CITY OF HEALDSBURG
CITY COUNCIL/REDEVELOPMENT SUCCESSOR AGENCY
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
September 3, 2024
City Hall Council Chamber
401 Grove Street, Healdsburg
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CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
Mayor/Chairperson Hagele called to order the concurrent meeting of the City Council and Redevelopment Successor Agency of the City of Healdsburg at 6:00 p.m. with the following Council Members present:
Present: Council Members/: Edwards, Herrod, Kelley and Mayor Hagele Board Members
Absent: Council Members/: Vice Mayor Mitchell
Board Members
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
On a motion by Councilmember Kelley, seconded by Councilmember Herrod, approved the September 3, 2024, City Council and Redevelopment Successor Agency meeting agenda. The motion carried on a voice vote with Vice Mayor Mitchell noted as absent. (Ayes 4, Noes 0, Absent – Mitchell)
REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION
None.
ANNOUNCEMENTS/PRESENTATIONS – RECOGNITION OF CITY EMPLOYEES
WITH MILESTONE ANNIVERSARIES
Chief Boaz honored Fire Engineer Brian Crabb for 10 years of dedicated service with the City and reflected on his contributions to the City.
Fire Engineer Crabb thanked the Council for the recognition.
ANNOUNCEMENTS/PRESENTATIONS – A PROCLAMATION HONORING JIM
WALTERS
Mayor Hagele, with Council concurrence, issued a Proclamation honoring Jim Walters for his dedication to the community of Healdsburg.
City Council/RSA Regular Meeting Minutes
September 3, 2024
Mr. Walters thanked the Council for the recognition.
ANNOUNCEMENTS/PRESENTATIONS – A PROCLAMATION DECLARING THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER 2024 AS NATIONAL SERVICE DOG MONTH
Mayor Hagele, with Council concurrence, issued a Proclamation declaring the month of September 2024 as National Service Dog month in the City of Healdsburg.
Ben Vieth, Utility Compliance and Safety Coordinator, shared his experiences serving in the US Air Force, his struggles with PTSD, and the transformative support he received from K9 Companions, along with the assistance of his service dog, Mateo.
CITY MANAGER REPORTS
City Manager Kay reported about the mini library opening at the Community Center, the upcoming YWCA ribbon cutting, the Foss Creek Clean Up, and Neighborhood Night Out. He noted that City Attorney Zutler is participating remotely.
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON ITEMS ON THE CONSENT CALENDAR AND NON
AGENDA ITEMS
Ray Holley Sonoma County Library PIO, commented on the mini library opening of the Sonoma County Mini Library and gave praise to Jim Walters and his significant contributions to the City of Healdsburg.
Callum Weeks commented on Proposition 5, and urged the community to vote "yes" in support of it on the upcoming ballot in November and provided information about AB 1033, which went into effect this year.
Brigette Mansell expressed her opposition towards Measure O on the November 2024 ballot and expressed concerns about the ballot measure language and transparency with the public.
Mark Horne commented on formula business policies in the City of Healdsburg, expressed concerns about the City’s oversight of who leases property on the plaza and the absence of a clear ordinance regarding formula business and expressed dissent that there is no urgency in advancing the ordinance.
Holly Brand commented on the formula retail decision from two weeks ago and encouraged the Council to reconsider the urgency of formula retail and defining the downtown area.
Mark McMullen, on behalf of the Creative Leadership Team, thanked the Council for advancing the Arts and Culture Commission.
City Council/RSA Regular Meeting Minutes
September 3, 2024
Moreta Wimmer echoed Ms. Brand’s concerns and expressed her dissatisfaction with the Council’s response regarding formula businesses.
Genevieve Gago wants the formula retail ordinance to be completed and emphasized the importance of preserving small-town charm and supporting local businesses.
Sandy Erickson reflected on her decision to move her business from San Francisco to Healdsburg and recalled a past City Council decision to prioritize tourism. Ms. Erickson expressed her support for expanding the downtown area as it relates to formula retail.
Bjorn Wimmer commented on formula businesses, expressed concerns about the potential influx of such businesses in town and encouraged Council to address formula businesses in Healdsburg.
CONSENT CALENDAR
On a motion by Councilmember Kelley, seconded by Councilmember Herrod, approved the Consent Calendar as follows:
A. RECEIVE THE MONTHLY INVESTMENT REPORT FOR JULY 2024
By motion, received and approved the Monthly Investment Report for July 2024. (Ayes 4, Noes 0, Absent - Mitchell)
B. APPROVAL OF DISBURSEMENT REPORT FOR WITHDRAWALS DURING THE MONTH OF JULY 2024
By motion, approved the Disbursement Report for July 2024. (Ayes 4, Noes 0, Absent - Mitchell)
C. ACCEPT A RECYCLED WATER PUBLIC UTILITY EASEMENT ACROSS APN 088-150-035 AND APN 088-150-037
Adopted Resolution No. 99-2024 titled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF HEALDSBURG ACCEPTING A DEDICATION OF A RECYCLED WATER PUBLIC UTILITY EASEMENT FROM OAK MOUND CEMETERY, INC., AT A PORTION OF APN 088-150-035 AND APN 088-150-037.” (Ayes 4, Noes 0, Absent – Mitchell)
D. AMENDMENT TO PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH RRM
DESIGN GROUP
City Council/RSA Regular Meeting Minutes
September 3, 2024
Adopted Resolution No. 100-2024 titled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF HEALDSBURG APPROVING AN AMENDMENT TO THE
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH RRM DESIGN GROUP FOR
ARCHITECTURAL CONSTRUCTION SUPPORT AND TESTING SERVICES FOR THE
NORTH VILLAGE FIRE SUBSTATION PROJECT, AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE AMENDMENT AND INCREASING THE NOT TO EXCEED AMOUNT TO $433,540.” (Ayes 4, Noes 0, Absent – Mitchell) E. READING OF ORDINANCE TITLES
By motion, determined that the titles to all ordinances that appear on this public agenda have been read and waived further reading. (Ayes 4, Noes 0, Absent – Mitchell) F. CREATION OF AN ARTS AND CULTURE COMMISSION
By motion, introduce for first reading by title only, waiving further reading of the text, "AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HEALDSBURG AMENDING CHAPTER 2.32 OF TITLE 2 OF THE HEALDSBURG MUNICIPAL CODE (BOARDS,
COMMITTEES AND COMMISSIONS) TO ADD AN ARTS AND CULTURE
COMMISSION.” (Ayes 4, Noes 0, Absent – Mitchell)
G. BIENNIAL REVISIONS TO LOCAL CONFLICT OF INTEREST CODE Adopted Resolution No. 101-2024 titled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HEALDSBURG RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 141-2022 AND ADOPTING A REVISED LOCAL CONFLICT OF INTEREST CODE.” (Ayes 4, Noes 0, Absent – Mitchell)
H. PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR DESIGN OF AQUIFER
STORAGE AND RECOVERY WELLS
Adopted Resolution No. 102-2024 titled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF HEALDSBURG APPROVING A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH GEI CONSULTANTS INC. TO PROVIDE ENGINEERING
SERVICES FOR THE DESIGN OF AQUIFER STORAGE AND RECOVERY (ASR)
EXPLORATORY WELLS, AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE AGREEMENT FOR AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $1,055,600, APPROVE CHANGE
ORDERS UP TO TEN PERCENT OF THE ORIGINAL NOT TO EXCEED AMOUNT AND AMENDING THE ADOPTED FISCAL YEAR 2024-25 BUDGET.” (Ayes 4, Noes 0, Absent – Mitchell)
City Council/RSA Regular Meeting Minutes
September 3, 2024
The motion to approve the Consent Calendar as above carried on a roll call vote with Vice Mayor Mitchell noted as absent. (Ayes 4, Noes 0, Absent – Mitchell)
PUBLIC HEARINGS
None.
OLD BUSINESS
None.
NEW BUSINESS – DISCUSSION OF FUTURE PLANNING EFFORTS TO SUPPORT
RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT WITHIN TARGETED AREAS
Planning and Building Director Duiven provided information on previous planning efforts aimed at supporting residential development, noted the planning tools that would be covered in the presentation, including the housing overlay zone, specific plan, and general plan. Director Duiven further provided an in-depth explanation of an Housing Overlay Zone, covering its definition, potential features, benefits, and its application to the North Healdsburg Avenue Corridor and outlined the proposed timeline and associated costs.
In response to Councilmember Kelley’s inquiry, Director Duiven clarified additional studies could be within the $200,000 cost range and noted CEQA analysis would assist with knowing which additional studies would be needed.
Director Duiven further reviewed detailed information on a Specific Plan, covering its definition, key components, benefits, and its application to the Central Healdsburg Avenue Plan and South Entry Area and outlined the proposed timeline and costs. Additionally, Director Duiven provided an overview of the General Plan, including its definition, elements, benefits, and potential applications. Director Duiven noted that staff does not consider updating the General Plan to be a timely or cost-effective approach at this time.
Director Duiven summarized the recommended planning tools, which include adding a Housing Overlay Zone to North Healdsburg Avenue, amending the Specific Plan for the Central Healdsburg Avenue Plan, and creating a new Specific Plan for the South Entry Area and noted starting with the Housing Overlay Zone for North Healdsburg Avenue first.
City Manager Kay clarified that this presentation is for informational purposes only, noted staff is seeking feedback from the Council and there are insufficient resources to update the General Plan at this time.
City Council/RSA Regular Meeting Minutes
September 3, 2024
In response to Council’s inquiries, Director Duiven provided insights into a potential community engagement process, clarified that no density changes are being proposed with Measure O and noted that in addition to the City identifying properties for higher density under the housing overlay, residents would have the opportunity to propose properties for consideration.
Additionally, Director Duiven noted the South Entry Area requires the addition of water, sewer and electric utilities before any construction can occur and elaborated on the process that would need to happen including funding for a South Entry Area Plan, funding to get utilities to the South Entry Area before any housing can be built and the length of time all of that may take.
Director Duiven further provided information on Housing Overlay Zones, how they could be applied to various zones, emphasized that the overlay is specifically designed to address residential housing needs, not commercial development. Director Duiven further reviewed incentives available to Developers, clarified that the housing capacity study recommends density levels that can be supported while preserving the character of Healdsburg and noted that there is room for flexibility in densities with the Housing Overlay.
Public Comment
Brigette Mansell expressed a desire to see more affordable-by-design housing in Healdsburg, acknowledged the importance of having a clear plan, and commented that people won’t support Measure O without one and voiced concerns about the City moving too quickly in its efforts.
Calum Weeks commented on the importance of community engagement in this process, suggested considering an increase in minimum density requirements to address the need for "missing middle" housing and advocated for a focus on developer incentives.
Mark Horne expressed interest in MTC's transient community standards, stressing that the City should act on this opportunity and noted that prioritizing the CHAP amendment first could help secure that funding.
Jonathan Pearlman acknowledged that this discussion encourages developers to focus on middleclass housing, urged Council to consider the next generation in planning for the future, clarified that the focus should be on middle-class housing, not affordable housing, and encouraged greater resident participation in the process.
Merrilyn Joyce expressed concerns about the South Entry Area potentially taking away valuable manufacturing land, farming space, and wetlands if residential development were to occur, suggested exploring modular homes and the possibility of subdividing existing residential lots and stressed the need for a solid plan to ensure Measure O passes.
Hank Skewis commented on the PowerPoint slides, noted that transit was not included, commented on the importance of addressing how residents will get around, voiced concerns City Council/RSA Regular Meeting Minutes
September 3, 2024
about Measure O and expressed a desire to see the focus be on mixed housing, as middle-income housing might not meet the needs of all residents.
Council Comments
Councilmember Kelley was supportive of moving forward with the Housing Overlay Zone in the north part of Healdsburg and as funding from MTC’s priority development areas becomes available, utilizing those funds to support planning efforts around the future smart station area.
Councilmember Herrod emphasized the urgency of advancing planning efforts to meet housing goals, recognized the ongoing work to provide deed-restricted housing for low-income residents and highlighted the need for “missing middle” housing to address gaps in the market.
Councilmember Edwards expressed concerns about access to affordable housing for Senior Residents, acknowledged that middle-income housing will continue to evolve, noted the importance of considering this in future planning and commented on how wealth is built.
Mayor Hagele expressed appreciation for the public’s comments and concerns, as well as appreciation for the hard work of staff and the Council in advancing housing initiatives. Mayor Hagele expressed support for the Housing Overlay Zone and expressed excitement about the upcoming connectivity improvements.
Councilmember Kelley reflected on the area around the future SMART station and OBAG funding and provided information on how we get future projects funded. Councilmember Kelley expressed a desire to see updates to the Central Healdsburg Avenue Plan in place in order to apply for additional funds through OBAG and the importance of ensuring the City is wellpositioned to pursue future funding opportunities.
NEW BUSINESS – ESTABLISH MUNICIPAL RECYCLED WATER RATES Utilities Engineering Manager Fuss stated the action this evening was to establish municipal recycled water fees, provided background information on the recycled water program, and the estimated operational and capital replacement costs to operate the recycled water program.
Manager Fuss further reviewed the municipal recycled water fee, annual adjustments and provided information about the fiscal impacts and the benefits of the recycled water program.
In response to Council’s inquiries, Manager Fuss provided information on what facilities would be utilizing the recycled water, explained that there are two bulk fill stations available, and contractors have the option to rent a meter and cover the associated water fees. Additionally, Manager Fuss confirmed that the volume of water used for construction purposes is not factored in the calculations.
City Council/RSA Regular Meeting Minutes
September 3, 2024
There were no public comments on this item.
On a motion by Councilmember Edwards, seconded by Councilmember Herrod, adopted Resolution No. 103-2024, titled “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF HEALDSBURG ESTABLISHING METER AND VOLUMETRIC USAGE FEES FOR MUNICIPAL RECYCLED WATER USERS.” The motion carried on a roll call vote with Vice Mayor Mitchell noted as absent. (Ayes 4, Noes 0, Absent - Mitchell)
COUNCIL REPORTS ON MATTERS OF INTEREST OCCURRING SINCE PREVIOUS
REGULAR MEETING/EXPENSE REIMBURSEMENT REPORTS
Councilmember Edwards reported he attended the Senior Citizen Advisory Commission meeting and Chamber of Commerce BBQ.
Councilmember Herrod reported he attended the mini library opening and Labor Day event.
Councilmember Kelley reported she went to see Maria De Los Angeles’s mural at Harmon Guest House.
Mayor Hagele reported he attended the Chamber of Commerce BBQ, Maria De Los Angeles’s mural unveiling, the final Tuesday on the Plaza event and Healdsburg’s World Gym lifting competition.
WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
None.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further City Council/Redevelopment Successor Agency business to discuss, the meeting was adjourned at approximately 8:53 p.m.
APPROVED: ATTEST:
_________________________________ __________________________________ David Hagele, Mayor Raina Allan, City Clerk