Outlook
Town Clerk
From Christine Ferguson <[email protected]> Date Wed 2/5/2025 8:32 AM
To Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> TO: Fairfax Town Council
I am writing to urge you to appoint Linda Kenton as Town Clerk.
Her qualifications are many. Not only is she Head Librarian, and Asst. Town Manager for the town of San Anselmo, she is also community-oriented and committed to the values of participation and inclusiveness.
I have lived in her neighborhood for 56 years and feel strongly that she would be a great asset to the Town of Fairfax.
Thank you for your consideration,
Christine Ferguson
378 Cascade Drive
Fairfax, CA
Sent from my iPhone
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Town clerk.
From Cj Wild <[email protected]>
Date Wed 2/5/2025 12:09 PM
To Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> Hello
It came to my attention that Richard Hamer has applied for the remaining term for the role of town clerk.
I wanted to send this email as my endorsement and recommendation for his appointment.
I met him through Nextdoor where alongside myself and many other he is a moderator.
He is a strong communicator and an effective listener. He like all, has strong opinions and is vocal. Yet, he also listens and shares facts and evidence, driving us to a higher level of commutation.
His passion for this town and our community is so commendable.
He would be an asset to our town.
Cj Wild
Fairfax resident.
415-720-0790
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Clerk & Treasurer
From Claudia Gibson <[email protected]>
Date Wed 2/5/2025 11:51 AM
To Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> Why on earth would the Town of Fairfax want to even consider ppl that are currently employed by San Anselmo?
Are you saying that we can’t make our own choices?
Maybe there should be an amendment to our charter that says Only Residents can serve in Town offices & on our Counsel.
San Anselmo has a very different style than Fairfax & we shouldn’t be selling ourselves out to ppl that may only be using us as a stepping stone for future political gain.
I absolutely oppose the nomination of any outsiders.
Claudia Gibson 🌺
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Town Clerk and Treasurer Appointments-Approval Tonight
From emily busch <[email protected]>
Date Wed 2/5/2025 1:41 PM
To Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> Dear Fairfax Town Council,
I am writing to express my concern regarding the potential appointment of either of the two current San Anselmo town employees for the positions of town treasurer and clerk. Such an appointment would create a conflict of interest between our two towns.
More importantly, this conflict could lead to a consolidation of similar viewpoints across crucial bodies like the Fireboard and the Transportation Authority of Marin and could influence the distribution of major grants impacting both communities. Additionally, it could compromise matters of mutual aid and the resolution of boundary disputes.
I respectfully urge the council to consider appointing Deborah Benson or Michael Mackintosh, both of whom possess superior qualifications and would not present a conflict of interest.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
Sincerely,
Emily Busch
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Linda Kenton
From JEFF PALLADINI <[email protected]>
Date Tue 2/4/2025 4:00 PM
To Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> Hello, Councilmembers. I am writing to encourage you to appoint Linda Kenton to the Town Clerk position. Intelligent, resourceful, and a proven leader, Linda is a great choice, and we should be honored that she would make herself available to serve our community in this position.
Sincerely,
Jeffrey Palladini
252 Cascade Dr.
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In support of Michael Mackintosh For Town Clerk Appointment From Kelly Deb London <[email protected]>
Date Tue 1/28/2025 11:05 AM
To Heather Abrams <[email protected]>; Frank Egger <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; Stephanie Hellman <[email protected]>; Barbara Coler <[email protected]>; Lisel Blash <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; Mark Lockaby <[email protected]>; Linda Neal <[email protected]>; Christine Foster <[email protected]>
Dear Heather, Frank, Mike G, Stephanie H, Barbara C, Lisel Blash, Chief Rico, Mark L, Linda N, and Christine F
I am writing as a resident and business owner of and in the Town of Fairfax.
The last two and a half years has been a terribly divisive time for the the residents of Fairfax.
We know all too well Why that is.
I know that Michael Mackintosh has submitted his Application and very impressive Resume to the Town of Fairfax
for consideration for the Appointment for the position of Fairfax Town Clerk.
He is serious in his desire to hold this position.
His Application and Resume speak for themselves in terms of his abilities to do the job.
I am writing to support Michaels Mackintosh for Appointment to Position of the Fairfax Town Clerk.
He has promised”... transparent Interface with the public…” I believe will his Appointment as Town Clerk will help in the long road ahead towards healing this community.
I believe Michael Mac will rebuild confidence with the Residents of Fairfax and prive the invaluable gift of transparency we need as a community.
Thank you for your support in Appointing Michael Macintosh as Fairfax Town Clerk Best Regards
Deborah A London
415-269-6970
Resident
Business Owner
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Michael Mackintosh Fairfax Town Clerk Appointment
From Deborah London <[email protected]>
Date Tue 1/28/2025 11:11 AM
To Lisel Blash <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; Frank Egger <[email protected]>; Barbara Coler <[email protected]>; Stephanie Hellman <[email protected]>; Heather Abrams <[email protected]>; Christine Foster <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; Mark Lockaby <[email protected]>; Linda Neal <[email protected]> Dear Heather, Frank, Mike G, Stephanie H, Barbara C, Lisel Blash, Chief Rico, Mark L, Linda N, and Christine F
This is Kelly London writing.
I am resident and business owner in Fairfax
I know that Michael Mackintosh has submitted his Application and very impressive Resume to the Town of Fairfax
for consideration for the Appointment for the position of Fairfax Town Clerk.
I am writing to support Michaels Mackintosh for Appointment to Position of the Fairfax Town Clerk.
I believe will his Appointment as Town Clerk will help in the long road ahead towards healing this community.
Thank you for your support in Appointing Michael Macintosh as Fairfax Town Clerk Best Regards
Kelly A London
415-717-0429
Resident
Business Owner
Outlook
Re: Town Council Meeting: Clerk and Treasurer appointments From Kirstin A. <[email protected]>
Date Wed 2/5/2025 12:24 PM
To Barbara Coler <[email protected]>; Lisel Blash <[email protected]>; Stephanie Hellman <[email protected]>; Michael Ghiringhelli <[email protected]>; Frank Egger <[email protected]>; Heather Abrams <[email protected]> Cc Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> Dear Honorable Fairfax Town council membersBelow is an updated email from the email I sent this morning. The below request has more factual statements. I apologize, as I was just informed that the two applicants do indeed live in Fairfax:
Dear Honorable Fairfax Town council membersTwo applicants for treasurer and clerk of our town of Fairfax are currently employees of the town of San Anselmo. Please reconsider these appointments for the following reasons:
1) An appointment of either or both will create a conflict of interest between the two towns. 2) this conflict of interest will also allow the consolidation of very similar, if not agreeable, opinions running our Transportation Authority of Marin, Fire Board and grants coming through both cities. There would be no diversity of opinion — and we all know that’s what going in our current federal government.
3) this aforementioned issue will compromise the subject of mutual aid and of boundary conflicts between the two communities.
As a citizen for almost 30 years, I request that our town council consider Deborah Benson and Michael Mackintosh as applicants. Both have exceptional qualifications and should be at the very top of your list.
Many of us note that Fairfax government shows its’ bias when these two citizens are not considered — they have been to almost every town council meeting for many years and have often called out discrepancies in town.
Thank you,
Kirstin Asher, Fairfax, Ca
On Wed, Feb 5, 2025 at 11:04 AM Kirstin A. <[email protected]> wrote:
Dear Honorable Fairfax Town council membersTwo applicants for treasurer and clerk of our town of Fairfax are currently employees of the town of San Anselmo. The appointment of treasurer and clerk should, very importantly, be a citizen of Fairfax for the following reasons:
1) An appointment of either or both will create a conflict of interest between the two towns. 2) this conflict of interest will also allow the consolidation of very similar, if not agreeable, opinions running our Transportation Authority of Marin,
Fire Board and grants coming through both cities. There would be no diversity of opinion — and we all know that’s what going in our current federal government. 3) this fore mentioned issue will compromise the subject of mutual aid and of boundary conflicts between the two communities.
As a citizen for almost 30 years, I implore our town council to choose applicants who live in Fairfax.
Deborah Benson and Michael Mackintosh have exceptional qualifications and should be at the very top of your list. Many of us note that Fairfax government shows its’ bias when these two citizens are not being considered —they have been to almost every town council meeting for many years and have often called out discrepancies in town.
Thank you,
Kirstin Asher, Fairfax, Ca
Outlook
Town Council Meeting: Clerk and Treasurer appointments
From Kirstin A. <[email protected]>
Date Wed 2/5/2025 11:04 AM
To Barbara Coler <[email protected]>; Lisel Blash <[email protected]>; Stephanie Hellman <[email protected]>; Michael Ghiringhelli <[email protected]>; Frank Egger <[email protected]>; Heather Abrams <[email protected]> Cc Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> Dear Honorable Fairfax Town council membersTwo applicants for treasurer and clerk of our town of Fairfax are currently employees of the town of San Anselmo. The appointment of treasurer and clerk should, very importantly, be a citizen of Fairfax for the following reasons:
1) An appointment of either or both will create a conflict of interest between the two towns. 2) this conflict of interest will also allow the consolidation of very similar, if not agreeable, opinions running our Transportation Authority of Marin,
Fire Board and grants coming through both cities. There would be no diversity of opinion — and we all know that’s what going in our current federal government. 3) this fore mentioned issue will compromise the subject of mutual aid and of boundary conflicts between the two communities.
As a citizen for almost 30 years, I implore our town council to choose applicants who live in Fairfax.
Deborah Benson and Michael Mackintosh have exceptional qualifications and should be at the very top of your list. Many of us note that Fairfax government shows its’ bias when these two citizens are not being considered —they have been to almost every town council meeting for many years and have often called out discrepancies in town.
Thank you,
Kirstin Asher, Fairfax, Ca
Outlook
Fairfax Festival Update
From Larry Bragman <[email protected]>
Date Mon 2/3/2025 12:28 PM
To Heather Abrams <[email protected]>; Christine Foster <[email protected]>; Michael Vivrette <[email protected]>; Rico Tabaranza <[email protected]>; Lisel Blash <[email protected]>
Cc Holly Bragman <[email protected]>; Larry Bragman <[email protected]> 2 attachments (161 KB)
FESTIVAL 2025 UPDATE FIN.pdf; FESTIVAL RECAP FY23 & 24.pdf; Dear Mayor Blash, Heather, Christine, Michael and Chief Tabaranza:
I have attached a Festival Update memo for the upcoming Council meeting ON 2/5/25.
I have also attached a recent financial summary that Michael was kind enough to provide.
I plan on being at the meeting in person and look forward to our conversation about the Festival.
Thanks always for your consideration and support.
Larry
--
Law Office of Lawrence Bragman
912 Lootens Place, Second Floor
San Rafael, CA 94901
(415) 459-6060
(415) 459-6067 (Fax)
***NOTE***
The information contained in this e-mail message is intended only for use by the individual or entity named above. The message contains confidential and privileged information. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible to deliver it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please contact the sender immediately and destroy the original message. Thank you.
Town Council Report: Fairfax Festival 2024 Planning and Budget Considerations Submitted by: Larry Bragman
The Fairfax Festival Committee has commenced preparations for the 46th consecutive Fairfax Festival in its modern era. Originally held in the 1960s, the Festival was revived after a 20-year hiatus and has since evolved into a more family-friendly event. It now includes Friday Film Night, Ecofest in the Pavilion, and a dedicated children’s playground. The Festival spans multiple venues, including Bolinas Park, Peri Park, the Pavilion, and Contratti Field, while the Fairfax Parade remains a hallmark of the event, showcasing the town’s unique culture and communities. This year’s Fairfax Festival is scheduled for the weekend of June 7th and 8th.
Festival Leadership and Volunteer Efforts
The Festival has been organized and produced entirely by a dedicated volunteer committee. Since joining the committee in 2005, I have witnessed its growth and evolution under the leadership of Richard Pedemonte, who concurrently served on the Parks and Recreation Commission. Upon his retirement, I stepped into the Chair position in 2022. The committee is structured into multiple departments, each managed by local residents who commit significant volunteer hours to oversee areas such as the parade, website, social media, flea market, artist booths, and music venues. This grassroots effort has earned the Fairfax Festival the title of “Best Festival in Marin” by the Pacific Sun on multiple occasions. It's worth punctuating how unique our model is seeing how most festivals of this size are run by companies who profit from doing so.
Town Collaboration and Financial Overview
As a Town-sponsored event, the Fairfax Festival requires some collaboration between Town Staff and the Festival Chair. The Town receives the revenues generated by vendor fees, booth fees, beer and wine sales, sponsorships, and merchandise sales while providing accounting services to track these funds.
Over the years, the Ecofest Committee has independently helped underwrite Festival expenses including renovation of the ball field restrooms, rebuilding the Redwood Stage, paying for bike parking. Ecofest also sponsors its own musical venue under the direction of Tom Finch.
The Main Stage and the Redwood Stage are included in the Festival Budget.
Although the Festival remains a free event, we are expected to generate sufficient revenue to cover its costs. Over the past two years, the Festival has operated at a surplus, though in some years it has faced a deficit. Festival revenues can be unpredictable because of external factors such as weather and public health crises (e.g., COVID-19).
Rising Costs and Administrative Support
As the Festival has grown, so have its costs and organizational demands. In recent years, the Festival has hired a paid Administrative Assistant to manage logistics and deadlines. We are currently seeking a replacement for Allison Ritter Fitzpatrick, who recently stepped down but is available for onboarding a new person. We have also reached out to the Parks and Recreation Commission to reestablish a strong collaboration that could provide a more stable organizational framework going forward.
Operational Expenses & Town Support
The Town of Fairfax traditionally provides police and public works assistance, while the Festival funds:
Trash and recycling services
Bike parking
Ballfield activities
Temporary staffing for event setup
The Festival itself hires and pays the North Bay Conservation Corps to manage waste and recycling stations. While this service is valuable, it remains costly and needs expansion based on feedback from local merchants and residents. We are optimistic that the recent Zero-Waste requirements will also assist with this issue.
Proposed Budget Consideration
To ensure the long-term stability of the Fairfax Festival, we request the Town consider providing additional budgetary support, specifically for:
The cost of the North Bay Conservation Corps to improve waste management.
Children’s activities at the ballfield, reducing financial pressure on the Festival.
This support would help stabilize vendor and exhibitor fees, which are under increasing pressure due to rising production costs. Increased fees have already led to longtime participants withdrawing, including the Native Sons of the Golden West, who opted not to return due to the 40% gross sales fee imposed on beer and wine vendors.
Conclusion
The Fairfax Festival remains a cherished community tradition that relies on strong partnerships between the Festival Committee, the Town, and local organizations. A small increase in Town support will help maintain its grassroots spirit, ensure financial sustainability, and continue to provide an inclusive, high-quality event for all.
The Festival Committee appreciates your support and look forward to continued collaboration.
Respectfully submitted,
Larry Bragman,
Festival Chair
Fairfax Festival
Comparative Net Income Summary
June 2024 & 2023
2024 2023 $▲
Revenues
Beverage Commissions 32,670 21,657 11,013 Sponsorships 16,227 16,500 (273) Vendors ‐ Food/Bev/Tee 19,495 21,144 (1,649) Arts & Craft Booths 12,425 12,250 175 Flea Market Booths 5,053 4,250 803 Misc vendors ‐ Ballfield 486 1,025 (539) Total Revenue 86,355 76,826 9,529 Expenses
Administrator 5,105 5,163 (59) Advertising, Signs, Posters 1,910 1,399 511 Astro Jump 600 579 21 Bands 12,096 6,792 5,304
Bike Parking 1,300 ‐ 1,300
BMI licensing 459 956 (496) Equipment rental 15,070 17,494 (2,424) Health Dept 5,332 5,280 52 Insurance 3,182 4,510 (1,328) Kanteen Cups 3,867 7,087 (3,220) Misc 938 2,336 (1,397) PO Box 222 216 6 Recycling 7,993 5,460 2,533 Sound Engineering 4,000 5,600 (1,600) Stage rental 2,600 1,150 1,450 Tee Shirts/posters 9,283 9,853 (570) Water 691 465 226 Total Expenses 74,648 75,639 (992) Net Income 11,707 1,187 10,521 Prepared 11/26/24 MV
Unaudited ‐ for discussion purposes only
Outlook
Town Clerk and Treasurer
From Linda Vela <[email protected]>
Date Wed 2/5/2025 2:13 PM
To Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> Dear Fairfax Town Council,
I hope this letter finds you well. As a concerned citizen of Fairfax, I am writing to address the upcoming appointments of the town treasurer and town clerk, which will be discussed at today’s meeting.
It has come to my attention that two of the candidates under consideration currently hold positions with the Town of San Anselmo. While I have no doubt that these candidates have the required qualifications, their appointments to these positions within Fairfax’s administration raises significant concerns regarding potential conflicts of interest. You can’t serve two masters at once.
I respectfully urge the council to consider candidates who do not present a conflict of interest. Therefore, Deborah Benson and Michael Mackintosh are candidates who can fulfill this positions with an unbiased perspective that’s so essential for maintaining the integrity of Fairfax’s administrative processes.
I trust that the council will carefully weigh the potential implications of these appointments and act in the best interest of Fairfax’s citizens. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Regards,
Linda Vela
Fairfax, Ca
Sent from my iPhone
Outlook
Appointment of town Treasurer and Clerk
From Lisa Carmassi <[email protected]>
Date Wed 2/5/2025 1:21 PM
To Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> ear Fairfax Town council, I am asking the town council to choose among non-conflicted applicants Deborah Benson and Michael Mackintosh or Rick Hamer who also have superior qualifications, instead of applicants that are currently employees of the Town of San Anselmo. An appointment of either or both of the Town of San Anselmo employees will create a conflict of interest between the two towns. However, and more importantly, this conflict of interest will also allow the consolidation of the same opinions running the fireboard, the transportation authority of Marin and the major grants coming through both cities. It will also compromise issues of mutual aid and boundary conflicts between the communities. --
Lisa
Carmassi & Sons Painting
415-454-3945
carmassipainting.com
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Re: [EXTERNAL] Town of Fairfax Town Clerk position
From Marin Town and Country Club <[email protected]> Date Mon 2/3/2025 7:54 PM
To Liz Froneberger <[email protected]>; Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> Dear Liz:
Thank you
Clearly stated and to the point.
I appreciate the effort.
Michael
From: Liz Froneberger <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 3, 2025 7:34 PM
To: [email protected]
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Town of Fairfax Town Clerk position Greetings,
I understand that Michael Mackintosh has applied for the above position. I've reviewed his resume and have watched him for several years at TC meetings.
It is clear he cares deeply about the Town of Fairfax. He is intelligent, well spoken, honest and forthright. He will be an asset for the town and for the public at large.
His qualities and reputation with many residents would go a long way toward restoring some faith in the town council and town manager, were you to choose him.
I urge you to select him.
Thank you,
Liz Froneberger, RN
120 San Gabriel Dr.
Fairfax
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Town Clerk Appointment
From Marleen Roggow <[email protected]>
Date Mon 2/3/2025 8:55 PM
To Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> Dear Respected Members of the Fairfax Town Council,
I strongly urge you to appoint Linda Kenton to the position of Town Clerk. I have known Linda for over 20 years, as a neighbor, friend and trusted librarian.
As a fellow Fairfaxian, Linda always shows up for local events, has stepped in to host our neighborhood block party, patronizes our stores and restaurants and is a very engaged and informed member of our community.
Linda is currently serving as the San Anselmo Town Librarian as well as the Assistant Town Manager, which speaks volumes about her strong leadership and organizational skills. I have no doubt that she would bring these same qualities to her role as Fairfax Town Clerk. And she would not be bringing any political ambitions or agenda with her.
Thank you for your time and attention.
Sincerely,
Marleen Roggow
359 Cascade Dr.
Fairfax
Outlook
Town Appointments
From Matt Da Cunha <[email protected]>
Date Wed 2/5/2025 12:20 PM
To Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]>; Stephanie Hellman <[email protected]>; Lisel Blash <[email protected]>; Barbara Coler <[email protected]>; Frank Egger <[email protected]>; Michael Ghiringhelli <[email protected]>
Cc Heather Abrams <[email protected]>; Christine Foster <[email protected]> Town of Fairfax Council Members:
My name is Matt Da Cunha and I am a lifelong resident of the Town of Fairfax. I’ve spent 44 of my 55 years living in this town and care deeply about our town. That is why I am making the following recommendations:r
1). I am recommending Michael Mackintosh’s appointment to the Elected Town Council position. 2). I am recommending Deborah Benson’s appointment to the Treasurer and Elected Town Clerk positions.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.
Respectfully submitted,
Matt Da Cunha
1 Westbrae Drive
Fairfax, CA 94930
415-686-1726
[email protected]
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Open Positions
From [email protected] <[email protected]> Date Wed 2/5/2025 9:45 AM
To Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> Dear Fairfax Town council, Before you today is an appointment for our town, treasurer and clerk. Two applicants are currently employees of the town of San Anselmo. An appointment of either or both will create a conflict of interest between the two towns. However, and more importantly, this conflict of interest will also allow the consolidation of the same opinions running the fireboard, the transportation authority of Marin and the major grants coming through both cities. It will also compromise issues of mutual aid and boundary conflicts between the communities. I am Asking the council to choose amongst non conflicted applicants Deborah Benson and Michael Mackintosh whom also have superior qualifications.” (There is also Ric Hamer as an alternative to the two San Anselmo staff) Den and Michael have been part of our town for a very long time and deserve this! Melissa Snyder
Sent from my iPhone
Outlook
Town Clerk position
From MIchael Rosenthal <[email protected]>
Date Mon 2/3/2025 8:56 PM
To Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> Dear Fairfax Town Council,
As a 41-year Fairfax resident, I’m writing to wholeheartedly recommend Linda Kenton for the Town Clerk position. We are longtime friends and neighbors, and I know her to be an honest and hardworking person. Her work for the Town of San Anselmo gives her an excellent background with which to step into the role of Town Clerk. I know that she would approach this position without any hidden agenda or axe to grind.
I worry that for at least two of the other candidates, that would not be the case. I can easily see Deborah Benson or Michael Mackintosh trying to turn the largely ceremonial post into something more powerful.
I can imagine them making the jobs of paid town staff much more difficult and unpleasant, with demands that take them away from the task of serving the people of Fairfax.
Sincerely,
Michael Rosenthal
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Recommendation to appoint Michael Mackintosh as Town Clerk From MICHAEL SEXTON <[email protected]>
Date Wed 2/5/2025 11:42 AM
To Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> As a long time Fairfax resident and friend of Michael Mackintosh, I highly recommend his appointment to the Town Clerk position.
Michael's experience, gravitas, and understanding of the issues and Clerk responsibilities, makes him highly qualified for the position.
It would be a tremendous benefit to the Town of Fairfax to have him serve in this position.
Thank you.
Michael Sexton
Outlook
Re: Town Clerk & Treasurer
From Rob Alvarez <[email protected]>
Date Wed 2/5/2025 12:02 PM
To Christine Foster <[email protected]>
Add this to the record too.
Sent from the future!
On Feb 5, 2025, at 11:33 AM, Rob Alvarez <[email protected]> wrote:
If these are paid positions then they should be illuminated.
Sent from the future!
On Feb 5, 2025, at 11:27 AM, Lisel Blash <[email protected]> wrote:
Hi,
This was discussed and put to a vote of the people. The people voted to retain them. This will be further explained in tonight's meeting.
Best,
Lisel Blash
Fairfax Town Council
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**The opinions expressed in this email are those of this individual Council Member and are not representative of the entire Council or Town of Fairfax unless otherwise stated.** From: Rob Alvarez <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, February 5, 2025 11:25 AM
To: Lisel Blash <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: Town Clerk & Treasurer
Then why do we have these positions and why are they still important. Maybe they should be eliminated if there’s no benefit to having these positions filled.
Smaller government is probably better.
Sent from the future!
On Feb 5, 2025, at 11:20 AM, Lisel Blash
<[email protected]> wrote:
Hi Rob,
Town Clerk and Town Treasurer are larely ceremonial positions. The actual work on the town finances is done by a paid Finance Director and his staff; the actual work of the Town Clerk is done by paid staff in the Clerk's office.
Neither Town Clerk nor Town Treasurer is involved in budgeting and financial management. The treasurer is not responsible for managing the town's finances. The Treasurer does not oversee the allocation of funds, including those directed to transportation projects. The Town Council works with the Town staff to set the budget each year. The Transportation Authority of Marin allocates some grant funding for transportation—and each town has town council representatives on the TAM board.
Best,
Lisel Blash
Fairfax Town Council
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**The opinions expressed in this email are those of this individual Council Member and are not representative of the entire Council or Town of Fairfax unless otherwise stated.**
From: Rob Alvarez <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, February 5, 2025 10:59 AM
To: Lisel Blash <[email protected]>
Cc: Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> Subject: Re: Town Clerk & Treasurer
Glad you asked. This is something I would expect our council members to fully understand. I hope it provides the clarity that you are asking for.
1. Ross Valley Fire Board: The Town Clerk and Treasurer, while not directly setting policy, I imagine play vital roles in administrative support and financial oversight. Their involvement in budgeting and financial management could indirectly affect decisions related to the fireboard, particularly in resource allocation and funding.
2. Transportation Authority of Marin: The Town Treasurer, responsible for managing the town's finances, would oversee the allocation of funds, including those directed to transportation projects. Any shared financial interests or biases could influence the prioritization of projects that benefit San Anselmo.
3. Grants Management: The Town Clerk and Treasurer are often involved in the application and management of grants. A conflict of interest could arise if their dual roles led to preferential treatment or biased decisions regarding grant distribution, potentially favoring projects that benefit San Anselmo rather than Fairfax exclusively.
While these positions may not have direct policymaking authority, their influence over financial decisions and administrative processes can have a significant impact on the operations and priorities of Fairfax's various boards and functions.
I respectfully urge the council to consider candidates who do not present such conflicts. Deborah Benson and Michael Mackintosh.
Thank you,
Sent from the future!
On Feb 5, 2025, at 10:39 AM, Lisel Blash
<[email protected]> wrote:
Thanks Rob.
Could you clarify the following:
This conflict of interest could influence critical areas such as the fireboard, the Transportation Authority of
Marin, major grants management, mutual aid arrange
ments, and boundary conflicts between our
communities.
Where do you see the Town Clerk and Town Treasurer
influencing policy on the Ross Valley Fire Board,
Transportation Authority of Marin, or grants
management? I am not clear on how they would
influence these boards or functions.
Best
Lisel Blash
Fairfax Town Council
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**The opinions expressed in this email are those of this individual Council Member and are not representative of the entire Council or Town of Fairfax unless otherwise stated.**
From: Rob Alvarez <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, February 5, 2025 10:33 AM
To: Fairfax Town Council
<[email protected]>
Subject: Town Clerk & Treasurer
Dear Fairfax Town Council,
I hope this letter finds you well. As a concerned citizen of Fairfax, I am writing to address the upcoming
appointments of the town treasurer and town clerk,
which will be deliberated at today's council meeting.
It has come to my attention that two of the candidates
under consideration currently hold positions with the
town of San Anselmo. While I am sure these candidates
have commendable qualifications, their appointment to
key positions within Fairfax's administration raises
significant concerns regarding potential conflicts of
interest.
Specifically, the overlapping roles could jeopardize the independence and sovereignty of Fairfax's decisions,
particularly in areas where our town's interests may
diverge from those of San Anselmo. This conflict of
interest could influence critical areas such as the
fireboard, the Transportation Authority of Marin, major grants management, mutual aid arrangements, and
boundary conflicts between our communities.
I respectfully urge the council to consider candidates
who do not present such conflicts. Deborah Benson
and Michael Mackintosh, for instance, not only offer
superior qualifications but also bring an unbiased
perspective essential for maintaining the integrity of
Fairfax's administrative processes.
I trust that the council will carefully weigh the potential implications of these appointments and act in the best
interest of Fairfax's citizens. Thank you for your
attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Robert Alvarez
Spruce Road
Fairfax, CA 94930
Outlook
Appointment of Treasurer and Clerk
From Sean Fitzgerald <[email protected]>
Date Wed 2/5/2025 9:41 AM
To Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> Dear Fairfax Town council,
Before you today is an appointment for our town, treasurer and clerk. Two applicants are currentemployees of the town of San Anselmo. An appointment of either or both will create a conflict of interest between the two towns. However, and more importantly, this conflict of interest will also allow the consolidation of the same opinions running the fireboard, the transportation authority of Marin and the major grants coming through both cities. It will also compromise issues of mutual aid and boundary conflicts between the communities.
I am Asking the council to choose amongst non conflicted applicants Deborah Benson and Michael Mackintosh whom also have superior qualifications.
There is also Ric Hamer as an alternative to the two San Anselmo staff - but he has conflicts as a moderator on next door. However if he becomes appointed it would allow for citizens to review/pra his communications on the next door platform
so it may be to our benefit to see that.
Regards
Sean Fitzgerald
Outlook
Town Treasurer and Clerk
From Shaun Madden <[email protected]>
Date Wed 2/5/2025 2:37 PM
To Michele Gardner <[email protected]>; Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]>
Dear Fairfax Town council,
I am asking the council to choose among the candidates (listed below) who are exclusively committed to our town. As a resident, I do not want these important positions filled with individuals who are also serving San Anselmo. Conflicts of interest, even the appearance of, should be avoided.
These qualified, Faifax only, candidates are; Ric Hamer, Deborah Benson and Michael Mackintosh.
Best
Shaun Madden
Fairfax Resident
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Town clerk must be resident of fairfax
From Susanne Chaney <[email protected]>
Date Wed 2/5/2025 10:41 AM
To Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> Why is council even considering hiring someone who lives in and works for and is paid by San Anselmo. I’m positive that San Anselmo would not hire someone for such an important position who lives elsewhere. Plus I am highly concerned that they will not be having their whole attention and best practices for Fairfax if they don’t live here
This could actually legally establish a precedent that anyone can run for town council who doesn’t reside in the town if there was to be a court case involving this idea Thank you for considering my concerns
And I really do hope that at least one of you or all reply to me as to your stance on this Important action
Keep Fairfax Fair please
Susanne Chaney
Sent from my iPad
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Public Comment 2/5/25 Town Council meeting-keep for records From Teliha Draheim <[email protected]>
Date Wed 2/5/2025 10:31 AM
To Barbara Coler <[email protected]>; Stephanie Hellman <[email protected]>; Lisel Blash <[email protected]>; Michael Ghiringhelli <[email protected]>; Frank Egger <[email protected]>
Cc Christine Foster <[email protected]>; Heather Abrams <[email protected]> Fairfax Town Council: I am writing to request the following letter be added to the public comments record for item #1 on the regular agenda during the Fairfax Town Council meeting scheduled for February 5, 2025.
Christine Foster: Can you please confirm receipt of this email and acknowledge that my letter containing public comments will be included in the Agenda Package for the Fairfax Town Council prior to the meeting scheduled for February 5, 2025.
Thank you,
Teliha Draheim
Fairfax Town Council,
I am submitting this letter as an endorsement for Michael Mackintosh to be selected as the Fairfax Town Clerk at the February 5, 2024 Town Council meeting. Over the years, Michael has demonstrated unwavering dedication to Fairfax. He has attended every Fairfax Town Council meeting, providing valuable information and input for town governance. His extensive professional background provides ample documentation for his qualifications.
I also endorse Deborah Benson for Fairfax Town Treasurer. Deborah’s extensive background in accounting, as well as her dedication to Fairfax, makes her an ideal candidate for this position.
Both candidates represent local values which I endorse. They do not have conflicts of interest by providing services to San Anselmo. This factor should be considered to avoid possible compromise of issues relating to mutual aid or boundaries between both towns.
Sincerely,
Teliha Draheim
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Re: Agenda Item #1 2/5/2025 Fairfax Town Council Meeting - Proposed selection of "Appointee" for the vacant Elected Fairfax Town Clerk position.
From todd greenberg <[email protected]>
Date Wed 2/5/2025 2:59 PM
To Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> Re: Agenda Item #1 2/5/2025 Fairfax Town Council Meeting Proposed selection of "Appointee" for the vacant Elected Fairfax Town Clerk position.
Dear Members of the Fairfax Town Council,
I urge you to carefully consider your actions, motions, and votes this evening regarding "appointment" of an Elected Town Clerk.
Please abide by the majority vote of your constituency, the Fairfax voters at the Ballot Box in November of 2024, when they made it clear that they do want the Fairfax Town Clerk to be Elected and that they don't want an "Appointed Town Clerk".
Given the expressed will of the people, I urge you to cease your repeated disregard of the majority of the Fairfax citizenry and call for a Special Election to fill the vacancies of the offices of the Elected Town Clerk and Elected Town Treasurer at the earliest possible date.
If you choose to ignore the ballots cast by Fairfax voters on Measure H and proceed to appoint a person to fill the vacancy of the Office of the Elected Town Clerk you will be acting contrary to the indicated preferences and votes of the 60% majority of Fairfax voters who overwhelmingly voted against making the office of the Elected Town Clerk "appointive".
Measure H was soundly defeated in the November 2024 election. Here is the Ballotpedia summary of that Measure: Fairfax, California, Measure H, Town Clerk Appointment Measure (November 2024)
Fairfax, California, Measure H, Town Clerk
Appointment Measure (November...
Ballotpedia: The Encyclopedia of American Politics
Fairfax voter's clearly indicated they want the Town Clerk to be elected which means that if you were listening to them, you would hold a Special Election for the now vacant office of the Elected Town Clerk.
Are you going to intentionally ignore the vote of the people in Fairfax? It is truly appalling that the prior Town Council has so many times acted contrary to the concerns expressed by so many residents. Please don't continue to disregard Fairfax voters.
If you do insist on proceeding with this ill advised appointive Town Clerk selection process, i would like to make some comments and observations re the applicants.
Bottomline, please appoint either Michael Mackintosh or Deborah Benson, as both of them have been longtime community members attending and participating in Fairfax Town Council Meetings. They are both well known and visible in our community for decades with superior qualifications than the other applicants. Very importantly, they do not have the clear Conflicts of Interests or likely Scheduling Conflicts that the other applicants do.
Michael Mackintosh is likely the best qualified applicant to provide much needed transparency and efficiencies to the Office of the Town Clerk. He is the only applicant that has included an extensive resume which demonstrates significantly more legal knowledge than all other applicants and impressive abilities to handle complex tasks that he has successfully performed for many of the top government agencies in the United States. We should be so lucky to have him as our Town Clerk.
Deborah Benson is also quite capable, as she has long demonstrated commitment and involvement with Fairfax as a member of the Tree Committee and with numerous other community involvements. Deborah demonstrates trustworthiness, efficiency, neutrality, and extensive knowledge of Robert's Rules of Order which are the rules codified in Fairfax's Municipal code stipulating the rules that are to be followed for Town Council Meetings.
I believe it is inappropriate to appoint either of the other two applicants for some very important reasons that should be made clear to the public.
An employee of San Anselmo (who i've never met), Linda Kenton states in her application:
"I have wanted to volunteer on a Fairfax board or committee, but unfortunately, there have been meeting time conflicts due to my own night meeting schedules for my work. This position affords me the honor to serve in a meaningful and flexible way." Ms. Kenton is the Assistant Town Manager of San Anselmo and has many duties in that Municipality, which by her own admission, will very likely create future time conflicts which will likely limit her abilities to provide timely responses and service to the residents of Fairfax.
There are also other potentially significant conflicts of interest, such as likely gained knowledge of information that should be limited to Fairfax Government, and not known to San Anselmo Government, and other related Conflict of Interest concerns.
Notwithstanding any of the above concerns i'm told that Ms. Kenton is a fine individual who does commendable work. Despite that, it would seem that it is inappropriate, for many reasons, both expressed and unexpressed for a high ranking Town of San Anselmo employee to also be in the important Elected Town Clerk's position in Fairfax.
Lastly, Ric Hamer, although caringly involved in the Fairfax community, and additive to discussions, seemingly demonstrates significant biases and multiple conflicts of interest, namely:
1) prior involvement as a sort of lobbyist and monetarily interested person in the development of now in motion 6 or 7 story high rise high density 243 unit development at School Street Plaza, 2) frequent "censorship" type activities in his role as a Nextdoor Moderator that I believe has resulted in the removal of many posts he personally disagrees with on Nextdoor and the stifling of Free Speech.
3) the ineffectiveness of and lack of many meetings of the Affordable Housing Committee of which he was a member.
It is imperative that the Elected Town Clerk is an impartial Elected representative of the people of Fairfax that can be trusted to impartially conduct themselves while fulfilling the duties of the office. The only two applicants that I believe can do that are Michael Mackintosh and Deborah Benson.
Please carefully consider all that has been said above.
IF you still refuse to hold a Special Election, then please do the next best thing and appoint either Michael Mackintosh or Deborah Benson as Fairfax's Elected Town Clerk.
Sincerely,
Todd Greenberg
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Town treasurer and town clerk
From Family Calendar <[email protected]>
Date Wed 2/5/2025 2:40 PM
To Fairfax Town Council <[email protected]> Dear Fairfax Town Council:
Please appoint Deborah Benson and Michael MacIntosh to the positions Town Treasurer and Town Clerk.
Deborah Benson is a skilled accountant and longtime resident of Fairfax. Appointing her would greatly benefit the town of Fairfax due to her fiscally sound knowledge and expertise.
Michael MacIntosh is also a long term resident of Fairfax. He would serve our town well.
Appointing Fairfax residents to Fairfax positions makes the most logical sense instead of appointing two San Anselmo residents both of whom presently work for the town of San Anselmo. This seems to me to be a huge conflict of interest.
Sincerely,
Tracy Blackman-Schulze
301 Forrest Ave