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Time Description 11:41 a.m. Emergency Meeting Called to Order at the Mariposa County Government Center Pledge of Allegiance Discussion, Direction, and Possible Action Relative to the Landslide Disaster on Highway 140 BOARD ACTION: Chairman Stetson advised that the following CalTrans representatives were present: Kome Ajise/Director of District 10, Dinah Bortner/Deputy Director for Maintenance and Operations, and Julie Dunning/Deputy Director for Public Affairs. They gave a presentation on the history of the slides in this area and the work that has been done, and of the status of the slide removal project for the current slide. Roy Bibbens and Tim Beck, geologists, presented photos and information on the geology of the slide area. They also gave a video presentation of the slide in action, and advised that there is a major mass of the mountain that is moving. They advised of plans to replace the 13-foot barrier fence on the edge of the road with a 20-foot barrier fence on the center line, and to open one lane for traffic with a signal system. They advised that they are hopeful to have the road open in the next week, and are confident that it will be open for Memorial Day. This is a temporary fix and they will need to further research a long-term fix for the problem. Discussion was held and CalTrans staff responded to questions from the Board relative to the situation. Sharon Parsons/CalTrans advised of coordination with the Forest Service on the right-of-way matters. Input from the public was provided by the following, and CalTrans staff responded to the questions: Marjorie Wass, Treasurer/Tax Collector/County Clerk, asked about the possibility of the remainder of the mountain sliding. A member of the audience asked if there were concerns with any other area along Highway 140. Dick Hutchinson commended on recent problems with the informational message signs and the Amber Alerts. He also suggested the need to change the strategy in advertising and to get everyone involved and to work with the Board to get Mariposa advertised as a destination. Dinah Bortner provided information on the costs and budget for this project. Robert Boswell was introduced as the Public Information Officer for CalTrans. Discussion was held relative to taking action to declare a local emergency. Mike Coffield, Interim County Administrative Officer, advised that an addendum would be issued for the May 23rd agenda to include an item for the emergency declaration. Supervisor Turpin commented on the recent Highway 120 closure, and of the need to advertise Highway 132 as an alternate route to Yosemite National Park. Discussion was held relative to signage for the temporary closure of the highway. Supervisor Fritz commented on the need to advertise the local events and she advised that the events committee meeting is scheduled for this evening. Bob Nijjar/CalTrans Senior Resident Engineer advised of contact with PG&E relative to reviewing the status of the utility towers in the area. A member of the audience asked about the possibility of using dynamite to remove the debris from the slide area, and she was advised that would involve a lot of environmental issues and close the Highway for approximately six months. Plus there is still a large part of the mountain above the slide area. MARIPOSA COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS CONFORMED AGENDA May 18, 2006 ---PAGE BREAK--- 2 5-18-06 Further discussion was held relative to the planning/strategy process to deal with this matter. Supervisor Pickard asked that CalTrans keep the Board fully informed of the status of the situation. A member of the audience asked about the length of the one-lane traffic, and was advised that it is just planned for the slide area. She also commented on the impact the high fuel costs are having. Chairman Stetson acknowledged the presence of Chris Valdez from Congressman George Radanovich’s office. Public Presentation: The Public May Only Address the Board on Items Listed on the Emergency Meeting Agenda – input was provided during the discussion on the landslide. 12:42 p.m. Adjournment Respectfully submitted, MARGIE WILLIAMS Clerk of the Board