REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
City Hall - Council Chambers
4381 Broadway St., Suite 201, American Canyon
September 2, 2025
6:30 PM
1. Conference with Legal Counsel – An.cipated Li.ga.on. Authorized pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9 (d)(2). One (1) Matters.
2. Proclamation: Hispanic Heritage Month
3. Presentation - Audobon Society
4. Presentation - Community Action Napa Valley
Mayor: Pierre Washington
Vice Mayor: Mark Joseph
Councilmembers: Brando Cruz, Melissa Lamattina, David Oro 4:30 P.M. – CLOSED SESSION
The mayor will call the meeting to order and conduct roll call. Council will immediately convene into Closed Session after hearing any public comment on Closed Session items. At 6:30 p.m. the Council will reconvene into Open Session and then resume Closed Session at the end of the meeting to address outstanding items, if necessary.
CALL TO ORDER - CLOSED SESSION
ROLL CALL - CLOSED SESSION
PUBLIC COMMENTS - CLOSED SESSION ITEMS
This time is reserved for members of the public to address the City Council on Closed Session Items only. Comments must be made in person and are limited to 3 minutes. Comments for items on the Open Session agenda will be taken when the item is called in Open Session. Comments for Items not on the Closed Session or Open Session agenda will be heard during the Open Session Public Comment period.
MEETING RECESS - COUNCIL TO CONVENE IN CLOSED SESSION
4:30 P.M. CLOSED SESSION ITEMS
6:30 P.M. OPEN SESSION - REGULAR MEETING
CALL TO ORDER - OPEN SESSION
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL - OPEN SESSION
REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION/CONFIRMATION OF REPORTABLE ACTION
PROCLAMATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA SEPTEMBER 2, 2025
1 5. Minutes of August 5, 2025
Recommendation: Approve the minutes of the Regular City Council mee6ng of August 5, 2025.
6. Report Upon Return from Closed Session for August 19, 2025 Recommendation: Approve the Report Upon Return from Closed Session for the Special City Council Closed Session meeting of August 19, 2025.
7. TDA-3 Resolution of Local Support for Green Island Road Class I Trail Recommendation: Adopt a Resolu6on to request to the Metropolitan Transporta6on Commission for the alloca6on of Fiscal Year 2025/26 Transporta6on Development Act Ar6cle 3 Pedestrian/Bicycle Project Funding in conjunc6on with the Green Island Road Class I Trail Project.
8. Watson Ranch Lot 7 Final Map
Recommendation: Adopt a Resolu6on taking the following ac6ons in conjunc6on with the Watson Ranch Lot 7 Project:
1. Approving the Final Map to subdivide the Watson Ranch Lot 7 Property to create 136 lots and 15 parcels and to accept the referenced dedication offered thereon; and
2. Approving the Subdivision Improvement Agreement for the Project.
9. Measure U Master Agreement - Napa Valley Transportation Improvement Act Recommendation: Adopt a Resolu6on approving the Measure U Master Agreement between the City of American Canyon and the Napa Valley Transporta6on Authority – Tax Agency.
10. 2025 Newell Open Space Management Plan
Recommendation: Adopt a Resolu6on approving the 2025 Newell Open Space Management Plan.
11. Business License Fee Program
Recommendation: Introduc6on and First Reading of an Ordinance Amending the Municipal
PUBLIC COMMENTS - ITEMS NOT ON CLOSED SESSION OR OPEN SESSION AGENDA This time is reserved for members of the public to address the City Council on items that are not on the Closed Session or Open Session agenda and are within the subject matter jurisdiction of the City Council. Comments are limited to 3 minutes. Comments for items on the Open Session agenda will be taken when the item is called in Open Session. The City Council is prohibited by law from taking any action on matters 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 time.
AGENDA CHANGES
The Mayor and Council may change the order of the Agenda or request discussion of a Consent Item. A member of the Public may request discussion of a Consent Item by making that request during Public Comment.
CONSENT CALENDAR
PUBLIC HEARINGS
CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA SEPTEMBER 2, 2025
2 Code pertaining to Business Licenses
12. Vo.ng Delegate and Alternate(s) for the League of California Ci.es 2025 Annual Business Meeting
Recommendation: Approve by Minute Order a Vo6ng Delegate and Alternate(s) for the League of California Cities 2025 Annual Business Meeting.
13. Community Grant Program Policy
Recommendation: Provide clarity and direc6on to staff on the Community Grant Program Policy update to ensure alignment with Council's direction and priorities.
14. Community Development Building & Safety Update
15. City Council Committee Report - Mayor Pierre Washington
16. City Council Committee Report - Vice Mayor Mark Joseph
17. Future Agenda Items of Note
BUSINESS
MANAGEMENT AND STAFF ORAL REPORTS
MAYOR/COUNCIL COMMENTS AND COMMITTEE REPORTS
The Mayor and Council may comment on matters of public concern and announce matters of public interest; no collective council action will be taken.
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
ADJOURNMENT
CERTIFICATION
I, Taresa Geilfuss, 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
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Tonight's meeting is a limited public forum. American Canyon promotes respectful and responsible behavior among its meeting participants, whether they are present in person or remotely. Using offensive language or remarks that promote, foster, or perpetuate discrimination based on race, creed, color, age, religion, gender marital status, status regarding public assistance, national origin, physical or mental disability or sexual orientation/gender identification, as well as any other category protected by federal, state or local laws will not be tolerated. In the case of an occurrence, the speaker will be immediately disconnected from the microphone.
CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA SEPTEMBER 2, 2025
3 City Council and other public meetings will be conducted in person. This meeting is also available via Zoom, is broadcast live to residents on Napa Valley TV, on our website and on YouTube.
Zoom Link: Click here. Webinar ID: 847 1017 1711; Passcode: 123456. Phone in to Zoom: 408-638-0968 Oral comments, during the meeting: Oral comments can be made in person during Open and Closed Session or through Zoom in Open Session only. On Zoom use the "raise your hand" tool during any public comment period. To avoid confusion, hands raised outside of Public Comment periods will be lowered.
Written comments: Submit written comments by the eComments link, located on the Meetings & Agendas page of our website. eComments are available to council members in real time. To allow for Council review of comments, eComments will close at 3:00 pm on the day of the meeting.
The above identified measures exceed all legal requirements for participation in public comment, including those imposed by the Ralph M. Brown Act. For more information, 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 meeting and are available to the public via the City’s website at www.americancanyon.gov.
AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT: The City Council will provide materials in appropriate alternative formats to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Please send a written 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 description of the requested materials, as well as your preferred alternative format or auxiliary aid, at least three calendar days before the meeting.
CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA SEPTEMBER 2, 2025
4 CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON
PROCLAMATION
Hispanic Heritage Month
WHEREAS National Hispanic Heritage Month, known as “Mes de Herencia Hispana” is celebrated nationwide from September 15th through October 15thof each year. The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Week and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988, to cover the month at which it is celebrated today.
Understanding that September 15th is significant because it is the anniversary of the independence of Latin America countries like Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16th and 18th, respectively; and WHEREASthe City of American Canyon looks forward to celebrating “Mes de Herencia Hispana” highlighting the rich heritage, arts, histories, food, music, and traditions of all 26+ Latin-American nations. While recognizing that these nations are not monogamous and this month celebrates, honors, and pay tribute to all for their contributions to our city and our community; and WHEREAS the City of American Cayon has a long history of welcoming immigrants and is home to a growing multiethnic and multicultural Latino population, all of whom are welcome and very much appreciated; and WHEREASthe diverse Latino population of American Canyon makes a significant economic contribution and has other profound positive influences on our community through their strong commitment to family, faith, education, hard work, culture, and service; and
WHEREAS this community thrives on the diversity and ingenuity of all people and depends on the continued support and success of our diverse Latino population, and we will continue to be enriched by the transcultural contributions of our Latino friends and neighbors for many decades to come.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Pierre Washington, on behalf of the entire City Council, do hereby proclaim September 15th through October 15th, 2025, as Hispanic Heritage Month – “Mes de Herencia Hispana” in American Canyon.
Dated: September 2, 2025
________________________________________
Pierre Washington, Mayor
5 CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
ACTION MINUTES
August 5, 2025
4:00 P.M. OPEN SESSION - REGULAR MEETING
CALL TO ORDER - OPEN SESSION
The meeting was called to order at 4:01 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
ROLL CALL - OPEN SESSION
Present: Councilmember Brando Cruz Councilmember Melissa Lamattina, Councilmember David Oro, Vice Mayor, Mark Joseph, Mayor Pierre Washington
PUBLIC COMMENTS - ITEMS NOT ON CLOSED SESSION OR OPEN SESSION AGENDA Mayor Washington noted that there was no closed session and opened public comments. Written comments : none Oral comments: Devereaux Smith was called to speak; Sorgio Barajab was called to speak. Mayor Washington closed public comments.
AGENDA CHANGES
There were no agenda changes.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Action: Motion to adopt the CONSENT CALENDAR made by Councilmember David Oro, seconded by Councilmember Brando Cruz, and CARRIED by roll call vote.
Ayes: Councilmember Brando Cruz, Councilmember Melissa Lamattina, Councilmember David Oro, Vice Mayor Mark Joseph, Mayor Pierre Washington
Absent: None
Excused: None
1. Minutes of July 15, 2025
Action: Approved the minutes of the Regular City Council meeting of July 15, 2025. 6 2. Report Upon Return from Closed Session for July 29, 2025 Action: Approved the Report Upon Return from Closed Session for the Special City Council Closed Session meeting of July 29, 2025.
3. Quarterly Investment Report for City and Fire District for Fiscal Year 2024-25 Quarter 4 Action Received and filed the City and Fire District’s Treasurer’s Report for the quarter ended June 30, 2025.
4. City Investment Policy
Action: Adopted Resolution 2025-71 amending the City's Investment Policy.
5. Napa Airport Corporate Center Development Agreement Extension Action: Adopted Ordinance 2025-03 to approve a Development Agreement for a 5-Year extension to the Napa Airport Corporate Center Development Agreement from September 3, 2025, to September 3, 2030, located at the southeast corner of Devlin Road and South Kelly Road APN 057-090-086 (PL25-0008).
6. Notice of Completion for the Knightsbridge Reconstruction and Water Main Improvements Project (TR23-0100)
Action: Adopted Resolution 2025-72 accepting the project as complete, authorizing the Public Works Director to file a Notice of Completion (Agreement 2025-16-R) , and releasing a Retention payment to ARB, Inc. in conjunction with the Knightsbridge Reconstruction and Water Main Improvements Project (TR23-0100).
7. Water Treatment Plant Supervisory Control Advisory Data Acquisition Upgrade (SCADA) Action: Adopted Resolution 2025-73 authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement (Agreement 2025-A161) with Telstar Instruments for Water Treatment Plant SCADA Upgrade Project in an amount not to exceed $250,000.
8. Water Bottle Filing Stations
Action: Adopted Resolution 2025-74 increasing the Fiscal Year 2025/26 Public Works Solid Waste Budget in the amount of $200,000 for the installation of water bottle refill stations and the purchase of a portable hydration station.
9. State Water Project Carryover Water Transfer
Action: Adopted Resolution 2025-75 authorizing the American Canyon Director of Public Works to agree to the attached draft term sheets with Kern County Water Agency (KCWA) of the Westside Districts for a total transfer of 1,075 AF of Carryover Water.
10. Rio Del Mar Extension to State Route 29
Action: Adopted Resolution 2025-76 awarding a design contract (Agreement 2025-A162) to Kimley-Horn for an amount not to exceed $367,080 in conjunction with the Rio Del Mar Extension Project (TR26-0200).
7 Vice Mayor Mark Joseph asked that Community Development Director Brent Cooper give a report on the language that is put into the General Plan related to labor standards, vehicle miles traveled and local employment standards in response to the public comment made by Sorgio Barajab. Community Development Director Brent Cooper reported on General Plan Policies regarding labor standards.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 4:12 p.m.
CERTIFICATION
Respectfully Submitted,
_____________________________________
Nicolle Hall, Deputy City Clerk
8 406628.1
TERESA L. HIGHSMITH | 213-542-5703 | [email protected] 790 E. COLORADO BOULEVARD, SUITE 850, PASADENA, CALIFORNIA 91101-2109 | (213) 542-5700 GRASS VALLEY | ORANGE COUNTY | PASADENA | SACRAMENTO | SAN DIEGO | SONOMA Our File No. 31004.0001
August 22, 2025
ATTORNEY-CLIENT PRIVILEGE
VIA ELECTRONIC MAIL
The Honorable Pierre Washington, Mayor
Members of the City Council
City of American Canyon
4381 Broadway, Suite 201
American Canyon, CA 94503
Re: Report Upon Return from Closed Session, Special City Council Closed Session Meeting of the American Canyon City Council of August 19, 2025 This communication sets forth reportable action, if any, of the City Council (“Council”) of the City of American Canyon (“City”), consistent with provisions of the Ralph M. Brown Open Meeting Act (Government Code Section 54950, et seq.) resulting from the Closed Session of the Special City Council Closed Session Meeting of August 19, 2025, consistent with Government Code
Section 54957.1.
Mayor Washington, Vice Mayor Joseph, Council Members Cruz, Oro and Lamattina convened in Open Session at 4:08 p.m. and after ascertaining that there were no public comments on the matters agendized for Closed Session consideration, adjourned to Closed Session at 4:08 p.m. to address the Closed Session Agenda. At 4:25 pm, the Mayor re-opened public comment to permit one speaker, Terry McGrath, to make a public comment regarding the subject of the closed session.
Upon conclusion of Mr. McGrath’s public comment at 4:47 pm, public comment was again closed and the City Council adjourned to their continued Closed Session regarding the following matter:
Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation Authorized pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2).
Number of Potential Cases: 1
9 ATTORNEY-CLIENT PRIVILEGE
The Honorable Pierre Washington, Mayor
City of American Canyon
August 22, 2025
406628.1
With respect to Closed Session Agenda matter, direction was provided to staff and legal counsel, but there was no reportable action under the common law attorney-client privilege and that provided by Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2).
The Closed Session concluded at 7:18 p.m.
This communication should be reviewed under the Consent portion of the Agenda of your next Regular or Special City Council Meeting.
Sincerely,
Teresa L. Highsmith
TLH:mom
cc: Jason B. Holley, City Manager
Juan Gomez, Assistant City Manager
Teresa Geilfuss, City Clerk
10 CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
SEPTEMBER 2, 2025
STAFF REPORT
CONSENT
ITEM NUMBER: 7.
TITLE
TDA-3 Resolution of Local Support for Green Island Road Class I Trail
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a Resolu(on to request to the Metropolitan Transporta(on Commission for the alloca(on of Fiscal Year 2025/26 Transporta(on Development Act Ar(cle 3 Pedestrian/Bicycle Project Funding in conjunction with the Green Island Road Class I Trail Project.
CONTACT
Erica Ahmann Smithies, P.E., Public Works Director
Ron Ranada, P.E., Senior Civil Engineer
BACKGROUND & ANALYSIS
The Metropolitan Transporta(on Commission (MTC) administers the Transporta(on Development Act Ar(cle 3 (TDA-3) Program, which is funded by one-quarter cent of regional sales tax. Napa County receives approximately $165,000 in TDA-3 funds per year and is administered through the Napa Valley Transportation Authority (NVTA).
In May 2025, NVTA solicited a Countywide Call for Projects with approximately $470,000 available for Fiscal Years 2025-26 and 2026-27. City staff submi@ed a $300,000 applica(on to support the Green Island Road Class I Trail Project (Project.) Only one other jurisdic(on submi@ed a grant applica(on which was the City of Calistoga. The total amount of both grant requests was within the allocated budget therefore NVTA has requested that both jurisdic(ons move forward with a resolution of local support which is an MTC requirement to accept the grant funding.
The Project consists of the approximately 4,200 LF of new Class 1 mul(-use trail, a cri(cal segment of the Napa Valley Vine Trail, from Paoli Loop to Commerce Boulevard. The Project will accommodate cyclists and pedestrians, and encourage non-vehicular modes of transporta(on as required by local, regional and State Complete Streets policies.
Staff recently received Caltrans approval to authorize adver(sement of the Green Island Road Class I Trail Project. More details on the scheduled advertisement of construction will be available soon. 11 COUNCIL PRIORITY PROGRAMS AND PROJECTS
Transporta(on: "Improve the transporta(on network within the City to alleviate conges(on and enhance the quality of life for the community."
FISCAL IMPACT
The City's adopted Fiscal Year 2025/26 Capital Improvement Project Budget includes the Green Island Road Class I Trail Project (TR16-0704) for a total amount of $1,300,000.
The $300,000 in TDA-3 funding will be used as a local grant match to the $1,000,000 in previously awarded One Bay Area Grant (federal funding).
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
15378(b) - The ac(on is not a "Project" subject to the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") because it does not qualify as a "Project" under Public Resources Code Sec(ons 21065 and 21080 and in Section 15378(b) of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations.
COMMUNICATION
Level 0: No Further Public Communication Needed
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Resolution - TDA-3 with Attachment A and B
12 RESOLUTION NO. 2025-______
A RESOLUTION TO REQUEST TO THE METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION FOR THE ALLOCATION OF FISCAL YEAR 2025/26 TRANSPORTATION DEVELOPMENT ACT ARTICLE 3
PEDESTRIAN/BICYCLE PROJECT FUNDING IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE GREEN ISLAND ROAD CLASS I
TRAIL PROJECT
WHEREAS, Article 3 of the Transportation Development Act (TDA), Public Utilities Code (PUC) Section 99200 et seq., authorizes the submission of claims to a regional transportation planning agency for the funding of projects exclusively for the benefit and/or use of pedestrians and bicyclists; and WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC), as the regional transportation planning agency for the San Francisco Bay region, has adopted MTC Resolution No. 4108, Revised, entitled “Transportation Development Act, Article 3, Pedestrian/Bicycle Projects,” which delineates procedures and criteria for submission of requests for the allocation of “TDA Article 3” funding; and WHEREAS, MTC Resolution No. 4108, Revised requires that requests for the allocation of TDA Article 3 funding be submitted as part of a single, countywide coordinated claim from each county in the San Francisco Bay region; and
WHEREAS, the City of American Canyon (City) desires to submit a request to MTC for the allocation of TDA Article 3 funds to support the projects described in Attachment B to this resolution, which are for the exclusive benefit and/or use of pedestrians and/or bicyclists.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City declares it is eligible to request an allocation of TDA Article 3 funds pursuant to Section 99234 of the Public Utilities Code; and FURTHERMORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that there is no pending or threatened litigation that might adversely affect the project or projects described in Attachment B to this resolution, or that might impair the ability of the City to carry out the project; and
FURTHERMORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City attests to the accuracy of and approves the statements in Attachment A to this resolution; and
FURTHERMORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that a certified copy of this resolution and its attachments, and any accompanying supporting materials shall be forwarded to the congestion management agency, countywide transportation planning agency, or county association of governments, as the case may be, of Napa County for submission to MTC as part of the countywide coordinated TDA Article 3 claim.
PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED at a regularly scheduled meeting of the City Council of the City of American Canyon held on the 2nd day of September, 2025, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
13 ____________________________
Pierre Washington, Mayor
ATTEST: APPROVE AS TO FORM:
____________________________ _____________________________ Taresa Geilfuss, CMC, City Clerk Teresa L. Highsmith, City Attorney 14 ATTACHMENT A
Findings
1. That the City of American Canyon (City) is not legally impeded from submitting a request to the Metropolitan Transportation Commission for the allocation of Transportation Development Act (TDA) Article 3 funds, nor is the City legally impeded from undertaking the project(s) described in “Attachment B” of this resolution.
2. That the City has committed adequate staffing resourcesto complete the project(s) described in Attachment B.
3. A review of the project(s) described in Attachment B has resulted in the consideration of all pertinent matters, including those related to environmental and right-of-way permits and clearances, attendant to the successful completion of the project(s).
4. Issues attendant to securing environmental and right-of-way permits and clearances for the projects described in Attachment B have been reviewed and will be concluded in a manner and on a schedule that will not jeopardize the deadline for the use of the TDA funds being requested.
5. That the project(s) described in Attachment B comply with the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA, Public Resources Code Sections 21000 et seq.).
6. That as portrayed in the budgetary description(s) of the project(s) in Attachment B, the sources of funding other than TDA are assured and adequate for completion of the project(s).
7. That the project(s) described in Attachment B are for capital construction and/or final design and engineering or quick build project; and/or for the maintenance of a Class I bikeway which is closed to motorized traffic and/or Class IV separated bikeway; and/or for the purposes of restriping Class II bicycle lanes; and/or for the development or support of a bicycle safety education program; and/or for the development of a comprehensive bicycle and/or pedestrian facilities plan, and an allocation of TDA Article 3 funding for such a plan has not been received by the City within the prior five fiscal years.
8. That the project(s) described in Attachment B which are bicycle projects have been included in a detailed bicycle circulation element included in an adopted general plan, or included in an adopted comprehensive bikeway plan (such as outlined in Section 2377 of the California Bikeways Act, Streets and Highways Code section 2370 et seq.) or responds to an immediate community need, such as a quick-build project.
9. That any project described in Attachment B bicycle project meets the mandatory minimum safety design criteria published in the California Highway Design Manual or is in a National document.
10. That the project(s) described in Attachment B will be completed in the allocated time (fiscal year of allocation plus two additional fiscal years).
11. That the City agrees to maintain, or provide for the maintenance of, the project(s) and facilities described in Attachment B, for the benefit of and use by the public. 15 Attachment B
TDA Article 3 Project Application Form
1. Agency
2. Primary Contact
3. Mailing Address
4. Email Address 5. Phone Number
6. Secondary Contact (in
the event primary is
not available)
7. Mailing address (if
different) N/Aտ
8. Email Address 9. Phone Number
10. Send allocation
instructions to (if
different from above):
11. Project Title
12. Amount requested 13. Fiscal Year of
Claim
14. Description of Overall Project:
15. Project Scope Proposed for Funding: (Project level environmental, preliminary planning, and ROW are ineligible uses of TDA funds.)
16. Project Location: A map of the project location is attached or a link to a online map of the project location is provided below:
Project Relation to Regional Policies (for information only)
17. Is the project in an Equity Priority Community? Yes܆ No܆
18. Is this project in a Priority Development Area or a Transit-Oriented Community? Yes܆ No܆ City of American Canyon
Green Island Road Class I Trail
[email protected] 707-647-4366
4381 Broadway Street, Suite 201, American Canyon, CA. 94503 Erica Ahmann Smithies
Ron Ranada
[email protected] 707-647-4559
$300,000 2025-26
Construction contract
Construct approximately 4,200 LF of new Class 1 multi-use trail to accommodate cyclists and pedestrians, and to encourage non-vehicular modes of transportation, and as required by local, regional and State Complete Streets policies. Improvements include sidewalks and Class I bike facilities such as the Napa Valley Vine Trail.
Green Island Road from Paoli Loop to Commerce Boulevard in the City of American Canyon. *The eastern edge of the project is within the City's PDA: Broadway District Specific Plan
16 19. Project Budget and Schedule
Project Eligibility
A. Has the project been reviewed by the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee? Yesտ Noտ If “YES,” identify the date and provide a copy or link to the agenda.
If "NO," provide an explanation).
B. Has the project been approved by the claimant's governing body? Yesտ Noտ If "NO," provide expected date:__________________
C. Has this project previously received TDA Article 3 funding? Yesտ Noտ (If "YES," provide an explanation on a separate page)
D. For "bikeways," does the project meet Caltrans minimum safety design criteria Yesտ Noտ pursuant to Chapter 1000 of the California Highway Design Manual? E. 1. Is the project categorically exempt from CEQA, pursuant to CCR Section 15301(c), Yesտ Noտ Existing Facility?
2. If “NO” above, is the project is exempt from CEQA for another reason? Yesտ Noտ Cite the basis for the exemption. __________________________ N/Aտ If the project is not exempt, please check “NO,” and provide environmental documentation, as appropriate.
F. Estimated Completion Date of project (month and year): __________________ G. Have provisions been made by the claimant to maintain the project or facility, or has Yesտ Noտ the claimant arranged for such maintenance by another agency? (If an agency other than the Claimant is to maintain the facility, please identify below and provide the agreement.
H. Is a Complete Streets Checklist required for this project ? Yesտ Noտ If the amount requested is over $250,000 or if the total project phase or construction phase is over $250,000, a Complete Streets checklist is likely required. Please attach the Complete Streets checklist or record of review, as applicable. More information and the form may be found here: https://mtc.ca.gov/planning/transportation/complete-streets Project Phase TDA 3 Other Funds Total Cost Estimated Completion (month/year)
Bike/Ped Plan
ENV
PA&ED
PS&E
ROW
CON
Total Cost
$300,000 $1,000,000 $1,300,000 December/2026
$300,000 $1,000,000 $1,300,000 December/2026
December 2026
9/4/2024 OSATS Agenda: https://granicus_production_attachments.s3.amazonaws.com/americancanyon/108c01071ec49bf5776f914fa0a0b3f30.pdf August 27, 2019 Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration
17 CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
SEPTEMBER 2, 2025
STAFF REPORT
CONSENT
ITEM NUMBER: 8.
TITLE
Watson Ranch Lot 7 Final Map
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a Resolution taking the following actions in conjunction with the Watson Ranch Lot 7 Project:
1. Approving the Final Map to subdivide the Watson Ranch Lot 7 Property to create 136 lots and 15 parcels and to accept the referenced dedication offered thereon; and
2. Approving the Subdivision Improvement Agreement for the Project.
CONTACT
Erica Ahmann Smithies, P.E., Public Works Director
Edison Bisnar, P.E., Senior Civil Engineer
BACKGROUND & ANALYSIS
On November 19, 2024, City Council adopted Resolu9on No. 2024-85 approving a Ves9ng Tenta9ve Subdivision Map for Watson Ranch Lot 7 to create 136 single family home lots and 15 parcels on
12.86 acres within the Watson Ranch Specific Plan Medium Density Residen9al-16 Zoning District located west of Marcus Road, Assessor's Parcel Number 059-430-045.
On October 4, 2018, the City Council held a duly no9ced public hearing and found and determined that the Project Final Environmental Impact Report is adequate to address environmental impacts associated with the Watson Ranch Specific Plan Project.
The Final Map en9tled "Watson Ranch Lot 7 (Adjusted Parcel A) Final Map" has been prepared and submiDed to the City of American Canyon for approval (aDached hereto as Exhibit A and incorporated herein).
The Final Map includes the offer of dedica9on of the right-of-way for four public streets, emergency vehicle access easement, public access easement and public utility easement.
The Developer has agreed to enter into a Subdivision Improvement Agreement (aDached hereto as Exhibit B and incorporated herein), for comple9on of all remaining requirements of the development, including financial securities to guarantee that the work is completed. 18 COUNCIL PRIORITY PROGRAMS AND PROJECTS
Not applicable.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact associated with the proposed action.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act, the Final Environmental Impact Report for the Project was presented at a no9ced public hearing held on October 4, 2018. The Planning Commission adopted Resolu9on 2018-19 recommending that the City Council adopt the Mi9ga9on Monitoring and Reporting Program.
COMMUNICATION
Level 0: No Further Public Communication Needed
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Resolution-Watson Ranch Lot 7 FM & SIA
Exhibit A to Resolution
Exhibit B to Resolution
19 RESOLUTION NO. 2025 - _____
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON TAKING THE FOLLOWING ACTIONS IN CONJUNCTION THE WATSON RANCH LOT 7 PROJECT: 1) APPROVING THE FINAL MAP TO SUBDIVIDE THE PROPERTY, ASSESSOR’S PARCEL NUMBER 059-430-045, TO CREATE 136 LOTS AND 15 PARCELS; AND 2) APPROVING A SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT.
WHEREAS, on November 19, 2024, City Council adopted Resolution No. 2024-85 approving a Vesting Tentative Subdivision Map for Watson Ranch Lot 7 to create 136 single-family home lots on 12.86 acres within the Watson Ranch Specific Plan Medium Density Residential-16 Zoning District located west of Marcus Road, Assessor’s Parcel Number 059-430-045; and
WHEREAS, on October 4, 2018, the City Council held a duly noticed public hearing and found and determined that the Project Final Environmental Impact Report is adequate to address environmental impacts associated with the Watson Ranch Specific Plan Project; and WHEREAS, the Final Map entitled “Watson Ranch Lot 7 (Adjusted Parcel A) Final Map” has been prepared and submitted to the City of American Canyon for approval (attached hereto as Exhibit A and incorporated herein); and
WHEREAS, the Final Map includes the offer of dedication of the right-of-way for four public streets, emergency vehicle easement, public access easement and public utility easement; and WHEREAS, the Developer has agreed to enter into a Subdivision Improvement Agreement (attached hereto as Exhibit B and incorporated herein), for completion of all remaining requirements of the development, including financial securities to guarantee that the work is completed.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of American Canyon hereby accepts the dedication of right-of-way for public streets, emergency vehicle access easement, public access easement and public utility easement offered thereon; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of American Canyon hereby approves the Finap Map for Watson Ranch Lot 7 (Assessor’s Parcel Number 059-430-045); and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of American Canyon hereby authorizes the City Manager to enter into a Subdivision Improvement Agreement. 20 PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED at a regularly scheduled meeting of the City Council of the City of American Canyon held on the 2nd day of September 2025, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
________________________________
Pierre Washington, Mayor
ATTEST: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
______________________________ ______________________________ Taresa Geilfuss, CMC, City Clerk Teresa Highsmith, City Attorney Attachments:
Resolution
Exhibit A: Watson Ranch Lot 7 Final Map
Exhibit B: Subdivision Improvement Agreement
21 JOB NO. 1217-065 SHEET OF 18 1
OWNER'S STATEMENT
RECORDER'S STATEMENT
OWNER'S ACKNOWLEDGMENT
SITE
VICINITY MAP
COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR AND
REDEMPTION OFFICER'S CERTIFICATE
CERTIFICATE OF DEDICATION
CONSISTING OF 18 SHEETS
BEING A SUBDIVISION OF ADJUSTED PARCEL A AS
DESCRIBED IN CORPORATION GRANT DEED RECORDED AS
SERIES NO. 2022-0021557, OFFICIAL RECORDS NAPA COUNTY
BEING A PORTION OF SECTION 24, T.4W., R.4W., M.D.B.&M.
APN : 059-430-045
136 LOTS, AND 15 PARCELS, 12.86± AC.
CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON, NAPA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
JULY 2025
CIVIL ENGINEERS SURVEYORS PLANNERS
SAN RAMON
WWW.CBANDG.COM
ROSEVILLE
(925) 866-0322
(916)788-4456
WATSON RANCH
LOT 7 (ADJUSTED PARCEL A)
FINAL MAP
22 JOB NO. 1217-065 SHEET OF 18 2
SURVEYOR'S STATEMENT CITY CLERK'S CERTIFICATE CITY ENGINEER'S STATEMENT
SIGNATURE OMISSIONS
TITLE NOTES
CONSISTING OF 18 SHEETS
BEING A SUBDIVISION OF ADJUSTED PARCEL A AS
DESCRIBED IN CORPORATION GRANT DEED RECORDED AS
SERIES NO. 2022-0021557, OFFICIAL RECORDS NAPA COUNTY
BEING A PORTION OF SECTION 24, T.4W., R.4W., M.D.B.&M.
APN : 059-430-045
136 LOTS, AND 15 PARCELS, 12.86± AC.
CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON, NAPA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
JULY 2025
CIVIL ENGINEERS SURVEYORS PLANNERS
SAN RAMON
WWW.CBANDG.COM
ROSEVILLE
(925) 866-0322
(916)788-4456
WATSON RANCH
LOT 7 (ADJUSTED PARCEL A)
FINAL MAP
23 CARTIER STREET
PEWTER COURT
ADJUSTED
PARCEL A
ERICSON STREET GOLDBACK STREET
MARCUS ROAD
JUNEGRASS STREET
RIO DEL MAR
3 GRAPHIC SCALE
100' 0' 50' 100' 200' 400'
SCALE: 1" =
CONSISTING OF 18 SHEETS
BEING A SUBDIVISION OF ADJUSTED PARCEL A AS
DESCRIBED IN CORPORATION GRANT DEED RECORDED AS
SERIES NO. 2022-0021557, OFFICIAL RECORDS NAPA COUNTY
BEING A PORTION OF SECTION 24, T.4W., R.4W., M.D.B.&M.
APN : 059-430-045
136 LOTS, AND 15 PARCELS, 12.86± AC.
CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON, NAPA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
JULY 2025
CIVIL ENGINEERS SURVEYORS PLANNERS
SAN RAMON
WWW.CBANDG.COM
ROSEVILLE
(925) 866-0322
(916)788-4456
WATSON RANCH
LOT 7 (ADJUSTED PARCEL A)
FINAL MAP
BASIS OF BEARINGS:
LEGEND
REFERENCES:
100'
JOB NO. 1217-065 SHEET OF 18
NOTES:
24 5
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 49 48
47 46 45
17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32
84 72
88 76
86 74
87 75
90 78
89 77
79 67
80 68
81 69
82 70
83 71
85 73
92 93
91 99
95 94 97
98 96
101
102
100
104
105
103
108
106
107
109
132 135
131 134
133 136
130
124
123 127
129
126
128
125
122
116
115 119
121
118
120
117
111
114
113
112
6 7 8
9 10 11
12 13 14
15 16 17
PARCEL C
PARCEL N
PARCEL B
PARCEL D
MARCUS ROAD
RIDDLING STREET VITICULTURE STREET
RACKING STREET
61 62
63 66
65 64 CARTIER STRET
50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60
110 PARCEL A
APPELLATION LANE
CUVEE STREET
VINEWOOD LANE FLUTE COURT GOBLET COURT TERRACE COURT CANOPY COURT AROMA COURT BARREL COURT BOUQUET COURT
PARCEL O
4 GRAPHIC SCALE
60' 0' 30' 60' 120' 240'
JOB NO. 1217-065 SHEET OF 18
SCALE: 1" =
CONSISTING OF 18 SHEETS
BEING A SUBDIVISION OF ADJUSTED PARCEL A AS
DESCRIBED IN CORPORATION GRANT DEED RECORDED AS
SERIES NO. 2022-0021557, OFFICIAL RECORDS NAPA COUNTY
BEING A PORTION OF SECTION 24, T.4W., R.4W., M.D.B.&M.
APN : 059-430-045
136 LOTS, AND 15 PARCELS, 12.86± AC.
CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON, NAPA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
JULY 2025
CIVIL ENGINEERS SURVEYORS PLANNERS
SAN RAMON
WWW.CBANDG.COM
ROSEVILLE
(925) 866-0322
(916)788-4456
WATSON RANCH
LOT 7 (ADJUSTED PARCEL A)
FINAL MAP
60'
25 18 19 20 21 22 23
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
17 PARCEL A
APPELLATION LANE
RIDDLING STREET SEE SHEET 6
SEE SHEET 10
MARCUS ROAD
5 GRAPHIC SCALE
20' 0' 10' 20' 40' 80'
JOB NO. 1217-065 SHEET OF 18
SCALE: 1" =
CONSISTING OF 18 SHEETS
BEING A SUBDIVISION OF ADJUSTED PARCEL A AS
DESCRIBED IN CORPORATION GRANT DEED RECORDED AS
SERIES NO. 2022-0021557, OFFICIAL RECORDS NAPA COUNTY
BEING A PORTION OF SECTION 24, T.4W., R.4W., M.D.B.&M.
APN : 059-430-045
136 LOTS, AND 15 PARCELS, 12.86± AC.
CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON, NAPA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
JULY 2025
CIVIL ENGINEERS SURVEYORS PLANNERS
SAN RAMON
WWW.CBANDG.COM
ROSEVILLE
(925) 866-0322
(916)788-4456
WATSON RANCH
LOT 7 (ADJUSTED PARCEL A)
FINAL MAP
BASIS OF BEARINGS:
LEGEND
REFERENCES:
20'
26 APPELLATION LANE
RIDDLING STREET
8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 SEE SHEET 5 SEE SHEET 7
SEE SHEET 11
MARCUS ROAD
6 GRAPHIC SCALE
20' 0' 10' 20' 40' 80'
JOB NO. 1217-065 SHEET OF 18
SCALE: 1" =
CONSISTING OF 18 SHEETS
BEING A SUBDIVISION OF ADJUSTED PARCEL A AS
DESCRIBED IN CORPORATION GRANT DEED RECORDED AS
SERIES NO. 2022-0021557, OFFICIAL RECORDS NAPA COUNTY
BEING A PORTION OF SECTION 24, T.4W., R.4W., M.D.B.&M.
APN : 059-430-045
136 LOTS, AND 15 PARCELS, 12.86± AC.
CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON, NAPA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
JULY 2025
CIVIL ENGINEERS SURVEYORS PLANNERS
SAN RAMON
WWW.CBANDG.COM
ROSEVILLE
(925) 866-0322
(916)788-4456
WATSON RANCH
LOT 7 (ADJUSTED PARCEL A)
FINAL MAP
BASIS OF BEARINGS:
LEGEND
REFERENCES:
20'
27 SEE SHEET 8 SEE SHEET 6
SEE SHEET 12
RIDDLING STREET
VINEWOOD LANE
RACKING STREET
16 32
33 34 35 36 37 VITICULUTRE STREET
APPELLATION LANE
CARTIER STREET MARCUS ROADFLUTE COURT
50 51 52 53 54
7 GRAPHIC SCALE
20' 0' 10' 20' 40' 80'
JOB NO. 1217-065 SHEET OF 18
SCALE: 1" =
CONSISTING OF 18 SHEETS
BEING A SUBDIVISION OF ADJUSTED PARCEL A AS
DESCRIBED IN CORPORATION GRANT DEED RECORDED AS
SERIES NO. 2022-0021557, OFFICIAL RECORDS NAPA COUNTY
BEING A PORTION OF SECTION 24, T.4W., R.4W., M.D.B.&M.
APN : 059-430-045
136 LOTS, AND 15 PARCELS, 12.86± AC.
CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON, NAPA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
JULY 2025
CIVIL ENGINEERS SURVEYORS PLANNERS
SAN RAMON
WWW.CBANDG.COM
ROSEVILLE
(925) 866-0322
(916)788-4456
WATSON RANCH
LOT 7 (ADJUSTED PARCEL A)
FINAL MAP
BASIS OF BEARINGS:
LEGEND
REFERENCES:
20'
28 SEE SHEET 7
VINEWOOD LANE SEE SHEET 9
SEE SHEET 13
38 39 40 41 42 43
RACKING STREET
MARCUS ROAD GOBLET COURT
60 55 56 57 58 59 SEE SHEET
60 59
42 43
8 GRAPHIC SCALE
20' 0' 10' 20' 40' 80'
JOB NO. 1217-065 SHEET OF 18
PYSE DETAIL B
PYSE DETAIL A
SCALE: 1" =
CONSISTING OF 18 SHEETS
BEING A SUBDIVISION OF ADJUSTED PARCEL A AS
DESCRIBED IN CORPORATION GRANT DEED RECORDED AS
SERIES NO. 2022-0021557, OFFICIAL RECORDS NAPA COUNTY
BEING A PORTION OF SECTION 24, T.4W., R.4W., M.D.B.&M.
APN : 059-430-045
136 LOTS, AND 15 PARCELS, 12.86± AC.
CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON, NAPA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
JULY 2025
CIVIL ENGINEERS SURVEYORS PLANNERS
SAN RAMON
WWW.CBANDG.COM
ROSEVILLE
(925) 866-0322
(916)788-4456
WATSON RANCH
LOT 7 (ADJUSTED PARCEL A)
FINAL MAP
BASIS OF BEARINGS:
LEGEND
REFERENCES:
20'
29 49
48 47
46 45 44 SEE SHEET 8 SEE SHEET 14 VINEWOOD LANE RACKING STREET MARCUS ROAD TERRACE COURT 61 63
64 65
66 PARCEL O
PARCEL N
62 9
GRAPHIC SCALE
20' 0' 10' 20' 40' 80'
JOB NO. 1217-065 SHEET OF 18
SCALE: 1" =
CONSISTING OF 18 SHEETS
BEING A SUBDIVISION OF ADJUSTED PARCEL A AS
DESCRIBED IN CORPORATION GRANT DEED RECORDED AS
SERIES NO. 2022-0021557, OFFICIAL RECORDS NAPA COUNTY
BEING A PORTION OF SECTION 24, T.4W., R.4W., M.D.B.&M.
APN : 059-430-045
136 LOTS, AND 15 PARCELS, 12.86± AC.
CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON, NAPA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
JULY 2025
CIVIL ENGINEERS SURVEYORS PLANNERS
SAN RAMON
WWW.CBANDG.COM
ROSEVILLE
(925) 866-0322
(916)788-4456
WATSON RANCH
LOT 7 (ADJUSTED PARCEL A)
FINAL MAP
BASIS OF BEARINGS:
LEGEND
REFERENCES:
20'
NOTE:
30 AROMA COURT
67 68 69 70
79 80 81 82
RIDDLING STREET
SEE SHEET 5
PARCEL B
CUVEE STREET BARRELL COURT SEE SHEET 11
SEE SHEET 15 SEE SHEET 16
PARCEL A
10 GRAPHIC SCALE
20' 0' 10' 20' 40' 80'
JOB NO. 1217-065 SHEET OF 18
SCALE: 1" =
CONSISTING OF 18 SHEETS
BEING A SUBDIVISION OF ADJUSTED PARCEL A AS
DESCRIBED IN CORPORATION GRANT DEED RECORDED AS
SERIES NO. 2022-0021557, OFFICIAL RECORDS NAPA COUNTY
BEING A PORTION OF SECTION 24, T.4W., R.4W., M.D.B.&M.
APN : 059-430-045
136 LOTS, AND 15 PARCELS, 12.86± AC.
CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON, NAPA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
JULY 2025
CIVIL ENGINEERS SURVEYORS PLANNERS
SAN RAMON
WWW.CBANDG.COM
ROSEVILLE
(925) 866-0322
(916)788-4456
WATSON RANCH
LOT 7 (ADJUSTED PARCEL A)
FINAL MAP
BASIS OF BEARINGS:
LEGEND
REFERENCES:
20'
31 71 72 73 74 75
RIDDLING STREET SEE SHEET 12
SEE SHEET 6
76 77
83 84 85 86 87 88 89
CUVEE STREET SEE SHEET 10
SEE SHEET 16 SEE SHEET 17 BOUQUET BARREL COURT COURT
11 GRAPHIC SCALE
20' 0' 10' 20' 40' 80'
JOB NO. 1217-065 SHEET OF 18
SCALE: 1" =
CONSISTING OF 18 SHEETS
BEING A SUBDIVISION OF ADJUSTED PARCEL A AS
DESCRIBED IN CORPORATION GRANT DEED RECORDED AS
SERIES NO. 2022-0021557, OFFICIAL RECORDS NAPA COUNTY
BEING A PORTION OF SECTION 24, T.4W., R.4W., M.D.B.&M.
APN : 059-430-045
136 LOTS, AND 15 PARCELS, 12.86± AC.
CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON, NAPA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
JULY 2025
CIVIL ENGINEERS SURVEYORS PLANNERS
SAN RAMON
WWW.CBANDG.COM
ROSEVILLE
(925) 866-0322
(916)788-4456
WATSON RANCH
LOT 7 (ADJUSTED PARCEL A)
FINAL MAP
BASIS OF BEARINGS:
LEGEND
REFERENCES:
20'
32 FLUTE COURT SEE SHEET 11
SEE SHEET 7
RIDDLING STREET
RACKING STREET SEE SHEET 13
90 78
92 93
91 95
94 96
SEE SHEET 17
PARCEL D
CUVEE STREET VITICULTURE STREET BOUQUET COURT VITICULTURE STREET VITICULTURE STREET
PARCEL D
12 GRAPHIC SCALE
20' 0' 10' 20' 40' 80'
JOB NO. 1217-065 SHEET OF 18
DETAIL
SCALE: 1" =
CONSISTING OF 18 SHEETS
BEING A SUBDIVISION OF ADJUSTED PARCEL A AS
DESCRIBED IN CORPORATION GRANT DEED RECORDED AS
SERIES NO. 2022-0021557, OFFICIAL RECORDS NAPA COUNTY
BEING A PORTION OF SECTION 24, T.4W., R.4W., M.D.B.&M.
APN : 059-430-045
136 LOTS, AND 15 PARCELS, 12.86± AC.
CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON, NAPA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
JULY 2025
CIVIL ENGINEERS SURVEYORS PLANNERS
SAN RAMON
WWW.CBANDG.COM
ROSEVILLE
(925) 866-0322
(916)788-4456
WATSON RANCH
LOT 7 (ADJUSTED PARCEL A)
FINAL MAP
BASIS OF BEARINGS:
LEGEND
REFERENCES:
20'
33 TERRACE COURT GOBLET COURT SEE SHEET 14
RACKING STREET
PARCEL D SEE SHEET 12
99 97
98 101
102
100
104
105
103
SEE SHEET 8
SEE SHEET 9
13 GRAPHIC SCALE
20' 0' 10' 20' 40' 80'
JOB NO. 1217-065 SHEET OF 18
SCALE: 1" =
CONSISTING OF 18 SHEETS
BEING A SUBDIVISION OF ADJUSTED PARCEL A AS
DESCRIBED IN CORPORATION GRANT DEED RECORDED AS
SERIES NO. 2022-0021557, OFFICIAL RECORDS NAPA COUNTY
BEING A PORTION OF SECTION 24, T.4W., R.4W., M.D.B.&M.
APN : 059-430-045
136 LOTS, AND 15 PARCELS, 12.86± AC.
CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON, NAPA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
JULY 2025
CIVIL ENGINEERS SURVEYORS PLANNERS
SAN RAMON
WWW.CBANDG.COM
ROSEVILLE
(925) 866-0322
(916)788-4456
WATSON RANCH
LOT 7 (ADJUSTED PARCEL A)
FINAL MAP
BASIS OF BEARINGS:
LEGEND
REFERENCES:
20'
34 SEE SHEET 13
RACKING STREET
107
108
106
109
SEE SHEET 9
PARCEL D
110
PARCEL O
DETAIL A TERRACE COURT
PARCEL O
14 GRAPHIC SCALE
20' 0' 10' 20' 40' 80'
JOB NO. 1217-065 SHEET OF 18
SCALE: 1" =
CONSISTING OF 18 SHEETS
BEING A SUBDIVISION OF ADJUSTED PARCEL A AS
DESCRIBED IN CORPORATION GRANT DEED RECORDED AS
SERIES NO. 2022-0021557, OFFICIAL RECORDS NAPA COUNTY
BEING A PORTION OF SECTION 24, T.4W., R.4W., M.D.B.&M.
APN : 059-430-045
136 LOTS, AND 15 PARCELS, 12.86± AC.
CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON, NAPA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
JULY 2025
CIVIL ENGINEERS SURVEYORS PLANNERS
SAN RAMON
WWW.CBANDG.COM
ROSEVILLE
(925) 866-0322
(916)788-4456
WATSON RANCH
LOT 7 (ADJUSTED PARCEL A)
FINAL MAP
BASIS OF BEARINGS:
LEGEND
REFERENCES:
20'
35 PARCEL B
111
112
113
114
116
118
117
115
PARCEL C AROMA COURT SEE SHEET 16
CUVEE STREET
SEE SHEET 10
15 GRAPHIC SCALE
20' 0' 10' 20' 40' 80'
JOB NO. 1217-065 SHEET OF 18
SCALE: 1" =
CONSISTING OF 18 SHEETS
BEING A SUBDIVISION OF ADJUSTED PARCEL A AS
DESCRIBED IN CORPORATION GRANT DEED RECORDED AS
SERIES NO. 2022-0021557, OFFICIAL RECORDS NAPA COUNTY
BEING A PORTION OF SECTION 24, T.4W., R.4W., M.D.B.&M.
APN : 059-430-045
136 LOTS, AND 15 PARCELS, 12.86± AC.
CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON, NAPA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
JULY 2025
CIVIL ENGINEERS SURVEYORS PLANNERS
SAN RAMON
WWW.CBANDG.COM
ROSEVILLE
(925) 866-0322
(916)788-4456
WATSON RANCH
LOT 7 (ADJUSTED PARCEL A)
FINAL MAP
BASIS OF BEARINGS:
LEGEND
REFERENCES:
20'
36 BARREL COURT SEE SHEET 15
CUVEE STREET
119
120
121
122 126
125
124
123 127
128
129
130 BOUQUET COURT SEE SHEET 17
SEE SHEET 11
PARCEL C
SEE SHEET 10
16 GRAPHIC SCALE
20' 0' 10' 20' 40' 80'
JOB NO. 1217-065 SHEET OF 18
SCALE: 1" =
CONSISTING OF 18 SHEETS
BEING A SUBDIVISION OF ADJUSTED PARCEL A AS
DESCRIBED IN CORPORATION GRANT DEED RECORDED AS
SERIES NO. 2022-0021557, OFFICIAL RECORDS NAPA COUNTY
BEING A PORTION OF SECTION 24, T.4W., R.4W., M.D.B.&M.
APN : 059-430-045
136 LOTS, AND 15 PARCELS, 12.86± AC.
CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON, NAPA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
JULY 2025
CIVIL ENGINEERS SURVEYORS PLANNERS
SAN RAMON
WWW.CBANDG.COM
ROSEVILLE
(925) 866-0322
(916)788-4456
WATSON RANCH
LOT 7 (ADJUSTED PARCEL A)
FINAL MAP
BASIS OF BEARINGS:
LEGEND
REFERENCES:
20'
37 CANOPY COURT
CUVEE STREET SEE SHEET 16
SEE SHEET 12
PARCEL C
131
132
133 136
135
134 BOUQUET COURT
SEE SHEET 11
17 GRAPHIC SCALE
20' 0' 10' 20' 40' 80'
JOB NO. 1217-065 SHEET OF 18
SCALE: 1" =
CONSISTING OF 18 SHEETS
BEING A SUBDIVISION OF ADJUSTED PARCEL A AS
DESCRIBED IN CORPORATION GRANT DEED RECORDED AS
SERIES NO. 2022-0021557, OFFICIAL RECORDS NAPA COUNTY
BEING A PORTION OF SECTION 24, T.4W., R.4W., M.D.B.&M.
APN : 059-430-045
136 LOTS, AND 15 PARCELS, 12.86± AC.
CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON, NAPA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
JULY 2025
CIVIL ENGINEERS SURVEYORS PLANNERS
SAN RAMON
WWW.CBANDG.COM
ROSEVILLE
(925) 866-0322
(916)788-4456
WATSON RANCH
LOT 7 (ADJUSTED PARCEL A)
FINAL MAP
BASIS OF BEARINGS:
LEGEND
REFERENCES:
20'
38 SEE SHEET 8
SEE SHEET 14
VINEWOOD LANE
RACKING STREET
MARCUS ROAD TERRACE COURT
PARCEL O
48 49
47 46
45 44
62 66
65 61
63 64
PARCEL N
18 GRAPHIC SCALE
20' 0' 10' 20' 40' 80'
JOB NO. 1217-065 SHEET OF 18
PYSE DETAIL SHEET SCALE: 1" =
CONSISTING OF 18 SHEETS
BEING A SUBDIVISION OF ADJUSTED PARCEL A AS
DESCRIBED IN CORPORATION GRANT DEED RECORDED AS
SERIES NO. 2022-0021557, OFFICIAL RECORDS NAPA COUNTY
BEING A PORTION OF SECTION 24, T.4W., R.4W., M.D.B.&M.
APN : 059-430-045
136 LOTS, AND 15 PARCELS, 12.86± AC.
CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON, NAPA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
JULY 2025
CIVIL ENGINEERS SURVEYORS PLANNERS
SAN RAMON
WWW.CBANDG.COM
ROSEVILLE
(925) 866-0322
(916)788-4456
WATSON RANCH
LOT 7 (ADJUSTED PARCEL A)
FINAL MAP
BASIS OF BEARINGS:
LEGEND
REFERENCES:
20'
39 40
41 42
43 44
45 46
47 48
49 50
51 52
53 54
55 56
57 58
59 60
61 62
63 64
65 66
67 68
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
SEPTEMBER 2, 2025
STAFF REPORT
CONSENT
ITEM NUMBER: 9.
TITLE
Measure U Master Agreement - Napa Valley Transportation Improvement Act
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a Resolu+on approving the Measure U Master Agreement between the City of American Canyon and the Napa Valley Transportation Authority – Tax Agency.
CONTACT
Erica Ahmann Smithies, P.E., Public Works Director
BACKGROUND & ANALYSIS
In November 2024, Napa County voters approved Measure U, the Napa Valley Transporta+on Improvement Act. Measure U replaces Measure T, the Napa Countywide Road Maintenance Act passed in 2012, which expired on June 30, 2025. The measure con+nues a one-half cent sales tax to fund local and regional transportation improvements with additional provisions.
Measure U extends the tax for 30 years un+l June 30, 2055, and provides a dedicated funding source for street and road maintenance, ac+ve transporta+on projects, and regional highway improvements. It also introduces updated performance, accountability, and flexibility requirements.
The Napa Valley Transporta+on Authority (NVTA) has prepared a Master Agreement outlining the terms for fund alloca+on, project eligibility, repor+ng, and compliance, and distribu+on requirements.
In February, NVTA formed a Measure U working group including selected staff from each jurisdic+on to review the dra?. Since that mee+ng, feedback from legal counsel, public works directors, and finance directors has been incorporated. In May, NVTA retained Stradling LLC, as bond counsel to review the agreement and ensure compliance with legal and tax requirements for poten+al bond issuance. Their comments have been incorporated into the agreement.
The Master Agreement includes:
Distribu
on Formula: Based on average sales tax genera+on and lane miles (for the County), recalculated every five years.
Maintenance of Effort: Requires jurisdic+ons to maintain spending at 20% of prior-year 69 revenue levels.
7% Active Transportation Requirement: Equivalent fund commitment for bike and pedestrian infrastructure.
5% Flex Fund Allowance: For broader transporta+on investments over the life of the measure.
Distribution of Funds: The methodology to distribute Measure U receipts.
Project Programming, Repor
ng and Compliance: Includes biennial five-year project lists, semi-annual progress reports, financial audits, and signage requirements, etc.
On May 6, 2025, City Council adopted the first biennial five-year expenditure plan for FY 2025/26 through FY 2029/30 for Measure U prior to the finaliza+on of the Master Agreement. Execu+on of the Agreement is required for each jurisdiction to begin receiving Measure U funds in FY 2025–26.
COUNCIL PRIORITY PROGRAMS AND PROJECTS
Infrastructure: "Develop and maintain infrastructure resources to support sustainable growth."
FISCAL IMPACT
By adop+ng this Resolu+on and execu+ng the Measure U Master Agreement with NVTA-TA, the City of American Canyon will be eligible to collect 8.0% of the annual revenues available through the collec+on of the ½ cent sales tax. The Measure U revenue amount for FY 2025/26 is es+mated to be $1.96 million.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
Approval of the Measure U Master Agreement is exempt from review under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) because the ac+on is not a “Project” as defined under CEQA, and because ac+ons that have no poten+al to cause a significant effect on the environment and ac+ons that will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment are exempt from CEQA. (Pub. Res. Code § 21065; CEQA Guidelines §§ 15061(b)(3); 15060(c)(2)), and 15378(b).
COMMUNICATION
Level 0: No Further Public Communication Needed
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Resolution 2025 - Measure U Master Agreement
2. Master Agreement Measure U - Approved July 16, 2025, by NVTA-TA 70 RESOLUTION NO. 2025-
A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE MEASURE U MASTER AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON AND THE NAPA VALLEY TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY – TAX AGENCY WHEREAS, on November 5, 2024 the voters of Napa County passed the Napa Valley Transportation Improvement Act, also known as Measure U, a continuation of Measure T, which imposes a half cent transaction and use (sales) tax to provide supplemental funding for road maintenance as detailed in the Measure U Expenditure Plan; and
WHEREAS, the Napa Valley Transportation Authority-Tax Agency (NVTA-TA) has been designated to administer and oversee the Measure U program and revenues; and WHEREAS, the City of American Canyon (City) is an eligible recipient of Measure U funds, to be used for eligible transportation projects consistent with the Measure U Expenditure Plan and the Master Agreement; and
WHEREAS, the City has entered into a Master Agreement, developed by NVTA-TA, to guide the implementation of Measure U funding, define roles and responsibilities, establish fund eligibility criteria, outline reporting requirements, and provide consistency among all participating agencies; and WHEREAS, approval of the Master Agreement is required for the City to receive Measure U revenues, effective July 1, 2025; and
WHEREAS, the Master Agreement sets forth procedures regarding project eligibility, Maintenance of Effort, Equivalent Fund contributions, 5% Flex Funds, financial reporting, and other responsibilities; and WHEREAS, Measure U project(s) will comply with the requirements under the California Environmental Quality Act (California Code Sections 21000 et seq.; as implemented through California Regulations Title 14, Chapter 3, Sections 15000 et seq.).
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED the City Council of the City of American Canyon does resolve as follows:
1. The City Council of the City of American Canyon hereby adopts the Measure U Agreement between the City of American Canyon and the Napa Valley Transportation Authority – Tax Agency.
2. The Resolution is hereby adopted and becomes effective and in full force immediately upon adoption.
PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED at a regularly scheduled meeting of the City Council of the City of American Canyon held on the 2nd day of September, 2025 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
71 2
ABSENT:
____________________________
Pierre Washington, Mayor
ATTEST: APPROVE AS TO FORM:
____________________________ _____________________________ Taresa Geilfuss, CMC, City Clerk Teresa L. Highsmith, City Attorney 72 MASTER AGREEMENT
OF THE
NAPA VALLEY TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY – TAX AGENCY
AND THE CITIES OF
AMERICAN CANYON, CALISTOGA, NAPA, ST. HELENA,
THE TOWN OF YOUNTVILLE, THE COUNTY OF NAPA,
AND
THE NAPA VALLEY TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY
NVTA-TA AGREEMENT NO. 2025-C01
CITY OF NAPA AGREEMENT NO. ____________
COUNTY OF NAPA AGREEMENT NO. ____________
CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON AGREEMENT NO. ____________
CITY OF CALISTOGA AGREEMENT NO. ____________
CITY OF ST. HELENA AGREEMENT NO. ____________
TOWN OF YOUNTVILLE AGREEMENT NO. ____________
NVTA AGREEMENT NO. ___________
NVTA-TA Board of Directors Approval Date: July 16, 2025 73
Table of Contents
RECITALS ...........................................................................................................................................4
1. PURPOSE .......................................................................................................................................4
2. TERM.............................................................................................................................................4
3. ANNUAL AND NET RECEIPTS ...........................................................................................................4
4. FINANCING ....................................................................................................................................5
5. COST OF DEBT SERVICE ON BONDS .................................................................................................5
6. PROJECT FUNDING SOURCES ..........................................................................................................5
7. PRIVATE SECTOR FUNDING.............................................................................................................6
8. EXPENDITURE SUMMARY...............................................................................................................6
9. EXPENDITURE PLAN PROCEDURES ..................................................................................................8
10. MAINTENANCE OF EFFORT ...........................................................................................................8
11. COOPERATIVE FUNDING EXCHANGE AGREEMENTS .......................................................................9
12. ALLOCATION & DISBURSEMENT OF MEASURE U RECEIPTS.............................................................9
13. ALLOCATION & DISBURSEMENT OF MEASURE T RECEIPTS ...........................................................10
14. REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM...........................................................11
15. COST ELIGIBILITY ........................................................................................................................11
16. BUDGET AND SCOPE...................................................................................................................12
17. PROJECT MANAGEMENT ............................................................................................................12
18. PROJECT OVERSIGHT ..................................................................................................................12
19. ATTRIBUTION AND SIGNAGE.......................................................................................................12
20. COMPLIANCE WITH LAW ............................................................................................................12
21. ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE .................................................................................................12
22. RECORDS....................................................................................................................................13
23. FINANCES...................................................................................................................................13
24. ELIGIBLE EXPENSES.....................................................................................................................13
25. AUDITS AND REVIEWS ................................................................................................................13
26. PROJECT REPORTING AND CLOSTOUT PROCEDURES....................................................................14
27. INDEMNIFICATION .....................................................................................................................14
28. INTERGRATION...........................................................................................................................14
29. AMENDMENT.............................................................................................................................14
30. INDEPENDENT AGENCY...............................................................................................................14
31. ASSIGNMENT .............................................................................................................................14 74
32. BINDING ON SUCCESSORS, ASSIGNERS OR TRANSFEREES ............................................................14
33. LEGAL EXPENSES ........................................................................................................................15
34. SEVERABILITY.............................................................................................................................15
35. ACCEPTANCE OF ALLOCATION.....................................................................................................15
36. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION REVENUE POLICY .............................................................15
37. COMPLIANCE WITH TAX LAW REPORTING REQUIREMENTS .........................................................16
38. EXHIBITS ....................................................................................................................................16
39. COUNTY OF NAPA SIGNATURE PAGE...........................................................................................17
40. CITY OF NAPA SIGNATURE PAGE .................................................................................................18
41. CITY OF ST. HELENA SIGNATURE PAGE ........................................................................................19
42. CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON SIGNATURE PAGE...........................................................................20
43. TOWN OF YOUNTVILLE SIGNATURE PAGE ...................................................................................21
44. CITY OF CALISTOGA SIGNATURE PAGE.........................................................................................22
45. NAPA VALLEY TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY SIGNATURE PAGE .................................................23 [This section left intentionally blank]
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This Master Agreement (“Agreement”) commencing on 1st day of July, 2025, by and between the Napa Valley Transportation Authority – Tax Agency, a local transportation agency authorized by the provisions of Division 19 of the California Public Utilities Code, hereinafter referred to as (“NVTA-TA”), and Cities of American Canyon, Calistoga, Napa, St. Helena, the Town of Yountville, the County of Napa (the “County”) and the Napa Valley Transportation Authority (“NVTA”), each individually an “Agency” and hereinafter collectively referred to as (“Jurisdictions”), to guide the distribution of revenues generated by the Napa Valley Transportation Improvement Act, commonly known as Measure U. NVTA-TA and Jurisdictions are hereinafter collectively referred to as the “Parties”.
RECITALS
WHEREAS, the voters of Napa County approved the Napa Valley Transportation Improvement Act (herein referred to as Measure U) at the General Election held on November 5, 2024; and WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 2024-01, attached hereto as EXHIBIT A (Measure U), does hereby replace Ordinance No. 2012-01, Napa Countywide Road Maintenance Act (Measure T) effective July 1, 2025; and
WHEREAS, the sales tax proceeds generated as of July 1, 2025 will be used to pay for the projects eligible under Measure U, submitted by and allocated to the Jurisdictions, as set forth in Measure U and as approved by the Jurisdictions’ governing boards and by NVTA-TA; and WHEREAS, the NVTA-TA Board of Directors approved this Agreement on July 16, 2025.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and the mutual promises and covenants herein, the Parties agree as follows:
1. PURPOSE.
This Agreement is entered between NVTA-TA and Jurisdictions to document the funding conditions necessary for the Jurisdictions to receive Measure U sales tax disbursements.
2. TERM.
Thirty (30) years from the commencement date of July 1, 2025, unless amended.
3. ANNUAL AND NET RECEIPTS.
Proceeds available for the Local Streets and Roads Maintenance Program under the Expenditure Plan (herein referred to as “Local Streets and Roads Maintenance”) shall be allocated in accordance with Ordinance No. 2024-01 and any amendments made to Measure U. Net Receipts Available for Agency Distribution (as hereinafter defined), plus interest earned on unobligated balances, shall be apportioned to the Jurisdictions’ transportation improvement account on a quarterly basis in accordance with Ordinance No. 2024-01 and any amendments made to Measure U.
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4. FINANCING.
"Pay-as-you-go" financing is the primary method used unless an Agency, with NVTA-TA's concurrence, determines and approves in advance that bond financing is a more appropriate alternative for the delivery of such Agency’s own projects. The issuance of Agency Bonds (as hereinafter defined) may be subject to an Agency satisfying certain debt service coverage ratios that will be determined by the NVTA-TA Board prior to the issuance of the applicable Agency Bonds.
5. COST OF DEBT SERVICE ON BONDS.
In accordance with Measure U, the cost of debt issuance, debt service, and other costs relating to bonds or other evidence of indebtedness issued or incurred by NVTA-TA on behalf of an Agency for the purpose of financing such Agency’s projects (the “Agency Bonds”) will be borne by the individual Agency from Net Receipts Available for Agency Distribution otherwise apportioned to such Agency pursuant to Section 3 above. In addition, debt service on bonds or other evidence of indebtedness issued or incurred by NVTA-TA for purposes of financing Regional Transportation Enhancement Program projects (the “RTEP Bonds” and, collectively with the Agency Bonds, the “Bonds”) will be deducted from Net Receipts (as hereinafter defined) in the manner described in Section 8 of this Agreement. Any Bonds or other financing instruments issued by NVTA-TA shall have priority in both lien and payment to the other applications of Net Receipts, as set forth in Section 12 of this Agreement.
6. PROJECT FUNDING SOURCES (7% Equivalent Funds).
Parties collectively must demonstrate that at least seven percent (7%) of the dollar amount of the allocations each year for the Local Streets and Roads Maintenance Program have been committed to the project development, construction, and maintenance of Class I and/or Class IV active transportation infrastructure project(s) identified in the adopted Countywide Active Transportation Plan (CTP), including any amendments thereof. NVTA will maintain and annually update a database of each jurisdiction’s, including NVTA’s, contributions towards the 7% Equivalent funds and calculate the collective commitment of funds.
Up to twenty percent (20%) of the requirement may be met by routine maintenance expenditures.
The base year for calculating the seven percent (7%) equivalent funds will be determined using the most recent audited year of Measure T revenues, FY2023-24 for each jurisdiction to calculate the Measure U 7% Equivalent Funds as seen in Table 1. Equivalent calculations for Measure U are based on the total proceeds received by each jurisdiction, less administrative costs, the Regional Transportation Enhancement Program, debt service, and other mandatory costs.
Funding for Class I and/or Class IV projects that are funded by philanthropy, state discretionary funding or federal discretionary funding shall not count toward the seven percent (7%). [This section left intentionally blank]
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Table 1. Sales Tax Receipts
7. PRIVATE SECTOR FUNDING.
Revenues provided from Measure U, shall not be used to replace private developer funding that has been or will be committed for any project to help alleviate the direct traffic impacts of any new or redeveloped residential, commercial, or industrial development in Napa County or its cities/towns.
8. EXPENDITURE PLAN SUMMARY.
Improvements identified on the Expenditure Plan as “projects” and “programs” as prescribed in Measure U, shall be funded by one-half of one percent (1/2%) transactions and use tax under Measure U.
The Net Receipts available for distribution to each Agency for the Local Streets and Roads Maintenance Program must be used for maintenance, reconstruction or rehabilitation of local streets, roads, and infrastructure within the public right-of-way. Up to five percent (5%) (herein referred to as “5% Flex Funds”) of allocations distributed to each Agency may be used on other transportation projects including roadway capacity projects. The 5% Flex Funds is over the life of the Ordinance No. 2024-01 and will include all debt issuance costs associated with projects funded with the 5% Flex Funds.
The amount transmitted from the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (“CDTFA”) to the NVTA-TA will consist of the Measure U sales tax receipts collected by CDTFA, less any deduction for CDTFA’s services in connection with the Measure U sales tax (“Net Receipts”).
--->>> MEASURE U
Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 Forecast Year -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3
Actual, Budget or Forecast Actual Actual Actual Projection Projection Projection Projection Sales Tax Receipts & Interest Earnings 24,824,105 25,551,011 25,237,575 25,200,000 25,830,900 26,476,600 27,138,700 Admin Costs - Sales Tax Program 0 0 0 0 (516,600) (529,500) (542,800) NVTA-TA RTEP (Years 1-5) - - - - (1,200,000) (1,200,000) (1,200,000) Net Revenues For Distribution to Juridictions 24,824,105 25,551,011 25,237,575 25,200,000 24,114,300 24,747,100 25,395,900 (Before Debt Service)
Measure T Measure U -->
Actuals/Forecast FY2022 FY2023 FY2024 FY2025 FY2026 FY2027 FY2028 City of Napa 9,987,077 10,280,245 10,152,878 10,173,200 9,718,100 9,973,100 10,234,500 County of Napa 9,811,902 10,096,986 9,967,254 9,966,800 9,286,400 9,530,100 9,780,000 American Canyon 1,905,632 1,961,376 1,936,684 1,920,400 1,962,900 2,014,400 2,067,200 St. Helena 1,460,410 1,502,872 1,483,953 1,475,800 1,579,500 1,620,900 1,663,400 Calistoga 668,273 687,914 679,540 666,400 722,600 741,500 761,000 Yountville 668,273 687,914 679,540 666,400 844,000 866,100 888,900 NVTA Admin 248,631 257,879 257,685 252,000 516,600 529,500 542,700 NVTA RTEP - - - - 1,200,000 1,200,000 1,200,000
ITOC 73,907 75,825 80,041 79,000 - - -
$ 24,824,105 $ 25,551,011 $ 25,237,575 $ 25,200,000 $ 25,830,100 $ 26,475,600 $ 27,137,700 Equivalent Calculation Total Proceeds $ 25,830,900 $ 26,476,600 $ 27,138,700 Net Revenues For Distribution to Juridictions Net Proceeds $ 24,114,300 $ 24,747,100 $ 25,395,900 TOTAL 13,513,046 3,723,903 3,548,444 0 $ 1,758,935 $ 1,767,540 $ 1,735,786 Accumluated Balance 11,820,008 11,820,008 10,061,073 8,293,533 6,557,747 78
Net Receipts remaining following the deduction of (i) debt service payments on any RTEP Bonds and any other costs related to the RTEP Bonds, (ii) all administrative costs, including an allocation of no more than two percent (2.0%) of Net Receipts for NVTA administrative costs, and (iii) the RTEP Set-Aside amounts (the Net Receipts following such deductions are referred to herein as the “Net Receipts Available for Agency Distribution”) shall be allocated to the Jurisdictions as follows: (A) the Cities of American Canyon, Calistoga, Napa, St. Helena, and the Town of Yountville will be allocated a percentage distribution based on the proportionate sales tax generation in each respective Agency, calculated using the average of the three most recent audited years of sales tax generations per Ordinance No. 2024-01 and (B) the County will be allocated an amount based on fifty percent (50%) sales tax generation within the unincorporated County calculate using the average of the three most recent audited years of sales tax generations and fifty percent (50%) proportionate lane miles in the unincorporated County.
An Agency will receive no less than three percent (3%) of the Local Streets and Roads Maintenance revenues. Once the percentage distributions are calculated, an adjustment will be applied to normalize the total annual program to one hundred percent (100%) of the revenues available for distribution to the Jurisdictions.
Local Street and Road Example Formula
Table 2. LSR Example Formula
The above Local Streets and Road Formula is an illustrative example of the formula calculation and is subject to change upon the five-year update. See EXHIBIT F for FY26-FY30 Formula.
Total Sales Tax Data is derived from NVTA’s consultant reports of the total sales tax generations in a quarter. The total sales tax is also known as the 1% Bradley Burns local sales and use tax.
Transactional or other local taxes are not used in the formula calculations. The NVTA-TA will use the total sales taxes for FY 2024, FY 2023, and FY 2022 for the FY 2026-30 LSR Example percentage calculation.
Net Receipts Available for Agency Distribution shall be deposited in a special fund (the “Special Revenue Fund”), used solely for the identified improvements as prescribed in Measure U, and made available to the Jurisdictions responsible for the improvements in the Expenditure Plan.
Column Number A B C D E F G
Jurisdiction Sub-total Final
Distribution
Value
(in 1,000s) % Value %
County =
(B+D)/2;
Cities=B
Normalize to
100%
American Canyon $ 3,261 8.9% 112.8 7.5% 8.9% 8.0% 8.0%
City of Napa $ 16,493 45.0% 467.6 31.0% 45.0% 40.3% 40.2% Yountville $ 1,401 3.8% 16.6 1.1% 3.8% 3.4% 3.4%
St. Helena $ 2,703 7.4% 51.5 3.4% 7.4% 6.6% 6.6%
County of Napa $ 11,665 31.8% 828.7 55.0% 43.4% 38.9% 38.8% Calistoga $ 1,131 3.1% 30.6 2.0% 3.1% 2.8% 3.0%
Total $ 36,654 100.0% 1,507.8 100.0% 111.6% 100.0% 100.0% 3% Floor
Return to Source Amount Lane Miles
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9. EXPENDITURE PLAN PROCEDURES.
Beginning on July 1, 2025, then biennially thereafter from July 1, 2027, each Agency shall develop and submit to NVTA-TA a five-year list of projects to be funded with revenues made available for the Local Streets and Roads Maintenance Program and other transportation projects funded by 5% Flex Funds, in accordance with Measure U (each, an “Agency Expenditure Plan”).
Each Agency shall conduct a public meeting and adopt a resolution substantially in the form of the resolution included as EXHIBIT C: Project List Adoption Resolution Template, in support of the proposed list of projects before submitting the project list to NVTA-TA. Jurisdictions must also identify in the five-year project list, those projects that require funds to be advanced through bonding, borrowing and/or funding exchange.
Prior to NVTA-TA approval, the Independent Taxpayer Oversight Committee (ITOC) shall consider each Agency’s biennial five-year list of projects (EXHIBIT B) and make a finding that such projects are consistent with the intent of Measure U and make a recommendation on which of the items on those project lists should be approved to NVTA-TA. An Agency Expenditure Plan may be amended by an Agency by conducting a public meeting and adopting a revised resolution with the amended Agency Expenditure Plan.
Parties will be encouraged to purchase goods and services for the project(s) from Contractors/Consultants/Suppliers based in Napa County, unless restricted by regulations guiding other funding sources included in the project funding. Parties must also fully consider the needs of non-motorized travelers, including pedestrians, bicyclists, and persons with disabilities, in all planning, maintenance, construction, operations, and project development activities and products.
Projects funded in full or in part with NVTA-TA revenues shall endeavor to not remove or reduce existing facilities for bicycling or pedestrians.
10. MAINTENANCE OF EFFORT.
To meet the Maintenance of Effort (MOE) requirement prescribed in Measure U, each Agency will expend, at a minimum, twenty percent (20%) of the Agency’s most recent audited year local streets and roads sales tax revenue in local general fund revenues.
In each subsequent year after the initial year, the Agency must allocate 20% of its most recent audited fiscal year’s receipts, not to increase by more than two percent (2%) of the prior year’s MOE amount. The initial year of the MOE calculation is based on Measure T proceeds to the jurisdictions in the year ended June 30, 2024.
The 20% MOE calculation will be based on the most recent audited fiscal year available at the time of annual certification deadline by May 15th. This calculation accounts for deductions made before Net Receipts are allocated to the Jurisdictions, including NVTA’s administrative allocation of up to 2% of Net Receipts, the $1.2 million per year for the first five years of the Regional Transportation Enhancement Program ($6 million total), and RTEP Bond related costs and debt service payments for up to $50 million aggregate principal amount of RTEP Bonds issued to deliver the Regional Transportation Enhancement Program. 80
Any Agency that does not meet its local MOE requirement for a five-year average period shall have its funding for the next year reduced by the amount the Agency did not meet its required average MOE level for the five years prior. Any funds not allocated due to the failure to meet the MOE requirement shall be reserved for the Agency until all MOE expenditures are fulfilled.
11. COOPERATIVE FUNDING EXCHANGE AGREEMENTS.
To maximize the effectiveness of the proceeds provided from Ordinance No. 2024-01, NVTA-TA and/or Agency may loan proceeds received, allocated or granted to any public agency party to this agreement provided that the percentage of proceeds allocated as provided is maintained over the duration of the Ordinance. Any exchange or loan agreement must include detailed repayment provisions, including appropriate interest earnings based upon the current treasury rate of interest.
All loans and/or exchanges must be approved by NVTA-TA by a majority vote and shall be consistent with all rules approved by NVTA-TA relating thereto.
12. ALLOCATION & DISBURSEMENT OF MEASURE U RECEIPTS.
In accordance with Measure U, the Net Receipts received from the CDTFA will be disbursed in the following order:
1. Bonds: In the event that any Bonds are issued by NVTA-TA and for so long as any Bonds remain outstanding, costs related to the Bonds shall be paid and debt service on the Bonds shall be paid or set-aside at the times and in the amounts set forth in the indenture or other document pursuant to which such Bonds were issued or incurred or as set forth in any document relating to the Bonds, including any credit or liquidity facility documents.
A. RTEP Bonds: As set forth in Section 8 of this Agreement, debt service on any RTEP Bonds and any costs related to the RTEP Bonds shall be deducted from Net Receipts for purposes of determining Net Receipts available for Agency distribution. The debt service payment schedule for RTEP Bonds will be determined prior to the time of issuance.
B. Agency Bonds: In the event that an Agency causes NVTA-TA to issue Agency Bonds for the purpose of financing such Agency’s projects, payments for costs associated with such Agency Bonds, other costs of financing and debt service on such Agency Bonds shall be deducted from the applicable Agency’s annual Local Streets and Road Maintenance Allocation and such debt service costs will not be deducted from Net Receipts for purposes of determining the total amount of Net Receipts Available for Agency Distribution. The distribution of the Local Streets and Roads Allocation set forth in 4 below to an Agency that has any outstanding Agency Bonds will be net of the costs relating to such Agency Bonds and actual debt service paid or set-aside in accordance with the indenture or other documents relating to such Agency Bonds. The debt service payment schedule with respect to an issue of Agency Bonds will be determined prior to the time of issuance and must comply with the covenants and requirements within the indenture or other bond documents.
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2. NVTA Administration: A deduction of two percent (2%) of Net Receipts will be withheld for administration purposes.
3. Regional Transportation Enhancement Program (RTEP Set-Aside)- Year 1 (FY2026) to Year 5 (FY2030): A deduction of $1,200,000 per year distributed in monthly installments for the five fiscal years beginning in Fiscal Year 2025-26 and ending in Fiscal Year 2029- 30 for a total amount of $6,000,000.
4. Local Streets and Roads Maintenance Allocation: Following the disbursements outlined above, the remaining Net Receipts Available for Agency Distribution will be allocated— though not immediately distributed—to each Agency according to the current Local Streets and Roads funding formula, which is updated every five years. Distribution of funds will occur after debt service on the Agency Bonds has been paid or set-aside in accordance with the indenture or document pursuant to which such Agency Bonds were issued.
No other allocation shall occur.
The County Auditor-Controller (or bond trustee, if applicable) will receive Net Receipts from CDTFA on a monthly basis or as determined by CDTFA methodology for the distribution of receipts. The NVTA-TA will allocate the funds based on the current Measure U disbursement methodology stated in this Section and provide the County Auditor-Controller with a claim specifying the disbursement amounts for each jurisdiction. Jurisdictions will receive a quarterly letter indicating the full allocation of the Net Receipts available for Agency distribution and the amount of proceeds that each Agency will receive; net of any portion of an Agency’s allocation of Net Receipts available for Agency distribution withheld for debt service and/or other mandatory fees relating to any Agency Bonds issued on behalf of such Agency.
Funds will be allocated to the Jurisdictions, as directed by NVTA-TA, on a calendar quarterly basis. Disbursements, including any accrued interest, will be made in a timely manner, but no later than the end of the following quarter. Each agency must deposit its Measure U revenues into a separate, interest-bearing Special Revenue Fund.
NVTA will provide the jurisdictions a five-year funding projection annually prior to the commencement of the new fiscal year.
In the event that any Bonds are issued, NVTA-TA may enter into an agreement with the CDTFA to provide for the direct transmittal of Net Receipts to the bond trustee for the Bonds. The bond trustee for any Agency Bonds or RTEP Bonds shall be the same institution.
13. ALLOCATION & DISBURSEMENT OF MEASURE T RECEIPTS.
Sales tax remittances from the CDTFA for the tax reporting period ending June 30, 2025, along with any interest earned for monies kept in the Treasury through June 30, 2025, will be allocated in accordance with the Measure T agreement. Subsequent collections and interest earnings beginning with sales tax remittances from CDTFA for tax periods starting July 1, 2025, will be allocated in accordance with this Agreement.
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14. REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM.
Regional funds may be used on any of the Regional Transportation Enhancement Programs and/or projects and may not exceed $56 million, excluding Low-Income Transit Subsidies, which will be paid for out of NVTA-TA’s administrative allocation.
Project Name Amount
SR 29/SR 12 – Intersection Improvements at SR 29
and Jameson Canyon/Airport Road and SR 12/Kelly
Road
Costs for capital projects funded by
the Napa Valley Transportation
Improvement Act may not exceed $56
SR 29-American Canyon – Operational million.
Improvements on SR 29 between Napa Junction and
American Canyon Road
SR 29-SR 12/121 – Intersection Improvements at SR
29/Carneros Highway
Highway Operations and Emergency Evacuation–
may include highway system adaptive messaging
signs and Vine Transit emergency evacuation
operations, or other transportation projects related to emergency evacuation routes.
Low Income Transit Subsidies
Fares for Veterans, Persons with Disabilities,
Seniors, and Students
Estimated annual cost of $10,000 and
funded from NVTA-TA’s 2%
administrative allocation or other
NVTA-TA revenues not derived from
Measure U.
The distribution of funding for the Local Streets and Roads Maintenance Program percentage for FY26 to FY30 is based on Transaction and Use Tax for Fiscal Years 2021-22 (FY22), 2022-23 (FY23), and 2023-24 (FY24).
Project Percentage
Distribution
American Canyon 8.14%
Calistoga 3.00%
City of Napa 40.30%
Napa County 38.51%
St. Helena 6.55%
Yountville 3.50%
Total 100.0%
15. COST ELIGIBILITY.
Cost eligibility shall be determined by NVTA-TA based upon Jurisdictions’ approved five-year project list. Funds may be expended only for streets and roads project(s) and 5% Flex Fund projects included on the Jurisdictions’ approved five-year project list. Flex Fund projects must be included in an Agency’s approved five-year project list and approved by the NVTA-TA Board to be eligible.
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16. BUDGET AND SCOPE.
Jurisdictions shall maintain a project(s) or program budget. Jurisdictions shall carry out the project(s) and shall incur obligations against and make disbursements of Measure U sales tax receipts in conformity with the requirements of this Agreement and the budget.
17. PROJECT MANAGEMENT.
Jurisdictions shall be responsible for the project(s) and provide for the management of consultant and contractor activities for which Jurisdictions’ contracts, including responsibility for schedule, scope, and budget.
18. PROJECT OVERSIGHT.
Jurisdictions shall cooperate with NVTA-TA staff or its consultants for project information and financial information necessary to fulfill the requirements outlined in Measure U.
19. ATTRIBUTION AND SIGNAGE.
If any portion of Measure U sales tax revenues is used for production of reports, acknowledgment of the NVTA-TA’s role shall be included in the documents. If any project(s) funding receives $250,000 or more, Jurisdictions shall, upon initiation of field work or at the earliest feasible time, thereafter, install and maintain a sign or signs at the construction site, utilizing the adopted Measure U logo and text, identifying the Jurisdictions and NVTA-TA.
Jurisdictions shall demonstrate compliance with attribution and signage requirements as an indispensable condition for authorization of future Measure U allocations. Jurisdictions are encouraged, but not required to provide signage for projects with a value of less than $250,000.
20. COMPLIANCE WITH LAW.
In the performance of its obligations pursuant to this Agreement, Jurisdictions shall keep fully informed of the Federal, State, and local laws, ordinances and regulations in any manner affecting the performance of this Agreement, and must at all times comply with such laws, ordinances, and regulations as they may be amended from time to time.
21. ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE.
Jurisdictions shall comply with the requirements under the California Environmental Quality Act (California Public Resources Code Sections 21000 et seq.; as implemented through California Code of Regulations Title 14, Chapter 3, Sections 15000 et seq.). Prior to commencement of any project included in the Expenditure Plan, any necessary environmental review required by CEQA shall be completed. Estimated costs in the Expenditure Plan include the cost of such environmental review.
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22. FINANCES.
All costs charged to the project(s) shall be supported by properly prepared and documented time records, invoices, vouchers, or other documentation evidencing in detail the nature and propriety of the charges.
Jurisdictions shall provide a system generated general ledger, trial balance report and other detailed expenditure listing for the Special Revenue Fund. The reporting period for the trial balances will be September 30, December 31, March 31, and June 30. The Jurisdictions will provide the Trial Balances upon the quarterly close, or 30 days thereafter, whichever comes first.
23. RECORDS.
All checks, payrolls, invoices, contracts, vouchers, journal entries, work orders, or other accounting documents pertaining in whole or in part to the project(s) shall be maintained by the Jurisdictions for a period of five (5) years after project(s) closeout or termination of this Agreement. Such project(s) documents shall be clearly identified, readily accessible, and, to the extent feasible, kept separate and apart from all other similar documents not pertaining to the project(s).
24. ELIGIBLE EXPENSES.
Jurisdictions shall expend funds only on eligible direct expenses as follows: operating costs, direct staff time (salary and benefits), material costs related to construction of improvements, consultants; right of way engineering and acquisition costs (including permitting), and competitively bid construction contracts. Indirect costs (as defined by OMB Circular A-87) will not be considered an eligible expense. Funds shall also be expended according to the applicable provisions of Measure U and of the Public Utilities Code Section 180000 et seq.
If during an audit or a semi-annual expenditure review it is determined that an ineligible expense(s) was made, the Jurisdictions will be required to transfer the amount of ineligible expense into the Special Revenue Fund from any source other than Measure U Funds.
NVTA-TA shall provide notice to Jurisdictions of any audit determination if any expenditure made by Jurisdiction(s) is found not to comply with this Agreement, the Expenditure Plan or Measure U promptly after NVTA-TA becomes aware of any such finding.
25. AUDITS AND REVIEWS
Jurisdictions shall cooperate with and allow NVTA-TA’s financial auditor, or any of its duly authorized representatives, to inspect all work, materials, payrolls, and other financial or operational data and records regarding the Measure U projects, and to audit the books, records, and accounts of the Jurisdictions and its contractors for financial or operational compliance, if requested. Jurisdictions are subject to Accounting, Reporting and Auditing Guidelines (EXHIBIT G).
NVTA-TA reserves the right to request an informal review or formal financial, compliance, project or performance audit of other third-party contracts for any reason related to Measure U, the MOE methodology and calculation, or Equivalent Funds provisions. Copies of reviews or audits performed in fulfillment of such requirements will be provided from the NVTA-TA to the jurisdiction.
85
26. PROJECT REPORTING AND CLOSEOUT PROCEDURES.
Jurisdictions shall provide to NVTA-TA a Semi-Annual Update on Expenditures as outlined in Accounting, Reporting and Auditing Guidelines (EXHIBIT G).
27. INDEMNIFICATION.
To the fullest extent permitted by law, NVTA-TA and Jurisdictions shall each defend, indemnify and hold harmless each other as well as their respective officers, agents, employees, volunteers or representatives from and against any and all liability, claims, actions, proceedings, losses, injuries, damages or expenses of every name, kind and description, including litigation costs and reasonable attorney's fees incurred in connection therewith, arising out of or connected with any acts or omissions of that party or its officers, agents, employees, volunteers, or contractors or their subcontractors, when performing any activities or obligations required of that party under this Agreement.
Each party shall notify the other party immediately in writing of any claim or damage related to activities performed under this Agreement. The Parties shall cooperate with each other in the investigation and disposition of any claim arising out of the activities under this Agreement, providing that nothing shall require either party to disclose any documents, records or communications that are protected under peer review privilege, attorney-client privilege, or attorney work product privilege.
28. INTEGRATION.
This Agreement represents the entire agreement of the Parties with respect to the subject matter thereof. No representations, warranties, inducements, or oral agreements have been made by any of the Parties except as expressly set forth herein, or in other contemporaneous written agreements.
29. AMENDMENT.
Except as otherwise provided herein, this Agreement may not be changed, modified or rescinded except in writing, signed by all Parties hereto, and any attempt at oral modification of this Agreement shall be void and of no effect.
30. INDEPENDENT AGENCY.
Agency performs the terms and conditions of this Agreement as an entity independent of NVTATA. None of Jurisdictions’ agents or employees shall be agents or employees of NVTA-TA. No third parties have any rights or remedies under this Agreement.
31. ASSIGNMENT.
The Agreement may not be assigned, transferred, hypothecated, or pledged by any party without the express written consent of the other party.
32. BINDING ON SUCCESSORS, ASSIGNEES OR TRANSFEREES.
This Agreement shall be binding upon the successor(s), assignee(s) or transferee(s) of NVTA-TA or Jurisdictions, as may be the case. This provision shall not be construed as an authorization to assign, transfer, hypothecate or pledge this Agreement other than as provided above. 86
33. LEGAL EXPENSES.
Each party shall be solely responsible for and shall bear all of its own respective legal expenses in connection with any dispute arising out of this Agreement and the transactions hereby contemplated. Jurisdictions may not use Measure U funds, or other NVTA-TA or NVTA programmed funds, for the aforementioned purpose.
34. SEVERABILITY.
Should any part of this Agreement be declared unconstitutional, invalid, or beyond NVTA-TA of either party to enter into or carry out, such decisions shall not affect the validity of the remainder of this Agreement, which shall continue in full force and effect; provided that the remainder of this Agreement can, absent the excised portion, be reasonably interpreted to give effect to the intentions of the Parties.
35. ACCEPTANCE OF ALLOCATION.
Each Agency does hereby declare that all written statements, representations, covenants, and materials submitted as a condition of this Agreement are true and correct and does hereby accept NVTA-TA’s allocations and agrees to all the terms and conditions of this Agreement. The Parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above, and it shall remain in effect until such time as no Measure U revenues remain available for expenditure, or until this Agreement is rescinded in accordance with this Agreement. For any disputes or difference in interpretation, the Ordinance shall supersede this Agreement and/or the Process and Procedures Manual.
36. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION REVENUE POLICY.
The Parties agree that Measure U sales tax collected on the sale of jet fuel at the Napa County Airport must be expended in compliance with Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Revenue Use Policy. The Parties responsibilities related to said compliance are set forth below:
The County’s responsibilities:
• Allocate a portion of the Measure U funds as those funds are received by the County in an amount at least equivalent to the Measure U sales tax revenue on jet fuel at the Napa County Airport towards rehabilitation and maintenance of public roads that will meet the requirements of the FAA's Revenue Use Policy and Measure U.
• Report to NVTA-TA Measure U sales tax revenues generated on the sale of jet fuel at the Napa County Airport.
NVTA-TA's responsibilities:
• Submit reports to FAA when expressly requested by FAA in coordination with the NVTA Auditor on the use of Measure U fundsin compliance with the FAA's Revenue Use Policy.
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37. COMPLIANCE WITH TAX LAW REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
The Jurisdiction agrees to comply with all applicable state and federal tax laws, regulations, and reporting requirements, including but not limited to the timely filing of required tax forms, information returns, and disclosures. This includes compliance with Internal Revenue Service (IRS) reporting obligations, state tax reporting and disclosure requirements, federal tax reporting and disclosure requirements, and any other applicable governmental tax reporting standards. The Jurisdiction shall maintain accurate records and provide any documentation necessary to demonstrate such compliance upon request by the NVTA-TA. An Agency shall trace the proceeds and interest earnings on any Agency Bond proceeds received by it and comply with all tax covenants required by NVTA-TA or the Agency to ensure the interest on any tax-exempt bonds is excluded from gross income for federal and state income tax purposes.
38. EXHIBITS.
The following Exhibits are hereby referenced to provide guidance to the jurisdictions and Measure U Program Manual:
EXHIBIT A - Measure U Ordinance and Expenditure Plan
EXHIBIT B - Five-Year Project List Template
EXHIBIT C - Project List Adoption Resolution Template
EXHIBIT D - Progress Report Template
EXHIBIT E – Maintenance of Effort Certification Resolution Template EXHIBIT F – Local Streets and Roads Funding Formula for FY26-FY30 EXHIBIT G – Accounting, Reporting, and Auditing Guidelines EXHIBIT H – Equivalent Funds Certification Resolution Template [This section left intentionally blank]
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39. SIGNATURE PAGE- COUNTY OF NAPA
Napa Valley Transportation Authority – Tax Agency
By: _____________________________________ Date: ________________ Name: Danielle Schmitz, NVTA-TA Executive Director
ATTEST:
By: _____________________________________ Date: _______________ Name: Laura Sanderlin, NVTA-TA Board Secretary
APPROVED:
By: _____________________________________ Date: _______________ Name: Osman Mufti, NVTA-TA General Counsel
"JURISDICTION”
By: _____________________________________ Date: ________________ Ryan Alsop, County Executive Officer
ATTEST:
By: _____________________________________ Date: ________________ Name: __________________________County Clerk
APPROVED:
By: ____________________________________ Date: ________________ Name: Thomas Zeleny, County of Napa Counsel
89
40. SIGNATURE PAGE- CITY OF NAPA
Napa Valley Transportation Authority – Tax Agency
By: _____________________________________ Date: ________________ Name: Danielle Schmitz, NVTA-TA Executive Director
ATTEST:
By: _____________________________________ Date: _______________ Name: Laura Sanderlin, NVTA-TA Board Secretary
APPROVED:
By: _____________________________________ Date: _______________ Name: Osman Mufti, NVTA-TA General Counsel
"JURISDICTION”
By: _____________________________________ Date: ________________ Name: ________________________Mayor or City Manager
ATTEST:
By: _____________________________________ Date: ________________ Name: ___________________________City Clerk
APPROVED:
By: ____________________________________ Date: ________________ Name: ______________________, Legal Counsel
90
41. SIGNATURE PAGE- CITY OF ST. HELENA
Napa Valley Transportation Authority – Tax Agency
By: _____________________________________ Date: ________________ Name: Danielle Schmitz, NVTA-TA Executive Director
ATTEST:
By: _____________________________________ Date: _______________ Name: Laura Sanderlin, NVTA-TA Board Secretary
APPROVED:
By: _____________________________________ Date: _______________ Name: Osman Mufti, NVTA-TA General Counsel
"JURISDICTION”
By: _____________________________________ Date: ________________ Name: ______________________ Mayor or City Manager
ATTEST:
By: _____________________________________ Date: ________________ Name: ____________________________City Clerk
APPROVED:
By: ____________________________________ Date: ________________ Name: Ethan Walsh, Legal Counsel
91
42. SIGNATURE PAGE- CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON
Napa Valley Transportation Authority – Tax Agency
By: _____________________________________ Date: ________________ Name: Danielle Schmitz, NVTA-TA Executive Director
ATTEST:
By: _____________________________________ Date: _______________ Name: Laura Sanderlin, NVTA-TA Board Secretary
APPROVED:
By: _____________________________________ Date: _______________ Name: Osman Mufti, NVTA-TA General Counsel
"JURISDICTION”
By: _____________________________________ Date: ________________ Name: ___________________________Mayor or City Manager
ATTEST:
By: _____________________________________ Date: ________________ Name: ________________________________City Clerk
APPROVED:
By: ____________________________________ Date: ________________ Name: David Schwarz, Legal Counsel
92
43. SIGNATURE PAGE- TOWN OF YOUNTVILLE
Napa Valley Transportation Authority – Tax Agency
By: _____________________________________ Date: ________________ Name: Danielle Schmitz, NVTA-TA Executive Director
ATTEST:
By: _____________________________________ Date: _______________ Name: Laura Sanderlin, NVTA-TA Board Secretary
APPROVED:
By: _____________________________________ Date: _______________ Name: Osman Mufti, NVTA-TA General Counsel
"JURISDICTION”
By: _____________________________________ Date: ________________ Name: _____________________Mayor or Town Manager
ATTEST:
By: _____________________________________ Date: ________________ Name: _______________________________Town Clerk
APPROVED:
By: ____________________________________ Date: ________________ Name: ____________________________, Legal Counsel
93
44. SIGNATURE PAGE- CITY OF CALISTOGA
Napa Valley Transportation Authority – Tax Agency
By: _____________________________________ Date: ________________ Name: Danielle Schmitz, NVTA-TA Executive Director
ATTEST:
By: _____________________________________ Date: _______________ Name: Laura Sanderlin, NVTA-TA Board Secretary
APPROVED:
By: _____________________________________ Date: _______________ Name: Osman Mufti, NVTA-TA General Counsel
CITY OF CALISTOGA
By: _____________________________________ Date: ________________ Name: Laura Snideman, City Manager
ATTEST:
By: _____________________________________ Date: ________________ Name: Yudiana Galvan, City Clerk
APPROVED:
By: ____________________________________ Date: ________________ Name: Michelle M. Kenyon, Legal Counsel
94
45. SIGNATURE PAGE- Napa Valley Transportation Authority Napa Valley Transportation Authority- Tax Agency
By: _____________________________________ Date: ________________ Name: Danielle Schmitz, NVTA-TA Executive Director
ATTEST:
By: _____________________________________ Date: ___________________ Name: Laura Sanderlin, NVTA-TA Board Secretary
APPROVED:
By: _____________________________________ Date: __________________ Osman Mufti, NVTA-TA General Counsel
Napa Valley Transportation Authority (NVTA)
By: _____________________________________ Date: ________________ Name: Danielle Schmitz, NVTA Executive Director
ATTEST:
By: _____________________________________ Date: ___________________ Name: Laura Sanderlin, NVTA Board Secretary
APPROVED:
By: _____________________________________ Date: __________________ Name: Osman Mufti, NVTA General Counsel
95 CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
SEPTEMBER 2, 2025
STAFF REPORT
CONSENT
ITEM NUMBER: 10.
TITLE
2025 Newell Open Space Management Plan
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a Resolution approving the 2025 Newell Open Space Management Plan.
CONTACT
Alexandra Ikeda, Deputy City Manager
BACKGROUND & ANALYSIS
Executive Summary
The 2025 Newell Management Plan (NMP) (A0achment 1, Exhibit A) includes the Council-requested changes from its June 17, 2025 meeting. Specifically, Council requested "5 mph passing speed limit" be replaced with the following "use cau9on and reduce speed while passing" (NMP Rule 6).
Additional photographs be incorporated to enhance clarity and identification within the plan.
Background
In December 1999, Jack and Bernice Newell donated a 640-acre property to the City of American Canyon. The dona9on was intended to permanently preserve the land as open space for the benefit of the American Canyon community and the broader region, while also protec9ng valuable agricultural and natural resources. The Land Trust of Napa County (Land Trust) holds the Deed of Conserva9on Easement (CE) (A0achment 2) over the property, now known as the Newell Open Space Preserve.
The first Newell Open Space Management Plan (2001 Plan) (A0achment 3) was adopted by the City Council on November 15, 2001. At that 9me, the property did not have public access, and the plan was developed primarily as a visionary document intended to shape the property's future use for public recreation and open space preservation.
In 2015, the City of American Canyon, with the help of many community members, successfully obtained public access to the Newell Open Space Preserve. However, the original 2001 Plan was not updated to reflect this significant milestone or to provide clear, ac9onable guidance for managing public use and maintaining the property in alignment with long-term conservation goals. 96 On December 20, 2022, the Council formed the Open Space, Ac9ve Transporta9on, and Sustainability (OSATS) Commission. Since 2023, upda9ng the Newell Open Space Management Plan has been a key task in the Commission's annual Work Plan. As part of this effort, City staff and the City Manager met with the Land Trust to:
Deepen understanding of the City's relationship with the Land Trust; Clarify the relationship between the Management Plan and the Conservation Easement; Evaluate current uses of the property compared to the original vision outlined in the 2001 Plan;
Understand the Land Trust's expectations for property management and operations; and Confirm and communicate to the public the intended purpose and conserva9on value of the property.
In early 2023, the City also finalized a long-term Grazing License Agreement with the Azevedo family, who have been grazing ca0le on the upper por9on of the property for more than 50 years.
Ca0le grazing serves as a natural form of vegeta9on management, promotes ecological diversity, and supports the conserva9on values of the property. While the Grazing License itself is not included within the scope of the management plan update, its formaliza9on represents an important management milestone, as no prior agreement with the Azevedo Livestock Company existed before 2023.
On September 6, 2023, the OSATS Commission acknowledged that the 2001 Plan was a valuable document. However, the Commission also recognized that it lacked cri9cal guidance for opera9ng and maintaining an agricultural open space property that includes ac9ve, year-round ca0le grazing alongside public access for passive recrea9onal use. Addi9onally, the 2001 Plan included several visionary concepts, such as an ac9vated and restored barn, an overnight camping facility, a 50-car parking lot within the property with a bridge, u9li9es, and a carriage house. These elements, while aspira9onal at the 9me, did not align with the Conserva9on Easement's restric9ons or the intended purpose of the property as protected open space. To date, only a small por9on of the original plan, primarily the established public access, has been implemented. The more intensive construc9on and enterprise-oriented features proposed in the 2001 Plan are incompa9ble with the long-term conservation goals and allowable uses defined in the CE.
At the October 4, 2023, OSATS Commission mee9ng, the Commission memorialized the public access efforts that were achieved from 2015 to present day. This "baseline" document outlined the City's and the Land Trust's efforts in solidifying public access over the years within Newell Open Space Preserve and is consistent with the CE. At the February 7th, 2024 OSATS Commission mee9ng, the Commission reviewed and provided input on the draG Newell Open Space Standard Opera9ng and Maintenance Procedures. Together, the baseline document and the Opera9ng and Maintenance Procedures served as foundational resources for developing the NMP.
On July 15, 2024, the City formally requested approval from the Land Trust to permit the 97 recrea9onal use of Class 1 electric bicycles (e-bikes) in Newell Open Space Preserve. On August 1, 2024, the Land Trust responded, confirming that recrea9onal biking on the property is"conditionally consistent with the intent and terms of the Conservaon Easement." They noted no significant difference between tradi9onal pedal mountain bikes and Class 1 e-bikes. To comply with paragraph
4.7 of the CE, the City commi0ed to implemen9ng management, maintenance, and opera9onal standards to support this use. This included upda9ng bicycle rules, establishing trail maintenance practices, and reinforcing passive recreational guidelines across the property.
Subsequently, on October 2, 2024, the OSATS Commission reviewed and provided comments on the draG Newell Open Space Trail Standards, which formally defined the property's trail system as Class 2 Mul9-Use, accommoda9ng cyclists, equestrians, and pedestrians. The Trail Standards incorporated the updated bicyclist rules to accommodate the newly approved use of e-bikes within the property.
At the same mee9ng, the Commission also reviewed and commented on the first draG of the NMP.
Both the Trail Standards and the first draG were shared with the Land Trust in advance; their feedback and comments were part of the Commission's review.
Based on the Land Trust's recommenda9on to update the biological survey for mammals, amphibians, and birds, due to the surrounding development and the age of the previous survey, which was completed over 20 years ago, City staff engaged WRA Environmental Consultants. WRA, the same firm currently draGing the Jaeger Property Management Plan, was contracted to complete the updated biological survey and assist in draGing the NMP. The survey was completed in January 2025 and has been incorporated into the update. The OSATS Commission has reviewed and commented on the final draft two additional times: March 5 and May 7th, 2025.
On June 17, 2025, staff brought forward the proposed NMP for Council adop9on. At that 9me, Council chose not to adopt the NMP and instead directed staff to make revisions. Specifically, Council requested that Rule Number 6 be revised to to remove the 5 mph passing speed limit and instead include language such as 'use cau9on and reduce speed while passing'. Council also requested that addi9onal photographs be incorporated to enhance clarity and iden9fica9on within the plan. Since then, staff have worked with the Land Trust to update Rule Number 6 and have added photos. The Land Trust has reviewed the NMP and confirmed that it is consistent with the CE and its intended public recreational use.
The development of the NMP reflects a comprehensive, mul9-year, collabora9ve effort between City staff, the Commission, the Land Trust, environmental consultants, and the broader community.
The updated plan provides clear, ac9onable guidance for managing public access, preserving natural resources, and maintaining agricultural opera9ons, while ensuring ongoing alignment with the CE. It is intended to serve as a living document that will guide staff in the responsible management and opera9on of the property and help educate the community on the property's purpose, use, and long-term stewardship. Both the OSATS Commission and the Land Trust recommend that the Council adopt the NMP.
98 COUNCIL PRIORITY PROGRAMS AND PROJECTS
Organizational Effectiveness: "Deliver exemplary government services."
FISCAL IMPACT
The cost for preparation of the 2025 Newell Management Plan is included in the FY 25/26 Budget.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
15378(b) - The ac9on is not a "Project" subject to the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") because it does not qualify as a "Project" under Public Resources Code Sec9ons 21065 and 21080 and in Section 15378(b) of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations.
COMMUNICATION
Level 3: Broad Communication
Informa9on about rules and e9que0e in the Newell Open Space will be transmi0ed broadly through social media channels. Addi9onally, physical signage at the Newell Open Space will reflect the rules and etiquette.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Resolution - Newell Open Space Management Plan
2. Deed of Conservation Easement
3. 2001 Newell Management Plan
99 RESOLUTION NO. 2025 -
A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE 2025 NEWELL OPEN SPACE MANAGEMENT PLAN.
WHEREAS, American Canyon has consistently supported the preservation and enhancement of open space as an integral part of its Mission, Vision, and Values; and WHEREAS, in 1999, Jack and Bernice Newell donated a 640-acre property to the City of American Canyon, intended to permanently preserve the land as open space for the benefit of the American Canyon community and the broader region, while also protecting the valuable agricultural and natural resources, now known as Newell Open Space Preserve; and WHEREAS, the Land Trust of Napa County holds the Deed of Conservation Easement over the property; and
WHEREAS, on November 15, 2001, the City Council adopted the first Newell Open Management Plan to help guide the future of the property, including exploring opportunities for public recreational use and access; and
WHEREAS, in 2015, with the help of many community members, obtained public access to Newell Open Space Preserve; and
WHEREAS, in 2022, the Council formalized the Open Space Advisory Committee into the Open Space, Active Transportation, and Sustainability (OSATS) Commission; and WHEREAS, since 2023, the OSATS Commission, as part of its annual Work Plan, has been working to update the Newell Open Space Management Plan to reflect modern-day recreational uses and ensure compatibility and alignment with the Conservation Easement, and have formal documentation of how the City will maintain and manage the property while supporting long-term preservation goals; and WHEREAS, the City recognizes the importance of protecting and restoring sensitive habitats, supporting biodiversity, and enhancing the ecological health of Newell Open Space Preserve; and WHEREAS, the City is committed to being responsible stewards of its natural resources by implementing sustainable land management practices that balance conservation with appropriate public access and passive recreation; and
WHEREAS, the City values the opportunity to connect people with nature, promote environmental education, and provide outdoor experiences that foster appreciation and care for the natural environment; and
WHEREAS, the 2025 Newell Open Space Management Plan, attached hereto and incorporated herein as Exhibit A, has been prepared as a living document intended to guide the long-term maintenance, enhancement, and public enjoyment of the Newell Open Space Preserve, while adapting to changing needs and priorities over time; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of American Canyon hereby approves and adopts the 2025 Newell Open Space Management Plan, attached hereto and incorporated herein as Exhibit A, memorializing its role as a living document and guiding framework for stewardship and sustainable management of the Newell Open Space Preserve. 100
PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED at a regularly scheduled meeting of the City Council of the City of American Canyon held on the 2nd day of September 2025, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
________________________________
Pierre Washington, Mayor
ATTEST:
_____________________________ ________________________________ Taresa Geilfuss, City Clerk Teresa L. Highsmith, City Attorney 101
2025 Newell Open Space Management Plan
1 2025 NEWELL OPEN SPACE PRESERVE
Management Plan
EXHIBIT A
102
2025 Newell Open Space Management Plan
2 CONTENTS
1.0 Newell Open Space Preserve
1.1 Property Map
1.2 Type of Property
2.0 Overarching Management Plan
2.1 Purpose of the Plan
2.2 Land Ownership and Use
2.2.1 City of American Canyon
2.2.2 Land Trust of Napa County Deed of Conservation Easement
2.2.3 PG&E Electrical Easement
2.2.4 Red-Legged Frog Mitigation Area
2.2.5 Land Use Designations and Jurisdictions
3.0 Vegetation and Wildlife
3.1 Non-Native Grassland (California Annual Grassland Series)
3.2 Central Coast Riparian Forest (Coast Live Oak Series)
3.3 Coast Live Oak Forest (Coast Live Oak Series)
3.4 Coastal Prairie (Idaho Fescue Series)
3.5 Serpentine Bunchgrass (Purple Needlegrass Series)
3.6 Wetlands (Spikerush Series)
3.7 Bird Species Observation
4.0 Cultural Resources
5.0 Geology, Soils and Hydrology
5.1 Petrology
5.2 Site Geological Structure
5.3 Soils
5.4 Hydrology
6.0 Operations
6.1 Operational Hours
6.2 Recreational Use
6.3 General Park Rules
6.4 Trailhead and Parking
6.5 Trail System
7.0 Maintenance
7.1 Trail Standards
7.1.1 Trail Layout and Tread
7.1.2 Rolling Dip Inspections
7.2 Evaluation
7.2.1 Trail Inventory
7.2.2 Seasonal Inspections
7.2.3 Prioritizing Maintenance
7.3 Routine Maintenance
7.3.1 Trail Maintenance Window
7.3.2 Grading and Maintenance Window
7.4 Weather-Related Closures
7.4.1 Wet Weather
103
2025 Newell Open Space Management Plan
3 7.4.2 Red Flag Warning
7.4.3 Air Quality
7.5 Grazing
7.5.1 Benefits of Grazing Animals
7.5.2 What To Do Around Cattle
7.6 Weed Management & Invasive Species
7.6.1 Thistle
7.6.2 Brush
7.7 Wildfire Prevention
7.7.1 Conservation Grazing
7.7.2 Mowing
7.7.3 Partnerships
8.0 Conservation Monitoring
9.0 Restoration
10.0 Conclusion
Appendices
A. Land Trust of Napa County Deed of Conservation Easement B. Vascular plants occurring at Newell Canyon Open Space C. Wildlife species observed in and around Newell Canyon Open Space 104
2025 Newell Open Space Management Plan
4 1.0 Newell Open Space Preserve
In December 1999, Jack and Bernice Newell donated 640 acres to the City of American Canyon (the City), dedicated as public open space for the American Canyon community and region to enjoy forever, and to protect valuable agricultural and natural resources. Newell Open Space Preserve (Preserve) shares a border with Lynch Canyon Open Space, where the Azevedo Livestock Company and Ranch graze both properties. The Land Trust of Napa County (Land Trust) holds a Conservation Easement, also donated in 1999 by the Newells to the Land Trust. In 2015, the American Canyon community obtained public access for passive recreational use under the Conservation Easement.
1.1 Property Map
Figure 1
1.2 Type of Property
The Preserve is a scenic agricultural property where open and year-round cattle grazing occurs under a license with the neighboring Azevedo and Lynch Canyon properties. Open to the public for passive recreational use, the Preserve is carefully maintained in its natural state to protect its diverse habitats, wildlife, ecosystems, and biodiversity. Special care is taken to minimize environmental impacts on sensitive resources, including riparian habitats and native plant and animal species, some of which are special-status. This unique and cherished landscape offers the community a serene space to connect with nature and experience the beauty of a natural environment. 105
2025 Newell Open Space Management Plan
5 2.0 Overarching Management Plan
In November 2001, the City, in partnership with the Land Trust, adopted the original Newell Open Space Management Plan. The 2001 Plan served as a valuable and instrumental tool at the time; however, it was created before public access to the property was permitted, which was later achieved in 2015. The 2025 Plan will guide the City to continue supporting the active and passive management of the property, ensuring it aligns with the Conservation Easement, which are designed to preserve the overall functions and values of the property. The 2025 Plan supersedes the 2001 Plan.
2.1 Purpose of the Plan
The purpose of this long-term management plan is to ensure the City of American Canyon manages, monitors, and maintains the property in perpetuity in a manner consistent with the terms and conditions of the Conservation Easement. The Plan serves to conserve natural resources, balance land use between recreational opportunities and conservation goals, and ensure sustainable public access that does not negatively impact the environment. It includes maintenance and management practices, protects cultural and historical resources, and guides the long-term stewardship of the property to maintain its value and accessibility for future generations.
2.2 Land Ownership and Use
2.2.1 The City of American Canyon
The City of American Canyon owns, operates, and manages the Property for agricultural and public recreation use, adhering to the guidelines and conservation values of the Deed of Conservation Easement held by the Land Trust.
2.2.2 Land Trust of Napa County Deed of Conservation Easement The City of American Canyon holds the Fee Title to the property, while the Conservation Easement is held by the Land Trust (Appendix A) over the entire property. The Easement grants the Land Trust the right to enter and monitor the property to ensure compliance with the protection of the conservation values. The values include natural, scenic, open space, historical, agricultural, educational, and recreational aspects that are of great importance to the city, the people of Napa County, and the people of the State of California. The Land Trust may restrict and prohibit the use of the property at any time if such use conflicts with the Conservation Easement.
2.2.3 PG&E Electrical Easement
PG&E has a major electrical transmission line and easement that bisects the site, highlighted in blue, as well as a 25-foot-wide road easement on the property, highlighted in yellow. A portion of the road easements serves as the main trail of the property. See figure 2 for PG&E Electrical Easement details. 106
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6 2.2.4 California Red-Legged Frog Mitigation Area
When the property was deeded to the City, Jack and Bernice Newell designated a portion of the land as habitat mitigation area for the federal listed (endangered) California red-legged frog (CRLF; Rana draytonii). Two nearby proposed residential development projects, Creekside Homes by Young California Homes L.P. and Village Green Homes by Hoffman Land Development Company, were set to impact the existing CRLF habitat. The developers proposed constructing mitigation habitat on the Newell property through an arrangement with Jack and Bernice Newell.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), responsible for protecting the frog, determined the extent of the potential impact and necessary mitigation area and conditions, as part of the overall permit for work in federal wetland areas issued by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). On September 15, 2000, USFWS informed the development companies that 1.96 and 2.22 acres of respective habitat mitigation areas, or
4.14 acres total, would be required on the Newell property to mitigate for the impact to CRLF habitat on the development sites.
At a meeting on November 16, 2000, with representatives from the City, the Land Trust, and USFWS, the developers presented preliminary plans for creating shallow seasonal wetland ponds in the frog mitigation area along the existing creek. While the initial plan did not fully meet the direct habitat area requirements set by USFWS, it appeared feasible. A more significant issue was the USFWS requirements for a buffer zone – a 600-foot-wide by 3,000-foot-long area centered on the mitigation site. USFWS required this buffer zone to be fenced, within which land use or disturbance was prohibited. Due to the buffer Figure 2
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7 zone requirement and the proposed mitigation plans being less than the original required acreage, both developers paid mitigation fees in addition to the on-site mitigation to meet the CRLF requirements set forth by USFWS.
The Village Green subdivision constructed nine seasonal wetland ponds under USACE permit File Number 25055N. Five were constructed along the creek east of the barn, and 4 were constructed up on the ridge near the property boundary with Lynch Canyon. In October 2007, the five-year monitoring report showed there were 1.74 acres created, more than the required 1.11 acres originally required with the permit. The mitigation area is outlined in figure 3.
The Creekside subdivision created five seasonal wetland ponds in the panhandle portion of the property under USACE permit File Number 21819N. These ponds did not meet the buffer zone requirement for USFWS and were constructed for Wetland-loss mitigation only. The development paid into a mitigation fund for the loss of CRLF habitat. In August 2006, the five-year monitoring report showed there were 0.86 acres created, less than the 0.98 acres originally required with the permit. The report indicated that Figure 3
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8 remedial actions be completed to meet the regulatory requirements, however, there is no record of this being completed. The mitigation area is outlined in figure 4.
In July 2012, the City had a Biological Resource assessment for the CRLF as part of a study for allowing public access to the property. The biologist did not observe any presence of the species on the property but noted that Newell Creek may be used by wandering CRLF individuals. They also indicated that most of the created wetlands likely do not meet the criteria to be considered jurisdictional wetlands and do not meet the buffer zone requirements for CRLF mitigation. During a review of the site by WRA, Inc. (WRA) in January 2025, the five created seasonal wetlands were assessed as unlikely to provide aquatic habitat (including non-breeding aquatic habitat) for CRLF under typical circumstances; see additional comments below.
The conservation easement section 4.12 allowed Jack and Bernice Newell to retain mitigation rights only for these two developments if the work was completed before January 1st, 2005. The mitigation areas were described in Exhibit B of the Conservation Easement, and this area could be expanded with Land Trust approval. The land currently is recognized as a Wetlands Mitigation area and will need to remain as converted Wetlands.
2.25 Land Use Designations and Jurisdictions
The property is designated as “Agricultural, Watershed, and Open Space” in the Land Use Element of the Napa County General Plan and falls within the City of American Canyon’s Sphere of Influence, as Figure 4
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9 indicated in the City’s General Plan Land Use Map. It is also within the urban limit line and designated as Agriculture. Although the property is outside the city limits, the City owns it and may use and improve the property, subject to the conditions of the Conservation Easement, without having to obtain permits or approval from Napa County.
The Azevedo family, early settlers to the region, have been cattle grazing on the property and the adjacent Lynch Canyon Open Space in Solano County for the last 50 years. They currently hold a Grazing License with the City and pay an annual grazing fee to graze the upper portion of the property. The terms and conditions of the Azevedo’s Grazing License are not part of this document.
3.0 Vegetation and Wildlife
The Preserve is a haven for a diverse range of flora and fauna, thanks to its unique geographical location between the Coast Range and Central Valley. This positioning creates a blended mosaic of interior and coastal vegetation, enhancing the Preserve’s ecological richness. The landscape is primarily non-native annual grasslands, a result of historical wheat farming and long-term cattle grazing, interspersed with pockets of mixed hardwood forests, comprised mainly of Coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia), California bay laurel (Umbellularia californica), madrone (Arbutus menziesii), and two planted eucalyptus (Eucalyptus spp.) groves.
Water, a crucial element for wildlife, is abundant in the Preserve. Creeks, springs, and seeps provide vital hydration, breeding grounds, and habitat for various species. Water flows through the creeks for much of the year, while hillside springs and seeps often feature saturated soils and standing water, further supporting the Preserve’s diverse ecosystem.
Botanical surveys conducted in 1988 for the proposed American Canyon Landfill Replacement Plan identified six distinct plant communities on the property. Further surveys in the spring 2001 reiterated these community descriptions and updated the inventory of plant species across the entire area. A comprehensive list of vascular plant species observed during 1988, 2001and updated by WRA in 2025 is available in Appendix B. WRA performed a field review of the Preserve on January 17, 2025. This review focused on the potential for special-status wildlife to occur within the site, including in the context of recent residential development nearby. 1 A list of common, potential and observed wildlife species can be found in Appendix C. A detailed description of observed bird nesting sites, along with an updated list of observed bird species, is available through the Audubon Society.
3.1 Non-Native Grassland
The site’s soil's physical characteristics and local weather patterns have created a landscape predominantly covered by grassland, which accounts for over 80% of the Preserve. These areas are dominated by non-native, annual grasses that are abundant in the region. Historically, this was likely a native grassland community dominated by species such as purple needlegrass (Stipa pulchra), California oat grass (Danthonia californica), creeping rye (Elymus triticoides), and blueeyed grass (Sisyrinchium bellum). The clay soil (Fagan Clay Loam), known for its slow area permeability and high plasticity, hinders the growth of trees and shrubs. This soil type remains saturated from fall through mid-spring, only to crack during the summer drought, making it difficult for most woody species to establish roots.
1 The following designations included herein were considered special-status by WRA: Federal (Endangered Species Act) Threatened (FT), Federal Proposed for listing (FP), State (California Endangered Species Act) Threatened (ST), State Candidate for listing (SC), State Species of Special Concern (SSC), State Fully Protected Species (SFP), and Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act species (BGEPA). Note that such designations shift over time; some species that were considered special-status at the time this Plan was originally drafted may no longer hold this designation. 110
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10 Before Spanish colonization in the 1830s, the area may have supported scattered trees and small groves along seasonal drainages. Native American grinding stones on the adjoining Lynch Canyon property, located far from any oak trees, hints at more extensive woodlands in the past. Regular burning by Native Americans could have suppressed the recruitment of young trees and shrubs, and the introduction of perennial cattle grazing, which continues today, may have exacerbated this effect. As aging trees died without being replaced by younger ones, grazing gave a competitive advantage to non-native grasses and forbs, which now dominate the site.
Early in the spring season, the grassland is dominated by common non-native species such as wild oats (Avena spp.), ripgut brome (Bromus diandrus), winter vetch (Vicia villosa), and redstem filaree (Erodium cicutarium). As spring progresses, yellow and purple star thistle (Centaurea solstitialis and C. calcitrapa) – aggressive invasive species from the Mediterranean region - take over. These invasive thistles are particularly problematic, with star thistle becoming unpalatable to cattle once its spiny flowerheads form in mid-May. Another California Invasive Plant Council (Cal-IPC) rated moderately invasive species, cardoon or artichoke thistle (Cynara cardunculus) poses a significant threat to native vegetation if left uncontrolled. Other invasive exotics, including wild anise (Foeniculum vulgare; Cal-IPC Moderate), teasel (Dipsacus sylvestris; Cal-IPC Moderate), and horehound (Marrubium vulgare; Cal-IPC Limited), are also present in localized populations.
Common non-native plant species found on the property include Italian thistle (Carduus pycnocephalus; Cal-IPC Moderate), milk thistle (Silybum marianum; Cal-IPC Limited), cut leaf geranium (Geranium dissectum; Cal-IPC Limited), wild barley (Hordeum spontaneum), and soft brome (Bromus hordeaceus).
Native forb species have been largely displaced, with only a few, such as erect evax (Hesperevax sparsiflora), succulent lupine (Lupinus succulentus), and common fiddleneck (Amsinckia intermedia), maintaining a strong foothold. Historically, this community may have supported the federal listed endangered Indian clover (Trifolium ammonium), which was collected near Napa Junction (American Canyon) in 1891. This species preferred the rich grassy swales that exist in the lower, flat areas near the mouth of the canyon.
These grasslands support an array of avian species, including western meadowlark (Sturnella neglecta), say’s phoebe (Sayornis saya), horned lark (Eremophila alpestris), and killdeer (Charadrius vociferus). The 111
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11 special-status raptors white-tailed kite (Elanus leucurus; SFP), northern harrier (Circus hudsonius, SSC), and golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos; BGEPA, SFP) utilize this habitat for foraging, hunting small mammals and other prey; all three species were observed on-site by WRA in January 2025. The state listed Swainson’s hawk (Buteo swainsoni; ST) may also be present during the spring and summer (see additional comments on nesting below). Two special-status passerines may nest in on-site grasslands, Bryant’s savannah sparrow (Passerculus sandwichensis alaudinus; SSC) and grasshopper sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum; SSC). The state listed tricolored blackbird (Agelaius tricolor; ST, SSC) may forage in the Preserve’s grasslands, especially during the non-breeding season (winter). Burrowing owls (Athene cunicularia; SSC, SC) may also use on-site grasslands, sheltering in ground squirrel burrows or similar refugia at lower elevations (nesting by this species is unlikely overall).
Several common mammal species also inhabit these grasslands, including coyote (Canis latrans) and black-tailed (mule) deer (Odocoileus hemionus columbianus), as well as smaller species such as California ground squirrel (Otospermophilus beecheyi), black-tailed jackrabbit (Lepus californicus), Botta’s pocket gopher (Thomomys bottae), and western harvest mouse (Reithrodontomys megalotis). The open grasslands provide excellent habitat for common reptiles like the gopher snake (Pituophis catenifer), western terrestrial garter snake (Thamnophis elegans), and western rattlesnake (Crotalus oreganus). The grasslands also have the potential to support overland movement by CRLF, which is known to travel up to 1 mile or more, during both dispersals to/from breeding sites and when seasonal aquatic habitat dries down; this species is known from lands adjacent to the Preserve, including documented breeding sites. Overland movement by CRLF is most likely to occur during or after rain events when conditions are moist.
3.2 Central Coast Riparian Forest (Coast Live Oak Series) Central Coast riparian forests thrive along and adjacent to the stream banks, supported by perennial water availability. It is nearly continuous along the southern branch of Newell Creek but becomes fragmented along the norther branch and in the southwest part of the Preserve. Spanning approximately
14.5 acres, the community is dominated by Arroyo willow (Salix lasiolepis) and shining willow (S. lasialandra) along the south branch, with California bay and coast live oak being common, particularly in the upper reach. Here, the canopy reaches 100%, with trees spanning between 50 to 75 feet tall. The 112
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12 understory is sparse or absent due to the inhibitory properties of bay tree litter, a condition worsened by cattle grazing and trampling.
Where the riparian community meets the Coast Live Oak Forest (middle reach), willows form an outer band, blending the live oak and bay elements into the adjacent forest canopy. In the lower reach, the distinction becomes clearer, with shining and Arroyo willow dominating. The understory, along with gaps in the canopy, hosts thickets of California blackberry (Rubus ursinus), poison oak (Toxicodendron diversilobum), Santa Barbara sedge (Carex barbarae), and creeping rye. Other common species include Common Snowberry (Symphoricarpos albus), California rose (Rosa californica), Douglas’s mugwort (Artemisia douglasiana), California figwort (Scrophularia californica), and hoary nettle (Urtica dioica ssp. holosericea). The adjacent grasslands along the lower reach remain saturated under normal winter conditions and have been heavily invaded by teasel. Notably, Victor’s gooseberry (Ribes victoris), a special status species with a California Native Plant Society (CNPS) Rare Plant Rank (CRPR) of 4.3 and afforded some protection under CEQA, is found in the upper reach of this community, represented by eight individuals in three locations.
Given the presence of water, typically lush cover of shrubs and trees, and ecotones (transitional areas between two vegetation communities), riparian woodlands and forests are well known to provide important habitat for wildlife. Many locally common bird species use riparian areas for nesting, including California quail (Callipepla californica), Nuttall’s woodpecker (Picoides nuttallii), black phoebe (Sayornis nigricans), spotted towhee (Pipilo maculatus), California towhee (Melozone crissalis), California scrub jay (Aphelocoma californica), and song sparrow (Melospiza melodia). Other birds frequent riparian zones during the winter period including golden-crowned and white-crowned sparrows (Zonotrichia atricapilla and Z. leucophrys respectively) and yellow-rumpled warbler (Setophaga coronata). Long-eared owls (Asio otus; SSC), a cryptic and locally rare species, have been observed wintering in the Preserve’s riparian groves. These discrete and often isolated strands of woodland vegetation are also important for many species during spring and fall migrations, providing temporary (stopover) habitat and foraging resources.
Special-status birds that may use the Preserve’s riparian trees for nesting include white-tailed kite, loggerhead shrike (Lanius ludovicianus; SSC) and State listed Swainson’s hawk. The local breeding population of the latter species appears to be growing, and nesting within or adjacent to the Preserve may occur in the future, mostly likely in low-elevation “bottomland” settings. There is also the potential for two special-status, riparian-affiliated passerine birds to nest within the Preserve’s riparian vegetation:
yellow warbler (Setophaga petechia; SSC) and yellow-breasted chat (Icteria virens; SSC). Breeding by both species is locally uncommon. Yellow warblers have been observed within the Preserve during migratory periods; on-site nesting by both species is more likely if riparian woodland is allowed to increase in extent and vegetative density.
The riparian belts also provide habitat for common mammals including coyote, raccoon (Procyon lotor), striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis), long-tailed weasel (Mustela frenata), and ornate shrew (Sorex ornatus).
Larger/older riparian trees with developed cavities and hollows (e.g., oaks) may support roosting by a variety of bats, including the special-status pallid bat (Antrozous pallidus; SSC) and fringed myotis (Myotis thysanodes; SSC). Relatively undisturbed cavities with sufficient internal thermal conditions may host bat maternity roosting (rearing of bat young by breeding females). Resident reptiles and amphibians may include gopher snake, garter snakes, ring-necked snake (Diadophis punctatus), southern alligator lizard (Elgaria multicarinata), western skink (Plestiodon skiltonianus), Pacific treefrog (Pseudacris regilla), and California slender salamander (Batrachoseps attenuates). The special-status northwestern (western) pond turtle (Actinemys marmorata; SSC, FP) has the potential to be present in Newell Creek, most likely seasonally in the lower reaches where the gradient is low and inundation/flow is most extensive; as observed by WRA in January 2025, in-stream elevational shifts (e.g., plunge pools) and the frequent incision of the channel would limit in-stream movement by turtles in areas above the lowest reaches. 113
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13 Additionally, portions of Newell Creek are designated as habitat mitigation for CRLF. Riparian belts may be used by this species as non-breeding aquatic habitat (stream waters) and for terrestrial shelter including potential summer aestivation in moist refugia (riparian substrate and understory) if conditions encourage such.
3.3 Coast Live Oak Forest (Coast Live Oak Series)
On one north-facing slope within the Preserve, conditions favor a forest dominated by coast live oak. The soil here, coarser than that in the surrounding grassland (Millsholm loam, moderate permeability), and reduced sun exposure help retain moisture longer, extending the growing season. This community spans approximately 40-45 acres on steep to moderate slopes. Tree cover exceeds 75%, with several openings, particularly near the edges. Other trees within the forest include California Bay (35%), madrone (5-10%), and California black oak (Quercus kelloggii; 1%). The brushy understory is rich with species such as poison oak, Torrey’s melicgrass (Melica torreyana), and California woodfern (Dryopteris arguta). This is one of the most diverse communities in the Preserve, hosting 78 of the 225 plant species identified on site.
The dense cover provided by trees and shrubbery in the forest and associated foraging resources provide habitat for many wildlife species. A wide variety of common birds use such forest stands year-round, including Cooper’s hawk (Astur cooperii), great horned owl (Bubo virginianus), western screech-owl (Megascops kennicottii), multiple woodpecker species, and forest-affiliated passerines including Pacificslope flycatcher (Empidonax difficilis), chestnut-backed chickadee (Poecile rufescens), Steller’s jay (Cyanocitta stelleri), varied thrush (Ixoreus naevius; wintering), and many others. A special-status passerine with potential to nest in the forest stand is olive-sided flycatcher (Contopus cooperi; SSC), which favors forest stands wherein the largest trees feature elevated perches and snags near forest edges.
Various mammals are known to or presumably use the oak forest. As described for riparian habitat above, trees with developed cavities/hollows and areas of exfoliating bark may support roosting (including maternity roosting) by several bat species such as big brown bat (Lasiurus cinereus) and hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus; foliage-roosting), in addition to the special-status species referenced above. Along with black-tailed deer, common terrestrial mammals including bobcat (Lynx rufus), gray fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus), dusky-footed woodrat (Neotoma fuscipes), and California deermouse (Peromyscus californicus) likely inhabit this area. Resident reptiles and amphibians may include sharp-tailed snake 114
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14 (Contia tenuis), rough-skilled newt (Taricha granulosa), ensatina (salamander) (Ensatina eschscholtzii), and Pacific treefrog.
Note that mountain lion (Puma concolor) likely occurs within the Preserve, at least periodically. There is an on-site record in iNaturalist (2025) which consists of the observation of scat (feces); for the purposes herein, this is considered not fully validated.2 Coast live oak forest and other land covers within the Preserve provide suitable habitat for this large, wide-ranging species, particularly riparian areas with dense vegetation (for cover). See discussion on broader-scale wildlife movement in section 3.7.
3.4 Coastal Prairie (Idaho Fescue Series)
This community exhibits characteristics of both interior and coastal grassland ecosystems. The regular influence of coastal fog during the summer months and the presence of Idaho Fescue (Festuca idahoensis) and California oat grass (Danthonia californica) suggest it is a variant of the Coastal Prairie community. This area is a remnant of the vegetation community that likely once dominated the property but is now limited to the steeper slopes near the eastern and southern boundaries, roughly aligning with the Kreyenhagen Formation footprint described in the 1988 Landfill report.
Common species here include purple needlegrass, blue eye grass, California buttercup, Indian soap plant (Chlorogalum pomeridianum), and wild oats. The ridge line features a discontinuous strand of sandstone outcrops that supports coastal scrub elements. Picturesque, wind-sculpted coast live oak, and California bay trees crown the ridge top. The Domengine Sandstone rocks support a unique assemblage of shrubs and perennials, including hairy golden aster (Heterotheca villosa), California mahonia (Berberis pinnata), rock-loving daisy (Erigeron petrophilus var. petrophilus), California Indian pink (Silene lacinata spp. californica), and California Acaena (Acaena californica). Additionally, this community includes nine patches of California balsamroot (Balsamorhiza macrolepis), a rare and endangered listed with a CRPR of 1B.2 – Plants are rare, threatened, or endangered in California and elsewhere; fairly threatened in California. This member of the sunflower family is confined to the Bay Area region and is protected under CEQA.
This community provides wildlife habitat and resources similar to those found in the non-native grassland community, with the added benefit of brushy areas and rock outcrops that diversify the habitat and may support additional species.
2 iNaturalist. 2025. Observation data from the Newell Open Space Preserve. Available from https://www.inaturalist.org.
Accessed: March 2025.
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15 3.5 Serpentine Bunchgrass (Purple Needlegrass Series) A small portion of the property along the southern boundary features a unique grassland community shaped by the challenging conditions of serpentine soil. This area, approximately 12 acres in size, is part of a larger serpentine grassland extending southward into American Canyon. Due to the specific Calcium/Magnesium ratio (0.40 measured in American Canyon, K. Martin, 1987) in serpentine soils, many non-native species are excluded, allowing native annual and perennial species to thrive. Dominant species in this area include the California poppy (Eschscholzia californica), hayfield tarweed (Hemizonia congesta), and purple needlegrass. Other common native species in the area include naked-stem buckwheat (Eriogonum nudum), small-flowered needlegrass (Stipa lepida), and erect evax. Notably, this community is home to the Tiburon paintbrush (Castilleja affinis var. neglecta), a federally listed endangered species with a CRPR of 1B.2. The property supports approximately 5-10% of the Napa County population of this species, with an estimated 35 plants recorded in March 2011 by the Land Trust as part of the monitoring of this property.
This community provides wildlife resources similar to that described above for Non-native Grassland and Coastal Prairie. However, given the rock slopes and substrates present the area may support a higher density of reptiles. The unique conditions of the serpentine substrate (ultramafic rock – high levels of magnesium and iron) and the presence of diverse native plant species further enhance the ecological value of this habitat, making it an important refuge for various species adapted to these specific conditions.
3.6 Wetlands (Spikerush Series)
The dense clay-loam soils and rocky substrate of the Preserve give rise to several seasonal and perennial seeps and springs, where groundwater meets the soil surface. In addition to six seep areas and two springs onsite, the exposed bottoms of several steam channels, where they receive full sunlight, support a similar array of wetland species. A few seasonal ponds are also present within the Preserve. Dominant species in these wetland areas include brown-headed rush (Juncus phaeocephalus), Pacific bog rush (Juncus effusus spp. pacificus), bristly oxtongue (Helminthotheca echioides), winter cress (Barbarea vulgaris), clover (Trifolium spp.), curly dock (Rumex crispus), and Baltic rush (Juncus balticus). 116
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16 This habitat provides essential water and forage for wildlife. Several on-site aquatic features may be used as non-breeding aquatic habitat for the federal listed CRLF; these include Newell Creek and associated riparian areas (particularly the lower reaches), and some of the higher-elevation ponds in the eastern and southeastern portions of the Preserve. During WRA’s January 2025 site visit, none of the subject ponds appeared to have suitable hydrology for CRLF breeding, though when inundated these may provide refuge for frogs that are moving overland through the Preserve. The wetlands feed into the creek system, which exits the preserve through the designated habitat for the species, further enhancing the ecological importance of these areas. However, cattle grazing has significantly influenced the biomass of wetland plants and altered the composition of these habitats by facilitating the invasion of non-native species.
3.7 Species Observations
A list of wildlife species observed within the Preserve is provided in Appendix C; this list is based on the public databases eBird (2025) and iNaturalist (2025), as well as WRA’s observations.34 Given its location within the greater (continental scale) Pacific Flyway, the Preserve serves as an important location for many bird species transiting through the region during the spring and fall migratory periods, with some species overwintering. The site’s various vegetation communities each provide shelter and resources applicable to different suites of birds. The Preserve is particularly attractive to raptors due to its elevated hills, location between the coast and Central Valley, distance from human disturbance, and the persistent, strong offshore westerly winds from spring to fall. These winds create wind inversion when they meet the hills, offering favorable soaring conditions. Raptor species known or likely to utilize the Preserve for at least some portions of the year include the various special-status species referenced previously, as well as bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus; BGEPA, SFP), ferruginous hawk (Buteo regalis), prairie falcon (Falco mexicanus), peregrine falcon (F. peregrinus), and other more common species.
Golden eagles are relatively abundant in vicinity of the Preserve, with the first recorded sightings dating back to 1966. These majestic birds are regularly observed foraging at nearby Lynch Canyon, and a golden eagle was observed by WRA soaring over the Preserve in January 2025. Golden eagles typically select nesting sites on cliffs or in large trees near ridge tops, often alternating between two or three nesting sites in different years. Historically there has been a rough triangle of three local golden eagle nesting sites. While one of these sites is located within the Preserve, the others are on adjacent lands which constitute portions of the greater local habitat complex for this species. The characteristics that make these sites desirable for nesting include clusters of trees on steep hillsides surrounded by open land, distance from human activity, and the availability of water. Protecting these nesting sites when they are in use by eagles is an important aspect of managing and operating the Preserve. Golden eagle pairs court between November and December, and raise their young for up to approximately nine months, from as early as December through August. To ensure their safety, we adhere to protections under the federal Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act; this statute prohibits the taking, disturbing, possession, sale, purchase, barter, or transport of any bald or golden eagle, whether alive or dead, including any part, nest, or egg, without a permit.
Under the auspices of the City, the Preserve also follows regulations set out within the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which forbids the taking, disturbing, killing, possession, transportation, or importation of all migratory birds, their eggs, parts, and nests unless authorized by a valid permit.5 The California Fish and Game Code provides similar protections to native birds (and certain introduced game species). 3 eBird. 2025. eBird: An online database of bird distribution and abundance [web application]. eBird, Ithaca, New York.
Available at: http://www.ebird.org. Accessed: March 2025 4 iNaturalist. 2025. Observation data from the Newell Open Space Preserve. Available from https://www.inaturalist.org.
Accessed: March 2025.
5 Note that this Act also covers native species that are locally non-migratory. 117
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17 The Essential Connectivity Project (Caltrans 2010, CDFW 2025) maps the Preserve and adjacent open space lands as within an “Essential Connectivity Area;” such areas are defined as essential to long-term ecological conservation as they connect at least two “Natural Landscape Blocks” (relatively large, intact habitat blocks that support native biodiversity).
6,7 The Essential Connectivity Area including the Preserve connects it to mapped Natural Landscape Blocks respectively centered on the Petaluma River to the west, as well in the foothills east of Napa Valley and north of Suisun Bay. Connectivity at this scale is important for larger terrestrial wildlife including mountain lion and deer, though note that Highways 80 and 12 provide at least partial barriers and hazards to regular movement.
Overall, the expansion of residential and other urban development in the former Watson Ranch site to the west has likely altered movement opportunities and patterns for some wildlife species locally, including in the context of the Preserve. However, the composition of species using the Preserve is unlikely to have shifted notably since this Plan was originally drafted in 2001. Most of the Preserve is relatively remote and its habitats sheltered from disturbances associated with development. Adjacent open space and other undeveloped lands nearly surround the Preserve, and further contribute to the Preserve’s ability to support diverse wildlife and other biological resources. If undeveloped private lands to the north, south, and/or east of the Preserve were to be proposed for development or other land use alternation (e.g., converted to vineyards), this assessment would need to be re-evaluated for some species and resources.
4.0 Cultural Resources
The natural beauty of the Preserve is immediately striking, with its majestic vistas of rolling hills, clusters of trees, and creek side vegetation. This landscape also holds a rich history of the people who have lived, worked, and raised families here.
6 (Caltrans) California Department of Transportation. 2010. California Essential Habitat Connectivity Project: A Strategy for Conserving a Connected California. Prepared for California Department of Transportation, California Department of Fish and Game, and Federal Highways Administration. Available online at:
https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Planning/Connectivity/CEHC. Most recently accessed: April 2025. 7 (CDFW) California Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2025. Biogeographic Information and Observation System.
Biogeographic Data Branch. Sacramento, California. Online at: https://wildlife.ca.gov/Data/BIOS; most recently accessed: April 2025.
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18 In August 1988, the Cultural Resource Facility at Sonoma State University conducted a cultural resource field survey for the American Canyon Replacement Landfill Environmental Impact Report (EIR). The study revealed that the Preserve is located within the traditional territory of the Patwin, a Native American group whose language and culture once extended approximately 90 miles from Suisun Bay north to Princeton, and about 40 miles west from the Sacramento River. Within ten miles of the Preserve, five Patwin village sites have been recorded.
The Patwin people sustained a diversified economy based on fishing, hunting, and gathering, adapting their settlement and subsistence patterns to seasonal food availability. During the winter, the valleydwelling Patwin inhabited permanent villages within the marshlands. In summer, they relocated to smaller tributaries on surrounding plains. The upland groups, in contrast, wintered near streams exiting into the valley or at other favorable streamside locations, moving to the surrounding hills in the summer.
The Preserve area would have been inhabited by the upland Patwin. Prehistoric sites in the Preserve are likely to have been winter village sites, characterized by middens with large quantities of shell and bone, specialized areas such as butchering stations, and seed and acorn grinding areas. The archaeological survey conducted on June 28, 1988, identified two prehistoric sites in the Preserve, designated as CANAP-751 and CA-NAP-752 in the EIR. These sites, considered together, represent potentially unique archaeological resources.
The Patwin way of life was rapidly disrupted following colonization by Euro-Americans. Some Patwin were removed from their villages by the Spanish missions, while others succumbed to malaria and smallpox epidemics in the 1830s. The few remaining Patwin were displaced with American settlement of the area in the 1850s and 1860s.
Early explorers, missionaries, and trappers reported the presence of pronghorn antelope, mule deer, elk, bear, mountain lions, and coyotes in the region. Herds as large as 1,000 to 2,000 elk and 3,000 antelope were recorded. However, elk, antelope, bears, and mountain lions were soon eliminated following Spanish and American settlement, while deer were heavily hunted but not entirely eradicated.
The demand for firewood led to the harvesting of native cottonwood and oaks. To address the diminishing wood supplies, landowners planted eucalyptus, an Australian import, as an alternative.
Several eucalyptus still stand today visible in the Preserve.
In 1864, Mary and Richard James Falls settled in the Preserve area, which they named Fall Ranch. Richard James had acquired a bounty land certificate in New Orleans for a 40-acre parcel. The family cultivated wheat on the ranch and eventually expanded their holdings to approximately 170 acres. Their home was located in the clearing at the southwest entrance to the Preserve, where the old barn still stands. The Falls family continued to run the ranch until it was sold in 1900 to Charles Cantoni.
The Cantoni family operated a dairy farm on the ranch, and many longtime residents fondly remember their charming, white, old-fashioned two-story home in the same location as the Fall’s family home. Locals recall visits to the Cantoni ranch to buy butter, eggs, and pick flowers for the May Day celebration. Over the years, the Cantoni family leased out various portions of the ranch.
From 1913 to 1964, part of the Preserve was owned by the Scally family, followed by Ted and Ruth Brown.
In 1980, Jack and Bernice Newell purchased the ranch from the Cantoni and Brown families. They leased portions of the land to neighbors Ralph and Ron Azevedo for cattle grazing. The ranch was sold to the Tricounties Development Company in 1985, with plans for a replacement landfill. When these plans fell 119
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19 through, the Newell’s purchased the ranch in 1992. In 1999, the Newell family generously gifted the land to the City of American Canyon, creating what is now a cherished open space preserve.
5.0 Geology, Soils, and Hydrology
The Preserve is nestled within the Coast Range, a mountain system that stretches from the Oregon border to Southern California. The site is located east of the Napa River floodplain and features two main canyons along with two tributary canyons. For clarity, Geographic names have been assigned to these canyons and their associated drainages.
The lower main canyon drainage and creek refer to the westward-draining canyon, which splits eastward into two tributary canyons. The south tributary creek flows from the southeastern part of the site to its junction with the lower and upper main canyon creeks. The upper main canyon tributary drainage and creek lie above this junction. On the northeastern portion of the property, another drainage basin flows northward, referred to as the north canyon drainage and creek. Elevation on the site ranges from approximately 125 feet above mean sea level (msl) at the western edge of the property to over 950 feet above msl at the southeastern corner.
5.1 Petrology
In 1988, EMCON Associate conducted a geologic and hydrogeologic analysis of the site. Their findings documented Quarternary alluvium and landslide deposits (dating back as much as two million years), Eocene Markley Sandstone and Nortonville Shale members of the Kreyenhagen Formation, Eocene Domengine Sandstone, and Cretaceous to Jurassic-age bedrock units of the Great Valley Sequence and Franciscan Assemblage.
Alluvium, composed predominantly of clay with minor layers of silty sand, sand silt, and gravelly clay, occupies the drainage valleys of the main and tributary canyons. These alluvial deposits are eroded soils and bedrock debris laid down by the action of running water, rivers, and streams, forming the rich and varied geological features of the site.
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20 Markley Sandstone underlies most of the site. This formation consists of medium to thick-bedded sandstone with interbeds of claystone, mudstone, and siltstone. The Markley Sandstone is moderately well-cemented and slightly fractured, with interbeds of crushed to intensely fractured claystone and mudstone.
The eastern and southern margins of the property are underlain by Nortonville Shale and Domengine Sandstone. Nortonville Shale is primarily composed of thinly bedded, intensely fractured claystone and mudstone, with some sandstone and siltstone interbeds. Domengine Sandstone consists of hard, slightly to intensely fractured sandstone with numerous pebbly layers, along with cobble and boulder conglomerate beds. The bedrock of the Franciscan Assemblage is exposed along the southern margin of the project site, consisting mostly of highly altered basalt known as greenstone. This rock is slightly to moderately fractured and has been altered locally into extremely hard silica carbonate rock.
5.2 Site Geological Structure
The site’s geologic structure is primarily characterized by broad, northwest-to-west-trending folds. Faulting is relatively minor, with a few short faults likely caused by deformation associated with local folding. A 400- foot-wide, west-to-northwest-trending shear zone has been mapped along the southern margin of the site. This shear zone separates the Cretaceous Franciscan rocks to the south from the Eocene rocks to the north. It consists of a zone of mixed lithologies derived from adjacent in-place formations that have been sheared and faulted into contact with each other. EMCON Associates concluded that this fault zone has not been active for several years, and there are no known active faults passing through the Preserve. The closest active fault is the West Napa Fault. Other major San Francisco Bay Area faults that could generate ground shaking at the Preserve include the Green Valley Fault, located about four miles northeast, the Rodgers Creek-Healdsburg Fault, about 11 miles southwest, and the San Andreas Fault, approximately 31 miles southwest.
Notable geological features on the site include exposed Markley Sandstone rock faces above the eastern ridge at around 900 feet of elevation. Additionally, an exploratory mining tunnel, dug during World War II in a reported search for mineral magnetite, extends approximately 150 feet horizontally into a hillside near the southern boundary of the property. While the mine is an intriguing part of the natural history of the property, it is not open to the public for exploration.
5.3 Soils
The Soil Conservation Service (SCS, 1978) identified the majority of the proposed landfill area as consisting of Fagan series clay loam soils. These soils (designated as Fa, Fb, Fc) are characterized by slow permeability, rapid runoff, and moderate to high erosion hazard. In the southwestern portion of the area, Millsholm loam was mapped on a steep north-facing hillside. Millsholm loam is a moderately permeable soil with very rapid runoff and a high erosion hazard. Additionally, a small area of Hambright-Rock outcrop complex (HR) is located along the southern boundary of the Preserve. This soil type is also moderately permeable, with rapid to very rapid runoff and a high erosion hazard. Further descriptions of the soils series are provided below.
Fagan Series: This soil series consists of well drained clay loam soils formed in material from sandstone or shale at elevations ranging from 200 to 1,500 feet above sea level on slopes from 5 to 50 percent. These soils are not considered hydric with medium to rapid runoff and slow permeability. Natural vegetation is mostly annual grasses and forbs and a few oaks on north slopes.
Millsholm Series: This soil series consists of shallow, well drained loam soils formed in material from sandstone, mudstone, and shale at elevations ranging from 180 to 4,750 feet above sea level on slopes from 5 to 75 percent. These soils are typically found on hills and mountains and are considered not hydric 121
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21 with low to very high runoff and moderate permeability. Natural vegetation is annual grasses with oaks, pines, and shrubs.
Hambright Series: This soil series consists of shallow, well drained soils formed in material from basic igneous rocks at elevations ranging from 300 to 3,000 feet above sea level on slopes of 2 to 75 percent. Hambright soils are often mapped in complex with rock outcrops and are considered not hydric with medium to very rapid runoff and moderate permeability. Natural vegetation is mostly annual grasses and forbs with oaks and shrubs.
In several tributary drainages on the site, problems such as “head cuts” or rotational slumps have been observed at the upper ends of draws, often leading to slope failures and gullying along the length of the draw. While these conditions are not directly caused by cattle activity, cattle may indirectly contribute by preventing the growth of woody vegetation that would otherwise stabilize these drainages.
The limited use of this site as an open space preserve is not expected to conflict with the soil characteristics of rapid runoff and moderate to high erosion hazards. This Management Plan ensures careful planning and execution of trail profiles, limits off-trail access, and actively monitors slope runoff conditions to effectively mitigate erosion and preserve the integrity of the landscape.
5.4 Hydrology
The site is situated in a hilly region that separates the alluvial basin of the Napa Valley to the west, drained by the Napa River, from the smaller Green Valley to the east, drained by the Cordelia Slough. The hills are composed of sedimentary and metamorphic rocks, which have low permeability. Due to this low permeability and the likelihood of trapped marine water, these hills are not considered significant as a groundwater reservoir resource.
The ridge line along the sites eastern boundary serves as the drainage divided between the Napa Valley and Green Valley basins. Two stream drainages, or basin subareas, have developed on the site, both draining into the Napa Valley basin. The larger subarea, covering 85% of the site, includes the main 122
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22 canyon and the north and south canyons further east. The smaller subarea drains northward, originating north of the preserve. The site is located above the 100-year floodplain of the Napa River and is not subject to inundation (FEMA, 1980).
Due to direct cattle activity and the associated reduction of protective woody vegetation and tree roots, many of the stream banks on the site are experiencing significant erosion and failure caused by the impact of stream flow. The stream channels have become deeply undercut, with entrenched cascades that are gradually eroding upstream, contributing to steam siltation. The presence of vegetation growing within the channels indicates that these conditions have persisted for many years.
Intensive groundwater testing was conducted as part of the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the landfill. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, in collaboration with the Napa Flood Control and Water Conservation District, produced an isohyetal map for the Napa River basin. This map, derived from precipitation records collected between 1906 and 1956, predicts that the site receives an average annual precipitation of between 16 to 20 inches.
Groundwater levels at the site fluctuate throughout the year, primarily influenced by the amount of precipitation during the winter rainy season. Levels are highest during the winter and spring months when rainfall infiltrates and recharges the groundwater table in the bedrock. Conversely, groundwater levels are lowest in the autumn, just before the onset of the rainy season. During this period, spring discharge increases, and ephemeral springs and seeps develop at the bases of the landslide deposits.
The site features two perennial springs, likely resulting from the intersection of the groundwater table with the ground surface. These springs remain saturated throughout summer, continuing into October. As spring transitions into late spring, groundwater levels and perennial spring discharge begin to decrease.
Additionally, short-lived ephemeral springs appear at the base of the landslide during the winter and spring, but these discharges cease in the summer as groundwater levels drop.
6.0 Operations
The Preserve’s Operational Plan serves as a guiding document for the sustainable management, protection, and public enjoyment of this unique agricultural open space. Designed to balance yearround cattle grazing, habitat conservation, and passive recreational use, this plan outlines key operational practices, safety measures, and maintenance protocols. It establishes clear standards for trail use, weather-related closures, wildfire prevention, and habitat protection, ensuring that the Preserve remains a safe, enjoyable, and ecologically vibrant resource for the community. Through proactive monitoring, strategic partnerships, and routine maintenance, City staff aim to minimize environmental impacts, promote biodiversity, and provide a high-quality outdoor experience for visitors. This plan reflects the City of American Canyon’s commitment to preserving the natural integrity of the Preserve while fostering opportunities for connection with nature and responsible stewardship of our shared open space.
6.1 Operational Hours
The Preserve operates year-round, seven days a week, from sunrise to sunset of each day. However, the Preserve may be temporarily closed under specific conditions, including scheduled maintenance activities, inclement weather, poor trail conditions, excessive heat advisories, or Red Flag Warnings.
In the event of a closure, City staff will make every effort to communicate updates promptly to the community through official communication channels. Clear closure notifications will be implemented, including locking and securing entrance gates and posting signage at the trailhead and main gate to inform visitors of closure. These measures are essential to prevent unauthorized access and ensure public safety during periods of heightened risk.
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23 The Preserve will reopen only when City staff determine conditions are safe for public access. This decision will consider environmental factors, maintenance status, and overall public safety. These operational guidelines are designed to ensure sustainable management and accessibility of the Preserve while prioritizing safety, resource protection, and community communication.
6.2 Recreational Use
The Preserve offers opportunities for low-density, passive recreational use while honoring the values outlined in the Conservation Easement, which include natural, scenic, open space, historical, agricultural, educational, and recreation goals. Permitted recreational activities include, among others, hiking, horseback riding, bicycling, wildlife observation, nature study, environmental education, photography, kite flying, scenery painting, and meditation. These activities are designed to be compatible with the conservation objectives of the Preserve, ensuring minimal impact on its ecological and cultural resources.
It is important to note that overnight tent camping is not currently permitted within the property.
6.3 General Park Rules
To ensure the health, safety, and enjoyment of our community, and to ensure the protection and preservation of our natural habitats and protected species, the City of American Canyon, along with the Land Trust have established General Park Rules as outlined below.
1. Close all pedestrian and cattle gates.
2. All persons and their pets, including equestrians, and bicyclists shall remain on mapped and designed trail areas. Off-trail use is prohibited (Municipal Code 12.04.220).
3. Bicyclists under the age of 18 are required to wear a helmet (California Vehicle Code Section 21200 et seq).
4. Class 1 electric bicycles are permitted and must be clearly labeled with the manufacturer’s label indicating the type of electric bicycle and wattage.
5. Class 1 electric bicyclists are required to follow all the same posted rules and regulations as a bicyclist.
6. Bicyclists may ride a max speed of 15 mph, and must use caution and reduce to a safe speed when passing or on blind turns, and when approaching people, wildlife and cattle.
7. Bicyclists must obey speed limits and maintain control and speed of the bicycle at all times (Municipal Code 12.04.220).
8. Bicyclists shall yield to pedestrians and horses, and pedestrians and bicyclists shall yield to horses (Municipal Code 12.04.220).
9. Stay out of the creek beds, wetlands, riparian areas, and waterways.
10. Pack in, pack out – including trash and dog feces.
11. No camping for overnight stays (Municipal Code 12.06.010).
12. Dogs are required to be always leashed with a maximum of a 6-foot leash (Municipal Code
12.04070) and are not permitted in the upper Cattle Pasture area.
13. Pedestrians with dogs are required to pick up after their pets.
14. Smoking, fires, or fireworks are prohibited.
15. Do not disturb or remove plants, shrubs, or trees.
16. Do not disturb, startle, feed, or approach any wildlife or animals. Maintain a safe distance from any cattle or wildlife.
17. No person shall disturb livestock or grazing animals (Municipal Code 12.04.220).
18. No person shall release any domesticated or wild animal, plant, flower, tree, seed, or other vegetation on trails.
19. Equestrians shall maintain control and speed of their animal at all times and are encouraged to wear a helmet while riding (Municipal Code 12.04.220).
20. No hunting, fishing, wading, or swimming.
21. Firearms and dangerous weapons are not permitted.
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24 22. It is unlawful for any person to ride or drive any vehicle within any city park or open space without permission of the City Manager or designee (Municipal Code 12.04.110).
Visitors are expected to adhere to all posted rules, regulations, and warnings while visiting the Preserve.
City staff reserves the right to issue warnings, fines, or even restrict access to certain areas. Failure to comply with the City of American Canyon’s General Park Rules, regulations, and City Ordinances shall be asked to leave the Preserve and/or may be issued a citation by the City of American Canyon’s Police Department Pursuant to American Canyon Municipal Code Section 1.24.010.
6.4 Trailhead and Parking
The Preserves has one designated public entrance and exit point, located at the trailhead in the parking lot. The parking lot is for day-use visitors only, overnight parking or camping is not permitted. Clear signage will communicate these rules, and City staff will monitor compliance to ensure the safety and proper use of the trailhead and parking area. Unauthorized vehicles may be cited or towed in accordance with local regulations.
6.5 Trail System
The Preserve’s trail system is classified as Class 2, Multi-Use, accommodating cyclists, equestrians, and pedestrians. With its moderate terrain, the trail invites individuals of varying skill levels to explore and enjoy the natural surroundings, fostering a shared space for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors must stay on designated trails at all times and are not permitted to go off trail or create new trails, as doing so can damage sensitive habitats, create erosion and water quality impacts and disrupt the natural ecosystem.
While trails were originally old cattle roads, they are not designed or maintained as roads, but rather as recreational trails intended for safe and responsible public use. The trail system also connects to Lynch Canyon, offering visitors the opportunity to explore a separate open space property with its own set of rules and regulations.
7.0 Maintenance
The trail system at the Preserve is designed to provide safe, enjoyable, and sustainable experiences for a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, horseback riding, and bicycling. Maintaining this multiuse trail system requires careful management to balance the needs of different user groups while preserving the Preserve’s natural environment and protected habitats. The following trail standards and maintenance outline the City’s approach to managing and operating this open space property, ensuring that it remains safe, accessible, and in harmony with the Conservation Easement.
7.1 Trail Standards
Managing and operating a multi-use trail system can be difficult as each activity has its own needs and expectations. Multi-use trails represent a compromise between the different groups; this compromise can often result in less user satisfaction. The City of American Canyon will make every effort to provide a safe, usable, enjoyable, and sustainable trail system. However, trail conditions can vary depending on the time of year, the impact of rain and storms, nature, maintenance, and other occurrences. The trail system throughout the Preserve will remain in its natural condition, and in some cases, maintenance may be provided by the City of American Canyon to improve the visitor experience and safety and address erosion or runoff concerns. These improvements will not be at the cost of impacting the Preserve’s natural environment, protected habitats, and species. Per the Preserve’s Conservation Easement, any work to the property, including the trail system, will be required to be preapproved by the Land Trust before starting the work.
7.1.1 Trail Layout and Tread
The use of gravel as a surfacing material on the trail tread creates a durable, long-lasting surface. To maintain the sustainability of the multi-use trail, the City may add crushed rock aggregate to reinforce the trail tread, applying a minimum 3-inch layer of gravel that covers the full width of the trail. Where the multi-use trail runs adjacent to springs or other features impacting the tread conditions, the City may 125
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25 employ rock armoring as part of the trail tread to reduce erosion impacts. The trail is presently maintained as a packed dirt base, approximately 10 to 14 feet wide.
7.1.2 Rolling Dip Inspections
In 2019, The City of American Canyon partnered with Napa County Resource Conservation District (NCRCD) to install rolling dips throughout the Preserve’s trail system. This project was implemented to reduce trail-related sediment delivery using land-smart practices aimed at enhancing water quality, habitat, and riparian areas by mitigating erosion from the trails. As part of the agreement, the City will maintain the project for 10 years through the following actions:
• Allow NCRCD to inspect the site at the end of each rainy season, including water quality monitoring and photo documentation.
• Conduct annual checks of the trail system before the rainy season (by October 15 of each year) and following major storms to identify any significant alterations caused by erosion or settling.
Ensure that rolling dips continue to function properly, dispersing runoff without causing erosion at the outlet.
• Maintain the rolling dips throughout the monitoring term, ensuring they are not removed or graded out.
• Notify NCRCD within 7 days if conditions arise that may require substantial repairs.
7.2 Evaluation
City staff will regularly evaluate the conditions of the Preserve’s trail system and may increase inspections during adverse weather conditions. If any trail or section is deemed unsafe or unusable, the City will temporarily close the affected areas. City staff will follow appropriate procedures to address and repair any damage. The City’s goal is to perform routine maintenance throughout the year to minimize resource impacts and ensure the safety and usability of the trail system.
7.2.1 Trail Inventory
To help manage the maintenance needs for the Preserve, City staff will create an inventory of the physical assets of the trail, including features along the trail like signage, seating, and special trail features. This inventory will be kept up to date on an annual basis.
7.2.2 Seasonal Inspections
City staff will inspect the Preserve’s trail system and cross-check the inventory list on a seasonal basis:
Summer, Fall, Winter, and Spring - with a minimum of four times a year. Additional checks may be conducted as needed. Work Orders will be a result of any issues, defects, or needs observed during the inspections.
7.2.3 Prioritizing Maintenance
Routine maintenance will be scheduled on a seasonal or annual basis depending on the scope of the work. Outside of the City’s normal protocol, work will be prioritized from Low Priority, Medium Priority, High Priority, and Emergency.
• Low Priority: Tasks and work that need to be done but are not vital to the day-to-day operations.
These tasks and work might include non-critical repairs. • Medium Priority: Routine or preventive maintenance schedules. These tasks or work will affect operations eventually and need to be performed to maintain optimum production. • High Priority: Will directly affect operations now or in the future. • Emergency: Take priority over all other work and require immediate danger of life, health, safety, security, or operational damage to the Preserve.
7.3 Routine Maintenance
Routine maintenance is essential for preserving the safety, accessibility, and overall quality of the Preserve’s trails and natural resources. It involves regularly scheduled inspections, repairs, and upkeep to 126
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26 ensure that trails, vegetation, and other park elements are in optional condition. By conducting routine maintenance, the City of American Canyon aims to enhance the visitor experience, protect the environment, and minimize long-term resource impacts, ensuring the Preserve remains a safe and enjoyable space for the community.
7.3.1 Trail Maintenance Window
Maintenance to the Preserve will occur from March to November of each year – dependent on weather, and state and local regulations.
7.3.2 Grading and Maintenance Window
Grading will only occur during the dry months (generally May 15 through October 15), when associated erosion will be reduced to the maximum extent possible. Grading trails can disrupt the seed bank below the soil, allowing more non-native and invasive species to grow on the trail. Grading to the trail system will only occur on an as-needed basis.
7.4 Weather-Related Closures
Extreme weather activity can create resource damage such as trail washout, oversaturation, flooding, and instances of hill slides. This presents a level of risk to park visitors and a potential need for Emergency Medical Service professionals that can be best mitigated by closing the Preserve until conditions are safe to enter and use. The conditions of the Preserve are monitored by City staff; City staff will be responsible for the opening and closing of the Preserve and may be at the direction of outside agencies like the American Canyon Fire Protection District, Napa County, etc.
7.4.1 Wet Weather
The Preserve may close at any time due to inclement weather. City staff will utilize the National Weather Service website for predictions and assistance throughout the year. In cases where the City of American Canyon experiences ½” or more of rainfall within 12 hours – the Preserve will be closed. For every ½” of rainfall equals one (1) day of closure unless otherwise noted by City staff. Closure may exceed this formula due to trail conditions.
7.4.2 Red Flag Warning
The Preserve may close at any time due to a Red Flag Warning. Red Flag Warnings may be issued by the American Canyon Fire Protection District, Napa County, Cal Fire, and the National Weather Services.
Preserve will be closed for the full duration of the warning, and will reopen once the warning is lifted. The minimum standard observed is 80/20/20 (+80 degrees / +20 mph winds / -20% humidity).
7.4.3 Air Quality
Air pollution can cause serious health issues and local air quality can affect our daily lives. Like the weather, air quality can change from day to day and/or be impacted by air pollution, wildfires, and other emergencies. The Preserve may close at any time for an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 101 to 200; the Preserve will remain closed until the air quality improves. The City of American Canyon measures AQI through Air Now.
7.5 Grazing
For over 150 years, the Preserve has served as agricultural land, with cattle grazing playing a key role in resource management for the past 50 years. Since 1999, the Azevedo Livestock Company has been a dedicated partner of the City, continuing a longstanding tradition of conservation grazing alongside the Newell family. Today, Azevedo Livestock Company’s cattle primarily graze the upper pasture of the property, with open, year-round grazing access between the Azevedo property, the Preserve, and Lynch Canyon Open Space. The lower portion of the property is grazed by other animals seasonally or on an asneeded basis as part of targeted grazing efforts to reduce fine fuels and target non-native species. City staff regularly evaluate and monitor grazing practices, collaborating closely with the Azevedo family and the Land Trust to balance effective resource management while preserving a positive experience for all park visitors.
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27 7.5.1 Benefits of Grazing Animals
Conservation grazing is a vital land management tool that supports healthy grassland ecosystems, enhances habitat diversity, and plays a critical role in wildlife protection. Without grazing, grassland areas would become overrun by weedy, undesirable, and invasive plants. Grazing reduces the cover of annual grasses, creating opportunities for wildflowers and native grasses to thrive. Well-managed conservation grazing also fosters habitat diversity, supporting numerous wildlife species, including endangered ones.
Beyond the ecological benefits, grazing significantly reduces wildfire risks by controlling flammable vegetation. While cattle are effective in managing grasslands in the upper portion of the property, goats and sheep are often deployed in the lower portions of the property getting in hard-to-reach areas like creek beds and steep hillsides. These proactive measures not only slow the spread and intensity of wildfires but also prevent grasslands from transitioning into more flammable shrublands, giving firefighters a better chance to control and contain fires.
7.5.2 What To Do Around Cattle
Cattle grazing in the Preserve plays an essential role in managing the property’s grasslands, reducing wildfire risks, and supporting native habitats. However, sharing the Preserve with grazing animals requires visitors to be mindful of their presence, especially during calving season from August to October. While calves may be adorable, human interaction with them poses risks to both people and animals.
Additionally, cattle can cause trail damage during the rainy season, produce manure, and may react defensively if startled or threatened. Visitors are welcome to hike through the cattle pasture, but its important to remain mindful and respectful to these animals. Cattle are not familiar with people, and they are actively working on the landscape. Here are guidelines for visitors:
• Dogs are not permitted in the grazing pasture.
• Admire calves from a distance. Do not approach, touch, or attempt to relocate calves, even if they appear to be alone. Mother cows are often grazing nearby and will return. Getting between a calf and its mother can cause stress, injury, or even death to a calf or person. • Give cattle space. If cattle are blocking the trail, approach slowly, speak calmly, and allow them time to move away. If necessary, walk around them or briefly step off the trail. • Close pedestrian gates. Always close pedestrian gates behind you to prevent livestock from wandering into unintended areas.
7.6 Weed Management & Invasive Species
Weed management and invasive species control are critical components of maintaining the health and sustainability of an open space preserve. Invasive species can be relentless, leading to the extirpation of native plants and animals, destroying biodiversity, and altering wildlife habitats. Their spread negatively impacts the environment, and both human and animal health and safety. The Preserve is home to several invasive species, which are actively address throughout the year. However, one of the most common challenges for visitors is the presence of various thistles, which are focused on in management to maintain the integrity of the landscape and ensure a positive experience for all who enjoy the area.
7.6.1 Thistles
Artichoke thistle, along with yellow and purple start thistle, are particularly prevalent, emerging from November to August. To mitigate this issue, City staff work to manage thistle populations along and within the trail system on a regular basis. This includes tactics such as blading or dragging the trail to remove thistle, as well as utilizing an herbicide spray that is safe for wildlife and cattle. These measures are part of an ongoing effort to reduce the spread of these invasive species and protect the Preserve's natural environment. Herbicide spraying should be coordinated with any grading efforts to ensure the best possible reduction in overall species.
7.6.2 Brush
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28 the established trail tread and onto the berm. The removal of all living or dead vegetation from the trailway will occur on an as-needed basis for resource protection, safe trail access, and the protection of the trail.
7.7 Wildfire Prevention
The vegetation within the Preserve plays a vital role in controlling erosion, managing stormwater, filtering pollutants, and providing aesthetic value to the natural landscape. It is essential to protect desirable trees, shrubs, and grasses as they contribute to oxygen production, nutrient cycling, and improve water quality. In recent years, California has experienced more frequent and intense wildfires, driven by factors such as drought, human activity near wildlands, longer summers, fire suppression history, water shortages, and the effects of climate change. Vegetation management is crucial in mitigating wildfire risks by reducing the spread of fires, managing invasive species, and promoting ecological health through controlled vegetation thinning.
To address these risks, the City of American Canyon has implemented proactive wildfire prevention measures, including conservation grazing, mowing, and strategic partnerships, all aligned with our resource management goals to enhance native plant diversity and protect the natural environment.
7.7.1 Conservation Grazing
Livestock grazing is a science-based management tool used to maintain grassland habitats, promote the growth of native plants, and reduce wildfire risk. The City of American Canyon has a Grazing License with the Azevedo Family for the upper portions of the Preserve known as the Grazing Pasture. This grazing method is year-round or continuous with little to no restrictions and occurs simultaneously on the adjacent Azevedo Property and Lynch Canyon Open Space. Additional grazing methods may be used on the lower portions of the property, outside of the Grazing Pasture throughout the year. This type of grazing may occur along the Preserve’s trail system, and picnic and barn areas.
7.7.2 Mowing
To maintain vegetation along trails and reduce fire risk, mowing is scheduled during the Trail Maintenance Window (March through November). The California Department of Fish and Wildlife defines bird nesting season as February 1st through August 15th, during which mowing may be restricted. Before mowing, City staff will coordinate with a third-party company to conduct a biological survey. o Negative Survey: If the survey results are negative, mowing can proceed within two weeks, with the requirement that the work continues uninterrupted until completed. If work stops and resumes at a later date, a new Biological Survey must be completed. o Positive Survey: If a survey identifies nesting birds, mowing is prohibited, and the City must wait for a specified period before resubmitting a new Biological Survey.
7.7.3 Partnerships
The City collaborates with the American Canyon Fire Protection District and CalFire to safeguard open space areas within American Canyon. These partnerships strengthen our ability to manage and prevent wildfires and mitigate risks effectively.
8.0 Conservation Monitoring
The Land Trust conducts annual conservation monitoring of the property to assess its ecological health and ensure adherence to conservation values. The City works closely with the Land Trust to strike a balance between conservation and public access, ensuring the property is managed and operated in alignment with the Conservation Easement. This collaboration ensures that public access and recreational use remain compatible with the conservation objectives and values, maintaining the integrity of the property’s natural and cultural resources while providing meaningful opportunities for the community to enjoy and appreciate the Preserve.
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The City will actively collaborate with the Land Trust to implement restoration efforts focused on removing invasive plants, planting native species, restoring habitats, and managing wildlife populations. All restoration projects will adhere to best practices and standards, including consulting with professionals to ensure proper planning, implementation, and maintenance of the work. Efforts will include targeted projects such as weed removal along and on the trails, tree plantings in strategically planned locations, and habitat enhancement efforts. Of particular importance is the enhancement of aquatic resources to encourage CRLF use of the wetlands on the Preserve for breeding and non-breeding habitat. In addition, the restoration of riparian habitat through stream system management that addresses channel incisions and head-cuts and the expansion of native riparian vegetation would benefit a variety of wildlife species, including special-status northwestern pond turtles and nesting birds.
10.0 Conclusion
The Preserve’s Management Plan serves as a comprehensive guide to ensuring the long-term sustainability, ecological integrity, and community values of this vital natural resource. By balancing our conservation efforts with public access and education, this plan fosters a deeper connection between people and the environment while protecting sensitive habitats, species, and property.
The strategies outlined in this plan emphasize adaptive management, stakeholder collaboration, and our commitment to preserving the unique ecological and cultural features of the preserve. Through ongoing monitoring, resource stewardship, and community engagement, this plan aims to create a legacy of responsible management that will benefit future generations.
With a clear framework for maintenance, restoration, and visitor access, this plan provides the foundation of achieving the dual goal of conservation and recreation, ensuring that the preserve remains a cherished and thriving part of our community.
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for a va1iety of birds and mammals, including an important wintering area for a significant population of Golden Eagles. In addition, the Property contains an impmtant Coast Live Oak forest that is over 200 years old.
D. The specific Conservation Values of the Property are further documented in an inventory of relevant features of the Property, dated December 17, 1999, on file at the offices of the Trust and incorporated by this reference (the "Baseline Documentation"), consisting of reports, maps, photographs, and other documentation which the paities agree provide, collectively, an accurate representation of the Property at the time of this grant and which are intended to serve as an objective, though nonexclusive, information baseline for monitming compliance with the terms of this grant
E. Grantors intend that the Conservation Values of the Property be preserved and maintained by permitting only those uses of the Property that do not significantly impair or interfere with the Conservation Values.
F. Napa County has a long-standing conservation policy to provide for the preservation of lands both for agricultural production and for watershed for that production by using, whenever possible, exclusive agricultural or agricultural watershed zoning. The Property is presently zoned "Agricultural Watershed." G. Grantors further intend, as owners of the Prope1ty, to convey to the Trust the right to preserve and protect the Conservation Values of the Prope1ty in perpetuity.
H. The Trust is a publicly supported, tax-exempt nonprofit organization, and a qualified organization under Sections 501( c )(3) and 170(h) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the regulations promulgated thereunder ( the "Internal Revenue Code"), whose primaiy purpose is the preservation, protection, and enhancement of land in its natural, scenic, historical, agricultural, forested, and/or open-space condition.
L Immediately following this grant of a conservation easement, Grantors intend to donate the underlying fee simple interest in the Property to the City of American Canyon in order to create the "Jack and Bernice Newell Open Space" (the "Open Space"). It is the intention of Grantors that the Open Space be passively used by the public for hiking, horseback riding, bicycling, picnicking, and other passive recreational uses so long as such uses do not diminish or impair other Conservation Values.
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3. 7. Hunting or trapping, except with the prior written consent of the Tmst, such consent to be given only to the extent necessaiy to allow ecological research or to maintain the ecological balance in the ai·ea of the Prope1iy, or as reasonably necessaiy for agricultural purposes.
3.8. The operation of any motorized vehicle for any purpose, except for emergency use, permitted agricultural or residential uses, or for maintenance of the Prope1iy or permitted facilities.
3. 9. The pmning, felling, or other destruction or removal of dead or living native trees, except as necessary to control or prevent hazards, disease, or fire.
3 .10 Any alteration of the surface of the land, including, without limitation, the excavation or removal of soil, sand, gravel, rock, peat, or sod. 3 .11. Mining, drilling, exploration for, or extraction of minerals, hydrocai·bons, steam, soils, or other materials on or below the surface of the Prope1iy, except as may be necessary to cai1y out the pennitted uses set forth in Paragraph 4.
3.12. Any use or activity that causes or is likely to cause soil degradation or erosion, or pollution of any surface or subsmface waters. 3 .13. The alteration or manipulation of any water courses located on the Property, or the creation of any new water impoundments or water com·ses, for any purpose other than for agricultural uses of the Property permitted herein or for protection of sensitive plant or animal habitat, including, but not limited to the provisions of Paragraphs 4.12 and 4.13.
3.14. The dumping or other disposal of wastes, refuse, and debris on the Property, except that which is generated by agricultural and passive recreational activities pennitted herein and disposed of in a lawful manner.
3.15. The shooting of guns (except for purposes of the exceptions to Paragraph 3. 7), explosives, or fireworks.
4. Reserved Rights. Grantors reserve to themselves, and to their personal representatives, heirs, successors, and assigns, all rights accming from their ownership of the Property, including the right to engage in or pennit or invite others to engage in, all uses of the Property that are neither expressly prohibited -5-
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mitigation, for the California Red-Legged Frog (Rana aurora draytonii). Said habitat shall be in the location described in Exhibit B, which is attached hereto and incorporated by this reference. In the event that this off-site mitigation does not take place prior to January 1, 2005, this reserved right shall terminate. At the Trust's sole discretion, additional land may be added to the land described in Exhibit B at the request of the original Grantors.
4.13. At Grantors' sole expense, to preserve, enhance, restore, or create habitat on the Property in compliance with any requirements imposed upon Grantors by a governmental agency pursuant to applicable laws regarding endangered or threatened species which exist on the Property; provided, however, that Grantors shall use their best effmts to utilize no more of the Property for said purposes than is necessaiy to comply with such requirements.
5. Notice and Approval.
5.1. Notice of Intention to Undertake Certain Activities or Uses.
The purpose of requiring Grantors to notify the Trust prior to undertaking certain activities or uses, as provided in the third sentence of Paragraph 3, is to afford the Trust an adequate oppmtunity to consider the proposed activities or uses to determine whether or not they ai·e pennitted under this Deed of Easement and, if it is dete1mined that they are pennitted, to monitor said activities or uses to ensure that they ai·e designed and carried out in a manner that is consistent with the purpose of this Deed of Easement, as well as to enable Grai1tors to engage in pe1mitted activities without concern as to unintended violations of this Deed of Easement. Whenever notice is required, or Grantors wish confirmation that they may proceed with an activity or use, Grantors shall solicit the approval of the T1ust. Grantors shall submit a written description of the proposed activity or use, which shall be refeITed to herein as an "application," describing the nature, scope, design, location, timetable, and any other material aspect of the proposed activity or use in sufficient detail to permit the Trust to make an informed judgment as to its consistency with the purpose of this Deed of Easement. Within thitty (30) days after the receipt of the application, the Trust shall inform Grantors in writing whether the application is complete or whether additional, specified information is required for a complete application. In the event that the Trust reasonably dete1mines that the advice of a consultant such as an engineer, ecologist, att01ney, or surveyor is necessary to detennine whether an application is complete and/or to assist the Trust in reviewing the application, a fee based upon an estimate to cover such costs will be required as pa.it of the application. -8-
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5.2. Trnst's Approval. When the Trnst's approval is required or sought as set forth herein, the Trnst shall grant or deny its approval in writing within sixty (60) days after receipt of Grantors' complete application. C1iteria that the T1ust may consider include, without limitation, compliance with the provisions of this Deed of Easement, the capability of the proposed activity or use to preserve and enhance the Conservation Values protected by this Deed of Easement, the manner in which the proposed activity or use is to be carried out, and the likely effect of the proposed activity or use upon the Conservation Values of the Property. The Trust's approval may be withheld upon a reasonable determination by the Trust that the activity or use as proposed would be inconsistent with the purpose of this Deed of Easement. The Trnst acknowledges and agrees that the Property is intended to be used for passive recreational uses, and that the preservation of the Prope11y for passive recreation by the general public is one of the conservation purposes of this Deed of Easement. Failure of the T1ust to respond to a notice within sixty (60) days of receipt of that notice shall constitute a denial unless Grantors send a second notice by certified mail return, postage prepaid, return receipt requested, and an additional thirty (30) days have expired without a response, in which case the request is deemed approved.
6. Trnst's Remedies.
6.1. Notice of Violation; C01Tective Action. If the Trnst determines that a violation of the terms of this Deed of Easement has occmTed or is threatened, the Trnst shall give written notice to Grantors of such violation and demand corrective action sufficient to cure the violation and, where the violation involves injury to the Prope11y resulting from any use or activity inconsistent with the purpose of this Deed of Easement, to restore the portion of the Prope11y so injm·ed to its prior condition in accordance with a plan approved by the T1ust.
6.2. Injunctive Relief. If Grantors fail to cure the violation within 10 days after receipt of notice thereof from the Trust or under circumstances where the violation cannot reasonably be cured within a 10-day period, fail to begin curing such violation within the 10-day period, or fail to continue diligently to cm·e such violation until finally cured, the Trnst may bring an action at law or in equity in a comi of competent jurisdiction to enforce the te1ms of this Deed of Easement, to enjoin the violation, ex parte if necessary, by temporary or permanent injunction, and to require the restoration of the Property to the condition that existed prior to any such injury.
6.3. Damages. The Trust shall be entitled to recover damages for violation of the te1ms of this Deed of Easement or injmy to any of the -9-
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Conservation Values protected by this Deed of Easement, including, without limitation, damages for the loss of scenic, aesthetic, or environmental values.
Without limiting Grantors' liability therefor, the Trust, in its sole discretion, may apply any damages recovered to the cost of undertaking any conective action on the Property.
6.4 Emergency Enforcement. If the Trust, in its sole discretion, determines that circumstances require immediate action to prevent or mitigate significant damage to the Conservation Values of the Prope11y, the T1ust may pursue its remedies under this Paragraph 6 without prior notice to Gran.tors or without waiting for the period provided for cure to expire.
6.5. Scope of Relief. The Trust's tights under this Paragraph 6 apply equally in the event of either actual or threatened violations of the te1ms of this Deed of Easement. Grantors agree that the Trust's remedies at law for any violation of the terms of this Deed of Easement are inadequate and that the Trust shall be entitled to the injunctive relief described in Paragraph 6.2, both prohibitive and mandatory, in addition to such other relief to which the Trust may be entitled, including specific pe1formance of the terms of this Deed of Easement, without the necessity of proving either actual damages or the inadequacy of otherwise available legal remedies. The Trust's remedies described in this Paragraph 6 shall be cumulative and shall be in addition to all remedies now or hereafter existing at law or in equity.
6.6. Costs of Enforcement. All reasonable costs incmTed by the Trust in enforcing the terms of this Deed of Easement against Grantors, including, without limitation, costs of suit and reasonable attorneys' fees, and any costs of restoration necessitated by Grantors' violation of the te1ms of this Deed of Easement shall be borne by Grantors; provided, however, that if Grantors ultimately prevail in a judicial enforcement action, Grantors shall be entitled to reimbm·sement for costs of suit and reasonable attorneys' fees.
6.7. Forbearance. Forbearance by the Trust to exercise its rights under this Deed of Easement in the event of any breach of any te1m of this Deed of Easement by Grantors shall not be deemed or construed to be a waiver by the Trust of such term or of any subsequent breach of the same or any other te1m of this Deed of Easement. No delay in or omission of the exercise of any right or remedy upon any breach by Grantors shall impair such right or remedy or be constlued as a waiver.
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against the Property by competent authority ( collectively "taxes"), including, without limitation, any taxes imposed upon, or incurred as a result of, this Deed of Easement, and shall furnish the Trust with satisfactory evidence of payment upon request.
8.3. Representations and Warranties. Grantors represent and Wa.ITant that, after reasonable investigation and to the best of their knowledge:
8.3.1. No substance defined, listed, or otherwise classified pursuant to any federal, state, or local law, regulation, or requirement as hazardous, toxic, polluting, or othe1wise contaminating to the air, water, or soil, or in any other way harmful or threatening to human health or the environment, exists or has been released, generated, treated, stored, used, disposed of, deposited, abandoned, or transported in, on, under, from, or across the Property;
8.3.2. There are not now any underground storage tanks
located on the Prope1ty, whether presently in service or closed, abandoned, or decommissioned, and no underground storage tanks have been removed from the Property in a manner not in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and requirements;
8.3.3. Grantors and the Property are in compliance with all federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and requirements applicable to the Property and its use;
8.3.4. There is no pending or threatened litigation in any way affecting, involving, or relating to the Property; and
8.3.5. No civil or criminal proceedings or investigations have been instigated at any time or are now pending, and no notices, claims, demands, or orders have been received, arising out of any violation or alleged violation of, or failure to comply with, any federal, state, or local law, regulation, or requirement applicable to the Property or its use, nor do there exist any facts or circumstances that Grantors might reasonably expect to f01m the basis for any such proceedings, investigations, notices, claims, demands, or orders.
8.4. Remediation. If, at any time, there occurs, or has occurred, a release in, on, from, under, or about the Property of any substance now or hereafter defined, listed, or otherwise classified pursuant to any federal, state, or local law, regulation, or requirement as hazardous, toxic, polluting, or otherwise conta.IIlinating to the air, water, or soil, or in any other way harmful or threatening -12-
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Appendix B.
Vascular Plants Occurring at Newell Canyon Open Space
SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME
PTERIDOPHYTES - FERNS AND ALLIES
Adiantum jordanii California maidenhair fern
Dryopteris arguta California wood fern
Equisetum laevigatum Braun's scouring rush
Equisetum telmateia ssp. braunii giant horsetail
Pentagramma triangularis ssp. triangularis goldenback fern Polypodium glycyrrhiza Polypody
Polystichum imbricans ssp. sword fern
Pteridium aquilinum var. pubescens western bracken
ANTHOPHYTES - FLOWERING PLANTS
Toxicodendron diversilobum poison oak
Angelica californica California angelica
Heracleum lanatum cow parsnip
Lomatium macrocarpum large-fruited lomatium
Lomatium nudicaule pestle parsnip
Lomatium utriculatum foothill lomatium
Osmorhiza chilensis mountain sweet cicely
Perideridia kelloggii Kellogg's yampah
Sanicula bipinnatifida purple sanicle
Sanicula crassicaulis pacific snakeroot
Scandix pectin-veneris Spanish needles *
Torilis nodosa knotted hedge parsley *
Aristolochia californica dutchman’s pipe
Achillea millefolium common yarrow
Agoseris grandiflora large-flowered agoseris
Artemisia douglasiana Douglas's mugwort
Artemisia californica California sagebrush
Baccharis pilularis coyote brush
Balsamorhiza macrolepis ssp. macrolepis California balsamroot Carduus pycnocephalus Italian thistle *
Centaurea calcitrapa purple star thistle *
Centaurea solstitialis yellow star thistle *
Cirsium vulgare bull thistle *
Cotula coronopifolia brass buttons *
Erigeron petrophilus ssp. petrophilus rock daisy
Eriophyllum lanatum var. achillaeoides woolly sunflower Gnaphalium canescens ssp. beneolens slender cudweed
Gnaphalium purpureum purple cudweed
Gnaphalium stramineum cotton-batting plant
Hemizonia congesta ssp. luzulifolia hayfield tarweed
Hesperevax sparsiflora var. sparsiflora erect hesperevax Heterotheca sessiliflora ssp. bolanderi Bolander's hairy golden aster Lagophylla ramosissima common haireleaf
Madia gracilis slender madia
Picris echioides prickly ox-tongue*
Silybum marianum milk thistle *
Sonchus oleraceus sow thistle *
Wyethia angustifolia narrow-leaved mule ears
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SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME
Wyethia glabra glossy mule ears
Berberis pinnata ssp. pinnata California mahonia
Corylus cornuta var. californica California hazelnut
Amsinckia menziesii ssp. intermedia common fiddleneck
Cynoglossum grande grand hound's tongue
Brassica niger black mustard*
Cardamine californica ssp. californica California milkmaids Erysimum capitatum var. wallflower
Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum watercress
Sisymbrium officianale hedge mustard*
Lonicera hispidula var. vacillans hairy honeysuckle
Sambucus mexicana desert elderberry
Symphoricarpus albus ssp. laevigatus common snowberry
Silene californica California Indian pink
Silene gallica windmill pink *
Stellaria media common chickweed *
Calystegia subacaulis ssp. subacaulis hill morning glory Calystegia ssp. morning glory
Dudleya cymosa ssp. cymosa live forever
Marah fabaceus California manroot
Dipsacus sativus Fuller's teasel *
Arbutus menziesii madrone
Lathyrus jepsonii ssp. californicus Jepson's pea
Lathyrus vestitus var. vestitus hillside pea
Lotus corniculatus bird's foot trefoil *
Lupinus bicolor miniature lupine
Lupinus succulentus succulent lupine
Medicago arabica black medic *
Medicago polymorpha bur clover*
Trifolium dubium shamrock*
Trifolium hirtum rose clover
Trifolium subterraneum subterranean clover *
Vicia americana var. americana American vetch
Vicia sativa ssp. nigra winter vetch *
Vicia sativa ssp. sativa spring vetch *
Erodium botrys long-beaked filaree *
Erodium cicutarium red-stemmed filaree *
Geranium dissectum cut-leaved geranium *
Geranium molle dove's foot geranium *
Ribes victoris Victor’s gooseberry
Aesculus californica buckeye
Phacelia distans common phacelia
Phacelia imbricata imbricate phacelia
Nemophila heterophylla woodland nemophila
Marrubium vulgare horehound*
Mentha pulegium pennyroyal *
Monardella villosa ssp. villosa coyote mint
Stachys ajugoides var. ajugoides hedge nettle
Stachys ajugoides var. rigida rigid hedge nettle
Umbellularia californica California bay
Lythrum hyssopifolia hyssop-leaved loosestrife *
Eucalyptus globules blue gum *
Epilobium brachycarpum panicled willowherb
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SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME
Zauschneria californica California fuchsia
Eschscholzia californica California poppy
Platystemon californicus cream cups
Plantago erecta dwarf plantain
Plantago subnuda Mexican plantain
Plantago lanceolata English plantain *
Eriogonum nudum var. oblongifolium nudestem buckwheat
Rumex acetosella sheep sorrel *
Rumex crispus curly dock*
Claytonia perfoliata ssp. perfoliata miner's lettuce
Anagallis arvensis scarlet pimpernel *
Ranunculus californicus California buttercup
Ranunculus muricatus prickleseed buttercup *
Rhamnus californica ssp. californica California coffeberry Acaena pinnatifida var. californica California acaena
Holodiscus discolor ocean spray
Malus sylvestris apple*
Potentilla glandulosa ssp. sticky cinquefoil
Rosa californica California rose
Rosa spithamea ground rose
Rubus discolor Himalayan blackberry
Rubus ursinus California blaclkberry
Galium aparine cleavers*
Galium murale wall bedstraw *
Galium porrigens ssp. porrigens climbing bedstraw
Salix exigua sandbar willow
Salix lasiolepis arroyo willow
Salix lucida ssp. lasiandra red willow
Lithophragma affine woodland star
Bellardia trixago bellardia *
Castilleja affinis ssp. affinis coast paintbrush
Castilleja affinis ssp. neglecta Tiburon paintbrush
Castilleja exserta ssp. exserta purple owl's clover
Castilleja rubicundula ssp. lithspermoides cream sacs
Mimulus aurantiacus sticky monkeyflower
Mimulus guttatus seep-spring monkeyflower
Scrophularia californica ssp. California figwort
Triphysaria pusilla dwarf owl's clover
Veronica americana American brooklime
Solanum americanum small flowered nightshade
Solanum umbelliferum blue witch
Urtica dioca ssp. holsericea hoary nettle
Viola pedunculata Johnny jump-ups
Phoradendron macrophyllum long-spiked mistletoe
Carex barbarae Santa Barbara sedge
Carex deweyana var. leptopoda short-scaled sedge
Cyperus eragrostis yellow-nutsedge
Eleocharis macrostachya creeping spikerush
Scirpus koilolepis keeled clubrush
Scirpus americanus American bulrush
Iris macrosiphon bowl-tubed iris
Sisyrinchium bellum blue-eyed grass
Juncus balticus Baltic rush
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SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME
Juncus effusus var. pacificus pacific bog rush
Juncus mexicanus Mexican rush
Juncus xiphioides Iris-leaved rush
Luzula subsessilis common wood rush
Allium serra serrated onion
Calochortus luteus gold nuggets
Chlorogalum pomeridianum var. pomeridianum Indian soap
Dichelostemma capitatum ssp. capitatum blue dies
Dichelostemma congestum ookow
Disporum hookeri Hooker's fairy bells
Smilacina stellata star false solomon·s seal
Trillium chloropetalum giant trillium
Zigadenus fremontii Fremont's star lily
Corallorhiza striata striped coral root
Avena barbata wild oats*
Bromus carinatus var. carinatus California brome
Bromus daindrus rip-gut grass *
Bromus hordeaceus soft chess*
Bromus laevipes woodland brome
Cynsurus echinatus dogtail grass *
Elymus elymoides ssp. elymoides bottlebrush squirrel-tail Elymus glaucus ssp. glaucus western rye grass
Elymus multisetus big squirrel-tail
Hordeum brachyantherum ssp. brachyantherum meadow barley Hordeum marinum ssp. gussoneanum Mediterranean barley * Leymus triticoides alkali rye
Lolium multiflorum Italian rye *
Melica californica California melica
Nassella lepida small-flowered neddlegrass
Nassella pulchra purple needlegrass
Poa annua annual bluegrass *
Poa secunda ssp. secunda pine bluegrass
Phalaris paradoxa paradox canary grass *
Polypogon monspeliensis rabbit's foot*
Typha angustifolia Narrow-leaved cat-tail
* Non-native species
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Appendix C.
Wildlife species observed in and around Newell Canyon Open Space SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME STATUS1
SOURCE
DATABASE2 WRA3
Mammals
Canis latrans coyote (scat) X X
Lepus californicus black-tailed jackrabbit X
Microtus californicus California vole X
Odocoileus hemionus columbianus black-tailed deer (tracks, scat) X X Birds
Accipiter cooperii Cooper's hawk X
Accipiter striatus sharp-shinned hawk X
Aeronautes saxatalis white-throated swift X
Agelaius phoeniceus red-winged blackbird X X
Aimophila ruficeps rufous-crowned sparrow X
Ammodramus savannarum grasshopper sparrow SSC X
Anas acuta northern pintail X
Anas crecca green-winged teal X
Anas platyrhynchos mallard X
Anas strepera gadwall X
Anser albifrons greater white-fronted goose X
Anthus rubescens American pipit X
Aphelocoma californica California scrub-jay X X
Aquila chrysaetos golden eagle GBEPA X X
Ardea alba great egret X
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SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME STATUS1
SOURCE
DATABASE2 WRA3
Ardea herodias great blue heron X
Baeolophus inornatus oak titmouse X
Bombycilla cedrorum cedar waxwing X
Branta canadensis Canada goose X
Branta hutchinsii cackling goose X
Bubo virginianus great horned owl X
Bucephala clangula common goldeneye X
Buteo jamaicensis red-tailed hawk X X
Buteo lagopus rough-legged hawk X
Buteo lineatus red-shouldered hawk X
Buteo regalis ferruginous hawk X
Buteo swainsoni Swainson's hawk ST X
Butorides virescens green heron X
Callipepla californica California quail X X
Calypte anna Anna's hummingbird X X
Cardellina pusilla Wilson's warbler X
Cathartes aura turkey vulture X X
Catharus guttatus hermit thrush X
Catharus ustulatus Swainson's thrush X
Certhia americana brown creeper X
Ceryle alcyon belted kingfisher X
Charadrius vociferus killdeer X
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SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME STATUS1
SOURCE
DATABASE2 WRA3
Chen caerulescens snow goose X
Chondestes grammacus lark sparrow X
Circus cyaneus northern harrier SSC X X
Cistothorus palustris marsh wren X
Colaptes auratus northern flicker X X
Columba livia rock pigeon (non-native) X X
Contopus cooperi olive-sided flycatcher SSC X
Contopus sordidulus western wood-pewee X
Corvus brachyrhynchos American crow X
Corvus corax common raven X X
Cyanocitta stelleri Steller's jay X
Elanus leucurus white-tailed kite SFP X X
Empidonax difficilis western flycatcher X
Empidonax traillii willow flycatcher X
Eremophila alpestris horned lark X
Euphagus cyanocephalus Brewer's blackbird X
Falco columbarius merlin X
Falco mexicanus prairie falcon X
Falco peregrinus peregrine falcon X X
Falco sparverius American kestrel X X
Fulica americana American coot X
Gallinago delicata Wilson's snipe X
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SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME STATUS1
SOURCE
DATABASE2 WRA3
Geothlypis trichas common yellowthroat SSC X
Haemorhous mexicanus house finch X X
Haemorhous purpureus purple finch X
Hirundo rustica barn swallow X
Hydroprogne caspia Caspian tern X
Icterus bullockii Bullock's oriole X
Icterus cucullatus hooded oriole X
Ixoreus naevius varied thrush X
Junco hyemalis dark-eyed junco X
Lanius ludovicianus loggerhead shrike SSC X
Larus smithsonianus American herring gull X
Larus californicus California gull X
Larus delawarensis ring-billed gull X
Larus occidentalis western gull X
Megascops kennicottii western screech-owl X
Melanerpes formicivorus acorn woodpecker X
Melanerpes lewis Lewis's woodpecker X
Meleagris gallopavo wild turkey (non-native) X
Melospiza lincolnii Lincoln's sparrow X
Melospiza melodia song sparrow X X
Melozone crissalis California towhee X X
Mimus polyglottos northern mockingbird X
161
2025 Newell Open Space Management Plan
C-5
SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME STATUS1
SOURCE
DATABASE2 WRA3
Molothrus ater brown-headed Cowbird X
Myadestes townsendi Townsend's solitaire X
Myiarchus cinerascens ash-throated flycatcher X
Numenius americanus long-billed curlew X
Nycticorax nycticorax black-crowned night-heron X
Oreothlypis celata orange-crowned warbler X
Oreothlypis ruficapilla Nashville warbler X
Pandion haliaetus osprey X
Passer domesticus house sparrow (non-native) X
Passerculus sandwichensis savannah sparrow X X
Passerella iliaca fox sparrow X X
Passerina amoena lazuli bunting X
Passerina caerulea blue grosbeak X
Patagioenas fasciata band-tailed pigeon X
Pelecanus erythrorhynchos American white pelican (flyover) SSC X Petrochelidon pyrrhonota cliff swallow X
Phalacrocorax auritus double-crested cormorant X
Phalaenoptilus nuttallii common poorwill X
Phasianus colchicus ring-necked pheasant X
Pheucticus melanocephalus black-headed grosbeak X
Picoides nuttallii Nuttall's woodpecker X
Picoides pubescens downy woodpecker X X
162
2025 Newell Open Space Management Plan
C-6
SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME STATUS1
SOURCE
DATABASE2 WRA3
Picoides villosus hairy woodpecker X
Pipilo maculatus spotted towhee X X
Piranga ludoviciana western tanager X
Poecile rufescens chestnut-backed chickadee X
Polioptila caerulea blue-gray gnatcatcher X
Pooecetes gramineus vesper sparrow X
Porzana carolina sora X
Psaltriparus minimus bushtit X
Rallus limicola Virginia rail X
Regulus calendula ruby-crowned kinglet X X
Regulus satrapa golden-crowned kinglet X
Salpinctes obsoletus rock wren X
Sayornis nigricans black phoebe X X
Sayornis saya Say's phoebe X X
Selasphorus rufus rufous hummingbird X
Selasphorus sasin Allen's hummingbird X
Setophaga coronata yellow-rumped warbler X X
Setophaga nigrescens black-throated gray warbler X
Setophaga occidentalis hermit warbler X
Setophaga petechia yellow warbler SSC X
Sialia mexicana western bluebird X X
Sitta canadensis red-breasted nuthatch X
163
2025 Newell Open Space Management Plan
C-7
SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME STATUS1
SOURCE
DATABASE2 WRA3
Sitta carolinensis white-breasted nuthatch X
Sphyrapicus ruber red-breasted sapsucker X
Spinus lawrencei Lawrence's goldfinch X
Spinus pinus pine siskin X
Spinus psaltria lesser goldfinch X X
Spinus tristis American goldfinch X X
Spizella passerina chipping sparrow X
Stelgidopteryx serripennis northern rough-winged swallow X Streptopelia decaocto Eurasian collared-dove (non-native) X Sturnella neglecta western meadowlark X X
Sturnus vulgaris European starling (non-native) X X
Tachycineta bicolor tree swallow X
Tachycineta thalassina violet-green swallow X
Thryomanes bewickii Bewick's wren X
Tringa melanoleuca greater yellowlegs X
Troglodytes aedon house wren X
Turdus migratorius American robin X
Tyto furcata American barn owl X
Vireo cassinii Cassin's vireo X
Vireo gilvus warbling vireo X
Vireo huttoni Hutton's vireo X
Zenaida macroura mourning dove X X
164
2025 Newell Open Space Management Plan
C-8
SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME STATUS1
SOURCE
DATABASE2 WRA3
Zonotrichia atricapilla golden-crowned sparrow X X
Zonotrichia leucophrys white-crowned sparrow X X
Reptiles
Elgaria multicarinata southern alligator lizard X
Pituophis catenifer gopher snake X
Sceloporus occidentalis western fence lizard X
Thamnophis atratus aquatic garter snake X
Thamnophis elegans western terrestrial garter snake X
Amphibians
Batrachoseps attenuatus California slender salamander X Pseudacris regilla Pacific treefrog (chorus frog) X X
Taricha torosa California newt X
1 GBEPA = Golden and Bald Eagle Protection Act species; SFP = State Fully Protected Species; SSC = State Species of Special Concern; ST = State Threatened.
2 Listed compiled from a review of eBird (2025) and iNaturalist (2025). 3 Observations restricted to WRA’s January 17, 2025 site visit. 165
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CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
SEPTEMBER 2, 2025
STAFF REPORT
PUBLIC HEARING
ITEM NUMBER: 11.
TITLE
Business License Fee Program
RECOMMENDATION
Introduc&on and First Reading of an Ordinance Amending the Municipal Code pertaining to Business Licenses
CONTACT
Jemelyn Cruz, Finance Director
Juan Gomez, Assistant City Manager
BACKGROUND & ANALYSIS
The City of American Canyon's Business License Program ensures that all businesses comply with applicable State, County, and City regula&ons. These include County Health Permits for food and beverage establishments and veterinary services, State of California Seller's Permits for businesses selling tangible goods, and professional licenses for medical service providers. Compliance with City zoning requirements is also mandatory. City staff assist both prospec&ve and current businesses in naviga&ng these regula&ons. A business license authorizes legal opera&on within the City, promoting safe, legitimate, and licensed business practices.
According to Municipal Code Chapter 5.04, it is unlawful for any person or en&ty to commence, engage, or carry on any business in the City without first obtaining a valid license and paying the applicable fee. While the code allows for fee exemp&ons, a license is s&ll required. Exemp&ons apply to non-profits, disabled veterans, businesses subject to City franchise fees, and individuals receiving Social Security benefits whose gross receipts do not exceed the legal income threshold.
In recent years, the number of community events has increased, o;en involving mul&ple vendors, entertainers and food trucks. Managing these vendors has been challenging due to incomplete or late vendor lists and communica&on gaps with City staff. This has hindered &mely license processing and compliance enforcement. Amending the code will simplify and expedite the process for community event organizers, by u&lizing their own city business license to cover the event and all participants.
Proposed Amendment to Section 5.04.220
316
The current Municipal Code includes an exemp&on for charitable and non-profit organiza&ons.
Charitable and non-profit organiza&ons frequently host community events. The proposed amendment broadens the exemp&on to include promoters and vendors contracted by these exempt organizations, limited to community events.
Proposed Amendment to Section 5.04.410
The current Municipal Code includes flat-rate licensing for carnivals, fairs, and circuses. A dra; amendment introduces a new category for "Community Special Events" with a similar flat daily rate.
This rate will apply to any for-profit event organizers and cover all vendors associated with the event.
Under the proposed amendments, event organizers will s&ll be required to submit vendor details and confirm compliance with all applicable permits and regula&ons. This approach is expected to streamline the process, reduce administra&ve burden, and facilitate faster license issuance. A redline copy of the proposed changes to the relevant sections is included as Attachment 2.
COUNCIL PRIORITY PROGRAMS AND PROJECTS
Economic Development and Vitality: "AAract and expand diverse business and employment opportunities."
FISCAL IMPACT
The primary goal of the amendment is to streamline the business license process for community events. While these amendments will minimally impact revenues, the an&cipated administra&ve efficiencies and improved compliance are expected to provide long-term benefits.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
N/A
COMMUNICATION
Level 1: Minimal Communication
A summary of the amendment will need to be published in newspaper within 15 days of adoption.
We will need to update business license forms and applica&on, and work with Parks & Recrea&on to ensure the Special Event form is in alignment with the business license policy.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Draft Ordinance
2. Redline Draft Ordinance
317
ORDINANCE NO. 2025-
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 5.04.220 AND CHAPTER 5.04.410 OF TITLE 5 OF THE AMERICAN CANYON
MUNICIPAL CODE, REGULATING EXEMPTION FOR CHARITABLE AND NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS AND BUSINESS LICENSE FEES – FLAT RATE
WHEREAS, the City of American Canyon’s Business License Program ensures that all businesses comply with applicable State, County, and City regulations; and WHEREAS, it is unlawful for any person or entity to commence, transact, engage in, or carry-on any business in the city without first having obtained a valid license and paid the license fee; and WHEREAS, the number of community events with multiple vendors have increased and managing these vendors has been challenging hindering timely license processing and compliance enforcement; and WHEREAS, by providing a category for Community Special Events, event promotors will be responsible for collecting vendor information, ensuring compliance with all relevant permits and regulations. This will streamline the process and facilitate faster license issuance; and WHEREAS, on September 2, 2025, the City Council of the City of American Canyon conducted a dulynoticed public hearing, at which time all those in attendance were give the opportunity to speak on the proposal.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED:
SECTION 1: Chapter 5.04.410 to Title 5 of the City of American Canyon Municipal Code is hereby amended with the following business license regulations:
5.04.220 Exemption – Charitable and nonprofit organizations.
The provisions of this chapter shall not be deemed or construed to require the payment of a license fee to conduct, manage or carry on any business, occupation, or activity from any institution or organization which is conducted, managed or carried on wholly for the benefit of charitable purposes from which profit is not derived, either directly or indirectly, by any individual; nor shall any license fee be required for the conducting of any entertainment, concert, exhibition, community special event, or lecture on scientific, historical, literary, religious or moral subjects within the city whenever the receipts of any such entertainment, concert, exhibition or lecture are to be appropriated to any church or school or to any religious or benevolent purpose; nor shall any license fee be required for the conducting of any entertainment, dance, special community event, municipal organization or association whenever the receipts of any such entertainment, dance, community special event, concert exhibition or lecture are to be appropriated for the purpose and objects for which such organization or association was formed and from which profit is not derived either directly or indirectly, by any individual; provided, however, that nothing in this section shall be deemed to exempt any such organization or association from complying with any of the provisions of this code requiring a permit from the city council or any commission or officer to conduct, manage, or carry on any profession, trade, calling or occupation. This exemption shall apply to promoters, service providers, and vendors who are employed or contracted by the charitable or nonprofit organizations hosting community special events, as previously described. (Ord. 92-20 (part), 1992; Ord. 2012-01(part) § 1, 2012; prior code § 3.28.220) 318
5.04.410 License fees—Flat rate.
Every person transacting and carrying on the businesses enumerated in this section shall pay a license fee as follows:
Advertising.
(A) Billboards, signs not fixed on places of business: one hundred dollars per structure or sign. (B) Distributing handbills: one hundred dollars annually, or fifty dollars monthly, or twenty-five dollars daily.
(C) Sound trucks: two hundred dollars annual fee per truck, or fifty dollars daily fee per truck. (D) Klieg lights: one hundred fifty dollars per year per light, or at licensee's option, fifteen dollars per day per light.
Auctioneers.
Auctioneers not having a fixed place of business in the city, two hundred fifty dollars per year, or at the option of the licensee, twenty-five dollars per day.
Card Rooms.
One hundred fifty dollars per table per year.
Carnivals, Fairs.
Two hundred dollars for the first day and one hundred fifty dollars for each additional day, for the first ten or fewer concessions; plus thirty dollars for the first day and twenty dollars for each additional day for each concession in excess of ten. For the purpose of this section, "concession" means any amusement ride, booth, exhibit, stall, tent, trailer, or stand which charges any fee for the ride, service or product offered.
Circuses.
Two hundred dollars per day.
Commercial Filming.
On city streets or other city property, as follows:
Persons Employed
at Location
Rate per
Day
1 — 3 $100.00
4 — 6 200.00
7 — 9 400.00
10 and over 600.00
Traffic-control costs or any additional costs as required by the chief of police shall be paid entirely by the applicant.
Community Special Events.
319
Two hundred dollars per day per event. Unlimited vendors and concessions. For the purpose of this section, “concession” means any booth, stall, tent, trailer, mobile vendor, or stand which charges any fee for the service or product offered. Vendors include service providers such as musicians, stage crew, lighting, DJ’s. Not applicable to Charitable and non-profit organizations.
Contractors.
Every person engaged in the business of contracting which requires a state contractors' license shall pay a business license as follows:
(A) General contractors, one hundred dollar annual fee; (B) Subcontractors, fifty dollar annual fee;
(C) Business licenses for general contractors and subcontractors may be obtained semi-annually.
Living Accommodations.
Every person transacting or engaged in the rental of four or more dwelling units in any apartment house, roominghouse, houses for rent, or other living accommodations shall pay an annual fee of twelve dollars per unit, provided that hotels and motels shall be on the gross receipts basis, Class B.
Mobilehome, Trailer and Recreational Vehicle Parks.
Twelve dollars per space per year.
Peddlers and Solicitors.
(A) Principal, two hundred dollar annual fee.
(B) Each additional solicitor or peddler, ten dollars quarterly.
Sales Representatives.
Every person engaged in the business of soliciting of orders for sales or services by a nationally franchised business (such as AVON) wherein solicitation only occurs by previous appointment, shall pay a business license fee of twenty-five dollars per year.
Taxicabs.
(A) Taxicab operator's license, sixty dollar annual fee; (B) Taxicab vehicles, per vehicle, twenty-five dollar annual fee. (Ord. 92-20 (part), 1992; Ord. 93-06 § 1, 1993; Ord. 2012-01(part) § 1, 2012; prior code § 3.28.420) SECTION 2: The adoption of the proposed ordinance is not a project that has the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment and therefore is not subject to review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). In addition, the proposed ordinance amendment is exempt under the definition of the Project in Section 15378 (b)(3) in that it concerns general policy and procedure making.
SECTION 3: Severability. The City Council hereby declares that if any section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this Ordinance is, for any reason, held to be invalid or unconstitutional such decision shall not affect the validity or constitutionality of the remaining portions of this ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it would have passed this Ordinance, and each section, subsection, clause 320
or phrase hereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses or phrases may be declared invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 4: The Mayor shall sign this Ordinance and the City Clerk shall attest thereto and shall within 15 days of its adoption cause a summary of it to be published in a newspaper and circulated in the City and thereupon and thereafter this ordinance shall take effect and be in force according to law.
The foregoing Ordinance was introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of American Canyon, State of California, held on the 2
nd day of September, 2025, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
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 ____ day of ____, 2025, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
_____________________________
Pierre Washington, Mayor
ATTEST: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
__________________________ _____________________________ Taresa Geilfuss, City Clerk Taresa Highsmith, City Attorney 321
5.04.220 Exemption – Charitable and nonprofit organizations.
The provisions of this chapter shall not be deemed or construed to require the payment of a license fee to conduct, manage or carry on any business, occupation, or activity from any institution or organization which is conducted, managed or carried on wholly for the benefit of charitable purposes from which profit is not derived, either directly or indirectly, by any individual; nor shall any license fee be required for the conducting of any entertainment, concert, exhibition, community special event or lecture on scientific, historical, literary, religious or moral subjects within the city whenever the receipts of any such entertainment, concert, exhibition or lecture are to be appropriated to any church or school or to any religious or benevolent purpose; nor shall any license fee be required for the conducting of any entertainment, dance, community special event, municipal organization or association whenever the receipts of any such entertainment, dance, community special event, concert exhibition or lecture are to be appropriated for the purpose and objects for which such organization or association was formed and from which profit is not derived either directly or indirectly, by any individual; provided, however, that nothing in this section shall be deemed to exempt any such organization or association from complying with any of the provisions of this code requiring a permit from the city council or any commission or officer to conduct, manage, or carry on any profession, trade, calling or occupation. This exemption shall apply to promoters, service providers, and vendors who are employed or contracted by the charitable or nonprofit organizations hosting community special events, as previously described. (Ord. 92-20 (part), 1992; Ord. 2012-01(part) § 1, 2012; prior code § 3.28.220)
5.04.410 License fees—Flat rate.
Every person transacting and carrying on the businesses enumerated in this section shall pay a license fee as follows:
Advertising.
(A) Billboards, signs not fixed on places of business: one hundred dollars per structure or sign.
(B) Distributing handbills: one hundred dollars annually, or fifty dollars monthly, or twenty-five dollars daily.
(C) Sound trucks: two hundred dollars annual fee per truck, or fifty dollars daily fee per truck.
(D) Klieg lights: one hundred fifty dollars per year per light, or at licensee's option, fifteen dollars per day per light.
Auctioneers.
Auctioneers not having a fixed place of business in the city, two hundred fifty dollars per year, or at the option of the licensee, twenty-five dollars per day.
Card Rooms.
322
One hundred fifty dollars per table per year.
Carnivals, Fairs.
Two hundred dollars for the first day and one hundred fifty dollars for each additional day, for the first ten or fewer concessions; plus thirty dollars for the first day and twenty dollars for each additional day for each concession in excess of ten. For the purpose of this section, "concession" means any amusement ride, booth, exhibit, stall, tent, trailer, or stand which charges any fee for the ride, service or product offered.
Circuses.
Two hundred dollars per day.
Commercial Filming.
On city streets or other city property, as follows:
Persons Employed
at Location
Rate
per Day
1 — 3 $100.00
4 — 6 200.00
7 — 9 400.00
10 and over 600.00
Traffic-control costs or any additional costs as required by the chief of police shall be paid entirely by the applicant.
Community Special Events.
Two hundred dollars per day per event. Unlimited vendors and concessions. For the purpose of this section, “concession” means any booth, stall, tent, trailer, mobile vendor, or stand which charges any fee for the service or product offered. Vendors include service providers such as musicians, stage crew, lighting, DJ’s. Not applicable to Charitable and non-profit organizations.
Contractors.
Every person engaged in the business of contracting which requires a state contractors' license shall pay a business license as follows:
(A) General contractors, one hundred dollar annual fee; (B) Subcontractors, fifty dollar annual fee;
(C) Business licenses for general contractors and subcontractors may be obtained semi-annually.
Living Accommodations.
Every person transacting or engaged in the rental of four or more dwelling units in any apartment house, roominghouse, houses for rent, or other living accommodations shall 323
pay an annual fee of twelve dollars per unit, provided that hotels and motels shall be on the gross receipts basis, Class B.
Mobilehome, Trailer and Recreational Vehicle Parks.
Twelve dollars per space per year.
Peddlers and Solicitors.
(A) Principal, two hundred dollar annual fee.
(B) Each additional solicitor or peddler, ten dollars quarterly.
Sales Representatives.
Every person engaged in the business of soliciting of orders for sales or services by a nationally franchised business (such as AVON) wherein solicitation only occurs by previous appointment, shall pay a business license fee of twenty-five dollars per year.
Taxicabs.
(A) Taxicab operator's license, sixty dollar annual fee; (B) Taxicab vehicles, per vehicle, twenty-five dollar annual fee. (Ord. 92-20 (part), 1992; Ord. 93-06 § 1, 1993; Ord. 2012-01(part) § 1, 2012; prior code § 3.28.420)
SECTION 2: The adoption of the proposed ordinance is not a project that has the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment and therefore is not subject to review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). In addition, the proposed ordinance amendment is exempt under the definition of the Project in Section 15378 (b)(3) in that it concerns general policy and procedure making.
SECTION 3: Severability. The City Council hereby declares that if any section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this Ordinance is, for any reason, held to be invalid or unconstitutional such decision shall not affect the validity or constitutionality of the remaining portions of this ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it would have passed this Ordinance, and each section, subsection, clause or phrase hereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses or phrases may be declared invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 4: The Mayor shall sign this Ordinance and the City Clerk shall attest thereto and shall within 15 days of its adoption cause a summary of it to be published in a newspaper and circulated in the City and thereupon and thereafter this ordinance shall take effect and be in force according to law.
The foregoing Ordinance was PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of American Canyon, State of California held on the ____ day of _________, 2025 by the following vote:
324
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
_____________________________
Pierre Washington, Mayor
ATTEST: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
___________________________ _____________________________ Taresa Geilfuss, City Clerk Taresa Highsmith, City Attorney 325
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
SEPTEMBER 2, 2025
STAFF REPORT
BUSINESS
ITEM NUMBER: 12.
TITLE
Voting Delegate and Alternate(s) for the League of California Cities 2025 Annual Business Meeting
RECOMMENDATION
Approve by Minute Order a Vo-ng Delegate and Alternate(s) for the League of California Ci-es 2025 Annual Business Meeting.
CONTACT
Taresa Geilfuss, City Clerk
BACKGROUND & ANALYSIS
The League of California Ci-es 2025 Annual Conference and Expo will be held on October 8-10, 2025. The General Assembly (Annual Business Mee-ng) is scheduled for Friday, October 10, 2025.
At this mee-ng, the League membership considers and takes ac-on on resolu-ons that establish League policy.
In order to vote at the General Assembly, the City Council must designate a Vo-ng Delegate and up to two (2) alternate vo-ng delegates, one of whom may vote in the event that the designated vo-ng delegate is unable to serve in that capacity. To be eligible to vote, the delegate and alternates must be registered to attend the conference.
The League has requested that vo-ng delegate informa-on be transmi8ed to the League as soon as possible and no later than September 24, 2025.
COUNCIL PRIORITY PROGRAMS AND PROJECTS
Not applicable.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact to designating a voting delegate.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
Not Applicable.
326
COMMUNICATION
Level 0: No Further Public Communication Needed
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Cal Cities 2025 Voting Delegate Information Packet
327
1400 K Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814 • 916.658.8200 • calcities.org
DATE: Wednesday, July 16, 2025
TO: Mayors, Council Members, City Clerks, and City Managers RE: DESIGNATION OF VOTING DELEGATES AND ALTERNATES
League of California Cities Annual Conference and Expo, Oct. 8-10, 2025 Long Beach Convention Center
Every year, the League of California Cities convenes a member-driven General Assembly at the Cal Cities Annual Conference and Expo. The General Assembly is an important opportunity where city officials can directly participate in the development of Cal Cities policy.
Taking place on Oct. 10, the General Assembly is comprised of voting delegates appointed by each member city; every city has one voting delegate. Your appointed voting delegate plays an important role during the General Assembly by representing your city and voting on resolutions.
To cast a vote during the General Assembly, your city must designate a voting delegate and up to two alternate voting delegates, one of whom may vote if the designated voting delegate is unable to serve in that capacity. Voting delegates may either be an elected or appointed official.
Action by Council Required. Consistent with Cal Cities bylaws, a city’s voting delegate and up to two alternates must be designated by the city council. Please note that designating the voting delegate and alternates must be done by city council action and cannot be accomplished by individual action of the mayor or city manager alone.
Following council action, please submit your city’s delegates through the online submission portal by Wed., Sept. 24. When completing the Voting Delegate submission form, you will be asked to attest that council action was taken. You will need to be signed in to your My Cal Cities account when submitting the form.
Submitting your voting delegate form by the deadline will allow us time to establish voting delegate/alternate records prior to the conference and provide pre-conference communications with voting delegates.
Conference Registration Required. The voting delegate and alternates must be registered to attend the conference. They need not register for the entire conference; they may register for Friday only. Conference registration is open on the Cal Cities website.
Council Action Advised by September 24, 2025
328
For a city to cast a vote, one voter must be present at the General Assembly and in possession of the voting delegate card and voting tool. Voting delegates and alternates need to pick up their conference badges before signing in and picking up the voting delegate card at the voting delegate desk. This will enable them to receive the special sticker on their name badges that will admit the voting delegate into the voting area during the General Assembly.
Please view Cal Cities’ event and meeting policy in advance of the conference.
Transferring Voting Card to Non-Designated Individuals Not Allowed. The voting delegate card may be transferred freely between the voting delegate and alternates, but only between the voting delegate and alternates. If the voting delegate and alternates find themselves unable to attend the General Assembly, they may not transfer the voting card to another city official.
Seating Protocol during General Assembly. At the General Assembly, individuals with a voting card will sit in a designated area. Admission to the voting area will be limited to the individual in possession of the voting card and with a special sticker on their name badge identifying them as a voting delegate.
The voting delegate desk, located in the conference registration area of the Long Beach Convention Center in Long Beach, will be open at the following times: Wednesday, Oct. 16, 8:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. and Thursday, Oct. 17, 7:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m. On Friday, Oct. 18, the voting delegate desk will be open at the General Assembly, starting at 7:30 a.m., but will be closed during roll calls and voting.
The voting procedures that will be used at the conference are attached to this memo.
Please share these procedures and this memo with your council and especially with the individuals that your council designates as your city’s voting delegate and alternates.
Once again, thank you for submitting your voting delegate and alternates by Wednesday, Sept. 24. If you have questions, please contact Zach Seals at [email protected].
Attachments:
• General Assembly Voting Guidelines
• Information Sheet: Cal Cities Resolutions and the General Assembly 329
1400 K Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814 • 916.658.8200 • calcities.org General Assembly Voting Guidelines
1. One City One Vote. Each member city has a right to cast one vote on matters pertaining to Cal Cities policy.
2. Designating a City Voting Representative. Prior to the Cal Cities Annual Conference and Expo, each city council may designate a voting delegate and up to two alternates; these individuals are identified on the voting delegate form provided to the Cal Cities Credentials Committee.
3. Registering with the Credentials Committee. The voting delegate, or alternates, may pick up the city's voting card at the voting delegate desk in the conference registration area. Voting delegates and alternates must sign in at the voting delegate desk. Here they will receive a special sticker on their name badge and thus be admitted to the voting area at the General Assembly.
4. Signing Initiated Resolution Petitions. Only those individuals who are voting delegates (or alternates), and who have picked up their city’s voting card by providing a signature to the credentials committee at the voting delegate desk, may sign petitions to initiate a resolution.
5. Voting. To cast the city's vote, a city official must have in their possession the city's voting card and voting tool; and be registered with the credentials committee. The voting card may be transferred freely between the voting delegate and alternates but may not be transferred to another city official who is neither a voting delegate nor alternate.
6. Voting Area at General Assembly. At the General Assembly, individuals with a voting card will sit in a designated area. Admission to the voting area will be limited to the individual in possession of the voting card and with a special sticker on their name badge identifying them as a voting delegate.
7. Resolving Disputes. In case of dispute, the credentials committee will determine the validity of signatures on petitioned resolutions and the right of a city official to vote at the General Assembly.
330
Sixty days before the
Annual Conference
and Expo, Cal Cities
members may submit
policy proposals on
issues of importance
to cities. The resolution must
have the concurrence of at least
five additional member cities or
individual members.
How it works: Cal Cities
Resolutions and the General Assembly
General Assembly
General Resolutions Policy Committees
Developing League of California Cities policy is a dynamic process that engages a wide range of members to ensure Cal Cities represents cities with one voice. These policies directly guide Cal Cities’ advocacy to promote local decision-making, and lobby against statewide policies that erode local control.
The resolutions process and General Assembly is one way that city officials can directly participate in the development of Cal Cities policy. If a resolution is approved at the General Assembly, it becomes official Cal Cities policy. Here’s how resolutions and the General Assembly work.
The petitioned
resolution is an
alternate method
to introduce policy
proposals during
the annual conference. The
petition must be signed by
voting delegates from 10% of
member cities, and submitted to
the Cal Cities President at least
24 hours before the beginning
of the General Assembly.
Petitioned Resolutions
The Cal Cities
President assigns
general resolutions
to policy committees
where members
review, debate, and recommend
positions for each policy proposal.
Recommendations are forwarded
to the Resolutions Committee.
Who’s who
The Resolutions Committee
includes representatives
from each Cal Cities
diversity caucus, regional
division, municipal
department, and policy
committee, as well as
individuals appointed by
the Cal Cities president.
Voting delegates
are appointed by each
member city; every city
has one voting delegate.
The General Assembly is a
meeting of the collective
body of all voting
delegates —one from
every member city.
Seven policy committees
meet throughout the year
to review and recommend
positions to take on bills
and regulatory proposals.
Policy committees include
members from each Cal
Cities diversity caucus,
regional division, and
municipal department,
as well as individuals
appointed by the Cal
Cities president.
During the General Assembly, voting delegates
debate and consider general and petitioned
resolutions forwarded by the Resolutions
Committee. Potential Cal Cities bylaws
amendments are also considered at this meeting.
Cal Cities policy
development is a memberinformed process,
grounded in the voices and
experiences of city officials
throughout the state.
For more information visit www.calcities.org/general-assembly Prior to the Annual Conference and Expo
Resolutions Committee
The Resolutions
Committee considers
all resolutions. General
Resolutions approved1 by
either a policy committee
or the Resolutions Committee are next
considered by the General Assembly.
General resolutions not approved, or
referred for further study by both a
policy committee and the Resolutions
Committee do not go to the General
Assembly. All Petitioned Resolutions
are considered by the General
Assembly, unless disqualified.2
During the Annual Conference and Expo
1 The Resolution Committee can amend a general resolution prior to sending it to the General Assembly. 2 Petitioned Resolutions may be disqualified by the Resolutions Committee according to Cal Cities Bylaws Article VI. Sec. 5(f). 331
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
SEPTEMBER 2, 2025
STAFF REPORT
BUSINESS
ITEM NUMBER: 13.
TITLE
Community Grant Program Policy
RECOMMENDATION
Provide clarity and direc'on to staff on the Community Grant Program Policy update to ensure alignment with Council's direction and priorities.
CONTACT
Alexandra Ikeda, Deputy City Manager
BACKGROUND & ANALYSIS
The Community Grant Program Policy (A2achment 1) was adopted by Council on March 1, 2020. As part of the Parks and Community Services (PCS) Commission's Fiscal Year 2025/26 Work Plan, the Council tasked the PCS Commission to review and update the policy. It is staff's understanding that the intent of this update is to strengthen the program as a funding source for American Canyon nonprofits to deliver programs, events, and services-based projects that benefit the community.
At the August 14, 2025 PCS Commission mee'ng, the Commission began its review of the Community Grant Program Policy. During that discussion, ques'ons arose that require Council's direction. Staff now requests clarification on the following policy elements:
1. Which body will have the authority to award Community Grants: A) The City Council upon recommendation of the PCS Commission or B) The PCS Commission directly?
2. Does the Council intend the Community Grant Program to A) distribute smaller amounts of funding more broadly across as many nonprofits as possible (ie. $500 or $1,000 max), or B) to distribute larger amounts more strategically on mission-driven priori'es, even if that means larger awards to fewer organizations (ie. $3,000 to $5,000 max)? Staff requests direc'on on these ques'ons to ensure that the policy update accurately reflects Council's priorities.
Next Steps
Once direc'on is received, staff intends to return to the PCS Commission to finalize the draE policy. 332
Staff an'cipates the PCS Commission making a policy recommenda'on to Council later this year, with the goal of solici'ng community grant requests by the end of 2025 for the eventual award in early 2026.
COUNCIL PRIORITY PROGRAMS AND PROJECTS
Organizational Effectiveness: "Deliver exemplary government services."
FISCAL IMPACT
The FY 25/26 Budget includes a $30,000 appropriation for the Community Grant Program.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
15378(b) - The ac'on is not a "Project" subject to the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") because it does not qualify as a "Project" under Public Resources Code Sec'ons 21065 and 21080 and in Section 15378(b) of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations.
COMMUNICATION
Level 2: Targeted Communication
Informa'on about the updated policy will be transmi2ed to community groups directly. These groups will be invited to apply for the grant program once activated.
ATTACHMENTS:
Community Grant Program Policy
333
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
STAFF REPORT
MARCH 17, 2020
BUSINESS
SUBJECT
Adopt a Resolution establishing the Community Service Awards Policy.
SUBMITTED BY
Jason Holley, City Manager
Creighton Wright, Parks and Recreation Director
BACKGROUND AND ISSUES
American Canyon is known for outstanding volunteer service by community groups and individuals. To thank and recognize the volunteers in our community, the City gives awards at a “Community Recognition Ball”. Examples of previous awards include:
Certificate of Appreciation” – community groups nominate members of their organizations to express appreciation for their annual efforts.
Organizational Award” – community groups nominate one member of their organization to receive a higher level of appreciation and recognition for their work with the group.
Gateway Award” – community members nominate residents of American Canyon for their longterm and varied involvement in the development of American Canyon agencies, organizations, or significant projects.
Business of the Year” – community members and/ or organizations nominate businesses/ business owners recognizing their significant community contributions and support community programs, events and projects in American Canyon.
Youth of the Year Award” – community members nominate youth (generally under the age of 19) residents to recognize significant volunteer service or project completion in American Canyon that betters the community.
Lifetime Organization Award” – community members and/ or organizations nominate residents of American Canyon for their long-term involvement in the development of singular American Canyon agency, organization, or significant project.
Firefighter/ Police Officer of the Year” – Police Department and Fire District leadership and peers nominate a Firefighter/ Police Officer alternating each year between Police Officer and Firefighter, to recognize outstanding service to the community and the profession.
While in general, it is intended that awardees embody community values and interests, working for the betterment of American Canyon, the historical process for selecting awardees has been informal and subjective. In the future, for the awards that will remain “ City awards”, staff recommends the Council adopt a formal process to ensure consistency of future awards based on the organization’ s values. The recommended Community Service Awards Policy is shown in Attachment 1, Exhibit A and is consistent Agenda
Review
Finance City Attorney City Manager
N/ A 3/11/ 20 03/ 11/ 20
2Page 126 of 150 Item Number: 334 D.
with the direction provided by the Ad-Hoc Community Grants & Awards Committee (Oro/ Joseph) at their February 25, 2020 meeting.
Notable points of the Policy include:
1. Applies to the selection of the “ City awards” – namely the “Gateway Award”, “ Youth of the Year Award” and “Public Safety Member of the Year”.
2. The “ Business of the Year Award” will no longer be given. The Business of the Year Award was created several years ago to allow for a non-resident business owner to receive recognition for their significant community service and financial support to the community, organizations and causes. Instead, the criteria for the Gateway Award is broadened to focus on the contribution to the community and not the individual’ s residency, thus allowing the possibility for a non-resident business owner to be eligible for the Gateway Award.
3. The “ Lifetime Organization Award” will no longer be given. The Lifetime Organizational Award was created several years ago to allow for a resident to receive recognition for their significant community service and financial support to a singular ( rather than multiple) organization and causes. Instead, the criteria for the Gateway Award is broadened to focus on the contribution to the community, even if that contribution was only to a single organization.
4. “ Youth of the Year Award” will remain the same. Community members nominate youth (generally under the age of 19) residents to recognize significant volunteer service or project completion in American Canyon that betters the community.
5. “ Firefighter/ Police Officer of the Year” is being renamed to “Public Safety Member of the Year”.
Police Department and Fire District leadership and peers will still nominate a Firefighter/ Police Officer or other significant community contributor to public safety, alternating each year between Police Officer and Firefighter, to recognize outstanding service to community and the profession.
6. The selection process provides Council and past Gateway Award winners the opportunity to vote on “Gateway Award” and “Youth of the Year Award”. Ballots will be mailed to the voters’ and the individual(s) with the greatest votes will be the winner.
7. “ Certificate of Appreciation” and/ or “ Organizational Award” will be given by community groups not the City) to one or more members of their organization to receive a higher level of appreciation and recognition for their work with the group.
COUNCIL PRIORITY PROJECTS AND PROGRAMS
Supporting community groups builds upon the strength of our local community and helps develop a clear sense of place and establishes our unique identity.
FISCAL IMPACTS
The Recommended Action (establishing policy) will have no impact on the City’s FY 2019/ 20 Budget.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The Recommended Action is not a “ project” pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a Resolution establishing the Community Service Awards Selection Policy.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Resolution
EXHIBIT A – Community Service Awards Selection Policy
2Page 127 of 150 Item Number: 335 D.
RESOLUTION NO. 2020-______
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AMERICAN CANYON ESTABLISHING THE
COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDS SELECTION POLICY
WHEREAS, American Canyon was founded upon the backs of many volunteer hours; and WHEREAS, American Canyon’ s founders can-do volunteer spirit is infectious and has become a wellknown point of community pride and character; and WHEREAS, 22 years ago, the Community Recognition Ball was established to honor and recognize the organization’ s and individual’ s infectious volunteer spirit; and WHEREAS, the organization leadership and the public may nominate their fellow community member to be recognized for their outstanding community service; and WHEREAS, the Gateway Award is the most prestigious award presented at the Community Recognition Ball that honors an individual or business owner who has a long-term and varied involvement in the development of American Canyon agencies, organizations or significant projects; and WHEREAS, the Youth of the Year recognizes a young person who participates heavily in the American Canyon community providing significant volunteer service or project completion that betters the community; and
WHEREAS, City Staff met with a City Council Subcommittee to help guide the creation of the Community Service Awards Selection Policy.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of American Canyon hereby establishes the Community Service Awards Selection Policy attached hereto as Exhibit A and incorporated by reference.
PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED at a regularly scheduled meeting of the City Council of the City of American Canyon held on the 17th day of March, 2020, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Leon Garcia, Mayor
ATTEST: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Suellen Johnston, City Clerk William D. Ross, City Attorney 2Page 128 of 150 Item Number: 336 D.
COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDS
SELECTION POLICY
2020-XX
PURPOSE
The City of American Canyon seeks to recognize and acknowledge community service and volunteer efforts by local organizations and individuals. In addition, the City recognizes a few outstanding members of the community who have made significant contributions to the community by presenting them with a Gateway Award” , “Youth of the Year Award”, “ Public Safety Member of the Year”. This policy identifies the criteria and process for awarding the Gateway and Youth of the Year Awards.
1.0 – Policy
The Gateway Award, Youth of the Year, and Public Safety Member of the Year are among the City’ s greatest and most prestigious honors. As described below, they are intended to recognize significant community service, pride, and interest in making American Canyon a better place:
1.1 Gateway Award –nominees should display the American Canyon community spirit, embody the community values and interests, and a successful track record of working for the betterment of the City. The Award recognizes their long-term and varied involvement in the development of American Canyon agencies, organizations, or significant projects. Nominees need not be an American Canyon resident, but will have displayed long-term commitment to the community.
1.2 Youth of the Year –nominees must be under the age of 19, participate heavily in the American Canyon community providing significant volunteer service or project completion in American Canyon that betters the community.
1.3 Public Safety Member of the Year - nominees will be an American Canyon Fire Protection District employee, American Canyon Police Department employee or community member who has made a significant contribution to public safety in the community and the profession.
2.0 - Nominee Selection for Gateway Award and Youth of the Year Nominations may be made by any American Canyon resident, business owner or employee. As these awards are most representative of the City, the City Council assists in the selection process and presents the awards to the winners. Former Gateway Award winners will be offered the opportunity to assist in the selection process. To make the selection process as fair as possible, the City will utilize an electronic online) voting process. Selections shall be made by allowing each City Council Member and each former Gateway Award winner one vote. However, in the event a Councilmember is also a Gateway Ward winner, 2Page 129 of 150 Item Number: 337 D.
they shall still only be allowed one vote. There is oftentimes a tight timeline from awards nomination deadline to Recognition Ball, therefore any votes received after the deadline will be nullified and not counted. After the voting deadline has passed, City staff conducts a simple tally of nominations to determine the winner. The nominator is notified of the wonderful news.
3.0 - Nominee Selection for Public Safety Member of the Year Nominations may be made by any American Canyon resident, business owner or employee. Police Department and Fire District leadership and peers will select a Firefighter/ Police Officer or other significant community contributor to public safety, alternating each year between Police Officer and Firefighter.
4.0 – Contact
Community Service Awards Program
Parks and Recreation Department
Phone: 707.648.7275
Email: parksinfo@cityofamericancanyon. org
Website: www.cityofamericancanyon. org
2Page 130 of 150 Item Number: 338 D.
City Council
September 2, 2025
Building and Safety Update
339
Safeguard public safety, health, and general welfare
• Educate California Building, Electrical, Plumbing, Mechanical, and California Green Codes.
• Review construction documents to ensure compliance with safety standards. • Issue permits for construction, alteration, demolition, and relocation of buildings and structures.
• Conduct property inspections to verify permitted work complies with approved plans and safety codes.
2 Building & Safety Mission
340
3 Building and Safety Lead Staff
Laura Welch and Ron Beehler Jim Campo
Julieanne Geilfuss Stacy Barker Walter Maddon 341
4 Building Permit Process
1. Electronic Application Submittal/Intake.
2. Plan Review fees Collected.
3. Plans Routed to Building, Planning, Public Works, and Fire.
4. Plan corrections or approval routed to Applicant and Property Owner.
5. Permit issued when corrections made and fees paid.
6. Building Inspections.
7. Building Occupancy/Permit Closeout/Grand Opening.
Source: Vacaville Reporter
342
5 Building Permits Today
✓ 130 Permits In Review
✓ 300 Permits Under Inspection
✓ Home Improvements = 60% of Permits
343
Napa River Ecology Center – 205 Wetlands Edge Rd
Permit Under
Review
A.C. Parks Foundation344
7 Napa Junction Solar – 5381 Broadway
Grading Under Way
Permits Under
Review
345
SDG 220 Distribution Center
ICC-Stravinski
Permit Under
Review
346
Hampton Inn – 3443 Broadway (BDSP)
Permits Under
Review
347
10 Sorrell at Watson Ranch KB Homes Lot 7
136 Units
KB Home
Permits Under
Review
348
11 Lot 8 Subdivision (WRSP) – Cartier St
25 Units
KB Home
Permits Under
Review
349
Enclave by the Bay (Canyon Estates) Richmond American Homes Permits Under
Review
350
Home2 Suites Hotel – 3701 Main St (BDSP)
Under
Construction
351
Oat Hill Apartments – Opus Ln and Chennault Way
291 Units
Jackson Square Properties
Under
Construction
352
Harvest Subdivision (WRSP) – Marcus Rd
Under
Construction
219 Units
D.R. Horton
Under
Construction
353
16 Building Activity Fiscal Year 24/25
✓ 560 Permits/Projects Completed
✓ $87 Million Construction Valuation
✓ 2,861 Inspections
✓ Lemos Pointe, Napa Cove, 66 WRSP Homes Completed
✓ SDG 217 Warehouse, Copart, PG&E HQ Completed
✓ 372 Home Improvement Permits (66%)
✓ 31 Tenant Improvement Permits (6%)
354
• October 2025 - Launch OpenGov On-line Building Permit System • October 2025 - Citizens Academy
• Fall 2025 - Professional Design Review for Major Residential and Commercial projects
• January 2026 – New 2025 Building Code Update
• Early 2026 – Regional Climate and Adaptation Plan (RCAAP) • Stay In Touch – Development & Construction Updates QR 17 On the Horizon
355
Thank You!
356
City Council Committee Report
Submitted
by: *
Mayor Pierre Washington Council
Meeting
Date:
08/19/2025
Event
Date:
16/07/2025 Event Type Committee Report
Event Title: * Napa Valley Transit Authority NVTA
Event Report: I attended this meeting with Vice Mayor Joseph (he's also the Chair of NVTA) This meeting we adopted the budget amendments that was forecasted as a two year budget process. This was also Director Kate Millers final meeting prior to passing the position to Danielle Schmitz.
357
File/Photo Upload Max file size for all uploads is 25 MB Event
Date:
17/07/2025 Event Type Committee Report
Event Title: * Association of Bay Area Government (ABAG) Event Report: I attended this ABAG meeting with Supervisor Belia Ramos, who is also the Chair of ABAG. 358
File/Photo Upload Max file size for all uploads is 25 MB Event
Date:
21/07/2025 Event Type Committee Report
Event Title: * Napa Vallejo Waste Management Authority (NVWMA) Event Report: I attended this NVWMA meeting along with District 5 Supervisor Belia Ramos, I was able to ask more questions regarding the Flare, pertaining to item number #5 bullet.
My Question: Why is it so important for our Flare to keep working day and night? Meaning, what are the consequences if the flare shuts down? The response: When the flare shuts down, the methane gas produced by decomposing garbage will be emitted directly into the atmosphere. This gas (CH4) has been said to be 25 times more than dangerous (trapping heat in the atmosphere) than CO2. CO2 is emitted when the methane is burned off.
File/Photo Upload Max file size for all uploads is 25 MB Event
Date:
25/07/2025 Event Type Other
Event Title: * Meeting with Congressman Mike Thompson
Event Report: Grateful for the opportunity to meet with Congressman Mike Thompson and discuss the exciting initiatives underway in American Canyon.
Our collaboration continues to strengthen community resources like the Ecology Center, led by Janelle Sellick and the American Canyon Community Parks Foundation, and ensure our city’s priorities are heard at the federal level.
Looking forward to continued partnership on behalf of the people we proudly serve. 359
File/Photo Upload Max file size for all uploads is 25 MB Event
Date:
26/07/2025 Event Type Community Event
Event Title: * American Canyon AHI Swim Club Fundraiser Event Report:
AHI Swim Team of American Canyon is a Spring/Summer swim team, and a member of the Tri County Swim League. This is a competitive recreational swim team league designed for ages 4-18, we can serve approximately 140 swimmers in our community.
AHi is a family-oriented recreational youth swim team, which inspires young swimmers to do their best as a valuable member of the team. We encourage mentorship among swimmers, teach good sportsmanship, and strive to improve youth swimmer performance at all levels.
The team is organized and managed by a volunteer parent board, and parent volunteers run the meets. 360
AHI Swim Team American
Canyon Youth Swim Fundraiser Gatsby style
File/Photo Upload Max file size for all uploads is 25 MB Event
Date:
08/08/2025 Event Type Community Event
Event Title: * Monthly Breakfast with the Mayors of Benicia and Vallejo Event Report: I value the strong partnerships we’ve built between American Canyon, Vallejo, and Benicia. Working together allows us to share ideas, tackle challenges, and create opportunities that benefit all of our residents.
Thank you, Mayor Sorce, for your leadership and friendship, I look forward to continuing our collaboration over great conversations (and great food ).
361
File/Photo Upload Max file size for all uploads is 25 MB 362
CITY COUNCILMEMBER REPORT
Council
Meeting
Date:
08/19/2025 Submitted
by: *
Mayor Pierre Washington
Event
Date:
13/08/2025 Event Type Community Event
Event Title: Back to School - First Day Back 2025
Event Report: On August 13, 2025 I was honored to be part of the first day of school at Canyon Oaks Elementary school along side Principal Stephanie Vasquez and her staff. Watching all the students and parents as they walked into the school yard and towards the schools Oak Tree that is at the center of the campus. I love Principal Vasquez's comment "That the school turns little acorns into mighty oaks." 363
364
Event
Date:
13/08/2025 Event Type Community Event
Event Title: Meet Me in the Streets
Event Report: August 13, 2025 was the last Meet Me in the Street event for 2025. and the Chamber of Commerce knocked it out the park once again, thanks to the Chambers CEO Valerie Zizak-Morais and her amazing Team and volunteers. 365
CITY COUNCILMEMBER REPORT
Council
Meeting
Date:
09/02/2025 Submitted
by: *
Vice Mayor Mark Joseph
Event
Date:
22/08/2025 Event Type Committee Report
Event Title: Climate Action Committee
Event Report: Councilmember Lamattina and I attended the monthly meeting.
There were two main topics for discussion: a recap of the draft RCAAP study; and a request to start the process for a contract to develop an Implementation Plan for the RCAAP, if/once adopted. There is still some confusion over the CEQA/Approval process, but it is likely to go to each jurisdiction for approval, sometime early next year.
On the implementation plan, most of the Committee wanted to stay with Ascent, the current consultant, but I suggested future updates and modifications should be handled by CAC staff and/or the All-Jurisdiction Working Group--mainly to save money.
We also requested a future agenda item to discuss the merits of converting the CAC into a more formal Authority.
Event
Date:
20/08/2025 Event Type Committee Report
Event Title: Napa Valley Transportation Authority (NVTA) Event Report: There was no meeting in August, but the Vice-Chair and I met with the new Executive Director. She has been meeting with the NVTA board members, to get a better sense of the various local priorities, as well as get feedback on current NVTA processes.
She will report her findings in September, but she is recommending a number of steps that should expedite the meetings, and possibly improve the governance as well. One idea that will be considered is the make-up of the Board; that is, the current Bylaws require two representatives, the Mayor and one other Council member. We may revise that to be just any two Council members, which of course, would not preclude the Mayors from being on the Board.
I am also going to be part of a review panel that considers a new contract for Lobbyist services at the Federal level.
Event
Date:
Event Type Community Event
Event Title: Community Activities
Event Report: Attended the August Meet Me in the Street--a very popular event, with totals exceeding 5000.
Showed my support for an informational picket at Sutter Solano Health. There are issues relating to staffing levels and compensation, which are closely related (Kaiser pays better, so it's harder to keep authorized positions, so patient care is impacted). Hopefully, there will be a successful outcome. 366
Helped with the Kiwanis Food Distribution on the third Thursday, which was also one of the hottest days of Summer!
Attended the Chamber's GRID meeting at Marriott Springhill Suites. There was a good presentation by City staff over how the project will unfold. Although a lot of effort is going into minimizing impacts, a project of this magnitude is likely to have a lot of challenges. There was a fair amount of frustration and concern, but not bad overall, considering how long this project has taken.
Chaired the monthly ACAF board meeting. We are trying to limit the number of community events in order "do a few things well." Next up is our annual Pumpkin Path at the Wetlands, October 4. We also made some repairs to the Mosaic at the Mikolajcik Center, and are planning some other activities to make the Center look a little better (landscaping, a possible art mural and more). 367
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS OF NOTE
September 3, 2025, OSATS Meeting. 6:30 p.m.
Meeting Cancelled
September 11, 2025, Parks and Community
Services Meeting. 6:30 p.m.
Community Grant Program
September 16, 2025, Regular City Council
Meeting 6:30p.m.
Proclamation: National Suicide Prevention Month
Proclamation: National Community Planning
Month
Utilities Division Update
September 16, 2025, Special Joint CC/OSATS
Meeting 7:30p.m.
RCAAP Workshop
September 25, 2025, Planning Commission
Meeting 6:30 p.m.
Crawford Way Townhomes Subdivision Map
October 1, 2025, OSATS Meeting. 6:30 p.m.
Meeting Cancelled
October 7, 2025, Regular City Council Meeting
6:30p
Proclamation: Domestic Violence Awareness
Month
Proclamation: Filipino American History Month
Proclamation: Wall That Heals
Q2 CIP Update
October 9, 2025, Special Joint PCS/OSATS
Meeting. 6:30 p.m.
Parks and Community Services Master Plan
Workshop
October 21, 2025, Regular City Council Meeting
6:30p
Proclamation: National Code Compliance
Appreciation Month
AI Policy
Crawford Way Townhomes Subdivision Map
October 23, 2025, Planning Commission
Meeting. 6:30 p.m.
Active Transportation Plan General Plan
Amendment
November 4, 2025, Regular City Council
Meeting 6:30p Open Session
Proclamation: Acknowledging Diwali
Proclamation: Veterans Day
2025 Building Code Update First Reading
Unscheduled Council Directed Items Councilmember
Date of Council
Vote Notes
All Electric Reach Code Joseph 11/7/2023
On hold pending RCAAP and Berkeley
litigation.
Food Ware Ordinance Joseph 9/17/2024 On hold, pending RCAAP Purple Heart Designation Washington 10/15/2024 In progress, council date TBD A.I. Policy Oro 12/3/2024 Scheduled for 10/21/2025
368