City of Gonzales
PUBLIC WORKS / CITY ENGINEER DEPARTMENT
STAFF REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: February 3, 2025
FROM: Patrick Dobbins, Public Works Director/City Engineer THROUGH: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: Sidewalk and Street Tree Policy
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the City Council receive a report on the City’s current policy for maintenance of the sidewalk and planting of a street tree in front of private properties, and provide any direction to staff.
BACKGROUND
The City’s policy for maintenance of the sidewalk and planting of a street tree in front of private property is that it is the responsibility of the private property owner. This is required under City Ordinance No. 2010-68.
REVIEW & ANALYSIS
The City’s long-standing policy for the maintenance of the sidewalk and planting of a street tree in front of private properties is as follows:
1. Sidewalk Maintenance - The abutting property owner is responsible for maintenance of the sidewalk in front of their properties. This is in accordance with Ordinance No. 2010-68 and California Street and Highway Code Section 5610:
Street and Highway Code Section 5610 - The owners of lots or portions of lots fronting on any portion of a public street or place when that street or place is improved or if and when the area between the property line of the adjacent property and the street line is maintained as a park or parking strip, shall maintain any sidewalk in such condition that the sidewalk will not endanger persons or property and maintain it in a condition which will not interfere with the public convenience in the use of those works or areas save and except as to those conditions created or AGENDA
ITEM
7 maintained in, upon, along, or in connection with such sidewalk by any person other than the owner, under and by virtue of any permit or right granted to him by law or by the city authorities in charge thereof, and such persons shall be under a like duty in relation thereto When staff observes a section of sidewalk that is uplifted and considered a trip hazard, City staff sends a letter to the property owner informing them to remove and replace the sidewalk. Some Cities provide a cost sharing program to help property owners with the cost to replace sections of sidewalks.
Unfortunately, we do not have a source of funding to consider that type of program.
2. Street Tree – Chapter 9.16 Street Trees and Tree Protection of the City’s Municipal Code, requires each residential property to have a street tree in their front yard or in the landscaped parkway strip.
The tree must be on the City’s official street tree list (copy attached). Should a property owner want to remove a street tree, they must submit a Street Tree Removal application that requires them to plant a new street tree.
3. Staff will develop a program for the Canyon Creek and Cipriani subdivisions to use assessment district monies to fund sidewalk repairs, and to remove and replace street trees.
In conclusion, staff is seeking feedback from the City Council on the City’s policy for maintenance of the sidewalk and planting of a street tree in front of private properties.
Explain Recommendation and How it Supports the Vision
Gonzales will continue to be a safe, clean, family-friendly community, diverse in its heritage, and committed to working collaboratively to preserve and retain its small town charm.
Explain: Updating and clarifying the City’s sidewalk and street tree policies helps residents understand the City’s requirements.
Explain how the Recommendation Directly Implements the Mission The City Council and Staff of the City of Gonzales will realize our Vision by providing the leadership, commitment and resources necessary to provide excellent services that enhance the quality of life of our diverse community. X Yes ___ No
Explain: See above Vision.
City services will be delivered in a cost-effective, respectful and friendly manner to ensure the safety and well being of the residents and the promotion of business, recreational, housing and employment opportunities in an environmentally sustainable manner. X Yes No Explain: See above Vision.
Strong fiscal policies allow us to provide appropriate infrastructure for:
• Public Safety Yes X No N/A
• Housing Yes X No N/A
• Recreation X Yes No N/A
• Environment X Yes No N/A
• Education Yes No X N/A
ALTERNATIVES
The Council could direct staff to develop other alternatives for maintenance of the sidewalk and planting of street trees.
BUDGET IMPACT
There’s no budget impact to this staff report.
CONCLUSION
It is recommended that the City Council receive a report on the City’s current policy for maintenance of the sidewalk and planting of a street tree in front of private properties, and provide any direction to staff.
Attachments:
1. Ordinance 2010-68
2. City's Official Street Tree List