RANCHO MURIETA, CA (MPG) - Although the Rancho Murieta Community Services District Board faced a relatively light agenda on July 16, three issues stood out.

Interim Director of Finance and Administration Cecelia Min reported making significant financial adjustments – up to $1 million in discrepancies – as she and her team work to complete overdue audits. (See the separate story on audits in this issue.)

Former Director Steve Booth spoke during public comment, raising concerns about an investigation report regarding allegations made by former General Manager Mimi Morris. The report found the complaints to be without merit. (See "Booth Decries CSD Board’s Response to GM Morris Allegations".)

In a special meeting held prior to the regular session, the board appointed Rancho Murieta resident William Gere to fill the vacancy left by Booth’s resignation. (See the separate story in this issue.) Gere participated in the regular meeting that followed. Director Randy Jenco was absent.

In other business, the board approved an $80,700 contract with Water System Consultants to conduct a well study aimed at identifying strategic locations for future water sources, without drilling any test wells.

The board also approved a contract with HR to Go to help address the district’s significant human resources challenges. The agreement will cost $3,350 per month, with a monthly cap of $6,700.

The board approved a $32,530 engagement letter with Richardson and Company to provide audit services for another year, helping to maintain continuity as the district works through the challenges of completing overdue audits.

A significantly larger expenditure was the approval of a $163,000 purchase of 86 membranes for the water treatment plant. The membranes will be delivered during the winter, when water demand is lower, and installed immediately upon arrival.

The board also discussed the equipment and responsibilities of patrol officers, especially the need for clear job descriptions and a better understanding of the liability associated with providing security services. One outcome of the discussion was the board’s agreement that body-worn cameras should be the only district-issued equipment.

IT Manager Andy Lee also briefed the board on several matters, including the rollout of new phones and ongoing issues with the surveillance camera system that require resolution.

A board packet containing details on these topics, along with an audio recording of the meeting, is available on the district’s website.

The board’s next regular meeting is scheduled for 5 p.m. Aug. 20.