Agenda packet — Grass Valley City Council, August 12, 2025 (part 1 of 2)

GRASS VALLEY
City Council Regular Meeting, Capital Improvements Authority and Redevelopment "Successor Agency"
Tuesday, August 12, 2025 at 6:00 PM
Council Chambers, Grass Valley City Hall | 125 East Main Street, Grass Valley, California Telephone: (530) 274-4310 – Fax: (530) 274-4399
E-Mail: [email protected] Web Site: www.cityofgrassvalley.com AGENDA
Any person with a disability who requires accommodations to participate in this meeting should telephone the City Clerk’s office at (530)274-4390, at least 48 hours prior to the meeting to make a request for a disability related modification or accommodation.

Mayor Hilary Hodge, Vice Mayor Haven Caravelli, Councilmember Jan Arbuckle, Councilmember Joe Bonomolo, Councilmember Tom Ivy

MEETING NOTICE
City Council welcomes you to attend the meetings electronically or in person at the City Hall Council Chambers, located at 125 E. Main St., Grass Valley, CA 95945. Regular Meetings are scheduled at 6:00 p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month. Your interest is encouraged and appreciated.

This meeting is being broadcast “live” on Comcast Channel 17 & 18 by Nevada County Media, on the internet at www.cityofgrassvalley.com, or on the City of Grass Valley YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@cityofgrassvalley.com Members of the public are encouraged to submit public comments via voicemail at (530) 274-4390 and email to [email protected]. Comments will be reviewed and distributed before the meeting if received by 5pm. Comments received after that will be addressed during the item and/or at the end of the meeting. Council will have the option to modify their action on items based on comments received. Action may be taken on any agenda item.

Agenda materials, staff reports, and background information related to regular agenda items are available on the City’s website: www.cityofgrassvalley.com. Materials related to an item on this agenda submitted to the Council after distribution of the agenda packet will be made available on the City of Grass Valley website at www.cityofgrassvalley.com, subject to City staff’s ability to post the documents before the meeting.

Please note, individuals who disrupt, disturb, impede, or render infeasible the orderly conduct of a meeting will receive one warning that, if they do not cease such behavior, they may be removed from the meeting. The chair has authority to order individuals removed if they do not cease their disruptive behavior following this warning. No warning is required before an individual is removed if that individual engages in a use of force or makes a true threat of force. (Gov. Code, § 54957.95.)

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City of Grass Valley, CA AGENDA August 12, 2025
Council Chambers are wheelchair accessible and listening devices are available. Other special accommodations may be requested to the City Clerk 72 hours in advance of the meeting by calling (530) 274-4390, we are happy to accommodate.

CALL TO ORDER

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

ROLL CALL
AGENDA APPROVAL - The City Council reserves the right to hear items in a different order to accomplish business in the most efficient manner.

REPORT OUT OF CLOSED SESSION

CITY UPDATE
PUBLIC COMMENT - Members of the public are encouraged to submit public comments via voicemail at (530) 274-4390 and email to [email protected]. Comments will be reviewed and distributed before the meeting if received by 5pm. Comments received after 5pm will be addressed during the item and/or at the end of the meeting. Council will have the option to modify their action on items based on comments received. Action may be taken on any agenda item. There is a time limitation of three minutes per person for all emailed, voicemail, or in person comments, and only one type of public comment per person. Speaker cards are assigned for public comments that are on any items not on the agenda, and within the jurisdiction or interest of the City. Speaker Cards can be pulled until the opening of public comment at which time sign ups will no longer be allowed.

These cards can be found at the City Clerks desk. If you wish to speak regarding a scheduled agenda item, please come to the podium when the item is announced. When recognized, please begin by providing your name and address for the record (optional). Thirty minutes of public comment will be heard under this item in order of the speaker card assigned and the remaining general public comments will be heard at the end of the meeting. We will begin with number one.

CONSENT ITEMS -All matters listed under the Consent Calendar are to be considered routine by the City Council and/or Grass Valley Redevelopment Agency and will be enacted by one motion in the form listed. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless, before the City Council and/or Grass Valley Redevelopment Agency votes on the motion to adopt, members of the Council and/or Agency, staff or the public request specific items to be removed from the Consent Calendar for separate discussion and action but Council action is required to do so (roll call vote).Unless the Council removes an item from the Consent Calendar for separate discussion, public comments are invited as to the consent calendar as a whole and limited to three minutes per person.

1. Approval of the Regular Meeting Minutes of July 22nd, 2025 Recommendation: Council approve minutes as submitted.

2. Approval of the Special Meeting Minutes of August 5th, 2025 Recommendation: Council approve minutes as submitted.

3. Updated Job Description for Fire Engineer and Fire Captain

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City of Grass Valley, CA AGENDA August 12, 2025
CEQA: Not a Project
Recommendation: That Council approve the updated job descriptions for Fire Engineer and Fire Captain, subject to legal reveiw.

4. Slate Creek Lift Station Pump Replacement Project – Authorization to Bid CEQA: Categorically Exempt – Section 15301 “Existing Facilities” Recommendation: That Council 1) approve the findings that the project is categorically exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA); and 2) authorize the advertisement for bids.

5. NID/ Grass Valley Water Service Area Boundaries – Execute Agreement Amendment CEQA: N/A – Not a Project
Recommendation: That Council authorize the Mayor to sign the “Second Amendment to the Contract Between Nevada Irrigation District and City of Grass Valley for Water Supply”

6. Responses to the Nevada County Grand Jury Report “A Long and Winding Road for the Homeless of Nevada County”
CEQA: Not a Project
Recommendation: That Council accept and file responses to the Nevada County Grand Jury “A Long and winding Road for the Homeless of Nevada County.

7. Updated Appointment of City Councilmembers and Staff to Boards and Commissions CEQA: Not a Project
Recommendation: Approve Mayor Hodge’s updated recommendation of appointments of Councilmembers and Staff to various Boards and Commissions.

ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR FOR DISCUSSION OR SEPARATE ACTION AND /

OR ANY ADDED AGENDA ITEMS

REORGANIZATION RELATED ITEMS

PUBLIC HEARING

ADMINISTRATIVE

8. Community Farms Planning for Mautino Park
CEQA: Not a project.

Recommendation: That Council 1) receive and file the Final Community Food Campus report submitted by Interfaith Food Ministry and Sierra Harvest; 2) consider the proposal's findings and recommendations; and 3) provide direction to staff on next steps for the development at Mautino Park.

9. Residential Permit Parking Program Discussion
CEQA: Not a project
Recommendation: Provide direction to staff on the implementation of a Residential Permit Parking program for implementation of terms via future ordinance/resolution adoption

10. Identification and Implementation of Supplemental City Goals – FY 2025–2026

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City of Grass Valley, CA AGENDA August 12, 2025
CEQA: Not a Project
Recommendation: That the City Council 1) Review the proposed supplemental (nonbudgeted) City Goals for FY 2025–2026; 2) Provide input on additional potential goals for consideration; and 3) Identify and prioritize the top five non-budgeted goals/activities to help guide staff focus and resource allocation during the upcoming fiscal year.

BRIEF REPORTS BY COUNCIL MEMBERS

CONTINUATION OF PUBLIC COMMENT

ADJOURN

POSTING NOTICE
This is to certify that the above notice of a meeting of The City Council, scheduled for Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at 6:00 p.m., was posted at city hall, easily accessible to the public, as of 5:00 p.m. Friday, August 12, 2025.
________________________
Taylor Whittingslow, City Clerk

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GRASS VALLEY
City Council Regular Meeting, Capital Improvements Authority and Redevelopment "Successor Agency"
Tuesday, July 22, 2025 at 6:00 PM
Council Chambers, Grass Valley City Hall | 125 East Main Street, Grass Valley, California Telephone: (530) 274-4310 – Fax: (530) 274-4399
E-Mail: [email protected] Web Site: www.cityofgrassvalley.com

MINUTES

CALL TO ORDER
Meeting called to order at 6:02 pm.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Hodge led the Pledge of Allegiance.

ROLL CALL

PRESENT
Councilmember Jan Arbuckle
Councilmember Joe Bonomolo
Councilmember Tom Ivy
Mayor Hilary Hodge
ABSENT
Vice Mayor Haven Caravelli
AGENDA APPROVAL –
Motion to approve the agenda as submitted by Councilmember Bonomolo, Seconded by Councilmember Arbuckle.

Voting Yea: Councilmember Arbuckle, Councilmember Bonomolo, Councilmember Ivy, Mayor Hodge

REPORT OUT OF CLOSED SESSION
Nothing to report out of the special closed door meeting of July 14, 2025 at 3:30 pm.

INTRODUCTIONS AND PRESENTATIONS

1. Report from staff on a booth at the County Fair.

2. Update from staff on the cleanup event that occurred on July 16 at the site of the future Dorsey Marketplace.

PUBLIC COMMENT –
In person public comment: Speakers 1 thru 4 (noted changes: no speaker #2 & Speaker #3 wanted to speak on a later item)

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Item # 1.

City of Grass Valley, CA MINUTES July 22, 2025
Virtual attached. Attached
CONSENT ITEMS –
Virtual public comment attached.

Motion made to approve consent as submitted by Councilmember Arbuckle, seconded by Councilmember Bonomolo.

Voting Yea: Councilmember Arbuckle, Councilmember Bonomolo, Councilmember Ivy, Mayor Hodge
Council took a break at 6:30 pm, and the meeting resumed at 6:32 pm.

3. Approval of the Regular Meeting Minutes of July 8, 2025.

Recommendation: Council approve minutes as submitted.

4. Approving the Application for California Forest Improvement Program and Designating an authorized Representative
CEQA: Not a project
Recommendation: That the City Council authorize staff to apply for funding through the California Forest Improvement Program (CFIP) to support forest health improvements on City-owned properties of 20 acres or more. Additionally, designate the City Manager as the authorized agent to conduct all necessary negotiations and to execute and submit all required documents—including, but not limited to, applications, contracts, amendments, payment requests, and compliance certifications with all applicable state and federal laws—for the successful completion of the CFIP project.

5. Annual Approval of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) Adjustment to the Special Emergency Medical and Fire Response Tax.

CEQA: Not a Project
Recommendation: That Council 1) Approve a rate increase to the Special Emergency Medical and Fire Response Tax of 2.9% based on the December 2024 CPI. 2) Adopt Resolution 2025-40 requesting that the Nevada County Auditor place the adjusted Measure A special tax for 2025/2026 on the tax rolls.

ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR FOR DISCUSSION OR SEPARATE ACTION AND /

OR ANY ADDED AGENDA ITEMS

REORGANIZATION RELATED ITEMS

PUBLIC HEARING

6. Collection of Delinquent Sewer and/or Water Accounts on the Nevada County Tax Roll CEQA: Not a Project
Recommendation: After holding a public hearing, adopt Resolution 2025-39 requesting that the County of Nevada levy and collect delinquent sewer and water charges on the property tax roll.

Jennifer Styczynski, Deputy Finance Director, gave the overview to the council.

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Item # 1.

City of Grass Valley, CA MINUTES July 22, 2025
No public comments.

A discussion was held amongst the Council.

Motion made to continue the item to a special meeting where all 5 members can attend by Councilmember Arbuckle, Seconded by Councilmember Ivy.

Voting Yea: Councilmember Arbuckle, Councilmember Ivy, Mayor Hodge Voting Nay: Councilmember Bonomolo

ADMINISTRATIVE

7. Local Buyback and Compost Facility Feasibility Study – R3 Proposal CEQA: Not a project
Recommendation: That the City Council 1) Review the proposal for a joint feasibility study with the City of Nevada City to evaluate the development of a shared facility for CRV (California Redemption Value) local buyback, clear plastic recycling, and composting; 2) Provide direction to staff regarding the City's participation in the proposed project; and 3) Authorize the City Manager to enter into any necessary agreements, subject to legal review, and approve the use of General Fund contingencies and Measure B funds to cover the City’s share of the feasibility study cost in coordination with Nevada City.

Tim Kiser, City Manager, gave an overview of the item to the Council.

Public Comment: Debbie Gibbs, Christine Newsom, Sherley Freriks, Bob Branstrom Motion to 1) Review the proposal for a joint feasibility study with the City of Nevada City to evaluate the development of a shared facility for CRV (California Redemption Value) local buyback, clear plastic recycling, and composting; 2) Provide direction to staff regarding the City's participation in the proposed project; and 3) Authorize the City Manager to enter into any necessary agreements, subject to legal review, and approve the use of General Fund contingencies cover the City’s share of the feasibility study cost in coordination with Nevada City by Councilmember Arbuckle, Seconded by Councilmember Bonomolo.

Voting Yea: Councilmember Arbuckle, Councilmember Bonomolo, Councilmember Ivy, Mayor Hodge

8. Historical Commission Quarterly Update
CEQA: Not a project
Recommendation: That Council receives quarterly update from Historical Commission.

Terry McAteer, Historical Commission Chair, gave an update to the council.

Public comment: Robin Davis, Bob Branstrom
Informational item only.

BRIEF REPORTS BY COUNCIL MEMBERS
Councilmember Bonomolo attended an Ad Hoc Skateboard meeting. Councilmember Arbuckle attended a League of Cal Cities Sacramento Division meeting, a Nevada County Law and Fire meeting, on the town with Mike Stewart, was elected as the Honorary Commander, Conference for the National League of Cities, Starry Nights, and Howard Stars

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Item # 1.

City of Grass Valley, CA MINUTES July 22, 2025
ceremony. Councilmember Ivy attended a Nevada County Transportation Commission meeting, a Pioneer Energy Meeting, and an Ad Hoc skateboard meeting. Mayor Hodge will have her Wednesday with the Mayor, and attended a GVDA Merchant meeting, a Nevada County Creatives meeting, a laughter performance, and the Howard Levine Star Ceremony.

She urges everyone to look at the Library and any of its events. She attended Starry Nights, and the city's National Night Out will be on August 5th at Memorial Park

ADJOURN
Meeting adjourned at 7:48 pm.
______________________________ ______________________________ Hilary Hodge, Mayor Tayor Whittingslow, City Clerk
Adopted on: _________

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Item # 1.
1 Taylor Whittingslow
From: WIRELESS CALLER - Voicemail box 8880 <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 6:03 PM
To: Public Comments
Subject: Voicemail from ( on Jul 22 2025 5:59 PM
Attachments: 1753232347-000014bf.mp3
You received a new voicemail message
New voicemail message
Time: Tuesday, July 22 2025 5:59 PM
From:

Duration: 2 minutes 20 seconds
Voicemail box: 8880
Transcript:

Hi, this is Matthew Coulter making public comment for the agenda items on the City Council agenda on the 22nd of July. Number two, I think that might be just a report, but if there is public comment, my public comment on that is the mud runoff that will take place and the mine dust that is blowing off that property of the Dorsey cleanup project that you guys just overkill all the way to the dirt. Unfortunate, I understand, and it's unfortunate that it was allowed to fester to 30 people living up there and the fires and such. Number four, the overkill of the nesting habitat with your masticating.

All you're doing is opening up the raw soil for invasive species to grow and it will have to be masticated every year for blackberries and scotch broom because that is what now you are growing by the bushel. Uh, number five, the tax increase. Uh, that's pretty sad that a 2.9% tax increase is going to hit the people at this time, along with the

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Item # 1.
2 other retail sales tax increase for the same issue. We were fire, uh, the number six, the sewer and water on the tax roll. Uh, the County just went ahead and did that today, Nevada city too. I'm sure you're aware of, and this is just a way to get property from old $100 then you guys are on them and there is no scale to say okay that's not enough to take your property and so they're on the chopping block and they're on that list to lose their property over a very small amount of money owed per sewer or water or some other mandatory things that they are having to have in city of Grass Valley. There should be a cap amount listed in the agenda so we know is it $500, is it $100, you know when are you going to take grandma's house. That would be really nice to know. And number eight, the historical update. I'd like the historical commission to all go visit the train station and look at the graffiti and look at the Sarah Kidder monument with the dead trees that have been dead now for several years. And it's a sad representation of Grass Valley honors its history. Thank you very much.

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Item # 1.
3 Taylor Whittingslow
From: WIRELESS CALLER - Voicemail box 8880 <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 6:00 PM
To: Public Comments
Subject: Voicemail from on Jul 22 2025 5:55 PM
Attachments: 1753232131-000014bb.mp3
You received a new voicemail message
New voicemail message
Time: Tuesday, July 22 2025 5:55 PM
From:

Duration: 2 minutes 48 seconds
Voicemail box: 8880
Transcript:

Hi, this is Matthew Coulter, leading public comment for the July 22nd City Council meeting for Grass Valley, California. And I'd like to first mention about the meetings and the fact that the Zoom has been working for quite a long time. When I was able to get it, I had to watch on Zoom and listen on YouTube because the sound was so bad, and there's been approximately $100 ,000 put into the audio and the availability to produce these meetings to the general public as required under the Brown Act and the city has not kept up their end of the bargain whatsoever. That's very sad. Dorsey marketplace that definitely needs some waddles put up because as soon as it rains all that mine moon dust that you guys made is just going to wash right down the hill into Wolf Creek. We know that we have the problems with mud run off here and all of the projects in the city shouldn't be the leader of the environmental destruction that's

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Item # 1.
4 happening. Leave that to the developers that you're helping. Uh, the people that were moved off Dorsey marketplace are now living over on Idaho, Maryland and Bennett street camps. The majority of them, um, continue the environmental destruction. Um, I'm hoping the closed session can be talked about. I, you guys didn't come out and report what happened in closed session last Monday at three 30 at that special meeting. And for my final part of my comment, I'd like to mention that the mayor, Hillary is making false police reports again, just like she has done repeatedly, including with her DUIs, this is troubling that she's able to lie to the police, um, either to protect herself from something or to punish other people she believes need to be punished. In this case, it was me. she called the police on me saying she saw me walking on the street. Therefore that triggered her into the point of conniption. And as I had to train her years ago, and I'm sure you guys are all aware of also that public photography is not illegal. I take a lot of pictures in town every single day. Uh, many people are in the pictures that aren't intended to be in the pictures. Most of them are scenic pictures and I don't even want the people in the So, Hillary, I didn't see you today. I was walking up the street through that very narrow passageway that you approved in front of the freaking Serenos that is so dangerous for pedestrians. Just trying to negotiate the streets. You don't have time to look at people. You got to watch what's on the ground around here. It's a ******* nightmare. So stop calling the cops on people and stop drinking. Thank you.

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Item # 1.
5 Taylor Whittingslow
From: GALLE,JOHN - Voicemail box 8880 <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 5:45 PM
To: Public Comments
Subject: Voicemail from ( on Jul 22 2025 5:42 PM
Attachments: 1753231332-000014a5.mp3
You received a new voicemail message
New voicemail message
Time: Tuesday, July 22 2025 5:42 PM
From:

Duration: 1 minute 38 seconds
Voicemail box: 8880
Transcript:

Yes, this is Patty Galley. I never worked so hard, cared so much, or failed so badly when it came to getting justice for Matthew Coulter when justice was most deserved. And I'll die in **** before I give up exposing what gross and deliberate monsters you are to harass someone with false claims and try to put him in jail or have his restraining order extended. Hillary, you are a disgrace to your office and to the citizens. Today you made up **** that was not true and did so with the intent to harass a citizen. What an outstanding mayor you are. You and the rest of the city that supports this are despicable and the police are running the charge by filing such a false and deplorable case to the DA. And don't give me this **** the DA decides. No, the police can decide and they should have seen this for what it was and went about real crime. But when it comes to Matthew, it's never true. I have so many examples

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Item # 1.
6 of how you have harassed him and falsely accused him. Using measuring tape to try to justify he took a ******* picture of a mattress is an insane example. Maybe you are all laughing and having a champagne party that you got him reported to the DA today. You are worse than a pack of dogs on a wild killing spree. I might die in **** but you'll all be there for your disgusting way of life and how you treat others.

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Item # 1.
7 Taylor Whittingslow
From: Susan Rogers
Sent: Thursday, July 17, 2025 9:17 PM
To: Public Comments
Subject: Public Comment on Item 7 of July 22 City Council Agenda [You don't oŌen get email from Learn why this is important at hƩps://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdenƟficaƟon ]
Hello Council Members,
My comment is regarding Item 7 on your agenda, "Local Buyback and Compost Facility Feasibility Study - R3 Proposal." As much as I would love to have access to a CRV-buyback facility that's much closer than the McCourtney Road transfer staƟon, I am not clear on how it is jusƟfiable to use Measure B funds to help cover the City's share of the feasibility study cost.

My understanding is that Measure B funds are for wildfire resilience, including funding more personnel for our fire engines, hiring staff (e.g. Duane Strawser) for educaƟng and enforcing City vegetaƟon management codes, and similar expenses.

I fail to understand how a feasibility study for a Buyback and Compost Facility meets the criteria that I and a few thousand other Measure B voters were promised regarding how Measure B revenue would be spent.

Did the Measure B Oversight CommiƩee submit this expenditure as part of their budget for Coucil's approval? If so, I missed that and have to wonder why they would have wanted the sales tax revenue spent in this way since that CommiƩee's charter is to ensure it is spent as described in the elecƟon's voter pamphlet.

Please keep your promise to City residents to spend Measure B revenues on wildfire prevenƟon and resilience. I would rather drive to the transfer staƟon (or give my buyback money to Waste Management as I'm already doing), than have funding taken away from the acƟviƟes we were told Measure B would cover.

Thank you,
Susan Rogers
640 Charlene Lane
Grass Valley, CA 95945
--

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Item # 1.

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Item # 1.

GRASS VALLEY
Special City Council Meeting
Tuesday, August 05, 2025 at 3:00 PM
Council Chambers, Grass Valley City Hall | 125 East Main Street, Grass Valley, California Telephone: (530) 274-4310 – Fax: (530) 274-4399
E-Mail: [email protected] Web Site: www.cityofgrassvalley.com

MINUTES

CALL TO ORDER
Meeting called to order at 3:04 pm.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Hodge led the Pledge of Allegiance.

ROLL CALL

PRESENT
Councilmember Jan Arbuckle
Councilmember Joe Bonomolo
Councilmember Tom Ivy
Vice Mayor Haven Caravelli
Mayor Hilary Hodge

AGENDA APPROVAL -
Motion made to approve the agenda as submitted by Councilmember Arbuckle, Seconded by Vice Mayor Caravelli.

Voting Yea: Councilmember Arbuckle, Councilmember Bonomolo, Councilmember Ivy, Vice Mayor Caravelli, Mayor Hodge

PUBLIC COMMENT -
No pubic comments.

CONSENT ITEMS –
No public comments.

Motion made to approve consent as submitted by Councilmember Arbuckle, Seconded by Vice Mayor Caravelli.

Voting Yea: Councilmember Arbuckle, Councilmember Bonomolo, Councilmember Ivy, Vice Mayor Caravelli, Mayor Hodge

1. Management/Supervisor Professional & Confidential Employees Unit #1 side letter for interagency work assignments away from their official duty station and assigned to an emergency incident as part of the California Fire Assistance Agreement (CFAA).

CEQA: Not a Project

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Item # 2.

City of Grass Valley, CA MINUTES August 05, 2025
Recommendation: That Council 1) approve the Resolution 2025-41 and Unit 1 updated side letter identifying the terms and conditions for the fire departments response away from their official duty station and assigned to emergency incidents as part of California Fire Assistance Agreement (CFAA).

2. Resolution to Update Authorized Positions for the City of Grass Valley Local Agency Investment Fund (LAIF) Account.

CEQA: Not a Project.

Recommendation: That the City Council adopt Resolution No. 2025-42, authorizing investment of monies in the Local Agency Investment Fund.

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ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR FOR DISCUSSION OR SEPARATE ACTION AND /

OR ANY ADDED AGENDA ITEMS

PUBLIC HEARING

3. Request to Place Fiscal Year 2025–26 Assessment for the Loma Rica Ranch Landscaping and Lighting District on the Property Tax Roll.

CEQA: Not a Project.

Recommendation: That the City Council adopt Resolution No. 2025-43, requesting the County Auditor-Controller to place the Fiscal Year 2025-26 assessment for Landscaping and Lighting District No. 1988-2 on the Nevada County property tax roll.

Jenifer Styczynski, Deputy Finance Director, gave the presentation to the Council.

Virtual Comments attached.

Motion made to adopt Resolution No. 2025-43, requesting the County AuditorController to place the Fiscal Year 2025-26 assessment for Landscaping and Lighting District No. 1988-2 on the Nevada County property tax roll by Councilmember Arbuckle, Seconded by Vice Mayor Caravelli.

Voting Yea: Councilmember Arbuckle, Councilmember Bonomolo, Councilmember Ivy, Vice Mayor Caravelli, Mayor Hodge

4. Collection of Delinquent Sewer and/or Water Accounts on the Nevada County Tax Roll CEQA: Not a Project
Recommendation: After holding a public hearing, adopt Resolution 2025-39 requesting that the County of Nevada levy and collect delinquent sewer and water charges on the property tax roll.

Jenifer Styczynski, Deputy Finance Director, gave the presentation to the Council.

Public Comment: Dawn Bateman
Motion made to adopt Resolution 2025-39 requesting that the County of Nevada levy and collect delinquent sewer and water charges on the property tax roll by Councilmember Arbuckle, Seconded by Vice Mayor Caravelli.

Voting Yea: Councilmember Arbuckle, Councilmember Ivy, Vice Mayor Caravelli, Mayor Hodge
Voting Nay: Councilmember Bonomolo

ADJOURN

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Item # 2.

City of Grass Valley, CA MINUTES August 05, 2025
Meeting was adjourned at 3:40 pm.
________________________________ ______________________________ Hilary Hodge, Mayor Taylor Whittingslow, City Clerk
Adopted on: ___________

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Item # 2.
1 Taylor Whittingslow
From: WIRELESS CALLER - Voicemail box 8880 <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 3:07 PM
To: Public Comments
Subject: Voicemail from on Aug 5 2025 3:03 PM
Attachments: 1754431396-00001fb4.mp3
You received a new voicemail message
New voicemail message
Time: Tuesday, August 5 2025 3:03 PM
From:

Duration: 1 minute 53 seconds
Voicemail box: 8880
Transcript:

Hey, this is Matthew Colter making a public comment for the city of grass valley city council meeting at three o 'clock on Tuesday, the fifth. And my public comment relates to the dead trees that have been dead for years on whispering pines, which is city, um, easement and city, um, landscaping, um, very, very dead. It's not a question of if they're dead or if they're going to come back, they've been dead for years. It's very obvious. The washing of the trash and oil down the storm drains around town is prolific and if you go over by Diego's right now and look in the creek, you'll see exactly what I'm talking about. It's been there for days, just hovering on top of the water because it can't mix in. The air quality is very bad locally here and we've even had planes launched to fight a fire that wasn't a fire, it was dust being created by people. just right on the edge of city limits in the sphere of influence, and that's the PG &E

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Item # 2.
2 yard, so somebody needs to deal with those folks, hopefully, from the city. When you guys do sweep the streets with the street sweeper, you're not using water, so it's creating a lot of dust, so it's kind of defeating the purpose. The dog-eared fences at Loma Rica Ranch are basically banned by cal fire and should be off Dorsey marketplace of all the folks living up there. We ended up with a lot of new graffiti, slashed tires, stolen things, broken windows, and pretty much everyone's living over on the camp over by Demartini's on Idaho Maryland Road now. So if you want to go visit anyone there, they're all over there. Thanks a lot.

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Item # 2.

City of Grass Valley
City Council
Agenda Action Sheet
Title: Updated Job Description for Fire Engineer and Fire Captain CEQA: Not a Project
Recommendation: That Council approve the updated job descriptions for Fire Engineer and Fire Captain, subject to legal reveiw.

Prepared by: Mark Buttron- Fire Chief
Council Meeting Date: 07/23/2025 Date Prepared: 08/12/2025 Agenda: Consent
Background Information: Job descriptions are routinely updated as training, expectations, and level of service increase. The updated description brings into alignment the qualifications, duties, and responsibilities of the Fire Engineer and Fire Captain with the professional expectations of the City of Grass Valley Fire Department.

The changes have been underlined for reference.

Council Goals/Objectives: Exceptional Public Safety consistent with the City of Grass Valley Strategic Plan
Fiscal Impact: None
Funds Available: N/A Account #: N/A
Reviewed by:

Attachments: Fire Engineer Job Description
Fire Captain Job Description

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Item # 3.

City of Grass Valley

JOB DESCRIPTION

ENGINEER

FIRE CAPTAIN
Department: Fire Department FSLA Status: Non-exempt
Reports To: Battalion Chief, Division Chief, Fire Chief Unit: 8 / Classified Full- Time Adopted: April 26, 2022 Revised: July, 2025
_____________________________________________________________________________

SUMMARY OF JOB PURPOSE
Under direction, performs a variety of administration, supervisory, and technical duties involved in planning, coordinating, assigning, directing, and participating in fire suppression, emergency medical service, hazardous material response, rescue, fire prevention and inspection, fire investigation, and related services and activities of an assigned engine company; and ensures that all assigned activities are carried out effectively, efficiently, safely, and according to department guidelines and policies.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Immediate supervision is provided by the Battalion Chief, Division Chief, or Fire Chief. Under the provisions of a Joint Operations Agreement may be supervised by supervisors from other signatory agencies. The Fire Captain directly supervises subordinates assigned to the fire company, shift, and under the provisions of the Joint Operations Agreement may supervise personnel of other signatory agencies.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (includes, but not limited to listed tasks) The following duties are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed duties and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties from those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices.  Plan, coordinate, assign, direct, and participate in fire suppression, emergency medical service, hazardous materials response, rescue, fire prevention and inspection, fire investigation, and related services and activities for an assigned engine company; ensure all assigned activities are carried out effectively, efficiently, safely, and according to department guidelines and policies.
 Respond to and assist in emergency medical process and procedures in Advanced Life Support (ALS) - paramedics only, Limited Advanced Life Support (LALS) -if qualified, or Basic Life Support (BLS) while also assisting ALS care givers.  Communicates medical information to the hospital; dependent on qualification administers advanced, limited advanced, or basic emergency medical care to the sick and injured;

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Item # 3.

City of Grass Valley

JOB DESCRIPTION

ENGINEER

FIRE CAPTAIN
documents emergency care rendered; all in compliance with applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations.
 Direct, coordinate, supervise, and review the work plan for assigned personnel; assign work activities and projects; monitor workflow; review and evaluate work products, methods, and procedures; meet with staff to identify and resolve problems.  Train, motivate, and evaluate assigned personnel; identify the fire training needs of company personnel; provide or coordinate staff training and drills in firefighting methods, techniques, and related subjects; work with employees to correct deficiencies; enforce departmental policies and procedures and recommend disciplinary action, as necessary.  Respond to alarms involving fire, medical aid, hazardous substances, and rescue work; assume incident command as required and conduct assessment tactics, strategy development, and implementation; supervise, direct, and participate in firefighting duties, equipment and apparatus operations, search and rescue services, rendering first aid and basic life support/ advanced life support, and the control and cleanup of hazardous materials spills and releases.
 Conduct, supervise, and participate in fire cause and origin determinations; determine preliminary origin and cause of fire at emergency scenes; obtain and preserve evidence.  Conduct, supervise, and participate in fire and life safety inspections; supervise and participate in the routine inspection of commercial, industrial, residential, and other buildings; supervise and participate in fire sprinkler, alarm, and hydrant flow tests; supervise proper maintenance of hydrants in assigned areas.  Supervise and participate in public education and public relations activities; coordinate public relations activities and interact with various news media; design, develop, supervise, and participate in public education programs; may be required to make presentations to schools, service clubs, or other public gatherings on fire and burn prevention.  Complete and prepare a variety of forms, reports, and recommendations; prepare emergency scene reports; prepare accident, injury, and exposure reports; review reports submitted by subordinate staff.
 Supervise and participate in the maintenance and testing of department apparatus and equipment; supervise and conduct maintenance and repairs of radios, pagers, and alert monitors; plan and review the maintenance, testing, and repair to self-contained breathing apparatus; supervise and participate in ladder testing and annual pumper and hose tests; evaluate, maintain, and replace personal protective equipment and station uniforms for assigned personnel; maintain medical aid equipment and supplies.

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Item # 3.

City of Grass Valley

JOB DESCRIPTION

ENGINEER

FIRE CAPTAIN
 Direct and participate in fire station buildings and grounds maintenance; direct the cleaning of quarters, equipment, and apparatus.
 Maintain skill levels, new equipment and procedure familiarization, and certifications that are relevant and/or required for assigned responsibilities; attend and participate in professional group meetings; stay abreast of new trends and innovations in the field of fire suppression, fire prevention, emergency medical response, hazardous material response, and technical rescue.
 Provide staff assistance to management staff; participate in the development and implementation of emergency plans; prepare and present staff reports and other correspondence as appropriate and necessary; perform a full range of other departmental administrative duties.
 Serve as liaison for the Fire Department with other divisions, departments, and outside agencies.
 Administer, oversee, and supervise assigned programs and special projects.  Perform related duties as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, a person must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

Knowledge of:
 Operations, services, and activities of an emergency service operation including fire suppression, fire prevention, emergency medical services, disaster preparedness, hazardous materials response, and related services and activities.
 Communicating medical information to the hospital; dependent on qualification administers advanced, limited advanced, or basic emergency medical care to the sick and injured; documents emergency care rendered; all in compliance with applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations.
 Principles and practices of supervision, training, and performance evaluation. Basic principles and practices of program development and administration.

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Item # 3.

City of Grass Valley

JOB DESCRIPTION

ENGINEER

FIRE CAPTAIN
 Fire science theory, principles, and practices and their application to a wide variety of emergency service operations including fire suppression, fire prevention, and fire investigation.  Operating characteristics, uses, and maintenance requirements of pump engines, fire apparatus, and other firefighting and emergency medical apparatus and equipment.  Mechanical and hydraulic principles of fire apparatus.  Modern and complex principles and practices of firefighting.  Principles and practices of disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. Methods and techniques of basic life support and rescue.
 Hazardous materials and chemical spill response techniques.  Principles, methods, and techniques used in confined space and rescue operations.  Mechanical, chemical, and related characteristics of a wide variety of flammable and explosive materials and objects.
 Principles of combustion and cause of fire.
 Principles of building construction and fire protection systems.  Geography and street layout of the city and surrounding areas.  Current safety practices relate to equipment and procedures involved in the fire service.  Pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations.  Methods and techniques of public relations.
 Mathematical concepts and principles.
 Appropriate safety precautions and procedures.
 Record keeping and basic report preparation principles and practices.

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Item # 3.

City of Grass Valley

JOB DESCRIPTION

ENGINEER

FIRE CAPTAIN
 Basic office procedures and methods including computer equipment and supporting word processing and spreadsheet applications.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
 Minimum 18 years of age
 Completion of the 12th grade with Diploma or General Education Degree.  Completion of Grass Valley Fire Department Captain task book.  Five (5) years of full-time paid experience in fire suppression, emergency medical response, and fire prevention experience comparable to that of a Firefighter/Engineer with the City of Grass Valley. *
OR
 2 years as an Engineer with testing agency (probation included), or 3 years combined as an Acting Engineer and/or Engineer with testing agency. Placement on a current promotional eligibility list if not currently employed as an Engineer. * *To participate in promotional ranking process’, candidates must have met the minimum qualifications by the final filing date of the examination, unless otherwise noted. Although, based on department needs candidates not meeting the time-in-grade component, but who will meet that requirement within 6 months of the date of the ranking process, will be eligible to participate in the ranking process. Those individuals who successfully pass, but do not meet the time in grade component are considered actors but shall not become active on the ranking list until the experience component is met.

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Item # 3.

City of Grass Valley

JOB DESCRIPTION

ENGINEER

FIRE CAPTAIN
 Valid California Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification (or ability to obtain prior to appointment) and the ability to obtain Expanded scope EMT accreditation provided by the Grass Valley Fire Department. A valid and current California EMT certification and the Expanded Scope EMT must be maintained as a condition of employment.  Captain Paramedic- Valid California Paramedic license, current Pediatric Advanced Life support (PALS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), and the ability to obtain Sierra Sacramento Valley EMS accreditation within 60 days of hire. A valid and current California Paramedic license, PALS and ACLS, and local accreditation must be maintained as a condition of employment as a Captain Paramedic. A Captain Paramedic may operate as Limited Advanced Life Support (LALS) in lieu of full Advanced Life Support (ALS) if necessary.
 Current CPR certification. A valid and current CPR certification is a condition of employment.  Valid unrestricted California Driver’s License for operations of fire apparatus or a valid unrestricted California Commercial Driver’s License. A valid California Driver’s License endorsed for operation of fire apparatus, or a valid California Commercial Driver’s License must be maintained as a condition of employment.
 ICS-300
 Low Angle Rope Rescue Operations (LARRO) or Rope Rescue Awareness and Rope Rescue Technician or ability to obtain within 12 months of appointment.

LANGUAGE SKILLS
Ability to read, write and communicate in English at a level required for successful job performance.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS
Ability to use and understand basic mathematical concepts such as: adding, subtracting, multiplying, dividing, simple fractions and percentages.

REASONING ABILITY
Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, orally or in diagram form; analyze and resolve problems involving circumstances and or events using standardized methods or procedures.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

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Item # 3.

City of Grass Valley

JOB DESCRIPTION

ENGINEER

FIRE CAPTAIN
 Person must pass a medical examination to verify the ability to physically perform all required duties.
 The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  The employee must be free from any physical, emotional, or mental condition which might adversely affect the ability to perform essential job duties.  The employee must have the ability to perform those physical activities required for the execution of essential functions including, but not limited to, regular sitting, walking, standing, performing repetitive motions with hands and wrists such as regular keyboarding. The employee must have the ability to perform normal communications, including in person, two-way radio or on the telephone. The employee must also be able to crouch, kneel, stoop, twist, climb, balance, reach, grasp, push, pull, carry and lift 100 pounds of weight. The employee must be able to work in confined spaces for extended periods of time in all climates and weather.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT
 May require exposure to physical hazards such as fumes, chemical and bodily fluids.  May require working in adverse environmental conditions such as inclement weather, extreme temperature, dust, noise, dim lighting, confined spaces, and other conditions that may arise while performing essential functions.
 May require the ability to wear an air supply / purifying respirator.  May be required to work for extended periods without days off.

BACKGROUND
Candidates offered employment will be required to successfully pass a background investigation that may include psychological examination, polygraph examination and in-depth background investigation.

GENERAL
The City reserves the right to revise or change classification duties and responsibilities as the need arises. This description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.

This job description indicates in general the nature and levels of work, skills, abilities, and other essential functions (as covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act) expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be asked to perform other duties as required. The City of Grass Valley is an EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

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Item # 3.

City of Grass Valley

JOB DESCRIPTION

ENGINEER
1 Department: Fire Department FSLA Status: Non-exempt
Reports To: Captain, Battalion Chief, Div Chief, or Fire Chief Unit: 8 / Classified Full- Time Adopted: September 28, 2018 Revised: July 2025
_____________________________________________________________________________

SUMMARY OF JOB PURPOSE
The Fire Engineer is a first line company officer who may be assigned as the lead company officer or the subordinate of a captain while participating in a full range of all-risk emergency and non-emergency activities, including, but not limited to, fire suppression, emergency medical service, hazardous materials response, rescue, fire prevention and inspection programs, fire investigation, fire station maintenance, apparatus and equipment maintenance, training exercises, and related services and activities of an assigned engine company. The Engineer ensures that all assigned activities are carried out effectively, efficiently, safely, and according to department guidelines and policies.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
The Engineer may be assigned as a supervisor of a fire company or a subordinate of a captain and under the provisions of a Joint Operations Agreement may be supervised by supervisors from other signatory agencies or may supervise employees of other signatory agencies. The Engineer may work under the direct supervisor of the Fire Captain, Battalion Chief or designated officer while performing all regular and special duties assigned.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (includes, but not limited to listed tasks) The following duties are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed duties and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties from those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices.  Respond to emergency and non-emergency alarms in either a supervisory or subordinate role as part of a team in all phases of fire suppression work; perform rescue, lay, and connect hoses, carry, and climb ladders, operate hose streams, ventilate buildings, overhaul, salvage, and cleanup activities at fire scene.  Respond to and assist in emergency medical process and procedures in Advanced Life Support (ALS) - paramedics only, Limited Advanced Life Support (LALS) -if qualified, or Basic Life Support (BLS) while also assisting ALS care givers.
 Communicates medical information to the hospital; dependent on qualification administers advanced, limited advanced, or basic emergency medical care to the sick and injured; documents emergency care rendered; all in compliance with applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations.

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Item # 3.

City of Grass Valley

JOB DESCRIPTION

ENGINEER
2  Respond to and assist in the mitigation of hazardous material, technical rescue, and nonemergency calls for service as necessary in either and supervisory or subordinate role.  Write, prepare, and file reports, forms, and recommendations such as emergency incident reports, accident reports, injury reports, exposure reports, apparatus maintenance logs, inspection forms, and other fire related information.
 Oversees and participates in the performance of routine daily, weekly, and monthly inspections of the fire apparatus and equipment; maintains readiness of fire apparatus and other automotive equipment; maintain fire station and grounds; perform routine cleaning and minor repairs on apparatus, firefighting equipment, and fire stations as necessary; maintains maintenance and inspection records; informs station captain of repair work needed.  Drive and operate fire apparatus and other automotive equipment.  Assist with fire prevention in the performance of periodic Uniform Fire Code inspections of industrial and commercial businesses and places of assembly; assist in the enforcement of the fire prevention codes by following through and documenting violations in need of corrective action.
 Conduct and participate in training exercises; develop skills in fire suppression, medical aid, apparatus operation, physical fitness, and other related areas.  Conduct and assist with public education activities; station tours, grade school presentations, fire drills, and other community education programs that encourage awareness of emergency services and techniques.
 Knowledgeable in the use of Report Management System to record and document responses and activities.
 Maintain appropriate records, logs, and files of work completed and in-progress; prepare statistical and analytical reports as required.
 Conduct and participate in pre-fire planning activities; stay abreast of new innovations relative to fire prevention.
 Participates in testing and record keeping of a variety of department and city fire equipment including protective clothing, breathing apparatus, fire hose, fire hydrants, and other equipment as necessary.

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Item # 3.

City of Grass Valley

JOB DESCRIPTION

ENGINEER
3  Perform related duties and responsibilities as required.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Knowledge of:
 Principles and practices of supervision and management.  Modern principles and practices of fire suppression, hazardous material mitigation, and emergency medical services.
 Functions, characteristics, and proper use and maintenance of firefighting and emergency apparatus, equipment, tools, devices, and facilities.
 Emergency medical process and procedures in Advanced Life Support (ALS) - paramedics only, Limited Advanced Life Support (LALS) -if qualified, or Basic Life Support (BLS).  Modern principles of fire hydraulics, mechanics, and chemistry as applied to fire suppression.  Current laws and practices pertaining to fire prevention, public education, and safety.  Rules, regulations, and operational procedures of the City of Grass Valley and the Grass Valley Fire Department
 Basic computer uses and office processes.
 All risk ICS (Incident Command System).

Ability to:
 Supervise personnel, assess emergency incidents, set priorities, implement an action plan, and request resources following the best practices of the fire service while under potentially adverse and stressful conditions.
 Understand and learn firefighting and emergency medical care knowledge, techniques, and skills from oral, written, and task demonstrated sources.

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Item # 3.

City of Grass Valley

JOB DESCRIPTION

ENGINEER
4  Think clearly and act decisively as a supervisor or subordinate while applying a wide variety of firefighting duties, methods, and procedures including the operation of firefighting apparatus, equipment, and tools.
 Perform physical and strenuous work while functioning effectively for long hours under high stress conditions in adverse environments.
 Maintain oneself in a state of physical and mental readiness appropriate for the physical and strenuous demands of the job.
 Return to work for planned and emergency staffing needs created by department trainings, meetings, planned vacancies, and emergency response.
 Know, understand, and apply city and department rules, laws, ordinances, policies, and procedures.
 Know city and local geography and read and interpret maps and fire preplans if necessary.  Establish and maintain harmonious and effective working relationships with employees, senior management, outside agencies, and the general public.
 Read and write the English language at a level necessary for efficient performance.  Understand and follow oral instructions.
 Communicate clearly and effectively in oral and written form.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
 Minimum 18 years of age
 Completion of the 12th grade with Diploma or General Education Degree.  Completion of Grass Valley Fire Department Engineer task book.  3 years full-time experience with the testing agency (probation included). * -OR-
 A combination of 3 years full time experience with the testing agency and an all-risk fire agency comparable to the City of Grass Valley as an Engineer or Firefighter/Driver Operator. * *To participate in promotional ranking process’, candidates must have met the minimum qualifications by the final filing date of the examination, unless otherwise noted. Although, based on department needs candidates not meeting the time in grade component, but who will meet that requirement within 6 months

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Item # 3.

City of Grass Valley

JOB DESCRIPTION

ENGINEER
5 of the date of the ranking process, will be eligible to participate in the ranking process. Those individuals who successfully pass, but do not meet the time in grade component are considered actors but shall not become active on the ranking list until the experience component is met.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS
 California State Fire Marshal Firefighter I certificate, or equivalent, obtained through an Accredited California State Fire Marshal Firefighter Academy. Full time experience in an all-risk fire agency may be substituted for the required completion of the California State Fire Marshal Academy as determined by the City.
 Valid California Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification (or ability to obtain prior to appointment) and the ability to obtain Expanded scope EMT accreditation provided by the Grass Valley Fire Department. A valid California EMT certification and the Expanded Scope EMT must be maintained as a condition of employment.
 Valid and current CPR certification. CPR certification is a condition of employment.  Valid unrestricted California Driver’s License for operations of fire apparatus or a valid unrestricted California Commercial Driver’s License. A valid California Driver’s License endorsed for operation of fire apparatus, or a valid California Commercial Driver’s License must be maintained as a condition of employment.
 California State Fire Marshall Driver Operator 1A and 1B certification  ICS-300
 California State Fire Marshall Command 1A and 1B (old curriculum) or Company Officer 2D and 2E (new curriculum) certifications.
 Engineer Paramedic- Valid California Paramedic license, Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), and the ability to obtain Sierra Sacramento Valley EMS accreditation within 60 days of hire. A valid and current California Paramedic license, PALS and ACLS certification, and local accreditation must be maintained as a condition of employment as an Engineer Paramedic. An Engineer Paramedic may operate as Limited Advanced Life Support (LALS) in lieu of full Advanced Life Support (ALS) if necessary.

LANGUAGE SKILLS
Ability to read, write and communicate in English at a level required for successful job performance.

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Item # 3.

City of Grass Valley

JOB DESCRIPTION

ENGINEER
6 MATHEMATICAL SKILLS
Ability to use and understand basic mathematical concepts such as: adding, subtracting, multiplying, dividing, simple fractions and percentages.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
 Employee must pass a medical examination to verify the ability to physically perform all required duties.
 The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  The employee must be free from any physical, emotional, or mental condition which might adversely affect the ability to perform essential job duties.  The employee must have the ability to perform those physical activities required for the execution of essential functions including, but not limited to, regular sitting, walking, standing, performing repetitive motions with hands and wrists such as regular keyboarding. The employee must have the ability to perform normal communications, including in person, two-way radio or on the telephone. The employee must also be able to crouch, kneel, stoop, twist, climb, balance, reach, grasp, push, pull, carry and lift 100 pounds of weight. The employee must be able to work in confined spaces for extended periods of time in all climates and weather.

BACKGROUND

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Item # 3.

City of Grass Valley

JOB DESCRIPTION

ENGINEER
7 Candidates offered employment will be required to successfully pass a background investigation that may include psychological examination, polygraph examination and in-depth background investigation.

Page 36 ends

Item # 3.

City of Grass Valley
City Council
Agenda Action Sheet
Title: Slate Creek Lift Station Pump Replacement Project – Authorization to Bid CEQA: Categorically Exempt – Section 15301 “Existing Facilities” Recommendation: That Council 1) approve the findings that the project is categorically exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA); and 2) authorize the advertisement for bids.

Prepared by: Bjorn P. Jones, PE, City Engineer
Council Meeting Date: 08/12/2025 Date Prepared: 08/7/2025 Agenda: Consent
Background Information: The Slate Creek Lift Station Pump Replacement Project involves upgrades and modernization work to the existing lift station in accordance with current design standards and the City’s Wastewater Master Plan. This project involves the demolition and replacement of major components of the lift station, including modification of the wet well, installation of new pumps, piping and valves, and electrical system upgrades.

Copies of project plans and specifications for the Slate Creek Lift Station Pump Replacement Project are available for review in the Engineering Division office at City Hall. The total project cost is estimated at $700,000.00.

The award of a construction contract is anticipated to occur in Fall 2025 with construction estimated to be completed in Spring 2026. Staff requests that Council authorize the bidding process for construction of this project.

Council Goals/Objectives: The Slate Creek Lift Station Pump Replacement Project executes portions of work tasks towards achieving/maintaining Strategic Plan Goal – Water & Wastewater Systems & Underground Infrastructure.

Fiscal Impact: The Slate Creek Lift Station Pump Replacement Project is fully funded in the FY 2025/2026 CIP Budget with Sewer Rate Program funds.

Funds Available: Yes Account #: 510-406-66940
Reviewed by: ____ City Manager Attachments: N/A

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Item # 4.

City of Grass Valley
City Council
Agenda Action Sheet
Title: NID/ Grass Valley Water Service Area Boundaries – Execute Agreement Amendment
CEQA: N/A – Not a Project
Recommendation: That Council authorize the Mayor to sign the “Second Amendment to the Contract Between Nevada Irrigation District and City of Grass Valley for Water Supply”
Prepared by: Bjorn P. Jones, PE, City Engineer
Council Meeting Date: 08/12/2025 Date Prepared: 08/14/2025 Agenda: Consent
Background Information: On April 10, 2013, the City and Nevada Irrigation District (NID) entered into a contract for water supply (“Contract”). The Contract provides for a delineation of certain water service territory boundaries between the City and NID (“Service Area Boundaries”). Pursuant to the Contract, the Service Area Boundaries cannot be changed without the written consent of the City and NID.

City staff have requested that NID agree to an amendment of the Service Area Boundaries to enable the City to provide water to certain parcels along La Barr Meadows Rd, which are currently located within NID’s Service Area Boundary, as depicted on the attached Exhibit. Water service to any potential development of the subject parcels would more easily be provided by City water distribution facilities already adjacent to the area, whereas NID’s facilities are a significant distance away. City staff and NID wish to amend the Contract with the attached “Second Amendment to the Contract Between Nevada Irrigation District and City of Grass Valley for Water Supply”, pursuant to the terms and conditions therein. Prior to taking effect, the NID Board of Directors will also need to approve the amendment, which is tentatively scheduled for their meeting on August 13, 2025.

Staff recommends that Council authorize the Mayor to sign the amendment, subject to legal review, accepting the change in service area boundaries.

Council Goals/Objectives: The water service area amendment execute portions of work tasks towards achieving/maintaining Strategic Plan Goals – Transportation, Water & Wastewater Systems & Underground Infrastructure

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Item # 5.

Fiscal Impact: There are no immediate fiscal impacts with the subject action. Project costs associated with the extension and installation of water distribution facilities would be borne by the developer.

Funds Available: N/A Account #: N/A
Reviewed by: City Manager Attachments: Amendment, Exhibits

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Item # 5.
1 SECOND AMENDMENT

TO THE CONTRACT BETWEEN NEVADA IRRIGATION DISTRICT

AND CITY OF GRASS VALLEY

FOR WATER SUPPLY
This Second Amendment to the Contract Between Nevada Irrigation District and City of Grass Valley For Water Supply (“Second Amendment”) is entered into as of the date of the last signature below by and between NEVADA IRRIGATION DISTRICT (“District”), an Irrigation District organized and existing under the laws of the State of California, and the CITY OF GRASS VALLEY (“City”), a municipal corporation, organized and existing under the laws of the State of California. This Second Amendment is made with reference to the following facts and understandings:

1. On April 10, 2013, City and District entered into that certain ‘Contract Between Nevada Irrigation District and City of Grass Valley for Water Supply’ (“Contract”). The Contract provides for, among other things a delineation of certain water service territory boundaries between City and District (“Service Area Boundaries”). The Service Area Boundaries are depicted in Exhibit A to the Contract, which is also attached to this Second Amendment as Exhibit A and incorporated herein by this reference.

2. Pursuant to the Contract, the Service Area Boundaries depicted in Exhibit A cannot be changed without the written consent of each of the City and District.

3. On April 10, 2019, City and District executed the First Amendment to the Contract, enabling City to provide water to certain parcels of the Berriman Ranch Subdivision as depicted in Exhibit B attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference; and

4. City has requested District consent to an amendment of the Service Area Boundaries to enable City to provide water to certain parcels along La Barr Meadows, which are currently located within the District’s Service Area Boundary, but more easily served by City water supply.

5. City and District wish to amend the Contract with this Second Amendment to accommodate City’s request, pursuant to the terms and conditions herein.

NOW, THEREFORE, the parties agree as follows:

1. Service Area Boundaries Adjustment. Exhibit A & B to the Contract Between Nevada Irrigation District and City of Grass Valley for Water Supply of April 10, 2013 is hereby amended to add APN’s 029-350-012, 022-150-023, 022-150-030, 009-620-010 and 009-

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Item # 5.
2 620-012 to the City Service area. The revised Service Area Boundaries resulting from this Second Amendment are depicted in Exhibit C hereto. Exhibit C shall, upon and after the Effective Date of this Second Amendment, supersede and replace, for all purposes, Exhibit A & B to the Contract.

2. Extent of Amendment Effective Upon Approval. Except as expressly set forth in this Second Amendment, the Contract, and all appendices, attachments, and exhibits thereto, remain unchanged and are hereby continued in full force and effect.

3. Effective Date. This Second Amendment shall become effective when signed by the parties.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties execute this Second Amendment on the dates set forth below.

NEVADA IRRIGATION DISTRICT
Dated: , 2025. By
President
Dated: , 2025. By
Secretary

CITY OF GRASS VALLEY
Dated: , 2025. By
Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

Dated: , 2025. By _________________________ _____
City Attorney
ATTEST:

Dated: , 2025. By ________________________________
City Clerk

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Item # 5.

NEVADA COUNTY

FAIRGROUNDS

GRASS VALLEY
SEWAGE

TREATMENT
PLANT

E M P I R E M I N E S T A T E P A R K

MEMORIAL
PARK
CONDON
PARK

LYMAN GILMORE
SCHOOL
N.I.D.

CEM

NEVADA COUNTY

COUNTRY CLUB
GRASS
VALLEY

TREATMENT
PLANT

ALTA HILL

RESERVOIRS
BELL
HILL
SCHOOL
MT. SAINT
MARY'S
SCHOOL

HENNESSEY
SCHOOL

RAW WATER DELIVERY POINT
SERVICE AREA NO. 2

DELIVERY POINT

TREATED WATER

DELIVERY POINT

TREATMENT PLANT USE DELIVERY POINT

RIDGE ROAD
E M

A NI STREET
GOLDEN
CENTER

FREEWAY

AUBURN ROAD
S
AUBURN
STREET

FREEMAN
LANE
ALTA
STREET

ALLISON RANCH ROAD

GOLDEN CENTER FREEWAY

MILL STREET

E EMPIRE STREET

MCCOURTNEY ROAD

HUGHES ROAD

LA BARR MEADOWS ROAD

DORIS DRIVE

W MAIN STREET

BUTLER STREET

NEAL STREET

TAYLORVILLE ROAD
STATE HIGHWAY 174

WALKER DRIVE

RACE STREET

ROUGH & READY HIGHWAY

BENNETT STREET

GOLD HILL DRIVE

WHITING STREET

S CHURCH STREET

SQUIRREL CREEK ROAD

PACKARD DRIVE

WALSH STREET

BRIGHTON ST

HANSEN WAY

BANK STREET

RICHARDSON STREET
O

AK STREET

IDAHO MARYLAND ROAD

PLEASANT
STREET

HILL STREET

S SCHOOL STREET

CAREY DRIVE
PINE
STREET

JAN ROAD

FRENCH AVENUE

ALPINE LANE
STATE HIGHWAY 20
BRA
G
G
AVENUE

CANDY LANE

EUREKA STREET

TINLOY STREET

W EMPIRE STREET

MARSHALL STREET

CYPRESS HILL DRIVE

COLFAX AVENUE

E BENNETT ROAD

CELESTA DRIVE

LIDSTER AVENUE
ALTA
VISTA
AVENUE

BUTLER ROAD

N AUBURN STREET

KIDDER AVENUE

PRIMROSE LANE
N
CHURCH
STREET

KATE HAYES STREET

MINERS TRAIL

LINDEN AVENUE
N SCHO

OL STREET

CHERRY LANE
CLA

RK STREET

RAILROAD AVENUE

PARK AVENUE

CATHERINE LANE

LUCAS LANE

DRIFT ALLEY

GLASSON WAY

PENSTOCK DR

SIERRA DRIVE

CEDAR WAY
CAR

OL DRIVE

CHAPEL STREET

VISTA AVENUE

W MCKNIGHT WAY

CLIPPER LANE

IVY STREET

PARTR IDGE ROAD

MERCURY DRIVE
SILVER
WAY

HENDERSON STREET

FIRST STREET

MOTE LANE

WASHINGTON
STREET

WILEY LANE
JILL R
OAD
LEDUC
STREET

STACEY LANE

MAIDEN LANE

PICAD ILLY L ANE

HANGING WALL DRIVE

E MCKNIGHT WAY

SIERRA COLLEGE DRIVE

MARGARET LANE

CONAWAY AVENUE

RHODE ISLAND
ST
BUENA

VISTA STREET
MEM

ORIAL LANE

TOWNSEND STREET

JENKINS ST

BROADVIEW AVE
OCEA N
AVENUE

PELTON WY

CORNWALL AVENUE

DALTON STREET

BLIGHT ROAD

RIDGEVIEW DRIVE

DOLORES DRIVE
M

ANZAN TI A DR VI E

MARYLAND DRIVE

WENDY CIRC LE

CHESTER STREET

CARPENTER STREET

FAWCE TT ST

JOYCE DRIVE

FOOTWALL DRIVE

BUTTE V EI W DR VI E

GENE'S R OAD

DORSEY DRIVE

ST JOHN'S DRIVE
SCAD
DEN D
RIVE

CLIFF'S PLACE
MURPHY
STREET

SCANDLING AVENUE
LLOYD
STREET
EMPIRE
MINE C
R
OSS RO
AD

WESTHILL ROAD
HIGH
STREET

WOOD STREET

PINE LANE

EMPIRE COURT

BARBY DRIVE

MAINHART DRIVE

SCOTIA PINES CIRCLE

BAWDEN AVE

SEC O ND STREET

WINDSOR LANE

E MARYLAND DRIVE

TERRACE PINES COURT

CASTLEMONT DRIVE

HOCKING AVENUE

FIR LANE
STEWA

RT STREET

BANNER V EI W DR VI E

PARK STREET

SUNRISE HEIGHTS

NEVILLE WAY

LEAHY RD

PEABODY COURT

FIDDICK LANE

UPPER SLATE CREEK ROAD

FOREST GLADE CIRCLE

ASCOT PLACE

BERRYMAN STREET

KECHELY
CT

BUCKINGHAM COURT

PRESLEY WAY

OPHIR STREET

INDEPEND ENCE CT

ALTA VIST A DRIVE

BADGER LANE

W BERRYHILL DR
KING
COURT

HUNTING TON CT

TERRY ST

ADAMS LANE

STANFORD CT

FLORENCE AVE

MUIR CT

RAMON CT

BRIGHTON ST

GOLDEN CENTER FREEWAY
PRIM
R

OSE LANE
WALKER
D
RIVE

OAK STREET

FINNIE STREET
CARRIA

GE LANE

WOODSIDE
LANE

NORTHSTAR PLACE

STERLING
COURT
KING
WAY
REDWOO
D LANE

CYPRESS HILL DR

E MAIN STREET

ALTA STREET

RIDGE ROAD

MCCOURTNEY ROAD
STATE

HIGHWAY
49 S AUBURN STREET
Wolf Creek
Wolf Creek

SERVICE
AREA
NO. 1

SERVICE
AREA
NO. 1
SERVICE AREA NO. 2

GRASS VALLEY SERVICE AREAS
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N E V A D A I R R I G A T I O N D I S T R I C T

NEVADA COUNTY -- PLACER COUNTY

GRASS VALLEY, CALIFORNIA
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NEVADA COUNTY

FAIRGROUNDS

GRASS VALLEY
SEWAGE

TREATMENT
PLANT

E M P I R E M I N E S T A T E P A R K

MEMORIAL
PARK
CONDON
PARK

LYMAN GILMORE
SCHOOL
N.I.D.

CEM

NEVADA COUNTY

COUNTRY CLUB
GRASS
VALLEY

TREATMENT
PLANT

ALTA HILL

RESERVOIRS
BELL
HILL
SCHOOL
MT. SAINT
MARY'S
SCHOOL

HENNESSEY
SCHOOL

RAW WATER DELIVERY POINT
SERVICE AREA NO. 2

DELIVERY POINT

TREATED WATER

DELIVERY POINT

TREATMENT PLANT USE DELIVERY POINT
FIRST

AMENDMENT

RIDGE ROAD

E MAIN STREET

GOLDEN CENTER FREEWAY

AUBURN ROAD

S AUBURN STREET

FREEMAN LANE

ALTA STREET

ALLISON RANCH ROAD

GOLDEN CENTER FREEWAY

MILL STREET

E EMPIRE STREET

MCCOURTNEY ROAD

HUGHES ROAD

LA BARR MEADOWS ROAD

DORIS DRIVE

W MAIN STREET

BUTLER STREET

NEAL STREET

TAYLORVILLE ROAD
STATE HIGHWAY 174

WALKER DRIVE

RACE STREET

ROUGH & READY HIGHWAY

BENNETT STREET

GOLD HILL DRIVE

WHITING STREET

S CHURCH STREET

SQUIRREL CREEK ROAD

PACKARD DRIVE

WALSH STREET

BRIGHTON ST

HANSEN WAY

BANK STREET

RICHARDSON STREET

OAK STREET

IDAHO MARYLAND ROAD

PLEASANT STREET

HILL STREET

S SCHOOL STREET

CAREY DRIVE

PINE STREET

JAN ROAD

FRENCH AVENUE

ALPINE LANE
STATE HIGHWAY 20

BRAGG AVENUE

CANDY LANE

EUREKA STREET

TINLOY STREET

W EMPIRE STREET

MARSHALL STREET

CYPRESS HILL DRIVE

COLFAX AVENUE

E BENNETT ROAD

CELESTA DRIVE

LIDSTER AVENUE
ALTA
VISTA
AVENUE

BUTLER ROAD

N AUBURN STREET

KIDDER AVENUE

PRIMROSE LANE
N
CHURCH
STREET

KATE HAYES STREET

MINERS TRAIL

LINDEN AVENUE

N SCHOOL STREET

CHERRY LANE
CLA

RK STREET

RAILROAD AVENUE

PARK AVENUE

CATHERINE LANE

LUCAS LANE

DRIFT ALLEY

GLASSON WAY

PENSTOCK DR

SIERRA DRIVE

CEDAR WAY
CAR

OL DRIVE

CHAPEL STREET

VISTA AVENUE

W MCKNIGHT WAY

CLIPPER LANE

IVY STREET

PARTRIDGE ROAD

MERCURY DRIVE

SILVER WAY

HENDERSON STREET

FIRST STREET

MOTE LANE

WASHINGTON
STREET

WILEY LANE

JILL ROAD

LEDUC STREET

STACEY LANE

MAIDEN LANE

PICAD ILLY L ANE

HANGING WALL DRIVE

E MCKNIGHT WAY

SIERRA COLLEGE DR VI E

MARGARET LANE

CONAWAY AVENUE

RHODE ISLAND
ST
BUENA

VISTA STREET

MEMORIAL LANE

TOWNSEND STREET

JENKINS ST

BROADVIEW AVE
OCEA N
AVENUE

PELTON WY

CORNWALL AVENUE

DALTON STREET

BLIGHT RO
AD

RIDGEVIEW DRIVE

DOLORES DRIVE

MANZANITA DRIVE

MARYLAND DRIVE

WENDY CIRC LE

CHESTER STREET

CARPENTER STREET

FAWCETT ST

JOYCE DRIVE

FOOTWALL DRIVE

BUTTE VIEW DRIVE

GENE'S R OAD

DORSEY DRIVE

ST JOHN'S DRIVE

SCADDEN DRIVE

CLIFF'S PLACE
MURPHY
STREET

SCANDLING AVENUE

LLOYD STREET
EMPIRE
MINE C
R
OSS RO
AD

WESTHILL ROAD

HIGH STREET

WOOD STREET

PINE LANE

EMPIRE COURT

BARBY DRIVE

MAINHART DRIVE

SCOTIA PINES CIRCLE

BAWDEN AVE

SEC O ND STREET

WINDSOR LANE

E MARYLAND DRIVE

TERRACE PINES COURT

CASTLEMONT DRIVE

HOCKING AVENUE

FIR LANE

STEWART STREET

BANNER VIEW DRIVE

PARK STREET

SUNRISE HEIGHTS

NEVILLE WAY

LEAHY RD

PEABODY COURT

FIDDICK LANE

UPPER SLATE CREEK ROAD

FOREST GLADE CIRCLE

ASCOT PLACE

BERRYMAN STREET

KECHELY
CT

BUCKINGHAM COURT

PRESLEY WAY

OPHIR STREET

INDEPENDENCE CT

ALTA VIST A
DRIVE

BADGER LANE

W BERRYHILL DR

KING COURT

HUNTING TON CT

TERRY ST

ADAMS LANE

STANFORD CT

FLORENCE AVE

MUIR CT

RAMON CT

BRIGHTON ST

GOLDEN CENTER FREEWAY

PRIMROSE LANE

WALKER DRIVE

OAK STREET

FINNIE STREET

CARRIAGE LANE

WOODSIDE LANE

NORTHSTAR PLACE

STERLING COURT

KING WAY

REDWOOD LANE

CYPRESS HILL DR

E MAIN STREET

ALTA STREET

RIDGE ROAD

MCCOURTNEY ROAD
STATE HIGHWAY 49

S AUBURN STREET
Wolf Creek
Wolf Creek

SERVICE
AREA
NO. 1

SERVICE
AREA
NO. 1
SERVICE AREA NO. 2

GRASS VALLEY WATER SUPPLY CONTRACT
Drawn By: D. HUNT Date: Scale: EXHIBIT 'B'
1" = 500' @ 24x36

N E V A D A I R R I G A T I O N D I S T R I C T

NEVADA COUNTY -- PLACER COUNTY

GRASS VALLEY, CALIFORNIA
LEGEND

NID SERVICE AREA
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GRASS VALLEY SERVICE AREA 2

AREA IN GV SERVED BY NID
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Page 44 ends

Item # 5.

City of Grass Valley
City Council
Agenda Action Sheet
Title: Responses to the Nevada County Grand Jury Report “A Long and Winding Road for the Homeless of Nevada County”
CEQA: Not a Project
Recommendation: That Council accept and file responses to the Nevada County Grand Jury “A Long and winding Road for the Homeless of Nevada County.

Prepared by: Tim Kiser, City Manager
Council Meeting Date: 08/12/2025 Date Prepared: 08/06/2025 Agenda: Consent
Background Information: On May 8, 2025, the Nevada County Grand Jury released a report titled “A Long and Winding Road for the Homeless of Nevada County.” This report was issued in response to growing concerns related to the increasing risk of wildfire, the rising number of individuals experiencing homelessness, and recent legal implications stemming from the U.S. Supreme Court’s Grants Pass decision.

The 2025 report revisits and evaluates progress made since the Grand Jury’s prior investigations, including the 2015 report “Illegal Campfires” and the 2019 report “Investing in Housing for People Experiencing Homelessness in Nevada County.” As part of its findings, the Grand Jury has requested formal responses from the City of Grass Valley to several specific recommendations outlined in the report. Attached to this staff report are the City’s proposed responses, as well as a full copy of the Grand Jury’s publication for reference.

Council Goals/Objectives: This item executes portions of work tasks towards achieving/maintaining the Strategic Plan – High Performance Government & Quality Service and Productive and Efficient Workforce.

Fiscal Impact: N/A
Funds Available: N/A Account #: N/A
Reviewed by: City Manager
Attachments:
 City of Grass Valley’s Response to Recommendations to Nevada County Grand Jury Report “A Long and Winding Road for the Homeless of Nevada County  Copy of the Nevada County Grand Jury Report “A Long and Winding Road for the Homeless of Nevada County”

Page 45 ends

Item # 6.

NEVADA COUNTY GRAND JURY
Eric Rood Administration Center
May 14, 2025
Grass Va lley Council
950 Maidu Avenue
Nevada City, California 95959
Telephone: 530-265-1 730
Email :grandj [email protected]
Enclosed is a copy of the report prepared by the Grand Jury ·'A Long and winding Road fo r the Home less of Nevada County". You must fi le your response(s) on or before A ugust 14 2025.

This report wi ll be published May 15, 2025 on the Grand Jury's Website at:
http://nccourt.net/d i visions/gj-reports.shtm I.

California Penal Code §933.05 prohibits disclosure of any portion of this report prior to publication.

The California Penal Code also requires that responses to Grand Jury reports be addressed to:

The Honorable Judge Scott Thomsen
Supervising Judge of the Grand Jury
20 I Church Street
Nevada City. California 95959
To assist you in writi ng your response, we enc lose a copy of§ 933.05(a) of the Pena l Code and an example of the correct format for responding. To assist you with responding an e lectronic fo rmattable copy of this report is available by request from the j ury at [email protected].

Thank you for your cooperation.

Si~ ~
Deborah He ller, Foreperson
2024-2025 Nevada County Grand Jury

Page 46 ends

Item # 6.

California Penal Code §933.05
(a) For purposes of_subdivision (b) of Section 933. as to each grand jury finding. the responding person or entity shall indicate one of the fol lowing:
(I) The respondent agrees with the finding.
(2) The respondent disagrees wholly or parti ally with the finding; in which case the response shall specify the portion or the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor.
(b) For purposes of subdivision (b) of Section 933. as to each grand jury recommendation. the responding person or entity shall report one of the fol lowing actions:
(I) The recommendation has been implemented. with a summary regarding the implemented action.
(2) The recommendation has not yet been implemented. but will be implemented in the future. with a timeframe for implementation.
(3) The recommendation requires further analysis. with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study. and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed. including the governing body of the public agency when applicable. This time frame shall not exceed six months from the date of publication of the grand jury report.

Page 47 ends

Item # 6.

A LONG AND WINDING ROAD FOR THE

HOMELESS OF NEV ADA COUNTY
2024-2025 Nevada County Civil Grand Jury
Report Date: May 8, 2025

Page 48 ends

Item # 6.

Table of Contents
Su1nmary ........ .............................................................................. ............................................. 1 Glossary ......................................... ..... ........................... .................................................. ......... 1 Background ................................................................................................................. .............. 1 Approach .......................................................................... ......................................................... 2 Discussion .............................................. ................................................................................... 2 Findings .................................................................................................................................... 6 Reco1nmendations .................................................................................................................... 6 Request for Responses ...................... ......................................... .............................................. 6 - I -

Page 49 ends

Item # 6.

Summary
In res ponse to the Supreme Court's Grants Pass decision, increasing wildland fire risk, and ever-increasing homeless population, this report reconsiders and provides a progress report with respect to the Jury's previous reports from 2015 ("Illegal Campfires") and 2019 ("Investing in Housing for People Experiencing Homelessness in Nevada County"). The latter had 14 findings and 18 recommendations. In many instances, the Board of Supervisors (BoS) accepted the recommendations and is moving to complete or has completed the recommended changes. The Grand Jury lauds that work. The Board rejected Recommendation 13 from the 2019 report, which suggested establishing a designated homeless camping area to serve the unsheltered homeless population. Recent developments including Grants Pass, strongly suggest reversing the Board's rejection.

Ten-Year Plans
2015 Jury Report
2019 Jury Report
Homeless
Housing First
HUD
Cities
Ninth Circuit
Sierra Roots
Glossary
Nevada County Continuum of Care report "The Ten-Year
Plan to End Homelessness in Nevada County 2009-2019"
as amended
2015 Nevada County Civil Grand Jury report "Illegal
Campfires"
2019 Nevada County Civil Grand Jury report "Housing for Homeless"
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
defines a person as homeless if they lack a fixed , regular, and adequate nighttime residence
A homeless assistance approach that prioritizes providing permanent housing to people experiencing homelessness
United States Department of Housing and Urban Development Grass Valley, Nevada City, and Truckee
The United States Circuit Court for the Ninth Circuit,
which hears appeals from federal district courts in Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Washing A nonprofit organization that provides nighttime shelter opportunities for homeless
Background
In June 2024, the United States Supreme Court decided City of Grants Pass, Oregon u. Johnson ("Grants Pass"), reversing the 2018 Ninth Circuit decision in Boise u. Martin ("Boise"). Boise made it difficult for local government agencies to enforce anti-camping laws targeting homeless encampments unless certain burdensome preconditions were met. Boise basically held that it was unconstitutional, under the Eighth Amendment's prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment, to fine or incarcerate homeless under the Boise's anti-camping law, when there was an insufficient number of adequate shelter beds available in the city. (According to the Supreme Court, there was an ever evolving and elusive definition of "adequate" shelter beds.) - 1 -

Page 50 ends

Item # 6.

The Supreme Court found, among other things: (1) The Ninth Circuit has a much higher incidence of homelessness than other regions (suggesting tha t lax enforcement of a nti-camping laws has contributed to the problem); (2) a pproximately 70% of homeless suffer from menta l illness, drug, or a lcohol addiction; (3) A majority of homeless resist treatment and housing opportunities; (4) no other co urts have followed the perha ps well intended but off-base rea soning of Boise, and (5) anti-camping laws a re a useful tool for law enforcement agencies a nd municipa li ties to address the home less crisis.

As a result of Grants Pass, local governments a re again free to ena ct a nd enforce anti-camping laws against homeless persons and encampments without fear of violating the Eighth Amendment's Cruel a nd Unus ual Punishment Cla use. Many cities and counties have now reinsta ted enforcement of anti-camping laws; and some have begun to revise and strengthen the ir laws, and a few have enacted new laws.

Grants Pass's concluding paragraph invites cities a nd counties to find the best ba lance and policy response to the homeless crisis:
[Tl hey may experiment with one set of a pproaches, only to find later that a nother set works better; they may find that certa in responses are more a ppropriate for some communities than others. But in our democr acy, that is their right. Nor can a handful of feder al judges begin to "match" the collective wisdom the American people possess in deciding how best to handle a pressing socia l question like home lessness.

Given this change in the legal landscape surrounding homeless encampments and a nti-ca mping laws, the 2024-2025 Jury decided to review and reconsider the 2015 and 2019 j ury reports to provide additiona l findings and recommendations to the Board.

Approach
The jury reviewed its previous re ports, local government pla ns and accomplishments addressing homelessness, reviewed anti-camping laws, interviewed local offi cials--including law enforcement and firefighters-and conducted extensive research.

Discussion
Every J anuary, HUD requires local Continuum of Care (CoC) to conduct a one-night "pointin-time" (PIT) count of its homeless population. The count is imperfect, but it is the most accepted measure of sheltered and unshelte red homelessness. Because of the difficulties involved, experts genera lly agree that the PIT count significantly unde restimates the actual number of homeless.

For 2024, California's PIT count reported 187,084 homeless living both in and out of homeless shelte rs in Californi a, an increase of 3% from the previous year. Homelessness continues to grow despite state a nd local efforts to stem it. California's homeless popula tion is the largest in the nation.

The PIT count distinguishes between she ltered and unshelte red homeless. In 2023, of the estimated 181,399 homeless in California, 117,424 were unsheltered. In 2024, this grew to 123,974, a 5.6% increase. Across the United States, the 2023 count of unshelte red homeless was 239,225, whi ch grew to 274,224 in 2024, or a 14.6% increase. According to these statistics, California accounts for a lmost ha lf of the unsheltered homeless population although it has slightly less than 12% of the United States' population.
- 2 -

Page 51 ends

Item # 6.

The homeless population, especially those unsheltered, is growing. The PIT count for Nevada County in 2018 was 272 (180 sheltered a nd 92 unsheltered ). In 2024, the count grew to 516 (258 sheltered and 258 unsheltered), a 90% growth rate, highest for the unsheltered. 600
400
300
200
100
0 2018 2019
Nevada County PIT Count
(2020 not available due to COVID)
2021 2022 2023
516
a 258
2024
..,...Total
_,...Sheltered
..,...unsheltered
In 2017, the Board of Supervisors made addressing homelessness a top priority, directing staff to develop initiatives and incorporate homelessness in fiscal planning and management of County operations. In December 2018, the Board adopted a ten-year strategic plan to address homelessness - 2018 ("2018 Ten Year Plan"). The Board updated the plan in 2020 and 2022. These updates took into account the 2019 Jury Report and input from local government officials and involved community organizations.

In conducting this investigation, the Jury found the County has made great strides in addressing many of the recommendations identifi ed in the 2019 Jury Report. • The County has taken a leadership role with CoC and community partners to develop and maintain a plan to continua lly add ress homelessness. • The Board adopted the United States Interagency Council on Homelessness recommendation that "a strategic plan implementation have an oversight body involving a broad spectrum of the community." This became the CoC.
• In collaboration with Nevada City and Grass Valley, the County adopted measures to incentivize development of low-income housing, e.g., changes to zoning codes and general plan policies. • The County implemented the Housing First model of providing permanent housing to some homeless.
• The County renewed existing agreements for winter warming shelters with Sierra Roots. Current funding a llows Sierra Roots to open the shelter when the county identifies extreme weather conditions (i.e. 3 or more overnight hours with temperatures below 32°, or a winter storm warning, or wind-chills of below 32°). - 3 -

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Item # 6.
• The County is in the process of constructing the Day/Navigation center (Commons Resource Center) originally scheduled to open on April 1, 2025. The center will provide services to homeless and low-income residents including a place to stay during the day, laundry, and showers. The center will also serve as a day cooling center. • Nevada and Placer counties signed a memora ndum of understanding with the Homeless Resource Council of the Sierras ("HRCS") to share Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention (HHAP) funding equitably based on each county's homeless population. • The County formed the HOME team, which identifies, engages, and provides case management and housing support to highly vulnerable homeless and at-risk individuals.

Despite these efforts, the Jury has identified deficiencies in the current version of the County's homeless strategic plan.

Homeless Encampments and Fire Risk
The 2015 Jury Report focused on the risks of wildfires associated with homeless camps. ■ The 49er fire, in 1988, was one of the largest fires in Nevada County history. A homeless person started it. The fire destroyed 312 structures and burned over 33,000 acres. • Perfect-storm fire conditions exist when the wind is high, the humidity is low, and fuel is abundant. Those conditions are often present in Nevada County during fire season. • Homeless pe rsons often start fires to warm themselves and then fall asleep or pass out because of drugs or alcohol being consumed.
• Fire officials reported that transient camps are often found deep in the woods, where access by firefighters is more difficult, allowing fires to burn longer and spread more rapidly. According to one fire official, "these homeless camps present a serious fire hazard to our community."
• The re port continued, noting there had been a large increase in transient-related fires.

Law enforcement participa ting in developing the County's 2018 Ten-Year Homeless Plan stated, "The number one concern was the danger of warming and cooking fires among homeless individuals and famili es who camp outside."
In August 2024, the Nevada City Police Department presented "Wildfire Risk Abatement Activities in Relation to Homeless Encampments" to the City of Nevada City City Council noting that "in several communities, homeless encampments have been responsible for as much as 80% of fires started and have resulted in loss of life and in millions in lost property and revenues." The presentation specifically mentioned two reported vegetation fires in Nevada City on the weekend of June 14, 2024, that began near known homeless encampments.

Throughout California, cities and counties are seeing a remarkable increase in fires caused by homeless, including:
• The City of Los Angeles has seen yearly increases of fires connected to home less encampments. KCAL reported that in 2024, there were 17,000 such fires. • Sacramento County has seen a 77% increase in fire calls related to homelessness, with a reported 3,000 fires in 2023.
- 4 -

Page 53 ends

Item # 6.

These fi res stra in fire fighting resources and a lso place people and property at risk. To add fuel to the fire ris k, Califo rnia, incl uding Nevada County, is experiencing climate cha nge, which makes our environment increasing~ubject to catastrophic fires. Climate change a nd forest management practices add to the fire risk, as do recurring droughts, a nd increases in tree morta lity.

Eight of the ten la rgest fires in California were in the last five years. Some recent and nota ble fires incl ude Pa lisades, Ea ton, Pa rk, Dixie, Camp, Tubbs, a nd the list goes on.

Cal Fire's Fire Hazard Severity Zone map (FHSZ) shows most of Nevada County as very high fire ris k. A large portion of the county is within the Wildland Urban Interface or Intermix (WUI), (residentia l developments adj acent to vegetation a nd fire risks) as defined by the Nevada Countv Communitv Wildfire Protection Plan identifies. Many rura l a reas in Nevada County have only one possible evacuation route. Tha t emphasizes the need for extra caution in regard to fire prevention.

One local fire official told t he jury that Nevada County is one of the few locations in California that has not expe rienced a devasta ting fire in a long time and may the refore be overdue because of decades-long accumulation of combustible vegetation.

The month a fter Grants Pass, Governor Newsom issued Executive Order N-1-24 manda ting t hat all state agencies develop a nd implement pl ans to remove homeless camps from state property. The press release accompanying the Executive Order encouraged local governments to fo llow s uit. Governor Newsom has said California may withhold homeless funding and grants to municipa lities tha t do not comply. Within three months after Grants Pass, a t least 15 California muni cipa lities had passed new ordinances prohibiting camping or updated existing ordinances to make them more comprehensive and carry stiffer penalties. Another dozen a re considering new ba ns, and at least fo ur begun enfo rcing old camping ba ns.

Bridging the Gap
The re are not as many shelter beds in Nevada County as t here a re home less. The HOME team engages with individua ls at homeless camps, issues rema in regarding the County's reliance on the availa bility of homeless shelter beds and motel voucher availa bility when disbanding homeless camps. The availa bility of shelter beds in such programs is limited and is invariably less tha n the actua l homeless population.

County law enfo rcement offi cers complain that t hey have ins ufficient power when it comes to homeless camps on private property. In such sit uations law enfo rcement agencies must expend extra effort to contact the prope rty owner to deal wit h the sit uation. Standa rd operating procedure requires a letter from owners for law enforcement pe rsonnel to enter the property when t hey a re absent. If t he prope rty owner a uthori zes the homeless encampment, then there is little law enforcement can do. Often the courts and the probation de pa rtment release a homeless person a rrested at an illegal encampment, who then relocates to another risky location.

A growing number of municipalities in California have responded to t he homeless-encampmen t problems by creating home less campgrounds, known as "safe-stay communities" or "managed encampments." These a reas offer she lter a nd services-bathrooms, showers, la undry and access to socia l services?-in safe, sanitary environments, without the risk of arrest or citation and lower risk of wildfire. This a lso helps add ress the gap between t he number of shelter beds availa ble and the number of unsheltered. Auburn, San Rafael and San Diego have successful sanctioned camping programs. These campgrounds can also provide our unhoused community members wit h a shelter setting with fewer entry restrictions tha n approved sheltered locations.

Invariably, t he issues surrounding the homeless popula tion lead back to the Board of Supervisors. Though the re has been considera ble progress, t he County needs to do much more. - 5 -

Page 54 ends

Item # 6.

Findings
Find ing 1: The county has addressed nearly a ll of the agreed to recommend ations from t he 2019 report.

Finding 2: Homeless persons living in the WUI present a high risk of starting wildfires, endangering themselves, county residents, fi rst responders, a nd property.

Finding 3: Nevada County, with its rural nature, very high fire risk designation, and, in many cases, single evacuation routes, needs to be extra vigilant regarding fire prevention.

Finding 4: Homelessness continues to increase in the Cou nty.

Finding 5: Nevada County has substanti a lly fewe r shelter beds available than the PIT homeless count.

Finding 6: Law enforcement agencies often find it frustrating when deali ng with the unhoused population, and lack tools to remove homeless from fire-prone areas in WUI.

Finding 7: Law enforcement agencies have difficulties removing homeless camps from private property.

Finding 8: While Grass Valley, Nevada City, a nd Truckee have adopted a nti-camping laws, t he County lacks a comprehensive anti-camping law.

Recommendations
Recommendation 1: Local governments (citi es, the county, and the BoS) should enact comprehensive a nd coordinated anticamping laws; possibly consulting existing a nti-camping laws in other counties and states.

Recommendation 2: Local governments should develop one or more designated low barrier "sanctioned" camping a reas for the homeless, with faci lities and access to support services, similar to those established by other municipa lities.

Recommendation 3: Local governments should exte nd t he duration of trespass letters obtained from private property owners to one-year or longer to enable law enforcement personnel to quickly remove encampments from private property.

Recommendation 4: Local governments shou ld provide additional shelter beds to close the gap between t he number of unhoused people and the number of shelter beds.

Recommendation 5: Local governments should prioriti ze removing the homeless from the WUI.

Recommendation 6: Local governments should expand the criteria cu rrently used to determine warming shelter hours to be more realistic a nd better add ress th e exposure risk that homeless face in colder months.

Recommendation 7: The County should update the 2018 Ten-Year Plan to address this report's findings and recommendations.

Request for Responses
P ENAL CODE§§ 933 and 933.05, the Nevada County Civil Grand Jury req uires the agencies below, within 90 days of receiving the report at the agency, to respond to the following:
• Nevada County Board of Supervisors:
o Findings 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8
- 6 -

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Item # 6.
o Recommendations 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7
• Grass Valley City Council:
o Recommendations 1, 2, 3, and 5
• Nevada City Council:
o Recommendations 1, 2, 3, a nd 5
• Truckee Town Council:
o Recommendations 1, 2, 3 and 5
Pursuant to PENAL CODE§ 933.05, the Nevada County Civil Grand Jury requests that Sierra Roots, within 90 days of receiving this report, res pond to the following:
• Sie rra Roots:
o Recommendation 6
Responses go to the Presiding Judge of the Nevada County Superior Court in accord with the provisions of CAL. PENAL CODE§ 933.05. Responses must include the information that§ 933.05 requires.
- 7 -

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Item # 6.
407485.2

CITY OF GRASS VALLEY
125 East Main Street
Grass Valley, CA 95945
Tim Kiser, City Manager
August 12, 2025
The Honorable Scott Thomsen Deborah Heller, Foreperson
Supervising Judge of the Grand Jury Nevada County Grand Jury County of Nevada 950 Maidu Ave.
201 Church Street Nevada City, CA 95959
Nevada City, CA 95959
RE: Response to “Nevada County Grand Jury Final Report, 2024-2025” Released May 15, 2025
Dear Judge Thomsen and Foreperson Heller:

The City of Grass Valley has carefully reviewed and considered the report prepared by the Grand Jury “A Long and Winding Road for the Homeless of Nevada County,” released May 15, 2025.

On page 7 the Report requests the City’s response to Recommendations 1, 2, 3, and 5, which can be found on page 6. Accordingly, the City provides the following responses pursuant to California Penal Code section 933.05, subdivision (b):

RECOMMENDATION 1
Local governments (cities, the county, and the BoS) should enact comprehensive and coordinated anti-camping laws; possibly consulting existing anti-camping laws in other counties and states.

Response:

The recommendation has been implemented.

The City of Grass Valley already has ordinances in place that prohibit camping on public property, limits camping on private property, and regulate related behavior. These ordinances have been enforced consistently and were developed in alignment with best practices and legal standards. Grass Valley remains open to regional collaboration and periodic review of its policies to ensure continued compliance and effectiveness.

RECOMMENDATION 2
Local governments should develop one or more designated low-barrier “sanctioned” camping areas for the homeless, with facilities and access to support services, similar to those established by other municipalities.

Response:

The recommendation requires further analysis.

The City is not currently aware of any municipally owned property that is both suitable for this use and compatible with existing zoning regulations. The City is willing to explore the matter further in consultation with legal counsel, and in coordination other Nevada County governmental agencies, County partners, and community stakeholders.

RECOMMENDATION 3
Local governments should extend the duration of trespass letters obtained from private property Council Members
Hilary Hodge, Mayor
Haven Caravelli, Vice Mayor
Jan Arbuckle
Tom Ivy
Joe Bonomolo

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Item # 6.
407485.2
owners to one year or longer to enable law enforcement personnel to quickly remove encampments from private property.

Response:

The recommendation has been implemented.

The City of Grass Valley has long worked with private property owners to obtain trespass letters that authorize law enforcement to address unauthorized encampments. These letters are valid for one year and have been part of the City’s standard enforcement procedures to ensure timely response and compliance with property owner consent.

RECOMMENDATION 5
Local governments should prioritize removing the homeless from the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI).

Response:

The recommendation has been implemented.

The City of Grass Valley actively collaborates with partnering agencies, including local fire districts and law enforcement, to identify and address encampments and illegal camping withing the City’s jurisdiction, including areas of the Wildland Urban Interface. This includes proactive outreach, risk assessment, and, where appropriate, removal of individuals and encampments via enforcement of the City’s no-camping ordinance(s).

The City of Grass Valley welcomes and appreciates the Grand Jury’s interest in the City’s operations, as well as the opportunity to respond to the recommendations above.

Sincerely,
___________________________
Hilary Hodge, Mayor
City of Grass Valley

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Item # 6.

City of Grass Valley
City Council
Agenda Action Sheet
Title: Updated Appointment of City Councilmembers and Staff to Boards and Commissions
CEQA: Not a Project
Recommendation: Approve Mayor Hodge’s updated recommendation of appointments of Councilmembers and Staff to various Boards and Commissions.

Prepared by: Taylor Whittingslow, Deputy City Manager
Council Meeting Date: 8/12/2025 Date Prepared: 8/8/2025 Agenda: Consent
Background Information: The City Council has established a procedure to appoint members of the City Council and staff to represent the City on several Boards and Commissions. Each year the Mayor reviews the list of assignments and makes recommended appointments. Several of the appointments include both a primary and alternate member. Attached are the appointments Updated recommended by Mayor Hodge.

Council Goals/Objectives: This item executes portions of work tasks towards HighPerformance Government and Quality Service Goal # 5.A.3: Continue to build cooperative relationships with representatives from service clubs and other community groups.

Fiscal Impact: N/A
Funds Available: N/A Account #: N/A
Reviewed by: __ City Manager
Attachments: Appointment and Assignment Lists 2025

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Item # 7.

CITY OF GRASS VALLEY

APPOINTMENT AND ASSIGNMENT LIST

CITY COUNCIL AND STAFF
Members – Pursuant to City Charter Article V
Five (5) persons, elected at large on the first Tuesday in November of each even-numbered year. A majority vote of the electorate is required for removal.

Qualifications: Candidate must be a resident and registered voter of the City at the time nomination papers are issued, or at the time of their appointment to fill a vacancy.

Term: Four (4) years
Name/Title Assumed Office Term Expires
Hilary Hodge, Mayor 12/13/2022 12/8/2026
Haven Caravelli, Vice Mayor 12/13/2022 12/8/2026
Jan Arbuckle, Council Member 12/10/2024 12/12/2028
Joe Bonomolo, Council Member 12/10/2024 12/12/2028
Tom Ivy, Council Member 12/10/2024 12/12/2028
SUCCESSOR AGENCY – Pursuant to Resolution No. 2012-48 & 49 Five (5) City Council Members serve as the Grass Valley Successor Agency Board of Directors, with the City Manager serving as the Agency Executive Director, the City Clerk as Secretary, and the Director of Finance as the Finance Officer/Treasurer.

CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS AUTHORITY – Pursuant to Resolution No. 92-107 Five (5) City Council Members serve as the Grass Valley Capital Improvements Authority Board of Directors, with the City Manager serving as the Executive Officer, the City Clerk as Secretary, and the Director of Finance as the Finance Officer/Treasurer.

Presented January 14, 2025

CITY REPRESENTATIVES TO OTHER AGENCIES
City Selection Committee ………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………. Mayor Economic Resource Council ……………………………..………………… Haven Caravelli; Alternate – Jan Arbuckle Meets the first Thursday of each month 7:30 AM to 9:00 AM – Esterly Hall - 336 Crown Point Circle, Grass Valley, CA
Grass Valley Chamber of Commerce ……………………………………. Jan Arbuckle; Alternate – Hilary Hodge Executive Board Meets: 3
rd Thursday of Each Month 8:00 AM (Chamber & GVDA Office) Regular Board Meets: 4th Thursday of each Month 8:00 AM (Grass Valley City Hall) Grass Valley Downtown Association …………………………………….. Hilary Hodge; Alternate – Jan Arbuckle Executive Board Meets: 3
rd Thursday of Each Month 8:00 AM (Chamber & GVDA Office) Regular Board Meets: 4th Thursday of each Month 8:00 AM (Grass Valley City Hall)

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Item # 7.

League of California Cities Division ……………………………………………. Jan Arbuckle; Alternate – Hilary Hodge Nevada County Fire Agency …………………………………………………………………………….………………… Mark Buttron Nevada County Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCo) ………. Hilary Hodge; Alternate – Tom Ivy Meets: 3rd Thursday of Each Month 10:30 AM (Rood Center) Parks and Recreation Commission ……………………………………………..…….. Hilary Hodge; Alternate – Tom Ivy CIRA (Insurance JPA) ……………………………………………..…………….. Tim Kiser; Alternate – Jennifer Styczynski Sister City Program …………………………………………………..……………….. Mayor, City Clerk, and Eleanor Kenitzer Solid and Hazardous Waste Commission ……………………………..…………. Joe Bonomolo, Alternate – Tom Ivy Meets: Monthly, if needed (Rood Center)
Transportation Commission (NCTC) …………………………………..……………. Tom Ivy; Alternate – Joe Bonomolo Meets: 3rd Wednesday of Odd Months 9:30 AM (City of Grass Valley Council Chambers) Transit Services Commission ………………………………………………………….. Tom Ivy ; Alternate – Joe Bonomolo Meets: Before NCTC Meetings 8:30 AM
Pioneer Energy………………………………………………………………………….……….. Tom Ivy ; Alternate – Jan Arbuckle Meets: 3rd Thursday of every month 3:00 pm (Pioneer Community Energy Board Room at 2510 Warren Drive, Suite B, Rocklin, CA 95677)
US Air Force Beale Base Liaison ……………………………………………….…………….. Mayor; Alternate – Vice Mayor Meets: As Needed

CITY STANDING COMMITTEES
Subject to the Brown Act – Meetings Held as Needed
Development Review Committee (DRC) – The Planning Commission appoints a representative and alternate to the DRC, which are confirmed by the Council. Other members appointed Administratively – Engineering Staff – Catharine Dykes; Fire Department – Roque Barrera, Planning Staff – Amy Wolfson; Alternate – Lucy Rollins, and City Architect
EDBG/Business Loan Advisory Board ………………………………………..…….. Mayor; Alternative – Vice Mayor Administratively, it includes one representative from each of the following: SEDC and business community.

Hearing Officer (per Municipal Code 1. 10 .030) …………………………………………………………………….. Tim Kiser Traffic Safety Review Committee …………………………………………………………………………(CURENTYLY INACTIVE) CDBG/Housing Rehabilitation ……………………………………………….. (CURRENTLY INACTIVE) Mayor, Council Member, Alternate
REVISED: 08/12/2025

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Item # 7.

City of Grass Valley
City Council
Agenda Action Sheet
Title: Community Farms Planning for Mautino Park
CEQA: Not a project.

Prepared by: Tim Kiser, City Manager
Council Meeting Date: 08/12/2025 Date Prepared: 08/06/2025 Agenda: Administrative
Background Information: As part of the FY 2024/25 Adopted Budget, the Grass Valley City Council and the Measure E Citizens Oversight Committee allocated $60,000 in Measure E funds to evaluate the feasibility of community-based agricultural uses at DeVere Mautino Park. This funding aimed to explore opportunities to improve local food access, promote environmental education, and activate underutilized areas of the park.

In response, the City received a collaborative proposal from Interfaith Food Ministry (IFM) and Sierra Harvest—two well-established local nonprofit organizations. Through a thorough planning process, they developed a proposal for a Community Food Campus, which envisions the transformation of portions of Mautino Park into a center for food production, education, and community gathering.

The proposed project includes the development of a community farm and farmstand in Areas 1 and 2. These spaces would feature heirloom fruit orchards, raised vegetable and herb beds, native demonstration gardens, deer fencing, and a covered outdoor classroom. A produce stand operating on a pay-what-you-can model is also included to ensure food access for all residents. Area 3 would be transformed into a food forest designed with permaculture principles and native plants to promote biodiversity, soil health, and informal education opportunities. An earlier concept for a composting facility was ultimately removed from the proposal due to community concerns and compatibility with the surrounding land uses.

Over 100 community members participated in surveys and listening sessions, offering feedback that significantly shaped the final concept. Many residents voiced strong support for preserving natural features such as mature trees, wildlife corridors, and

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Item # 8.
existing trails, prompting revisions to the garden layout and the removal of some infrastructure components. Concerns about pedestrian safety and traffic near Alta Street led to recommendations for rerouting access points, adding sidewalks, and exploring a shared parking arrangement with the adjacent Salvation Army property.

Overall, community sentiment was highly supportive of the proposal, particularly for its potential to provide fresh produce, youth education opportunities, workforce development, and health benefits for underserved residents.

As part of the research for the final report, the project team reviewed more than 20 successful community food projects across the country. Their findings emphasized the value of phased implementation, pilot programming, strong local governance structures, diversified revenue sources such as CSA programs and farmstands, and the integration of educational and workforce training components. The most successful models also aligned closely with local government priorities and planning goals.

Based on community input, land suitability, and overall feasibility, the final report recommends developing approximately one acre across Areas 1 and 2 for the farm, farmstand, native gardens, a small composting space, a gazebo-style outdoor classroom, and a gravel parking area. Area 3 would become a food forest with guild planting techniques to support pollinators, improve ecological function, and serve as an attractive public amenity. Infrastructure improvements along Alta Street, including sidewalk installation and shared parking, are also proposed to address access and safety. Existing forested park sections would be preserved, with native plantings used to enhance the visual and environmental value of new installations.

Fiscal Impact: There are no fiscal impacts associated with receiving and filing the final Community Food Campus report. Implementing the findings from the report would have to return to City Council for any funding.

Funds Available: N/A Account #: N/A
Reviewed by: City Manager
Attachments: Final Community Food Campus report

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Item # 8.

DeVere Mautino Park Community Food Campus Report
Submitted by
Interfaith Food Ministry & Sierra Harvest
July 18, 2025

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Item # 8.

Table of Contents
Executive Summary 3
Analogous Model Research 5
Key Insights 6
Model Summary 8
Pear & Aspirant Model Analysis 11
Community Engagement Results 33
Background & Overview 33
Community Listening Session Summary 34
Partner Listening Session Summary 37
Area 1 & 2 Report 40
Project Overview 40
Project Map 42
SWOT Analysis 43
Budget Analysis 44
Component Description
Materials List
Cost Analysis
Buildout Timeline
Funding Analysis 50
Key Performance Indicators 52
Recommendations 53
Area 3 Report 53
Project Overview 53
Food Forest Rationale 54
Native Plant Integration 56
Design Recommendation 58
Implementation Plan 61
Buildout Timeline
Budget Analysis 64
Recommendations 70
Conclusion 71
Land Acknowledgement 72
Appendix 73
2

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Item # 8.

Executive Summary
Overview
This report details the comprehensive vision and planning for the Mautino Park Community Food Campus, an initiative spearheaded by Interfaith Food Ministry and Sierra Harvest. This report was produced through funding by the City of Grass Valley. It outlines a plan to transform areas of DeVere Mautino Park into a vibrant community hub focused on food production, education, economic opportunity, and ecological stewardship, drawing insights from successful analogous models nationwide and extensive community engagement.

Key Findings & Strategic Shifts
● Initial research into over 20 community food projects across the country identified key insights for success, including; establishing clear governance, starting with focused pilots, embracing iterative planning, co-creating with the community, diversifying income streams, providing potential job training and workforce development, and aligning with local government.
● Community engagement was central to the planning process, involving over 100 residents and partner organizations through listening sessions and surveys. Key themes emerged:
○ Protection of Natural Spaces: Strong concern for tree preservation, maintaining wildlife corridors, and protecting access to existing trails leading to a reevaluation of the proposed garden site.
○ Traffic, Safety, and Access: Residents around Alta Street expressed concerns about increased traffic and pedestrian safety, influencing the recommendation to route park access away from this street. It was also recommended that the county consider installing sidewalks to provide safe access. Additional parking would need to be secured through a partnership with the Salvation Army. ○ Support for the Garden Concept: Overwhelming enthusiasm for food access, educational opportunities, and job training, particularly for underserved populations.

Based on this feedback, a significant revision to the initial proposal was made:
● Areas 1 and 2 of Mautino Park are now recommended for a community farm, farmstand, and outdoor learning/gathering space while Area 3 is deemed more suitable for a food forest.
● The proposed community compost area has been removed from the project scope.

Final Recommendations
● Mautino Park's Areas 1 and 2 envision a roughly one-acre community farm and farmstand. This includes an orchard with heirloom fruit trees, accessible raised vegetable/herb beds, protected by deer fencing, and a small compost site. An open-air farmstand with gravel parking will offer "pay what you can" produce and limited CSA 3

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Item # 8.
shares. A covered gazebo will serve as an outdoor classroom, surrounded by a native plant demonstration garden. Hedgerows along Alta Street will enhance aesthetics, provide a windbreak, and boost biodiversity.
● Area 3 is an ideal location for a food forest, using the guild design method to create mutually beneficial plant relationships. This will provide edible plants and enhance the park's biodiversity and resilience. Integrating native plants within the food forest and along trails will naturalize pathways, provide wildlife habitat, improve soil health, and offer an educational experience for visitors, while promoting a self-sustaining ecosystem.

Conclusion
Based on community feedback, review of the land, budget analysis, and overall assessment of the highest and best use for the land at DeVere Mautino Park that has been identified as Areas 1, 2 & 3 in the Community Food Campus proposal, it is the recommendation of Interfaith Food Ministry and Sierra Harvest that the City of Grass Valley consider a Community Food Campus consisting of a farm, farmstand, native plant demonstration garden, and food forest. This recommendation includes installing sidewalks along Alta Street, securing additional parking, and maintaining the existing forested areas of the park.

This revised plan for the Mautino Park Community Food Campus reflects a strong commitment to community-driven design, sustainable practices, and the creation of a valuable public asset that addresses food security, education, and economic opportunity in Grass Valley. 4

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Item # 8.

Analogous Model Research & Review
To support the development of a sustainable and impactful Community Food Campus at Mautino Park, Interfaith Food Ministry conducted a nationwide exploration of analogous models—community-driven spaces that integrate food production, education, economic opportunity, and ecological stewardship. These projects, though grounded in diverse places and populations, offer valuable insight into how other communities are tackling some of the most pressing challenges of our time: food insecurity, economic inequality, social isolation, and climate change.

The goal of this research was to compile models and determine best practices using similar projects across the country. Ultimately, it is to provide examples for the City of Grass Valley to determine what aspects of these community projects would be best for DeVere Mautino Park as a public space and community resource.

Research Goals & Methodology
We focused our research on projects that incorporate one or more of the following five core elements—each critical to the long-term sustainability and community impact of a Food Campus vision:
● Food Production (Gardens and Food Forests): Growing healthy, culturally relevant food is central to the vision. Productive landscapes support nutrition, education, and climate resilience, while strengthening relationships between people and land. ● Community Education, Engagement, and Events: Thriving campuses are places of connection that foster inclusive programming, build food literacy, and cultivate a sense of belonging through events and shared learning.
● Job Training, Internships, and Workforce Development: A resilient local food system must invest in people. We looked for models that create green job pathways—particularly for youth, the unhoused, and formerly incarcerated individuals. ● Composting and Resource Stewardship: Sustainable food systems depend on healthy soil and closed-loop thinking. We explored models that use composting and resource recovery as tools for climate resilience, education, and systems thinking. ● Revenue Generation: Financial sustainability underpins long-term impact. We investigated creative income streams—such as farm stands, event rentals, educational programs, and value-added products—that both support operations and deepen community ownership.
5

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Item # 8.

Methodology
The Interfaith Food Ministry team reviewed 35 potential models, researched 20 in detail, conducted interviews with 10, and engaged on site with two models around community composting. We explored elements of each project including: programming, financial structure, community partnerships, metrics of success, and lessons learned. The Appendix includes additional materials from some of the organizations that could be helpful for program design.

Key Insights
Drawing from over 20 successful, community-focused food projects nationwide, the following insights emerged as a powerful roadmap for any community looking to design a community food campus:

1. Lay the Foundation: Governance & Values Matter
Establish clear governance aligned with core values—food justice, equity, ecological stewardship—early on to guide decisions and build long-term credibility.

2. Pilot with Purpose: Start Small, Scale Strategically Launch with a focused pilot—perhaps a single garden, farm stand, or training cohort—before expanding. Early successes build momentum, community trust, and attract funding for future phases.

3. Embrace Iteration: Plan for Adaptation
Embed experimentation into your DNA: test, evaluate, and refine programs frequently.

Nimble responsiveness ensures what works stays and what doesn’t can gracefully pivot without institutional burden.

4. Co-Create with Community and Partners
Integrate local residents, schools, nonprofits, and municipal partners from day one into design and operations. High-touch partnership and co-creation fosters ownership, reduces resistance, and enhances social cohesion.

5. Grow Economic Opportunity with Workforce Development & Training Include vocational pathways—paid apprenticeships, culinary or farm training, composting crews—for underserved populations (youth, reentry, unhoused). These programs multiply social impact and attract workforce funding.

6. Diversify Income Streams: Build Financial Resilience Blend earned income (farm stands, café, kitchen incubator, plant nursery) with grants and philanthropic support. A diversified revenue portfolio empowers long-term autonomy.

7. Safeguard Land Forever: Establish a Land Trust or Co-op Secure your food campus through conservation easements or community land 6

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Item # 8.
ownership models to protect against displacement or redevelopment. This ensures the campus remains a public asset in perpetuity.

8. Align with Local Government
Cultivate early alignment with city or county agencies—how partnerships (e.g., food distribution, workforce, land use) can unlock funding, technical assistance, permitting, and visibility.

9. Center Youth as Stewards & Leaders
Prioritize youth programs that integrate garden/workforce training with agency, mentorship, and leadership opportunities. Young people become powerful ambassadors and future stewards.

10. Design for Multiple Wins
A Community Food Campus isn’t just about food—it’s an opportunity to address interconnected issues: climate change, food insecurity, economic inequality, public health, social isolation, and youth disengagement. The most successful models designed with intersectionality in mind. Designing with this systems-thinking lens made projects more fundable, inclusive, and transformative.
7

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Item # 8.

Model Research Summary
The following report summarizes findings from our analogous model research—featuring key takeaways, in-depth profiles, program inspiration, and tools that can guide local planning.

The following projects were researched and/or interviewed. See appendix for additional resources:

Project Location Description Link
Acta Non Verba:

Youth Urban
Farm Project
(merged with City
Slicker Farms in
2023)
Oakland,
CA
Empowers youth and families to
plan, plant, harvest, and sell
produce, promoting financial
literacy and healthy living.
https://anvfarm.org/
Bayer Farm -
LandPaths
Santa
Rosa, CA
A community garden fostering
community engagement and
sustainable agriculture.
https://www.landpath
s.org/our-work/bayerfarm/
Beacon Food
Forest
Seattle,
WA
A community-driven permaculture
project aiming to grow an edible
urban forest accessible to all.
https://beaconfoodfor
est.org/
Bishop
Community
Garden &
Compost
Bishop,
CA
A community initiative focusing on
sustainable gardening and
composting practices (rural).
https://www.bishopco
mmunitygarden.org/
Boston Food
Forest Coalition
Boston,
MA
A nonprofit community land trust
transforming vacant lots into public
food forests across Boston.
https://www.bostonfo
odforest.org/
Butte
Environmental
Council - Chico
Composting
Chico, CA An organization promoting
environmental stewardship through
composting and sustainable
practices.
https://www.becnet.or
g/
California Alliance
for Community
Composting
Multiple
Locations
A coalition supporting
community-scale composting
initiatives throughout California.
https://www.thecacc.o
rg/
8

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Catalyst
BioAmendments
Nevada
City, CA
Specializes in producing
high-quality biological soil
amendments to enhance soil health
and fertility (rural).
https://www.catalystbi
oamendments.com/
Common Ground
Garden Project
Palo Alto,
CA
A community garden offering
educational programs on
sustainable gardening.
https://www.common
groundgarden.org/
Crescent Farm at
LA Arboretum
Los
Angeles,
CA
A demonstration garden in Arcadia,
California, showcasing sustainable
and water-wise gardening
practices.
https://www.arboretu
m.org/gardens/learni
ng-gardens/crescentfarm/
Hard Core
Compost
Santa
Cruz, CA
Provides composting services and
education to promote soil health
and waste reduction.
https://www.hardcore
compost.com/
Homeless
Garden Project
Santa
Cruz, CA
A nonprofit offering job training and
transitional employment in organic
gardening to individuals
experiencing homelessness.
https://homelessgard
enproject.org/
New Roots Farm West Sac.,
CA
Operated by the International
Rescue Committee providing
farming opportunities and training
for refugees and the local
community.
https://newrootsfarm.
org/
Occidental Arts
and Ecology
Center
Occidental
, CA
An education center and organic
farm focusing on ecological and
agricultural sustainability, (rural)
https://oaec.org/
Planting Justice Oakland,
CA
Organization creating green jobs
and democratizing access to
affordable, nutritious food.
https://plantingjustice.
org/
Reunity
Resources
Santa Fe,
NM
A nonprofit focusing on food waste
diversion, composting, and
sustainable farming.
https://www.reunityre
sources.com/
9

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Item # 8.

Urban Tilth Richmond,
CA
An organization cultivating urban
agriculture to help the community
build a more sustainable, healthy,
and just food system.
https://urbantilth.org/
Soul Fire Farm Petersburg
, NY
A BIPOC-centered community farm
committed to ending racism and
injustice in the food system (rural).
https://www.soulfirefa
rm.org/
The Food Project MA Organization engaging young
people in personal and social
change through sustainable
agriculture.
https://thefoodproject.
org/
Wasatch
Community
Gardens
Salt Lake
City, UT
A nonprofit empowering people to
grow and eat healthy, organic, local
food.
https://wasatchgarde
ns.org/
“Despite living in such a state of alienation and individualism, people actually crave to come home to the heart of what it is to be human: to feel gratitude for our ancestors; to cultivate healthy communities; to act with mindfulness for the seven generations to come; to respect and steward the earth for the good of all life. We are evolved to want to tend deep, healthful and reciprocal relationships with the rest of the natural world.” - Occidental Arts and Ecology Center 10

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Peer & Aspirant Model Analysis
We selected a subset of the models to better illustrate opportunities and consider these a peer or aspirant project for the Community Food Campus vision at Mautino Park. Each profile focuses on core elements and demonstrate strategies that are particularly aligned with the identified priorities:

A. Boston Food Forest Coalition
B. Landpaths
C. New Roots Farm
D. Reunity Resources
E. Urban Tilth
F. Wasatch Community Gardens
G. Planting Justice
11

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Item # 8.

A. Boston Food Forest Coalition (Boston, MA)
Overview
Founded in 2013, the Boston Food Forest Coalition (BFFC) is a grassroots nonprofit transforming vacant urban lots into community-owned, edible public parks. Operating at the intersection of climate resilience, food justice, and racial equity, BFFC reimagines how urban land can be reclaimed and stewarded by local residents for long-term public benefit.

Mission & Model
BFFC’s mission is to build inclusive, ecologically regenerative green spaces through a community land trust (CLT) and resident-led stewardship model. These food forests serve as neighborhood hubs for education, ecological restoration, food access, and community connection—co-created and co-stewarded by the people who live nearby. 1 Organizational Snapshot
● Year Founded: 2013
● Team Size: 5–10 staff, extensive volunteer network
● Funding Model: Grants, donations, earned income from workshops/events ● Governance: Community Land Trust ensures permanent protection and equity ● Programs: Food forest creation, environmental education, youth leadership, community outreach
1 Appendix 1.1.3: BFFC Vision, Mission, Values
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“These food forests are a real treasure in the neighborhood, for the neighborhood. And they should give us hope.”— June Joseph, Founding Steward, Edgewater Food Forest Core Element: Safeguard Land
BFFC sites are held in a community land trust—protecting them from privatization, development, or displacement. This legal structure ensures long-term access, equity, and stewardship by the people the land is meant to serve.

Why it matters:
● It safeguards the space against future privatization, development, or displacement. ● It allows the community to invest in long-term improvements with confidence. ● It builds power by shifting land ownership into the hands of neighborhoods, not institutions.

While Mautino Park is publicly owned, the community land trust model offers an inspiring example of how to formalize community governance, build a sense of local ownership, and guide future land protection strategies in rural contexts.

Core Element: Resident-led Stewardship Teams
Each food forest is cared for by a resident-led Stewardship Team with clearly defined roles—from tree care to community events. A Lead Coordinating Steward provides consistency while responsibilities are shared across the team. This structure encourages distributed 13

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leadership, increases accountability, long-term engagement, reduces burnout, and deepens neighborhood trust
Photos courtesy of BFFC
Analysis
This model is highly transferable to rural settings, where community volunteerism is strong. 2 It
provides a clear framework to activate local leadership, structure engagement, and sustain the vision over time. BFFC shows how small, community-rooted projects can evolve into durable institutions when equity, land access, and local leadership are prioritized. Their model offers a strong blueprint for Mautino Park as it becomes a hub for food, learning, and healing in our region.
“Start with developing values, guiding principles, and community agreements to level set and have guardrails. Be open and transparent. Find the balance between sharing power and making decisions to move things forward.” - Mark Arujo, Community Engagement Manager, BFFC
2 Appendix 3.1
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B. Land Paths (Santa Rosa, CA)
Overview
LandPaths is a community-rooted environmental education and conservation nonprofit with a bold mission: to foster a love of the land in Sonoma County. With deep commitments to equity, ecological stewardship, and cultural belonging, LandPaths blends bilingual education, hands-on stewardship, and nature-based community programming to connect people of all backgrounds to the outdoors. One of its most powerful models of this work is Bayer Farm—a two-acre urban farm and park in Santa Rosa’s Roseland neighborhood, born from a collaboration with the City of Santa Rosa and the Sonoma County Agricultural and Open Space District.

Mission & Model
LandPaths believes that nature belongs to everyone—and that meaningful relationships with the land can be joyful, healing, and transformational. Their approach is rooted in:
● Bilingual, place-based education
● Community-led stewardship of urban and wild spaces
● Environmental justice and access to green space
● Nature as a source of health, connection, and joy
● Emphasis on cultural food practices and intergenerational learning.

Bayer Farm, one of LandPaths’ most visible and active sites, exemplifies this model: a thriving community garden, cultural hub, and urban nature preserve where food justice, land stewardship, and community celebration come together. The farm includes: an orchard; 120 shared plots; compost delivery; seed distribution; a teaching garden; and workshops on herbal medicine, cooking, and localized food production.
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Photos courtesy of Landpaths
Organizational Snapshot
● Founded: LandPaths (1996); Bayer Farm (2007)
● Farm Size: 2-acre urban farm within a city park
● Team Size: ~30 staff members, with over one-third bilingual (English/Spanish), 1000+ volunteers
● Revenue Model: Primarily grant-funded, with supplemental revenue from plot fees, workshops, events, and donations
● Key Partnerships: City of Santa Rosa, Sonoma County Ag + Open Space, Local public schools, environmental nonprofits and community health orgs Core Element: Workforce Development & Youth Engagement
Through paid internships and educational partnerships, LandPaths engages teens and young adults in active land stewardship. Interns learn critical conservation skills—like trail-building, erosion control, biological monitoring, and wildfire resilience practices—while also gaining soft skills in leadership, community organizing, and communication. Many receive course credit and work alongside professionals in forestry, ecology, and education. Programming is bilingual and culturally affirming, but its true strength lies in being community-responsive—designed to meet youth where they are, regardless of language, background, or prior experience with nature.

This approach could translate into internship opportunities for rural youth who may feel disconnected from local resources, career pathways, or public lands. Just as Bayer Farm served as a bridge between Roseland’s underserved families and the outdoors, a stewardship-based farm can serve as a bridge to opportunity, belonging, connection to nature, and pride for rural youth or urban youth.
3 3 Appendix 1.1.9 LandPath Impact Report
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Why it matters:
● Creates pathways for youth leadership: Stewardship internships give young people a tangible way to connect with land and build careers in conservation, public works, or outdoor education.
● Leverages funding opportunities:

Programs that combine youth
workforce development, environmental
education, and climate resilience align
with public and philanthropic funding
streams (e.g., Prop 68, youth
employment initiatives, climate corps).
● Supports climate resilience at a local
level: Training youth in stewardship
practices such as native planting,
erosion control, and composting
creates lasting benefits for the land
and the community.
● Strengthens place-based identity:

Youth who help build and care for a
park are more likely to feel connected to it and become lifelong advocates for it. “When we tried to convince Spanish-speaking people to come on our hikes initially, we failed miserably. But now we have lots of Spanish-speaking folks on our outings, with more signing up all of the time. Bayer Farm was the bridge. It didn’t just allow Roseland to connect to the land. It allowed us to connect to Roseland. The farm made it all possible.” - Executive Director Craig Anderson
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C. New Roots Farm (Sacramento, CA)
Overview
New Roots Farm in Sacramento is a flagship initiative of the International Rescue Committee, designed to empower refugees through agriculture. By providing access to land, training, and markets, the program enables participants to cultivate culturally significant crops, generate income, and integrate into their new communities. The farm serves as a model for leveraging agriculture as a tool for economic empowerment and community building.

Mission & Model
The mission of New Roots Sacramento is to assist refugees in reestablishing their ties to the land, celebrate their heritage, and nourish themselves and their neighbors by planting strong roots in Sacramento. The program operates through:
● Farm and Community Gardens for refugees to farm and learn ● Training Programs: Workshops on pest management, food business marketing, food safety, irrigation, soil fertility, financial literacy, and business planning. ● Market Access: Opportunities to sell produce at the New Roots Farmstand, local markets, and to institutions like schools and grocery stores. 18

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Organizational Snapshot
● Founded: 2016
● Farm Size: 5.5 acres with 3 community gardens
● Participants: Over 80 refugee families
● Revenue Model: Participants keep 85% of farmstand sales; 15% supports farm operations. Additional funding from grants and donations. ● Key Partners: Yolo Food Bank, local grocery stores, Spork Food Hub, CalRecycle, CA Alliance for Community Composting
Core Element: Revenue Generation and Workforce Investment for Underserved Populations
New Roots Farm in Sacramento offers a compelling model for how agriculture can create real economic opportunity for under-resourced communities. Through access to land, culturally relevant training, and market infrastructure, refugee farmers at New Roots are not only growing food—they’re generating meaningful supplemental income, with some earning as much as $10,000 annually from produce sales. Farmers retain 85% of their sales, while 15% supports farm operations, establishing a self-sustaining financial model that benefits both individuals and the program.

Why it matters:

This model offers a dual-impact approach—meeting food access needs while providing job training and income generation pathways. In a rural context like ours, a local training and farming program—potentially in partnership with organizations like Interfaith Food Ministry or Sierra Harvest—could enroll low-income residents, food-insecure households, or job seekers in a seasonal stewardship program. Participants could gain skills in:
● Small-scale regenerative farming
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● Composting and soil management
● Market operations and sales
● Post-harvest handling and value-added processing
This creates a pipeline not only for food security, but for paid agricultural or environmental work, with the opportunity for participants to sell what they grow, reducing their own grocery bills and generating income.

Core Element: Diverse Income Streams
A Farmstand could sell fresh produce grown by participants directly to the local community or through CSA boxes, farmers markets, or institutional buyers (e.g., schools, small grocers). In addition to tapping into grant funding, this strategy helps diversify funding streams for the park’s long-term viability while offering low-barrier
entrepreneurship opportunities for
participants.
"We learn a lot from each other, myself
included—discovering new crops, new foods,
and how to grow and eat them. There's great
benefit to having a diversity of farmers from
around the world working side by side on one
piece of land. Not only food, but
culturally—meeting people from different
cultures makes us better farmers and better
people." - Ram Khatiwoda, Farm Coordinator
Photos courtesy of New Roots Farm
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D. Reunity Resources (Santa Fe, NM)
Overview
Reunity Resources is a nonprofit environmental organization transforming food waste into jobs and community wealth. By integrating waste recycling, regenerative farming, and education on a single site, Reunity has created a closed-loop system that diverts waste, restores soil, grows food, and generates revenue—all while engaging thousands of community members in solutions to climate change and food insecurity.

Mission & Model
Founded in 2011, Reunity Resources was built on the belief that community-scale change is essential for climate resilience. Their model creates practical, participatory systems where waste is a resource, and where environmental sustainability drives economic opportunity. What makes the model stand out is its partnership with the city, the focus on diverse funding and earned revenue, and interconnected programming that supports financial sustainability while serving a broad community mission.

Organizational Snapshot
● Founded: 2011 as a nonprofit
● Staff: 36, 200 + volunteers
● Land Base: 2-acre farm + composting Soil Yard
● Budget: $2 million
● Earned Revenue: 65% of budget
2024 Impact:
● 1.5 million pounds of food waste diverted from the local landfill 21

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● Over 4 million pounds of organic material diverted in total ● $20,000 worth of Santa Fe grown produce provided to support food access in the community
● Over 6,400 meals featuring farm fresh produce distributed ● 850+ meals a month feeds the local community through a Community Fridge and Pantry ● 35 acres covered with compost to regenerate desert soils ● 14 school gardens receiving our soil amendments and starts ● 23+ Santa Fe Public Schools and 7 Private Schools compost their food scraps with us ● 124 Restaurant and business partners in Santa Fe and Albuquerque working with our BioFuel collective, totaling 49,184+ gallons diverted
● 45 local Restaurants diverting their food waste with Reunity ● 32 Installs of Backyard Worm Compost Systems, in collaboration with Santa Fe County, in 2024!
● Thousands of students attending free public farm field trips, 500 Farm Camp participants ● Free community workshops: gardening demos, bi-lingual cooking classes, storytelling and music events
4 Photos courtesy of Reunity Resources
Core Element: Diverse Income Streams

1. Used Cooking Oil Collection (Biodiesel Program)
Reunity Resources provides free used cooking oil collection services to 124 restaurants and sells the collected oil to a biodiesel processor. With just one staff member managing the route, the program yields approximately $100,000 in annual net profit. This model showcases how small-scale, low-overhead operations can generate meaningful revenue while supporting renewable energy initiatives. Offering free pickup can open doors to future paid services like food waste collection.
4 Appendix 1.1.10 2023 Reunity Annual Report
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2. Commercial Food Waste Collection
Reunity’s food waste collection service operates with 7–8 full-time employees, serving 65 commercial customers including 20 schools. Fees range from $90 to $320 per month, with schools currently paying the same as high-volume clients like restaurants. Total commercial food waste collection revenue is $150,000 annually, with $52,000 from schools. A tiered pricing model enables sustainability across customer types. Pilot programs with schools show potential for broader adoption if cost neutrality is proven—providing a replicable pathway for integrating institutional food waste recovery into city infrastructure.

3. Residential Food Waste Collection
Reunity generates $200,000 annually from home compost collection. This reflects growing public demand for at-home sustainability services. Grass Valley could leverage this model to scale residential composting and reduce landfill dependency, while creating green jobs.

4. Transforming Recovered Food into Jobs and Community Meals A newer program, Saving Seconds, focuses on transforming unsellable farm produce into value-added products like kimchi and soup, made in a 600 sq. ft. kitchen on the farm. Though not currently profitable (e.g., kimchi would need to sell at $19/jar to break even), the program received a federal grant for the launch. The program operates in partnership with a youth culinary program to make meals for local agencies - demonstrating a model where community impact and education are prioritized over profit.

5. Soil Sales
Compost produced from collected organics is sold at a premium—$100 per yard, driven by local demand and climate-specific soil scarcity.
a. Gross revenue: $400,000 annually
b. Net profit: $150,000 annually (with high costs for machinery and staffing) Although capital-intensive, compost sales close the loop on organics recycling and offer an agricultural product that directly benefits local growers and landscapers. Certification by the state’s Department of Agriculture ensures quality and builds trust. “Reunity started because we saw firsthand what happens when good programs rely entirely on grant funding—my husband was working on a project that was 100% grant-funded, and when the funding ran out, everyone lost their jobs. We knew we had to build something different.

Diverse funding and revenue generation is key to our success, resilience, and impact. Charging for our services has made it possible to expand and provide good jobs.”— Juliana, Co-Founder, Reunity Resources
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E. Urban Tilth (Richmond, CA)
Overview
Urban Tilth is a community-led nonprofit that grows food, cultivates youth leadership, and restores ecosystems in Richmond, California. By anchoring programs in urban farms, school gardens, and restoration sites, Urban Tilth weaves together food justice, environmental sustainability, and youth empowerment. Their model integrates education, job training, and public land partnerships to create a self-sufficient and resilient local food system.

Mission & Model
Urban Tilth's mission is to inspire, hire, and train local residents to cultivate agriculture, feed their community, and restore relationships with land to build a more sustainable, just, and healthy food system.
5 Their holistic model blends:
● Community food production (urban farms, free food stands, CSA) ● Youth-centered training and employment programs
● Public land stewardship and native plant restoration
● Partnerships with schools, city departments, and environmental coalitions Organizational Snapshot
● Founded: 2005 (Nonprofit status since 2007)
● Core Sites: 1 Urban Farm, 2 Community Gardens, 2 School Gardens ● Programs: Youth job training, paid watershed restoration crew, educational workshops ● 2023 Food Distribution: 164,090 lbs distributed; 12,555 lbs grown 5 Appendix 1.1.11 2022 Urban Tilth Annual Report
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● Volunteers & Event Participants: Over 9,300 in 2023
● Public Events: 96 in 2023
● Native Plant Species Cultivated: 1,280 in 2023
● Key Revenue Sources: CSA sales, native plant nursery, grants, partnerships ● Government Grants & Contracts Revenue: $516,700
Core Element: Center Youth as Stewards & Leaders of Public Lands Urban Tilth maintains formal partnerships with: The City of Richmond; Contra Costa County Flood Control District; East Bay Regional Parks; and the Trust for Public Land. These partnerships allow Urban Tilth’s trained field crews to manage restoration and food access projects on public land, combining workforce development with ecological restoration. These youth programs build leadership and job skills through hands-on land work:
● Summer Youth Apprenticeship (ages 15–18): Combines environmental justice education with farm labor and project-based learning.
● Rudy Lozito Fellowship: Supports young adults transitioning into environmental careers through guided mentorship and land-based training. ● Watershed Restoration Crew: A paid 15-week training program followed by job placement on long-term restoration projects.

Urban Tilth’s approach demonstrates the power of combining youth job training in emerging ecological fields with hands-on experience in public land stewardship and green infrastructure.

Their focus on equity ensures that young people receive meaningful, well-compensated work that supports both their development and community health.

Why it Matters:

Grass Valley can draw inspiration from this model by fostering partnerships with municipal and county land agencies to co-manage creek corridors, community gardens, and surplus public lands. Establishing a dedicated farm or garden site, supported by a land trust or conservation easement, could become a vital hub for food sovereignty, education, and ecological restoration.

By layering job training, youth engagement, and land stewardship in this way, communities have an opportunity to cultivate local talent while enhancing environmental resilience. “If we really want people to be able to be resilient, we have to help them improve. If we’re going to do green infrastructure as a way to disrupt heat islands, then let’s make sure that that’s a well‑paid job… Equity and social and economic justice need to be baked into every initiative.” - Doria Robinson, Executive Director, Urban Tilth
Photos courtesy of Urban Tilth
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F. Wasatch Community Gardens – Green Phoenix Farm (Salt Lake City, UT) Overview
Green Phoenix Farm, a 1.4‑acre organic urban farm on Redevelopment Agency land, revitalizes a formerly blighted lot into a solar-powered demonstration site for regenerative agriculture, community education, and permaculture. A key feature of success is their city-sponsored job training program for unhoused women.

Mission & Model
WCG’s mission is to empower people of all ages and incomes to grow and eat healthy, organic, local food, thereby nurturing stronger communities and equitable access to nutritious produce.

Founded in 1989, WCG pursues this mission through:
● Urban Agriculture & Job Training: Solar-powered Green Phoenix Farm provides paid farm employment, permaculture demonstration, and multi-modal training. ● Educational Programming: Youth garden clubs, school garden partnerships, summer camps, and community workshops engage thousands each year. ● Community Gardens & Public Engagement: WCG stewards over seven acres of public garden sites, fosters volunteer involvement, and hosts vibrant food-centered events.
6 ● Food Distribution & Regenerative Practices: Produce and seedling for distribution, sale, and donation.
6 Appendix 1.1.12 Wasatch Gardens Utah Yard Share
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● Land Protection & Partnerships: WCG holds fee title and conservation easements on farm and campus properties. They collaborate with Salt Lake City, Salt Lake County, the School District, and the Public Lands Department to expand access and impact Organizational Snapshot
● Established: 2016 (on 1.4‑acre site)
● Community Gardens: 19
● Employees: 30
● Certification/Infrastructure: USDA-certified organic, 100% solar-powered ● Donated Food: $60k of produce donated annually to 2,100+ individuals ● Seedlings: 40,000+ certified organic seedlings grown for plant sale & nonprofit partners ● Volunteer Engagement: Over 200 volunteers annually
● Job Training: 60 program graduates, 2 cohorts per season, each with ≈10 women ● Housing: 75–80% secure stable housing and employment post-program ● Employment: 78% obtained jobs within one month of their farm employment. 27

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Photos courtesy of Wasatch Gardens
Core Element: Grow Economic Opportunity with Workforce Development & Training The Green Team program at Green Phoenix Farm provides women facing homelessness with paid, hands-on job training in regenerative agriculture. Over the course of 10 months, participants build essential workforce skills through structured farm work, production tracking, and team-based responsibilities. The cohort-based model emphasizes accountability, reliability, and routine—qualities transferable to future employment. 7 This training not only equips participants with practical skills in sustainable food production but also strengthens their readiness for the job market by integrating soft skill development, mentoring, and real-world experience in a supportive environment.

The program’s use of a therapeutic farm environment, complete with daily physical activity, mindfulness practices, and organic food access, highlights the powerful role somatic well-being can play in trauma recovery and personal empowerment. For communities in Grass Valley and beyond, this model demonstrates how integrating economic opportunity with land stewardship and care-based systems can transform not only lives, but also underutilized public land into spaces of healing and resilience.

Why It Works:
● Addresses root causes, not just symptoms, of homelessness. ● Fosters community, accountability, and healing in a safe, nature-based setting. 7 Appendix 1.1.7 WSG Job Training Program In-depth Description 28

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● Combines economic opportunity with care-based support systems.

Key Insights:
● Ideal Program Length: 10 months balances depth and transition ● Recruitment Pipeline: ~25–30 women needed to yield 6–8 active participants ● Crucial Roles: Program Director (recruitment + soft skills), Farm Manager (daily operations), Advocate (housing + crisis support)
● Critical Partnerships: A strong, collaborative social service partner is essential—many struggles were resolved when this became a staffed role ● Effective Engagement: “Taste of Farm” lunch event builds trust with prospective participants and exposes them to light farm-work to assess program fit ● City Support: Initial wages funded by city pilot—important early buy-in ● Start with Focus: Begin with a clearly defined underserved population ● Stable Structure: create consistency and stability to support participants “...these women are providing food and plants for thousands of people, and it rewrites the story so they’re the ones giving.” - James Loomis, Farm Director “Equity and food justice are linked. We all need stable housing - it's directly linked to poverty and food insecurity.” - Jackie Rodabaugh, Job Training Program Director 29

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G. Planting Justice (East Oakland & El Sobrante, CA)
Overview
Founded in 2009, Planting Justice is a nationally recognized, Oakland-based nonprofit that exemplifies how deep community values, strategic partnerships, and long-term vision can grow into a transformative, place-based food justice model. What began as a grassroots urban agriculture initiative has evolved into a thriving ecosystem of projects: the largest organic fruit tree nursery in North America, a regenerative farm and food forest, a commercial kitchen and “pay-what-you-can” café, and a reentry employment pipeline for formerly incarcerated individuals. Planting Justice continues to innovate, demonstrating how land stewardship, local ownership, and community empowerment can regenerate both ecosystems and lives.

Mission & Model
Planting Justice builds food sovereignty, economic resilience, and healing in communities most impacted by systemic oppression—particularly mass incarceration and food apartheid. Their mission is rooted in creating dignified, living-wage green jobs and holistic reentry pathways for formerly incarcerated individuals, who make up over 50% of their 55 person staff.

The organization’s model integrates:
● Job training and employment through a 2-acre urban nursery and 4-acre farm/food forest, where staff propagate and sell over 30,000 trees annually while also planting hundreds of free fruit trees in underserved neighborhoods. ● Educational programming, including paid youth internships each year, community-led workshops, and school partnerships that foster ecological literacy and food system skills.

Impact: 2,000 young adults reached through school gardens, field trips, and 60 paid youth internships per year at $17.50/hour.
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● Community access through a cooperative-run food campus that includes a commercial kitchen, market garden, and “pay-what-you-can” café—preserving a key gathering space from commercial redevelopment through an innovative LLC model co-owned by a local church.

El Sobrante Site – A Community Food Campus
When a beloved local business in El Sobrante shut its doors, the site—destined to become a gas station—faced a future that did little to serve the surrounding community. In response, local residents organized, voiced opposition, and catalyzed a powerful alternative. Through a pioneering partnership between Planting Justice and a neighborhood church, a cooperative LLC was formed to acquire and transform the space into a vibrant community food campus.

Today, this formerly threatened parcel hosts a weekly farmers market, a regenerative food forest, a commercial kitchen, and a dynamic community gathering hub. It is being reborn as a place where people grow, prepare, share, and celebrate food together.

Innovative Ownership & Shared Stewardship
The site is co-owned through a cooperative LLC by Planting Justice and the church, both tax-exempt organizations. This shared governance structure ensures that mission alignment, long-term stewardship, and community benefit remain central. It’s an inspiring model of how land and resources can be protected from extractive development and redirected toward public good.

Commercial Kitchen as Economic Engine & Cultural Hub
At the heart of this campus is a commercial kitchen, designed not just for food preparation, but for opportunity creation. Entrepreneurs, local producers, urban farmers, and community chefs can access the space to develop food businesses, host events, and preserve culinary traditions.

This infrastructure allows for job training, income generation, and the celebration of diverse food cultures—while directly addressing food insecurity and economic exclusion.

The Good Table: Pay What You Can Cafe
The Good Table will become the nation’s first combined pay-what-you-can café, commercial kitchen incubator, retail nursery, community event venue, and arts space—all operating under a cooperative model. This facility will provide space for local makers, farmers, artists, and organizers in a neighborhood that currently lacks even a coffee shop or centralized gathering space.
8 The Good Table model offers a powerful blueprint for communities. Imagine a commercial kitchen and food campus—where people gain job training, food is grown, preserved, and sold locally, and community is strengthened through shared meals and creative events. With the 8 Appendix 1.1.13 Planting Justice Good Table Cafe Website 31

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right investment and partnerships, Grass Valley could anchor a similar space—one that combines food production, culinary innovation, and economic resilience under one roof. By transforming neglected properties into vibrant hubs of culture, care, and commerce, this model proves that local action can shape a more just and regenerative future. “This work takes a lot of patience: it's hard work, but we expect it to be hard. We want to create a model that is scalable and replicable. If our model can be adopted in part or in whole by other organizations around the country, that’s our long-term goal.” -Gavin Raders, Planting Justice Executive Director
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Community-Centered Visioning & Survey Results
Background & Overview
At the heart of the proposed Community Food Campus at Mautino Park is a simple but powerful principle: design begins with people. From the outset, the project team, led by Sierra Harvest and Interfaith Food Ministry, prioritized human-centered design, placing the values, concerns, and aspirations of local residents at the core of the planning process.

The initial phase of community engagement began in 2022 when Sierra Harvest and Interfaith Food Ministry (IFM) received a grant to participate in the Human-Centered Design Training through the Care for Innovation Catalyst Program. As part of this process, both organizations conducted in-depth interviews with local residents, while IFM also distributed a client survey that yielded 367 responses. These early efforts served as a critical foundation, grounding the project in the lived experiences, needs, and hopes of those most directly impacted.

To ensure the garden reflects the community it serves, the team developed and distributed a public survey and organized a series of intentional listening sessions. These were not just outreach events, they were foundational components of a collaborative ideation process.

This yielded feedback, shaped the vision, and began the process of developing community trust. We engaged local expertise, uncovered shared values and pain points, and laid the foundation for a community resource that reflects the interconnected priorities of community, justice, ecological care, and opportunity.

Strategic Outreach and Community Input
To ensure meaningful participation in the community garden visioning process, Sierra Harvest and Interfaith Food Ministry carried out a broad and intentional outreach campaign designed to reach residents through multiple channels and in diverse formats.

Key outreach efforts included:
● Feature in Interfaith Food Ministry and Sierra Harvest newsletter, reaching over 7,000 subscribers
● Posts on social media, engaging a network of 6,000+ followers ● 132 postcards distributed to nearby residents to encourage local awareness and input ● Flyers posted throughout Mautino Park and surrounding neighborhoods ● Personalized emails sent directly to local community leaders and representatives of partner organizations
● On-air radio promotion via IFM’s regular public updates and Sierra Harvest guest appearances on KNCO
● Press releases featured on YubaNet.com and The Union newspaper ● Website developed for updates and links: IFM & SH - Community Food Campus 33

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These efforts were designed not only to inform, but to invite residents into a process of shared ownership and creative contribution.

Community Listening Session Summary
More than 100 community members took part in three listening sessions designed to invite open dialogue, build trust, and guide the vision for the proposed garden at Mautino Park. Two sessions were open to the general public, while the third brought together partner organizations for deeper collaboration.

The first session revealed passionate concerns, particularly around environmental preservation, maintaining the character of the neighborhood, and ensuring continued access to the park.

Importantly, the pushback centered not on the idea of a community garden, but on the where and how, underscoring a shared investment in protecting and enhancing this public space.

By the second session, after a transparent and thorough introduction from city and county staff about the project’s goals and background, the atmosphere shifted. Participants expressed a growing sense of clarity and trust. Many began to offer forward-thinking ideas, envisioning how the garden could enhance food access, youth education, cultural connection, and ecological stewardship.

Community Listening Session Conclusions:

Community input directly influenced key project pivots, including:
● Reevaluating the proposed site to better preserve natural features ● Committing to protecting tree canopy
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● Designing inclusive programming for diverse community participation These sessions were not just feedback loops, they were catalysts for co-creation, helping transform concerns into collaboration and building a shared foundation for a garden rooted in community values.

Community Survey Participation & Results
As a cornerstone of the engagement effort, a community-wide survey was conducted to gather in-depth feedback. A total of 162 surveys were completed between December 2024 and April 2025, providing valuable insight into resident priorities, concerns, and aspirations for the proposed garden.

Survey responses revealed strong themes around food access, environmental preservation, cultural inclusivity, and opportunities for youth and education. 9 Additional survey results from
prior surveys by IFM are included in this analysis.
10 Three common themes emerged from both
the listening sessions and surveys: Protecting natural spaces, traffic and safety, support for community food.

Note: Survey deadline was extended from February to April due to comments by community members that not enough time was allotted for the survey. 10 Appendix 3.3.2 IFM Client Survey Insights
9 Appendix 3.1.2 2025 Community Member Responses
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Most Common Themes Raised by Community (Survey and Meetings)

1. Location and Tree Preservation - Protecting Natural Spaces ● Widespread concern about tree removal—especially in the back of the park where mature trees provide shade, habitat, and serve as a wildlife corridor. ● Repeated suggestion to place the garden at the front of the park where there is already open land and fewer ecological concerns.
● Desire to preserve existing walking trails and forested areas, which are cherished for recreation, wildlife, and community gathering.
● Water-streams – protect stream/ditch under the park (ecologically sensitive). ● Enhancing native habitat – add, not subtract, from current biodiversity.

2. Traffic, Safety, and Access - Protecting Residential Character and Access Residents of Alta Street expressed strong concerns about:
● Multiple questions about access points and parking availability for the garden. ● Increased traffic on a narrow, sidewalk-less county road. ● Safety of pedestrians, bikes, children, and pets (7 nearby schools) ● Request that park access not be routed through this street or that sidewalks be installed. ● Inquired about need for additional parking during peak use times

3. Support for the Garden Concept - Food Access, Education, and Justice Many community members mentioned their support of this vision and enthusiasm for:
● Community Garden – small plots for personal/community use. ● Garden tool library – practical resource for gardeners and community. ● Classes in the park – youth, education, seniors, and wellness activities valued. ● Food Access – central community need and opportunity. ● Healthy soil – emphasize regenerative practices.
● Cooking and food prep education – full-cycle food knowledge. ● Job training opportunities – help housing-insecure or underserved people. ● Pollinators, native plants, biodiversity – e.g., monarchs, native bees, owl habitats. ● Programming for special needs community members
Key Community Questions & Concerns for Further Consideration and Clarification:
● Will bus service or regular transportation be available to improve equitable access? ● What are the projected yields and benefits (e.g., food production stats, beneficiaries, tie-ins with IFM or other food security efforts)?
● How will community oversight and administration be handled? ● What access will neighbors/community have to the garden? 36

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Partner Listening Session Summary
As part of the human-centered design process for the Mautino Park community garden, we engaged directly with local organizational partners to gather input on priorities, concerns, and possibilities. These partners, representing food security, education, health, indigenous rights, environmental advocacy, and local businesses, offered rich, practical feedback rooted in community experience.

Six key themes emerged from these conversations, guiding both the vision and the practical design of the garden:

1. Community Impact & Inclusion
Partners voiced strong enthusiasm for the garden’s potential to feed families, reduce social isolation, and serve as a gathering space for education, connection, and healing.

Key equity-focused recommendations included:
● Offering scholarships for low-income residents to access garden plots ● Ensuring full ADA accessibility throughout the site
● Creating inclusive programming that supports seniors, youth, and children with special needs
● Engaging with the Nisenan Tribe through CHIRP to explore native foodways, land recognition, and cultural programming
● Exploring childcare support and afterschool programs, with some families willing to contribute financially

2. Garden Design & Use
Partners raised important design questions around the intended use of the garden:
● Should it follow a community plot model, or focus on food production for distribution (e.g., to IFM)?
● Most partners leaned toward production beds, noting that many Nevada County residents already garden at home
● A hybrid model—combining production with a few community plots—was suggested to reflect diverse needs
Additional design ideas:
● A tool library and clear signage promoting organic practices ● Emphasis on long-term maintenance planning to prevent abandonment ● Calls for transparency around soil treatment, water sources, and organic certification

3. Infrastructure, Water & Soil
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Water access and soil quality were recurring concerns:
● Interest in reusing the existing well, accessing Nevada Irrigation District ditch water, and having potable city water as a backup
● Partners requested clarity on:
○ Soil health and contamination history
○ Plans for organic practices and soil regeneration
○ Long-term water use planning
● Park hours (dawn to dusk) were clarified—open access supports flexible community use

4. Education & Youth Engagement
There was wide enthusiasm for the garden as a living classroom:
● Ideas included field trips, afterschool programs, internships, and summer camps ● Alignment with organizations like: high school Ag programs; College of Ayurveda for herbal and health workshops; Bright Futures for Youth cooking clubs and other youth-oriented groups
● Suggested topics for hands-on learning: Native plants, permaculture, composting, cooking demos, gopher control, soil health, and mental wellness practices
● Interest in a therapeutic garden area to support mental health, possibly involving local social workers

5. Business Support & Collaboration
Local businesses and organizations saw exciting opportunities for:
● Partnerships with BriarPatch for produce sales, classroom programming, and marketing
● Leasing small plots to businesses like Fat and the Moon, College of Ayurveda, or others for specialty crop/herb production
● Hosting pop-up events, classes, and wellness workshops, creating a multi-use space that blends food, learning, and celebration

6. Volunteer Engagement & Long-Term Sustainability
Many partners expressed eagerness to contribute labor, resources, and organizational support, but also voiced concerns about sustainability. Key recommendations included:
● Develop a robust volunteer coordination plan for consistent engagement ● Consider partnerships with service groups (e.g., United Way, Cal Solar, Rotary Clubs, churches) for team-based volunteer days
● Build stewardship into the design, modeled on successful community-managed spaces like Haven’s dog park
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Collaborative Opportunities with Key Partners
Community partners have highlighted unique, high-impact opportunities that could significantly enhance the proposed garden/farm project's vision, sustainability, and reach. These ideas go beyond innovative programming, underscoring powerful avenues for collaboration with local organizations, businesses, and cultural leaders. They also align directly with key themes often prioritized by grantmakers and philanthropic funders: community health, equity, education, environmental sustainability, and economic development.

Leveraging these partnerships can unlock new funding streams, support long-term stewardship, and deepen community engagement. For instance, integrating culturally rooted programming (e.g., Nisenan foodways or local orchard history), mental health initiatives, youth workforce pathways, or "food as medicine" education could attract targeted support from regional health networks, education grants, tribal partnerships, and foundations focused on social justice and environmental impact.

Identified Potential Collaborations
● Job training, internships, and entrepreneurial learning pathways (e.g., through Ghidotti High School or Connecting Point)
● Peaceful Valley: Deep knowledge hub—offers instructors, native plants, vendor access, discounts, and storytelling opportunities tied to local history (e.g., Felix Gillette). ● History of the Park as an Orchard: Integrating this story can strengthen local pride and educational impact.
● Blue Zones & Food as Medicine: Strategic alignment with regional public health efforts. ● Mutual Aid, Healing Modalities, and “Community Good” Events: Incorporate mental health, movement, and mutual care as part of the space’s holistic offering.

Community Feedback Conclusion
The community engagement process for the proposed Mautino Park garden has made one thing abundantly clear: this project matters, not just as a garden or farm, but as a shared vision for equity, connection, and nourishment.

Across surveys, listening sessions, and partner conversations, residents and organizations alike expressed strong support for the garden’s potential to improve food access, create inclusive educational opportunities, and foster a space of healing and community-building. Just as importantly, they voiced their hopes, concerns, and lived experiences, offering concrete ideas that have already reshaped the project’s direction.
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REPORT & RECOMMENDATION - AREAS 1 & 2

OVERVIEW & SUMMARY
After the feedback from the community sessions and partner organizations, Sierra Harvest has revised their initial proposal to recommend a roughly one-acre community farm and farmstand at Devere Mautino Park. This initiative will promote food access, community engagement, and environmental stewardship through the creation of shared agricultural infrastructure, public education spaces, and sustainable landscaping.

PROPOSAL UPDATE & REASONING
When evaluating the prospect of moving or duplicating the Food Love Educational Farm from its current location to Mautino Park Area 3, it became clear that the cost to move existing structures and amend the soil to the same quality that has been achieved in 15 years would outweigh the outlined benefits. Further, the community raised concerns about the effectiveness of moving a program primarily focused on children to a centralized park and the impact on residents. Other proposal updates and considerations as a result of the community listening sessions included:
● Public Access
○ Sidewalks along Alta Street would need to be installed for safe access for all community members to the park.
○ Public parking would need to be negotiated with the Salvation Army during high traffic events.
○ The community wants, and IFM/SH agreed, that there should be full access to public trails in Area 3
● Area Use
○ IFM & SH agreed with public opinion that a better use for Areas 1 & 2 would be the community garden/farm concept and Area 3 made for a more suitable location for a food forest.
○ IFM is no longer pursuing a community compost area as part of project While this report and recommended project still meets the proposed purpose and outcomes outlined in the initial proposal presented to the City of Grass Valley titled “Community Food Campus,” it has been adjusted to address community feedback and related needs.

SIERRA HARVEST RECOMMENDATION & SUMMARY
Food Love Farm has and will continue to provide key educational programming for children and the community at its current location. Sierra Harvest recommends the City of Grass Valley consider installing a community farm and farmstand at DeVere Mautino Park, specifically in Areas 1 & 2, to address benefits listed later in this report. Further, Sierra Harvest is proud to deliver excellent food and agriculture programming for individuals of all ages and would consider applying for the implementation of this project should the City of Grass Valley deem it an appropriate use for DeVere Mautino Park.
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RECOMMENDED PROJECT COMPONENTS
A. Community Farm & Orchard
The one-acre parcel will be divided into two main growing areas (Area 1 & 2):
a. Orchard Area: Located on Area 1 of the park, this section will feature a variety of fruit trees including apples, plums, peaches, and pears. This would include Felix Gillette heirloom trees from Nevada County. The orchard will be open to the public for harvesting during peak season and will serve as a demonstration site for home-scale agroforestry.
b. Raised Bed Garden Area: Area 2 of the site will include a series of accessible raised beds for vegetable and herb production. These beds will be available to community members and partner organizations for collaborative growing under the supervision of Sierra Harvest.
c. Both the orchard and raised bed areas will be enclosed with deer fencing to protect crops while remaining visibly welcoming and inviting. Further, the fencing will provide protection for children and young visitors to the garden. Gates will be placed along current sidewalks in the designated areas. d. A small compost site will be included in Area 2 to process garden waste and develop compost for the raised beds.

B. Farmstand & Parking Area
A small, open-air farmstand will be constructed onsite in Area 2 to provide fresh, seasonal produce grown at the farm. This farmstand will be surrounded by a gravel parking lot for ease of access and turnaround space for school buses. Produce will be available to the public with a “pay what you can” model, and limited CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) shares will be available for one-time purchase to provide a small revenue stream for the farm. A membership model will allow active members free u-picks throughout the growing season.

C. Gazebo and Outdoor Classroom
Included in Area 1, is a covered gazebo to be built adjacent to the orchard area to serve as an outdoor classroom. This space will include park benches for seating and host gardening classes, nutrition workshops, and environmental education programs for all ages.

D. Native Plant Demonstration Garden
Surrounding the gazebo, we will plant a demonstration garden of native, deer-resistant, and drought-tolerant species. This area will showcase ecological landscaping techniques and provide habitat for pollinators and beneficial insects.

E. Hedgerow Installation
Along the Alta Street frontage road leading into the park, a series of hedgerows will be planted using native shrubs, perennials, and pollinator-friendly plants. These hedgerows 41

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will improve aesthetics, act as a windbreak, provide wildlife habitat, and enhance biodiversity at the site.

PROJECT MAP

COMMUNITY BENEFITS
● Food Security: Provides low-cost CSA shares and public access to fresh produce. ● Education: Offers hands-on learning about gardening, soil health, climate resilience, and healthy eating.
● Community Engagement: Builds a sense of shared purpose and connection through collaborative work and events.
● Environmental Stewardship: Demonstrates sustainable agriculture and native landscaping practices.
● Accessibility: Designed for people of all ages and abilities 42

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SWOT ANALYSIS OF DEVERE MAUTINO PARK COMMUNITY FARM & FARMSTAND

STRENGTHS
Public Accessibility: Located in a public park
with high visibility and community access.

Multifunctional Design: Combines food
production, education, and ecological
demonstration in one space.

Community Demand: Strong local interest in
fresh food access, gardening, and outdoor
learning.

Equity-Oriented: Sliding scale CSA shares and
farmstand access for underserved residents.

Sustainability Focused: Uses native plants, drip
irrigation, composting, and regenerative methods.

Strategic Alignment: Supports Nevada County
and Grass Valley goals for resilience, equity, and
health.

Volunteer & Partner Network: Taps into Sierra
Harvest, garden clubs, Master Gardeners, and
local schools.

WEAKNESSES
High Upfront Cost: ~$152K+ in capital
investment and ~$100K+/year in ongoing
operating expenses.

Labor Dependence: Relies heavily on volunteers
and seasonal workers for maintenance.

Limited Immediate Revenue: Modest income
from CSA, events, and farmstand in early years;
fundraising and grant-dependent.

Weather Vulnerability: Drought, extreme
heat/cold, or smoke events may affect crops,
impact power usage, or delay events.

Infrastructure Constraints: May face permitting,
water access, or ADA compliance challenges;
limited parking.

OPPORTUNITIES
Grant Funding Availability: USDA, CDFA,
NRCS, and local health/environmental
foundations support similar projects.

Education & Outreach: Potential to serve
hundreds of students and community members
through classes and events.

Replication Potential: Serves as a model for
other park-based farms in rural towns and small
cities.

Public Health Integration: Can partner with
health providers and food banks for nutrition
access.

Tourism & Civic Pride: Adds unique value to
Grass Valley’s community identity and
beautification efforts and incentivizes ag tourism.

Workforce Development: Creates jobs,
internships, and training in ag, land care, etc.

THREATS
Sustained Funding Gaps: Risk of revenue
shortfalls if grant cycles change or donor interest
declines.

Vandalism or Theft: As a public, unfenced area
(in portions of the design), the site may be
exposed to damage or misuse.

Political Shifts: Changes in city or county
priorities could affect permitting, support, or
resource allocation.

Volunteer Fatigue: Over-reliance on community
labor may lead to burnout or inconsistent
maintenance.

Pest/Disease Issues: Without chemical controls,
crops may be more vulnerable to localized
outbreaks.
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BUDGET ANALYSIS

PROPOSED IMPLEMENTATION & OPERATING BUDGET

COMPONENT DESCRIPTION
A. Community Farm & Orchard
● Orchard Area: Public fruit tree grove with apples, plums, peaches, pears. ● Raised Bed Garden Area: Accessible raised beds for seasonal vegetable and herb production.
● Fencing: 8 ft deer fencing around both growing areas for protection.

B. Farmstand & Parking Area
● Small wooden open-air farmstand with produce display area and signage. ● Surrounding gravel parking lot for 6–8 cars or temporary parking for visiting buses. ● The gravel lot will allow the park to maintain access ways to roads and related sites.

C. Gazebo & Outdoor Classroom
● Covered wooden gazebo (20x20 ft) with 6-8 benches for seating. ● Instructional space for gardening classes and community events.

D. Native Plant Demonstration Garden
● Drought-tolerant, pollinator-friendly native plants surrounding the gazebo. ● Mulch and drip irrigation installation.

E. Hedgerows Along Frontage Road
● Mixed native shrubs and perennials to create windbreak and habitat corridors.

MATERIALS LIST
A. SITE PREPARATION
● Weed barrier fabric (biodegradable preferred) – ~1 acre coverage ● Organic compost and soil amendments – ~20 cubic yards ● Mulch (wood chips or straw) – ~40 cubic yards
● Topsoil for raised beds – ~30 cubic yards
● Soil testing kits – 2–3 kits
● Landscape stakes and string – for layout
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B. ORCHARD INSTALLATION (25 FRUIT TREES)
● 25 fruit trees (15-gallon size, mixed varieties)
● Tree stakes (50) and ties
● Gopher baskets (25)
● Mulch rings or weed mats (25)
● Slow-release fertilizer
● Irrigation emitters and tubing
C. RAISED BED GARDEN (40 BEDS)
● Cedar lumber (2x10 or 2x12, untreated) – ~3,200 linear feet ● Galvanized screws and corner brackets
● Weed barrier fabric for pathways
● Pathway mulch or decomposed granite
● Drip irrigation tubing and emitters
● Garden soil mix – ~30 cubic yards
● Compost bins (2–3 units)
● Row covers, hoops, or shade cloth (seasonal)
D. FENCING
● 8’ welded wire deer fencing – ~600 linear feet
● Redwood posts – ~60 units
● Fence gate(s) – 2 double-swing or sliding gates
● Zip ties, fasteners
● Auger rental
E. FARMSTAND & GRAVEL PARKING AREA
● Lumber for farmstand frame and counter (treated or redwood) ● Roofing materials (corrugated metal or shingles)
● Farmstand signage and chalkboards
● Produce crates and baskets
● Scale and cash box or POS system
● Gravel (3/4" crushed rock) – ~2,500 sq ft
● Landscape edging and compaction tools
F. GAZEBO & OUTDOOR CLASSROOM
● 20x20 ft prefabricated wooden gazebo kit
● Concrete footings or ground anchors
● Weatherproof benches (6) or picnic tables
● Chalkboard or whiteboard
● Electrical conduit
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G. NATIVE PLANT DEMONSTRATION GARDEN
● Native plants and pollinator-friendly perennials (50–75 plants) ● Mulch and compost – ~5 cubic yards
● Drip irrigation tubing and micro-sprayers
● Interpretive signage
● Landscape boulders or small path stones (optional)
H. HEDGEROW PLANTINGS
● Native shrubs (toyon, white sage, milkweed, etc.) – 60–80 plants ● Grasses and perennials for understory
● Mulch – ~10 cubic yards
● Irrigation line and emitters
I. TOOLS & INFRASTRUCTURE
● Tool shed (8x10 prefabricated)
● Garden tools: shovels, rakes, hoes, trowels (10–15 each) ● Wheelbarrows (4)
● Compost thermometer, soil moisture meters
● Hose reels and nozzles
● Garden cart or utility wagon
● Shade tents (for events)
● First aid kit and handwashing station
J. SIGNAGE & EDUCATION
● Welcome sign and project overview sign
● CSA and farmstand hours sign
● Plant labels and row markers
● QR codes linked to educational content
● Workshop/event chalkboard or notice board
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ESTIMATED START UP COSTS

ITEM QUANTITY/SIZE UNIT
COST
TOTAL
COST
Site Preparation
Soil grading, weed barrier, leveling
~1.2 acre $5,175 $5,175
Orchard Trees (15 gal) 25 trees $103/tree $2,575
Raised Beds (4x12 cedar) 40 beds $402/bed $16,080
Fencing (8' deer fence) 1,400 linear feet $13.80/ft $19,320 Farmstand Construction 10x12 ft structure $6,900 $6,900 Gravel Parking Lot 2,500 sq ft $2.88/sq ft $7,200
Gazebo with Benches 20x20 ft + 6 benches $13,800 $13,800 Native Plant Garden
Plants, mulch, drip irrigation
1,000 sq ft $10/sq ft $10,000
Hedgerows Installation 300 linear feet $23/ft $6,900
Drip Irrigation System Full site $6,900 $6,900
Tool Shed & Basic Tools 8x10 shed + starter
tools
$4,600 $4,600
Signage & Educational Materials Interpretive signs, labels $2,300 $2,300 Labor (general contracting) Estimated 600 hrs $52/hr $31,200 SUBTOTAL $132,950
CONTINGENCY(15%) $19,942
TOTAL ESTIMATED START UP COST | $152,892
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ESTIMATED ANNUAL OPERATING BUDGET

CATEGORY DETAILS ANNUAL COST
Site Manager (Full-Time) 40 hrs/week @ $30/hr $62,400
Seasonal Staff / Interns* 2 part-time assistants during peak season (May–Sept)
$10,000
Water Utility Irrigation for orchard, beds, hedgerows,
and demo garden
$4,000
Seeds, Starts, Amendments* Organic compost, fertilizer, soil, cover crop seed, mulch
$3,500
Tools & Equipment
Replacement*
Small tools, wheelbarrows, hand tools, drip
parts
$2,000
Orchard & Bed Maintenance Pruning, tree health, staking, soil building $10,000 Insurance Liability and property insurance for public
space
$2,000
Farmstand Operations Supplies, signage, containers, sanitation, CSA boxes
$1,500
Outreach & Events Workshop materials, signage, printing, community events
$2,000
Gazebo & Landscape
Upkeep
Native plant pruning, bench maintenance,
gravel raking
$1,200
Pest & Weed Management Organic deterrents, fencing repair, weed suppression
$1,500
Accounting/Admin Bookkeeping, reporting, CSA tracking,
registration fees
$1,500
TOTAL ESTIMATED ANNUAL COST | $101,600*
*Reduced if supplemented with volunteer labor and donated products 48

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BUILDOUT TIMELINE
Phase 1: Planning & Permitting
● Final site design & layout
● Soil testing, water access planning
● Permitting with City of Grass Valley & Nevada County
● Community input meetings
● Order long-lead materials (gazebo, fencing, shed)
● Hire project/site manager & engage fiscal sponsor
Months 1-3
Phase 2: Site Preparation
● Weed abatement, site grading
● Install pathways, weed barrier
● Deliver topsoil, mulch, compost
● Lay water lines, main irrigation infrastructure
Months 3-4
Phase 3: Infrastructure Installation
● Build & install raised beds
● Install deer fencing around orchard and garden zones
● Construct tool shed
● Pour gazebo footings or install prefab base
● Begin hedgerow planting along frontage road
Months 4-6
Phase 4: Orchard & Garden Planting
● Plant 25+ fruit trees with gopher baskets & mulch
● Fill raised beds with soil mix
● Set up bed irrigation lines
● Begin seasonal planting in garden beds (pending weather/timing) ● Plant native species around gazebo & install signage
Months 6-7
Phase 5: Farmstand & Parking Area
● Construct farmstand & install roof
Months 7-8
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● Create gravel parking area (~2,500 sq ft)
● Set up signage, produce crates, cash box or POS
● Ensure ADA access from parking to beds & stand
Phase 6: Community Activation & Education Setup
● Install benches, blackboard/whiteboard in gazebo
● Schedule first workshops, school visits, garden tours ● Build volunteer calendar & membership system
● Launch CSA recruitment & donation drive
● Host soft-launch events and previews
Months 8-10
Phase 7: Public Launch
● Host a Community Grand Opening Event
● Begin limited CSA distribution
● Open farmstand on regular weekly schedule
● Launch regular class series (gardening, compost, etc.) ● Collect feedback, measure engagement, and adjust plans Month 11 or 12
Phase 8: Evaluation & Scaling
● Monitor plant growth, yields, and soil health
● Evaluate outreach and food access impacts
● Apply for sustainability and operational grants
● Consider expansion of classes
Month 13+

FUNDING & SUSTAINABILITY
In addition to grant funding, we recommend seeking in-kind donations, volunteer labor, and potential sponsorships from local businesses and service clubs. Ongoing operations will be sustained by CSA memberships, farmstand donations, educational programming revenue, event rentals, and community partnerships.

While initial funding would require support from government contracts or grants, breakeven analysis suggests that with an increase in earned revenue DeVere Mautino Community Farm could breakeven by years 4-5. Start up costs could be significantly reduced with gift-in-kind and 50

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sponsorships from local builders, contractors, and building supply companies along with volunteer labor.

POTENTIAL OFFSETS & REVENUE SOURCES
● CSA Shares or Annual Memberships: 40 shares at $400/season = $16,000 (optional:
low cost or sliding scale for members with grant support) ● Farmstand Donations/Sales: Est. $5,000–$10,000/year
● Grants & Sponsorships: City or County funds, local businesses, private donors (naming opportunities)
● Workshops/Classes: Modest ticket prices Est. $2,000-5,000/year ● In-Kind Contributions: Volunteer labor, donated tools/materials ● Event Rentals: Gazebo and garden could be rented for small weddings, third-party classes, and private family gatherings Est. $2,000-5,000/year

PROPOSED FUNDRAISING STRATEGY
START UP + ANNUAL OPERATING EXPENSES (YEARS 1-3): $457,692.50

SOURCE TARGET
AMOUNT

STRATEGY
County/City Contracts $202,692.50 Implementation + Year 1 Partial Operating Budget
Government Grants $85,000 USDA, CDFA, NRCS, CalFire, Prop 68 Private Foundations $45,000 Health, food access, environmental grants
Individual Donors & Local
Organizations
$55,000 Community campaign, recurring donors,
Rotary Clubs, NCRCD
Corporate Sponsors $25,000 Naming opportunities, signage (Gazebo, Farmstand, Raised Beds, etc.)
Earned Revenue (Year 1–3) $45,000 CSA shares, farmstand, workshops, rentals
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KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

FOOD ACCESS & PRODUCTION
● Pounds of food produced per season
● # of CSA shares distributed, including free/low-income shares ● # of farmstand visitors and transactions
● % of produce donated or subsidized
● # of crops grown annually and seasonal diversity

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & EDUCATION
● # of volunteers engaged per year (and total hours contributed) ● # of school or youth group visits
● # of public classes/workshops hosted
● Participant satisfaction ratings from classes/events
● # of repeat visitors or community members enrolled in programs

FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY
● % of annual operating budget funded by earned income
● # and size of grants secured per year
● # of individual donors or sponsors retained annually
● CSA retention rate year over year
● Farmstand sales volume (weekly/monthly)

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
● # of native plants and trees established
● Gallons of water used per growing area (via drip irrigation tracking) ● Volume of compost created and reused on-site
● # of pollinator species observed (qualitative or partner-led survey) ● Soil health improvements (e.g. organic matter %, tested annually)

PARK & PUBLIC VALUE
● # of park visitors engaging with the site (manual counts or QR code scans) ● # of community events held at the gazebo/outdoor classroom ● Surveyed perception of safety, beauty, or usefulness of the space ● # of media mentions, social shares, or press features 52

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AREA 1 & 2 CONCLUSION & SUMMARY
The proposed Devere Mautino Park Community Farm and Farmstand represents a bold and forward-thinking investment in the future of Grass Valley and Nevada County. By transforming roughly one acre of underutilized public land into a productive, inclusive, and educational green space, this project will address urgent local needs in food security, climate resilience, community health, and environmental education.

At a time when rising food costs, social isolation, and ecological uncertainty are affecting residents across our region, this project offers a grounded, hopeful response rooted in community empowerment. Through its public orchard, raised-bed garden, accessible farmstand, and outdoor classroom, the site will nourish bodies, minds, and ecosystems alike—while modeling replicable solutions for other rural communities in California and beyond.

This project directly aligns with the strategic goals of the City of Grass Valley and Nevada County by activating public space, strengthening local food systems, fostering civic engagement, providing job training and workforce development, and building climate-resilient infrastructure. The integration of native plant landscaping, regenerative agriculture, and accessible public education programming ensures that this farm will serve not just as a source of nourishment, but as a living demonstration of what is possible when a community comes together to steward its land. In addition, this project will provide a potential agricultural tourism destination and a way to draw in residents that live outside the county.

With strong support from local partners, a clear financial sustainability plan, and deep-rooted community enthusiasm, the Devere Mautino Park Community Farm and Farmstand is ready to take root.

REPORT & RECOMMENDATION - AREA 3
Through this city-sponsored research and planning phase, Interfaith Food Ministry (IFM) set out to explore the creation of a community food forest at Mautino Park in Grass Valley—a regenerative, place-based solution to the intertwined challenges of food insecurity, economic instability, and climate change. Rooted in the principles of sustainability, equity, and resilience, this vision is grounded in a simple but powerful idea: that nourishing both people and the land can happen together, in community.

Food insecurity is a growing issue in Western Nevada County. IFM serves over 10,000 individuals annually, many of whom struggle to access fresh, healthy food on a consistent basis.

As food prices rise and climate disruptions continue to strain global food systems, reliable, local, and ecologically sound food sources are increasingly vital. A food forest represents a long-term investment in that future.

Unlike conventional gardens or farms, food forests are perennial, multi-layered ecosystems designed to mimic natural forests while producing food and medicinal plants. Once established, 53

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they require minimal maintenance and can offer year-round harvests of fruits, nuts, herbs, and vegetables. IFM’s original vision included designing this forest with layered "guilds" of plants that support one another—resulting in both biodiversity and productivity. The harvest would directly benefit IFM clients, nearby neighbors, and anyone in the community who may be in need.

Importantly, this idea was shaped not just by ecological goals, but by community voice. As reflected in IFM’s 2022 client survey,
11 many clients expressed a strong interest in growing food but face barriers such as lack of time, space, or experience. A shared food forest removes these barriers, offering access without requiring individual ownership or resources. It transforms food production from a private burden into a collective and public opportunity. Further, a food forest can become a gathering space—hosting educational workshops, volunteer days, and celebrations that foster a sense of belonging. This section of the report presents:

A. Rationale for a Food Forest Investment
Outlining the long-term ecological, nutritional, and community benefits of establishing a perennial food-producing system.

B. Native Plant Integration
Considerations for incorporating native species to support biodiversity, pollinators, and long-term ecosystem health.

C. Companion Planting & Sample Guilds
An overview of plant relationships, example guild structures, and curated lists of edible and beneficial species suited to the region.

D. Design Recommendations & Layout Concepts
Strategies for spatial planning, accessibility, and seasonal resilience, including pathways, irrigation, and community-use areas.

E. Budget Framework & Implementation Guide
A practical, phased cost estimate with recommendations for infrastructure, labor, and maintenance—with volunteer engagement as a key asset.

Together, these elements offer a roadmap for how the food forest at Mautino Park can take root and thrive—nourishing bodies, restoring ecosystems, and growing something enduring for the community.

A. Rationale for Food Forest Investment
A food forest, sometimes referred to as a forest garden, is a diverse, multi-layered planting system that mimics natural forest ecosystems while producing food. Designed for resilience and minimal maintenance, food forests combine trees, shrubs, perennials, ground covers, and 11 (see Appendix)
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beneficial fungi in a way that each plant supports the others—creating a self-sustaining, edible ecosystem.

Food forests typically follow a seven-layer model, with each layer playing a distinct role in ecosystem function and food production:

1. Canopy Layer (Overstory Trees): Tall, sun-loving trees such as nut or fruit trees.

2. Understory Trees: Smaller trees that thrive in partial sun, such as dwarf fruit varieties.

3. Shrub Layer: Mid-height plants like berry bushes that may tolerate shade.

4. Herbaceous Layer: Edible herbs and perennials like mint, chives, and asparagus.

5. Root Layer (Rhizosphere): Root vegetables such as carrots, beets, and potatoes.

6. Ground Cover Layer: Low-spreading plants like strawberries or creeping thyme that protect the soil and suppress weeds.

7. Vine Layer: Climbing plants like grapes, beans, or kiwi that grow vertically.

Many food forests also include an eighth layer:

8. Mycelial Layer (Fungi): Mushrooms and beneficial fungi that decompose organic matter, cycle nutrients, and foster underground communication between plants. 55

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The food forest at Mautino Park would focus on planting design to support biodiversity, require minimal inputs over time, and center on community benefit and ecological health. All while maintaining the existing trails and tree canopy.

Local and Climate-Resilient Solution
Food forests are a regenerative solution to climate change, economic instability, and food insecurity, particularly in rural areas like Grass Valley. They mimic natural ecosystems, creating resilient plant communities that protect against extreme weather, pests, and disease. Food forests reduce reliance on external inputs, requiring less watering, no chemical fertilizers, and minimal pest management once established. They also restore ecosystems, improving soil health, providing habitats, and demonstrating sustainable living. At Mautino Park, a food forest would serve as a living classroom, food source, and symbol of local resilience, showcasing how public spaces can promote restoration and regeneration.

Beacon Food Forest harvest
B. Integrating Native Plants: Community Input & Recommendations During community listening sessions, residents voiced a strong interest in seeing native plants integrated into the design of the food forest at Mautino Park. Some community members expressed a desire to focus exclusively on California native and regional species—highlighting their ecological importance, cultural value, and deep connection to the place. 56

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In response to this input, Interfaith Food Ministry (IFM) supports a balanced approach:
integrating a thoughtful selection of native edible and medicinal plants alongside familiar cultivars. This strategy honors the community’s ecological values while ensuring the food forest remains accessible, abundant, and engaging for all users—especially those experiencing food insecurity.

Here’s why we recommend a blend of native species and cultivars to meet the goals of food security, education, and community engagement:

1. Food Access and Cultural Familiarity
Many native edible plants—such as gooseberries, manzanita berries, and miner’s lettuce—are nutritious but less familiar to modern palates. In contrast, cultivars like apples, plums, and kale are widely recognized and more likely to be harvested, cooked, and consumed. Including cultivars ensures that the food grown is not only available, but also utilized—a key concern for food-insecure individuals and families.

2. Nutritional and Culinary Variety
While native plants offer unique nutrients and deep cultural significance, they represent a narrower spectrum of edible options than more common garden cultivars. A combined planting palette enhances seasonal variety, provides a wider range of culinary uses, and makes the food forest more inviting to a diverse community.

3. Education & Cultural Restoration
Native plants are not simply alternatives to cultivated crops—they are carriers of Indigenous knowledge, ecological wisdom, and cultural memory. Their inclusion offers a powerful opportunity for intergenerational learning and cultural restoration. However, a native-only food forest would require significant investment in education, culinary skill-building, and interpretive signage to ensure these plants are recognized, understood, and valued.

By integrating native plants as part of the broader food forest ecosystem, the site becomes a living classroom—where children and adults can learn about traditional uses, ecosystem functions, and the cultural histories tied to these plants. This is also a critical opportunity to partner with local Tribes, native plant experts, and educators to co-create this vision and restore relationships with plants and knowledge systems that have been historically displaced.

Native Plant Design Recommendations & Next Steps
To ensure native plants are meaningfully and respectfully integrated, we propose the following steps:
● Curate a list of locally appropriate native edible and medicinal species in consultation with Indigenous knowledge holders, native plant specialists, and 57

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ethnobotanists.
● Develop signage, curriculum, and community workshops that highlight traditional uses, ecological benefits, and harvesting practices.
● Partner with local Tribes and organizations such as the Nevada City Rancheria Nisenan Tribe and native plant advocacy groups to embed cultural context and foster long-term collaboration.
● Design the food forest in zones, allowing native plant guilds to thrive in specific areas while also incorporating productive, community-friendly cultivars.

Courtesy of Beacon Food Forest
C. Companion Planting & Sample Guild Design
Edible Food Forest Guide Design Background
The primary intent is to create a resilient, regenerative system that produces fresh food while enhancing biodiversity, soil health, and community well-being. Rooted in permaculture principles, the design emphasizes plant partnerships, layered ecosystems, and species that are edible, medicinal, or ecologically beneficial.
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The designated site is approximately 1–1.5 acres of relatively flat land with partial sun exposure, established tree cover, and access to seasonal water. The area is bordered by well-used walking trails and neighborhood streets—offering both visibility and accessibility. Some selective tree removal may be considered to improve sun access for fruiting species, but the overall approach will prioritize adding canopy, diversity, and ecological value through the planting of new trees and perennial understory layers.

This guide is intended to serve both as a record of research and as a practical framework for any organization or entity interested in bringing the food forest vision to life.

Core Guild Design Elements
Area 3's food forest will use a core guild design, fostering beneficial plant relationships for edibles, biodiversity, and resilience. It will integrate anchor trees, companion planting, and consider water access and reasonable infrastructure.

1. Anchor Trees (Primary Producers)
The core of the food forest will include a diverse range of fruit and nut trees adapted to Grass Valley’s climate and chill hours:
● Fruit trees: Apple, Pear, Peach, Plum, Cherry
● Nut trees: Chestnut, Pistachio (with male/female pairing), Walnut (optional) ● Varieties are chosen for cross-pollination compatibility, staggered ripening, and local climate resilience.

Trees will be spaced at 15–25 feet based on mature canopy size, with appropriate species-to-species distance to maximize yield and health.

2. Guild-Based Companion Planting
Each anchor tree will be surrounded by a guild — a curated group of companion species performing key ecological functions:
● Nitrogen fixers: Goumi, clover, lupine
● Dynamic accumulators: Comfrey, dandelion
● Mulch producers: Rhubarb, horseradish
● Pollinator/insectary plants: Yarrow, calendula, bee balm ● Groundcovers: Strawberries, creeping thyme, sweet potato ● Fungal allies (optional): King Stropharia mushrooms
All plants are chosen for low-maintenance, perennial productivity and ecological synergy.

Most are edible, medicinal, or habitat-enhancing.

3. Infrastructure & Layout Features
● Tree spacing accommodates future canopy growth and sunlight access 59

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● Pathways maintain walkability and ADA considerations based on community input
● Water access planned via drip irrigation, olla pots, or potential greywater integration
● Swales or rainwater harvesting may be incorporated depending on soil infiltration patterns
● Mulching strategies to support moisture retention, soil fertility, and weed suppression

SAMPLE DESIGN FOR FOOD FOREST AT MAUTINO PARK
Map courtesy of Lanpaths, CA - example of a successful community food forest/farm design.

D. Recommended Community Infrastructure & Gathering Features To ensure the space remains welcoming, educational, and accessible, several community-focused elements are woven into the design:
● Picnic areas with shaded seating and natural materials ● A small educational gazebo or outdoor classroom for workshops, field trips, and events ● Interpretive signage to educate visitors about plant guilds, native species, food forest 60

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layers, and climate adaptation
● ADA-friendly walking paths that respect existing community trail use while expanding access
● Opportunities for community art, storytelling, and cultural heritage signage, especially in collaboration with Indigenous educators and local artists E. Implementation Plan & Budget
Area 3 Map at Mautino Park, Grass Valley, CA - proposed food forest- Size: 1.57 Acres Implementation Plan: Food Forest at Mautino Park
Overview
The proposed site for the food forest is Area 3 (as shown in the map above), a cherished part of Mautino Park known for its mature trees, nearby homes, and well-used walking trails. This space offers shade, wildlife habitat, and a natural gathering point for the community.

Shaped by community input, the priorities for Area 3 as a food forest include:
● Preserve and enhance walking trails, with attention to accessibility and connectivity ● Protect the beauty and ecological value of existing trees ● Honor the current use and feel of the space, while inviting more community benefit The food forest plan aims to increase the number and diversity of trees, adding edible and medicinal species that support pollinators, soil health, and community nutrition. The proposed food forest would layer in food-producing, climate-resilient plants that work in harmony with the 61

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natural environment. Every decision related to vegetation will be made with careful ecological consideration, informed by both community values and the long-term health of the park. 12 The implementation plan presented here reflects an integrated approach that balances:
● Community input and continued use of the space
● Ecological restoration and biodiversity
● The goal of growing fresh, nutritious food for local residents The selected site is approximately 1–1.5 acres of mostly flat, partial-sun land bordered by mature trees, well-loved walking trails, and nearby neighborhoods. City water is accessible, and the area already functions as a shared public space.

Sample food forest design in a neighborhood - walking trails, benches, and accessible plants 12 Sample Mautino Park Food Forest Design
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Buildout Timeline
This timeline outlines the development of a 1.5-acre edible food forest, designed around permaculture principles. It emphasizes guild-based planting to create a resilient, regenerative ecosystem that produces food, supports biodiversity, improves soil, and strengthens community.

The food forest will serve as a living classroom, gathering place, and climate-smart land stewardship demonstration site, aiming to advance food justice, climate resilience, and public education. The plan provides a flexible framework for planning, learning, and collaboration.

Phase 1: Site Assessment
● Map sun exposure
● Test the soil
● Study the slope
● Observe existing trees and water access to create a strong ecological foundation.

Months 1
Phase 2: Goals & Planting Design
● Conduct soil testing and necessary amendments
● Mark planting zones and install water infrastructure
● Define key pathways and access zones
● Cultivate community buy-in, shared vision, and values Months 2-3
Phase 3: Installation
● Plant primary trees and core guild species
● Apply mulch and establish irrigation schedule
● Guild & Signage Installation
Months 4-6
Phase 4: Maintenance & Understory Development
● Create seasonal calendar
● Secure volunteers
● Introduce additional guild plants and fungal allies
● Begin light pruning and ongoing care protocols
Ongoing
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Apple orchard - one option for the food forest design.

Carrying the Vision Forward
This food forest vision presents an ideal opportunity for a local nonprofit, school, tribal organization, city department, or permaculture group to lead a project with lasting community, ecological, and educational value. If you are considering stewarding this space, you are invited to build on this vision—rooted in food justice, climate resilience, and community care.

Budget Overview
The City of Grass Valley supported the completion of a one-year planning phase for the Community Food Campus and this food forest project, laying the groundwork for long-term implementation. The following budget is a flexible template, designed to guide future investment while recognizing that many items—such as trees, tools, mulch, and labor—can be offset through donations, partnerships, or volunteer efforts.

This budget estimates the costs of establishing and maintaining a 1.5-acre food forest without assuming any in-kind contributions. It is intended for planning purposes and may vary based on final design decisions, local pricing, and available resources. For example, temporary fencing is only required around active planting zones, not the entire site perimeter. Similarly, irrigation approaches can be scaled or phased. We recommend a resourceful and collaborative approach, leveraging donations, local expertise, nonprofit partnerships, and community work days to significantly reduce costs while enhancing public engagement. 64

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Estimated Materials Budget
Category Estimated Startup Cost Annual Maintenance Cost Temporary Deer Fencing $1,250 – $2,000 $150 – $300
Irrigation System (1.5 ac) $2,700 – $9,000 $600 – $1,200 Trees, Plants & Seeds ~$7,080 –
Pruning & Maintenance Tools $332 – $2,462 Minimal
Soil Amendments & Mulch – $750 – $1,200
Total $11,362 – $20,542 $1,500 – $2,700/year
Materials List by Category
Temporary Deer Fencing
Purpose: Protect young guilds while establishing. Full perimeter fencing is not required—use movable fencing around active zones.

Fencing Type Estimated
Cost
Notes
Plastic mesh (7–8 ft) $1,250 –
$1,500
4 rolls + posts/stakes
Electric netting $1,680 –
$1,820
Lightweight, reusable
Welded wire (metal) $1,625 –
$3,750
Durable, higher cost
Recommendation: Begin with lightweight or temporary fencing (mesh or electric), especially if deer pressure is moderate.

Irrigation System (1.5 Acres)
Purpose: Ensure adequate water supply during establishment and drought years. System may be phased.

System Type Cost Estimate Details
Drip Irrigation $2,250 –
$6,000
Efficient for trees/shrubs
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Subsurface Drip $4,500 –
$6,000
Low evaporation, long-term option
Micro-Sprinklers $2,700 –
$4,500
Best for herbs/ground layer
Pump, Filters, Timers $600 – $1,200 Required infrastructure Total Estimate $2,700 –
$9,000
Based on system mix
Recommendation: Mix drip irrigation for guilds and micro-sprinklers for open areas for water efficiency and coverage.

Tree, Shrub & Perennial Plantings
Plant Type Unit Price Quantity Estimated
Cost
Fruit & Nut Trees $50 –
$130
60–75 $3,000 –
$6,000
Native Shrubs & Support $15 – $30 40–60 $900 – $1,200
Herb & Perennial Starts ~$6 each 160–200 $960 – $1,200
Total Estimate ~$7,080
Note: Seed starting, plant donations, and nursery partnerships can significantly reduce this cost.

Tools & Maintenance Equipment
Item Cost
Estimate
Hand Pruners (Felco F2) $72
Pole Pruner (Fiskars) $60
Loppers, Gloves, Wheelbarrow $200 – $300
Optional: Electric Pruning Shears (INFACO) $2,170
Total Estimate $332 – $2,462
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Note: Quality tools are a long-term investment. Donations or tool shares are common in community-led projects.

Annual Maintenance Estimates
Maintenance Task Estimated Annual
Cost
Irrigation System Upkeep $600 – $1,200
Mulch, Compost, Soil Building $750 – $1,200
Fence Repair/Staking $150 – $300
Optional Seasonal Labor (volunteer or
paid)
Variable ($30–$50/hr)
Optional Labor Add-On (If Not Volunteer-Based)
Task Estimated Hours Hourly Rate Estimated
Cost
Site prep, fencing, layout 60–80 hrs $30–$50/hr $1,800 – $4,000
Irrigation install 30–50 hrs $30–$50/hr $900 – $2,500
Tree and guild planting 80–100 hrs $30–$50/hr $2,400 –
$5,000
Initial mulching and soil building 40–60 hrs $30–$50/hr $1,200 – $3,000
Total Optional Labor Estimate:
$6,300 – $14,500 (depending on contractor rate, site conditions, and crew size) 67

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Estimated Startup Budget (Including Labor)
This startup budget includes essential infrastructure, plants, tools, and optional labor for the first year of implementation. It is intended as a template and planning guide for any group considering project stewardship. This estimate assumes no donations or in-kind contributions—though we strongly encourage leveraging community support to reduce actual costs.

Category Estimated Cost
Range
Temporary Deer Fencing $1,250 – $2,000
Irrigation System (1.5 acres) $2,700 – $9,000
Trees, Plants & Seeds ~$7,080
Tools & Equipment $332 – $2,462
Labor (site prep, install, planting) $6,300 – $14,500
Total Estimated Startup Cost $17,662 – $34,042
Note: These estimates do not include permanent infrastructure (e.g., gazebos, benches), ongoing maintenance, or future expansion.

Implementation Recommendations:
● Donations, partnerships, and grant funding can offset many of the startup and recurring costs.
● A phased approach (e.g., ½ acre at a time) can help with scaling and reduce upfront expenses.
● Incorporating community stewardship days, youth involvement, or school partnerships can lower labor costs and strengthen community ownership. 68

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Community as the Engine: The Power of Volunteer Support Inspired by Beacon Food Forest, Seattle WA
One of the most effective ways to reduce costs while building long-term stewardship and resilience in a food forest is through volunteer participation. Labor represents a major portion of any implementation budget—and yet, with the support of dedicated community members, these hours can be transformed into something far more valuable than dollars: a sense of ownership, purpose, and connection.

Beacon Food Forest (BFF), a flagship urban food forest in Seattle, has demonstrated this model powerfully. In 2023 alone, BFF held monthly work parties, welcoming people of all ages and skill levels—rain or shine—to help grow and maintain the forest. These gatherings served as entry points into deeper involvement while also advancing real on-the-ground progress.

How Volunteer Hours Translate to Impact
Based on standard rates of $30–$50/hour for landscape labor, even 100 hours of volunteer work (one full community workday) offsets $3,000–$5,000 in professional service costs. Over the course of a season, volunteer-led installations, maintenance, and education efforts can save tens of thousands of dollars—while also growing a strong community network.

Example Volunteer Roles (as seen at Beacon Food Forest):
● Planting: Shrubs, trees, seeds, and companion plants
● Weeding: Including invasive/noxious species (e.g., morning glory, thistle) ● Soil Building: Sheet mulching, composting, and biochar making 69

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● Guild Maintenance: Pruning, chop-and-drop, and fruit tree care ● Infrastructure Support: Building raised beds, installing gravel for paths ● Harvesting & Propagation: Collecting seeds, rooting cuttings, crop harvests ● Specialty Work: Medicinal plant care, wetland maintenance, ADA path improvements ● Creative Projects: Sign-making, educational art installations ● Community Hosting: Greeting new volunteers, sharing food, coordinating tools Why It Matters
Volunteering does more than reduce expenses—it builds shared purpose, strengthens community ownership, and ensures long-term sustainability. From children learning to plant their first fruit tree to elders sharing propagation knowledge, the food forest becomes more than a project—it becomes a place of belonging.
“The most meaningful aspect of the food forest is the community. There’s a very peaceful way of dealing with each other. The community supports you in working on whatever you’re excited about. Everyone is there for each other.” — Jessica, volunteer at Beacon Food Forest
Recommendation:

We strongly encourage future stewards of this project—whether a nonprofit, school, city department, or grassroots group—to establish regular volunteer days modeled on BFF’s monthly work parties. This not only offsets startup and maintenance costs, but also cultivates the very spirit that makes food forests thrive: collective care. Volunteer coordination and the building of a stewardship team and program is essential and should be prioritized as part of any paid staff role for this project.
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Conclusion
Rooted in sustainability and shaped by community input, this initiative envisions a transformative public asset for Grass Valley—one that actively addresses urgent issues such as climate change, food insecurity, and social fragmentation. The Mautino Park Community Food Campus includes a community farm for a wide range of hands-on agricultural education, the Mautino Market offering fresh produce and serving as a community hub, a demonstration garden showcasing native plants, a learning gazebo to provide a community gathering and event space, and a flourishing food forest exemplifying permaculture principles.

As community awareness of climate disruption grows, so does the desire for tangible, hopeful action. The Food Campus creates space for that action to take root—through food production, job training, and neighborhood gathering. It meets residents where they are, while inviting them to imagine where we can go—together.

Beyond these foundational elements, the recommendation incorporates vital infrastructure enhancements such as new sidewalks on Alta Street for safe access, ample parking provided through partnership, and the preservation of existing forested areas for their ecological and recreational value. This recommended plan is a product of community-driven design, incorporating local feedback to ensure it meets the needs and aspirations of Grass Valley residents. It is deeply rooted in sustainable practices, striving for environmental responsibility, economic viability, and social equity.

Ultimately, the Mautino Park Community Food Campus is proposed as a vital public asset addressing critical community challenges. It will enhance food security by providing direct access to affordable, healthy food, and offer extensive educational opportunities in sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship. Furthermore, it is expected to generate economic opportunities through farm operations and community programming, fostering a more resilient local economy. This proposal represents an investment in Grass Valley's future, envisioning a space where food, education, and nature converge to create a truly enriching experience for all.

Interfaith Food Ministry and Sierra Harvest would like to thank the City of Grass Valley for investing in these public access projects and for exploring new ways to utilize its parks.

Additional acknowledgements include the community members, partners, city staff and officials, county officials, and Peace Lutheran Church for their roles in the creation of this report. 71

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Land Acknowledgement
We acknowledge this project is on the ancestral, unceded homelands of the Nisenan people, who have cared for this region for generations. Despite historical injustices, the Nisenan are resilient. We honor their ongoing presence, leadership, and knowledge. This project aligns with Indigenous values of stewardship, reciprocity, sustainability, and respect. We are committed to uplifting Indigenous voices, supporting Native sovereignty, and promoting just land care. We encourage supporting the California Heritage: Indigenous Research Project (CHIRP) to preserve Nisenan culture, rights, and visibility.
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Appendix

1. Supporting Data and Figures
● 1.1 Analogous Model Supplemental Data
○ 1.1.1 Food Forest Stewardship Roles
○ 1.1.2 Guiding Principles for Socially Healthy Stewardship ○ 1.1.3 Boston Food Forest Coalition Vision Mission Values ○ 1.1.4 Bayer Farm Guidelines
○ 1.1.5 Guidelines and Agreements
○ 1.1.6 Green Team Advocacy Questionnaire
○ 1.1.7 WSG Job Training Program In-depth Description
○ 1.1.8 Green Team Program Application
○ 1.1.9 LandPath Impact Report
○ 1.1.10 2023 Reunity Annual Report
○ 1.1.11 2022 Urban Tilth Annual Report
○ 1.1.12 Wasatch Gardens Utah Yard Share
○ 1.1.13 Planting Justice Good Table Cafe

2. Technical Specifications and Details
● 2.1 Planting Specifications:
○ 2.1.1 Companion Planting & Guild Design: Sample Species for Mautino Park

3. Survey Responses
● 3.1 Community Survey Responses:
○ 3.1.1 2025 Community Member Survey
○ 3.1.2 2025 Community Member Responses
● 3.2 Partner Member Responses:
○ 3.2.1 Partner Member Survey
○ 3.2.2 Partner Member Responses
● 3.3 IFM Client Survey Results
○ 3.3.1 IFM Client Survey
○ 3.3.2 IFM Client Survey Insights

4. Additional Resources and References
● 4.1 Additional Resources & Information
○ 4.1.1 CA Alliance for Community Composting Support
○ 4.1.2 Key Definitions

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Appendix 1.1.1
Food Forest Stewardship Roles by Boston Food Forest Coalition Stewardship Team Roles
to support shared accountability
Healthy food forests and healthy stewardship teams go hand-in-hand. Healthy teams are actively and joyfully engaged in the work of tending their food forest and engaging with the broader neighborhood community.

Healthy teams are also aligned with the Guiding Principles of stewardship. One of those principles is “clearly defined roles and responsibilities.”
Food Forest Roles
Clearly-defined roles and responsibilities support team vision, shared accountability, and trust. They also help to make the day-to-day work of maintaining a food forest easier and more joyful to carry out.

Boston Food Forest Coalition suggests the following roles for each food forest Stewardship Team, (but strongly encourages each Stewardship Team to update the roles and titles based on their team culture, needs, and priorities!)
Lead Coordinating Steward — the week-to-week primary leader and decision-maker for the food forest.

This person…
● coordinates stewardship team meetings that are fun and move the food forest toward the Stewardship Team’s collective vision.
● is the main point of contact with BFFC, including: proactively communicating site needs to BFFC, collaborating on the Memorandum of Special Stewardship with BFFC, paying yearly site fee to BFFC, and leading site fundraising efforts for fees and any necessary improvements. ● cultivates neighborhood relationships and encourages new community members to join the stewardship team.
● participates in ensuring the team sustains through the years.

Engaged Stewardship Team Members — the week-to-week members who drive food forest care and community engagement alongside the Lead Coordinating Steward.

These team members attend regular stewardship team meetings and take on concrete role(s) and correlating responsibilities in food forest/team maintenance.

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They can play 1-3 of the following roles if the individual has time and interest:
● Fruit tree care leader: responsible for fruit tree health, pruning, harvesting, and annually updating the food forest map of trees and tree health.
● Perennial shrubs and plants leader: responsible for food forest plant guilds including perennial shrubs, greens, flowers, and other perennial plants (not annual garden beds), and annually updating the food forest map of shrub and shrub health. ● Weeds leader: responsible for learning what’s a weed (and should be pulled) and what’s not (edible, herbal, etc) and helping guide the team to staying ahead of weeding the food forest. ● Hardscape and buildings leader: responsible for care of pathways, buildings, garden box structures, trash removal, message boards, fencing, educational signage, winter water shut off, tools and shed maintenance, managing who has keys to the shed, and other physical structure maintenance and care.
● Community engagement, impact, and events leader: responsible for neighborhood outreach, community partnerships, getting neighbors involved in stewardship, planning regular volunteer days & annual community events (e.g. Spring Wake Up, Fall Harvest, Annual Site Clean Up, etc.), taking photos/videos, and notifying BFFC's Communications Manager if the team wants a community event or volunteer day promoted to the broader coalition.

Volunteers — the neighborhood members (non-stewards) who engage semi-frequently to participate in the food forest (e.g., tending a garden box, attending volunteer days, joining community events at the food forest, etc).

These volunteers are not the food forest Stewardship Team, but could ask the Stewardship Team to join if they want to get more engaged in the food forest.

Role definition and tenure guidelines
● Roles should be actively updated/modified by the Stewardship Team to meet the needs of the food forest and community. Roles should be updated in the BFFC stewardship dashboard so stewards and BFFC staff remain aligned on any team changes. ● At the end of each calendar year, the Lead Steward and Engaged Stewards should meet to decide if they are renewing their commitment for the coming year, if any roles should change, and if any new neighbors should join the team.
● BFFC’s ongoing hypothesis is that the Lead Steward role should rotate every 2 or 3 years if not sooner. So, part of the Stewardship Team role should be actively engaging new stewards from the community and also cultivating the next Lead Coordinating Steward.

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Appendix 1.1.2
Boston Food Coalition Guiding Principles for Socially Healthy Stewardship Guiding Principles of Stewardship
Shared Vision
Team is able to discuss and bring clarity to the specific objectives and vision that the team is working towards. Leadership is joyful, and stems from the team’s collective dreams and visions.

Spirit of inclusion
Stewards actively engage and include neighbors across race, class, and age, while celebrating our differences.

Frequent collaboration
Successful stewardship teams meet regularly (e.g., monthly) to coordinate food forest care, design inclusive community events at the food forest, and other work to ensure the food forest is healthy, vibrant, and the community is actively engaged.

Clearly-Defined Roles & Responsibilities
Each team member understands individual responsibilities and how each role connects to and supports the team’s vision. Individual roles are clearly defined and discussable.

Shared Accountability
Team members understand what they’re being held accountable for as partners in the community land trust and as food forest stewards.

Learn By Doing (Hang Loose!)
Stewardship, like gardening, requires setting intentions, trying things out, making some mistakes, lots of curiosity, and adjustment on the fly. Stewards have a plan for the food forest site, while having fun and holding the work with looseness.

Conflict Is Natural
Disagreement is a natural part of the work. The goal isn’t to avoid conflict but to gracefully lean into it to find inclusive, workable solutions that benefit the community. Getting curious about each other’s perspectives and what’s behind them can go a long way.

Listen To The Food Forest
Observing the food forest space is critical to designing and tending the land in concert with nature.

Successful food forests cultivate relationships between people, plants, soil, and other animals, while aligning with permaculture/agroecology principles.

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Appendix 1.1.3
Boston Food Forest Coalition Vision Mission Values

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BOSTON FOOD FOREST COALITION

STATEMENT OF VISION, MISSION, VALUES
Vision
Imagine walking down a street in Boston on a Saturday morning in June, picking a handful of blueberries and currants from an edible park, sitting in the shade of an old oak to chat with neighbors, and grabbing a basket of fresh veggies on your walk home for dinner. It’s 2050, climate-induced storms are stronger, sea-level rise is worse — but we planted a Forest City rooted in hope and environmental justice.

Boston Food Forest Coalition aims to endow healthy food forests as part of the renewable green infrastructure of Boston. In 50 years time, at a slow and steady rate of growth, this could mean over a hundred food forests have taken root throughout the city (each with their own annual harvest festivals and cultural events). Every healthy food forest is a garden of connectivity, renewing community leadership for adaptation and resilience, and signifies a cultural realignment of urban life with the natural world, creating nourishing relationships between neighbors, land, and food.

Together we are asking: How do we embody “beloved community” (in which all people are cherished and nurtured) as we engage gracefully with the work of realigning humanity with nature?
Mission
At the intersection of racial equity and climate resilience, the Boston Food Forest Coalition is a community of neighbors transforming vacant lots into public edible parks placed into permanent community control and ownership. Together, we are building resilience in Boston through more equitable access to healthy green space and greater connection to each other and the natural world.

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Values
Value Description
Joyful grace
“Compassion & respect for
yourself and all life”
We believe in supporting the wellbeing of all
stakeholders (e.g., staff, board, stewards and their
neighborhoods) so that they have the opportunity to
show up to the work from a place of joy and grace.

We believe in creating culture and systems to
promote individual and communal well being, while
recognizing it is the individual’s responsibility to take care of themself by advocating for what they need,
setting boundaries, etc. We believe it is important to
recognize that impact is different than intent, and in
taking responsibility for repairing harm caused.

Conflict and disagreement are natural parts of the
work; the goal isn’t to avoid them but to gracefully
learn from them and to care for each other along the
way.

Racial equity & justice at the
center
“Overcome racialized land
injustice”
We believe in working towards racial equity and
collective liberation for all Bostonians with a focus on increasing healthy green space for Black and Brown
Bostonians and Indigenous Peoples. To achieve a
vision of racial justice in Boston, we believe we must
understand Boston’s history of structural racism and
how it manifests in policies, institutions, and culture related to BFFC’s work. For example, a history of racist mortgage lending practices in Boston led to a 20%
disparity in parkland between mostly white
Bostonians and Bostonians of color, a 7.5 degree
disparity in daytime temperature, and 39% disparity
in trees. We pair this knowledge with humility and
curiosity as we work across diverse communities in
pursuit of greater racial equity and justice.

Inclusivity
“Collective land ownership”
We believe in strengthening a Boston culture of
belonging through collective ownership of land by a
multi-racial, multi-generational, democraticallyPage 142 Item # 8.
engaged community, that has the information and
decision rights to govern and operate a Community
Land Trust that serves all Bostonians. We believe
authentic representation and power-sharing is
critical. We believe we must examine the roots of the
systems BFFC participates in as a nonprofit land trust
in Boston, and take action to increase inclusion
toward racial justice, e.g., address the historic
exclusion of Black and Brown leadership in
decision-making roles in nonprofits.

Adaptability
“Let’s get curious”
We believe a proactive learning culture is necessary
in times of rapid change – i.e., social, economic, and
environmental transformation (e.g., sea-level rise,
temperature increase, and heat island effect). We
believe in listening deeply to stakeholders, analyzing
and learning from data (perspectives, stories, and
numbers), and making adjustments based on
learnings. We also believe it is critical to “get curious” about our own (and others) opinions and
assumptions and to slow down to hear each other in
our day-to-day work. We believe individually we don’t
hold all the answers, but collectively we can learn
from each other and the natural world to build a
stronger path together. (Related: Here’s our first draft of how to build a learning organization.)
Baseline trust and
appreciation
“You are valued”
We believe in the competency of each member of
the BFFC team (board, staff, stewards). We believe
mutual respect is vital to the psychological safety
and well being of our team, and must be rooted in
each person’s inherent value. We believe it is
important to support each other to take risks, make
mistakes, communicate forthrightly and learn
together.

Ecological imagination
“Realigning with the natural
We believe in realigning urban life with the natural
world by inspiring an ecological imagination in all

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Item # 8.
world” Bostonians. We believe we must listen deeply to the natural world to find our place within it so we might
live adaptably and resiliently as it changes.

We also believe in living into The Seventh Generation
Principle which is based on an ancient
Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) philosophy that the
decisions we make today should result in a
sustainable world seven generations into the future.

Community
“We are better to each other
when we know each other”
We believe we are stronger and smarter together.

We believe in listening to and seeing each other, and
celebrating differences. We believe, as Jessie, an
Edgewater food forest steward put it, “we are better
to each other when we know each other.” We believe
that relationships move at the speed of trust. BFFC
was founded as a multi-racial, multi-generational
coalition and intends to keep this at the core of our
work.
* For Reference only:
2019 document, 2021 document, Current Theory of Change draft

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Appendix 1.1.4
Bayer Farm Guidelines

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Appendix 1.1.5
Bayer Farm Guidelines & Agreements

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1 Bayer Farm
Guidelines and Agreement
We are at Bayer Farm, located on the ancestral home of the Southern Pomo and Coastal Miwok people, past, present, and future. We recognize them as the first people and the first stewards of this land.

We are on occupied territory and acknowledge the ongoing devastation of colonization. This land acknowledgement is the first step in LandPaths' long journey to repairing our relationship with the original people of this land, and to respect, make space, and honor the knowledge, culture, and deep connection to the natural world of indigenous people. Join us in this process by connecting and uplifting the organizations and resources to native communities in our area.

Garden Contacts:
● Name Phone _________________ or [email protected] ● Name Phone _________________ or [email protected] - We are also available in the garden during volunteer workdays. Check the bulletin board to see the calendar of the days when we are open.

Bayer Farm is a project of LandPaths, a Santa Rosa based conservation organization whose mission is to Foster a Love of the Land in Sonoma County. The project was started in 2007 with a goal of building a community hub where neighbors can gather in a safe space to share traditions, knowledge and love that inspires families to grow nurtured by nature.

To qualify for an individual plot, we ask that you:
● Be an involved family in all activities and events in the Garden. ● Be prepared to support and be a part of the Garden directive. ● Lack of space in where to cultivate at home.
● Give a minimum of 50 volunteer hours in the garden per year. - Make sure to take a calendar in order to record your hours. - Community work hours can also be received from other LandPaths properties. * see list of opportunities in the last page
● Pay a fee of at least $100 per year. (If it is possible and/or wished, more can always be received.) ● Sign this agreement – in where you agree to follow all the rules of the garden, fulfill your volunteer responsibilities, and maintain your plot.
- Those that do not follow the garden rules or fulfill their volunteer hours will not be invited to return the next year and/or in extreme cases will lose their plot immediately.

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2 Bayer Farm rules of behavior:
● All community gardeners will behave with respect and consideration to the garden, other gardeners, and visitors to the garden.
● Entering others’ plots without permission, vandalism, harassment (verbal or physical), and disparaging remarks around race, gender, creed, etc. are not tolerated behaviors. ● Violation of these rules will result in expulsion from the garden. ● There is to be no planting in areas outside of your designated place. There is to be NO fencing over 6’ tall. ● DO NOT WASTE WATER! A controlled Irrigation system is encouraged to be installed. - An inspection before Spring - Summer planting should be passed. - It is prohibited to leave water running or manually using hosing for watering. ● You are responsible for the behavior of your children and pets. - Neither drugs nor alcohol is permitted in the Garden. - Wear your badge visibly every time that you are in the garden and / or working in your space. - Respect the doors and never share the combination, especially minors- access by unauthorized people could lead to accident, fire and theft.
- If something suspicious is seen, anyone jumping the fence, or committing a crime including night visits and theft, please call the Santa Rosa Police at 707-543-3600 ● If you see someone harvesting from multiple sites or otherwise apparently harvesting without authorization, please approach them and inquire as to who they are – if they are supposed to be there you will meet a new friend. If not, you can explain the rules.
● It is prohibited to gather products from the teaching area. (They belong to Running Programs!)

Basic rules for families or persons with individual plots:
● The Garden is composed of a community section for families and another of teaching. ● The community garden is officially open from dawn to dusk. Do not enter after nightfall. ● We are an ORGANIC garden: Fertilizers, Chemical Pesticides, and Herbicides are not permitted. We can help with advice if you have a problem. _______ Initials
- Large permanent plants, i.e. trees, are not permitted in family plots. - Edible plants, herbs and flowers are suitable.
- It is not permissible to allow produce to rot – if you have extra, please share with a neighbor or let us know so that we can utilize the produce. ________ Initials
- Keep in touch – if your phone number or email changes, let us know promptly. - If you need to abandon your plot, let us know right away so that we may pass it on to the next person on the waiting list.
- Keep your plot and the adjoining paths free of trash and weeds. _______ Initials - Ask for advice! We are here as resources for you, whether for how to obtain necessary materials, watering methods or any other subject that concerns the garden. (Do NOT assume things, it is always best to straighten any doubts out by asking.)

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3 Garden Calendar:
● There are two activity-heavy seasons in the garden – Spring and the Fall. You must attend to your plot all year long, but there are certain activities that take place during these times specifically, where we will be checking to see if you are participating.
● It is important to maintain your plot clean and free of weeds all year long. _______Initials ● In the Spring:
- You must begin your garden by April 1st. Those who do not utilize their plots will lose them. - To know when and how to plant various plants; look at the planting calendar on the bulletin board. If you do not know what to do in your garden, ask us for advice.
● During the Fall:
- You must clean all dead plants from your plot, without any exception. - We recommend that you plant a cover crop – we even provide seeds. It adds vital nutrients to the soil, reduces the need to weed during the winter, and prepares the soil for Spring. Plant it in all areas without crops before December 15th.
- You can grow winter produce, in accordance with the planting calendar, but you must maintain your plot free of weeds, just as during the summer.
- It is not acceptable to abandon your plot for the winter – keep it tidy. _______ Initials ● Community Area Cleanup
- We are all responsible for keeping the entire property clean and beautiful. - Learn and teach how to manage garbage disposal, recycling, and compost. - Reduce materials that cause garbage to the point where it is possible. - Accept the challenge of eating and drinking healthier! Take advantage of the teachings and information that we provide here from prior years. (NO SODAS!)
- For all events where LandPaths where food is served, we require your own reusable plates to be brought. - Reduce the use of disposable utensils and plates. Styrofoam is prohibited. ● Compost:
- Bring all the plants and weeds to the compost station. - Grass and other invasive plants should be rid of in the appropriate yard container. - Follow the system’s instructions and signs. _______Initials ● Volunteer Hours:
- We always have projects in which you are able to help with or without supervision. - We will explain the system in person. You are responsible for following it and fulfilling your volunteer hours. _______Initials

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4 ● If you do not agree with or think you will not comply to all the regulations, DO NOT sign this agreement and return it.
● If you do agree and will comply to all the regulations listed above, please sign and keep this document only turning in the page of Information which is asked.

Your space number is: ________________________________
I have read and fully agree to the Garden Guidelines
I understand that neither the garden group nor owners of the land are responsible for my actions. I therefore agree to hold harmless LandPaths, the other gardeners, the City of Santa Rosa or anyone else for any liability, damage, loss or claim that occurs in connection with me or my guests’ use of the garden.

Date: ________________
Name:_______________________________________________ Signature: __________________________ Community Gardener Information
# Of Adults in Family: ____________ # of Children in Family: __________ Main Contact #1:

Name: __________________________________________ Phone Number: ____________________________ e-mail: ______________________________________________________________________ Address:___________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ Main Contact #2: □ minor?
Name: ________________________________________ Phone Number: ____________________________ e-mail: ______________________________________________________________________ Address:___________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ Names and ages of children: _____________________________ ____________________________________ _________________________________________ ______________________________________________ Are you a Home Owner? Yes / No Reason for Inability to Garden at Home:
_________________________________________________________________________________________

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5 List languages spoken at Home:
____________________________________________________________________________ Please list any groups you belong to (cultural, civic, educational or any other of interest):
__________________________________________________________________________________________ Special Skills or Interests:
__________________________________________________________________________________________ List of opportunities for reciprocity (50 hours)
In the garden:
• Native plants
• Cactus
• Tropical garden
• Welcome kiosk
• Flower circle
• Fig trees
• Fire pit
• Fruit trees
• Compost
• Worms
• Greenhouse
• Vineyard
• Chickens
• Goats
• Beehive
• Harvest and stand
Programs:
• Harvest for Health
• Free Lunch
• Bookmobile
Other garden activities:
• Potluck
• Pollinators
• Sports
• Art

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6 • Cooking
• Youth education

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Appendix 1.1.6
Green Team Advocacy Questionnaire
Name:_________________________________Date:__________________ Advocacy Questionnaire
Welcome to the Green Team program interview. The following questionnaire will help you remember information before you meet with a staff member. This is not a test. There are no “right” or “wrong” answers. We all have a different life story. Take your time. You may ask questions during the interview.

1. Do you currently have a place to live? Where? Yes No

2. Is housing a priority for you? (circle one) Yes No

3. Do you have access to transportation? Yes No

4. Were you ever in the Armed Services? (circle one) Yes No a. If yes, which one and how long? __________________________________ b. What was your specialty skill? ____________________________________

5. Our program requires the ability to stand for long periods of time, stoop, squat, kneel, and/or bend frequently, occasionally lift 30 lbs, and work in extreme weather conditions. Can you, with or without accommodations, perform these movements? Yes No a. If no, please explain:
b. What accommodations will you need?

6. What work skills did you use in your past jobs?

7. Have you ever worked in any of the following areas? If yes, please describe. a. Gardening/Farming (circle one) Yes No
b. Nursery/Greenhouse (circle one) Yes No
c. Food Service (circle one) Yes No

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d. Landscaping/Maintenance Yes No

8. What do you see as your three greatest strengths in the workplace? a. ________________________________________________________________ b. ________________________________________________________________ c. ________________________________________________________________

9. What are three skills you would hope to gain or improve through this program? a. ________________________________________________________________ b. ________________________________________________________________ c. ________________________________________________________________

10. This cohort starts at the end of July and runs through the end of November. Is there anything that might prevent you from staying the whole time? (circle one) Yes No
a. If yes, please explain:

11. We work in all kinds of weather on the farm. Some days are sunny and beautiful, but others can be very hot, cold, or wet. Is there anything that might prevent you from working in different kinds of weather? (heat sickness/sensitivity, arthritis, etc) Yes No
a. If yes, please explain:

12. Below is a list of some of the things we do during the season. We want to know what your priorities are while you are here. Please think about how important each element is to you and place a score next to each item. (There are no right or wrong answers here!) 1 2 3 4 5
not important very important
Getting into stable housing _______
Being part of a community and meeting new people _______ Getting support with meeting my personal goals _______
Getting connected to social services (like health care or food stamps) _______ Receiving farm and garden training ______
Gaining food prep, cooking, and nutrition skills ______ Improving my communication skills _______

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Spending time in a safe space _______
Gaining work skill experience _______
Spending time in nature _______
Earning wages _______
Eating organic food at the farm _______
Learning about financial planning and budgeting _______ Getting support on job searching (resumes, interview prep, etc) _______ Building positive references for my resume _______
Fulfilling requirements of another program (DWS work experience, probation, drug court, etc.) _______
Work on and/or clearing up fines, records, court appointments, etc._________ Any other things you would like to add that you want to work on this season________________________________________________________________ What would you like to see in your Case Manager/Advocate that you have not received from previous Case
Managers_______________________________________________________________

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Appendix 1.1.8
Green Team Program Application

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Green Team Program Application
Instructions
Please complete all parts of this application by printing requested information. All information on this form must be provided so program eligibility can be established.

General Information
______________________________________________________________ ________________________________ First Name, Middle Initial, Last Name Phone Number
______________________________________________________________ ________________________________ Mailing Address City, State, Zip Email Address
______________________________________________________________ ________________________________ Physical Address (most recent) City, State, Zip County of Residence ______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________ Social Security Number Date of Birth & Current Age Resident of Utah Since (year) Citizenship: ▢ U.S. Citizen ▢ Legal Permanent Resident ▢ Employment Authorization Card ▢ Other, please explain: ________________________________________________________________ Ethnicity: ▢ Hispanic or Latina
▢ Not Hispanic or Latina
Race: ▢ Asian ▢ Black or African American ▢ Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander ▢ American Indian/Alaska Native▢ White/Caucasian ▢ Multiracial Marital Status: ▢ Never Married▢ Married ▢ Divorced ▢ Separated ▢ Widowed Have you ever been convicted of a crime?* ▢ Yes ▢ No
*Such as a DUI, Shoplifting, Forgery, Possession, Runaway. Your response to this question will not affect your eligibility for the program. 1

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How did you hear about the Green Team program (check all that apply)? ▢ Green Team Poster ▢ News Story ▢ Facebook ▢ Nextdoor ▢ Newspaper ▢ Radio ▢ Past Participant ▢ Friend/Relative* ▢ Saw the farm and wanted to check it out ▢ Caseworker: ________________________________ ▢ Other ________________________________________ *If through Friend/Relative, please also mark how the Friend/Relative heard about Green Team.

Financial Information
What is the total income for your household for the previous month?: $ ________________________ *Total income is considered monthly gross wages, child support, and any other cash benefits received.

Number of adults ages 18 or older in your household: ________________________ Number of people who contribute to pay the household expenses: ________________________ Number of people ages 0-17 in your household: ________________________ Number of children you have: ________________________
Are you the head of household (To be considered a Head of Household, you have to file an individual tax return, be considered unmarried, not be claimed on someone else's tax return, and be able to claim a qualifying dependent on your return) ▢ Yes ▢ No
Do you pay child support if your children under age 18 do not live with you? ▢ N/A ▢ Yes ▢ No
Do you currently receive child support for one or more of your children? ▢ N/A ▢ Yes ▢ No
Are you currently receiving food stamps/SNAP benefits? ▢ Yes ▢ No If yes, what is your average monthly SNAP amount: $________________________ Do you currently receive child care assistance through the state? ▢ Yes ▢ No If yes, what is the approximate number of hours of childcare per week: ________________________ Do you currently have health insurance for yourself? ▢ Yes ▢ No If yes, is this health insurance:
▢ Public health insurance provided by the state (Medicaid/Medicare) ▢ Private health insurance paid by you, family, a spouse, or an employer ▢ Both
Do you currently have health insurance for your children? ▢ N/A ▢ Yes ▢ No 2

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If yes, is this health insurance:
▢ Public health insurance provided by the state (Medicaid/Medicare) ▢ Private health insurance paid by you, family, a spouse, or an employer ▢ Both
Please indicate below other specific assistance programs you are currently utilizing:
▢ WIC ▢ CHIP ▢ TANF ▢ Food Stamps/SNAP ▢ Support from church ▢ Public Housing ▢ Section 8: voucher amount: $________ ▢ Low income/affordable housing
▢ Other, please explain: ______________________________________________________________________ How would you describe your current living situation? (check all that apply) ▢ Rent ▢ Own ▢ Living with relative/family ▢ Living with non-relative/friend ▢ Living in shelter: __________________________________________________________________________ ▢ Living on the streets/camp: __________________________________________________________________ ▢ Other, please explain: ______________________________________________________________________ Employment Information
What is your current employment status?
▢ Employed full time (30+ hours per week) ▢ Employed part time (1-29 hours per week) ▢ Unemployed
Do you work more than one job? ▢ Yes ▢ No
If you’re not currently employed, when was the last time you were employed? _____________________ What is the name of your main employer? ________________________________________________________________ Employer’s city and state? ____________________________________________________________________________ What is your occupation? _____________________________________________________________________________ What is your hourly wage? $_____________________
How many hours a week do you work? _____________________ Approximately when did you start working for this employer? _____________________ Educational Information
What is the last grade you completed: ▢ 6th ▢ 7th ▢ 8th ▢ 9th ▢ 10th ▢ 11th ▢ 12th (no diploma) ▢ High school graduate ▢ GED ▢ Some college
▢ Certificate ▢ Associate’s ▢ Bachelor’s ▢ Master’s Degree ▢ Other, please explain: _____________________________________________ 3

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Are you currently in school? ▢ Yes ▢ No
If yes, name of school currently attending: _____________________________________ If yes, degree pursuing: _____________________________________ Contacts
Enter complete addresses and telephone numbers for TWO individuals who will know a way for us to reach you if we can’t reach you directly.
______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________ First Name Last Name Relationship to you
______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________ Street Address City, State, Zip Primary Phone
______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________ First Name Last Name Relationship to you
______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________ Street Address City, State, Zip Primary Phone
Do you have any backup emails, phone numbers, Facebook, or other social media profile information that will help program staff reach you:
▢ Backup Phone Number (s): ________________________________________ ▢ Backup Email(s): ________________________________________ ▢ Facebook Name: ________________________________________ ▢ Instagram Name: ________________________________________ ▢ Other contact method: ________________________________________ Preferred method of Contact:
▢ Phone call ▢ Text ▢ Email
Certification and Authorization (by signing below)
● I certify, under penalty of law, that the above information is correct. ● I understand that my statements may be verified.
● I understand that this application serves to assess program eligibility and that this process is separate from Wasatch Community Gardens’’ hiring process and policies.

I give my permissions for my progress to be monitored as it relates to services or training provided by Green Team and Wasatch Community Gardens. I authorize Green Team and Wasatch Community Gardens to release and receive my name, image, and information for the purposes of statistics and analysis, eligibility determination, and program publicity. 4

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________________________________________ ________________________________________ Applicant’s Signature Date
________________________________________
Applicant’s Printed Name
5

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Appendix 2.1.1
Companion Planting & Guild Design: Sample Species for Mautino Park
Overview
A well-designed food forest is much more than a collection of fruit trees—it is a living system of mutually beneficial plants. Using guilds—strategic groupings of trees, shrubs, perennials, and groundcovers—we mimic the structure and function of natural ecosystems to increase productivity, biodiversity, and resilience.

Each guild is built around a primary tree species (such as walnut, cherry, or apple) and is supported by layers of plants that perform ecological functions: fixing nitrogen, attracting pollinators, suppressing weeds, accumulating nutrients, repelling pests, and protecting soil.

The following is a curated list of edible and beneficial plants that thrive in the Grass Valley region.

Species were selected based on climate compatibility, low-maintenance requirements, ecological value, and culinary or medicinal use—many of which are expensive or inaccessible for food-insecure households. All guilds in this guide were developed with the conditions of Mautino Park in mind, including shade, water access, and soil profiles.

Sample Guild: Walnut Tree-Based System
Anchor Tree: Walnut
Juglans regia / Juglans nigra
A highly productive nut tree that provides deep shade, long-term food security, and valuable canopy cover. Note: walnuts emit juglone, a chemical that inhibits growth in sensitive species—so all companions must be juglone-tolerant.

Guild Companions:
● Nitrogen Fixer: Russian Olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia) A hardy, drought-tolerant shrub that improves soil fertility by fixing atmospheric nitrogen, helping nearby plants thrive in depleted soils.
● Soil Detoxifiers: Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) & Mulberry (Morus spp.) These fast-growing shrubs help draw up toxins from deeper soil layers and are excellent for wildlife habitat and human food.

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● Pollinator & Insectary Plants: Asters, Bee Balm (Monarda spp.), and Yarrow These flowering perennials attract pollinators and beneficial insects, improving fruit set while helping control pests naturally.
● Groundcover: Ostrich Fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris) & Sweet Woodruff These low-growing perennials help suppress weeds, retain soil moisture, and tolerate deep shade under the walnut canopy.
● Root Layer: Beets & Carrots
Deep-rooted vegetables that help aerate soil, increase microbial activity, and are nutrient-dense crops that store well.
● Additional Nitrogen Fixer: Beans (Phaseolus spp.)
Fast-growing annuals that boost soil nitrogen and provide a culturally relevant food source.

This guild is an example of how multifunctional, climate-appropriate plant communities can be structured for both ecological function and food production.

Possible Companion Plants by Category
Below is a categorized list of plants suitable for food forest guilds at Mautino Park. These selections reflect community input, climate resilience, and a desire to support both food access and ecological education.

Nitrogen Fixers
● Russian Olive
● Siberian Pea Shrub
● Beans
● Clover
Dynamic Accumulators & Soil Health
● Comfrey
● Dandelion
● Horseradish
● Plantain
● Beets
Pollinator Plants & Insectaries

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● Bee Balm
● Calendula
● Asters
● Yarrow
● Dill
● Fennel
● Sunflowers
● Black-Eyed Susan
● Coneflower
Edible Fruiting Trees & Shrubs
● Walnut
● Chestnut
● Apple
● Pear
● Cherry
● Peach
● Black Raspberry
● Goji Berry
● Elderberry
● Currants
● Hackberry
● Mulberry
Perennial Ground Covers
● Creeping Phlox
● Ostrich Fern
● Sweet Woodruff
● Cranesbill Geranium
● Strawberry
● Thyme
Vines
● Honeysuckle
● Clematis
● Wisteria
Vegetables & Edible Roots
● Beans
● Beets
● Carrots
● Garlic
● Onion
● Squash

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● Cabbage
Medicinal & Culinary Herbs
● Alliums
● Dill
● Fennel
● Yarrow
● Plantain
● Calendula
● Bee Balm
● Artichoke
Annual & Seasonal Flowers
● Zinnia
● Tuberous Begonia
● Impatiens
● Tulip (for early spring
pollination support
This plant list and guild model serve as a starting point for site-specific design and community engagement. Species can be selected and modified based on sun/shade patterns, water availability, and specific food needs. The educational potential of these guilds is significant—offering a platform to teach children and adults about plant roles, permaculture, traditional ecological knowledge, and herbal medicine.

Future development may include labeled educational signage, hands-on planting days, and partnerships with local Tribes, native plant educators, and herbalists to ensure inclusive learning and cultural stewardship.

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Appendix 3.1.1
2025 Community Member Survey
Community Survey
Sierra Harvest and Interfaith Food Ministry Call for Community Input on Proposed DeVere Mautino Park Food Campus Vision
Link to survey
The Grass Valley City Council (GVCC) is exploring opportunities to enhance its Parks and Recreation program to serve a wider range of community needs and residents of all ages and abilities. After considering multiple options, the GVCC has enlisted two local nonprofit organizations, Sierra Harvest and Interfaith Food Ministry, to share a vision of investing in and transforming land at DeVere Mautino Park to strengthen the community through food access and education.

With community input and support, this project will:
● design and nurture vibrant, beautiful, and inclusive garden spaces ● increase access to organic foods
● promote community learning
● elevate social connection
● foster diverse, healthy ecosystems benefiting the entire community and the land Initial Concepts:

Educational Farm - Sierra Harvest is exploring moving its beloved Food Love Farm to a new location that is closer to town and schools and more accessible so it may better serve the community and reach more people with its food and educational offerings.

Food Forest - Interfaith Food Ministry is seeking to expand its sites producing locally grown food to enhance the nutrition and abundance of its free food distributions to 10,000 residents annually while also offering volunteering and educational opportunities. A public Food Forest at DeVere Mautino Park would provide a unique sensory and food production experience. IFM has NO intention of making this a distribution site.

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Composting - Interfaith Food Ministry is exploring the creation of a small demonstration composting site that will reduce food waste from local businesses, build soil for food production, and teach residents how to recycle their food scraps at home.

Community voices and input are essential to this vision We invite you to fill out this survey as a starting point to a rigorous project proposal and review process.

Recent community discussion sessions allowed park users to express concerns and support. This survey allows community members to provide input. (NOTE: If you completed the survey before attending an in-person session on January 16 or 19 at Peace Lutheran Church, you may re-take this survey, which has been updated since the listening sessions.)
Community Listening Sessions at Peace Lutheran Church:

Wednesday, 1/15, 5:30-7:30pm
Saturday, 1/18, 3-5pm
Community Values and Vision
Are you supportive of a project at Mautino Park that plants trees, grows and provides food, functions as a community hub, and hosts educational food production-related opportunities for children and adults? (Select only one response)
Yes / No / Maybe
What are the most pressing needs in our community that a community food campus could help address? (Check all that apply)
a. Food insecurity/affordable food
b. Social isolation/community events
c. Educational classes about gardening, cooking, composting, etc. d. Job training
e. Food production
f. Community resilience and sustainability
g. Programs relevant for all ages (youth, seniors)
h. Other ______________________
Potential Features and Activities
Which of these initial concepts or roles interests you? (Check all that apply) a. Educational farm

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b. Soil science education and small scale composting
c. Food forest - diverse edible and native plants that mimic the natural ecosystem D. Volunteering
E. Advisory role
F. Workshop teacher
What types of community events, activities, or workshops would you like to see at Mautino Park? (Check all that apply)
a. Gardening workshops - organic gardening, composting, and pest management. b. Cooking and nutrition classes
c. Educational Programming
d. Volunteer work days
e. Community events, potlucks
f. Age appropriate programming (seniors, youth)
g. Farm stand (fruit, veg, smoothies, etc)
h. Exercise opportunities - yoga, tai chi, aerobics
i. Other ___________________________________
Barriers to Participation
What barriers might prevent you from participating in Mautino Park activities? (Check all that apply) a. Childcare responsibilities
b. Language barriers (spanish, etc)
c. Limited transportation
d. Disability or health conditions
e. Social comfort/inclusion/safety
f. Time/schedule
g. Other __________________________
OR
h. No barriers
Share your Feedback
What questions, ideas, or concerns do you have related to changes at Mautino Park? _____________________________________________________________________________

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How did you hear about this survey/project?

1. IFM

2. Sierra Harvest

3. Mautino Park Flyer

4. Radio

5. The Union

6. Yubanet
Other _____________________________
Keep in Touch
If you are interested in receiving future communications, and/or being involved in an upcoming community listening session please leave your information below:

Name: Email:

Phone:

Proximity to Mautino Park:

A. Less than one mile
B. 1-2 miles
C. 2-5 miles
D. Greater than 5 miles
Final Screen or completion message:

Share your voice!
Thank you for providing input on this proposal.

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Appendix 3.1.2
2025 Community Member Responses
Mautino Park - Community Survey
1/6/25 - 48 Responses total

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Item # 8.

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Item # 8.

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Item # 8.

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Item # 8.

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What questions, ideas, or concerns do you have related to changes at Mautino Park? 26 responses
Paths that are wide enough for an electric wheelchair and are not rough gravel that i would get stuck.

I want us to stick with the original vision for the park. That includes keeping intact the natural forested area at the end of the park for walking and quiet enjoyment of the local trees and plants. I'd love to see native vegetation growing under the trees, not a farm. This park is too small, has inadequate parking for the proposals plus the sports and activities that already occur there.

Consideration of the Master Gardeners demonstration gardens and educational workshops, which is in the general area, should be included in any needs assesment. It could be this group could share the capasity concerns of popular offerings they have, like composting or pruning workshops, or community needs they have recognized but are unable to address.

We take daily walks on the trails in the park and especially love the shady spot at the back in the summer. It’s one of the reasons why we purchased our home on Dolores Dr. We love that it is a quiet shady trail right in town and we use it to go through to the neighborhood behind the park then catch another trail down to Doris then into town. It would greatly diminish our quality of life here to lose that shaded trail area at the back of the park.

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Item # 8.

We live in this neighborhood and walk/ride bikes on the loop several times a week with our kids.

We’ve loved the safe/quiet space the park has provided for those activities and would love to see the trail remain intact.

This should happen at the front of the park, not the back The neighborhood does not want to see the forest part of the park gone Administration oversight
I would propose locating this project in Condon Park. I know Mautino Park trail provides a level area that's shaded for hiking that might be eliminated bythisproject I don’t think Mautino Park is the right location for this project. The project is great but not there.

Mautino Park is the perfect blend between a conventional park with a playground and a more wild forested park like Condon Park. It’s safe, with nice smooth trails on which children can run or ride their bikes without fearing of getting scratched on paved paths. It would be a shame to loose this mixed, good-sized park. Why isn’t Condon Park considered for this project? It’s wide enough to find a good spot and right next to town.

See above.
teaching about local indigenous foods should be included In your planning, Please include the vision to include an enhancement of the existing “natural area”.

This was part of the design of the park 20 years ago; it provides an important habitat for plants and animals, but the city has not been proactive in efforts to improve it. This is a great opportunity to do so. There is plenty of room for your plans that would also allow the Natural Area to become a more diverse habitat, a refuge in the midst of the urban area. This quiet refuge is important humans as well as the native flora and fauna
Paul Glowaski was a homeless garden mentor in Santa Cruz and would be devoted to teaching and training local housing insecure people to be skilled ag labor for our local farms. This would provide not only job training, purpose, and productivity but skilled labor for local farms. I would also be willing to help train, as a former employee of Paul. Teaching how to cook the products would also be helpful. If possible, animals and their manure should be included in the process, since they are a vital part of soil health. Will there be bus routes that included several pick ups and drops a day there? Engaged Services works with people with special needs and their families find funding for programs, activities, and services. We have a community center at 551 Whiting Street GV. We would like to promote your services with the special needs community.

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Item # 8.

Mautino Park is already being fully utilized by the public. Great project, but placing it at Mautino reduces public space, it doesn't add to it. Please don't take away the already limited public space that we have in the neighborhood. Please find other space for this project. If it's inter-faith - why not use one of the many under utilized church spaces in the area.

Wondering about increased traffic on Alta street and parking for the farm, but I love the idea. Also think it would be great to incorporate milkweed and other native species for monarch and native bees.

I’m curious the proposed location within the park
How large is the proposed footprint and where is the proposed location in the park? Is Mautino the best place for this project? How do you plan on addressing concerns from neighbors? I'd love to see anticipated food production statistics and how that will supplement IFM's distribution.

The park is already valuable as open space. With parking and space so limited, I don't support these proposals at this location.

This a small park.Trees and habitat would be destroyed, as well as a walking path. is not an appropriate palce for a food campus
The reason I moved to Dolores Dr and many people I know who use this park for walking and thereby tending to their physical and mental health use this park because it's quiet and peaceful.

I live in the neighborhood adjacent to the park (on Alta vista avenue). We are all concerned about any additional traffic on our street that is a county road without sidewalks and so many people, children and pets walking on the street. Please don’t give access to the park from Alta vista avenue.

Additionally, the park is a beloved and well used walking trail for the adjacent neighborhoods and for people who walk to it from further afield. Please don’t cut down the trees in the back of the park with us the only shade on hot days and a habitat for wildlife. Additionally, the water ditch flows under the area and as such should be a protected trail as far as I’m aware. Please put the garden at the entrance of the park where there is already so much land available and no trees need to be cut down.

This is all the same sentiments of all of the neighbors that I have talked with about the community garden, etc that you are considering to locate in the park.

Has access to water for irrigation been secured?
Where will the access for these gardens be? Hopefully not on any of the residential streets surrounding the park.
are you going to cut down all the trees?

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Grass Valley City CouncilAugust 12, 2025

Grass Valley City Council
August 12, 2025