Agenda packet — Foster City City Council, November 3, 2025 (part 2 of 4)

6.3 Attachment 9 - Quote for Police Radio System Upgrade

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Foster City Police Dept
Police Radio System Console Upgrade Eastern 5/2025 Quote Contract Item Part Number Description Qty Unit List Ext List Zetron_Monitors & Network Equipment 802-2423 MONITOR,LCD,24" WS,TOUCHSCREEN,CAPACIT 3 3,228.00$ 9,684.00$ Zetron_Monitors & Network Equipment 950-1280 MAX-D 48 PORT (NON-POE) MANAGED GIGABIT 2 4,703.00$ 9,406.00$ Zetron_Product Service Plans XMP-0344-EBS-4 MAX-PSP Extended Serv Plan (4YR) 3 8,056.00$ 24,168.00$ Zetron_Product Service Plans XMP-0344-BAS MAX-PSP Base Service Plan 3 1.00$ 3.00$ Zetron Total 183,095.00$
Notes:
3 operator positions. Channel capability of 10 analog channels.

Console Hardware Total $183,095.00
Raven Conf Bridge $3,200.00
Misc Installation Supplies $2,500.00
Tax $17,699.53
Shipping $1,855.95
Console Hardware Total $208,350.48
CAT-5 Cable Installation $7,800.00
Console Installation Services $21,450.00
Services Total $29,250.00
Console Project Total $237,600.48

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6.3 Attachment 9 - Quote for Police Radio System Upgrade

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DATE: November 3, 2025

TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council
VIA: Stefan Chatwin, City Manager
Marlene Subhashini, Assistant City Manager

FROM: Sofia Mangalam, Community Development Director
Chuck Venook, Chief Building Official
DEPARTMENT: Community Development
SUBJECT: CONTRACT AMENDMENT NO. 3 WITH 4LEAF, INC. FOR ON-

CALL BUILDING SERVICES IN A TOTAL AMOUNT NOT TO
EXCEED $875,000; APPROVING SUPPLEMENTAL
APPROPRIATION OF $300,000 FOR FY 2025-26

RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the City Council adopt the attached Resolution (Attachment 1) authorizing the Mayor to execute Contract Amendment No. 3 to the existing Agreement with 4LEAF, Inc. (4Leaf) for professional on-call building services, to extend the term of the Agreement to June 30, 2027 and increase the amount of compensation by $550,000 for a total Agreement amount not to exceed $875,000; approving the supplemental appropriation of $300,000 for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-26 to Account No. 001-0820-424-4251 from the General Fund Reserves; and find the request exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines 15061(b)(3).

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Building Division has a limited staff comprised of six (6) full-time positions and one (1) temporary Principal Building Inspector position (recently approved) providing services related to all construction permit activity in the City. Over the last two (2) years, there have been significant ongoing challenges in staffing, including vacancies and staff absences.

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Currently, there are only four (4) full-time personnel in the Building Division. Additionally, permit activity has significantly increased this year, especially commercial permits, and staff have been extensively relying on consulting services from 4Leaf and West Coast Code Consultants (WC3) to provide continuous and uninterrupted building services. WC3 has been providing plan check services and 4Leaf has been providing Permit Technician and building inspection services.

Currently, the Permit Technician and Principal Building Inspector positions are vacant, and the Senior Building Inspector is on extended leave. While the current agreement remains in effect through June 2026, the remaining balance of $24,000 will not be sufficient to continue supporting the City's needs for temporary staffing, specifically for the vacant Permit Technician and Building Inspector positions.

Gilead Sciences currently has two (2) lab buildings under construction and additional building anticipated at Chess Hatch site in early 2025. This requires a dedicated permit technician for permit processing and a Principal/Senior Building Inspector for inspections on almost daily basis. Given the number of buildings currently under construction and anticipated future projects upon approval of planning entitlements for Chess Hatch, these services cannot be provided at current building staffing levels.

Staff recommends that the City Council via attached Resolution approve Contract Amendment No. 3 with 4Leaf, increasing the not-to-exceed amount by $550,000 (the estimated costs of providing services in FY 25-26 and FY 26-27), extending the term to June 30, 2027, and approving a supplemental appropriation of $300,000 for services during FY 25-26. The cost of the agreement for FY 26-27 will be included in the proposed budget.

BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS
The Community Development Department (CDD) is committed to planning, maintaining, and improving the quality of life and public safety of Foster City in keeping with the vision of the City Council in the General Plan and other measures that reflect the City’s heritage as a Master Planned community. CDD is comprised of the Planning/Code Enforcement, Housing/Sustainability, and Building Divisions.

The Building Division is responsible for ensuring that all construction projects permitted within the City comply with the California Building Code, the Foster City Municipal Code, and all other applicable codes and regulations. The Building Division provides permit intake, plan check, and building inspection services to ensure compliance with the California Health and Safety Codes.

Currently, the Building Division is staffed by one (1) Chief Building Official (CBO), one (1) Plans Examiner, three (3) Inspectors, and two (2) Permit Technicians, which proves challenging during staff absences due to vacation, training, illness, and 9/80 off days, as well as during periods when positions are vacant and recruitment is underway.

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Over the last two (2) years, there have been significant challenges in staffing, including vacancies and staff absences. Currently, of the seven (7) authorized full time positions (FTEs), two (2) are vacant and one (1) has been on extended leave since June 2, 2025.

These vacancies and absences pose a significant challenge in providing continuous and uninterrupted services. Therefore, staff have been using current on-call consulting services with 4Leaf and WC3 to augment staffing needs.

On July 15, 2024, the City Council approved professional on-call building service agreements with 4Leaf and WC3 in an amount not to exceed $150,000 each for two (2) years ending June 30, 2026, to provide coverage during staff absences, ensuring continuity of services, increased flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and enhanced customer satisfaction.

On April 7, 2025, Contract Amendment No. 1 to the on-call building service agreement with 4Leaf in the amount of $75,000 was approved for continuing on-call building services. At the time, the unspent personnel budget from the vacant CBO position was used to fund the agreement.

On July 21, 2025, Contract Amendment No. 2 to the on-call building service agreement with 4Leaf in the amount of $100,000 was approved for continuing on-call building services through a supplemental appropriation.

Since July 2024, 4Leaf has been providing services for staff augmentation for various building services.

There are currently several large and complex projects underway in the City that are identified below. This is in addition to numerous additions to homes, modifications to homes, and commercial tenant improvements that occur on a regular basis. Major projects under construction include:
Foster City’s new Community Center
Gilead Lab Building at 331 Lakeside Dr.
Gilead Lab Building at 335 Lakeside Dr.
Osaka Marketplace tenant improvements at Edgewater Shopping Center There are also several Tenant Improvement and construction projects anticipated to commence in the next few months, which are identified below:
Visa - Full interior renovation of the twelve-story buildings (M1 & M2 towers) from level 5 through 12, approx. 573,237 square feet.
Lab Building at Chess Hatch (upon entitlement approval) Multi-family ADUs at two (2) different locations
Recognizing the increase in construction activity, on September 15, 2025, the City Council approved a three-year temporary Principal Building Inspector position.

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The recruitment for the two (2) vacant positions (Permit Technician and Principal Building Inspector) is underway and can take anywhere between three (3) to six (6) months before the position is successfully filled. In recent times, filling vacancies and finding qualified candidates has been a challenge, given the current job market, and when competing with other jurisdictions that have similar job openings.

The remaining balance in the 4Leaf contract is approximately $24,000 (October invoice is not received yet, and has been estimated), which is insufficient to continue providing uninterrupted services to the community. Although funds remain available in the WC3 contract, they are unable to provide building inspections and permit technician services.

The City has adopted a Master Fees & Service Charges Schedule, which specifies the payment for all processing costs associated with the review of applications for building permits. The costs of services related to building permits and associated inspections are covered by the applicable building and inspection fees charged by the City. However, the City must have the staffing to be able to provide those services and therefore the amendment with 4Leaf is necessary to ensure that services are not interrupted.

As noted earlier, Gilead currently has two (2) lab buildings under construction on its main campus and is anticipating an additional lab building on the Chess Hatch site, pending entitlements approvals. These projects require substantial staff time for permit processing (from intake through issuance), multiple plan reviews and numerous inspections at all stages of construction. Gilead and the City will be entering into a cost reimbursement agreement relating to the funding for building consulting services to support these efforts.

The breakdown of 4Leaf contract and subsequent amendments including source of fundings is shown in the table below:

Consultant Agreement
Date
Amount Source of Funding Impact on
General Fund
4Leaf July 15, 2024 $150,000 General Fund $150,000
Amendment
#1
April 7, 2025 $75,000 Unspent Salary from
vacant CBO position
None
Amendment
#2
July 21, 2025 $100,000 General Fund $150,000
Proposed
Amendment
#3
Nov 3, 2025 $550,000:
$300,000 (FY25-26)
and
$250,000 (FY26-27)
General Fund, to be
largely offset by
reimbursement from
Gilead including cost
reimbursement and
unspent personnel
budget authority.

None (After
reimbursement
from Gilead
including cost
reimbursement
and unspent
personnel
budget)*
Note: Staff has estimated $25k for Gilead projects per month (30 hours per week) and rest of the funds from unspent personnel budget from vacant positions.

California Environmental Quality Act

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The approval of Contract Amendment No. 3 to the existing agreement with 4LEAF, Inc. (4Leaf) for professional on-call building services is not subject to review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) as it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment, then the activity is not subject to CEQA.

FISCAL IMPACT
The agreement for on-call services includes building inspections, permit support services, and plan reviews. Therefore, for staff augmentation services, staff is requesting a supplemental appropriation of $300,000 for Building Division professional services (Account No. 001-0820-424-4251) in FY 2025-26 from the General Fund Reserves.

However, there will be no fiscal impact as the majority of the cost is anticipated to be offset by fees charged for the services, including the reimbursement of costs from Gilead and unspent salary budget from vacant positions. The cost of the agreement for FY26- 27 will be included in the proposed budget.

CITY COUNCIL VISION, MISSION, AND VALUE/PRIORITY AREA
Smart Planning, Development, and the Local Economy
ATTACHMENTS:

Attachment 1 – Resolution
Attachment 2 – Contract Agreement No. 3
Attachment 3 – 4Leaf Agreement and Contract Amendments

6.4 6.4 Staff Report

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4898-0699-3781 v1
RESOLUTION NO.

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FOSTER CITY AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE CONTRACT AMENDMENT NO. 3 TO THE EXISTING AGREEMENT WITH 4LEAF, INC. (4LEAF) FOR PROFESSIONAL ON-CALL BUILDING SERVICES, TO EXTEND THE TERM OF THE AGREEMENT TO JUNE 30, 2027 AND INCREASE THE AMOUNT OF COMPENSATION BY $550,000 FOR A TOTAL AGREEMENT AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $875,000; APPROVING A SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION OF $300,000 FOR BUILDING DIVISION PROFESSIONAL SERVICES (ACCOUNT NO. 001-0820-424-4251) FROM THE

GENERAL FUND RESERVES, AND FINDING THE REQUEST EXEMPT FROM THE

CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO CEQA GUIDELINES 15061(B)(3)

CITY OF FOSTER CITY
WHEREAS, the Building Division is responsible for ensuring that all construction projects permitted within the City comply with the California Building Code, the Foster City Municipal Code, and all other applicable codes and regulations; and WHEREAS, the Building Division has a limited staff comprising of six (6) full time positions and one (1) temporary position (recently approved Principal Building Inspector) providing services related to all construction permit activity in the City, and limited staffing poses a significant challenge in providing continuous and uninterrupted building division services; and
WHEREAS, to address these challenges, on July 15, 2024, the City Council approved professional on-call building service agreements with 4LEAF, Inc. (4Leaf) and West Coast Code Consultants, Inc. (WC3) in an amount not to exceed $150,000 each to provide coverage during staff absences, ensuring continuity of services, increased flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and enhanced customer satisfaction for a period to two years ending June 30, 2026; and
WHEREAS, on April 7, 2025, the City Council approved Contract Amendment No. 1 to the existing agreement with 4Leaf in an additional amount of $75,000; and WHEREAS, on July 21, 2025, Contract Amendment No. 2 in the amount of $100,000 was added to the 4Leaf agreement for continuing on-call building services through a supplemental appropriation; and
WHEREAS, the remaining funds in the 4Leaf agreement will not be enough to ensure staffing coverage during upcoming training or unforeseen absences and vacancies; and
WHEREAS, staff is recommending that the City Council approve contract amendment No. 3 to the existing Contract Agreement with 4Leaf for professional on-call building services, including additional amount of $550,000 and extending the term to June 30, 2027 and a supplemental appropriation of $300,000 for Building Division professional services (account No. 001-0820-424-4251) from the General Fund reserves.

6.4 Attachment 1 - Resolution

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4898-0699-3781 v1
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Foster City does hereby authorize the Mayor to execute Contract Amendment No. 3 to the existing Agreement with 4Leaf, to extend the term to June 30, 2027, and increase compensation by $550,000 for a total maximum contract amount not to exceed $875,000.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council hereby approves a supplemental appropriation of $300,000 for Building Division professional services (account No. 001- 0820-424-4251) for FY25-26 from the General Fund reserves.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Mayor is authorized to execute Contract Amendment No. 3 to the existing Agreement with 4Leaf, with minor amendments in a form approved by the City Attorney.

PASSED AND ADOPTED as a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Foster City at the regular meeting held on the 3rd day of November, 2025, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

STACY JIMENEZ, MAYOR
ATTEST:

PRISCILLA SCHAUS, CITY CLERK

6.4 Attachment 1 - Resolution

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CITY OF FOSTER CITY
CONTRACT AMENDMENT NO. THREE (3)
DATE: NOVEMBER 3, 2025
ACCOUNT NUMBER: 001-0820-419-4251
PROJECT NAME: ON-CALL BUILDING SERVICES
TO: 4LEAF, INC.

CHANGE REQUESTED BY: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT AND 4LEAF, INC.

Based on mutual agreement, 4Leaf, Inc. and City of Foster City agree to amend the original Agreement dated July 16, 2024 (“Agreement”) pursuant to Section 17 of the Agreement to extend the Services identified in Exhibit A (Scope of Services) and increase the compensation as follows:

1.Section 2(a) of the Agreement and Exhibit A shall be revised to amend the term of the Agreement as follows:

The term of this Agreement shall commence on July 16, 2024, and shall expire on June 30, 2027.

2.Section 3 of the Agreement is amended to add additional compensation amounts for the ongoing services which are identified as follows:

ORIGINAL AGREEMENT AMOUNT $150,000
AMOUNT OF CONTRACT AMENDMENT NO. ONE (1) $ 75,000
AMOUNT OF CONTRACT AMENDMENT NO. TWO (2) $ 100,000
AMOUNT OF CONTRACT AMENDMENT NO. THREE (2) $ 550,000
TOTAL MAXIMUM CONTRACT AMOUNT $875,000
The increased Agreement maximum is necessary to continue using 4Leaf for on-call building services, given their familiarity with ongoing projects and consistent availability.

6.4 Attachment 2 - Contract Amendment No. 3

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Except as specifically modified herein, all other terms and provisions in the Agreement shall remain unchanged.
4Leaf, Inc. has given careful consideration to the amendments identified herein and agrees that if this Contract Amendment No. 3 is approved, to provide all equipment, furnish all materials except as may otherwise be noted above, and to perform all services necessary for the work, and to accept as full payment therefore the prices shown in the Agreement as amended herein.

SUBMITTED BY: _______________________________________

BECKI HANAN DATE

SENIOR MANAGEMENT ANALYST
ACCEPTED BY:

KEVIN J. DUGGAN, PRESIDENT DATE
4LEAF, INC.

APPROVED FOR CITY:

STACY JIMENEZ DATE
MAYOR
ATTEST:

BY:

PRISCILLA SCHAUS, CITY CLERK DATE
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

BY:

BENJAMIN L. STOCK, CITY ATTORNEY DATE

6.4 Attachment 2 - Contract Amendment No. 3

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4887- 9204- 2585 v1

MASTER SERVICES AGREEMENT
FOR

PROFESSIONAL ON- CALL BUILDING SERVICES
This Agreement is made and entered into as of the 16th day of July, 2024 by and between the City of Foster City hereinafter called " CITY" and 4Leaf, Inc. hereinafter called CONSULTANT".

RECITALS
This Agreement is entered into with reference to the following facts and circumstances:

WHEREAS, CITY desires to engage CONSULTANT to provide professional services in the CITY;
WHEREAS, CONSULTANT is qualified to provide such services to the CITY and; NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises, covenants, terms and conditions hereinafter contained, the parties hereby agree as follows :

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

1. Services. The services to be performed by CONSULTANT under this Agreement shall include those services set forth in Exhibit A, which is, by this reference, incorporated herein and made a part hereof as though it were fully set forth herein.

Performance of the work specified in said Exhibit A is hereby made an obligation of CONSULTANT under this Agreement, subject to any changes that may be made subsequently hereto upon the mutual written agreement of the said parties.

Where in conflict, the terms of this Agreement supersede and prevail over any terms set forth in Exhibit A.

2. Term; Termination. ( a) The term of this Agreement shall commence on July 16, 2024 and shall expire on June 30, 2026. ( b) Notwithstanding the provisions of ( a) above, CITY may with or without cause, direct CONSULTANT to suspend, delay or interrupt Services, in whole or in part, for such periods of time as CITY may determine in its sole discretion. ( c) CITY may terminate performance of the Services under this Agreement in whole, or from time to time in part, for default, should CONSULTANT commit a material breach of this Agreement, or part thereof, and not cure such breach within ten ( 10) calendar days of the date of CITY’s written notice to CONSULTANT demanding such cure, in which case CONSULTANT shall be liable to CITY for all loss, cost, expense, damage Docusign Envelope ID: 1C8700EA- 99CC- 44D6- 8C00- A5CDC53B3198

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and liability resulting from such breach and termination. ( d) CITY may terminate performance of the Services under this Agreement in whole, or from time to time in part, for convenience, whenever CITY determines that such termination is in CITY’s best interests, in which case CONSULTANT shall be entitled to recover its costs expended up to the termination date plus reasonable profit thereon to the termination date as this Agreement would otherwise provide, but may recover no other cost, damage or expense. CONSULTANT shall continue its work throughout the course of any dispute, and CONSULTANT’ s failure to continue work during a dispute shall be a material breach of this Agreement.

3. Compensation; Expenses; Payment. CITY shall compensate CONSULTANT for all services performed by CONSULTANT hereunder in an amount based upon CONSULTANT’ s hourly rates during the time of the performance of said services. A copy of CONSULTANT’ s hourly rates for which services hereunder shall be performed are set forth in CONSULTANT’ s fee schedule marked Exhibit “ B” hereof, attached hereto and by this reference incorporated herein.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, the combined total of compensation and reimbursement of costs payable hereunder shall not exceed one hundred and fifty thousand dollars ($ 150, 000). Invoices for amounts in excess of one hundred and fifty thousand dollars ($ 150, 000) shall not be paid unless the performance of services and/ or reimbursement of costs and expenses in excess of said amounts have been approved in advance of performing such services or incurring such costs and expenses by the City Manager for contracts less than $ 50,000) or City Council ( for contracts $ 50,000 or more) evidenced by motion duly made and carried and a written contract amendment having been executed.

Compensation and reimbursement of costs and expenses hereunder shall be payable upon monthly billing therefor by CONSULTANT to CITY, which billing shall include an itemized statement, briefly describing by task and labor category or cost/ expense items billed. Final payment will be made when all Services required under this Agreement have been completed to the reasonable satisfaction of CITY including, without limitation, CONSULTANT' s transmittal of all deliverables to CITY required by EXHIBIT A.

CITY shall not incur any charges under this Agreement, nor shall any payments become due to CONSULTANT for any payment period on the Project, until CITY receives all deliverables required under Exhibit A, SCOPE OF WORK AND SCHEDULE, for the payment period ( if any) and reasonably accepts such deliverables as meeting the requirements of this Agreement. In cases where CONSULTANT has partially completed one or more deliverables due during a payment period, and if CONSULTANT demonstrates diligent progress thereon, then CITY may make a partial Docusign Envelope ID: 1C8700EA- 99CC- 44D6- 8C00- A5CDC53B3198

6.4 Attachment 3 - 4LEAF Agreement and Contract Amendments

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progress payment based upon percentage completion of the partially completed deliverables and diligent progress but taking into account any adverse impacts upon CITY. CITY shall not be liable for, and CONSULTANT shall not be entitled to, any payment for Services performed before this Agreement' s execution.

4. Additional Services. In the event CITY desires the performance of additional services not otherwise included within the services described in Exhibit A, such services shall be authorized in advance of the performance thereof by the City Manager ( for contracts less than $ 50,000) or City Council ( for contracts $ 50,000 or more) by motion duly made and carried. Such amendment to this Agreement shall include a description of the services to be performed thereunder, the maximum compensation and reimbursement of costs and expenses payable therefor, the time of performance thereof, and such other matters as the parties deem appropriate for the accomplishment of such services. Except to the extent modified by written amendment, all other terms and conditions of this Agreement shall be deemed incorporated in each such amendment.

5. Records. CONSULTANT shall keep and maintain accurate records of all time expended and costs and expenses incurred relating to services to be performed by CONSULTANT hereunder. Said records shall be available to CITY for review and copying during regular business hours at CONSULTANT’ s place of business or as otherwise agreed upon by the parties.

6. Authorization. This Agreement becomes effective when endorsed by both parties in the space provided below.

7. Reliance on Professional Skill of CONSULTANT. CONSULTANT represents that it has the necessary professional skills to perform the services required and the CITY shall rely on such skills of the CONSULTANT to do and perform the work. In performing services hereunder CONSULTANT shall adhere to the standards generally prevailing for the performance of expert consulting services similar to those to be performed by CONSULTANT hereunder.

CONSULTANT represents that it has reviewed Exhibit A and that in its professional judgment the Services to be performed under this Agreement can be performed for a fee within the maximum amount set forth in the Compensation Schedule established in Exhibit A and within the times specified for each individual Project.

CONSULTANT represents that it possesses all necessary training, licenses and permits to perform the Services and that its performance of the Services will conform to the standards of practice of a professional having experience Docusign Envelope ID: 1C8700EA- 99CC- 44D6- 8C00- A5CDC53B3198

6.4 Attachment 3 - 4LEAF Agreement and Contract Amendments

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and expertise in performing professional services of like nature and complexity of the Services working on similar, successfully completed projects.

The granting of any progress payment by CITY, or the receipt thereof by CONSULTANT, or any inspection, review, approval or oral statement by any representative of CITY or any other governmental entity, shall in no way waive or limit the obligations in this Paragraph 7 or lessen the liability of CONSULTANT for unsatisfactory Services, including but not limited to cases where the defective or below standard Services may not have been apparent or detected at the time of such payment, inspection, review or approval.

8. Documents. All documents, plans, drawings, renderings, and other papers, or copies thereof, as finally rendered, prepared by CONSULTANT pursuant to the terms of this Agreement, shall, upon preparation and delivery to CITY, become the property of CITY.

9. Relationship of Parties. CONSULTANT is an independent Contractor and does not act as City’s agent in any capacity, whatsoever. CONSULTANT is not entitled to any benefits that CITY provides to CITY employees, including, without limitation, worker’s compensation benefits or payments, pension benefits, health benefits or insurance benefits. Terms within this Agreement regarding direction apply to and concern the result of the CONSULTANT’ s provision of Services, not the means, methods, or scheduling of the CONSULTANT’ s work. CONSULTANT shall be solely responsible for the means, methods, techniques, sequences and procedures with respect to its provision of Services under this Agreement.

CONSULTANT shall pay all payroll taxes imposed by any governmental entity and shall pay all other taxes not specifically ident ified in this Agreement as CITY’s responsibility.

10. Schedule. CONSULTANT shall adhere to the schedule set forth in Exhibit A; provided, that CITY shall grant reasonable extensions of time for the performance of such services occasioned by governmental reviews of CONSULTANT’ s work product or other unavoidable delays; provided, further, that such unavoidable delay shall not include strikes, lockouts, work stoppages, or other labor disturbances conducted by, or on behalf of, CONSULTANT’ s officers or employees.

CONSULTANT acknowledges the importance to CITY of CITY’s Project schedule and agrees to put forth its best professional efforts to perform its services under this Agreement in a manner consistent with that schedule.

11. Indemnity. To the fullest extent allowed by law, CONSULTANT hereby agrees to defend, indemnify, and save harmless CITY and Estero Municipal Improvement District, its Council, boards, commissions, officers, Docusign Envelope ID: 1C8700EA- 99CC- 44D6- 8C00- A5CDC53B3198

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employees, directors, volunteers and agents, from and against any and all claims, suits, actions liability, loss, damage, expense, injury ( including, without limitation, economic harm, injury to or death of any person, including an employee of CONSULTANT or its Subconsultants), cost ( including, without limitation, costs and fees of litigation) of every nature, kind or description, at law or equity, which may be brought against, or suffered or sustained by, City of Foster City or Estero Municipal Improvement District, its Council, boards, commissions, officers, employees, directors, volunteers or agents that arise out of, pertain to, or relate to any negligence, recklessness, or willful misconduct of CONSULTANT, any Subconsultant, anyone directly or indirectly employed or retained by them, or anyone that they control. In the event one or more defendants is unable to pay its share of defense costs due to bankruptcy or dissolution of the business, the CONSULTANT shall meet and confer with other parties regarding unpaid defense costs.

The duty of CONSULTANT to indemnify and save harmless, as set forth herein, shall include the duty to defend as set forth in Section 2778 of the California Civil Code; provided, however, that nothing herein contained shall be construed to require CONSULTANT to indemnify City of Foster City and Estero Municipal Improvement District, its Council, boards, commissions, officers, employees and agents against any responsibility or liability in contravention of Section 2782 of the California Civil Code.

CONSULTANT’ s responsibility for such defense and indemnity obligations shall survive the termination or completion of this Agreement for the full period of time allowed by law.

The defense and indemnification obligations of this agreement are undertaken in addition to, and shall not in any way be limited by, the insurance obligations contained within this Agreement.

12. Insurance. Prior to execution of this Agreement, CONSULTANT shall furnish to CITY Certificates of Insurance showing satisfactory proof that it maintains the insurance required by this Contract as set forth in EXHIBIT C, Insurance, which are attached and made a part of this Agreement.

CONSULTANT shall maintain all required insurance throughout the term of this Agreement and as otherwise provided in EXHIBIT C. In the event CONSULTANT fails to maintain any required insurance, and notwithstanding Paragraph 3 above, CITY may ( but is not obligated to) purchase such insurance and deduct or retain premium amounts from any sums due CONSULTANT under this Agreement ( or CONSULTANT shall promptly reimburse CITY for such expense).

CONSULTANT shall maintain insurance as required by this Agreement to the fullest amount allowed by law and shall maintain insurance for a minimum of five ( 5) years following completion of this project or service. In Docusign Envelope ID: 1C8700EA- 99CC- 44D6- 8C00- A5CDC53B3198

6.4 Attachment 3 - 4LEAF Agreement and Contract Amendments

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the event CONSULTANT fails to obtain or maintain completed operations coverage as required by this Agreement, the CITY at its sole discretion may purchase the coverage required and the cost will be paid by CONSULTANT.

13. WORKERS' COMPENSATION. CONSULTANT certifies that he is aware of the provisions of the Labor Code of the State of California which require every employer to be insured against liability for workers' compensation or to undertake self- insurance in accordance with the provisions of that Code, and CONSULTANT certifies that he will comply with such provisions before commencing the performance of the work of this agreement.

14. NON- DISCRIMINATION. The CONSULTANT will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex or national origin. The CONSULTANT will take affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed and the employees are treated during employment without regard to their race, color, religion, sex or national origin. Such action shall include, but not be limited to the following:
employment, advancement, demotion, transfer, recruitment, or recruitment advertising, layoff or termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation, and selection for training, including apprenticeship. The CONSULTANT shall at all times be in compliance with the requirements of the Federal Americans With Disabilities Act ( Public Law 101- 336) which prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability by public entities. The CONSULTANT agrees to post in conspicuous places available to employees and applicants for employment any notices provided by the CITY setting forth the provisions of this non- discrimination clause.

15. Notice. All notices required by this Agreement shall be given to the CITY and CONSULTANT in writing, by first class mail, postage prepaid, addressed as follows:

CITY: City of Foster City
610 Foster City Boulevard
Foster City, CA 94404- 2299
Attention: Priscilla Schaus
CONSULTANT: 4Leaf Inc.
2126 Rheem Drive
Pleasanton, CA 94588
kduggan@4leafinc. com
Attention: Kevin J. Duggan

16. Non- Assignment. This Agreement is not assignable either in whole or in part.

17. Amendments. This Agreement may be amended or modified only by written agreement signed by both parties.

Docusign Envelope ID: 1C8700EA- 99CC- 44D6- 8C00- A5CDC53B3198

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18. Validity. The invalidity in whole or in part of any provision of this Agreement shall not void or affect the validity of any other provision of this Agreement.

19. Governing Law. This Agreement shall be deemed to have been executed in the County of San Mateo, California. The formation, interpretation and performance of this Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of California, excluding its conflict of laws rules. Any suit or action initiated by either party shall be brought in the County of San Mateo, California unless the parties agree otherwise in a written amendment to this Agreement. In the event of litigation between the parties hereto to enforce any provision of the Agreement, the unsuccessful party will pay the reasonable attorney’s fees and expenses of litigation of the successful party.

20. Mediation. Should any dispute arise out of this Agreement, the parties shall meet in mediation and attempt to reach a resolution with the assistance of a mutually acceptable mediator. Neither party shall be permitted to file legal action without first meeting in mediation and making a good faith attempt to reach a mediated resolution. The costs of the mediator, if any, shall be paid equally by the parties. If a mediated settlement is reached neither party shall be deemed the prevailing party for purposes of the settlement and each party shall bear its own legal costs.

21. Conflict of Interest. CONSULTANT represents and warrants that it presently has no interest, and shall not have any interest, direct or indirect, which would conflict in any manner with the performance of work and services required under this Agreement. Without limitation, CONSULTANT represents to and agrees with CITY that CONSULTANT has disclosed any potential conflict of interest, and will have no future conflict of interest, in providing CITY services hereunder, including but not limited to, any interest financial, share ownership, shared management, shared directors, or reporting responsibilities) CONSULTANT may presently have, or will have in the future, with respect to any other person or entity ( including but not limited to potential suppliers, vendors, consultants, contractors, or regulatory agency) which may have an interest in the subject matter of the Services.

22. Liability of CITY.

Except as provided in Exhibit A, Services to be Provided by CONSULTANT and Exhibit C, Insurance, CITY' s obligations under this Agreement shall be limited to the payment of the compensation provided for in Paragraphs 1, 3, and 4 of this Agreement,
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lost profits or revenue, arising out of or in connection with this Agreement, the Services, or the Project.

CITY shall not be responsible for any damage to persons or property as a result of the use, misuse or failure of any equipment used by CONSULTANT, or by any of its employees, even though such equipment be furnished, rented or loaned to CONSULTANT by CITY. The acceptance or use of such equipment by CONSULTANT or any of its employees shall be construed to mean that CONSULTANT accepts full responsibility for and shall exonerate, indemnify, defend and save harmless CITY from and against any and all claims for any damage or injury of any type, including attorneys' fees, arising from the use, misuse or failure of such equipment, whether such damage be to the CONSULTANT, its employees, CITY employees or third parties, or to property belonging to any of the above.

Nothing in this Agreement shall constitute a waiver or limitation of any right or remedy, whether in equity or at law, which CITY or CONSULTANT may have under this Agreement or any applicable law. All rights and remedies of CITY or CONSULTANT, whether under this Agreement or other applicable law, shall be cumulative.

23. Waiver of Default. Waiver of any default by either party to this Agreement shall not be deemed to be waiver of any subsequent default. Waiver or breach of any provision of this Agreement shall not be deemed to be a waiver of any other or subsequent breach, and shall not be construed to be a modification of the terms of this Agreement unless this Agreement is modified as provided below.

24. Force Majeure. Except for defaults of subconsultants at any tier, CONSULTANT shall not be liable for any excess costs if the failure to perform the Agreement arises from causes beyond the control and without the fault or negligence of CONSULTANT, including without limitation failure to reasonably mitigate any adverse impacts ( Force Majeure). Force Majeure events include the following:

Acts of God, fires, floods, earthquake, other natural disasters, epidemics and pandemics ( other than COVID- 19 or variants), abnormal weather conditions beyond the parameters otherwise set forth in this Article, nuclear accidents, strikes, lockouts, freight embargos, interruptions in service by a regulated utility, or governmental statutes or regulations enacted or imposed after the fact ( together, “ force majeure events ”).

Any Force Majeure event with a duration in excess of 30 days entitles either party to terminate this Agreement with written notice to the other party, without further penalty or compensation.

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25. Entire Agreement. This Agreement, including Exhibits A, B, C, and D comprises the entire Agreement.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be executed on the date first above written by their respective officers duly authorized in that behalf.

CITY OF FOSTER CITY
Dated: _________________________________ Patrick Sullivan, Mayor
ATTEST:

Dated: ________________________________ Priscilla Schaus, City Clerk

APPROVED AS TO FORM
Dated:

Benjamin Stock, City Attorney

CONSULTANT
Dated:

Kevin J. Duggan, President, 4LEAF
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EXHIBIT A
Services shall commence on July 16, 2024 and terminate on June 30, 2026 unless otherwise extended in a written agreement by the parties.

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EXHIBIT B

FEE SCHEDULE
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Plan Review Cost Structure:

Plan Review percentage: 65% paid by directly by the applicant to 4LEAF, Inc.

Structural Only Review percentage: 35% paid directly by the applicant to 4LEAF, Inc.

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EXHIBIT C

INSURANCE FORMS
CONSULTANT shall provide, in addition to the Certificates of Insurance, original Endorsement affecting the coverages specified in herein on the attached form . No substitute form will be accepted.

This is an Exhibit to, and made a part of and incorporated by reference to the Agreement dated July 16, 2024, by and between 4LEAF, Inc., hereinafter referred to as " Consultant”, and the City of Foster City, hereinafter referred to as " City", providing for professional services.

1. Consultant' s Duty to Show Proof of Insurance. Consultant, in order to protect City and its Council members, officials, agents, officers, and employees against all claims and liability for death, injury, loss and damage as a result of Consultant' s acts, errors, or omissions in connection with the pe rformance of Consultant' s obligations, as required in this Agreement, shall secure and maintain insurance as described below. Consultant shall not perform any work under this Agreement until Consultant has obtained all insurance required under this section and the required certificates of insurance and all required endorsements have been filed with the City' s authorized insurance representative, insurance Tracking Services Inc. ( ITS). Receipt of evidence of insurance that does not comply with all applicab le insurance requirements shall not constitute a waiver of the insurance requirements set forth herein. The required documents must be signed by the authorized representative of the insurance company shown on the certificate. Upon request, Consultant shall supply proof that such person is an authorized representative thereof, and is authorized to bind the named underwriter( s) and their company to the coverage, limits and termination provisions shown thereon, Consultant shall promptly deliver to ITS a certificate of insurance, and all required endorsements, with respect to each renewal policy, as necessary to demonstrate the maintenance of the required insurance coverage for the term specified herein. Such certificates and endorsements shall be delivered to ITS prior to the expiration date of any policy and bear a notation evidencing payment of the premium thereof if so requested. Consultant shall immediately pay any deductibles and self- insured retentions under all required insurance policies upon the sub mission of any claim by Consultant or City as an additional insured.

1.1 Insurance Requirements
Commercial General Liability Insurance
Commercial General Liability Insurance including, but not limited to, Contractual Liability Insurance ( specifically concerning the indemnity provisions of this Agreement with the City ), Products- Completed Operations Hazard, liability for slander, false arrest and invasion of privacy arising out of professional services rendered hereunder, Personal Injury ( including bodily injury and death), and Property Damage for liability arising out of Consultant' s performance of services under this Agreement. The Comm ercial General Liability insurance shall contain no exclusions or limitation for independent contractors working on the behalf of the named insured. Consultant shall maintain the Products- Completed Operations Hazard coverage for the longest period allowed by law following termination of this Agreement. The amount of said insurance coverage required by this Agreement shall be the policy limits, which shall be at least one million dollars ($ 1,000, 000) each occurrence and two million dollars 2,000, 000) aggregate.

Please note, the City will require a separate additional insured endorsement for the Commercial General Liability policy, listing the “ City of Foster City, its Council members, officials, agents, officers, and employees”.

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Business Automobile Liability Insurance
Automobile Liability Insurance against claims of Personal Injury ( including bodily injury and death) and Property Damage covering any vehicle and/ or all owned, leased, hired and non- owned vehicles used in the performance of Services pursuant to this Agreement with coverage equal to the policy limits, which shall be at least two million dollars ($ 2,000, 000) each occurrence.

Workers' Compensation Insurance
Consultant shall submit written proof that Consultant is insured against liability for workers' compensation in accordance with the provisions of section 3700 of the California Labor Code. Consultant shall require any Subconsultants to provide workers' compensation for all of the Subconsultants' employees, unless the Subconsultants' employees are covered by the insurance afforded by Consultant. If any class of employees engaged in work or services performed under this Agreement is not covered by California Labor Code section 3700, Consultant shall provide and/ or require each Subconsultant to provide adequate insurance for the coverage of employees not otherwise covered. Consultant shall also maintain employer' s liability insurance with limits of one million dollars ($ 1,000, 000) for bodily injury or disease.

Professional Liability Insurance
Professional Liability ( Errors and Omissions) Insurance, for liability arising out of, or in connection with, all negligent acts, errors or omissions in connection with services to be provided under this Agreement, with no exclusion for claims of one insured against another insured, with coverage equal to the policy limits, which shall not be less than two million dollars ($ 2,000, 000) per occurrence and two million dollars ($ 2,000, 000) aggregate.

1.2 Self- Insured Retention
Any self- insured retentions in excess of $ 100, 000 must be declared on the Certificate of insurance or other documentation provided to City and must be approved by the City Risk Manager.

1.3 Claims- Made Basis Coverage
If any of the insurance coverages required under this Agreement is written on a claims- made basis, Consultant, at Consultant' s option, shall either ( i) maintain said coverage for at least five ( 5) years following the termination of this Agreement with coverage extending back to the effective date of this Agreement; ( ii) purchase an extended reporting period of not less than five ( 5) years following the termination of this Agreement; or (iii) acquire a full prior acts provis ion on any renewal or replacement policy.

2. City as Additional Insured
On Consultant' s Commercial General Liability and Automobile policies, the City, its Council members, officers, directors, agents, employees, and volunteers, shall be named as additional insured' s, but only with respect to liability arising out of the activities of the named insured. Any endorsement shall be provided using one of the following three options: ( i) on ISO form CG 20 10 1 1 85; or ( ii) on ISO form CG 20 37 10 01 plus either ISO form CG 20 10 10 01 or CG 20 33 10 01; or ( iii) on such other forms which provide coverage at least equal to or better than form CG 20 10 1 1 85.

3. Insurance terms and conditions:

3.1 Cancellation of Insurance
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written notice in all other cases. This notice requirement does not waive the insurance requirements stated herein.

Consultant shall immediately obtain replacement coverage for any insurance policy that is terminated, canceled, non- renewed, or whose policy limits have been exhausted or upon insolvency of the insurer that issued the policy.

3.2 All insurance shall be issued by a company or companies admitted to do business in California and listed in the current " Best' s Key Rating Guide" publication with a minimum rating of A -; VII Any exception to these requirements must be approved by the City Risk Manager.

3.3 If Consultant is, or becomes during the term of this Agreement, self -insured or a member of a self- insurance pool, Consultant shall provide coverage equivalent to the insurance coverages and endorsements required above.

The City will not accept such coverage unless the City determines, in its sole discretion and by written acceptance, that the coverage proposed to be provided by Consultant is equivalent to the above- required coverages.

3.4 For any claims related to the Agreement, the Consultant’ s insurance coverage shall be primary insurance coverage at least as broad as ISO CG 20 01 04 13 as respects the City , its officers, officials, employees, and volunteers. Any insurance or self -insurance maintained by the City , its officers, officials, employees, or volunteers shall be excess of the Consultant’ s insurance and shall not contribute with it.

3.5 Insurance coverages in the minimum amounts set forth herein shall not be construed to relieve Consultant for any liability, whether within, outside, or in excess of such coverage, and regardless of solvency or insolvency of the insurer that issues the coverage; nor shall it preclude the City from taking such other actions as are available to it under any other provision of this Agreement or otherwi se in law.

3.6 Failure by Consultant to maintain all such insurance in effect at all times required by this Agreement shall be a material breach of this Agreement by Consultant. City , at its sole option, may terminate this Agreement and obtain damages from Consultant resulting from said breach. Alternatively, City may purchase such required insurance coverage, and without further notice to Consultant, City shall deduct from sums due to Consultant any premiums and associated costs advanced or paid by City for such insurance. If the balance of monies obligated to Consultant pursuant to this Agreement are insufficient to reimburse City for the premiums and any associated costs, Consultant agrees to reimburse City for the premiums and pay for all costs associated with the purchase of said insurance. Any failure by City to take this alternative action shall not relieve Consultant of its obligation to obtain and maintain the insurance coverages required by this Agreement.

3.7 Should any of the required insurance ( other than errors and omissions insurance) be provided under a form of coverage that includes a general annual aggregate limit or provides that claims investigation or legal defenses costs be included in such general aggregate limit, such general annual aggregate limit shall be double the occurrence or claims limit specified above.

3.8 City may ( but is under no obligation to) secure project- specific insurance, wrap- up insurance, or administer an owner controlled insurance program (" OCIP"), in which case Consultant and its subconsultants shall communicate this fact to their insurance carriers and request that the risk of this project be excluded from their practice policies.

Consultant' s fees under this Agreement ( and the fee of its subconsultants under sub consultant agreements) shall be reduced by the amount of insurance premiums that may be avoided by Consultant and its subconsultants by virtue of the City' s obtaining the project- specific insurance, wrap- up insurance or administering an OCIP, and the exclusion of this project from coverage of Consultant' s and subconsultants policies. Construction Manager and its subconsultants shall afford City access to their books and records and cooperate with City in verifying the amount of savings realized.

ATTACHED

1. Insurance Coverage Form

EXHIBIT C
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This INSURANCE COVERAGE FORM modifies or documents insurance provided under the following:

Named Insured: Effective Work Date( s):

Description of Work/ Locations/ Vehicles:

ADDITIONAL INSURED: City of Foster City/ Estero Municipal Improvement District ( CITY) 610 Foster City Boulevard, Foster City, CA 94404
Attention: _________________________________
Contract Administrator
Endorsement and Certificates of Insurance Required
The Additional Insured, its elected or appointed officers, officials, employees and volunteers are included asinsureds with regard to damagesand defenseof claims arising from: ( Check all that apply)
Insurer Policy
No.

General Liability: ( a) activities performed by or on behalf of the Named Insured, ( b) products and completed operations of the Named Insured, ( c) premises owned, leased occupied or used by the Named Insured, and/ or ( d) permits issued for operations performed by the Named Insured. { Note:

MEETS OR EXCEEDS ISO Form # CG 20 10 11 85}
Auto Liability: the ownership, operation, maintenance, use, loading or unloading of any auto owned, leased, hired or borrowed by the Named Insured, regardless of whether liability is attributable to the Named Insured or a combination of the Named Insured and the Additional Insured, its elected or appointed officers, officials, employees or volunteers.

Other:

Certificates of Insurance Required ( no endorsement needed) ( Check all that apply) Insurer Policy No.

Workers Compensation: work performed by employees of the Named Insured while those employees are engaged in work under the simultaneous directions and control of the Named Insured and the Additional Insured.

Professional Liability:

PRIMARY/ NON- CONTRIBUTORY: This insurance is primary and is not additional to or contributing with any other insurance carried by or for the benefit of Additional Insureds.

SEVERABILITY OF INTEREST: The insurance afforded by this policy applies separately to each insured who is seeking coverage or against whom a claim is made or a suit is brought, except with respect to the insurer’s limit of liability.

PROVISIONS REGARDING THE INSURED' S DUTIES AFTER ACCIDENT OR LOSS: Any failure to comply with reporting provisions of the policy shall not affect coverage provided to the Additional Insured, its elected or appointed officers, officials, employees, or volunteers.

CANCELLATION NOTICE. The insurance afforded by this policy shall not be suspended, voided, canceled, reduced in coverage or in limits except after thirty ( 30) days' prior written notice ( ten ( 10) days if canceled due to non -payment) by regular mail return receipt requested has been given to the Additional Insured. Such notice shall be addressed as shown above.

WAIVER OF SUBROGATION: The insurer( s) named above agree to waive all rights of subrogation against the CITY, its elected or appointed officers, officials, agents, volunteers and employees for losses paid under the terms of this policy which arise from work performed by the Named Insured for the CITY.

Nothing herein contained shall vary, alter or extend any provision or condition of the Policy other than as above stated.

SIGNATURE OF INSURER OR AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF THE INSURER I, ______________________________________________________________( print/ type name), warrant that I have authority to bind the above- named insurance company and by my signature hereon do so bind this company.

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ORGANIZATION: TITLE:

ADDRESS:

TELEPHONE: ( ) DATE ISSUED:

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EXHIBIT D
COVID- 19 AMENDMENT/ ATTACHMENT
Consulting Agreement Form)
This COVID- 19 Amendment/ Attachment amends the Agreement between (“ City”) and 4 LEAF Consultant”) dated July 18, 2023.

1. Definitions
A. The 2019 novel coronavirus and the disease it causes are collectively referred to herein as COVID- 19”.

B. A “COVID- 19 Condition” is something attributable to COVID- 19 not caused by the Consultant which for purposes herein includes all subconsultants) and beyond its reasonable control including but not limited to COVID- 19 Proclamations and supply chain disruptions due to COVID- 19, and other circumstances concerning COVID- 19 not caused by the Consultant and which are beyond its reasonable control.

C. A “COVID- 19 Proclamation” includes but is not limited to orders, directives and guidance concerning COVID- 19 that have been issued, and which may be issued from time to time, by public agencies or regulatory bodies, the CDC or OSHA or Cal/ OSHA, including without limitation the Cal/ OSHA COVID- 19 Prevention Emergency Temporary Standards. Consultant acknowledges that those orders, directives and guidance may require the Project to shut down or otherwise increase the Consultant’ s cost or time of performance by calling for things such as social distancing and the use of personal protective equipment. In the event of conflicting COVID- 19 Proclamations, the Consultant shall follow the most applicable, restrictive and newest COVID -19 Proclamations.

D. An “Unknown COVID- 19 Condition” is a COVID- 19 Condition the Consultant did not know about, and reasonably should not have known about, as of the date the Consultant submitted its proposal. The requirements contained in COVID- 19 Proclamations issued before submission of a proposal are not Unknown COVID- 19 Conditions, and the Consultant will be deemed to have knowledge of those requirements.

E. An “Unknown COVID- 19 Cost” is a cost that: ( i) is solely attributable to an Unknown COVID- 19 Condition; ( ii) is reasonable and unavoidable under the circumstances; ( iii) is not the result of the Consultant’ s failure to comply with the contract documents or a COVID -19 Proclamation; and ( iv) is not the result of a subconsultants failure to comply with a COVID- 19 Proclamation in connection with the performance of the Services.

2. COVID- 19 Conditions and Proposal. Consultant is expected to know and is deemed to have known about COVID- 19 Conditions when it submits its proposal, and COVID- 19 Conditions must be accounted for in the Consultant’s price and schedule. In order to be entitled to any relief from a COVID- 19 Condition, the Consultant must demonstrate that the issue, cost or delay is due to an Unknown COVID- 19 Condition.

3. Compliance with COVID- 19 Proclamations.

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the Services. The cost of such compliance is non- compensable, except as otherwise expressly stated herein.

B. Consultant is responsible to ensure that its subconsultants and suppliers comply with COVID - 19 Proclamations at all times in connection with the performance of their Services.

4. Delay. The Consultant is entitled to a reasonable time extension for an Unknown COVID- 19 Condition. Such time extension is non- compensable.

5. City Directed Suspension. The City may suspend Services due to COVID- 19 health concerns, even though the Consultant may be allowed to proceed with the Services based on COVID- 19 Proclamations. The City may suspend the Services for its convenience. The Consultant is entitled to a time extension for a City Directed Suspension, and the contract amount will be equitably adjusted if and to the extent Consultant incurs increased costs that are Unknown COVID- 19 Costs.

6. Compensation for COVID- 19 Costs. City will reimburse the Consultant for Unknown COVID- 19 Costs that are not included in the schedule of values.

7. Safe Work Practices. Consultant shall implement safe work practices recommended by CDC or OSHA or Cal/ OSHA, which may include, inter alia, screening all employees, subconsultants, or others worker( s)”) at all locations where Services are performed for signs and symptoms of COVID -19; adopting staggered work schedules, e.g., providing alternating workdays or extra shifts, to reduce the total number of employees on a site at any given time and to ensure physical distancing; identifying choke points where workers are forced to stand together, such as hallways and elevators, ingress and egress points, break areas, and buses, and implement policies to maintain social distancing; coordinating deliveries in line with the employer' s minimal contact and cleaning protocols; and instituting a rigorous housekeeping program to reduce dust levels at all exterior locations. Consultant remains fully responsible for following and complying with changes to recommended safe work practices from time to time.

8. Monitoring and Reporting. City may require the Consultant to actively monitor the health of its workers through temperature checks and questionnaires of major COVID- 19 symptoms, including but not limited to cough, fever above 100. 4 degrees Fahrenheit and shortness of breath. Consultant shall immediately report to City any outbreaks of COVID- 19 among its workers. The Consultant shall not knowingly allow any worker who has tested positive with COVID- 19 to enter a City building. In the event of an outbreak or an exposure to COVID- 19, the City may impose appropriate mitigation strategies which may be in consultation with the public health officer.

9. Conflicts. In the event of an inconsistency between this COVID- 19 Amendment and the Agreement, this Addendum shall control.

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the City and Consultant have executed this Covid- 19 Amendment as of the date set forth above.

CONSULTANT: CITY:

Signature Signature
Kevin J. Duggan Patrick Sullivan
President Mayor
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ORIGINAL

CITY OF FOSTER CITY

CONTRACT AMENDMENT NO. ONE (1)

DATE: April 7, 2025 ACCOUNT NO. 001-0820-419-4251

PROJECT NAME: On-Call Building Services

TO: 4Leaf, Inc.

CHANGE REQUESTED BY: 4Leaf, Inc. and City of Foster City

Based on mutual agreement, 4Leaf, Inc. and City of Foster City agree to amend the original Agreement dated July 16, 2024 (“Agreement”) pursuant to:

Section 2 of the Agreement to add additional services amount, which are identified as follows:

ORIGINAL CONTRACT AMOUNT $ 150,000

AMOUNT OF CONTRACT AMENDMENT NO. ONE (1) $ 75,000

REVISED CONTRACT AMOUNT $ 225,000

Except as specifically modified herein, all other terms and provisions in the Agreement shall remain unchanged.
4Leaf, Inc. have given careful consideration to the work proposed and hereby agree, if this proposal is approved, to provide all equipment, furnish all materials except as may otherwise be noted above, and to perform all services necessary for the work above specified, and to accept as full payment therefore the prices shown above.

SUBMITTED BY:

BECKI HANAN DATE

PROJECT MANAGER

ACCEPTED BY:

KEVIN J. DUGGAN, PRESIDENT DATE
4LEAF, INC.

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APPROVAL RECOMMENDED:

SOFIA MANGALAM DATE

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

APPROVED FOR CITY:

STACY JIMENEZ DATE
MAYOR

ATTEST:

BY:

PRISCILLA SCHAUS, CITY CLERK

APPROVED AS TO FORM:

BY: ___________________________________
BENJAMIN L. STOCK, CITY ATTORNEY
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CITY OF FOSTER CITY

CONTRACT AMENDMENT NO. TWO (2)

DATE: JULY 21, 2025

ACCOUNT NUMBER: 001-0820-419-4251

PROJECT NAME: ON-CALL BUILDING SERVICES

TO: 4LEAF, INC.

CHANGE REQUESTED BY: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT

Based on mutual agreement, 4Leaf, Inc. and City of Foster City agree to amend the original Agreement dated July 16, 2024 (“Agreement”) pursuant to: Section 2 of the Agreement to add additional services amount, which are identified as follows:

ORIGINAL AGREEMENT AMOUNT $150,000

AMOUNT OF CONTRACT AMENDMENT NO. ONE (1) $ 75,000

AMOUNT OF CONTRACT AMENDMENT NO. TWO (2) $ 100,000

REVISED CONTRACT AMOUNT $ 325,000

The increased Agreement maximum is necessary to continue using 4Leaf for on -call building services, given their familiarity with ongoing projects and consistent availability.

Except as specifically modified herein, all other terms and provisions in the Agreement shall remain unchanged.

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SUBMITTED BY: ____________________________________________

BECKI HANAN DATE

SENIOR MANAGEMENT ANALYST

ACCEPTED BY: _____________________________________________ KEVIN J. DUGGAN, PRESIDENT DATE
4LEAF, INC.

APPROVED FOR CITY: _____________________________________________

STACY JIMENEZ DATE
MAYOR

ATTEST:

BY:

PRISCILLA SCHAUS, CITY CLERK DATE
BY: KATHERINE ESTRADA, DEPUTY CITY CLERK

APPROVED AS TO FORM:

BY:

BENJAMIN L. STOCK, CITY ATTORNEY DATE

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DATE: November 3, 2025
TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council
VIA: Stefan Chatwin, City Manager
Marlene Subhashini, Assistant City Manager
FROM: Sofia Mangalam, Community Development Director
Nori Jabba, Housing and Sustainability Manager
Vanessa Brannon, Senior Management Analyst
DEPARTMENT: Community Development
SUBJECT: PARKS AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT AND CONSERVATION

ELEMENT UPDATES

RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the City Council take the following actions:

1.Adopt the attached Resolution (Attachment 1) repealing the 2009 Parks and Open Space Element and amending the General Plan by adopting the 2025 Parks and Open Space Element and find that the adoption of the Element is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) (“general rule” or “common sense”).

2. Adopt the attached Resolution (Attachment 2) repealing the existing 2003 Conservation Element and amending the General Plan by adopting the updated 2025 Conservation Element and finding that the adoption of the Element is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) (“general rule” or “common sense”).

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
California law requires that General Plans be updated periodically. Except for the Housing Element, which must be updated every eight years, State law does not establish a specific schedule for updating other General Plan elements. The State Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation (LCI), formerly known as the Office of Planning and Research (OPR),

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recommends that jurisdictions complete a comprehensive General Plan update every 10 to 15 years to reflect changes in community values, economic conditions, and emerging issues.

In the year 2021-2022 state legislative session, Senate Bill (SB) 1425 was passed and signed into law. This bill requires that the Open Space Element of the General Plan be updated by January 1, 2026, with expanded requirements, including:
(1) Access to open space for all residents in a manner that considers social, economic, and racial equity, correlated with the environmental justice element or environmental justice policies in the general plan, as applicable. (2) Climate resilience and other co-benefits of open space, correlated with the safety element.
(3) Rewilding opportunities, correlated with the land use element.

The other applicable bill is Assembly Bill (AB) 1889, which was signed into law on September 10, 2024, and requires the Conservation Element of the General Plan to analyze the effects of development on wildlife movement and habitat connectivity.

Beginning with the next General Plan update, which occurs on or after January 1, 2028, jurisdictions must identify and evaluate connectivity areas, permeability, and natural landscapes within their boundaries. They must also analyze existing and planned wildlife passage features and assess the impacts and barriers caused by development on wildlife and habitat connectivity.

To ensure compliance with SB 1425 and AB 1889, the City has prepared updates to the Parks and Open Space Element and the Conservation Element of its General Plan. The final drafts of two (2) Elements were presented to the Planning Commission on October 2, 2025, in a public hearing. At the meeting, the Planning Commission voted 4-0-0-1 (1- absent) approving Resolution P-12-25 (Attachment 7) recommending that the City Council repeal the 2009 Parks and Open Space Element and amend the General Plan by adopting 2025 Parks and Open Space Element and Resolution P-13-25 (Attachment 8) recommending that the City Council repeal the 2003 Conservation Element and amend the General Plan by adopting 2025 Conservation Element and finding the adoption of the Elements is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines 15061(B)(3).

Staff recommends that the City Council adopt the attached resolutions (Attachments 1 and 2), which include the following actions: (1) repealing the 2009 Parks and Open Space Element and adopting the 2025 Parks and Open Space Element; (2) repealing the 2003 Conservation Element and adopting the 2025 Conservation Element; and making corresponding CEQA findings.

Public Notice
California Government Code Sections 65352 – 65352.4 requires that before a legislative body takes action to adopt or substantially amend a general plan, the planning agency

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shall refer the proposed action to a number of entities or conduct consultations with California Native American tribes that are on the contact list. The City has referred the Parks and Open Space Element and the Conservation Element to all California Native American tribes on the contact list provided by the Native American Heritage Commission, as well as to other listed entities, before the Planning Commission and City Council public hearings. No California Native American Tribe has requested consultation.

ANALYSIS
Since the start of the update process, there have been three (3) Joint Planning Commission and Parks and Recreation Committee Study Sessions and three (3) City Council meetings to provide an update and seek input on the preparation of the administrative drafts of the Parks and Open Space Element and Conservation Element.

At the last Joint Planning Commission and Parks and Recreation Committee Study Session and the City Council meeting, staff presented the administrative draft of the two (2) Elements. The administrative drafts were also made available for public review from August 8 through September 2, 2025.

Comments received from the public, City Council, Planning Commission, and Parks and Recreation Committee were incorporated into the final draft of each Element where appropriate. The majority of comments received were directed at the Parks and Open Space Element. Some comments relating to park management and recreation facilities that were more relevant to the Parks Master Plan were forwarded to the Parks and Recreation Department and the project consultant WRT.

A complete list of all comments and responses is included in Attachment 6 – Engagement Results Summary. Table 1 outlines the edits that were made to the final draft of the Parks and Open Space Element
Table 1: List of major comments and applicable edits to the Parks and Open Space Element.

Comment Summary Comment
Response
Page Number
(Attachment 3)
Community The Lagoon is described as both a
major recreational and ecological
water body, which seems
inconsistent, and suggests clarifying
whether it is primarily recreational or
ecological.

The requested edits
have been
incorporated.

Parks and Open
Space Element,

Page 7 ends

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The lagoon is approximately 213
acres in size, to help in planning.

Recommends referencing surface
area as well as ecological function.

The requested
information
regarding the volume
of water held by the
lagoon has been
added.

Parks and Open
Space Element,

Page 7 ends

Requests that the City correct the
term “Canadian geese” to “Canada
geese,” and clarify that avian DNA,
rather than Canada goose DNA
alone, has been identified as
impacting water quality.
“Canadian geese”
has been corrected
to “Canada geese,”
and the statement
regarding poor
lagoon water quality
has been corrected
to more accurately
represent the cause
of poor water quality.

Parks and Open
Space Element,

Page 7 ends

Raised concerns about ensuring the
Parks and Open Space Element
does not conflict too strongly with
the Housing Element. Referring to
POS-F under the Implementation
Program, which states that as Foster
City grows, the City will strive to
maintain its existing park acreage
level of service (LOS) of 3.2 acres
per thousand residents. Provided
that the surrounding cities have an
LOS of 2.8 acres, and in order to
experience the expected growth
between now and 2040, an
additional 12.9 acres of park space
would need to be included in order
to maintain the 3.2 LOS. It was
suggested either remaining at the
current acreage or slightly below to
ensure that the city has room for the
Housing Element obligations.

The Parks and Open
Space Element was
adjusted to maintain
existing parkland
and evaluate
potential LOS in the
future. Language
was adjusted to
avoid potential
conflict with Housing
Element objectives,
emphasizing
balance and
flexibility.

Parks and Open
Space Element,

Page 13 ends

Page 34 ends

Planning
Commission
Asked if the acreage requirement
should be defined now. Referring to
the fact that the City is moving
towards more objective standards,
and having this conflict could create
unnecessary challenges for potential
developers.

Parks and Open
Space Element,

Page 13 ends

Page 34 ends

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Asked about the calculation behind

12.9 acres, if the population is
expected to go up by 2040, and
suggested setting the goal at the
current acres per thousand
residents. Recommendation for
setting it at 2.8 and cautioned that

3.2 might not be sustainable.

Language around
park LOS has been
updated in the
Element to maintain
existing acreage and
consider the
appropriate metric at
a future time.

Parks and Open
Space Element,

Page 13 ends

Page 34 ends

Stated that the preferred approach is
to define the numbers to reach the
RHNA goals while still meeting the
needs of the community.

Parks and Open
Space Element,

Page 13 ends

Suggested that there be looser
language used in the elements.

Asked if the dredging refers to the
dumping of what has been dredged.

Language was
adjusted for flexibility
to avoid prescriptive
standards.

References to
dredging were
clarified to ensure
accuracy of
terminology
regarding sediment
removal and
management.

Parks and Open
Space Element,

Page 13 ends

Asked if they are looking to adopt a
formal and measurable standard.

The Parks and Open
Space Element
clarifies that
measurable
standards may be
established through
future planning
processes.

Parks and Open
Space Element,

Page 34 ends

Program POS-g)
Parks and Rec
Committee
Member
The attractiveness of the parks
should be discussed alongside the
technical components of the
element.

Narrative language
was added to
emphasize that
parks provide both
technical functions
(e.g., flood
protection, habitat
value) and
community benefits
Parks and Open
Space Element,
Pages 6 and 21

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such as beauty,
identity, and quality
of life.

Referring to the issue raised by the
Planning Commission regarding the
LOS requirement of 3.2 acres per
thousand residents, or 12.9
additional acres are needed by
2040. Will this requirement interfere
with housing development?
The Parks and Open
Space Element was
adjusted to maintain
existing parkland
and evaluate
potential LOS in the
future. Language
was adjusted to
avoid potential
conflict with Housing
Element objectives,
emphasizing
balance and
flexibility.

Parks and Open
Space Element,

Page 13 ends

Page 34 ends

Noted missing elements from some
of the entries in the parks inventory
(Table 1) and requested Parks &
Rec review the table before
finalizing the report.

Table 1 was
reviewed and refined
for accuracy and
updated to better
reflect the major
facilities at each
park.

Parks and Open
Space Element,
Pages 8-9
Recommended revising strong
wording in policies (e.g., “ensure”) to
alternatives like “promote”, “create”,
or “aspire to.”
Strong prescriptive
wording was revised
to alternatives such
as “promote” or
“support,” consistent
with the Council’s
direction.

Parks and Open
Space Element,
Pages 31-36
City Council
Found implementation programs
starting on Page 46 a bit vague and
requested clarification on definitions
of long-term, mid-term, and short-
term to be added to the Elements.

Also, would like to see some of the
long-term goals done sooner.

Language added for
clarification: short-
term (1-5 years),
mid-term (6-10
years), and long-
term (10+ years).

Parks and Open
Space Element,

Page 36 ends

In addition to the specific edits identified through public and Council/Commission/Committee feedback, staff made further corrections to acreage data, refined technical descriptions, and improved clarity and readability throughout both Elements. A list of staff edits is provided in Attachment 5. Redline versions of both Elements are also included for reference:
Parks and Open Space Element – redline version – Attachment 3 Conservation Element – redline version – Attachment 4

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Draft 2025 Parks and Open Space Element (Attachment 1, Exhibit A – P_OS Element Final)
The draft 2025 Parks and Open Space Element fulfills State requirements for an Open Space Element and establishes Foster City’s vision for how recreational and natural areas, including parks, open space, facilities, and recreation programs, are developed, maintained, and enhanced. The Element recognizes parks and open space as essential to community health, social connection, and environmental stewardship, while also contributing to climate resilience by addressing flooding, extreme heat, and other natural hazards.

The Element is organized into four (4) main sections:

1. Requirements – Summarizes State legal requirements, regional policies, and local plans.

2. Background – Provides a systemwide assessment of existing park and open space conditions, including level of service, access, connectivity, usage, and amenities, along with detailed park site evaluations and community engagement results.

3. Goals and Policies – Establishes seven (7) goals and 22 policies focused on park system planning, programming, and events, operations and maintenance, open space values, and climate resiliency.

4. Implementation Programs – Outlines 29 programs identifying lead and supporting departments and timelines for implementation.

Attachment 1, Exhibit B, provides a legislative consistency checklist confirming that the Parks and Open Space Element Update complies with State planning law and recent legislation, including SB 1425 and AB 1889. California Government Code Section 65302(e) requires cities to adopt an open space element that addresses the preservation and enhancement of open space lands, equitable access to recreation, and long-term community needs. The analysis confirms that the updated Element meets these requirements and incorporates all recent mandates. The checklist describes how the City’s goals, policies, and implementation programs align with statutory provisions.

Overall, the 2025 Parks and Open Space Element provides a comprehensive framework for guiding the long-term stewardship of Foster City’s parks and open spaces. It promotes equitable access to recreation, enhances quality of life, and supports environmental sustainability and community resilience. The Parks and Open Space Element is a complementary plan to the Parks Master Plan.

Draft 2025 Conservation Element (Attachment 2, Exhibit A – Cons Element Final) The draft 2025 Conservation Element of the General Plan fulfills State requirements and establishes Foster City’s long-term vision for conserving and managing its natural and cultural resources. The Element emphasizes environmental sustainability, community well-being, and climate resilience as key priorities for the City’s resource management. It

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guides the protection and enhancement of biological habitats, the urban forest, surface and groundwater, and historic, cultural, and tribal resources, while supporting efforts to improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in alignment with State mandates.

The Element is organized into four (4) primary sections:

1. Requirements – Summarizes State requirements, regional policies, and local plans.

2. Background – Provides a comprehensive assessment of Foster City’s environmental setting, including natural resources, water and air quality, energy infrastructure, and habitat areas. It also evaluates future challenges such as sea level rise, groundwater rise, and extreme heat, and identifies opportunities for biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and equitable access to green space.

3. Goals and Policies – Establishes nine (9) goals and 38 policies addressing biological resources, water resources, air quality, energy resources, and climate adaptation.

4. Implementation Programs – Outlines 23 specific programs to achieve the vision of the Element, identifying lead and supporting departments and timelines for implementation.

As with the Parks and Open Space Element, staff has included a legislative consistency checklist (Attachment 2, Exhibit B) to confirm alignment with State law and recent legislation. California Government Code Section 65302(d) requires cities to adopt a conservation element addressing the protection of natural resources, including water and air quality, biological resources, and energy conservation. The analysis confirms that the updated Element meets these requirements and incorporates new mandates, including AB 1889, which directs jurisdictions to consider wildlife movement and habitat connectivity.

Overall, the 2025 Conservation Element demonstrates strong consistency with State planning law while advancing Foster City’s long-term vision for environmental stewardship, climate resilience, and sustainable management of natural and cultural resources. It provides a clear and modern framework to protect the environment and support the quality of life for the community.

California Environmental Quality Act
Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), also known as the “general rule” or “common sense” exemption, CEQA exempts activities that can be seen with certainty to have no possibility for causing a significant effect on the environment. CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) states that “A project is exempt from CEQA if…[t]he activity is covered by a common sense exemption that CEQA applies only to projects which have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. Where it can be seen

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with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA.” The Updates involve the adoption of policy documents to establish the City’s vision, goals, policies, and programs for the provisioning and management of natural and recreational areas within the city, as well as the protection of natural and cultural resources. These policy documents, in and of themselves, do not include any proposed projects or development. The Updates do not propose or approve any physical development and will not result in changes to the physical environment, nor will they result in potential environmental impacts. To the extent that the Updates identify potential future projects or development, those would be analyzed if and when the City approves those projects in accordance with CEQA. The Updates meet the criteria for the common sense exemption as identified above.

FISCAL IMPACT
Implementing the various programs outlined in the Implementation Plan of the Draft Elements will have a fiscal impact. However, adopting the 2025 Parks and Open Space Element and 2025 Conservation Element does not directly result in financial obligations.

The City Council will guide the implementation of these programs by giving policy direction to staff and through the annual budget process.

CITY COUNCIL VISION, MISSION, AND VALUE/PRIORITY AREA
City Council Operations and Improved Community Engagement Smart Planning, Development, and the Local Economy
ATTACHMENTS:

Attachment 1 – Parks and Open Space Resolution
Exhibit A: P_OS Element – Final Clean Version
Exhibit B: P_OS Element – Legislative Consistency Checklist Attachment 2 – Conservation Element Resolution
Exhibit A: Cons Element – Final Clean Version
Exhibit B: Cons Element – Legislative Consistency Checklist Attachment 3 – P_OS Element – Redline Version
Attachment 4 – Cons Element – Redline Version
Attachment 5 – Full List of Edits in Redlined Versions
Attachment 6 – Engagement Results Summary
Attachment 7 – Planning Commission Reso P-12-25
Attachment 8 – Planning Commission Reso P-13-25

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RESOLUTION NO. _______

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FOSTER CITY REPEALING THE 2009 PARKS AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT AND AMENDING THE GENERAL PLAN BY ADOPTING THE 2025 PARKS AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT AND FINDING

THAT THE ADOPTION OF THE ELEMENT IS EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA

ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO CEQA GUIDELINES 15061(B)(3)

CITY OF FOSTER CITY
WHEREAS, a general plan contains the community vision for future growth, California law also requires each general plan to address the mandated elements listed in Government Code section 65302; and
WHEREAS, the mandatory elements for all jurisdictions are Land Use, Circulation, Housing, Conservation, Open Space, Noise, and Safety; and WHEREAS, Foster City’s Parks and Open Space Element was last adopted in September 2009; and
WHEREAS, the State Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation, LCI (previously known as the Office of Planning and Research or OPR) recommends comprehensively updating a General Plan every 10-15 years to reflect changes in community values, economic conditions, and emerging issues and challenges; and WHEREAS, Senate Bill (SB) 1425 requires that the Open Space Element be updated by January 1, 2026, with expanded requirements including consideration of climate resilience in coordination with the Safety Element; and WHEREAS, SB 1425 also explicitly focuses on "rewilding opportunities," or creating and preserving open space networks to support biological and recreational uses; and
WHEREAS, Assembly Bill (AB) 1889 requires the General Plan Conservation Element to consider the effect of development within the jurisdiction on the movement of wildlife and habitat connectivity; and
WHEREAS, AB 1889 requires the Conservation Element, upon the next update of one or more elements on or after January 1, 2028, to, among other things, identify and analyze connectivity areas, permeability, and natural landscape areas within the jurisdiction, identify and analyze existing or planned wildlife passage features, and consider the impacts of development and the barriers caused by development to wildlife, as defined, and habitat connectivity; and

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WHEREAS, to ensure compliance with SB 1425 and AB 1889 requirements in a timely manner, the City of Foster City began work on updating the two (2) Elements, including the Parks and Open Space Element, and Conservation Element; and WHEREAS, California Government Code Sections 65352 – 65352.4 require that before a legislative body takes action to adopt or substantially amend a general plan, the planning agency shall refer the proposed action to a number of entities or conduct consultations with California Native American tribes that are on the contact list. The City has referred the Parks and Open Space Element to all California Native American tribes on the contact list provided by the Native American Heritage Commission; and WHEREAS, no California Native American Tribe has requested consultation; and WHEREAS, the City conducted extensive community outreach, including one (1) joint workshop, two (2) focus groups, two (2) pop-up events, a dedicated webpage, and one (1) community priorities survey and social media, e-news, emails, and notices; and WHEREAS, on August 8, 2025, the City published an administrative draft of the Parks and Open Space Element and requested public comment on the draft until September 2, 2025; and
WHEREAS, as provided in Government Code Section 65353, the Planning Commission shall hold at least one (1) public hearing before approving a recommendation on the adoption or amendment of a general plan; and
WHEREAS, as provided in Government Code Section 65354, the Planning Commission shall make a written recommendation on the adoption or amendment of a general plan; and
WHEREAS, on October 2, 2025, the Planning Commission conducted a duly and properly noticed public hearing to take public testimony and consider this Resolution regarding the 2025 Parks and Open Space Element, reviewed the Element and all pertinent documents and exhibits, staff report and all attachments, and oral and written public comments; and
WHEREAS, on October 2, 2025, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. P-12-25, with a majority of the Planning Commission (voted 4-0-0-1 (1-absent)) recommending City Council approval of the 2025 Parks and Open Space Element; and WHEREAS, on October 15, 2025, a public hearing notice was published in the newspaper (Foster City Islander) and posted in three public places, and mailed pursuant to California Code Section 65090 for the City Council public hearing; and WHEREAS, the City Council has reviewed and considered the draft 2025 Parks and Open Space Element, all written correspondence, verbal testimony, staff reports, and supporting documents and reports prepared.

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NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council hereby finds that, based on substantial evidence in the record:

1. The foregoing recitals are true and correct and are incorporated by reference into this action.

2. The proposed project conforms to the provisions and standards of the General Plan in that the proposed amendments are internally consistent with all other provisions of the General Plan and do not conflict with any of the previously adopted goals, policies, or programs of the General Plan.

3. The proposed General Plan Amendment complies with, and is required by, applicable State law.

4. The proposed amendments will not be detrimental to the public interest, convenience, and general welfare of the City. The amendments will ensure Foster City’s General Plan is consistent with current state law. The updated Element establishes the City’s vision, goals, policies, and implementation programs for how its recreational and natural areas, including parks, natural open space, facilities, and recreation programs, are developed, maintained, and enriched.

5. The City, as lead agency under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”), has completed analysis, and the 2025 Parks and Open Space Element and determined that the Updates are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) based on the “common sense exemption” in CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), which applies if it can be seen with certainty that a project will not have the potential to cause a significant effect on the environment. The Updates involve the adoption of policy documents to establish the City’s vision, goals, policies, and programs for the provisioning and management of natural and recreational areas within the city, as well as the protection of natural and cultural resources. These policy documents, in and of themselves, do not include any proposed projects or development. The Updates do not propose or approve any physical development and will not result in changes to the physical environment, nor will they result in potential environmental impacts. To the extent that the Updates do identify potential future projects or development, those would be analyzed if and when the City approves those projects in accordance with CEQA.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Foster City, therefore, repeals the 2009 Parks and Open Space Element and adopts the 2025 Parks and Open Space Element as set forth in Exhibit A, incorporated herein by this reference and attached hereto.

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PASSED AND ADOPTED as a Resolution by the City Council of the City of Foster City at the Regular Meeting held on the 3rd day of November 2025, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
_________________________

STACY JIMENEZ, MAYOR
ATTEST:
_____________________________

PRISCILLA SCHAUS, CITY CLERK

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EXHIBIT A
Parks and Open Space Element – Final Clean Version

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EXHIBIT B
Parks and Open Space Element Legislative Consistency Checklist

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Parks and Open Space Introduction

Chapter 5: Parks and Open Space Element 1
Parks and Open Space Introduction

Boardwalk along the Foster City Lagoon near Leo J. Ryan Park, a central open space known for its scenic waterfront and community gathering areas Foster City, 2025.

Purpose
The Parks and Open Space Element fulfills the State’s requirements for an Open Space Element while also establishing Foster City’s vision to how its natural and recreational areas, including parks, natural open space, facilities, and recreation programs, are developed, maintained, and enriched.

The Parks and Open Space Element leverages the city’s parks and open space areas as a vital framework for community wellbeing and natural stewardship. It guides the use of parks and open spaces for recreation, social connection, and enrichment, and plays a role in building resilience to natural hazards such as flooding and extreme heat. By weaving these aspects together, the City can enhance livability for all residents and foster deeper relationships with Foster City’s natural environment.

This Element is organized into four primary sections: Requirements, Background, Goals and Policies, and Implementation Programs. The Requirements section outlines legal requirements for this element. The Background section provides existing conditions and key trends related to parks, open space, and recreation. The Goals and Policies section defines the City’s goals and policy direction for parks, open space, and recreation. The Implementation Programs section outlines specific actions the City will take to achieve the vision set by the Goals and Policies.

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Chapter 5: Parks and Open Space Element 2
Clarification of Terminology
The Conservation Element and the Parks and Open Space Element both address land and resource stewardship in Foster City, but each with a distinct purpose and emphasis:

While these categories differ in focus, they are deeply interconnected. Open space and parks often serve as the physical setting where conservation strategies are implemented. For example, a park may include restored habitat, and an open space corridor may function as both a scenic buffer and a wildlife pathway. Conservation provides the guiding framework that weaves these uses together, ensuring Foster City’s green spaces support not only recreation and beauty, but long-term ecological health and resilience.

Legal Requirements
The Parks and Open Space Element of the General Plan is guided by state law, regional plans, and local priorities that collectively aim to preserve natural resources, promote ecological health, and support the sustainable management of environmental systems. Key statutes and policies include the following:

California Government Code §65302(e) – Open Space Element Requirements
California Government Code §65302(e) requires all general plans to include an Open Space Element that addresses the long-term preservation of open space lands. This includes open space for natural resource protection, outdoor recreation, hazard mitigation (such as flood and fire zones), and the production of resources like agriculture. Additional considerations include open space that supports military readiness or protects tribal resources.

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Chapter 5: Parks and Open Space Element 3
Quimby Act
Government Code §66477, known as the Quimby Act, allows cities and counties to require residential subdivisions to dedicate land or pay in-lieu fees for park and recreational purposes. These dedications or fees are then used to fund new park and open space development in consideration of population growth necessitating additional public open spaces.

Public Park Preservation Act
The Public Park Preservation Act (§5400–§5409) restricts the sale, lease, or disposal of public parkland unless a replacement of equivalent size and function is provided. This protects publicly accessible parks from being converted to non-recreational uses without due process and community benefit.

Senate Bill 1425 (2022) – Open-Space Element: Updates
Senate Bill (SB) 1425 added Government Code §65565.5 to require that the Open Space Element prioritize the multi-benefit use of open spaces, particularly in historically underserved communities. The law directs jurisdictions to include plans and an action program in any update to address access to open space for all residents in a manner that considers social, economic, and racial equity, correlated with the environmental justice policies in the general plan, address climate resilience strategies such as flood mitigation and cooling, and to address rewilding opportunities.

Assembly Bill 1889 (2024) – Conservation Element: Wildlife and Habitat Connectivity
AB 1889 amended Government Code §65302(d), requiring jurisdictions to identify and analyze wildlife connectivity and movement corridors, and consider the impact of development on species movement and ecological resilience. Any impacts and barriers to wildlife movement are then required to be avoided, minimized, or mitigated to the extent feasible. It encourages alignment with State and regional agencies, conservation goals, and efforts in developing wildlife and habitat connectivity strategies.

Regional and Local Planning
In addition to meeting State requirements, the Parks and Open Space Element must be aligned with regional priorities and local planning efforts. On the regional scale, open space planning is often coordinated through countywide or multi-jurisdictional strategies. For Foster City, relevant partners include OneShoreline, the San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC), and the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), each of which plays a role in guiding land use and resource conservation within the San Francisco Bay Area. These agencies provide policy guidance and mapping resources that help local governments identify priority areas for natural infrastructure, shoreline buffers, habitat corridors, and sea level rise adaptation.

At the local level, the Parks and Open Space Element provides the overarching vision implemented by Foster City’s Parks Master Plan and Capital Improvement Program. These documents identify specific opportunities for acquiring, improving, and maintaining parks and recreational spaces in alignment with the vision of the Parks and Open Space Element. The Element also integrates the City’s broader environmental goals, such as climate resilience, stormwater management, and habitat restoration by incorporating nature-based solutions and equitable access principles into the design and stewardship of

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Chapter 5: Parks and Open Space Element 4
open spaces. The alignment between regional frameworks and local initiatives ensures that Foster City’s open space planning supports both community priorities and broader environmental sustainability goals.

Several local and regional plans and programs provide additional guidance and are referenced throughout this Element. Brief descriptions are provided below to give context when these plans are mentioned.
• The Parks Master Plan was developed concurrently with this Element, the Parks Master Plan provides a detailed systemwide analysis of park conditions, recreational needs, and community priorities. It includes site-specific recommendations, amenity standards, and an implementation strategy to guide future investments.
• The City’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP) identifies, prioritizes, and funds infrastructure projects, including park and open space improvements.
• The Lagoon Management Plan provides policies and actions for long-term stewardship pf the City’s lagoon system, including water quality monitoring, vegetation control, and public education. The Plan also addresses ecological concerns such as runoff, algal blooms, and wildlife impacts, ensuring the lagoon remains a safe, healthy, and enjoyable resource for recreation and habitat. • The Integrated Canada Goose Population Management Plan establishes strategies for managing Canada goose populations in Foster City’s parks and lagoon system to minimize impacts on water quality, vegetation, and recreational use. This plan complements the Lagoon Management Plan by addressing a major source of non-point pollution and nuisance conditions. • The Bike and Pedestrian Master Plan (2026) will guide the creation of a connected network of trails and bikeways that link parks, open spaces, neighborhoods, and the Levee Pedway. The Plan will aim to support active transportation, recreation, and access to natural areas.

Relationship to the Foster City Parks Master Plan
The update to the Parks and Open Space Element was developed concurrently with the 2025 Parks Master Plan. These two documents are closely linked; the Parks and Open Space Element establishes a citywide vision and high-level framework to guide the planning, development, and stewardship of Foster City’s parks, recreational facilities, and open space resources. As shown in Figure 1, the Parks Master Plan builds on this foundation with a more detailed assessment of community needs and priorities. The Parks Master Plan includes specific recommendations and an implementation strategy to help realize the City's long-term vision and ensure that parks and open spaces continue to support both ecological functions and community well-being.

Because these efforts were conducted in parallel, much of the detailed community engagement and needs assessment from the Parks Master Plan has been integrated into this Element, further strengthening its vision and policy framework for the future of parks and open space in Foster City.

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Figure 1 Relationship Between the Parks and Open Space Element and the Parks Master Plan

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Background
The update process for the Parks and Open Space Element included a comprehensive assessment of existing conditions, featuring both a systemwide analysis that covered level of service, access, connectivity, usage, and amenities, as well as detailed evaluations of individual park sites. As shown in Figure 2, extensive community outreach was conducted in coordination with the Parks Master Plan, ensuring that the voices of residents and stakeholders guided the direction of both the Parks Master Plan and this Element. Together, the assessment and engagement serve as the foundation for the goals and policies of the Parks and Open Space Element.

Figure 2 Community Engagement Overview

Parks and Open Space System
Parks
As shown in Table 1 and Figure 3, Foster City has approximately 113 acres of publicly accessible parks and open spaces that shape the city’s recreational and ecological landscape. Many of these spaces are notable for features such as well-maintained landscaping, lagoon and bayfront views, shaded picnic areas, and family-friendly playgrounds that encourage regular use. The city is anchored by four large community parks, Leo J. Ryan Park, Sea Cloud Park, Boothbay Park, and Edgewater Park, which offer a wide range of amenities such as sports fields and courts, playgrounds, and group picnic areas that attract diverse users from across the community. Leo J. Ryan Park serves as a hub for major community events and is the site of Foster City’s new community center. The center will offer flexible spaces and upgraded amenities to better serve residents’ needs.

In addition to community parks, Foster City is home to a network of smaller neighborhood and mini parks nestled within residential areas. These parks provide everyday recreational opportunities and are

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designed to meet the specific needs of nearby residents. The city also includes three special-use parks dedicated to unique recreational activities such as windsurfing and dog play.

Foster City’s park system includes large community parks like Sea Cloud Park (left), popular neighborhood parks like Catamaran (middle) and mini parks that serve local needs, like Ketch Park (right).

Open Space
Foster City contains a diverse range of open spaces that enhance environmental quality and provide recreational and ecological value. In addition to the 24 parks, the city includes approximately 22 acres of publicly accessible open space along trails and 41 acres of open space with restricted access, much of which consists of sensitive habitat along the levee system and protected by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). Public access is generally discouraged as these areas consist of sensitive habitat along the levee pedway. The shorelines along the Belmont Slough are protected as a part of the Redwood Shores Ecological Reserve. The CDFW oversees the ecological health and wildlife protection in the area. Natural areas like the Belmont Slough offer scenic trails and habitat for wildlife, and the city features the Foster City Lagoon, described further below. The lagoon primarily supports drainage and water-based recreation, and has some ecological value.

Water Bodies
The Foster City Lagoon is a major recreational feature and is central to the community’s identity. The Lagoon covers approximately 218 acres, holding approximately 1,300 acre-feet of water, and winds through several neighborhoods in Foster City, fronting many of the City’s parks and open spaces.

Residents engage in water-based recreational activities such as kayaking, paddling, and boating, and the Lagoon is central to many Foster City community events. Water testing in the lagoon has detected avian DNA, and while the lagoon supports a large Canada Geese population, the results cannot be traced specifically to geese or to any single location. Nevertheless, the presence of Canada Geese contributes to ongoing challenges with cleanliness and maintenance. Outside of designated beach areas, water quality is generally similar to bay water.

Just as important, the San Francisco Bay creates an enhanced experience for people using the Levee Pedway and Bay-adjacent parks such as Baywinds, Gateshead, Shorebird, and Bridgeview. The San Francisco Bay is the largest estuary on the West Coast, supporting a rich diversity of wildlife and plant species. It provides critical habitat for migratory birds, fish nurseries, and endangered species such as the Ridgway’s rail and salt marsh harvest mouse. The Bay also offers a wide range of recreational opportunities, including kayaking, sailing, birdwatching, and waterfront trails, making it a vital natural and cultural resource that connects communities to the region’s environmental heritage while promoting outdoor access and stewardship.

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The Foster City Lagoon (left and middle) and the San Franscico Bay are important recreational assets in the community.

Trails
Wrapping around the perimeter of Foster City’s waterfront edge is the Levee Pedway. This multi-use pathway is a segment of the San Francisco Bay Trail, and serves as a recreational asset for people walking, jogging, and biking. The trail runs past several parks and open spaces while also providing a continuous path without requiring on-street travel. In addition to the Levee Pedway, neighborhood trails provide local connections throughout Foster City. The Levee Pedway and other trails in Foster City are managed by the City’s Parks and Recreation Department, which oversees maintenance and improvements to support safe, accessible routes for walking, biking, and recreation.

The Levee Pedway (left and middle) is a heavily-used regional route that is supported by the City’s local neighborhood trails (right, source: Google Streetview).

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Table 1 Parks and Open Space Inventory
Park Number Acres Major Amenities
Community Parks 4 64.7
Boothbay 11.2 Playground, Ballfield, Basketball Court, Soccer/Multipurpose Field, Tennis Courts, Volleyball Court, Restroom, Picnic Shelter
Edgewater 8.5 Playground, Ballfield, Basketball Court, Soccer/Multipurpose Field, Tennis Courts, Restroom, Picnic Shelter
Leo J Ryan 20.7 Basketball Court, Pickleball Courts, Bocce Ball Courts, Tennis Courts, Beach, Boat Launch
Sea Cloud 24 Playground, Ballfields, Soccer/Multipurpose Fields, Restroom, Picnic Shelter
Neighborhood Parks 10 33.7
Catamaran 5.9 Playground, Basketball Court, Soccer/Multipurpose Field, Tennis Court, Volleyball Courts, Restroom
Erckenbrack 3.5 Playground, Restroom, Beach
Farragut 3.9 Playground, Restroom
Gull 3.1 Playground, Restroom, Beach
Kildeer 2.4 Playground
Marlin 3.1 Playground, Restroom, Beach
Port Royal 4.0 Playground, Basketball Court, Soccer/Multipurpose Field, Restroom, Parking Lot
Shad 2.1 Playground, Basketball Court, Restroom
Shorebird 3.5 Restroom
Sunfish 2.4 Playground, Basketball Court
Mini Parks 8 7.5
Arcturus 0.8 Playground
Gateshead 0.7 None
Ketch 1.6 Playground, Basketball Court
Leo 0.1 None
Pompano 0.5 None
Turnstone 1.5 Playground, Basketball Court
Town Center Park* 1.1 None
Pilgrim Triton* 1.2 Playground, Picnic Area
Special Use Parks 3 7.7
Bridgeview 3.2 Restroom, Parking Lot
Baywinds 1.3 Restroom, Shower
Boat/Dog 3.2 Restroom, Boat Launch, Dog Park, Parking Lot Subtotal, Parks 25 113.6
Open Space

63 Publicly Accessible Open Space

22 Restricted Access Open Space

41 Lagoon

218

*Pilgrim Triton and Town Center Park are private parks, but are publicly accessible.

Source: City of Foster City 2025.

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Figure 3 Foster City Parks & Open Spaces

Source: City of Foster City, County of San Mateo Open Data portal, 2024.

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Park Access
As shown in Figure 4, all of Foster City’s residential neighborhoods are within a 10-minute walk of a park, an aspirational standard that many cities struggle to achieve. While there are portions of the City that are beyond a 10-minute walk from a park, these are primarily employment areas.

Demographic patterns offer insight into how park access and recreational resources can best serve the community. In central Foster City, particularly along the Foster City Boulevard corridor, a larger population of older adults (65 and over) presents an opportunity to enhance amenities and programs that support seniors. Youth, by contrast, are more evenly spread throughout the city, although central neighborhoods overall tend to have the highest population density. Park access is generally well- distributed across all racial and income groups. While Foster City’s population is predominantly Asian and/or White, there are no distinct clusters of culturally specific communities that would require targeted outreach or specialized facilities.

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Figure 4 Foster City Park Walksheds

Source: City of Foster City, County of San Mateo Open Data portal, 2024.

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As Foster City grows, the Parks and Open Space Element also recommends establishing an appropriate LOS balances future housing and community preference.

Table 2 Park Acreage Level of Service
City Acres
Publicly
Accessible
Private Acres Total Acres
Current Level of
Service (LOS)
(acres/1000
residents)
Local Average
LOS1 (acres/1000
residents)
Parks 110.6 2.3 113.6 3.2 2.8
Open Space 22.0 0 22.0 0.6 NA
Grand Total 132.6 2.3 135.6 3.8 NA
Recreation Amenities
Table 3 summarizes the inventory of recreation amenities in Foster City’s parks, indicates existing level of service for these amenities, and establishes recreation amenity standards based on local and national trends, as well as Foster City’s unique needs. Foster City provides a high level of service for most major recreational amenities, particularly multi-use fields, tennis courts, basketball courts, and playgrounds. By 2040, additional amenities needed to meet projected demand include at least four pickleball courts, one volleyball court, and four reservable picnic shelters. This analysis focuses on traditional park amenities commonly tracked by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). However, it does not capture other important community needs, such as trails, shade trees, walking paths within parks, community gardens, and more, which were highlighted through community engagement (see Engagement Results for Parks and Open Space).

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Table 3 Park Recreation Amenity Level of Service
Amenity Inventory
Current LOS
(pop. per
amenity)
Local
Average
LOS 1
(pop. per
amenity)
National
Average
LOS
(pop. per
amenity) 2
Priority
Investment
Rating
(PIR)3
LOS
Standard
(pop. per
amenity)
2040
Additional
Amenities
Needed
Diamond Field 10 3,500 4,878 3,007 Low 4,000 0
Soccer
Multipurpose
Field
12 2,917 8,212 3,333 Low 4,000 0
Basketball Court 8 4,376 7,294 7,501 Low 7,000 0
Tennis Court 13 2,693 6,151 5,461 Medium 4,000 0
Pickleball Court 6 5,834 9,124 7,737 Medium 4,000 4
Bocce Ball Court 4 8,751 N/A N/A Low 9,000 0
Volleyball Court 2 17,502 N/A 14,280 Medium 15,000 1
Dog Park 1 35,004 31,087 27,508 Medium 30,000 0
Playgrounds 15 2,334 3,973 3,105 Low 3,500 0
Reservable Picnic
Tables
3 11,668 6,572 N/A Medium/
High
6,000 4
1 Average level of service for comparable Bay Area communities (Belmont, Burlingame, Menlo Park, Millbrae, San Bruno, San Carlos, San Mateo, South San Francisco). Source: Parks Master Plan Benchmark Analysis. 2 For agencies serving communities of between 20,000 and 49,999 residents. Source: National Recreation and Park Association, 2024. 3 Priority Investment Rating is an index score based on residents’ level of unmet need and level of importance for each amenity. Source:

Parks Master Plan Community Survey, 2024
Park Use
A park usage analysis was also conducted based on data from Placer.ai and revealed how amenities and user demographics influence visitation patterns, offering insights that can guide future planning, investment, and improvements in Foster City’s parks.1
Catering to Residents and Visitors
Foster City parks primarily cater to residents. However, parks like Baywinds Park and Leo J. Ryan Park attract significant non-resident visitation and have the potential for cost recovery opportunities through user fees, equipment rentals, or other strategies. Other parks with desirable recreation amenities, like Sea Cloud, may also have potential to be leveraged for more cost recovery.

Extending Use
Lighting and shade play a role in shaping park usage patterns, both seasonally and throughout the day.

Enhanced lighting can extend usability into evening hours while being designed to not disturb surrounding residential areas. Adding shade trees and structures could also improve comfort and attract

1 PlacerAI is an analytics platform that leverages anonymous mobile location data to analyze how people move through and interact with different spaces.

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more users during peak sunlight. These upgrades could also promote greater year-round accessibility and enjoyment of parks.

Understanding Park Users
Foster City’s parks should reflect the diversity of the community and the varying ways residents engage with outdoor spaces. Young adults, Hispanic/Latino families, and households with lower to moderate incomes tend to use parks frequently, while seniors, middle-aged adults, and Asian residents, who make up the city’s largest demographic group, appear less represented in park use.2 These patterns point to opportunities to broaden the appeal of Foster City’s parks by ensuring amenities remain affordable and accessible, offering culturally inclusive programs, improving language access, and enhancing park features that meet the needs of all residents.

Park Site Assessment

Foster City Parks are safe, well -maintained and have diverse recreational amenities , though key challenges include Geese habitation and lack of comfort amenities.

Foster City parks were evaluated for access, safety, functionality, and condition. Each park was considered from the perspective of strengths and areas for improvement. Stunning waterfront views at Leo J. Ryan Park and the variety of diverse activities at Sea Cloud Park make those parks attractive destinations for local and regional community members. The park system also faces challenges, including geese droppings particularly at parks with access to the lagoon, and a lack of signage and pathways at parks like Edgewater and Pompano parks. Strengths and challenges are summarized below.

2 It should be noted that visitor demographic data is inferred based on a visitor’s census block group, providing insights into the demographic composition of neighborhoods rather than the specific traits of individual users.

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Opportunity Sites
Foster City is a nearly built-out community with a well-distributed park system and relatively limited undeveloped open space areas. Foster City’s greatest opportunities to expand recreation opportunities lie in enhancing existing parks and facilities. However, two key sites, Sea Cloud II and the Baywinds area, present unique opportunities to introduce new public open spaces that may both provide additional recreational value and also support multiple ecological and resiliency benefits.

Sea Cloud II Site
Adjacent to Sea Cloud Park lies a 21-acre, City-owned open space known as Sea Cloud II, shown in Figure 5. Designated by the Army Corps of Engineers as a dredge material deposit site in 2018, the area has since evolved into a seasonal retention basin and wetland, supporting a mix of natural and invasive vegetation. In recent years, protected bird species have been observed nesting on-site, highlighting the ecological significance of the area and the importance of thoughtful stewardship. Currently fenced off and inaccessible to the public, the site also lacks direct connectivity to Sea Cloud Park and the Bay Trail.

With further study, community visioning, and targeted improvements, it has the potential to become a valuable ecological resource and a recreation asset.

Due to the potential presence of wetland and sensitive habitat areas on portions of the site, the scope of potential improvements is not yet fully known. Additional environmental analysis and close coordination with State and regional regulatory agencies will be necessary to clarify the site’s constraints and opportunities. With that understanding, the City could develop a long-term vision that protects and enhances the site's natural features while improving connectivity to the Bay Trail and potentially introducing recreational amenities.

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Figure 5 Sea Cloud II Site Opportunities

Inspirational images of habitat restoration and passive recreation including elevated boardwalk, wildlife viewing areas, and docks.

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Baywinds Park
At just 1.3 acres, Baywinds Park is one of Foster City’s smallest parks, tucked into the northwestern edge of the city along the Bay. The park is popular for windsurfing and attracts people from around the region for that activity. However, the surrounding properties include extensive wetlands, open space, and recreational assets, most notably the 25-acre Mariners Point Golf Center and Driving Range and approximately 25 acres of Caltrans-owned undeveloped land including wetlands. Together, these sites (shown in Figure 6) present a unique opportunity to create a more integrated, nature-focused recreation destination that could support habitat restoration, wildlife viewing, environmental education, picnicking, and other passive uses.

The Mariners Point Golf Center is a valued recreational amenity, currently leased by the City and the Estero Municipal Improvement District (EMID) to a private operator. While the long-term vision for the site has not yet been determined, its future use could significantly influence the area’s recreational potential. If the golf course remains indefinitely, improvements could enhance connectivity with Baywinds Park and surrounding open space. If the site is ever repurposed, there may be an opportunity to expand parkland, restore natural habitat, or introduce other recreational facilities.

The Caltrans-owned parcels also represent a strategic opportunity. The City may pursue partnerships or acquisition opportunities that would support site improvements, habitat restoration, and expanded public access.

Figure 6 Baywinds Park Opportunities

Inspirational images of habitat restoration and passive recreation, including a board walk, nature center, and relaxation areas.

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Engagement Results for Parks & Open Space
During the planning process, hundreds of residents shared their insights on the parks and open space system through a variety of engagement opportunities, including workshops, pop-up events, surveys, focus groups, and more. Key findings from these activities are summarized below.

Parks Master Plan Community Survey
A strong indicator of community preferences came from the Parks Master Plan Community Survey, conducted by ETC Institute in winter 2024–2025 through a mailed and online questionnaire sent to a random sample of Foster City households. With over 300 participants and a 95 percent confidence level, the survey results are considered reflective of the city’s population. The survey found that 85 percent of residents are satisfied or very satisfied with Foster City’s parks and recreation system—well above the national average of 62 percent. To identify resident priorities for recreation amenities and programming, ETC used its Priority Investment Rating (PIR) tool, which equally weighs the importance of a facility and the level of unmet need, as reported by survey respondents. As shown in Figure 7, top priorities identified include multi-use trails, a recreation center, indoor fitness equipment, a swimming pool, beaches, trees and shade, and walking trails in parks.

Figure 7 Foster City Park Amenity Priorities

Source: ETC Institute, 2025.

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Community Engagement Takeaways
Hundreds of engaged residents have shed light on the aspects of the parks and recreation system that should be improved, added, or prioritized. Key themes emerged from the outreach and engagement process:

Trails & Connectivity

• Trails are highly valued, and residents greatly appreciate the Levee Pedway. • Residents desire additional trails connecting neighborhoods, parks, and the Levee Pedway.
• Trail improvements are needed, including increased lighting, signage, and safety.

Beaches & Water Quality

• Issues with water quality and beach conditions deter recreational use. • There are opportunities to activate the water through additional amenities, access points, and water-related programming.
• Community members have strong interest in activating the Lagoon’s edges, especially through outdoor dining.

New Park Experiences

• Foster City has a great park system, with fantastic active recreation facilities. • Residents would welcome new features to further activate and increase identity through new and unique experiences.
• There is demand for more passive spaces, such as walking paths, picnic areas, beaches, and natural open spaces.

Park Comfort

• Park users would benefit from more comfortable places to relax and walk through improved shade, pathways, and seating.
• Some highly visited parks need improved or expanded restrooms.

Indoor Recreation & Swimming

• Residents share a desire for fitness, senior, arts, and cultural programs, reinforcing the need for the new Community Center.
• Indoor fitness equipment and a swimming pool are community needs that are so far unmet with current plans.
• School joint-use agreements are essential for the community’s access to gymnasiums.

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Programming and Events
Programming and events are key elements of park facilities and open spaces in Foster City. Participation is reinforced by the settings themselves: waterfront views at Leo Ryan, shaded lawns at Boothbay, and playgrounds near picnic areas all create inviting environments for both organized programs and casual community use. The City offers a variety of programs and services that fall into the following core program areas:
• Afterschool Programs: Provide programming on elementary school campuses on early dismissal days.
• Athletics: Foster healthy lifestyles and promoting lifelong wellness throughout the community. • Camps: Full-day camps for children ages 4 to 13.
• Community Events: Engage Foster City residents and visitors with free to low-cost events. • Lifelong Learning and Wellness: Various classes offered year-round that provide opportunities for community engagement.
• Reservations and Rentals: Rentable rooms and park spaces that accommodate different types of events, meetings and parties.

Table 4 provides a summary of the various recreational programs offered to different age groups within Foster City.

Table 4 Ages Served by Recreational Core Program Area
Ages Served
Core Program Area
Preschool
(5 and under)
Elementary
(6-12)
Teens
(13-17)
Young
Adult
(18-34)
Adult
(35-54)
Active Adult
(55-64)
Senior
(65+)
Afterschool
Enrichment Program
X
Athletics X X X X X X X
Community Events X X X X X X X
Facility & Park Rentals X X X X
Youth & Adult Contract
Classes & Specialty
Camps

X X X X X X
Teen Afterschool
Program
X
Youth & Teen Camps X X X
Source: Foster City Parks Master Plan Program and Services Assessment, PROS Consulting, 2025.

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Engagement Results on Programming
The Parks Master Plan Community Survey sheds light on community interests and needs for programming and events:
• 46 percent of residents have participated in Foster City programs in the past 12 months, significantly more than the national average of 36 percent. By weighing the importance of a program and the level of unmet need, fitness/wellness programs, community special events, outdoor recreation, programs for seniors, cultural enrichment programs, visual arts/crafts programs, performing arts programs, and pickleball lessons and leagues emerged as top priorities for residents (see Figure 8). • The biggest barrier to program participation was a lack of awareness, with 27 percent of residents indicating they did not know what was being offered. Other top barriers included inconvenient program times (23 percent) and being too busy or not interested in participating (15 percent).

Figure 8 Program and Event Priorities from the Statistically Valid Community Survey

Source: ETC Institute, 2025.

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Operations and Maintenance
Maintenance is needed for many parks, facilities, and amenities to promote functionality, safety, and aesthetic appeal for Foster City residents.

Engagement Results on Maintenance
The community engagement process surfaced several key insights related to park operations and maintenance. Feedback from the survey and open-ended comments highlighted both areas of satisfaction and specific concerns that can help guide future improvements. • Physical Condition Generally Rated Well, But Gaps Remain.

While 90 percent of residents rated park conditions as “excellent” or “good,” 9 percent rated them as only “fair” or “poor,” signaling pockets of maintenance issues that may be addressed through targeted interventions.
• Restroom and Trail Maintenance Need Greater Emphasis.

An Importance-Satisfaction (I-S) analysis identified paved path/trails, restrooms, and waterways/beaches as the top two priorities for maintenance. These areas had high importance but relatively lower satisfaction scores, indicating strong community demand for better upkeep. • Cleanliness and Environmental Conditions Are Concerns.

Although not always formally listed, geese droppings were repeatedly mentioned in open-ended comments as a major deterrent to park use, suggesting the need for more proactive sanitation and environmental management as part of routine maintenance.

Maintenance Assessment
A Park Maintenance and Operations Assessment was conducted as part of the Foster City Parks Master Plan, analyzing current maintenance practices, staffing levels, service standards, and operational challenges across the city’s park system. The assessment evaluated how the City maintains its parks and open spaces and reviewed key functions such as turf management, irrigation, equipment upkeep, and trail maintenance.

Key challenges that came out of this assessment included:
• Lack of a Formal Maintenance Management Plan
While some standards exist, the City does not have a fully documented plan tracking work performance and outcomes by park.
• No GIS-Based Asset Management System
The absence of such a system limits the City’s ability to track maintenance needs, costs, and asset lifecycles efficiently.
• Underfunding of Maintenance Operations
Annual park maintenance funding falls short compared to the level needed for optimal service. • Well-Equipped but Needs Continued Investment
The City currently has the necessary vehicles and equipment but must reinvest as the system grows to maintain service levels.

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Open Space Value for Natural Resources
Foster City’s open space network presents several meaningful opportunities for enhancing natural habitat and wildlife compatibility, including targeted rewilding that can enhance ecological integrity and restore natural processes across the urban landscape. Guided by the provisions of SB 1425, the City can pursue strategies that preserve, enhance, and expand habitat areas within and adjacent to developed zones. The City’s open spaces are identified in Figure 9, below.

Belmont Slough, which forms a natural boundary between Foster City and Redwood Shores, is a prime opportunity area for rewilding. The surrounding wetlands provide vital habitat for shorebirds and native plant communities such as cordgrass and pickleweed. With portions of the shoreline under the management of the CDFW and others privately owned, there are opportunities for both targeted and coordinated restoration efforts such as marshland expansion, the creation of buffer zones using native vegetation, and formal habitat restoration plans that involve multiple local and regional agencies and funding sources.

Seal Slough, also known as Marina Lagoon, represents another opportunity to support habitat connectivity and ecological health. While much of the slough is managed by the City of San Mateo, Foster City shares responsibility for adjacent areas and could support and collaborate on restoration efforts. Strategies may include riparian plantings, removal of invasive species, and the establishment of small-scale wildlife corridors.

Beyond these tidal and riparian corridors, Foster City’s urban parks and landscaped areas offer potential for small-scale rewilding. Parks such as Boothbay and Port Royal could be enhanced by replacing portions of ornamental lawns with native, drought-tolerant plants, introducing wildflower meadows, or establishing gardens focused on native species. Even highly engineered shoreline areas could benefit from nature-based enhancements, such as vegetated buffer strips and boardwalks that improve both habitat quality and public engagement with natural spaces. For additional information and policies on habitat and wildlife management and connectivity, please see the Conservation Element.

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Figure 9 Publicly Accessible Open Space

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Climate Resiliency
Foster City’s open spaces also play a critical role in advancing the City’s climate resiliency goals by serving as buffers against climate-related hazards and offering natural systems that help moderate environmental stressors. Coastal wetlands and shoreline open spaces, such as those near Belmont Slough and the Bay Trail, absorb floodwaters, reduce wave energy, and space for marsh migration and living-shoreline measures needed to accommodate sea level rise over time.

Mapping of sea level rise scenarios illustrates that while Foster City’s upgraded levee provides critical protection against current coastal hazards, the community remains vulnerable to future conditions driven by climate change. Figure 10 shows a mid-century scenario of approximately 0.8 feet of SLR (about the increase expected during typical daily high tides by 2050, absent any storms). Under this scenario, portions of the shoreline, including parks, trails, and some low-lying residential areas (such as those along Beach Park Boulevard and the fringes of the central lagoon) could experience more frequent tidal flooding. Vulnerability increases further when considering the added impact of severe coastal storms or King Tide events on top of elevated sea levels. Figure 11 illustrates Foster City’s present-day 100-year storm surge scenario, which in combination with sea level rise could exceed the capacity of existing flood protection. Such an event could affect residential neighborhoods, commercial areas, critical infrastructure, and transportation routes, including portions of Highway 101.

Preserving, enhancing, and restoring these areas with native vegetation and habitat restoration strengthens their ability to sequester and store carbon, filter pollutants, and reduce the impacts of storm surges on adjacent neighborhoods and critical infrastructure. Open spaces also bolster ecological resilience by preserving habitat for habitat corridors that allow species to migrate and adapt to rising temperatures and shifting ecosystems, countering regional habitat fragmentation in line with AB 1889.

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Figure 10 Sea Level Rise Inundation (0.8 feet)

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Figure 11 Present-Day (No Sea Level Rise) 100-Year Storm Inundation Risk

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Chapter 5: Parks and Open Space Element 29
Another emerging concern is groundwater rise. As sea level rises, the water table in Foster City will rise as well, since the city is built on permeable fill and former marsh and the water table will rise as sea level rises. Rising groundwater can lead to flooding from below, even if surface levees hold back the Bay from direct coastal inundation. Figure 12 displays a groundwater rise hazard map for Foster City, highlighting areas particularly susceptible to groundwater rise, particularly the shoreline zones and lands around the lagoon. In these areas, the water table will likely eventually breach the surface or infiltrate underground infrastructure, causing flooding of housing foundations, road base materials, or within storm sewers. Groundwater rise could also induce soil instability or mobilize pollutants in soils.

To strengthen climate resilience and meet SB 1425 goals, Foster City should implement nature-based strategies, such as permeable surfaces, expanded tree canopy, and green stormwater infrastructure, to reduce heat, retain stormwater, and recharge shallow groundwater. For example, native plantings in shoreline parks and undeveloped parcels can strengthen soil stability, support pollinator populations, and reduce the need for irrigation. Meadow restoration and the creation of microhabitats within urban green spaces offer additional benefits by moderating temperatures and supporting localized ecosystems. As climate pressures intensify, integrating open space into the City’s adaptation strategy is vital for ecological function and for protecting the public health and safety of residents. These spaces offer cooler environments during heat waves, areas for passive stormwater retention, and opportunities for environmental education that can foster long-term stewardship and community resilience.

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Background

Chapter 5: Parks and Open Space Element 30
Figure 12 Present Day (No Sea Level Rise) Groundwater Hazard

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Goals and Policies

Chapter 5: Parks and Open Space Element 31
Goals and Policies
Parks and Recreation System
Goal POS-1 Foster City’s parks and recreation system is vibrant, comfortable and responsive.

Policy POS 1.1 Vibrant and Unique Parks. Aim for all Foster City parks to be vibrant and have a unique identity, incorporating in-demand and innovative features for evening activation.

Policy POS 1.2 Comfortable Parks. Support park comfort and appeal by adding or improving key features such as seating, lighting, shade, and restrooms.

Policy POS 1.3 Community Needs. Strive to make the parks and recreation system responsive to the recreation needs identified in the Parks Master Plan and through continued engagement.

Goal POS-2 Foster City has a connected and accessible parks and recreation system.

Policy POS 2.1 Connected Trail System. Create a citywide network of paths and trails for walking and biking that is safe and comfortable.

Policy POS 2.2 Navigating Parks. Promote easy access to and navigation within the City’s parks, lagoon, and trails by installing wayfinding signage and creating plans for multi-modal access.

Policy POS 2.3 Accessible & Inclusive. Promote accessibility and inclusivity in park facilities and programs through universal design and diverse, community-responsive activities.

Goal POS-3 The Foster City Lagoon is active and well-integrated with its surroundings.

Policy POS 3.1 Lagoon Access & Amenities. Provide places and amenities to view, enjoy and access the Lagoon.

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Goals and Policies

Chapter 5: Parks and Open Space Element 32
Policy POS 3.2 Waterfront Activation. Increase Lagoon activation through programming and events, improved water quality, and increased water-front activity.

Programming and Events
Goal POS-4 Foster City has lively and inclusive events and programs.

Policy POS 4.1 Programming. Invest in high priority programs and services that bring residents together, serve all age groups, and are responsive to community needs and desires.

Policy POS 4.2 Community Events. Strengthen community events in Foster City by improving and expanding offerings and collaborating with other recreation providers.

Operations and Maintenance
Goal POS-5 Operational efficiency and economic feasibility are core to park and recreation management in Foster City.

Policy POS 5.1 High Quality Maintenance. Continue to support high-quality park and facility maintenance by focusing on key maintenance priorities and investing in maintenance staff, tools, and equipment.

Policy POS 5.2 Funding Strategy. Develop and implement a funding strategy to realize the City’s vision for its parks and recreation system.

Policy POS 5.3 Plan and Engage Proactively. Promote long-term success through regular planning, transparent reporting, and ongoing community engagement.

Open Space Value for Natural Resources
Goal POS-6 Foster City’s parks and open spaces support native biodiversity, climate resilience, and ecological function through targeted rewilding, habitat restoration, and nature-based solutions.

Policy POS 6.1 Urban Rewilding. Implement urban rewilding projects to reintroduce natural processes, restore natural ecosystems, and promote biodiversity.

Policy POS 6.2 Habitat Linkages. Prioritize rewilding in areas that enhance or create new habitat linkages and corridors for wildlife movement.) Policy POS 6.3 Resilient Landscaping. Prioritize the use of native, drought-tolerant, and climate-resilient vegetation in existing parks and landscaped open

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Goals and Policies

Chapter 5: Parks and Open Space Element 33
spaces to enhance habitat value, reduce water demand, and support pollinators.

Policy POS 6.4 Ecologically Beneficial Features. Integrate ecologically beneficial features, such as pollinator gardens, wildflower meadows, bioswales, and native plant corridors, into public parks, medians, and along trail networks.

Policy POS 6.5 Community Participation. Encourage inclusive community participation in habitat restoration through stewardship programs, youth engagement, and interpretive signage in rewilded open spaces.

Climate Resiliency
Goal POS-7 Foster City’s open space network is adaptively managed to strengthen resilience to climate change impacts, including sea level rise, extreme heat, and flood risk.

Policy POS 7.1 Multi-benefit Prioritization. Prioritize the preservation and restoration of undeveloped open spaces and natural areas that provide multi-benefit climate services, including flood protection, carbon sequestration, heat reduction, and habitat connectivity, particularly in underserved areas.

Policy POS 7.2 Climate Data Integration. Integrate future climate scenarios, such as sea level rise, groundwater rise, and extreme heat, into open space design, planning, and management decisions to support ecological resilience, adaptive capacity, and equitable public access.

Policy POS 7.3 Green Streets. Encourage the use of “green streets” that incorporate native vegetation, permeable surfaces, and stormwater features to enhance habitat and reduce runoff.

Policy POS 7.4 Green Infrastructure. Support the development of rooftop gardens, vertical greenery, and other integrated green infrastructure that enhances biodiversity and reduces energy use.

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Implementation Programs

Chapter 5: Parks and Open Space Element 34
Implementation Programs
Number Program Lead Department
Supporting
Department(s) Timeframe1
Implements
Policy(ies)
POS-a Enhance park activation and identity by reprogramming underutilized park spaces with in-demand or innovative park amenities/experiences, referencing the park-specific improvements identified in the Parks Master Plan.

Parks and Recreation Ongoing POS-1.1
POS-b As part of future park improvement and maintenance projects, support the expansion of passive amenities such as walking trails, picnic areas, and natural open spaces.

Parks and Recreation Public Works Ongoing POS-1.1
POS-c As part of future park improvement and maintenance projects, seek opportunities to increase shade in parks by planting trees and/or constructing shade structures, particularly at playgrounds and picnic areas.

Parks and Recreation Public Works Ongoing POS-1.2
POS-d Add or improve seating, lighting, water fountains/refill stations, trash receptacles, restrooms, and bike racks to all parks where needed.

Parks and Recreation Public Works Long-term POS-1.2
POS-e Explore opportunities to expand access to indoor recreation and swimming facilities by pursuing or strengthening partnerships with San Mateo-Foster City School District and private recreation providers.

Parks and Recreation Community
Development
Ongoing POS-1.3
POS-f As Foster City grows, the City will continue to maintain the existing developed parkland of 113.6 acres in Foster City.

Parks and Recreation Community
Development
Long-term POS-1.3
POS-g Determine an appropriate LOS that balances future housing and community preference and make necessary edits to Chapter 16.36 Parks and Recreation Facilities of Foster City Municipal Code.

Parks and Recreation Community
Development
Mid-term POS-1.3
POS-h Conduct a study of open space opportunity areas to assess their environmental constraints and natural assets. Use these insights to create a master plan that balances ecological restoration with expanded recreational access and amenities.

Parks and Recreation Community
Development
Short-term POS-1.3
POS-i Explore opportunities for creating a network of paths and trails that connect existing city parks, trails, and community destinations. Work cross- departmentally to implement the Bike Pedestrian Master Plan 2026.

Public Works Community
Development/Parks
and Recreation
Long-term POS-2.1
POS-j Consider additional improvements to the Levee Pedway, including distance markers, signage, and lighting, to create comfortable conditions for all trail users.

Public Works

Parks and
Recreation/Commu
nity Development
Long-term POS-2.1

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Implementation Programs

Chapter 5: Parks and Open Space Element 35
Number Program Lead Department
Supporting
Department(s) Timeframe1
Implements
Policy(ies)
POS-k Explore strategies for establishing clear and consistent signage across the park and recreation system.

Parks and Recreation Long-term POS-2.2
POS-l Enhance ADA-compliant access at all parks. Parks and Recreation Public Works Long-term POS-2.3 POS-m Promote cross-cultural and multi-generational programming and facilities, recognizing the full diversity of Foster City residents.

Parks and Recreation Ongoing POS-2.3
POS-n Explore opportunities to enhance the integration of the design of lagoon- adjacent parks with the lagoon, providing places to view, enjoy, and access the water, including boat docking opportunities.

Parks and Recreation Long-term POS-3.1
POS-o Collaborate across departments to continue to implement the Lagoon Water Quality Management Plan and Canada Goose Population Management Plan to improve cleanliness of lagoon-adjacent parks and lagoon water quality.

Public Works Parks and
Recreation
Mid-term POS-3.2
POS-p Support land use regulatory changes to encourage public access and activation along the lagoon as part of future development.

Community
Development
Parks and
Recreation
Mid-term POS-3.2
POS-q Continue to support the use of the lagoon for community events such as regattas, performances, etc.

Parks and Recreation Community
Development
Ongoing POS-3.2
POS-r Explore opportunities to activate recreational use of the lagoon. Parks and Recreation Mid-term POS-3.2 POS-s Pursue opportunities to expand high-demand recreational programs/events that serve residents of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.

Parks and Recreation Mid-term POS-4.1
POS-t Continue to support and expand special events that activate community parks in all seasons.

Parks and Recreation Community
Development
Ongoing POS-4.2
POS-u Complement and connect with other recreation providers and event sponsors, developing partnerships when advantageous.

Parks and Recreation Ongoing POS-4.2
POS-v Encourage the dedication of staff resources to help identify and secure funding that supports park improvements, maintenance, and recreation programming and events.

Parks and Recreation Ongoing POS-5.3
POS-w Continue to foster the provision of high-quality parks and recreation services through the strategic allocation of funds for recreation programming, park/facility maintenance, and lifecycle improvements to maintain consistent financial support for meeting accepted service levels.

Parks and Recreation Ongoing POS-5.3
POS-x Promote the use of consistent community engagement practices, such as surveys, town halls, and focus groups, to continue to gather input on evolving recreational needs and preferences.

Parks and Recreation Communications Ongoing POS-5.4

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Implementation Programs

Chapter 5: Parks and Open Space Element 36
Number Program Lead Department
Supporting
Department(s) Timeframe1
Implements
Policy(ies)
POS-y Support the identification of at least one City park or trail-adjacent open space for pilot naturalization projects that include, but are not limited to, replacement of turf or ornamental plantings with native vegetation.

Monitor for habitat use, water savings, and community reception.

Parks and Recreation Mid-term POS-6.1, POS-

6.3 POS-z Explore opportunities to map and identify areas within the City’s parks and open spaces to naturalize with the aim of connecting natural areas with rewilded areas. Prioritize rewilding efforts in places where the clearest linkages for species movement between areas.

Parks and Recreation Community
Development
Long-term POS-6.2
POS-aa Seek opportunities to host seasonal events in collaboration with local schools, nonprofits, or native plant societies to involve residents in habitat restoration activities and promote awareness of urban ecology.

Parks and Recreation Communications Bi-Annual POS-6.4
POS-bb Actively seek State and federal funding opportunities that support land conservation, shoreline resilience, or wetland restoration, and coordinate with regional agencies for joint applications.

Parks and Recreation Community
Development/City
Manager’s Office
Ongoing POS-7.1, POS-

7.2 POS-cc Pursue the development of a climate-resilient open space web viewer that overlays sea level rise projections, habitat corridors, and flood-prone areas and use as a tool for determining the highest impact naturalization and resilience-focused projects to prioritize.

Community
Development
City Manager’s
Office
Long-term POS-7.2
1 Timeframes are categorized as short-term (1-5 years), mid-term (6-10 years), and long-term (10+ years). Programs that are on an ongoing or annual basis are identified as such.

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EXHIBIT B
Parks and Open Space Element Legislative Consistency Checklist Government Code
Section
Description of
Requirement
Consistency
Status Compliance Notes
Gov. Code § 65563 The Open Space Element
must provide a long-range
and comprehensive plan
for the preservation and
conservation of open
space lands.

Addressed The Element provides a
comprehensive, long-range framework
for parks and open space, establishing
goals, policies, and implementation
programs that ensure ongoing
stewardship, programming, and climate
resilience.

Gov. Code §65560(h)(1) The Open Space Element
must designate and
conserve open space for
the preservation of natural
resources such as habitat,
scientific study areas,
rivers and streams, and
watersheds.

Addressed Goals POS-6 and POS-7 commit to
habitat restoration, urban rewilding,
protection of watershed lands, and
integrating scientific/ecological study
opportunities. Implementation programs
(POS-x, POS-y, POS-aa) specifically
advance rewilding, habitat corridors,
and shoreline resilience.

Gov. Code §65560(h)
(2)
The Open Space Element
must identify and
conserve open space
lands used for the
managed production of
resources, including
forests, rangelands,
agriculture, groundwater
recharge areas, fisheries,
and minerals.

Partially
Applicable
Foster City does not contain any
managed production resources.

However, the Element addresses
groundwater recharge (POS-7.3, POS-

7.4).

Gov. Code §65560(h)
(3)
The Open Space Element
must provide for open
space dedicated to
outdoor recreation,
including parks, scenic
areas, cultural and historic
sites, trails, and
recreational corridors.

Addressed Recreational access is a central focus
of the Element. Goals POS-1 through
POS-4 and Programs POS-a–POS-s
ensure high-quality parks, recreation
amenities, trail connectivity, cultural and
community events, and scenic shoreline
access.

Gov. Code §65560(h)
(4)
The Open Space Element
must conserve open
space lands needed for
public health and safety,
such as hazard areas,
floodplains, fire-risk areas,
and lands critical to
maintaining water and air
quality.

Addressed The Element addresses sea level rise,
flood hazards, and groundwater rise in
open spaces (POS-7.1–7.4, POS-bb).

The Element describes and includes
policy for the use of open space as a
buffer for climate hazards, improving air
quality, floodwater management, and
reducing heat island effects.

Gov. Code §65560(h)
(5)
The Open Space Element
must account for and
protect open space in
support of the operational
integrity of military
installations.

Not Applicable No military installations or training areas are located in or adjacent to Foster City.

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Government Code
Section
Description of
Requirement
Consistency
Status Compliance Notes
Gov. Code §65560(h)
(6)
The Open Space Element
must include provisions
for conserving open space
that protects tribal cultural
resources, traditional
lands, and places of
significance.

Addressed Foster City does not contain any open
space for the protection of tribal
resources. The Element acknowledges
tribal cultural resources in alignment
with Public Resources Code §5097.9
and §5097.993. Consultation was
conducted consistent with State law.

Gov. Code §65560(h)

Save El Toro Assn. v.

Days (1977)
74 Cal. App. 3d 64, 73
The Open Space Element
must include an inventory
of open space lands
important for the
preservation of natural
resources.

Addressed Background section includes a detailed
inventory of open spaces, including
Belmont Slough, Seal Slough, San
Francisco Bay shoreline, and the
Lagoon, with ecological value
highlighted.

Gov. Code §65562(a) The Open Space Element
must establish policies
that require open space
lands to be conserved
wherever possible.

Addressed Goal POS-6 and related policies
prioritize conservation and rewilding of
open space areas to maintain
ecological value and community
benefits.

Gov. Code §65562(b) The Open Space Element
must be coordinated with
State, regional, and local
open space conservation
plans to ensure
consistency and
effectiveness.

Addressed The Element emphasizes coordination
with OneShoreline, BCDC, ABAG, and
CDFW for shoreline resilience,
ecological restoration, and open space
planning.

Gov. Code §§65564,
65566, 65567, 65910
The Open Space Element
must include an action
program for
implementation, including
acquisition and disposal of
lands, zoning consistency,
subdivision and building
permit review, and
application of open-space
zoning.

Addressed Implementation Programs POS-g, POS-
aa, and POS-bb support acquisition
studies, funding strategies, and zoning
consistency. The Element affirms that
open space land use regulations must
align with the plan.

Gov. Code §65565.5

SB 1425 (2022)
Requires that Open Space
Element updates prioritize
multi-benefit uses of open
space, particularly in
underserved communities.

Plans must include an
action program to improve
equitable access, address
climate resilience (e.g.,
flood mitigation, cooling),
and incorporate rewilding
opportunities.

Addressed The Parks and Open Space Element
incorporates SB 1425 requirements
throughout. Goals POS-6 and POS-7
emphasize rewilding, habitat
restoration, climate resilience, and
multi-benefit open space management.

Policies POS-7.1 and POS-7.2 highlight
equitable access and climate
adaptation. Programs POS-x, POS-y,
POS-aa, and POS-bb commit to
naturalization pilots, mapping habitat
linkages, pursuing funding, and
developing a climate-resilient open
space web viewer.

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RESOLUTION NO. _______

A RESOLUTION OF CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FOSTER CITY REPEALING THE 2003 CONSERVATION ELEMENT AND AMENDING THE GENERAL PLAN BY ADOPTING THE 2025 CONSERVATION ELEMENT AND FINDING THAT THE

ADOPTION OF THE ELEMENT IS EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA

ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO CEQA GUIDELINES 15061(B)(3)

CITY OF FOSTER CITY
WHEREAS, a general plan contains the community vision for future growth, California law also requires each general plan to address the mandated elements listed in Government Code section 65302; and
WHEREAS, the mandatory elements for all jurisdictions are Land Use, Circulation, Housing, Conservation, Open Space, Noise, and Safety; and WHEREAS, Foster City’s Conservation Element was last adopted in May 2003 and reprinted as a separate element in September 2009; and WHEREAS, the State Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation, LCI (previously known as the Office of Planning and Research or OPR) recommends comprehensively updating a General Plan every 10-15 years to reflect changes in community values, economic conditions, and emerging issues and challenges; and WHEREAS, Senate Bill (SB) 1425 requires that the Open Space Element be updated by January 1, 2026, with expanded requirements including consideration of climate resilience in coordination with the Safety Element; and WHEREAS, SB 1425 also explicitly focuses on "rewilding opportunities," or creating and preserving open space networks to support biological and recreational uses; and
WHEREAS, Assembly Bill (AB) 1889 requires the General Plan Conservation Element to consider the effect of development within the jurisdiction on the movement of wildlife and habitat connectivity; and
WHEREAS, AB 1889 requires the Conservation Element, upon the next update of one or more elements on or after January 1, 2028, to, among other things, identify and analyze connectivity areas, permeability, and natural landscape areas within the jurisdiction, identify and analyze existing or planned wildlife passage features, and consider the impacts of development and the barriers caused by development to wildlife, as defined, and habitat connectivity; and

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WHEREAS, to ensure compliance with SB 1425 and AB 1889 requirements in a timely manner, the City of Foster City began work on updating the two (2) Elements, including the Parks and Open Space Element, and Conservation Element; and WHEREAS, California Government Code Sections 65352 – 65352.4 require that before a legislative body takes action to adopt or substantially amend a general plan, the planning agency shall refer the proposed action to a number of entities or conduct consultations with California Native American tribes that are on the contact list. The City has referred the Conservation Element to all California Native American tribes on the contact list provided by the Native American Heritage Commission; and WHEREAS, no California Native American Tribe has requested consultation; and WHEREAS, the City conducted extensive community outreach, including one (1) joint workshop, two (2) focus groups, two (2) pop-up events, a dedicated webpage, and one (1) community priorities survey and social media, e-news, emails, and notices; and WHEREAS, on August 8, 2025, the City published an administrative draft of the Conservation Element and requested public comment on the draft until September 2, 2025; and
WHEREAS, as provided in Government Code Section 65353, the Planning Commission shall hold at least one (1) public hearing before approving a recommendation on the adoption or amendment of a general plan; and
WHEREAS, as provided in Government Code Section 65354, the Planning Commission shall make a written recommendation on the adoption or amendment of a general plan; and
WHEREAS, on October 2, 2025, the Planning Commission conducted a duly and properly noticed public hearing to take public testimony and consider this Resolution regarding the Conservation Element, reviewed the Element and all pertinent documents and exhibits, staff report and all attachments, and oral and written public comments; and WHEREAS, on October 2, 2025, the Planning Commission Resolution No. P-13- 25 with a majority of the Planning Commission (voted 4-0-0-1 (1-absent)) recommending City Council approval of the Draft 2025 Conservation Element; and WHEREAS, on October 15, 2025, a public hearing notice was published in the newspaper (Foster City Islander) and posted in three public places, and mailed pursuant to California Code Section 65090 for the City Council public hearing; and WHEREAS, the City Council has reviewed and considered the draft 2025 Conservation Element, all written correspondence, verbal testimony, staff reports, and supporting documents and reports prepared.

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NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council hereby finds that, based on substantial evidence in the record:

1. The foregoing recitals are true and correct and are incorporated by reference into this action.

3. The proposed General Plan Amendment complies with, and is required by, applicable State law.

4. The proposed amendments will not be detrimental to the public interest, convenience, and general welfare of the City. The amendments will ensure Foster City’s General Plan is consistent with current state law (including AB 1889 requirements on wildlife movement and habitat connectivity). The updated Element establishes the City’s vision, goals, policies, and implementation programs for conserving and managing natural resources such as biological habitats, air and water quality, energy, cultural and historic resources, and the urban forest. It also integrates climate resilience by addressing issues such as sea level rise, groundwater rise, and extreme heat.

5. The City, as lead agency under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”), has completed analysis, and the 2025 Conservation Element and determined that the Updates are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) based on the “common sense exemption” in CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), which applies if it can be seen with certainty that a project will not have the potential to cause a significant effect on the environment. The Updates involve the adoption of policy documents to establish the City’s vision, goals, policies, and programs for the provisioning and management of natural and recreational areas within the city, as well as the protection of natural and cultural resources. These policy documents, in and of themselves, do not include any proposed projects or development. The Updates do not propose or approve any physical development and will not result in changes to the physical environment, nor will they result in potential environmental impacts. To the extent that the Updates do identify potential future projects or development, those would be analyzed if and when the City approves those projects in accordance with CEQA.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Foster City, therefore, repeals the 2003 Conservation Element and adopts the 2025 Conservation Element as set forth in Exhibit A, incorporated herein by this reference and attached hereto.

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PASSED AND ADOPTED as a Resolution by the City Council of the City of Foster City at the Regular Meeting held on the 3rd day of November 2025, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
__________________________

STACY JIMENEZ, MAYOR
ATTEST:
_____________________________

PRISCILLA SCHAUS, CITY CLERK

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EXHIBIT A
Conservation Element – Final Clean Version

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3 9
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EXHIBIT B
Conservation Element Legislative Consistency Checklist

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Conservation Introduction

Chapter 8: Conservation Element 1
Conservation Introduction

Foster City, 2025.

Purpose
The Conservation Element fulfills the State’s requirements for a Conservation Element and articulates Foster City’s long-term vision for conserving and managing its natural and cultural resources. Within this, it emphasizes environmental sustainability, community well-being, and climate resilience as central to the City’s management of natural resources.

This Element outlines the city’s environmental setting, highlights unique local resources, and establishes goals, policies, and implementation actions to support their protection, restoration, and sustainable use.

It guides stewardship of wildlife movement and connectivity and wildlife habitat, the urban forest, surface and groundwater, and historic, cultural, and tribal resources. It also supports efforts to improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in alignment with state mandates.

This Element is organized into four primary sections: Requirements, Background, Goals and Policies, and Implementation Programs. The Requirements section outlines legal requirements for the content of this element. The Background section provides existing conditions and key conservation considerations for Foster City. The Goals and Policies section defines the City’s goals and policy direction for the conservation of natural resources. The Implementation Programs section outlines specific actions the City will take to achieve the vision set by the Goals and Policies.

Clarification of Terminology
The Conservation Element and the Parks and Open Space Element both address land and resource stewardship in Foster City, but each with a distinct purpose and emphasis:

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Conservation Introduction

Chapter 8: Conservation Element 2

Figure 1 identifies the parks and open spaces within Foster City. Figure 2 identifies protection responsibilities for each type of park, open space, and conservation area.

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Conservation Introduction

Chapter 8: Conservation Element 3
Figure 1 Parks and Open Spaces

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Conservation Introduction

Chapter 8: Conservation Element 4
Figure 2 Protected Areas

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Conservation Introduction

Chapter 8: Conservation Element 5
Legal Requirements
The Conservation Element of the General Plan is guided by State law, regional plans, and local priorities that collectively aim to preserve natural resources, support ecological health, and support the sustainable management of environmental systems. Key statutes and policies include the following:

California Government Code §65302(d) – Conservation Element Requirement
The primary legal foundation for the Conservation Element is Government Code §65302(d), which requires all general plans to include policies addressing the conservation, development, and use of natural resources. These include watersheds, forests, soils, rivers and other waters, harbors, fisheries, wildlife, minerals, and other natural systems. The statute emphasizes that policies must reflect local conditions, support long-term resource management, and be coordinated with efforts to protect air and water quality.

California Air Resources Board (CARB) and BAAQMD Guidance Statewide air quality policy is administered by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), which sets emission standards, regulates fuels and vehicles, and oversees programs aimed to reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. At the regional level, the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) prepares the Clean Air Plan to reduce pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions, with an emphasis on cumulative pollution burdens in disproportionately impacted communities. The Conservation Element supports these goals by promoting land use patterns and infrastructure that reduce vehicle emissions, increase urban greening, and limit exposure to harmful pollutants, particularly near homes, schools, and other sensitive land uses.

The law directs jurisdictions to include plans and an action program in any update to address access to open space for all residents in a manner that considers social, economic, and racial equity, correlated with the environmental justice policies in the general plan, address climate resilience strategies such as flood mitigation and cooling, and to address rewilding opportunities. While most of the requirements of SB 1425 are met within the Parks and Open Space Element, many of the topics in this Element are closely related to the those covered within the Conservation Element.

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Conservation Introduction

Chapter 8: Conservation Element 6
Regional and Local Planning
In addition to meeting State requirements, the Conservation Element must align with several key regional and local planning efforts that support natural resource protection, habitat restoration, and climate resilience.
 The Climate Action Plan (CAP) establishes strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance climate resilience through energy efficiency, renewable energy, clean transportation, and sustainable land use.
 The Lagoon Management Plan outlines policies for maintaining water quality, controlling aquatic vegetation, and managing wildlife populations within the City’s lagoon system. It also provides a framework for public education and monitoring.
 The Integrated Adaptive Canada Goose Management Plan provides strategies for managing Canada goose populations in Foster City’s parks and lagoon system to minimize impacts on water quality, vegetation, and recreation.
 The Estero Municipal Improvement District (EMID) Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan outline Foster City’s water supply reliability, drought management strategies, and contingency measures for shortages.
 The Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) Basin Plans (Basin Plans) establish water quality objectives, identify beneficial uses of water bodies (such as habitat or recreation), and include strategies to control pollution and manage watershed health. These Basin Plans are legally enforceable by the RWQCB and guide stormwater discharge permitting and waterway protection at the local level.
 The San Mateo County Sustainable Streets and Green Infrastructure Plan provides a framework for integrating green infrastructure, such as rain gardens, bioswales, and permeable pavements, into street design and public projects. It helps cities meet stormwater permit requirements while improving water quality, habitat, and streetscape aesthetics.  The San Mateo Countywide Water Pollution Prevention Program provides a coordinated framework for cities to reduce stormwater pollution through infrastructure upgrades, public education, and monitoring.
 OneShoreline, the San Mateo County Flood and Sea Level Rise Resiliency District, coordinates regional adaptation efforts related to sea level rise, tidal flooding, and shoreline ecosystem restoration. Its work supports integrated infrastructure projects that reduce flood risk while enhancing natural habitat.
 In compliance with SB 18 (Gov. Code § 65352.3), the City contacted all California Native American tribes identified by the Native American Heritage Commission as traditionally and culturally affiliated with the area. No responses requesting consultation were received.

This regional and local framework ensures that the Conservation Element is grounded in practical, science-based strategies that address both ecological function and community well-being.

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Background
The process for updating the Conservation Element included a comprehensive assessment of existing conditions; evaluating the city’s natural resources, habitat areas, water and air quality, and energy infrastructure; and identifying opportunities to enhance ecological health and climate resilience. In addition, the analysis evaluated future considerations on sea level rise, groundwater rise, extreme heat, and air quality, and highlighted opportunities to enhance biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and equitable access to green space. As shown in Figure 3, community outreach was conducted in coordination with the Parks Master Plan (discussed further in the Parks and Open Space Element), ensuring that the voices of residents and stakeholders guided the direction of this Element. Together, the assessment and engagement serve as the foundation for the goals and policies of the Conservation Element.

Figure 3 Community Engagement Overview

The public engagement process for the Conservation Element update was designed to gather input on key issues such as species preservation, habitat conservation, and water quality, while ensuring alignment with the ongoing Parks Master Plan update. A key tool in this effort was a dedicated project website that provided ongoing updates and hosted the Community Priorities Survey, which built on the Parks Master Plan survey by focusing on natural resources and conservation topics. This survey gathered valuable feedback from a diverse range of residents, with particular emphasis on underrepresented communities, helping shape policies related to biodiversity, open space access, and environmental equity. Pop-up events were also used to engage the community directly, allowing them to provide input on conservation priorities while also participating in the broader parks-related discussions.

Biological Resources
Despite its highly urbanized setting and origins as reclaimed marshland, Foster City continues to support a mosaic of natural habitats. Key ecological areas include tidal wetlands, mudflats, and the centrally located lagoon system, which together provide important habitat for migratory birds, small mammals, and aquatic species. The San Francisco Bay also borders the city to the north and east and is the largest estuary on the West Coast, supporting a rich diversity of wildlife and plant species. It provides critical habitat for migratory birds, fish nurseries, and endangered species such as the Ridgway’s rail and salt marsh harvest mouse. As shown in Figure 4, vegetation mapping has identified several habitat types within the city, including salt marsh, non-native forest, and native herbaceous communities. Notably, 21 special-status animal species and six plant species have been observed or are presumed present,

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including the endangered Ridgeway’s rail and salt-marsh harvest mouse, both dependent on the city’s remaining tidal marshes.

Foster City’s biological resources face ongoing challenges from habitat fragmentation, invasive species, and urban runoff. Shoreline habitats are often constrained by levees and adjacent development, limiting their ecological function and the ability of species to migrate or adapt to environmental change. These pressures are compounded by climate-related stressors such as rising sea levels and shifting precipitation patterns.

Within this complex landscape, areas along Belmont Slough, Seal Slough, and underutilized park edges offer potential for habitat restoration and rewilding. These efforts could strengthen native biodiversity, improve habitat connectivity, and help restore key ecosystem services. In addition, Foster City’s extensive park system presents a valuable resource for targeted naturalization and improved linkages between natural areas to support wildlife movement and expand urban habitat in meaningful ways.

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Figure 4 Vegetation and Land Cover

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Wildlife Connectivity
Wildlife movement in Foster City is shaped, and often limited, by urban infrastructure such as roads, levees, and dense development. Natural movement corridors are limited, typically confined to narrow greenways, fragmented shoreline edges, and the lagoon system. While the lagoon offers aesthetic and recreational value to residents and visitors as well as some habitat potential, its channelized design, steep edges, and proximity to human activity reduces its habitat value for many species.

Recognizing the importance of habitat connectivity, State law (AB 1889) now requires cities and counties to assess and enhance habitat connectivity for wildlife through their general plans. In Foster City, barriers to wildlife movement include:
 Highway 92, which disrupts north–south continuity
 Urban lighting, which interferes with the behavior of nocturnal species  Recreational activity, which can fragment habitats and deter sensitive wildlife As shown in Figure 5, much of Foster City is either urban or suburban, and therefore wildlife corridors and nursery sites are not present in much of the city. Wildlife connectivity areas are fragmented, and green spaces are often landscaped for recreation rather than habitat value, reducing their ecological function. However, with strategic design and targeted improvements, these spaces can support both human and ecological needs. Enhancing shoreline habitats, planting suitable vegetation, and implementing wildlife-friendly infrastructure such as culverts or buffer zones can create pathways for wildlife movement and better contribute to a resilient and biodiverse city.

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Figure 5 Wildlife Connectivity Areas

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Coastal Resources

Foster City, 2025.

Foster City’s shoreline borders the San Francisco Bay and includes estuarine and brackish marshes, particularly near Belmont Slough and the Redwood Shores Ecological Reserve. These areas serve as vital feeding and nesting grounds for numerous bird species, including some species of special concern. The Redwood Shores Ecological Reserve, a protected 268-acre salt marsh, supports sensitive species such as the Alameda song sparrow and Ridgeway’s rail and serves as a critical ecological buffer against urban development.

Foster City has made significant investments in engineered flood protection systems, including recent upgrades to its levee system, which play a critical role in safeguarding the community from storm surge and sea level rise. These infrastructure improvements represent an essential layer of protection for residents and assets. At the same time, this flood protection infrastructure can constrain natural ecological processes and limit the inland migration of wetlands, which play a vital role in preserving local ecological integrity by providing habitat for diverse wildlife, serving as temporary resting areas for migrating species, filtering water pollutants, and offering natural flood protection. As climate change accelerates, coastal ecosystems face increasing stress from rising groundwater, saline intrusion, and greater exposure of infrastructure. The continued loss of tidal marshes would reduce habitat availability and diminish the shoreline’s natural ability to buffer wave energy and filter pollutants.

Regional planning efforts, such as those led by the San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission and OneShoreline, recognize the importance of complementing traditional infrastructure with natural systems, such as tidal marshes and mudflats, to strengthen shoreline resilience. By restoring degraded habitat and integrating nature-based features into levee design, Foster City can build on its recent investments to ensure long-term ecological and community resilience.

Climate Considerations
Climate change presents significant risks to Foster City’s biological resources. Rising temperatures, shifts in precipitation patterns, and sea level rise pose risks to habitat health, food and water availability for

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wildlife, while potentially limiting access to necessary wildlife connectivity and migration corridors. Low- lying shoreline habitats face potential inundation in the future, which would result in the loss of critical wetlands, biodiversity corridors, and coastal buffer zones. Urban green spaces, such as parks and vegetated areas along the lagoon and coastline, can serve as important refuges and movement corridors for wildlife. However, they currently offer limited climate resilience opportunities due to sparse tree canopy and fragmented natural areas.

Adapting to climate change requires a multifaceted strategy that includes nature-based solutions such as wetland restoration, permeable surfaces, and urban forestry. These solutions can help preserve biodiversity and support species resilience, as well as other benefits such as mitigating flooding, reducing urban heat, and supporting habitat migration. In addition, the city is exploring a citywide tree canopy study, which, when paired with surface heat mapping and social vulnerability data, could guide future investments in climate-resilient green infrastructure and improve neighborhood-level adaptation strategies.

Water Resources

Foster City, 2025.

Foster City maintains a network of engineered lagoons and canals designed primarily for stormwater management, flood control, and community recreation. These water features also provide secondary habitat for birds and aquatic species and are not used for potable water supply. The city’s drinking water is entirely imported via the Estero Municipal Improvement District, supplied by the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission’s Hetch Hetchy system. While Foster City does not currently utilize local groundwater for its municipal supply, it remains vulnerable to regional groundwater-level fluctuations driven by climate change. The development of this Element included coordination with EMID, and review of and alignment with applicable water supply, water quality, and groundwater management plans.

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Water Quality
Drinking water quality in Foster City is high, with the Estero Municipal Improvement District meeting or exceeding all State and federal standards. Water is treated at regional facilities before distribution and is continuously monitored. However, water quality issues are more pronounced in the city’s lagoon system, where elevated bacteria levels, especially enterococci, have led to periodic beach closures.

These issues are largely attributed to wildlife waste, stormwater runoff, and overgrown aquatic vegetation.

To address lagoon water quality, the City has adopted a Lagoon Management Plan, emphasizing routine monitoring, vegetation control, and public education. The city also participates in regional programs to prevent stormwater pollution and maintain compliance with the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board. While efforts are underway, water quality in the lagoon and shoreline areas will remain a concern until planned actions for improving runoff management, enhancing ecological buffers, and managing urban wildlife populations are implemented.

Water Supply
Foster City’s water supply is entirely imported through the Hetch Hetchy system, managed by the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission. During normal years, supply is projected to be adequate through 2045. However, in single and multiple dry years, demand is projected to outpace supply, with deficits exceeding 800 million gallons annually by 2045 under drought conditions. In the event of a water shortage, the Estero Municipal Improvement District would implement its Water Shortage Contingency Plan which outlines a suite of water demand reduction measures of varying severity designed to protect health and safety, minimize economic disruption, and preserve environmental and community assets.

Nonetheless, the City is vulnerable to regional supply constraints, especially as climate change increases the frequency of dry periods.

Given this dependency, continued participation in regional conservation programs, alternative supply planning, and demand management will be essential. The Estero Municipal Improvement District’s Urban Water Management Plan identifies the need for coordinated planning with regional partners and highlights the importance of preparing for worst-case drought scenarios. While recycled water is not currently used, it presents potential opportunities to supplement current and future water supplies and serve as an emergency backup option as climate risks evolve.

Climate Considerations
Climate change poses several risks to Foster City’s water infrastructure and management systems. Rising sea levels may compromise the lagoon’s drainage function, particularly during high tides or storm events. Higher average temperatures could increase lagoon evaporation and elevate potential for harmful algal blooms. This increased potential is driven by higher concentrations of contaminants and warmer water temperatures that promote algal growth, threatening habitat quality and recreational use. Additionally, altered precipitation patterns are expected to intensify stormwater runoff, potentially degrading lagoon water quality and overwhelming existing infrastructure. Groundwater rise is also projected to threaten buried infrastructure due to rising sea levels, leading to potential seawater intrusion, and contribute to inland flooding. Although the city is not dependent on groundwater as a water source, rising water tables could affect public utilities, natural open spaces, and impact natural and landscaped vegetation.

To proactively address these risks, Foster City can continue to implement targeted adaptation strategies such as strengthening of levees, improved lagoon circulation, shoreline wetland restoration, and

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integration of green stormwater infrastructure. Proactive monitoring of groundwater conditions, in collaboration with regional agencies, will be critical for planning for future risks. Ensuring the continued function of the lagoon as both a flood control and ecological system will be essential in the face of climate variability and sea level rise.

Air Quality
Air quality in Foster City is significantly influenced by regional emissions, increasing wildfire smoke frequency due to climate change, and local traffic. The city currently lacks comprehensive, localized air quality monitoring infrastructure to track these impacts accurately and instead relies on nearby stations for data, which may not accurately reflect localized conditions. Indoor air quality trends in public buildings are also not well-documented, leaving gaps in understanding the full scope of exposure.

Emerging challenges for air quality in Foster City include increased wildfire smoke events, rising temperatures, and cumulative pollution from nearby urban centers. High temperatures can increase the formation of ground-level ozone, while inversions can trap pollutants close to the ground, leading to increased concentrations of harmful substances. Low-cost sensor deployment, improved building ventilation systems, and cumulative exposure mapping can better assess air quality risks. Coordinated efforts with Bay Area Air Quality Management District and regional grant programs may support these actions and contribute to healthier environments for vulnerable populations.

Energy Resources
Foster City has implemented a range of initiatives that provide a strong foundation for further opportunities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy resilience through upgrades to its parks, public buildings, and community infrastructure. Existing municipal facilities, including - community centers powered by Peninsula Clean Energy’s 100 percent carbon-free electricity program, ECO100, can further reduce electricity use and light pollution through energy efficiency upgrades like LED lighting, motion sensors, timers, and renewable-powered water management systems. In areas where conventional grid connections are costly or impractical, solar-powered lighting offers a low- maintenance, renewable solution. Energy conservation also supports broader climate and sustainability goals, particularly when paired with smart building materials and all-electric systems in future facility upgrades or new construction.

The City is also well-positioned to expand on-site renewable energy and support clean transportation infrastructure. The Foster City Library currently includes roof-mounted solar panels and a recent feasibility study identified other municipal buildings, such as the forthcoming recreation center, as viable sites for photovoltaic (PV) systems. These, along with potential solar canopies over parking lots or maintenance buildings, could be paired with battery storage to improve emergency preparedness and grid reliability. Parks and civic buildings are also key locations for expanding EV charging infrastructure, particularly through public-private partnerships. Education and community engagement will play a central role in cultivating support for these initiatives, using public spaces as platforms for demonstrations, signage, and workshops that promote energy literacy and sustainable living practices.

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Engagement Results for Conservation
During the development of the Conservation Element, residents shared priorities and perspectives on the natural resources and conservation strategies for Foster City through pop-up events, focus group discussions, a workshop, and a survey. Key findings from these activities are summarized below.

Community Priorities Survey
A critical component of community input was the Community Priorities Survey conducted in June 2025 via online questionnaire. The Foster City community expressed strong support for enhancing parks, trails, and natural spaces, with a focus on comfort, connectivity, and safety. Amenities such as restrooms, shade, seating, and wildlife viewing platforms were identified as top priorities for improving trail use. The Levee Pedway is frequently used by residents, and there is significant interest in expanding trail and bike lane connections. Conservation emerged as a clear community value, with most respondents rating it as very or extremely important and voicing strong support for rewilding efforts like native habitat restoration and pollinator-friendly landscaping. While enthusiasm for rewilding was high, some concerns were raised about pests, upkeep, and potential changes to recreational spaces.

Survey participants identified key environmental concerns, including sea level rise, storm flooding, water scarcity, and poor air quality. Residents placed a high value on open spaces that offer opportunities to connect with nature, support biodiversity, provide shade, and reduce climate-related risks. The most desired improvements included more walking and biking paths, increased tree cover, and restoring natural areas with native vegetation. There was also strong support for integrating green infrastructure, such as rain gardens and wetlands, and expanding educational features and access for all ages and abilities.

The community supported a wide range of strategies to protect open space and natural resources, including stronger zoning regulations, public-private partnerships, volunteer maintenance programs, and development incentives. Residents expressed a clear desire for the Foster City Lagoon to support both active and passive recreation, along with aesthetic and community uses. In terms of climate communication, respondents wanted more information on local flood risks, sea level rise, and ways to prepare for climate impacts. Overall, the results reflect a community that values nature, recognizes the urgency of climate adaptation, and is eager to engage in shaping a more sustainable and resilient future.

Community Engagement Takeaways
Key themes emerged from the outreach and engagement process:

Support for Rewilding with Thoughtful Design

 There is strong community interest in rewilding efforts that restore native habitats, support pollinators, and enhance the ecological function of parks and open spaces.
 At the same time, many want these naturalized areas to be designed and maintained in ways that remain usable, safe, and visually appealing – balancing ecological goals with everyday recreation and comfort.

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 Concerns were raised about the potential to attract nuisance wildlife such as geese, as well as the need for clear upkeep and visibility. The feedback underscores a desire for rewilding that enhances, rather than limits, the public’s experience of open space.

Naturalized and Functional Open Spaces

 Community members want parks and open spaces to feel more ecologically rich while remaining comfortable and accessible, with amenities like shade, seating, and natural materials integrated into the landscape.
 There is interest in expanding tree cover and using native vegetation to provide cooling, habitat value, and a more natural aesthetic across the city’s open spaces.
 Some suggested that conservation-oriented spaces still need to accommodate daily use, such as keeping restrooms open longer and providing places to rest, so that naturalized areas remain welcoming and inclusive.

Concern for Climate Risks

 Sea level rise, stormwater flooding, water scarcity, and declining air quality were repeatedly raised as major concerns.
 Open space is seen as a critical tool for addressing climate impacts, offering functions like cooling, habitat protection, and stormwater infiltration.  Community members want more communication from the City about local flood risks, sea level rise adaptation, and practical steps households can take to prepare.

Sustainable Open Space

 There is strong backing for strategies like zoning protections, green infrastructure, and developer incentives that prioritize open space and ecological function.
 Volunteer programs and partnerships with local organizations are viewed as effective ways to support ongoing restoration and stewardship.  People value the Foster City Lagoon as a space for both active and passive recreation, and want it protected for future generations.

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Conservation Goals, Policies and Programs
Biological Resources
Goal C-1 Natural habitat is protected and restored to support native biodiversity, improve ecological function, and enhance the resilience of open spaces.

Policy C-1.1 Wildlife Habitat. Protect and enhance Foster City’s existing habitats, including tidal wetlands, mudflats, and urban forests, to support native biodiversity and ecological health.

Policy C-1.2 Habitat Protection. Promote the restoration and naturalization of degraded or underutilized areas, particularly along the shoreline and coastal trails, through native vegetation planning and habitat enhancement.

Policy C-1.3 Support Biodiversity. Implement maintenance strategies that prioritize native vegetation and manage detrimental invasive plant and animal species in natural habitat areas. Allow non-native plants only if they support aesthetics or habitat without harming biodiversity. Select vegetation that attracts desirable species and discourages those that pose nuisance or ecological risks.

Goal C-2 Ecological connections between fragmented habitats are strengthened to facilitate wildlife movement, support species adaptation, and minimize the impacts of urban development on biodiversity.

Policy C-2.1 Habitat Connectivity. Improve connectivity between fragmented parks, shoreline areas, and natural spaces to support wildlife movement through restored corridors and green infrastructure.

Policy C-2.2 Wildlife Movement Design. Incorporate wildlife-friendly infrastructure, such as underpasses, vegetated buffers, and light controls into public infrastructure and land use planning.

Policy C-2.3 Movement Mitigation. Assess and mitigate barriers to wildlife movement caused by roads, levees, and urban development.

Policy C-2.4 Connectivity Partnerships. Coordinate with regional partners, including OneShoreline, to support connectivity and flood resilience through multi-benefit projects.

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Policy C-2.5 Habitat Improvements. Identify and prioritize habitat improvements that benefit migratory species, including birds and small mammals, in accordance with AB 1889.

Goal C-3 Foster City’s natural systems are resilient to the impacts of climate change.

Policy C-3.1 Climate Conscious Shoreline Management. Integrate sea level rise, flooding, and extreme weather considerations into shoreline habitat management and restoration.

Policy C-3.2 Nature-Based Solutions. Implement nature-based solutions, such as wetland buffers and marsh migration zones, to protect both ecological and human systems.

Policy C-3.3 Ecological Transitions. Support conservation strategies account for sea level rise, saltwater intrusion, and climate-driven shifts in habitat type, extent, and species composition.

Goal C-4 A community-wide ethic of environmental stewardship is fostered by engaging residents, regional partners, and organizations in the protection and enhancement of local natural resources.

Policy C-4.1 Public Awareness. Increase public awareness of urban wildlife, habitat conservation, and sustainable coexistence through education and outreach.

Policy C-4.2 Community Stewardship. Encourage community participation in habitat restoration, monitoring, and stewardship activities.

Policy C-4.3 Conservation Partnerships. Partner with regional agencies, nonprofits, and academic institutions to advance conservation and resilience objectives.

Water Resources
Goal C-5 Water resources are efficiently managed to support a sustainable, high-quality water supply for the community while promoting conservation, reducing demands, and protecting water systems from climate change.

Policy C-5.1 Water Quality Risk Prevention. Address water quality risks associated with climate change, including warming temperatures, increased turbidity, and the potential for algal blooms in the lagoon and stormwater systems.

Policy C-5.2 Water Quality Maintenance. Support ongoing maintenance and timely replacement of aging lagoon, stormwater, and water infrastructure to protect ecological function and recreational use.

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Policy C-5.3 Pollution Reduction. Improve lagoon circulation and implement pollution control measures to maintain water quality and mitigate contamination from urban runoff and other sources.

Policy C-5.4 Water Quality Programing. Expand participation in regional water quality programs, including the San Mateo Countywide Water Pollution Prevention Program, to better manage stormwater runoff and protect the San Francisco Bay.

Policy C-5.5 Water Quality Monitoring. Incorporate regular monitoring and public reporting of water quality conditions into city operations to support data- driven decision-making and transparency.

Goal C-6 Foster City maintains a secure and sustainable water supply to support current and future community needs.

Policy C-6.1 Water Reliability. Collaborate with the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission to improve long-term water reliability, conservation strategies, and demand forecasting, especially under future drought conditions.

Policy C-6.2 Supplemental Water Supply. Encourage the Estero Municipal Improvement District (EMID) to explore alternative or supplemental water supply options and regularly update reliability assessments in response to climate trends.

Policy C-6.3 Water Neutrality. Implement and enforce the 2023 Water Neutrality Ordinance so that new development and redevelopment do not increase overall water demand.

Policy C-6.4 Water Conservation. Integrate water conservation, reuse, and efficiency measures into new development, infrastructure upgrades, and public education initiatives.

Air Quality
Goal C-7 Foster City is a healthy and climate-resilient community through reduced air pollution and improved air quality.

Policy C-7.1 Land Use Alignment. Align Foster City’s land use, transportation, and development decisions with air quality thresholds and best practices established by the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) and California Air Resources Board (CARB).

Policy C-7.2 Air Quality Mitigation. Incorporate air quality mitigation strategies into land use planning by requiring vegetative buffers, enhanced filtration systems, and site design strategies to reduce exposure near major transportation corridors and pollution sources.

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Policy C-7.3 Complete Streets. Encourage smart growth and complete streets principles that integrate air quality protection measures, such as shade trees and green infrastructure.

Policy C-7.4 VMT Reduction. Prioritize transportation and mobility improvements that reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and emissions, including expansion of pedestrian, bicycle, and electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure.

Policy C-7.5 Regional Air Quality Coordination. Enhance regional coordination and compliance with BAAQMD programs and participate in local implementation of Spare the Air and other outreach initiatives.

Goal C-8 Foster City’s neighborhoods are healthy, resilient, and equitable, with clean air and access to green spaces for all residents.

Policy C-8.1 Greening Air Improvements. Expand urban greening strategies that improve air quality and reduce urban heat, including targeted tree canopy expansion and the use of vegetated buffers in high-exposure areas.

Policy C-8.2 Tree City. Pursue Tree City USA designation and adopt a citywide tree ordinance that guides planting, removal, and long-term care of public trees, with a focus on air quality and shade equity.

Policy C-8.3 Air Quality Co-Benefits. Design public parks and open spaces to maximize air quality benefits while supporting climate adaptation and equitable access to green space.

Policy C-8.4 Air Quality Engagement. Promote public awareness and engagement on air quality topics through education programs, signage, and collaboration with regional partners.

Energy Resources
Goal C-9 Foster City’s public facilities and infrastructure operate sustainably with low-energy use and resilient systems that support a clean and climate-ready future.

Policy C-9.1 Improved Energy Efficiency. Improve energy efficiency in parks, public buildings, and community centers through lighting upgrades, smart controls, and design strategies that reduce both electricity consumption and light pollution.

Policy C-9.2 Renewable Energy Expansion. Expand the use of on-site renewable energy systems, particularly photovoltaic (PV) installations and battery storage, on City-owned facilities where cost-effective.

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Policy C-9.3 EV Charging. Support the installation of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in public parks, community centers, and City parking lots to enable a transition to clean transportation.

Policy C-9.4 Low-Carbon Construction. Promote all-electric systems and low-carbon construction practices in the design and retrofit of new municipal facilities.

Policy C-9.5 Energy Outreach. Use public spaces, such as parks, libraries, and community centers, as platforms for energy-related education, outreach, and engagement.

Policy C-9.6 Energy Efficiency in Green Infrastructure. Integrate energy efficiency and renewable energy into green infrastructure projects to enhance co- benefits for climate resilience, water conservation, and long-term cost savings.

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Implementation Programs
Number Program
Lead
Department Supporting Department(s) Timeframe1
Implementing
Policy(ies)
C-a Explore opportunities for habitat restoration and naturalization within the existing parks system through the following steps:
 Assess and map high-potential sites (e.g., degraded park edges, canal embankments, underutilized shoreline areas);
 Integrate habitat strategies into the next Parks Master Plan update or as part of implementation actions;
 Develop guidance for incorporating native habitat elements into future park renovations, new park development, and routine maintenance; and  Coordinate with restoration partners, schools, and community groups for implementation and stewardship.

Community
Development
Parks and Recreation Long-term C-1.1, C-1.2,
C-1.3
C-b Seek funding for a long-term maintenance plan for restored and naturalized habitat areas that includes seasonal invasive species removal, native plant reestablishment, irrigation reduction, and trash/debris removal. Consider pilot programs with community stewardship groups to assist with hands-on maintenance and monitoring.

Community
Development
Parks and Recreation Long-term C-1.1, C-1.2
C-c Design and introduce educational signage at key natural areas (e.g., Belmont Slough, shoreline parks) with clear, engaging content about native ecosystems, local wildlife, and restoration goals. Include multilingual content, maps, and QR codes linking to informational websites. Encourage stewardship behaviors through signage, like staying on trails and avoiding disturbance of wildlife.

Parks and
Recreation
Community Development Mid-term C-1.3
C-d Continue to explore suitable levee-adjacent zones to retrofit with ecotone features that support both flood protection and habitat enhancement. Engage with OneShoreline, regional restoration partners, and permitting agencies to align with long-term sea level rise adaptation planning and pursue funding for design and implementation.

Public Works Parks and Recreation Long-term C-1.3

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Number Program
Lead
Department Supporting Department(s) Timeframe1
Implementing
Policy(ies)
C-e Explore opportunities to better understand and improve ecological connectivity across the city. This may include studying ecological connectivity and mapping of habitat patches, identifying barriers (e.g., roads, fences, lighting), and evaluating where enhancements could support multi-species movement, especially along Belmont Slough, lagoon edges, and gaps between open spaces. Where feasible, consider coordination with regional experts and agencies to assess general habitat needs and potential improvements over time.

Community
Development
Parks and Recreation Mid-term C-2.1, C-2.2,
C-2.3, C-2.5 C-f Encourage the inclusion of wildlife-supportive features into infrastructure and discretionary development projects where appropriate. These features may include safe road crossings, native vegetative buffers, wildlife-friendly fencing, down-shielded lighting, and mitigation measures for existing barriers.

Community
Development
Parks and Recreation Ongoing C-2.2, C-2.3,
C-2.5
C-g Assess local habitat mitigation opportunities (e.g., offsetting development impacts) and create a grant funding strategy targeting AB 1889, Wildlife Conservation Board, and Proposition 1 programs. Design packaged projects with detailed scopes, cost estimates, and co-benefits to enhance competitiveness for funding.

Community
Development
Parks and Recreation Mid-term C-2.1, C-2.5
C-h Coordinate with OneShoreline, San Mateo Resource Conservation District, nonprofit organizations, and research institutions on joint grant applications, technical studies, and pilot projects that advance shared conservation goals, consistent with this Conservation Element.

Community
Development
Parks and Recreation Long-term C-4.3
C-i Enhance the City’s water quality monitoring program to include indicators influenced by climate change, such as water temperature, turbidity, algal growth, and bacteria levels. Encourage the installation of real-time sensors at key locations in the lagoon system and stormwater outfalls, and use this data to inform water quality advisories, infrastructure upgrades, and restoration planning.

Public Works Mid-term C-5.1
C-j Consider capital improvement project phasing to minimize disruption and align with sea level rise adaptation efforts.

Public Works Parks and Recreation Long-term C-5.2

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Number Program
Lead
Department Supporting Department(s) Timeframe1
Implementing
Policy(ies)
C-k Continue to implement targeted strategies to reduce non-point source pollution, such as installing pet waste stations in parks, increasing street sweeping near outfalls, and adding trash capture devices in key storm drains.

Coordinate these efforts with the Integrated Adaptive Canada Goose Management Plan to reduce the impacts of the goose population on water quality. Seek to pair these efforts with a multilingual public education campaign on pollution prevention, lagoon protection, and green infrastructure.

Parks and
Recreation/Pu
blic Works
Community Development Ongoing C-5.3
C-l Support increased City participation in regional water quality initiatives, such as the San Mateo Countywide Water Pollution Prevention Program. Identify City staff to represent Foster City in interagency meetings and explore co- funding or joint implementation of stormwater retrofits.

Public Works Community Development Mid-term C-5.4
C-m Encourage the Estero Municipal Improvement District to explore use of alternative water sources such as greywater or direct potable reuse to support the city’s long-term water reliability and sustainability goals.

Public
Works/Commu
nity
Development
Long-term C-6.2
C-n Explore additional opportunities to establish partnerships with local and regional agencies and organizations to develop a public outreach campaign to increase awareness of existing water conservation programs and provide education on water conservation, targeting residents, schools, and businesses.

Public Works Community Development Long-term C-6.4
C-o Develop a set of planning and design guidelines for locating sensitive land uses (e.g., schools, senior housing) near high-traffic roadways. The guidelines should recommend best practices such as building orientation, MERV-13 or higher HVAC filtration, vegetated screening, and site layout strategies to reduce pollutant exposure. Integrate these standards into development review and environmental review processes where feasible.

Community
Development
Public Works Mid-term C-7.1, C-7.2
C-p As part of future maintenance projects, identify opportunities to install vegetative buffers, such as hedgerows, or bioswales between roads and sensitive land uses. Prioritize high-performing vegetation species suited to pollution absorption and local climate when installing new landscaping in these areas.

Public Works Community Development Ongoing C-7.2, C-7.3

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Implementation Programs

Chapter 8: Conservation Element 26
Number Program
Lead
Department Supporting Department(s) Timeframe1
Implementing
Policy(ies)
C-q Review and enhance the City’s Complete Streets and public realm guidelines to include stormwater planters, permeable paving, and native landscaping as standard components of street design to support air quality, active transportation, and neighborhood cooling, particularly in areas with higher pollution exposure.

Public Works Community Development Long-term C-5.1, C-5.3, C-7.3, C-7.4
C-r Support ongoing coordination with BAAQMD to help keep the City’s plans and policies generally align with regional air quality standards and emission reduction targets. Participate in updates to the Clean Air Plan and pursue grant funding to implement local air quality improvement projects.

Community
Development
Parks and
Recreation/Public Works
Annual C-7.5
C-s Conduct a tree inventory and prioritize new plantings near schools and major roads where vegetation can mitigate air quality and urban heat impacts.

Parks and
Recreation
Community Development Mid-term C-8.1, C-8.3
C-t Pursue the development of a tree ordinance that governs planting, maintenance, and removal of City-owned and potentially private trees, including a permit system, replacement ratios, and performance standards.

Align ordinance goals with air quality, climate, and equity outcomes.

Parks and
Recreation
Community Development Short-term C-8.2
C-u As part of future updates to the Climate Action Plan, update audits of energy use in existing municipal buildings to evaluate efficacy of energy conservation measures. Implement upgrades such as LED lighting, motion sensors, timers, and smart ventilation and irrigation systems in buildings, restrooms, pathways, and sports facilities.

Community
Development
Parks and
Recreation/Public Works
Mid-term C-9.1, C-9.6
C-v Advance photovoltaic installations at City-owned buildings and parking lots based on the recent feasibility study, beginning with priority sites like the Library/Community Center and planned Recreation Center. Explore solar canopies over large, paved areas and pair installations with battery storage for emergency backup and energy cost optimization.

Community
Development
Parks and
Recreation/Public Works
Long-term C-9.2, C-9.6
C-w Identify opportunities to install EV charging stations at high-traffic public facilities such as community centers, parks, and libraries that are accessible to all residents.

Community
Development
Parks and
Recreation/Public Works
Long-term C-9.3
1 Timeframes are categorized as short-term (1-5 years), mid-term (6-10 years), and long-term (10+ years). Programs that are on an ongoing or annual basis are identified as such.

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EXHIBIT B
Conservation Element Legislative Consistency Checklist
Government Code Section Description of Requirement
Consistency
Status Compliance Notes
Gov. Code,
§§ 65302(d)(1), 65352.5
The Conservation Element
must plan for the
conservation, sustainable
development, and utilization
of water resources,
including their hydraulic
force and role in ecological
systems.

Addressed The Element discusses Foster City’s lagoon
and stormwater systems, regional water
supply (Hetch Hetchy via EMID),
groundwater vulnerability, and flood control
levees. Goals C-5 and C-6, and programs C-
i through C-n, specifically address water
quality, water supply reliability, conservation,
and hydraulic risks.

Gov. Code, § 65302(d)(3) The Conservation Element
must provide strategies to
conserve and accommodate
floodwaters, including
watershed management,
stormwater retention, and
groundwater recharge.

Addressed The Element identifies the lagoon and bay
as floodwater accommodation for the city.

Goals C-3 and C-5 highlight sea level rise,
flood risk adaptation, and stormwater
infrastructure planning (Programs C-d, C-j,
C-q).

Gov. Code, § 65302(d)(1) The Conservation Element
must conserve forest
resources and manage
them for sustainability,
including coordination with
wildfire risk reduction and
carbon sequestration goals.

Addressed While Foster City does not have traditional
forests, the Element treats its urban forest as
a conservation resource. Policies C-1.1, C-

1.2, and Goal C-8 (Tree City ordinance, tree
canopy expansion) emphasize ecological
and air quality functions of tree cover.

Gov. Code, § 65302(d)(1) The Conservation Element
must promote the
responsible use and
conservation of soils,
addressing agricultural
productivity, erosion control,
and protection of prime
farmland.

Addressed The Element addresses erosion indirectly via
shoreline stabilization, wetland restoration,
and ecotone design (Goal C-3, Program C-
d). While Foster City is highly urbanized, soil
stability and shoreline resilience are
considered under climate and flood planning.

Gov. Code, § 65302(d)(1) The Conservation Element
must conserve and protect
rivers, streams, wetlands,
and other waters by
addressing watershed
protection, water quality,
and ecological function.

Addressed Covers lagoon system, Belmont and Seal
Slough, and San Francisco Bay shoreline.

Policies C-5.3–C-5.5 and Programs C-i
through C-l address water quality,
stormwater pollution reduction, and habitat
functions of these waters.

Gov. Code, § 65302(d)(1) The Conservation Element
must provide for the
conservation and planned
use of harbors and
associated coastal
resources to support
commerce, recreation, and
environmental quality.

Not Applicable Foster City does not contain harbors; only lagoons and shoreline recreation.

Gov. Code, § 65302(d)(1) The Conservation Element
must support the
conservation and
sustainable use of fisheries,
including aquatic habitat
protection and long-term
viability of fish populations.

Not Applicable Foster City does not have commercial
fisheries.

Gov. Code, § 65302(d)(1) The Conservation Element
must conserve wildlife and
their habitats, ensuring
biodiversity, ecological
connectivity, and protection
of sensitive species.

Addressed Extensive coverage in narrative, as well as
Goals C-1 and C-2, Policies C-1.1–C-2.5,
and Programs C-a–C-g, which emphasize
habitat protection, restoration, biodiversity,
wildlife movement, and AB 1889 compliance.

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Government Code Section Description of Requirement
Consistency
Status Compliance Notes
Gov. Code, § 65302(d)(1) The Conservation Element
must inventory, protect, and
manage mineral resources,
including guiding extraction
and reclamation consistent
with State mapping and
conservation policies.

Not Applicable No mineral resources identified in Foster City.

Gov. Code, § 65302(d)(1) The Conservation Element
must consider and provide
policies for the conservation
of other locally significant
natural resources, such as
geothermal, scenic, or
unique ecological features.

Addressed Energy, air quality, and cultural/tribal
resources are included. Policies C-7.1
through C-9.6 address air, energy, and
climate resilience.

Gov. Code, § 65302(d)(2) Reclamation of land and
waters (optional)
Addressed The Element acknowledges Foster City’s
history of reclaimed marshland and
emphasizes ongoing shoreline restoration
and rewilding strategies (Background:

Biological Resources; Policies C-1.2, C-3.2;
Program C-a).

Gov. Code, § 65302(d)(2) Pollution of streams and
other waters (optional)
Addressed The Element includes lagoon water quality
challenges, stormwater management, and
regional compliance. Policies C-5.3–C-5.5
and Programs C-k, C-l directly address water
pollution prevention.

Gov. Code, § 65302(d)(2) Land use in stream
channels and other areas
(optional)
Addressed Policies C-2.1, C-2.2, and Program C-o
incorporate land use and infrastructure
planning near waterways, balancing
ecological and recreational functions.

Gov. Code, § 65302(d)(2) Erosion (optional) Addressed The Element discusses shoreline erosion and wetland migration constraints. Programs
C-d (levee ecotone retrofits) and C-j
(phasing infrastructure to reduce impacts)
address erosion.

Gov. Code, § 65302(d)(2) Protection of watersheds
(optional)
Addressed Watershed protection measures appear in
coordination with RWQCB, stormwater
pollution prevention, and green infrastructure
planning (Policies C-5.4, C-5.5; Programs C-
l, C-q).

Gov. Code, § 65302(d)(2) Rock, sand, and gravel
resources (optional)
Not Applicable No local deposits identified.

AB 1889 (2024) – Gov.

Code §65302(d), §65302(e)
Requires updates to the
conservation element of the
general plan to address
wildlife movement and
habitat connectivity. This
includes identifying and
analyzing connectivity areas
and existing or planned
wildlife passage features, as
well as implementing
measures to avoid,
minimize, or mitigate
barriers to wildlife
movement.

Addressed Fully integrated – Background includes
wildlife connectivity mapping; Goals C-2 and
Policies C-2.1–C-2.5 specifically align with
AB 1889. Programs C-e through C-g commit
to mapping corridors, incorporating wildlife-
friendly design, and pursuing funding

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Parks and Open Space Introduction
Chapter 5: Parks and Open Space Element 1
Parks and Open Space Introduction
Boardwalk along the Foster City Lagoon near Leo J. Ryan Park, a central open space known for its scenic waterfront and community gathering areas Foster City, 2025.

Purpo
se
The Parks and Open Space Element fulfills the State’s requirements for an Open Space Element while also establishing Foster City’s vision for how its natural and recreational areas, including parks, natural open space, facilities, and recreation programs, are developed, maintained, and enriched.

The Parks and Open Space Element leverages the city’s parks and open space areas as a vital framework for community well-being and natural stewardship. It guides the use of parks and open spaces for recreation, social connection, and enrichment, and plays a role in building resilience to natural hazards such as flooding and extreme heat. By weaving these aspects together, the City can enhance livability for all residents and foster deeper relationships with Foster City’s natural environment.

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Parks and Open Space Introduction
Chapter 5: Parks and Open Space Element 2
Clarification of Terminology
The Conservation Element and the Parks and Open Space Element both address land and resource stewardship in Foster City, but each with a distinct purpose and emphasis:

Wh
ile these categories differ in focus, they are deeply interconnected. Open space and parks often serve as the physical setting where conservation strategies are implemented. For example, a park may include restored habitat, and an open space corridor may function as both a scenic buffer and a wildlife pathway. Conservation provides the guiding framework that weaves these uses together, ensuring Foster City’s green spaces support not only recreation and beauty, but long-term ecological health and resilience.

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Figure 1 Relationship Between the Parks and Open Space Element and the Parks Master Plan

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Background

Figure 2 Community Engagement Overview

*Note: The Parks & Open Space Workshop was held in conjunction with the Park Master Plan’s second workshop.

Parks and Open Space Focus Groups will be conducted in August of 2025, and number engaged subsequently added.

Parks and Open Space System
Parks
As shown in Table 1 and Figure 3, Foster City has approximately 133 113 acres of publicly accessible parks and open spaces that shape the city’s recreational and ecological landscape. Many of these spaces are notable for features such as well-maintained landscaping, lagoon and bayfront views, shaded picnic areas, and family-friendly playgrounds that encourage regular use. The city is anchored by four large community parks, Leo J. Ryan Park, Sea Cloud Park, Boothbay Park, and Edgewater Park, which offer a wide range of amenities such as sports fields and courts, playgrounds, and group picnic areas that attract diverse users from across the community. Leo J. Ryan Park serves as a hub for major community events and is the site of Foster City’s new community center. The center will offer flexible spaces and upgraded amenities to better serve residents’ needs.

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Chapter 5: Parks and Open Space Element 7
In addition to community parks, Foster City is home to a network of smaller neighborhood and mini parks nestled within residential areas. These parks provide everyday recreational opportunities and are designed to meet the specific needs of nearby residents. The city also includes three special-use parks dedicated to unique recreational activities such as windsurfing and dog play.

Water Bodies
The Foster City Lagoon is a major recreational and ecological feature and is central to the community’s identity. The Lagoon covers approximately 218 acres, holding approximately 1,300 acre-feet of water, and winds through several neighborhoods in Foster City, fronting many of the City’s parks and open spaces. Residents engage in water-based recreational activities such as kayaking, paddling, and boating, and the Lagoon is central to many Foster City community events. Water testing in the lagoon has detected avian DNA, and while the lagoon supports a large Canada Geese population, the results cannot be traced specifically to geese or to any single location. Nevertheless, the presence of Canada Geese contributes to ongoing challenges with cleanliness and maintenance. Outside of designated beach areas, water quality is generally similar to bay water. Poor water quality and an abundant Canadian Geese population has created maintenance and operations challenges for the City and has discouraged recreational use of the Lagoon.

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Chapter 5: Parks and Open Space Element 8
the Ridgway’s rail and salt marsh harvest mouse. The Bay also offers a wide range of recreational opportunities, including kayaking, sailing, birdwatching, and waterfront trails, making it a vital natural and cultural resource that connects communities to the region’s environmental heritage while promoting outdoor access and stewardship.

The Foster City Lagoon (left and middle) and the San Franscico Bay are important recreational assets in the community.

Trails
Wrapping around the perimeter of Foster City’s waterfront edge is the Levee Pedway. This multi-use pathway is a segment of the San Francisco Bay Trail, and serves as a recreational asset for people walking, jogging, and biking. The trail runs past several parks and open spaces while also providing a continuous path without requiring on-street travel. In addition to the Levee Pedway, neighborhood trails provide local connections throughout Foster City. The Levee Pedway and other trails in Foster City are managed by the City’s Parks and Recreation Department, which oversees maintenance and improvements to ensure support safe, accessible routes for walking, biking, and recreation.

The Levee Pedway (left and middle) is a heavily-used regional route that is supported by the City’s local neighborhood trails (right, source: Google Streetview).

Table 1 Parks and Open Space Inventory
Park Number Acres Major Amenities
Community Parks 4 64.7
Boothbay 11.2 Playground, Ballfield, Basketball Court, Soccer/Multipurpose Field, Tennis Courts, Volleyball Court, Restroom, Picnic Shelter, BBQ
Edgewater 8.5 Playground, Ballfield, Basketball Court, Soccer/Multipurpose Field, Tennis Courts, Restroom, Picnic Shelter
Leo J. Ryan 20.7 Basketball Court, Pickleball Courts, Bocce Ball Courts, Tennis Courts, Beach, Boat Launch, Parking Lot

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Chapter 5: Parks and Open Space Element 9
Park Number Acres Major Amenities
Sea Cloud 24 Playground, Ballfields, Soccer/Multipurpose Fields, Restroom, Picnic Shelter
Neighborhood Parks 10 34.9 33.7
Catamaran 5.9 Playground, Basketball Court, Soccer/Multipurpose Field, Tennis Court, Volleyball Courts, Restroom
Erckenbrack 3.5 Playground, Restroom, Beach
Farragut 3.9 Playground, Restroom
Gull 3.1 Playground, Restroom, Beach
Kildeer 2.4 Playground
Marlin 3.1 Playground, Restroom, Beach
Port Royal 4.0 Playground, Basketball Court, Soccer/Multipurpose Field, Restroom, Parking Lot
Pilgrim Triton* 1.2 Playground, Picnic Area
Shad 2.1 Playground, Basketball Court, Restroom
Shorebird 3.5 Restroom
Sunfish 2.4 Playground, Basketball Court,
Mini Parks 6 8 5.7 7.5

Arcturus 0.75 0.8 Playground
Gateshead 0.1 0.7 None
Ketch 1.6 Playground, Basketball Court
Leo 0.015 0.1 None
Pompano 0.5 None
Turnstone 1.5 Playground, Basketball Court,
Town Center Park* 1.1 None
Pilgrim Triton* 1.2 Playground, Picnic Area
Special Use Parks 3 7.7
Bridgeview 3.2 Restroom, Parking Lot
Baywinds 1.3 Restroom, Shower, BBQ
Boat/Dog 3.2 Restroom, Boat Launch, Dog Park, Parking Lot Subtotal, Parks 23 25 2.9 113.6
Open Space

63 Publicly Accessible Open Space

22 Restricted Access Open Space

41 Lagoon

218

*Pilgrim Triton and Town Center Park are private parks, but are publicly accessible.

Source: City of Foster City 2025.

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Chapter 5: Parks and Open Space Element 10
Figure 3 Foster City Parks & Open Spaces
Source: City of Foster City, County of San Mateo Open Data portal, 2024.

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Chapter 5: Parks and Open Space Element 11
Park Access
As shown in Figure 4, all of Foster City’s residential neighborhoods are within a 10-minute walk of a park, an aspirational standard that many cities struggle to achieve. While there are portions of the City that are beyond a 10-minute walk from a park, these are primarily employment areas.

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Chapter 5: Parks and Open Space Element 12
Figure 4 Foster City Park Walksheds

Source: City of Foster City, County of San Mateo Open Data portal, 2024.

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Chapter 5: Parks and Open Space Element 13
Park Acreage
Park acreage level of service (LOS) measures the availability of parks and recreational facilities relative to a community’s population, helping ensure promote equitable access and adequate resources. As shown in Table 2, Fo ster City currently offers 3.2 acres o f developed park land per 1,000 residents, which is somewhat higher than the average of similar local communities. Given Foster City residents’ strong park access and general satisfaction with the overall amount of parkland, the Parks and Open Space Element recommends establishing the current ratio of 3.2 acres per 1,000 residents as a standard. Based on projected population growth, meeting this standard would require an additional 12.9 acres of parkland by 2040. The Parks and Open Space Element recommends maintaining the existing developed parkland acreage of 113.6 acres. The City could explore adding additional parkland by exploring conversion of Sea Cloud II site, as discussed in detail below (see Opportunity Sites). It shall be noted that the LOS in 2040 with additional growth and without additional parkland would be 2.9.

As Foster City grows, the Parks and Open Space Element also recommends establishing an appropriate LOS balances future housing and community preference.

1. Average level of service for comparable Bay Area communities (Belmont, Burlingame, Menlo Park, Millbrae, San Bruno, San Carlos, San Mateo, South San Francisco). Source: Parks Master Plan Benchmark Analysis.

Source: WRT and City of Foster City, 2024.

Recreation Amenities
Table 3 summarizes the inventory of recreation amenities in Foster City’s parks, indicates existing level of service for these amenities, and establishes recreation amenity standards based on local and national trends, as well as Foster City’s unique needs. Foster City provides a high level of service for most major recreational amenities, particularly multi-use fields, tennis courts, basketball courts, and playgrounds. By 2040, additional amenities needed to meet projected demand include at least four pickleball courts, one volleyball court, and four reservable picnic shelters. This analysis focuses on traditional park amenities commonly tracked by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). However, it does not capture other important community needs, such as trails, shade trees, walking paths within parks, community gardens, and more, which were highlighted through community engagement (see Engagement Results for Parks & Open Space).

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Extending Use
Lighting and shade play a role in shaping park usage patterns, both seasonally and throughout the day.

Enhanced lighting can extend usability into evening hours while being designed to not disturb surrounding residential areas. Adding shade trees and structures could also improve comfort and attract

1 PlacerAI is an analytics platform that leverages anonymous mobile location data to analyze how people move through and interact with different spaces.

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Chapter 5: Parks and Open Space Element 15
more users during peak sunlight. These upgrades could also promote greater year-round accessibility and enjoyment of parks.

Understanding Park Users
Foster City’s parks should reflect the diversity of the community and the varying ways residents engage with outdoor spaces. Young adults, Hispanic/Latino families, and households with lower to moderate incomes tend to use parks frequently, while seniors, middle-aged adults, and Asian residents, who make up the city’s largest demographic group, appear less represented in park use. 2 These patterns point to
opportunities to broaden the appeal of Foster City’s parks by ensuring amenities remain affordable and accessible, offering culturally inclusive programs, improving language access, and enhancing park features that meet the needs of all residents.

Park Site Assessment

Foster City Parks are safe, well -maintained and have diverse recreational amenities , though key challenges include Geese habitation and lack of comfort amenities.

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With further study, community visioning, and targeted improvements, it has the potential to become a valuable ecological resource and a passive recreation asset.

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Chapter 5: Parks and Open Space Element 17
Figure 5 Sea Cloud II Site Opportunities

Inspirational images of habitat restoration and passive recreation including elevated boardwalk, wildlife viewing areas, and docks.

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Figure 6 Baywinds Park Opportunities

Inspirational images of habitat restoration and passive recreation, including a board walk, nature center, and relaxation areas.

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Background

Figure 7 Foster City Park Amenity Priorities

Source: ETC Institute, 2025.

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Background

Trails & Connectivity

Beaches & Water Quality

New Park Experiences

Park Comfort

• Park users would benefit from more comfortable places to relax and walk through improved shade, pathways, and seating.
• Some highly visited parks need improved or expanded restrooms.

Indoor Recreation & Swimming

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Serving All Ages
The Foster City Parks and Recreation Department provides a balance of programs and services across all age segments. The Department should continue to provide programs across all age groups and reevaluate program offerings each year to ensure programs are responding to with the goal of keeping programs responsive to user needs. Table 4 provides a summary of the various recreational programs offered to different age groups within Foster City.

Table 4 Ages Served by Recreational Core Program Area
Ages Served
Core Program Area
Preschool
(5 and under)
Elementary
(6-12)
Teens
(13-17)
Young
Adult
(18-34)
Adult
(35-54)
Active Adult
(55-64)
Senior
(65+)
Afterschool
Enr
ichment Program
X
Athletics X X X X X X X
Community Events X X X X X X X
Facility & Park Rentals X X X X
Youth & Adult Contract
Classes & Specialty
Camps

X X X X X X
Teen Afterschool
Program
X
Youth & Teen Camps X X X
Source: Foster City Parks Master Plan Program and Services Assessment, PROS Consulting, 2025.

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Figure 8 Program and Event Priorities from the Statistically Valid Community Survey

Source: ETC Institute, 2025.

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Operations and Maintenance
Maintenance is needed for many parks, facilities, and amenities to ensure promote functionality, safety, and aesthetic appeal for Foster City residents.

Key challenges that came out of this assessment included:
• Lack of a Formal Maintenance Management Plan
While some standards exist, the City does not have a fully documented plan tracking work performance and outcomes by park.
• No GIS-Based Asset Management System
The absence of such a system limits the City’s ability to track maintenance needs, costs, and asset lifecycles efficiently.
• Slight Staffing Deficiency
The City staffing levels for parks falls short compared to best-practice benchmarks for park maintenance operations.
• Underfunding of Maintenance Operations
Annual park maintenance funding falls short compared to the level needed for optimal service.

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• Well-Equipped but Needs Continued Investment
The City currently has the necessary vehicles and equipment but must reinvest as the system grows to maintain service levels.

Open Space Value for Natural Resources
Foster City’s open space network presents several meaningful opportunities for enhancing natural habitat and wildlife compatibility, including targeted rewilding that can enhance ecological integrity and restore natural processes across the urban landscape. Guided by the provisions of SB 1425, the City can pursue strategies that preserve, enhance, and expand habitat areas within and adjacent to developed zones. The City’s open spaces are identified in Figure 9, below.

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Figure 9 Publicly Accessible Open Space

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Figure 10 Sea Level Rise Inundation (0.8 feet)

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Figure 11 Present-Day (No Sea Level Rise) 100-Year Storm Inundation Risk

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Figure 12 Present Day (No Sea Level Rise) Groundwater Hazard

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Goals and Policies
Parks and Recreation System
Goal POS-1 Foster City’s parks and recreation system is vibrant, comfortable and responsive.

Policy POS 1.1 Vibrant and Unique Parks. Ensure Aim for all Foster City parks are to be vibrant and have a unique identity, incorporating in-demand and innovative features for evening activation.

Policy POS 1.2 Comfo rtable Parks. Ensure Support parks are comfortable and inviting appeal by adding or improving key features such as seating, lighting, shade, and restrooms.

Policy POS 1.3 Community Needs. Ensure Strive to make the parks and recreation system is responsive to the recreation needs identified in the Parks Master Plan and through continued engagement.

Goal POS-2 Foster City has a connected and accessible parks and recreation system.

Policy POS 2.1 Connected Trail System. Create a citywide network of paths and trails for walking and biking that is safe and comfortable.

Policy POS 2.2 Navigating Parks. Ensure Promote easy access to and navigation within the City’s parks, lagoon, and trails by installing wayfinding signage and creating plans for multi-modal access.

Policy POS 2.3 Acc essible & Inclusive. Promote accessibility and inclusivity in park facilities and programs through universal design and diverse, community-responsive activities.

Goal POS-3 The Foster City Lagoon is active and well-integrated with its surroundings.

Policy POS 3.1 Lagoon Access & Amenities. Provide places and amenities to view, enjoy and access the Lagoon.

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