SPECIAL JOINT CITY COUNCIL/OPEN SPACE,
ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION, AND
SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION MEETING
AGENDA
June 18, 2024
8:00 PM
At this mee%ng, Council Member Pierre Washington will par%cipate via teleconference from Hale Koa Hotel at 2055 Kaila Road, Honolulu HI 96815.
City Council and other public meengs will be conducted in person at City Hall, 4381 Broadway, Suite 201, American Canyon, CA 94503. This meeng is also available via Zoom Teleconferencing as a convenience for public parcipaon.
This meeng will be broadcast live to residents on Napa Valley TV, on our website here and on YouTube here. Should technical issues with Zoom occur, please select another viewing option.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Oral comments, during the mee%ng: Oral comments can be made in person during Open and Closed Session. A Zoom Webinar has been established for public comments made via zoom, during Open Session only. To give your public comment via zoom, connect via the below Zoom link and use the “raise your hand” tool, or call into the zoom mee$ng at 408-638-0968 and press *9 to “raise your hand” when the item is called. To avoid confusion, all hands raised outside of Public Comment periods will be lowered.
Written comments, via eComments: Please submit wri.en comments through the eComments link, located on the Mee$ngs & Agendas page of our websitehere. Comments will be available to council members in real $me. To allow for review of comments, eComments will close at 3:00 pm on the day of the mee$ng. All comments received will be posted online and become part of the mee$ng record.
Zoom Meeting Link: Click here.
Webinar ID: 813 3240 1757 Passcode: 516068
The above-iden$fied measures exceed all legal requirements for par$cipa$on in public comment, including those imposed by the Ralph M. Brown Act. For more informa$on, please call the Office of the City Clerk at (707) 647-4369 or email [email protected].
AGENDA MATERIALS: City Council agenda materials are published 72 hours prior to the mee$ng and Mayor: Leon Garcia
Vice Mayor: Pierre Washington
Councilmembers: Mariam Aboudamous, Mark Joseph, David Oro OSATS Chair: Tara McClinton-Horner
OSATS Vice Chair: Scott Artis
OSATS Commissioners: Barry Christian, Sean Hughes, Nance Matson
SPECIAL JOINT CITY COUNCIL/OPEN SPACE, ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION, AND SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION MEETING MEETING AGENDA
JUNE 18, 2024
1 are available to the public via the City’s website at www.cityofamericancanyon.org.
AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT: The City Council will provide materials in appropriate alterna$ve formats to comply with the Americans with Disabili$es Act. Please send a wri.en request to City Clerk at 4381 Broadway, Suite 201, American Canyon, CA 94503 or by email to [email protected]. Include your name, address, phone number and brief descrip$on of the requested materials, as well as your preferred alterna$ve format or auxiliary aid, at least three calendar days before the meeting.
8:00 P.M. OPEN SESSION - SPECIAL JOINT MEETING
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
PUBLIC COMMENTS - ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
This me is reserved for members of the public to address the City Council on items of interest that are not on the agenda and are within the subject ma-er jurisdicon of the City Council. Comments are limited to 3 minutes.
Comments for items on the agenda will be taken when the item is called. The City Council is prohibited by law from taking any acon on ma-ers discussed that are not on the agenda, and no adverse conclusions should be drawn if the City Council does not respond to public comment at this me. Speakers are asked to please speak clearly and provide their name. Any handouts for distribuon to the City Council must be emailed by 3:00 p.m. on meeng day. To comment via zoom during the meeng: click the “raise your hand” bu-on if joining by computer, or press *9 if joining by phone, when the item is called. To avoid confusion, hands raised outside of Public Comment periods will be lowered.
BUSINESS
1. Open Space, Ac%ve Transporta%on, and Sustainability Commission Work Plan for Fiscal Year 2024/25.
Recommendation: Adopt by Minute Order approving the Open Space, Ac$ve Transportation, and Sustainability Commission Work Plan for Fiscal Year 2024/25.
ADJOURNMENT
CERTIFICATION
I, Taresa Geilfuss, CMC, City Clerk for the City of American Canyon, do hereby declare that the foregoing agenda of the City Council was posted in compliance with the Brown Act prior to the meeting date. ______________________________________
Taresa Geilfuss, CMC, City Clerk
SPECIAL JOINT CITY COUNCIL/OPEN SPACE, ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION, AND SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION MEETING MEETING AGENDA
JUNE 18, 2024
2 SPECIAL JOINT CITY COUNCIL/OPEN SPACE,
ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION, AND SUSTAINABILITY
COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA
JUNE 18, 2024
STAFF REPORT
BUSINESS
ITEM NUMBER: 1.
TITLE
Open Space, Ac"ve Transporta"on, and Sustainability Commission Work Plan for Fiscal Year 2024/25.
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt by Minute Order approving the Open Space, Ac"ve Transporta"on, and Sustainability Commission Work Plan for Fiscal Year 2024/25.
CONTACT
Jason Holley, City Manager
BACKGROUND & ANALYSIS
The City Council formed the Open Space, Ac"ve Transporta"on, and Sustainability Commission in 2022 (Attachment 1 & 2).
Per these guidelines, the Commission serves in an advisory capacity to the City Council and staff.
Each fiscal year, the Commission develops a Work Plan for the upcoming fiscal year. The Work Plan will list issues and projects to be addressed by the Commission and should be consistent with the Council's adopted goals and priori"es pertaining to open space, ac"ve transporta"on, and sustainability. On April 3, 2024, the Commission met with City Manager Holley and developed the draft Work Plan for Fiscal Year 2024/25 (Attachment 3).
For issues and projects that come up during the year that are out of the realm of the approved Work Plan and would require significant staff "me or City funds, the Commission should determine if it is feasible to wait un"l the next year to address the issue or project. If the Commission determines that the issue or project should be addressed in the current fiscal year, a recommenda"on for modifica"on of the Work Plan will need to be submiBed to the Council for considera"on. This recommenda"on for modifica"on of the Work Plan will need to indicate which issues or projects will be postponed or eliminated to accommodate and add the new issue or project to the Work Plan.
Accomplishments
The Commission reviewed and commented on the following projects: The American Canyon 3 Community and Parks Founda"on Use Permit for the Napa River Ecology Center at the American Canyon Wetlands, and the Rio Del Mar bicycle improvements. The Wetlands Restora"on Plan was reviewed by the Commission on May 1, 2024, and adopted by the Council on May 21, 2024.
The following projects are in progress: the Wetlands Enhancement Project, the Newell Open Space parking lot and trail improvements, the Green Island Road reconstruc"on and widening, the Melvin sidewalk and storm drain improvements, Rancho Del Mar paving and u"lity improvements, and the installa"on of EV charging sta"ons. The Benton Way rehabilita"on project is currently in construction.
The Commission met individually with City Manager Holley and Parks and Recrea"on Director Ikeda, providing feedback about the Newell Management Plan. Addi"onally, the Commission met with staff to gain a clearer understanding of the Management Plan and the Conserva"on Easement, as well as the nature of the property. This included the challenges of managing and opera"ng an agricultural open space property with open and ac"ve caBle grazing under a license shared with the adjacent Azevedo and Lynch Canyon proper"es, while also being open to the public for passive recrea"onal use. The Commission agrees that this is an ongoing effort that will con"nue into the next fiscal year.
The Commission met with the Land Trust of Napa County to formalize the exis"ng access and trail standards for Newell Open Space Preserve. This ongoing effort will extend into the next fiscal year, focusing on the seven conserva"on values, including the possible incorpora"on of e-bike usage, trail maintenance, and standards.
In addi"on, the Commission held a Joint Special Mee"ng with the Planning Commission to discuss development standards for ac"ve transporta"on. They also reviewed the applica"on process for the League of American Bicyclists 'Bicycle Friendly Community' designa"on. The Napa County Bicycle Coalition has committed to assisting with this application for the next fiscal year.
On February 1, 2022, the Council adopted the Climate Emergency Resolu"on 2022-07 (ABachment 4) and appointed Councilmembers Washington and Joseph to lead American Canyon's climate ini"a"ves. The CommiBee presented the DraG Climate Ac"on Interim Report (ABachment 5) to the Council in September 2022. On April 5, 2023, the Council officially "handed-off" sustainability issues to the Commission. In addi"on to the hand-off, the Council requested that the Commission solicit feedback from American Canyon residents and businesses on the DraG Interim Report and the Climate Ac"on Emergency Resolu"on, and iden"fy two to three small projects that could effect change. This community-wide engagement is aimed at receiving a broad perspec"ve on whether the community supports the accelera"on of ac"ons and goals already underway for 2050 to a more aggressive time horizon of 2030.
The Commission reviewed the DraG Interim Report: 34 Sustainability Ini"a"ves (ABachment 6) and reached a consensus with staff on implemen"ng the following items: 1) Increase the percentage of 4 Marin Clean Energy (MCE) "Deep Green" customers; 2) Increase tree plan"ng efforts; and 3) Encourage residents to use the Napa Climate Challenge app to become aware of their "climate footprint". Beyond the app, there is a consensus for developing a dashboard to display certain sustainability sta"s"cs and a "one-stop shop" for sustainability programs. The Commission also supports the development of the Napa River Ecology Center and notes the efforts already underway.
The Commission engaged with MCE and received mul"ple presenta"ons regarding their program. In addi"on, the Commission is recommending the engagement of a consultant to prepare a "Road Map to 2030". Once complete, the Commission will intensify public engagement efforts in the pursuit of social acceptability and support for the ac"ons needed to accomplish these goals. These sustainability initiatives will continue into the next fiscal year.
Looking Ahead
The Parks and Community Services Commission will be upda"ng the Parks and Community Services Master Plan as part of their Work Plan for FY2024/25. The update will include an Open Space Element, with the OSATS Commission actively engaged in the process.
NVTA is in the process of upda"ng the Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan later this year. They will be coordina"ng with all jurisdic"ons throughout the process, focusing on working on exis"ng bicycle and pedestrian inventory and proposed network changes. The Commission expressed an interest in being involved in the process to represent American Canyon. The Commission also discussed adding a work plan item related to the feasibility study for the Vine Trail crossing of the highway, but staff believes next year’s CIP already has more projects than resources and believes those projects are a higher priority.
As part of the Commission's ongoing open space efforts, they desire to engage and receive a presenta"on from the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy regarding their Habitat Conserva"on Plan and the Natural Community Conserva"on Plan. In addi"on, the City has partnered with the American Canyon Fire Protec"on District and Napa Fire Wise and secured grant funding through the Urban and Community Forestry Grant with Napa County Resource Conserva"on District. This funding will assist in addressing hazard mi"ga"on and replan"ng efforts at Clark Ranch.
And lastly, the Commission will provide input on the design of open space, ac"ve transporta"on, and sustainability projects in the current Capital Improvement Program, and review future projects.
COUNCIL PRIORITY PROGRAMS AND PROJECTS
Organizational Effectiveness: "Deliver exemplary government services."
FISCAL IMPACT
The annual cost to convene the Commission on a monthly basis is approximately $30,000.00. These 5 costs are included in the FY2024/25 Budget - primarily through staffing allocations.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
Not Applicable.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Ordinance No. 2023-01: Chapter 2.30 to Municipal Code
2. OSATS Resolution 2022-R112
3. Draft Work Plan FY2024/25
4. Climate Emergency Resolution 2022-07
5. Draft Climate Action Interim Report
6. Draft Interim Report: 34 Sustainability Initiatives
7. Minute Order
6 ORDINANCE NO. 2023- 01
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON ADOPT TO AN ORDINANCE REGARDING THE ADDITION OF CHAPTER 2. 30 TO THE AMERICAN CANYON MUNICIPAL CODE CREATING
THE OPEN SPACE, ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION, AND SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION The Council of the City of American Canyon does hereby ordain as follows:
SECTION 1. A new Chapter is hereby added to the American Canyon Municipal Code regarding the creation of an Open Space, Active Transportation, and Sustainability Commission, to read as follows:
CHAPTER 2. 30 OPEN SPACE, ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION, AND SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION Section 2. 30. 010
Section 2. 30. 020
Section 2. 30. 030
Section 2. 30. 040
Section 2. 30. 050
Section 2. 30. 060
Creation of the Open Space, Active Transportation, and Sustainability Commission/ Terms of Commissioners
Jurisdiction and Functions of Commission
Compensation of Commissioners
Designation of Chairperson and Vice Chairperson, Committees and Staff Time and Place of Meetings, Definition of Commission Quorum Commission Rules and Records
Section 2. 30. 010 Creation of the Open Space, Active Transportation, and Sustainability Commission/ Terms of Commissioners.
There is created an Open Space, Active Transportation, and Sustainability Commission for the City of American Canyon. It shall consist of five ( 5) members, appointed in the manner and for the terms prescribed in Sections 2. 04.70 and 2.8. 010, respectively, of this Code.
Section 2. 30. 020 Jurisdiction and Functions of Commission.
A. The Open Space, Active Transportation, and Sustainability Commission for the City of American Canyon shall perform all functions as described below and shall serve in an advisory capacity to City staff and the City Council.
B. The functions, powers, and duties of the Open Space, Active Transportation, and Sustainability Commission shall include the review of issues referred to the Commission by the City Council, the City Manager, and City staff, residents, or organizations of the City; to provide advice, comment and make recommendations regarding such issues as requested; to organize or facilitate community benefit activities or functions; and other duties as assigned by the City Council.
C. Areas of purview of the Commission shall include, but not be limited to, review and provide input on plans and policy documents supporting Open Space, Active 7 Transportation, and Sustainability efforts, and recognize further Open Space, Active Transportation, and Sustainability efforts needed.
D. The City Council may from time to time refer a matter to the Commission for review, comment, recommendation, and action. All actions of the Open Space, Active Transportation, and Sustainability Commission are subject to appeal to the City Council by any person or organization affected by such action through the procedures set forth in Chapter 2. 04 of this Code.
E. All actions taken by the Commission shall be reported by City Staff to the City Clerk and shall be placed on the next regular agenda of the City Council after receipt of the report by the City Clerk. Actions taken by the Commission shall not be considered final until the City Council has heard and further considered the matter or has determined that further consideration of the matter is not required. When placed on the agenda of the City Council, the City Council may elect to consider the matter and may schedule the matter for a hearing of public hearing before the City Council. The City Council shall consider any appeal of an action taken by the Open Space, Active Transportation, and Sustainability Commission by an interested person or organization through the procedures set forth in Chapter 2. 04 of this Code. The decision of the City Council, after considering or hearing the matter shall be final.
Section 2. 30. 030 Compensation of Commissioners.
The members of the Open Space, Active Transportation, and Sustainability Commission shall each receive compensation payable out of the general fund of the City, provided adequate funds have been budgeted, therefore, in the amount of one hundred and five dollars ($ 105. 00) per meeting. Standing or temporary committee or subcommittee members shall not be compensated. The compensation for Commissioners prescribed herein shall be exclusive of any amount payable as reimbursement for actual or necessary expenses authorized by the City Council and incurred in the performance of official duties for the City.
Section 2. 30. 040 Designation of Chairperson and Vice Chairperson, Committees, and Staff.
A. Designation of the Chairperson and Vice Chairperson for the Commission shall be governed by section 2.8.0 of this Code.
B. The Commission may, from time to time, create committees or subcommittees to study issues, to perform work on behalf of the Commission, to provide a service to the residents, or a segment of the residents, of the City, or to improve the quality of the environment of the City and living conditions of the residents of the City.
C. Standing or temporary committee or subcommittee shall have at least one Commissioner assigned to the committees. The Commission shall make appointments of 8 committee and subcommittee members with the approval of the City Manager or designee.
D. The City Manager may appoint a department head, or other staff, and provide compensation for their services as may be authorized by the City Council and by an annual City Budget.
Section 2. 30. 050 Time and Place of Meetings, Definition of Commission Quorum.
A. The Commission shall hold at least one regular meeting each month at such time, date, and place designated by the Commission. The Chairperson or a majority of the Commission, after giving notice to the Commissioners, and to any media and members of the public who have previously requested such notices in writing, so that the notice is received at least twenty- four (24) hours before the meeting, may hold a special meeting.
B. A majority of the Commissioners shall constitute a quorum.
Section 2. 30. 060 Commission Rules and Records.
The Open Space, Active Transportation, and Sustainability Commission shall adopt rules for the transaction of its business and shall keep a public record of its resolutions, transactions, findings, recommendations, and actions. Minutes of the Open Space, Active Transportation, and Sustainability Commission meetings shall be filed with the City Clerk.
SECTION 2. EFFECTIVE DATE. This ordinance shall take effect thirty ( 30) days after its adoption.
SECTION 3. SEVERABILITY. The ordinance shall be liberally constructed to achieve its purpose and preserve its validity. If any provision or clause of this ordinance or application thereof to any person or circumstance is held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect other provisions or applications of this ordinance which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application. To this end, the provisions of this ordinance are declared to be servable and are intended to have independent validity.
The foregoing ordinance was introduced and read at aregular meeting of the City Council of the City of American Canyon, State of California, held on the 17th day of January, 2023, by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Aboudamous, Joseph, Oro, Vice Mayor Washington, and Mayor Garcia NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
9 The foregoing ordinance was adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of American Canyon, State of California, held on the 7th day of February, 2023, by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Aboudamous, Joseph, Oro, Vice Mayor Washington, and Mayor Garcia NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
ATTEST:
Leon Garcia, Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Taresa Geilfuss, CMC, C' Clerk William D. Ross, City Attorney 10 RESOLUTION NO 2022- R112
A RESOLUTION FO THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON RECONSTITUTING
THE OPEN SPACE ADVISORY COMMITTEE AS THE OPEN SPACE, ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION, AND SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION, AND APPROVING THE COMMISSION' SFISCAL YEAR 2022/023
WORK PLAN
WHEREAS, the City of American Canyon has always been supportive of open space preservation and enhancement and such support has been integrated into the City' s General Plan ( for
example, the Vision Statement notes we should " capitalize on the unique environmental setting of the foothills river valleys and agriculture") and
WHEREAS, the General Plan ' Parks and Recreation Element advocates for trail systems that connect the river areas with residential neighborhoods and open space areas in the foothills, and WHEREAS, in 1999, the City was fortunate to receive 640 acres of foothill open space as a result of a generous donation from Jack and Bernice Newell and WHEREAS, at approximately the same time, the City received a $ 3 million CalFed Grant to acquire and restore 460 acres of wetlands on our western border and WHEREAS, connecting the wetlands and Newell Open Space through a network of trails and bike paths is important to enhance public access and enjoyment and WHEREAS, the City Council formally recognized the efforts to establish preserve and enhance open space in and around American Canyon through the establishment of the Open Space Advisory Committee (OSAC) as a standing "citizen s advisory committee ( Resolution 2005- 83) and WHEREAS, the City Council formally designated the OSAC as the City s Bicycle Advisory Committee in November 2010 ( Resolution 2010 115) and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to reconstitute the OSAC as a new commission having purview over issues of ' open space active transportation' and sustainability and WHEREAS, the role of the new Open Space Active Transportation and Sustainability Commission OSATS Commission) is to review and provide input on various plans and policy documents prepared by staff ( and consultants) before they are eventually considered by the Council NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED the City Council hereby rescinds Resolution 2005- 83 and Resolution 2010 115 in order to reconstitute the former Open Space Advisory Committee as the new Open Space, Active Transportation, and Sustainability Commission and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council establishes a five member Open Space Active Transportation and Sustainability Commission ( OSATS Commission) pursuant 11 to American Canyon Municipal Code Chapter 2 28 ( Boards and Commissions Generally) for the purpose of supporting open space active transportation and sustainability efforts in and around American Canyon, and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council endorses the OSATS Commission' sreview and input on plans and policy documents supporting the following Open Space' efforts and recognizes there may be future efforts needed, subject to Council review and confirmation
Restoration of the wetlands on the City' s western border to improve the eco system in the Bay Area and provide public water access, and
Updates to the General Plan, Parks and Open Space Master Plan, Newell Management Plan, Newell Grazing Plan, and other plans, and
Open space, trails, and public access development, such as Clarke Ranch, re use of the Corporation Yard Jaegar Open Space, and other open space areas, and Trail use rules and regulations and trail maintenance and repair standards, and Volunteer conservation programs and projects, wildlife monitoring, and improvements or alterations to City owned open space property, and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council endorses the OSATS Commission s review and input on plans and policy documents supporting the following ' Active Transportation" efforts and recognizes there may be future efforts needed, subject to Council review and confirmation
Updates to the Citywide Bike Plan
Updates to the Citywide Pedestrian Plan
Updates Active Transportation Development Standards
Awards and recognitions such as the Bicycle Friendly Community designation NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council endorses the OSATS Commission s review and input on plans and policy documents supporting the following Sustainability efforts and recognizes there may be future efforts needed subject to Council review and confirmation
Countywide Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory
Regional Climate Action Plan
Climate Action Interim Plan for City of American Canyon NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the OSATS Commission shall support staff s open space active transportation and sustainability efforts by reviewing and providing comment on plans and policy documents funding programs the annual Capital Improvement Program CIP) CIP Project design documents and/ or serving on technical advisory committees 12 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the OSATS Commission shall draw upon the expertise of its members and other sources to provide advice to the City Council regarding open space active transportation and sustainability efforts
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Commissioners serve as liaisons with the community regarding open space, active transportation, and sustainability efforts, keeping staff and the Council informed of issues and concerns
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution does not constitute authority for Commissioners or the OSATS Commission to perform operational or management functions or to make decisions on behalf of the City
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that OSATS Commission shall develop an annual work plan regarding open space, active transportation and sustainability efforts for approval by the City Council
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that City Council hereby approved the OSATS Commission' sFY 2022/3 Annual Work Plan attached hereto as Exhibit " A and incorporated by reference
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the City Council formally designates the Open Space, Active Transportation, and Sustainability Commission as the City' s Bicycle Advisory Committee, and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution shall take effect immediately upon adoption
PASSES, APPROVED and ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of American Canyon on the 20th of December 2022 by the following vote AYES Councilmembers Joseph, Oro, Washington Vice Mayor Aboudamous and Mayor Garcia NOES None
ABSTAIN None
ABSENT None
ATTEST
40614
Leon Garcia Mayor
APPROVE AS TO FORM
Y( t"
faresa Geilfuss, CMC, City erk William D Ross City Attorney 13 DATE: June 18, 2023
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Jason Holley, City Manager
CC: Parks and Recreation Director Ikeda
Public Works Director Ahmann Smithies
Community Development Director Cooper
RE: Draft “FY2024/25 Work Plan” for the Open Space, Active Transportation, and Sustainability Commission
____________________________________________________________________________________________ Below is the proposed DRAFT Work Plan for FY2024/25 for the Open Space, Active Transportation, and Sustainability Commission.
1. Update the Newell Management Plan.
2. Develop Trail Standards for the Newell Open Space Preserve.
3. Update the Parks and Community Services Master Plan.
4. Apply for the League of American Bicyclists Bicycle Friendly Community designation.
5. Engage with NVTA on the updated combined Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan.
6. Engage and receive a presentation on the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy about the Habitat Conservation Plan and the Natural Community Conservation Plan.
7. Receive and file presentations from MCE Clean Energy.
8. Community engagement about sustainability initiatives and the Interim Climate Action Plan. a. Increase the percentage of Marin Clean Energy “Deep Green” customers. b. Increase tree plantings.
c. Encourage residents to use the Napa Climate Challenge app to become aware of their “climate footprint”.
d. Prepare a “Road Map to 2030” to engage with American Canyon businesses and residents in the pursuit of social acceptability and support for the actions needed to accomplish these goals.
9. Provide input on the design of open space, active transportation, and sustainability projects in the current Capital Improvement Program.
10. Review the Fiscal Year 2025/26 Capital Improvement Program (about open space, active transportation, and sustainability projects).
11. Clark Ranch Hazard Mitigation and Replanting Plan.
14 RESOLUTION NO. 2022- 07
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON ADOPTING THE AD-HOC CLIMATE ACTION COMMITTEE’ S RECOMMENDATION TO DECLARE A CLIMATE EMERGENCY WHEREAS, there is broad scientific consensus that climate change caused by human activity represents a growing danger to human health, safety, and economic prosperity, and the window of opportunity for long term climate preservation is rapidly closing; and
WHEREAS, 195 countries signed the "Paris Agreement" acknowledging the threat of climate change and urgent need to combat it, agreeing to keep global mean temperature " well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels" and to "pursue efforts to limit temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius;" and WHEREAS, the 2018 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change ( IPCC) report, " Global Warming of 1.5 degrees Celsius," affirmed that "Limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius would require rapid, farreaching and unprecedented changes in all aspects of society," and further projected the earth could reach and exceed this temperature threshold as soon as 2030, far earlier than previously anticipated; and WHEREAS, the 2018 US government report, " Fourth National Climate Assessment," detailed the massive threat to the American economy posed by climate change and underscored the need for immediate climate emergency action at all levels of government; and WHEREAS, California, Napa County and their residents, economy, and environment have already experienced dramatic adverse effects from climate change, including prolonged wildfire seasons, firestorms, rising temperatures, mudslides, severe droughts, property destruction, damage to infrastructure, and loss of life; and
WHEREAS, climate breakdown, while endangering all people, disproportionately impacts young and older residents and the most vulnerable, exacerbating existing social justice and other inequities; and WHEREAS, today’ s children represent a particularly vulnerable group because increasing greenhouse gases and trapped heat will almost certainly have a profound negative impact throughout their lives, as well as the lives of future generations; and
WHEREAS, on June 18, 2019, the City Council issued a Proclamation to join with Napa County Jurisdictions dedicated to working together with community organizations, businesses, schools, and regional partners and jurisdictions to educate, mobilize, expand, and accelerate local, regional, and statewide support for comprehensive, immediate, and sustained action; and
WHEREAS, as used above, the term " Climate Emergency" does not refer to an " Emergency", a " Local Emergency", or a "State of Emergency" as defined in American Canyon Municipal Code Chapter 2.48 "Civil Defense and Disaster Relief, Article I "Organization of City for Emergency Response" and the City Council does not confer any emergency powers to the City Manager/ Director of Emergency Services as it relates to this Proclamation.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of American Canyon hereby declares the following:
1. That a Climate Emergency exists, and that it threatens our city, state, country, and the planet; DocuSign Envelope ID: 00377902- 17D2-41C5-A08C- 51751459BE37 15 2. That the City of American Canyon joins a growing list of communities committed to a goal of Net Zero Climate Pollution, measured in terms of net contribution to excess trapped heat, by or before 2030, and further commits to evaluate all planning and policy decisions through the lens of this pledge, and to implement both immediate and sustained actions in support of its achievement; and
3. That the City Council recognizing the need for full community participation and support, commits to providing leadership and services in working with community organizations, businesses, schools, and regional partners and jurisdictions to educate, mobilize, expand, and accelerate local, regional and statewide support for comprehensive, immediate, and sustained action to achieve its goal of net zero climate pollution by or before 2030; and
4. That the City Council will consider amendments to its General Plan and its 2012 Energy Efficiency/ Climate Action Plan, consistent with its commitment to net zero climate pollution by or before 2030.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council directs its Ad Hoc Climate Action Committee to complete the following:
1. Develop specific recommendations and measurable outcomes to achieve the goal of Net Zero Climate Pollutants by 2030 in the following areas:
a. Transportation
b. Buildings
c. Renewable Energy and Storage
d. Other Environmental issues, including but not limited to, water conservation, urban agriculture and food composting, and recycling
e. Carbon Sequestration
f. Public Awareness and Education regarding individual actions, including individual lifestyles and business operations
g. Climate Resiliency Efforts
2. Work with City staff, stakeholders and community leaders and organizations and the public at large.
3. Identify funding sources and grant opportunities.
4. Present its findings and recommendations within six months.
DocuSign Envelope ID: 00377902- 17D2-41C5-A08C- 51751459BE37 16 PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED at a regularly scheduled meeting of the City Council of the City of American Canyon held on the 1st day of February, 2022, by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Joseph, Oro, Washington, Vice Mayor Aboudamous, and Mayor Garcia NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
Leon Garcia, Mayor
ATTEST: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Taresa Geilfuss, City Clerk William D. Ross, City Attorney DocuSign Envelope ID: 00377902- 17D2-41C5-A08C- 51751459BE37 17 Am Canyon 2022 Climate Action Plan - Interim Report 1 7/29/2022 Climate Action Interim Plan – City of American Canyon
August 1, 2022
Introduction
This report is the product of a City Council ad hoc committee (the Committee), consisting not only of two council members, but members of the public and stakeholders, all committed to “a goal of Net Zero Climate Pollution, measured in terms of net contribution to excess trapped heat, by or before 2030.” With adoption of a Climate Emergency Resolution on February 1, 2022 [Attachment 2], the City Council also created the Climate Action Ad Hoc Committee. This Committee has met regularly and now presents its preliminary findings and recommendations.
Even before this Committee, a Countywide Climate Action Committee (CAC) has met since 2019. It is an advisory body with representation from all jurisdictions in Napa County, including the same two Councilmembers representing the City on this Committee. It received several very informative and timely presentations on Climate Change topics and spearheaded a Countywide Greenhouse Gas (GHG) inventory, including an inventory of carbon dioxide and other long-lived gases, as well as the short-lived pollutant, methane. It is also considering the development of a Countywide Climate Action Plan. Such a regional approach would allow this Committee to focus on specific actions and programs, some of which would presumably be incorporated into the Countywide plan.
Given the fact that the GHG Inventory and a decision on a regional Climate Action Plan will occur after this Committee’s August 1 deadline, a summary of goals and projects are provided for now. After feedback is received from Council and the public, the Committee can proceed with more specific actions and details, such as timelines, resources and partnerships, and a more complete implementation plan.
We would also coordinate our efforts with the more regional approach.
For now, this American Canyon Climate Action Plan focuses on four guiding principles:
• The plan should be data-driven, with a dashboard of key performance indicators and/or target completion dates.
• We need to “Lead by Example” (particularly the City itself) and consider the impacts on the Climate in all our actions, from procurement to disposal, including everyday activities. • There should be an emphasis on public awareness and engagement, followed by individual actions and advocacy; and
• The Council should adopt, and staff implement, specific programs and activities.
Data Driven
There is a saying: “What gets measured, gets done.” In our research efforts we discovered there is a great deal of data that we can collect and monitor. We envision a dashboard of key indicators, such as the number of Solar Panel and battery storage installations, Electric Vehicle registrations, EV Charger installations, Gas appliances replaced with electric alternatives, energy efficiency audits and retrofits, etc. By tracking this data on a regular basis, we can monitor our effectiveness in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. We can also evaluate how effective we are in implementing the various programs and activities. The information can also be used to report to the public on our progress. Attached to this 18 Am Canyon 2022 Climate Action Plan - Interim Report 2 7/29/2022 report is a draft Dashboard [Attachment 1], that tracks ongoing metrics as well as one-time projects/studies. It will be refined during the next phase of this Action Plan.
Likewise, as the Emergency Resolution notes, the City needs to “evaluate all planning and policy decisions through the lens of this [Net Zero Climate Pollution] pledge.” As such, the Environmental Review portion of Council Agenda Staff Reports should consider the larger consequences of Climate Change when evaluating specific policy options for Council consideration.
Lead by Example
Addressing the impacts of Climate Change will be difficult in large part because it will mean making monumental changes in the way we live and do business. Fear of change—especially if we need to change too quickly—can become a powerful roadblock. Therefore, leading by example is critical. The City’s elected and appointed officials all need to recognize we must do our part to make changes. Even if our changes do not immediately appear to “move the needle” they are still important. For example, converting our fleet to electric, wherever possible, is an important step. Installing solar panels and battery storage units, and retrofitting City buildings, are additional examples. As individuals, we need to step up and make changes to our homes and travel modes. Other respected leaders in the community need to be encouraged to do the same.
Encouraging Individual Actions
One of the first major observations of the Committee was the realization that the biggest impact will occur if we can persuade our residents and businesses to make changes, since a substantial part of our climate footprint is from the energy use and transportation sectors at home and at work. A lot of people taking little steps will add up.
We learned about one online tool, for instance, currently known as Regeneration Napa, that offers three features: 1) the software can calculate your carbon footprint; 2) it offers a wide array of online resources and suggestions to reduce that footprint; and 3) it allows teams and other groups of individuals to “compete” with each other, to encourage greater participation. This program can be used to educate and motivate people to implement the changes we need to meet our long-term goals.
In addition, we want to work with community groups to promote climate actions at several events, such as Earth Day, in which we reach out to all segments of the community. We can develop small group sessions on healthy eating (plant-based diets, for example, are not only healthier but have a smaller impact on our environment), use of e-bikes and other ways of reducing vehicle miles traveled, or simple energy efficiency projects. Public and private advocacy are key to collective changes needed to implement emissions reduction policies at the speed and scale the science demands.
Specific programs and activities
Following is the Committee’s initial list of ideas for actions that can reduce the carbon footprint for this community. We have broken the items into several categories, such as transportation and buildings, and briefly outlined the programs consistent with those target areas. Once the full Council and public have had a chance to review this list and refine it, we will meet to include potential stakeholders and allies, discuss resources needed, and determine general timelines. Key metrics will also be identified, 19 Am Canyon 2022 Climate Action Plan - Interim Report 3 7/29/2022 whenever possible, so we can measure success. In effect, it is this list of programs/actions that will be used to track our progress and success.
With this summary in mind, we offer the following programs for Council consideration.
Target Area: Transportation
Goal One: Reduce Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT)
1. Implement the City’s 2019 Pedestrian/Bike Plan: The adopted plan, and any related amendments, should be a priority both for recreational and job opportunity purposes, as a means of reducing Vehicle Miles Traveled. Studies indicate most trips are less than 5 miles; this makes trips by bike (or e-bike) very competitive with vehicles, provided there are safe routes for bikers and pedestrians. Related to the physical aspects of the plan is the concept of traffic calming in general; that is, slowing vehicle speeds on local streets improves the safety of bikers and pedestrians to use our streets to bike/walk, while we build out our bike/ped network.
2. Increase Biking/Walking to Schools: Making it safer for children to walk or bike to school would reduce the number of vehicle miles traveled, particularly on local streets, and reduce idling emissions at school parking lots, which are harmful to both health and the climate. This would also require progress implementing the City’s Bike/Pedestrian Plan. Further, as young children get comfortable walking/riding to school, it will hopefully spill over into their adult lives.
3. Support the completion of the Napa Valley Vine Trail: In addition to being an iconic recreational and visitor-serving amenity, the Vine Trail could also be used for employment and more functional purposes, particularly with the use of e-Bikes. It will connect all the Cities within the County when completed, thereby facilitating longer trips. Large portions of this Trail have already been completed or are under construction. American Canyon’s portion is primarily driven by private development, with portions of the Trail built as a condition of approval. The City will eventually need to fund a “gap” project, connecting any remaining portions of the trail.
Solano County is constructing the Trail from American Canyon to Vallejo, which will provide convenient access to ferries and buses to the larger Bay Area. Connections already exist (or under construction) connecting Napa City through Yountville, and St. Helena to Calistoga.
4. Increase the purchase and use of Bicycles and e-Bikes, and installation of supportive infrastructure: As noted above, many trips are five miles or less—this is a 10–15-minute bike ride. More local trips can convert to bike (or pedestrian) trips, especially if e-Bikes are considered. Electronic Bikes include a small electric motor which can be engaged as needed, either for climbing hills or if the rider wants a break from peddling. Because of this additional convenience, e-Bikes could easily make VMT reductions more appealing. Electric bikes are also far less expensive than Electric Vehicles, which could make them a viable alternative to a second vehicle altogether. And there are state programs available to support these efforts, as well as model programs in other Bay Area communities.
5. Increase the number of transit trips originating in American Canyon: Transit is a viable alternative for longer trips, particularly for residents who work throughout the Bay area. NVTA is doing a good job expanding express routes from American Canyon to BART or the Vallejo 20 Am Canyon 2022 Climate Action Plan - Interim Report 4 7/29/2022 Ferry, and more can be done. These lines have proven to be the most likely to grow in ridership.
Increasing incentives for individuals to utilize such options will be important.
6. Track local employment by zip code: If the City modified its Business License application to require Employers to report both the number of employees and their residence by zip code, it would be easier to calculate employment related VMT. Hiring locally has several benefits, from increasing retail opportunities to improving a sense of community. In the context of Climate Action, the more locals working in town means less vehicle miles traveled, even if by vehicle. As noted above, a substantial number of these local trips could be converted to bike trips (or walking). This goal would necessarily require significant coordination within the City, especially in terms of housing availability and affordability.
Goal Two: Increase the share of Electric Vehicles/equipment
7. Monitor the number of Electric Vehicles registered in American Canyon: We should track how many new EV’s are registered in American Canyon, as well as the overall total.
8. Require Electric Vehicle (EV) chargers as a condition of new development: Currently, American Canyon has relatively few EV Chargers. This number needs to increase significantly over the next few years. An amendment to the City’s Zoning Ordinance should be adopted that would require EV Chargers as part of any new multi-family, retail, or commercial/industrial development. The specifics (for example, Level 2 chargers vs. Fast Chargers; number of stations/ports per site, etc.) would need to be refined, based on current industry standards. The City should also work with outside funding sources, such as MCE, PGE, and the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD), to ensure we can help reduce the capital investment.
We also need to work with the private sector (Tesla, for example) to identify programs they may offer for businesses to expand their networks. These comments also apply for the next program area below.
9. Encourage installation of EV Chargers in existing developments: Since the City has less authority over existing developments, incentives and good working relationships need to be emphasized.
Working with the Chamber of Commerce and outside funding groups, we need to promote retrofitting existing parking lots. A strong case can be made that these new charging stations could encourage more business. Financial incentives can help reduce the out-of-pocket expense, and service fees could be charged to provide a modest revenue stream.
10. Replace gas-powered equipment with electric powered: A variety of landscaping equipment can be converted from gas-powered to electric. The City should consider either a mandatory ban (similar to the Town of Yountville and others), a phasing-out of gas-powered equipment, or just encourage the conversion with cash incentives. At a minimum, the City should require its operations to only use electric equipment and that any of their contractors must have electric powered equipment. Looking beyond landscaping equipment, we could also work with our industrial businesses to convert to electric forklift trucks and other logistical equipment.
11. The City leads by example: The City has already committed to a more consistent vehicle replacement strategy—it needs to make EV conversion a priority. As noted above, it should accelerate the replacement of any gas-powered equipment in its operations and require any contractors we use to operate with electric-powered equipment. Lastly, although we have 21 Am Canyon 2022 Climate Action Plan - Interim Report 5 7/29/2022 installed solar panels on some of our buildings, we should explore expanding this program to most of our buildings, even if there is no immediate financial gain. With battery backup, it would still improve our carbon footprint and enhance our resilience in the case of emergencies.
Target Area: Buildings
Goal Three: Reduce Greenhouse Gas emissions from homes and businesses
12. Increase the number of energy efficiency audits in existing residential and business areas:
Although great strides have been made in new buildings, we still have a lot of older homes and businesses that could significantly reduce their GHG emissions by becoming more energy efficient. We need to work with PGE, MCE, and other groups to promote home audits, as well as in existing buildings. Rebates and other incentives need to be identified to ensure energy upgrades are cost-effective for property owners.
13. Reduce/eliminate gas powered appliances in existing homes/businesses: Water heaters, HVACs, clothes dryers, cooking stoves and other building appliances can now be converted to electric powered devices. We need to establish cash incentives to swap out gas powered devices, relying on PGE and other sources. We also need to promote the health aspects of reducing natural gas use inside buildings. In addition, consider the use of outdoor clothes lines as a lowtech alternative to a clothes dryer, whether gas or electric-powered.
14. Discourage, or ban outright, the use of wood-burning stoves and fireplaces: Most newer homes no longer include wood-burning fireplaces, so this is an issue for older homes. There are products on the market that electrically heats a room, but still provides the look of a woodburning fireplace. As we encourage solar with battery backup, this conversion becomes even more cost-effective.
15. Eliminate natural gas for all new residential development and require new commercial and industrial uses to justify the use of natural gas: The so-called “all electric reach” building codes are likely to occur within the next few years; by acting earlier, we can avoid GHG emissions (and methane) in a more cost-effective manner. More and more jurisdictions are taking this action, and we can learn from their experiences. Allowing some discretion for non-residential uses may be necessary for bona fide business purposes.
Goal Four: Increase the amount of renewable energy used, generated, or stored from homes and businesses
16. Increase the number of solar installations: Often, it is financially beneficial to convert to solar, which should make it easier to sell—provided the customer understands this. Hence, we need to promote public awareness and education campaigns, as well as relying on private contractors. Trade shows hosted by the City is another method of increasing awareness of, and options for, solar.
17. Increase the percentage of “Deep Green” customers: Currently, very few customers opt for the 100% renewable energy, due to costs. Given that this added cost is quite modest, it could be addressed through local incentives. Customers with solar (and particularly with battery backup) should be able to upgrade with no real out-of-pocket cost (assuming their net energy is zero or less). This represents a relatively easy market segment to approach. 22 Am Canyon 2022 Climate Action Plan - Interim Report 6 7/29/2022
18. Encourage battery backup for existing solar customers: All existing solar customers without battery backup should be contacted about the benefits of battery backup. Quick building audits would be needed to verify if a battery can be installed and the relative cost.
19. Require all new construction to include battery backup: This would apply to residential and nonresidential developments. Currently, State law requires new construction to be energy neutral, which generally means solar installation. But a battery is not required. Amending the City’s building code to make that a requirement would assist in reducing peak energy demands, which is a major source of fossil fuel energy use by Energy Companies (and when renewable energy is at its lowest).
20. Consider using the Solar App+ program: This is an issue that has been discussed by the Countywide Climate Action Committee. There has been some pushback by our Building Officials, primarily due to the existing streamlined permitting processes already implemented.
However, we should study the pros and cons of both approaches (particularly from the customer’s perspective), as well as any financial incentives, before reaching a conclusion.
21. Explore the development of Solar Farms: Two viable options exist for this area. The first is a traditional solar farm at the abandoned landfill site. There may be some issues to be resolved, including landfill settling, working with an organization that is not motivated to act, and the economics of the project. A second option relates to our industrial park. Many existing industrial buildings at our Green Island Industrial Park may be suitable for solar panels.
Although it may not be cost-effective for the building owner to install solar, it may be viable if MCE, the City, or some other group, “leased” the rooftops for a nominal fee and then installed solar and sold it to the Grid. Financing and legal arrangements would need to be worked out.
22. Explore the feasibility of requiring concrete with lower GHG emissions for all new construction:
Particularly in our industrial park, the use of concrete is extensive. Concrete is also a major source of GHG emissions. Currently, there are several new techniques that generate a smaller carbon footprint. This issue should be studied in more detail, and include input from our industrial developers, to determine if the use of these new materials is cost-effective and viable.
Target Area: Public Awareness and Lifestyle Changes
Goal Five: Engage the Public in efforts to reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Short-lived pollutants
23. Encourage American Canyon residents to participate in the Napa County Climate Challenge:
Formerly known as Regeneration Napa County, this app has three components: participants can develop their GHG profile and determine their overall carbon footprint; they can then look up a wide array of action items (from car purchases to lifestyle changes to solar installations) that can reduce that carbon footprint; and lastly, they can combine into groups and engage in healthy competition to see which groups can make the biggest impacts. The City should promote this program and work with local businesses to offer prizes and other inducements. Furthermore, the program’s author has indicated a willingness to modify parts of the program—for example, can we make the program more appealing to students, since in many cases they are the best advocates for changing family behaviors. There are other online programs that we can promote, provided by MCE and others.
23 Am Canyon 2022 Climate Action Plan - Interim Report 7 7/29/2022
24. Engage the community in programs and events that educate the public on Climate Change and personal actions individuals can take: There are many annual events and topics that support respect for our natural environment, from Earth Day to Healthy People/Healthy Planet, and even programs that highlight the latest in EV’s and e-bikes. Several actions have co-benefits, such as the health benefits of a plant-based diet or more human-powered transit. Some bigger issues, such as keeping our population in check, could be discussed, even if we can only make a small impact. These efforts should be supported and encouraged in and around American Canyon. We should track the number of participants that attend and follow up with requests to join the Napa County Climate Challenge.
25. Support the development of the Eco-Center in American Canyon: Currently, the American Canyon Community Parks Foundation (ACCPF) is exploring the feasibility of converting the City’s Corp Yard into an Eco-Center. This project could easily become the home base for environmental and climate action in American Canyon, if not the entire Napa Valley.
Educational opportunities abound once this facility is up and running.
Target Area: Other Efforts
Goal Six: Preserve and enhance current levels of carbon sequestration and stocking:
26. Wherever possible, preserve existing trees and forests: Consistent with the saying “Do no further harm”, we should protect trees from removal to maintain and enhance the urban forest as a net carbon sink. Ways of avoiding tree removal should be considered in private and public improvement projects. A recent case in point is the Watson Ranch developer, who went to considerable expense to move and protect mature trees on his site. The City should also do the same when it comes to their capital improvements.
27. Increase tree planting on publicly owned properties in or around the City: Land owned by the City should be targeted for planting new trees. Although it will take decades before these trees make a big impact on carbon sequestration, they still need to be planted as soon as possible.
Some areas include Newell Open Space Preserve, and land around Highway 29 at the south end of town.
28. Establish a Street Tree Canopy Program: Ensuring trees are planted along roadways provides shade to keep homes cooler, as well as aesthetics and cleaner air. Building Codes could be reviewed to ensure trees are required for new installations for residential and commercial development. Parkways or tree-lined medians could be encouraged as a means of increasing tree plantings. A potential opportunity site is Kimberly Drive, which is a wide street and could easily accommodate a tree-lined median.
29. Enhance the carbon sequestration of our Wetlands: Wetlands are very effective at sequestering carbon. A feasibility study should be conducted to accomplish two objectives: first, verify the estimated sequestration currently occurring in our Wetlands areas; and second, identify ways to expand/enhance the existing wetlands. Such expansion should also consider positive impacts on threatened species and recreational potentials.
30. Support efforts to reduce food and organic wastes from our landfill: The primary method is based on SB1383, in which 75% of food and organic wastes need to be diverted from our 24 Am Canyon 2022 Climate Action Plan - Interim Report 8 7/29/2022 landfill. Other steps to be taken would include zero waste events, and compostable food ware programs.
31. Reduce Methane leaks: Part of the GHG Inventory expected in the fall of 2022 will include methane leaks. We need to use that study to identify areas in American Canyon that have a high concentration of methane leaks. This could be residential areas, businesses or possibly the abandoned landfill, in which residual methane is being flared off. Because of the high climate potency of methane relative to carbon dioxide, especially in the short-term, these efforts should be given a priority to address.
Goal Seven: Improve our Resiliency in the face of Climate Change
32. Track development on our wetland edges for sea level rise: Current forecasts suggest we should be okay in the future, but such maps may be updated. Steps should be taken to avoid development too close to our wetland edges. Setbacks should be enhanced to ensure future safety to our community.
33. Develop our capacity to handle emergencies caused by Climate Change: As a community, we have been relatively fortunate compared to the rest of the Valley, in terms of wildland fires and power outages. Nonetheless, we need to include Climate Change impacts in all our Emergency Master plans, developed by the City, Fire District and Police Department.
Implementation and Advocacy
Management: The program should be based in the City Manager’s Office and be able to interact with all departments and the community. A volunteer-based support group should be established to assist in the implementation of this Plan, particularly as it relates to public outreach and engagement.
Financial: The City should provide a baseline level of financial support, above and beyond the Management staff support. Grants should be aggressively sought after, and a Climate Impact Fee, similar to our Zero Water Footprint fee, should be considered. In addition, there are a variety of databases and resources now available providing examples of ordinances and programs in other municipalities around the Bay Area, the state and country that can serve as models for our efforts, to avoid having to start from scratch.
Monitoring: Council and the public should receive quarterly updates on the progress of the above stated goals. The Information Dashboard that will be developed should be added to the City’s Website and updated at least monthly, based on the nature of the data inputs.
Advocacy: The Volunteer-based support group should monitor local, State and National actions relating to Climate Change and encourage the Council to support/oppose those actions, consistent with the Climate Action Plan.
Marketing: Outreach efforts have been discussed throughout this document, but we should also work to develop strong partners, including schools and students (in particular, we need to find Teacher Advocates); neighborhood groups (Neighborhood Watch, for example) and community groups such as the Moms Club or ACCPF. We can also sponsor an annual Video Contest in the schools and use the winning videos for marketing purposes.
25 Climate Action Dashboard--DRAFT
Item 2005 2010 2015 2022 2027
GHG Inventory – in Metric Tons 91,449*
GHG Inventory—per capita 6.44*
Short-lived Pollutants—in Metric Tons
Short-lived Pollutants—per capita
* 2009 Draft Napa County Climate Action Plan
Goal Metric Source Frequency Results Date
Reduce Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT)
Ped/bike lanes built: this period/City total City PW
E-Bike Rebates City
Transit trips originating in American Canyon NVTA
Local Hires/City Total City Bus. Lic.
Increase Electric-powered Vehicles & Equipment
Electric Vehicle Car Registrations DMV
EV Charging Stations Installed City Planning
Battery-powered equipment rebates City
Reduce GHG Emissions in Buildings and Homes
Energy Audits Completed City
Electric Appliance Rebates City
Increase Renewal Energy
Solar Installations City Planning
Battery Backup Installations City Planning
Deep Green Customers MCE
Engage the Public
Active “Climate Challenge” accounts App
Active “Climate Challenge” teams App
GHG Reduction (in Metric Tons) App
Number of Climate Action events City
Estimated Participants City
Other Factors
Tree Plantings City
Organic Waste Diversion Recology
Methane Leaks detected/fixed City
26 PROJECT SUMMARY
Project Description Est. Start Act. Start Est. Finish Act. Finish Status EV Charging Ordinance
All Electric Reach Code
Electrified Yard Maintenance Equip. Ord.
Climate Action Incentives Program
Solar Farm Feasibility study
Concrete Feasibility study
Wetlands Enhancement study
Tree Canopy Ordinance
Climate Change/Emergency response
Status Codes:
Project on schedule
Serious delays/problems
Project not approved/on hold
27 Draft Climate Action Plan
(Presentation to the OSATS Commission, April 5, 2023)
28 Council adopts Climate Emergency Resolution
(#2022-07, Feb. 1, 2022)
1. Net Zero Climate Pollutants by 2030
2. Evaluate Planning and Policy decisions
through the lens of this pledge; and
3. Established an Ad Hoc Climate Action
Committee to develop an action plan
Introduction and Background
29 Today’s Objectives:
1. Review the draft Climate Action Plan
2. Engage in a healthy discussion on the topic
3. Transfer the Climate Action role from the Ad
Hoc Committee to OSATS Commission.
Introduction and Background
30 • Open Space Acquisition and Preservation
• 2012 Energy & Climate Action Plan (County first)
• 2016 ILG Beacon Award
• 2018 Green Bldg. Code—Exceed by 15%
• Active Transportation (SR2S, Vine Trail)
• Engie Project in 2021
• Gas Station Ban in 2022
• Part of the Countywide Climate Action
Committee
Current Efforts
31 • Guiding Principles:
• Data-driven/use a “Dashboard” of data elements to
track progress
• Emphasis on Public Awareness/Education/Individual
Actions and advocacy
• Lead by Example/Take Actions by the City and
Community Leaders
• Four Target Areas and 34 specific actions
Draft Climate Action Plan Overview
32 58.6
13.4 16.6
11.4 American Canyon's GHG Emissions by Source (2022)
Transportation Bldg Energy Solid Waste All Others
Greenhouse Gas Inventory
33 Reduce Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT)
1. Implement the City’s Pedestrian/Bike Plan
2. Increase Biking/Walking to Schools
3. Support completion of the Napa Valley
Vine Trail
4. Increase purchase & use of Bikes/e-bikes
5. Increase Public Transit Trips/Services
6. Track Local Employment by home city/zip
code
Transportation
34 Increase share of Electric Vehicles/Equipment
7. Track registered EV’s in American Canyon
8. Require EV Chargers in new developments
9. Encourage EV Chargers in existing
developments
10. Replace gas-powered equipment with
electric
11. City leads by example (Enterprise Lease)
Transportation (cont’d.)
35 Reduce GHG Emissions from Homes & Businesses
12. Increase Energy Efficiency audits in buildings
13. Reduce gas powered appliances in existing buildings
14. Discourage wood-burning stoves & fireplaces
15. Eliminate use of natural gas in new developments
Buildings
36 Increase the generation & use of renewable energy
16. Increase the number of solar installations
17. Increase the percentage of “Deep Green” customers
18. Encourage battery backup for existing solar customers
19. Require new development to include batteries
20. Consider using the Solar App+ program
Buildings (cont’d.)
37 Other GHG Reductions in Buildings
21. Explore feasibility of Solar Farms
22. Explore feasibility of lower GHG concrete in
buildings
23. Explore feasibility of “MicroGrids,” especially with a hydrogen generator backup (vs. diesel)
Buildings (cont’d.)
38 Engage the public to reduce GHG emissions
24. Encourage residents to use the Napa County Climate
Challenge app to reduce our carbon footprint
25. Support Climate Action events and programs (e.g.
Earth Day, Electric Mobility)
26. Support development of the Eco-Center
Awareness & Lifestyle Changes
39 Preserve & Enhance Carbon Sequestration Efforts
27. Preserve existing Trees & Forests
28. Increase Tree Planting efforts (Miyawaki Forests)
29. Establish a Street Tree Canopy program
30. Explore enhancing our Wetlands carbon sequestration
31. Reduce food and organic wastes from our landfill
32. Reduce methane leaks
Other Efforts
40 Improve our Resiliency in the face of Climate Change
33. Track sea level rise, especially along our shoreline (wetlands)
34. Develop our capacity to handle emergencies caused by Climate Change
Other Efforts (cont’d.)
41 • Management & Staffing: High-level position,
augmented with a volunteer support group
• Financial: Some baseline support needed, rely on
grants and possible Climate Impact Fee. Take
advantage of new Federal/State funding
• Monitoring: quarterly review of the Dashboard
• Advocacy: monitor Federal, State and Local actions
• Marketing: outreach to the community (schools,
nonprofits, faith community, etc.) is key
Implementation & Administration
42 • Focus on one item at a time; get it ready for action and forward it to the Council as soon as it is ready.
• Triage the list of priorities (or add items that aren’t part of the interim plan) pick the item with the
biggest impact that isn’t going to be addressed by
some other agency.
• Generates the biggest savings sooner, and easier to
digest than dealing with everything at the same time.
Time is of the Essence…
43 1. Develop the “dashboard” – monitor progress
2. Promote the Napa County Climate Challenge
3. Add a dedicated staff person to support Climate Action
4. Implement/update the City’s Bike Plan
5. Require Battery Backup in all new development &
incentivize installations in existing
6. Promote Energy Efficiency Audits/Retrofits of existing buildings – Replace Gas appliances with Electric versions Potential Key Recommendations
44 7. Expand EV Charging Stations & require for all new development
8. Increase Carbon Sequestration (Trees & Wetlands)
9. Expand Solar Farms & Micro-grid feasibility (work
with PGE)
Potential Key Recommendations
45 Questions?
46 DATE: August 2, 2023
TO: Open Space, Active Transportation, and Sustainability Commission RE: City of American Canyon Sustainability Initiatives
Sustainability Initiatives – draft Interim Report Accomplishments
1. Implement the City’s Pedestrian/Bike Plan. The Pedestrian/Bike Plan is part of the General Plan. All new developments with frontage or a
part of the project that contains a designated
Pedestrian/Bike trail is required to construct it.
The same is true for City CIP projects because
they must be consistent with the General Plan.
2. Increase Biking/Walking to Schools. 1. Implemented the Pedestrian/Bike Plan as discussed in item 1.
2. City staff promotes events in City
Managers Update newsletter and social
campaign – we heart safe streets.
3. Support competition of the Napa Valley Vine
Trail.
The Napa Valley Vine Trail is part of the
Pedestrian/Bike Plan. Same as item 1.
4. Increase purchase and use of bikes/e-bikes.
5. Increase Public Transit Trips/Services. The City is a member of NVTA. See County-wide Transportation Plan HERE. See Short Range
Transit Plan HERE.
6. Track Local Employment by home city/zip
code.
7. Track registered EV’s in American Canyon. The State of California Energy Commission and DMV track this information.
8. Require EV chargers in new development. As required by the California Building Code.
9. Encourage EV Chargers in existing
developments.
Adopted a streamlined solar charger permitting
process. The City is actively seeking funding to
upgrade City facilities with EV Chargers.
10. Replace gas-powered equipment with
electric.
State AB1346 effective 2024, bans small gas
landscaping equipment: leaf blowers, chain saws,
lawn mowers, etc.
11. City leads by example (Enterprise Lease). The City has secured an Enterprise Lease and has replaced the majority of the City’s fleet with
Hybrid and Electric vehicles.
12. Increase Energy Efficiency audits in buildings.
47 13. Reduce gas-powered appliances in existing
buildings.
14. Discourage wood-burning stoves and
fireplaces.
1. BAAQMD and State are already
restrictive.
2. See Bay Area Air Quality Management
District.
15. Eliminate the use of natural gas in new
developments.
As required by the California Environmental
Quality Act.
16. Increase the number of solar installations. The City adopted a streamlined solar charger ordinance and residential rooftop solar permitting
process.
17. Increase the percentage of “deep green”
customers
18. Encourage battery backup and existing solar
customers.
19. Require new development to include
batteries.
20. Consider using a Solar App+ program. The City obtained a State Grant to fund the consideration of Solar App+ or a comparable
program.
21. Explore the feasibility of Solar Farms.
22. Explore the feasibility of lower GHG concrete
in buildings.
23. Explore the feasibility of “MicroGrids”,
especially with hydrogen generator backups
(vs. diesel)
24. Encourage residents to use the Napa County
Climate Challenge app to reduce their carbon
footprint.
25. Support Climate Action events and programs
(e.g. Earth Day, Electric Mobility, etc.).
The City’s Parks and Recreation Department hosts
Earth Day and Coastal Cleanup Day each year –
including partners like the Tire Amnesty, ACCPF,
NCRPOPD. The City also hosts several volunteer
opportunities throughout the year that focuses
on parks, trails, and open space cleanups.
26. Support the development of the Eco-Center. The City is working with ACCPF and relocating to the City’s Corporation Yard – this is continued in
the works.
27. Preserving existing trees and forests.
28. Increase tree planting efforts (Miyawaki
Forests).
29. Establish a Street Tree Canopy program.
30. Explore enhancing Wetland’s carbon
sequestration.
31. Reduce food and organic wastes from our
landfills.
1. State SB1383 Requirement. City
Municipal Code 8.20 and enforcement
beginning 2024.
48 2. All residents and businesses in American
Canyon – required to dispose of food
waste in green carts vs. land fill (trash)
carts.
32. Reduce Methane leaks.
33. Track sea level rises, especially along our
shoreline (Wetlands).
The San Francisco Bay Conservation and
Development Commission (BCDC) tracks sea level
rise along the entire Bay Area shoreline.
34. Develop our capacity to handle emergencies
caused by Climate Change.
General Plan policies and the Napa County
Multijurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan.
49 Office of the City Clerk
4381 Broadway, Suite 201 * American Canyon CA 94503
www.cityofamericancanyon.org
MINUTE ORDER NO. 2024-
A MINUTE ORDER OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON
APPROVING THE OPEN SPACE, ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION, AND
SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION’S WORK PLAN FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024/25.
At the Special Joint City Council and Open Space, Active Transportation, and Sustainability Commission meeting on June 18, 2024, the City Council of the City of American Canyon approved this item by the following motion and vote:
Motion by Council Member NAME, seconded by Council Member NAME, and carried unanimously, to approve the Open Space, Active Transportation, and Sustainability Commission Work Plan for Fiscal Year 2024/25.
__________________________________
Cherri Walton, Deputy City Clerk
50