2019_04_16_studyTuesday, April 16, 2019
Board of Directors Study Session
290 Paularino Avenue, Costa Mesa at 9:30AM
Public Comments: Any member of the public may address the Board. Speakers on agenda items
should identify themselves to the District Clerk before the meeting so that their input can be
provided at the time the item is considered. Speakers on non-agenda items will be heard under
Public Comments.
Pursuant to State law, the Board may not discuss or take action on non-agenda items except
under special circumstances. Speakers must limit their remarks to four minutes or as decided
upon by the Presiding Officer. The Presiding Officer reserves the right to declare any speaker out
of order.
Obtaining Agenda Materials: The public is entitled to copies of all documents that are made part
of the agenda packet. If any document or other writing pertaining to an agenda item is
distributed to all or a majority of the Board after the packet is prepared, a copy of that writing
may be obtained at the District offices at 290 Paularino Avenue, Costa Mesa, California.
In Compliance with ADA: Contact District Clerk, Noelani Middenway, at (949) 645-8400, 48 hours
prior to meeting if assistance is needed (28 CFR 35.102.35.104 ADA Title II).
A. OPENING ITEMS
1. Roll Call - (If absences occur, consider whether to deem those absences excused based on facts presented for the
absence – such determination shall be the permission required by law.)
B. PUBLIC COMMENTS - This time has been set aside for persons in the audience to make comments on
items within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Costa Mesa Sanitary District that are not listed on this
agenda. Members of the public will have the opportunity to address the Board of Directors about all other
items on this agenda at the time those items are considered. Under the provisions of the Brown Act, the
Board of Directors is prohibited from taking action on oral requests but may refer the matter to staff or to
a subsequent meeting. The Board of Directors will respond after public comment has been received.
Please state your name. Each speaker will be limited to four (4) continuous minutes.
1. Public Comments
C. ITEMS OF STUDY
1. March 2019 Organics Tonnage Report
2. March 2019 Solid Waste Diversion Report
3. March 2019 Code Enforcement Officer report
4. Food Bank Program
5. CR&R Consumer Price Index Increase Request
6. Consider One of the Four Alternative Designs for Project #318 President Pump Station Reconstruction
7. Construction Inspection Program
8 Classification and Compensation Study
D. CLOSING ITEMS
1. Oral Communications and Director Comments
2. Adjournment
Tuesday, April 16, 2019
Board of Directors Study Session
290 Paularino Avenue, Costa Mesa at 9:30AM
Public Comments: Any member of the public may address the Board. Speakers on agenda items
should identify themselves to the District Clerk before the meeting so that their input can be
provided at the time the item is considered. Speakers on non-agenda items will be heard under
Public Comments.
Pursuant to State law, the Board may not discuss or take action on non-agenda items except
under special circumstances. Speakers must limit their remarks to four minutes or as decided
upon by the Presiding Officer. The Presiding Officer reserves the right to declare any speaker out
of order.
Obtaining Agenda Materials: The public is entitled to copies of all documents that are made part
of the agenda packet. If any document or other writing pertaining to an agenda item is
distributed to all or a majority of the Board after the packet is prepared, a copy of that writing
may be obtained at the District offices at 290 Paularino Avenue, Costa Mesa, California.
In Compliance with ADA: Contact District Clerk, Noelani Middenway, at (949) 645-8400, 48 hours
prior to meeting if assistance is needed (28 CFR 35.102.35.104 ADA Title II).
A. OPENING ITEMS
James Ferryman, President
Robert Ooten, Vice President
Arlene Schafer, Secretary
Michael Scheafer, Director
Arthur Perry, Director
Subject 1. Roll Call - (If absences occur, consider whether to deem those absences
excused based on facts presented for the absence – such determination shall be
the permission required by law.)
Meeting Apr 16, 2019 - Board of Directors Study Session
Access Public
Type Procedural
B. PUBLIC COMMENTS - This time has been set aside for persons in the
audience to make comments on items within the subject matter jurisdiction of
the Costa Mesa Sanitary District that are not listed on this agenda. Members of
the public will have the opportunity to address the Board of Directors about all
other items on this agenda at the time those items are considered. Under the
provisions of the Brown Act, the Board of Directors is prohibited from taking
action on oral requests but may refer the matter to staff or to a subsequent
meeting. The Board of Directors will respond after public comment has been
received. Please state your name. Each speaker will be limited to four (4)
continuous minutes.
Subject 1. Public Comments
Meeting Apr 16, 2019 - Board of Directors Study Session
Access Public
Type Procedural
C. ITEMS OF STUDY
To: Board of Directors
Via: Scott Carroll, General Manager
From: Nabila Guzman, Management Analyst I
Date: April 16, 2019
Subject: Organics Tonnage Report
Summary
A total of 713.63 tons of organic waste were collected and recycled in March 2019.
Staff Recommendation
That the Board of Directors receives and file this report.
Analysis
Below is a graph depicting the total tonnage of organic waste collected during each month of the last three fiscal years.
Subject 1. March 2019 Organics Tonnage Report
Meeting Apr 16, 2019 - Board of Directors Study Session
Access Public
Type Action, Receive and File
Recommended Action That the Board of Directors receive and file this report
Goals 2.00 Solid Waste
File Attachments
Organics Recycling.png (17 KB)
Tonnage Summary.png (20 KB)
Legal Review
Not applicable.
Environmental Review
Consideration of the Organics Tonnage Report is an administrative matter and not a disturbance of the environment similar to grading
or construction and not a project under CEQA or the District’s CEQA Guidelines.
Financial Review
Not applicable.
Public Notice Process
Copies of this report are on file and will be included in the complete agenda packet for the April 16, 2019 Board of Directors Study
Session meeting at District Headquarters and posted on the District’s website.
C. ITEMS OF STUDY
To: Board of Directors
Via: Scott Carroll, General Manager
From: Nabila Guzman, Management Analyst I
Date: April 16, 2019
Subject: Solid Waste Diversion Report
Summary
A total of 2,028 tons of solid waste were collected and recycled in March 2019.
Staff Recommendation
That the Board of Directors receive and file this report.
Analysis
Using data from CR&R's Recycling Report and OCC's Recycling Center Recycling Report, staff has calculated the diversion rate for
the last nine months at 61.37%. A total of 32,957.29 tons of solid waste materials have been collected, of which 20,224.89 tons have
been diverted away from landfills. In addition to curbside collection from CR&R, CMSD offers a variety of other waste diversion
programs including large item pickup, where white goods are collected. The total tonnage of white goods for the month of March was
not available in time to include in this report. However, these numbers will be included in the May report. Attachment A is the fiscal
year 2018-19 diversion rate support.
Legal Review
Not applicable.
Environmental Review
Consideration of the Solid Waste Diversion Report is an administrative matter and not a disturbance of the environment similar to
grading or construction and not a project under CEQA or the District’s CEQA Guidelines.
Financial Review
Not applicable.
Public Notice Process
Copies of this report are on file and will be included in the complete agenda packet for the April 16, 2019 Board of Directors Study
Session meeting at District Headquarters and posted on the District’s website.
Alternative Action
1. Direct staff to report back with more information.
File Attachments
CRR-OCC Diversion.pdf (75 KB)
Subject 2. March 2019 Solid Waste Diversion Report
Meeting Apr 16, 2019 - Board of Directors Study Session
Access Public
Type Action, Receive and File
Recommended Action That the Board of Directors receive and file this report
Goals 2.00 Solid Waste
C. ITEMS OF STUDY
To: Board of Directors
From: Ed Roberts, Code Enforcement Officer
Date: April 16, 2019
Subject: March 2019 Code Enforcement Officer Report
Summary
Attached is the monthly report from Officer Roberts describing his enforcement activities for the month of March regarding
scavenging of recyclable materials, trash carts stored in public view and graffiti on trash carts.
Recommendation
That the Board of Directors receive and file this report.
Analysis
In the month of March, Officer Roberts approached seven (7) individuals he observed scavenging from CMSD trash carts. In the
same month he issued 119 warning notices to residents storing their trash carts in public view. Officer Roberts found no graffiti on
trash carts in the month of March.
Officer Roberts enforcement activities are described in more detail in the attached report.
Legal Review
Not applicable.
Environmental Review
Code enforcement activities and reporting are not a disturbance of the environment similar to grading or construction and do not
constitute a project under CEQA or the District’s CEQA Guidelines.
Financial Review
Officer Roberts' activities are funded in the adopted budget.
Public Notice Process
Copies of this report are on file and will be included with the complete agenda packet for the April 16, 2019 Board of Directors Study
Session meeting at District Headquarters and posted on the District’s website.
Alternative Actions
1. Direct staff to report back with more information.
File Attachments
March 2019 CEO report.doc (1,316 KB)
Subject 3. March 2019 Code Enforcement Officer report
Meeting Apr 16, 2019 - Board of Directors Study Session
Access Public
Type
C. ITEMS OF STUDY
To: Board of Directors
From: Scott Carroll, General Manager
Date: April 16, 2019
Subject: Food Bank Program
Summary
The Board requested this item be brought back for discussion by inviting CR&R Environmental Service to give a presentation about
Orange County's Food Bank Program. Joining CR&R will be Mike Learakos, Executive Director of Waste Not OC.
Recommmendation
That the Board of Directors receive and file this report.
Analysis
Waste Not OC is a public/private effort to help end hunger and reduce food waste. According to Waste Not OC website, Waste Not
OC Coalition works collaboratively with hospitals, food banks, municipalities, the food industry and the waste hauling industry to
reduce hunger and food waste by safely and cost effectively recovering unwanted wholesome food for distribution to local pantries
serving those in our community facing food insecurity.
Today, Mr. Learakos will explain more details about Waste Not OC efforts to end hunger and reduce food waste and how the public
and organizations can get involved.
Legal Review
Not applicable
Environmental Review
Listening to a presentation on an Orange County food bank will not result in direct or indirect physical changes to the environment
similar to grading or construction and is not considered a project under CEQA.
Financial Review
Not applicable
Public Notice Process
Copies of this report are on file and will be included with the entire agenda packet for the April 16, 2019 Board of Directors study
session meeting at District Headquarters and on District website at www.cmsdca.gov
Alternative Actions
1. Direct staff to report back with more information.
File Attachments
CMSD WNOC Presentation April 2019.pdf (2,510 KB)
Subject 4. Food Bank Program
Meeting Apr 16, 2019 - Board of Directors Study Session
Access Public
Type Action
Recommended Action That the Board of Directors receive and file this report
Goals 2.00 Solid Waste
2.4 Develop Strategies for 75% Waste Diversion
C. ITEMS OF STUDY
To: Board of Directors
Via: Scott Carroll, General Manager
From: Nabila Guzman, Management Analyst I
Date: April 16, 2019
Subject: CR&R Consumer Price Index Increase Request
Summary
Per section 3.4 of the 2018 CR&R contract, hauler rates may be considered for a Consumer Price Index (CPI) adjustment every two
years during the term of the agreement. The hauler may request a two-year CPI adjustment using prior years' data to be applied for
the two future years. Per the contract, CPI increases are not automatic and need Board of Directors approval. Contract language also
stipulates the District has the right to audit the hauler's revenue to check hauler's profit margin before the Board of Directors makes a
decision.
Recommendation
That the Board of Directors authorize District Treasurer to review CR&R's profit margin with respect to services provided to the
District.
Analysis
Per section 3.4 of the 2018 CR&R contract, hauler rates may be considered for a Consumer Price Index (CPI) adjustment every two
years during the term of the agreement. The hauler may request a two-year CPI adjustment using prior years' data to be applied for
the two future years. Per the contract, CPI increases are not automatic and need Board of Directors approval. CR&R submitted their
first CPI increase request on Friday, March 29, 2019 via email, their request is attached to this report for your review.
Contract language also stipulates that the District has the right to audit the hauler's revenue to check hauler's profit margin before the
Board of Directors makes a decision. Staff is requesting that the Board of Directors authorize the District Treasurer, Mr. Marc Davis,
to review CR&R's profit margin with respect to the services provided to the District and advise the Board of his findings. Per our
contract, CR&R shall make available to the District documentation stating their profit margin but CR&R has requested that the report
not become public record. As such, Mr. Davis will conduct his review at CR&R's offices.
CR&R is requesting a CPI increase to the following rates:
1. Hauler (Occupancy) Fee — This fee includes all costs that CR&R has for collection of mixed waste/organics and all equipment
used including vehicles and issuing carts to customers. The current rate is $9.7954 per unit/per month.
2. Processing Fee Recycling/Disposal — Cost per ton to process mixed solid waste. The current rate is $51.97 per ton. This is a net
rate to the District and includes any recyclable revenue retained by CR&R.
3. Conversion Technology Fee (Organics) — Current rate is $71.50 per ton, cost for delivery and processing of organic tonnage at
the AD Facility.
The request for Board action on the CPI request will be presented to the Board of Directors at the June 27, 2019 meeting. If a CPI
increase is granted, the new rates will be effective July 1, 2019. Staff is recommending waiting until the June Board Meeting because
the District is holding a solid waste increase public hearing at the May 23rd meeting and it is ill-advised that the District award a CPI
increase before residents have an opportunity to protest the rate increase that will ultimately cover hauler costs.
Subject 5. CR&R Consumer Price Index Increase Request
Meeting Apr 16, 2019 - Board of Directors Study Session
Access Public
Type Action, Receive and File
Recommended Action That the Board of Directors authorize District Treasurer to review CR&R's profit margin
with respect to services provided to the District.
Goals 2.00 Solid Waste
2.2 Annual Contract Audits
Legal Review
Legal review is not required.
Environmental Review
Consideration of a consumer price index increase to hauler rates is an administrative matter and not a disturbance of the
environment similar to grading or construction and not a project under CEQA or the District’s CEQA Guidelines.
Financial Review
The cost of the review will be incurred under the District's existing contract with the District Treasurer. The estimated range of the
cost to perform the review is between $1,500 and $2,000.
Public Notice Process
Copies of this report are on file and will be included in the complete agenda packet for the April 16, 2019 Board of Directors Study
Session meeting at District Headquarters and posted on the District’s website.
Alternative Actions
1. Direct staff to report back with more information.
File Attachments
CPI Request.pdf (258 KB)
C. ITEMS OF STUDY
To: Board of Directors
From: Rob Hamers, District Engineer
Date: April 16, 2019
Subject: Consider One of the Four Alternative Designs for Project #318 President Pump Station Reconstruction
Summary
The project was initiated after the west side pumping station abandonment program was canceled and will reconstruct the President
Pump Station to bring it into conformance with today’s District standards. The existing wet well-dry well pump station would be
replaced by a typical submersible pump station, and in addition to the regular features of such a station, a large emergency storage
vault would be added along with a permanently mounted emergency diesel generator.
The District has identified four alternative designs and produced four site plans and budgets to consider. Additionally, discussion and
resulting opinions have been obtained from the residents on President Place, from the District’s 11-member Citizens Advisory
Committee and from the District's wastewater maintenance staff.
The purpose of the study session is for the Board of Directors to take all the aforesaid information under advisement and determine a
direction for the District. Staff would then return to the April 25 regular Board meeting with a budget and funding plan to continue
moving forward with the project.
Recommendation
That the Board of Directors direct staff to bring this item back to the April 25, 2019 meeting to consider approving one of the four
alternative designs for Project #318 President Pump Station Reconstruction
Analysis
ALTERNATIVE 1
Construction is estimated at $2.2 million and this alternative represents the best possible engineering design, but its the most
expensive. The pump station will be 100% new and located in the existing easement. Retaining walls are required to handle the
expanded footprint and shoring is needed to construct the underground concrete structures. The station, as designed, can sustain a
downtime of 2.5 hours during peak flow and ten hours during low flow before an overflow would occur. The emergency storage vault
is designed at seventeen feet deep and the wet well is designed at 26.5 feet deep.
ALTERNATIVE 2
Construction is estimated at $1.5 million and this alternative is closest to the original budget and very little funding is necessary. The
alternative will reuse the existing concrete pump station as the emergency storage vault assuming a thorough analysis of the station
concludes the structure will be sound after removing interior walls and adding columns and beams. There are no existing plans for
this structure but every concrete pump station in the District has been found to be structurally sound. The station as designed, can
sustain a downtime of two hours during peak flow and 8.5 hours during low flow before an overflow would occur. The emergency
storage vault will be thirteen feet deep and the wet well will be approximately eighteen to twenty feet deep.
Subject 6. Consider One of the Four Alternative Designs for Project #318 President Pump
Station Reconstruction
Meeting Apr 16, 2019 - Board of Directors Study Session
Access Public
Type Action, Discussion
Fiscal Impact Yes
Recommended Action That the Board of Directors direct staff to bring this item back to the April 25, 2019
meeting to consider approving one of the four alternative designs for Project #318
President Pump Station Reconstruction
Goals 1.0 Sewer Infrastructure
1.7 Pump Station Maintenance & Standardization Program
ALTERNATIVE 3
Construction is estimated at $2.0 million and this alternative is similar to Alternative 1 except the concept is to reduce cost by
relocating the emergency storage vault so the incoming sewer main does not need relocation. The station as designed can sustain a
downtime of two hours during peak flow and 8.5 hours during low flow before an overflow would occur. The emergency storage vault
will be fifteen feet deep and the wet well approximately twenty four feet deep.
ALTERNATIVE 4
The first three alternatives are all located in the existing easement while Alternative 4 represents construction in the President Place
cul-de-sac. Construction is estimated at $1.8 million. The station as designed can sustain a downtime of 2.5 hours during peak flow
and over eight hours during low flow before an overflow would occur. The emergency storage vault will be eleven feet deep and the
wet well approximately twenty one feet deep. This alternative found disfavor from the residents on President Place, the District’s
Citizens Advisory Committee, and the District’s wastewater maintenance staff as outlined below.
Neighborhood Opinion
The Board and staff desired public input for the four alternative designs regarding the reconstructed station. Staff prepared 24” x 36”
foam board site plans for each of the four alternatives and arranged for a neighborhood meeting on Saturday, March 2, 2019. Due to
rainy weather, only two residents attended the meeting, one of which was the owner of 2034 President Place, the residence
containing the District’s easement and existing President Pump Station.
Although only two residents attended, significant information was provided regarding water flow during heavy rains and the adjacent
storm drain system, the ability for District vehicles to park by the station, utility locations, and neighborhood dynamics.
Due to the low neighborhood turn out on March 2nd, staff tried to engage the neighborhood's opinion by a mail-in survey. Twenty-
four survey's were mailed to renters and property owners on President Place that included photo simulation of the potential
placement of the electrical enclosure and antenna on President Place, the potential loss of one parking space and the location of the
station at the end of the cul-de-sac. The survey read as follows:
"Regarding constructing the underground pump station in the cul-de-sac with the above ground electrical enclosure and antenna as
shown in the photo simulation with the curb painted red, I am
¨In favor of the proposal at the end of the cul-de-sac that includes constructing the electrical enclosure and antenna in front of 2043
President Place.
¨Against the proposal at the end of the cul-de-sac and would rather have the pump station constructed at its original location in the
easement adjacent to the park."
A prepaid stamped returned envelope to HQ was included in the survey. Of the twenty-four surveys mailed, eight were returned to
HQ (33% return ratio). The following are the results:
3 In favor
5 Against
Citizens Advisory Committee Recommendation
On March 13, 2019, staff presented the four alternatives to the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) with a request to discuss the
options and make a recommendation to the Board of Directors. The CAC listened to a presentation of the benefits, short comings,
and cost of each alternative prior to discussion and questions and answers. Regarding the option to construct the pump station in the
cul-de-sac, due to the four to five month potential construction period, the permanent loss of a parking space in the cul-de-sac, and
the ongoing presence of maintenance vehicles in the cul-de-sac, the CAC believed the disruption to the neighborhood was too
severe and unanimously voted against Alternative 4.
The CAC voted for Alternative 2, which involves reusing the existing pump station concrete structure as the emergency storage vault
subject to passing a structural analysis. The CAC unanimously approved Alternative 2 because it is the least expensive alternative
and nearly fits within the existing budget. If the existing concrete vault was found to be unusable, the CAC approved Alternative 3 as
the next option for this station.
Wastewater Maintenance Staff Recommendation
The District's wastewater maintenance staff also considers Alternative 4 to be disruptive during construction and during
maintenance. The impact during maintenance consists of having a service truck idling at the red painted curb where an open parking
space used to exist while the electrical enclosure is opened and the safety check accomplished.
Maintenance visits may also include exercising valves, adjusting levels and sensors, checking the SCADA signal, pumping down the
wet well, removing and repairing pumps, and washing down the wet well and emergency storage vault with the large vactor truck.
The neighbors will also hear the back-up warning sound when the trucks are in reverse.
The maintenance staff understands Alternative 1, as previously bid, represents the superior design but recognizes it is also the most
expensive design. Maintenance staff understands the concern with reusing the existing concrete vault in Alternative 2 and the
changes in Alternative 1 to possibly save $200,000 by using Alternative 3. Wastewater maintenance staff will be attending today's
meeting and will be available to answer questions from the Board.
Legal Review
Not required at this time.
Environmental Review
The replacement of an existing pump station with a similar pump station of the same size for the same rate of flow as shown on the
plans for Project #318 is categorically exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) (Public Resources Code
Section 21000 et. seq.) under Section 15302 as a “Class 2” project as stated under 15302(c) “Replacement or reconstruction of
existing utility systems and/or facilities involving negligible or no expansion of capacity“.
Financial Review
The attached budget review indicates the funding needed for each alternative and the funding will occur in the forthcoming 2019-
2020 capital improvement budget.
Public Notice Process
Copies of this report are on file and will be included with the entire agenda packet for the April 16, 2019 Board of Directors study
session at District Headquarters and on the District’s website.
Alternative Actions
Refer the matter back to staff for additional information.
File Attachments
Budget Calculations Rev 2.docx (17 KB)
C. ITEMS OF STUDY
To: Board of Directors
From: Scott Carroll, General Manager
Date: April 16, 2019
Subject: Construction Inspection Program
Summary
On February 12, 2019, the Board of Directors considered reinstating the firm, Robin B. Hamers & Associates (RBHA) for providing
construction inspection services. The Board also took into consideration the creation of a construction inspector position within
CMSD. Due to concern RBHA proposal did not include prevailing wage, the Board directed staff to bring this item back for discussion
after Rob Hamers has reviewed prevailing wage requirements and submit a revised proposal. Attached is RBHA revised proposal.
Staff has concerns with RBHA charging the District two different rates for inspections because disputes may arise in determining
the correct rate for inspection services. Staff wants to avoid significant billing disputes with RBHA regarding inspection services.
Therefore, staff has developed a plan that we believe is a "win-win" for both RBHA and the District.
Recommendation
That the Board of Directors direct staff to bring this item back to the April 25, 2019 meeting to consider the following:
1. Enter into an agreement with County of Orange Public Works for construction inspection services for public works projects; and
2. Approve Robin B Hamers & Associates as construction inspector for private development; and
3. Approve a succession and knowledge transfer plan for inspection services where District Engineer will pass on his institutional
Subject 7. Construction Inspection Program
Meeting Apr 16, 2019 - Board of Directors Study Session
Access Public
Type Action
Fiscal Impact Yes
Budgeted Yes
Budget Source Wastewater Fund
Recommended Action That the Board of Directors direct staff to bring this item back to the April 25, 2019
meeting to consider the following:
1. Enter into an agreement with County of Orange Public Works for construction inspection
services for public works projects; and
2. Approve Robin B Hamers & Associates as construction inspector for private
development; and
3. Approve a succession and knowledge transfer plan for inspection services where District
Engineer will pass on his institutional knowledge to CMSD's Engineering Technician; and
4. Approve amending job title from Engineering Technician to Engineering
Technician/Construction Inspector that includes inspecting public works projects; and
5. Approve hiring Robin B Hamers & Associates as the Alternate Construction Inspector
when CMSD Engineering Technician/Construction Inspector is on leave.
Goals 1.0 Sewer Infrastructure
3.00 Partnerships
3.2 Strengthen our ties with local governments, Special districts and educational
institutions
5.0 Administrative Management
6.0 Personnel/Organizational Management
6.5 Create a Development Plan
6.7 Promote high employee satisfaction
knowledge to CMSD's Engineering Technician; and
4. Approve amending job title from Engineering Technician to Engineering Technician/Construction Inspector to include inspecting
public works projects; and
5. Approve hiring Robin B Hamers & Associates as the Alternate Construction Inspector when CMSD Engineering
Technician/Construction Inspector is on leave.
Analysis
Staff is recommending a hybrid approach to construction inspections. An effective construction inspection program is needed to
ensure contractors are following plan designs and specifications. Without construction inspection, contractors may avoid performing
tasks to save money or their workmanship may not conform to industry standards, which could potentially cause a sanitary sewer
overflow. Currently, construction inspection services is performed by a private firm, AndersonPenna Partners, Inc. at $125.00 an
hour, which is well above the current California prevailing wage rate for construction inspection at 74.90 an hour. Because public
works inspection services is prevailing wage, AndersonPenna is required to register its services with the California Department of
Industrial Relations (DIR), otherwise known as PWC 100 form. AndersonPenna assigned DIR Project ID number is 273971, and they
are required to use this number when they submit certified payroll records in DIR's Electronic Certified Payroll Reporting (eCPR)
database. The inspector from AndersonPenna is inspecting public works and private development projects
In accordance with California Labor Code, Section 1771, prevailing wages are required to be paid by private firms to their workers on
public works projects. Public works projects are defined as construction, alteration, demolition, installation or repair work done under
contract and paid in whole or in part out of public funds. This means inspectors do not have to be paid prevailing wages when they
are inspecting private development. RBHA's proposal of $65.00 an hour to perform private development inspections would not
violate Section 1771 and the District would experience immediate savings from its current inspection contract. Furthermore, RBHA
would not have to file his firm with DIR and the firm does not have to submit certified payroll records in eCPR database.
Public agencies are exempt from Section 1771 and do not have to pay prevailing wages to public employees working on public
projects. In attempt to reduce the District's current hourly rate for construction inspection, staff contacted officials at Orange County
Sanitation District (OCSD) to inquire their interest to providing temporary construction inspection services. Unfortunately, OCSD
declined to provide construction inspection services because they do not have the resources to assist CMSD. In fact, OCSD is
supplementing their construction inspection with private firms.
Staff contacted officials at the County of Orange Public Works Department to inquire their interest to providing temporary construction
inspection services. Attached is a letter from OC Public Works along with position descriptions and the hourly labor rate for each
position. The hourly rate for a construction inspector is $97.62, which is an immediate savings from the District's current inspection
contract. Staff is recommending a contract with the County because of the savings and resources they can provide to the District
such as personnel, technology, tools, vehicles, etc. Attached is a copy of a sample agreement from the County that would be
executed if the Board approves staff's recommendation.
To reduce inspection costs even further staff is recommending the job description for the District's Engineering Technician be
amended to include construction inspection services. An analysis performed by District consultant, Ralph Anderson & Associates,
found it appropriate to amend the Engineering Technician's job description by including construction inspection to the position's
existing duties. The consultant is recommending the Engineering Technician title be changed to Engineering Technician/Construction
Inspector and the maximum salary range increase from $41.7144 to $43.8262 an hour. By including District benefits the
maximum fully burden hourly rate for the Engineering Technician/Construction Inspector position is $56.9741. If approved by the
Board, the amended position and salary range will be in the FY 2020-21 Budget.
As mentioned in the February 12, 2019 staff report, The District's Engineering Technician has expressed interest
performing construction inspection services. A professional development plan has been created for him that includes enrolling at
Santiago Canyon College to earn a Public Works Certificate with an emphasis on construction inspection and signing up using
American Public Works Association (APWA) eLearning portal for APWA Construction Inspection 201 webinar, which is a 24-course
program. The program includes an array of information for the Engineering Technician, including: communication; contractor
relations; plans and specifications; construction meetings; progress meetings; scheduling; documentation; negotiations; and project
close-out. In addition, the Engineering Technician is going on ride along with the current inspector from AndersonPenna to gain
firsthand knowledge and experience as a construction inspector. If the Board approves a contract with OC Public Works for
inspection services, the Engineer Technician would go on ride along with the inspector.
When CMSD's inspector is on leave due for vacation or sick time, RBHA would serve as the District's Alternate Inspector for public
works project at 98.00 an hour. This will ensure inspection services is continued on a regular basis. RBHA would be required to
register with the California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) for public works inspection services and the firm would be
required to submit certified payroll records in DIR's Electronic Certified Payroll Reporting (eCPR) database.
In an effort to continue our partnership with RBHA, staff is recommending Rob Hamers continues meeting with the Engineering
Technician to mentor and transfer his institutional knowledge to him. This is good succession planing and its already occurring as the
Engineering Technician is preparing to take his public engineer's test within a few years.
In RBHA proposal, Mr. Hamers identified six proper procedures for inspections and indicated the District is not performing steps 3, 4,
5 and 6. The following is staff's response to Mr. Hamer's claim. The procedures below will continue with the County inspector and
when inspections are performed by the Engineering Technician/Construction Inspector.
3. Prior to inspection, Rob reviews the plans with the inspector to explain the work, the contractor’s procedure, the critical steps, and
other fine points. The District Engineer uses each project as a “teaching moment” to explain contractor techniques, advances in the
industry, no dig technologies, and other important points to educate the inspector.
The District's Engineering Technician has a Mechanical Engineering degree and knows how to review plans. The Engineering
Technician can review approved sewer plans with Mr. Hamers at the time he delivers plans to the District for upcoming projects and
will note the critical steps and procedures required to inspect. The Engineering Technician can also review with Mr. Hamers before
inspections for specific pointers to inspect each project and relay the message to the inspector. The Engineering Technician will keep
a list of approved sewer plans with notes from Mr. Hamers to relay to inspector. As Mr. Hamers mentions above, this procedure is
used as a "teaching moment." This procedure will conform to Recommendation Number 3 above by having Mr. Hamers transfer his
institutional knowledge to the District Engineering Technician as he develops and trains to become the District's inspector.
4. During the construction work by the contractor, the inspector calls the district engineer with updates and visits the district engineer
to review situations and discuss problems.
The AndersonPenna inspector has kept in contact with both Mr. Hamers and the Engineering Technician of changes in the field that
needs to be addressed before inspection can continue. The inspector has requested project engineers to revise sewer plans for Mr.
Hamers to approve before proceeding with inspections. For private sewer developments, Mr. Hamers informs
AndersonPenna inspector that work can continue and changes can be made in the field as long as the changes are noted on the
plans to keep the work flowing.
5. When project is complete, the inspector provides his red lined set of plans to the district engineer for review. After any clarifications
are made, the construction plans are as-built and go into the “atlas update bin.”
Since AndersonPenna has started inspections in September 2018, there has not been any major improvement projects in the right of
way that has been completed. CMSD has recently started requesting for four copies instead of three copies of sewer plans to be
approved so that AndersonPenna inspector can have a set when he goes out to the field to inspect and mark any changes.
6. Periodically, the plans in the “atlas update bin” are used to update the GIS atlas and a portion of the plans are saved. The saved
plans are given a reference number, such as S-2018-1.1 to 1.5, and then added to the permanent records of the District.
Once a project is completed, CMSD will have the inspector turn in the red lines and notes.
Legal Review
District Counsel has reviewed and approved the sample agreement from the County.
Environmental Review
Job classification and compensation for an Inspector position is an administrative matter, which will not result in direct or indirect
physical changes to the environment similar to grading or construction and is not considered a project under CEQA.
Financial Review
Staff estimates the annual cost for the County to provide construction inspection services for public works projects is $97,620. The
average annual inspection hours accrued in the last three years for inside inspections (e.g. CIP and public works projects) was 1,161
hours. Staff is assuming the County will spend 1,000 hours inspecting public works projects.
Staff estimates the annual cost for RBHA to provide construction inspection services for private development is $58,500. The
average annual inspection hours accrued in the last three years for outside inspection was 900 hours.
The cost to the FY 2020-21 Budget to amend the Engineering Technician position to Engineering Technician/Construction Inspector
is an additional $3,541. The Engineering Technician/Construction Inspector will not be at the maximum salary range in FY 2020-21
and will not reach the maximum range for at least four years. Additional one-time expenses for the Inspector position would include
a vehicle. To support the District's mission of protecting the community's health and the environment, staff recommends acquiring an
electric vehicle like the Ford Focus Electric at an estimated cost of $53,000, which includes outfitting the vehicle with exterior warning
lights. Other expenses would include procuring and installing a vehicle charger for $6,000 and a wireless tablet, mount and router for
$2,700 so the inspector can take pictures and use an electronic inspection log while in the field. If approved by the Board, these
expenses will be budgeted in the FY 2020-21 Budget.
By having RBHA perform outside inspections services the duties for the Engineering Technician/Construction Inspector can be
performed by one person, which means the District would not have to hire another person if the Board approves the
amended position.
Public Notice Process
Copies of this report are on file and will be included in the complete agenda packet for the April 16, 2019 Board of Directors Study
Session meeting at District Headquarters and posted on the District’s website at www.cmsdca.gov.
Alternative Actions
1. Direct staff to report with more information.
File Attachments
Inspection Request rev 1.pdf (230 KB)
Letter to Scott Carroll with Costa Mesa Sanitary District from Khalid Bazmi regarding Municipal Services
Construction Management Costa Mesa Sanitar.pdf (292 KB)
County Agreement.pdf (90 KB)
C. ITEMS OF STUDY
To: Board of Directors
Via: Scott Carroll, General Manager
From: Dyana Bojarski, Management Analyst II
Date: April 16, 2019
Subject: Classification and Compensation Study
Summary
In December 2018, the District contracted with Ralph Andersen and Associates, to conduct a comprehensive classification and
compensation study for all full-time and part-time employees. It is a recommended practice, as an industry standard, to periodically
review and update personnel classifications and adjust compensation levels as necessary. This meets the District's Strategic Plan
objective of employing and retaining a high quality, motivated workforce while offering competitive compensation and benefits. The
study also included a survey of surrounding agencies compensation and benefits for Board Members.
As a result of the classification segment, the Consultant recommended position title changes that align better with the market and
reclassifications that allocate staff to more applicable positions. For the compensation segment of the study, adjustments to the
current salary schedule were recommended based on market data and the internal relationships.
Recommendation
That staff bring this back to the April 25, 2019, Board meeting for consideration of approving new classifications and bring existing
classifications into the recommended salary ranges.
Analysis
The District contracted with Consultant, Ralph Andersen and Associates, to perform a comprehensive classification and
compensation study. A comprehensive salary and job classification study helps to ensure the District is offering a salary and benefits
package that is competitive with the private and public sector labor market and has the ability to attract and retain well-qualified
employees. It also helps to assure that job descriptions consistently reflect actual work duties.
The components of the Classification and Compensation Study include:
Conducting orientation kickoff session with employees
Job analysis questionnaires completed by employees
Job analysis interviews with employees to follow-up with questionnaire
Preparation of classification specifications
Management/employee review process and finalization of classification study recommendations
Identifying comparison agencies and collecting and analyzing compensation data
Developing salary recommendations for all job classes
Developing implementation strategy options and computing implementation cost
Classification Recommendations
As a result of the study, the Consultant recommended the following classification changes that align better with the market and
allocate staff to more applicable positions.
Subject 8. Classification and Compensation Study
Meeting Apr 16, 2019 - Board of Directors Study Session
Access Public
Type Discussion
Goals 6.2 Job Description Updates
6.0 Personnel/Organizational Management
District Wide Classifications
Office Specialist
It is recommended that a new classification of Office Specialist be created to provide general clerical and office support duties to
assigned areas
Administration - Human Resources
Management Analyst II
In order to more accurately reflect the duties and responsibilities assigned to this position, it is recommended that it be re-allocated to
Administrative Services Manager. This position is responsible for planning, organizing, managing, and providing oversight for all
functions and activities related to human resources administration, risk management, and employee relations. This position is also
responsible for overseeing facilities maintenance activities.
District Clerk
District Clerk
In order to more accurately reflect the duties and responsibilities assigned to this position, it is recommended that the title be changed
to District Clerk/Public Information Officer. This position is responsible for planning, organizing, managing, and providing oversight for
all functions and activities of the District Clerk office, as well as overseeing the public information activities, emergency operations
management and coordination, and the information technology contract for the District.
Maintenance
Maintenance Assistant
It is recommended that the title of this position be changed to Facilities Maintenance Worker. This position is responsible for
performing a variety of custodial and general facility maintenance duties including minor painting, carpentry, electrical, and plumbing
work. In order to more accurately reflect the duties and responsibilities assigned to this position.
Engineering
Engineering Technician
In order to more accurately reflect the duties and responsibilities assigned to this position, it is recommended that the title be
changed to Engineering Technician/Construction Inspector. This position is responsible for performing technical/paraprofessional
engineering tasks related to the issuance and processing of sewer permits including plan checking and calculating and collecting
associated fees, as well as field engineering work involved in inspecting construction activities on assigned District projects.
It is important to note that these title changes would become effective 2019-20 Fiscal Year with the exception of the Engineering
Technician classification which would take effect 2020-21 Fiscal Year.
Compensation and Benefits
Consultant collected and analyzed compensation data from surrounding labor market agencies. Source documents included position
control documents, job descriptions, salary schedules, benefit summaries and MOUs. The agencies utilized in the survey were:
South Coast Water District
Santa Margarita Water District
Mesa Water District
Orange County Sanitation District
Yorba Linda Water District
City of Newport Beach
City of Irvine
Irvine Ranch Water District
City of Fountain Valley
El Toro Water District
Orange County Water District
City of Huntington Beach
Moulton Niguel Water District
City of Costa Mesa
City of Orange
City of Tustin
After careful analysis, that included pay structure trends and base salary analysis, the calculation of the survey data mean, median,
and selected percentiles was calculated. Internal pay relationships were also analyzed in order to attain sound and equitable
relationships for the compensation. In assessing classifications with comparable agencies, classifications with similar duties and
responsibilities were matched. However, not all classifications were matched, only those that are most common in the market, also
known as benchmarks. Using benchmarks is a common practice and it enables agencies to determine pay for non-matched
classifications using benchmark salary findings. Based on the results of the analysis and labor market survey, the following salary
recommendations have been made.
Board Member Per Diem/Meeting Survey
The same survey agencies, with the addition of Midway City Sanitary District, were used for the Board Member per diem/meeting
survey as was used for the full-time and part-time employee survey. The average rate of the surveyed agencies for per diem/meeting
is $229 and the median rate is $216. The current rate for District Board Members is $295 per meeting with a maximum of six eligible
monthly meetings.
Legal Review
Not applicable.
Environmental Review
A classification and compensation study is an administrative matter and is not a disturbance of the environment similar to grading or
construction and is not a project under CEQA or the District's CEQA guidelines.
Financial Review
Incorporating the recommended salary ranges would result in a total annual increase to personnel salaries in the amount of
$81,863.19. This is due to the new Office Specialist classification; the amended job classification title from Maintenance Assistant to
Facilities Maintenance Worker and from Management Analyst II to Administrative Services Manager; and the adjustment to bring the
Management Analyst I and the Finance Manager classifications into the recommended salary ranges.
Public Notice Process
Copies of this report are on file and will be included with the entire agenda packet for the April 16, 2019, Board of Directors Study
Session meeting at District Headquarters and on District's website.
Alternative Actions
1. Refer the matter back to staff.
File Attachments
Costa Mesa SD Base Survey Data 2019-04-11.pdf (261 KB)
Costa Mesa SD Total Comp Survey Data 2019-04-11.pdf (583 KB)
D. CLOSING ITEMS
Subject 1. Oral Communications and Director Comments
Meeting Apr 16, 2019 - Board of Directors Study Session
Access Public
Type
D. CLOSING ITEMS
THE NEXT STUDY SESSION OF THE COSTA MESA SANITARY DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS WILL BE HELD ON
TUESDAY, MAY 14, 2019 AT 9:30 A.M. IN THE DISTRICTS BOARD ROOM, 290 PAULARINO AVENUE, COSTA MESA.
Subject 2. Adjournment
Meeting Apr 16, 2019 - Board of Directors Study Session
Access Public
Type Procedural