GSA weighs targeted amendments; board considers moving financial administration to city

Staff presented targeted redlines to the agency's governing documents based on a Stantech technical memo and Technical Advisory Committee recommendations, emphasizing a narrow approach rather than a full re-write. The redlines include updating party names, clarifying titles (general manager/executive director), aligning TAC membership with board seats to ease quorum challenges, and a recommended option to transfer financial administration from Mendocino County to the City of Yukaya.

The general manager said staff met with Mendocino County and City of Yukaya finance staff and that the city could operate the fund in a separate account for the GSA. "I have confidence that that transition could be implemented should the board choose to move that direction," staff told the board.

Board members supported targeted amendments for efficiency but emphasized controls. Director Bailey raised separation concerns if the city managed finances, saying it's important to keep agency records and public-facing materials distinct from the city's. Director Bailey also requested clearer language about the independent audit process after staff clarified that city finance staff currently coordinate an external third-party audit.

The TAC also recommended an optional stipend for board members who are not compensated by an employer to encourage tribal participation; the board discussed eligibility criteria, recruitment challenges for domestic-well users and planned tribal outreach before finalizing language. Staff requested direction to incorporate board feedback into a clean redline and send it to legal counsel for review prior to return to the board.