Abstract
Statement of Problem
Within the Special District of El Dorado Hills Community Services District (EDH) there are thirty-five (35) Landscaping and Lighting Assessment Districts (LLADs). Both before and during the annual Public Hearing in June 2008, the public voiced concern and confusion about the political process and the impact of these continuing assessments. Some of the information requested was available in the Assessment Engineer's report, but the format and technical tone of the report was not understandable to the typical nonexpert resident. In an effort to clarify the legal process and to bring transparency to the accounting procedures used in calculating these assessments, an illustrative manual was created, and several public forums were conducted.
Sources of Data
I. Historical EDH files with Assessment Engineer Consultant's Reports, Resolutions of Formation, Board Minutes, and accounting work papers
2. Interviews with EDH Staff: Phil Stamborsky, Park Superintendent over LLADs, Kent Oakley, EDH Director of Parks, and Kristie Downey, Administrative Assistant for the Planning Division
3. Law. The Landscaping and Lighting Act of 1972 (Sections 22500-22663 of the Streets and Highways Code) and California State Proposition 218
Conclusions Reached
The availability of information enhanced the public process. The manual became a useful tool for teaching property owners about their assessment, and several group presentations were conducted in LLAD villages with this resource. Because of its comprehensive format, it is a respected reference for staff and the elected Board of Directors to use in research and discussion. The information revealed five issues of focus for Board dialogue this fiscal year: Historical Expectations, Parity in the Levy, General Fund Subsidy Solutions, Consolidations for Efficiency, and Public Priorities.