CC 2020-10-27_08i Consolidating South County Transit into Regional Transit Authority
MEMORANDUM
TO: CITY COUNCIL
FROM: WHITNEY MCDONALD, CITY MANAGER
BY: GEOFF STRAW, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, SAN LUIS OBISPO
REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY
SUBJECT: CONSIDERATION OF A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF
THE AMENDED AND RESTATED JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT FOR
THE SAN LUIS OBISPO REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY ALLOWING
CONSOLIDATION OF SOUTH COUNTY TRANSIT INTO THE SAN LUIS
OBISPO REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY, AND APPROVING THE
TERMINATION OF THE SOUTH COUNTY AREA TRANSIT JOINT
POWERS AGREEMENT, ASSIGNMENT OF ASSETS TO THE SAN LUIS
OBISPO REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY, AND CEASING
OPERATIONS OF SOUTH COUNTY TRANSIT AS A SEPARATE ENTITY
DATE: OCTOBER 27, 2020
SUMMARY OF ACTION:
Consolidation of South County Transit into the San Luis Obispo Regional Transit
Authority, including transfer of all assets and obligations, effective January 1, 2021.
IMPACT ON FINANCIAL AND PERSONNEL RESOURCES:
The City and the other three member jurisdictions of South County Transit are anticipated
to experience cost savings and avoidance of future farebox recovery-related financial
penalties. These financial benefits will reduce the current and future demand for limited
Local Transportation Funds (LTF), which is statutorily prioritized for funding public transit
services. Reducing LTF for transit thereby increases the amount remaining for
streets/roads and other eligible transportation projects. No or minimal future staff time is
projected.
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended the City Council adopt a Resolution authorizing execution of the
Amended and Restated Joint Powers Agreement for the San Luis Obispo Regional
Transit Authority, terminating the South County Area Transit Joint Powers Agreement,
assigning assets to the San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority, and ceasing
operations of South County Transit as a separate entity.
Item 8.i. - Page 1
CITY COUNCIL
CONSIDERATION OF A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF THE
AMENDED AND RESTATED JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT FOR THE SAN LUIS
OBISPO REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY ALLOWING CONSOLIDATION OF SOUTH
COUNTY TRANSIT INTO THE SAN LUIS OBISPO REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY,
AND APPROVING THE TERMINATION OF THE SOUTH COUNTY AREA TRANSIT
JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT, ASSIGNMENT OF ASSETS TO THE SAN LUIS
OBISPO REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY, AND CEASING OPERATIONS OF SOUTH
COUNTY TRANSIT AS A SEPARATE ENTITY
OCTOBER 27, 2020
PAGE 2
BACKGROUND:
The City of Arroyo Grande (City) is a member of the South County Area Transit (SoCo
Transit) Joint Powers Authority (JPA), which supplies fixed-route public transportation
services in the cities of Arroyo Grande, Grover Beach and Pismo Beach, and the
unincorporated area of Oceano, as well as trolley service in the unincorporated area of
Avila Beach. Other member agencies of the SoCo Transit JPA include the cities of Grover
Beach and Pismo Beach, as well as the County of San Luis Obispo representing the
communities of Avila Beach and Oceano.
The City is also a member of the San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority (RTA) JPA.
Other members of the RTA JPA include the cities of Atascadero, Grover Beach, Morro
Bay, Paso Robles, Pismo Beach and San Luis Obispo, as well as the County of San Luis
Obispo. In addition, SoCo Transit has received professional administrative services,
vehicle maintenance, and operations oversight services by contract with the RTA since
1997.
Following significant analysis by RTA and San Luis Obispo Council of Governments
(SLOCOG) staff members over the past several years, and following recommendations
by the Triennial Performance Auditor, the SoCo Transit Board of Directors voted in
January 2018 to request consolidation into the RTA. At its March 7, 2018 meeting, the
RTA Board of Directors conceptually agreed to the consolidation, pending further action
by the SLOCOG Board of Directors, which was ultimately taken at its April 4, 2018
meeting (described below).
Following these actions by the SoCo Transit Board and the RTA Board of Directors, RTA
undertook efforts to transition its management employees from CalPERS into the SLO
County Pension Trust between late 2018 through early 2020. During this time, the SoCo
Transit Board and the RTA Board suspended other efforts on consolidation. Both Boards
are now desirous of a January 1st transition date to complete the consolidation of SoCo
Transit into the RTA in order to minimize financial impacts to the four existing full-time
SoCo Transit employees who are enrolled in the existing healthcare program.
ANALYSIS OF ISSUES:
Continued Local Control Post-Consolidation
Of particular interest to the SoCo Transit jurisdictions is the issue of continued local
control over the local fixed-route services operated within the Five Cities Area. To that
end, local fixed-route service levels (days, hours, routes, etc.), marketing efforts, and
operating/capital budgets for South County local fixed-routes would be solely controlled
Item 8.i. - Page 2
CITY COUNCIL
CONSIDERATION OF A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF THE
AMENDED AND RESTATED JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT FOR THE SAN LUIS
OBISPO REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY ALLOWING CONSOLIDATION OF SOUTH
COUNTY TRANSIT INTO THE SAN LUIS OBISPO REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY,
AND APPROVING THE TERMINATION OF THE SOUTH COUNTY AREA TRANSIT
JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT, ASSIGNMENT OF ASSETS TO THE SAN LUIS
OBISPO REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY, AND CEASING OPERATIONS OF SOUTH
COUNTY TRANSIT AS A SEPARATE ENTITY
OCTOBER 27, 2020
PAGE 3
through a new standing RTA South County Transit Committee (SCTC). The SCTC would
be comprised of the RTA Board members from the cities of Arroyo Grande, Grover Beach,
and Pismo Beach, as well as one member from the Board of Supervisors. As detailed in
the amended and restated RTA JPA, the SCTC would meet at least annually to address
public transit issues of interest to the SCTC members and to consider the following year’s
budget for local public transit services in the Five Cities Area. Funding of the local services
authorized by the SCTC would be borne by the cities of Arroyo Grande, Grover Beach
and Pismo Beach, as well as the County on behalf of the communities of Oceano and
Avila Beach. A red-lined version depicting changes to the RTA amended and restated
Joint Powers Agreement is provided, as well as a “clean” version for execution.
Financial Impacts
Consolidation of SoCo Transit services into the RTA has significant net financial benefits
for the SoCo Transit jurisdictions. While the annual costs for healthcare1 and for workers
compensation coverage would increase under consolidation, the annual costs for
administration oversight, payroll processing, financial audits, and service planning would
be reduced by a larger margin. Most importantly, SLOCOG agreed to a concession at its
April 4, 2018 meeting on farebox recovery ratio requirements under consolidation in the
Arroyo Grande – Grover Beach Urbanized Area that will have long-term financial benefits
for the RTA and its future SCTC member jurisdictions. The principal benefit to the SCTC
member jurisdictions is that consolidation would avoid a roughly $70,000 annual penalty
for failing to achieve the new, higher State of California 20% farebox recovery ratio
requirement that was triggered by the Federal designation of the area as “urban” in the
2010 Census (it was 10% prior to the urban designation). Prior to the 2010 Census
urbanized designation, SoCo Transit never failed to meet the 10% non-urbanized fare
box recovery ratio requirement. While this new 20% requirement would appear to be an
overly onerous requirement, the urbanized designation resulted in several hundred
thousand dollars in annual Federal Transit Administration formula funding, which reduced
the annual Transportation Development Act fund allocations required by the City and the
three other SoCo Transit jurisdictions. In summary, while some operating costs would
increase under consolidation (principally as it relates to provision of healthcare benefits),
1 SoCo Transit is deemed a “small employer” under the Affordable Care Act because it has fewer than 50
employees, and is not required to provide healthcare coverage to employees working fewer than 35 hours
per week. Conversely, the RTA is deemed a “large employer” and must provide healthcare for employees
who work more than 30 hours per week. Consolidation would require that six additional part-time/non-
healthcare covered employees be provided healthcare as RTA employees.
Item 8.i. - Page 3
CITY COUNCIL
CONSIDERATION OF A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF THE
AMENDED AND RESTATED JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT FOR THE SAN LUIS
OBISPO REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY ALLOWING CONSOLIDATION OF SOUTH
COUNTY TRANSIT INTO THE SAN LUIS OBISPO REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY,
AND APPROVING THE TERMINATION OF THE SOUTH COUNTY AREA TRANSIT
JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT, ASSIGNMENT OF ASSETS TO THE SAN LUIS
OBISPO REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY, AND CEASING OPERATIONS OF SOUTH
COUNTY TRANSIT AS A SEPARATE ENTITY
OCTOBER 27, 2020
PAGE 4
the on-going net benefit to the SCTC member jurisdictions is anticipated to total $82,000
annually.
Next Steps
Upon approval of resolutions by each SoCo Transit member jurisdiction, the South
County Area Transit Joint Powers Agreement would be terminated and all assets would
be transferred to the RTA effective December 31, 2020 at 11:59 PM. Upon approval of
resolutions by the remaining cities of Atascadero, Morro Bay, Paso Robles and San Luis
Obispo, as well as by the County of San Luis Obispo and finally by the RTA Board of
Directors on December 2, 2020, the RTA amended and restated Joint Powers Agreement
would become effective on January 1, 2021 at 12:00 AM. This date was chosen because
it corresponds with the annual start date of employees’ healthcare plans, and thus would
minimize disruptions for valued former SoCo Transit employees.
ALTERNATIVES:
The following alternatives are provided for the Council’s consideration:
1. Approve staff’s recommendations;
2. Do not approve staff’s recommendations and request further information;
3. Modify staff’s recommendation and approve; or
4. Provide direction to staff.
ADVANTAGES:
Approval of the Resolution will result in an elimination of duplicate efforts currently
undertaken by SoCo Transit and RTA staff, thereby reducing administrative oversight
costs and demand for limited Local Transportation Funds (LTF). Reduced LTF for transit
allows increased use of the funds for streets/roads and other eligible transportation
needs. In addition, consolidation eliminates current and future farebox recovery ratio
financial penalties, thereby reducing the need for potential future local transit service cuts.
DISADVANTAGES:
Over time – as capital equipment ages out and is replaced with RTA equipment – the
established SoCo Transit brand will “melt away.” While this is a relatively minor
disadvantage, it will be incumbent upon the RTA to effectively communicate this change
with riders, social service agency representatives, advertisers, etc.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW:
No environmental review is required for this item.
Item 8.i. - Page 4
CITY COUNCIL
CONSIDERATION OF A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF THE
AMENDED AND RESTATED JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT FOR THE SAN LUIS
OBISPO REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY ALLOWING CONSOLIDATION OF SOUTH
COUNTY TRANSIT INTO THE SAN LUIS OBISPO REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY,
AND APPROVING THE TERMINATION OF THE SOUTH COUNTY AREA TRANSIT
JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT, ASSIGNMENT OF ASSETS TO THE SAN LUIS
OBISPO REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY, AND CEASING OPERATIONS OF SOUTH
COUNTY TRANSIT AS A SEPARATE ENTITY
OCTOBER 27, 2020
PAGE 5
PUBLIC NOTIFICATION AND COMMENTS:
The Agenda was posted at City Hall and on the City’s website in accordance with
Government Code Section 54954.2.
Attachment:
1. Agreement w/changes in redline
Item 8.i. - Page 5
RESOLUTION NO.
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF ARROYO GRANDE
AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF THE AMENDED AND
RESTATED JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT FOR THE SAN LUIS
OBISPO REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY, TERMINATING THE
SOUTH COUNTY AREA TRANSIT JOINT POWERS
AGREEMENT, ASSIGNING ASSETS TO THE SAN LUIS OBISPO
REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY, AND CEASING
OPERATIONS OF SOUTH COUNTY TRANSIT AS A SEPARATE
ENTITY
WHEREAS, South County Transit is a Joint Powers Authority that provides fixed-route
public transportation services in the cities of Arroyo Grande, Grover Beach and Pismo
Beach and the unincorporated area of Oceano, as well as trolley service in the
unincorporated area of Avila Beach, as authorized under a Joint Powers Agreement
originally enacted in 1978 and subsequently amended in 2001 and 2016; and
WHEREAS, South County Transit has received professional administrative services,
vehicle maintenance, and operations oversight under contract to the San Luis Obispo
Regional Transit Authority since 1997; and
WHEREAS, both South County Transit Board of Directors and the San Luis Obispo
Regional Transit Authority Board of Directors have extensively discussed the possibility
of consolidating South County Transit into the San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority
to realize cost efficiencies and to avoid farebox recovery ratio penalties in the South
County Transit service area; and
WHEREAS, the San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority Board of Directors will
consider an amended and restated Joint Powers Agreement that consolidates South
County Transit services into the agency at its December 2, 2020 meeting; and
WHEREAS, the amended and restated Joint Powers Agreement for the San Luis Obispo
Regional Transit Authority includes provisions that allow local control of service levels and
budgetary control for fixed-route services in the Arroyo Grande – Grover Beach Urbanized
Area, which includes the cities of Arroyo Grande, Grover Beach and Pismo Beach, as
well as the unincorporated communities of Avila Beach and Oceano; and
WHEREAS, the amended and restated Joint Powers Agreement for the San Luis Obispo
Regional Transit Authority will become effective at 12:00 AM on January 1, 2021, if ratified
by the County of San Luis Obispo Board of Supervisors and by each of the seven City
Councils in the county; and
WHEREAS, the existing South County Area Transit Joint Powers Agreement states that
the Agency may sell, lease or assign all of its real and personal property and may cease
operations upon such terms and conditions as the South County Transit Board of
Directors determines to be reasonable and upon affirmative vote by all member agencies;
and
Item 8.i. - Page 6
RESOLUTION NO.
PAGE 2
WHEREAS, the existing South County Area Transit Joint Powers Agreement also states
that the Agreement shall continue in full force and effect until cancelled by affirmative vote
of a majority of the member agencies, and
WHEREAS, the South County Transit Board of Directors resolved at its October 6, 2020
meeting to terminate the South County Area Transit Joint Powers Agreement effective
11:59 PM on December 31, 2020, upon ratification of the majority of the member
agencies, and upon full ratification of the amended and restated Joint Powers Agreement
for the San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority by its member agencies.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Arroyo Grande
that:
SECTION 1. The City Council hereby finds and determines that all of the recitals are true
and correct and are incorporated herein by reference.
SECTION 2. The City Council supports consolidation of South County Transit into the
San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority, termination of the South County Area Transit
Joint Powers Agreement, assignment of assets to the San Luis Obispo Regional Transit
Authority, and ceasing operations of South County Transit as a separate entity.
SECTION 3. The Mayor is directed to execute this resolution to terminate the South
County Area Transit Joint Powers Agreement, assign assets to the San Luis Obispo
Regional Transit Authority, and cease operations of South County Transit as a separate
entity.
SECTION 4. The Mayor is directed to execute the San Luis Obispo Regional Transit
Authority Amended and Restated Joint Powers Agreement attached hereto as Exhibit A.
On motion by Council Member _____________, seconded by Council Member
_____________ and on the following roll call vote, to wit:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
The foregoing Resolution was passed and adopted this 27th day of October, 2020.
Item 8.i. - Page 7
RESOLUTION NO.
PAGE 3
___________________________________
CAREN RAY RUSSOM, MAYOR
ATTEST:
___________________________________
KELLY WETMORE, CITY CLERK
APPROVED AS TO CONTENT:
____________________________________
WHITNEY McDONALD, CITY MANAGER
APPROVED AS FORM:
____________________________________
TIMOTHY J. CARMEL, CITY ATTORNEY
Item 8.i. - Page 8
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SAN LUIS OBISPO REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY
AMENDED AND RESTATED JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT
WITNESSETH:
This Agreement is made and entered into this 9th day of March, 1990, and
amended on 2nd day of September, 1998, and further amended on the 24th day of June,
2013, by and among the incorporated cities of Arroyo Grande, Atascadero, El Paso de
Robles, Grover Beach, Morro Bay, Pismo Beach and San Luis Obispo, all being
municipal corporations in the County of San Luis Obispo, California (hereinafter called
“Cities”) and the County of San Luis Obispo, a body politic and corporate, and a
subdivision of the State of California, (hereinafter called “County”).
WHEREAS, Section 6500 et seq. of the California Government Code (Title 1,
Div. 7, Chapter 5, Article 1) provides for agreements between two or more public
agencies to jointly exercise any power common to the contracting parties, subject to
certain mandatory provisions contained therein; and
WHEREAS, the Cities and County have previously entered into a joint powers
agreement for the formation of the San Luis Obispo Council of Governments for the
purpose of providing, among other things, for a regional transportation agency; and
WHEREAS, the San Luis Obispo Council of Governments, at a regularly held
meeting on May 10, 1989, voted to consolidate the administration of several
transportation systems through a regional transit joint powers agreement.
WHEREAS, the cities of Arroyo Grande, Grover Beach and Pismo Beach, and
the County of San Luis Obispo, were formerly members of the South County Area
Transit Joint Powers Agency which began operating a public transit system within those
jurisdictions in January, 1978, and which ceased to exist and transferred its assets to
the San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority in return for amendments made to this
Agreement effective January 1, 2021.
NOW THEREFORE, it is agreed as follows:
ARTICLE I
General Provisions
Section 1. Purpose: The purpose of this Agreement is to exercise the common
powers of the member agencies for the formation of a Joint Powers Agreement with full
power and authority to own, operate and administer a county-wide public transportation
system within the boundaries and over the territory over which the Joint Powers Agency
has jurisdiction.
Section 2. Name: The official name of the entity shall be San Luis Obispo
Regional Transit Authority and hereafter referred to as the RTA.
EXHIBIT A
Item 8.i. - Page 9
2
ARTICLE II
Organization
Section 1. Board Members: The membership of the RTA Governing Board shall
be the same as the membership of the San Luis Obispo Council of Governments
(hereinafter referred to as SLOCOG).
Section 2. Board Meetings - Voting - Quorum: Regular meetings shall be
generally held in the first week of July, September, November, January, March and May
or as specified in a biannually adopted meeting calendar. Special meetings may be
called by the President or upon written request of at least three (3) members of the RTA
Board.
Voting and quorum provisions shall be the same as those provided in the
SLOCOG Joint Powers Agreement, however, any vote regarding local fixed-route
services or other public transportation services operated solely within the Arroyo
Grande – Grover Beach Urbanized Area, including the budgeting and funding of such
services, shall require at least three affirmative votes from Board members who also sit
on the South County Transit Committee.
Section 3. Officers: The officers of SLOCOG shall serve as officers of RTA.
Section 4. Executive Director: The RTA Board shall designate an Executive
Director to operate the RTA. The Executive Director shall serve at the pleasure of the
RTA Board, with delegated powers to certify documents of the RTA Board as required
by the law and to assume such duties and responsibilities as the Board may direct.
Section 5. Members:
1. The County of San Luis Obispo and all cities incorporated in the County of
San Luis Obispo presently or in the future, are declared eligible for
membership.
2. Member city agencies may elect to have an alternate member(s) from
their city council in addition to any official member, but said alternate(s)
shall be able to vote only in the absence of the official representative.
3. Membership shall be contingent upon the execution of this Joint Powers
Agreement.
Section 6. Boundaries and Service Levels: The service area boundaries shall be
all of the area within the boundaries of San Luis Obispo County as designated by the
RTA Board. Any additional services beyond the level recommended by the Regional
Transportation Plan or mandated in the Unmet Transit Needs Hearing (PUC Section
99401.5) may be instituted, but shall require unanimous approval of affected
Item 8.i. - Page 10
3
jurisdictions, with costs for the extra service to be distributed on the basis of formula
developed by the RTA Board members representing the affected jurisdictions.
Section 7. Committees:
1. Committees and subcommittees may be established as RTA may deem
appropriate.
2. Membership on “ad-Hoc” policy committees shall be at the discretion of
the President. Nothing herein shall be construed to limit membership on
these aforesaid committees to officials of the member agencies. The
President may appoint any individual deemed qualified to serve on a
committee.
3. Standing committees shall include the:
a. Regional Transit Advisory Committee (RTAC) serving as a
Regional Transit Productivity Committee to advise the Board on the
efficiency and effectiveness of the transit system.
b. Executive Committee comprised of the President, Vice President
and the past President and at least one representatives from the
county of San Luis Obispo (if none of the above) shall advise the
Executive Director and RTA on: draft agendas, personnel issues,
budget and Overall Work Program; controversial, sensitive and
major policy issues; and shall facilitate the annual performance
evaluation of the Executive Director. Items for review shall be
selected by the Executive Director in consultation with the
President. All Committee members may include agenda items as
they desire. For purposes of conducting business, two members
shall constitute a quorum.
c. South County Transit Committee (SCTC) comprised of RTA Board
members representing the four jurisdictions included in the Arroyo
Grande – Grover Beach Urbanized Area as defined in the 2010
Decennial Census (hereinafter referred to as the AG-GB UZA). The
SCTC member jurisdictions include the cities of Arroyo Grande,
Grover Beach and Pismo Beach, and the County of San Luis
Obispo, representing the Oceano Area and the Avila Beach Area.
The SCTC’s roles and responsibilities include:
i. The SCTC shall effectively control local fixed-route
services and any other public transportation services
operated solely within the AG-GB UZA by virtue of the
voting requirements for matters provided above in
Section 2 of this Article II.
Item 8.i. - Page 11
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ii. At a minimum, the SCTC shall meet annually to consider
annual service levels, fare levels, major marketing
campaigns, capital improvement plans, and to ratify
financial commitments for each jurisdiction participating
in public transportation services operated solely within
the AG-GB UZA. At the request of two or more SCTC
members, properly noticed special SCTC meetings may
also be conducted.
iii. For purposes of conducting business, three of the four
SCTC members shall constitute a quorum.
iv. The SCTC shall submit an annual operating budget and
multi-year capital improvement plan for fixed-route and
other public transportation services operated solely within
the AG-GB UZA to the full RTA Board prior to May 1 for
consideration as part of the RTA Overall Annual Budget.
v. Any additional services beyond the level recommended
by the Regional Transportation Plan or mandated in the
annual Unmet Transit Needs Hearing (PUC Section
99401.5) may be instituted in the SCTC service area, but
shall require unanimous approval of affected jurisdictions,
with costs for the extra service to be distributed on the
basis of a formula developed by the SCTC members
representing the affected jurisdictions.
vi. Each SCTC member agency shall make an annual
Transportation Development Act contribution based upon
the percentage of total SCTC-served population related
to the area served within that member agency. All
population percentages utilized shall be those annually
adopted by the San Luis Obispo Council of Governments
for allocating Transportation Development Act Funds
based annually on estimates prepared by the State
Department of Finance pursuant to Section 2227 of the
Revenue and Taxation Code for Cities and by the County
Planning and Building Department for unincorporated
communities.
vii. Any member of the SCTC may withdraw from the SCTC
after providing written notice to the RTA Board President
one year in advance of the requested withdrawal date. A
withdrawing member’s financial obligation under this
subsection is limited to the withdrawing member’s pro-
Item 8.i. - Page 12
5
rata share of the currently adopted SCTC operating
budget within the service area of the obligated
commitments affecting the withdrawing member and any
San Luis Obispo Council of Governments finding as to
Unmet Transit Needs that are Reasonable to Meet
pursuant to Public Utilities Code Section 99401.5.
However, the obligations of a withdrawing member under
this subsection are limited to the special transportation
funds to which the withdrawing member would be
entitled, such as Transportation Development Act funds,
and this section shall not impose any obligation on the
general funds of the withdrawing member.
4. No committee shall commit the RTA on any matter or questions of policy.
Such matters or questions can only be decided by the RTA.
5. All committees shall receive clerical assistance from RTA staff and, by
agreement, SLOCOG staff for the purpose of maintaining minutes of
meetings and other such duties as the Executive Director may direct. The
chair of each committee shall sign the original copy of the minutes
indicating verification of contents upon committee approval. Copies of
minutes of all meetings shall be sent to members of the RTA and the
Executive Director.
ARTICLE III
Financial Provisions
Section 1. Budget: The Executive Director shall prepare an Overall Annual
Budget for RTA Board adoption prior to commencement of each fiscal year. The Overall
Annual Budget shall include financial details on core RTA services, as well as financial
details for those various public transportation services provided under agreement to
other agencies. Core RTA services include intercity fixed-routes along the US-101 and
SR-1 corridors, and regional Americans with Disabilities Act complementary paratransit
services. The approval of the Overall Annual Budget shall be in accordance with those
procedures prescribed by the Joint Powers Agreement of SLOCOG.
The annual operating and capital budgets for non-core services provided under
agreement to another agency requires ratification by its governing body prior to
consideration of the Overall Annual Budget by the RTA Board.
Accounting practices to be applied will conform to those used by San Luis
Obispo County, consistent with Transportation Development Act rules and regulations.
A Consolidated Fund balance and cash balance for RTA core services will carry
forward from one year to the next. Separate Consolidated Fund balances and cash
balances will be maintained for public transportation services provided by RTA under
Item 8.i. - Page 13
6
agreement to other agencies, including those public transportation services provided
under the direction of the SCTC.
The Overall Annual Budget may additionally carry funds for future fiscal years
where necessary to develop a multi-year Capital Improvement Program and to reflect
obligations under state or federal funding agreements, to the extent allowable by
California law.
No member Agency shall be required to expend any of its general fund monies to
support the operations of the RTA. The operation of the transit system shall be funded
from revenues derived from operations, member Transportation Development Act fund
contributions, grants, and any other appropriate revenue sources. Each member agency
shall make an annual contribution to the RTA in accordance with the adopted budget.
Any formula may be amended upon approval of all jurisdictions affected by that
formula and ratified by the RTA.
All population percentages utilized shall be those annually adopted by SLOCOG
for allocating Transportation Development Act Funds based annually on estimates
prepared by the State Department of Finance pursuant to Section 2227 of the Revenue
and Taxation Code for cities and by the County Planning and Building Department for
unincorporated communities.
Section 2. Expenditures: The RTA may establish procedures and policies to
insure competitive prices for the purchases of goods and services. Formal bidding shall
not be required unless directed specifically by the RTA or unless required by state or
federal law. Particularly in the purchase of equipment, including buses, the RTA may
consider the design, maintenance and operating costs, and other similar factors in
determining the most suitable equipment and need not purchase equipment having the
lowest initial cost.
Section 3. Treasurer and Auditor: Pursuant to Government Code Section 6505.5,
the Treasurer of the County of San Luis Obispo is hereby designated as Treasurer of
the RTA. The Treasurer shall have the powers and duties set forth in Government Code
Section 6505.5. The Auditor/Controller of the County of San Luis Obispo is designated
as the Auditor of the RTA pursuant to Government Code Section 6505.5.
Section 4. Annual Audit: The RTA shall cause an annual audit to be prepared
and filed in accordance with Government Code Section 6505 and Public Utilities Code
Section 99245. This audit shall include RTA core services, as well as those service
provided under agreement for other agencies.
Section 5. Annual Report: The Executive Director shall prepare and submit an
annual report of the operations to the RTA Board, SLOCOG and State Controller by
January 31 following each fiscal year pursuant to Public Utilities Code, Section 99243.
Item 8.i. - Page 14
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Section 6. Periodic Reporting: The RTA Board may require periodic reporting of
ridership, finances, or other information. This periodic reporting shall include RTA core
services, as well as those service provided under agreement to other agencies. It shall
be the responsibility of the Executive Director to provide such reports in a form
acceptable to the RTA Board.
ARTICLE IV
Authority
Section 1. Powers: The RTA shall have all Powers necessary to carry out the
purpose of this Agreement, except the power to tax. Its power to expend funds shall be
limited only by the availability of funds as set forth in ARTICLE III: Finances, Section 1.
The Powers of the RTA specifically include, but are not limited to, the following:
1. To solicit bids and negotiate contracts from private enterprise for services
and/or operation.
2. To sue or be sued.
3. To employ agents, employees and contract for professional services.
4. To make and enter contracts, including labor, purchase agreement and
employment contracts.
5. To acquire, convey, construct, manage, maintain and operate necessary
equipment, building and improvements.
6. To acquire and convey real and personal property.
7. To incur debts, liabilities and obligations, as well as obligations of financial
assistance from State and Federal agencies, and to obligate RTA to
operate the improvements, equipment or transportation system in
accordance with the terms and conditions of said financial assistance.
8. To purchase insurance.
9. To develop policies and procedures necessary to remain in compliance
with Federal Transit Administration Section 5307 Urbanized Area Formula
Program and other federal grant program funding requirements.
Section 2. RTA is a Public Legal Entity: The RTA is a public entity duly formed
and existing under the laws of the State of California. It is a separate and distinct legal
entity from its member agencies. The debts, duties and obligations created pursuant to
Item 8.i. - Page 15
8
this Agreement, shall be solely the obligations of the RTA and not those of its officers,
employees, members of the Board of Directors or the member agencies.
ARTICLE V
Miscellaneous Provisions
Section 1. Withdrawal of Member: A withdrawing member’s financial obligation
under this Section is limited to the withdrawing member’s pro-rata share of the currently
adopted operating budget based upon ARTICLE III, Section 1 within the service area of
the obligated commitments affecting the withdrawing member and any SLOCOG’s
finding as to unmet transit needs that are reasonable to meet pursuant to Public Utilities
Code Section 99401.5.
Section 2. Amendment of Agreement: No amendment to this Agreement shall be
made without the consent of all member agencies at the time of the amendment.
Section 3. Ratification - Effective Date: This Agreement shall be deemed
effective as to those parties executing this Agreement upon their execution of the
Agreement.
Section 4. Assignability: In the event it is deemed in the best public interest to
have the RTA operated by another individual or entity, whether public or private, and
provided that the assignment complies with State and Federal laws, the RTA, on
affirmative vote of the majority in accordance with Section 2 of ARTICLE II, may sell,
lease or assign all of its real and personal property and cease operations upon such
terms and conditions as the RTA determines to be reasonable.
Section 5. Termination: This Agreement shall continue in full force and effect until
rescinded by a majority of the member agencies.
Section 6. Notification to Secretary of State: Pursuant to Government Code
Section 6503.5, the RTA shall cause a notice of the execution of this Agreement to be
prepared and filed with the Office of the Secretary of the State of California, within thirty
(30) days after the effective date of any amendment to this Agreement. Until such filings
are completed, the RTA shall not incur indebtedness of any kind.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the
day and year first hereinabove written.
Item 8.i. - Page 16
9
City of Arroyo Grande
By: ___________________________ Date:______________________
___________________________ Resolution No._______________
Clerk
City of Atascadero
By: ___________________________ Date:______________________
___________________________ Resolution No._______________
Clerk
City of Grover Beach
By: ___________________________ Date:______________________
___________________________ Resolution No._______________
Clerk
City of Morro Bay
By: ___________________________ Date:______________________
___________________________ Resolution No._______________
Clerk
City of Paso Robles
By: ___________________________ Date:______________________
___________________________ Resolution No._______________
Clerk
City of Pismo Beach
By: ___________________________ Date:______________________
___________________________ Resolution No._______________
Clerk
City of San Luis Obispo
By: ___________________________ Date:______________________
___________________________ Resolution No._______________
Clerk
Item 8.i. - Page 17
10
County of San Luis Obispo
By: ___________________________ Date:______________________
___________________________ Resolution No._______________
Clerk
Approved as to form and legal effect:
RITA L. NEAL
County Counsel
By: ___________________________
Assistant County Counsel
Date: __________________________
Item 8.i. - Page 18
1
SAN LUIS OBISPO REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY
AMENDED AND RESTATED JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT
WITNESSETH:
This Agreement is made and entered into this 9th day of March, 1990, and
amended on 2nd day of September, 1998, and further amended on the 24th day of June,
2013, by and among the incorporated cities of Arroyo Grande, Atascadero, El Paso de
Robles, Grover Beach, Morro Bay, Pismo Beach and San Luis Obispo, all being
municipal corporations in the County of San Luis Obispo, California (hereinafter called
“Cities”) and the County of San Luis Obispo, a body politic and corporate, and a
subdivision of the State of California, (hereinafter called “County”).
WHEREAS, Section 6500 et seq. of the California Government Code (Title 1,
Div. 7, Chapter 5, Article 1) provides for agreements between two or more public
agencies to jointly exercise any power common to the contracting parties, subject to
certain mandatory provisions contained therein; and
WHEREAS, the Cities and County have previously entered into a joint powers
agreement for the formation of the San Luis Obispo Council of Governments for the
purpose of providing, among other things, for a regional transportation agency; and
WHEREAS, the San Luis Obispo Council of Governments, at a regularly held
meeting on May 10, 1989, voted to consolidate the administration of several
transportation systems through a regional transit joint powers agreement.
WHEREAS, the cities of Arroyo Grande, Grover Beach and Pismo Beach, and
the County of San Luis Obispo, were formerly members of the South County Area
Transit Joint Powers Agency which began operating a public transit system within those
jurisdictions in January, 1978, and which ceased to exist and transferred its assets to
the San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority in return for amendments made to this
Agreement effective January 1, 2021.
NOW THEREFORE, it is agreed as follows:
ARTICLE I
General Provisions
Section 1. Purpose: The purpose of this Agreement is to exercise the common
powers of the member agencies for the formation of a Joint Powers Agreement with full
power and authority to own, operate and administer a county-wide public transportation
system within the boundaries and over the territory over which the Joint Powers Agency
has jurisdiction.
Section 2. Name: The official name of the entity shall be San Luis Obispo
Regional Transit Authority and hereafter referred to as the RTA.
ATTACHMENT 1
Item 8.i. - Page 19
2
ARTICLE II
Organization
Section 1. Board Members: The membership of the RTA Governing Board shall
be the same as the membership of the San Luis Obispo Council of Governments
(hereinafter referred to as SLOCOG).
Section 2. Board Meetings - Voting - Quorum: Regular meetings shall be
generally held in the first week of July, September, November, January, March and May
or as specified in a biannually adopted meeting calendar. Special meetings may be
called by the President or upon written request of at least three (3) members of the RTA
Board.
Voting and quorum provisions shall be the same as those provided in the
SLOCOG Joint Powers Agreement, however, any vote regarding local fixed-route
services or other public transportation services operated solely within the Arroyo
Grande – Grover Beach Urbanized Area, including the budgeting and funding of such
services, shall require at least three affirmative votes from Board members who also sit
on the South County Transit Committee.
Section 3. Officers: The officers of SLOCOG shall serve as officers of RTA.
Section 4. Executive Director: The RTA Board shall designate an Executive
Director to operate the RTA. The Executive Director shall serve at the pleasure of the
RTA Board, with delegated powers to certify documents of the RTA Board as required
by the law and to assume such duties and responsibilities as the Board may direct.
Section 5. Members:
1. The County of San Luis Obispo and all cities incorporated in the County of
San Luis Obispo presently or in the future, are declared eligible for
membership.
2. Member city agencies may elect to have an alternate member(s) from
their city council in addition to any official member, but said alternate(s)
shall be able to vote only in the absence of the official representative.
3. Membership shall be contingent upon the execution of this Joint Powers
Agreement.
Section 6. Boundaries and Service Levels: The service area boundaries shall be
all of the area within the boundaries of San Luis Obispo County as designated by the
RTA Board. Any additional services beyond the level recommended by the Regional
Transportation Plan or mandated in the Unmet Transit Needs Hearing (PUC Section
99401.5) may be instituted, but shall require unanimous approval of affected
Item 8.i. - Page 20
3
jurisdictions, with costs for the extra service to be distributed on the basis of formula
developed by the RTA Board members representing the affected jurisdictions.
Section 7. Committees:
1. Committees and subcommittees may be established as RTA may deem
appropriate.
2. Membership on “ad-Hoc” policy committees shall be at the discretion of
the President. Nothing herein shall be construed to limit membership on
these aforesaid committees to officials of the member agencies. The
President may appoint any individual deemed qualified to serve on a
committee.
3. Standing committees shall include the:
a. Regional Transit Advisory Committee (RTAC) serving as a
Regional Transit Productivity Committee to advise the Board on the
efficiency and effectiveness of the transit system.
b. An Executive Committee comprised of the President, Vice
President and the past President and at least one representatives
from the county of San Luis Obispo (if none of the above) shall
advise the Executive Director and RTA on: draft agendas,
personnel issues, budget and Overall Work Program; controversial,
sensitive and major policy issues; and shall facilitate the annual
performance evaluation of the Executive Director. Items for review
shall be selected by the Executive Director in consultation with the
President. All Committee members may include agenda items as
they desire. For purposes of conducting business, two members
shall constitute a quorum.
c. South County Transit Committee (SCTC) comprised of RTA Board
members representing the four jurisdictions included in the Arroyo
Grande – Grover Beach Urbanized Area as defined in the 2010
Decennial Census (hereinafter referred to as the AG-GB UZA). The
SCTC member jurisdictions include the cities of Arroyo Grande,
Grover Beach and Pismo Beach, and the County of San Luis
Obispo, representing the Oceano Area and the Avila Beach Area.
The SCTC’s roles and responsibilities include:
i. The SCTC shall effectively control local fixed-route
services and any other public transportation services
operated solely within the AG-GB UZA by virtue of the
voting requirements for matters provided above in
Section 2 of this Article IIAgreement.
Item 8.i. - Page 21
4
ii. At a minimum, the SCTC shall meet annually to consider
annual service levels, fare levels, major marketing
campaigns, capital improvement plans, and to ratify
financial commitments for each jurisdiction participating
in public transportation services operated solely within
the AG-GB UZA. At the request of two or more SCTC
members, properly noticed special SCTC meetings may
also be conducted.
iii. For purposes of conducting business, three of the four
SCTC members shall constitute a quorum.
iv. The SCTC shall submit an annual operating budget and
multi-year capital improvement plan for fixed-route and
other public transportation services operated solely within
the AG-GB UZA to the full RTA Board prior to May 1 for
consideration as part of the RTA Overall Annual Budget.
v. Any additional services beyond the level recommended
by the Regional Transportation Plan or mandated in the
annual Unmet Transit Needs Hearing (PUC Section
99401.5) may be instituted in the SCTC service area, but
shall require unanimous approval of affected jurisdictions,
with costs for the extra service to be distributed on the
basis of a formula developed by the SCTC members
representing the affected jurisdictions.
vi. Each SCTC member agency shall make an annual
Transportation Development Act contribution based upon
the percentage of total SCTC-served population related
to the area served within that member agency. All
population percentages utilized shall be those annually
adopted by the San Luis Obispo Council of Governments
for allocating Transportation Development Act Funds
based annually on estimates prepared by the State
Department of Finance pursuant to Section 2227 of the
Revenue and Taxation Code for Ccities and by the
County Planning and Building Department for
unincorporated communities.
i.vii. Any member of the SCTC may withdraw from the SCTC
after providing written notice to the RTA Board President
one year in advance of the requested withdrawal date. A
withdrawing member’s financial obligation under this
subsection is limited to the withdrawing member’s pro-
Item 8.i. - Page 22
5
rata share of the currently adopted SCTC operating
budget within the service area of the obligated
commitments affecting the withdrawing member and any
San Luis Obispo Council of Governments finding as to
Unmet Transit Needs that are Reasonable to Meet
pursuant to Public Utilities Code Section 99401.5.
However, the obligations of a withdrawing member under
this subsection are limited to the special transportation
funds to which the withdrawing member would be
entitled, such as Transportation Development Act funds,
and this section shall not impose any obligation on the
general funds of the withdrawing member.
4. No committee shall commit the RTA on any matter or questions of policy.
Such matters or questions can only be decided by the RTA.
5. All committees shall receive clerical assistance from RTA staff and, by
agreement, SLOCOG staff for the purpose of maintaining minutes of
meetings and other such duties as the Executive Director may direct. The
chair of each committee shall sign the original copy of the minutes
indicating verification of contents upon committee approvaladoption.
Copies of minutes of all meetings shall be sent to members of the RTA
and the Executive Director.
ARTICLE III
Financial Provisions
Section 1. Budget: The Executive Director shall prepare an Overall Annual
Budget annual budget for RTA Board adoption prior to commencement of each fiscal
year. The Overall Annual Budget shall include financial details on core RTA services, as
well as financial details for those various public transportation services provided under
agreement to other agencies. Core RTA services include intercity fixed-routes along the
US-101 and SR-1 corridors, and regional Americans with Disabilities Act
complementary paratransit services. The approval of the Overall Annual Budget shall be
in accordance with those procedures prescribed by the Joint Powers Agreement of
SLOCOG.
The annual operating and capital budgets for non-core services provided under
agreement to another agency requires ratification by its governing body prior to
consideration of the Overall Annual Budget by the RTA Board.
Accounting practices to be applied will conform to those used by San Luis
Obispo County, consistent with Transportation Development Act rules and regulations.
A Consolidated Fund balance and cash balance for RTA core services will carry
forward from one year to the next. Separate Consolidated Fund balances and cash
Item 8.i. - Page 23
6
balances will be maintained for public transportation services provided by RTA under
agreement to other agencies, including those public transportation services provided
under the direction of the SCTC.
The Overall Annual Budget may additionally carry funds for future fiscal years
where necessary to develop a multi-year Capital Improvement Program and to reflect
obligations under state or federal funding agreements, to the extent allowable by
California law.
No member Agency shall be required to expend any of its general fund monies to
support the operations of the RTA. The operation of the transit system shall be funded
from revenues derived from operations, member Transportation Development Act fund
contributions, grants, and any other appropriate revenue sources. Each member agency
shall make an annual contribution to the RTA in accordance with the adopted budget.
Any formula may be amended upon approval of all jurisdictions affected by that
formula and ratified by the RTA.
All population percentages utilized shall be those annually adopted by SLOCOG
for allocating Transportation Development Act Funds based annually on estimates
prepared by the State Department of Finance pursuant to Section 2227 of the Revenue
and Taxation Code for cities and by the County Planning and Building Department for
unincorporated communities.
Section 2. Expenditures: The RTA may establish procedures and policies to
insure competitive prices for the purchases of goods and services. Formal bidding shall
not be required unless directed specifically by the RTA or unless required by state or
federal law. Particularly in the purchase of equipment, including buses, the RTA may
consider the design, maintenance and operating costs, and other similar factors in
determining the most suitable equipment and need not purchase equipment having the
lowest initial cost.
Section 3. Treasurer and Auditor: Pursuant to Government Code Section 6505.5,
the Treasurer of the County of San Luis Obispo is hereby designated as Treasurer of
the RTA. The Treasurer shall have the powers and duties set forth in Government Code
Section 6505.5. The Auditor/Controller of the County of San Luis Obispo is designated
as the Auditor of the RTA pursuant to Government Code Section 6505.5.
Section 4. Annual Audit: The RTA shall cause an annual audit to be prepared
and filed in accordance with Government Code Section 6505 and Public Utilities Code
Section 99245. This audit shall include RTA core services, as well as those service
provided under agreement for other agencies.
Section 5. Annual Report: The Executive Director shall prepare and submit an
annual report of the operations to the RTA Board, SLOCOG and State Controller within
Item 8.i. - Page 24
7
90 days of the by January 31 following each fiscal year pursuant to Public Utilities Code,
Section 99243.
Section 6. Periodic Reporting: The RTA Board may require periodic reporting of
ridership, finances, or other information. This periodic reporting shall include RTA core
services, as well as those service provided under agreement to other agencies. It shall
be the responsibility of the Executive Director to provide such reports in a form
acceptable to the RTA Board.
ARTICLE IV
Authority
Section 1. Powers: The RTA shall have all Powers necessary to carry out the
purpose of this Agreement, except the power to tax. Its power to expend funds shall be
limited only by the availability of funds as set forth in ARTICLE III: Finances, Section 1.
The Powers of the RTA specifically include, but are not limited to, the following:
1. To solicit bids and negotiate contracts from private enterprise for services
and/or operation.
2. To sue or be sued.
3. To employ agents, employees and contract for professional services.
4. To make and enter contracts, including labor, purchase agreement and
employment contracts.
5. To acquire, convey, construct, manage, maintain and operate necessary
equipment, building and improvements.
6. To acquire and convey real and personal property.
7. To incur debts, liabilities and obligations, as well as obligations of financial
assistance from State and Federal agencies, and to obligate RTA to
operate the improvements, equipment or transportation system in
accordance with the terms and conditions of said financial assistance.
8. To purchase insurance.
7.9. To develop policies and procedures necessary to remain in compliance
with Federal Transit Administration Section 5307 Urbanized Area Formula
Program and other federal grant program funding requirements.
Item 8.i. - Page 25
8
Section 2. RTA is a Public Legal Entity: The RTA is a public entity duly formed
and existing under the laws of the State of California. It is a separate and distinct legal
entity from its member agencies. The debts, duties and obligations created pursuant to
this Agreement, shall be solely the obligations of the RTA and not those of its officers,
employees, members of the Board of Directors or the member agencies.
ARTICLE V
Miscellaneous Provisions
Section 1. Withdrawal of Member: A withdrawing member’s financial obligation
under this Section is limited to the withdrawing member’s pro-rata share of the currently
adopted operating budget based upon ARTICLE III, Section 1 within the service area of
the obligated commitments affecting the withdrawing member and any SLOCOG’s
finding as to unmet transit needs that are reasonable to meet pursuant to Public Utilities
Code Section 99401.5.
Section 2. Amendment of Agreement: No amendment to this Agreement shall be
made without the consent of all member agencies at the time of the amendment.
Section 3. Ratification - Effective Date: This Agreement shall be deemed
effective as to those parties executing this Aagreement upon their execution of the
Aagreement.
Section 4. Assignability: In the event it is deemed in the best public interest to
have the RTA operated by another individual or entity, whether public or private, and
provided that the assignment complies with State and Federal laws, the RTAagency on
affirmative vote of the majority in accordance with Section 2 of ARTICLE II, may sell,
lease or assign all of its real and personal property and cease operations upon such
terms and conditions as the RTA determines to be reasonable.
Section 5. Termination: This Agreement shall continue in full force and effect until
rescinded by a majority of the member agencies.
Section 6. Notification to Secretary of State: Pursuant to Government Code
Section 6503.5, the RTA shall cause a notice of the execution of this Agreement to be
prepared and filed with the Office of the Secretary of the State of California, within thirty
(30) days after the effective date of any amendment to this Agreement. Until such filings
are completed, the RTA shall not incur indebtedness of any kind.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the
day and year first hereinabove written.
IN WITNESS THEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the day and
year first hereinabove written.
Item 8.i. - Page 26
9
City of Arroyo Grande
By: ___________________________ Date:______________________
___________________________ Resolution No._______________
Clerk
City of Atascadero
By: ___________________________ Date:______________________
___________________________ Resolution No._______________
Clerk
City of Grover Beach
By: ___________________________ Date:______________________
___________________________ Resolution No._______________
Clerk
City of Morro Bay
By: ___________________________ Date:______________________
___________________________ Resolution No._______________
Clerk
City of Paso Robles
By: ___________________________ Date:______________________
___________________________ Resolution No._______________
Clerk
City of Pismo Beach
By: ___________________________ Date:______________________
___________________________ Resolution No._______________
Clerk
City of San Luis Obispo
By: ___________________________ Date:______________________
___________________________ Resolution No._______________
Clerk
Item 8.i. - Page 27
10
County of San Luis Obispo
By: ___________________________ Date:______________________
___________________________ Resolution No._______________
Clerk
Approved as to form and legal effect:
RITA L. NEAL
County Counsel
By: ___________________________
DeputyAssistant County Counsel
Date: __________________________
Item 8.i. - Page 28