Busy agenda for Merced County Board of Supervisors

The Merced County Board of Supervisors will meet today to decide several issues and hold public hearings on new planning laws.

On the agenda:

The supervisors will interview and appoint a new member to the Merced County Employees Retirement Association board. The candidates are Sarah Passadori Jimenez, David Ness and Richardo Soria.

The board could accept a new ordinance that would restrict noise from off-road vehicles near residential areas after a public hearing.

Another public hearing will be held to consider an appeal of the planning commission's approval of a minor subdivision near Hilmar. The San Joaquin Raptor Rescue Center and Protect Our Water are against the development.

A third public hearing will address increased fees at the assessor-recorder's office. The largest fee increase being considered is $6.

The board could approve a contract that would set in motion a system to track traffic collisions and road congestion.

Supervisors will also award funds from their special board project funds. Recipients include the Planada Recreation Building, Merced County Arts Council, Cesar Chavez School in Planada, the Boys and Girls Club of Merced and the food bank.

Larry Combs, new county chief executive, will be on hand for his first supervisors' meeting. Combs started work in Merced on Monday and will continue to shadow current CEO Dee Tatum until his last day, Dec. 18.

Reporter Danielle E. Gaines can be reached at (209) 385-2477 or dgaines@mercedsun-star.com.