In July, the Alameda County LAFCO voted to establish a Castro Valley Incorporation Study Group. The Study Group, to be comprised of 14 members (seven regular and seven alternate members), will serve as a resource to the fiscal consultants on various issues (i.e., proposed boundaries, municipal services, etc.) relating to the proposed incorporation.

A call for applications was issued in July; in response, LAFCO received 43 applications. Due to the considerable number and caliber of applicants, the Commission voted to form a subcommittee comprised of two Commissioners and LAFCO staff to develop selection criteria, screen the applications, and make a recommendation to the full Commission regarding Study Group members.

The main selection criteria considered included the following: geographic location within the Castro Valley community, experience and/or knowledge of organization/operation of local government, expressed viewpoint, if any, regarding the proposed incorporation (i.e., support, oppose, neutral), and various demographic factors.

It is the belief of the subcommittee and staff that the 14 recommended individuals represent a cross section of the Castro Valley community, in terms of their geographic location, diverse views, experience with and exposure to local government operations, and demographics. The recommended group represents various sectors of the community including public, private, and a variety of community-based, environmental and non-profit organizations. The groups includes long-time residents as well as newcomers to the Castro Valley community; representatives of homeowners groups; community activists; local leaders; and a number of local business owners, trades people, professionals and retirees.

(Excerpts taken from LAFCO letter of September 7, 2001 to Study Group Applicants)