Moraga-Orinda Fire District

The Board of Directors discussed a variety of business items, including closed session topics such as property negotiations, anticipated litigation, a public employee performance evaluation for the Fire Chief, and labor negotiations with unrepresented employees. A public hearing was held for the second reading and adoption of an ordinance revising fees and collection policies for ambulance transport and emergency medical services. Updates were provided by the Fire Chief, including financial and human resources reports, as well as information on the Fire Marshal's office, Saint Mary's College, and operations. The Board also reviewed the proposed annual operating budget for fiscal year 2027 and established fire flow tax rates for the Orinda and Moraga service zones. Additionally, the Board authorized the Fire Chief to execute a professional services agreement for antitrust litigation representation and acted on the dissolution of an ad hoc facility project committee.

The Board conducted a public workshop on the long-range financial forecast, discussed staffing and recruitment updates, and received reports on fire prevention, inspection activities, and operational performance. Significant actions included the introduction of ordinances revising fee schedules and amending purchasing and contracting procedures to allow for design-build delivery methods. The Board also approved the salary schedule for the Fire Chief Officers' Association, authorized an information technology services agreement, and established a specialized fund for fuel break maintenance.

The meeting included a review and discussion of the audit for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026. The committee focused on reviewing the external auditors' audit plan, scope, and activities, including an assessment of management overview, financial risks, internal control risks, cybersecurity, and the use of data analysis. The committee also evaluated the audit firm's resources, quality control systems, and opportunities for efficiency improvements in the upcoming audit process.

The board discussed and took action on items including a closed session conference regarding real property at 1150 Moraga Way and a liability claim from Pete Nowicki, which was rejected. Additionally, the board approved an agreement to purchase the real property at 1150 Moraga Way for $3,600,000, along with associated transaction costs. They also authorized a $3,700,000 budget adjustment for the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Capital Projects Fund to facilitate this acquisition and determined the project to be categorically exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act.

The board discussed multiple operational items, including a public hearing regarding vacant positions and the second reading and adoption of an ordinance revising district service fees. Key agenda topics included a long-range financial forecast, a budget workshop for the upcoming fiscal year, and adjustments to the fuel break maintenance fund. Additionally, the board considered policies related to design-build contracts, conflicts of interest, and specialized legal services, as well as reviewed ambulance revenue and collection policies.