel Interactive, Inc. Fiord your dire-am j0b 1 of 2 1/1/06 9:09 AM SECTION i R BARRI E D. COATE and ASSOCIATES Horticutural Consultants 2,3535 Summit Road Los Gatos,CA 95033 408135 3-1 05 2 I A RECOMMENDATION FOR REMOVAL OR PRUNING OF EUCALYPTUS TREES ADJACENT TO THE ATKINS PROPERTY,LOS ALTOS HILLS Prepared at the Request of Mr. &Mrs_ Atkins 26990 Orchard Hill Los Altos Hills, CA 94022 Prepared by_ Barrie D. Coate SA' Consulting Arborist May 24,2404 0 Job#05-04-075 (Site Visit May 12,2004) A RECOMMENDATION FOR REMOVAL OR PRUNING OF EUCALYPTUS TREES ADJACENT TO THE ATK INS PROPERTY,LOS ALTOS HILLS Assignment I was asked by W Atkins to inspect the 12 blue gum trees on the adjacent property to the west of their west property line fence(property of Mr. &Ws. Bob Berry, 26005 Newbridge Road,Los Altos Hills). The reason for the examination is.to determine what can be done to stop branch and limb drop on the Atkins property. The purposes of the report are to present the following information to Mr. &Mrs. Berry, and if necessary to an attorney to pursue relief from the danger caused by these trees. Summary Of the 11 Tasmanian blue gum n' trees on Berry property(tree 91,the 12`h tree is near the road and apparently a co-owned tree)most exceed 50 feet estimated height and have been severely thinned by removal,of all lower branches. Most of the trees appear to have been stub cut at approximately 20 feet in height in the past,and as a result the-majority of the growth above the stab cuts are merely epicormic shoots(commonly called waiersprouts). Even though the trees were recently thinned an'd limbs suspended over or within 6 feet west of the(assumed)property line fence removed,the 40 foot long watersprouts remain mechanically unsound and vulnerable to breakage. This potential for breakage will increase as the terminalportions; of the tall, poorly tapered watersprouts develop more-leaf surface, and to some degree this thinning will, after 2-4 years of growth cause an increase in watersprout breakage. In my opinion,the trees should be removed,because any lesser solution will require ongoing regular pruning-and inevitable limb drop in spite of that pruning. If removal is not an acceptable option, the only other and far less desirable solution is to stub cut the trees to 15 feet tall,allow them to produce a mass of waters.prouts, and retop those watersprouts at 20 feet every 2-3 years. Observations I did not have access to the trees,so all measurements are estimates,but estimates based on examination and measurement of many trees. The trees in question are Tasmanian blue gum (Eucalyptus globulus). The northernmost tree (#1) is a twin trunk specimen which has been topped at about 35 feet and all branches removed. This leaves two telephone pole like structures which are certainly not attractive but which are currently safe. PREPARED BY:BARRIE D.COATE,CONSULTING ARBORIST MAY 24,2004 A RECOMMENDATION FOR REMOVAL OR PRUNING OF EUCALYPTUS TREES ADJACENT TO THE ATKINS 2 PROPERTY,LOS ALTOS HILLS Nine of the other l I trees are multiple stem specimens, 4 of them having between 4 and 7 trunks. Ten ofthem range between 50 and 85 feet in height and since their recent thinning,with canopy spreads of 20-30 feet. They have been stub cut multiple times and a result their canopies are composed entirely of vigorous vertical watersprouts,many of them originating at visible decay sites. Many large trunks/limbs have been removed from near the base of the trees leaving large wounds that appear to have brown rot infection(unknown species). Note that the recent removal of a twin main trunk from the base of tree#4 shows what appears to be a cubicle brown rot in the cluster of each of the two trunks,tYP ical of the decay which travels down from old stub cuts. There are several trunks which divide into codominant equal parts with included bark between them. This condition eventually results in one of the parts splitting out of the joint. Pm told a watersprout recently fell towardthe west breaking off several branches from one of Mr. Atkins redwood trees further reducing the screening effect(and the value) of that specimen. Discussion When the canopy of a tree is composed entirely of vertical shoots with few branches and foliage only at the terminal parts it may be assumed that the vertical shoots are epicormic shoots which are poorly attached to the parent branch. When this.structure exists a simple question of mechanical stability is raised. As the length of the parts increase and endweight increases with each years new growth the architectural relationship between the length of the part, its endweight and the relationship to the strength of the supporting stem changes,and at some point, breakage is a logical,predictable result. When these long,vertical epicormic shoots are attached only to the xylem tissue in a small area,the likelihood of them breaking out of that attachment point is high. If that joint is decayed, as most stub cut sites in eucalyptus are,the proportion of attachment wood is inadequate to permanently support the structure. Conclusion These trees have a structure that cannot create any long-term result other than breakage. These epicormic shoots may not break out within one year or even two or three,but the predictability of some of them breaking out regularly is far too high to tolerate. The best long-term solution is to remove the trees and grind the stumps. PREPARED BY:BARRIE D_COATE,CONSULTING ARBORIST MAY 24,2004 A RECOMMENDATION FOR REMOVAL OR PRUNING OF EUCALYPTUS TREES ADJACENT TO THE ATKINS 3 PROPERTY,LOS ALTOS HILLS If that.is not to be done,another,much less satisfactory procedure(in my opinion)which would remove the probability of limb drop onto the Atkins (or the Berry)property would be to top the trees at 15 feet then maintain them at 20 feet on a:regular basis to prevent production of epicormic shoots which could fall far enough or from such height that they could strike the Atkins property. Recommendation I strongly recommend that these trees be removed- A row of coast redwood-(Sequoia sempervirens)or other trees would serve the screening function of these Eucalyptus without the hazard these trees cause. Respectfully submitted, op 1-9 B4" e6 D. Coate Enclosures: Assumptions and Limiting Conditions- Information/Photos on Attachments Sketch Pictures of Site BDC/sl PREPARED BY:BARRIE D.COATE,CONSULTING ARBORIST MAY 24,2004 TREE GROWTH PATTERNS/DEVELOPMENT OF STRUCTURAL DEFE(.-TS 9 thinning, construction or other disturbance, then tree de- the branch angle is broad enough to permit velopment must respond to those new conditions. In- the branch bark ridge to form creased wind speed as a result of exposure will induce there is no included bark. taper development. In contrast, weak attachments occur when multiple This process of acclimation to new site conditions takes time and it is during this transition period that failure rate branches arise at one point, the angle of attachment is nar may increase. Utility foresters in the Pacific Northwest row (fig. 16) and bark is included (fig. 17). By definition. observe that failure rate is greater for 1-2 years following codominant stems are a structural defect. The severity of right-of-way clearance. Hazard evaluators working with this defect is increased by included bark, large crowns and natural forests that have been disturbed, opened, cleared, strong wind. thinned or otherwise changed must be conscious of the in- creased failure potential. r r Disturbance may result in several types of failures. Suppressed trees, overtopped pioneer species, and co- A, dominant and intermediate trees with poor taper and low live crown ratios may lack the trunk strength to remain CC upright and simply break or fall over (fig. 15). Increased ' winds along a new edge may result in greater root (uplift) , r'° `< T #, and branch failure. Altered drainage patterns may result 4'.s ;`, W�,, . •- _ . in root rot and/or uplift. y t l/- \'.i`'i Y I am Figure 16. Trees with multiple branch attachments, narrow angles of attachment and branches of similar diameter as the 1. — stem are structurally weak. Figure 15. When a new edge is created in a stand of trees,sup- MW pressed, intermediate, and poorly tapered trees tend to fall out. t?. . This type of failure of even small trees can cause significant dam- F' age to utilities if the line is contacted. v•, 1 STRUCTURE-FUNCTION RELATIONSHIPS '}.:; Eight structural characteristics are important in identify- In the signiticance of tree defects: branch attachment, compartmentalization response, taper, stem defects- cracks, stem defects-defonnities, reaction wood, lean and canopy development. Readers interested in a more detailed :j;."M x.'T description and discussion of tree growth, abnormalities and structural stability should refer to Mattheck (1991). l;i`'; •ur Co-dominant attachments il;vi:r•K Branch attachment Y =' Strong branch attachment can occur only if: Figure 17.Narrow angles of attachment(a)with embedded bark _ • the two components are unequal in size cannot develop a strong union. A strong attachment (b) is char-enough vertical and radial space is available acterized by the branch being smaller in diameter than the stem for branch enlargement and ~vide angles of attachment. i 14 EVALUATION OF HAZARD TREES Epicormic shoots are prone to failure° cuts. while Plotanus and Ficus do so infrequently.Topped r s trees require repeated pruning to restructure the crown xxi r%ti, 3 and minimize the failure potential of defects caused by the rapping treatment. :r 33 �y s ,ta t g7g' Il,:�•'7 �::{j 8 -:z1° 0 Figure 3 . Topped trees develop _ _ g _ pp p multiple branches at or near the pruning cut-These branches generally are weakly attached to the headed member and are prone to failure. (Photo courtesy of L. Costello) Figure 29."frees that develop on the edge of groves may fail if excessive weight develops on one side, as occurred with this Monterey pine(Pinus radials).One way this may occur is if expo- sure to sunlight is increased,allowing more foliage to develop in 5� t the exposed area.(Photo courtesy of L.Costello) Excessive thinning The practice of over-thinning is the extensive removal of .<s` . ,;. Ys branches within the canopy (figs. 35, 36). Excessive thin _,� ,y r: '� a _;r i 1• ntng results to reduced support from adjacent branches, � �'1 ,. Y •; �� increased potential for high temperature injury to bark, in- a creased susceptibility to bark beetles and borers, and pro- duction of adventitious shoots. It also creates multiple pruning wounds that may result in a continuous column of Q 't decay if decay from individual pruning cuts coalesces in- side the branches (fig. 37). When over-thinning is com- bined with lions-tailing, the tree may have both decreased "} taper and poor foliage distribution along branches. ' Branch spacing , The position of branches relative to one another is a significant component to hazard. Any pruning practice Figure 31. The attachment or the shoot to a headed trunk. which chancres branch spacing of mature trees, either branch must be considered in rating defects.Shoots arising at the radially or vertically, may increase hazard. Branches site of the cut are more stable if'buttress wood develops around which are well-spaced have a greater opportunity to de- the cut end. velop and maintain strong attachments, and are less likely to Fail than those which are too close to each other (see "Branch Attachment" Figs. 16-17). =` EVALUATING TREES FOR HAZARD 51 v , Table 3 Typical tree defects and factors that increase the potential for failure. II L7C l�l.1 Nm'-:.';�.1: 4 Regrowth from topping cut Fast-growing species r _Regrowth has poor taper, heavy end weight Weak branch attachment, little buttressing Decay in topping cut, ird nesting ole visa e Area prone to snow and ice storms X i Multiple branch attachments Size of all branches similar Narrow angle of attachment ,j . Included bark Crack at base of branch g Heavy end weight Branch development increasingly horizontal Evidence of past branch failure Wounds or decay at branch attachment t Leaning tree Restricted root zone ' Soil mounded behind lean 1. Basal decay in plane of lean Roots opposite lean severed High rainfall area or recent storm (saturated soil) ¢ Continually saturated soil Crown decline High water table present ` Evidence of ground, root or tree failures in area s Mushrooms present at base Exposed to high wind j No basal flare Heavy soil Frequent irrigation, hitting trunk 3 Conks on lower trunk More than 30%of buttress roots decayed Large,dense crown a a Forest tree,trunk with poor taper Adjacent trees removed House construction adjacent of tree Irrigated landscape installed Soil shallow, hardpan present 7 i For example, when taken alone, the presence of a conk horizontal attitude, presence of a codominant branch, along the trunk may not lead to a high rating. However, poor attachment to the parent branch/stem, previous limb when viewed with other considerations like recent stand failures, and extensive pruning (removal) of large limbs. thinning, addition of fill, installation of irrigation, epicor- The absence of such defects would indicate a low poten- mic sprouts along the branches, a basal cavity and a his- tial for branch failure. tory of topping, its presence is far more serious. Each Branches most frequently fail due to: excessive end evaluation must consider basic defects and contributing weight, decay and poor attachment. End weight failures F i factors(table 3) (figs. 115-117). are characterized by failure of the branch at some distance (1—several feet [0.3-2 m]) from the point of attachment Assessing the potential for failure to the trunk (fig. 118). The branch fails when the stress placed upon it exceeds the strength of the wood.It splinters of a branch and frequently twists as it breaks. Excessive end weight. Defects that increase potential for branch failure in- poor branch taper,horizontal attitude,exposure to wind and clude: excessive end weight, minimal taper, wounds and recent crown thinning are indicators of a potential for an associated decay, extensive cankers, exposure, degree of end weight failure. l i q C'W'T".( 1 IN N x r ° ^er3 kr,' �Y s rN }ti a 4 E Australia TOPPING AND SPROUTS Topping stimulates excessive sprouting. The sprouts are unsightly and hazardous. Topping trees under power lines causes more sprouts to grow back into the lines faster. Excessive sprouting is a sign of low energy reserves. i s t } K r t •ham"' � 4 r� � Cx c you r T . 2 r i • �� ,y��.t^,t }'� •'1 ! r�J t Yk. '£ SV.r4. X'�'�{ t t.�z• 3.3£ti s .. 4 ry1 �trya„'�(, C 7 t iy' -� �•'S- ',4zF,' t �+, €rte� ?�' r s? y' IN W"l �. +� Z OCRsh IV .,, 1�� `>4 ���- 'j:•i -mss^ F ..x.`.:.s:�rv'" t ��k� '3'Q' 7•v..S.t - ,""I zyws�•fMoll � V -Ye'-�'�Ft�JH�s�.rr�a-Tia3 .era -�+�' � �•„ �ic�.��,`.���v+ � �"� �. ,r ��'• X;er� � ti• Icy. tiz ,s i i A2 ?". +x a.2� B-111 �C#may. _ w s � s � * s . s• l An epicormic shoot is only attached to the current years xylem tissue. Jk "�5gfN v�3 t < IMI, gi yqg+'$'i.: Ary � ,r }k� •f;�,� T SM 4 ({y a Figure 15-5 A latent red oak bud (note the bud trace [lower arrows]- the bud was formed the first year the branch grew as a shoot) was stimulated to grow by the wound inflicted above it the year before (left). The epicor- mic branch formed is attached only by the current-year's xylem. The bar- rier zone (upper arrows) formed after wounding further physically weaken- ing the branch attachment. Vigorous sprouts forced to grow after heading cuts are similarly attached (right). Note the lack of union (between arrows) of the lateral branch that grew after this coast redwood was headed back (right); even though at least ten years old, the branch is weakly attached. (Left photo courtesy Alex Shiga and Kenneth Dudzik, U.S. For. Serv.) Wf 235x5 SummlI FIX Cos Gatos.GA 95W0 uENSEAISIS . NSUI TING ARgOISE ^' A)wCAICAN SOCIETY OETY Of ULTIHG fk TUBE iMTEANATtONAI SOC Yom. :xu Y- RICHARD ' W HARRIS r� =t SECTION Assignment I.have been asked by Mr. Brian Froelich,Planner,Town of Los Altos Hills,to evaluate the eucalyptus,trees located near the street at the Andrews property,26030 Newbridge Drive, Los Altos Hills, California. vi-a t-y * OU4 yte C ro ya U/te U, t e YL&0 vgk iq M Wt tut f"Q V_ra ,� tu� tckuj 11 'b'�X ef t t- rlLz�V Q..q. -el PV Observations vi elt a_WVt'6 $e There are 14 eucalyptus trees located near at 26030 Newbridge Drive,Los Altos Hills.It appears that there are 3 species E 3 as follows: Trees 4 1, 8, 10, 11, 12—Flooded gum (Eucalyptus Gamaldulansi&) Trees#2, 3—River red gum Eucalyptus camaldulensis Trees#4, 5, 6, 7, 13, 14—Red boy,or Silver I? DQlIar Gum(Eucal 'US polyathemos �i q�J-P_A-V4cCJ- V6 kLt- 6"fl I 51 1� vpng Va CICLV, T X 15PT--�v.)6 soea71 . P. �flrt P_Y W a tke _M� 9 eo %.- OF. forfiK a le ence,I ave affixed metallic labels to each of the 14 trees on the sides eldref Fe UO'Z facing the north. The particulars of these trees(species, tnmk diameter,height, spread, and structure)are included in the attachments that follow this text.Please note on these data sheets that the health and structure of each specimen are rated on a scale of 1-5 (Excellent-Extremely poor which provides the basis for the overall condition rating of each tree,stated above. The condition ratings are ranked using the following range-, (1)Excellent (2)Good, (3) Fair, (4)Poor, (5)Extremely Poor. Excellent Good Fair Poor Extremely Poor Specimens Specimens Specimens Specimens Specimens 2, 3 1, 4, 5, 6, 8,9, 13, 14 10, 11, 12 Methods The trunk measurements of the existing trees are taken using a standard measuring tape at 4 'h feet above soil grade,except those specimens whose form does not allow a representative measurement at this height This is referred to as DBH(Diameter at Breast Height). The height and canopy spread of each tree is estimated using visual references only. Tree# 1 Tree# I is a Flooded gum(Eucalyptus rudis).The flooded gum species is described as a small tree,30-50 feet in height with a trunk diameter of 1 '/z to 3 feet when mature. Tree# I is located approirnately 25 feet from the curb of Newbridge Drive.This tree is moderately sparse and has a small quantity of branch tip die back in the top portions of the canopy.Adjacent to this tree, there is a footing,which has been constructed apparently for an entry gate- I observed 3 —2 inch diameter roots that have been severed Hall,Johnson,Chippendale,Forest Trees of Australia,Australian Department bf Agriculture,Forestry and Timber Bureau,Australian Government Publishing Service,Canberra, 1975,p 103. in the face of the soil cut for the footing. In my opinion,this root damage would not likely seriously threaten the stability of this tree. The present canopy die back may not be related to the severed roots, because die back is typically a delayed response by several months. This tree has two limbs that are long and horizontally inclined. The foliage of these two lower limbs is dense.The risk of breakage of these two limbs is higher than other parts of the tree due to dense foliage and the heavy end-weight of each.This risk of breakage could be reduced by end-weight reduction pruning. The density of the canopy should improve by occasional irrigation during the dry months of the year.However, occasional irrigation usually produces greater density, heavier endweights, and greater risks of breakage_In this event,frequent pruning possibly annually would be required.Typically pruning most eucalyptus species every 3 to 4 years would minimise the risk of limb breakage if'the pruning were done properly. The lerp psyllid insects in small numbers(24 lerps) are found on a few leaves, but this is not an infestation. However,this insect could explain the upper canopy die back,which at this point is minimal. Tree# 1 currently does not appear to pose a significant hazard.It could become a risk of limb drop in time if left unpruned. I recommend that this tree be preserved with the provision that it would be pruned every 3-5 years_ However, I presume that this species(E. rudis)produces aggressive roots typical of most eucalyptus species. In a few years (5-10 years estimated)it is likely that the roots of this tree would heave the adjacent driveway (to be constructed).Root barriers are not usually very effective, especially over the long term. I would not oppose the removal of this tree either at this time as a preventative measure or in the future should damage to the new driveway start to occur. Tree#2 Trees#2 and 3 are River red gum (Eucalyp s camaldulensis). This species is described as a medium to moderately tall tree,usually with a large trunk diameter. It is commonly 80-120 feet in height,This species has been highly susceptible to the lerp psyllid insect in recent years in California. However,no lerp psyllids were observed on these two Trees# 2 and 3. This tree leans at approximately 5 degrees from vertical near the base of the tree and leans approximately 1.0 degrees from vertical of the upper half of the canopy.Lean is not typically a major concern unless the root system has been compromised,which does not appear to be the case at this time. The overall canopy appears to be slightly sparse, but this is not a major concern. Tree#2 currently does not appear to pose a significant hazard.It could become a risk of limb drop in time if left unpruned.I recommend that this tree be preserved with the provision that it would be pruned every 3-5 years. Tree#3 Tree#3 appears to be in relatively good condition. Its branching structure is better than most eucalyptus specimens that I observe.The branch connections are well formed, and these appears to be little risk of breakage. However,a new water meter and a new PVB (Pressure Vacuum Breaker)have been installed approximately 4-6 feet from the trunk at the street.The location of the main lines appears to cross the root zone of Tree#3,but the location of these lines(the main line for house service and the main line for landscape irrigation) is not obvious at this time. If large roots were severed for this installation,this tree may have been rendered unstable. The locations of these lines should be verified by the contractor and evaluated by a qualified arborist. If the stability of this tree does not appear to have been compromised by the trenching or excavation of the water service,I recommend that Tree#3 be preserved provided that it would be properly pruned every 3-5 years. Tree#4 Tree#4 has a co-dominant leader attached at an acute angle at about 12 inches above grade. This structure often results in the failure of the limb that is more horizontally inclined (the north side leader). I recommend that this leader be removed. There is a another attachment with the same problem at about 10 feet above grade on the north side. This could also be addressed by pruning.However,trees that have this structural � - tend to produce additional poor attachments of this type as they develope. This risk of failure could be greatly reduced or minimized by proper pruning every 3-5 years, sometimes more often depending on the vigor of the tree. I recommend that this tree be preserved,provided it be pruned at least every 3-5 years. Tree#5 Tree#5 has previously suffered a co-dominant leader failure. There is an open wound from this event at the base of the trunk on the north side.' tree has two additional co-dominaC. �raneh connections at approximately 30 and 40 feet above grade. One of each of these branch connections .Gould be removed to reduce the risk of breakage. Although this pruning may greatly reduce the risk of branch breakage,there is no guarantee that a break could not occurr. I recommend that this tree be revA 0 Ire. . i M Tree#6 This tree had previously been topped at about 12 inches above grade.The resulting watersprout growth from the stump now forms the canopy. This is an extremely weak structure, because watersprouts are naturally poorly attached. This is because they were formed from the buds existed in the outter layer of wood at the time main leader was topped.These watersprouts will always be attached to only the outter layers of wood. For this reason,they frequently split out from the original leader. The risk becomes greater as the tree matures and the watersprouts become heavier.It appears that the leader facing the northwest would be the most vulnerable to failure,because of its semi-horizontal angle. If this leader splits out,the other two watersprouts would become at greater risk of failure,due to the reduced connective tissue at the base of the trunk. cabling the 3 leaders using a triangular method may reduce the risk of breakage. if preserved,I recommend that it be pruned at least every 2 years, E&-u— alternative would be to remove it. I Tree#7 f Tree#7 has suffered 3 previous failures at approximately 15,20 and 30 feet above grade on the southeast side. There is currently an open wound at each of these locations. It is likely that these open wounds will develop into cavities in the future even after they become sealed over by floem tissue and baric.Even if cavities do not develop,internal cracks often do as a result of drying of the xylem_This becomes an internal weakness that is not readily observable from the outside as the tree matures.In a few years, after the tree becomes larger, a tree with these internal weaknesses, snap and break. There is no effective way to reduce this risk by pruning.In my opinion,this tree will become hazardous over time.For this reason,I recommend that this tree be removed. Tree#S This tree has suffered 2 previous failures at approximately 5 and 15 feet above grade. The existing structure has codominant leaders with included bark. This structure is highly prone to breakage. R v it is not possible to accurately predict when the failure would occur. One option would be to severely prune one of the leaders. This procedure is called pruning for dominance.The hope is that the surviving leader would eventually become dominant. ` 6e toption would be to remove this tree. Tree#9 J Tree#9 may be assumed to be a shrub. It is currently only about 8 feet in height,because it had been previously topped at about b inches above grade. Numerous watersprouts have emerged from the stump.If this tree would be preserved, I recommend that it be preserved as a large shrub. In this event,it would require annual pruning for 5-7 years, then pruning evey 3-5 years there after. Tree#10 It appears that the two leaders have been topped either mechanically or naturally. Frequent pruning(every 3-5 years)would be required to manage this specimen. I recommend that this tree be preserved,provided it be pruned at least every 3-5 years. Tree#11 49 This tree has suffered several recent bark injuries.Mr.Andrews reports that this was done by P.G. and E.workers. This tree may not be able to seal the largest of these wounds without the development of a cavity or internal cracks. I recommend that this tree be removed for the same reasons described with Tree#7. , Tree# 12 One of the primary leaders has been removed leaving a single leader that crosses Tree# 11. This is awkward but does not appear to pose a risk at this time. I recommend that this tree be preserved,provided it would be pruned at least every 3-5 years. Tree#13 This tree has co-dominant leaders with included bark at 5.feet above grade.These two leaders currently pose a high risk of splitting apart, A previous co-dominant failure has occurred at about 4 feet above grade. If this tree would be preserved, Wuld require annual pruning for 5-7 years, then pruning every 3-5 years there after. The est` altemative would be to remove it. Tree#14 Tree# 14 had bee previously topped at approximately 6 inches above grade.There are 3 surviving leaders.The leader on the west side had previously split apart from the other 3 stems. These surviving leaders are watersprouts,which are inherently weak and prone to failure. The dense canopy increases this risk.The 3 surviving leaders appear to be too close together to make cabling effective. Trenches have been cut inside the dripline to install drain lines on both the north and the south sides of the trunk. There a 4 inch diameter root has been severed and left on the adjacent pile of soil. Additional pieces of roots are observed in the adjacent file of soil.The result of the root damage,it is likely that the canopy will decline, as well as a general weakening of the entire structure.I recommend that this tree be removed. Respectfully submitted,NEB/BDC