Implementation of this central goal is described through the General Plan objectives and policies, organized into eight elements: Land Use; Housing; Community Design; Circulation; Open Space, Recreation & Conservation; Safety; Noise; and Public Facilities & Services. The Housing Element, unlike the other elements, is updated every eight years— the current Housing Element’s planning period runs from 2023 to 2031.
The 2024 GP APR consists of the following sections:
1. Introduction, including the history of and background on the City’s General Plan/Coastal Land Use Plan.
2. Development Activities/Projects and Program Review, which summarizes planning and building permits issued in 2024, Code Compliance cases, City Council actions, and Planning Commission actions.
3. General Plan Elements and Implementation, which details the progress made on new and existing projects and programs throughout the City that implement each element of the General Plan.
4. Amendments to the General Plan/Coastal Land Use Plan and Zoning Code, summarizes the adopted changes to both documents and proposed changes to be brought before decisionmakers in the foreseeable future.
5. Goals, Priorities, and Objectives, which highlights how the goals of the General Plan are intertwined with other City efforts, including the City’s Annual Work Plan.
Community Development Department staff collaborated with the Public Works and Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Departments to assemble the information provided.
POLICY CONSISTENCY
As a requirement of Government Code (Section 65400(a)(2)), the GP APR serves as evidence of the City implementing its General Plan goals, objectives and policies. By submitting the required GP and Housing Element APRs to LCI and HCD each year, the City fulfills statutory requirements to report on the status of City programs and efforts in meeting its share of regional housing needs. The GP APR is also a tool for understanding where General Plan implementation work remains and how related resources may need to be focused to address General Plan objectives and policies.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
No Additional Funding Requested. Staff time to prepare the report is included in the Adopted FY 2024-2025 Budget. Other than the cost of staff time for preparation, there is no anticipated financial impact to the City as a result of submitting this report. Preparation of the annual General Plan Report is an unfunded state mandate.
2024 General Plan Annual Progress Report
March 24, 2025
LEGAL AND RISK MANAGEMENT CONSIDERATIONS
Preparation and presentation of the GP APR to the City Council, followed by the submittal of the GP APR to LCI and HCD, fulfills the City’s statutory obligations pursuant to the requirements of Government Code § 65400.
OPTIONS
1. Direct the CDD Director to submit the GP APR to the Governor’s Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation and the Department of Housing and Community Development.
2. Recommend changes be incorporated into the GP APR and authorize the Community Development Director to submit the revised GP APR to the Governor’s Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation and the Department of Housing and Community Development.
3. Recommend changes and direct staff to return a revised GP APR for further review.
PRINCIPAL PARTIES EXPECTED AT MEETING
Interested members of the public.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A 2024 General Plan Annual Progress Report.
Staff contact: Megan Musolf, Assistant Planner
(805) 755-4438, [email protected]
Signature
Reviewed by:
Nick Bobroff, Community Development Director
(805) 755-4407, [email protected]
Signature
Reviewed by: Ryan Kintz, Assistant City Manager
(805) 755-4400, [email protected]
Signature
Reviewed by: Michael Ramirez, City Manager
(805) 755-4450, [email protected]
Signature
City of Carpinteria
COUNCIL AGENDA STAFF REPORT
ITEM FOR COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
Adoption of City Council Goals and Priorities for Fiscal Years 2025-26 and 2026-27; and Strategic Plan Final Report, including City Mission, Vision, and Value Statements (Working Drafts); and City Council-developed Norms, Values, and Principles of Governance (Final Draft).
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Receive presentation; adopt City Council Goals and Priorities for Fiscal Years 2025-26 and 2026-27 and consider adoption of City Council-developed Norms, Values, and Principles of Governance; and direct staff as appropriate.
Sample Motion: I move to receive the presentation; adopt the City Council Goals and Priorities for Fiscal Years 2025-26 and 2026-27 and City Council-developed Norms, Values, and Principles of Governance; and direct staff as appropriate.
BACKGROUND
In October of 2024, the City engaged the services of strategic planning consultant, Tripepi Smith. The firms scope of work included organizing and implementing an online community survey, hosting three community workshops, facilitating a City Council Retreat, and preparing a final Strategic Plan report to be adopted by the City Council (Attachment A). Tripepi Smith also developed an accompanying PowerPoint presentation (Attachment B).
On January 18, 2025, a City Council strategic planning retreat (“Retreat”), which was a public meeting, was held at Girls Inc. of Carpinteria1. The purpose of this meeting was to:
1. Engage the City Council in a conversation regarding Norms, Values, and Principles of Governance to identify potential opportunities and strategies to further enhance the Council’s effectiveness as a governing body.
2. Review data from the recent community survey and workshops. 1 carpinteria.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&clip_id=1570 Agenda Section: Other Business
Agenda Item No.: 18
Council Meeting Date: March 24, 2025
City Council Goals and Priorities
March 24, 2025
3. Develop City Council Goals and Priorities for Fiscal Years 2025-26 and 2026-27 (FY 2025-2027).
4. Discuss potential amendments to the existing City Vision and Mission, and consider creation of City Values.
A preliminary Norms, Values, and Principles of Government document was created by Tripepi Smith based on initial interviews with each Councilmember. This preliminary document was then shared during the Retreat and revisions were proposed based on City Council discussion, City staff feedback, and input from the community via survey data, workshop responses, and public comment. Following this same process, Value Statements, and establishment of City Council Goals and Priorities were developed, vetted, and revised.
The purpose of this agenda matter is to:
1. Consider adoption of the drafted Norms, Values, and Principles of Governance (Attachment C).
2. Receive final report presentation from Tripepi Smith. a. Review working drafts of the City Vision, Mission, and Value Statements and discuss next steps.
b. Consider adoption of City Council Goals and Priorities for FY 2025-2027.
DISCUSSION
A City Strategic Plan is essential as it provides a clear future, aligning resources, policies, and initiatives with longVision informs its Mission and Values, which in turn guide its Goals and Priorities; however, these items must be revisited regularly to ensure alignment with evolving community needs, policy priorities, and external conditions. statements, as well as the added creation of Value statements, these documents are still in working draft form and may require additional engagement and refinement. Current drafts will be reviewed as part of the final report presentation and City staff is seeking direction from City Council regarding any preferred next steps.
Of greatest importance is the review and adoption of City Council Goals and Priorities as these are heavily utilized by City Staff in developing departmental strategic goals, objectives, and performance measures, many of which include activities that must be Council Goals and Priorities will be discussed in detail during the final presentation report, including some recommended revisions from City staff.
City Council Goals and Priorities
March 24, 2025
Finally, as policymakers, the City Council engages in collective efforts that consider the interests and needs of the larger community. By creating Norms, Values, and Principles of Governance the Council is seeking to enhance this process by defining the roles, responsibilities, and expectations of each councilmember as it pertains to the effectiveness of the Council as a whole. Staff will present this document for discussion and potential revision and adoption.
POLICY CONSISTENCY
This report
including efficient use of public resources and public transparency.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
City Council Goals and Priorities serve as a critical foundation for drafting the budget in the upcoming fiscal years. Final departmental strategic goals, objectives, and related activities will be vetted through the budget development process to determine which projects and initiatives are to be prioritized for funding.
LEGAL AND RISK MANAGEMENT CONSIDERATIONS
None
OPTIONS
1. Receive and file presentation; adopt the City Council Goals and Priorities for Fiscal Years 2025-26 and 2026-27 and City Council-developed Norms, Values, and Principles of Governance; and direct staff as appropriate.
2. Receive and file presentation; do not adopt City Council Goals and Priorities for Fiscal Years 2025-26 and 2026-27 and/or City Council-developed Norms, Values, and Principles of Governance; and direct staff as appropriate.
PRINCIPAL PARTIES EXPECTED AT MEETING
None
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: Tripepi Smith Final Report
Attachment B: Tripepi Smith Presentation Slides
Attachment C: Norms, Values, and Principles of Governance Document with Staff Edits (Redline Draft)
City Council Goals and Priorities
March 24, 2025
Staff contact: Michael Ramirez, City Manager
(805 755-4450), [email protected]
Signature
Reviewed by: Ryan Kintz, Assistant City Manager
(805) 755-4400, [email protected]
Signature
ATTACHMENT A
Tripepi Smith Final Report
ATTACHMENT B
Tripepi Smith Presentation Slides
March 24, 2025
Background
21 participants across both workshops Strategic Planning Process Timeline Community Survey November 25 January 10 Community Workshop #1 (English) Wednesday, December 4 Community Workshop #2 (Spanish) Thursday, December 5 Community Workshop #3 (Bilingual, via Zoom) Wednesday, December 11 1-on-1 Meetings with City Council December Strategic Planning Retreat with City Council Saturday, January 18 Meetings with Staff to Finalize Priorities Thursday, February 20 Tuesday, March 11 City Council Meeting to Adopt Strategic Plan Monday, March 24 Council Norms, Values and Principles of Governance
Vision, Mission, Values
Vision Carpinteria hope to achieve or become in the long-term? Think 30+ years out. Mission What is Carpinteria focusing on now to achieve the vision? Values What are the fundamental principles that represent how the City conducts itself and what it stands for? City Council Goals How will Carpinteria deliver on the mission? Priorities What are the focus areas? Our community envisions a future that balances the needs of our residents, business owners and visitors while embracing the unique geography that frames our lives, from the rugged mountains to the natural, scenic beaches. Surrounded by rich agricultural lands and a rural heritage, we honor our history and are committed to preserving our natural resources, open spaces, and public amenities, ensuring they remain accessible, safe, and protected for future generations. As a family- oriented, easy-going and diverse community, we take pride in our strong sense of connection, active lifestyle, and shared spirit of volunteerism, striving to maintain the charm and character that make our small beachside town truly special.
Our mission is to preserve the essential character of our small beach town by fostering fiscal sustainability, protecting our multi-generational residential neighborhoods and safeguarding the unique natural and visual resources that define us. We aim to enhance cultural and recreational opportunities, support a thriving local economy, and create spaces and events that bring our community together. By honoring our past and embracing our future, we ensure Carpinteria remains a welcoming home for all.
Value Description Equity and Belonging We are committed to fairness and inclusivity, fostering a sense of connection where everyone feels welcome, valued and at home. Community Interest Every decision is guided by the best interest of our residents and the long-term well-being of our town. Cultural Diversity We celebrate and embrace the diverse backgrounds and traditions that enrich our town. Sustainability We actively protect our natural resources, prioritize eco-friendly practices, and plan for a resilient future. Partnerships We believe in the power of partnerships to create family-friendly events that foster a sense of belonging, promote arts and culture by celebrating creativity and cultural enrichment, and build a community of doers, united in action to turn our collective vision into reality. Safety We are dedicated to ensuring the safety of our community, creating an environment where everyone can thrive with peace of mind and sense of security.
FY 25-27 Goals & Priorities
Goal Priorities Enhance Public Outreach, Education and Transparency Strengthen communication and engagement tools, with an emphasis on reaching youth, seniors and the Spanish-speaking community Provide staff support and resources for City Council-led community outreach initiatives Enhance partnerships with community organizations Goal Priorities Maintain a Small Beachside Town Strengthen regional collaboration with the County and other regional agencies on planning and policy affecting the Carpinteria Valley and greater South Coast Advance and sustain comprehensive long-range planning initiatives Preserve neighborhood character and community livability and address housing affordability Goal Priorities Enhance Quality of Life for Residents Maintain and improve high-priority public infrastructure Enhance existing and explore new recreational and community engagement opportunities Improve pedestrian, bicycle & ADA accessibility while enhancing mobility options for all residents Uphold community standards through proactive education and compliance efforts Invest in City staff and organizational excellence Strengthen community institution collaboration Support a balanced economy through a broad range of employment opportunities, business support strategies and housing options for all income levels Goal Priorities Maintain the Fiscal Sustainability of the City Explore ways to enhance and diversify revenue streams Ensure efficient operations of the City Drive cost recovery through targeted initiatives Recommendation
Receive presentation and approve City Council Goals and Priorities for the 2025-2027 Strategic Plan.
ATTACHMENT C
Norms, Values, and Principles of Governance
Document with Staff Edits (Redline Draft)
Norms, Values, and Principles of Governance
Norms
Foster Balanced, Constructive, and Solution-Oriented Discussions Ensure all viewpoints are heard and considered, creating a balanced discussion that reflects the collective interest
Maintain constructive dialogue and manage displays of frustration or dissatisfaction Stay solution-focused
Come to meetings fully prepared, having reviewed agenda materials, conducted necessary research, and sought clarification on complex issues in advance Practice Leadership/Mutual Accountability
The mayor is primarily responsible for keeping discussions productive, but any council member may intervene to remind the group to remain constructive and focused Provide Direct Communication
Communicate with clear, respectful directness
Clearly articulate the reasoning behind decisions, ensuring the community and fellow council members understand the rationale, considerations, and intended outcomes Maintain Professionalism
Stick to policy, not personalitiesAdhere to established policies and procedures rather than individual preferences or personal dynamics.
Practice active listening, solution-oriented dialogue, and adherence to shared and adopted goals
Cultivate Kindness and Respect
Recognize kindness and politeness are important in fostering a collaborative work environment
Prioritize Communication with the Community
Actively engage with the community through transparent, consistent, and frequent communication
Be present and accessible in the community by attending local events, engaging with residents, and actively listening to diverse perspectives Values
Clear Communication
Fairness and Equity
Accessibility
Proactive Community Engagement
Accountability
Collaboration
Responsiveness
Respect and Open-Mindedness
Forward-Thinking
Principles
Council Responsibility
Partner with City staff as trusted subject-matter experts, valuing their expertise while engaging in thoughtful inquiry to ensure well-informed and balanced decision-making goals and objectives and goals to constituents and
ensure share community input feedback with reaches staff Ensure decisions are made with all necessary facts; defer items if more information is needed
Be mindful of City resources and ensure decisions align with long-term plans and goals Research, ask questions, explore options, and stay engaged through regular meetings with the City Manager
Recognize and appreciate staff and community contributions Prioritize citywide well-being in decision-making while thoughtfully considering districtspecific concerns to ensure inclusiveness Staff Responsibility
Understand that Council members, and the public we strive to serve and engage, may not have expertise on all issues. Exercise patience, speak plainly, and use visuals when appropriate. Provide pertinent context when presenting information for City Council consideration, such as assumptions, constraints, and any other key considerations., and exercise patience while providing necessary context
budget, General Plan, and Strategic Plan
Deliver accurate and timely information and pProvide clear, actionable options for council decisions
Maintain professionalism and respect
Be available and follow up on questions through the City Manager Consider City Council ideas with an open-minded approach Deliver accurate and timely information to the City Council Council-Advisory Body Relations
Advisory bodies should focus on providing clear, realistic recommendations that align with council goals, the City budget, and long-term plans Advisory bodies should provide the City Council with regular updates Advisory bodies must should operate respectfully, leave personal tastesopinions aside, and focus on actionable recommendations
Advisory bodies should provide the rationale behind their recommendations Community-Wide Governance
Prioritize citywide well-being in decision-making while thoughtfully considering districtspecific concerns to ensure inclusiveness Maintain transparency and articulate the rationale behind decisions Engage the community by actively seeking input and ensuring all voices are heard, not only an outspoken few
Use data, financial information, and historical context to inform decisions and policies Promote collaboration, clarity, and respect across all community interactions, emphasizing the long-term vision for the City
programs, and resources.
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