Agenda packet — La Cañada Flintridge City Council, September 1, 2026 (part 2 of 3)

ATTACHMENT 1
LIST OF PROPOSED LOCATIONS FOR RESTRICTING PARKING PER AB 413 No. Category Intersection
Crosswalk
Location
Existing
Approach Curb
Paint
Proposed New Curb
Paint Control Type
1 Signalized
Intresection
Hampton Rd/Georgian Rd
& Foothill Blvd
North Leg None 20' Red from Crosswalk Traffic Signal
East Leg No Curb Install Sign
West Leg None 20' Red from Crosswalk
North Leg None Existing Driveway; None
South Leg None 20' Red from Crosswalk
3 School Jessen Dr & Solliden Ln West Leg None 20' Red from Crosswalk One Way Stop 4 School Crown Ave & Knight Way North Leg None 20' Red from Crosswalk Three Way Stop 5 School Knight Way & Redwillow Ln North None 20' Red from Crosswalk One Way Stop East Leg None 20' Red from Crosswalk
North Leg None 20' Red from Crosswalk
West Leg Red Red
East Leg Red Red
West Leg None 20' Red from Crosswalk
North Leg None 20' Red from Crosswalk
South Leg Red Red
North Curb Less than 20' 20' Red from Crosswalk
West Curb None 20' Red from Crosswalk
East Leg Red Red
West Leg Red Red
North Leg Red Red
South Leg Red Red
10 School Palm Dr & Tondolea Ln West Leg None 20' Red from Crosswalk One Way Stop 11 School Palm Dr & Ravista Ln West Leg None 20' Red from Crosswalk One Way Stop 12 School Palm Dr & Lombardy Dr West Leg
No Curb,
Fire Hydrant
None One Way Stop
13 School Salisbury Rd & Leland Pl North Leg None 20' Red from Crosswalk One Way Stop North Curb None 20' Red from Crosswalk
South Curb None 20' Red from Crosswalk
East Curb None 20' Red from Crosswalk
West Curb Red Red
East Side No Curb Install Sign
West Side No Curb Install Sign
North Curb None 20' Red from Crosswalk
South Curb None 20' Red from Crosswalk
East Curb Red Existing Driveway; None
West Curb None 20' Red from Crosswalk
North Curb None 20' Red from Crosswalk
South Curb None 20' Red from Crosswalk
2 19
18 17
16 15
14 9
8 7
6 School Crown Ave & Santa Inez Way All Way Stop
Trail Crossing Berkshire Ave Uncontrolled
Trail Crossing Beulah Dr Uncontrolled
Trail Crossing Olive Ln Uncontrolled
Trail Crossing Commonwealth Ave Uncontrolled
Trail Crossing Chevy Chase Dr Uncontrolled
School Palm Dr & Jessen Dr All Way Stop
Trail Crossing El Vago St Uncontrolled
School La Canada Blvd & Salisbury Rd One Way Stop
School Gould Ave & Houseman St All Way Stop
School Crown Ave & Baptiste Rd All Way Stop

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ATTACHMENT 1
LIST OF PROPOSED LOCATIONS FOR RESTRICTING PARKING PER AB 413 East Curb None 20' Red from Crosswalk
West Curb None 20' Red from Crosswalk
East Curb None 20' Red from Crosswalk
West Curb None 20' Red from Crosswalk
22 Trail Crossing Hampstead Rd No Curb No Parking Sign None Uncontrolled East Leg Existing Driveway None
West Leg Existing Driveway None
North Curb Red Red
South Curb Red Red
24 23
21 20
Trail Crossing Baptise Way Uncontrolled
Trail Crossing Crown Ave Uncontrolled
Trail Crossing Oakwood Ave Uncontrolled
Trail Crossing Woodleigh Ln Uncontrolled

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CITY OF LA CAÑADA FLINTRIDGE
RESOLUTION NO. 26-__

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA
CAÑADA FLINTRIDGE, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING THE

INSTALLATION OF RED CURB AT VARIOUS LOCATIONS IN
ACCORDANCE WITH AB 413
WHEREAS, Section 22500 of the California Vehicle Code prohibits the stopping, standing, or parking of a vehicle within twenty feet (20’) on the approach side of a marked or unmarked crosswalk, or within fifteen feet (15') on the approach side of a curb extension with a crosswalk, to “daylight” the visibility of pedestrians and cyclists through the reduction of visual obstructions caused by parked cars; and WHEREAS, Section 8.10.020 of the La Cañada Flintridge Municipal Code (LCFMC) authorizes the City Council, by resolution, to prohibit or restrict the parking of vehicles on specified streets or highways or portions thereof during all or certain hours of the day; and
WHEREAS, LCFMC §4.04.047(A) authorizes the installation and removal of parking restriction signage and/or curb markings upon any property in the public right-ofway for the purpose of alleviating traffic, traffic flow, congestion, and/or hazards detrimental to the public’s health, safety, and/or welfare; and WHEREAS, LCFMC §4.04.047(B) requires a recommendation from the City’s Traffic Engineer for the installation and removal of parking restriction signage and/or curb markings upon any property in the public right-of-way; and WHEREAS, LCFMC §4.04.047(C) requires review and approval by the Public Works and Traffic Commission for the installation and removal of parking restriction signage and/or curb markings upon any property in the public right-of-way; and WHEREAS, the City’s Traffic Engineer recommends the installation of red curb at the locations included in Exhibit 1 to improve safety by “daylighting” pedestrians and cyclists on the approach side of marked and unmarked crosswalks by removing visual obstructions such as parked cars; and
WHEREAS, the Public Works and Traffic Commission held public hearings on February 19, 2025, and October 22, 2025, to develop guidelines for the installation of red curb and signage in accordance with AB 413; and
WHEREAS, the City Council approved the guidelines for the installation of red curb and signage in accordance with AB 413 on November 18, 2025; and

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WHEREAS, the Public Works and Traffic Commission held public hearings on April 22, 2026, to review a list or proposed locations for the installation of red curb and signage in accordance with AB 413, and;
WHEREAS, the Public Works and Traffic Commission approved the installation of the red curb and signage at the locations included in Exhibit 1 at a public hearing on May 27, 2026; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to install red curb at the locations included in Exhibit 1.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA CAÑADA FLINTRIDGE DOES HEREBY FIND, DETERMINE AND RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:

Section 1. The above recitals are true and correct and are incorporated herein by reference.

Section 2. The City Council does hereby authorize and direct the Public Works Director to install red curb and/or signage at the locations included in Exhibit 1.

Section 3. The enforcement of the parking restriction is effective as of January 1, 2025, per California Vehicle Code Section 22500, with or without the installation of red curb and/or signage.

Section 4. This resolution shall supersede any prior conflicting resolutions on this subject matter.

Section 5. This resolution shall immediately take effect upon passage.

PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 1st day of September, 2026. ___________________________
Jeanne K. Hobson, Mayor
ATTEST:
___________________________
Tania Garcia, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
_______________________________
Adrian R. Guerra, City Attorney

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State of California )
County of Los Angeles ) ss.

City of La Cañada Flintridge )
I, Tania Garcia, City Clerk of the City of La Cañada Flintridge, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution No. 26-___ was duly adopted by the City Council of the City of La Cañada Flintridge at a Regular Meeting held on the 1st day of September, 2026, by the following vote:

AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:

NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:

ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS:

ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS:

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Exhibit 1
List of Proposed Locations for the Installation of Red Curb and/or Signage in Accordance with AB 413
No. Category Intersection
Crosswalk
Location
Existing
Approach
Curb Paint
Proposed New Curb
Paint
Control
Type
1 Signalized
Intersection
Hampton Rd/Georgian Rd
& Foothill Blvd North Leg None 20' Red from Crosswalk Traffic Signal 2 School Gould Avenue & Houseman St
East Leg No Curb Install Sign
All Way Stop
West Leg None 20' Red from Crosswalk
North Leg None Existing Driveway; None
South Leg None 20' Red from Crosswalk
3 School Jessen Dr & Solliden Ln West Leg None 20' Red from Crosswalk One Way Stop 4 School Crown Avenue & Knight Way North Leg None 20' Red from Crosswalk Three-Way Stop 5 School Knight Way & Redwillow Ln North None 20' Red from Crosswalk One Way Stop 6 School Crown Ave & Santa Inez Way
East Leg None 20' Red from Crosswalk
North Leg None 20' Red from Crosswalk All Way Stop
West Leg Red Red
7 School Crown Ave & Baptiste Way
East Leg Red Red
All Way Stop
West Leg None 20' Red from Crosswalk
North Leg None 20' Red from Crosswalk
South Leg Red Red
8 School La Canada Blvd & Salisbury Rd
North Curb Less than 20' 20' Red from Crosswalk
One Way Stop
West Curb None 20' Red from Crosswalk
9 School Palm Dr & Jessen Dr
East Leg Red Red
All Way Stop
West Leg Red Red
North Leg Red Red
South Leg Red Red
10 School Palm Dr & Tondolea Ln West Leg None 20' Red from Crosswalk One Way Stop 11 School Palm Dr & Ravista Ln West Leg None 20' Red from Crosswalk One Way Stop 12 School Palm Dr & Lombardy Dr West Leg No Curb,
Fire Hydrant None One Way Stop
13 School Salisbury Rd & Leland Pl North Leg None 20' Red from Crosswalk One Way Stop 14 Trail Crossing El Vago St
North Curb None 20' Red from Crosswalk
Uncontrolled
South Curb None 20' Red from Crosswalk
15 Trail Crossing Commonwealth Ave
East Curb None 20' Red from Crosswalk
Uncontrolled
West Curb Red Red
16 Trail Crossing Chevy Chase Dr
East Side No Curb Install Sign
Uncontrolled
West Side No Curb Install Sign

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No. Category Intersection
Crosswalk
Location
Existing
Approach
Curb Paint
Proposed New Curb
Paint
Control
Type
17 Trail Crossing Berkshire Ave
North Curb None 20' Red from Crosswalk
Uncontrolled
South Curb None 20' Red from Crosswalk
18 Trail Crossing Beulah Dr
East Curb Red Existing Driveway; None
Uncontrolled
West Curb None 20' Red from Crosswalk
19 Trail Crossing Olive Ln
North Curb None 20' Red from Crosswalk
Uncontrolled
South Curb None 20' Red from Crosswalk
20 Trail Crossing Woodleigh Ln
East Curb None 20' Red from Crosswalk
Uncontrolled
West Curb None 20' Red from Crosswalk
21 Trail Crossing Oakwood Ave
East Curb None 20' Red from Crosswalk
Uncontrolled
West Curb None 20' Red from Crosswalk
22 Trail Crossing Hampstead No Curb No Parking Sign None Uncontrolled 23 Trail Crossing Crown Ave
East Leg Existing Driveway None
Uncontrolled
West Leg Existing Driveway None
24 Trail Crossing Baptiste Way
North Curb Red Red
Uncontrolled
South Curb Red Red

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City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date: September 1, 2026
Subject: Receive and File the City Council Proclamation for Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15–October 15, 2026
Presenter: Tania Garcia, City Clerk
Proposed Action: Receive and File the City Council Proclamation for Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15–October 15, 2026
Environmental Impact: None
Fiscal Impact: None
Discussion/Analysis:

The City Council has adopted Resolution No. 25-33, which establishes a Heritage Month Policy and outlines guidelines for recognizing specific heritage months throughout the year. Under this policy, the City officially acknowledges Hispanic Heritage Month. This proclamation aims to highlight the significant contributions of these communities and promote a greater awareness of their impact.

Options:

1. Receive and file the City Council proclamation for Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15– October 15, 2026; or

2. Defer action at this time.

Recommendation:

Option No. 1 - It is recommended that the City Council take the following action(s): Receive and file the City Council proclamation for Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15–October 15, 2026.

Attachments:

1. Hispanic Heritage Week Proclamation

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Proclamation

of the City Council of the City of La Cañada Flintridge declaring September 15, 2026 to October 15, 2026 as

HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH
WHEREAS, Hispanic Heritage Month started in 1968 as a week-long celebration initiated by Los Angeles Congressman Edward R. Roybal. It was later proclaimed by President Lyndon B. Johnson. In 1988, the celebration was expanded to a full month through legislation supported by President Ronald Reagan; and, WHEREAS, the observance of Hispanic Heritage Month serves as an opportunity to recognize and appreciate the contributions of Hispanic and Latino individuals, honor their enduring legacy, and promote a greater understanding and appreciation of their diverse cultures and traditions; and,
WHEREAS, we honor the cultures and histories of Americans whose ancestors come from Hispanic and Latino Origins beginning mid-September, in line with the celebrations of Independence Days in many Latin American countries: September 15:

Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua; September 16: Mexico; and September 18: Chile; and,
WHEREAS, the Hispanic and Latino population exceeds 62.5 million nationwide, representing nearly 19 percent of the United States population. These communities continue to shape every sector of American life, including labor, public service, education, science, the arts, small business, and grassroots organizing.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JEANNE K. HOBSON, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF LA CAÑADA FLINTRIDGE, on behalf of the City Council and community, do hereby proclaim September 15, 2026 to October 15, 2026 as “Hispanic Heritage Month” in the City of La Cañada Flintridge and encourage all residents to celebrate the history, legacy, and contributions made by the Hispanic community, and to continue the pursuit of equality and justice for all.

Presented this 1
st
day of September 2026
ATTEST:
____________________________ _______________________________ Tania Garcia, City Clerk Jeanne K. Hobson, Mayor

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City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date: September 1, 2026
Subject: Professional Services Agreement between the City of La Cañada Flintridge and Psomas for Housing Planner Services
Presenter: Susan Koleda, Director of Community Development Proposed Action: Motion to: Approve the Professional Services Agreement between the City of La Cañada Flintridge and Psomas for Housing Planner Services for a total of $151,382 with a not-to-exceed amount of $75,000 for FY 2026-2027 and authorize the City Manager to execute the Agreement
Environmental Impact: None
Fiscal Impact: The Agreement contains a not-to-exceed amount of $151,382 over a period of two years with a not-to-exceed amount of $75,000 (Account No. 01-25-6061) for Fiscal Year 2026-2027. A total of $75,000 was authorized by the City Council during the FY 2026-2027 budget hearings and is available
Background:

Psomas has provided Housing Planner Services to the City since December 2023. Such services are needed to implement the 24 programs identified within the City’s 2021-2029 Housing Element and ensure the City’s Housing Element remains compliant with state housing law. The Housing Planner is responsible for assisting City staff in completing specific tasks, including annual reporting to the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) on progress in implementing the Housing Element programs.

This professional consulting services agreement is separate from the forthcoming Request for Proposals for the 2029-2037 Housing Element Update consultant which has been budgeted for FY 26-27. A Request for Proposals (RFP) was published in May 2026, and all proposals were received by the June 3, 2026, closing date.

Discussion/Analysis:

The following proposals were submitted, with the following not to exceed costs:
• 4 Leaf $ 97,604 ($134 - $194/hour for 508 hours)
• Willdan $113,000 ($167 - $300/Hour for 592 hours)
• Kimley-Horn & Associates Inc. $134,040 ($145 - $375/hour for 480 hours) • Psomas $151,382 ($135 - $280/hour for 852 hours)
• Civic Solutions $160,400 ($135 - $175/hour for 920 hours)

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The selected firm will be required to complete the following as it relates to State-mandated housing requirements:
• Prepare new or amended City ordinances.
• Create new processes and applications.
• Create written policies and procedures.
• Create and distribute informational materials, targeted advertising and outreach • Complete Annual Progress Reporting (APR) on the implementation of the Housing Element to the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) by April 1st every year.

Both Psomas and Kimley-Horn have been exemplary firms to work with on recent projects within the Community Development Department. Kimley-Horn and Associates Inc., helped with the City’s update of the General Plan Circulation, Conservation, and Open Space and Recreation Elements and Psomas worked on both the Housing Element program implementation and the Zoning Code Update. Over the last year, Psomas staff worked closely with the Director of Community Development and Planning staff on:
• Annual Reporting to the Governor’s Office and Planning and Research and Department of Housing and Community Development (https://cityoflcf.org/general-plan/) • Updating existing information and providing informational materials for the City’s website related to Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) and Junior ADU (JADU) • Created checklists and outlined the process to legalize substandard ADUs • Expanded and updated Fair Housing informational materials and the website • Reviewed and provided guidance related to various by-right (ministerial) housing projects Both firms produced excellent work products in the past. However, the proposal submitted by Psomas contains a very clear understanding of the necessary work required for the City to continue to be in compliance with state housing regulations as well as to further position the City as it approaches the 7th Cycle Housing Element Update to occur in 2029. Based on allocating an equivalent number of hours to this effort, which was clarified with the consultant team, staff recommend approval of a contract agreement with Psomas for Housing Planner Services. Staff find Psomas’s cost proposal to be very responsive and responsible. The firm has agreed to a not-toexceed cost of $75,000 for work, consistent with the FY 26-27 approved budget. The remaining amount of $76,382 of the total cost proposal of $151,382 is requested to be budgeted in FY 27-28.

Options:

1. Approve the Professional Services Agreement between the City of La Cañada Flintridge and Psomas for Housing Planner Services for a total of $151,382 with a not-to-exceed amount of $75,000 for FY 2026-2027 and authorize the City Manager to execute the Agreement; or

2. Do not approve the contract and provide staff with further direction; or

3. Defer action at this time.

Recommendation:

Option No. 1 - It is recommended that the City Council take the following action: Approve the Professional Services Agreement between the City of La Cañada Flintridge and Psomas for Housing Planner Services for a total of $151,382 with a not-to-exceed amount of $75,000 for FY 2026-2027 and authorize the City Manager to execute the Agreement

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Attachments:

1. Psomas Agreement

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01172.0001/563331.1 1
CITY OF LA CAÑADA FLINTRIDGE

CONTRACT SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR HOUSING PLANNER SERVICES THIS CONTRACT SERVICES AGREEMENT (herein “Agreement”) is made and entered into on September 1, 2026 by and between the CITY OF LA CAÑADA FLINTRIDGE, a municipal corporation (“City”) and Psomas (herein “Consultant”).

NOW, THEREFORE, the parties hereto agree as follows:

1. SERVICES OF CONSULTANT

1.1 Scope of Services. In compliance with all of the terms and conditions of this Agreement, the Consultant shall perform the work or services set forth in the “Scope of Services” attached hereto as Exhibit “A” and incorporated herein by reference. Consultant warrants that it has the experience and ability to perform all work and services required hereunder and that it shall diligently perform such work and services in a professional and satisfactory manner.

1.2 Compliance With Law. All work and services rendered hereunder shall be provided in accordance with all ordinances, resolutions, statutes, rules, and regulations of the City and any Federal, State or local governmental agency of competent jurisdiction.

1.3 California Labor Law. If the Scope of Services includes any “public work” or “maintenance work,” as those terms are defined in California Labor Code section 1720 et seq. and California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Section 16000 et seq., and if the total compensation is $1,000 or more, Consultant shall pay prevailing wages for such work and comply with the requirements in California Labor Code section 1770 et seq. and 1810 et seq., and all other applicable laws.

1.4 Licenses, Permits, Fees and Assessments. Consultant shall obtain at its sole cost and expense such licenses, permits, and approvals as may be required by law for the performance of the services required by the Agreement.

1.5 Special Requirements. Additional terms and conditions of this Agreement, if any, which are made a part hereof are set forth in the “Special Requirements” attached hereto as Exhibit “B” and incorporated herein by this reference. In the event of a conflict between the provisions of Exhibit “B” and any other provisions of this Agreement, the provisions of Exhibit “B” shall govern.

2. COMPENSATION

2.1 Contract Sum. For the services rendered pursuant to this Agreement, Consultant shall be compensated in accordance with the “Schedule of Compensation” attached hereto as Exhibit “C” and incorporated herein by this reference, but not exceeding the maximum contract amount of $151,382 over a two-year period, with a not-to-exceed amount of SeventyFive Thousand Dollars ($75,000) in Fiscal Year 2026-2027 (“Contract Sum”).

2.2 Invoices. Each month Consultant shall furnish to City an original invoice for all work performed and expenses incurred during the preceding month in a form approved by

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Short Form PSA
2 01172.0001/563331.1
City’s Director of Finance. By submitting an invoice for payment under this Agreement, Consultant is certifying compliance with all provisions of the Agreement. The invoice shall contain all information specified in Exhibit “C”, and shall detail charges for all necessary and actual expenses by the following categories: labor (by sub-category), travel, materials, equipment, supplies, and sub-contractor contracts. Sub-contractor charges shall also be detailed by such categories. Consultant shall not invoice City for any duplicate services performed by more than one person.

City shall independently review each invoice submitted by the Consultant to determine whether the work performed and expenses incurred are in compliance with the provisions of this Agreement. Except as to any charges for work performed or expenses incurred by Consultant which are disputed by City, City will use its best efforts to cause Consultant to be paid within forty five (45) days of receipt of Consultant’s correct and undisputed invoice; however, Consultant acknowledges and agrees that due to City warrant run procedures, the City cannot guarantee that payment will occur within this time period. In the event any charges or expenses are disputed by City, the original invoice shall be returned by City to Consultant for correction and resubmission. Review and payment by the City of any invoice provided by the Consultant shall not constitute a waiver of any rights or remedies provided herein or any applicable law.

2.3 Additional Services. City shall have the right at any time during the performance of the services, without invalidating this Agreement, to order extra work beyond that specified in the Scope of Services or make changes by altering, adding to or deducting from said work. No such extra work may be undertaken unless a written order is first given by the Contract Officer to the Consultant, incorporating therein any adjustment in (i) the Contract Sum for the actual cost of the extra work, and/or (ii) the time to perform this Agreement, which said adjustments are subject to the written approval of the Consultant. Any increase in compensation of up to 10% (ten percent) of the Contract Sum but not exceeding a total contract amount of $5,000 (Five Thousand Dollars) or in the time to perform of up to 90 (ninety) days may be approved by the Contract Officer. Any greater increases, taken either separately or cumulatively, must be approved by the City Council. No claim for an increase in the Contract Sum or time for performance shall be valid unless the procedures established in this Section are followed.

3. PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

3.1 Time of Essence. Time is of the essence in the performance of this Agreement.

3.2 Schedule of Performance. Consultant shall commence the services pursuant to this Agreement upon receipt of a written notice to proceed and shall perform all services within the time period(s) established in the “Schedule of Performance” attached hereto as Exhibit “D” and incorporated herein by this reference. When requested by the Consultant, extensions to the time period(s) specified in the Schedule of Performance may be approved in writing by the Contract Officer but not exceeding 30 (thirty) days cumulatively.

3.3 Force Majeure. The time period(s) specified in the Schedule of Performance for performance of the services rendered pursuant to this Agreement shall be extended because of any delays due to unforeseeable causes beyond the control and without the fault or negligence of the Consultant, including, but not restricted to, acts of God or of the public enemy, unusually severe weather, fires, earthquakes, floods, epidemics, quarantine restrictions,

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3 01172.0001/563331.1
Short Form PSA
riots, strikes, freight embargoes, wars, litigation, and/or acts of any governmental agency, including the City, if the Consultant shall within ten (10) days of the commencement of such delay notify the Contract Officer in writing of the causes of the delay. The Contract Officer shall ascertain the facts and the extent of delay, and extend the time for performing the services for the period of the enforced delay when and if in the judgment of the Contract Officer such delay is justified. The Contract Officer’s determination shall be final and conclusive upon the parties to this Agreement. In no event shall Consultant be entitled to recover damages against the City for any delay in the performance of this Agreement, however caused, Consultant’s sole remedy being extension of the Agreement pursuant to this Section.

3.4 Term. Unless earlier terminated in accordance with Article 7 of this Agreement, this Agreement shall continue in full force and effect until completion of the services but not exceeding two (2) years from the date hereof, except as otherwise provided in the Schedule of Performance (Exhibit “D”). [The City may, in its sole discretion, extend the Term for no additional terms]

4. COORDINATION OF WORK

4.1 Representative of Consultant. To be determined is hereby designated as being the representative of consultant authorized to act on its behalf with respect to the work and services specified herein and make all decisions in connection therewith. All personnel of consultant and any authorized agents shall be under the exclusive direction of the representative of Consultant. Consultant shall utilize only competent personnel to perform services pursuant to this Agreement. Consultants shall make every reasonable effort to maintain the stability and continuity of Consultant’s staff and subcontractors, and shall keep City informed of any changes.

4.2 Contract Officer. Lisa Brancheau, Senior Management Analyst II/Susan Koleda, Director of Community Development [or such person as may be designated by the City Manager] is hereby designated as being the representative the City authorized to act in its behalf with respect to the work and services specified herein and to make all decisions in connection therewith (“Contract Officer”).

4.3 Prohibition Against Subcontracting or Assignment. Consultant shall not contract with any entity to perform in whole or in part the work or services required hereunder without the express written approval of the City. Neither this Agreement nor any interest herein may be assigned or transferred, voluntarily or by operation of law, without the prior written approval of City. Any such prohibited assignment or transfer shall be void.

4.4 Independent Consultant. Neither the City nor any of its employees shall have any control over the manner, mode or means by which Consultant, its agents or employees, perform the services required herein, except as otherwise set forth. Consultant shall perform all services required herein as an independent contractor of City with only such obligations as are consistent with that role. Consultant shall not at any time or in any manner represent that it or any of its agents or employees are agents or employees of City, or that it is a member of a joint enterprise with City.

5. INSURANCE AND INDEMNIFICATION

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Short Form PSA
4 01172.0001/563331.1

5.1 Insurance Coverages. Without limiting Consultant’s indemnification of City, and prior to commencement of any services under this Agreement, Consultant shall obtain, provide and maintain at its own expense during the term of this Agreement, policies of insurance of the type and amounts described below and, in a form, satisfactory to City. (a) General liability insurance. Consultant shall maintain commercial general liability insurance with coverage at least as broad as Insurance Services Office form CG 00 01, in an amount not less than $1,000,000 per occurrence, $2,000,000 general aggregate, for bodily injury, personal injury, and property damage. The policy must include contractual liability that has not been amended. Any endorsement restricting standard ISO “insured contract” language will not be accepted.
(b) Automobile liability insurance. Consultant shall maintain automobile insurance at least as broad as Insurance Services Office form CA 00 01 covering bodily injury and property damage for all activities of the Consultant arising out of or in connection with Services to be performed under this Agreement, including coverage for any owned, hired, nonowned or rented vehicles, in an amount not less than $1,000,000 combined single limit for each accident.
(c) Professional liability (errors & omissions) insurance. Consultant shall maintain professional liability insurance that covers the Services to be performed in connection with this Agreement, in the minimum amount of $1,000,000 per claim and in the aggregate. Any policy inception date, continuity date, or retroactive date must be before the effective date of this Agreement and Consultant agrees to maintain continuous coverage through a period no less than three (3) years after completion of the services required by this Agreement. (d) Workers’ compensation insurance. Consultant shall maintain Workers’ Compensation Insurance (Statutory Limits) and Employer’s Liability Insurance (with limits of at least $1,000,000).
(e) Subcontractors. Consultant shall include all subcontractors as insureds under their policies or shall furnish separate certificates and certified endorsements for each subcontractor. All coverages for subcontractors shall include all of the requirements stated herein.
(f) Additional Insurance. Policies of such other insurance, as may be required in the Special Requirements in Exhibit “B”.

5.2 General Insurance Requirements.
(a) Proof of insurance. Consultant shall provide certificates of insurance to City as evidence of the insurance coverage required herein, along with a waiver of subrogation endorsement for workers’ compensation. Insurance certificates and endorsements must be approved by City’s Risk Manager prior to commencement of performance. Current certification of insurance shall be kept on file with City at all times during the term of this Agreement. City reserves the right to require complete, certified copies of all required insurance policies, at any time.

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Short Form PSA
5 01172.0001/563331.1
(b) Duration of coverage. Consultant shall procure and maintain for the duration of this Agreement insurance against claims for injuries to persons or damages to property, which may arise from or in connection with the performance of the Services hereunder by consultant, its agents, representatives, employees or subconsultants. (c) Primary/noncontributing. Coverage provided by consultant shall be primary and any insurance or self-insurance procured or maintained by City shall not be required to contribute with it. The limits of insurance required herein may be satisfied by a combination of primary and umbrella or excess insurance. Any umbrella or excess insurance shall contain or be endorsed to contain a provision that such coverage shall also apply on a primary and noncontributory basis for the benefit of City before the City’s own insurance or self-insurance shall be called upon to protect it as a named insured.
(d) City’s rights of enforcement. In the event any policy of insurance required under this Agreement does not comply with these specifications or is canceled and not replaced, City has the right but not the duty to obtain the insurance it deems necessary and any premium paid by City will be promptly reimbursed by Consultant or City will withhold amounts sufficient to pay premium from consultant payments. In the alternative, City may cancel this Agreement. (e) Acceptable insurers. All insurance policies shall be issued by an insurance company currently authorized by the Insurance Commissioner to transact business of insurance or that is on the List of Approved Surplus Line Insurers in the State of California, with an assigned policyholders’ Rating of A- (or higher) and Financial Size Category Class VI (or larger) in accordance with the latest edition of Best’s Key Rating Guide, unless otherwise approved by the City’s Risk Manager.
(f) Waiver of subrogation. All insurance coverage maintained or procured pursuant to this agreement shall be endorsed to waive subrogation against City, its elected or appointed officers, agents, officials, employees and volunteers or shall specifically allow Consultant or others providing insurance evidence in compliance with these specifications to waive their right of recovery prior to a loss. Consultant hereby waives its own right of recovery against City and shall require similar written express waivers and insurance clauses from each of its subconsultants.
(g) Enforcement of contract provisions (non-estoppel). Consultant acknowledges and agrees that any actual or alleged failure on the part of the City to inform Consultant of non-compliance with any requirement imposes no additional obligations on the City nor does it waive any rights hereunder.
(h) Requirements not limiting. Requirements of specific coverage features or limits contained in this section are not intended as a limitation on coverage, limits or other requirements, or a waiver of any coverage normally provided by any insurance. Specific reference to a given coverage feature is for purposes of clarification only as it pertains to a given issue and is not intended by any party or insured to be all inclusive, or to the exclusion of other coverage, or a waiver of any type. If the Consultant maintains higher limits than the minimums shown above, the City requires and shall be entitled to coverage for the higher limits maintained by the Consultant. Any available insurance proceeds in excess of the specified minimum limits of insurance and coverage shall be available to the City.

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(i) Notice of cancellation. Consultant agrees to oblige its insurance agent or broker and insurers to provide to City with a thirty (30) day notice of cancellation (except for nonpayment for which a ten (10) day notice is required) or nonrenewal of coverage for each required coverage.
(j) Additional insured status. General liability policies shall provide or be endorsed to provide that City and its officers, officials, employees, and agents, and volunteers shall be additional insureds under such policies. This provision shall also apply to any excess/umbrella liability policies.
(k) Prohibition of undisclosed coverage limitations. None of the coverages required herein will be in compliance with these requirements if they include any limiting endorsement of any kind that has not been first submitted to City and approved of in writing. (l) Separation of insureds. A severability of interests provision must apply for all additional insureds ensuring that Consultant’s insurance shall apply separately to each insured against whom claim is made or suit is brought, except with respect to the insurer’s limits of liability. The policy(ies) shall not contain any cross-liability exclusions. (m) Pass through clause. Consultant agrees to ensure that its subconsultants, subcontractors, and any other party involved with the project who is brought onto or involved in the project by Consultant, provide the same minimum insurance coverage and endorsements required of consultant. Consultant agrees to monitor and review all such coverage and assumes all responsibility for ensuring that such coverage is provided in conformity with the requirements of this section. Consultant agrees that upon request, all agreements with consultants, subcontractors, and others engaged in the project will be submitted to City for review. (n) Agency’s right to revise specifications. The City reserves the right at any time during the term of the contract to change the amounts and types of insurance required by giving the Consultant ninety (90) days advance written notice of such change. If such change results in substantial additional cost to the Consultant, the City and Consultant may renegotiate Consultant’s compensation.
(o) Self-insured retentions. Any self-insured retentions must be declared to and approved by City. City reserves the right to require that self-insured retentions be eliminated, lowered, or replaced by a deductible. Self-insurance will not be considered to comply with these specifications unless approved by City.
(p) Timely notice of claims. Consultant shall give City prompt and timely notice of claims made or suits instituted that arise out of or result from Consultant’s performance under this Agreement, and that involve or may involve coverage under any of the required liability policies.
(q) Additional insurance. Consultant shall also procure and maintain, at its own cost and expense, any additional kinds of insurance, which in its own judgment may be necessary for its proper protection and prosecution of the work.

5.3 Indemnification. To the full extent permitted by law, Consultant agrees to indemnify, defend and hold harmless the City, its officers, employees and agents (“Indemnified

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Parties”) against, and will hold and save them and each of them harmless from, any and all actions, either judicial, administrative, arbitration or regulatory claims, damages to persons or property, losses, costs, penalties, obligations, errors, omissions or liabilities whether actual or threatened (herein “claims or liabilities”) that may be asserted or claimed by any person, firm or entity arising out of or in connection with the negligent performance of the work, operations or activities provided herein of Consultant, its officers, employees, agents, subcontractors, invitees, or any individual or entity for which Consultant is legally liable (“indemnitors”), or arising from Consultant’s or indemnitors’ reckless or willful misconduct, or arising from Consultant’s or indemnitors’ negligent performance of or failure to perform any term, provision, covenant or condition of this Agreement, except claims or liabilities occurring as a result of City’s sole negligence or willful acts or omissions. The indemnity obligation shall be binding on successors and assigns of consultant and shall survive termination of this Agreement.

6. RECORDS, REPORTS, AND RELEASE OF INFORMATION

6.1 Records. Consultant shall keep, and require subcontractors to keep, such ledgers, books of accounts, invoices, vouchers, canceled checks, reports, studies or other documents relating to the disbursements charged to City and services performed hereunder (the “books and records”), as shall be necessary to perform the services required by this Agreement and enable the Contract Officer to evaluate the performance of such services and shall keep such records for a period of three years following completion of the services hereunder. The Contract Officer shall have full and free access to such books and records at all times during normal business hours of City, including the right to inspect, copy, audit and make records and transcripts from such records.

6.2 Reports. Consultant shall periodically prepare and submit to the Contract Officer such reports concerning the performance of the services required by this Agreement or as the Contract Officer shall require.

6.3 Confidentiality and Release of Information.
(a) All information gained or work product produced by consultant in performance of this Agreement shall be considered confidential, unless such information is in the public domain or already known to Consultant. Consultant shall not release or disclose any such information or work product to persons or entities other than the City without prior written authorization from the Contract Officer.
(b) Consultant shall not, without prior written authorization from the Contract Officer or unless requested by the City Attorney, voluntarily provide documents, declarations, letters of support, testimony at depositions, response to interrogatories or other information concerning the work performed under this Agreement. Response to a subpoena or court order shall not be considered “voluntary” provided Consultant gives the City notice of such court order or subpoena.
(c) If Consultant provides any information or work product in violation of this Agreement, then the City shall have the right to reimbursement and indemnity from Consultant for any damages, costs and fees, including attorney’s fees, caused by or incurred as a result of Consultant’s conduct.

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(d) Consultant shall promptly notify the City should Consultant be served with any summons, complaint, subpoena, notice of deposition, request for documents, interrogatories, request for admissions or other discovery request, court order or subpoena from any party regarding this Agreement and the work performed thereunder. The City retains the right, but has no obligation, to represent Consultant or be present at any deposition, hearing or similar proceeding. Consultant agrees to cooperate fully with the City and to provide the City with the opportunity to review any response to discovery requests provided by Consultant.

6.4 Ownership of Documents. All studies, surveys, data, notes, computer files, reports, records, drawings, specifications, maps, designs, photographs, documents and other materials (the “documents and materials”) prepared by Consultant in the performance of this Agreement shall be the property of the City and shall be delivered to the City upon request of the Contract Officer or upon the termination of this Agreement, and Consultant shall have no claim for further employment or additional compensation as a result of the exercise by the City of its full rights of ownership use, reuse, or assignment of the documents and materials hereunder.

Moreover, Consultant with respect to any documents and materials that may qualify as “works made for hire” as defined in 17 U.S.C. § 101, such documents and materials are hereby deemed “works made for hire” for the City.

7. ENFORCEMENT OF AGREEMENT AND TERMINATION

7.1 California Law. This Agreement shall be interpreted, construed and governed both as to validity and to performance of the parties in accordance with the laws of the State of California. Legal actions concerning any dispute, claim or matter arising out of or in relation to this Agreement shall be instituted in the Superior Court of the County of Los Angeles, State of California. In the event of litigation in a U.S. District Court, venue shall lie exclusively in the Central District of California, in the County of Los Angeles, State of California.

7.2 Disputes; Default. In the event that Consultant is in default under the terms of this Agreement, the City shall not have any obligation or duty to continue compensating Consultant for any work performed after the date of default. Instead, the City may give notice to Consultant of the default and the reasons for the default. The notice shall include the timeframe in which Consultant may cure the default. This timeframe is presumptively thirty (30) days, but may be extended, if circumstances warrant. During the period of time that Consultant is in default, the City shall hold all invoices and shall, when the default is cured, proceed with payment on the invoices. If Consultant does not cure the default, the City may take necessary steps to terminate this Agreement under this Article.

7.3 Legal Action. In addition to any other rights or remedies, either party may take legal action, in law or in equity, to cure, correct or remedy any default, to recover damages for any default, to compel specific performance of this Agreement, to obtain declaratory or injunctive relief, or to obtain any other remedy consistent with the purposes of this Agreement. Notwithstanding any contrary provision herein, Consultant shall file a statutory claim pursuant to Government Code Sections 905 et. seq. and 910 et. seq., in order to pursue any legal action under this Agreement.

Except with respect to rights and remedies expressly declared to be exclusive in this Agreement, the rights and remedies of the parties are cumulative and the exercise by either party of one or more of such rights or remedies shall not preclude the exercise by it, at the same or

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different times, of any other rights or remedies for the same default or any other default by the other party.

7.4 Termination Prior to Expiration of Term. This Section shall govern any termination of this Contract except as specifically provided in the following Section for termination for cause. The City reserves the right to terminate this Contract at any time, with or without cause, upon thirty (30) days’ written notice to consultant, except that where termination is due to the fault of the Consultant, the period of notice may be such shorter time as may be determined by the Contract Officer. In addition, the Consultant reserves the right to terminate this Contract at any time, with or without cause, upon sixty (60) days’ written notice to City, except that where termination is due to the fault of the City, the period of notice may be such shorter time as the Consultant may determine. Upon receipt of any notice of termination, Consultant shall immediately cease all services hereunder except such as may be specifically approved by the Contract Officer. Except where the Consultant has initiated termination, the Consultant shall be entitled to compensation for all services rendered prior to the effective date of the notice of termination and for any services authorized by the Contract Officer thereafter in accordance with the Schedule of Compensation or such as may be approved by the Contract Officer. In the event the Consultant has initiated termination, the Consultant shall be entitled to compensation only for the reasonable value of the work product actually produced hereunder, but not exceeding the compensation provided therefore in the Schedule of Compensation Exhibit “C”. In the event of termination without cause pursuant to this Section, the terminating party need not provide the non-terminating party with the opportunity to cure pursuant to Section 7.2.

7.5 Termination for Default of Consultant. If termination is due to the failure of the Consultant to fulfill its obligations under this Agreement, City may, after compliance with the provisions of Section 7.2, take over the work and prosecute the same to completion by contract or otherwise, and the Consultant shall be liable to the extent that the total cost for completion of the services required hereunder exceeds the compensation herein stipulated (provided that the City shall use reasonable efforts to mitigate such damages), and City may withhold any payments to the Consultant for the purpose of set-off or partial payment of the amounts owed the City as previously stated.

8. MISCELLANEOUS

8.1 Covenant Against Discrimination. Consultant covenants that, by and for itself, its heirs, executors, assigns and all persons claiming under or through them, that there shall be no discrimination against or segregation of, any person or group of persons on account of race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, ancestry, or other protected class in the performance of this Agreement. Consultant shall take affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed and that employees are treated during employment without regard to their race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, ancestry, or other protected class

8.2 Unauthorized Aliens. Consultant hereby promises and agrees to comply with all of the provisions of the Federal Immigration and Nationality Act, 8 U.S.C. § 1101 et seq., as amended, and in connection therewith, shall not employ unauthorized aliens as defined therein. Should Consultant so employ such unauthorized aliens for the performance of work and/or services covered by this Agreement, and should any liability or sanctions be imposed

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against City for such use of unauthorized aliens, Consultant hereby agrees to and shall reimburse City for the cost of all such liabilities or sanctions imposed, together with any and all costs, including attorneys’ fees, incurred by City.

8.3 Non-liability of City Officers and Employees. No officer or employee of the City shall be personally liable to the Consultant, or any successor in interest, in the event of any default or breach by the City or for any amount, which may become due to the Consultant or to its successor, or for breach of any obligation of the terms of this Agreement.

8.4 Notice. Any notice, demand, request, document, consent, approval, or communication either party desires or is required to give to the other party or any other person shall be in writing and either served personally or sent by prepaid, first-class mail, in the case of the City, to the City Manager and to the attention of the Contract Officer (with their name and City title), City of La Cañada Flintridge, One Civic Center Drive, California 91011, and in the case of the Consultant, to the person(s) at the address designated on the execution page of this Agreement. Either party may change its address by notifying the other party of the change of address in writing. Notice shall be deemed communicated at the time personally delivered or in 72 (seventy-two) hours from the time of mailing if mailed as provided in this Section.

8.5 Integration; Amendment. It is understood that there are no oral agreements between the parties hereto affecting this Agreement and this Agreement supersedes and cancels any and all previous negotiations, arrangements, agreements and understandings, if any, between the parties, and none shall be used to interpret this Agreement. This Agreement may be amended at any time by the mutual consent of the parties by an instrument in writing.

8.6 Severability. In the event that part of this Agreement shall be declared invalid or unenforceable by a valid judgment or decree of a court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity or unenforceability shall not affect any of the remaining portions of this Agreement which are hereby declared as severable and shall be interpreted to carry out the intent of the parties hereunder unless the invalid provision is so material that its invalidity deprives either party of the basic benefit of their bargain or renders this Agreement meaningless.

8.7 Waiver. No delay or omission in the exercise of any right or remedy by non-defaulting party on any default shall impair such right or remedy or be construed as a waiver. A party’s consent to or approval of any act by the other party requiring the party’s consent or approval shall not be deemed to waive or render unnecessary the other party’s consent to or approval of any subsequent act. Any waiver by either party of any default must be in writing and shall not be a waiver of any other default concerning the same or any other provision of this Agreement.

8.8 Attorneys’ Fees. If either party to this Agreement is required to initiate or defend or made a party to any action or proceeding in any way connected with this Agreement, the prevailing party in such action or proceeding, in addition to any other relief which any be granted, whether legal or equitable, shall be entitled to reasonable attorney’s fees, whether or not the matter proceeds to judgment.

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8.9 Interpretation.

The terms of this Agreement shall be construed in accordance with the meaning of the language used and shall not be construed for or against either party by reason of the authorship of this Agreement or any other rule of construction which might otherwise apply.

8.10 Counterparts.

This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, and such counterparts shall constitute one and the same instrument.

8.11 Warranty & Representation of Non-Collusion. No official, officer, or employee of City has any financial interest, direct or indirect, in this Agreement, nor shall any official, officer, or employee of City participate in any decision relating to this Agreement which may affect his/her financial interest or the financial interest of any corporation, partnership, or association in which (s)he is directly or indirectly interested, or in violation of any corporation, partnership, or association in which (s)he is directly or indirectly interested, or in violation of any State or municipal statute or regulation. The determination of “financial interest” shall be consistent with State law and shall not include interests found to be “remote” or “noninterests” pursuant to Government Code Sections 1091 or 1091.5. Consultant warrants and represents that it has not paid or given, and will not pay or give, to any third party including, but not limited to, any City official, officer, or employee, any money, consideration, or other thing of value as a result or consequence of obtaining or being awarded any agreement. Consultant further warrants and represents that they have not engaged in any act(s), omission(s), or other conduct or collusion that would result in the payment of any money, consideration, or other thing of value to any third party including, but not limited to, any City official, officer, or employee, as a result of consequence of obtaining or being awarded any agreement. Consultant is aware of and understands that any such act(s), omission(s) or other conduct resulting in such payment of money, consideration, or other thing of value will render this Agreement void and of no force or effect.

Consultant’s Authorized Initials _______

8.12 Corporate Authority. The persons executing this Agreement on behalf of the parties hereto warrant that (i) such party is duly organized and existing, (ii) they are duly authorized to execute and deliver this Agreement on behalf of said party, (iii) by so executing this Agreement, such party is formally bound to the provisions of this Agreement, and (iv) the entering into this Agreement does not violate any provision of any other Agreement to which said party is bound. This Agreement shall be binding upon the heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns of the parties.
[Signatures On The Following Page]

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement on the date and year first-above written.

CITY:

CITY OF LA CAÑADA FLINTRIDGE, a
municipal corporation
Daniel Jordan, City Manager
ATTEST:

Tania Garcia, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

ALESHIRE & WYNDER, LLP
Adrian Guerra, City Attorney
CONSULTANT:

By:

Name:

Title:

By:

Name:

Title:

Address:

Two corporate officer signatures required when Consultant is a corporation, with one signature required from each of the following groups: 1) Chairman of the Board, President or any Vice President; and 2) Secretary, any Assistant Secretary, Chief Financial Officer or any Assistant Treasurer. CONSULTANT’S

SIGNATURES SHALL BE DULY NOTARIZED, AND APPROPRIATE ATTESTATIONS SHALL BE

INCLUDED AS MAY BE REQUIRED BY THE BYLAWS, ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION, OR OTHER RULES OR REGULATIONS APPLICABLE TO CONSULTANT’S BUSINESS ENTITY.

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01172.0001/563331.1

CALIFORNIA ALL-PURPOSE ACKNOWLEDGMENT

STATE OF CALIFORNIA

COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES
On __________, 2026 before me, ________________, personally appeared ________________, proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence to be the person(s) whose names(s) is/are subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged to me that he/she/they executed the same in his/her/their authorized capacity(ies), and that by his/her/their signature(s) on the instrument the person(s), or the entity upon behalf of which the person(s) acted, executed the instrument.

I certify under PENALTY OF PERJURY under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing paragraph is true and correct.

WITNESS my hand and official seal.

Signature: _____________________________________

OPTIONAL
Though the data below is not required by law, it may prove valuable to persons relying on the document and could prevent fraudulent reattachment of this form.

CAPACITY CLAIMED BY SIGNER DESCRIPTION OF ATTACHED DOCUMENT

INDIVIDUAL

CORPORATE OFFICER
_______________________________

TITLE(S)

PARTNER(S) LIMITED

GENERAL

ATTORNEY-IN-FACT

TRUSTEE(S)

GUARDIAN/CONSERVATOR
OTHER_______________________________
______________________________________
SIGNER IS REPRESENTING:
(NAME OF PERSON(S) OR ENTITY(IES))
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
___________________________________

TITLE OR TYPE OF DOCUMENT
___________________________________

NUMBER OF PAGES
___________________________________

DATE OF DOCUMENT
___________________________________

SIGNER(S) OTHER THAN NAMED ABOVE
A notary public or other officer completing this certificate verifies only the identity of the individual who signed the document to which this certificate is attached, and not the truthfulness, accuracy or validity of that document.

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CALIFORNIA ALL-PURPOSE ACKNOWLEDGMENT

STATE OF CALIFORNIA

I certify under PENALTY OF PERJURY under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing paragraph is true and correct.

WITNESS my hand and official seal.

Signature: _____________________________________

OPTIONAL
Though the data below is not required by law, it may prove valuable to persons relying on the document and could prevent fraudulent reattachment of this form

CAPACITY CLAIMED BY SIGNER DESCRIPTION OF ATTACHED DOCUMENT

INDIVIDUAL

CORPORATE OFFICER
_______________________________

TITLE(S)

PARTNER(S) LIMITED

GENERAL

ATTORNEY-IN-FACT

TRUSTEE(S)

TITLE OR TYPE OF DOCUMENT
___________________________________

NUMBER OF PAGES
___________________________________

DATE OF DOCUMENT
___________________________________

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01172.0001/563331.1 A-1
EXHIBIT “A”

SCOPE OF SERVICES
I. Consultant will perform the following services:

Work required that is in keeping with State Law for the City’s Housing Element program implementation and as identified within Exhibit A-1.

II. As part of the Services, Consultant will prepare and deliver the following tangible work products to the City:

As assigned by the Director or other designated employees, but may include but not be limited to updated webpages as they pertain to housing, housing surveys, flyers and other informational materials on various housing related topics, memorandums, draft ordinances, Planning Commission and City Council agenda reports and resolutions on new and proposed housing legislation and as identified within Exhibit A-1.

III. In addition to the requirements of Section 6.2, during performance of the Services, Consultant will keep the City updated of the status of performance by delivering the following status reports:

Regular meetings with the Direction or other designated City employee.

IV. All work product is subject to review and acceptance by the City, and must be revised by the Consultant without additional charge to the City until found satisfactory and accepted by City.

V. Consultant will utilize the following personnel to accomplish the Services:

To be determined.

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3 Psomas is pleased to submit this proposal to
the City of La Cañada Flintridge, outlining a
collaborative approach to analyzing, updating,
and implementing adopted ordinances, new
planning processes, applications, policies, and
procedures. Our work will also include continuing
to develop clear, accessible information materials
and outreach efforts that strengthen community
trust in the planning process and reflect the City’s
established character and history.

Our Approach
The key objectives of the 2021-2029 Housing
Element to uphold during this project are:
� Provide a wide variety of housing types
to meet the needs of existing and future
residents;
� Maintain and preserve existing housing;
� Facilitate housing for lower- and moderateincome households and those with special needs;
� Support compatibility with the natural and
built environment and the safety of persons
and property; and,
� Promote equal housing opportunity for all in
accordance with the California Government
Code
In line with these goals and throughout our tasks,
outlined below, the Psomas Planning team will
constantly test a proposed Housing Program and
its related development standards and processes,
to confirm that they are objective in accordance
with California state law and effectively address
the Housing Element Programs. Secondly, we will
evaluate if a proposed code, standard, or process
is economically feasible and realistic. Finally, we
will shape and adjust Housing Program strategies
to encourage the “right fit” for future housing and
developments that complement and bring value to
the surrounding community and built environment.

Locally-Based Knowledge and Skill Sets
Practically, our team will range from Planner I to
senior-level staff, allowing the City to apply the
appropriate level of planning capability based on
the complexity of each task, supporting efficient
use of time and budget. Our Psomas team brings
a range of housing perspectives and capabilities,
including the practical application and analysis of
zoning codes and entitlements, integration of new
California statutes and housing policies requiring
local implementation, and research and GIS data to
support and justify proposed program strategies
and regulatory updates.

Furthermore, the Psomas team will be based in Los
Angeles. While we understand the Housing Planner
role can be fully remote, our close proximity offers
us the ability to occasionally meet in person, for
which we are assuming a 10 percent contingency if
additional in-person services, outreach, or public
hearing support is desired. Please refer to the
project team organizational chart on page 15, with
staff resumes provided in the Appendix.

Scope of Work
Task 1: Project Kick-Off and Coordination
Meetings

PROJECT KICK-OFF
Psomas will participate in a kick off meeting
to confirm updated expectations and project
direction. Drawing on Psomas’ extensive
experience implementing the City’s Housing
Element programs from 2023-2026, this meeting
will help define the approach for this phase, identify
any new City priorities and key community input.

The team will also prepare an updated schedule,
establish major milestones, and refine the
categorization and prioritization of the 24 Housing
Programs as needed. Psomas will prepare the
agenda and coordinate all meeting logistics.

Psomas | Housing Planner Consultant Services - City of La Cañada Flintridge

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4 ONGOING COORDINATION MEETINGS
Regular bi-weekly meetings between Psomas and
City staff will take place for general coordination,
to share community input, discuss current
efforts, and to align on the Project's outcomes,
goals, and timelines. Additional meetings may
occur before major milestones and events.

TASK 1 DELIVERABLES
� Kick-off meeting agenda, preliminary
schedule, data needs requests
� Determine ongoing meeting schedules with
City staff, not to exceed 26 meetings per year
� Identify key City staff needed to review and
direct each Housing Program
� Electronic submittal of meeting minutes
Task 2: Housing Program
Implementation

DRAFT REGULATORY CHANGES
Following City staff direction under Task 1,
Psomas will prepare the regulations and related
policies needed to implement the applicable
Housing Programs. This may include drafting new
or amended City ordinances and incorporating
any newly adopted state housing laws into the
City’s Zoning Code. Psomas’ ongoing work on
the City’s Zoning Code updates provides a strong
foundation of knowledge regarding required
changes and their implications.

We will also work with City staff to identify
sections of the General Plan, Zoning Code,
and Housing Element where inconsistencies or
simple revisions may be necessary. For example,
some of these inconsistencies may be found
in zoning code definitions, permitted uses and
requirements, review and approval processes, or
consistency with recently passed state law.

CREATION OF PROCESSES, POLICIES,

AND PROCEDURES
Throughout its work with the city, the Psomas
team has developed planning applications
and implementation protocols in response
to new state laws on Accessory Dwelling
Units, Density Bonus, Infill Development, and
Permit Streamlining. As Housing Program
implementation advances, Psomas will
collaborate with City staff to develop any
additional procedures needed and to continuously
monitor evolving state laws and regulations. The
team will translate these requirements into clear,
concise, and publicly accessible applications and
graphics, making complex policies easy for the
community to understand and use.

With the upcoming adoption of the City’s new
Zoning Code, Psomas will update all applications
with accurate requirements, references, and
procedural guidance. Looking ahead to the 2030-
2038 Housing Element, the Psomas team will also
collaborate closely with the selected consultant
to integrate current policies and procedures
into the new programs that will shape the City’s
housing strategy.

INFORMATIONAL MATERIALS,

OUTREACH, AND ADVERTISING
Following any regulatory or policy updates tied
to a Housing Program, Psomas will continue to
work with City staff to prepare website content,
informational flyers, FAQs, and other publicfacing materials related to updated housing codes and policies. Our goal is to provide clear,
accessible information that helps the community
understand and use the programs implemented
through the Housing Element.

Additionally, the Psomas team has assisted the
City with surveying the community via an online
questionnaire about the use and occupancy of
Accessory Dwelling Units throughout the city.

Psomas is prepared to implement additional
outreach as needed, for the city to gather
valuable information to inform future policy.

Psomas’ work is based in engagement and local
knowledge.

Psomas | Housing Planner Consultant Services - City of La Cañada Flintridge

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5 Psomas’ extensive experience working with
the City’s website consultant and leading the
redesign of the Housing webpages to better
reference state codes, City applications, and key
resources positions the team to make complex
housing programs easy for the public to navigate.

Ongoing coordination will keep the webpages
user-friendly and up-to-date, supporting both
public understanding and demonstrating to
the California Department of Housing and
Community Development (HCD) that the City is
actively promoting meaningful housing programs
and initiatives.

BUT CAN YOU BUILD IT?
A primary strength of the Psomas Planning team
is our deep experience and first-hand knowledge
of the planning, entitlement, and approval
process. Because our Planning team works
directly with architects, engineers, developers,
and property owners, we understand how to craft
and organize development standards that reflect
proven approaches, are financially feasible, easy
to understand, and straightforward to implement.

We bring this same approach and mindset when
working for public sector agencies to write, test,
and implement new regulations.

Psomas will apply a “right fit” approach when
evaluating future regulations and policies, so
each recommendation directly supports the
City’s Housing Element Programs and overall
community vision. The 2021-2029 Housing
Element notes that in 2019, the City had 6,423
housing units, with 91% owner-occupied and

94.6% consisting of single-family homes. Given
this context, some community resistance to
mixed use or higher density development may
be expected. Psomas will continue to work with
City staff and the community to communicate
the City’s critical housing needs and identify
appropriate locations for updated zoning
standards that provide broader community
benefit.

TASK 2 DELIVERABLES:
� Draft of the City’s regulations, ordinances,
zoning codes, and related policies required to
implement a subject Housing Program to be
reviewed and commented on by staff.
� Draft applications, policies, and procedures
to be reviewed and finalized by City staff.
� Draft outreach and advertising materials to
be reviewed and finalized by City staff.
� Coordination with the web design consultant
for online distribution of outreach materials.
� Support to City staff for staff reports and
presentations to Planning Commission and
City Council.

EXCLUSIONS
Public noticing – City staff shall be responsible
for all public notices ahead of public hearings,
workshops, and city-sponsored events.

Staff reports to be submitted for Planning
Commission and City Council Hearings.

All Task 3 documentation shall be delivered
electronically – no hardcopy prints are included to
reduce budget overhead and materials costs.

Task 3: Quality Assurance & Quality
Control
Throughout the project and writing process, the
Psomas Housing Planning team will maintain an
internal QA/QC protocol, to provide oversight
from our Principal-In-Charge and Project
Manager. We will actively track changes in state
law and structure the Housing Programs to be
consistent with recently adopted State codes and
bills. Regulatory Plans to be evaluated may include
the following.

Psomas has the experience to create graphic materials
and guides to help interpret complex regulations or
program standards - excerpts from LA County Chapman
Woods CSD Implementation Guide.

Psomas | Housing Planner Consultant Services - City of La Cañada Flintridge

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6 Local/Regional Regulatory Consistency
� City of La Cañada Flintridge General Plan
� City of La Cañada Flintridge Housing Element
� City of La Cañada Flintridge Municipal Code
� SCAG 2020-2045 Regional Transportation
Plans and Sustainable Communities
Strategies (RTP/SCS)
State Regulatory Consistency
� SB 4 (Affordable Housing on Faith-based
Land)
� SB 330 and SB 8 (2019 Housing Crisis Act)
� SB 9 and SB 10 (HOME Act)
� SB 423 (Streamline of affordable housing
projects to reach state housing goals)
� SB 684 and SB 1123 (Subdivisions of 10
homes or less in multifamily zones)
� SB 1211 and SB 477 (Accessory Dwelling
Units)
� AB 1332 (ADU Pre-Approved Plans)
� AB 1490 (Adaptive Reuse)
� AB 1287 and SB 79 (Additional Density Bonus
Incentives)
� AB 2011 (Affordable Housing High Road Jobs
Act)
� AB 2234 and AB 1114 (Post-entitlement
Phase Permits)
TASK 3 DELIVERABLES
Regulatory Consistency findings shall be
evaluated and referenced in future reports to the
City and the California Department of Housing
and Community Development (HCD).

Task 4: HCD Annual Progress Report
Support
Psomas will support and coordinate with City
staff to prepare and submit the Housing Element
Annual Progress Report (APR) by April 1, 2027. We
will work closely with staff to support accurate
reporting using the forms and formulas required
by the California Department of Housing and
Community Development and Government
Code Section 65400. Our team will review and
refine the city-provided data to confirm it is
accurately represented in the state forms,
clearly documenting annual housing production
and providing insight into how applicants and
developers use Housing Element programs and
state laws. Building on Psomas’ prior experience
preparing APRs for the City, we will use past
submissions to streamline and expedite future
reports.

TASK 4 DELIVERABLES
� Psomas will download and prepare the City
with HCD-approved templates, forms, and
report fields.
� Psomas will identify sections of the report
that City staff, departments, and officials will
have to contribute data.
� Psomas will coordinate with City staff and
HCD to clarify any comments, questions,
related to report submittal.

EXCLUSIONS
� The HCD Annual Progress Report will
be submitted directly from the Planning
Director, or appointed staff member.

Psomas | Housing Planner Consultant Services - City of La Cañada Flintridge

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01172.0001/563331.1 B-1
EXHIBIT “B”

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
(Superseding Contract Boilerplate)
I. In the event that Consultant utilizes a retired annuitant of the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (“Annuitant”) to perform any services under this Agreement, Consultant shall ensure that the Annuitant’s performance of any services under this Agreement is in compliance with all applicable laws, including, but not limited to, the California Public Employees’ Retirement System’s (“CalPERS”) rules and regulations governing the hiring of retired CalPERS annuitants by California cities.” II. The following Sections are hereby added to Article 2:
“2.4 CalPERS Exclusion. Under no circumstances shall any worker be assigned by Consultant to provide City with continued service in excess of six months in accordance with California Government Code section 20305. If a person is assigned by Consultant to perform work for the City on a per diem basis, such person cannot work for City in excess of 125 days within a calendar year. If a person is contracted to perform work for City by Consultant, in other than a per diem basis, such person cannot perform work for City in excess of hours of services within the fiscal year.

2.5 CalPERS Temporary Retired Annuitant. Unless approved by the Contract Officer, no personnel of Consultant assigned to perform Services under this Agreement shall be a “retired annuitant” from the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS).

Prior to assigning any personnel of Consultant to perform any work for the City, Consultant shall identify potential candidates to the Contract Officer that are “retired annuitants” from CalPERS. If approved by the Contract Officer, under no circumstances shall a retired annuitant work more than 960 hours within a fiscal year. The compensation for the retired person shall be an hourly pay rate that is within the salary schedule for the position and shall not exceed the maximum monthly base salary paid to other employees performing comparable duties as listed on a publicly available pay schedule divided by 173.333 to equal an hourly rate in accordance with California Government Code section 21224. A retired person appointed pursuant to this Agreement shall not receive any benefit, incentive, compensation in lieu of benefits, or other form of compensation in addition to the hourly pay rate. A retired annuitant will not accrue service credit or any additional retirement rights or benefits.”
III. Section 5.3, Indemnification, is hereby amended as follows (strikethrough represents deleted language while bold italics represents added language):
“5.3 Indemnification.

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01172.0001/563331.1 B-2
To the full extent permitted by law, Consultant agrees to indemnify, defend and hold harmless the City, its officers, employees and agents (“Indemnified Parties”) against, and will hold and save them and each of them harmless from, any and all actions, either judicial, administrative, arbitration or regulatory claims, damages to persons or property, losses, costs, penalties, obligations, errors, omissions or liabilities whether actual or threatened (herein “claims or liabilities”) that may be asserted or claimed by any person, firm or entity arising out of or in connection with the negligent performance of the work, operations or activities provided herein of Consultant, its officers, employees, agents, subcontractors, or invitees, or any individual or entity for which Consultant is legally liable (“indemnitors”), or arising from Consultant’s or indemnitors’ reckless or willful misconduct, or arising from Consultant’s or indemnitors’ negligent performance of or failure to perform any term, provision, covenant or condition of this Agreement, and in connection therewith:
(a) Consultant will defend any action or actions filed in connection with any of said claims or liabilities and will pay all costs and expenses, including legal costs and attorneys’ fees incurred in connection therewith;
(b) Consultant will promptly pay any judgment rendered against the City, its officers, agents or employees for any such claims or liabilities arising out of or in connection with the negligent performance of or failure to perform such work, operations or activities of Consultant hereunder; and Consultant agrees to save and hold the City, its officers, agents, and employees harmless therefrom;
(c) In the event the City, its officers, agents or employees is made a party to any action or proceeding filed or prosecuted against Consultant for such damages or other claims arising out of or in connection with the negligent performance of or failure to perform the work, operation or activities of Consultant hereunder, Consultant agrees to pay to the City, its officers, agents or employees, any and all costs and expenses incurred by the City, its officers, agents or employees in such action or proceeding, including but not limited to, legal costs and attorneys’ fees.

Consultant shall incorporate similar indemnity agreements with its subcontractors and if it fails to do so Consultant shall be fully responsible to indemnify City hereunder therefore, and failure of City to monitor compliance with these provisions shall not be a waiver hereof. This indemnification includes claims or liabilities arising from any negligent or wrongful act, error or omission, or reckless or willful misconduct of Consultant in the performance of professional services hereunder. The provisions of this Section do not apply to claims or liabilities occurring as a result of City’s sole negligence or willful acts or omissions, but, to the fullest extent permitted by law, shall apply to claims and liabilities resulting in part from City’s negligence, except that design professionals’ indemnity hereunder shall be limited to claims and liabilities arising out of the negligence, recklessness or willful misconduct of the design professional. The indemnity obligation shall be binding on successors and assigns of Consultant and shall survive termination of this Agreement.

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01172.0001/563331.1 B-2
(d) Consultant’s services under this Agreement are being provided to the City as that of an independent contractor. In the event that Consultant or any employee, agent, or subcontractor of Consultant providing services under this Agreement claims or is determined by the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (“CalPERS”) or a court of competent jurisdiction to be classified as other than an independent contractor, then Consultant shall indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the City, its officers, employees and agents from any and all assessed fines, penalties, judgments and/or employer contributions to CalPERS for CalPERS retirement benefits on behalf of Consultant, its officers, employees, agents, subcontractors, or invitees, or any individual or entity for which Consultant is legally liable, as well as for the payment of any interest on such fines, penalties, judgments or CalPERS contributions, including such payments which would otherwise be the responsibility of the City. Consultant’s obligations under this Section 5.3(d) shall be in addition to any other obligation of the Consultant to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the City, its officers, employees and agents.”

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C-1
01172.0001/563331.1
EXHIBIT “C”

SCHEDULE OF COMPENSATION
I. Consultant shall perform the following Services at the following rates:

Officer Services: Hourly Rates
Principal in Charge $280
Planning Project Lead $165
Project Planner $160
Planner $135
Admin Assistant $120
II. For each Task, and with the approval of the Contract Officer, funds may be shifted from one Task subbudget to another so long as the Contract Sum is not exceeded per Section 2.1, unless Additional Services are approved per Section 2.3.

III. The City will compensate Consultant for the Services performed upon submission of a valid invoice. Each invoice is to include:

A. Line items for all the work performed, the number of hours worked, and the hourly rate.

B. Line items for all materials and equipment properly charged to the Services.

C. Line items for all other approved reimbursable expenses claimed, with supporting documentation.

D. Line items for all approved subcontractor labor, supplies, equipment, materials, and travel properly charged to the Services.

IV. The total compensation for the Services shall not exceed the Contract Sum as provided in Section 2.1 of this Agreement.

V. Consultant’s billing rates for all personnel are attached as Exhibit C-1.

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16 D Cost Proposal
The table below shows the proposed budget for all tasks associated with the Scope of Work. We have been mindful of the City’s need to apply its resources wisely and in a cost-effective manner. This proposal is structured to a Not-to-Exceed Amount of $151,382 as compensation for Consultant’s services performed on an annual basis. Psomas proposes a budget with a 10% contingency, if necessary, for any unexpected tasks or sub-programs.

We request each billing invoice include a 10% set aside, dispersed over the life of the contract to comprise the 10% Contingency. Our proposed cost assumes all materials will be permitted for electronic submittal and presentation, no hard copies are anticipated for this project.

See the following page for a detailed breakdown of the estimated staff and labor hours budgeted for this contract. $280.00 $ 165.00 $ 160.00 $ 135.00 $ 120.00
Hours Cost Hours Cost Hours Cost Hours Cost Hours Cost
Task 1 Subtotal 4 1,120.00 $ 60 9,900.00 $ 10 1,600.00 $ 60 8,100.00 $ 8 960.00 $ 142 $ 21,680.00 Hours Cost Hours Cost Hours Cost Hours Cost Hours Cost Total Hours Subtotal Task 2 Subtotal 40 11,200.00 $ 280 46,200.00 $ 40 6,400.00 $ 240 32,400.00 $ 2 240.00 $ 602 $ 96,440.00 Hours Cost Hours Cost Hours Cost Hours Cost Hours Cost Total Hours Subtotal Task 3 Subtotal 20 5,600.00 $ 20 3,300.00 $ 0 $ - 0 $ - 2 240.00 $ 42 $ 9,140.00 Hours Cost Hours Cost Hours Cost Hours Cost Hours Cost Total Hours Subtotal Task 4 Subtotal 4 1,120.00 $ 30 4,950.00 $ 0 $ - 30 4,050.00 $ 2 240.00 $ 66 $ 10,360.00 68 19,040.00 $ 390 64,350.00 $ 50 8,000.00 $ 330 44,550.00 $ 14 1,680.00 $ 852 $ 137,620.00 Hours Cost Hours Cost Hours Cost Hours Cost Hours Cost Total Hours Subtotal $ - - $ $ - - $ $ - - $ $ - - $ $ - 0 $ 13,762.00
$ 151,382.00
10% Contingency
Combined Total (with 10% Contigency)
Combined Total
Task 1 - Project Kick-Off and Ongoing Coordination Meetings Task 2 - Housing Program Implementation
Task 3 - Quality Assurance & Quality Control
Task 4 - HCD Annual Progress Report Supports (12 wks)
Task Description
Project Team
Principal-In-Charge Admin Assistant
Total Hours Subtotal
Planning Project Lead Project Planner Planner
Note: The proposed one-year budget includes a 10% contingency allowance incorporated within the overall not-to-exceed amount. This contingency is intended to address unanticipated or variable workload demands within the scope of work, including periods of increased effort associated with Annual Progress Report preparation. Contingency funds will only be utilized upon authorization by the City and will be billed based on actual hours worked and services performed in accordance with the agreed-upon billing rates. This structure allows the City to maintain budget control while providing flexibility to respond to evolving program priorities.

Psomas | Housing Planner Consultant Services - City of La Cañada Flintridge EXHIBIT C-1 Page 152 of 337
D-1
01172.0001/563331.1
EXHIBIT “D”

SCHEDULE OF PERFORMANCE
I. Consultant shall perform all services timely in accordance with the Exhibit D-1.

II. Consultant shall deliver the following tangible work products to the City by the following dates.

A. On an ongoing basis.

B. On an ongoing basis.

C. On an ongoing basis.

III. The Contract Officer may approve extensions for performance of the services in accordance with Section 3.2.

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7 Project Timeline and Schedule
The proposed schedule below indicates when
each task will take place and targets the
completion of this project within 12 months.

Psomas is committed to delivering
projects on time and on budget,
with responsive service.

This schedule is flexible and will be coordinated
with the City to achieve maximum input and buyin from various residents and stakeholders in the community.
2026 2027
JuneJulyAugustSeptemberOctoberNovemberDecemberJanuaryFebruaryMarchAprilMay Task 1: Project Kick-Off and Ongoing Coordination Meetings Task 2: Housing Program Implementation
Task 3: Quality Assurance & Quality Control
Task 4: HCD Annual Progress Report Support
Kick Off Meeting
Ongoing Coordination
Research and Development
Annual Report Deliverable
Psomas | Housing Planner Consultant Services - City of La Cañada Flintridge EXHIBIT D-1 Page 154 of 337
City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date: September 1, 2026
Subject: Receive and File the "2026-27 Mayor's Assignment List" Presenter: Tania Garcia, City Clerk
Proposed Action: Receive and file the 2026-27 Mayor's Assignment List Environmental Impact: None
Fiscal Impact: None
Background:

The newly appointed Mayor presents a "Mayor's Assignments" list, which assigns City Council members to various internal and external committees, subcommittees, ad hoc committees, and boards.

Discussion/Analysis:

Annually, the newly appointed Mayor presents the list of “Mayor’s Assignments" designating and/or identifying City Council members to various internal and external committees, subcommittees, ad hoc committees, and boards to represent the City and City Council for the ensuing mayoral year.

The Mayor's Assignments list also identifies agency positions to which individual City Council members have been appointed or elected by action of external agencies.

Should there be any concerns regarding the interest or availability of individual City Council members to fulfill the designations as indicated, it would be appropriate for the City Council to discuss the Mayor's Assignments list as presented and request any necessary amendments or modifications thereto. Once any modifications or amendments have been resolved, the appropriate action would be to "receive and file" the list.

Options:

1. Receive and file the 2026-27 Mayor's Assignment List; or

2. Defer action at this time.

Recommendation:

Option No. 1 - It is recommended that the City Council take the following action(s): Receive and file the 2026-27 Mayor's Assignment List.

Attachments:

1. 2026-27 Mayors Assignments

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Voting 2nd Assigned
OUTSIDE AGENCY REPRESENTATIVES: Delegate Delegate Alternate Staff Arroyo Verdugo Communities JPA Board of Directors Bowman Ahmed BSDC & Economic Development New Member Hobson
Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors* Hobson Fossan
California Contract Cities Association Board of Directors Ahmed Hobson City Selection Committee Representative** Hobson Fossan League of CA Cities General Assembly Voting Delegate Fossan Ahmed San Gabriel Valley COG Board of Directors Fossan Ahmed
So. Calif. Assoc. of Gov'ts. (SCAG) General Assembly Hobson Bowman Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy Board of Dir. Fossan Ahmed Greater L.A. County Vector Control District Board Rep. Pieroni LCF Sister Cities Board Honorary Chair* Hobson Fossan
CA Joint Powers Insurance Auth. Board of Dir. Rep. Ahmed Hobson Jordan Clean Power Alliance Board of Directors Fossan Bowman Jordan CITY SUBCOMMITTEES / AD HOC APPOINTMENTS: Delegate Delegate Alternate Staff Joint Operations Team (Voting Representatives) Fossan Hobson Cornishon Corridor Joint Working Group Bowman Hobson
Joint Working Team (Strategic Master Plan) Fossan
Joint Working Team (New Joint Use Agreement) Bowman Ahmed Emergency Preparedness Coordinating Committee Bowman Fossan Investment & Financing Advisory Committee Liaison New Member 2026-27 City Manager and City Attorney Performance
Evaluation Subcommittee Hobson Fossan
Communications Advisory Ad Hoc Subcommittee Fossan Hobson Governance Ad Hoc Subcommittee Bowman Ahmed
Community Center of LCF Lease Subcommittee Ahmed Bowman City Attorney Services RFP Development Subcommittee Bowman Hobson City Notification Practices Subcommitee Fossan New Member OUTSIDE AGENCY APPOINTMENTS: Delegate Delegate Alternate Staff L.A. County Sanitation District 28 - Chair Hobson Fossan L.A. County Sanitation District 34 - Chair Hobson Fossan National League of Cities - CA Small Cities** Hobson Fossan SGVCOG Transportation Committee Bowman Fossan
* Traditional Mayor Assignment
** Traditional Mayor & Mayor Pro Tem Assignment
Revised 08/12/26
2026-27 MAYOR'S ASSIGNMENTS
CITY OF LA CAÑADA FLINTRIDGE

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City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date: September 1, 2026
Subject: Approval of Comment Letter Regarding Los Angeles County Measure G Governance Reform Recommendations
Presenter: Arabo Parseghian, Assistant City Manager
Proposed Action: Motion to approve the attached comment letter regarding the Los Angeles County Governance Reform Task Force’s draft Measure G implementation recommendations and authorize the Mayor to execute the letter on behalf of the City and staff to transmit it to the Governance Reform Task Force
Environmental Impact: This action is not a project under the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Section 15378 of the CEQA Guidelines because it involves governmental organization and legislative policy matters and does not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment
Fiscal Impact: There is no direct fiscal impact associated with approval of the comment letter
Implementation of Measure G could ultimately affect the structure, cost, administration, and delivery of County services relied upon by cities, including contract services. Any specific fiscal impacts are not known at this time
Background:

On November 5, 2024, Los Angeles County voters approved Measure G, which restructures portions of County government and establishes, among other changes, an elected County Executive, a Director of Budget and Management, and a County Legislative Analyst.

The Los Angeles County Governance Reform Task Force (GRTF) is currently developing recommendations regarding implementation of these changes. On August 19, 2026, the GRTF Elected Executive Ad Hoc Subcommittee released draft recommendations addressing the responsibilities, organization, and transition of the new offices.

The California Contract Cities Association subsequently issued a “Call to Action” encouraging member cities to review the recommendations and provide comments on provisions that may affect the relationship between the County and its 88 cities. The draft recommendations are expected to be

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transmitted to the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors in September 2026.

Discussion/Analysis:

As a contract city, La Cañada Flintridge relies substantially on Los Angeles County agencies for the delivery of essential municipal services. Accordingly, changes to County governance, budgeting, intergovernmental relations, departmental organization, and service delivery have the potential to directly affect City operations.

The California Contract Cities Association identified several areas of particular importance to cities, including:
• Maintaining a professional and nonpartisan County intergovernmental relations function; • Establishing a meaningful and reciprocal engagement process between the County and its 88 cities;
• Providing cities notice and consultation before County legislative advocacy conflicts with adopted city positions;
• Protecting service continuity and consulting affected cities before County departments or major functions are reorganized;
• Clarifying the County’s constituent services role within incorporated cities; • Maintaining transparency in the methodology used to establish the cost of County contract services; and
• Formally including cities and their representative organizations in the remaining Measure G implementation process.

These issues are particularly relevant to La Cañada Flintridge, given the City’s reliance on County departments for a number of municipal and regional services.

The attached letter incorporates these concerns and requests that the GRTF strengthen the final recommendations to ensure that cities remain meaningful partners in County governance and service-delivery decisions that affect their communities.

Staff recommends that the City Council approve the letter and authorize its transmission to the GRTF for consideration as the Measure G implementation recommendations are finalized.

Options:

1. Approve the attached comment letter and authorize the Mayor to execute the letter and staff to transmit it to the Los Angeles County Governance Reform Task Force;

2. Modify the attached letter and authorize transmission of the revised letter; or

3. Take no action.

Recommendation:

Option No. 1 – Approve the attached comment letter regarding the Los Angeles County Governance Reform Task Force’s draft Measure G implementation recommendations and authorize the Mayor to execute the letter on behalf of the City and staff to transmit it to the Governance Reform Task Force.

Attachments:

1. Draft City of La Cañada Flintridge Comment Letter to the Governance Reform Task Force

2. GRTF_ Draft Recommendations from the Elected Executive to the GRTF

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City Council
Jeanne Kim Hobson, Mayor
Stephanie Fossan, Mayor Pro Tem
Quemars Ahmed
Kim Bowman
Keith Eich
September 1, 2026
Governance Reform Task Force
c/o Executive Office of the Board of Supervisors
Kenneth Hahn Hall of Administration
500 West Temple Street
Los Angeles, California 90012
Re: City of La Cañada Flintridge Comments on the Draft Recommendations of the Elected Executive Ad Hoc Subcommittee (Measure G Implementation)
Dear Chair Yap and Members of the Governance Reform Task Force:

On behalf of the City of La Cañada Flintridge, I write to offer comments on the draft recommendations released by the Elected Executive Ad Hoc Subcommittee regarding the offices of the elected County Executive, the Director of Budget and Management, and the County Legislative Analyst. The City supports the effective implementation of Measure G and appreciates the Subcommittee's careful work. We write because several of the recommendations will directly shape the relationship between Los Angeles County and its 88 cities, a relationship that Measure G itself does not define, and we respectfully request specific changes before the recommendations are finalized.

The City requests that the Task Force adopt the following amendments:

1. Preserve a professional and nonpartisan intergovernmental function. Recommendations 2 and 5 for the County Executive would move the County's Legislative Affairs and Intergovernmental Relations function to an office led by a directly elected official. We request language directing that intergovernmental relations and legislative advocacy be conducted in a professional, consistent, and nonpartisan manner, and that the function remain responsive to all cities regardless of the political alignment between city and County leadership.

2. Strengthen the city engagement program into a codified, reciprocal partnership. We appreciate the structured engagement program proposed in Recommendation 5a. We request that it be established in the County's governing provisions rather than left to the Executive's discretion, that it convene on a regular and published schedule, and that it give cities a meaningful opportunity to inform County policies, budget proposals, and legislative positions that affect them before those decisions are made. We further request that the cities' representative organizations, including the California Contract Cities Association, be included as standing participants.

One Civic Center Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011 • (818) 790-8880 • Fax (818) 790-7536 www.lcf.ca.gov

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3. Commit to notice and consultation before advocacy that conflicts with city positions. Recommendation 5 would make the Executive the County's primary legislative advocate. We request a commitment that the County will notify and consult affected cities before adopting state or federal legislative positions that conflict with the adopted positions of those cities, and that the County will not deploy its advocacy resources to oppose adopted city positions without prior consultation. We also request that cities' existing access through individual Board offices be expressly preserved.

4. Protect service continuity before departments are reorganized. Recommendations 3c and 4 would allow the Executive to propose the creation, consolidation, transfer, or elimination of departments or major functions.

Because these departments deliver services that cities rely on, including services many cities receive under contract, we request that any such proposal affecting services to cities be preceded by notice to and consultation with the affected cities, and by an assessment of the effect on service delivery and on the cost of services to cities. We further request that cities be recognized as a source of input in the annual organizational review.

5. Clarify the constituent services role in incorporated areas. Recommendation 6 establishes a constituent services and public affairs function focused appropriately on unincorporated communities. We request language clarifying that, within incorporated cities, this function complements and coordinates with municipal government and does not duplicate or bypass it.

6. Preserve transparency in the cost of contract services. Recommendations 1 and 2 for the Director of Budget and Management would transfer the County's budget and finance functions to a new office. We request that the transition preserve transparency and continuity in how the County develops and bills the cost of services provided to cities, and that cities be consulted on any change to that methodology.

7. Include cities as formal stakeholders in the remaining process. We request that cities and their representative associations be formally included as stakeholders in the Task Force's remaining deliberations and in the transition reports the recommendations call for, including the report on the Legislative Affairs and Intergovernmental Relations function (Recommendation 5b) and the report on constituent services (Recommendation 6c), with an opportunity to review and comment before the final recommendations are transmitted to the Board of Supervisors.

The City of La Cañada Flintridge shares the goal of a more accountable and effective county government and looks forward to being a constructive partner in the implementation of Measure G. We appreciate your consideration of these requests and would welcome the opportunity to discuss them. Please contact Dr. Daniel Jordan, City Manager, at 818-790-8880 or [email protected] with any questions.

Respectfully,
Jeanne Kim Hobson
Mayor
City of La Cañada Flintridge
cc: City Council; California Contract Cities Association; County Supervisor

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8/20/2026 DRAFT
1 To: Governance Reform Task Force
From: Elected Executive Ad Hoc Subcommittee
Date: August 20, 2026
Re: Recommendations related to the establishment of the Office of the Elected County Executive, the Director of Budget and Management, and the County Legislative Analyst

INTRODUCTION
Over the past 120 days, the Elected Executive Ad Hoc Subcommittee has focused on its assignment to develop preliminary recommendations related to the offices of the Elected County Executive, the Director of Budget and Management, and the County Legislative Analyst as part of the implementation of Measure G. In carrying out this work, the Subcommittee has sought to identify best practices, review comparative governance models from peer jurisdictions, and consider how those lessons can be adapted to Los Angeles County’s unique scale, complexity, and governance structure. The preliminary recommendations that follow build upon the foundational work of Los Angeles County staff, the Harvard Kennedy School graduate student report, the KH governance report, and comparative research conducted by Loyola Marymount University, while also reflecting the ongoing discussions and input of the Subcommittee and the Governance Reform Task Force.

RECOMMENDATIONS
County Executive
Recommendation #1: Consistent with the language adopted in Measure G, the position shall be publicly referred to as the Los Angeles County Executive. The Board of Supervisors shall direct the Chief Executive Officer, through the Office of Countywide Communications, to develop and implement a focused public education and outreach campaign in advance of the inaugural election to familiarize residents and stakeholders with the title, the roles and responsibilities of the office, and how those responsibilities differ from those of the Board of Supervisors, thereby promoting public understanding and informed voter participation.

Recommendation #2: The County Executive shall be responsible for providing policy direction, operational coordination, and strategic management across the executive branch. 2a. Functions currently housed within the Chief Executive Office that are executive in nature and support the administration, coordination, and implementation of County policy shall transition to the Office of the County Executive. These functions shall include Administrative Services; Countywide Communications; Legislative Affairs and Intergovernmental Relations; the Office of Emergency Management; Policy Implementation and Alignment; and Strategic Initiatives, along with the associated responsibilities necessary to support these functions.
2b. The County Executive shall have the flexibility to organize and manage these functions in a manner that best supports the effective administration of the executive branch, consistent with the authorities provided by Measure G.

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8/20/2026 DRAFT
2 Recommendation #3: The Board of Supervisors shall provide the inaugural Elected County Executive with the resources and flexibility necessary to establish, organize, and manage the Office of the Elected County Executive and effectively administer the executive branch. 3a. For the initial implementation period between December 2028 and June 2029, the Board shall provide the inaugural Elected County Executive with a transitional operating budget in the form of a discretionary appropriation, subject to standard County fiscal controls. This appropriation shall be in addition to the positions, personnel, resources, and functions that transition from the current Chief Executive Office to the Elected County Executive and shall provide the Executive with the flexibility to recruit and appoint the at-will and unclassified staff necessary to establish the office and effectively administer the executive branch.
3b. Beginning with the FY 2029–30 budget process, the Elected County Executive shall submit a proposed operating budget for the Office of the Elected County Executive as part of the draft County budget submitted to the Board of Supervisors for its consideration and approval. 3c. Within the funding appropriated by the Board of Supervisors, the Elected County Executive shall have discretion to determine the size, composition, staffing, and organizational structure of the office necessary to carry out its responsibilities. Consistent with Measure G and the Board's budgetary authority, the Elected County Executive shall also have the flexibility to organize and manage executive functions and, through the annual budget process, submit recommendations regarding the creation, consolidation, transfer, or elimination of departments or major functions for consideration and approval by the Board of Supervisors.
3d. Consistent with Section 11.28 of the County Charter, the County Executive shall deliver an annual State of the County Address to the Board of Supervisors in conjunction with the proposed budget to report on the performance and condition of the County government, present executive policy and budget priorities for the coming fiscal year, recommend measures for consideration by the Board, and strengthen transparency, accountability, and public understanding of the County’s strategic direction.

Recommendation #4: Beginning in 2029, the Elected County Executive shall have responsibility for the performance management and evaluation of executive branch department heads as a core component of the Executive’s management authority. The Elected County Executive shall have the authority to assess the County’s existing performance management practices, including the Management and Appraisal Performance Plan (MAPP) system, and determine whether to retain, modify, or replace those practices to support effective executive leadership, organizational performance, and accountability. 4a. To promote continuous improvement across the executive branch, the Elected County Executive shall establish an annual organizational review process as part of the County’s budget development cycle. The review shall draw upon department head performance evaluations, together with relevant operational, fiscal, and performance data, to assess departmental effectiveness, organizational performance, service delivery outcomes, and opportunities to improve efficiency, coordination, and accountability. The results of the annual organizational review shall inform the Elected County Executive’s proposed budget and may serve as the basis for recommendations to the Board of Supervisors regarding the creation, consolidation, transfer, or elimination of departments or major functions. 4b. To implement this recommendation, the Board of Supervisors shall:
● Direct County Counsel to prepare the necessary amendments to the Los Angeles County Administrative Code, County ordinances, or other governing provisions to establish the Elected

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8/20/2026 DRAFT
3 County Executive’s authority and responsibility for the performance management and evaluation of executive branch department heads and to reflect the Executive’s role in conducting an annual organizational review.
● Direct the current Chief Executive Officer to prepare a report assessing the County’s existing department head performance management and evaluation process, including the MAPP system and any other relevant practices, policies, roles, and procedures. The report shall document the current process, identify opportunities and considerations for the transition of this responsibility to the Elected County Executive, and be made publicly available sufficiently in advance of the inaugural Elected County Executive taking office to inform the transition and provide a clear baseline for the incoming administration.

Recommendation #5: The Elected County Executive shall serve as the County’s primary executive-branch representative for intergovernmental affairs and legislative advocacy, working in collaboration with the Board of Supervisors to advance the County’s legislative and policy priorities at the local, state, and federal levels. This responsibility shall include leading and coordinating the County’s state and federal legislative advocacy; managing relationships with state and federal elected officials, agencies, and other governmental partners; engaging and coordinating with the County’s 88 cities and unincorporated communities; and strengthening relationships with regional governmental bodies and agencies.
5a. To strengthen intergovernmental collaboration and regional coordination, the Elected County Executive shall establish a regular and structured engagement program with the elected and appointed leadership of the County’s 88 cities, representatives of unincorporated communities, and relevant regional partners. This engagement shall provide a forum to identify and understand local priorities; keep local partners informed of County policies and initiatives; strengthen coordination between the County, cities, and unincorporated communities; address shared regional challenges and service delivery issues; and, where interests align, develop coordinated legislative and policy strategies before state and federal policymakers.
5b. To support the transition of these responsibilities and further inform the development of the future intergovernmental affairs and legislative advocacy function, the Board of Supervisors shall direct the current Chief Executive Officer to prepare and make publicly available, within 90 days, a transition report assessing the existing structure, staffing, resources, responsibilities, and operations of the County’s Legislative Affairs and Intergovernmental Relations (LAIR) function. The report shall assess how the current structure supports state and federal legislative advocacy, engagement with the County’s 88 cities and unincorporated communities, and coordination with regional governmental partners, and shall provide recommendations for strengthening these functions under the new governance structure. The report shall be presented to the Elected Executive Ad Hoc Subcommittee and the Governance Reform Task Force to further inform their deliberations and allow for continued refinement of recommendations regarding the structure, responsibilities, and transition of this function before the inaugural Elected County Executive takes office.

Recommendation #6: The Elected County Executive shall establish a constituent services and public affairs function that serves as the point of coordination for executive-branch responses to community concerns, service delivery issues, and public engagement. As the government that provides critical safety-net services for residents across Los Angeles County, the County has a particular responsibility to ensure that residents can access services effectively and that departments are coordinated and accountable for responding to community needs.

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4 6a. The constituent services function shall strengthen accountability for service delivery, improve coordination across County departments, and promote timely and effective responses to residents, with particular attention to the needs of unincorporated communities, where the County serves as both the provider of regional safety-net services and the primary local government. 6b. The Elected County Executive’s constituent services function shall be designed to complement the constituent service role of the Board of Supervisors. Board Offices shall continue to advocate on behalf of their constituents, while the Elected County Executive shall focus on coordinating executive-branch action, resolving cross-departmental service issues, tracking implementation and follow-through, and improving the overall responsiveness and accountability of County government. The Elected County Executive shall establish clear performance metrics to assess the effectiveness and responsiveness of the constituent services function, including the timeliness and resolution of service requests, cross-departmental coordination, and resident experience. 6c. To support the transition of these responsibilities and further inform the development of the future constituent services function, the Board of Supervisors shall direct the current Chief Executive Officer to prepare and make publicly available, within 90 days, a transition report on the County’s Office of Unincorporated Area Services and the County’s existing and prior approaches to constituent services. ● The report shall describe the Office’s current organizational structure, staffing, resources, responsibilities, and services; assess how the Office currently coordinates with County departments and Board Offices to address the needs of unincorporated communities; and identify existing gaps or challenges in service delivery and cross-departmental coordination. ● The report shall also include a summary and assessment of constituent service systems, platforms, and coordination models that have been implemented by the County in the past, including lessons learned regarding their effectiveness, limitations, utilization, and opportunities for improvement. Where available, the assessment shall include relevant performance data and information regarding the resident experience with these systems. ● The report shall provide recommendations regarding how the County can strengthen services to unincorporated communities, improve coordination and accountability across departments, clarify responsibility for resolving cross-departmental service issues, establish effective mechanisms for residents to access and track services, and strengthen the County’s overall approach to constituent services. The report shall be presented to the Elected Executive Ad Hoc Subcommittee and the Governance Reform Task Force to further inform their deliberations and allow for continued refinement of recommendations regarding the structure, responsibilities, and transition of the future County Executive’s constituent services function.

Director of Budget & Management
Recommendation #1: Upon the installation of the inaugural Elected County Executive in 2028, the County’s core budget and fiscal stewardship functions currently housed within the Chief Executive Office shall transition to the Office of the Director of Budget and Management, consistent with the responsibilities and authorities established by Measure G. The Director of Budget and Management shall be responsible for providing the professional budget, financial, and administrative infrastructure necessary to develop and manage the County budget, promote long-term fiscal stability, and support effective stewardship of County resources. 1a. As part of the transition planning process, the current Chief Executive Office has identified a set of functions it considers to be core budget and finance operations that shall transition to the Office of the Director of Budget and Management. These include budget development and operations; budget policy

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5 and revenue alignment; finance, accounting, and financing districts; capital programs; classification and compensation; employee relations and benefits; risk management; administrative services; and asset management.
1b. The remaining functions currently housed within the Chief Executive Office that are principally executive in nature, including executive leadership, strategic initiatives, policy implementation and alignment, legislative and intergovernmental affairs, countywide communications, emergency management, and other executive management functions, shall transition to the Office of the Elected County Executive or otherwise be appropriately aligned within the executive branch.

Recommendation #2: The Board of Supervisors shall direct the current Chief Executive Officer to prepare, within 90 days, a detailed transition plan identifying the positions, personnel, resources, programs, and responsibilities associated with the functions proposed to transition to the Office of the Director of Budget and Management. The transition plan shall also identify any functions that require further evaluation because they include both budget and fiscal responsibilities and broader executive or policy responsibilities and provide recommendations regarding their appropriate placement under the new governance structure. The transition plan shall be made publicly available upon completion and presented to the Governance Reform Task Force for its review, providing the Task Force an opportunity to assess the proposed allocation of functions and make additional recommendations, if appropriate, before the new governance structure takes effect.

County Legislative Analyst
Recommendation #1: The County Legislative Analyst (CLA) shall serve as an independent, nonpartisan officer of the Board of Supervisors, providing objective policy, fiscal, operational, and legislative analysis to support the Board's legislative, budgetary, and oversight responsibilities.

The CLA shall serve both as an institutional resource to the Board of Supervisors and as an advisor to individual Board members upon request. The CLA shall also provide policy and fiscal advice to individual Board members upon request; prepare analyses of proposed ballot measures, voter initiatives, and other measures referred to the voters that have fiscal, operational, or policy implications for the County; and perform other analytical functions assigned by the Board consistent with its legislative and oversight responsibilities.

Recommendation #2: The Board of Supervisors shall establish and fund an administratively independent County Legislative Analyst’s Office as part of the FY 2027–28 budget, providing the staffing, resources, and expertise necessary to support the Board of Supervisors and the legislative process. Funding shall support the phased recruitment of expertise in budget and fiscal analysis, public policy, legislative analysis, and program evaluation, enabling the office to become operational upon the installation of the inaugural County Executive in 2028.

Recommendation #3: The Board of Supervisors shall direct the Department of Human Resources to procure an executive search firm in early 2027 to conduct a national search for the inaugural County Legislative Analyst and other key senior leadership positions in the future office of the County Legislative Analyst. Establishing a new independent office capable of supporting the Board beginning in 2028 will require a significant ramp-up period. The recruitment process for senior leadership positions shall be coordinated so that, once appointed by the Board of Supervisors, the County Legislative Analyst has the opportunity to participate in the selection of the office's senior leadership team.

Appointment of the Legislative Analyst and recruitment of senior staff in 2027 shall provide sufficient time to establish office operations, recruit additional personnel, develop analytical and operational capacity,

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6 and prepare the office to effectively support the Board once the Elected County Executive is installed in 2028.

NEXT STEPS
The recommendations contained in this memo represent a first draft for review and feedback by the full Governance Reform Task Force and the public. The Elected Executive Ad Hoc Subcommittee will use that feedback to refine the recommendations and prepare a final draft for consideration by the Governance Reform Task Force at its August 28, 2026 Special Meeting. Following additional public input and deliberation by the full Task Force, the Elected Executive Ad Hoc Subcommittee will prepare a final report and recommendations for transmittal to the Board of Supervisors in September 2026. This process is intended to provide multiple opportunities for public and Task Force input before recommendations are finalized, while maintaining sufficient time for the Board to consider and act on the recommendations and initiate the transition and implementation work necessary to prepare for the new governance structure.

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City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date: September 1, 2026
Subject: General Plan Amendment (PLAN-2026-0001), Adoption of Updates to the General Plan Open Space and Recreation, Conservation Element, and Circulation Elements
Presenter: Antonio Gardea, Assistant Director of Community Development Proposed Action: Adopt a Resolution finding the Project exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act and approving General Plan Amendment (PLAN-2026-0001), adopting updates of the Open Space and Recreation Element, Conservation Element, and Circulation Element Environmental Impact: With regards to the Circulation Element, the project is determined exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines (Common Sense Exemption), as it can be seen with certainty that the proposed activity will not have a significant effect on the environment.

With regards to the Open Space and Recreation Element and the Conservation Element, the project is determined exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines (Common Sense Exemption), as it can be seen with certainty that the proposed activity will not have a significant effect on the environment. In addition, the Project also qualifies for the Class 8 categorical exemption pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15308, which applies to actions taken by regulatory agencies for the protection of the environment.

The City has examined the Exceptions to Categorical Exemptions identified within CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2 and determined that none are applicable
Fiscal Impact: None
Background:

City Council
At the August 4, 2026 public hearing, the City Council received a staff report and presentation regarding the proposed amendments to the Open Space and Recreation, Conservation, and Circulation Elements of the City’s General Plan. At the City Council meeting, several edits to the draft Elements were called out by staff. As part of the public comments, a Trails Council representative suggested edits and described the rationale for specific revisions to the Open Space and Recreation Element. After the meeting, an email to staff outlined the suggested changes and

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additional narrative in greater detail. The latest versions of the Elements (attached) incorporate both the edits noted in the public hearing and the input received from the Trails Council representative.

Planning Commission
At the June 11, 2026 public hearing, the Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommended that the City Council find the project exempt from CEQA and approve the proposed General Plan amendments. During the public hearing, staff and the consultant team responded to questions regarding: transportation planning efforts and implementation; park acquisition, funding and recreation planning; and conservation policies, wildlife corridor protections balanced against future housing needs. The broader public outreach for the General Plan Update consisted of a community survey and workshop, a dedicated project webpage, stakeholder meetings, and advisory review in May and June by the following: Parks and Recreation Commission, Public Works and Traffic Commission, Sustainability and Resilience Commission, as well as the previously mentioned consideration by the Planning Commission.

Discussion/Analysis:

Summary
The City Council is considering adopting a Resolution approving the updated Open Space and Recreation, Conservation, and Circulation Elements of the City’s General Plan. As directed, corrections and revisions outlined at the prior public hearing are incorporated into the latest versions of these Elements (attached). The Open Space and Recreation, Conservation, and Circulation Elements of the City’s General Plan are updated to ensure consistency with statutory requirements and to reflect updated community priorities, environmental conditions, and planning practices. Each draft General Plan Element serves a distinct role in guiding the City’s long-term development and resource management.

Discussion
The update of the Circulation, Conservation, and Open Space/Recreation Elements is in response to recently adopted statutory mandates pertaining to freight movement, implementation of completed streets, wildlife connectivity, climate resilience, and equitable access to open space. As indicated above, input from the various commissions was incorporated into the respective, updated draft General Plan Elements. The Public Works and Traffic Commission provided comments and edits to the Circulation Element and the Parks and Recreation Commission had two opportunities for feedback on Open Space and Recreation Element. The Sustainability and Resilience Commission had opportunities to review all three draft Elements and provide feedback prior to the Planning Commissions consideration. The following summarize the purpose and updated content of each General Plan Element.

Open Space and Recreation Element
The Open Space and Recreation Element establishes a policy framework for preserving and enhancing parks, trails, and recreation facilities while meeting State requirements for open space planning. Although La Cañada Flintridge has limited public parks, the city benefits from a network of trails and proximity to regional resources like the Descanso Gardens and Angeles National Forest.

The update identifies opportunities to improve park access, expand recreational opportunities through partnerships, address athletic field needs, and strengthen trail connectivity. The Open Space and Recreation Element places an emphasis on enhancing parks and trails, preserving the City’s natural character, expanding recreation through shared-use facilities, and improving the trail network, while promoting climate resilience, environmental stewardship, and community health.

Conservation Element
The Conservation Element focuses on conserving La Cañada Flintridge’s natural, scenic, and cultural resources. Opportunities are identified to improve water conservation, watershed protection, habitat connectivity, climate resilience, and preservation of natural and cultural resources. The

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Conservation Element advances policies related to sustainable management of natural resources, protection of wildlife corridors and the urban forest, stewardship of historic resources and long-term environmental sustainability.

Circulation Element
The Circulation Element Update is limited to addressing statutory mandates related to multimodal transportation, identification of truck routes, and revisions to the City’s bicycle facilities, trails, and transit maps. Specific policy goals were better management of truck operations along Foothill Boulevard and maintaining goods movement to higher capacity commercial areas. Multimodal mobility, including walking, bicycling, trails, transit access, and future active transportation planning are highlighted as improvements for safety, connectivity, and access to schools, parks, and businesses.

Community facilities and public infrastructure are limited within the City. Accordingly, the updates to these Elements concentrate more on the preservation and enhancement of existing resources, creative ways to increase park space, improved system connectivity, and coordinated planning.

Options:

1. Adopt a Resolution finding the project exempt from CEQA and approve General Plan Amendment (PLAN-2026-0001), adopting updates of the General Plan’s Open Space and Recreation Element, Conservation Element, and Circulation Element; or

2. Defer action at this time.

Recommendation:

Option No. 1 - It is recommended that the City Council take the following action: Adopt a Resolution finding the Project exempt from the CEQA and approve General Plan Amendment (PLAN-2026- 0001), adopting updates of the General Plan’s Open Space and Recreation Element, Conservation Element, and Circulation Element.

Attachments:

1. City Council Resolution 26-XX (General Plan Amendment-PLAN 2026-0001)

2. Open Space Element Update - Draft

3. Conservation Element Update - Draft

4. Circulation Element Update - Draft

5. CEQA Exemption Memorandum - Conservation / Open Space & Recreation Elements

6. CEQA Exemption Memorandum - Circulation Element

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RESOLUTION NO. 26-XX
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF LA CAÑADA FLINTRIDGE CITY COUNCIL,

CALIFORNIA, FINDING THE PROJECT EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA

ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT AND APPROVING THE GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT (PLAN-2026-0001) ADOPTING AN UPDATE OF THE

GENERAL PLAN OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION ELEMENT,

CONSERVATION ELEMENT, AND CIRCULATION ELEMENT
WHEREAS, Government Code Section 65300 requires that local agencies adopt General Plans containing specific mandatory elements that provide for the comprehensive, long-term physical development of the county or city; and WHEREAS, Government Code Section 65358 permits the amendment of all or part of an adopted General Plan if the legislative body deems it to be in the public interest; and
WHEREAS, the City of La Cañada Flintridge General Plan Open Space and Recreation Element, Conservation Element, and Circulation Element was adopted in 2013 as part of the General Plan Update; and
WHEREAS, Government Code Section 65358 allows for the amendment of any mandatory element of the adopted General Plan not more than four times during any calendar year. The City’s General Plan’s Open Space and Recreation Element, Conservation Element, and Circulation Element have not been amended within calendar year 2026; therefore, the proposed amendment would not result in a violation of Government Code §65358(b); and
WHEREAS, the City now desires to update the Open Space and Recreation Element, in accordance with Government Code Section 65302(e); and WHEREAS, the City now desires to update the Conservation Element in accordance with Government Code Section 65302(d); and
WHEREAS, the City now desires to update the Circulation Element in accordance with Government Code Section 65302(b); and
WHEREAS, the City Council reviewed the General Plan Conservation Element and Open Space and Recreation Element Updates and finds that the Project consists of policy-level updates that do not authorize development, construction activities, or physical changes to the environment; and further finds, based on the whole record, that there is no possibility that the Project may have a significant effect on the environment and, therefore, the Project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption). In addition, the project qualified for the Section 15308 (Class 8 Categorical Exemption) which applies

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to actions taken by a regulatory agency for the protection of the environment.

WHEREAS, the City Council reviewed the General Plan Circulation Element Update and finds that the Project consists of policy-level updates that do not authorize development, construction activities, or physical changes to the environment; and further finds, based on the whole record, that there is no possibility that the Project may have a significant effect on the environment and, therefore, the Project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption).

WHEREAS, pursuant to Senate Bill 18 a formal notice was sent to California Native American Tribes of the opportunity to consult on the City’s General Plan Update.

WHEREAS, a community survey was conducted from September 24, 2025, until November 4, 2025; a community workshop was held for the public on October 28, 2025; a presentation to Parks and Recreation Commission was held on November 12, 2025; and a meeting with Arroyo Foothill Conservancy on November 24, 2025 as part of a comprehensive public outreach and stakeholder engagement process.

WHEREAS, the documents were posted online and open to public review from May 21, 2026 to August 4, 2026 for consideration by the Parks and Recreation Commission, Public Works and Traffic Commission and the Sustainability and Resilience Commission at their respective regular meetings; and
WHEREAS, on June 11, 2026, at a duly noticed public hearing, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 26-25 recommending that the City Council approve the General Plan Amendments; and
WHEREAS, on August 4, 2026, the City Council conducted a public hearing on the General Plan Amendments, and has heard and considered the testimony of the public; including any written correspondence received, with all testimony received being made a part of the public record; and
WHEREAS, all legal prerequisites to the adoption of this Resolution have occurred.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA CAÑADA

FLINTRIDGE, CALIFORNIA, DOES HEREBY RESOLVE, DETERMINE, AND ORDER AS FOLLOWS:

Section 1. The above recitals above are true and correct, and incorporated herein by reference.

Section 2. CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT. Based upon the foregoing facts and based upon substantial evidence, the City Council find as follows:

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a. With regards to the Circulation Element, pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) and the City’s Local CEQA Guidelines, an Exemption Memorandum for the project was prepared where it was determined that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment.

Based on that determination the project is exempt from CEQA pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines (Common Sense Exemption). b. With regards to the Open Space and Recreation Element and the Conservation Element, pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) and the City’s Local CEQA Guidelines, an Exemption Memorandum for the project was prepared where it was determined that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment. Based on that determination the project is exempt from CEQA pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines (Common Sense Exemption). In addition, the Project also qualifies for the Class 8 categorical exemption pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15308, which applies to actions taken by regulatory agencies for the protection of the environment. The project will conserve biological resources and open space, support wildlife movements and habitat connectivity, promote climate resilience and sustainable resource management strategies, preserve parks, recreational resources and natural systems and minimize environmental impacts associated with future land use and development decisions. The City has examined the Exceptions to Categorical Exemptions identified within CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2 and determined that none are applicable. c. The City Council finds that there is no substantial evidence that the revisions and updates to the General Plan Circulation, Conservation, and Open Space and Recreation Elements will have a significant effect on the environment and that the General Plan amendments are exempt from CEQA.
d. The custodian of records for the Exemption Memorandum and all other materials which constitute the record of proceedings upon which the City Council’s decision is based, is the Director of Community Development of the City of La Cañada Flintridge. Those documents are available for public review at the Planning Division of the City of La Cañada Flintridge located at One Civic Center Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, California, 91011, telephone (818) 790-8881.

Section 3. Findings for General Plan Amendment: The City Council hereby finds as follows:
a. The Open Space and Recreation Element Update is consistent with the goals, objective and policies of the General Plan, including OSRE Goal 1.0: Create an integrated, connected system of parks, recreation facilities, open space, and trails that serve residents of all ages and abilities while protecting the City’s natural resources, OSRE Policy 1.1: Plan, develop, and maintain a cohesive parkland system that balances active recreation, passive open space, trails, and natural resource protection and reflects community needs and demographic trends, OSRE Goal 2.0: Preserve, protect, and enhance open space areas within and adjacent to the City to maintain hillside

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character, conserve scenic and natural landscapes, support public health and safety, and promote climate resilience, OSRE Policy 2.1: Conserve and manage open space through land use designation, development controls, and coordinated planning to maintain hillside character, protect scenic landscapes, and support compatible lowimpact public access, and OSRE Policy 1.3: Strengthen physical and functional connections between parks, open spaces, trails, neighborhoods, schools, and regional destinations through coordinated pedestrian, bicycle, and trail planning. b. The Conservation Element Update is consistent with the goals, objective and policies of the General Plan, including CNE GOAL 1.0: Preserve and conserve natural resources in the community, CNE Goal 2: Preserve and strengthen habitat connectivity, native ecosystems, and the urban forest to support biodiversity, climate resilience, and community safety while balancing wildfire risk reduction, CNE Policy 2.1:

Protect and enhance biological resources, including native vegetation communities, wildlife habitat, and ecological connectivity while balancing wildfire safety and protection of life and property, CNE Action 2.1.3: Require, through applicable zoning, development standards, and environmental review processes, that new development adjacent to sensitive biological resources or open space areas incorporates appropriate buffers, habitat-sensitive site design, and native landscaping compatible with adjacent ecosystems, while meeting wildfire defensible space requirements, and CNE GOAL 3:

Preserve natural landforms, scenic resources, and community character that define the foothill setting.
c. The Circulation Element Update is consistent with the goals, objective and policies of the General Plan, including CE GOAL 1: Maintain a safe, multi-modal, efficient, economical, and aesthetically pleasing circulation system providing for the circulation of people, goods, and services to serve the existing and future needs of the City of La Cañada Flintridge, CE Objective 1.1: Assure that local and regional traffic demands are met in a way that is consistent with and preserves the City’s character as reflected in Vision 2030, CE Policy 1.1.1: Establish and maintain a circulation network that supports the Land Use Element of the General Plan, CE GOAL 3: Provide and maintain public infrastructure and utilities that support existing and planned land uses and development in a cost-effective and responsible manner, CE GOAL 6: Promote active and multimodal (non-motorized) transportation and CE Objective 6.4: Implement multi-modal transportation actions that support a balanced transportation system, improve accessibility and safety for all users, and reduce reliance on single-occupancy vehicle travel.

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Section 4. Based on the above findings, the City Council adopts General Plan Amendment (PLAN-2026-0001) for updates of the General Plan Open Space and Recreation Element, Conservation Element, and Circulation Element.

PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 4
th day of August, 2026.
________________________________
Jeanne Kim Hobson
Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________
Tania Garcia
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

ALESHIRE & WYNDER, LLP
______________________________
Adrian Guerra, City Attorney

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Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................ 4 PARKLAND TYPOLOGY .................................................................................................................................. 7 TRAIL SYSTEM .............................................................................................................................................. 12 COMMUNITY FACILITIES .............................................................................................................................. 15 PARK LAND GAP ANALYSIS .......................................................................................................................... 18 URBAN TREE CANOPY ................................................................................................................................. 24 GOALS, POLICIES, AND ACTIONS ............................................................................................................... 29

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INTRODUCTION
The Open Space and Recreation Element of the City of La Cañada Flintridge complies with California Government Code Sections 65560 and 65302(e) by providing a framework to preserve, manage, and enhance open spaces, including natural resources, recreation areas, and scenic and historic landscapes, thus contributing to health and wellbeing of the community.

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INTRODUCTION
The City of La Cañada Flintridge is home to extensive natural open spaces, public parks, and areas dedicated to both public and private recreational facilities and trails. The City is strategically positioned between the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains and the Angeles National Forest to the north, and the San Rafael Hills to the south.

Since its incorporation, the community has prioritized the preservation and protection of its open space areas.

The City encompasses approximately 943 acres of parkland, which includes all areas designated as Parks and Recreation and Open Space on the Land Use Map. Of these, 6.75 acres are categorized as public parks. Many of the undeveloped private lands, generally designated as Hillside Residential, are located on steep and visually prominent hillsides. These hillsides are home to significant environmental and aesthetic resources and are traversed by numerous hiking, bicycling, and equestrian trails.

In addition to the open spaces within the City, substantial recreational facilities and open spaces are nearby, including the Angeles National Forest and the Hahamongna Watershed Park in Pasadena. The City's robust trail system connects to an extensive network of trails in Pasadena, Glendale, Altadena, other unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County, and the Angeles National Forest.

Purpose
The purpose of the Open Space and Recreation Element is to create a framework guiding present and future decisions and investments in parks, trails, recreation, and community facilities across the City of La Cañada Flintridge, contributing to a high quality of life for residents. This element will set goals and policies to preserve, manage, and develop open spaces within the City. It aims to support residents' objectives to preserve and expand the City's natural open spaces, recreation areas, and trails.

The City of La Cañada Flintridge is a built-out city, which makes it challenging to find vacant land for parks, recreation, and trail system expansion. Therefore, the Open Space and Recreation Element aims to support the development and improvement of these facilities by focusing its goals and policies on preserving the existing facilities while finding new ways to add more of these spaces creatively.

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Relationship with Other Elements
The Open Space and Recreation Element was developed to safeguard and effectively manage the open space resources and community facilities in the City of La Cañada Flintridge. This element aligns with other elements of the General Plan by implementing cohesive goals and guiding principles. In particular:
 Land Use Element: The Land Use Element outlines the proposed uses of land, their intensity, and their location. The Land Use Element supports and complements the Open Space and Recreation Element by designating parcels for parks, recreation, and open space uses, and by aligning land use goals and policies to protect, manage, and enhance these areas.
 Circulation Element: The Open Space and Recreation Element may help plan for trails, bike routes, and pedestrian routes. The intercorrelation among these elements enables a well-integrated transportation network and promotes the use of open spaces.  Housing Element: The Open Space and Recreation Element contributes to the Housing Element by planning parks, recreation, and open space areas that new housing developments can benefit from, ensuring residents have access to open spaces and enhancing their quality of life.  Conservation Element: The Open Space and Recreation Element and Conservation Element are interconnected, both focusing on the preservation and management of spaces. However, while the Conservation Element focuses on preserving natural resources, the Open Space and Recreation Element supports these efforts by designating protected areas and promoting environmentally responsible land management practices.
 Safety Element: The Open Space and Recreation Element can complement the Safety Element by preserving or proposing green spaces that mitigate natural hazards, such as floodplains, excessive heat, and fire-prone areas. It also supports community resilience by providing open areas for emergency evacuation or as buffer zones in disaster-prone regions.  Noise Element: The Open Space and Recreation Element can serve to maintain natural buffer zones and green spaces that mitigate noise pollution, complementing the goals of the Noise Element.  Air Quality Element: The Open Space and Recreation Element may complement the Air Quality Element by creating policies and goals that preserve open space to reduce pollution.

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EXISTING CONDITIONS ANALYSIS

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PARKL AND TYPOLOGY
Parks and open spaces play a crucial role in the City of La Cañada Flintridge, providing areas for recreation, relaxation, social gatherings, and outdoor enjoyment. To ensure these areas cater to various needs, cities commonly categorize parks by their size, intended use, and the populations they serve. Generally, cities feature a variety of park types, including mini parks, neighborhood parks, community parks, regional parks, and linear parks.

The City of La Cañada Flintridge is home to a variety of parks and open space areas that provide recreational
opportunities for its residents. The City consists of six parks, 18 trails, and five open space areas, including the Descanso Gardens and the La Cañada Flintridge Country
Club. The City is also in close proximity to the Angeles National Forest, Hahamongna Watershed Park, the San
Rafael Mountains Open Space, and the Verdugo
Mountains Open Space Preserves. The City’s close proximity to these open spaces and the national forest adds not only to the recreational opportunities for the residents but also contributes to their health and wellbeing.

Subsequent sections, FIGURE 1, and TABLE 1 documents various parks in the City of La Cañada Flintridge.

Mini Parks
Mini parks are typically less than an acre in size and
are usually located within dense neighborhoods,
making them a very short walking distance from
residences, usually 5-minutes. These parks generally
have limited facilities, such as benches, restrooms,
and playgrounds. These may also be used as dog
parks.

The City of La Cañada Flintridge has a total of four mini parks: Glenhaven Park, Mayors’ Discovery Park,
Winery Channel Trailhead Park, and Olberz Park.

Glenhaven Park is equipped with tennis courts, a
playground, and restrooms, catering to both active
and passive recreational needs. Olberz Park provides
benches and a gazebo, offering peaceful spots for
relaxation. Mayors’ Discovery Park has been
enhanced with new recreational activities including
outdoor exercise equipment, a kids playing ground,
bocce/mixed use court, board game tables, and a
small performance stage with access to electricity. Although these parks are not the largest in size, as shown in TABLE 1, they offer a variety of amenities that enhance the community’s quality of life.

A PARK is a designated open space for public
recreation and leisure, typically improved with
amenities such as lawns, play areas, and sports
or picnic facilities. Unlike trails, which are
primarily linear corridors for movement, parks
serve as destinations for play, relaxation, and
community gathering.

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Neighborhood Parks
Neighborhood parks are typically a few acres in size, ranging from one to ten acres, and generally serve residents within a 10- to 15-minute walk of their homes. These parks often feature playgrounds, restrooms, benches, walking paths, and sometimes basketball or tennis courts. The City of La Cañada Flintridge has two neighborhood parks: Memorial Park and Glenola Park. Memorial Park features a playground for children and convenient restrooms. Glenola Park provides benches and a small gazebo, offering peaceful spots for relaxation.

Community Parks
Community parks typically serve more than one
neighborhood and can range from 10 to 40 acres.

These parks usually offer a wide array of amenities,
including playgrounds, paths, trails, restrooms, picnic areas, and multiple sports facilities. They are often
located within 2 to 3 miles of the neighborhoods they
serve. The City of La Cañada Flintridge has no
community parks at this point.

Regional Parks
Regional parks are typically more than 40 acres and
serve more than just one neighborhood or City. These
parks often feature picnic areas, athletic fields, event spaces, natural areas, and may have historical
features. While the City of La Cañada Flintridge does
not have a regional park, it is situated near
Hahamongna Regional Park to the south, providing
residents with an accessible recreational park.

Linear Parks
Linear parks are typically less than 20 acres and are
typically known for their greenway and length. These parks tend to be narrow and run along City edges, major corridors, and large developments. These parks often include seating, trails, picnic areas, and lots of shade.

The Southern California Edison easement within the City of La Cañada Flintridge may fit in this category, but it is not owned by the City. However, many residents within the City of La Cañada Flintridge consider the numerous trails within the City to be linear parks.

Other Open Space
The City of La Cañada Flintridge is situated near several prominent open spaces that fulfill multiple roles.  protect natural resources, such as plant and animal habitats and waterways  preserve important viewsheds
 support resource protection, including groundwater recharge zones  serve as electrical transmission corridors
 offer both active and passive recreational opportunities

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 support public health and safety by including debris basins, watersheds, unstable soil areas, and high wildfire risk zones, and limiting development in these areas The Angeles National Forest lies to the north and east of the City, while the Hahamongna Watershed Park is located southeast of the City boundary. Within the City, both public and private parks are available. These include Descanso Gardens, Cherry Canyon, and La Cañada Flintridge Country Club.

Angeles National Forest:

The City of La Cañada Flintridge borders the Angeles
National Forest, providing accessible parkland within
close proximity to La Cañada Flintridge residents.

National parks and national forests are established by
an act of Congress. Proposals for these designations
can come from the public, local or state officials,
Indian tribes, members of Congress, or the National
Park Service. To be considered, the proposed areas
must possess nationally significant natural, cultural,
or recreational resources. They must also be
sustainable, feasible, and require management by the
National Park Service.

Hahamongna Watershed Park
Hahamongna Watershed Park, located in the City of
Pasadena, borders La Cañada High School and
spans more than 1,300 acres in the Arroyo Seco. This
regional park serves Pasadena, La Cañada Flintridge,
and neighboring cities. Within Hahamongna, visitors can enjoy athletic fields, bridle paths, bicycles, and hiking trails, as well as picnic and barbecue areas.

Gould Canyon/Lukens Connection Open Space
The Gould Canyon Open Space is a natural area with multiple hiking and other outdoor trails. It features rolling hills and scenic views. The Lukens Connection Trail runs through the open space area north and south.

Descanso Gardens
Spanning approximately 150 acres, Descanso Gardens is a nationally accredited botanical garden recognized as a “museum of living collections” that is owned by the County of Los Angeles. It is home to a diverse array of native and exotic plants and offers residents and visitors the opportunity to explore historical exhibits, walk along its paths, and enjoy vibrant seasonal blooms.

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Cherry Canyon
Located adjacent to Descanso Gardens, Cherry Canyon spans approximately 137 acres. It features an extensive network of trails that weave through its terrain, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Within Cherry Canyon is the Ultimate Destination Vista Point and Rest Area, which provides shade, drinking water, an equestrian hitching rail, and two picnic tables for people to enjoy.

La Cañada Country Club
This is a premier recreational facility situated in the scenic foothills of the City of La Cañada Flintridge. The approximately 88-acre private club maintains an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, a swimming pool, fitness facilities, and dining options.

Winery Canyon Open Space
Positioned in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, Winery Canyon Open Space encompasses approximately 343 acres. Through Winery Canyon Open Space runs the Hall Beckley Canyon Trail in its southern portion.

TABLE 1: PARKS AND OPEN SPACE
Park/Open Space Name Acres
Parks in the City
Mayor’s Discovery Park 0.94 acres
Glenhaven Park 0.47 acres
Olberz Park 0.75 acres
Memorial Park 1.65 acres
Glenola Park 1.13 acres
Winery Channel Trailhead Park 1.81 acres
Park Total 6.75 acres
Other Open Space
Descanso Gardens 150 acres
Cherry Canyon Park 137 acres
La Cañada Country Club 88 acres
Winery Canyon Open Space 343 acres
La Cañada Flintridge City Open Space* 5.4 acres
Gould Canyon/Luckens Connection 64 acres
Los Angeles County Flood Control District 88.25 acres
US Government – Angeles National Forest 44 acres
Southern California Edison Easement** 17 acres
Open Space Total 936.65 acres
TOTAL Acreage 943.4
Note: The table excludes Hahamongna Watershed Park and portions of the Angeles National Forest outside of the City boundaries.

The acreages are based on the GIS Data provided by the City of La Cañada Flintridge. These may differ from previous versions of the General Plan.
* City-owned vacant hillside property.
**Owned by Southern California Edison. Acreage is approximate.

Source: County of Los Angeles and City of La Cañada Flintridge, GIS Data

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FIGURE 1: OPEN SPACE IN LA CAÑADA FLINTRIDGE
Source: Southern California Association of Governments, City of La Cañada Flintridge

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TRAIL SYSTEM
Trails are an important part of La Cañada Flintridge and have existed in the City since its settlement. When the hills of Flintridge were originally subdivided in the 1920s, bridle paths were included in the subdivision plans.

Additionally, in 1996, the American Hiking Society designated the City of La Cañada Flintridge as a "Trail Town, USA," ranking it among the top ten towns in the country. In creating the Core Circular Trail, a 12-mile continuous loop around the town, the City was twice honored by the Annual California Trails and Greenways Conference for completing two final trail sections. The Indiana Overpass Link, spanning the 210 Freeway, and the Trails Council Link, the final chapter in a forty-year effort to connect the northern and southern trails of the City that were divided by the construction of the 210 Freeway in 1970. The City's local trail network is connected to a broader system of regional trails throughout the Santa Monica Mountains, providing opportunities for extended recreation, outdoor access, and connectivity. These regional trail corridors ultimately link to the Pacific Crest Trail, one of the nation's most significant long-distance recreational trails.

The City has placed a high priority on the preservation, maintenance, and expansion of the trail system within the City and in 2006 adopted the City of La Cañada Flintridge Trails Master Plan. This Master Plan was developed with the guidance of the 2002 Ad Hoc City Committee and created by then Mayor Anthony Portantino. Committee Members included representatives from the LCF Trails Council, LA County Riding Club and Hiking Trails, Southern California Edison, City Staff, and City Council. The document was completed and adopted by the City in 2006. The Trails Council is a nonprofit, volunteer organization founded in 1974, just two years before the official incorporation of the City of La Cañada Flintridge. The Trails Council spearheads many projects, including maintenance and trail restoration, funded through donations, including those from the City.

La Cañada Flintridge has 19 trails totaling approximately 23 miles. TABLE 2 and FIGURE 2 break down the trails located within the City and the length of each trail. The Trails Council, in coordination with the City, is updating the Trails Master Plan as of this writing.

TABLE 2: EXISTING TRAILS
Park/Open Space Name Length (Miles) Trail Type
Cerro Negro Trail 1.16 miles Equestrian, Pedestrian, Bicycle Cherry Canyon Fire Road 1.14 miles Equestrian, Pedestrian, Bicycle Conservancy Trail 0.7 miles Equestrian, Pedestrian, Bicycle Descanso Trail 1.8 miles Equestrian, Pedestrian, Bicycle Flint Canyon Trail 2.4 miles Equestrian, Pedestrian, Bicycle Gateway Link Trail 0.35 miles Equestrian, Pedestrian, Bicycle Hall Beckley Canyon/ Earl Canyon Mtwy.

Trail

3.61 miles Equestrian, Pedestrian, Bicycle
Georgian Spur Trail 0.18 miles Equestrian, Pedestrian, Bicycle Gould Canyon Trail 2.9 miles Equestrian, Pedestrian, Bicycle Horse Lane Trail 0.56 miles Equestrian, Pedestrian, Bicycle La Cañada Open Space Trail (previously
Cross Town Trail)

3.7 miles Equestrian, Pedestrian, Bicycle
Liz’s Loop Trail 0.39 miles Equestrian, Pedestrian, Bicycle Lukens Connection Trail 0.2 miles Equestrian, Pedestrian, Bicycle Owl Trail 0.5 miles Equestrian, Pedestrian, Bicycle
Sister City Friendship Path 0.3 miles Equestrian, Pedestrian, Bicycle Trails Council Link 0.5 miles Equestrian, Pedestrian, Bicycle

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Park/Open Space Name Length (Miles) Trail Type
Ultimate Destination Trail 0.3 miles to 0.5 miles Equestrian, Pedestrian, Bicycle Rockridge Terrace 0.69 miles Equestrian, Pedestrian, Bicycle Forest Hill Fire Road Trail 0.7 Miles Equestrian, Pedestrian, Bicycle TOTAL Acreage 22.28
Source: Trails Council and City of La Cañada Flintridge Note: Motorized vehicles are not allowed on trails except for maintenance purposes.

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FIGURE 2: TRAILS MAP

Source: City of La Cañada Flintridge

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COMMUNITY FACILITIES
The Open Space and Recreation Element evaluates community facilities, including schools, athletic fields, libraries, and community centers, within the City of La Cañada Flintridge. By assessing these facilities, the City can evaluate current availability, plan for future needs, and either preserve existing facilities or establish agreements for their use. Given that the City is built out, creating new spaces and facilities may be challenging, making it even more important to use and maintain existing facilities effectively. Community facilities are essential for residents, providing valuable recreational opportunities and enhancing the quality of life in the City.

Schools
Within the City of La Cañada Flintridge, there are 12 schools, of which only 4 are public. The school breakdown within the City can be seen in TABLE 3 below. Schools are essential components of a community, bringing everyone together, not just families with children. Many times, these schools serve as meeting grounds; they are often located near parks, playgrounds, and athletic fields, making them ideal locations for additional services such as food drives, health fairs, and more. The City of La Cañada Flintridge is served by the La Cañada Unified School District, which includes three elementary schools, a middle school, and a high school that share a campus. The City of La Cañada Flintridge and La Cañada Unified School District have a joint use agreement, which is discussed further in the Recreation section of this Element.

TABLE 3: SCHOOLS IN LA CAÑADA FLINTRIDGE
School Name School Type
La Cañada Middle/High School Public
La Cañada Elementary School Public
Paradise Canyon Elementary School Public
Palm Crest Elementary School Public
Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy Private
Flintridge Preparatory School Private
Foothill Progressive Montessori School Private
La Canada Preparatory School Private
Hogg's Hollow Preschool & Kindergarten Private
St. Francis High School Private
Crestview Preparatory School Private
St. Bede the Venerable Catholic School Private
Lighted Window Preschool Non-Profit
Source:City of La Cañada Flintridge
Libraries and Community Centers
The City of La Cañada Flintridge only has one library located at 4545 North Oakwood Avenue, serviced by the Los Angeles County Library Department, and one Community Center located at 4469 Chevy Chase Drive (see FIGURE 3). The Community Center, a property owned by the City, is operated by the non-profit organization Community Center of La Cañada Flintridge. They offer programs for all ages, including ceramic classes, S.T.E.M. programs for children, sports and fitness activities, arts programs, and camps during summer and school breaks. These programs provide residents with opportunities to engage with their community and stay active.

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Active Recreation
Active recreation involves more vigorous, structured activities, often played in organized teams, such as baseball, soccer, and football. The City of La Cañada Flintridge has ten athletic fields (see FIGURE 3 and TABLE 4) that are available for public use through collaboration with the La Cañada Unified School District and an agreement with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints to utilize their athletic fields as joint use facilities.

The trails are generally used for passive recreation and leisure activities that do not require intensive physical effort, such as walking. However, many residents and local teams in La Cañada Flintridge use the trail system for equestrian sports, cross-country, cycling, and running, making it part of the City's active recreational facilities.

Each year, the City releases a master field use schedule for community sports groups in coordination with La Cañada Unified School District and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and allocates field permits to sports groups. Additionally, there are limitations on field use at the La Cañada High School Oak Grove Athletic Field, which allows use only for soccer and for children 8 and under. Similarly, the Cornishon Athletic Field allows only children 12 and under for specific activities, and the Latter-Day Saints Athletic Field is available to children 12 and under and is not open to the public on Sundays. The school fields are closed during the La Cañada Unified School District winter break. The 2025 amendment to the joint-use agreement between the City and La Cañada Unified School District adjusted field hours, shifting weekday use to start later and reserving certain fields for school sports, thereby reducing public access time. The City’s Administrative Services Department and the Joint Use Committee must balance limited field availability against high demand from schools, community programs, and private sports teams.

TABLE 4: RECREATION FACILITIES IN LA CAÑADA FLINTRIDGE
Location Field Type Public Usage of School Facilities (Hours) On School Days On No-School Days
La Cañada High School
Athletic Fields (Varsity, JV,
Oak Grove)
Soccer, Football, Baseball
Monday, Wednesday, Friday
5:30 PM – 11:00 PM
Tuesdays and Thursdays
6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
7:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Cornishon Athletic Field
Tennis Courts, Pickleball
Courts, Baseball 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM FIS Athletic Field (Upper and
Lower Field)
Baseball, Soccer
Upper Field
3:15 PM – 11:00 PM
Lower Field
5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
7:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Paradise Canyon
Elementary Athletic Field
Soccer, Basketball 4:45 PM – 11:00 PM 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM La Cañada Elementary
Athletic Field
Baseball, Basketball 4:45 PM – 11:00 PM 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM Latter-Day Saints Athletic
Field
Baseball Monday – Saturday
non-school hours 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Source: City of La Cañada Flintridge

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FIGURE 3: COMMUNITY FACILITIES MAP
Source: City of La Cañada Flintridge

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PARK LAND GAP ANALYSIS
A parkland gap analysis is used to identify areas or demographic groups within a community that lack adequate access to parks and recreational open spaces. It compares where parks currently exist with where people live and how easily they can reach them, using measures such as walking distance (e.g., a 10-minute walk), population density, and demographic or equity indicators.

Park Ratio per 1,000 Residents
The City of La Cañada Flintridge has 6.75 acres of public park space for its population of 20,573 (2020 Decennial Census). This translates to a ratio of 0.33 park acres per 1,000 residents. The Los Angeles County average is 3.3 park acres per 1,000 residents1. Additionally, according to the National Recreation and Park Association’s 2025 Agency Performance Review, a typical park and recreation agency in the U.S. manages 10.2 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents. The National Recreation and Park Association is an independent, nonprofit organization and is the primary professional organization within park planning. Based on County and National Park acreage-to-resident ratios, the City lacks sufficient parkland for its population. However, the City has more than 800 acres of open space and 24 miles of trails that residents may access or have visual relief from urban development. While these are not traditional parkland spaces in terms of usability, they provide recreational opportunities such as trails for residents to enjoy (See TABLE 1 and TABLE 2). As part of the Open Space and Recreation Element, the City may assess existing parks and their infrastructure to ensure equitable access and to maintain the quality and accessibility of the City's limited park space. 5-minute and 10-minute Walkshed
A 5-minute (quarter mile) and 10-minute (half mile) walkshed assessment was conducted to further evaluate residents’ access to six parks and ten trailheads within the City of La Cañada Flintridge (See FIGURE 4 and FIGURE 5). The parks in La Cañada Flintridge are located close together on the west side of the city, near the central area and Interstate 210. Therefore, only 59 percent of residents are within a 5- or 10-minute walkshed of parks within the city, according to Park Serve2. However, due to the City’s proximity to open spaces and parks outside the city boundary, residents may access parks that are not within the city limits.

According to FIGURE 4, there are gaps in park access in the northern and southern parts of the city. To the north, Hall Beckley Canyon and Webber Canyon, along with some trails and the Angeles National Forest outside the City limits, may provide access points within a quarter- or half-mile radius. Nevertheless, not all residents are near these access points, making these spaces more of a visual relief than usable green spaces. To the south, Cherry Canyon Park and Hahamongna Watershed Park, just outside the city boundary, offer additional green spaces for residents in the southern portion of the city. To the northeast is La Cañada Flintridge Country Club, which, despite an entrance fee, may still provide visual relief for nearby residents.

The city also has various trails and open spaces. FIGURE 5 shows access to trails via trailheads within 5- and 10-minute walking distance. If trailheads and open spaces were considered, residents' access to parks across the city would significantly increase due to the extensive open spaces and trails within and near the city limits.

Note that informal trail access has not been included in this analysis, although it may substantially increase access to parks and recreation.
1 Los Angeles County. Countywide Comprehensive Park & Recreation Needs Assessment: Appendix A- City of La Cañada Flintridge, Study Area Profile. Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation, May 3, 2016. 2 Trust for Public Land. ParkServe. Available at: https://www.tpl.org/parkserve. Accessed January 22, 2026.

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FIGURE 6 highlights priority areas for new park development in the La Cañada Flintridge region by integrating environmental, health, and demographic indicators based on the data provided by ParkServe. The areas marked in purple, particularly in the central and southeastern parts of the City, are identified as having the greatest need for additional park space. These areas also experience overlapping challenges, such as high heat exposure, elevated rates of physical inactivity, and older adults and children. According to the American Community Survey (2021), La Cañada Flintridge’s population includes approximately 15 percent aged 65 and older and 26 percent under 19, representing residents who often have limited access to personal vehicles.

These age groups depend more heavily on walkable connections, nearby parks, and trail networks to reach recreation areas safely and independently, underscoring the need for well-connected, accessible open space throughout the city. Expanding green spaces in these zones would not only enhance equitable access to recreation but also help mitigate environmental health risks like urban heat and air pollution.

Equitable Access to Parks
In light of Senate Bill (SB) 1425 (2023), which requires cities to address equitable access to parks, open space, and recreational facilities as part of their General Plan updates, La Cañada Flintridge must ensure that all residents, regardless of income, age, or ability, have fair access to quality recreational opportunities. While the CalEnviroScreen tool shows no disadvantaged communities within the City, equity extends beyond socioeconomic status to include fairness across age groups and abilities. SB 1425 highlights the importance of equitable park distribution, accessibility, and amenities to prevent disparities and to ensure that children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities have equal opportunities to enjoy safe, high-quality parks and open spaces.

La Cañada Flintridge has a Walk Score of 34 out of 100 and a Bike Score of 25 out of 1003, indicating it is largely car-dependent with limited pedestrian and cycling infrastructure. The city’s hilly terrain and dispersed land-use pattern make walking and biking less convenient, highlighting the need for improved active-transportation connections to parks, schools, and neighborhood destinations.

Los Angeles County 2022 Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment According to the Los Angeles County 2022 Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Plus, West San Gabriel Valley Regional Study Area Profile Report, the majority of La Cañada Flintridge residents live within a 5-mile drive of a regional recreation park. The entire city is within a 5-mile drive of a Nature-Based Recreation Area entry point. The report also indicates that a significant portion of La Cañada Flintridge residents are within a

0.5-mile walk and a 2.5-mile bicycle ride of a trailhead or access point. Residents of La Cañada Flintridge with vehicles and bicycles may have greater access to green spaces, as they can reach them faster than individuals without a vehicle. Overall, the City of La Cañada Flintridge is well positioned near green spaces.

3 Walk Score. Cities and Neighborhoods. Available at: https://www.walkscore.com/cities-and-neighborhoods/. Accessed January 22, 2026.

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FIGURE 4: 5- AND 10-MINUTE WALKSHED FROM PARKS
Source: City of La Cañada Flintridge, Kimley-Horn

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FIGURE 5: 5- AND 10-MINUTE WALKSHED FROM TRAIL HEADS

Source: City of La Cañada Flintridge, Kimley-Horn

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FIGURE 6: PRIORITY AREAS FOR PARKS
Source: Healthy Place Index

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Gap in Athletic Fields
The lack of City-owned athletic fields and dependence on shared facilities with schools and churches indicate a shortage of athletic fields, especially for teams serving children 12 and older, who must seek opportunities outside the city amid an already constrained supply of athletic fields in neighboring jurisdictions. Non-residents must pay surcharges to use athletic facilities in nearby cities such as Pasadena and Glendale, where local priority policies limit access to fields for outside users.

According to each City’s Open Space and Recreation
Element, both jurisdictions face limited availability of athletic fields relative to community demand.

Pasadena notes a shortage of regulation-sized fields
and scheduling conflicts among youth leagues, while
Glendale identifies capacity constraints and high
utilization rates across its sports fields. Consequently, regional access to athletic fields remains
competitive, further restricting options for La Cañada
Flintridge teams seeking practice or game space
outside City limits.

As part of the General Plan, it is important to explore creative, multifaceted strategies to expand access to athletic fields in a largely built-out community. Potential approaches may include partnerships with the La Cañada Unified School District for expanded joint-use agreements, repurposing underutilized public land or community spaces for multi-functional recreation, or investing in alternative turf and lighting upgrades to extend play hours on existing fields. The City may also explore opportunities for strategic land acquisition to develop new athletic facilities, particularly in areas underserved by parkland or active recreation space.

Additional strategies could include shared-use partnerships with neighboring jurisdictions or organizations, as well as the potential use of utility corridors or easements for informal recreational uses. Collectively, these options could help address growing community demand, particularly for youth sports, and align with long-term goals to enhance equitable access to high-quality recreational amenities.

Promoting Health and Well-Being
Access to open spaces, parks, trails, and nature reserves plays a crucial role in enhancing public health.

Access to these areas encourages physical activity, which can help reduce the risk of obesity, heart disease, and other chronic conditions. Additionally, spending time in natural settings has been shown to reduce stress, improve mental health, and boost overall well-being. Green spaces also provide social benefits by serving as communal areas where people can gather, fostering a sense of community and social cohesion. The Open Space and Recreation element can serve as a tool for planning these types of spaces and promoting health and well-being. The availability and accessibility of open spaces are vital for promoting both physical and mental health in communities.

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URBAN TREE CANOPY
Urban Heat Island Impact
The Urban Heat Island Effect is the phenomenon in which urbanized regions experience higher ambient temperatures than nearby rural areas. This temperature disparity results from the replacement of natural vegetation with materials such as concrete, asphalt,
and buildings. La Cañada Flintridge's 2024 Climate
Action Plan sets a goal of conducting a heat study and
mapping the results to identify areas within the City
that could be classified as urban heat islands.

Elevated temperatures pose significant health risks
and place considerable strain on local infrastructure.

Increased reliance on air conditioning can overwhelm
the power grid, leading to energy shortages and higher
emissions.

Urban tree canopy is the amount of shade produced
by a tree or group of trees. The United States
Department of Agriculture Forest Services, in
partnership with the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the
California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection
(CAL FIRE), developed a statewide Urban Tree Canopy database for California. According to this data, the City of La Cañada Flintridge has a 35.8% urban tree canopy, covering 1,983.8 acres. In comparison, Los Angeles County has about 20% urban canopy cover. As seen in FIGURE 7, the majority of the City has some tree canopy cover with higher tree canopy coverage in the southern portion of the City.

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FIGURE 7: URBAN TREE CANOPY
Source:U.S Department of Agriculture

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Wildfire Versus Tree Canopy
In a very high fire hazard zone, having a dense tree canopy without proper upkeep can significantly increase the risk of wildfires. Overgrown and poorly maintained trees can accumulate dead branches, leaves, and other debris, all of which create highly flammable fuel that can easily ignite and spread a fire. This not only endangers the natural landscape but also poses severe threats to structures and the safety of the community. Therefore, it is crucial to strike a balance between preserving open spaces and tree canopies and ensuring sufficient fire safety measures. Regular tree maintenance, such as trimming, removal of dead wood, and creation of defensible spaces, helps mitigate these hazards. By adopting a proactive approach to tree management, the City can maintain its green spaces and natural beauty while prioritizing the safety and well-being of its residents and infrastructure.

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection develops wildfire hazard severity maps that identify areas at elevated wildfire risk and the agencies responsible for emergency response within those zones. The entire City of La Cañada Flintridge is located within a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. As a result, the City needs to implement and maintain adequate measures that reduce wildfire risk, including vegetation management, fuel reduction, and other fire-prevention strategies consistent with state and local fire safety requirements.

Additionally, the City advises residents to maintain a 30-foot fire-resistant zone around their homes to help protect against wildfires. This involves removing debris, flammable items, and dry leaves within this 30-foot perimeter. La Cañada Flintridge also holds an annual Community Preparedness Day event to discuss wildfire prevention. The city has also initiated a No Parking during Red Flag Warning Program4 in response to past fire events, to have clear access to roads during emergencies. Red flag warnings in Los Angeles County are issued when humidity is below 15 percent and sustained winds are 25 mph or greater.

The Los Angeles County Fire Department, which serves the City of La Cañada Flintridge, conducts an Annual Defensible Space Inspection Program5. Through this program, the Los Angeles County Fire Department provides defensible space clearance notices to property owners in High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones within its jurisdiction. As all homes in La Cañada Flintridge are located within a very high fire hazard severity zone, they are subject to these inspections. This program aims to reduce the risk of wildfires and enhance community safety.

The Los Angeles County Fire Department also provides Zone-Specific Plant Selection Guidelines for Fuel Modification. These guidelines classify the type of plants that can be selected within specific zones: Zone A (within 30 feet of a structure or property line), Zone B (30 to 100 feet from a structure), and Zone C (100 to 200 feet from a structure or adjacent to access roads). Adhering to this plan is crucial for reducing fire hazards, creating defensible space, mitigating fire spread, maintaining visual appeal, and ensuring that the selected plants are well-suited to the local environment. All new development and major expansions of existing property within the city are subject to the Fuel Modification requirements.

The City of La Cañada Flintridge has implemented a four-year grid trimming program, ensuring that all trees within the City’s right-of-way or on City property are trimmed at least once every five years. As part of this 4 City of La Cañada Flintridge. Red Flag Warning Program. Available at: https://lcf.ca.gov/public-safety/redflaginfo/. Accessed January 22, 2026.
5 Los Angeles County Fire Department. Defensible Space Program. Available at: https://fire.lacounty.gov/fire-hazard-reductionprograms/. Accessed January 22, 2026.

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General Plan, the City may evaluate the program to determine whether trimming should occur more frequently.

Additionally, the City provides a public form to request an evaluation of a tree for further trimming, watering, or when a tree is damaged or at risk of falling. The City's Municipal Code, specifically Chapter 11.40, addresses the preservation, protection, and removal of trees on private property. This code mandates that protected private trees may be removed only by an authorized arborist or the homeowner with a permit. It also provides residents with a replacement tree chart and lists penalties for tree removals without a City-issued permit.

Protected trees within La Cañada Flintridge include certain Oaks and Sycamore trees with a diameter of 12 inches or greater in R-1 Single Family Residential Zones, Deodar Cedars within the Historic Deodar District, any tree over five feet in height in non-R-1 zones, and all trees on public property or within the right-of-way. The City has established tree preservation and protection guidelines to help residents effectively manage and protect trees on their private property.

The comprehensive measures implemented by the City of La Cañada Flintridge, together with the Los Angeles County Fire Department and CAL FIRE, form a robust strategy to combat wildfire risks and create defensible space. By enforcing municipal tree-preservation and protection codes, conducting annual defensible-space inspections, and providing plant-selection guidelines, the City ensures its policies align with best practices in wildfire prevention. Community initiatives, such as maintaining fire-resistant zones around homes and hosting annual preparedness events, further empower residents to take proactive steps to safeguard their properties.

Collectively, these efforts foster a safer, more resilient community capable of withstanding the dangers posed by wildfires.

To better protect residents from extreme heat, La Cañada Flintridge may consider prioritizing investments in public infrastructure. This could include using heat-efficient materials, providing shade and hydration options at bus shelters, establishing designated cooling centers for extreme heat events, and introducing cool pavements. Cool pavements are innovative surfaces designed to reduce the heat absorbed and emitted by traditional pavement materials. These pavements use materials with higher solar reflectance (albedo) and better heat dissipation properties. By reflecting more sunlight and absorbing less heat, cool pavements can significantly lower surface temperatures and reduce the urban heat island effect. Additionally, cool pavements can improve comfort for pedestrians and cyclists, enhance pavement durability by reducing thermal stress, and potentially lower energy costs for nearby buildings by mitigating surrounding heat. Implementing cool pavement solutions could involve using lighter-colored or specially coated materials in streets, sidewalks, and parking lots. Within this General Plan, the City may consider conducting a pavement inventory to identify potential improvements.

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GOALS, POLICIES, AND ACTIONS

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GOALS, POLICIES, AND ACTIONS
The goals, policies, and actions in the Open Space and Recreation Element promote the expansion, preservation and enhancement of the City’s open space, recreation, and trails resources. They emphasize and support the interrelationships among all General Plan elements to achieve a community in which parkland resources also support land use, circulation, conservation, and safety.

OSRE Goal 1.0: Create an integrated, connected system of parks, recreation facilities, open space, and trails that serve residents of all ages and abilities while protecting the City’s natural resources.

OSRE Policy 1.1: Plan, develop, and maintain a cohesive parkland system that balances active recreation, passive open space, trails, and natural resource protection and reflects community needs and demographic trends.

OSRE Action 1.1.1: Use walkshed analysis, demographic data, heat exposure, and age-based needs to identify priority areas for park, trailhead, or micro-open-space investments, with a focus on neighborhoods outside 5- and 10-minute access areas.

OSRE Action 1.1.2: Assess the feasibility of impact fees to create or upgrade parks and/or recreation facilities as well as to require the inclusion of permanently dedicated open space and/or recreation facilities within new residential developments in accordance with the Quimby Act.

OSRE Action 1.1.3: Work with the school district to assess existing athletic fields to identify opportunities for targeted upgrades such as surface improvements, synthetic turf, lighting, or scheduling efficiencies to increase usable hours and accommodate community demand.

OSRE Action 1.1.4: Incorporate multi-functional design principles into the planning and improvement of recreation facilities to support shared use by multiple age groups, programs, and activities.

OSRE Action 1.1.5: Include inclusive, accessible play equipment in new parks and park improvements so that children of all abilities can safely play and participate together.

OSRE Policy 1.2: Pursue creative use of traditional, nontraditional, and shared spaces to expand recreation and open space opportunities.

OSRE Action 1.2.1: Evaluate opportunities to acquire land for active recreational facilities, such as courts, on underutilized parcels, in parking areas, or on for-sale properties along or near Foothill Boulevard.

OSRE Action 1.2.2: Evaluate the possibility of a trail linking the completed Foothill Link with the proposed Rockridge Terrace Trail in the Trails Master Plan (2006).

OSRE Action 1.2.3: Evaluate design and funding options for the Community Center site to determine whether it could be jointly used, reconfigured, or redeveloped to expand athletic field capacity or support active recreation needs while maintaining community programming, in coordination with the facility operator and other relevant partners.

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OSRE Action 1.2.4: Evaluate the Southern California Edison (SCE) utility easement as a potential multi-use open space corridor by assessing utility constraints, ecological opportunities, recreation compatibility, access, and parking. The evaluation shall prioritize preservation of the existing trail connection and explore low-impact recreation uses such as outdoor fitness elements, community gardens, and passive open space, alongside pollinator-friendly habitat improvements, while maintaining utility access and neighborhood compatibility.

OSRE Action 1.2.5: Evaluate opportunities to utilize underutilized or vacant land, for active recreational facilities. The evaluation may also consider shared or structured parking solutions to support recreational uses and JPL parking needs and to provide buffering between proposed facilities and nearby residential areas.

OSRE Policy 1.3: Strengthen physical and functional connections between parks, open spaces, trails, neighborhoods, schools, and regional destinations through coordinated pedestrian, bicycle, and trail planning.

OSRE Action 1.3.1: In coordination with the Circulation Element, create a comprehensive multimodal plan that integrates pedestrian and bicycle facilities to improve connectivity, safety, and access to parks, recreational facilities and trails.

OSRE Action 1.3.2: Prevent unauthorized motorized vehicle use on trails by installing physical barriers at access points, providing clear signage, enforcing applicable regulations, and coordinating with law enforcement, while allowing controlled access for maintenance and emergency vehicles.

OSRE Policy 1.4: Pursue diverse, reliable funding strategies to support the acquisition, development, enhancement, and long-term maintenance of parkland and recreational facilities.

OSRE Action 1.4.1: Develop a funding program for acquisition and/or development of parkland property and facilities that includes a variety of methods, such as grants, easements, land donations, and gift annuities.

OSRE Action 1.4.2: Maintain readiness to pursue parkland acquisition opportunities by identifying priority opportunity sites, evaluating financing options, including voter-approved bonds, and preparing funding strategies and partnerships that enable the City to act quickly when land becomes available.

OSRE Action 1.4.3: Pursue opportunities to secure the first right of purchase or negotiation for properties that could support future parkland, open space, or trail connections when such properties become available.

OSRE Action 1.4.4: Develop and adopt an ordinance in accordance with the Quimby Act establishing requirements and options for parkland and/or trail dedication, or in-lieu fees for new development and expansions of existing structures exceeding 30 percent.

OSRE Action 1.4.5: Pursue grant funding, cost-sharing arrangements, and partnerships to support the planning, acquisition, development, improvement, and maintenance of parks and usable open space on City-owned and non–City–owned land, consistent with community needs and available resources.

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OSRE Policy 1.5: Improve public awareness and use of parks, trails, recreational resources, and programs through clear, accessible, and up-to-date information.

OSRE Action 1.5.1: Continue to work with citizens, non-profit organizations, volunteer groups, and other community partners to identify and acquire land and provide needed active and passive parks, recreation, and age-specific programs.

OSRE Action 1.5.2: Develop brochures, maps, a website, and other informational materials to inform the community about the parks, recreational opportunities, trail system, and their linkages to regional systems, as well as available programs, including youth-, senior-, and family-oriented offerings, within the City.

OSRE Goal 2.0: Preserve, protect, and enhance open space areas within and adjacent to the City to maintain hillside character, conserve scenic and natural landscapes, support public health and safety, and promote climate resilience.

OSRE Policy 2.1: Conserve and manage open space through land-use designation, development controls, and coordinated planning to maintain hillside character, protect scenic landscapes, and support compatible, low-impact public access.

OSRE Action 2.1.1: Continue to preserve all publicly owned open space committed to open space land or utility right-of-way by designating them as Open Space on the General Plan Land Use Map, while allowing compatible low-impact recreational uses where consistent with utility requirements, public safety, and environmental constraints.

OSRE Action 2.1.2: Continue to maintain the hillside character of the community through regulation, ridgeline protection, and development control, thereby preserving the unique setting and significant resources of the San Gabriel Mountains and San Rafael Hills.

OSRE Action 2.1.3: Continue to designate owned recreational and open space areas that are designed and approved as an integral part of a land use development as Open Space on the General Plan Land Use Map to reflect their intended long-term use. Such designation does not imply public ownership or public access unless otherwise provided through approval conditions or agreements.

OSRE Action 2.1.4: Continue to preserve and enhance non-vehicular access from the City to the Angeles National Forest trails and open lands remaining in the San Rafael Hills and San Gabriel Mountains, in coordination with the federal Angeles Forest Plan.

OSRE Action 2.1.5: Coordinate planning and management of open space areas with the Conservation Element to support wildlife movement, habitat continuity, and rewilding opportunities, while maintaining the primary open space functions of public access, scenic preservation, and community benefit.

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OSRE Policy 2.2: Provide and preserve open space areas that protect public health and safety, maintain natural landscapes, vegetation, and watershed functions, and allow compatible recreational uses.

OSRE Action 2.2.1: Identify areas subject to natural hazards, such as earthquake fault zones, earthquake-induced landslides, wildfires, debris and mudflows, and unstable slopes, and designate undeveloped areas subject to such hazards as open space to minimize risk to people and property.

OSRE Action 2.2.2: Discourage new development and intensification within open-space areas designated for public safety, allowing only low-impact, safety-compatible uses such as trails, passive recreation, emergency access, and hazard-mitigation improvements that do not increase hazard exposure or interfere with emergency response.

OSRE Action 2.2.3: Adopt a risk-based approach to tree trimmings and brush clearance that considers tree species, location, wildfire risk, emergency access routes, and environmental conditions to determine appropriate trimming frequency.

OSRE Action 2.2.4: Enforce restrictions on unauthorized off-road vehicles, including e-bikes, from operating within the City limits, except where such use is expressly permitted under applicable regional, state, or federal plans.

OSRE Policy 2.3: Design, manage, and retrofit open space, parks, and trails to reduce wildfire risk, mitigate heat, and support long-term climate resilience while protecting ecological function.

OSRE Action 2.3.1: Incorporate shade and heat mitigation measures into park and trail planning, design, and improvements by combining fire-resistant tree species, strategic canopy placement, shade structures, and complementary cooling strategies in high-use areas such as trailheads, seating areas, play spaces, and pathways.

OSRE Action 2.3.2: Apply fire-resilient and climate-responsive design measures to new parks, recreational facilities, and trailheads, and incorporate phased retrofits into existing facilities, prioritizing improvements through the City’s Capital Improvement Program and applicable grant funding.

OSRE Action 2.3.3: Coordinate the planning, design, and management of open space, parks, and trails with Public Works, emergency response agencies, Los Angeles County, and other relevant land management agencies to support wildfire prevention, emergency access, evacuation readiness, trail safety, and hazard mitigation.

OSRE Policy 2.4: Plan and site recreational facilities to balance community demand with neighborhood compatibility, public health, and quality of life.

OSRE Action 2.4.1: Evaluate opportunities to expand recreational facilities to meet community demand by prioritizing locations along major corridors, shared-use sites, or non-residential areas, and away from existing residential neighborhoods.

OSRE Action 2.4.2: Require site-specific noise studies and enhanced siting and design review for new pickleball facilities or the conversion of existing courts located within approximately 600 feet of residential uses, to evaluate potential noise impacts and identify appropriate mitigation measures before approval.

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OSRE Goal 3.0: Provide and enhance park and recreation
opportunities within the City.

OSRE Policy 3.1: Expand access to park, recreation, educational, and cultural opportunities by supporting shared use of facilities, coordinated programming, and collaboration with public agencies, schools, utilities, non-profit organizations, and private partners, in a manner that responds to community needs and available resources.

OSRE Action 3.1.1: Cooperate with public agencies, public utilities, and private organizations, including the Los Angeles County Flood Control District, the Los Angeles County Fire Department, the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation, the La Cañada Unified School District (LCUSD), and SCE to promote the use and development of public recreation uses on their land. Such facilities are important to the City's efforts in providing a balanced recreation program.

OSRE Action 3.1.2: Evaluate and, where feasible, expand joint-use agreements with LCUSD and other public or institutional partners to increase access to athletic fields and active recreation facilities.

OSRE Action 3.1.3: Continue to partner with the facility operator of the Community Center of La Cañada Flintridge to provide and expand recreation and enrichment programs for seniors, youth, and teens, including after-school classes, and regularly assess community needs to refine and update offerings.

OSRE Goal 4.0: Preserve, improve, and expand existing trails and promote coordinated, comprehensive trail systems for hikers, bicyclists, and equestrians.

OSRE Policy 4.1: Plan, implement, and manage the trail system through the Trails Master Plan to guide trail development, mapping, public access, shared use, and long-term stewardship.

OSRE Action 4.1.1: Support the Trails Council in updating the Trails Master Plan in coordination with the County and nearby cities. Any new or planned trail routes, as well as significant additions or modifications, shall be reviewed and approved by the City Council and/or County Board of Supervisors as appropriate.

OSRE Action 4.1.2: Use the Trails Master Plan as the primary implementation document for the General Plan’s goals and policies related to trails, trail connectivity, and trail-related planning and improvements.

OSRE Action 4.1.3: Support the Trails Council in creating, maintaining, and periodically updating the Trails Map as the Trails Master Plan is implemented, and make it available for public reference and use through various mediums such as:
 Posting on the City website
 Print copies available at City Hall, Community Center, and Library  Posting simplified versions at major trailheads and Parks with trail access

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 Posting a QR Code for easy download of the map at various locations OSRE Action 4.1.4: Update the Trails Map administratively as the Trails Master Plan is implemented.

OSRE Action 4.1.5: Incorporate trail etiquette, shared-use guidance, and safety information into the Trails Map and associated public-facing materials as part of future map updates, trailhead signage, and digital resources.

OSRE Action 4.1.6: Amend the Trails Master Plan or Trails Map as implementation documents without requiring a General Plan amendment, unless such changes would create an inconsistency with the General Plan’s goals, policies, or other applicable provisions.

OSRE Action 4.1.7: Use the Community Development Department Project Review Procedure: Trails (as included in Trails Master Plan or as modified by the Community Development Director, whichever is the latest update) when reviewing proposed development that is located adjacent to or within current trails, existing trail easement(s), or proposed trail location(s), to evaluate and require mitigation of potential impacts on the trail system.

OSRE Action 4.1.8: Promote safe and compatible shared use of trails through signage, education, and trail design, and consider user conflicts and emergency access needs when planning trail improvements or permitting trail events.

OSRE Action 4.1.9: Establish a coordinated trail maintenance program for vegetation management, erosion control, and post-fire or storm recovery among public works, fire, nonprofit organizations, and applicable land managers to support safe, sustainable trail use.

OSRE Policy 4.2: Implement the Trails Master Plan through dedication of land, targeted purchases, easements, joint-use and shared-access agreements, development conditions and design integration, or other appropriate methods.

OSRE Action 4.2.1: Coordinate with public agencies, public utilities, and private organizations to identify opportunities for trail access or trail facilities on their lands through joint-use agreements, licenses, easements, or other mutually beneficial arrangements.

OSRE Action 4.2.2: Provide planning coordination, mapping information, design guidance, and permitting support to partner agencies and organizations to facilitate trail planning and implementation consistent with the Trails Master Plan.

OSRE Action 4.2.3: Establish and enforce coordinated sustainable trail-maintenance practices among public agencies, public utilities, private organizations, and adjacent property owners to keep recreational trails in good repair and prevent loss of use or access due to encroachment or interference.

OSRE Action 4.2.4: Maintain efforts to work with regional organizations, such as the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy, to secure funding for the ongoing implementation of the Trails Master Plan.

OSRE Action 4.2.5: Pursue grant funding, active transportation and multimodal funding sources, and cost-sharing arrangements, and partner with public agencies, utilities, and non-profit organizations to support the planning, construction, maintenance, and implementation of trail facilities on both CityPage 208 of 337 La Cañada Flintridge General Plan

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owned and non–City–owned land, coordinating trail planning where appropriate with the City’s multimodal planning efforts.

OSRE Action 4.2.6: Assemble the right-of-way and implement improvements for a circular trail connecting Mayors’ Discovery Park, the Rockridge conservation area, the Link Linear Park on Foothill Boulevard, and the YMCA.

OSRE Action 4.2.7: Install and maintain trail signage that promotes safety and courtesy between all trail users, including equestrians, hikers, and bicyclists, and provides information regarding the trails and their use.

OSRE Action 4.2.8: Preserve the City’s core circular trail by maintaining continuous public access, protecting the trail alignment from encroachment or discontinuity during development and infrastructure projects, coordinating with regional agencies to maintain connections to regional trail networks, and prioritizing maintenance, signage, and wayfinding to reinforce its function as a primary loop and connector.

OSRE Policy 4.3: Manage the City’s trail system to support public safety and long-term usability by preparing for, responding to, and recovering from wildfires, floods, mudslides, and other hazard events, in coordination with emergency response agencies and applicable land managers.

OSRE Action 4.3.1: Following wildfire, mudslide, flooding, or other hazard events, conduct coordinated post-event assessments of trails to evaluate safety, erosion, slope stability, and access conditions, and prioritize phased reopening, repairs, or realignments in coordination with Fire, Public Works, and applicable land managers.

OSRE Action 4.3.2: Implement procedures for temporary trail closures, on-site signage, and public notification following hazard events, and provide timely updates through City communication platforms regarding trail conditions, closures, and reopening status.

OSRE Action 4.3.3: Incorporate hazard-resilient design and adaptive improvements into post-event trail repairs, including erosion control, drainage enhancements, slope stabilization, vegetation management, and fire-resilient materials, to reduce future damage and improve long-term trail performance.

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Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................ 4 HYDROLOGY ................................................................................................................................................. 7 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES .......................................................................................................................... 11 WILDLIFE CONNECTIVITY ............................................................................................................................ 14 VEGETATION ................................................................................................................................................ 18 WETLANDS .................................................................................................................................................. 20 GEOLOGY AND SOILS ................................................................................................................................. 22 CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL RESOURCES ................................................................................................. 25 ENERGY CONSERVATION ............................................................................................................................ 29 SCENIC VISTAS ............................................................................................................................................ 30 GOALS POLICIES AND ACTIONS ................................................................................................................. 32

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INTRODUCTION
The Conservation Element of the City of La Cañada Flintridge complies with California Government Code Section 65302(d) by establishing policies to conserve and protect natural resources, including land, water, wildlife, vegetation, and air quality, while guiding development in a manner that supports long-term environmental health and resilience.

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INTRODUCTION
The City of La Cañada Flintridge is home to a variety of trees, wildlife, mountains, and valleys that contribute to the City's unique character, beauty, and desirability. The Conservation Element is a required component of the City’s General Plan that identifies and preserves natural and cultural resources within the City and establishes programs and actions to protect them. The word conservation can be defined as the careful preservation, protection, or planned management of natural resources to prevent their exploitation, destruction, or neglect (Merriam-Webster, Inc., 2025). To ensure the community remains healthy and vibrant, it is essential to conserve natural and cultural resources.

Purpose
The Conservation Element aims to identify significant natural and cultural resources within the City and its surrounding areas that are impacted by the activities of residents, workers, and visitors. It provides policies and programs to safeguard these resources and promote their sustainable use. This section covers topics such as water, energy, biological resources, and topographic, visual, cultural, historical, and paleontological resources.

Air quality is specifically addressed in Chapter 8, the Air Quality Element. The Conservation Element underscores the City's commitment to sustainable, environmentally friendly decision-making during the planning period and acknowledges the interconnectedness of all General Plan elements in achieving the City's sustainability goals.

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Relationship with Other Elements
The Conservation Element was developed to effectively identify and preserve natural and cultural resources in the City of La Cañada Flintridge. This element aligns with other elements of the General Plan by implementing cohesive goals and guiding principles. In particular:
 Land Use Element: The Land Use Element outlines the proposed uses of land, their intensity, and their location. The Conservation Element identifies these natural and cultural areas that are later delineated for open space or recreation purposes in the Land Use Element.  Circulation Element: The Conservation Element informs the Circulation Element by identifying natural areas, such as wildlife corridors, that should be considered when designing transportation corridors or improvements.
 Housing Element: The Conservation Element supports the Housing Element by determining natural or cultural areas that may need to be protected from future development, thereby identifying potential open space areas.
 Open Space and Recreation Element: The Conservation Element and Open Space and Recreation Element are interconnected, both focusing on the preservation and management of spaces. However, while the Open Space and Recreation Element supports these efforts by designating protected areas and promoting environmentally responsible land management practices, the Conservation Element focuses on preserving natural and cultural resources.
 Safety Element: The Conservation Element can enhance the Safety Element by identifying factors such as watersheds, surface waters, groundwater basins, wetlands, soils, geology, and vegetation that are important during natural disasters like floods and wildfires, thereby enabling both elements to effectively complement each other through comprehensive goals.  Noise Element: The Conservation Element identifies natural resources, such as wildlife, that may be harmed by noise pollution. The Conservation Element may create policies that target noise reduction, which inform the Noise Element.
 Air Quality Element: The Conservation Element complements the Air Quality Element by their shared goal of protecting and enhancing the environmental quality within the City.

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EXISTING CONDITIONS ANALYSIS

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HYDROLOGY
Watersheds
A watershed is an area of land where streams and rainfall drain into a common body of water, such as a river or an ocean. Watersheds include not just water but also the people, wildlife, and vegetation living within them.

The Los Angeles River Watershed is approximately 824 square miles long, spanning the entirety of the City of La Cañada Flintridge (see FIGURE 1). An important sub-watershed of the Los Angeles River watershed, the Arroyo Seco, is located in central Los Angeles County, between the San Gabriel Mountains and the Los Angeles River. Lying partially within the watershed are the Angeles National Forest and the cities of Los Angeles, South Pasadena, Pasadena, and La Cañada Flintridge, as well as the unincorporated area of Altadena. The watershed runs for 22 miles through a deeply incised canyon, beginning beneath Strawberry Peak in the San Gabriel Mountains and draining into the Los Angeles River near downtown Los Angeles. The Arroyo Seco drops from nearly 6,100 feet at its headwaters on Strawberry Peak to 320 feet at its confluence with the Los Angeles River, draining 47 square miles. Prior to widespread development in the watershed, the lower Arroyo Seco south of Devil’s Gate Dam was fed by numerous springs and small creeks emerging from the surrounding hills. However, this discharge, combined with the highly permeable soils of the Arroyo floodplain, was often insufficient to sustain the Arroyo’s flow year-round. In many dry summers, the Arroyo dried up in stretches, only to reappear above the surface where geologic conditions forced groundwater to the surface.

The Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) is responsible for regulating the Los Angeles Watershed. The City of La Cañada Flintridge currently holds a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit, which authorizes the City to implement feasible measures to prevent stormwater pollution.

Stormwater refers to rainwater runoff that flows through both natural landscapes and urban areas. The NPDES permit enables the City to implement programs such as public outreach, elimination of illicit discharges and illicit connections, development planning and construction, inspections of industrial facilities, and public agency activities that achieve the City’s necessary water-quality standards (City of La Cañada Flintridge, 2025).

Surface Waters
The main surface water bodies within the Planning Area include the Arroyo Seco Reaches and the tributaries of Bear Canyon, all of which fall within the Arroyo Seco Watershed, a sub-watershed of the Los Angeles River Watershed (EPA, 2025). Within the City, streams flow through several canyons and across the foothills and flatlands. A significant sub-watershed of the Arroyo Seco within the City is Flint Wash, draining approximately

5.5 square miles of the City. The lower three-quarters of a mile of Flint Wash is a natural, unlined channel with intermittent bank modifications. Approximately 2,000 feet of this length lies in La Cañada Flintridge, with the remainder in Pasadena. Most of the unlined portion in La Cañada Flintridge is on private property. The rest of Flint Wash consists of a series of lined channels that drain over five square miles of La Cañada Flintridge.

Surface waters of the Arroyo Seco are contaminated by urban runoff. Urban runoff refers to rainwater or melted snow that runs through streets, parking lots, sidewalks, and other urban areas, collects pollutants such as chemicals and debris from these surfaces, and then flows into storm drains and waterways, where it may in turn pollute existing water bodies. The Arroyo Seco has been on the Clean Water Act Section 303(d) list of impaired waterways since at least 2018 due to trash in unspecified urban stormwater and urban runoff, as well as pathogens. The Clean Water Act, originally enacted in 1972, sets water quality standards, establishes a permit system to control pollutant discharges, provides funding for sewage treatment plants, and aims to protect wetlands.

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Groundwater Basins
A groundwater basin is a natural underground reservoir where water is stored in the pores of permeable rock and sediment. These basins collect and hold groundwater, which is used for drinking, irrigation, and industrial purposes. The City of La Cañada Flintridge lies within the San Fernando Valley and the Raymond Groundwater Basin (see FIGURE 2).

The San Fernando Valley Groundwater Basin spans 226 square miles. It is bordered by the Santa Susana Mountains to the north and northwest, the San Gabriel Mountains to the north and northeast, the San Rafael Hills to the east, the Santa Monica Mountains and Chalk Hills to the south, and the Simi Hills to the west (California Department of Water Resources, 2004). The Upper Los Angeles River Area Watermaster manages the basin, which serves several public water agencies, including the City of Burbank Water Division, City of Glendale Department of Water and Power, City of Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, City of San Fernando Water Department, Crescent Valley County Water District, and Metropolitan Water District. The basin's storage capacity is estimated at 3,670,000 acre-feet1.

The Raymond Groundwater Basin covers a surface area of 40.9 square miles. It is bounded by the San Gabriel Mountains to the north, the San Rafael Hills to the southwest, the Pickens Canyon Wash to the west, and the Raymond Fault to the southwest (California Department of Water Resources, 2004). Managed by the Raymond Basin Management Board, this basin serves the public water agencies of the La Canada Irrigation District, the Kinneloa Irrigation District, the San Gabriel County Water District, the City of Pasadena, the City of Alhambra, and the City of Arcadia. The basin's storage capacity is calculated at 1,450,000 acre-feet2.

Water Quality and Resources
The Safe Drinking Water Act, initially passed in 1974 and amended in 1996, establishes water standards for over 90 contaminants and mandates consumer confidence reports from all community water systems.

Community water systems are defined as those that serve the same individuals year-round. The City of La Cañada is served by four water districts: La Cañada Irrigation District, Liberty Utilities, Valley Water Company, and Crescenta Valley Water District. Consumer confidence reports provide information on water sources and contaminants such as lead and copper. These reports are readily available to the public and residents of the City.

The City of La Cañada Flintridge Municipal Code (Municipal Code), Chapter 4.23, Water-Efficient Landscaping, acknowledges the limitations of state water resources and emphasizes conservation. Municipal Code Chapter

4.23 applies to new construction projects with a landscape area greater than 500 square feet, as well as rehabilitated landscape projects with an area of 2,500 square feet or more. 1California Department of Water Resources, B118 Basin Boundary Description San Fernando Valley Groundwater Basin. https://water.ca.gov/-/media/DWR-Website/Web-Pages/Programs/Groundwater-Management/Bulletin-118/Files/2003-BasinDescriptions/4_012_SanFernandoValley.pdf 2 California Department of Water Resources, B118 Basin Boundary Description Raymond Groundwater Basin. https://water.ca.gov/- /media/DWR-Website/Web-Pages/Programs/Groundwater-Management/Bulletin-118/Files/2003-BasinDescriptions/4_023_Raymond.pdf

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FIGURE 1: WATERSHEDS
Source: California Department of Conservation

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FIGURE 2: GROUNDWATER BASINS

Source: California Department of Water Resources

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BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
This section discusses the existing biological resources of the Planning Area to guide the General Plan Element Update. The Planning Area is primarily developed for suburban uses and is situated between large open-space natural areas. Open space areas that contain notable biological resources include Cherry Canyon, the San Rafael Hills, and the Angeles National Forest in the northern portion of the City. Large natural communities within the Planning Area are home to a variety of biologically sensitive and significant plant and animal species.

Special Status Species and Natural Communities
Special-Status Species and Natural Communities are plants, animals, and habitat types that are recognized by federal, state, or local agencies as being rare, threatened, endangered, or otherwise sensitive to human or environmental pressures. The Habitat Conservation Division (HCD) of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) maintains the California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB).3 CNDDB is used to gather and distribute data on the status and locations of rare and endangered plants, animals, and vegetation types. A query of special status species occurrences was conducted on the CNDDB RareFind BIOS Viewer for the Planning Area.4 A list of CNDDB and USFWS occurrences is identified in TABLE 1.

The CNDDB and USFWS list eleven species occurrences within the Planning Area. These species include four plants (plummer’s mariposa lily, greata’s aster, parry’s spineflower, and the sonoran maiden fern), six animal species (southern California legless lizard, coast range newt, least bell’s vireo, American peregrine falcon, and the silver-haired bat), the San Gabriel chestnut snail and Crotch’s bumble bee. Plant species occurrences are primarily concentrated in the San Rafael Hills and Cherry Canyon; however, the special status species of vertebrates and invertebrates have a wider occurrence range into urban, residential portions of the Planning Area.

This list includes species that are identified by USFWS and the CNDDB. Further surveys must be conducted for project-specific CEQA review within the Planning Area to compile a more detailed, exhaustive list of specialstatus species.

TABLE 1: SPECIAL STATUS SPECIES OCCURRENCES IN THE PLANNING AREA Species Scientific Name Federal Status State Status Other Status Southern California
legless lizard
Anniella stebbinsi None None CDFW: SSC
USFS: S
Plummer’s mariposa
lily
Calochortus plummerae None None None
Greata’s aster Symphyotrichum greatae None None None
San Gabriel Chestnut
snail
Glyptostoma gabrielense None None None
Crotch’s bumble bee Bombus crotchii None Candidate
endangered IUCN: EN
Coast Range newt Taricha torosa None None USFS: S
3 The California Natural Diversity Database: A Natural Heritage Program for Rare and Species and Vegetation, Roxanne Bittman, October 2001. Accessed October 2025.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services, Environmental Conservation Online System, CDFW, CNDDB. 2025. Accessed: October 2025

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Species Scientific Name Federal Status State Status Other Status Parry’s spineflower
Chorizanthe parryi var
parryi None None None
Sonoran maiden fern
Pelazoneuron puberulum
var sonorense
None None None
Least bell’s vireo Vireo belli pusillus Endangered Endangered IUCN: NT American peregrine
falcon
Falco peregrinus anatum Delisted Delisted USFS: S
Silver-haired bat
Lasionycteris
noctivagans None None IUCN: LC
USFS: S –U.S. Forest Service, Sensitive.

IUCN: EN – International Union for Conservation of Nature, Endangered.

IUCN: LC – International Union for Conservation of Nature, Least Concern.

IUCN: NT – International Union for Conservation of Nature, Near Threatened.

CDFW: SSC – California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Species of Special Concern Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Environmental Conservation Online System, CDFW, CNDDB.

Critical Habitat
Critical habitats are sites within a specific geographic area occupied by the species that contain the physical or biological features that are essential to the conservation of endangered and threatened species, and that may need special management or protection.5
A search was conducted on the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service’s Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC) online tool for the Planning Area to determine critical habitats for species listed under the Endangered Species Act that are threatened, endangered, or candidates for or proposed for listing. The IPaC results indicate that there are designated critical habitats for ten endangered species in the Planning Area, as shown in TABLE 2.

These species have different designations of critical habitat status: none, proposed, and final. However, no critical habitat units fall within the Planning Area.

Final designated critical habitats have been identified within surrounding parts of the region for species including the Southwestern willow flycatcher (Empidonax traillii extimus), Santa Ana sucker (Catostomus santaanae), and Braunton’s milk-vetch (Astragalus brauntonii); however, no final designated critical habitats intersect within the Planning Area as confirmed by IPaC review.

TABLE 2: CRITICAL HABITAT SUMMARY – IPAC REVIEW FOR THE PLANNING AREA Species Status Critical Habitat Status
California Condor Endangered Final critical habitat designated California Spotted Owl Proposed Endangered No critical habitat designated Least Bell’s Vireo Endangered Final critical habitat designated Southwestern Willow Flycatcher Endangered Final critical habitat designated Southwestern Pond Turtle Proposed Threatened No critical habitat designated Western Spadefoot Proposed Threatened No critical habitat designated Monarch Butterfly Proposed Threatened Proposed critical habitat under review
Braunton’s Milk-vetch Endangered Final critical habitat designated 5 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Critical Habitat, March 2017. Accessed October 2025.

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Species Status Critical Habitat Status
Nevin’s Barberry Endangered Final critical habitat designated Slender-horned Spineflower Endangered No critical habitat designated Source:U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2025. IPaC Resource List for Los Angeles County. Accessed via https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/
Current information from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (2025) indicates that no federally designated or proposed critical habitat overlaps with the Planning Area. Therefore, while several listed species may occur regionally, no direct conflicts with critical habitat are anticipated. Smaller-scale projects and activities will still be required to determine and evaluate potential impacts to listed species and their habitats, including any updated critical habitat designations that may occur in the future.

In addition to the critical habitat for endangered species, the IPaC review indicated that bald and golden eagles occur within the Planning Area. Bald eagles are protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. IPaC review indicates that neither the bald eagle nor the golden eagle is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) in the Planning Area. A BCC is defined as a migratory and non-migratory bird species (beyond those already designated as federally threatened or endangered) that represents the highest conservation priorities.6 Although neither bird is listed as a BCC, their presence warrants attention because of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (16 U.S.C. 668-668d) requirements.7 To comply with the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and reduce impacts of human-induced alterations around potential nest sites, activities within the Planning Area should follow applicable regulations and consider implementing avoidance and minimization measures. The National Bald Eagle Management Guidelines provide timing and activity-specific distance recommendations when designing projects to avoid and minimize nesting bald eagle impacts, and site-specific recommendations regarding nesting golden eagles can be found by contacting the regional Migratory Bird Office and Ecological Services Field Office. However, as indicated above, the golden eagle and bald eagle are not listed as a BCC for the Planning Area, and site-specific CEQA review will be conducted as subsequent development occurs to minimize or eliminate potential impacts to nesting golden eagles and bald eagles.
6 U.S. Fish and Wildlife. Birds of Conservation Concern. Birds of Conservation Concern 2021 | FWS.gov. May 19, 2021. Accessed October 2025.
7 U.S. Fish and Wildlife. Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act | U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.

Accessed October 2025.

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WILDLIFE CONNECTIVITY
Human development and ecological connectivity can be balanced by identifying and conserving areas supporting native wildlife and their habitats. Maintaining connectivity between large blocks of natural habitat and open space is critical to facilitate the movement of wildlife species between these areas. Furthermore, the value of wildlife movement corridors should be analyzed at all scales, from the statewide down to more localized movement within the Planning Area. Senate Bill (SB) 1425 (2022) and Assembly Bill (AB) 1889 (2024) together strengthen the role of General Plans in supporting wildlife connectivity and movement. SB 1425 requires cities to consider how open space contributes to climate resilience, including preserving habitat corridors and reducing fragmentation. AB 1889 builds on this by mandating that the Open Space Element specifically identify wildlife corridors, assess barriers to movement, and incorporate strategies to protect or restore habitat linkages using the best available science and in coordination with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Together, these laws ensure that land use planning actively supports biodiversity, ecosystem function, and species adaptation to climate change.

The Planning Area has the potential to support a variety of wildlife species, including birds, riparian-dependent species, and pollinators. Many terrestrial mammal species with varying home range sizes are also known to occur in the region and may also move through the Planning Area, including raccoon, bobcat, deer, coyote, and mountain lion. Although the Planning Area is largely built out, large blocks of natural habitat occur in the areas surrounding the City and may facilitate the movement of wildlife through the region. Notably, the northern portion of the Planning Area occurs within the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, which connect wildlife populations well beyond the City to the Angeles National Forest in the north. The eastern portion of the Planning Area occurs within the Arroyo Seco watershed; the Arroyo Seco River, fed by Flint Wash, conveys flows to the south and provides habitat for a variety of riparian species along the vegetated corridor. The San Rafael Hills also occur along the southern portion of the Planning Area and contain canyons and streams that eventually drain into the Arroyo Seco.

Terrestrial Connectivity
California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) provides mapping of wildlife connectivity and natural habitat blocks throughout the state. These terrestrial connectivity maps provide spatial data on wildlife, vegetation, and habitat connectivity, summarized in 2.5-square-mile hexagons, to support biodiversity conservation and climate resilience planning. The blocks are ranked on a scale of 1 to 5 as follows.  1 - Limited Connectivity Opportunity
 2 - Large Natural Habitat Areas
 3 - Connections with Implementation Flexibility
 4 - Conservation Planning Linkages
 5 - Irreplaceable and Essential Corridors
As shown in FIGURE 3 the Planning Area is mapped with a Connectivity Ranking of 1, due to its limited opportunities for connectivity and existing built condition. However, several small areas of natural habitat are mapped within the Planning Area, including areas along the northern foothills, along the Arroyo Seco to the east, and within the San Rafael Hills to the south. While the landscape of natural habitat within these mapped areas should be preserved to maintain the persistence of wildlife within the Planning Area, any potential connections between these areas should also be identified, enhanced, and protected to maximize wildlife movement within and well beyond the Planning Area.

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FIGURE 3: TERRESTRIAL CONNECTIVITY MAP
Source: California Department of Fish and Wildlife

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Potential Penetration Corridors
CDFW provides data on Natural Landscape Blocks, which are areas of relatively intact habitat identified through the California Essential Habitat Connectivity analysis. Large Natural Landscape Blocks are defined as contiguous habitat areas greater than 2,000 acres that remain minimally fragmented by roads or development and function as core areas for regional biodiversity, wildlife movement, and ecosystem resilience. Smaller Natural Areas or landscape blocks are habitat areas of less than 2,000 acres that, while excluded from the statewide large-block designation, still provide important local ecological functions and can serve as steppingstones that support fine-scale wildlife movement and connectivity.

In La Cañada Flintridge, large Natural Landscape Blocks are concentrated along the City’s northern boundary within the Angeles National Forest and the San Gabriel Mountains, forming part of a regionally significant habitat network that supports wide-ranging species such as mountain lion, mule deer, bobcat, and coyote (refer to FIGURE 4). Smaller natural areas along the foothill interface, including portions of the San Rafael Hills and Verdugo Mountains, contribute to local habitat value and are particularly important for species such as mule deer, smaller mammals, reptiles, and birds that rely on continuous or semi-continuous cover for daily movement, foraging, and dispersal. While these areas do not meet the size threshold for large Natural Landscape Blocks, they provide meaningful local habitat, ecological value, and opportunities for connectivity between larger regional open spaces. Incorporating these smaller blocks into planning efforts supports finescale habitat connectivity, advances the intent of SB 1425 and AB 1889, and reinforces biodiversity and ecosystem function within and adjacent to the City’s developed areas.

Opportunities
Based on the current built condition of the Planning Area, two main opportunities have been identified to support wildlife movement, as shown in FIGURE 4. An approximately one-mile-long Southern California Edison (SCE) transmission easement runs north-south across the City, from the foothills to the Interstate 210 (I-210) freeway; this easement contains transmission structures along the approximately 0.75-mile-long corridor and supports a network of hiking trails for community members. Because the easement is restricted from major development due to utility maintenance requirements, this stretch of semi-open space experiences significantly less direct human disturbance compared to its immediate surroundings (e.g., commercial and residential development, vehicular traffic), making wildlife more likely to occur along this alignment. This alignment has the potential to support wildlife movement between the northern foothills and southern portions of the Planning Area. Habitat restoration compatible with utility maintenance requirements within the easement has the potential to support pollinators, which may also move through adjacent areas with suitable vegetation. Although there is a potential connection from the foothills to the San Rafael Hills via the SCE easement, further coordination with SCE, land managers (e.g., habitat conservancies), and other stakeholders should be pursued to identify opportunities to address the existing obstruction at I-210 and encourage passage through the entire corridor.

The eastern portion of the Planning Area also serves as a buffer to the Arroyo Seco corridor. Although the majority of the streambed lies outside of the Planning Area and within the adjacent municipality, interjurisdictional coordination is encouraged to manage the buffer areas within the Planning Area as well as the areas directly within the Arroyo Seco corridor. Through this partnership, the protection and/or restoration of these areas, including the buffer areas, would help encourage wildlife’s use of the corridor for movement and habitation.

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FIGURE 4: POTENTIAL PENETRATION CORRIDORS
Source: California Department of Fish and Wildlife

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VEGETATION
The Planning Area is composed of a mosaic of urban and varied non-urban landscapes. According to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, the vegetation communities within the Planning Area, as seen in FIGURE 5, include annual grassland, coastal oak woodland, coastal scrub, mixed chaparral, desert wash, lacustrine, montane hardwood, sierran mixed conifer and urban development. The majority of the Planning Area is considered urban, with a total coverage of approximately 3,835 acres. Most vegetation communities occur in the northern portions of the Planning Area, like Winery Canyon, and southern areas like Cherry Canyon Park and Descanso Gardens. See TABLE 3 for a list of vegetation communities and corresponding acreages within the Planning Area.
 Coastal Oak Woodland: Coastal oak woodland consists of an overstory that has deciduous and evergreen hardwoods approximately 15-70 feet tall, sometimes mixed with scattered conifers. They are comprised of slow-growing, long-lived trees. This vegetation type provides a habitat for at least 60 species of mammals and 110 species of birds observed during the breeding season in California, where oaks form a significant part of the canopy or subcanopy.  Coastal Scrub: Coastal Scrub is comprised of low to moderate-sized shrubs with mesophytic leaves, flexible branches, semi-woody stems growing from a woody base, and a shallow root system. These can range up to 7 feet tall with a canopy cover usually around 100 percent. No single species is typical of all Coastal Scrub stands.
 Mixed Chapparal: Mixed Chapparal is a structurally homogeneous brushland type dominated by shrubs with thick, stiff, heavy cutinized evergreen leaves. Shrub height and crown cover can vary considerably due to the age of the last burn, soil, and precipitation. It is a floristically rich type that supports approximately 240 woody plant species.
 Urban: The structure of urban vegetation varies, with five types of vegetative structure defined: tree grove, street strip, shade tree/lawn, lawn, and shrub cover. The urban residential zone is characterized by a denser and more varied mosaic of vegetation: shade trees, lawns, hedges and planted gardens; approximately 40 percent of the land’s surface is covered by impervious material. Suburban areas with mature vegetation closely approximate the natural environment. Wildlife includes California quails, wrentits, black-tailed deer, ringtail, black-tailed jackrabbit, gopher snake, and western fence lizard.

TABLE 3: VEGETATION COMMUNITIES
Vegetation Type Acres Percent
Annual Grassland 27 acres Less than 1%
Coastal Oak Woodland 529.2 9.6%
Coastal Scrub 131 2.4%
Desert Wash Less than 1 acre Less than 1%
Lacustrine 11.1 Less than 1%
Mixed Chaparral 959.5 17.3%
Montane Hardwood 31.9 Less than 1%
Sierran Mixed Conifer 6.3 Less than 1%
Urban 3,835 69.3%
Valley Foothill Riparian Less than 1 acre Less than 1%
Total 5,531 100.0%
Source:California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, GIS Mapping and Data Analytics, 2018.

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FIGURE 5: VEGETATION COMMUNITIES

Source: California Department of Fish and Wildlife

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WETL ANDS

According to the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI)8, there are four different types of wetlands throughout the Planning Area, including freshwater emergent wetland, freshwater forested/shrub wetland, freshwater pond and riverine. These wetlands and their location throughout the Planning Area are shown on FIGURE 6, and are described below.
 Freshwater Emergent Wetland: This wetland falls under a Palustrine (P) System, which includes all nontidal wetlands dominated by trees, shrubs, persistent emergent, emergent mosses, or lichens where salinity due to ocean-derived salts is below 0.5 ppt. It is further classified as Emergent (EM), characterized by erect, rooted, herbaceous hydrophytes. Vegetation is present for most of the growing season in most years, and freshwater emergent wetlands are usually dominated by perennial plants.

Three freshwater emergent wetlands are found within the Planning Area, mostly dispersed throughout the northern portion of the Planning Area and connected to larger wetlands like riverine wetlands.  Freshwater Forest/Shrub Wetland: There are four freshwater forest/shrub wetlands throughout the Planning Area. These wetlands are concentrated within the northern portion of the Planning Area between ridges at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains and are connected to larger riverine systems and smaller freshwater ponds.
 Freshwater Pond: A freshwater pond is a body of standing artificial or natural water that is usually smaller than a lake. Three freshwater ponds are found throughout the Planning Area, mostly in open space or natural areas, such as at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains and within the southerncentral portion of the City in Descanso Gardens. Freshwater ponds are often connected to other wetlands within the Planning Area, such as riverine wetlands.  Riverine: Riverine wetlands include all wetlands and deepwater habitats contained within a channel, except for wetlands dominated by vegetation and habitats with a high salinity (over 0.5 ppt). Riverine wetlands consist of channels of water that connect to the sea or to smaller bodies of water, such as lakes or streams. Two large riverine wetlands flow throughout the Planning Area, primarily in the northern and southern portions. The riverines form a network of water channels that connect to smaller freshwater ponds or freshwater wetlands in the Planning Area. 8 U.S. Fish and Wildlife. National Wetlands Inventory. Wetlands Mapper | U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. 2025. Accessed October 2025.

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FIGURE 6: WETLANDS
Source: U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife

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GEOLOGY AND SOILS
The Planning Area is located on the Transverse Range province of southern California (FIGURE 7). The Transverse Ranges extend from the western part of the southern California coast, where the Santa Ynez Mountains plunge beneath the Pacific Ocean at Point Arguello, to the eastern end of the Little San Bernardino Mountains in central Riverside County, and even beyond. The total length of the Transverse Ranges exposed above sea level is about 300 miles and is characterized by great topographic contrasts, including much of the highest ground in southern California.9
More specifically, the Planning Area is defined within the San Gabriel Mountains range: a bold, high mass that extends from the east end of the Ventura basin near Newhall to Cajon Canyon northeast of San Bernandino, about 60 miles. This range is lens-shaped in plan and rises to general altitudes of 5,000 to 9,000 feet. The range is bounded on all sides by major faults and consists of plutonic igneous rocks of late Mesozoic age, together with a very complex series of older plutonic, metasedimentary, and metavolcanic rocks. The Verdugo Mountains and San Rafael Hills form a ridge, 15 miles long and 3 miles wide, that is an upfaulted sliver of crystalline rocks along the south side of the western San Gabriel Mountains10. This ridge forms a part of the east boundary of the San Fernando Valley, northeast of Los Angeles.

Within the San Gabriel Mountain range, the Planning Area rests on the Crescenta Valley: a southward-sloping piedmont plain formed at the foot of the San Gabriel Range, flanked on the southeastern border by the San Rafael Hills.11 This creates a varied topography throughout the Planning Area with elevations ranging from 970 feet in low-lying areas to about 2,400 feet at the highest neighborhood on the northern side. Crescenta Valley is composed of soil attributed to the Hanford and Vista-Amargosa soil associations (FIGURE 8). Low-lying areas rest upon Hanford soils, while upland regions are supported by Vista-Amargosa soil. Hanford soils are composed of loam and sandy loam soils formed on gently sloping alluvial fans below 3,500 feet in elevation.

Vista-Amargosa soils consist of shallow sandy loam on steep bedrock slopes at elevations ranging from 1,300 to 3,900 feet.12
Mineral resources are defined as mineral deposits that contain useful concentrations of valuable minerals, which may or may not be economically viable to extract. They are classified as mineral or ore reserves when they can be mined profitably, given technological processes and market conditions. Several areas identified as mineral resource zones are located in the vicinity of the Planning Area. According to the California Geological Survey’s Update of Mineral Land Classification of Portland Cement Concrete Aggregate in Los Angeles County (Open File Report 94-14), the Planning Area lies within MRZ-2 (areas of regionally significant mineral deposits), located on the northeastern side. There are no oil or gas fields located within the Planning Area based on CalGEM Well Finder data from 2025.
9 Thomas L. Bailey and Richard H. Jahns. Geology of the Transverse Range of Southern California. 289179767.pdf. Accessed November 2025.
10 Ibid.
11 U.S. Department of the Interior. Flood in La Canada Valley California. https://pubs.usgs.gov/wsp/0796c/report.pdf. Accessed November 2025.
12 City of La Canada Flintridge. Local Hazard Mitigation Plan 2024-2029. LHMP2024to2029.pdf. Accessed November 2025.

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FIGURE 7: GEOLOGY

Source: U.S. Department of the Interior Geological Survey

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FIGURE 8: SOILS
Source: U.S.Department of Agriculture

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CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL RESOURCES
Throughout its history, La Cañada Flintridge has been shaped by a diverse tapestry of people and events, each leaving a distinct mark on the city’s landscape. From its earliest days when the Shoshonean people thrived among its hills, to the era of Spanish missions and ranchos, every chapter adds depth to its story. As the City evolved, welcoming new settlers and embracing transformative milestones such as the arrival of the scientific institution, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, its character became richer and more complex. This appreciation for the past is still evident today. Many of La Cañada Flintridge’s buildings and sites are recognized for their historical significance, reflecting the architectural styles, stories, and aspirations of those who came before. 13 Historic Resources
Within the City of La Cañada Flintridge, multiple buildings have been identified as significant historical resources at the local, state, and federal levels, as shown in TABLE 4. Under the California Government Code Sections 50280-50290, also known as the Mills Act, local governments may establish, implement, and manage their own historical preservation programs. Cities may enter into a contract with owners who have qualifying historic properties to provide tax reduction incentives to restore, rehabilitate, and use historic properties. These properties are essential parts of the City’s history. There are currently 84 structures registered as historic resources in the City of La Cañada Flintridge, showcasing the City's rich history and the enduring stories told by its historic buildings.
13 City of La Cañada Flintridge, City History, https://lcf.ca.gov/city-history/ Source: Lanterman House

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Archaeological Resources
No historical archaeological sites have been identified or recorded within the City of La Cañada Flintridge14.

TABLE 4: HISTORICAL LANDMARKS
Structure Year Location Listing
Lanterman House 1915 4420 Encinas Drive National Register of Historic Places
Residence 1901 4905 Alta Canyada Rd Local
Residence 1929 4936 Alta Canyada Rd Local
Degnan Residence 1925 5200 Alta Canyada Rd Local
Residence 1927 5237 Alta Canyada Rd Local
Earl Residence 1965 5521 Alta Canyada Rd Local
Residence 1925 3924 Alta Vista Dr Local
Residence 1927 3932 Alta Vista Dr Local
Wall Residence 1929 3972 Alta Vista Dr Local
Standish Mitchell Residence 1923 632 Berkshire Ave Local Douglas Mitchell Residence 1923 640 Berkshire Ave Local Dryborough Hall; Villa Ardbnaree 1918 700 Berkshire Ave Local Residence 1930 701 Berkshire Ave Local
Residence 1916 800 Berkshire Ave Local
Residence 1923 348 Blythe Rd Local
McCollum Residence; Mille Fleurs 1932 5026 Castle Rd Local Wallace Residence; El Nido 1911 5455 Castle Knoll Rd Local Residence 1927 600 Chatham Pl Local
Residence 1926 3713 Chevy Chase Dr Local
Edward Residence 1926 3718 Chevy Chase Dr Local
Residence 1926 3733 Chevy Chase Dr Local
Residence 1921 4225 Chevy Chase Dr Local
Residence 1929 4230 Chevy Chase Dr Local
Green Residence 1927 4151 Commonwealth Ave Local
Residence 1914 2102 Cross St Local
Residence 1927 503 Dartmouth Pl Local
Katherine Flint Residence 1929 524 Dartmouth Pl Local
Residence 1932 900 Descanso Dr Local
Descanso Gardens - 1418 Descanso Dr Local and National Register Endicott Residence 1966 3820 Domal Ln Local
Residence 1927 4162 Dorset Pl Local
Martin Residence 1928 4163 Dorset Pl Local
Residence 1926 5103 Earl Dr Local
Residence 1931 1741 Earlmont Ave Local
14 City of La Cañada Flintridge, Mitigated Negative Declaration and Initial Study Checklist, https://lcf.ca.gov/wpcontent/uploads/2021/10/600-Foothill-Mixed-Use-MND.pdf

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Structure Year Location Listing
Residence 1929 1694 Fairmount Ave Local
Edwin T. Earl Residence 1911 1743 Fairmount Ave Local
Residence 1914 1135 Fairview Drive Local
Residence 1915 700 Flintridge Ave Local
(William) Flint Residence 1949 758 Flintridge Ave Local Thomas Residence 1924 887 Flintridge Ave Local
Residence 1929 607 Foxwood Rd Local
Residence 1924 435 Georgian Rd Local
Eckhardt Residence 1932 501 Georgian Rd Local
Residence 1925 530 Georgian Rd Local
Salisbury Residence 1925 4420 Gould Ave Local
(Daniel) Green Residence 1921 1023 Green Ln Local
Gantvoort Residence 1949 3778 Hampstead Rd Local
McKay Residence 1922 810 Highland Dr Local
Robbins Residence 1927 717 Hillcrest Ave Local
Hanson Residence 1922 739 Hillcrest Ave Local
Jutten Residence 1918 757 Hillcrest Ave Local
Motley Flint Residence 1926 811 Inverness Dr Local
Residence 1929 5147 Jarvis Ave Local
Lewin Residence 1962 5210 Jessen Dr Local
Gainsburg Residence 1948 1210 Journeys End Dr Local
McLaglen Residence; Fairhaven 1927 1219 Journeys End Dr Local Residence 1930 4630 La Canada Bl Local
Residence 1928 4720 La Canada Bl Local
Residence 1918 5250 La Canada Bl Local
Residence 1925 1966 Lombardy Dr Local
Residence 1932 2102 Lyans Dr Local
Residence 1923 381 Meadow Grove St Local
Residence 1931 384 Meadow Grove St Local
Residence 1928 535 Meadow Grove St Local
Residence 1926 551 Meadow Grove St Local
Cavens Residence 1925 555 Meadow Grove St Local
Residence 1924 566 Meadow Grove St Local
Residence 1930 582 Meadow Grove St Local
Residence 1926 605 Meadow Grove St Local
La Casa Bonita 1922 619 Meadow Grove St Local
Barneson Residence 1934 4852 Ocean View Bl Local
Residence 1910 818 Old Landmark Ln Local
Residence 1927 1937 Orchard Ln Local
Moses Residence 1890 4725 Palm Dr Local
Squire House 1956 5323 Palm Dr Local
Phillips Residence 1928 445 Somerset Pl Local
Harrison Residence 1927 453 Somerset Pl Local

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Structure Year Location Listing
Flintridge Hotel; Flintridge Biltmore 1876 440 St Katherine Dr Local Residence 1957 1401 Sugar Loaf Dr Local
Jacob Lanterman Residence;
Homewood
1876 1322 Verdugo Bl Local
Residence 1925 4111 Woodleigh Ln Local
Residence 1926 4166 Woodleigh Ln Local
Residence 1930 4174 Woodleigh Ln Local
Berkus Residence 1966 4305 Woodleigh Ln Local
La Cañada Thursday Club 1923 4440 Woodleigh Ln Local
Source: City of La Cañada Flintridge Official Register of Historic Properties (February 17, 2026)

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ENERGY CONSERVATION
Renewable Energy
Southern California Edison (SCE) provides electricity to the City, and the City receives its natural gas through Southern California Gas Company. The City is aligning itself with statewide initiatives to adopt policies and plans that maximize energy conservation through the implementation of renewable energy. As such, the City Council approved membership to the Clean Power Alliance (CPA) in November 2023 to provide residents and businesses with greater access to renewable energy options. City Council selected CPA’s 100% Green energy tier as the primary energy rate for residents and businesses. This decision reflects the City’s commitment to sustainability and to reducing its carbon footprint by providing 100% renewable energy from sources like the sun and wind. This transition took place in October 2025.15 Green Initiatives
The City has created several initiatives to increase sustainability and energy efficiency in recent years. In October 2025, the City transitioned to Green Halo for tracking all Construction & Demolition (C&D) waste management.16 The adoption of Green Halo is expected to enhance the user experience for contractors, developers, and residents by providing a centralized, user-friendly interface to track and document waste diversion. This change aligns with the City’s environmental goals and ensures compliance with state and local recycling requirements. Other recent initiatives include the launch of a Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Program.17 Through its partnership with the California Statewide Communities Development Authority (CSCDA), the CSCDA PACE program provides financing to residential and commercial property owners to overcome the strain of up-front payments for renewable energy upgrades. In addition to this, the City has also formed a Sustainability and Resilience Commission18 to advise City Council on key environmental and sustainability issues affecting the surrounding community. The City established an instant solar permit (ISP) program19 to streamline the permitting process by instantly issuing an ISP for code-compliant systems. 2024 Climate Action and Adaptation Plan
In 2024, the City approved its comprehensive 2024 Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP).20 It was part of a multi-year effort by the community and the City to create a guiding document to achieve greenhouse gas emissions reductions at both the municipal and community-wide levels. The plan includes a vision and commitment to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045, with interim goals of reducing emissions by 40% by 2030 and 58% by 2035. Key strategies include transitioning to 100% renewable energy, increasing electric vehicle infrastructure, and promoting building electrification. The CAAP is intentionally a living document that can be revised as needed with clear and transparent metrics by which progress can be both assessed and measured. 15 La Canada Flintridge. Clean Power Alliance. Clean Power Alliance | City of La Cañada Flintridge. Accessed November 2025. 16 La Canada Flintridge. New Waste Management Tracking System Green Halo, City of La Cañada Flintridge Transitions to New Waste Management Tracking System Green Halo | City of La Cañada Flintridge. Accessed November 2025. 17 La Canada Flintridge. LCF Begins CSCDA PACE Program Partnership. LCF Begins CSCDA PACE Program Partnership | City of La Cañada Flintridge. Accessed November 2025.
18 La Canada Flintridge. Sustainability and Resilience Commission. Applications Now Open for City of La Cañada Flintridge’s New Sustainability and Resilience Commission | City of La Cañada Flintridge. Accessed November 2025. 19 La Canada Flintridge. SolarApp+. SolarApp+ | City of La Cañada Flintridge. Accessed November 2025. 20 La Canada Flintridge. Climate Action and Adaptation Plan. 2024-ClimateActionAdaptationPlan.pdf. Accessed November 2025.

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SCENIC VISTAS
The City of La Cañada Flintridge is nestled between the San Rafael Hills to the south and the San Gabriel Mountains to the north, located at the eastern end of the Crescenta Valley. Residents can enjoy stunning mountain and hillside views, as well as vistas of the valley, including the Los Angeles Basin and the Arroyo Seco.

Both public and private vantage points offer amazing scenic resources to La Cañada Flintridge residents.

Public vantage points include notable locations such as the Interstate 210 (I-210) and State Route 2 (SR 2) freeways that traverse the City, Foothill Boulevard, Angeles Crest Highway (from I-210 north to the Angeles National Forest), and public recreational and open spaces like Cherry Canyon and numerous trails throughout the City. Private vantage points include views from residences, commercial buildings, and private clubs and facilities. Angeles Crest Highway (California SR 2) is designated an eligible corridor under the California Scenic Highway Program and offers scenic views of the surrounding hillsides, mountains, and the Angeles National Forest.

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GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS

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GOALS, POLICIES, AND ACTIONS
The goals, policies, and actions in the Conservation Element promote the conservation, preservation, and sustainability of the City’s significant resources. They also emphasize and support the interrelationship of all General Plan elements to achieve a sustainable community.

CNE GOAL 1: Preserve and conserve natural resources in the community.

CNE Policy 1.1: Reduce long-term potable water demand through water conservation measures and the expanded use of recycled and alternative water sources, where available, to reduce projected water service demand.

CNE Action 1.1.1: Coordinate with local water providers to align City land-use policies with regional water conservation programs and drought-response measures, including support for tiered or water-budget–based rate structures, seasonal irrigation restrictions, and long-term demand-reduction strategies administered by water providers.

CNE Action 1.1.2: Facilitate the expanded use of graywater and other on-site water reuse systems consistent with State plumbing standards, including streamlining permitting, providing preapproved system templates, offering education and outreach, removing regulatory barriers, incentivizing installation, and, where appropriate, considering requirements for new development.

CNE Action 1.1.3: Coordinate with local water providers to implement and enhance ongoing public education programs that promote water conservation, drought resilience, and efficient indoor and outdoor water use.

CNE Action 1.1.4: Conduct a review of the City’s Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance and related development standards at least every five years to:
 Maintain consistency with updated State landscape efficiency requirements.  Evaluate opportunities to strengthen local water efficiency standards beyond State minimum requirements.
 Assess water budget thresholds and turf limitations.
 Develop strategies to reduce high outdoor water use in new development, major remodels, and existing large-lot residential properties.
 Evaluate demand-offset or water-neutral development approaches, where legally and technically feasible.
 Integrate wildfire-resilient plant palettes and defensible space compatibility.

CNE Action 1.1.5: Coordinate with Caltrans to promote the use of recycled or non-potable water for irrigation and landscaping within freeway rights-of-way, where infrastructure is available.

CNE Policy 1.2: Protect and enhance surface water and groundwater quality.

CNE Action 1.2.1: Require the implementation of Low Impact Development (LID) stormwater management techniques for new and redeveloped projects consistent with the City’s MS4 Permit and State Water Resources Control Board requirements to:
 Minimize pollutant loading and maintain pre-development hydrologic conditions to the maximum extent practicable.

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 Control post-development runoff rates and volumes to reduce downstream erosion and protect stream habitat, consistent with applicable hazard mitigation standards.  Maximize on-site infiltration and groundwater recharge where geologically appropriate.  Preserve wetlands, riparian corridors, and appropriate buffer zones, and limit unnecessary vegetation clearing while protecting natural drainage patterns.  Incorporate structural and non-structural best management practices (BMPs) such as tree wells, retention basins, bioswales, rain gardens, and permeable surfaces to manage stormwater quality and quantity.

CNE Action 1.2.2: Coordinate with regional agencies and environmental partners to support water quality improvement efforts within the Arroyo Seco Watershed.

CNE Action 1.2.3: Support implementation of the Flint Wash Restoration Project and similar watershed enhancement initiatives to improve water quality and ecological function.

CNE Action 1.2.4: Integrate green infrastructure and stormwater management features into corridor and gateway improvement projects to enhance watershed protection and urban greening.

CNE Action 1.2.5: Implement public education programs that promote stormwater pollution prevention, watershed protection, and proper disposal of household and commercial pollutants.

CNE Action 1.2.6: Continue to upgrade and maintain the City’s stormwater drainage infrastructure to improve stormwater quality and regulatory compliance, while coordinating with flood control and hazard mitigation improvements addressed in the Safety Element.

CNE Action 1.2.7: Require all new development and major renovation projects with potential groundwater impacts to demonstrate compliance with State and federal water quality standards and implement appropriate mitigation measures.

CNE Action 1.2.8: Prior to approval of development on vacant lands require confirmation of adequate wastewater treatment facility and connection to an approved sewer or septic system consistent with applicable health and safety standards.

CNE Policy 1.3: Reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions through energy efficiency, renewable energy, and sustainable development practices.

CNE Action 1.3.1: Require climate-responsive site and building design in new development and major renovations, including energy-efficiency measures that meet or exceed applicable Title 24 and CalGreen standards and are consistent with the City’s Climate Action and Adaptation Plan.

CNE Action 1.3.2: Incorporate urban heat island reduction strategies in public and private development, including cool roofs, reflective or permeable paving, and expanded tree canopy and shade infrastructure.

CNE Action 1.3.3: Continue to implement and expand energy efficiency and renewable energy improvements in municipal facilities and operations, including fleet modernization, building retrofits, and employee commute reduction programs, and serve as a model for community energy conservation.

CNE Action 1.3.4: Maintain and update outdoor lighting standards in the Zoning Code to require energy-efficient fixtures and appropriate light levels consistent with State standards and dark-sky principles.

CNE Action 1.3.5: Facilitate installation of on-site renewable energy systems, including solar photovoltaic and solar-ready infrastructure, consistent with State energy standards and streamlined permitting requirements.

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CNE Action 1.3.6: Promote participation in available rebate, incentive, and financing programs for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects and evaluate opportunities for local incentives or expedited permitting where feasible.

CNE Action 1.3.7: Coordinate with energy providers to expand community outreach and education regarding energy conservation programs, demand-reduction strategies, and renewable energy opportunities.

CNE Action 1.3.8: Continue to implement State electric vehicle charging requirements and facilitate installation of EV charging infrastructure in residential, commercial, and public facilities.

CNE Policy 1.4: Reduce solid waste generation and increase diversion of recyclable and organic materials from landfills.

CNE Action 1.4.1: Continue implementing and enforcing State-mandated recycling, organic waste diversion, and edible food recovery requirements by coordinating with authorized waste haulers and conducting ongoing compliance monitoring.

CNE Action 1.4.2: Continue public education and outreach programs to promote proper recycling and organic waste separation and increase awareness of waste diversion’s role in reducing landfill disposal and greenhouse gas emissions.

CNE Action 1.4.3: Promote waste reduction practices, including source reduction, reuse, recycling, on-site composting, and participation in edible food recovery programs.

CNE Action 1.4.4: Continue to enhance and enforce construction and demolition debris recycling and recovery requirements consistent with State building standards and local ordinance provisions.

CNE Action 1.4.5: Continue compliance with State organic waste procurement requirements and expand the use of compost, mulch, and other recycled materials in municipal operations to reduce landfill waste and support climate resilience.

CNE Goal 2: Preserve and strengthen habitat connectivity, native ecosystems, and the urban forest to support biodiversity, climate resilience, and community safety while balancing wildfire risk reduction.

CNE Policy 2.1: Protect and enhance biological resources, including native vegetation communities, wildlife habitat, and ecological connectivity, while balancing wildfire safety and protection of life and property.

CNE Action 2.1.1: Preserve publicly owned open space and pursue acquisition, conservation easements, or other land protection mechanisms from willing sellers for properties containing significant biological resources, including native vegetation communities, riparian corridors, and wildlife habitat, consistent with available funding and safety considerations. Open space areas of particular ecological and scenic value include Cherry Canyon, Weber Canyon, Gould Canyon, Winery Canyon, Hall-Beckley Canyon, Snover Canyon, Hay Canyon, and their surrounding hillsides, as well as other priority open space areas identified through ongoing habitat mapping and planning efforts.

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CNE Action 2.1.2: Maintain and periodically update citywide biological resource mapping and habitat inventories, as feasible, to inform land-use planning, environmental review, and openspace conservation priorities.

CNE Action 2.1.3: Require, through applicable zoning, development standards, and environmental review processes, that new development adjacent to sensitive biological resources or open space areas incorporate appropriate buffers, habitat-sensitive site design, and native landscaping compatible with adjacent ecosystems, while meeting wildfire defensible space requirements.

CNE Policy 2.2: Protect, expand, and strategically manage the City’s urban forest as a critical asset for climate resilience and public health.

CNE Action 2.2.1: Maintain and periodically update the Tree Preservation Ordinance to protect significant trees, regulate removals, and strengthen replacement standards consistent with climate adaptation and wildfire safety requirements.

CNE Action 2.2.2: Prioritize urban tree canopy expansion in heat-vulnerable neighborhoods, streets, parking areas, and public facilities to reduce localized heat impacts and improve environmental equity.

CNE Action 2.2.3: Integrate urban forestry planning into capital improvement projects, streetscape enhancements, park improvements, and public infrastructure upgrades.

CNE Action 2.2.4: Establish long-term maintenance, replacement, and canopy-monitoring strategies to sustain tree health and track canopy-coverage trends over time.

CNE Action 2.2.5: Consider a target of up to 50% shaded parking area at tree maturity or through equivalent shade structures, where feasible and consistent with fire safety requirements.

CNE Action 2.2.6: Incorporate carbon sequestration and long-term canopy-cover considerations into urban forestry planning and open-space management strategies.

CNE Policy 2.3: Identify, protect, and enhance wildlife movement corridors, steppingstone habitats, and pollinator pathways, and reduce barriers to wildlife movement, to maintain ecological connectivity within the City and between regional habitat areas.

CNE Action 2.3.1: Identify, map, and periodically update priority wildlife movement areas within the City using local knowledge and best available science and coordination with CDFW, including:
 The northern foothill interface with Angeles National Forest  The Southern California Edison transmission easement corridor  Arroyo Seco buffer areas
 San Rafael Hills and canyon systems
CNE Action 2.3.2: Incorporate mapped wildlife corridors and habitat linkages into land use planning, zoning, capital improvement planning, and environmental review processes.

CNE Action 2.3.3: Encourage habitat-sensitive design in identified connectivity areas, including:
 Permeable fencing or wildlife-friendly barriers
 Reduced nighttime lighting where appropriate
 Native understory planting
 Avoidance of unnecessary fragmentation

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CNE Action 2.3.4: Identify and evaluate physical and operational barriers to wildlife movement, including major roadways (such as the I-210 Freeway), fencing, channelized drainage facilities, lighting, and other infrastructure, and develop strategies to avoid, minimize, or mitigate fragmentation where feasible.

CNE Action 2.3.5: Evaluate and incorporate wildlife-friendly design features in culverts, bridges, drainage channels, and roadway improvements within identified habitat connectivity areas to reduce barriers to movement for small and medium-sized wildlife species.

CNE Action 2.3.6: Promote the establishment of pollinator-supportive landscapes in public rightsof-way, parks, utility corridors, and private development by using native flowering species and reducing pesticide use.

CNE Action 2.3.7: Evaluate the feasibility, in coordination with Southern California Edison, of enhancing the Southern California Edison transmission easement as a multi-benefit corridor that may support pollinator habitat and wildlife connectivity, and/or limited passive or active recreation facilities, while retaining the existing recreational trail and ensuring compatibility with utility maintenance, safety, and operational requirements.

CNE Action 2.3.8: Coordinate with adjacent jurisdictions (including Pasadena and Glendale), the Angeles National Forest, conservancies, Southern California Edison, Caltrans, and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to improve regional habitat connectivity and address major barriers such as the I-210 Freeway and other transportation corridors.

CNE Action 2.3.9: Pursue state and federal grant funding, cost-sharing arrangements, and publicprivate partnerships to evaluate and implement wildlife crossing improvements, habitat restoration, and corridor enhancements.

CNE Action 2.3.10: Following wildfire events, coordinate with regional agencies, land managers, and utility providers to assess impacts to wildlife corridors, pollinator habitat, and native vegetation, and prioritize restoration actions that:
 Stabilize soils and reduce erosion in burned foothill and canyon areas  Reestablish native plant communities and pollinator-supportive species  Prevent the spread of invasive species that can dominate post-fire landscapes  Restore or enhance wildlife movement pathways disrupted by fire, debris flows, or emergency repairs
 Integrate habitat recovery with trail repair and infrastructure restoration where feasible CNE Action 2.3.11: Maintain an up-to-date FEMA-approved Local Hazard Mitigation Plan and actively pursue state and federal hazard mitigation and post-disaster recovery funding to support habitat restoration, erosion control, and wildlife corridor repair following wildfire and climaterelated events.

CNE Action 2.3.12: Promote public education and design strategies to reduce human–wildlife conflicts in foothill and canyon areas, including wildlife-friendly fencing, responsible waste storage practices, and habitat-sensitive landscaping.

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CNE GOAL 3: Preserve natural landforms, scenic resources, and community character that define the foothill setting.

CNE Policy 3.1: Require new development to be compatible with the City’s natural landforms, scenic resources, and established built character.

CNE Action 3.1.1: Continue to implement and periodically update the Hillside Development Ordinance to strengthen grading, erosion control, and vegetation management standards that minimize soil disturbance, protect natural landforms, reduce sedimentation, and address postwildfire debris-flow risks, in coordination with the Safety Element.

CNE Action 3.1.2: Protect prominent landforms, including ridgelines, knolls, waterways, creeks (either dry or active), canyons, or other unique topographic features or viewscapes, and limit alteration except where necessary for public safety or reasonable development.

CNE Action 3.1.3: Minimize visual impacts to hillside viewscapes by regulating grading, building placement, road alignments, cuts and/or fill slopes to avoid prominent scarring or skyline intrusion.

CNE Action 3.1.4: Continue implementing and periodically updating the City’s Tree Preservation Ordinance to maintain the community's wooded character and scenic quality.

CNE Action 3.1.5: Pursue acquisition, conservation easements, or other land protection mechanisms from willing sellers for properties containing prominent landforms and scenic resources, consistent with available funding.

CNE Policy 3.2: Protect scenic viewscapes from public vantage points, designated corridors, and community landmarks.

CNE Action 3.2.1: Continue to implement and periodically evaluate development standards and design review criteria that protect scenic views along Angeles Crest Highway, Foothill Boulevard, and other designated view corridors.

CNE Action 3.2.2: Preserve the unique views of the mountains and foothills as seen from Foothill Boulevard by continuing to implement the development standards and design guidelines outlined in the Hillside Development Ordinance and the Downtown Village Specific Plan.

CNE Goal 4: Encourage the preservation of significant historical resources within the City.

CNE Policy 4.1: Protect and preserve archaeological, historical, tribal, and other significant cultural resources within the City.

CNE Action 4.1.1: Maintain and implement procedures for designation and preservation of local historical resources consistent with the Municipal Code and applicable preservation standards.

CNE Action 4.1.2: Continue to administer the Mills Act program, where feasible, to incentivize preservation and rehabilitation of designated historic properties consistent with adopted program guidelines.

CNE Action 4.1.3: Promote public awareness of the City’s cultural and historic resources through educational programs, outreach, social media articles, and interpretive materials.

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CNE Action 4.1.4: Support installation of plaques, markers, or interpretive displays to commemorate significant historic and cultural sites.

CNE Action 4.1.5: Evaluate acquisition, conservation easements, or adaptive reuse opportunities for significant historic structures where feasible and consistent with available funding.

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General Plan—May 2026 6-1

6.0 CIRCULATION ELEMENT

6.1 Introduction
The Circulation Element of La Cañada Flintridge’s General Plan is intended to guide the development of the City’s circulation system in a manner that is compatible with the Land Use Element. Due to the importance of a well-planned circulation system, the State has mandated the adoption of a citywide Circulation Element since 1955. The current State mandate for a Circulation Element is found in Government Code section 65302(b), which states that the General Plan shall include:
... a circulation element consisting of the general location and extent of existing and proposed major thoroughfares, transportation routes, terminals, and other local public utilities and facilities, all correlated with the land use element of the plan.

To help meet the future demands and achieve balanced growth, the City has adopted specific goals, objectives, and policies, which serve as the basis for the Circulation Element.

6.1.1 Related Plans and Programs

6.1.1.1 Connect SoCal 2024
The Southern California Association of Governments Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy (RTP/SCS), currently known as Connect SoCal 2024, serves as the long-range regional vision for transportation, land use, mobility, and sustainability across Southern California. It identifies the region’s transportation priorities and major projects over a 20- to 30-year horizon, including highways, transit, active transportation, and goods movement improvements. The RTP/SCS itself does not directly fund projects, but it establishes the framework and priorities that guide future funding decisions.

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Projects generally need to be included in or consistent with the RTP/SCS to be eligible for many federal and state funding programs.

6.1.1.2 Connect SoCal Project List
The Connect SoCal 2024 Project List provides the long-range regional transportation investment framework for Southern California and includes both funded and future transportation projects. At its core is the Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP), which identifies near-term federally funded and regionally significant projects programmed for implementation within the first six years of the plan. State-funded transportation projects included in the State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP), including the Regional Transportation Improvement Program (RTIP), are reviewed for consistency with the RTP/SCS before inclusion in the FTIP.

Together, these programs create an integrated framework in which the RTP/SCS establishes regional transportation priorities, while the FTIP, STIP, RTIP, and specialized funding programs such as the Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) provide mechanisms for project funding and implementation.

Several regional transportation improvement projects are included in the Connect SoCal 2024 Project List under FTIP projects, meaning the funding has been identified for these projects. These include:
 The Foothill Boulevard Link Bikeway and Pedestrian Greenbelt Project is approximately 1.5 miles of Class II bike lanes along Foothill Boulevard between Briggs Avenue and Alta Cañada Road, along with bike and bus facility improvements, a raised median, and approximately 0.5 miles of pedestrian greenbelt enhancements, including lighting and landscaping.  The I-210 Soundwall Improvement Project includes the design and construction of multiple soundwall segments along Interstate 210 to reduce freeway noise impacts on nearby residential communities.

Improvements include segments along the north side of I-210 between Waltonia Drive and Glenhaven Drive, between La Granada Way and Vista Place, between La Cañada Boulevard and Angeles Crest Highway, and between Commonwealth Avenue and Oakwood Avenue.
 I-210 Eastbound Soundwall Phase 2 Project includes the design and construction of an additional soundwall segment along the eastbound side of I-210 as part of the Soundwall Project Phase 2 program to further reduce traffic noise impacts within the City.
 I-210 Bridge Overpass Soundwall Improvement Project includes soundwall improvements along eastbound and westbound I-210 near the

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La Cañada Flintridge City CouncilSeptember 1, 2026

La Cañada Flintridge City Council
September 1, 2026