Citizen's Advisory Committee Charter Scope of Work

1. PURPOSE
The Citizen’s Advisory Committee (CAC) is established to provide independent, community-based input, 
oversight, and transparency regarding the Groveland Community Services District’s Fire Suppression 
Assessment.
The CAC is intended to:

• Strengthen public trust
• Improve communication with property owners
• Provide accountability regarding fire service funding and implementation

2. ROLE AND AUTHORITY

• The CAC is advisory only
• The CAC does not:
  Set policy
  Direct staff
  Alter the Proposition 218 process
• The CAC does:
  Review information
  Ask questions
  Provide recommendations to the Board

3. SCOPE OF WORK
A. Assessment Review

• Review the Engineer’s Report and supporting materials
• Evaluate:
  Assumptions
  Methodology
  Equity and fairness
• Identify community questions and concerns

B. Community Engagement

• Serve as a two-way communication link
• Help communicate:
  Purpose of the assessment
  Fire service needs
  Use of funds
• Bring forward community feedback

C. Oversight and Accountability (If Approved)

• Review implementation of fire services funded by the assessment
• Monitor:
  Staffing levels
  Equipment and capital improvements
  Service level enhancements
• Provide periodic public reports

D. Post-Assessment Review (If Not Approved)

• Identify key community concerns
• Provide recommendations for:
  Modifications
  Improved communication
  Future funding strategies

4. MEMBERSHIP
Composition:

• 7–11 members appointed by the Board

Representation Goals:

• Geographic diversity
• Residential and commercial property owners
• Community members with varied perspectives
• Inclusion of both supportive and questioning viewpoints

5. MEETINGS
Frequency:

• Initial phase: As needed (1–2 meetings if feasible)
• Ongoing phase:
  Monthly (first 3–6 months)
  Quarterly thereafter

Format:

• Open to the public
• Agendas posted in advance
• Opportunity for public comment

6. LEADERSHIP

• The CAC shall elect a Chair and may select a Vice Chair
• The Chair will:
  Facilitate meetings
  Coordinate agenda development with staff

7. STAFF SUPPORT
District staff will:

• Provide meeting materials and technical information
• Ensure compliance with noticing requirements
• Support logistics and documentation

Staff serves in a support role only and does not direct CAC recommendations.

8. DELIVERABLES
The CAC may produce:

• Initial observations or summary (pre- or early phase)
• Periodic updates to the Board
• Annual or milestone-based reports
• Recommendations regarding improvements or adjustments

9. DURATION
The CAC is intended to operate for approximately 12–24 months, subject to Board review and direction.

10. GUIDING PRINCIPLES
The CAC will operate under the following principles:

• Transparency
• Respectful dialogue
• Inclusion of diverse viewpoints
• Commitment to factual information
• Focus on community benefit and fire safety

How to Apply

Complete the Fire Assessment Citizen's Advisory Committee Application and submit it below.

Please email questions to Meghan Atkins at matkins@gcsd.org or call the District Administrative Office at 209-962-7161.