The board deliberated on whether the district had the authority to independently hire contractors or employees for these roles, separate from Martin County. The district’s attorney informed the board that while the district could remove illegal structures on its works, it would need to collaborate with the county for broader code enforcement activities. Concerns were raised by board members about the potential legal and financial consequences of employing law enforcement officers. The discussion also touched on the purpose and works of the district, the importance of working in harmony with the counties, and the potential impact on private property rights.

The board’s conversation shifted to the approval and criteria for a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for engineering survey services. The due date for RFQ responses was scheduled for April 22nd, with the board agreeing to receive electronic copies of the submissions before the meeting for review. A discussion ensued regarding the scope of the survey and whether to give preference to firms located closer to Palmar during the selection process. One member suggested assigning higher points to firms based on their geographic proximity to the district.

Another major topic of interest was the status of maps displayed on the district’s website. The board debated the appropriateness of keeping the maps online, with members emphasizing the need for clear disclaimers regarding their accuracy. It was resolved that each map would be reviewed individually at the next meeting to decide on its suitability for the website.

The board also contemplated the movement of the June meeting date to better align with the District Council’s availability, settling on June 17th. Furthermore, the possibility of canceling the April meeting was considered, but the board remained divided, with some members seeing no urgent items requiring discussion, while others preferred to keep the meeting scheduled, proposing an inquiry prior to the meeting to confirm the necessity.

The district manager reported on the status of the policy and procedures manual, expressing optimism for its approval at the May meeting, with the aim of implementing it during the landowners meeting in June. The engineer staff also provided insight into the removal of maps from the website, acknowledging their value for visual representation but underscoring the need for clear labeling as non-survey materials. The board supported the idea of a review of each map at the subsequent meeting.

During the field maintenance report, discussions revolved around the condition of covert operations and the disappearance of signs at canal ends. The maintenance supervisor presented various issues, including obstructed access due to coverts and the presence of abandoned objects and trees requiring attention.

The meeting also touched on the maintenance of water quality, the district’s reporting to environmental agencies, and the district’s responsibilities in land preservation and addressing illegal structures. Additional issues discussed included the potential use issues related to water quality and camping on district lands.

A concern was raised about potential bullying tactics and the need to maintain district integrity. Satisfaction with the mowing progress was expressed, and the removal of trees on game land to facilitate this process was discussed. The discovery of a car on district property was noted, with a recommendation to further investigate. The preference for combination locks over traditional locks for gates was voiced.

The financial report was presented, followed by a successful motion to pay the invoices. The public comments section included input from a Sierra Club representative, who raised concerns about sign removal and called for more comprehensive disclosure of property restrictions by realtors. The representative also addressed public land use and suggested engaging landowners to consider land swaps or other arrangements.