BRCA Board Minutes - April 30, 2017

Attendance: Lynne Walsh, Dina Kuntz, Sherry Parker, Jim Stocks, Marilyn Stocks, Lynn Olsen, Helen Greaves, Dan Nachtigal, Stan Sommer, Helen Sedwick, Tom Knox, Al Fecarotia, Carol Wieszczyk, Sharon Wright, Brian Gipson, David Scothwick, Ann Wendecker, Ann Hoban, Frank Tansey and Nancy Watson-Tansey

Finalizing descriptions of committees:

• Architectural Review Committee
• Neighborhood Resolution Committee
• Board member responsibilities
• No recommendations for changes to current descriptions were made.
• Current versions are posted to the web site.

Treasurer’s Report - Dina Kurtz:

• The ending balance as of April 26, 2017 was $15,802.14.
• 82 members have paid annual dues for a total of $820.
• $1705 was contributed to the emergency fund.

Discussion of what our emergency teams should do:

• Carol Wieszczyk volunteered to begin reviewing and updating the emergency response teams and “red folders”.
• Next neighborhood communication should include a recommendation to sign up for SoCo alert: http://sonomacounty.ca.gov/FES/Emergency-Management/SoCoAlert/

Fire prevention:

• Jane Marx and Brian Gipson are coordinating maintenance of the fire break with Sonoma County Fire.
• Emergency funds will be used to remove flammable scotch broom from the hillside adjacent to Bennett Ridge entry.

Expansion of Graves Vineyard on Bennett Valley Road:

• Marilyn Stocks reported that the construction plans are under review and she has been advised she will be notified of any major developments.

New business:

• A member raised a question about vacation rentals and a vigorous debate ensued.
  Lynn Olsen motioned to reopen an investigation into vacation rentals, Carol Wieszczyk seconded.
  • Reviewed history of vacation rentals.
  • The board is against vacation rentals and sends formal notification to realtors with new listings on the Ridge.
  • A motion at the September 18, 2016 board meeting to continue investigating vacation rentals failed.
  • Helen Sedwick agreed to put together an argument for and against vacation rentals.
  • This will be submitted to the community as a whole in the future to determine interest in pursuing the petition.