Southlake Phenomenon

     The Mayor drove down to Southlake Thursday to pickup the Minister of Aviation and Aeronautics at the airport.   The weather was overcast and thunderstorms were in the forecast.  At about 1pm, the pilot texted a message that he was over Truckee airport and was looking at a window over the lake, an opportunity.  He landed as it began to rain-hard!  For the next  hour plus, it rained all over the area, sending water down streets and gullies into the creeks.
     It was quite a show: Lightning strikes were abundant as we lunched at the Irish Pub where it seemed we were sitting in a drum being struck by mad men.   Beach goers at Meeks Bay, Sugar Pine, and Homewood ran for cover as the downpour continued unabated.   Friday's forecast proved less than predicted and beach goers returned in numbers.

CAL FIRE TAX
     State of California officials announced that Rural fire fee bills will be mailed to property owners over the next few weeks.   The fee, $150/ per parcel, or $135/parcel for those in org. districts, must be paid or fines will be attached.
     Some state senators are aware this "fee" is strongly opposed by rural residents who see little evidence of its need, nor any evidence of its benefits.   Jarvis Gann Taxpayers Assoc.  has sued the state, but has yet to have its day in court.  
    NOTE: the state requires a form be filed with payment to verify that this "fee" is being paid under protest.   That is the only way to a possible refund.  This Fee/Tax was passes by a simple majority in the legislature, versus a super majority required for a tax.
It is a slap in the face to West Shore residents who pay not 1, but 3 parcel taxes for local fire district support.
     Send a letter to your district representative stating your opposition to this tax.