The clone tool copies all the relevant information to a new page where an additional lat/long and elevation can be entered. However, the clone process does not number the various points of a proposed project. When entering the details for a point (see Image 5) it is helpful if the user assigns a number to the point and references the total number of points for the project (e.g. point 2 of 20). The numbering can be included in the project “description/remarks” field for each point.
It should be noted that each individual point associated with a project (e.g. each corner of a building) is evaluated individually, thus the importance of including a numbering system (2 of 20) in the text/description box.
Once done, click “save” again. Now the user will see two records under the “project summary” heading. Continue this process of cloning for all the remaining points.
Accurate lat/long and site
elevation is critical for an
accurate airspace
determination.
It is recommended that survey
quality data be obtained from
a recent survey, a GPS unit, or
worst case, scaled from a topo
quad.
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APPENDIX B TITLE 14 CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS PART 77 B-22 Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) Once all the points have been entered, each point must be verified. There is a red X with the words “verify map” indicating the user has not verified the location. Click Verify Map, a popup will display the lat/long point on a topo map and the user must verify that it is in the correct location. After clicking “verify map” on the popup, the red X will become a blue checkmark. It seems to be more efficient to enter all of the points associated with a project and then return to verify each point on the map at one time.
All on-airport project submittals must have a “project sketch” included. Under the “actions” column select “upload a PDF”. Once you have uploaded a sketch for all the points associated with the project the red X under “sketch” will turn to a green check mark. Off-airport projects do not require a “project sketch”, but the user can still upload one for informational purposes.
If the user needs to add any other information such as an explanatory letter, clicking on “upload a PDF” will allow the user to upload more documents, although only one at a time. Keep in mind that if additional PDFs or information are being provided, like the project sketch it must be uploaded to every point associated with the project.
Once the maps have been verified and sketches uploaded for all points associated with the case, the user will be able to submit the 7460 to the FAA for review. 1234
TITLE 14 CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS PART 77 APPENDIX B Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) B-23 Status of Submitted Projects
To check the status of a submittal, click on either “my cases (off airport)” or “my cases (on airport)” to see a list of what has been submitted. Each of the multiple points associated with one project will be listed as if they are separate, although still associated. The points will have a status:
Project Status Definitions:
Draft: Cases that have been saved by the user but have not been submitted to the FAA.
Waiting: Cases that have not been submitted to the FAA and are waiting for an action from the user, either to verify the map or attach a sketch.
Accepted: Cases that have been submitted to the FAA.
Add Letter: Cases that have been reviewed by the FAA and require additional information from the user.
Work in Progress: Cases that are being evaluated by the FAA.
Determined: Cases that have a completed aeronautical study and an FAA determination.
Terminated: Cases that are no longer valid.
These definitions are also shown at the bottom of the summary screen. 1235
APPENDIX B TITLE 14 CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS PART 77 B-24 Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) This page left intentionally blank
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Appendix C
Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) C-1 Appendix C Methods for Calculating
Usage Intensity
METHOD S FOR CALCU LATING USAGE INTEN SITY
INTRODUCTION
The underlying safety compatibility criterion employed in this ALUCP is “usage intensity”—the maximum number of people per acre that can be present in a given area at any one time. If a proposed use exceeds the maximum intensity, it is considered incompatible and thus inconsistent with compatibility planning policies. The usage intensity concept is identified in the California Airport Land Use Planning Handbook (Handbook) as the measure best suited for assessment of land use safety compatibility with airports. The Handbook is published by Caltrans and is required under state law to be used as a guide in preparation of airport land use compatibility plans.
It is recognized, though, that “people per acre” is not a common measure in other facets of land use planning. Therefore, this ALUCP also utilizes the more common measure of floor area ratio (FAR) as a means of implementing the usage intensity criteria on the local level. This appendix both provides guidance on how the usage intensity determination can be made and defines the relationships between this measure, FAR, and other measures found in land use planning.
COUNTING PEOPLE
The most difficult part about calculating a use’s intensity is estimating the number of people expected to use a particular facility under normal circumstances. All people—not just employees, but also customers and visitors—who may be on the property at a single point in time, whether indoors or outside, must be counted. The only exceptions are for rare special events, such as an air show at an airport, for which a facility is not designed and normally not used and for which extra safety precautions can be taken as appropriate.
Ideally, the actual number of people for which the facility is designed would be known. For example, the number of seats in a proposed movie theater can be determined with high accuracy once the theater size is decided. However, other buildings may be built as a shell and the eventual number of occupants would remain unknown until a specific tenant is found. Furthermore, the number of occupants can change in the future as tenants change. Even greater uncertainty is involved with relatively open uses that do not having fixed seating—e.g., retail stores or sports parks. 1237
APPENDIX C METHODS FOR CALCULATING USAGE INTENSITY
C-2 Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) Absent clearly measurable occupancy numbers, other sources must be relied upon to estimate the number of people in a proposed development.
SURVEY OF SIMILAR USES
A survey of similar uses already in existence is one option; however, gathering data in this manner can be time-consuming and costly. Also, unless the survey sample is sufficiently large and conducted at various times, inconsistent numbers may result. Except for uncommon uses for which occupancy levels cannot be estimated through other means, surveys are most appropriate as supplemental information.
MAXIMUM OCCUPANCY
A second option for estimating the number of people who will be on a site is to rely upon data indicating the maximum occupancy of a building measured in terms of Occupancy Load Factor—the number of square feet per occupant. The number of people on the site, assuming limited outdoor or peripheral uses, can be calculated by dividing the total floor area of a proposed use by the Occupancy Load Factor. The challenge of this methodology lies in establishing realistic figures for square feet per occupant. The number varies greatly from one use to another and, for some uses, has changed over time as well.
A commonly used source of maximum occupancy data is the standards set in the California Building Code (CBC). The chart reproduced as Exhibit C-1 indicates the Occupancy Load Factors for various types of uses. The CBC, though, is intended primarily for purposes of structural design and fire safety and represents a legal maximum occupancy in most jurisdictions. A CBC-based methodology consequently results in occupancy numbers that are higher than normal maximum usage in most instances. The numbers also are based upon usable floor area and do not take into account corridors, stairs, building equipment rooms, and other functions that are part of a building’s gross square footage.
Surveys of actual Occupancy Load Factors conducted by various agencies have indicated that many retail and office uses are generally occupied at no more than 50% of their maximum occupancy levels, even at the busiest times of day. Therefore, the Handbook indicates that the number of people calculated for office and retail uses can usually be divided in half to reflect the actual occupancy levels before making the final people-per-acre determination. Even with this adjustment, the CBC-based methodology typically produces intensities at the high end of the likely range.
Another source of data on square footage per occupant comes from the facility management industry.
The data is used to help businesses determine how much building space they need to build or lease and thus tends to be more generous than the CBC standards. The numbers vary not only by the type of facility, as with the CBC, but also by type of industry. The following are selected examples of square footage per employee gathered from a variety of sources. ▪ Call centers 150 – 175
▪ Typical offices 180 – 250
▪ Law, finance, real estate offices 300 – 325
▪ Research & development, light industry 300 – 500
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METHODS FOR CALCULATING USAGE INTENSITY APPENDIX C
Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) C-3 ▪ Health services 500
The numbers above do not take into account the customers who may also be present for certain uses.
For retail business, dining establishments, theaters, and other uses where customers outnumber employees, either direct measures of occupancy—the number of seats, for example—or other methodologies must be used to estimate the potential number of people on the site.
PARKING SPACE REQUIREMENTS
For many jurisdictions and a wide variety of uses, the number of people present on a site can be calculated based upon the number of automobile parking spaces that are required. However, certain limitations and assumptions must be considered when applying this methodology. An obvious limitation is that parking space requirements can be correlated with occupancy numbers only where nearly all users arrive by private vehicle rather than by public transportation, walking, or other method.
Secondly, the jurisdiction needs to have a well-defined parking ordinance that lists parking space requirements for a wide range of land uses. For most uses, these requirements are typically stated in terms of the number of parking spaces that must be provided per 1,000 square feet of gross building size or a similar ratio. Lastly, assumptions must be made with regard to the average number of people who will arrive in each car.
Both of the critical ratios associated with this methodology—parking spaces to building size and occupants to vehicles—vary from one jurisdiction to another even for the same types of uses.
Research of local ordinances and other sources, though, indicates that the following ratios are typical. Parking Space Ratios—These examples of required parking space requirements are typical of those found in ordinances adopted by urban and suburban jurisdictions. The numbers are ratios of spaces required per 1,000 square feet of gross floor area. Gross floor area is normally measured to the outside surfaces of a building and includes all floor levels as well as stairways, elevators, storage, and mechanical rooms.
▪ Small Restaurants 10.0
▪ Medical Offices 4.0 – 5.7
▪ Shopping Centers 4.0 – 5.0
▪ Health Clubs 3.3 – 5.0
▪ Business Professional Offices 3.3 – 4.0
▪ Retail Stores 3.0 – 3.5
▪ Research & Development 2.5 – 4.0
▪ Manufacturing 2.0 – 2.5
▪ Furniture, Building Supply Stores 0.7 – 1.0
Vehicle Occupancy—Data indicating the average number of people occupying each vehicle parking at a particular business or other land use can be found in various transportation surveys.
The numbers vary both from one community or region to another and over time; thus, current local data is best if available. The following data represent typical vehicle occupancy for different trip purposes.
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APPENDIX C METHODS FOR CALCULATING USAGE INTENSITY
C-4 Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) ▪ Work 1.05 – 1.2
▪ Education 1.2 – 2.0
▪ Medical 1.5 – 1.7
▪ Shopping 1.5 – 1.8
▪ Dining, Social, Recreational 1.7 – 2.3
USAGE INTENSITY RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER DEVELOPMENT
MEASURES
CALCULATING USAGE INTENSITIES
Once the number of people expected in a particular development—both over the entire site and within individual buildings—has been estimated, the usage intensity can be calculated. The criteria in this ALUCP are measured in terms of the average intensity over the entire project site.
The average intensity is calculated by dividing the total number of people on the site by the site size.
A 10-acre site expected to be occupied by as many as 1,000 people at a time would have an average intensity of 100 people per acre. The site size equals the total size of the parcel or parcels to be developed.
Having calculated the usage intensities of a proposed development, a comparison can be made with the criteria set forth in the ALUCP to determine whether the proposal is consistent or inconsistent with the policies.
COMPARISON WITH FLOOR AREA RATIO
As noted earlier, usage intensity or people per acre is not a common metric in land use planning. Floor area ratio or FAR—the gross square footage of the buildings on a site divided by the site size—is a more common measure in land use planning. Some counties and cities adopt explicit FAR limits in their zoning ordinance or other policies. Those that do not set FAR limits often have other requirements, such as a maximum number of floors a building can have, minimum setback distances from the property line, and minimum number of parking spaces. These requirements effectively limit the floor area ratio as well.
To facilitate local jurisdiction implementation, the safety compatibility criteria in this ALUCP have been structured around FAR measures to determine usage intensity limits for many types of nonresidential land use development. To utilize FAR in this manner, a critical additional piece of information is necessary to overcome the major shortcoming of FAR as a safety compatibility measure. The problem with FAR is that it does not directly correlate with risks to people because different types of buildings with the same FAR can have vastly different numbers of people inside— a low-intensity warehouse versus a high-intensity restaurant, for example. For FAR to be applied as a factor in setting development limitations, assumptions must be made as to how much space each person (employees and others) in the building will occupy. 1240
METHODS FOR CALCULATING USAGE INTENSITY APPENDIX C
Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) C-5 The Safety Compatibility Criteria table therefore indicates the assumed Occupancy Load Factor for various land uses. Mathematically, the relationship between usage intensity and FAR is:
FAR = (allowable usage intensity) x (Occupancy Load Factor) 43,560
where usage intensity is measured in terms of people per acre and Occupancy Load Factor as square feet per person.
Selection of the usage intensity, occupancy level, and FAR numbers that appear in the Basic Compatibility Criteria table was done in an iterative manner that considered each of the components both separately and together. Usage intensities were initially set with respect to guidelines provided in the California Airport Land Use Planning Handbook. Occupancy levels were derived from the CBC but were adjusted based upon additional research from both local and national sources in the manner discussed earlier in this appendix. The FAR limits were initially calculated from these other two numbers using the formula above.
COMPARISON WITH PARKING SPACE REQUIREMENTS
As discussed above, many jurisdictions have adopted parking space requirements that vary from one land use type to another. Factoring in an estimated vehicle occupancy rate for various land uses as described earlier, the Occupancy Load Factor can be calculated. For example, a typical parking space requirement for office uses is 4.0 spaces per 1,000 square feet or 1 space per 250 square feet. If each vehicle is assumed to be occupied by 1.1 persons, the equivalent Occupancy Load Factor would be 1 person per 227 square feet. This number falls squarely within the range noted above that was found through separate research of norms used by the facility management industry.
As an added note, the Occupancy Load Factor of 215 square feet per person indicated in the Basic Compatibility Criteria table for office uses is slightly more conservative than the above calculation produces. This means that, for a given usage intensity standard, the FAR limit in the table is slightly more restrictive than would result from a higher Occupancy Load Factor. 1241
APPENDIX C METHODS FOR CALCULATING USAGE INTENSITY
C-6 Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) EXHIBIT C-1: OCCUPANT LOAD FACTORS - CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 1242
METHODS FOR CALCULATING USAGE INTENSITY APPENDIX C
Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) C-7 EXHIBIT C-2: SAMPLE PEOPLE-PER-ACRE CALCULATIONS
Example 1
Proposed Development: Two office buildings, each two stories and containing 20,000 square feet of floor area per building. Site size is 3.0 net acres. Counting a portion of the adjacent road, the gross area of the site is 3.5± acres.
A. Calculation Based on Parking Space Requirements
For office uses, assume that a county or city parking ordinance requires 1 parking space for every 300 square feet of floor area. Data from traffic studies or other sources can be used to estimate the average vehicle occupancy. For the purposes of this example, the typical vehicle occupancy is assumed to equal 1.5 people per vehicle.
The average usage intensity would therefore be calculated as follows:
1) 40,000 sq. ft. floor area x 1.0 parking space per 300 sq. ft. = 134 required parking spaces 2) 134 parking spaces x 1.5 people per space = 201 people maximum on site 3) 201 people 3.5 acres gross site size = 57 people per acre average for the site B. Calculation Based on Uniform Building Code
Using the UBC (ExhibitC-1) as the basis for estimating building occupancy yields the following results for the above example:
1) 40,000 sq. ft. bldg. 100 sq. ft./occupant = 400 people max. bldg. occupancy (under UBC)
2) 400 max. bldg. occupancy x 50% adjustment = 200 people maximum on site 3) 200 people 3.5 acres gross site size = 57 people per acre average for the site C. Calculation of Single Acre Intensity
Assuming that occupancy of each building is relatively equal throughout, but that there is some separation between the buildings and outdoor uses are minimal, the usage intensity for a single acre would be estimated to be:
1) 20,000 sq. ft. bldg. 2 stories = 10,000 sq. ft. bldg. footprint 2) 10,000 sq. ft. bldg. footprint 43,560 sq. ft. per acre = 0.23 acre bldg. footprint 3) Building footprint < 1.0 acre; therefore maximum people in 1 acre = bldg. occupancy = 100 people per single acre (i.e., 200 people max. on site 2 bldgs.) Conclusions: In this instance, both methodologies yield the same results. The 57 people per average acre and the 100 people per single acre results must be compared with the intensity limits provided in the Basic Compatibility Criteria tables in this ALUCP.
Continued on next page
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APPENDIX C METHODS FOR CALCULATING USAGE INTENSITY
C-8 Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) Example 2
Proposed Development: Single-floor furniture store containing 24,000 square feet of floor area on a site of 2.0 gross acres and the net acreage (less internal roadways) is 1.7 acres.
A. Calculation Based on Parking Space Requirements
For furniture stores, assume that a county or city parking ordinance requires 1 parking space per 1,500 square feet of use area. Assuming 1.5 people per automobile results in the following intensity estimates:
The average usage intensity would be:
1) 24,000 sq. ft. bldg. x 1.0 parking space per 1,500 sq. ft. = 16 required parking spaces 2) 16 parking spaces x 1.5 people per space = 24 people maximum on site 3) 24 people 2.0 acres gross site size = 12 people per acre average for the site B. Calculation Based on Uniform Building Code
For the purposes of the UBC-based methodology, the furniture store is assumed to consist of 50% retail sales floor (at 30 square feet per occupant) and 50% warehouse (at 500 square feet per occupant). Usage intensities would therefore be estimated as follows:
1) 12,000 sq. ft. retail floor area 30 sq. ft./occupant = 400 people max. occupancy in retail area
2) 12,000 sq. ft. warehouse floor area 500 sq. ft./occupant = 24 people max. occupancy in warehouse area
3) Maximum occupancy under UBC assumptions = 400 + 24 = 424 people 4) Assuming typical peak occupancy is 50% of UBC numbers = 212 people maximum on site 5) 212 people 2.0 acres = 106 people per acre average for the site C. Calculation for Single Acre Intensity
With respect to the single-acre intensity criteria, the entire building occupancy would again be within less than 1.0 acre, thus yielding the same intensity of 24 or 212 people per single acre.
Again assuming a relatively balanced occupancy throughout the building and that outdoor uses are minimal, the usage intensity for a single acre would be estimated to be:
1) 24,000 sq. ft. bldg. footprint 43,560 sq. ft. per acre = 0.55 acre bldg. footprint 3) Building footprint < 1.0 acre; therefore, maximum people in 1 acre = bldg. occupancy = 24 or 212 people per single acre under parking space or UBC methodology, respectively Conclusions: In this instance, the two methods produce very different results. The occupancy estimate of 30 square feet per person is undoubtedly low for a furniture store even after the 50% adjustment. On the other hand, the 12 people-per-acre estimate using the parking requirement methodology appears low but is probably closer to being realistic. Unless better data is available from surveys of similar uses, this proposal should reasonably be considered compatible within most compatibility zones, except Zone A.
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Appendix D
Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) D-1 Appendix D General Plan Consistency Checklist
GEN ERAL PLAN C ONSISTENCY CHEC KLIST
GEN ERAL PLAN C ONSISTENCY CHEC KLIST
This checklist is intended to assist local agencies with modifications necessary to make their local plans and other local policies consistent with this ALUCP. It is also designed to facilitate ALUC reviews of these local plans and policies.
COMPATIBILITY CRITERIA
General Plan Document
The following items typically appear directly in a general plan document. Amendment of the general plan will be required if there are any conflicts with the ALUCP.
▪ Land Use Map—No direct conflicts should exist between proposed new land uses indicated on a general plan land use map and the ALUC land use compatibility criteria.
- Residential densities (dwelling units per acre)
should not exceed the set limits.
- Proposed nonresidential development needs to be
assessed with respect to applicable intensity limits
(see below).
- No new land uses of a type listed as specifically
prohibited should be shown within affected areas.
▪ Noise Element—General plan noise elements typically
include criteria indicating the maximum noise exposure for which residential development is normally acceptable.
This limit must be made consistent with the equivalent
ALUCP criteria. Note, however, that a general plan may
establish a different limit with respect to aviation-related noise than for noise from other sources (this may be
appropriate in that aviation-related noise is sometimes judged to be more objectionable than other types of
equally loud noises).
Zoning or Other Policy Documents
The following items need to be reflected either in the general plan or in a separate policy document such as a combining zone ordinance. If a separate policy document is adopted, modification of the general plan to achieve consistency with the ALUCP may not be required. Modifications would
normally be needed only to eliminate any conflicting language which may be present and to make reference to the separate policy document:
▪ Intensity Limitations on Nonresidential Uses—ALUCPs
may establish limits on the usage intensities of commercial, industrial, and other nonresidential land uses. This can be done by duplication of the performance-oriented criteria— specifically, the number of people per acre—indicated in the ALUCP. Alternatively, ALUCs may create a detailed list of land uses which are allowable and/or not allowable within each compatibility zone. For certain land uses, such a list may need to include limits on building sizes, floor area ratios, habitable floors, and/or other design parameters which are equivalent to the usage intensity criteria.
▪ Identification of Prohibited Uses—ALUCPs may prohibit schools, day care centers, assisted living centers, hospitals, and other uses within a majority of an airport’s influence area. The facilities often are permitted or conditionally permitted uses within many commercial or industrial land use designations.
▪ Open Land Requirements—ALUCP requirements, if any,
for assuring that a minimum amount of open land is
preserved in the airport vicinity must be reflected in local policies. Normally, the locations which are intended to be maintained as open land would be identified on a map with the total acreage within each compatibility zone indicated. If some of the area included as open land is private property, then policies must be established which assure that the open land will continue to exist as the property develops. Policies specifying the required characteristics of eligible open land should also be established.
▪ Infill Development—If an ALUCP contains infill policies and a jurisdiction wishes to take advantage of them, the lands that meet the qualifications must be shown on a map.
▪ Height Limitations and Other Hazards to Flight—To
protect the airport airspace, limitations must be set on the height of structures and other objects near airports. These limitations are to be based upon FAR Part 77. Restrictions also must be established on other land use characteristics which can cause hazards to flight (specifically, visual or electronic interference with navigation and uses which attract birds). Note that many jurisdictions have already adopted an airport-related hazard and height limit zoning ordinance which, if up to date, will satisfy this consistency requirement.
Continued on next page
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APPENDIX D GENERAL PLAN CONSISTENCY CHECKLIST
D-2 Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) ▪ Buyer Awareness Measures—Besides disclosure rules
already required by state law, as a condition for approval of development within certain compatibility zones, some ALUCPs require either dedication of an avigation
easement to the airport proprietor or placement on deeds of a notice regarding airport impacts. If so, local agency policies must contain similar requirements.
▪ Nonconforming Uses and Reconstruction—Local
agency policies regarding nonconforming uses and
reconstruction must be equivalent to or more restrictive than those in the ALUCP, if any.
REVIEW PROCEDURES
In addition to incorporation of ALUC compatibility criteria, local agency implementing documents must specify the
manner in which development proposals will be reviewed for consistency with the compatibility criteria.
▪ Actions Always Required to be Submitted for ALUC
Review—Public Utility Code Section 21676 identifies the types of actions that must be submitted for airport land use commission review. Local policies should either list these actions or, at a minimum, note the local agency’s intent to comply with the state statute.
▪ Other Land Use Actions Potentially Subject to ALUC
Review—In addition to the above actions, ALUCPs may
identify certain major land use actions for which referral to the ALUC is dependent upon agreement between the
local agency and ALUC. If the local agency fully complies with all of the items in this general plan consistency check list or has taken the necessary steps to overrule the
ALUC, then referral of the additional actions is voluntary.
On the other hand, a local agency may elect not to
incorporate all of the necessary compatibility criteria and review procedures into its own policies. In this case,
referral of major land use actions to the ALUC is
mandatory. Local policies should indicate the local
agency’s intentions in this regard.
▪ Process for Compatibility Reviews by Local
Jurisdictions—If a local agency chooses to submit only the mandatory actions for ALUC review, then it must establish a policy indicating the procedures which will be used to assure that airport compatibility criteria are addressed during review of other projects. Possibilities include: a standard review procedure checklist which includes reference to compatibility criteria; use of a geographic information system to identify all parcels within the airport influence area; etc.
▪ Variance Procedures—Local procedures for granting of
variances to the zoning ordinance must make certain that any such variances do not result in a conflict with the compatibility criteria. Any variance that involves issues of noise, safety, airspace protection, or overflight compatibility as addressed in the ALUCP must be referred to the ALUC for review.
▪ Enforcement—Policies must be established to assure
compliance with compatibility criteria during the lifetime of the development. Enforcement procedures are especially
necessary with regard to limitations on usage intensities and the heights of trees. An airport combining district zoning ordinance is one means of implementing enforcement
requirements.
Source: California Airport Land Use Planning Handbook (October 2011) 1246
Appendix E
Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) E-1 Appendix E Sample Implementation Documents SAM PLE IM PLEM ENTATION DOCUM ENTS
SAM PLE IM PLEM ENTATION DOCUM ENTS
INTRODUCTION
The responsibility for implementation of the compatibility criteria set forth in the Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (ALUCP) rests largely with the Local Agencies in Napa County.
Modification of general plans and specific plans for consistency with this ALUCP is the major step in this process. However, not all of the measures necessary for achievement of airport land use compatibility are necessarily included in general plans and specific plans. Other types of documents also serve to implement the ALUCP policies. Samples of such implementation documents are included in this appendix.
AIRPORT COMBINING ZONE ORDINANCE
One option that the affected local jurisdictions can utilize to implement airport land use compatibility criteria and associated policies is adoption of an airport combining zone ordinance. An airport combining zone ordinance is a way of collecting various airport-related development conditions into one local policy document. Adoption of a combining zone is not required but is suggested as an option. ExhibitE-2 describes some of the potential components of an airport combining zone ordinance.
BUYER AWARENESS MEASURES
Buyer awareness is an umbrella category for several types of implementation documents, all of which have the objective of ensuring that prospective buyers of airport area property, particularly residential property, are informed about the airport’s impact on the property. The ALUCP policies include each of these measures.
▪ Avigation Easement—Avigation easements transfer certain property rights from the owner of the underlying property to the owner of an airport or, in the case of military airports, to a local government agency on behalf of the federal government (the U.S. Department of Defense is not authorized to accept avigation easements) (see ExhibitE-1). This ALUCP requires avigation easement dedication as a condition for approval of development on property subject to high noise levels or a need to restrict heights of structures and trees to less than might ordinarily occur on the property. Specific easement dedication requirements are set forth in this ALUCP. Also, airports may require avigation easements in conjunction with programs for noise insulation of existing structures in the airport vicinity. A sample of a standard avigation easement is included in ExhibitE-3.
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APPENDIX E SAMPLE IMPLEMENTATION DOCUMENTS
E-2 Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) EXHIBIT E-1: AVIGATION EASEMENTS
Source: Mead & Hunt, Inc. 2020
▪ Recorded Overflight Notification—An overflight notification informs property owners that the property is subject to aircraft overflight and generation of noise and other impacts. No restrictions on the heights of objects, requirements for marking or lighting of objects, or access to the property for these purposes are included. An overflight notification serves only as buyer acceptance of overflight conditions. Suggested wording of an overflight notification is included in ExhibitE-4. Unlike an avigation easement, overflight easement, or other type of easement, an overflight notification is not a conveyance of property rights. However, like an easement, an overflight notification is recorded on the property deed and, therefore, remains in effect with sale of the property to subsequent owners. Overflight notifications are generally appropriate in areas outside the 60 dB CNEL noise contour, outside Safety Zones, and within areas where the height of structures and other objects would not pose a significant potential of being airspace obstruction hazards.
▪ Airport Proximity Disclosure—A less definitive, but more all-encompassing, form of buyer awareness measure is for the ALUC and local jurisdictions to establish a policy indicating that information about and airport’s influence area should be disclosed to prospective buyers of all airport-vicinity properties prior to transfer of title. The advantage of this type of program is that it applies to previously existing land uses as well as to new development. The requirement for disclosure of information about the proximity of an airport has been present in state law for some time, but legislation adopted in 2002 and effective in January 2004 explicitly ties the requirement to the airport influence areas established by airport land use commissions (see Appendix A for excerpts from sections of the Business and Professions Code and Civil Code that define these requirements). With certain exceptions, these statutes require disclosure of a property’s location within an airport influence area under any of the following three circumstances: (1) sale or lease of subdivided lands; (2) sale of common interest developments; and (3) sale of residential real property. In each case, the disclosure statement to be used is defined by state law as follows:
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SAMPLE IMPLEMENTATION DOCUMENTS APPENDIX E
Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) E-3
NOTICE OF AIRPORT IN VICINITY
This property is presently located in the vicinity of an airport, within what is known as an airport influence area. For that reason, the property may be subject to some of the annoyances or inconveniences associated with proximity to airport operations (for example: noise, vibration, or odors). Individual sensitivities to those annoyances can vary from person to person. You may wish to consider what airport annoyances, if any, are associated with the property before you complete your purchase and determine whether they are acceptable to you.
1249
APPENDIX E SAMPLE IMPLEMENTATION DOCUMENTS
E-4 Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) EXHIBIT E-2: SAMPLE AIRPORT COMBINING ZONE COMPONENTS
An airport compatibility combining zoning ordinance might include some or all of the following components:
▪ Airspace Protection—A combining district can establish restrictions on the height of buildings, antennas, trees, and other objects as necessary to protect the airspace needed for operation of the airport. These restrictions should be based upon the current version of the Federal Aviation
Regulations (FAR) Part 77, Objects Affecting Navigable
Airspace, Subpart C. Additions or adjustment to take into account instrument approach (TERPS) surfaces should be
made as necessary. Provisions prohibiting smoke, glare, bird attractions, and other hazards to flight should also be included.
▪ FAA Notification Requirements—Combining districts
also can be used to ensure that project developers are
informed about the need for compliance with the
notification requirements of FAR Part 77. Subpart B of the regulations requires that the proponent of any project
which exceeds a specified set of height criteria submit a Notice of Proposed Construction or Alteration (Form 7460- 1) to the Federal Aviation Administration prior to
commencement of construction. The height criteria
associated with this notification requirement are lower than those spelled out in Part 77, Subpart C, which define airspace obstructions. The purpose of the notification is to determine if the proposed construction would constitute a potential hazard or obstruction to flight. Notification is not required for proposed structures that would be shielded by existing structures or by natural terrain of equal or greater height, where it is obvious that the proposal would not adversely affect air safety.
▪ State Regulation of Obstructions—State law prohibits
anyone from constructing or altering a structure or altering a structure or permitting an object of natural growth to exceed the heights established by FAR Part 77, Subpart
C, unless the FAA has determined the object would or
does not constitute a hazard to air navigation (Public
Utilities Code, Section 21659). Additionally, a permit from the Department of Transportation is required for any
structure taller than 500 feet above the ground unless the height is reviewed and approved by the Federal
Communications Commission or the FAA (Section 21656).
▪ Designation of High Noise-Impact Areas—California
state statutes require that multi-family residential
structures in high-noise exposure areas be constructed so as to limit the interior noise to a Community Noise
Equivalent Level of no more than 45 dB. A combining
district could be used to indicate the locations where
special construction techniques may be necessary in
order to ensure compliance with this requirement. The
combining district also could extend this criterion to singlefamily dwellings. ▪ Maximum Densities/Intensities—Airport noise and safety compatibility criteria are frequently expressed in terms of dwelling units per acre for residential uses and people per acre for other land uses. These standards can either be directly included in a combining zone or used to modify the underlying land use designations. For residential land uses, the correlation between the compatibility criteria and land use designations is direct. For other land uses, the method of calculating the intensity limitations needs to be defined.
Alternatively, a matrix can be established indicating whether each specific type of land use is compatible with each
compatibility zone. To be useful, the land use categories need to be more detailed than typically provided by general plan or zoning ordinance land use designations.
▪ Open Areas for Emergency Landing of Aircraft—In most
circumstances in which an accident involving a small aircraft occurs near an airport, the aircraft is under control as it descends. When forced to make an off-airport emergency
landing, pilots will usually attempt to do so in the most open areas readily available. To enhance safety both for people on the ground and the occupants of the aircraft, airport
compatibility plans often contain criteria requiring a certain amount of open land near airports. These criteria are most effectively carried out by planning at the general or specific plan level, but may also need to be included in a combining district so that they will be applied to development of large parcels. Adequate open areas can often be provided by
clustering of development on adjacent land.
▪ Areas of Special Compatibility Concern—A significant
drawback of standard general plan and zoning ordinance
land use designations is that they can be changed. Uses that are currently compatible are not assured of staying that way in the future. Designation of areas of special compatibility concern would serve as a reminder that airport impacts
should be carefully considered in any decision to change the existing land use designation. [A legal consideration which supports the value of this concept is that down-zoning of a property to a less intensive use is becoming more difficult. It is much better not to have inappropriately up-zoned the property in the first place.]
▪ Real Estate Disclosure Policies—The geographic extent and specific language of recommended real estate
disclosure statements can be described in an airport
combining zone ordinance.
1250
SAMPLE IMPLEMENTATION DOCUMENTS APPENDIX E
Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) E-5 EXHIBIT E-3: TYPICAL AVIGATION EASEMENT
TYPICAL AVIGATION EASEMENT
[Airport Name]
This indenture made this _____ day of ____________, 20__, between _________________________ hereinafter referred to as Grantor, and the [Agency Name], a political subdivision in the State of California, hereinafter referred to as Grantee.
The Grantor, for good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, does hereby grant to the Grantee, its successors and assigns, a perpetual and assignable easement over the following described parcel of land in which the Grantor holds a fee simple estate. The property which is subject to this easement is depicted as _____________________ on “Exhibit A” attached and is more particularly described as follows:
[Insert legal description of real property]
The easement applies to the Airspace above an imaginary plane over the real property. The plane is described as follows:
The imaginary plane above the hereinbefore described real property, as such plane is defined by Part 77 of the Code of Federal Regulations, and consists of a plane [describe approach, transition, or horizontal surface]; the elevation of said plane being based upon the [Airport Name] official airport elevation of ___ feet Above Mean Sea Level (AMSL), as determined by the Airport Layout Plan, the approximate dimensions of which said plane are described and shown on Exhibit A attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference.
The aforesaid easement and right-of-way includes, but is not limited to:
(1) For the use and benefit of the public, the easement and continuing right to fly, or cause or permit the flight by any and all persons, or any aircraft, of any and all kinds now or hereafter known, in, through, across, or about any portion of the Airspace hereinabove described; and (2) The easement and right to cause or create, or permit or allow to be caused and created within all space above the existing surface of the hereinabove described real property and any and all Airspace laterally adjacent to said real property, such noise, vibration, currents and other effects of air illumination and fuel consumption as may be inherent in, or may arise or occur from or during the operation of aircraft of any and all kinds, now or hereafter known or used, for navigation of or flight in air; and (3) A continuing right to clear and keep clear from the Airspace any portions of buildings, structures or improvements of any kinds, and of trees or other objects, including the right to remove or demolish those portions of such buildings, structures, improvements, trees, or other things which extend into or above said Airspace, and the right to cut to the ground level and remove, any trees which extend into or above the Airspace; and
(4) The right to prohibit or restrict land uses or site features that could attract hazardous wildlife to an Airport Influence Area;
(5) The right to mark and light, or cause or require to be marked and lighted, as obstructions to air navigation, any and all buildings, structures or other improvements, and trees or other objects, which extend into or above the Airspace; and
(6) The right of ingress to, passage within, and egress from the hereinabove described real property, for the purposes described in subparagraphs (3) and (4) above at reasonable times and after reasonable notice.
For and on behalf of itself, its successors and assigns, the Grantor hereby covenants with the [Agency Name], for the direct benefit of the real property constituting the [Airport Name] hereinafter described, that neither the Grantor, nor its successors in interest or assigns will construct, install, erect, place or grow, in or upon the hereinabove described real property, nor will they permit or allow any building structure, improvement, tree, or other object to extend into or above the Airspace so as to constitute an obstruction to air navigation or to obstruct or interfere with the use of the easement and rights-of-way herein granted. If Grantor fails to comply with the foregoing obligations within ten (10) days after Grantee gives written notice of violation to Grantor by depositing said notice in the United States mail, Grantee may enter the above-described real property for the purposes described in subparagraphs (3) and/or (4), above, and charge Grantor for the cost thereof. 1251
APPENDIX E SAMPLE IMPLEMENTATION DOCUMENTS
E-6 Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) The easements and rights-of-way herein granted shall be deemed both appurtenant to and for the direct benefit of that real property which constitutes the [Airport Name], in the County of Napa, State of California; and shall further be deemed in gross, being conveyed to the Grantee for the benefit of the Grantee and any and all members of the general public who may use said easement or right-of-way, in landing at, taking off from or operating such aircraft in or about the [Airport Name], or in otherwise flying through said Airspace.
Grantor, together with its successors in interest and assigns, hereby waives its right to legal action against Grantee, its successors or assigns for monetary damages or other redress due to impacts, as described in paragraph (2) of the granted rights of easement, associated with aircraft operations in the air or on the ground at the airport, including future increases in the volume or changes in location of said operations. Furthermore, Grantee, its successors, and assigns shall have no duty to avoid or mitigate such damages through physical modification of airport facilities or establishment or modification of aircraft operational procedures or restrictions. However, this waiver shall not apply if the airport role or character of its usage (as identified in an adopted airport master plan, for example) changes in a fundamental manner which could not reasonably have been anticipated at the time of the granting of this easement and which results in a substantial increase in the in the impacts associated with aircraft operations. Also, this grant of easement shall not operate to deprive the Grantor, its successors or assigns of any rights which may from time to time have against any air carrier or private operator for negligent or unlawful operation of aircraft.
These covenants and agreements run with the land and are binding upon the heirs, administrators, executors, successors and assigns of the Grantor, and, for the purpose of this instrument, the real property firstly hereinabove described is the servient tenement and said [Airport Name] is the dominant tenement.
DATED
STATE OF }
ss
COUNTY OF }
On _____________________, before me, the undersigned, a Notary Public in and for said County and State personally appeared __________________, and ________________ known to me to be the persons whose names are subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged that they executed the same.
WITNESS my hand and official seal.
Notary Public
Source: Modified from California Airport Land Use Planning Handbook (January 2002) 1252
SAMPLE IMPLEMENTATION DOCUMENTS APPENDIX E
Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) E-7 EXHIBIT E-4: SAMPLE RECORDED OVERFLIGHT NOTIFICATION
RECORDED OVERFLIGHT NOTIFICATION
This Overflight Notification concerns the real property situated in the County of Napa and the City of _______________________, State of California, described as ____________________________________[APN No.: _______].
This Overflight Notification provides notification of the condition of the above described property in recognition of, and in compliance with, CALIFORNIA BUSINESS & PROFESSIONS CODE Section 11010 and CALIFORNIA CIVIL CODE Sections 1102.6, 1103.4 and 1353, effective January 1, 2004, and related state and local regulations and consistent with policies of the Airport Land Use Commission for Napa County for overflight notification provided in the Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan.
NOTICE OF AIRPORT IN VICINITY: This property is located in the vicinity of an airport and within the airport influence area. The property may be subject to some of the annoyances or inconveniences associated with proximity to an airport and aircraft operations (for example: noise, vibration, overflights or odors). Individual sensitivities to those annoyances can vary from person to person. You should consider what airport annoyances, if any, affect the Property before you complete your purchase and whether they are acceptable to you.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has regulatory authority over the operation of aircraft in flight and on the runway and taxiway surfaces at [Airport Name]. The FAA is, therefore, exclusively responsible for airspace and air traffic management, including ensuring the safe and efficient use of navigable airspace, developing air traffic rules, assigning the use of airspace and controlling air traffic. Please contact the FAA for more detailed information regarding overflight and airspace protection issues associated with the operation of military aircraft.
The airport operator, the [Agency Name], maintains information regarding hours of operation and other relevant information regarding airport operations. Please contact your local airport operator for more detailed information regarding airport specific operational issues including hours of operation.
This Overflight Notification shall be duly recorded with the Napa County Assessor’s Office, shall run with the Property, and shall be binding upon all parties having or acquiring any right, title or interest in the Property.
Effective Date:_________, 20__
Source: California Airport Land Use Planning Handbook (January 2002) 1253
APPENDIX E SAMPLE IMPLEMENTATION DOCUMENTS
E-8 Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) This page left intentionally blank
1254
Appendix F
Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) F-1 Appendix F Referral Form
REFERR AL FORM
PROJECT APPLICATION
FOR LAND USE
ACTION REVIEW
ALUC Identification No.
PROJECT PROPONENT (TO BE COMPLETED BY APPLICANT)
Date of Application
Applicant Phone Number
Mailing Address
Agent (if any) Phone Number
Mailing Address
PROJECT LOCATION (TO BE COMPLETED BY APPLICANT)
Attach an accurately scaled map showing the relationship of the project site to the airport boundary and runways Street Address
Assessor’s Parcel No. Parcel Size
Subdivision Name Zoning
Lot Number Classification
PROJECT DESCRIPTION (TO BE COMPLETED BY APPLICANT)
If applicable, attach a detailed site plan showing ground elevations, the location of structures, open spaces and water bodies, and the heights of structures and trees; include additional project description data as needed Existing Land Use
(describe)
Proposed Land Use
(describe)
For Residential Uses Number of Parcels or Units on Site (exclude secondary units) For Other Land Uses Hours of Use
Number of People Maximum Number
On Site… Method of Calculation
Height Data Height above Ground of Tallest Object (including antennas and trees) ft.
Highest Elevation (above sea level) of Any Object or Terrain on Site ft.
Flight Hazards Does the Project Involve Characteristics that:
▪ Could Create Electrical Interference, Confusing Lights, Glare, Smoke, or Other Electrical or Visual Hazards to Aircraft Flight? ☐ Yes ☐ No ▪ Could Attract Birds or Other Wildlife to the Airport or Vicinity? ☐ Yes ☐ No If Yes, Describe
1255
APPENDIX F REFERRAL FORM
F-2 Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024)
REFERRING AGENCY (TO BE COMPLETED BY SUBMITTING AGENCY STAFF) Date Received Type of Project
Agency Name ☐ General Plan Amendment
☐ Zoning Amendment or Variance
Staff Contact ☐ Subdivision Approval
Phone Number ☐ Use Permit
Agency’s Project No. ☐ Public Facility
☐ Other
Inter-Agency Coordination: Indicate neighboring agencies that have been notified of project. ☐ City of Napa ☐ City of American Canyon ☐ County of Napa ☐ Other __________________
ALUC REVIEW (TO BE COMPLETED BY ALUC STAFF / ATTACH ADDITIONAL PAGES IF NECESSARY) Application Date Received By
Receipt Is Application Complete? ☐ Yes ☐ No
If no, cite reasons
Airport ☐ Napa County Airport ☐ Angwin Airport – Parrett Field Land Use Category/Categories
Compatibility Zones Angwin Airport – Parrett Field ☐ A ☐ B - - ☐ C ☐ D1 ☐ D2 ☐ E Napa County Airport ☐ A ☐ B1 ☐ B2 ☐ B3 ☐ C ☐ D1 ☐ D2 ☐ E Land Use Acceptability ☐ Normally Compatible ☐ Conditional ☐ Incompatible Sitewide Avg. Density/Intensity
Criteria Met? ☐ Yes ☐ No
Single-Acre Density/Intensity
Criteria Met? ☐ Yes ☐ No
Sound Attenuation Required? ☐ Yes ☐ No
Other Applicable Conditions
Met? ☐ Yes ☐ No
Airspace Protection Height Acceptable? ☐ Yes ☐ No
Compatibility FAA Notified if Applicable? ☐ Yes ☐ No
Other Hazards to Flight
Excluded? ☐ Yes ☐ No
Other Requirements Avigation Easement Required? ☐ Yes ☐ No Recorded Overflight Notification
Required? ☐ Yes ☐ No
Executed? ☐ Yes ☐ No
Special Site/Project Infill Parcel? ☐ Yes ☐ No
Conditions Other (describe)
ACTIONS TAKEN (TO BE COMPLETED BY ALUC STAFF)
ALUC Staff ☐ Approve as Submitted Date
Action ☐ Refer to ALUC ☐ Include Conditions?
Conditions:
ALUC ☐ Consistent Date
Action ☐ Consistent with Conditions (list conditions / attach additional pages if needed) ☐ Inconsistent (list reasons / attach additional pages if needed) 1256
REFERRAL FORM APPENDIX F
Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) F-3 EXHIBIT F-1: ACTIONS ALWAYS SUBJECT TO ALUC REVIEW
See ALUC Policy Sections 2.4, 2.9, and 2.11.
Notes:
1. Actions requiring mandatory referral to the Airport Land Use Commission (ALUC) include new or amended general plans, specific plans, facility master plans, airport master plans, zoning ordinances, rezoning of property, and building regulations, as well as Special Conditions Exceptions sought under Policy 3.2.4.
2. Source: Mead & Hunt, Inc. 2021
1257
APPENDIX F REFERRAL FORM
F-4 Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) EXHIBIT F-2: MAJOR LAND USE ACTIONS SUBJECT TO ALUC REVIEW See ALUC Policy Sections 2.5, 2.6, and 2.10.
Notes:
1. If project includes a proposed rezoning, it requires mandatory referral to the Airport Land Use Commission (ALUC) (see Exhibit F-1).
2. Source: Mead & Hunt, Inc. 2021
1258
Appendix G
Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) G-1 Appendix GGlossary of Terms
GLOSSAR Y OF TERMS
GLOSSARY
Term Definition
14 Code of Federal
Regulations (CFR)
Part 77
The part of Federal Aviation Regulations that deals with objects affecting navigable airspace in the vicinity of airports. Objects that exceed the Part 77 height limits constitute airspace obstructions. CFR Part 77 establishes standards for identifying obstructions to navigable airspace, sets forth requirements for notice to the FAA of certain proposed construction or alteration, and provides for aeronautical studies of obstructions to determine their effect on the safe and efficient use of airspace. 14 CFR Part 77
Surfaces
Imaginary airspace surfaces established with relation to each runway of an airport. There are five types of surfaces: (1) primary; (2) approach; (3) transitional; (4) horizontal; and (5) conical.
Above Ground Level
(AGL)
An elevation datum given in feet above ground level.
Accessory Dwelling
Unit
An attached or a detached residential dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a lot with a proposed or existing primary residence. It shall include permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation on the same parcel as the single-family or multifamily dwelling is or will be situated. [Gov Code 66314]
Accident Potential
Zones (APZs)
A set of safety-related zones defined by AICUZ studies for areas beyond the ends of military airport runways. Typically, three types of zones are established: a clear zone closest to the runway end, then APZ I and APZ II. The potential for aircraft accidents and the corresponding need for land use restrictions is greatest with the clear zone and diminish with increased distance from the runway.
Acre A unit of land measure equal to 43,560 square feet.
Advanced Air Mobility
(AAM)
A broad concept focusing on emerging aviation markets and use cases for urban, suburban and rural operations. AAM includes local use cases of about a 50-mile radius in rural or urban areas, and intraregional use cases up to a few hundred miles.
Air Carriers The commercial system of air transportation, consisting of the certificated air carriers, air taxis (including commuters), supplemental air carriers, commercial operators of large aircraft, and air travel clubs.
1259
APPENDIX G GLOSSARY OF TERMS
G-2 Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) Air Installation
Compatible Use Zones
(AICUZ)
A land use compatible plan prepared by the U.S. Department of Defense for military airfields. AICUZ plans serve as recommendations to local governments bodies having jurisdiction over land uses surrounding these facilities.
Air Operations Area
(AOA)
All airport areas where aircraft can operate, either under their own power or while in tow.
The AOA includes runways, taxiways, and apron areas.
Aircraft Accident An occurrence incident to flight in which, as a result of the operation of an aircraft, a person (occupant or nonoccupant) receives fatal or serious injury or an aircraft receives substantial damage.
▪ Except as provided below, substantial damage means damage or structural failure that adversely affects the structural strength, performance, or flight characteristics of the aircraft, and that would normally require major repair or replacement of the affected component.
▪ Engine failure, damage limited to an engine, bent fairings or cowling, dented skin, small puncture holes in the skin or fabric, ground damage to rotor or propeller blades, damage to landing gear, wheels, tires, flaps, engine accessories, brakes, or wingtips are not considered substantial damage.
Aircraft Incident A mishap associated with the operation of an aircraft in which neither fatal nor serious injuries nor substantial damage to the aircraft occurs.
Aircraft Mishap The collective term for an aircraft accident or an incident.
Aircraft Operation The airborne movement of aircraft at an airport or about an en route fix or at other point where counts can be made. There are two types of operations: local and itinerant. An operation is counted for each landing and each departure, such that a touch-and-go flight is counted as two operations. (FAA Stats)
Airport An area of land or water that is used or intended to be used for the landing and taking off of aircraft, and includes its buildings and facilities if any. (FAR 1) Airport Elevation The highest point of an airport’s useable runways, measured in feet above mean sea level. (AIM)
Airport Land Use
Commission (ALUC)
A commission authorized under the provisions of California Public Utilities Code, Section 21670 et seq. and established (in any county within which a public-use airport is located) for the purpose of promoting compatibility between airports and the land uses surrounding them.
Airport Layout Plan
(ALP)
A scale drawing of existing and proposed airport facilities, their location on an airport, and the pertinent clearance and dimensional information required to demonstrate conformance with applicable standards.
Airport Master Plan
(AMP)
A long-range plan for development of an airport, including descriptions of the data and analyses on which the plan is based.
Airport Reference
Code (ARC)
A coding system used to relate airport design criteria to the operation and physical characteristics of the airplanes intended to operate at an airport. (Airport Design AC) Airports, Classes of For the purposes of issuing a Site Approval Permit, The California Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics classifies airports into the following categories:
(CCR)
▪ Agricultural Airport or Heliport: An airport restricted to use only be agricultural aerial applicator aircraft (FAR Part 137 operators).
1260
GLOSSARY OF TERMS APPENDIX G
Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) G-3 ▪ Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Landing Site: A site used for the landing and taking off of EMS helicopters that is located at or as near as practical to a medical emergency or at or near a medical facility and
(1) has been designated an EMS landing site by an officer authorized by a public safety agency, as defined in Public Utility Code Section 21662.1, using criteria that the public safety agency has determined is reasonable and prudent for the safe operation of EMS helicopters and
(2) is used, over any twelve month period, for no more than an average of six landings per month with a patient or patients on the helicopter, except to allow for adequate medical response to a mass casualty event even if that response causes the site to be used beyond these limits, and
(3) is not marked as a permitted heliport as described in Section 3554 of these regulations and
(4) is used only for emergency medical purposes.
▪ Heliport on Offshore Oil Platform: A heliport located on a structure in the ocean, not connected to the shore by pier, bridge, wharf, dock or breakwater, used in the support of petroleum exploration or production.
▪ Personal-Use Airport: An airport limited to the non-commercial use of an individual owner or family and occasional invited guests.
▪ Public-Use Airport: An airport that is open for aircraft operations to the general public and is listed in the current edition of the Airport/Facility Directory that is published by the National Ocean Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce. ▪ Seaplane Landing Site: An area of water used, or intended for use, for landing and takeoff of seaplanes.
▪ Special-Use Airport or Heliport: An airport not open to the general public, access to which is controlled by the owner in support of commercial activities, public service operations, and/or personal use.
▪ Temporary Helicopter Landing Site: A site, other than an emergency medical service landing site at or near a medical facility, which is used for landing and taking off of helicopters and
(1) is used or intended to be used for less than one year, except for recurrent annual events and
(2) is not marked or lighted to be distinguishable as a heliport and (3) is not used exclusively for helicopter operations.
Ambient Noise Level The level of noise that is all encompassing within a given environment for which a single source cannot be determined. It is usually a composite of sounds from many and varied sources near to and far from the receiver.
Annexation The incorporation of land area into the jurisdiction of an existing city with a resulting change in the boundaries of that city.
Approach Protection
Easement
A form of easement that both conveys all of the rights of an avigation easement and sets specified limitations on the type of land uses allowed to be developed on the property.
Approach Speed The recommended speed contained in aircraft manuals used by pilots when making an approach to landing. This speed will vary for different segments of an approach as well as for aircraft weight and configuration. (AIM)
1261
APPENDIX G GLOSSARY OF TERMS
G-4 Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) Aviation-Related Use Any facility or activity directly associated with the air transportation of persons or cargo or the operation, storage, or maintenance of aircraft at an airport or heliport. Such uses specifically include runways, taxiways, and their associated protected areas defined by the Federal Aviation Administration, together with aircraft aprons, hangars, fixed base operations, terminal buildings, etc.
Avigation Easement A type of easement that typically conveys the following rights:
▪ A right-of-way for free and unobstructed passage of aircraft through the airspace over the property at any altitude above a surface specified in the easement (usually set in accordance with CFR Part 77 criteria).
▪ A right to subject the property to noise, vibrations, fumes, dust, and fuel particle emissions associated with normal airport activity.
▪ A right to prohibit the erection or growth of any structure, tree, or other object that would enter the acquired airspace.
▪ The right to prohibit or restrict land uses or site features that could attract hazardous wildlife to an Airport Influence Area;
▪ A right-of-entry onto the property, with proper advance notice, for the purpose of removing, marking, or lighting any structure or other object that enters the acquired airspace.
▪ A right to prohibit electrical interference, glare, misleading lights, visual impairments, and other hazards to aircraft flight from being created on the property.
Based Aircraft Aircraft stationed at an airport on a long-term basis.
California
Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA)
Statutes adopted by the state legislature for the purpose of maintaining a quality environment for the people of the state now and in the future. The Act establishes a process for state and local agency review of projects, as defined in the implementing guidelines that may adversely affect the environment.
Ceiling Height above the earth’s surface to the lowest layer of clouds or obscuring phenomena. (AIM)
Circling
Approach/Circle-toLand Maneuver
A maneuver initiated by the pilot to align the aircraft with a runway for landing when a straight-in landing from an instrument approach is not possible or not desirable. (AIM) Clear Zone The military airport equivalent of runway protection zones at civilian airports.
Combining District A zoning district that establishes development standards in areas of special concern over and above the standards applicable to basic underlying zoning districts.
Commercial Activities Airport-related activities that may offer a facility, service or commodity for sale, hire or profit. Examples of commodities for sale are: food, lodging, entertainment, real estate, petroleum products, parts and equipment. Examples of services are: flight training, charter flights, maintenance, aircraft storage, and tiedown. (CCR) Commercial Operator A person who, for compensation or hire, engages in the carriage by aircraft in air commerce of persons or property, other than as an air carrier. (FAR 1) Community Noise
Equivalent Level
(CNEL)
The noise metric adopted by the State of California for evaluating airport noise. It represents the average daytime noise level during a 24-hour day, adjusted to an equivalent level to account for the lower tolerance of people to noise during evening and nighttime periods relative to the daytime period. (State Airport Noise Standards) Compatible Capable of existing together without conflict or ill effects. 1262
GLOSSARY OF TERMS APPENDIX G
Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) G-5 Compatibility Plan As used herein, a plan, usually adopted by an Airport Land Use Commission that sets forth policies for promoting compatibility between airports and the land uses that surround them. Often referred to as a Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP).
Controlled Airspace Any of several types of airspace within which some or all aircraft may be subject to air traffic control. (FAR 1)
Day-Night Average
Sound Level (DNL)
The noise metric adopted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for measurement of environmental noise. It represents the average daytime noise level during a 24-hour day, measured in decibels and adjusted to account for the lower tolerance of people to noise during nighttime periods. The mathematical symbol is Ldn.
Decibel (dB) A unit measuring the magnitude of a sound, equal to the logarithm of the ratio of the intensity of the sound to the intensity of an arbitrarily chosen standard sound, specifically a sound just barely audible to an unimpaired human ear. For environmental noise from aircraft and other transportation sources, an A-weighted sound level (abbreviated dBA) is normally used. The A-weighting scale adjusts the values of different sound frequencies to approximate the auditory sensitivity of the human ear.
Deed Notice A formal statement added to the legal description of a deed to a property and on any subdivision map. As used in airport land use planning, a deed notice would state that the property is subject to aircraft overflights. Deed notices are used as a form of buyer notification as a means of ensuring that those who are particularly sensitive to aircraft overflights can avoid moving to the affected areas.
Density The number of dwelling units per unit of land. Density usually is expressed “per acre” (e.g., a development with 100 units located on 20 acres has density of 5.0 units per acre).
Designated Body A local government entity, such as a regional planning agency or a county planning commission, chosen by the county board of supervisors and the selection committee of city mayors to act in the capacity of an airport land use commission.
Displaced Threshold A landing threshold that is located at a point on the runway other than the designated beginning of the runway (see Threshold). (AIM)
Dwelling Unit Any building, structure or portion thereof which is occupied as, or designed or intended for occupancy as, a residence by one or more families, and any vacant land which is offered for sale or lease for the construction or location thereon of any such building, structure, or portion thereof. (HUD)
Easement A less-than-fee-title transfer of real property rights from the property owner to the holder of the easement.
Equivalent Sound
Level (Leq)
The level of constant sound that, in the given situation and time period, has the same average sound energy as does a time-varying sound.
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA)
The U.S. government agency that is responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient use of the nation’s airports and airspace.
Federal Aviation
Regulations (FAR)
Regulations formally issued by the FAA to regulate air commerce.
Findings Legally relevant subconclusions that expose a government agency’s mode of analysis of facts, regulations, and policies, and that bridge the analytical gap between raw data and ultimate decision.
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APPENDIX G GLOSSARY OF TERMS
G-6 Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) Fixed Base Operator
(FBO)
A business that operates at an airport and provides aircraft services to the general public including, but not limited to, sale of fuel and oil; aircraft sales, rental, maintenance, and repair; parking and tiedown or storage of aircraft; flight training; air taxi/charter operations; and specialty services, such as instrument and avionics maintenance, painting, overhaul, aerial application, aerial photography, aerial hoists, or pipeline patrol.
General Aviation That portion of civil aviation that encompasses all facets of aviation except air carriers. (FAA Stats)
General Plan A legal document, adopted by the legislative body of a city or county, setting forth policies regarding long-term development. California law requires the preparation of seven elements or chapters in the General Plan: Land Use, Housing, Circulation, Conservation, Open Space, Noise, and Safety. Additional elements are permitted, such as Economic Development, Urban Design, and similar local concerns.
Glide Slope An electronic signal radiated by a component of an ILS to provide vertical guidance for aircraft during approach and landing.
Global Positioning
System (GPS)
A navigational system that utilizes a network of satellites to determine a positional fix almost anywhere on or above the earth. Developed and operated by the U.S. Department of Defense, GPS has been made available to the civilian sector for surface, marine, and aerial navigational use. For aviation purposes, the current form of GPS guidance provides en route aerial navigation and selected types of nonprecision instrument approaches.
Eventual application of GPS as the principal system of navigational guidance throughout the world is anticipated.
Helipad A small, designated area, usually with a prepared surface, on a heliport, airport, landing/takeoff area, apron/ramp, or movement area used for takeoff, landing, or parking of helicopters. (AIM)
Heliport A facility used for operating, basing, housing, and maintaining helicopters. (HAI) Infill Development that takes place on vacant property (usually individual lots or left-over properties) within areas that are largely surrounded by existing development, especially development that is similar in character.
Instrument Approach
Procedure
A series of predetermined maneuvers for the orderly transfer of an aircraft under instrument flight conditions from the beginning of the initial approach to a landing or to a point from which a landing may be made visually. It is prescribed and approved for a specific airport by competent authority (refer to Nonprecision Approach Procedure and Precision Approach Procedure). (AIM)
Instrument Flight
Rules (IFR)
Rules governing the procedures for conducting instrument flight. Generally, IFR applies when meteorological conditions with a ceiling below 1,000 feet and visibility less than 3 miles prevail. (AIM)
Instrument Landing
System (ILS)
A precision instrument approach system that normally consists of the following electronic components and visual aids: (1) Localizer; (2) Glide Slope; (3) Outer Marker; (4) Middle Marker; (5) Approach Lights. (AIM)
Instrument Operation An aircraft operation in accordance with an IFR flight plan or an operation where IFR separation between aircraft is provided by a terminal control facility. (FAA ATA) Instrument Runway A runway equipped with electronic and visual navigation aids for which a precision or nonprecision approach procedure having straight-in landing minimums has been approved. (AIM)
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GLOSSARY OF TERMS APPENDIX G
Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) G-7 Inverse Condemnation An action brought by a property owner seeking just compensation for land taken for a public use against a government or private entity having the power of eminent domain. It is a remedy peculiar to the property owner and is exercisable by that party where it appears that the taker of the property does not intend to bring eminent domain proceedings.
Land Use Density A measure of the concentration of land use development in an area. Mostly the term is used with respect to residential development and refers to the number of dwelling units per acre.
Land Use Intensity A measure of the concentration of nonresidential land use development in an area. For the purposes of airport land use planning, the term indicates the number of people per acre attracted by the land use.
Large Airplane An airplane of more than 12,500 pounds maximum certificated takeoff weight. (Airport Design AC)
Localizer (LOC) The component of an ILS that provides course guidance to the runway. (AIM) Mean Sea Level (MSL) An elevation datum given in feet from mean sea level.
Minimum Descent
Altitude (MDA)
The lowest altitude, expressed in feet above mean sea level, to which descent is authorized on final approach or during circle-to-land maneuvering in execution of a standard instrument approach procedure where no electronic glide slope is provided. (FAR 1)
Missed Approach A maneuver conducted by a pilot when an instrument approach cannot be completed to a landing. (AIM)
Mixed-Use Properties on which various uses, such as office, commercial, institutional, and residential, are combined in a single building or on a single site in an integrated development project with significant functional interrelationships and a coherent physical design.
Multi-Family Dwelling
Unit
A building or portion thereof designed for or occupied by two or more families living independently of each other, including duplexes, quadplexes, apartments, and condominiums.
National
Transportation Safety
Board (NTSB)
The U.S. government agency responsible for investigating transportation accidents and incidents.
Navigational Aid
(Navaid)
Any visual or electronic device airborne or on the surface that provides point-to-point guidance information or position data to aircraft in flight. (AIM) Noise Contours Continuous lines of equal noise level usually drawn around a noise source, such as an airport or highway. The lines are generally drawn in 5-decibel increments so that they resemble elevation contours in topographic maps.
Noise Level Reduction
(NLR)
A measure used to describe the reduction in sound level from environmental noise sources occurring between the outside and the inside of a structure.
Nonconforming Use An existing land use that does not conform to subsequently adopted or amended zoning or other land use development standards.
Nonprecision
Approach Procedure
A standard instrument approach procedure in which no electronic glide slope is provided. (FAR 1)
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G-8 Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) Nonprecision
Instrument Runway
A runway with an approved or planned straight-in instrument approach procedure that has no existing or planned precision instrument approach procedure. (Airport Design AC)
Obstruction Any object of natural growth, terrain, or permanent or temporary construction or alteration, including equipment or materials used therein, the height of which exceed the standards established in Subpart C of Federal Aviation Regulations Part 77, Objects Affecting Navigable Airspace.
Overflight Any distinctly visible and/or audible passage of an aircraft in flight, not necessarily directly overhead.
Overflight Easement An easement that describes the right to overfly the property above a specified surface and includes the right to subject the property to noise, vibrations, fumes, and emissions. An overflight easement is used primarily as a form of buyer notification.
Overflight Zone The area(s) where aircraft maneuver to enter or leave the traffic pattern, typically defined by the FAR Part 77 horizontal surface.
Overlay Zone See Combining District.
Planning Area
Boundary
An area surrounding an airport designated by an ALUC for the purpose of airport land use compatibility planning conducted in accordance with provisions of the State Aeronautics Act.
Precision Approach
Procedure
A standard instrument approach procedure where an electronic glide slope is provided. (FAR 1)
Precision Instrument
Runway
A runway with an existing or planned precision instrument approach procedure. (Airport Design AC)
Referral Area The area around an airport defined by the planning area boundary adopted by an airport land use commission within which certain land use proposals are to be referred to the commission for review.
Runway Protection
Zone (RPZ)
An area (formerly called a clear zone) off the end of a runway used to enhance the protection of people and property on the ground. (Airport Design AC) Safety Zone For the purpose of airport land use planning, an area near an airport in which land use restrictions are established to protect the safety of the public from potential aircraft accidents.
Secondary Dwelling
Unit
An attached or a detached residential dwelling unit which provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons. It shall include permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation on the same parcel as the single-family dwelling is situated. (California Department of Housing and Community Development) Single-Event Noise As used in herein, the noise from an individual aircraft operation or overflight.
Single Event Noise
Exposure Level
(SENEL)
A measure, in decibels, of the noise exposure level of a single event, such as an aircraft flyby, measured over the time interval between the initial and final times for which the noise level of the event exceeds a threshold noise level and normalized to a reference duration of one second. SENEL is a noise metric established for use in California by the state Airport Noise Standards and is essentially identical to Sound Exposure Level (SEL).
Site Approval Permit A written approval issued by the California Department of Transportation authorizing construction of an airport in accordance with approved plans, specifications, and conditions. Both public-use and special-use airports require a site approval permit. (CCR) 1266
GLOSSARY OF TERMS APPENDIX G
Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) G-9 Small Airplane An airplane of 12,500 pounds or less maximum certificated takeoff weight. (Airport Design AC)
Sound Exposure Level
(SEL)
A time-integrated metric (i.e., continuously summed over a time period) that quantifies the total energy in the A-weighted sound level measured during a transient noise event.
The time period for this measurement is generally taken to be that between the moments when the A-weighted sound level is 10 dB below the maximum.
Straight-In Instrument
Approach
An instrument approach wherein a final approach is begun without first having executed a procedure turn; it is not necessarily completed with a straight-in landing or made to straight-in landing weather minimums. (AIM)
Structure Something that is constructed or erected.
Taking Government appropriation of private land for which compensation must be paid as required by the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. It is not essential that there be physical seizure or appropriation for a taking to occur, only that the government action directly interferes with or substantially disturbs the owner’s right to use and enjoyment of the property.
Terminal Instrument
Procedures (TERPS)
Procedures for instrument approach and departure of aircraft to and from civil and military airports. There are four types of terminal instrument procedures: precision approach, nonprecision approach, circling, and departure.
Threshold The beginning of that portion of the runway usable for landing (also see Displaced Threshold). (AIM)
Touch-and-Go An operation by an aircraft that lands and departs on a runway without stopping or exiting the runway. (AIM)
Traffic Pattern The traffic flow that is prescribed for aircraft landing at, taxiing on, or taking off from an airport. The components of a typical traffic pattern are upwind leg, crosswind leg, downwind leg, base leg, and final approach. (AIM)
Vertical Takeoff and
Landing (VTOL)
Aircraft
A vertical take-off and land (VTOL) aircraft that can take off, hover, and land vertically (FAA 2023).
Vertiport/Vertistop A facility intended to accommodate vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft landing pads and parked aircraft. A vertistop includes a single landing pad and parking stall intended to accommodate one or two parked VTOL aircraft. (FAA 2023) Visual Approach An approach where the pilot must use visual reference to the runway for landing under VFR conditions.
Visual Flight Rules
(VFR)
Rules that govern the procedures for conducting flight under visual conditions. VFR applies when meteorological conditions are equal to or greater than the specified minimum-generally, a 1,000-foot ceiling and 3-mile visibility.
Visual Runway A runway intended solely for the operation of aircraft using visual approach procedures, with no straight-in instrument approach procedure and no instrument designation indicated on an FAA-approved airport layout plan. (Airport Design AC) Zoning A police power measure, enacted primarily by units of local government, in which the community is divided into districts or zones within which permitted and special uses are established, as are regulations governing lot size, building bulk, placement, and other development standards. Requirements vary from district to district, but they must be uniform within districts. A zoning ordinance consists of two parts: the text and a map. 1267
APPENDIX G GLOSSARY OF TERMS
G-10 Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024)
GLOSSARY SOURCES
FAR 1: Federal Aviation Regulations Part 1, Definitions and Abbreviations AIM: Aeronautical Information Manual
Airport Design AC: Federal Aviation Administration, Airport Design Advisory Circular 150/5300-13 CCR: California Code of Regulations, Title 21, Section 3525 et seq., Division of Aeronautics FAA ATA: Federal Aviation Administration, Air Traffic Activity FAA Stats: Federal Aviation Administration, Statistical Handbook of Aviation FAA 2023: Federal Aviation Administration, Urban Air Mobility (UAM), Concept of Operations Version 2 HAI: Helicopter Association International
NTSB: National Transportation and Safety Board
ACRONYMS
AAM Advanced Air Mobility
AC Advisory Circular
AGL Above Ground Level
AIA Airport Influence Area
AIASP Airport Industrial Area Specific Plan
AICUZ Air Installation Compatible Use Zones
ALP Airport Layout Plan
ALUC Airport Land Use Commission
ALUCP Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan
AMP Airport Master Plan
ANG Angwin Airport – Parrett Field
AOA Air Operations Area
APC Napa County Airport
APZ Accident Potential Zones
ARC Airport Reference Code
ATCT Air Traffic Control Tower
CBC California Building Code
CEQA California Environmental Quality Act
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
CHP California Highway Patrol
CNEL Community Noise Equivalent Level
dB Decibel
DNL Day-Night Average Sound Level
FAA Federal Aviation Administration
FAR Federal Aviation Regulations
FBO Fixed Base Operator
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GLOSSARY OF TERMS APPENDIX G
Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) G-11 GPS Global Positioning System
HIRL High-Intensity Runway Edge Lighting
IFR Instrument Flight Rules
ILS Instrument Landing System
LAFCOM Local Agency Formation Commission
LIRL Low Intensity Runway Lights
LLC Limited Liability Company
LNAV Lateral Navigation
LOC Localizer
LPV Localizer Performance with Vertical Guidance
LU Land Use
MALS Medium-Intensity Approach Lighting System
MALSR Medium Intensity Approach Lighting System with Runway Alignment Indicator Lights MDA Minimum Descent Altitude
MIRL Medium-Intensity Runway Edge Lighting
MP Master Plan
MSL Mean Sea Level
NAVAID Navigational Aid
NLR Noise Level Reduction
NTSB National Transportation Safety Board
OFA Object Free Area
PAPI Precision Approach Path Indicator
PDT Project Development Team
PUC Pacific Union College
RDC Runway Design Code
REILS Runway End Identifier Lights
RNAV Area Navigation
ROFA Runway Object Free Area
RPZ Runway Protection Zone
RSA Runway Safety Area
SEL Sound Exposure Level
SENEL Single Event Noise Exposure Level
TERPS Terminal Instrument Procedures
VFR Visual Flight Rules
VNAV Vertical Navigation
VOR Very High Frequency Omnidirectional Range
VTOL Vertical Takeoff and Landing
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APPENDIX G GLOSSARY OF TERMS
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Appendix H
Napa Countywide Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Adopted December 04, 2024) H-1 Appendix H Adoption Resolutions
ADOPTION RESOLUTION S
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ALUC FORMATION
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ADOPTION RESOLUTION ANGWIN AIRPORT
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ADOPTION RESOLUTION NAPA COUNTY AIRPORT
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2. Land Use Element
Policy # Policy
LU-1.4: Compact Development Pattern. Maintain a compact development pattern that fosters a walkable and bikeable urban form.
LU-2.5: Active Transportation. Increase walking and bicycling opportunities by implementing pedestrian and bicycle plans and link recreation and commercial services to residential areas with safe and protected pedestrian walkways and bicycle paths
LU-10.13: Climate Change Adaptation. Support efforts to construct needed infrastructure that helps the City adapt to Climate Change.
LU-11.3: Preserve Agriculture and Open Space. Define the limits of urban development of the City, thus preserving agricultural and open space outside of the City Urban Limit Line as it may be amended during the term of this General Plan on a long-term basis.
LU-13.6: Climate Adapted Utility Grid. Support efforts to develop a more resilient power grid by encouraging home microgrids, such as a solar energy systems with one or more electric battery storage backups and fossil fuel backup generators that meet the stringent emission standards set by the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD).
LU-13.14: Industrial Performance Standards. Continue implementation of zoning standards that ensure industrial development is designed and operated to minimize—to the extent feasible—noise, heat, glare, dust, unscreened storage yards, air emissions, hazardous materials generation, and other negative effects.
ATTACHMENT 2
Sustainable General Plan Policies Matrix
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Sustainable General Plan Policies Matrix 2
3. Housing Element
Policy # Policy
H-1.1 Sufficient Lower-Income Capacity. Designate sufficient vacant land and underutilized sites with maximum densities to facilitate housing development affordable to lower-income households.
H-1.2 Zoning Capacity. Maintain adequate capacity to accommodate the City’s Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) allocation for all income categories throughout the planning period.
H-1.3 Existing Residential Capacity. Protect residentially designated sites from reclassification to nonresidential designations or downzoning to lower densities.
H-1.4 Infrastructure Facilitation. Ensure infrastructure needed to support anticipated residential development is evaluated in the development review process and funded to ensure continuation and integration of all public services.
H-1.5 Adequate Infrastructure. Continue to assess development fees, assessment districts, and alternative financing methods to fund adequate infrastructure for residential development.
H-1.6 Constraints to Housing Production. Identify and remove governmental constraints to housing production, where feasible.
H-2.1 Diversity of Housing Types. Promote a diversity of housing types, including large-lot development, single family detached and attached residences, mobile homes, manufactured homes, townhomes, multi-family rental and ownership units, accessory dwelling units, and units combined with nonresidential uses.
H-2.2 Housing Type Flexibility. Allow flexibility in the type of units developed on vacant, residentially designated properties in master-planned communities and other planned developments.
H-2.3 Housing Incentives. Support development of affordable housing by offering development incentives on a case-by-case basis.
H-3.1: Residential Design. Promote residential design that is functional, people- and pedestrian-oriented, aesthetically pleasing, and contributes to a sense of community through the sensitive arrangement of buildings, open space (public and private), and circulation (vehicular and pedestrian).
H-3.5: Adequate Facilities and Services. As a social justice program measure, establish, evaluate, and maintain an adequate level of community facilities, and municipal services throughout the community.
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Sustainable General Plan Policies Matrix 3
Policy # Policy
H-3.6 Transit Services. Actively participate with Napa Valley Transportation Authority program development, including Transit Route Updates as they occur to encourage transit improvements to VineGo and American Canyon Transit.
H-7.1 Special Needs Housing. Address the physical, financial, and supportive service housing needs of households with special housing needs.
H-7.4: Reasonable Accommodation. Provide reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities.
H-9.1 Energy Conservation. Promote the use of energy conservation features in existing homes and the design of new residential development.
H-9.2 Sustainable Development. Encourage sustainable development and ensure, at a minimum, that the design of development is 15% more efficient than State laws regarding energy conservation and seek amendments to the zoning code that further reductions in automobile use and associated decreases in Vehicle Miles Travelled (VMT).
H-9.3 Tree Planting. Promote tree planting in residential areas to provide cooling during the summer months.
H-9.4 Energy Saving Innovations. Encourage innovative site designs that incorporate passive and active solar designs and natural cooling techniques.
H-9.5 Weatherization and Energy-Efficiency Retrofitting. Support weatherization and retrofit projects for existing housing units that fall below current state performance standards for energy efficiency.
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Sustainable General Plan Policies Matrix 4
4. Mobility Element
Policy # Policy
MOB-1.1: Complete Streets. Maintain and update street standards that that serves not just automobile operations, but also multi-modal movement and adjacent land uses, including pedestrians, motorists, bicyclists, and transit riders of all ages and abilities, in a form that is compatible with and complementary to adjacent land uses, and promotes connectivity between uses and areas.
MOB-1.4: Development Review. Evaluate new development to ensure that the safety, comfort, and convenience of pedestrians, bicyclists and transit users are given an equal or greater level of consideration to motor vehicle operators.
MOB-1.5: Sidewalks. Require sidewalks on all arterial and collector streets. Where feasible, separate sidewalks from streets on arterials and collectors with landscaping including a tree canopy to create shade.
MOB-1.6: Transportation Facility Construction and Modification. When constructing or modifying transportation facilities, strive to provide for the movement of vehicles, commercial trucks, alternative and low energy vehicles, transit, bicyclists, and pedestrians appropriate for the road classification and adjacent land use.
MOB-1.7: Promote Walking and Bicycling. Promote walking and bicycling for transportation, recreation, and improvement of public health and the environment.
MOB-1.9: SR 29 Mobility. Work with regional partners, including Caltrans, NVTA, and other agencies to explore a complete streets approach that will expand the travel capacity of SR 29 and establish a low-stress method for crossing for students walking and biking to school and other active transportation users.
MOB-1.11: Reduce the Need to Drive. Implement land use policies designed to create a pattern of activity that makes it easy to shop, play, visit friends, and conduct personal business without driving.
MOB-1.12: Neighborhood Context. Support safe, complete, and well-connected neighborhood street, bicycle, and pedestrian access and connections that balance circulation needs with the neighborhood context. 1294
Sustainable General Plan Policies Matrix 5
Policy # Policy
MOB-1.15: Existing Facility Use. Make efficient use of existing transportation facilities and improve these facilities as necessary in accordance with the Circulation Map and NVTA Active Transportation Plan as it may be updated over time.
MOB-1.16: Agency Coordination. Coordinate with State, Regional, County, and neighboring agencies to ensure highway improvements (i.e.: SR-12, SR-29, and SR-37) appropriately consider impacts to American Canyon.
MOB-1.16: Agency Coordination. Coordinate with State, Regional, County, and neighboring agencies to ensure highway improvements (i.e.: SR-12, SR-29, and SR-37) appropriately consider impacts to American Canyon.
MOB-1.20: Bicycle Plan Funding. Include funding for the City's Bicycle Plan updates and bikeway improvements consistent with the Bicycle Plan in the City's transportation financing program and TIF, recognizing the multi-modal travel needs of the City.
MOB-1.21: Address Mobility Needs. Recognize and meet the mobility needs of people using wheelchairs and those with other mobility limitations.
MOB-1.22: Non-motorized Circulation System. Provide safe, low-stress, and direct pedestrian routes and bikeways between places.
MOB-1.23: Pedestrian Connections to Employment Destinations. Encourage the development of a network of continuous walkways within new commercial, town center, public, and industrial uses to improve workers' ability to walk safely around, to, and from their workplaces. Where possible, route pedestrians to grade separated crossings over State Route
29. MOB-1.24: Bicycle Facilities. Bicycle facilities shall be provided to complete a continuous low stress bikeway system, consistent with state adopted bikeway standards, as shown on the current Bikeway Plan Map. Deviations from adopted bikeway standards shall be permitted with the approval of the City Engineer. Deviations from the routing shown on the adopted bikeway diagram shall be permitted with the approval of the City Council.
MOB-1.25: Street Trees. Ensure that street tree plans consider shade and comfort for pedestrians and bicyclists and traffic calming benefits. 1295
Sustainable General Plan Policies Matrix 6
Policy # Policy
MOB-1.26: Universal Design. Provide pedestrian facilities that are accessible to people with disabilities and ensure that roadway improvement projects address accessibility by using universal design concepts such as bus pullouts and shelters, street lighting, and curbside management features such as pickup/drop-off locations for shared ride/transit network companies and spaces for delivery vehicles to park safely for short durations.
MOB-1.27: Sustainable Roadway Expansion. Monitor the effects of roadway expansion on air, noise, seismic and archeological resources, and nesting habitat.
MOB-2.3: Bicycle Facilities Maintenance. Increase the safety of bicycle travel by sweeping debris and repairing bicycle paths and lanes and repairing and restriping worn or damaged surface facilities.
MOB-2.4: Improved Bikeway Visibility. Consistent with evolving best practices, upgrade existing bikeways using all means available, such as conflict markings, buffers, rumble strips, and delineators. Use visual cues, such as brightly colored paint on bike lanes or a one-foot painted buffer strip, along bicycle routes to provide a visual signal to drivers to watch out for bicyclists. Nurture a "share the lane" ethic, prioritizing bikeways with recent automobile-bicycle collisions and those that are routes to school.
MOB-2.5: Speeds on Residential, Collector, and Arterial Streets. Implement the current Traffic Calming Program to reduce vehicular speeds through residential neighborhoods with evidence-based best practices, such as enhanced crosswalks, lighted crosswalks, speed cushions, reduced lane widths, and others.
MOB-2.8: Bicycle Friendly Community. Obtain resources to assist with improving bicycle facilities and education for people of all ages and abilities by securing and maintaining status as a Bicycle Friendly Community awarded by the National League of American Bicyclists
MOB-4.1: Transit Electrification. Support NVTA in its efforts to electrify the transit fleet.
MOB-4.2: Municipal Fleet. Prepare a plan to systematically replace the City’s vehicle fleet to electric vehicles.
MOB-4.3: Effects of New Technologies. Monitor and evaluate the development of convenient new electric mobility technologies (e.g., scootershare and bikeshare).
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Sustainable General Plan Policies Matrix 7
Policy # Policy
MOB-4.4: Expand Electric Charging Stations. Evaluate regulatory and incentivized processes and funding mechanisms to streamline new electric vehicle charging stations at the lowest possible cost.
MOB-5.1: VMT Thresholds. Maintain and periodically reevaluate established vehicle miles traveled (VMT) thresholds and Transportation Demand Management (TDM) mitigation requirements for the purposes of environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Continue to maintain LOS standards for the purposes of planning and designing street improvements on Green Island Road, Devlin Road, and American Canyon Road.
MOB-5.2: Existing Transportation Demand Management Efforts. Continue to support the implementation of existing local and regional efforts to manage traffic demand, such as the Napa Logistics Park trip monitoring program, and employer TDM provisions of the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAAQMD).
MOB-5.3: Support Transit Operation Improvements. Work with NVTA to expand both ACT and VINE fixed route services, improve operations, and support dedicated bus lanes and/or queue-jump lanes on SR 29 to enhance bus operations by reducing travel time for transit vehicles.
MOB-5.4: Demand-Responsive Transit. Support NVTA’s demand responsive transit system.
MOB-5.5: Transit Stops. Work with NVTA to situate transit stops at locations that are convenient for transit users and promote increased transit ridership through the provision of shelters, benches, bike racks on buses, and other amenities
MOB-5.6: Transit Service Funding. Encourage NVTA to continue to pursue Federal and State funds to subsidize capital and operating costs associated with transit operation in the city.
MOB-5.7: Transit Services Marketing. Support NVTA efforts to encourage ridership on public transit systems through marketing and promotional efforts.
Provide information to residents and employees on transit services available for local and regional trips.
MOB-5.8: Support VINE Services. Continue to support the VINE service provided by NVTA.
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Sustainable General Plan Policies Matrix 8
Policy # Policy
MOB-5.9: Transit Supportive Development. Ensure that new development is designed to make transit a viable transportation choice for residents, including neighborhood centers or focal points with sheltered bus stops; locating medium and high-density development on or near streets served by transit wherever feasible; and link neighborhoods to bus stops by continuous sidewalks or pedestrian paths.
MOB-5.10: Transit for Seniors. Require new community care facilities and senior housing projects with over 25 beds to provide accessible transportation services for the convenience of residents.
MOB-5.11: SB 375 Implementation. Coordinate with other agencies to implement regional transit solutions as part of the SB 375 Sustainable Communities Strategy.
MOB-5.12: Park and Ride Facilities. Continue to encourage additional regional public transportation services and support facilities, such as park and ride lots near Broadway (SR-29).
MOB-5.13: Effects of New Technologies on Transit Use. Monitor and evaluate the development of new mobility technologies (such as rideshare, microtransit, and potentially commuter rail transit) and the potential effects on transit demand and the way users access public transit.
MOB-6.3: Passenger Rail Service. Encourage regional transit agencies to evaluate passenger rail service with a station in American Canyon.
MOB-7.3: Monitor Funding. Monitor fee programs and regular funding mechanisms to ensure adequate funding for programmed transportation improvements.
MOB-7.4: Regional Funding. Maintain standards to qualify for regional transportation revenues and engage regional agencies to provide adequate transportation funding to local jurisdictions.
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Sustainable General Plan Policies Matrix 9
5. Utilities Element
Policy # Policy
U-1.1: Supplemental Surface Water. Support efforts to increase water supply from a variety of sources, such as participating in the Sites Reservoir programs with other NBA users to obtain supplemental surface water through a water transfer from another area, investment in the Sites Reservoir, local rainwater capture, and other feasible sources.
U-1.2: Facility Upgrades. Require construction of upgraded and expanded, distribution, storage, and treatment facilities to support existing and new development.
U-1.3: Upgrade Responsibilities. Ensure that improvements to the existing water supply, distribution, storage, and treatment facilities are borne by the project proponent in proportion to benefit, either through the payment of fees, or by the actual construction of the improvements.
U-1.4: Urban Water Management Plan. Prepare a framework for long-term water planning consistent with the State Urban Water Management Planning Act (UWMP Act), by preparing and adopting an Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP) once every five years.
U-1.7: Extraterritorial Water Service Customers. Ensure existing water service customers located outside the city limits pay appropriate water rates consistent with Hansen v. City of San Buenaventura (1986) 42 Cal.3d 1172 or latest legal precedent.
U-2.1: Zero Water Footprint. Ensure new development offsets potable water demand by funding or constructing potable water conservation efforts elsewhere in the water delivery system.
U-2.2: City Facilities Retrofits. Improve water use efficiency at City facilities through retrofits, recycled water usage, and employee education.
U-2.3: Retrofits Existing Buildings. Promote existing buildings upgrades to support water conservation by encouraging owners of residential, commercial, and industrial properties to replace inefficient plumbing fixtures, install droughttolerant and water-wise landscaping, and harvest rainwater for landscaping and other household uses.
U-2.4: Conservation Applications. Promote the use of water-saving plumbing fixtures and water-saving landscaping in existing development throughout the water service district.
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Policy # Policy
U-2.5: Recycled Water Use. Subject to State regulations and organizational capacity, consider new ways that recycled water can replace potable water.
U-2.6: Recycled Water Distribution System. Conserve potable water by expanding the availability of recycled water (i.e., purple pipes) throughout the city.
U-3.4 Alternatives Sustainable Approaches. Consistent with best practices, evaluate environmentally and economically efficient wastewater treatment systems, such as the artificial marshland wastewater treatment system.
U-4.2: Maximize Pervious Surfaces. Consistent with engineering standards, minimize storm water runoff from new development with pervious surface materials (grass, ground cover, and other).
U-4.5: Agency Coordination. Coordinate with the Napa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District and other regional agencies and non-profit groups to maintain and improve levees and drainage channels.
U-4.6: Flood Control Channel Maintenance. Ensure clearance of flood control channels routinely of vegetation and debris which could impede stormwater flows, while protecting significant riparian vegetation.
U-4.8: Low Impact Development. Require new developments to install green infrastructure consistent with the best management practices of the State and the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board, including but not limited to pervious pavement, infiltration basins, raingardens, green roofs, rainwater harvesting systems, and other types of low impact development (LID).
U-5.1: Passive Treatment Systems. Consistent with engineering standards and water quality regulations, reduce pollutant loading through passive treatment systems such as vegetated filter strips, grass swales, and infiltration/sedimentation areas in suitable open space areas and incorporated into landscaping adjacent to parking lots and streets.
U-5.2: Water Detention Facilities. Consistent with engineering standards and water quality regulations, new and existing development to include drainage detention facilities that enhance the quality of water discharges from the facility.
U-5.3: Impervious Area Water Treatment. Implement engineering standards in new development that require stormwater treatment from impervious areas. 1300
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Policy # Policy
U-5.4: Storm Water Permitting. Require industrial operations to obtain coverage under the State Storm Water Permit for Industrial Activities, and comply with provisions of the Permit, through notification and educational activities.
U-6.1: Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment. Use the best available science to forecast areas in the City that are vulnerable to climate change-induced flooding.
U-6.2: Critical Infrastructure Adaptation. Plan for and construct sea level rise protection for American Canyon Critical Infrastructure such as the former Corporation Yard at 205 Wetlands Edge Road, Wastewater Treatment Plant, and Pump Station.
U-6.3: Floodplain Management. Evaluate the cumulative increase in offsite flooding potential impacts caused by new development projects that remove property from the 100-year floodplain.
U-8.1: Recycling Education and Information. Coordinate with Napa-Vallejo Waste Management Authority (NVWMA) and Recology to expand public information and education programs to complement source reduction, recycling, and composting efforts.
U-8.2: Expansion of Recycling Programs. Expand recycling programs through the local waste hauler.
U-8.3: Promotion of Recycling. Promote the recycling of solid waste such as paper, metals, aluminum cans, green waste, cardboard, plastic and glass.
U-8.4: Outreach to Schools. Coordinate efforts at the local elementary and intermediate school level to provide youth education programs.
U-8.5: Recycling Receptacles and Biodegradable/Recycled-Materials Products.
Require the availability of recycling and composting receptacles and use biodegradable or recycled-material products instead of single-use plastic products at all City facilities and City-sponsored events.
U-8.6: Zero Waste Community. Support American Canyon in implementing policies and programs to become a Zero Waste Community.
U-8.7: Food Waste Collection. Ensure food waste collection is available and convenient to residents and businesses.
U-8.8: Green Business Program. Encourage local businesses to participate in the Napa County Green Business Program to minimize waste generation and create recycling and composting programs to reduce waste. 1301
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Policy # Policy
U-8.9: Demolition and Construction Waste. Require all new development to comply with the current CALGreen requirements for construction and demolition waste diversion.
U-9.1: Reach Building Code. Reduce energy use in new development by considering a local amendment that requires a 15% energy efficient standard improvement over the California Building Code.
U-9.3: Resilient Grid. Cooperate with PG&E to obtain applicable City permit approvals that improve electric grid resilience to natural hazards (i.e.: seismic events, flooding, wildfires, extreme wind events).
U-9.4: Overhead Utility Undergrounding. Develop a comprehensive strategy to underground existing overhead utilities.
U-9.5: Passive Solar Heating and Cooling. Consistent with the California Subdivision Map Act, require new subdivisions to examine the feasibility of incorporating site layouts that allow passive solar heating and cooling.
U-9.6: Residential Energy Efficiency. Seek grant funds that help low and moderateincome residents obtain low or no-cost loans to increase energy efficiency of their homes through weatherization, insulation, solar energy generation and energy battery backup storage; and assist utility providers with outreach on home energy efficiency rebates and programs for all residents, regardless of income.
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6. Culture, Environment & Sustainability
Policy # Policy
ENV-1.1: Areas of Significant Biological Value. Maintain data and information regarding areas of significant biological value within the Planning Area to facilitate resource conservation and the appropriate management of development.
ENV-1.2: Sensitive Habitat Assessment and Impact Mitigation. Require new development and redevelopment located within sensitive habitats, including coastal saltmarsh, mixed hardwood forest, oak savannah, vernal pools, and riparian habitats to provide a detailed assessment of the potential for impacts on these resources, and include measures to reduce any identifiable impacts.
ENV-1.3: Habitat Conservation. Support habitat conservation efforts to set aside and preserve suitable habitats, with priority given to habitats for rare and endangered species in American Canyon in accordance with state and federal resource agency requirements.
ENV-1.4: Native Species. Encourage the use of native vegetation where possible.
ENV-1.5: Open Space Network. Establish a network of open spaces along the city's natural drainages and riparian corridors and link significant biological habitats by restricting alteration to these resources and limiting land uses.
Any recreational use of these areas shall be designed to avoid damaging sensitive habitat areas.
ENV-1.6: Urban Forest. Build upon existing streetscapes and develop an urban forest within the City’s streets, parks, and open space to provide avian habitat, sequester carbon monoxide emissions, foster pedestrian activity, and provide shade.
ENV-1.7: Trees for Pollinators. Support sustainable pollinator species (i.e.: bees, birds, butterflies) in American Canyon by planting low-water use pollinatorsupportive trees in streets, parks, open spaces, and private development.
ENV-1.8: Education and Appreciation. With community partners, support a range of educational programs that cultivate an appreciation of American Canyon’s natural environment and biological resources.
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Policy # Policy
ENV-1.9: Natural Drainage Preservation. Through the development review process, evaluate opportunities to preserve natural on-site drainages and consider opportunities to incorporate pedestrian paths and greenbelts along their lengths.
ENV1.10:Natural Resource Integrity. Consistent with Federal and State Resource Permitting agencies, encourage activities that improve the biological value and integrity of the city’s natural resources through vegetation restoration, control of invasive plants and animals, and landscape buffering.
ENV1.11:Napa River Studies. Support state and federal studies of the Napa River wetlands and riverine systems.
ENV-2.1: Creek Preservation. Maintain American Canyon Creek within its natural waterway.
ENV-2.2: Existing Streams and Creeks To the extent feasible, new development to incorporate existing streams and creeks into proposed development plans in their natural state to prevent degradation, erosion, or sedimentation and help impart a unique character to the city
ENV-2.3: Minimize Soil Erosion. Implement best management practices from the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) to prevent soil erosion impacts on water resources.
ENV-2.4: Stormwater Drainage on Development Sites. Through the development review process, evaluate methods to ensure required stormwater drainage systems are environmentally sensitive, safe, and attractive.
ENV-2.5: Public Education. Protect existing water resources by continuing public education on safe disposal of household hazardous waste and storm drain pollution prevention (i.e.: “only rain down the drain”).
ENV-3.1: Greenhouse Gas Emission Reductions. Consider initiatives to reduce direct and indirect greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from transportation sources, and from new, renovated, and existing development in the city.
ENV-3.2: Intergovernmental Cooperation. Work with Napa County Jurisdictions together with community organizations, businesses, schools, and regional partners and jurisdictions to educate, mobilize, expand, and accelerate local, regional, and statewide support for comprehensive, immediate, and sustained action to achieve its goal of net zero climate pollution by 2030. 1304
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Policy # Policy
ENV-3.3: Gas Station Limits. Recognizing that the transportation sector is the largest source of GHG emissions in American Canyon and in California more broadly, prohibit construction of new fossil-fuel stations in American Canyon.
ENV-3.4: Expand Zero Emission Vehicles. Consider feasible methods to foster widespread use of Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEVs) to improve air quality and help meet California's GHG reductions targets by expanding availability of non-fossil vehicle fuel infrastructure, such as public and private electric vehicle charging stations, and hydrogen facilities for fuel cell electric vehicles throughout American Canyon.
ENV-3.5: Vehicle Miles Travelled Reduction. Reduce vehicle miles travelled by encouraging future land uses that feature a compact mixed-use urban form connected with pedestrian and bicycle trails.
ENV-3.6: Reach Building Code. Consider feasibility of adopting a “reach” local amendment to the California building code to require a 15% or greater energy efficiency than the State standard.
ENV-3.7: Vehicle Idling. Reduce vehicle engine idling in American Canyon by educating the broader community (i.e.: businesses, commuters, residents) on the greenhouse gas impacts caused by engine idling and implementing feasible commercial vehicle regulations.
ENV-3.8: Building Electrification. Consider a Reach Building Code that would prohibit installation of natural gas in all new construction.
ENV-3.9: CEQA Qualified Climate Action Plan. Investigate alternatives to develop a CEQA Compliant Climate Action Plan for the City of American Canyon.
ENV3.10:GHG Emissions Education. Support educational programs to educate the public on climate change and GHG emissions reduction measures.
ENV-4.1: Energy Efficiency. Require developers employ energy-efficient site planning methods and building design, including building orientation, shading, landscaping, building reflectance, and passive solar heating and hot water systems.
ENV-4.2: Renewable Energy Sources. Work with other agencies and utility companies to develop safe, economical, and renewable energy resources.
ENV-4.3: Renewable Energy Program. Support installation of renewable energy and battery storage for homes and businesses.
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Policy # Policy
ENV-4.4: Energy Retrofit Program. Develop an energy retrofit program and incentives for homeowners and building owners to encourage energy efficiency improvements such as fixture and appliance upgrades.
ENV-4.5: Energy Efficiency City Operations. Increase energy efficiency of City operations and evaluate the feasibility of installing renewable energy at city facilities.
ENV-4.6: Energy Conservation Education. Provide educational programs to the community on energy conservation and renewable energy options.
ENV-4.7: LEED Certification of Municipal Facilities. Design new municipal facilities to, at minimum, meet the baseline Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification criteria.
ENV-4.8: Land Use Planning. Utilize land-use planning techniques to reduce traffic congestion and promote alternative modes of transportation for the community.
ENV-4.9: Development. Encourage and incentivize the development of mixed-use residential opportunities and live-work environments within the city to lessen the impacts of traffic congestion on local air quality.
ENV4.10:Active Transportation. Improve active transportation options within the city by connecting local bikeways and trails to City bus stops and public transportation centers.
ENV4.11:Public Transit. Coordinate with NVTA and actively pursue the improvement and expansion of public transit for American Canyon residents.
ENV-5.1: Regional Air Quality Efforts. Support and coordinate with BAAQMD and State and Federal planning efforts aimed at reducing air pollution and management of major pollutants affecting American Canyon and the region, including the Clean Air Plan.
ENV-5.2: Construction Management Plans. Require new development and redevelopment projects to prepare and implement a construction management plan that incorporates Best Available Control Measures and all best management practices in accordance with the Air District standards to reduce criteria pollutants.
ENV-5.3: Separate Sensitive Land Uses. Separate sources of air pollution from sensitive land uses, such as residences, schools, day care centers, hospitals, and nursing homes.
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Policy # Policy
ENV-5.4: EV Charging Station Requirements. Consider adopting voluntary measures from CalGreen Tier 1 and/or Tier 2 to implement stricter electric vehicle charging requirements for new development.
ENV-5.5: Alternative Modes of Transportation. Encourage residents to use alternative modes of transportation, including walking, biking, and transit to minimize air pollutant emissions.
ENV-5.6: City Vehicle Fleet. Transition the municipal fleet to electric or alternative-fuel vehicles.
ENV-5.7: Air Pollution Education. Support public education programs that promote the reduction of air pollutant emissions, such as reducing vehicle emissions through reducing VMT and using alternative modes of transportation.
ENV-5.8: Commute Reduction. Support programs that reduce commuter vehicle trips.
ENV-5.9: Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plans. Work with the County to implement the best practices provided within the American Canyon edition of the Napa Countywide Bicycle Plan and Napa Countywide Pedestrian Plan.
ENV5.10:
Transit Services. Work with Vine Transit, SolTrans, and other transit providers to regularly evaluate and update transit servicing American Canyon.
ENV-6.1: Resource Protection. Ensure the City's cultural, historically, and archaeologically significant resources are protected in a manner that preserves and/or enhances the inherent resource value.
ENV-6.3: Historic Resource Reuse. Encourage appropriate adaptive reuse of historic resources where possible to prevent misuse, disrepair, and demolition, ENV-7.1: Preservation. To the extent feasible, protect areas containing significant historic, archaeological, and paleontological resources, as defined by the California Public Resources Code.
ENV-7.2: Development. Ensure that human remains are treated with sensitivity and dignity and ensure compliance with the provisions of California Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5 and California Public Resources Code Section 5097.98.
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Policy # Policy
ENV-7.3: Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation Treatment Protocol. In the event any Native American human remains, grave goods, ceremonial items, and items of cultural patrimony are found in conjunction with development, including archaeological studies, excavation, geotechnical investigations, grading, and any ground disturbing activity, the “Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation Treatment Protocol for Handling Human Remains and Cultural Items Affiliated with the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation” shall be implemented as included as Appendix A to the Housing Element.
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7. Parks, Recreation & Open Space
Policy # Policy
PR-1.1: Open Space Designation. To the extent feasible, maintain the following types of land as designated open space:
a. Sensitive habitats or unique resources such as oak woodlands, riparian/creek corridors, significant wetlands and corridors which connect habitats;
b. Those areas which are best suited to non-urban uses due to:
i. Infeasibility of providing proper access or utilities; ii. Excessive slope or slope instability;
iii. Wildland fire hazard;
iv. Noise exposure; and
v. Flood hazard.
PR-1.2: Open Space Funding. Encourage partnering with community groups and neighboring jurisdictions to identify grant opportunities to maintain, enhance, and expand open space, and recreational opportunities.
PR-1.3: Interjurisdictional Open Space Coordination. Coordinate open space planning, acquisition, and development efforts with those of Napa County and regional and State agencies.
PR-1.4: Open Space Access. Provide public access to open space resources, with interpretive information, when doing so is consistent with protection of the resources, and with the security and privacy of affected landowners and occupants.
PR-1.5: American Canyon Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail Plans. Continue to refer to the American Canyon Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail plans for guidance on trail locations, construction design, priority development and other relevant policies. See Mobility Element Appendix A and B.
PR-1.6: Trail System. Work with property owners, resource conservation agencies, neighboring cities, Napa County, and the State to establish an interconnected system of trails connecting open space resources with surrounding neighborhoods.
PR-1.7: River to Ridge Trail. Implement the planned River to Ridge Trail alignment (West to East). The trail would travel from Eucalyptus Drive to Broadway, south on Broadway to South Napa Junction Road, east across the railroad tracks to Watson Ranch and the Newell Open Space Preserve beyond. 1309
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Policy # Policy
PR-1.8: Urban Open Space. Plan, design and build open spaces of varying size (e.g. public plazas, large and small open spaces, and spaces for social gatherings that serve as local focal points) to diversify the open space experience and provide opportunities for a larger range experiences for park users.
PR-1.9: Surplus Caltrans Right-of-Way. Work with Caltrans to use vacant, surplus properties for park and open space purposes.
PR-1.10: Urban Trails. Improve the convenience of nonmotorized in-town trips and recreation by linking residential and commercial land uses with pedestrian trails.
PR-1.11: Trail Construction. Require new development to dedicate and improve trails and walkways at least ten feet wide across long blocks or to provide access to schools, parks, open spaces or other public areas, and where such trails or walkways are within the project boundary or frontage and shown on any map or diagram in the general plan and any of its elements or on any specific plan of the city of American Canyon.
PR-1.12: Climate Adaptation. Mitigate the effects of heat reflecting from paved trail surfaces by incorporating shade trees along the south and west sides of trails wherever possible.
PR-1.13: Trail Connectivity. Enhance trail functionality by identifying gaps that connect missing links along a trail or between trail networks.
PR-2.3: Parks System. Work toward the establishment of a public parks system interconnected by off-street trails or bicycle lanes.
PR-2.10: Climate Change Adaptation. Consider impacts and feasible adaptation measures to address potential long-term impacts of sea level rise, extreme weather, and heat on the city’s park system.
PR-2.26: Highlight Natural Features. Combine Park sites that contain significant natural features with recreational learning opportunities wherever possible.
For example, the City could establish a natural resource learning center near the Napa River Wetlands
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8. Environmental Justice Element
Policy # Policy
EJ-1.1: Affirmatively Further Fair Housing. Promote and affirmatively further fair housing policies and programs.
EJ-1.2: Review and Update of Housing Policies. Periodically review and update, as necessary, local housing policies and procedures to ensure they do not pose impediments to furthering fair housing.
EJ-1.3: Housing Affordability and Access. Support the development and preservation of affordable housing throughout the city for a variety of income levels.
EJ-1.4: Housing Element Implementation. Support implementation of the Housing Element policies to address equal and fair access to affordable housing options for all residents.
EJ-2.1: Education and Awareness. Support and expand education programs that increase awareness among residents about property maintenance and neighborhood quality standards.
EJ-2.2: Safe and Sanitary Housing. Through implementation of the Housing Element, the City shall provide standards for development that promote safe and sanitary housing.
EJ-3.1: Environmental Justice Considerations. Consider potential adverse health and safety impacts associated with land use decisions and reduce negative impacts on residents from hazardous materials, industrial activities, facility locations, and design features.
EJ-3.2: New Incompatible Land Uses. Avoid the introduction of new incompatible land uses and consider the potential impacts of adding uses with environmental hazards into existing residential areas.
EJ-3.3: Environmental Protection. Evaluate and implement environmental protection measures within the City’s authority that support equitable treatment of all neighborhoods.
EJ-3.4: Capital Improvements. When preparing a Capital Improvement Programs, consider reducing existing infrastructure deficiencies in lower-income neighborhoods.
EJ-3.5: Vision Zero Mobility. Support and fund a Local Road Safety Program to that evaluates priority measures to improve the safety of trails and streets in all areas of the City.
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Policy # Policy
EJ-3.6: Accessible Infrastructure. Implement a City-wide accessibility plan to improve accessible pathways throughout the City.
EJ-3.7: Combat Heat Island Impacts. Consider the addition of trees in new street and trail construction to reduce the heat island impacts of new paved surfaces, EJ-4.1: Accessibility to City Events. Schedule City events using different days, times, and formats (i.e., virtual and digital accessibility) to encourage and facilitate participation among community members with work, school, and other obligations that conflict with more traditional scheduling.
EJ-4.2: Innovative Communication. Promote and implement new and innovative approaches to facilitate communication between members of the community and City-elected officials and staff members.
EJ-4.3: Transparent Public Decision-Making. Ensure transparent public decisionmaking processes through effective public outreach, engagement, and participation that is inclusive of socially disadvantaged individuals and groups.
EJ-4.4: Leadership Development. Promote and implement programs that educate local residents about the roles of each municipal department and local decision-making processes.
EJ-5.1: Community-Supported Agriculture. Support community-supported agriculture/food production, such as community gardens and cottage food operations.
EJ-5.2: Acceptance of Government-Issued Vouchers. Coordinate with farmers market vendors and local food retailers to continue to accept payment through Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT), which allows residents in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) to purchase food with their program benefits.
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Policy # Policy
EJ-5.3: Access to Community Assets. Identify and address gaps in access to residential, commercial, recreation facilities, natural open space areas, and physical and mental health resources, to help ensure that these resources are equitably available to all residents.
EJ-5.4: Integrated and Accessible Park System. Continue to develop an integrated park system that is safe and accessible.
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9. Safety Element
Policy # Policy
S-1.1: Emergency Shelters. Periodically coordinate with emergency shelter providers to ensure that necessary equipment supplies are available in case of emergency,
S-1.2: Critical Facilities. Coordinate with service providers to ensure the resilience of critical emergency facilities to serve the entire city and other jurisdictions within the region.
S-1.3: Law Enforcement. Coordinate with the American Canyon Fire Protection District, Napa County, the State, and neighboring jurisdictions to ensure readiness and availability of emergency services and back up services.
S-1.4: Water and Sewer. Ensure any interruption of utility services in the case of a disaster is minimal and short-term, including water and sewer services.
S-1.5: Business Disaster Preparedness. Coordinate with the American Canyon Chamber of Commerce to assist local and small businesses in preparing and responding to disasters and in planning for the subsequent continuity of operations.
S-1.6: Public Training. Encourage residents to attend periodic training programs on wildfire mitigation and disaster planning, and to develop disaster preparedness and evacuation plans for their families.
S-1.7: Public Awareness. Increase public awareness of City and Fire District emergency response plans, evacuation routes and shelters, and ways to reduce risks at the home and office, focusing on the most vulnerable populations such as older adults and individuals with chronic health conditions. Offer informational materials in multiple languages.
S-1.8: Emergency Access. Work with the American Canyon Fire Protection District (ACFPD) and the Napa County Sheriff’s Department to identify and regularly evaluate emergency access routes to improve accessibility throughout the city in the event of a disaster.
S-1.9: Essential Facilities. Work with service providers to maintain the reliability of essential facilities, such as communications towers, electrical substations, water services, and first-response buildings in the event of an emergency through promoting grid resilience and energy independence. Work to implement on-site power generation through solar photovoltaic systems and battery storage.
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Policy # Policy
S-1.17: Critical Infrastructure Siting. Whenever feasible, locate the following critical facilities outside of flood, seismic, and high fire hazard zones: health care facilities, schools, emergency shelters, fire stations, emergency command centers, and emergency communications facilities.
S-1.20: Funding for Critical Facilities. Direct the dedication of funds to upgrade and maintain City owned critical facilities, including the Emergency Operations Center, fire and police departments, and City Hall, to make them more resilient to the potential impacts of natural disasters.
S-2.1: Fire Safe Site Design. Develop site design and ongoing maintenance standards for new development in the moderate and high fire hazard zones to mitigate wildfire risk, including implementing minimum road widths and clearances to ensure adequate space for emergency vehicles.
S-2.2: Utility Undergrounding. Develop a comprehensive plan to underground overhead utilities in new development projects and throughout the city.
S-2.3: Residential Evacuation Routes. Require that all new residential development have at least two emergency evacuation routes.
S-2.4: Public Education. Coordinate with the American Canyon Fire Protection District to target fire safety education efforts and fire hazard reduction strategies towards the most vulnerable populations such as older adults and individuals with chronic health conditions.
S-2.5: Fire Equipment. Coordinate with the American Canyon Fire Protection District to ensure that all fire equipment remains operable and adequate to respond to a major disaster.
S-2.6: Building and Fire Code Compliance. Require new development to meet or exceed structural hardening requirements in the most current version of the California Building Codes and California Fire Code.
S-2.7: Development Standards Update. Incorporate relevant new legislative requirements and best practices into the City's development standards.
S-2.8: Property and Building Improvements. Encourage property and building owners to implement site improvements and building retrofits to bring existing non-conforming developments into conformance with contemporary fire safe standards.
S-2.9: Fire Protection Plans. Coordinate with the American Canyon Fire Protection District to consider developing fire protection plan guidelines and standards for new construction projects.
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Policy # Policy
S-2.10: Fire Suppression. Coordinate with the Fire District to ensure adequate water supply to suppress wildfire, as part of the next Napa County Multijurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan update.
S-2.11: Peak load Water Supply. Support measures to provide adequate water availability throughout the city to meet future peak fire demand during times of peak domestic demands.
S-2.12: Emergency Roadways. Maintain roadways used for emergency access by emergency response vehicles as necessary and appropriate to ensure ongoing serviceability.
S-2.13: Community Fire Breaks. Coordinate with the American Canyon Fire Protection District to encourage property owners to maintain fire breaks and fuel modification/reduction zones on their property.
S-3.1: Regulatory Compliance. Coordinate with local, state, and federal agencies to ensure the City’s flood control regulations comply with federal, State, and local standards.
S-3.2: FEMA Coordination. Coordinate with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to ensure that Federal Insurance Rate Maps correctly depict flood hazards in the City.
S-3.3: Changing Conditions. Coordinate with the Bay Development and Conservation District (BCDC) to consider the need to expand flood control capacity caused by flood conditions associated with climate change and extreme weather.
S-3.4: City Preventative Maintenance. Maintain City storm drains to prevent local flooding and debris flows.
S-3.5: Private Preventive Maintenance. Require property owners keep natural drainage courses on their sites free of obstructions such as structures, dams, and debris, which may adversely affect flooding on the site or downstream properties.
S-3.6: Development in Flood Zones. Implement the standards and requirements defined in the Municipal Code to reduce hazards within the 100-year flood zone and require projects in the 100- and 500-year flood zones to incorporate adequate stormwater management and flood-prevention design measures.
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Policy # Policy
S-3.7: Reduce Flood Vulnerability. Seek funding and assistance to protect existing structures and infrastructure that are vulnerable to flood hazards and sea level rise impacts.
S-3.8: Protect Public Facilities. Protect existing public infrastructure at risk from sea level rise through building retrofits and other mitigation methods/ S-3.9: Zero Net Fill. Establish an ordinance that requires any permit that adds fill within a floodway to demonstrate that an equal amount of fill is removed from the floodway.
S-3.10: Sea Level Rise Mitigation. Require new development and redevelopment within areas at risk of sea level rise to incorporate mitigation measures to address flood and erosion hazards into the project’s design.
S-3.11: Flood Protection by Wetlands. Coordinate with resource agencies to preserve and restore wetlands in the western areas of the city to mitigate the effects of sea level rise and flood impacts.
S-3.12: Public Facilities. Locate, when feasible, new essential public facilities outside of flood hazard zones, including hospitals and health care facilities, emergency shelters, fire stations, emergency command centers, and emergency communications facilities, or identify mitigation measures to ensure such facilities are protected from flood hazards.
S-5.1: Regulations. Ensure that American Canyon Fire Protection District continues to enforce the Fire Code relating to the use of hazardous material and ensure that appropriate regulations are followed and precautions are taken for the type and amount of hazard being created.
S-5.2: Cleanup Sites. Require developers coordinate with the Napa County Health Care Agency to confirm that hazardous waste cleanup sites located within the city are remediated by the property owner in a manner that keeps the public safe.
S-5.4: Storage and Disposal. Coordinate with the American Canyon Fire Protection District to enforce proper storage and disposal of hazardous materials, including medical waste, by commercial and industrial operations.
S-5.5: Safe Use and Disposal. Coordinate with the City’s waste service provider(s) to increase public awareness about safe use and disposal of household hazardous wastes.
S-5.6: Hazardous Material Review. Review new development sites for potential presence of hazardous materials.
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Policy # Policy
S-7.1: Water Conservation. Continue and expand water conservation programs and water efficiency upgrades for existing and new development.
S-7.1: Water Conservation. Continue and expand water conservation programs and water efficiency upgrades for existing and new development.
S-7.3: Climate Planning Partnerships. Engage surrounding jurisdictions and Napa County to coordinate climate adaptation planning efforts.
S-7.4: Green Infrastructure. Utilize drought-tolerant green infrastructure projects including street trees and landscaped areas and encourage installation of green roof systems as part of cooling strategies to help reduce the heat island effect and energy demand during extreme heat events.
S-7.5: Extreme Heat Response Measures. Update emergency/disaster response measures to provide support during extreme heat emergencies.
S-7.6: Extreme Heat Education. Provide educational programs on preparing for extreme heat days and the effects heat related illness and target educational efforts to vulnerable populations.
S-7.7: Air Conditioning Alternatives. Encourage residents to adopt air conditioning supplements such as installing fans or planting shade trees.
S-7.8: Public Facility Retrofits. Seek funding to retrofit existing public facilities, including public buildings and transit stops, to protect the community from extreme heat events and poor air quality.
S-7.9: Resilient Hubs. Establish community serving facilities that support vulnerable population resilience during climate related emergencies such as poor air quality and extreme heat.
S-7.10: Open Space Protection. Protect city open space areas and parks from the effects of drought and heat by incorporating drought tolerant landscaping and native trees for shade.
S-7.11: City Tree Maintenance. Reduce risk of falling tree limbs caused by drought and heat by properly maintaining city trees.
S-7.12: Emergency Power for Critical Facilities. Work with local providers and facility owners to establish emergency power systems for critical facilities such as hospitals, police and fire departments, City Hall, and community centers. 1318
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Policy # Policy
S-7.13: Climate Change Impact Outreach. Create an outreach plan with specific outreach programs for vulnerable populations identified in the Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment to educate and help prepare residents for climate change hazards such as extreme heat, sea level rise, flooding, drought, wildfires, and poor air quality.
S-7.14: Monitoring. Coordinate with the Napa County Public Health Department to establish extreme heat and air quality warning systems and develop accessible and language appropriate community education resources to prepare community members for increase extreme heat events and air pollution.
S-7.15: Backup Power Sources. Require new City-owned critical facilities to have adequate backup power sources and battery storage to minimize service disruptions during climate hazard events.
S-8.4: Roadway Noise. Encourage nonmotorized transportation alternatives for local trips and decrease excessive motor vehicle noise by implementing traffic-calming road design, lateral separation, natural buffers, and setbacks.
S-8.5: Highway Noise. Continue to coordinate with California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) and the NVTA to complete the American Canyon SR 29 Corridor Improvement Project.
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City of American Canyon
2024General Plan
Annual Progress Report
February 27, 2025
Photo Credit: Bob McLenahan
ATTACHMENT 3
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Purpose of this Document
California law requires every city and county adopt a long-term General Plan that expresses a long-term shared vision of a Healthy, Equitable, Resilient, and Economically Vibrant community. As the constitution of development, General Plan policies are fulfilled through City functions related to land use decisions, municipal service delivery, capital improvement projects, and consideration of funding priorities including potential service level changes.
Section 65400(b) of the State of California Government Code requires planning agencies to provide an annual report to their legislative body and the Governor's Office of Planning and Research (OPR) on the status of the General Plan and progress in its implementation. The four basic purposes of the annual report are as follows:
• Assess General Plan implementation progress consistent with the goals, policies and implementation measures.
• Provide information that may lead to needed General Plan modifications to improve implementation. • Correlate land use decisions made during the reporting period, and General Plan goals, policies and implementation measures.
• Inform local agency progress in meeting its share of regional housing needs and local efforts to remove governmental constraints to housing development.
This APR draws significantly on published annual reports, such as the State of the City, Community Development published monthly status reports, the American Canyon Police Annual Report, and the Fire District monthly newsletter. All these reports reflect priorities that fulfill General Plan policies. This year’s General Plan Annual Report looks back at 2024 and the City’s progress toward implementing the General Plan.
A copy of the Housing Element Annual Progress Report is included in this report as “Appendix A” to complete the General Plan review. The 2024 Calendar Year Housing Element and General Plan Annual Progress Report was presented to the Planning Commission on February 22, 2024 and the City Council.
General Plan Background/Element Status
Following incorporation in January 1992, the City adopted a General Plan in 1994. The General Plan includes the following elements: 1) Land Use, 2) Housing, 3) Economic Development, 4) Circulation, 5) Utilities, 6) Public Services-Facilities, 7) Parks- Recreation, 8) Natural – Historic – Cultural, 9) Geology, 10) Flood Hazards, and 11) Noise. The General Plan also includes a Bicycle Plan and Pedestrian Plan as Appendix 1 and 2 to the Circulation Element.
Since the original General Plan adoption, the City has incrementally amended the Land Use Element many times, the most recent was November 7, 2023. This most recent amendment amended land uses in the City’s northeast sphere of influence in preparation of an annexation application.
The Circulation Element was comprehensively updated in 2013 with incremental amendments since that time, the most recent was June 4, 2019. The 2019 Circulation Element amendment reflected changes needed to the Circulation plan to accommodate the Watson Ranch Specific Plan.
The Housing Element has been comprehensively updated consistent with State mandates, the most recent 1322
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was January 31, 2023 and certified by the State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) in May 2023.
Since 2020, the City has been preparing a comprehensive Technical update to the General Plan. In 2024, we completed public review for the General Plan Update Program Environmental Impact Report (PEIR).
Following completion of response to EIR comments, we will begin adoption hearings in 2025.
In 2024, the Napa County Airport Land Use Commission updated its Napa County Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan. By State Law, the City is required to amend our General Plan and implementing ordinances to become consistent with the Napa County Airport Plan by June 2, 2025. To meet the Stateimposed deadline, this task will be accomplished in conjunction with or in advance of the Comprehensive General Plan update.
City’s Responsibility
The effectiveness of the General Plan ultimately depends on how it is implemented and maintained over time. The General Plan is a fundamental document that provides local control over the physical development of our City. All Capital Improvement Projects, Land Use Ordinances, Development Approvals, Impact Fees, Infrastructure dedications and Conditions of Approvals must be consistent with the General Plan.
General Plan Amendments
State law allows the City to amend its General Plan no more than four times per year. Amendments may be proposed and acted upon at any time during the year and one action may include multiple amendments. Any changes to the General Plan require public hearing by the City Council and evaluation of the environmental impacts as required by the California Environmental Quality Act. In 2024, the City did not amend the General Plan.
Monitoring Long-Term Growth
The City monitors long-term growth through consistency among General Plan Elements working together to connect future growth with needed infrastructure. Implementing actions, such as traffic, water, parks, and other impact fees helps pay for the impacts of new development. Master Plans, such as the Urban Water Master Plan, the 5- Year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), and other long-range infrastructure plans address impacts of land use growth.
Specific Plans, such as the Broadway District Specific Plan and Watson Ranch Specific Plan tie future growth to infrastructure needs. The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) also plays an important role in evaluating proposed development with infrastructure needs.
Major Development Applications
The City processed the following major development applications during Calendar Year 2024. A current list of projects and status is available on the City’s website at this link address:
https://www.cityofamericancanyon.org/government/community-development/development-projects Napa River Ecology Center - A Design Permit application submitted by the American Canyon Community & Parks Foundation to create an Ecology Center by repurposing the 5,000 square foot City Corporation Yard and 3-acre parcel located at 205 Wetlands Edge Road. The project will provide indoor and outdoor instructional uses and community activities that focus on conservation and environmental science, nature art, and wellness programs. This application was approved by the Planning Commission in January 2024. 1323
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Crawford Way Multifamily Project – A Design Pemit application for development of 100 townhome-style apartments at a 4.27-acre site at the SW corner of the Crawford Way and Hwy 29 Intersection. This application is scheduled to be reviewed by the Planning Commission in early 2025.
Napa Junction Solar Project – A Design Permit for a 3 megawatt solar utility facility at a 6.6-acre site at 5381 Broadway St. The project includes a 1,000 SF office and approximately 253 parking stalls for RV and boat storage. This application was approved by the Planning Commission in July 2024.
SDG 220 Distribution Center Conditional Use Permit - A Conditional Use Permit (CUP) application for a new 219,834 square foot single-story wine storage and distribution center on a 10.17-acre parcel 1055 Commerce Court. This project was approved by the City Council in November 2024.
Residences at Napa Junction – A Design Permit for 453 multi-family rental dwellings with 15% affordable housing. This application is under review.
Watson Ranch Lot 8 Subdivision – A Final Subdivision map for 25 single family homes was approved by the City Council in May 2024. The Design Permit for home floorplans and landscaping was approved by the Planning Commission in September 2024.
Watson Ranch Lot 7 Subdivision – A Tentative Subdivision map for 136 single family homes was approved by the City Council in November 2024. The Design Permit for home floorplans and landscaping was approved by the Planning Commission in October 2024.
Major Development Construction
Construction was approved, initiated or completed within American Canyon for the following major projects during the Calendar Year 2024:
Pacific Gas and Electric Regional Center – This project consists of a 100,000 square foot regional center for maintenance operations on 12 acres. The project received site plan approval in 2021 and construction was completed in April 2024.
Lemos Pointe Apartments - This project consists of 186 affordable apartments on a 6.77-acre site within the Watson Ranch Specific Plan (WRSP). The project received building permits in 2021 and occupied in June 2024.
Watson Ranch Harvest (Lot 10) – This project consists of 216 single family homes on a 27-acre site. The project received site plan and subdivision approval in 2021. By the end of 2024, 94 homes were completed and building permits for 24 more were under construction.
SDG Commerce 217 Distribution Center – A Conditional Use Permit for a new 217,000 sqft distribution warehouse. Construction was completed in October 2024.
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Napa Cove Affordable Apartments – This project consists of 66 affordable apartments on 3.5 acres. The 3-building project received occupancy in September through November 2024.
Chicken Guy Restaurant – Construction of a 2,818 sqft quick serve drive-thru restaurant was open for business in November 2024.
Watson Ranch Artisan (Lot 14/15) – This project consists of 98 single family homes on a 12-acre site. All construction permits were issued and completed by December 2024.
Home2Suites Hotel – This project consists of 102 hotel rooms on 2 acres. The building received site plan approval in 2020, construction permits in 2022, and is now under construction. Occupancy is expected in mid-2025.
Oat Hill Residential Project – The Oat Hill Residential project includes 291 multifamily residential units on 20 acres. By the end of 2024, permits were issued for 231 dwelling units. Occupancy is expected in mid2025.
Major 2024 Planning Activities that Support General Plan Goals Comprehensive General Plan Update – The City issued a Notice of Preparation of a Program EIR for the Comprehensive General Plan update in 2022. In 2024, the City completed public review of the Program EIR. In 2025, the city anticipates approval of the General Plan Update and Program EIR by mid-year.
General Plan Environmental Impact Report Workshop – the Planning Commission conducted a workshop to discuss the proposed updated General Plan Land Use plan in October 2024. 6th Cycle Housing Element Update – The City Council approved the Housing Element in January 2023 and the State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) certified the Housing Element in May 2023. In 2024, the City completed numerous implementation measures. Please see the attached Annual Housing Element report in Appendix A.
Paoli/Watson Annexation – The City Council conducted the final Prezoning reading for the 80-acre Paoli/Watson Annexation area in February 2024.
Industrial Greenhouse Gas Standards and Industrial Sustainability Standards Ordinance - the City Council adopted a Bay Area first-of-its-kind industrial sustainability standards ordinance for warehouse development in February 2024.
Updated Utility Connection Fees – The City Council adopted "Water Rates and Connection Fees", Chapter
13.14 "Water Conservation Plan", and Chapter 14.04: "Wastewater Rates and Charges" to establish new potable water, recycled water and wastewater property related fees and charges in April 2024.
Environmental Sustainability Goal – The City Council adopted an Environmental Sustainability Goal resolution in Aril 2024.
Annual Housing Element Report - The Planning Commission and City Council each conducted a public hearing to review the Housing Element Annual Report prior to the April 1 deadline in 2024. 1325
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Annual General Plan Report - The Planning Commission and City Council reviewed the General Plan Element Annual Report prior to April 2024.
Accessory Dwelling Unit Ordinance - The City Council updated the Accessory Dwelling Unit and Emergency Shelter Ordinance to current standards in April 2024. 5-Year Capital Improvement Program - In May 2024, the Planning Commission confirmed that the 5-Year Capital Improvement Program is consistent with the General Plan. In June 2024, the City Council approved the plan.
Fair Housing Napa Valley - In June 2024, the City Council received an Annual Report from Fair Housing Napa Valley on work accomplished in American Canyon during Calendar Year 2023.
City of Napa Housing Authority - In June 2024, the City Council received an Annual Report from the City of Napa Housing Authority on affordable housing monitoring and grant allocation work accomplished in American Canyon during Calendar Year 2023.
Proposed FY 24/25 Budget – The City Council adopted a balanced annual citywide budget in June 2024.
Community Development Permitting Software – In June 2024, the City Council approved a contract with OpenGov to update the Building, Planning, and Code Enforcement permitting software. The update will provide greater transparency to customers’ ability to access the status of their projects and enable field staff to update project status outside the office
National Night Out - The City Council and Department Management Team visited approximately 15 block parties throughout American Canyon during the annual National Night Out event in August 2024.
Architecture Standards in American Canyon - The City Council conducted a moderated workshop with the Planning Commission to discuss desirable architecture in the City that is consistent with objective standards in August 2024.
Green Island Road Reconstruction Financing – In August 2024, the City Council approved issuance of bond financing to reconstruct Green Island Road.
National Community Planning Month – the City Council celebrated National Community Planning Month by adopting a Proclamation to commemorate the event in October 2024.
National Code Enforcement Month – the City Council celebrated National Code Enforcement Month by adopting a Proclamation to commemorate the event in October 2024.
Impact Fee Inflation Adjustment – To maintain the buying power of impact fees over time, the City Council approved an annual inflation adjustment to impact fees in November 2024.
Active Transportation Development Standards Workshop – The Planning Commission and the Open Space, Active Transportation, and Sustainability Commission conducted a joint workshop to discuss the status of Federal, State, and Local Active Transportation Standards and the process to update and adopt new local standards in December 2023.
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Napa Valley Transportation Authority (NVTA) Project Initiation Document - In 2022, the City continued its support to NVTA’s efforts to complete a “Project Initiation Document” for Highway 29 beautification, functionality, and operational improvements. In 2022, the NVTA Board approved the plan and authorized environmental review.
Status of General Plan Implementation Actions
The table below analyzes selected General Plan policies and action items that made notable progress in 2024. The table is not a comprehensive list of all policies and action items in the General Plan; many policies/actions are under ongoing implementation and may not be listed here.
A majority of the General Plan policies and related action items have been implemented through the adoption of ordinances or resolutions, incorporated into the regular governmental activities, or considered during the review of development proposals. The policy implementations below provide a snapshot to highlight annual progress.
Land Use Element
Goal 1E: Develop residential neighborhoods that provide a range of housing opportunities.
In 2024,
• the City issued and inspected construction permits for a wide range of housing types: the Oat Hill multifamily project (291 units), the Lemos Pointe affordable apartments (186 units), the Napa Cove affordable apartments (66 units), the Watson Ranch Artisan single family homes (98 units), the Watson Ranch single family homes (216 units). • The City processed an application for 100 townhomes at Crawford Way/SR-29 Goal 1F: Develop high quality commercial uses.
In 2024,
• The city inspected the Home2Suites hotel which is under construction. • The City approved two outdoor amphitheaters in Watson Ranch. • The City completed the Chicken Guy Quick Serve restaurant. • Conducted plan check review for the Hampton Inn Hotel Goal 1I: and Economic Development Element Goal 3 Develop industrial uses that provide employment for residents and revenue for the City.
In 2024,
• Processed grading permits for the Phase 1 Giovannoni Logistics Center. • Completed construction permits for the Pacific Gas & Electric Regional Center. • Completed a 217,000 square foot warehouse on Commerce Court. • Completed an entitlement for a 220,000 square foot warehouse on Commerce Court. • Approved a Solar Farm and RV storage at 5381 Broadway and approved grading permits.
Goal 1L: Study potential development of lands between Newell Drive and the City Urban Limit Line.
In 2024, the City continued to see progress in Canyon Estates – a custom home neighborhood in the former Special Study area. The homebuilder Richmond American has purchased 33 lots and is processing entitlements for the revised project.
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Goal 1Q: Expand American Canyon’s jurisdictional boundaries to establish a logical pattern of growth and services.
This project would add approximately 80 acres into the City limits consistent with the General Plan Sphere of Influence and Urban Limit Line. In 2024, the City issued a Notice of Preparation of an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the Paoli/Watson Lane Annexation. The City Council approved final reading for the Prezoning.
Goal 1U: Conduct decisive near-term action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in American Canyon. • Adopted a resolution approving a new environmental sustainability goad: “Demonstrate Leadership in Environmental sustainability.”
• The City Council adopted a Bay Area first-of-its-kind industrial sustainability standards ordinance for warehouse development in February 2024.
• The City continues to participate in the Napa County Regional Climate Action and Adaptation Plan.
• Added 3 new Level 2 dual port charging stations: City Hall. Napa Junction Community Center, and the Philips West Aquatics Center.
Economic Development Element
Goal 3B Improve the appearance and functionality of the Highway 29 corridor and establish a Town Center to provide for economically sound local-serving commercial development.
In 2024, the city continued to issue construction permits for new commercial and residential development in the Broadway District along Highway 29 and in Watson Ranch which will provide a new Town Center, known as the Napa Valley Ruins & Gardens. These include completion of the Lemos Pointe apartments, Napa Cove Apartments, Artisan and Harvest single family neighborhoods. The City is inspecting a new a hotel, and reviewing construction permits for a second new hotel in the Broadway District. Also, the City welcomed construction completion and business opening for Chicken Guy restaurant and renovation of the Canyon Café into the new Birria Spot.
Circulation Element
Guiding Policy 1: Safe and convenient access to activities in the community.
Highlights during 2024:
• City Council approved a Five-Year Road Maintenance Expenditure Plan for FY 2024/25 through FY 2028/29 using Measure T tax funds (Napa Countywide Road Maintenance Act.) • Installed two new Radar Speed Signs. The first sign was a replacement for the existing sign on west bound Benton Way. The second sign was installed in a new location on north bound Newell Dr. in front of the American Canyon High School. • Completed design for the Melvin Road Sidewalk and Drainage Improvements project. • Completed design to close sidewalk gaps and provide for drainage improvements between Melvin from Cassayre to James Road as well as close a couple of short sidewalk gaps on James Road to Donaldson.
Guiding Policy 2: Implement Planned Roadway Improvements. • Relocated overhead utility lines and poles to a new underground system across the Napa Cove apartment site.
• Extended Wetlands Edge Court to improve storm drainage flow and provide a paved cul-de-sac north of Eucalyptus Drive.
• Completed the joint trench utility undergrounding work on Green Island Road. • Completed Benton Way pavement rehabilitation from Wetlands Edge to Elliott Drive. 1328
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• Completed Rio Del Mar East, extension of Rolling Hills Drive, Mallen Way connecting to the northern terminus of Newell Drive, Marcus Road and installing public utilities to serve all the developments within Watson Ranch. Also include in this phase are offsite utilities. • Completed design for ADA ramp upgrades, pavement, striping, and crosswalk improvements on Knightsbridge between Danrose and Elliott, Regent Court, Park Lane, Lansford Court, Arden Court, Linwood Lane.
• Completed design for ADA curb ramp upgrades, various pavement treatments, sewer CIPP and water main upgrades, striping and pavement marking upgrades for Rio Del Mar from Highway 29 to Carolyn Drive, all of Los Altos Place east of Carolyn Drive, Cassayre Drive, Flamingo Court, Del Rey Court, Alta Loma Drive, Joan Drive from Carolyn Drive to Los Altos Place, and Carolyn Drive from Rio Del Mar to Los Altos Place.
Guiding Policy 3: Design circulation system to focus regional travel on SR 29.
In 2024, the City continued to support the Napa Valley Transportation Authority efforts to develop a “Project Initiation Document” for Highway 29 beautification, functionality, and operational improvements.
Natural Resources Element
Goal 8: Protect and preserve the significant habitats, plants and wildlife that exist in the City and its Planning Area.
Highlights during 2024:
• Received a $246,000 California State Parks Outdoor Environmental Education Facilities Grant to construct an outdoor education area (open-air seating for up to 40 people), install 20 interpretive signs and elements, and construct a gender-neutral restroom at Wetlands Edge Preserve. This project was identified and adopted as part of the Five-Year Capital Improvement Project Budget for FY 23/27.
• Began to develop a Wetlands Restoration Plan to guide restoration, protection, and improvement of the North Slough and Lower Napa River wetlands and uplands along the City’s shoreline.
Park and Recreation Element
Objective 7.3: Ensure that American Canyon provides both active and passive recreational activities in a variety of park and trail settings
Highlights during 2024:
• Completed renovation of the Adult Activity Center.
• Completed the Veterans Memorial Park skatepark.
• Replaced playground equipment and a fully accessible surface at Via Bellagio Park. • Provide ADA accessible improvements to the Newell Open Space parking lot and improved trail access up to the fenced woodland area. Project scope includes design, right of way acquisition and construction.
• Completed design for the Wetlands Edge enhancement project consisting of an outdoor educational area (open air seating area), landscape area and bathroom. • Contributed $1 million toward funding for the Napa River Ecology Center in partnership with the American Canyon Community and Parks Foundation.
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Policy 7.8.4: Promote the establishment of a volunteer services program to assist City park and recreation staff, thereby stimulating more direct community involvement and reducing future staffing costs. • Received assistance from 122 volunteers, equating to 455 volunteer hours. • Conducted a Citizens Academy to help residents understand the workings at City Hall. This year’s graduation class beautified the picnic table area near City hall. • Works with over 21 American Canyon community nonprofit organizations and partners that provide staff support, supplies, and facilities at no cost, that support the success of their programs, services, and events.
• Support several community sports organizations that provide an advanced competitive sports experience with over 3,771 rental hours at no cost to these organizations. • Newell Open Space invasive plant species removal in February. • Community Garden maintenance in March.
• Earth Day volunteer wetland enhancement with native plants in April • American Canyon hosted the 2024 volunteer recognition event in April. This event celebrates key contributors to our community, recognizing our community groups and members who invest in impactful and meaningful philanthropic work.
Public Services-Facilities Element
Goal 6A: Ensure a high level of fire protection and emergency services for the City's residents, businesses and visitors.
Highlights during 2024:
• Deployed sheep as an eco-friendly method for fire and weed abatement in our parks and open spaces in partnership with the City, Napa Firewise, and Napa County. • Responded to 2,139 incidents
• Provided mutual aid for 191 incidents.
• Promoted two Fire Captains to Battalion Chiefs
• Hired three firefighter paramedics.
• Received a total of $177,000 in grant funds for two sets of “Jaws of Life” hydraulic tools, obtained a patrol rescue boat and trailer and obtained nine sets of personal protective gear. • for firefighting equipment from the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation. • Supports and trains the voluntary American Canyon Community Emergency Response Team (ACCERT)
• Supports and trains the Explorer Program which offers young adults 14-21 a hands-on experience in firefighting under the guidance of professional firefighters. • Participated in a Health Fair at the American Canyon fire District in April. • September 11th Ceremony.
Goal 6B: Ensure a high level of police protection for the City's residents, businesses and visitors.
Highlights during 2024:
• Over 4,100 Neighborhood Watch Sign Ups (up from >3,600 in 2022). • A slight decrease in vehicle theft (65) and in burglaries (24) (from 70 and 29 in 2022 • respectively)
• Zero (0) homicides
• One (1) fatal traffic accident
• Total collisions on local roads (67) were down significantly in 2023 (from 107 in 2022). • Responded to 15,294 calls for service, booked 607 people into jail and booked 60 firearms • into property.
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• ACPD’s clearance rate for violent crimes was 76% and property crimes was 43%. This is significantly higher than the Statewide average of 41% for violent crime and 7.2% for property crime.
• Organized the 40th American Canyon National Night Out held on the first Tuesday in August.
This year, there were 12 neighborhood hosted parties.
Natural-Historic-Cultural Element
Goal 8F: Reduce consumption of nonrenewable energy sources. • The City partnered with Recology to provide food waste composting throughout the city.
Utilities Element
Goal 5: Establish and maintain a secure water supply and treatment, distribution and storage system.
Highlights during 2024:
• Constructed a new a 24’x60’ Modular Building with individual cubicles for all staff, a conference meeting area and a lunch breakroom area. In-kind work by staff (water/electrical) saved approximately $15,000.
• Staff continued to improve their skills. Fidel Lopez received a Cross-connection Specialist Certification. William Harder received a Distribution Garde 2 Certification, Jonathan Wood received a Distribution Grade 1 Certification.
• Completed 9,162 LF of new recycled water mains and includes the conversion of existing irrigation services from the domestic water system to the new recycled water system. • Completed design for water main improvements on Knightsbridge between Danrose and Elliott, Regent Court, Park Lane, Lansford Court, Arden Court, Linwood Lane.
Goal 5A: Provide a high-quality water supply to American Canyon water users.
In 2024,
• Responded to 1,503 service calls
• Identified and repaired 215 water meter leaks
• Replaced 36 water meters
• Replaced 33 service connections
• Repaired 7 water mains
• 800 water meter lids were refurbished and repaired, estimated cost savings approximately $92,000.00
• Participated in the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) that provides financial assistance to low-income Californians to help manage their residential water utility costs. The program began in the summer 2022, the City of American Canyon received a total of $49,507.00 in the grant fund on behalf or residents in need of assistance. • The City continued to participate in development of the Sites Reservoir, which is an environmentally sensitive reservoir that stores excess winter runoff water for use when demands are high. This facility is anticipated to be completed in early 2030’s.
Objective 5.10: Ensure that adequate storm drain and flood control facilities are provided and properly maintained to protect life and property from flood hazards.
Replaced approximately 500 feet of compromised clay sewer main on Andrew Road between Thayer and Crawford Way.
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Objective 5.14: Provide a system of wastewater collection and treatment facilities which will adequately convey and treat wastewater generated by existing and future development in the City's service area.
In 2024, completed design of a project to upsize the existing sewer main on Broadway between Crawford and Donaldson through a trenchless method.
Completed design of sewer and water main upgrades for Rio Del Mar from Highway 29 to Carolyn Drive, all of Los Altos Place east of Carolyn Drive, Cassayre Drive, Flamingo Court, Del Rey Court, Alta Loma Drive, Joan Drive from Carolyn Drive to Los Altos Place, and Carolyn Drive from Rio Del Mar to Los Altos Place.
Housing Element Annual Progress Report Overview (Appendix A) Preserving and enhancing the range and affordability of housing is an important goal of the General Plan.
Attached to this report is the Annual Housing Element Progress Report. This report was presented to the Planning Commission on February 27, 2025 and the City Council on March 18, 2025. 1332
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
NOVEMBER 18, 2025
STAFF REPORT
BUSINESS
ITEM NUMBER: 11.
TITLE
Draft Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Policy
RECOMMENDATION
Review and provide feedback on the draft Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Policy.
CONTACT
Alexandra Ikeda, Deputy City Manager
BACKGROUND & ANALYSIS
***The following is a Council Requested Item***
We live in a fast-changing technological world where Ar9ficial Intelligence (AI) is becoming part of everyday life and work. AI tools are already used across many sectors to improve efficiency, support communica9on and decision-making, and enhance services, and our organiza9on is no excep9on. As the City con9nues to modernize and use digital tools such as our registra9on and u9lity billing systems, along with newer pla=orms like NeoGov and OpenGov, we are genera9ng and managing more digital informa9on than ever before. The City does not currently have a formal data policy guiding how this informa9on is managed, which creates the risk that sensi9ve employee, customer, or City information could be shared inappropriately, or even unintentionally.
The intent of the draft AI and Data Policy is to provide clear expecta9ons for the responsible use of AI tools and the protec9on of City data, while s9ll encouraging safe and innova9ve use of technology. The policy outlines how AI tools may be used as part of daily work and emphasizes transparency, accountability, and ethical use. It also establishes standards for how City informa9on is collected, stored, shared, and protected across all systems. This includes defining what sensi9ve information is and making clear that it should only be handled in secure City systems.
This policy is in dra> form. Staff are seeking feedback from the City Council, recognizing that refinements may be needed. The dra> will also be reviewed by legal counsel and shared with bargaining units before a final version is brought forward for adoption.
COUNCIL PRIORITY PROGRAMS AND PROJECTS
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Organizational Effectiveness: "Deliver exemplary government services."
FISCAL IMPACT
There is fiscal impact from this item.
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 0: No Further Public Communication Needed
Included in the City Council Agenda Packets - this serves as the official communication for this item.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Draft AI and Data Policy
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POLICY: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Policy
This document was drafted with support from ChatGPT. The content was reviewed and fact-checked by staff. pg. 1
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Policy
PURPOSE
The City of American Canyon encourages the use of emerging technologies that promote innovation, enhance productivity, and improve organizational performance and service delivery, all while serving the public good and upholding ethical standards. This policy provides guidance for the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and City data systems. The goal is to support efficiency, collaboration, and innovation while protecting sensitive information and maintaining public trust.
This policy applies to all City employees, volunteers, contractors, and consultants who use City systems or have access to City information. For the purposes of this policy, these individuals are referred to as “City staff” or “staff.”
UNDERSTANDING DATA AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) TECHNOLOGIES Data systems and AI technologies encompass a range of tools that enable organizations to collect, process, analyze, and generate information in increasing sophisticated ways.
Data Systems include platforms, software, and processes used to store, manage, and analyze data, such as databases, dashboards, analytics tools, and machine learning pipelines. These systems are essential for both internal and external functions and often contain sensitive and private customer and employee information that must be protected and managed responsibly.
AI refers to computer systems that perform tasks typically requiring human intelligence, such as recognizing patterns, understanding language, making predictions, and generating content. A growing area of AI, known as Generative Artificial Intelligence (Generative AI), can create new content, such as text, images, code, or audio, based on user prompts.
These tools can assist staff by helping draft, edit, summarize, or analyze information, but they also introduce potential risks related to privacy, data security, intellectual property, and bias.
DEFINITIONS
Data Systems: Computer systems, software, websites, databases, or tools the city uses to collect, store, manage, or share information.
City Data Systems: The platforms, software, storage systems, networks, databases, and tool the city owns, operates, or uses to collect, store, manage, analyze, or transmit information. These systems may contain sensitive or confidential data and must be handled securely and in compliance with City policies and laws. 1335
POLICY: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Policy
This document was drafted with support from ChatGPT. The content was reviewed and fact-checked by staff. pg. 2
Artificial Intelligence (AI): Technology that helps computers do tasks that normally require human thinking, such as understanding language, recognizing patterns, or making suggestions.
Generative AI: A type of AI that can create new content, such as text, images, audio, or code, based on prompts or examples. Examples include ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Adobe Firefly.
Personally Identifiable Information (PII): Information that can be used to identify a specific person. This includes names, phone numbers, home addresses, email addresses, birthdates, social security numbers, drivers license numbers, account number, and any other identifying details.
Protected Health Information (PHI): Health-related information that can be connected to an individual. This includes medical history, treatment information, health insurance details, and any health data tied to a person’s identity. PHI is protected by federal and state laws and must not be entered into AI tools or shared outside approved secure systems.
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA): A federal law that protects medical and health information. HIPAA requires that PHI only be stored and shared in secure, approved systems. PHI cannot be entered into AI tools or shared outside authorized City systems and workflows.
Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS): A federal security standard for criminal justice data, including arrest records, criminal history, fingerprints, dispatch information, and law enforcement reports. CJIS data may only be accessed, stored, or shared in systems approved for CJIS compliance. CJIS data cannot be entered into AI tools.
Sensitive or Confidential Information: Any information that is private, protected, or not meant to be shared publicly. This includes PII, PHI, CJIS, internal planning or legal documents, financial information, security or infrastructure details, and employee or customer information.
Public Information: Information that is already published or cleared for public release, such as City website text, Council agendas, newsletter, press releases, or publicly posted reports.
AI Output: The text, images, summaries, answers, or other content produced by an AI system.
Hallucination: When an AI tool produces content that sounds correct but is actually incorrect, fabricated, or misleading.
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POLICY: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Policy
This document was drafted with support from ChatGPT. The content was reviewed and fact-checked by staff. pg. 3
PRINCIPLES
The City is committed to using data and AI in ways that improve services, support employees, and maintain public trust. These principles guide all use of AI and City data systems.
1. Accountability: Staff are responsible for the work they create and the information they handle. AI may assist with tasks, but staff must review, edit, and approve all final content, decisions, and communications.
2. Ethical Use: AI tools must be used in ways that reflect the City’s values, including fairness, respect, transparency, and service to the community. AI should support work, not replace professional judgement or responsibility.
3. Transparency: When AI contributes substantially to a document or communication, staff should acknowledge its use when appropriate. AI-generated materials should neve be presented as solely human-created work.
4. Accuracy and Hallucinations: AI tools can sometimes produce false or fabricated (“hallucinated”) information that appears credible. Staff must apply critical thinking and review and verify all AI-generated content before relying on it or sharing with the public.
5. Privacy and Security: Sensitive or confidential information must not be entered into AI tools. This includes information related to City operations, employees, or community members. This expectation applies across all City data systems, not just AI. Sensitive and confidential information must always be stored, shared, and managed securely and in compliance with City policy and law.
6. Fairness and Bias: AI systems reflect bias from the data they were trained on. Staff must apply judgment and care to avoid reinforcing discriminatory or unfair outcomes, especially in situations involving access to services, enforcement actions, or eligibility determinations.
7. Responsible Learning and Use: The City encourages staff to explore tools that can improve efficiency and creativity, while using careful judgment. Staff should seek guidance when unsure whether content or information is appropriate to use in AI 1337
POLICY: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Policy
This document was drafted with support from ChatGPT. The content was reviewed and fact-checked by staff. pg. 4
systems.
8. Human Oversight: AI can support work, but it cannot replace human responsibility.
Final decisions and communications must always be made and approved by staff.
DATA PROTECTION AND PRIVACY
Protecting sensitive and confidential information is required in all City work. This responsibility applies to every employee, contractor, volunteer, and system, including AI tools and City data systems. Sensitive and confidential information is always protected. o Do not enter PII, PHI, CJIS, or confidential City information into AI tools. o Do not store or share sensitive information outside secure City systems. o When unsure whether information is sensitive, treat it as sensitive. o Ask your supervisor if clarification is needed.
Certain City roles, such as Police, Dispatch, Code Enforcement, HR, Fire/EMS, Finance and others may be required to follow additional federal and stat privacy laws, including HIPAA for health insurance and CJIS for criminal justice information. When these laws apply, they take priority. Staff must handle PHI and CJIS data only in secure systems specifically approved for that purpose and not in AI tools.
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY AND ATTRIBUTION
AI use must comply with copyright, trademark, and licensing rules. Staff are responsible for ensuring that any AI-generated or AI-assisted work respects intellectual property rights.
When applicable, staff must provide attribution or acknowledge of AI assistance in accordance with City guidance.
ACCEPTABLE AND PROHIBITED USES
• Acceptable Uses. AI tools may be used to assist with general work tasks when no sensitive data is involved, including:
o Drafting or rewriting emails to improve tone and clarity (When no PII/PHI/CJIS/confidential details are included.
o Drafting memos, summaries, instructions, or public materials. o Creating outlines, talking points, or presentation ideas. o Summarizing or translating public documents.
o Brainstorming ideas or improving clarity of language. • Prohibited Uses. AI tools cannot be used to:
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POLICY: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Policy
This document was drafted with support from ChatGPT. The content was reviewed and fact-checked by staff. pg. 5
o Enter or share PII, PHI, CJIS, employee, personnel, financial, or confidential City information.
o Make decisions about eligibility, enforcement, personnel matters, services, or safety.
o Share draft, internal, unpublished, or restricted documents. o Move City data into unsecure systems.
o Perform personal, political, or outside business activity.
GUIDANCE AND SUPPORT
City staff are expected to use City data systems and AI tools responsibly. Good judgement should be used when handling information or deciding whether AI is appropriate for a task.
If clarification is needed, supervisors can provide guidance and support.
A one-page AI & Data Use Quick Guide is available to help support staff apply this policy in daily work. The Quick Guide summarizes key reminders in plain language and does not replace this policy.
OVERSIGHT AND GOVERNANCE
The City Manager’s Office is responsible for the overall oversight of this policy. Information Technology (IT) supports implementation, provides guidance on data security, and may update technical practices as needed. Department supervisors are responsible for ensuring that their teams understand and follow this policy in their daily work. This City may update this policy as technology, legal requirements, and City practices evolve. 1339
POLICY: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Policy
This document was drafted with support from ChatGPT. The content was reviewed and fact-checked by staff. pg. 6
AI & DATA USE QUICK GUIDE
Staff are encouraged to use new technologies, including AI, to improve productivity and service. At the same time, we protect private, confidential, and sensitive information. If you wouldn’t share it publicly, don’t enter it into AI.
WHAT YOU CAN USE AI FOR
• Drafting or rewriting emails for tone and clarity (no confidential details). • Summarizing public documents.
• Translating public information.
• Drafting memos, text, or presentations.
• Creating outlines, talking points, or ideas.
• Rewriting content to make it easier to understand.
WHAT AI CANNOT BE USED FOR
• PII (names, addresses, phone numbers, social security numbers, etc.). • PHI (health information connected to a person).
• CJIS data (criminal justice or police information).
• Internal or confidential City information.
• Passwords, internal links, system or security information. • Making decisions about people (services, enforcement, hiring, discipline).
KEY REMINDERS
• You are responsible for your work, even if AI helps.
• AI supports work, it does not replace judgement.
• When unsure whether information is sensitive, treat it as sensitive. • Ask your supervisor if clarification is needed.
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CITY COUNCILMEMBER REPORT
Council
Meeting
Date:
11/18/2025 Submitted
by: *
Mayor Pierre Washington
Event
Date:
05/11/2025 Event Type Conference
Event Title: So. County Developer Meeting American Canyon Event Report: On November 5, 2025, Supervisor Belia Ramos and I (along with City Manager Jason Holley) hosted a developer meeting in a collaborative discussion on American Canyon's future pertaining to development and circulation needs.
The meeting was intended to secure developer engagement, encourage shared responsibility, and ensure council support for coordinated infrastructure planning that advances approved and prospective projects.
I believe we were able to achieve positive momentum and we are scheduled for a follow-up meeting with the developers in two weeks.
Event
Date:
06/11/2025 Event Type Committee Report
Event Title: STATE ROUTE 37 POLICY COMMITTEE MEETING
Event Report: On November 6, 2025, Vice Mayor Mark Joseph and I, along with Regional elected officials from Solano, Marin and Napa County attended the Resilient SR-37 State Route 37 Policy Committee meeting, in Petaluma, Ca. This meeting was focused on discussions/information provided by Bart Ney, from Caltrans who was illustrating the navigation of the Regional Park and "Tolay" Creek Bayland overpass/bridge that will be reconstructed and heighten. There was also discussion about fair tolling and tolling locations. 1341
Event
Date:
06/11/2025 Event Type Committee Report
Event Title: American Canyon Finance Sub-Committee meeting Event Report: On November 6, 2025, at 1pm, Vice Mayor Mark Joseph and I attended the city's Financial Sub-Committee meeting where Financial Director Jem Cruz provided us with a thorough status on the state of the city's financials. This meeting focused more on recommendations for the council to consider approval of changes to the Fiscal & Budgetary Policies: Reserves, Renovation and Replacement Fund, and Pension Stabilization Fund.
Periodic reviews will be performed to assess fund levels. If any funds exceed operational needs, excess amounts may be reallocated through the budget process with Council approval.
City Manager Jason Holley and Assistant City manager Juan Gomez provided additional insight to the safeguards around the reviews.
Event
Date:
08/11/2025 Event Type Community Event
Event Title: Comedy Show Manila Munchies featuring Rex Navarrete Event Report: On Saturday, November 8, 2025, the organizers of Friendors, (associated with manila Munchies hosted a "Kamayan" Dinner & Comedy show, featuring comedian Rex Navarrete at the American canyon Boys & Girls Club. There was plenty of amazing Filipino food, fellowship with community members and leaders and lots of laughter. We also enjoyed the singing of American Canyon High School choir, led by Mr. Jamie Butler. Our elected officials in attendance were Supervisor Belia Ramos, Vice Mayor Mark Joseph, Councilmembers David Oro & Brando Cruz.
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CITY COUNCILMEMBER REPORT
Council
Meeting
Date:
11/18/2025 Submitted
by: *
Vice Mayor Mark Joseph
Event
Date:
06/11/2025 Event Type Committee Report
Event Title: Resilient SR37 Policy Committee
Event Report: Mayor Washington and I attended the bi-monthly policy committee meeting. It is more informative than policysetting.
We received updates on the near term projects of Sears Point to Mare Island, focusing on the three construction phases. Phase 1 is Tolay Creek Bridge replacement/SR121 Intersection improvements (fully funded, ready to go out to bid next Spring); Phase 2 is Eastbound SR27 and a Strip Marsh enhancement project (funding conditionally approved and ready to list in early 2027); and Phase 3, which is the westbound improvements (funding is still being worked on and hopefully will be combined with Phase 2).
Additional discussion focused on environmental impacts (use of retaining walls; only 9 acres of wetlands are being impacted) and how to handle the grading impacts (can we use the dirt excavated from one phase for fill in another?)
We also received an update on the Novato Creek Bridge Replacement, which is also fully funded and construction is expected sometime in 2027. This is also part of the near term component. The long-term phase is actually raising the highway on both sides of the bridge to be above sea level rise.
The full agenda (with attachments) can be found here.
Event
Date:
06/11/2025 Event Type Committee Report
Event Title: Finance Subcommittee Meeting
Event Report: Mayor Washington and I met with staff to review one aspect of our fiscal policies, relating to Reserves and the Capital-related internal service funds. This included a discussion of the current fund balances and designated uses for the various capital funds, as well as our Pension Stabilization Fund. The Mayor and I were supportive of staff's suggestion that we consider a Section 115 Pension Fund (probably the wrong term). This would give us more stability in managing our PERS retirement costs (we do something similar with our OPEB--retiree health insurance costs).
We also discussed what an annual set-aside could be, based on asset depreciation. This tends to generate a much larger number than we probably need or can afford (for example, the current annual charge would be $3.6 million). So our next steps need to focus on refining that number as well as identifying where funding could come from.
We also agreed to start reviewing the complete fiscal policies and begin targeting which sections, if any, should be recommended for revisions by the full Council.
Event
Date:
Event Type Community Event
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Event Title: City and Community events/activities
Event Report: Veteran's Day: We had a great turnout for this event, and St. Senator Christopher Cabaldon was there to give his remarks. The program went very well, with performances by the ACMS Choir, the annual Photography Contest, and speeches! Shout out to Council member Cruz as our keynote speaker! New ACMS Track: Councilmember Cruz and I were also present for the unveiling of the refurbished track at our Middle School. It looks great, and they had a clever way to cut the ribbon: members of our ACMS Track Team broke through the banner to celebrate its re-opening! Manilla Munchies Part 2: I made a short appearance at this new event. There was great food and entertainment. This is another fund raiser by the new Friendors nonprofit in town. I only wish I hadn't already had a big lunch, so I could eat more!
Habitat for Humanity lunch: I had lunch with members of this group. They are looking for sites in American Canyon that they can acquire and then build affordable housing, using sweat equity by the future owners. Our Planning Staff offered them some prospective sites, and I gave them a couple of City-owned parcels that might work. We'll see--nothing will happen quickly, since it takes time to acquire the site(s), design the homes, and build them--especially if volunteer labor is involved. But it's the right thing to pursue.
ACHS Art & Music Fest: As the AC Arts Foundation President, I met with Jamie Butler and Valerie ZizakMorais to start planning for our next event, scheduled for March 21, 2026 at the RD Winery. It will be combined with the Chamber's Mustard Celebration, and is also a fund raiser for our school's Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) program.
Juneteenth Celebration Planning: As ACAF President, I also met with Brenda Knight and others to discuss how to approach our Juneteenth Celebration for next year. We have some exciting new changes, but we're not ready to make any announcements yet!
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FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS OF NOTE
November 20, 2025, Planning Comm. 6:30 p.m.
Crawford Way Tentative Subdivision Map
December 2, 2025, City Council Meeting 6:30p
Sites Reservoir Project Update
High Strength Waste Project
2026 City Council Committee Assignments
Open Gov Presentation
December 3, 2025, TBID Meeting. 11:00 a.m.
Review Donation Requests
December 3, 2025, OSATS Meeting. 6:30 p.m.
Complete Streets Approach for CIP Projects
BCDC's SB272 Sea Level Rise Report
December 11, 2025, PCS Meeting. 6:30 p.m.
Recommend Community Grants
December 16, 2025, City Council 6:30p
Crawford Way Tentative Subdivision Map
Award Community Grants
December 18, 2025, Planning Comm. 6:30 p.m.
TBD
January 20, 2026, City Council 6:30 p.m.
Communications Update
Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and FY
2024-25 Year End Results
Q3 CIP Update
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 1345