La Mesa City Council
July 22, 2025

LA MESA CITY COUNCIL
AGENDA

A Regular Meeting

Date: Tuesday, July 22, 2025, 6:00 p.m.

Location: City Council Chambers, 8130 Allison Avenue
La Mesa, California
Elected
Officials:

Mayor Mark Arapostathis
Vice Mayor Patricia N. Dillard
Councilmember Lauren Cazares
Councilmember Laura Lothian
Councilmember Genevieve Suzuki
City Treasurer Matthew Strabone
Staff: City Manager Greg Humora
City Attorney Glenn Sabine
City Clerk Megan Wiegelman
The City Council meeting may be viewed in-person or live on Cox Cable Channel 24 (within La Mesa City limits), AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 (in the San Diego Region), the City’s website (www.cityoflamesa.us), Facebook Live (www.facebook.com/lamesaca) or using the following Zoom Webinar options:

The public may view the meeting live using the following remote options:

Teleconference Meeting Webinar
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84472650722
Telephone (Audio only)
(669) 900-6833 or (253) 215-8782 Webinar ID: 844 7265 0722 Copy and paste the webinar link into your internet browser if the webinar link does not work directly from the agenda.

PUBLIC COMMENTS
In-Person comments during the meeting: Join us for the City Council meeting at the time and location specified on this agenda to make your comments. Please complete a “Request to Speak” card and submit it to the Council Hostess. When the Mayor calls your name, step to the podium and state your name for the record. Comments will be limited to three (3) minutes.
•
How to submit eComments: eComments are available once an agenda is published.

Locate the meeting in "upcoming meetings" and click the comment bubble icon. Click on the item you wish to comment on. eComments can be submitted when the agenda is published and until 24 hours prior to the meeting. eComments are limited to 3700 characters (approximately 500 words). eComments may be viewed by the City Council and members of the public following the close of the eComment submission period (24 hours prior to the meeting). Email your comment to [email protected] if you have difficulty submitting an eComment. eComments will not be read aloud as a regular meeting item; however any member of the Council or member of the public may do so during their respective comment time.
•
PLEASE NOTE: Public Comment will be limited to 3 minutes per item. The timer begins when the participant begins speaking. Time cannot be combined or yielded to another speaker. *Live Remote Public Comment ONLY permitted during Councilmember teleconferencing pursuant to California Government Code Section 54953 (AB 2449).
*Zoom Audio Comments: To provide oral public comments during the meeting, join the Zoom meeting by computer, mobile phone, or dial in number. On Zoom video conference by computer or mobile phone, use the “Raise Hand” feature. This will notify the moderator that you wish to speak during a specific item on the agenda or during non-agenda Public Comment. Members of the public will not be shown on video but will be able to speak when called upon. If joining the meeting using the Zoom dial-in number, you may raise your hand by pressing *9. Comments will be limited to three (3) minutes. No further comments will be entertained after the Mayor closes public comment. •
Citizens who wish to make an audio/visual presentation pertaining to an item on the agenda, or during Public Comments, should contact the City Clerk’s office at 619.667.1120, no later than 12:00 p.m., the Monday prior to the meeting day. Advance notification will ensure compatibility with City equipment and allow Council meeting presentations to progress smoothly and in a consistent and equitable manner. Please note that all presentations/digital materials are considered part of the maximum time limit provided to speakers.

Agenda reports for items on this agenda are available for public review at the City Clerk's Office, 8130 Allison Avenue, during normal business hours.

Materials related to an item on this agenda submitted to the Council after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection in the City Clerk’s Office, 8130 Allison Avenue, during normal business hours.

ACCESSIBILITY: The City of La Mesa encourages the participation of disabled individuals in the services, activities and programs provided by the City. Individuals with disabilities, who require reasonable accommodation in order to participate in the City Council meetings, should contact the Administrative Services Department 48 business hours prior to the meeting at 619.667.1175, fax 619.667.1163, or [email protected].

Hearing assisted devices are available for the hearing impaired. A City staff member is available to provide these devices upon entry to City Council meetings, commission meetings or public hearings held in the City Council Chambers. A photo i.d. or signature will be required to secure a device for the meeting.

Pages

1. CALL TO ORDER

1.1 INVOCATION - COUNCILMEMBER CAZARES

1.2 PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

2. REPORT FROM CLOSED SESSION

3. CITY MANAGER COMMENTS

4. COMMUNITY BULLETIN REPORTS

5. ADDITIONS AND/OR DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA

6. PRESENTATIONS

6.1 PRESENTATION BY THE 22ND DISTRICT AGRICULTURAL
ASSOCIATION ON THE FAIRGROUNDS 2050 PROJECT

6.2 2024 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ANNUAL REPORT 1

7. PUBLIC COMMENTS – (TOTAL TIME – 15 MINUTES)
NOTE: In accordance with state law, an item not scheduled on the agenda may be brought forward by the general public for comment; however, the City Council will not be able to discuss or take any action on the item at this meeting.

If appropriate, the item will be referred to Staff or placed on a future agenda.

8. CONFLICT DISCLOSURES

9. BOARD AND COMMISSION APPOINTMENTS

9.1 RESOLUTION APPOINTING AND/OR REAPPOINTING MEMBERS TO

CITY OF LA MESA BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
32 Staff Reference: Ms. Wiegelman
Recommended Motion:

Appoint and/or reappoint members to fill the openings on the City's Boards and Commissions, and adopt Resolution confirming the appointments and/or reappointments.

10. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON CONSENT CALENDAR
This is the time in which members of the Council or audience may pull items from the CONSENT CALENDAR for discussion. Public Comments are also invited on Consent Calendar items.

11. CONSENT CALENDAR
(Items 11.1 through 11.12)
The Consent Calendar includes items considered to be routine. Unless discussion is requested by members of the Council or audience, all Consent Calendar items may be approved by one motion.
*If a public hearing item is part of the Consent Calendar, the public hearing shall be deemed held if the item is not removed from the Consent Calendar for discussion and possible action (Item 11.12).

Recommended Motion:

Approve Consent Calendar Items 11.1 through 11.12.

11.1 APPROVAL OF MOTION TO WAIVE THE READING OF THE TEXT

OF ALL ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS AT THIS MEETING
Recommended Motion:

Approve.

11.2 APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES FOR THE CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING HELD TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2025
38 Recommended Motion:

Approve.

11.3 APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES FOR THE CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING HELD TUESDAY, JULY 8, 2025
46 Recommended Motion:

Approve.

11.4 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING A TASK ORDER WITH RICK

ENGINEERING COMPANY TO PROVIDE AS-NEEDED STAFF

AUGMENTATION SERVICES FOR THE PLANNING DIVISION
57 Staff Reference: Ms. Santos
Recommended Motion:

Adopt Resolution.

11.5 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING CONTRACT CHANGE ORDER NO. 6 WITH S.C. VALLEY ENGINEERING, INC. FOR BID 24-16,

BOULEVARD DRIVE STORM DRAIN IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
(CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. 8506)
65 Staff Reference: Mr. Throne
Recommended Motion:

Adopt Resolution.

11.6 RESOLUTION APPROVING A SEWER SYSTEM MANAGEMENT

PLAN UPDATE PER STATE WATER RESOURCES CONTROL
BOARD ORDER 2022-0103-DWQ
71 Staff Reference: Mr. Throne
Recommended Motion:

Adopt Resolution.

11.7 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING A TASK ORDER WITH COMPASS

ROSE GIS FOR AS-NEEDED MAPPING AND GEOGRAPHIC
INFORMATION SYSTEM SERVICES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2026
203
Staff Reference: Mr. Throne
Recommended Motion:

Adopt Resolution.

11.8 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING A TASK ORDER WITH BWE, INC. FOR

DESIGN SERVICES FOR THE NANCY DRIVE STREET DRAINAGE
IMPROVEMENTS (CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. 8323)
212
Staff Reference: Mr. Throne
Recommended Motion:

Adopt Resolution.

11.9 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING A TASK ORDER WITH ARDURRA
GROUP, INC. FOR ON-CALL ENCROACHMENT PERMIT

INSPECTION SERVICES
224
Staff Reference: Mr. Throne
Recommended Motion:

Adopt Resolution.

11.10 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING A TASK ORDER WITH ARDURRA
GROUP, INC. FOR STORMWATER COLLECTION SYSTEMS

SERVICES FOR THE LA MESITA PARK DRAINAGE

IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT (CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
NO. 8502)
230
Staff Reference: Mr. Throne
Recommended Motion:

Adopt Resolution.

11.11 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING CONTRACT CHANGE ORDER NO. 1 WITH AMERICAN ASPHALT SOUTH, INC. FOR BID 25-16, 2025
SLURRY SEAL PROJECT (CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO.
8305)
255
Staff Reference: Mr. Throne
Recommended Motion:

Adopt Resolution.

11.12 *RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE SEWER SERVICE CHARGES
FOR FISCAL YEAR 2026
261

RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE REPORT WITH THE FINAL

DETERMINATION OF SEWER SERVICE CHARGES FOR FISCAL
YEAR 2026 TO BE COLLECTED ON THE COUNTY PROPERTY TAX

ROLL AND DIRECTING THE CITY CLERK TO FORWARD A

CERTIFIED COPY OF THE RESOLUTION, TOGETHER WITH A

COPY OF THE REPORT TO THE OFFICE OF THE SAN DIEGO

COUNTY AUDITOR
Staff Reference: Mr. Throne
Recommended Motion:

Adopt Resolution.

12. ORDINANCES: SECOND READING

12.1 ORDINANCE RENAMING COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT

AND COMMISSION AND UPDATING SUPERVISORY

RESPONSIBILITY OF THE LANDSCAPING AND MAINTENANCE OF

PARK AREAS
267

CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF

THE CITY OF LA MESA AMENDING THE LA MESA MUNICIPAL
CODE (INCLUDING CHAPTER 2.32, SECTION 2.16.15(D)(6),
CHAPTERS 9.04, 9.05, AND 9.06) TO DO THE FOLLOWING: (1) RENAME (A) "COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT" TO "PARKS
AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT," (B) "COMMUNITY SERVICES
COMMISSION" TO "PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION," AND
(C) "DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY SERVICES" TO "DIRECTOR OF
PARKS AND RECREATION;" AND, (2) SHIFT THE SUPERVISORY

RESPONSIBILITY OF LANDSCAPING AND MAINTENANCE OF PARK

AREAS TO THE CITY MANAGER OR HIS OR HER DESIGNEE
Staff Reference: Ms. Lee
Recommended Motion:

Approve the second reading and adoption of the Ordinance.

12.2 CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA MESA AMENDING CHAPTER 17.12 OF THE LA

MESA MUNICIPAL CODE TO ADJUST THE SCHEDULE OF SEWER
SERVICE CHARGES FOR FISCAL YEARS 2026 AND 2027
270
Staff Reference: Mr. Throne
Recommended Motion:

Approve the second reading and adoption of the Ordinance.

13. COUNCIL INITIATED

13.1 CONSIDERATION OF REINSTATING AND APPOINTING MEMBERS

TO THE COUNCIL CLIMATE ACTION PLAN UPDATE AD HOC

SUBCOMMITTEE TO REVIEW AND RECOMMEND UPDATES TO

THE CLIMATE ACTION PLAN - VICE MAYOR DILLARD AND

COUNCILMEMBER CAZARES
274

14. COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS (3 MINUTE LIMIT)

15. AB 1234 REPORTS (GC 53232.3 (d))

16. CITY ATTORNEY REMARKS

17. ADJOURNMENT
DATE: July 22, 2025
TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council
FROM: Hilary Ego, Environmental Sustainability Manager
Serena Lee, Environmental Program Coordinator
VIA: Greg Humora, City Manager
SUBJECT: 2024 Climate Action Plan Annual Report
In March 2018, City Council approved the Climate Action Plan (CAP) to reduce community-wide greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and updated the CAP in November 2024. The City of La Mesa prepared the CAP and established targets consistent with State goals and guidance. The CAP provides a roadmap by which the City can reduce its contributions of GHG emissions in energy, transportation and land use, solid waste, water, and green infrastructure. The CAP requires annual reports and regular updates to City Council on CAP progress. A progress report to City Council occurs every six months.

The City of La Mesa’s 2024 CAP Annual Report (Attachment A) contains a high-level overview of accomplishments since the City Council adopted the CAP. More details on each measure are outlined in the 2024 CAP Annual Report Appendix to document additional implementation details on a measure-by-measure basis to track progress (Attachment B).

Attachments: A – 2024 Climate Action Plan Annual Report B – 2024 Climate Action Plan Annual Report Appendix

City of La Mesa
Climate Action Plan
Annual
Report
2024

Table of Contents
Letter From the Mayor......................................................................................

About the Annual Report................................................................................

Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory.................................................. 2018 Climate Action Plan................................................................................

Climate Action Plan Update........................................................................

Progress Update By Strategy
Energy............................................................................................................

Transportation and Land Use........................................................

Solid Waste.................................................................................................

Green Infrastructure.............................................................................

Water..............................................................................................................

Education and Outreach...............................................................................

CivicSpark and College Corps Fellows.................................................

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2 0 2 4 C L I M A T E A C T I O N P L A N A N N U A L R E P O R T P A G E 2

Dear La Mesa Community,
As we reflect on 2024, I am proud to share the continued progress the City of La Mesa has made in advancing the goals set forth in our Climate Action Plan (CAP). Since its adoption in 2018, the CAP has guided the City’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and build a more sustainable, resilient, and equitable future for all who live, work, and visit La Mesa.

In 2024, we celebrated a major milestone: the completion of a comprehensive update to the Climate Action Plan. Informed by extensive community engagement throughout 2023 and 2024, the updated CAP includes strengthened targets and refined strategies that align with State targets set in Senate Bill 32 and Assembly Bill 1279 and respond to the evolving needs of our community and climate. It continues to serve as a qualified GHG reduction plan under CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5, reaffirming our commitment to local and regional climate leadership.

The 2024 CAP Annual Report highlights key achievements in strategy areas of Energy, Transportation and Land Use, Solid Waste, Water, and Green Infrastructure. In 2024, we expanded our community outreach, deepened partnerships, and launched new initiatives to further foster sustainability throughout the La Mesa community. Efforts such as free bike education classes, Litter Free La Mesa community clean-up events, and staff trainings helped amplify community engagement and environmental stewardship.

La Mesa was once again recognized for being at the forefront of sustainability in the region. The city received the SANDAG Diamond Award Gold Level, and Tree City USA for the 44 consecutive year, and was awarded grant funding to implement CAP projects. th
I am honored to share the sixth CAP annual report as a reflection of our shared commitment to environmental action. As we look ahead, let us stay united in our efforts to protect and preserve our environment for future generations. Together, we will continue to lead by example and shape a liveable La Mesa for all.

LETTER FROM THE MAYOR
2 0 2 4 C L I M A T E A C T I O N P L A N A N N U A L R E P O R T P A G E 3

2023
ANNUAL
REPORT

CITY OF LA MESA

CLIMATE ACTION PLAN

ABOUT THE ANNUAL REPORT
In alignment with La Mesa’s 2018 Climate Action Plan
(CAP), the City continues to publish annual reports and provide biannual updates to the City Council. This 2024 Annual Report outlines progress made on CAP
measures and actions, while also identifying key
priorities for the year ahead.

The report incorporates the most current greenhouse
gas (GHG) emissions data available from the San Diego
Association of Governments (SANDAG) ReCAP, along
with project highlights and relevant updates. Detailed
information on each CAP measure is available in the
Appendix and on the City’s Climate Action Plan
webpage.

La Mesa remains committed to transparency and
community involvement, striving to keep residents
informed and engaged as we work together toward
achieving our GHG reduction goals. The five prior
Annual Reports are listed on the City’s website.

GREENHOUSE GAS

EMISSIONS INVENTORY
The City has received GHG inventories from the
SANDAG ReCAP to monitor progress. The City’s 2016
ReCAP Snapshot GHG emissions inventory is 383,800
MT CO2e, a 10.93% decrease from the 2010 baseline.

GHG emissions were calculated for electricity, natural
gas, solid waste, water and wastewater. The 2016 GHG
inventory is the best available data the City has
received.

0.25% Wastewater
Transportation
Electricity
Natural Gas
Solid Waste

0.75% Water

2.3%

15.6%

19.6%

61.8%
Transportation remains the leading source of greenhouse gas emissions in La Mesa. Most emissions come from gaspowered vehicles used by residents, workers, and visitors.

Additionally, on-road travel from cars and trucks passing through the city contributes significantly to local emissions 2 0 2 4 C L I M A T E A C T I O N P L A N A N N U A L R E P O R T P A G E 4

Energy
Solid Waste Green Infrastructure Water
Transportation and Land Use
Since the adoption of La Mesa’s first Climate Action Plan (CAP) in 2018, the City has remained committed to reducing community-wide GHG emissions by 35% from the 2010 baseline by 2020 and 53% from the 2010 baseline by 2035. The CAP outlines 23 measures with specific key actions to guide this work in the CAP strategies listed below.

In 2021, the City Council adopted a Climate Emergency Resolution and Climate Emergency Resolution Response in January 2022. This reaffirmed the City’s commitment to climate action and supports existing CAP implementation efforts. These foundational efforts continue to shape the City’s approach to sustainability and have laid the groundwork for the 2024 CAP Update.

CLIMATE ACTION PLAN STRATEGIES:
2018 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN
2 0 2 4 C L I M A T E A C T I O N P L A N A N N U A L R E P O R T P A G E 5

Waste
Reduction
Clean and Efficient
Transportation
Building Energy
Efficiency
Urban Natural
Environment
Water
Efficiency
Clean and
Renewable Energy
266 22
Survey responses
Presentations to
Commissions

UPDATED STRATEGIES

CLIMATE ACTION PLAN UPDATE
From May 2022 to November 2024,
community input played a vital role in
shaping the CAP Update. Through
surveys, workshops, and meetings,
residents helped ensure the updated
measures and actions reflect equitable
and community-driven priorities.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Total people
engaged
850
2 0 2 4 C L I M A T E A C T I O N P L A N A N N U A L R E P O R T P A G E 6

Business-As-Usual
Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory
City of La Mesa LegislativeAdjusted GHG Emissions
City of La Mesa Target GHG
Emissions
Equity: The CAP Update incorporates data tools to identify communities most vulnerable to climate impacts, ensuring that strategies and actions prioritize those disproportionately affected. 2024 CAP UPDATE HIGHLIGHTS
Adaptation: The CAP Update includes strategies to build resilience and prepare for local climate risks like extreme heat, flooding, wildfire, and drought.

Co-Benefits: The CAP Update highlights co-benefits that extend beyond GHG emission reductions
The 2024 CAP Update’s GHG
targets were developed to align with
the statewide GHG reduction
targets established by Senate Bill
(SB) 32 and Assembly Bill (AB)
1279. Estimating equivalent
reductions needed from the 2016
baseline, the City aims to reduce
community-wide GHG emissions in
the 2024 CAP Update with new
updated GHG targets:
50 percent below 2016 levels by
2035 (aligned with and extrapolated
from SB 32), and 85 percent below
2016 levels by 2045 (aligned with AB
1279).

CLIMATE ACTION PLAN UPDATE
In 2024, the City of La Mesa finalized its Climate Action Plan Update, building on work from 2022 and 2023. Staff and consultants updated emissions projections, aligned targets with State goals, and refined key measures based on current data and community input.

The CAP Update was approved by the City Council in November 2024 and will guide La Mesa’s climate efforts moving forward.

Air Quality Jobs and
Economy
Public Health
and Safety
Livability Resilience Reduced Cost
of Living
2 0 2 4 C L I M A T E A C T I O N P L A N A N N U A L R E P O R T P A G E 7

SDCP SDGE YOU
27,928
Participation
Rate

95.1%

2.7 MW 12
Battery Storage
Permits Issued Solar Permits Issued Megawatts (MW) of
Solar Installed

SOLAR & BATTERY STORAGE
392
12 The City continues to encourage residents to
monitor energy use at home through the DIY
Energy Saving and Sustainability Toolkit program.

The rollout of California's Net
Energy Metering (NEM) 3.0, in
2023, has reduced incentives
making new solar installations
less financially attractive. As a
result, La Mesa has seen a
decline in residential solar permit
applications from last year.

ENERGY
San Diego Community Power (Community Power)
supplies renewable electricity to La Mesa residents and businesses, and all municipal accounts are enrolled in
Power100, a program that provides 100% of electricity
from renewable sources. The City continues to partner
with Community Power at events to develop and support
community-focused energy programs.

Accounts Opt-ups to
Power100

DIY ENERGY SAVING &

SUSTAINABILITY TOOLKIT
7 Toolkits that were
checked out by residents
La Mesa launched an Instant Residential Solar Permit Program using the Symbium platform. This program reduces permitting costs and accelerates solar adoption by allowing homeowners to apply for and receive permits through a streamlined process. By improving access to solar installations, the City is helping residents transition to generating more renewable energy.
2 0 2 4 C L I M A T E A C T I O N P L A N A N N U A L R E P O R T P A G E 8

Developed strategies to reduce energy
consumption and to improve energy
efficiency in municipal operations and
throughout the community.

ENERGY

MUNICIPAL ENERGY USE
In 2023, the City kicked off the Energy
Services Company (ESCO) Project to
implement a comprehensive energy
program that will include projects for
energy efficiency, onsite renewable
energy and storage, and electric vehicle
charging infrastructure for City fleet
vehicles at City facilities. In 2024, building
analyses were conducted and project
recommendations were reviewed.

ENERGY UPGRADES AT MUNICIPAL FACILITIES

GRANTS AWARDED
Partnered with the Foundation to host
education events and purchased
mobile solar light towers and electric
utility vehicles for parks and events.
22,524
2022 2023
33,354
2024
35,134
Municipal Natural Gas Usage (Therms)
2022 2024

3.74 2023

3.74 3.66
Municipal Electricity Usage
Megawatt Hours (MWh)
In 2024, the City of La Mesa experienced an increase in natural gas consumption compared to the previous year, largely due to the completion of repairs at the municipal pool, which resumed normal operations. However, overall natural gas usage in 2024 remained 40% lower than in 2021 levels. Since March 2021, all municipal electricity accounts have been powered by 100% renewable energy through San Diego Community Power’s Power100 program.

San Diego Community Power
Member Agency Grant
La Mesa Park and Recreation
Foundation Grant
Department of Energy: Energy
Efficiency and Conservation
Block Grant
$50,000 $100,000 $120,000
Developed an E-Bike Incentive Pilot
Program in 2024 to reduce car trips
and lower GHG in La Mesa. The
program is planned to launch in 2025.
2 0 2 4 C L I M A T E A C T I O N P L A N A N N U A L R E P O R T P A G E 9

Transit-Oriented Development (TOD)
refers to residential development within
walking distances of transit and other
services, encouraging the reduction of
personal vehicle trips. TOD has the
highest potential GHG reduction. In 2024,
two TOD projects were completed.

Construction progressed at 8181 Allison
Avenue and 7385 Colony Drive.
72 Bike Anywhere Day
Participants
SANDAG
Diamond Award
Gold Tier

SANDAG SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION SERVICES PROGRAM UPDATES 48 Clean Air Day
Participants

TRANSPORTATION & LAND USE

ELECTRIC VEHICLE FLEET

TRANSIT-ORIENTED

DEVELOPMENT

TRANSPORTATION DEMAND MANAGEMENT (TDM)
In 2024, the City acquired three fully-electric vehicles, bringing the fleet to a total of six electric vehicles used by City staff. The City has a total of 18 hybrid vehicles.
135 survey responses

ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATION MASTER PLAN
In 2024, La Mesa began developing an
Electric Vehicle Charging Station Master
Plan to expand access to EV infrastructure
citywide. The plan will identify priority
locations for charging stations, address
equity and accessibility, and support a
connective network. The City is prioritizing
community input through surveys, tabling
events, and working groups.

CITY VEHICLE FLEET GAS CONSUMPTION
GAS
57,275
Gallons
8%
Decrease
from 2023
DIESEL
16,753
Gallons
4%
Increase
from 2023
The City reduced municipal gas consumption through
the addition of new EVs and lower vehicle miles
traveled. The City transitioned its diesel fleet to
renewable diesel, a, nonpetroleum fuel made from
food waste and agricultural byproducts. This switch is
expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from
the City’s diesel fleet by approximately 65%.
2 0 2 4 C L I M A T E A C T I O N P L A N A N N U A L R E P O R T P A G E 1 0 37%
Increase in
pedestrian
volumes on
weekdays
from 2023
From 2023 to 2024, La Mesa experienced
a notable reduction in overall traffic
volumes alongside an increase in bike use
and pedestrian trips.
39%
Decrease in
vehicle volumes
on weekdays
from 2023

FREE EVENTS
10 350%
increase from 2023

LA MESA WALKS

PARTICIPANTS
732
22%
increase from 2023

TRANSPORTATION & LAND USE

MILES OF BIKEWAYS

IN LA MESA
0%
increase from 2023
0%
increase from 2023

MILES OF SIDEWALKS

IN LA MESA

ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION & VISION ZERO
La Mesa has been a Vision Zero City since 2018, aiming to eliminate traffic fatalities and increase safety and accessibility for all road users, including pedestrians and bicyclists. The City has received transportation-related grants to help redesign streets to make it safer to bike and walk.

In April 2024, the City completed
construction of a High-Intensity Activated
Crosswalk (HAWK) at the intersection of El
Cajon Blvd. and Jesse Ave. to address a gap
in pedestrian crosswalks and provide a safe
place for pedestrians to cross the street.

SAN DIEGO COUNTY BICYCLE

COALITION PARTNERSHIP
In 2024, The City of La Mesa launched a free bicycle education series in collaboration with San Diego County Bicycle Coalition. The series includes ten in-person and virtual classes to teach residents about rules of the road, traffic laws, bike maintenance, bike and helmet fitting, electric bikes (e-bikes), skills drills, lane positioning, commuting to work, biking to school, and more.

PARTICIPANTS
139
289%
increase from 2023
61 270
The City was awarded a $400,000 Sustainable Communities Grant to develop the La Mesa Boulevard Complete Streets Plan, Segment 2. In 2024, City Staff gathered additional input from the community and presented findings to Staff and
commissions.

Segment 1 of the La Mesa Boulevard Complete Streets Plan, covering 4th Street to Jackson Dr. and University Ave. from Spring St. to Memorial Dr., was accepted by City Council on April 23, 2024. This plan provides a road map to secure funding, obtain environmental approvals, and continue
community outreach on active transportation.
2 0 2 4 C L I M A T E A C T I O N P L A N A N N U A L R E P O R T P A G E 1 1

School Staff Trained
7,408
Students Trained
Schools
10 467
The City partnered with I Love A Clean San Diego to implement organics and recycling programs at local schools. Through comprehensive trainings, customized implementation plans, and hands-on support, the program equipped schools with the infrastructure and knowledge needed to meet state recycling requirements and foster long-term environmental stewardship.

SCHOOL ORGANICS AND RECYCLING IMPLEMENTATION

TOTAL CITYWIDE DIVERSION RATE WASTE COLLECTED BY EDCO

26.9% 52,927 tons
SB 1383 requires certain large food generators to
recover edible food that would otherwise be
discarded. In 2024 the City continued to partner with
Solana Center for Environmental Innovation to
support food recovery organizations and Tier 1
commercial food generators, such as supermarkets.

EDIBLE FOOD RECOVERY AND PROCUREMENT

SOLID WASTE

RECYCLING COMPLIANCE
In compliance with SB 1383 (Mandatory Organics Recycling) and AB 341 (Mandatory Recycling), all single-family homes, multi-family residences, and commercial businesses have recycling and organics recycling services. 2 0 2 4 C L I M A T E A C T I O N P L A N A N N U A L R E P O R T P A G E 1 2

2022 2023 2024
2022 2023 2024
0 100
200
300
400
500
Volunteers
239 958 6 Events lbs of litter removed
In partnership with I Love A Clean San Diego, the City continued its volunteer-driven Litter Free La Mesa Clean-Up Series to reduce litter and protect waterways. In 2024, the City began the process to hire a Community Cleanup Coordinator to lead and grow the program.
8 10,165
145 320
Cubic Yards of Free
Compost Provided
to the community
Household
Hazardous Waste
(HHW) Events
Pounds of Paper
Shredded
Cubic Yards of Free
Mulch Provided to
the community
1061
Participants
430
Participants

SOLID WASTE EVENTS

NEW COMMUNITY WASTE REDUCTION EVENTS
110 103

SOLID WASTE

LITTER FREE LA MESA CLEANUP SERIES

MULCH/COMPOST

PROVIDED TO COMMUNITY

IN CUBIC YARDS
The City partnered with I Love A Clean San Diego to host clothing swaps where residents donate clothes and pick
up new finds, promoting reuse and sustainable fashion.

The City partnered with Zero Waste San Diego to host
Fix-It Clinic events, helping community members repair
items and prevent waste from reaching the landfill.
1,136.5
lbs of recirculated
items
1,177
lbs of
repaired items
Participants Participants
Clothing Swaps Fix-it Clinics
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GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE
Trees planted
The City received its 44th designation as a Tree
City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation,
recognizing the efforts by City staff to maintain the
existing urban tree canopy throughout La Mesa.

TREE CITY USA AWARD
LA MESA’S URBAN TREE CANOPY
9,719
12 Public trees
maintained
by the City
La Mesa has been a Tree City
USA for 44 years. With support
from a 2019 CAL Fire Grant, the
City conducted inventories,
planted trees, and engaged the
community. Efforts to expand
and maintain the City’s urban
forest are ongoing through the
recommendations in the La Mesa
Urban Forest Management Plan
approved in 2022.

PARTNERSHIP WITH TREE SAN DIEGO
10,000 tree
planted in
Harry Griffen
Park
th
The City of La Mesa partners with Tree
San Diego to educate the community
about the value of the urban tree canopy
through outreach events and tree
planting demos. Tree San Diego planted
its 10,000th tree in La Mesa, highlighting
the strength of the partnership and the
City’s commitment to climate resilience
and expanding green spaces.

Tree Trek around
Helix Charter High
School
Staff Tree
Planting Training
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GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE

WATER CONSERVATION GARDEN
Collier Park reopened to the public in 2024 following major renovations. The updated park features low-water and native plants, stormwater bioswales, a nature-themed play area and new trees throughout the parking lot, creating a more
sustainable and inviting community space.
43 Garden Participants Volunteers
Workshop
Participants Workshops
100 80 10 150
Garden Beds

COMMUNITY GARDEN

LA MESA PARK AND

RECREATION FOUNDATION

RENOVATIONS AND NEW DEVELOPMENT
Completed in 2024, the La Mesa City Hall Water
Conservation Garden showcases drought-tolerant and
pollinator plants. Informative signage throughout the
garden helps visitors identify species and learn about
sustainable landscaping practices. The space serves as an educational resource for water-wise gardening in the
community.

City Hall
La Mesa’s Public Works Department maintains
the Water Conservation Garden at City Hall along
with all 14 city parks, playing a vital role in
preserving the City’s green infrastructure.

PUBLIC WORKS

PARKS DIVISION
The City partners with the La Mesa Park & Recreation
Foundation on events like Park Appreciation Day and
Earth Day to engage community members with La
Mesa’s green infrastructure.
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City Facilities used
62,213,404
gallons of water

CITY FACILITY UPGRADES
In 2024, the City made water-saving upgrades in its facilities, including City Hall. These improvements highlight La Mesa’s commitment to conservation through features like mulch, rainwater collection, permeable pavement, drip irrigation, and drought tolerant landscaping.

Permeable Pavement
Mulch
Rainwater collection
Drought Tolerant Plants
Drip Irrigation
City Hall Water Conservation Garden
La Mesa Residents
used on average
gallons of water
a day per person
WATER

PURE WATER PROJECT
In 2024, Phase 1 of the Pure Water
Program advanced with 12 projects to
convert recycled wastewater into 30
million gallons per day of purified
water, reducing the City’s reliance on
imported water. Construction of
pipelines, pump stations, and
treatment facilities was a key focus.

WATER CONSERVATION
Water device rebates were given to
residents through Helix Water District
La Mesa residents participated in inhome water use evaluations by Helix Water District
67 4

91.9 GRASS TURF REPLACEMENT
5,778
sq ft of turf replaced with less
water intensive landscaping
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Rainwater Collection Workshop
Slow water flow
Remove pollutants
Allow water to soak into
the ground naturally
The City installs bioswales in street medians as part of its efforts to manage stormwater runoff and improve
water quality. These vegetated, landscaped features
help slow and capture rainwater, filter out pollutants
like oil and debris, and allow water to soak into the
ground, recharging local groundwater supplies and
supporting cleaner waterways.

Benefits of Bioswales
319

EVENTS AND EDUCATION

BIOSWALES
WATER

STORMWATER
The City of La Mesa conducts regular
inspections of restaurants to ensure proper
management of fats, oils, and grease (FOG)
and compliance with stormwater regulations.

These efforts help prevent pollution from
entering the storm drain system and protect
local waterways.

FOG checks of
restaurants
Inspections for
stormwater compliance

STORM DRAIN PIPE ENHANCEMENT
Following the January 2024 heavy rainfall event, the City launched a project to widen storm drain pipes to improve flood resilience and protect the community from future storm events. 92 Public Works Outreach on Landscape
Water Conservation Techniques
students educated
1,087
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PARTICIPANTS EVENTS

COMMUNITY EVENTS
Youth Advisory Commission
Presentations
Total Social Media Posts
THE CAP TEAM HOSTED...
5,049 AT

EDUCATION AND OUTREACH
50 Accounts Reached

CAP SOCIAL MEDIA

ENGAGEMENT
108,302
Community engagement is the cornerstone of La
Mesa’s Climate Action Plan, and the City is
continually exploring new and meaningful ways to
connect with and learn from the community, both
online and in person.

YOUTH ENGAGEMENT
As part of the Climate Emergency Resolution, the City expanded youth outreach through school partnerships, workshops, and support for organics recycling, while also engaging the La Mesa Youth Advisory Commission. The CAP team also advised student-led sustainability projects at Helix Charter High School. 117
Working with Helix Charter
High School Volunteers
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STAFF ENGAGEMENT
31 8
9 Newsletters Sent Out
Launched in August 2022, the La Mesa Green Business Network promotes eco-friendly practices through a free local certification program in partnership with the U.S. Green Building Council California USGBC-CA. All participating businesses gain access to sustainability resources, events, a monthly newsletter, and networking opportunities.

EDUCATION AND OUTREACH
The CAP is a collaborative effort that spans
across all City departments. The City continues
to engage staff through interactive events and
trainings to integrate CAP measures into all
projects and programs, supporting the goals of
the Climate Emergency Resolution.

THE LA MESA GREEN BUSINESS NETWORK
2024 MILESTONES
Members of the La Mesa Green
Business Network
Certified Green Businesses
Encouraging
Reusables at Events
Certified Green Businesses were
recognized at a City Council
meeting with a presentation
honoring their commitment to
sustainability and environmental
leadership in La Mesa.

Proper Waste Sorting
at Events
The City led by example by achieving
Green Business Certification for City
Hall and celebrated with a green
ribbon-cutting event, joined by other
certified green businesses in La Mesa
Entry Level Certification was
introduced to make certification
more accessible for all
businesses, offering a simple
and achievable starting point to
certification
Kai’s Refills Scisters Salon
& Apothecary
Helix Soap Co La Mesa City Hall
The La Mesa Library Four Fin Creative Homes With MY Realty The Dental House
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La Mesa Earth Day Kids Zone
Youth Outreach CAP Annual Report
La Mesa Green Business Network
Transportation Demand Managment
Tree Planting Projects
Bicycle Education Events
Climate Action Plan Update
CivicSpark ‘24- ’25
CivicSpark ‘23- ’24 College Corps ‘23-’24
Electric Vehicle Charging
Station Master Plan
The City of La Mesa continued its
involvement in the CivicSpark program,
welcoming it’s fourth cohort of two new
fellows in September 2024 following the
completion of the previous cohort in July.

Additionally, the City brought on its third
cohort of College Corps Fellows from the
University of San Diego, with two new
fellows starting in September to support
further CAP initiatives.

CIVICSPARK AND COLLEGE CORPS FELLOWS
Fellow Projects Include:
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The City of La Mesa is committed to addressing
climate change and fostering a sustainable and
resilient community for generations to come.
[email protected]

ID Measure Description 2020 Target 2035 Target Status 2024 Updates E-1
Building Retrofit ProgramReduce residential and commercial energy use Reduce electricity consumption by 36.4 million kilowatts (kWh) /yr. Reduce natural gas consumption by 260,000 therms from the 2010 baseline Reduce electricity consumption by 91.6 million kilowatts (kWh)/yr. from the 2010 baselineReduce natural gas consumption by 962,500 therms from the 2010 baseline On-Track
Education and Outreach• In September 2019, the City launched the DIY Energy and Sustainability Toolkit. The DIY Toolkit gives residents the tools and resources they need to complete an at home DIY energy audit. The toolkit contains no-cost giveaways including showerheads, LED light bulbs, and weather stripping, and teaches users the importance of energy, water, and waste efficiency. In 2024, 7 residents checked out a toolkit, and over 145 toolkits have been checkout since the toolkit was launched. • The Toolkit program was made possible thanks to a grant from SDG&E’s Emerging Cities program and in October 2020, the City received an additional $29K to replenish toolkit supplies and increase education and outreach. This included two videos and social media posts about an updated sanitized and contactless checkout process and resident testimonial. • The City seeks feedback through the toolkit survey and continues to update the website to include information and resources to encourage energy conservation efforts and promote rebate and incentive programs.

E-2
Shade Tree ProgramDevelop a shade tree program
250 new shade trees planted 1,575 new shade trees planted On-Track Community Forestry Plan• The City was awarded a $385,000 grant from Cal Fire in 2019 to fund the development of a Community Forestry Plan. The City completed and City Council adopted the La Mesa Urban Forest Management Plan (UFMP) in June 2022, which the City continued to implement in 2024. This will guide municipal policies and efforts for the next 40 years to ensure the continued growth of a healthy urban forest. The City also works with Tree San Diego and other community partners to provide education and outreach to the public on key urban forestry concepts and hosted tree planting education events for City Staff and La Mesa residents.

Tree Planting • In partnership with Urban Corps and Tree San Diego, the City continued the Cal Fire grant-funded tree planting program and communicated with residents to plant trees in the public right of way throughout the City. Residents sign a tree watering agreement to assist in watering the tree and are also encourage to participate in a Tree Steward Training provided by Tree San Diego. In 2024, 123 trees were planted.Tree Canopy Analysis• Through the CalFire grant, the City continues to evaluate the City's tree canopy to better understand opportunities for enhanced growth for years to come.

Education and Outreach• The City hosted a staff tree training program in 2024 on proper tree planting and maintenance. • The City partnered with Helix Charter High School to host a Tree Trek where 20 participants learned about tree planting, tree benefits, and tree care. • Urban forestry information continues to be updated ans been added to the City's website. • A "Tree Interest Form" is on the City's website to encourage residents to share their interest in expanding the urban canopy and are provided information on upcoming tree planting workshops and volunteer opportunities.

E-3
Municipal Energy EfficiencyReduce municipal energy use.

Reduce electricity consumption at municipal facilities by 124,000 kWh from 2005 municipal inventor levelsReduce natural gas consumption at municipal facilities by 1,275 therms form the 2004 municipal inventoryImplement all improvements recommended in the La Mesa Energy Roadmap Reduce electricity consumption at municipal facilities by 248,000 kWh from 2005 municipal inventory levelsReduce natural gas consumption at municipal facilities by 2.550 therms form the 2004 municipal inventory On-Track
Energy Efficiency Upgrades• The City continues to change indoor lighting fixtures to efficient LED's as they burn out.Municipal Energy Use• Electricity consumption in municipal facilities continues to be monitored to identify saving opportunities, with 3.74 million kWh in 2024. This was a 1.5% increase from 2023 consumption. • Natural gas consumption in municipal facilities continue to be monitored to identify saving opportunities, with 35,134 Therms in 2024. In 2024, natural gas usage increased by 9.5%. Overall, municipal gas usage has decreased by 23.5% from 2021 due to savings from the municipal pool repairs and upgrades. • Since March 2021, all municipal accounts use 100% renewable electricity through Power100. Comprehensive Energy Program• In 2023, the City kicked off the Energy Services Company (ESCO) Project, selecting ENGIE to implement a comprehensive energy program that will include projects for energy efficiency, onsite renewable energy and battery storage, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure for City fleet vehicles at City facilities. In 2024, building analyses were conducted and project recommendations were reviewed.

Energy

E-4
Public LightingReduce energy consumption in the City's traffic signals, street lights, and park lighting Retrofit all City-owned traffic and street lights to energy efficient alternatives Reduce public lighting energy consumption by 50% from 2005 levels On-Track
Exterior Lighting• All City-maintained street lights were retrofitted to high-efficiency induction street lights in 2011.• Streetlights continued to be switched out to LED lights when a light burns out.• All City-owned street and park lighting are monitored to track outages, upgrades, and other efficiency opportunities. • The City's park/athletic field lights, street lights and traffic lights were added to a scope of work for a comprehensive energy program that began in 2023 and continued in 2024.

E-5
Solar Photovoltaic ProgramInstall solar PV systems on residential and non-residential property, and identify opportunities for municipal installations

6.4 MW solar capacity installed community wide

12.9 MW solar capacity installed community-wide On-Track Solar Installations• A total of 392 photovoltaic solar permits were issued in 2024. • 2.7 MW (DC) of solar capacity was installed in La Mesa in 2024. Battery Storage Installations• A total of 12 battery permits were issued in 2024.Education & Outreach• The City website continues to be updated with information and resources on solar programs and incentives to encourage increased adoption of distributed renewable energy.Permitting Process• The City is reducing permitting costs and is accelerating solar installations through an Instant Residential Solar Permit Program, enabling homeowners to apply for and receive permits online through a streamlined platform.City Facilities• The City continued to develop the Energy Services Company (ESCO) Project, a comprehensive energy program that will develop a plan to install renewable energy and battery storage.

E-6
Solar Hot Water Heater ProgramInstall solar water heaters in new construction and building retrofits 5,100 therms/yr. saved 6,300 therms/yr. saved Ahead
Solar Hot Water Installations• There were x solar hot water heater permits issued in 2024.Education• The City website continues to be updated with information and resources on solar hot water heating programs.City Facilities• The City continues to explore adding solar hot water heating at City facilities, especially at the Municipal Pool and Spa, and is under consideration to be added to the scope of work for a comprehensive energy project.

E-7
Solar-Ready ConstructionIncorporate solar-ready design into new construction. - - On-Track
Green Building Standards• The City continued to implement Chapter 14.13 of the La Mesa Municipal Code, which adopts the 2023 Green Building Standards Code that defines zero net energy and renewable energy buildling requirements. Staff will continue monitoring State building code updates and ensure the City's building code provides for Green Building Standards consistent with updated regulations.

E-8
Zero Net Energy ConstructionImplement California's zero net energy building standards for new residential construction starting in 2020 and new non-residential construction starting in 2030 -
14,800 MWh of new residential electricity demand is off-set708,450 therms of new residential natural gas demand is off-set5,800 MWh of new nonresidential natural gas demand is off-set83,000 therms of new nonresidential natural gas demand is off-set On-Track
Green Building Standards• The City continued to implement Chapter 14.13 of the La Mesa Municipal Code, which adopts the 2023 Green Building Standards Code that defines zero net energy and renewable energy buildling requirements. Staff will continue monitoring State building code updates and ensure the City's building code provides for Green Building Standards consistent with updated regulations. Additionally, the City continued to implement the 2022 California Energy Code and participate in the the California Statewide Codes & Standards Program, Reach Codes Subprogram.

E-9
100% Clean EnergyPartner with other San Diego County jurisdictions to develop a regional Community Choice Aggregation program with 100% renewable energy -
80% of La Mesa residents and businesses participate in a CCA or similar program that provides 100% renewable electricity On-Track
Community Choice Aggregation (CCA)• In October 2018, the cities of Chula Vista, La Mesa, and Santee partnered on a CCA Feasibility Study. The Study was completed in July 2019 and found that a community choice program could offer competitive rates to La Mesa residents and business and support the City's CAP goals. • In September 2019, La Mesa City Council approved community choice through a regional program in partnership with Chula Vista, Encinitas, Imperial Beach, and San Diego. The regional program, called San Diego Community Power (SDCP), began serving municipal customers in 2021 and business and residential customers in 2022. SD Community Power's founding documents also commit the agency to serve customers with 100% renewable electricity by 2035. • SDCP offers renewable electricity to residents and businesses through PowerOn (55%) and Power100 (100%). As of 2021, All municipal accounts opted up are Power100.• Throughout 2024, SDCP engaged with residents through educational community events and tablings.• In 2024, there was a 95.1% participation rate and 12 new opt-ups to Power100 with a total of 27,928 SDCP accounts.Grants• The City supported the La Mesa Park and Recreation Foundation, who received $100,000 from the Community Clean Energy Innovation Grant Program awarded by SDCP. The City partnered with the Foundation to host free solar education events and purchased mobile solar lighting stations and electric utility vehicles for use at parks and events. • The City was awarded a $50,000 San Diego Community Power Member Agency Grant. In 2024, The City developed an E-Bike Incentive Program with the goal of lowering La Mesa's vehicle miles traveled (VMT). The City is planning to launch the program in 2025.

T-1
Bicycle and Pedestrian InfrastructureContinue to plan for and construct safe, attractive bicycle and pedestrian paths and facilities.

Install 3 miles of new Class II bike lanes (in addition to existing 12.8 miles) Install 10 miles of new Class II bike lanes (in addition to existing 12.8 miles)Increase percentage of bike commuters by 0.3% from 2010 levels On-Track
Bike Lanes and Sidewalks• To date, the City has 33 miles of Class 2 bike lanes and 28 miles of Class 3 bike lanes. • To date, the City has 277 miles of sidewalk. • The City is in the process of installing a Class 4 bike Lane along Murry Avenue. It is planning to be completed in 2025 with the goal of helping to keep cyclists safer.Infrastructure Improvements• In 2024, the City completed construction of its first High-intensity Activated CrossWalk at the intersection of El Cajon Blvd. and Jesse Ave. to address a gap in pedestrian crosswalks along the corridor and provide a safe place for pedestrians to cross the street.• The City continues to make use of grant funding received in 2022 to install pedestrian crossings in locations across the City.• The City continues to apply for grant funding for sidewalk and bike lane improvements.• As streets and intersections are repaired, the City adds bike lanes and traffic and safety improvements if feasible.Grants• The City was awarded a Smart Growth Incentive Program (SGIP) grant from SANDAG to prepare a Complete Streets Integrated Design Manual. The Manual was published in 2023 and provides a roadmap, making it easier to implement Smart Growth policies on future projects requiring street and sidewalk improvements, ensuring all types of road users are safely accommodated. After extensive engagement and outreach, on April 23, 2024, La Mesa City Council adopted a resolution accepting the La Mesa Boulevard Complete Streets Plan, Segment 1.• The City was awarded a $400,000 Sustainable Communities Grant from the State of California to prepare a Complete Streets Plan Segment 2 for La Mesa Boulevard from Jackson Drive, under the I-8 freeway, and connecting to Grossmont Center Drive. La Mesa Boulevard Complete Streets Plan Segment 2 kicked off in January 2023 and included multiple community engagement opportunities throughout the year to involve residents in the corridor redesign. In 2024, City Staff gathered additional input from the community and presented findings to Staff and commissions. In 2025, La Mesa Boulevard Complete Streets Plan Segment 2 will continue looking for funding for the project.• The City continued to use funds from a $250,000 from the Federal Highway Safety Improvement Program Grant with a local match in funds exceeding 100% for 12 new pedestrian crossings across the City.• The City continued to use funds from a $189,000 grant for pedestrian signal updates in across the City. The purpose of the updates is to increase pedestrian accessibility.

T-2
Bicycle Safety ProgramImplement a bicycle program to advance community-wide bikeability through safety programs, bicycle tune-up clinics, and partnerships with bicycle advocacy groups, local school, and cycling clubs. - - On-Track
Vision Zero• In September 2018, City Council adopted a Vision Zero Policy. The policy strives to reduce traffic fatalities to zero by 2035 through infrastructure improvements, data analysis, education, and planning. In support of this initiative, the City:• The City applied for and was rewarded a Smart Growth Incentive Program (SGIP) grant from the San Diego Association of Governments to prepare a Complete Streets Integrated Design Manual. The Manual is a comprehensive Complete Streets planning and design guide that provides a toolbox of engineering elements, making it easier to implement Smart growth policies on future projects requiring street and sidewalk improvements. On April 23, 2024, La Mesa City Council adopted a resolution accepting the La Mesa Boulevard Complete Streets Plan, Segment 1.• The City was awarded a $400,000 Sustainable Communities grant from the State of California to prepare a Complete Streets Plan for La Mesa Boulevard from Jackson Drive, under the I-8 freeway, and connecting to Grossmont Center Drive. La Mesa Boulevard Complete Streets Plan Segment 2 kicked off in 2023. In 2024, City Staff gathered additional input from the community and presented findings to Staff and commissions. • Continues to implement the Neighborhood Traffic Management Program, which allows residents to petition for traffic calming measures on their streets. • The City has an internal Vision Zero team that meets quarterly.San Diego County Bicycle Coalition Partnership• In 2024, The City of La Mesa launched the free bicycle education series in collaboration with San Diego County Bicycle Coalition. The 2024 series includes ten inperson and virtual classes to teach residents about rules of the road, traffic laws, bike maintenance, bike and helmet fitting, skills drills, lane positioning, commuting to work, biking to school, and more. La Mesa Walks!• La Mesa Walks! is a community walking group that meets Wednesday mornings. The walks are used as a forum to educate residents of City projects, programs and events while also promoting walking as a fun means of transportation. In 2024, La Mesa Walks had 734 participants.Safe Routes to School• The City continued to educate students and parents on safe biking and walking habits as a way to commute to and from school.

Transportation and Land Use

T-3
Transportation Safety and Demand Management ProgramUtilize SANDAG's iCommute program to reduce single-occupancy vehicle trips community-wide -
Reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT) per capita by 6% compared to 2010 levels (25.1 daily VMT per capita in 2010) On-Track
City of La Mesa + Sustainable Transportation Services Collaboration• The City was awarded the Gold Award for the SANDAG Diamond Awards, which recognizes employers in San Diego region who have made strides to promote alternative commute choices in the workplaceEducation and Outreach• The City website includes information and resources about SANDAG's Sustainable Transportation Services (STS) program to make residents aware of the free programs and incentives available. For example SANDAG offers programs like Guaranteed Ride Home program, Try Transit and the Youth Opportunity Pass.• The City shares STS information and resources with City staff. SANDAG Sustainable Transportation Program Updates • The City was recognized as a Diamond Gold Award recipient for efforts in championing sustainable transportation options. • Events in 2024 included: Bike Anywhere Day, Clean Air Day, and a Bike Maintenance Event.Traffic Data and Transportation Trends•From 2023 to 2024, La Mesa experienced a notable reduction in overall traffic volumes alongside an increase in bike use and pedestrian trips.•On weekdays, total traffic volumes declined by approximately 39%, dropping from 205,152 in 2023 to 126,862 in 2024. This reduction was driven primarily by a 39% decrease in vehicle volumes, while pedestrian volumes rose by 37% and bicycle volumes remained relatively stable.•On Saturdays, total traffic volumes declined by 35%, from 166,896 in 2023 to 109,248 in 2024. Vehicle traffic dropped by 35%, pedestrian volumes increased by 37%, and bicycle volumes remained relatively unchanged.•On weekdays, the percentage of trips made by car in La Mesa decreased from 99.13% in 2023 to 98.15% in 2024, while the share of trips made by pedestrians increased from 0.74% to 1.65%, and the share of trips made by bicycles rose slightly from 0.12% to 0.20%.•On Saturday, the percentage of car users decreased from 99.23% in 2023 to 98.47% in 2024, while the share of pedestrians rose from 0.62% to 1.30% and the share of bicycles increased from 0.15% to 0.23%.

T-4
Mixed-Use and Transit-Oriented DevelopmentContinue to encourage mixed-use and transit-oriented development through land use and zoning designations to support alternative transportation opportunities. -
Reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT) per capita by 6% compared to 2010 levels (25.1 daily VMT per capita in 2010) On-Track
Transit Oriented Development (TOD) Projects• Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) refers to residential development within walking distances of transit and other services, lessening the need for personal vehicle trips.• In 2024, two TOD projects were finnished.• Construction is progressing on TOD projects at 8181 Allison Avenue and 7385 Colony Drive and more projects are currently undergoing review.Development• The City issued ADU permits in 2024, providing more efficient housing options for La Mesa residents. Applications are continuously being reviewed and approved. • In 2024 the City began the creation of Objective Design Standards in efforts of streamlining housing projects under the State's Housing Crisis Act. The standards are to be adopted in 2025.

T-5
Alternative Refueling Infrastructure DevelopmentSupport community-wide use of alternative fuel vehicles through expansion of alternative vehicle refueling infrastructure. -
Reduce VMT per capita by 6% compared to 2010 levels (25.1 daily VMT per capita in 2010) On-Track
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations• 18 residential electric vehicle (EV) charging station permits were issued in 2024.• 0 permitted commercial EV charging ports were issued in 2024.• The City continued to reduce permitting costs and is accelerating solar installations through an Instant Residential Solar Permit Program, enabling homeowners to apply for and receive permits online through a streamlined platform.

Electric Vehicle Charging Station Master Plan • In 2024, La Mesa began developing an Electric Vehicle Charging Station Master Plan to expand access to EV infrastructure citywide. The plan will identify priority locations for charging stations, address equity and accessibility, and support a connective network. The City is prioritizing community input through surveys, tabling events, and working groups.

Education and Outreach• The City's website was updated with information on EV incentives and resources.

T-6
Municipal FleetContinue to transition the municipal vehicle fleet from gasoline- and diesel-powered vehicles to alternative-fuel or other lowemissions vehicles. 220 gallons of gasoline/yr. saved from passenger vehicle replacement 340 gallons of gasoline/yr. saved from light-duty truck replacement On-Track
Fleet Upgrades• In 2024, the City acquired three full-electric vehicles, bringing the fleet to a total of 6 electric vehicles to be used by City staff.• Alternative fuel vehicles continued to be explored for fleet replacement, with technical assistance support from a CEC-funded Empower Procurement program. • The City acquired new hybrid vehicles, bringing the total number up to 18. • The City partnered with SDG&E to install 10 Power Your Drive electric vehicle charging stations at City Hall. These chargers are available to all Civic Center Complex staff and the new electric vehicles. The units were available for workplace and fleet charging starting January 2019.Grossmont Union High School District Fleet• In September 2022, GUHSD unveiled their first 17 all-electric buses and new Transportation Services Center, which features 9 bus maintenance bays, a drivethrough bus wash, rooftop solar panels, and electric charging infrastructure to support further fleet electrification. As of 2024, the GUHSD is up to 24 electric school buses. • This work is based on a fleet electrification roadmap which charts a course to a fully electric school bus fleet over the next 20 years. Transition to Renewable Diesel• In 2019 the City transitioned its diesel fleet to renewable diesel, an environmentally sustainable, nonpetroleum fuel sourced from food waste and agricultural products. The change to renewable diesel will reduce GHG emission from the City's diesel fleet by approximately 65%.

W-1
Urban Water Management Plan ProgramsSupport Helix Water District in outreach and community education Achieve water use levels of 103 gallons per capita per day Achieve water use levels of 89 gallons per capita per day On-Track Community-Wide Consumption• In 2024, La Mesa's average residential gallons per capita per day (GPCD) was 91.9. This surpasses the 2020 CAP Target of 103 GPCD.• The City website includes information and resources on water conservation opportunities. • The City continues to share it's water conservation fact sheets, published in 2022, promoting Helix rebates and incentives.• The City also continues to cross promote Helix Water District educational opportunities via social media and other communication strategies. • Helix Water District continues to offer numerous programs to La Mesa residents and businesses, including in-home water use evaluations, student education programs, and local rebates and incentives. These efforts are cross-promoted where feasible.• Helix Water District has a demonstration landscape garden at their La Mesa office, available for residents to learn more about the types of water saving plants and trees to plant in La Mesa's environment.•Public Works engages the community through outreach efforts that promote water-saving landscaping techniques and sustainable yard practices.

W-2
Water wise Landscape Design and IrrigationConserve water through efficient landscaping design and irrigation - - On-Track
Education and Outreach• City Building staff continue to promote water conservation measures. Additional resources have been made available on the City's website for residents and businesses. • In 2024, the City continued to share its indoor and outdoor water conservation fact sheets with best practices and rebates and incentives. These fact sheets are available on the City website, and physical copies are available at City tabling events.• The City hosted a Rainwater Harvesting Workshop to share with residents best tips on saving water runoff and caring for loew-water native plants.Municipal Conservation and Demonstration• The City completed construction of a demonstration garden at City Hall, incorporating low-water plants, a rock-lined swale, and a rainwater collection barrel to collect runoff from the City Hall roof for use in the garden.

W-3
Pure Water ProgramParticipate in the Pure Water Program to convert wastewater to potable drinking water - - On-Track
• City Council approved La Mesa's participation in the Pure Water San Diego program in July 2018. Pure Water San Diego is a phased, multi-year program that will use proven water purification technology to clean recycled water to produce safe, high-quality drinking water locally by 2035. This is a key initiative to provide reliable, sustainable water supply to the region. • The Pure Water Project aims to convert a minimum of 83 million gallons of wastewater each day into potable drinking water, providing nearly 50% of the City's drinking water by 2035.• Phase I construction continued in 2024. It includes 11 construction projects, including the North City Pure Water Facility and Pump Station, which is being built across the road from the North City Water Reclmation Plant.

Water

SW-1
Food Scrap and Yard Waste DiversionWork with local waste hauler to develop residential organics collection program Household and businesses divert 5% of food scraps and compostable paperHouseholds and businesses divert 85% of yard waste See Measure SW-3 On-Track
Recycling Compliance •As of January 2022, Senate Bill (SB) 1383 (Mandatory Organics Recycling) and Assembly Bill (AB) 341 (Mandatory Recycling) requires all single family homes, multi-family residential dwellings, and commerical businesses to subscribe to recycling services. • 26.9% of the waste generated by La Mesa residents was diverted from landfill in 2024. • 52,927 tons of waste were collected by EDCO in 2024.Organic Waste Recycling •The City worked with their waste hauler frranchiser, EDCO, to continue providing organics recycling services to all La Mesa businesses and multi-family housing in 2024. • In collaboration with I Love A Clean San Diego, the City rolled out organics and recycling sorting stations and signage as well as comprehensive trainings on proper waste disposal at 10 schools in La Mesa. 7408 students and 467 staff were trained on proper waste sorting in 2024.Edible Food Recovery & Procurement• In 2024, the City continued to partner with consultant Solana Center for Environmental Innovation to provide assistance to food recovery organizations and Tier 1 commercial food generators, which includes supermarkets. Education and Outreach• The City and EDCO continue to conduct education and outreach to the public and large waste generators. EDCO continues to conduct on-site and virtual site visits to educate multi-family complexes and businesses on best management practices. Community Mulch and Compost• The City and EDCO continues their program providing free mulch to La Mesa community members. In 2024, the City provided 145 cubic yards of mulch to the community. •In 2024, the City began providing free compost to the community to support sustainable gardening and waste reduction. A total of 320 cubic yards of compost were distributed to residents throughout the year.

SW-2
Construction & Demolition Waste DiversionContinue to enforce the City's construction and demolition waste diversion ordinance.

Projects divert 75% of construction and demolition waste from landfill, per City ordinance See Measure SW-3 On-Track
Construction and Demolition Ordinance Implementation• The City continues to implement the 75% C&D diversion requirement for applicable projects.• Additional resources and information on C&D are available on the City's website, including resource recovery information.

SW-3
Divert 75% Waste from LandfillMaximize waste diversion efforts community-wide with particular focus on organic and recyclable waste -
12,500 tons or less of solid waste disposed in landfills (75% waste diversion) On-Track
Water Refill Stations • The City used grant funding to order and install water refill stations at City facilities to encourage the reuse of water bottles and prevent the use of single-use plastics. Recycling Compliance•As of January 2022, Senate Bill (SB) 1383 (Mandatory Organics Recycling) and Assembly Bill (AB) 341 (Mandatory Recycling) requires all single family homes, multi-family residential dwellings, and commerical businesses to subscribe to recycling services. • In 2023, the City had 99.7% residential and commercial compliance. • 26.9% of the waste generated by La Mesa residents was diverted from landfill in 2024. • 52,927 tons of waste were collected by EDCO in 2024.

Solid Waste

GI-1
Urban Forest Master PlanSupport the development and maintenance of a healthy urban forest 500 net new trees planted from 2015 onward See measure GI-2 On-Track Community Forestry Plan• The City's Urban Forestry Management Plan (UFMP) was adopted in 2022 and continues to be implemented and utilized by the City as it maintains and grows its urban tree canopy. • The City is actively analyzing the UFMP recommendations to determine feasible next steps to increase urban canopy cover, including exploring options to adopt a comprehensive tree protection ordinance for public and private trees and implementing a private property tree planting program.• The City continues to work with Tree San Diego and other community partners to provide education and outreach to the public on key urban forestry concepts.

City Tree Inventory Update• The City continues to add to the 2019 inventory of all City-maintained trees. The City maintains 10,037 trees across the City as of the end of 2024. • 155 trees were planted in 2024, which was a 260% increase from 2023. • The City received its 44th designation as a Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation.

GI-2
Expanded Urban ForestryIncrease La Mesa's urban forest canopy coverage -
Increase tree canopy by 1,400 acres from 2014 baseline On-Track Tree Planting • In partnership with Urban Corps and Tree San Diego, the City continued coordinating the Cal Fire grant funded tree planting program and has communicated with residents to plant trees in public rights-of-way throughout the City. • In exchange for the tree, residents sign a tree watering agreement, committing to watering the tree for a period of 4+ years. Residents are also encouraged to participate in Tree Steward Trainings provided by Tree San Diego. • In 2024, 155 new trees were planted in La Mesa.•To ensure the health of the existing canopy, the City has had to remove trees due to pest and diseases.Tree Canopy Analysis• Through the CalFire grant, the City continued to evaluate the City's tree canopy to better understand opportunities for enhanced growth for years to come.

Education and Outreach• Urban forestry information is continually updated on the City's website.• A "Tree Interest Form" is on the City's website to encourage residents to share their interest in expanding the urban canopy. Residents are provided with information on upcoming tree planting workshops and volunteer opportunities.• The City conducted outreach for the 2019 CAL Fire Grant free street tree program through social media, the City Manager newsletter, and tabling at events.• The City hosted resident and staff tree training events in 2023 on proper tree planting and maintenance.

Green Infrastructure

DATE: July 22, 2025
TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council
FROM: Megan Wiegelman, CMC, City Clerk
VIA: Greg Humora, City Manager
SUBJECT: RESOLUTION APPOINTING AND/OR REAPPOINTING MEMBERS TO

CITY OF LA MESA BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
On July 8th, the City Council interviewed applicants who were interested in being appointed or reappointed to the City’s boards and commissions. At the Council meeting on July 22nd, the Mayor and City Council will nominate and confirm the appointments. With the exception of the Community Services Commission and Planning Commission, the Mayor will make the appointments to the City’s boards and commissions with the approval of the City Council.

For the appointments to the Community Services Commission and Planning Commission, nomination forms will be distributed at the meeting. Each Councilmember will indicate his or her nominations on the form. The forms will be passed to the City Clerk who will read each nomination aloud. The nomination process will continue until there is a majority nomination by the Council.

Attached is a list of the boards and commissions with a brief description of the requirements for each one, the number of openings, and the names of each applicant seeking to be appointed.

Staff recommends the City Council appoint members to fill the openings on the City’s boards and commissions, and adopt the attached resolution confirming the appointments.

Attachments

A number of applicants listed more than one board or commission of interest.

Arts and Culture Commission: Two (2) positions – four-year terms • One position represents the Art Educator (Kindergarten through 8th Grade) (AE-K-8th) • One position represents the Art Educator (9th Grade through College) (AE -9th-C) *Pursuant to La Mesa Municipal Code Chapter 2.87, Arts and Culture Commission: “If these particular appointments cannot be made and consequently vacancies occur, the remaining vacancies may be appointed at large.”
At-Large (A)
Visual Arts (VA)
Performing Arts (PA)
Musical Arts (MA)
The Commission shall consist of seven appointed members as follows:
• Two members to be art educators (one kindergarten through 8th grade, one 9th grade through college)
• One member to represent the visual arts; one member to represent the performing arts • One member to represent the musical arts
• Two members to be at large.

Members shall be either a La Mesa resident, employed at a place of business in La Mesa with a direct relationship to the Arts and Culture Commission membership categories, OR serve in a volunteer capacity at a non-profit organization in La Mesa with a direct relationship to the arts and Culture Commission membership categories
First Appointed Number of Terms
Renee Bareno (A)(VA)
Patrick R. de la Torre (A)
Alison Lindsay (AE – K-8th)(A) – incumbent 01-25-22 Partial Brittany Morrow (A)
Tristan Reed (A)(VA)
Stacey Turner (AE – K-8th)(A)(VA)(MA)
Community Services Commission: Two (2) positions – four-year terms Members must be resident electors of City of La Mesa and are subject to the Conflict of Interest Code. One appointee shall be nominated by the Grossmont Union High School District.

First Appointed Number of Terms
Robin Ellam
Cassandra Neel
Marc Regier

Design Review Board: One (1) position – three-year term Members shall be design professionals, which are defined as registered architect or landscape architect, building designer, urban designer or urban planner. Members are subject to the Conflict of Interest Code.

First Appointed Number of Terms
Patrick R. de la Torre
Environmental Sustainability Commission: One (1) position – four-year terms • One position represents the professional category (P).

Seven of the members shall be residents of the City of La Mesa and be comprised as follows:
two members from the general populous; three members with professional experience related to environmental sustainability; one member representing the senior adult population (at time of appointment shall be not less than fifty-five years of age); and one member representing the youth population (at the time of appointment shall be not more than 21 years of age).

First Appointed Number of Terms
Michael Bourton (P) – incumbent 01-14-20 1+partial
Lara Dickens (P)
Robin Ellam (P)
La Mesa Community Parking Commission: One (1) position – four-year term • One position represents the general population (G).

Two members shall be at-large members and three members shall be business representatives, property owners, or residents residing in the CD/D Downtown Commercial Zone. Members are subject to the Conflict of Interest Code.

First Appointed Number of Terms
Patrick R. de la Torre
Stacey A. Turner

Mobility Commission: Two (2) positions – four-year terms Members must be resident electors of the City of La Mesa and are subject to the Conflict of Interest Code.

First Appointed Number of Terms
Mike Calandra - incumbent 07-09-13 3
Philip Cavello
Patrick R. de la Torre
Emma McClees
Brittany Morrow
Stacey A. Turner
Personnel Appeals Board: One (1) position – three-year terms Members shall be resident electors of the City of La Mesa and are subject to the Conflict of Interest Code.

First Appointed Number of Terms
Jocelyn Watkins 07-28-20 1+partial
Planning Commission: Two (2) positions – four-year terms Members must be resident electors of the City of La Mesa and are subject to the Conflict of Interest Code.

First Appointed Number of Terms
Patrick R. de la Torre
Robin Ellam
David Harris – incumbent 07-25-23 Partial
Tristan Reed
Marc Regier
APPLICATIONS ARE AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW IN THE CITY CLERK’S OFFICE

RESOLUTION NO. 2025-

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA MESA APPOINTING

AND/OR REAPPOINTING MEMBERS TO CITY OF LA MESA BOARDS AND

COMMISSIONS
___________________________________________________________________ WHEREAS, terms on the following City of La Mesa Boards and Commissions have either expired or been vacated; and
WHEREAS, the list of persons below has been either recommended to or by the City Council for appointment or reappointment to said City of La Mesa Board and Commission.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT AND IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of La Mesa, California, that the following are hereby appointed and/or reappointed as members of the City of La Mesa Boards and Commissions, with their terms to commence after the oath or affirmation of allegiance for public officers or employees is executed as required by Article XX, Section 3 of the Constitution of the State of California, and to expire on the dates stated below, or until their successors are appointed and qualified:

Arts and Culture Commission: 2 appointments
(Name) is appointed/reappointed as the art educator (Kindergarten - 8 th grade)
representative for term ending June 30, 2029.
(Name) is appointed as the general population representative for term ending June 30, 2029.

Community Services Commission: 2 appointments
(Name) is appointed for term ending June 30, 2029.
(Name) is appointed for term ending June 30, 2029.

Design Review Board: 1 appointment
(Name) is appointed for term ending June 30, 2028.

Environmental Sustainability Commission: 1 appointment
(Name) is appointed/reappointed as the professional representative for term ending June 30, 2029.

La Mesa Community Parking Commission: 1 appointment
(Name) is appointed as the general population representative for term ending June 30, 2029.

Mobility Commission: 2 appointments
(Name) is appointed/reappointed as the general population representative for term ending June 30, 2029.
.
(Name) is appointed as the general population representative for term ending June 30, 2029.

Personnel Appeals Board: 1 appointment
(Name) is reappointed for term ending June 30, 2028.

Planning Commission: 2 appointments
(Name) is appointed/reappointed for term ending June 30, 2029. (Name) is appointed for term ending June 30, 2029.

PASSED AND ADOPTED at a Regular meeting of the City Council of the City of La Mesa, California, held the 22
nd day of July 2025, by the following vote, to wit:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

CERTIFICATE OF CITY CLERK
I, MEGAN WIEGELMAN, City Clerk of the City of La Mesa, California, do hereby certify the foregoing to be a true and exact copy of Resolution No. 2025- , duly passed and adopted by the City Council of said City on the date and by the vote therein recited.

MEGAN WIEGELMAN, CMC, City Clerk
(SEAL OF CITY)

1 La Mesa City Council
Minutes of a Regular Meeting
Date:

Location:

June 24, 2025, 6:00 pm
City Council Chambers, 8130 Allison Avenue
La Mesa, California

Present: Vice Mayor Patricia N. Dillard
Councilmember Lauren Cazares
Councilmember Laura Lothian
Councilmember Genevieve Suzuki

Absent: Mayor Mark Arapostathis
Staff: City Manager Greg Humora
Assistant City Manager Amanda Lee
City Attorney Glenn Sabine
City Clerk Megan Wiegelman
_____________________________________________________________________

1. CALL TO ORDER
The City Council minutes are prepared and ordered to correspond to the City Council Agenda. Agenda Items can be taken out of order during the meeting.

The Agenda Items were considered in the order presented.

Vice Mayor Dillard called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

1.1 INVOCATION - COUNCILMEMBER LOTHIAN

1.2 PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

2. CITY MANAGER COMMENTS
There were no comments.

3. COMMUNITY BULLETIN REPORTS
The Vice Mayor, Council and staff made announcements and reported on various events taking place in the City. No action was taken.

2 4. ADDITIONS AND/OR DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA
There were no additions or deletions to the agenda.

5. PUBLIC COMMENTS – (TOTAL TIME – 15 MINUTES)
Martha Bakkedahl provided suggestions on where the City should focus its efforts and funding instead of prioritizing the expansion of bike lanes, and shared concerns about the impact the recently approved 73-unit development on Jericho Road may have on the surrounding neighborhood and the City overall.

Brenda Hammond spoke about anger management and expressed her excitement for the Sundays at Six Concerts series.

6. CONFLICT DISCLOSURES
There were no conflicts of interest disclosed.

7. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON CONSENT CALENDAR
There were no comments on Consent Calendar items.

8. CONSENT CALENDAR
(Items 8.1 through 8.4)
Moved By Councilmember Cazares
Seconded By Councilmember Suzuki
Approve Consent Calendar Items 8.1 through 8.4.

For (4): Vice Mayor Dillard, Councilmember Cazares, Councilmember Lothian, and Councilmember Suzuki
Absent (1): Mayor Arapostathis
Approved (4 to 0)

8.1 APPROVAL OF MOTION TO WAIVE THE READING OF THE TEXT OF

ALL ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS AT THIS MEETING
Approve.

8.2 APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES FOR THE CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING HELD TUESDAY, MAY 13, 2025
Approve.

3 8.3 RESOLUTION APPROVING AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LA MESA AND THE SAN DIEGO HUMANE SOCIETY AND S.P.C.A

TO CONTINUE TO PROVIDE ANIMAL SHELTER AND FIELD

SERVICES
Resolution No. 2025-069
Adopt Resolution.

8.4 RESOLUTIONS APPROVING THE 2025-2028 MEMORANDUM OF

UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY OF LA MESA AND LA MESA

CITY EMPLOYEES' ASSOCIATION AND CORRESPONDING

CLASSIFICATION AND SALARY SCHEDULE FOR FISCAL YEAR
2025-2026
Adopt Resolutions.
a. RESOLUTION APPROVING THE 2025-2028 MEMORANDUM OF

UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY OF LA MESA AND

THE LA MESA CITY EMPLOYEES' ASSOCIATION
Resolution No. 2025-070
Adopt Resolution.
b. RESOLUTION APPROVING THE AMENDED BENEFIT PLAN

FOR UNREPRESENTED MANAGEMENT EMPLOYEES
Resolution No. 2025-071
Adopt Resolution.
c. RESOLUTION APPROVING THE REVISED FISCAL YEAR 2025-
2026 SALARY AND CLASSIFICATION SCHEDULE FOR LMCEA

AND UNREPRESENTED CONFIDENTIAL AND MANAGEMENT

EMPLOYEES
Resolution No. 2025-072
Adopt Resolution.

9. HEARINGS

9.1 CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTIONS AND AN ORDINANCE TO
ANNEX THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 9365 CARMICHAEL DRIVE
(APN 495-335-05-00) (PROJECT 2022-0492) INTO THE CITY OF LA

MESA, SUBJECT TO LOCAL AREA FORMATION COMMISSION
("LAFCO") APPROVAL OF THE ANNEXATION

4 Notice of the hearing was given in accordance with legal requirements, and the hearing was held on the date and at the time specified in the notice.

Vice Mayor Dillard opened the hearing for Item 9.1.

Director of Community Development Santos provided a PowerPoint presentation outlining the proposed detachment of the property at 9365 Carmichael Drive from the County of San Diego and the San Miguel Consolidated Fire District, and its annexation into the City of La Mesa. The presentation detailed a General Plan Amendment and a Zoning Ordinance Amendment to designate the site as Suburban Residential, allowing one dwelling unit on the 11,986-square-foot lot. Director of Community Development Santos further stated that the project was found to be exempt from CEQA.

Council questions and comments ensued.

Moved By Councilmember Cazares
Seconded By Councilmember Lothian
Close the hearing.

For (4): Vice Mayor Dillard, Councilmember Cazares, Councilmember Lothian, and Councilmember Suzuki
Absent (1): Mayor Arapostathis
Approved (4 to 0)
a. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE APPLICATION TO LAFCO

TO DETACH FROM THE COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO AND THE

SAN MIGUEL CONSOLIDATED FIRE DISTRICT AUTHORIZING
THE ANNEXATION OF 9365 CARMICHAEL DRIVE (APN 495-
335-05-00) INTO THE CITY OF LA MESA JURISDICTIONAL

BOUNDARY
Resolution No. 2025-073
Moved By Councilmember Lothian
Seconded By Councilmember Cazares
Adopt Resolution.

For (4): Vice Mayor Dillard, Councilmember Cazares,
Councilmember Lothian, and Councilmember Suzuki

5 Absent (1): Mayor Arapostathis
Approved (4 to 0)
b. RESOLUTION APPROVING A GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT
FOR PROJECT 2022-0492 ASSIGNING THE PROPERTY
ADDRESSED 9365 CARMICHAEL DRIVE (APN 495-335-05-00)

A LAND USE DESIGNATION OF SUBURBAN RESIDENTIAL
Resolution No. 2025-074
Moved By Councilmember Cazares
Seconded By Councilmember Lothian
Adopt Resolution.

For (4): Vice Mayor Dillard, Councilmember Cazares,
Councilmember Lothian, and Councilmember Suzuki
Absent (1): Mayor Arapostathis
Approved (4 to 0)
c. SUBURBAN RESIDENTIAL/SCENIC PRESERVATION
OVERLAY (R1S-P) ORDINANCE

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA
MESA AMENDING THE ZONING MAP OF TITLE 24 OF THE LA

MESA MUNICIPAL CODE TO DESIGNATE THE PROPERTY
ADDRESSED 9365 CARMICHAEL DRIVE (APN 495-335-05-00)

SUBURBAN RESIDENTIAL/SCENIC PRESERVATION
OVERLAY (R1S-P)
City Attorney Sabine read the title of the Ordinance.

Moved By Councilmember Suzuki
Seconded By Councilmember Lothian
Approve the introduction and first reading of the Ordinance.

For (4): Vice Mayor Dillard, Councilmember Cazares,
Councilmember Lothian, and Councilmember Suzuki
Absent (1): Mayor Arapostathis
Approved (4 to 0)

6 9.2 CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING RATE

ADJUSTMENTS FOR EDCO DISPOSAL CORPORATION, A
CALIFORNIA CORPORATION, TO BECOME EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2025 Notice of the hearing was given in accordance with legal requirements, and the hearing was held on the date and at the time specified in the notice.

Vice Mayor Dillard opened the hearing for Item 9.2.

Environmental Sustainability Manager Ego gave a report on the rate proposal from EDCO, the Proposition 218 notification process, and the number of protest letters received. Environmental Sustainability Manager Ego also discussed the final report from an independent accounting firm that reviewed the rate increase request.

Council questions and comments ensued.

Moved By Vice Mayor Dillard
Seconded By Councilmember Cazares
Close the hearing.

For (4): Vice Mayor Dillard, Councilmember Cazares, Councilmember Lothian, and Councilmember Suzuki
Absent (1): Mayor Arapostathis
Approved (4 to 0)
Resolution No. 2025-075
Moved By Vice Mayor Dillard
Seconded By Councilmember Cazares
Approve the two-year EDCO rates for refuse, recycling, and organic waste collection for the period July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2027, and adopt Resolution.

For (4): Vice Mayor Dillard, Councilmember Cazares, Councilmember Lothian, and Councilmember Suzuki
Absent (1): Mayor Arapostathis
Approved (4 to 0)

10. COUNCIL INITIATED

7 10.1 CONSIDERATION OF IMPLEMENTING A TEMPORARY SPEED BUMP

PROGRAM AS PART OF LA MESA'S NEIGHBORHOOD TRAFFIC

MANAGEMENT PROGRAM - COUNCILMEMBER LOTHIAN
Barbie Wheeler expressed support for implementing a temporary speed hump program as part of the Neighborhood Traffic Management Program.

Jerry Jones spoke in support of the item but recommended implementing low-impact traffic calming measures, rather than relying solely on speed humps or bumps.

Councilmember Lothian explained the purpose of implementing a temporary speed hump program as part of the Neighborhood Traffic Management Program, clarified the difference between a speed hump and a speed bump, and noted that the agenda item should have referred to a speed hump program rather than a speed bump program.

Council questions and comments ensued.

Moved By Councilmember Lothian
Seconded By Councilmember Cazares
Direct staff to study the feasibility, legality, logistics, and other considerations associated with implementing a temporary speed hump program.

For (4): Vice Mayor Dillard, Councilmember Cazares, Councilmember Lothian, and Councilmember Suzuki
Absent (1): Mayor Arapostathis
Approved (4 to 0)

11. COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS (3 MINUTE LIMIT)
The Vice Mayor and Council reported on various outside boards, commissions and committee meetings they attended. No action was taken.

12. AB 1234 REPORTS (GC 53232.3 (d))
There were no reports.

13. CITY ATTORNEY REMARKS
There were no remarks.

14. ADJOURNMENT

8 Vice Mayor Dillard adjourned the meeting at 6:49 p.m. _________________________
City Clerk

1 La Mesa City Council
Minutes of a Regular Meeting
Date:

Location:

July 8, 2025, 6:00 pm
City Council Chambers, 8130 Allison Avenue
La Mesa, California

Present: Mayor Mark Arapostathis
Vice Mayor Patricia N. Dillard
Councilmember Lauren Cazares
Councilmember Laura Lothian
Councilmember Genevieve Suzuki
Staff: City Manager Greg Humora
Assistant City Manager Amanda Lee
City Attorney Glenn Sabine
City Clerk Megan Wiegelman
_____________________________________________________________________

1. CALL TO ORDER
The City Council minutes are prepared and ordered to correspond to the City Council Agenda. Agenda Items can be taken out of order during the meeting.

The Agenda Items were considered in the order presented.

Mayor Arapostathis called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

1.1 INVOCATION - COUNCILMEMBER CAZARES

1.2 PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

2. CITY MANAGER COMMENTS
There were no comments.

3. COMMUNITY BULLETIN REPORTS
The Mayor, Council and staff made announcements and reported on various events taking place in the City. No action was taken.

4. ADDITIONS AND/OR DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA

2 There were no additions or deletions to the agenda.

5. PRESENTATIONS

5.1 PROCLAIMING THE MONTH OF JULY 2025 AS PARKS AND

RECREATION MONTH
Mayor Arapostathis read and presented the proclamation declaring the month of July 2025 as Parks and Recreation Month to Director of Community Services Thompson, Community Services Manager Gomez, Recreation Supervisor Howell, and Recreation Supervisor Walsh.

5.2 PROCLAIMING JULY 8, 2025, AS METROPOLITAN AREA ADVISORY

COMMITTEE ON ANTI-POVERTY (MAAC) DAY
Councilmember Cazares read and presented the proclamation declaring July 8, 2025, as Metropolitan Area Advisory Committee on Anti-Poverty Day to Austin Foye, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, and Susan Arias, Chief Growth Officer, of the MAAC leadership team.

5.3 PRESENTATION OF THE LA MESA COMMUNITY PARKING

COMMISSION'S RECOMMENDATION TO UPDATE PARKING METER

RATES, PARKING PERMIT PRICING, AND PARKING PERMIT

PROGRAM GUIDELINES IN PARKING DISTRICT ONE
Assistant to the City Manager Dedmon presented an overview of the Parking Commission’s recommendation to update parking meter rates, permit pricing, and program guidelines in Parking District One. The Commission recommended increasing meter rates to $1.50 per hour, eliminating permit tiers in favor of a single permit priced at $80 per quarter, and reducing the maximum number of permits per business from 25 to 5.

The purpose of the presentation was to gather feedback from the Council and public; no formal action was requested. Staff indicated they would return at a future meeting with a recommended action based on the input received.

Council questions and comments ensued.

Jack Shu spoke in support of the La Mesa Community Parking Commission’s recommendations and also addressed topics such as expanding the size of the parking district and parking as it relates to the City’s Climate Action Plan.

Jason Meram commented on the recommended changes to the parking permit program.

3 Brenda Leek commented on the recommended changes to the parking permit program.

Christopher Glenn submitted a comment urging the City to explore creating a Parking Benefit District around City Hall to regulate and monetize parking, fund local improvements, and avoid missing a valuable revenue opportunity.

6. PUBLIC COMMENTS – (TOTAL TIME – 15 MINUTES)
Jack Shu spoke about single-use plastics and emphasized the importance of following through on policies originally introduced by previous councilmembers.

7. CONFLICT DISCLOSURES
There were no conflicts of interest disclosed.

8. BOARD AND COMMISSION INTERVIEWS

8.1 ANNUAL INTERVIEW OF APPLICANTS FOR OPENINGS ON THE
CITY’S BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
City Clerk Wiegelman briefly explained the interview process and noted that Cassandra Neel was unable to attend the City Council meeting due to a prior commitment, but submitted a written statement expressing her continued interest in being considered for appointment to the Community Services Commission. Additionally, City Clerk Wiegelman noted that Jocelyn Watkins was unable to attend the meeting but had expressed continued interest in being reappointed to the Personnel Appeals Board.

The following applicants spoke about their qualifications and interest in appointment or reappointment to a City board or commission:

Patrick R. de la Torre
Emma McClees
Brittany Morrow
Tristan Reed
Robin Ellam
Marc Regier
Michael Bourton
Lara Dickens

4 Mike Calandra
Following the interviews, no action was taken.

9. BOARD AND COMMISSION APPOINTMENTS

9.1 RESOLUTION APPOINTING A MEMBER TO FILL THE

UNSCHEDULED VACANCY ON THE COMMUNITY POLICE

OVERSIGHT BOARD
Mayor Arapostathis nominated Todd McCully for appointment to the Community Police Oversight Board to fill the unscheduled vacancy for the Police Beat 4 representative.

Resolution No. 2025-076
Moved By Mayor Arapostathis
Seconded By Councilmember Cazares
Approve the appointment of Todd McCully to the Community Police Oversight Board as the Police Beat 4 representative, and adopt Resolution confirming the appointment.

For (5): Mayor Arapostathis, Vice Mayor Dillard, Councilmember Cazares, Councilmember Lothian, and Councilmember Suzuki
Approved (5 to 0)

10. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON CONSENT CALENDAR
There were no comments on Consent Calendar items.

11. CONSENT CALENDAR
(Items 11.1 through 11.13)
Councilmember Lothian requested staff provide a presentation on Item 11.9.

Assistant Director of Community Development Chavez delivered a brief presentation outlining the scope and key components of Phase 1 of the Grossmont Shopping Center project.

Council questions and comments ensued.

Moved By Mayor Arapostathis
Seconded By Councilmember Cazares
Approve Consent Calendar Items 11.1 through 11.13.

5 For (5): Mayor Arapostathis, Vice Mayor Dillard, Councilmember Cazares, Councilmember Lothian, and Councilmember Suzuki
Approved (5 to 0)

11.1 APPROVAL OF MOTION TO WAIVE THE READING OF THE TEXT OF

ALL ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS AT THIS MEETING
Approve.

11.2 APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES FOR THE CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING HELD TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2025
Approve.

11.3 APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES FOR THE CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING HELD TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2025
Approve.

11.4 APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES FOR THE CITY COUNCIL REGULAR

MEETING, LA MESA PUBLIC FINANCING AUTHORITY SPECIAL

MEETING, AND CITY OF LA MESA SUCCESSOR AGENCY SPECIAL
MEETING HELD TUESDAY, JUNE 10, 2025
Approve.

11.5 RESOLUTION AWARDING A TASK ORDER TO CHEN RYAN
ASSOCIATES, INC. FOR TRAFFIC ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR

THE INDUSTRIAL AREA ROADWAY IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT
(WALKABILITY STUDY)
Resolution No. 2025-077
Adopt Resolution.

11.6 RESOLUTION APPROVING A CONTRACT AMENDMENT TO NV5 TO

PERFORM APPRAISAL REVIEW SERVICES FOR THE GROSSMONT

CENTER DRIVE REHABILITATION AND WIDENING PROJECT (CIP
NO. 8309)
Resolution No. 2025-078
Adopt Resolution.

11.7 RESOLUTIONS AWARDING CONTRACTS FOR THE 2025 PAVING

PROJECT

6 Adopt Resolutions.
a. RESOLUTION ACCEPTING THE LOW BIDDER FOR BID 25-17

AND AWARDING A CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT FOR THE
2025 PAVING PROJECT TO HAZARD CONSTRUCTION
ENGINEERING, INC. (CIP NO. 8304)
Resolution No. 2025-079
Adopt Resolution.
b. RESOLUTION APPROVING A TASK ORDER TO ARDURRA TO

PROVIDE CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT AND INSPECTION
SERVICES FOR THE 2025 PAVING PROJECT (CIP NO. 8304)
Resolution No. 2025-080
Adopt Resolution.

11.8 RATIFICATION OF DESIGN REVIEW APPROVAL OF PROJECT 2024- 1135 (4200 LOWELL STREET)

A PROPOSED WIRELESS COMMUNICATION FACILITY CONSISTING
OF A 185 SQUARE FOOT 8 FOOT HIGH EQUIPMENT SHELTER AND
ASSOCIATED ANTENNAE MOUNTED ON A LIGHT POLE AT 4200
LOWELL STREET, APN 475-050-06-00, IN THE URBAN RESIDENTIAL (R1) ZONE
Approve.

11.9 RATIFICATION OF DESIGN REVIEW APPROVAL OF PROJECT 2025- 0903 (GROSSMONT SHOPPING CENTER)
PHASE 1 OF THE GROSSMONT SHOPPING CENTER PROJECT; 5500
GROSSMONT CENTER DRIVE, (APNS 490-261-09-00 AND 490-261-10- 00) IN THE C-G-D (GENERAL COMMERCIAL / GROSSMONT

OVERLAY / URBAN DESIGN OVERLAY) ZONE
Approve.

11.10 RATIFICATION OF DESIGN REVIEW APPROVAL OF PROJECT 2025- 0498 (6957 UNIVERSITY AVENUE)

A REDESIGN OF A PROPOSED TWO-STORY COMMERCIAL
BUILDING LOCATED AT 6957 UNIVERSITY AVENUE IN THE

GENERAL COMMERCIAL (URBAN DESIGN OVERLAY / MIXED USE

OVERLAY) ZONE

7 Approve.

11.11 SECOND READING AND ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE AMENDING ZONING MAP FOR 9365 CARMICHAEL DRIVE

APPROVAL OF SECOND READING AND ADOPTION OF AN

ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA MESA
AMENDING THE ZONING MAP OF TITLE 24 OF THE LA MESA

MUNICIPAL CODE TO DESIGNATE THE PROPERTY ADDRESSED
9365 CARMICHAEL DRIVE (APN 495-335-05-00) SUBURBAN
RESIDENTIAL / SCENIC PRESERVATION OVERLAY (R1S-P)
Ordinance No. 2025-2918
Approve the second reading and adoption of the Ordinance.

11.12 RESOLUTION ACKNOWLEDGING RECEIPT OF A REPORT BY THE FIRE DEPARTMENT REGARDING SB1205 REPORTING

COMPLIANCE WITH THE ANNUAL INSPECTION OF CERTAIN
OCCUPANCIES PURSUANT TO SECTIONS 13146.2 AND 13146.3 OF

THE CALIFORNIA HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE
Resolution No. 2025-081
Adopt Resolution.

11.13 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CHIEF OF POLICE TO ENTER INTO

A MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE POLICE
DEPARTMENT AND THE SAN DIEGO COUNTY SHERIFF’S

DEPARTMENT FOR THE OPERATION STONEGARDEN GRANT IN
THE AMOUNT OF $175,000
Resolution No. 2025-082
Adopt Resolution.

12. ORDINANCE: FIRST READING

12.1 ORDINANCE RENAMING COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT

AND COMMISSION AND UPDATING SUPERVISORY

RESPONSIBILITY OF THE LANDSCAPING AND MAINTENANCE OF

PARK AREAS

CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF

THE CITY OF LA MESA AMENDING THE LA MESA MUNICIPAL CODE (INCLUDING CHAPTER 2.32, SECTION 2.16.15(D)(6), CHAPTERS

9.04, 9.05, AND 9.06) TO DO THE FOLLOWING: (1) RENAME (A)

8 "COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT" TO "PARKS AND
RECREATION DEPARTMENT," (B) "COMMUNITY SERVICES
COMMISSION" TO "PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION," AND
(C) "DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY SERVICES" TO "DIRECTOR OF
PARKS AND RECREATION;" AND, (2) SHIFT THE SUPERVISORY

RESPONSIBILITY OF LANDSCAPING AND MAINTENANCE OF PARK

AREAS TO THE CITY MANAGER OR HIS OR HER DESIGNEE
City Attorney Sabine read the title of the Ordinance.

Moved By Councilmember Suzuki
Seconded By Vice Mayor Dillard
Approve the introduction and first reading of the Ordinance.

For (5): Mayor Arapostathis, Vice Mayor Dillard, Councilmember Cazares, Councilmember Lothian, and Councilmember Suzuki
Approved (5 to 0)

13. HEARING/ORDINANCE: FIRST READING

13.1 CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA MESA AMENDING SECTION 17.12 OF THE LA MESA

MUNICIPAL CODE TO ADJUST THE SCHEDULE OF SEWER
SERVICE CHARGES FOR FISCAL YEARS 2026 AND 2027
Notice of the hearing was given in accordance with legal requirements, and the hearing was held on the date and at the time specified in the notice.

Mayor Arapostathis opened the hearing for Item 13.1.

Mayor Arapostathis read the title of the Ordinance.

Public Works Operations Manager Martin presented the proposed sewer rate adjustments for Fiscal Years 2026 and 2027, following the requirements of the Proposition 218 process. The presentation detailed factors used in the rate calculation, including winter water usage, operational costs, capital improvements, and debt obligations. The proposed adjustments included a 5.96% increase in FY 2026 and a 5.04% increase in FY 2027, impacting both residential and commercial customers. Staff recommended approving the proposed adjustments and adopting an ordinance to amend the Municipal Code accordingly.

9 Council questions and comments ensued.

Moved By Mayor Arapostathis
Seconded By Vice Mayor Dillard
Close the hearing.

For (5): Mayor Arapostathis, Vice Mayor Dillard, Councilmember Cazares, Councilmember Lothian, and Councilmember Suzuki
Approved (5 to 0)
Moved By Mayor Arapostathis
Seconded By Vice Mayor Dillard
(1) Approve the proposed sewer rate increase of 5.96 percent for Fiscal Year 2026, and 5.04 percent for Fiscal Year 2027; and (2) Approve the introduction and first reading of the Ordinance.

For (5): Mayor Arapostathis, Vice Mayor Dillard, Councilmember Cazares, Councilmember Lothian, and Councilmember Suzuki
Approved (5 to 0)

14. HEARING

14.1 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) 2025-2029

CONSOLIDATED PLAN

CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE

CONSOLIDATED PLAN FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT FOR THE
PLANNING PERIOD JULY 2025 THROUGH JUNE 2029, THE
PROGRAM YEAR 2025-2026 ANNUAL ACTION PLAN FOR THE

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) PROGRAM,

AND THE AMENDMENT TO THE CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLAN
(CPP), AND AUTHORIZING SUBMITTAL TO THE UNITED STATES

DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT (HUD)
Notice of the hearing was given in accordance with legal requirements, and the hearing was held on the date and at the time specified in the notice.

Mayor Arapostathis opened the hearing for Item 14.1.

10 Senior Management Analyst Pina stated that no changes were made to the documents that were presented at the June 24th meeting.

Jack Shu discussed the Tower Street Mobility Access Improvements Project included in the proposed CDBG funding allocations.

Moved By Mayor Arapostathis
Seconded By Councilmember Cazares
Close the hearing.

For (5): Mayor Arapostathis, Vice Mayor Dillard, Councilmember Cazares, Councilmember Lothian, and Councilmember Suzuki
Approved (5 to 0)
Resolution No. 2025-083
Moved By Mayor Arapostathis
Seconded By Vice Mayor Dillard
Adopt Resolution adopting the 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan which includes the 2025-2026 Annual Action Plan and amendment to the Citizen Participation Plan.

For (5): Mayor Arapostathis, Vice Mayor Dillard, Councilmember Cazares, Councilmember Lothian, and Councilmember Suzuki
Approved (5 to 0)

15. COUNCIL INITIATED

15.1 CONSIDERATION OF REQUIRING COUNCIL APPROVAL TO CANCEL

AFFORDABLE HOUSING DEED RESTRICTIONS OR AGREEMENTS -

COUNCILMEMBER CAZARES AND COUNCILMEMBER SUZUKI
Councilmember Cazares and Councilmember Suzuki explained the purpose of requesting that the Council direct staff not to extinguish or cancel any deed restriction or agreement related to affordable housing without prior City Council approval.

The following members of the public spoke in support of requiring Council approval to cancel affordable housing deed restrictions and agreements:

Jack Shu
Moana Alo

11 Wendy Mihalic submitted a comment expressing concern about a developer seeking to retain incentives while removing affordable housing requirements, and urged the Council to thoroughly review the matter and ensure full public transparency.

Moved By Councilmember Cazares
Seconded By Councilmember Suzuki
Direct the City Manager not to extinguish or cancel any deed restriction or agreement related to affordable housing without prior approval from the City Council.

For (4): Mayor Arapostathis, Vice Mayor Dillard, Councilmember Cazares, and Councilmember Suzuki
Against (1): Councilmember Lothian
Approved (4 to 1)

16. COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS (3 MINUTE LIMIT)
The Mayor and Council reported on various outside boards, commissions and committee meetings they attended. No action was taken.

17. AB 1234 REPORTS (GC 53232.3 (d))
There were no reports.

18. CITY ATTORNEY REMARKS
There were no remarks.

19. ADJOURNMENT
At 8:10 p.m., Councilmember Cazares and Councilmember Lothian adjourned the meeting in memory of Lemon Grove Councilmember Sitivi 'Steve' Faiai, whose integrity, compassion, and unwavering dedication to the East County community made him a deeply respected leader and public servant. _________________________
City Clerk

REPORT to the MAYOR and MEMBERS of the CITY COUNCIL
From the CITY MANAGER
DATE: July 22, 2025
SUBJECT: RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING A TASK ORDER WITH
RICK ENGINEERING COMPANY TO PROVIDE ASNEEDED STAFF AUGMENTATION SERVICES FOR

THE PLANNING DIVISION
ISSUING DEPARTMENT: Community Development
SUMMARY:

Issues:

Should the City of La Mesa authorize a task order with RICK Engineering Company to provide as-needed staff augmentation services for the Planning Division for an amount not to exceed $200,000?
Recommendation:

Adopt the attached resolution authorizing a task order with RICK Engineering Company for as-needed staff augmentation services to support the Planning Division for an amount not to exceed $200,000.

Fiscal Impact:

Funds in the amount of $200,000 will be available in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026/27 Planning Professional and Specialized Services account. Costs will be recovered through fees charged to applicants.

City’s Strategic Goals:
 Ensure a strong financial outlook through careful planning, sustainable service levels, and fiscal sustainability.

Report to Mayor and Councilmembers
Date: July 22, 2025
Page: 2 of 3
BACKGROUND:

The City has seen an increase in permit applications in the past several years, in particular accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and multi-family buildings. Permit applications require qualified staff to be available to complete plan checks and respond to inquiries in a timely manner. Flexible contract planning services allow the City the ability to provide a consistent level of customer service to permit applicants as permit reviews continue to increase. Approximately 30 to 40 construction projects are routed to the Planning Division each week, in addition to all discretionary projects that are processed and are currently in different phases of the review process.

RICK has provided crucial support to the Planning Division since early 2024 and continues to assist City staff on crucial projects. With a commitment to high level customer service, and plan check activity and customer inquiries exceeding expected levels, staff hopes to continue utilizing RICK’s staff services.

In October 2024, the City Manager executed a Master Agreement with Rick Engineering to provide As-needed Staff Augmentation Services. The terms of the Master Agreement allow for the issuance of task orders in accordance with the City’s Purchasing Policy. The Purchasing Policy required the City Council approve contracts exceeding $50,000.

DISCUSSION:

As mentioned above, plan check and applicant inquiries have continued at a high level.

Revenues and costs from last fiscal year (FY 2025) exceeded the budgeted amounts for the fiscal year. To maintain quality customer service, plan check, and front counter support needed for Fiscal Year 2026-2027, staff requests to award a task order to RICK for $200,000, supported by funds available in the Planning Division professional and specialized services account.

Additional support is necessary to complete all planning reviews in a timely manner, as well as assist all customers with development related inquires via email, phone, or inperson at City Hall.

CONCLUSION:

Staff recommends adopting the attached resolution authorizing a task order with RICK Engineering Company for as-needed staff augmentation services to support the Planning Division for $200,000.

Report to Mayor and Councilmembers
Date: July 22, 2025
Page: 3 of 3
Reviewed by: Respectfully submitted by:
____________________ ____________________________
Greg Humora Jared Chavez
City Manager Assistant Director of Community Development Attachments: A. Resolution
B. FY26 Scope of Work
C. Fiscal Impact Report

RESOLUTION NO. 2025-

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA MESA

AUTHORIZING A TASK ORDER WITH RICK ENGINEERING COMPANY TO

PROVIDE AS-NEEDED STAFF AUGMENTATION SERVICES FOR THE

PLANNING DIVISION
WHEREAS, one of the City of La Mesa’s strategic goals is to continue to provide high quality municipal services;
WHEREAS, the City has a need for professional consultant services to support the Planning Division in keeping with this goal;
WHEREAS, the City continues to see a high level of private development and project applications, with associated revenues and expenditures exceeding anticipated levels; WHEREAS, the City desires to continue to utilize professional Planning services to provide Planning Division staff support to ensure that the level of service provided to applicants does not diminish;
WHEREAS, in May 2024, a formal Request for Qualifications (“RFQ”), RFQ 25-01, was advertised and Rick Engineering Company was selected to provide as-needed staff augmentation services; and
WHEREAS, on October 17, 2024, the City executed a Master Agreement with Rick Engineering Company in accordance with RFQ 25-01 for five fiscal year periods with a three fiscal year base period and two one-year renewal options upon satisfactory performance of work.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT AND IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of La Mesa, California, is herby authorized and instructed to execute a task order between the City of La Mesa and Rick Engineering Company, for as-needed staff augmentation services for Fiscal Year 2026 in the amount of $200,000. Said contract is on file in the Office of the City Clerk.

PASSED AND ADOPTED at a Regular meeting of the City Council of the City of La Mesa, California, held the 22nd day of July 2025, by the following vote, to wit:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

CERTIFICATE OF CITY CLERK
I, MEGAN WIEGELMAN, City Clerk of the City of La Mesa, California, do hereby certify the foregoing to be a true and exact copy of Resolution No. 2025- , duly passed and adopted by the City Council of said City on the date and by the vote therein recited.

MEGAN WIEGELMAN, CMC, City Clerk
(SEAL OF CITY)

5620 Friars Road • San Diego, California 92110-2596 • (619) 291-0707 • www.rickengineering.com

SAN DIEGO RIVERSIDE ORANGE SACRAMENTO SAN LUIS OBISPO LAS VEGAS DENVER PHOENIX TUCSON

MEMORANDUM
To: Lynnette Santos
Director | Community Development Department
8130 Allison Avenue
La Mesa, CA 91942
_____________________________________________________________________________ From: Brooke Peterson, AICP
Principal | Contract Manager
Planning + Design Division
5620 Friars Road
San Diego, CA 92110
Date: July 9, 2025
SUBJECT: On‐Call Planning Services for the City of La Mesa _____________________________________________________________________________ Scope of Work
Rick Engineering – Planning + Design Division (RICK) is pleased to provide   this Memorandum outlining our proposed professional on‐call planning/staff augmentation services. Our understanding of the City of La Mesa’s need is to provide staff augmentation support for processing of entitlement project reviews, post‐entitlement plan review (condition compliance), general CEQA coordination, planning/regulatory compliance, and other planning or special projects support as assigned.

Staff Qualifications
Based on our recent conversations with City staff and our understanding of the level of experience desired, we have assigned Associate Planner, Julia Hill and others as needed to support workload, to assist the City of La Mesa.

Julia Hill
Julia Hill is an Associate Planner with RICK’s Planning and Design Team located here in San Diego. Julia has assisted the City for the last 20 months providing plan review and coordinating with applicants and in particular, reviewing the City’s influx of ADU applications. She brings over nine years of experience in the land planning industry and is a technical and graphic expert in plan review, drafting grading plans and technical maps, exhibits, and composite rendered overlays. She is well‐versed in assessing regulatory documents, including general plans, zoning ordinances, and specific area plans, and creating accurate base maps in coordination with technical partners. Julia is also an expert in AutoCAD, Adobe Suite, and GIS software.

Julia also served for over a year as adjunct planning support for the County of San Diego providing discretionary staff reviews and processing of planning applications for consistency against applicable regulations. She was primarily involved with permit review for minor deviations including telecommunications facilities, signage, rural activities, and others as well as responsible for preparing scoping and comment letters to applicants and coordinating correspondence between County departments.   She also assisted the County by serving as the lead for training new staff on permit reviews, requirements, and County processes. She is currently the lead planning/site designer for the Southwest Village Specific

2 Plan and Entitlements for TriPointe Homes in the City of San Diego and provides adjunct staff services to the City of Escondido.

Brooke Peterson
Brooke Peterson, AICP, Director of RICK Planning + Design Division, will serve as Principal‐in‐Charge and the City’s primary point of contact. Brooke will provide project oversight – managing staff availability and performance; ensuring quality control; and providing strategic guidance.  Brooke will maintain involvement and communication with the City throughout the duration of this contract and participate in meetings or other support needs as requested by the City.

Availability of Staff
Julia Hill (RICK staff) will be available to assist the City of La Mesa up to 20 hours per week each (with flexibility on hours, more or less as determined by City staff and project needs) through 2025. This scope and fee assume that work will be conducted primarily off‐site but could transition to on‐site at the discretion of City staff should additional staff support be needed.  RICK staff will work with City staff to determine the best course of review and interface with both applicants and/or internal staff.

RICK staff will be available upon contract award to discuss the scopes, timelines, and resources of assignments. As the as‐ needed contract planning extension of staff consultant, RICK understands that the needs of the City may not always be strictly confined to formally assigned projects or tasks. We understand and expect that you may often seek consultation on planning and environmental assistance in addressing issues with proposed development projects or general City policy and/or regulations. Prior to initiating any project, RICK will assess the project characteristics, understand the timeframes, and initiate discussions with staff on the best approach.

Contact Information
RICK Planning + Design Division
5620 Friars Road
San Diego, CA 92110
Brooke Peterson, AICP     Julia Hill
Director of Planning + Design   Associate Planner
(619) 291‐0707       (619) 291‐0707
Cell (858)336‐0938     [email protected]
[email protected]
Billing Rates/Invoicing/Contract Amount
RICK standard rate for Associate Planner, including Julia, will be $160.00/hour for time spent working on behalf of the City. RICK’s standard rate for Principal, including Brooke, will be $300.00/hour. RICK staff will be responsible for tracking hours and producing RICK’s monthly invoice. RICK will work with City staff in determining what information is required for each invoice, in what format and any submittal requirements.

CERTIFICATE OF CITY/DIRECTOR OF FINANCE
Certification of Unappropriated Reserves
I HEREBY CERTIFY that the money required for the appropriation of funds for the purpose as docketed is available in the Treasury, or is anticipated to come into the Treasury, and is otherwise unappropriated.

Amount$
Purpose
Date
Fund _________________ _
Director of Finance
City of La Mesa
By
Unappropriated Reserves Available Balance$
Certification of Unencumbered Balance
I HEREBY CERTIFY that the indebtedness and obligation as docketed can be incurred; that sufficient monies to meet the obligations are actually in the Treasury, or are anticipated to come into the Treasury to the credit of the appropriation from which the same are to be drawn; and that said monies now actually in the treasury, together with the monies anticipated to come into the Treasury, to the credit of said appropriation are otherwise unencumbered.

Fund:
101
Purpose:

Amount Not to Exceed $200,000.00
Date: 07/22/2025 By: Jared Chavez
Dept. Activity:

Account:
1401-6430
$200,000.00 from Planning Professional & Specialized Services account

TASK ORDER TO RICK ENGINEERING COMPANY TO PROVIDE AS-NEEDED

STAFF AUGMENTATION SERVICES FOR THE PLANNING DIVISION
CERTIFICATE NO. 1944

REPORT to the MAYOR and MEMBERS of the CITY COUNCIL
From the CITY MANAGER
DATE: July 22, 2025
SUBJECT: RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING CONTRACT CHANGE ORDER
NO. 6 WITH S.C. VALLEY ENGINEERING, INC. FOR BID 24-16,

BOULEVARD DRIVE STORM DRAIN IMPROVEMENT
PROJECT (CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. 8506)
ISSUING DEPT: PUBLIC WORKS
SUMMARY:

Issues:

Should the City Council approve the attached Resolution authorizing Contract Change Order No. 6 with S.C. Valley Engineering, Inc. for Bid 24-16, Boulevard Drive Storm Drain Improvement Project, in the amount of $66,670.35? Recommendation:

Staff recommends the City Council approve the attached Resolution authorizing Contract Change Order No. 6 with S.C. Valley Engineering, Inc. for Bid 24-16, Boulevard Drive Storm Drain Improvement Project, in the amount of $66,670.35.

Fiscal Impact:

Contract Change Order No. 6 for Capital Improvement Project No. 8506; Boulevard Drive Storm Drain Improvement Project will be funded by the Highway Users Tax Account (HUTA) Storm Drain 26.

City’s Strategic Goals:
 Invest in infrastructure to serve the needs of the community.

Report to Mayor and Councilmembers
Date: July 22, 2025
Page: 2 of 3
BACKGROUND:

On April 9, 2024, the City Council approved a resolution awarding a construction contract to S.C. Valley Engineering, Inc. in the amount of $6,400,470.95 for the Boulevard Drive Storm Drain Improvement Project.

The Boulevard Drive Storm Drain Improvement Project construction is now complete, and the project is in the closeout phase. Improvements included the construction of a double 8-foot by 5-foot poured in place reinforced concrete box and associated improvements.

The project involved considerable relocation of both wet and dry utilities in La Mesa and San Diego.

During construction, extra items and unit cost overages have resulted in additional costs for the project. For CCO-6, these include:
 Delays and extensions in rental times for equipment such as shoring, due to design complications early in the project construction.
 Additional permanent fencing was required due to excavation width requirements and poor quality of the old fencing.

DISCUSSION:

To address these items, the Contractor was required to perform extra work as compared to the original scope, including 55 additional working days. In the summer/fall of 2024, in the first half of the project, construction was slowed for several weeks due to:
 A change in the design of a main support column and tie-in to existing facilities.  Complications with Helix Water line lowering, water line capping, shutdown sequences, and existing pipe integrity within a Helix Water easement in the project area.

Equipment rental directly associated with the delay areas caused a cost overage, which is reflected in this change order.

The additional fencing portion of this change order is due to an inaccurate assumption that the existing fencing would be reusable, and that the area would not be impacted by the culvert excavation. However, the fencing area was too close to the excavation and a new fence was needed for the area upon project completion.

Report to Mayor and Councilmembers
Date: July 22, 2025
Page: 3 of 3
CONCLUSION:

Staff recommends that the City Council adopt the attached resolution authorizing Contract Change Order No. 6 with S.C. Valley Engineering for Bid 24-16, Boulevard Drive Storm Drain Improvement Project, in the amount of $66,670.35, including 55 extra working days to the contract duration.

Reviewed by: Respectfully submitted by:
____________________ ____________________________
Greg Humora Michael Throne, PE
City Manager Director of Public Works
Attachments: A. Resolution Approving CCO6 to S.C. Valley Engineering, Inc.

B. Contract Change Order No. 6

RESOLUTION NO. 2025-

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA MESA
AUTHORIZING CONTRACT CHANGE ORDER NO. 6 WITH S.C. VALLEY ENGINEERING, INC. FOR BID 24-16, BOULEVARD DRIVE STORM DRAIN IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. 8506) WHEREAS, a contract was awarded to S.C. Valley Engineering, Inc. to provide construction services for the Boulevard Drive Storm Drain Improvement Project; WHEREAS, the Contractor was required to perform additional work due to extra items including rental equipment overages due to delays in the initial portion of the project and installation of new permanent fencing for the City’s lot at 69th Street and Boulevard Drive, which was not initially budgeted; and
WHEREAS, Administrative Instruction F-13 requires approval by the City Council for Public Works construction change orders over $25,000.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT AND IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of La Mesa, California, that the Mayor is hereby authorized and instructed to execute for and on behalf of said City, Contract Change Order No. 6 for additional construction services between the City of La Mesa and S.C. Valley Engineering, Inc., for an amount of $66,670.35 for Capital Improvement Project No. 8506, Boulevard Drive Storm Drain Improvement Project.

Said contract change order is on file in the Office of the City Clerk.

PASSED AND ADOPTED at a Regular meeting of the City Council of the City of La Mesa, California, held the 22nd day of July 2025, by the following vote, to wit:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

CERTIFICATE OF THE CITY CLERK
I, MEGAN WIEGELMAN, City Clerk of the City of La Mesa, California, do hereby certify the foregoing to be a true and exact copy of Resolution No. 2025- , duly passed and adopted by the City Council of said City on the date and by the vote therein recited.

MEGAN WIEGELMAN, CMC, City Clerk
(SEAL OF CITY)

RE Contract: Date:

P.O. No.:

The time provided for the contract is
Therefore, the revised contract time is working days, and the revised completion date is
9%
.

APPROVAL RECOMMENDED BY: APPROVED BY:

This document shall become an amendment to the contract and all provisions for the contract will apply increased by 55 working days.
226
3/25/2025
S.C. VALLEY ENGINEERING, INC.

ATTESTED BY:

NET CHANGE THIS CCO (+ or -)
I, THE UNDERSIGNED CONTRACTOR/CONSULTANT, have given careful consideration to the changes Michael Throne
Director of Public Works
Mark Arapostathis
Mayor
$ 525,972.93 % Change 8%
TOTAL CCO's (+ or -) $ 592,643.28
CCO's PREVIOUSLY APPROVED (+ or -)
% Change 9%
% Change
Samuel Wathen, President
Megan Wiegelman
City Clerk
NEW CONTRACT AMOUNT (C + B + A)
Total Change $ 66,670.35
ORIGINAL CONTRACT AMOUNT $ 6,400,470.95
$ 66,670.35 % Change 1%
$ 6,993,114.23
You are hereby requested to comply with the listed changes in the contract plans and specifications. Furnish to the City of La Mesa as follows:

Item No.

Change in
Contract Price
7/22/2025
242396
Detailed Description of Changes & Quantities or Scope of Work Boulevard Drive Storm Drain Improvement
Project
Bid No.: 24-16
TO: S.C. Valley Engineering Reso. No.: 2025-

CITY OF LA MESA
CONTRACT CHANGE ORDER NO. 6
2 44,662.35
May 2024-August 2024 Equipment Rental (Shoring, Dewatering) Delays/Overages due to Engineering/Design Issues
1 Permanent Fencing Unit Cost Overage 22,008.00

CERTIFICATE OF CITY/DIRECTOR OF FINANCE
Certification of Unappropriated Reserves
I HEREBY CERTIFY that the money required for the appropriation of funds for the purpose as docketed is available in the Treasury, or is anticipated to come into the Treasury, and is otherwise unappropriated.

Amount$
Purpose
Date
Fund _________________ _
Director of Finance
City of La Mesa
By
Unappropriated Reserves Available Balance$
Certification of Unencumbered Balance
I HEREBY CERTIFY that the indebtedness and obligation as docketed can be incurred; that sufficient monies to meet the obligations are actually in the Treasury, or are anticipated to come into the Treasury to the credit of the appropriation from which the same are to be drawn; and that said monies now actually in the treasury, together with the monies anticipated to come into the Treasury, to the credit of said appropriation are otherwise unencumbered.

Fund:
530
Purpose:

Amount Not to Exceed $66,670.35
Date: 07/22/2025 By: Michael Throne
Dept. Account: Activity:
8506 HUTA FY26 $66,670.35 from Account 8506 HUTA FY26 (Amount Available $78,707.49)

RRESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA MESA
AUTHORIZING CONTRACT CHANGE ORDER NO. 6 FOR THE
BOULEVARD DRIVE STORM DRAIN IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (CIP No. 8506) BID NO. 24- 16, TO SC VALLEY ENGINEERING, INC.

CERTIFICATE NO. 1940

REPORT to the MAYOR and MEMBERS of the CITY COUNCIL
From the CITY MANAGER
DATE: July 22, 2025
SUBJECT: RESOLUTION APPROVING A SEWER SYSTEM

MANAGEMENT PLAN UPDATE PER STATE WATER
RESOURCES CONTROL BOARD ORDER 2022-0103-
DWQ
ISSUING DEPARTMENT: PUBLIC WORKS
SUMMARY:

Issues:

Should the City Council adopt a resolution approving the City of La Mesa Sewer System Management Plan update per State Water Resources Control Board Order 2022-0103-DWQ?
Recommendation:

Adopt a resolution approving the City of La Mesa Sewer System Management Plan update per State Water Resources Control Board Order 2022-0103-DWQ.

Fiscal Impact:

There is no fiscal impact with this action.

City’s Strategic Goals:
 Invest in infrastructure to serve the needs of the community.

Environmental Review:

The proposed activity has been reviewed for compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and it has been determined that the activity is not a "Project" as defined under Section 15378 of the State CEQA Guidelines

Report to Mayor and Councilmembers
Date: July 22, 2025
Page: 2 of 3
because the action involves only the approval of the of the Sewer System Management Plan; therefore, pursuant to Section 15060 (c)(3) of the State CEQA Guidelines the activity is not subject to CEQA.

BACKGROUND:

On May 2, 2006, the State Water Resources Control Board adopted Order 2006-0003- DWQ, which required development of Sewer System Management Plans for municipalities and special districts operating over 1 mile of sewer length. The City of La Mesa’s Sewer System Management Plan has been in effect since 2009.

On December 6, 2022, the State Water Resources Control Board (State Board) adopted Wastewater Discharge Requirements Order 2022-0103-DWQ. This order mandated all enrolled agencies to update system-specific Sewer System Management Plans to align with requirements in the new Order. The City of La Mesa’s specific deadline to certify and upload the updated plan is August 2, 2025.

DISCUSSION:

The new Order 2022-0103-DWQ is an expanded and more detailed version of the old Order 2006-0003-DWQ. Sections of the old Order are now more specific and include expanded detail about what is required for components such as:
 Sewer Spill Response
 Capital Planning/Capacity Analysis
 Mapping
 Training
 Blockage Control/Fats Oils, and Grease
Additional requirements of Order 2022-0103-DWQ includes:
 Expanded detail of similar requirements within the 2006 Order  New definitions, expanded detail of compliance deadlines The Sewer System Management plan provides a description of the activities and procedures that City staff follows to effectively manage, operate, and maintain the sewer system and mitigate the risk of overflows. Sewer overflows can reach streets, storm drains, and waterways are a pollution risk to the environment and can negatively impact human health.

Report to Mayor and Councilmembers
Date: July 22, 2025
Page: 3 of 3
The Sewer System Management plan is a living document that requires audits and updates to reflect the actual conditions of the City’s program in any given year. The City is free to update the document at any time.

In March 2025, the City of La Mesa hired Mikhail Ogawa Engineering to assist City staff in updating to the existing Sewer System Management Plan to meet requirements under 2022-0103-DWQ. Mikhail Ogawa Engineering is also assisting several other jurisdictions in the San Diego Region with their respective updates.

The updated Sewer System Management Plan is included as Attachment B.

CONCLUSION:

Staff recommends City Council adopt a resolution approving the City of La Mesa Sewer System Management Plan update per State Water Resources Control Board Order 2022- 0103-DWQ.

Reviewed by: Respectfully submitted by:
____________________ ____________________________
Greg Humora Michael Throne, PE
City Manager Director of Public Works
Attachments: Attachment A - Resolution
Attachment B - Updated Sewer System Management Plan per 2022- 0102-DWQ

RESOLUTION NO. 2025-

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA MESA

APPROVING A SEWER SYSTEM MANAGEMENT PLAN UPDATE PER STATE WATER RESOURCES CONTROL BOARD ORDER 2022-0103-DWQ
WHEREAS, the City of La Mesa prepared a Sewer System Management Plan in 2006 in response to requirements from the State Water Resources Control Board; WHEREAS, the State Water Resources Control Board issued Waste Discharge Requirements Order 2022-0103-DWQ requiring updates to Sewer System Management plans for enrolled agencies;
WHEREAS, the City of La Mesa owns, operates and maintains a sewer system of approximately 153 miles;
WHEREAS, the Waste Discharge Requirements Order requires jurisdictions with populations over 10,000 and under 100,000 to update prior to August 2, 2025; and WHEREAS, the City has prepared the updated Sewer System Management Plan document in compliance with the Order.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT AND IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of La Mesa, California, that the Council adopts a Resolution accepting the updated City of La Mesa Sewer System Management Plan per Order 2022-0103-DWQ.

PASSED AND ADOPTED at a Regular meeting of the City Council of the City of La Mesa, California, held the 22
nd day of July 2025, by the following vote, to wit:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

CERTIFICATE OF THE CITY CLERK
I, MEGAN WIEGELMAN, CMC, City Clerk of the City of La Mesa, California, do hereby certify the foregoing to be a true and exact copy of Resolution No. 2025-___, duly passed and adopted by the City Council of said City on the date and by the vote therein recited.

MEGAN WIEGELMAN, CMC, City Clerk
(SEAL OF CITY)

City of La Mesa
Sewer System Management Plan
July 2025
City of La Mesa
8130 Allison Avenue
La Mesa, CA 91941
With support from
MOE
731 S Hwy 101, Suite 16

ii
1 Sewer System Management Plan Goal and Introduction.......................... 1

1.1 Regulatory Context ........................................................................................... 1

1.2 Sewer System Management Plan Update Schedule ...................................... 2

1.3 Sewer System Asset Overview ........................................................................ 2

1.4 SSMP Organization ........................................................................................... 3 2 Organization ................................................................................................. 5

2.1 Legally Responsible Official ............................................................................ 5

2.2 Key Personnel Responsibilities ...................................................................... 5

2.3 Organizational Structure .................................................................................. 6

2.4 Chain of Communication for Sewage Spill Reporting .................................. 6 3 Legal Authority ............................................................................................. 8

3.1 Overview ............................................................................................................ 8

3.2 Agreements ....................................................................................................... 8

3.3 Municipal Code ................................................................................................. 8

3.3.1 Prevention of Illicit Discharges ................................................................................ 8

3.3.2 Accessibility for Maintenance, Inspection, and Repair ............................................ 9

3.3.3 Proper Connections and Construction ..................................................................... 9

3.3.4 Limit Fats, Oils, and Grease Discharges ................................................................. 9

3.4 Enforcement .................................................................................................... 10 4 Operation and Maintenance Program ....................................................... 11

4.1 System Mapping ............................................................................................. 11

4.2 Preventive Operation and Maintenance Activities ...................................... 12

4.2.1 System Cleaning .................................................................................................... 13

4.2.2 Root Treatment ...................................................................................................... 13

4.2.3 Sanitary Sewer System Inspection and Condition Assessment Program ............. 13

4.2.4 Pump Station and Force Main Maintenance ......................................................... 14

4.2.5 Maintenance Strategy ............................................................................................ 14

4.2.6 Scheduling ............................................................................................................. 15

4.2.7 Asset Management ................................................................................................ 15

4.3 Training Program ............................................................................................ 15

4.3.1 Training Program Scope and Objectives ............................................................... 15

4.3.2 Training Topics and Delivery ................................................................................. 16

4.3.3 Documentation and Recordkeeping ...................................................................... 16

4.3.4 Evaluation and Continuous Improvement .............................................................. 16

4.4 Equipment and Replacement Part Inventories ............................................ 16

4.5 Summary and Continuing Efforts ................................................................. 17

iii
5 Design and Performance Provisions ........................................................ 18

5.1 Design Criteria and Construction Standards and Specifications .............. 18

5.2 Procedures and Standards ............................................................................ 18

5.2.1 Construction Inspection and Testing ..................................................................... 19

5.2.2 As-Built Verification ................................................................................................ 19

5.2.3 Acceptance Procedures ......................................................................................... 19 6 Spill Emergency Response Plan (SERP) .................................................. 20

6.1 Regulatory Requirements for Spill Emergency Response Plan ................ 20

6.2 Sewage Spill Notification and Response ..................................................... 21

6.3 Reporting and Recordkeeping ...................................................................... 22

6.4 Annual Review and Certification ................................................................... 22

6.5 Staff Training and Preparedness .................................................................. 23 7 Sewer Pipe Blockage Control Program .................................................... 24

7.1 Regulatory Framework and Objectives ........................................................ 24

7.2 Identification of Blockage-Prone Areas ........................................................ 24

7.3 Root Intrusion and Debris Control ................................................................ 24

7.4 Food Service Establishments Requirements and FOG Control ................. 25

7.5 Public Education and Outreach .................................................................... 25

7.6 Inspection, Maintenance, and Enforcement ................................................. 26

7.7 Program Review and Updates ....................................................................... 26 8 System Evaluation, Capacity Assurance and Capital Improvements .... 27

8.1 System Evaluation and Condition Assessment .......................................... 27

8.1.1 Overview ................................................................................................................ 27

8.1.2 Condition Assessment Procedures ....................................................................... 27

8.1.3 Annual Assessment Goals .................................................................................... 27

8.1.4 Prioritization Criteria .............................................................................................. 27

8.1.5 Inspection and Monitoring Methods ....................................................................... 28

8.1.6 Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment............................................................ 28

8.2 Capacity Assessment and Design Criteria ................................................... 30

8.2.1 System Components Contributing to Spills ........................................................... 30

8.2.2 Capacity Assessment Components ....................................................................... 30

8.3 Prioritization of Corrective Action ................................................................ 31

8.4 Capital Improvement Plan .............................................................................. 31 9 Monitoring, Measurement, and Program Modifications .......................... 32

9.1 Regulatory Framework ................................................................................... 32

iv

9.2 Monitoring and Measurement Program ........................................................ 32

9.2.1 SSMP Activity Documentation ............................................................................... 32

9.2.2 Performance Metrics and Effectiveness Review ................................................... 32

9.2.3 Preventive Maintenance Program Evaluation ....................................................... 32

9.2.4 Program Updates and Adaptive Management ...................................................... 33

9.2.5 Sewage Spill Trend Analysis and 10-Year Graphs ............................................... 33

9.3 SSMP Modifications and Recertification ...................................................... 33 10 Internal Audits ......................................................................................... 34

10.1 Audit Procedures and Frequency .............................................................. 34

10.2 Continuous Improvement and Documentation ........................................ 34 11 Communication Program ....................................................................... 35

11.1 Purpose and Regulatory Requirements .................................................... 35

11.2 Public Education and Outreach ................................................................. 35

11.3 Internal Communication and Implementation Coordination ................... 35

11.4 Communication with Governing Body and Stakeholders ....................... 35

11.5 SSMP Availability and Transparency ........................................................ 36 Appendix A – Municipal Code Sections
Appendix B – Spill Emergency Response Plan (SERP)
Appendix C – Design Standards and Construction Specifications Appendix D – Training Program Materials
Appendix E – Equipment and Inventory Lists

1 1 Sewer System Management Plan Goal and
Introduction
This Sewer System Management Plan (SSMP) has been prepared by the City of La Mesa in accordance with the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) Order No. WQ 2022-0103- DWQ, which supersedes Order 2006-0003-DWQ. The SSMP demonstrates the City’s approach to effectively manage, operate, and maintain its sanitary sewer collection system and to prevent and mitigate sewage spills.

The SSMP establishes the framework for implementing measures to:
 Ensure the proper management, operation, and maintenance of the City’s sewer system;  Reduce the frequency and impact of sewage spills;
 Ensure adequate capacity to convey peak flows; and
 Comply with applicable State and federal regulations.

This plan serves as the City’s commitment to protecting public health and the environment through proactive planning, preventive maintenance, and continuous improvement of the wastewater collection system.

This section meets the requirements of State Water Resources Control Board Order WQ 2022- 0103-DWQ, Attachment D, Section 1. It establishes the goals that guide the development and implementation of the SSMP, reflecting the City of La Mesa’s commitment to effectively managing, operating, and maintaining the sanitary sewer collection system.

The goals of the SSMP are to:
 Properly manage, operate, and maintain the sanitary sewer system  Minimize and mitigate sewage spills
 Ensure adequate capacity for base and peak flows, including wet weather  Maintain a trained and qualified workforce with sufficient resources  Evaluate system performance annually and apply adaptive management  Educate the public and provide access to program information  Protect public health, property, and the environment
These goals are the foundation for all SSMP elements and are implemented through a structured framework of policies, procedures, training, and performance monitoring. They reflect the City's commitment to maintaining a safe, reliable, and environmentally responsible sanitary sewer system.

1.1 Regulatory Context
The SSMP has been developed to comply with the current Waste Discharge Requirements (WDRs) established under State Water Board Order WQ 2022-0103-DWQ. This Order requires all publicly owned sanitary sewer systems greater than one mile in length to maintain an SSMP that includes specific program elements outlined in Attachment D.

Order WQ 2022-0103-DWQ includes, but is not limited to, new provisions on:
 Spill categorization and reporting,

2  Required audit intervals,
 System performance metrics and public access,
 Enhanced documentation and certification by a Legally Responsible Official (LRO), and  Annual update of the City’s SERP.

The City is located within Region 9, which is under the jurisdiction of the San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board (SDRWQCB). The SDRWQCB may enforce stricter requirements, including monitoring private lateral spills and reporting under Order R9-2007-0005.

1.2 Sewer System Management Plan Update Schedule
Per Order WQ 2022-0103-DWQ, the City of La Mesa will implement the following schedule for updates and internal audits of this SSMP:
 SSMP Recertification: The SSMP will be reviewed and updated as necessary at least once every six (6) years to ensure it reflects current regulatory requirements, City practices, staffing, and infrastructure. Following any update, the SSMP will be recertified by the City’s LRO and submitted to the California Integrated Water Quality System (CIWQS) database.  SSMP Internal Audit: An internal audit will be conducted at least once every three (3) years. The purpose of the audit is to evaluate the effectiveness of the SSMP elements, confirm implementation, and identify areas for improvement. Each audit will include findings, recommended corrective actions (if any), and an implementation schedule. Audit reports will be retained for a minimum of five years and uploaded to CIWQS within six months of the end of the audit period.
 Performance Milestones: Updates and audits will include an assessment of performance milestones, including metrics related to the prevention and reduction of sewage spills.

These may include sewage spills frequency and volume trends, improvements to Operations and Maintenance (O&M) practices, capital project delivery, staff training participation, and updates to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

A summary of key dates for this SSMP’s ongoing implementation is shown below:

Milestone Date
Last SSMP Update July 2025
Next Planned Internal Audit By June 2027
Next Full SSMP Recertification By June 2031

1.3 Sewer System Asset Overview
The City of La Mesa is situated in eastern San Diego County, bordered by the cities of El Cajon, San Diego, and Lemon Grove, as well as the unincorporated area of San Diego County. The service area spans approximately nine (9) square miles and is over 95% developed, with future growth anticipated to occur mainly through infill development and redevelopment.

The City serves approximately 60,800 residents and maintains ownership and operational control of a sewer collection system, which includes:
 Approximately 13,000 connections,
 165 miles of gravity sewer mains,

3  0.04 miles of force mains,
 0 Publicly owned and maintained lift stations,
 1 Privately owned and maintained lift station, and
 Several interagency connection locations (County of San Diego, Lemon Grove, El Cajon, City of San Diego)
Because the City is largely built out, this relatively stable information supports ongoing maintenance planning, capacity modeling, and targeted outreach—such as FOG prevention efforts aimed at food service establishments.

The City’s collection system is divided into four major drainage basins: Alvarado, University, Spring Valley, and Lemon Grove. All flows are ultimately conveyed to the City of San Diego’s Metropolitan Wastewater System (Metro System) for treatment and disposal.

Existing land uses within the service area are categorized as single-family residential, multi-family residential, commercial, industrial, institutional, parks, underdeveloped land, and right-of-way.

Table 1-1 summarizes the existing land uses within the service area.

Table 1-1
City of La Mesa Existing Land Use
Land Use Units
Single-family Residential 11,124 Dwelling Units
Multi-family Residential 13,262 Dwelling Units
Commercial 449 Acres
Institutional 332 Acres
Industrial 44 Acres
Park 264 Acres
Underdeveloped Land 200 Acres
ROW 1,430 Acres
Source: SANDAG Land Use

1.4 SSMP Organization
This SSMP is organized to address the eleven (11) required elements listed in Attachment D of Order WQ 2022-0103-DWQ. Each element is presented as a standalone section in this document:

Section 1 – Sewer System Management Plan Goal and Introduction Section 2 – Organization
Section 3 – Legal Authority
Section 4 – Operations and Maintenance Program
Section 5 – Design and Performance Provisions
Section 6 – Spill Emergency Response Plan

4 Section 7 – Sewer Pipe Blockage Control Program
Section 8 – System Evaluation, Capacity Assurance and Capital Improvements Section 9 – Monitoring, Measurement and Program Modifications Section 10 – Internal Audits
Section 11 – Communication Program
This version of the SSMP reflects updated section naming and restructuring to comply with the revised WDR format and guidance, including the integration of the SERP.

5 2 Organization
This section identifies the City of La Mesa personnel responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing this SSMP. It includes the names, job titles, and responsibilities of key positions involved in implementing SSMP elements and reporting sewage spills, as well as a description of the chain of communication for reporting sewage spills to the State Water Resources Control Board through the CIWQS.

2.1 Legally Responsible Official
The City of La Mesa Public Works Director is designated as the LRO for all reporting, certification, and compliance obligations under the WDR. The LRO is responsible for final review and certification of sewage spill reports submitted through CIWQS and ensuring that all SSMP elements are implemented and updated. Any changes to the designated LRO or backup LRO are submitted to the State Water Board within 30 days.

The Director of Public Works (LRO) has designated the following positions to act as the Authorized Representative and be responsible for the timely review and certification of required reports on CIWQS.
 Assistant Director of Public Works
 Environmental Manager

2.2 Key Personnel Responsibilities
The implementation of the SSMP is supported by staff from the Public Works Department – Engineering Division and Operations Division. Responsibilities are distributed as follows:

Public Works Director (LRO): Oversees certified reports, oversees SSMP implementation, ensures compliance with the WDR, reports information to the City Manager.

Assistant Director of Public Works (Authorized to Certify Under LRO): Submits reports as Authorized Representative, manages day-to-day operation and maintenance of the wastewater collection system, oversees City field operations, coordinates spill response, and supports SSMP audits and updates.

Environmental Manager (Authorized to Certify Under LRO): Submits reports as Authorized Representative, organizes training, coordinates SSMP implementation and updates, and conducts as needed sampling.

Wastewater Maintenance Supervisor: Oversees wastewater field crews, schedules preventive maintenance, coordinates onsite spill response methods.

Utilities Workers I – III: Perform system cleaning, inspections, spill response, root treatment, and preventive maintenance activities. Report unusual conditions or spills to the Supervisor.

Administrative Coordinator: Enters information into the City’s asset management and work order system.

6 Contact information for these positions is provided in Attachment B of the SERP, located in Appendix A of this SSMP.

2.3 Organizational Structure
The organizational chart (Figure 1) on the following page shows the lines of authority and identifies key roles responsible for SSMP elements. This chart will be updated as needed and reviewed at least every three years in conjunction with the required SSMP audit.

Staff roles and contact assignments are reviewed during SSMP updates (every six years or as needed) to ensure accuracy and continuity in program implementation.

The following table summarizes key SSMP-related roles and responsibilities for City staff:

Position SSMP Responsibilities
City Council Approves SSMP updates, sets policies and budgets supporting compliance
Director of Public Works (LRO) Certifies SSMP, oversees all PW staff, reports information to City Manager
Asst. Director of Public Works Oversees all day to day field operations staff. Ensures spill response and compliance. Certifies reports.

Environmental Manager Coordinates SSMP compliance, conducts trainings, certifies reports.

Wastewater Supervisor Directs onsite sewage spill response, manages day-today maintenance activities Engineering Division Manages GIS, plans capacity improvements, coordinates with Operations
Field Staff Performs inspections, cleanings, overflow response, equipment maintenance

2.4 Chain of Communication for Sewage Spill Reporting
The chain of communication for sewage spill response and reporting is as follows:

1. Utilities Workers identify and report any suspected sewage spills to the Wastewater Maintenance Supervisor.

2. Wastewater Maintenance Supervisor dispatches crews, oversees containment and cleanup, and evaluates whether the event qualifies as a sewage spill under the WDR.

3. Wastewater Maintenance Supervisor briefs the Assistant Director of Public Works on all response activities.

4. Environmental Manager: Coordinates sampling if needed. Conducts regulatory reporting and meets with staff to review data for submittal.

5. Public Works Director (LRO) is notified and reviews incident details.

6. LRO certifies and submits the required sewage spill reports via CIWQS within regulatory timeframes.

7 Figure 1 Organization Chart

8 3 Legal Authority

3.1 Overview
This section addresses the requirements of Attachment D, Section 3 of State Water Resources Control Board Order WQ 2022-0103-DWQ. The City of La Mesa maintains legal authority to implement and enforce all provisions of this SSMP through its municipal code (see Appendix A for relevant sections) local ordinances, and interagency agreements. This legal authority enables the City to:
 Prevent illicit discharges into the wastewater collection system  Require proper design and construction of new and rehabilitated sewers  Ensure access for maintenance, inspection, and repairs  Limit and enforce against discharges that may cause blockages or system overflows
 Implement source control measures including FOG regulations and enforcement  Control inflow and infiltration (I&I)
 Enforce all provisions through citations, permit revocation, or connection termination

3.2 Agreements
The City maintains several interagency agreements that define responsibilities for shared infrastructure, billing, and conveyance connections with other jurisdictions. These include agreements with:
 The City of San Diego (Metro System wastewater treatment and conveyance)  The County of San Diego Sanitation District
 The City of El Cajon and Lemon Grove for interconnected sewer lines These agreements ensure that sewer flows are conveyed and treated in accordance with regional policies, and provide mechanisms for cost-sharing, capacity tracking, and emergency coordination.

3.3 Municipal Code

3.3.1 Prevention of Illicit Discharges
The City of La Mesa prohibits illicit discharges into the storm drain system and the sanitary sewer system in accordance with La Mesa Municipal Code Section 7.18.040. This ordinance prohibits the discharge of non-stormwater substances, including sewage, wastewater, and wash waters from commercial or industrial operations, into the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4). Through this provision, the City retains legal authority to enforce compliance with discharge prohibitions intended to protect stormwater and wastewater infrastructure.

The City coordinates its wastewater and stormwater programs to investigate and resolve reports of illegal discharges, cross-connections, and infrastructure failures that could lead to pollutants entering receiving waters. Inspections and enforcement activities are

9 conducted by designated staff authorized to issue notices of violation and require corrective action. This legal authority bolsters the City’s efforts to maintain compliance with the Statewide Waste Discharge Requirements and the San Diego Region MS4 Permit.

3.3.2 Accessibility for Maintenance, Inspection, and Repair The City retains legal authority to access all components of its publicly owned wastewater collection system, including gravity mains, manholes, and City-maintained portions of sewer laterals, for inspection, maintenance, and repair. This authority is granted under Municipal Code Section 17.08.020, which authorizes the City Engineer or their designee to enter private property when necessary to perform work on infrastructure owned or operated by the City.

This access is critical to preventing sewage spills, performing proactive condition assessments, and executing timely corrective actions. The City’s O&M program relies on clear access to cleanouts and manholes, which must remain unobstructed for routine service and emergency response.

3.3.3 Proper Connections and Construction
The City of La Mesa enforces construction and connection standards to ensure that all new and modified sewer connections are appropriately designed, permitted, and constructed. Under Municipal Code Section 17.20.550, the City establishes clear requirements for connections to the sanitary sewer system, including prohibitions against the discharge of unpolluted water, such as stormwater, groundwater, or roof runoff, into the sanitary sewer.

The City’s current sewer design criteria are documented in Section V of the City’s Design Criteria Manual, which was adopted by City Council Resolution 15579 on July 28, 1987.

The Sewer Design Technical Standards include guidelines for design flow rates, gravity sewer design, sewer pipe materials and appurtenances, sewer pipeline installation, technical provisions for house laterals, special sewer appurtenances, and sewer pipeline testing requirements. Additionally, the City references the latest edition of the Greenbook for standardized construction and inspection specifications for the wastewater collection systems, SDRSD for sewer details, and the Uniform Plumbing Code.

All new sewer connections must receive approval from the City Engineer and comply with the City’s Standard Specifications and Details. This includes submitting construction drawings, conducting inspections during installation, and verifying proper slope, materials, and cleanout access. These requirements aim to ensure system integrity, prevent blockages and inflow/infiltration (I/I), and protect public health and the environment.

3.3.4 Limit Fats, Oils, and Grease Discharges
The City of La Mesa has adopted a comprehensive Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) Control Program to prevent the accumulation of grease within the wastewater collection system, which is a common cause of sewage spills. Chapter 17.24 of the Municipal Code establishes the City’s regulatory authority to require best management practices (BMPs) for food service establishments and other grease-generating businesses.

10 All food service establishments (FSEs) within the City are required to obtain a FOG Discharge Permit and must comply with FOG BMPs, including installation and maintenance of grease interceptors or traps, proper disposal of grease waste, and recordkeeping of maintenance activities. City inspectors conduct routine site inspections and enforce permit conditions through written notices, re-inspections, and, if necessary, escalated enforcement actions.

The City’s FOG program plays a critical role in protecting sewer capacity, minimizing maintenance costs, and reducing the risk of sewage spills caused by grease blockages.

3.4 Enforcement
The City enforces its sewer regulations under Title 17 of the La Mesa Municipal Code.

Enforcement mechanisms include issuing notices of violation, administrative penalties, disconnection of illegal or non-compliant connections, and legal action when necessary.

The Public Works and Engineering Departments coordinate enforcement actions for violations of connection requirements, illegal discharges, or obstructions in the collection system. The City also enforces grease control ordinances and coordinates inspections of food service establishments in accordance with its FOG program.

The City’s enforcement authority applies to all elements of this SSMP, including illicit discharges, unauthorized connections, inflow and infiltration, access restrictions, and failure to comply with required maintenance practices. This comprehensive authority ensures that the City can take timely and effective corrective action to protect public health, water quality, and infrastructure integrity.

11 4 Operation and Maintenance Program
This section addresses the Operations and Maintenance Program requirements of Element 4 in Attachment D of Order WQ 2022-0103-DWQ. The WDRs require that the SSMP contain descriptive measures of the City’s O&M Program implemented by City staff to facilitate proper and efficient management and maintenance of the sanitary sewer system and the affected appurtenances. The WDRs require that the SSMP include a description of each of the following components as they apply to the City’s sanitary sewer system:
a) Maintenance of up-to-date sanitary sewer system map showing all gravity line segments and manholes, pumping facilities, pressure pipes and valves, and applicable stormwater conveyance facilities;
b) Routine preventive operation and maintenance activities by staff and contractors, including a system for scheduling regular maintenance and cleaning of the sanitary sewer system with more frequent cleaning and maintenance targeted at known problem areas. The Preventive Maintenance Program should have a system to document scheduled and conducted activities, such as work orders;
c) Development of a rehabilitation and replacement plan to identify and prioritize system deficiencies and implement short-term and long-term rehabilitation actions to address each deficiency. The program should include regular visual and TV inspections of manholes and sewer pipes, and a system for ranking the condition of sewer pipes and scheduling rehabilitation. Rehabilitation and replacement should focus on sewer pipes that are at risk of collapse or prone to more frequent blockages due to pipe defects. Finally, the rehabilitation and replacement plan should include a capital improvement plan that addresses proper management and protection of the infrastructure assets. The plan shall include a time schedule for implementing the short and long-term plans plus a schedule for developing the funds needed for the capital improvement plan; d) Provide training on a regular basis for staff in sanitary sewer system operations and maintenance, and repair contractors to be appropriately trained; and e) Development of equipment and replacement part inventories, including identification of critical replacement parts.

4.1 System Mapping
The City maintains a comprehensive, up-to-date GIS-based map (https://la-mesa-gis-hublamesaca.hub.arcgis.com/maps/fa3473a07a8f463db124a0a112a18718/about) of the wastewater collection system, including all gravity mains, manholes, and related features.

The GIS database is regularly updated to reflect new construction, as-built drawings, condition assessment data, and field verifications. Because the system map is continuously revised, it is not included in this SSMP. Instead, the most current version is readily accessible to all City staff—including field crews—via desktop computers and mobile field tablets.

The GIS map is used to:
 Support maintenance scheduling and emergency response

12  Identify infrastructure locations and attributes
 Track cleaning history and field activities
Field crews have real-time mobile access to the GIS map, and hard-copy wall maps are maintained at the Public Works office. Map updates are coordinated between the Engineering and Operations Divisions, with all revisions logged and quality-checked before publication.

4.2 Preventive Operation and Maintenance Activities
The City’s Operations Division is responsible for operating and maintaining the City’s wastewater collection system within the public right-of-way and easements. Operations Division personnel regularly perform preventative maintenance (PM) activities on the sewer system, including inspecting all manholes. The staff also continues to perform some system repair, such as raising manholes, but typically, the work is contracted out.

The City aims to clean most of the sewer system in a 12-month cycle. Approximately 95% of the system is cleaned annually. The remainder are large diameter mains and sensitive spots that either do not require, or are too delicate, to be pressure jetted. In addition to the routine cleaning schedule, the City identifies areas with a history of blockages, root intrusion, or other maintenance issues as priority locations. These problem areas are scheduled for higher-frequency cleaning and inspection, which may occur quarterly or more frequently depending on severity and historical performance.

The City has utilized Open Gov/Categraph OMS software for several years as a maintenance management system to track work orders and to provide inventory management capabilities. Currently, staff schedule and perform maintenance activities.

Documentation and reporting of cleaning efforts are provided in a daily report. The daily report includes lineal footage cleaned, pipe size, pipe condition, pipe length, names of cleaning staff, and any additional comments provided by the maintenance crews. Daily progress is recorded by highlighting a large wall map maintained at the City’s Public Works office. Additionally, the Wastewater Maintenance Supervisor enters the total length of pipe cleaned into an Excel spreadsheet from which monthly totals are compiled.

The City uses the software application to manage its work orders. Work orders and information obtained from customers are provided to the Wastewater Maintenance Supervisor, who performs site inspections. Based on the results of the site inspections, appropriate responses are implemented. The administrative assistant stores a copy of the work order within the management system software.

The City uses software to provide staff with a means to retrieve and organize information regarding the O&M of the City’s wastewater collection system. The procedures for documenting scheduled and completed maintenance activities allow for the production of status reports.

The City maintains documented SOPs for core operations and maintenance activities, including system cleaning, root control, and equipment inspections. SOPs are reviewed annually and updated to reflect equipment, staffing, or regulatory requirements changes.

13 4.2.1 System Cleaning
The City’s cleaning schedule includes two (2) crews, each consisting of two to three staff members, assigned to perform daily cleaning. Each crew performs power flushing/jetting of the sewer system.

The work order management system tracks and schedules maintenance of high-frequency maintenance locations. These locations are cleaned more frequently, typically monthly, quarterly, or semiannually. They include areas with high root concentrations, areas with sewer pipelines having minimal slope, and locations that have been identified to have chronic grease accumulation.

4.2.2 Root Treatment
The City implements a root treatment program to supplement its routine power flushing and jetting activities. Targeted areas include older neighborhoods with mature trees, especially in easements, and locations identified through Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) inspections.

Root foaming is performed on an as-needed basis and is not conducted annually.

Locations with significant root intrusion identified via CCTV are added to the treatment schedule and grouped by geographic section for efficient planning.

4.2.3 Sanitary Sewer System Inspection and Condition Assessment Program
Regular and systematic inspection and assessment of sanitary sewer system facilities provides a means to monitor the condition of the facilities and the effectiveness of the maintenance operations, as well as a basis for identifying and scheduling capital improvements. The overall assessment can also be used to determine the funding required to repair, rehabilitate, and replace an aging collection system, prioritize the allocation of funds, and optimize the expenditure and efforts to operate a sewer collection system.

4.2.3.1 System Inspection and Assessment
The City uses closed-circuit television (CCTV) inspections to assess the condition of the wastewater collection system and inform the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). A fullsystem inspection was completed in 2009, and ongoing CCTV inspections are conducted as needed by trained City staff using a dedicated CCTV truck. The City stores sewer video using web-based software called GraniteNET.

Inspections typically occur after pipelines have been cleaned and are prioritized in response to sewage spills, root intrusions, or recurring maintenance needs. Findings are documented in daily reports and either addressed by the Operations Division or referred to Engineering for further evaluation.

Inspection data, asset inventory, and maintenance history, are managed within the City’s Cartegraph OMS system. These data inform rehabilitation priorities and support proactive maintenance planning.

14 The City is also evaluating the use of standardized condition assessment tools, such as the NASSCO, to enhance consistency in scoring and improve long-term rehabilitation and replacement planning.

4.2.3.2 Repair and Rehabilitation Projects
The City’s Public Works Operations Division is responsible for ensuring that immediate “unscheduled” repairs and/or rehabilitation improvements of various types and pertaining to wastewater facilities are adequately performed. The repairs and/or rehabilitation work performed by City staff may be identified via the CCTV inspections and primarily includes point repairs but does not include work requiring the replacement of entire pipe segments between manholes. Repairs that require resources beyond those available within the Public Works Operations Division or require further prioritization and planning are coordinated and scheduled with the City’s Engineering Division.

4.2.3.3 CIP Development
Several factors determine the priority of projects identified during the assessment process, although the condition of the pipe is usually the primary factor. Additional factors may include goals to reduce sewage spills, providing sufficient system capacity, reducing infiltration and inflow in pipes located below the water table, or reducing maintenance efforts by improving the pipe condition. Other considerations include coordinating surface and utility improvements with the other agencies that may be impacted by improvements.

Integrating the results of the inspection and assessment efforts, with the capacity modeling efforts, the City will pursue a proactive and comprehensive long-range planning effort.

4.2.4 Pump Station and Force Main Maintenance
The City does not have any wastewater pump stations, but it does maintain one 6” CI force main which is about 260’ long , which is fed by a privately owned and maintained pump.

The pump station facility are inspected and maintained on a routine schedule based on equipment age, condition, and criticality.

The one Privately Owned/Maintained Sewer Pump serves one condo building and a self storage facility. The property owner of the Condo Building has a maintenance plan which was approved by the City. The pump was installed in approximately 2020.

4.2.5 Maintenance Strategy
The City of La Mesa’s maintenance strategy focuses on proactive and preventive care to minimize the occurrence of sewage spills and extend the useful life of collection system assets. The Operations Division manages a regular cleaning and inspection schedule for all gravity sewer mains based on risk prioritization and historical data.

Key components of the City’s maintenance strategy include:
 Routine cleaning using Gap Vax trucks
 Root control and grease management in high-frequency problem areas  CCTV inspections on a rotational basis or as follow-up to cleaning  Use of CCMS - OpenGov/Cartegraph OMS to document maintenance activities and inspection results

15  Regular updates to cleaning frequencies based on system performance  Maintenance of sewer easements and access roads
 Inspection and maintenance of pump stations and force mains on a routine schedule based on equipment criticality and condition
 Inventory of essential equipment and replacement parts to ensure a timely response to system failures

4.2.6 Scheduling
Scheduling of maintenance activities is managed through the City’s CCMS OpenGov/Cartegraph OMS, which allows field crews to input completed work in real-time and supervisors to track outstanding tasks. Preventive maintenance is scheduled on the basis of line criticality, past performance, and known FOG or root intrusion issues.

Reactive maintenance is conducted in response to citizen complaints, internal observations, or overflow events.

4.2.7 Asset Management
The City is in the process of enhancing its asset management approach to better integrate long-term condition assessment, risk prioritization, and renewal planning. Current asset data is maintained in GIS and is linked to inspection and maintenance records in OpenGov/Cartegraph OMS.

Future improvements will include:
 Integration of asset condition scoring from CCTV inspections  Use of GIS layers to prioritize capital improvements
 Development of lifecycle cost evaluations for major infrastructure  Coordination with the Sewer Master Plan to support CIP planning These steps will support optimized investment in maintenance and rehabilitation to reduce long-term risks and ensure service reliability.

4.3 Training Program
The City of La Mesa provides quarterly training to ensure that all personnel involved in the operation, maintenance, and management of the sanitary sewer system are qualified, competent, and compliant with applicable regulations. The program supports the safe, efficient, and consistent implementation of the SSMP. Its objectives are to reinforce safe practices, ensure regulatory compliance, and enhance staff knowledge of system operations, inspections, and emergency response.

4.3.1 Training Program Scope and Objectives
The City’s training program is designed to:
 Reinforce safe and effective field and office practices.  Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulatory requirements.  Enhance staff knowledge of sewer system operations, maintenance techniques, inspections, and emergency procedures.
 Promote familiarity with SSMP roles, requirements, and reporting responsibilities.

16 Training is provided to all new hires and refreshed regularly. Supervisors adjust training schedules based on individual job functions and equipment use.

4.3.2 Training Topics and Delivery
The City’s training program includes:
 New Employee Orientation: Overview of the SSMP and WDRs, safety protocols, regulatory context, and field operations.
 Annual Refresher Courses: Topics include sewage spill response (i.e., SERP), PPE, spill containment, and SOP updates.
 Procedures for estimating spill volume in the field using visual indicators, flow calculations, and standardized tools.
 Role-Specific Technical Training:
o Confined space entry
o Lockout/Tagout (LOTO)
o Hazard communication (HazCom)
o Trench and traffic control safety
 System-Specific Training:
o OpenGov/Cartegraph OMS, GIS, and asset management tools o Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) inspections
 Emergency Preparedness: Tabletop exercises and field drills for sewage spill response and coordination.

These topics are incorporated into regular internal training and annual spill response exercises.

4.3.3 Documentation and Recordkeeping
Training records include attendance logs, agendas, and relevant certifications. Records are retained for a minimum of five years.

The Environmental Manager maintains these records and provides them upon request during audits or inspections.

4.3.4 Evaluation and Continuous Improvement
The effectiveness of the training program is evaluated through field observations, performance reviews, SSMP audit findings, staff feedback, and updates to equipment, SOPs, or regulations. Training modules are revised as necessary to ensure continuous improvement and ongoing compliance.

4.4 Equipment and Replacement Part Inventories
The Operations Division keeps repair equipment and materials on site in the storage yard, including pumps, fittings, pipes, and hoses. A detailed inventory list of the City’s existing sewer maintenance and repair equipment, replacement parts, and materials is maintained, see Appendix E. It includes adequate sizes and types of the critical repair and replacement parts. Additionally, it includes a resource list of contractors and vendors who stock materials and are available for emergency and short notice deliveries.

17 4.5 Summary and Continuing Efforts
To further comply with the Operations and Maintenance element of the SSMP, the City is continuing to document and formalize comprehensive O&M procedures that include:
 Maintaining up-to date maps of the City’s wastewater collection system;  Scheduling and performing routine preventative O&M activities including regular maintenance and high frequency locations;
 Developing a rehabilitation and replacement plan to identify and prioritize system deficiencies for short term and long term planning;
 Training for staff in wastewater collection system operations and maintenance; and  Maintaining equipment and replacement part inventories.

18 5 Design and Performance Provisions
This section addresses the design, construction, and inspection standards required by Section 5 of Attachment D in the State Water Resources Control Board’s Order WQ 2022- 0103-DWQ. The City must ensure that all new and rehabilitated sanitary sewer system assets are designed, constructed, and tested to protect public health, minimize the risk of sewage spills, and ensure long-term system performance.

5.1 Design Criteria and Construction Standards and
Specifications
The City of La Mesa requires that all new sewer infrastructure and rehabilitation projects comply with its adopted Design Standards, Standard Specifications, and Standard Drawings, which the Engineering Division periodically updates. These standards are intended to ensure system capacity, structural durability, ease of maintenance, and hydraulic performance under peak flow conditions.

The City’s current sewer design criteria are documented in Section V of the City’s Design Criteria Manual, adopted by City Council Resolution 15579 on July 28, 1987. The Sewer Design Technical Standards include provisions for flow rate assumptions, gravity sewer slope requirements, approved pipe materials, manhole placement, lateral and cleanout standards, and pavement restoration criteria. The City also maintains specific handouts to guide design criteria and requirements (see Appendix C).

When deficiencies in existing design criteria are identified, such as inadequate capacity, outdated material specifications, or evolving regulatory requirements, the City initiates a review and update of its standards. This includes project-level engineering evaluation and coordination with regional standards and best practices, such as the Standard Specifications for Public Works Construction (“Greenbook”), the Uniform Plumbing Code, and San Diego Regional Standard Drawings (SDRSD).

Key design provisions include:
 Minimum slope and velocity requirements for gravity mains  Approved pipe materials (e.g., PVC, VCP, DIP) and joint standards  Manhole placement, spacing, and structural specifications  Requirements for sewer laterals, cleanouts, and appurtenances  Trench bedding, backfill compaction, and pavement restoration criteria  Hydraulic capacity standards based on fixture unit loading and peaking factors The City's Engineering Division must review and approve all design submittals from private developers, consultants, or contractors before construction. Approved plans are required to comply with all applicable City, County, and regional design requirements.

5.2 Procedures and Standards
To ensure the wastewater collection system's long-term performance and structural integrity, the City of La Mesa implements standardized construction procedures and inspection protocols for all new, rehabilitated, or modified sewer infrastructure. These

19 procedures align with the requirements of State Water Board Order WQ 2022-0103-DWQ (Attachment D, Section 5) and San Diego Water Board Order R9-2007-0005 (Provision D.6(a)).

5.2.1 Construction Inspection and Testing
All sewer system construction projects are subject to inspection by qualified personnel, including City inspectors or authorized representatives. The following inspections and tests are conducted before final acceptance:
 Visual inspections verify that alignment, slope, bedding, and backfill meet design specifications.
 Air or water pressure testing of all gravity and force mains to confirm watertightness.
 Mandrel (deflection) testing for flexible pipe materials ensures deformation remains within allowable limits.
 CCTV inspections post-construction to verify proper jointing, pipe condition, and absence of obstructions or sags.
 Leak and hydrostatic testing of force mains, as applicable, per manufacturer and Greenbook standards.

All inspections and testing results must be documented, reviewed by City staff, and retained as part of the project record. Deficiencies must be corrected and verified through re-inspection prior to final acceptance of any public infrastructure.

5.2.2 As-Built Verification
Following construction, the contractor must submit as-built drawings reflecting final field conditions. These drawings are verified by the Engineering Division through field review to confirm infrastructure location, depth, and configuration. Verified as-builts are used to update the City’s GIS database and asset management records.

5.2.3 Acceptance Procedures
Infrastructure is not accepted into the public sewer system until all testing has been passed, punch list items are resolved, as-built drawings are verified, and all documentation has been reviewed and approved. The acceptance process includes coordination between inspection, operations, and engineering staff to ensure full compliance with applicable City standards and WDR provisions.

20 6 Spill Emergency Response Plan (SERP)
The City of La Mesa has developed and maintains a comprehensive SERP (see Appendix B) to guide staff response to sewage spills and ensure compliance with SWRCB Order WQ 2022-0103-DWQ. The purpose of the SERP is to ensure that all feasible steps are taken to:
 Contain and control the overflow
 Minimize impacts to public health and the environment  Prevent recurrence
 Document the incident per regulatory reporting requirements This plan includes clear protocols for notification, dispatch, on-site response, cleanup, and communication with regulatory agencies.

The City’s Spill Emergency Response Plan is a revised living document based on actual field experience, regulatory updates, and audit findings. It is fully integrated with the SSMP, regularly exercised and evaluated, and shared with all relevant internal departments and contractors. Through proactive preparedness, rapid response, and thorough reporting, the City minimizes the impact of sewage spills and meets all applicable requirements of Orders WQ 2022-0103-DWQ and R9-2007-0005.

6.1 Regulatory Requirements for Spill Emergency Response Plan
The State Water Board and San Diego Water Board WDRs require that the City develop and implement a spill emergency response plan that identifies measures to protect public health and the environment from sewage spills. The Spill Emergency Response Plan must include procedures to:
 Notify primary responders, appropriate local officials, and appropriate regulatory agencies of a spill in a timely manner;
 Notify other potentially affected entities (for example, health agencies, water suppliers, etc.) of spills that potentially affect public health or reach the waters of the State;
 Comply with the notification, monitoring, and reporting requirements of this General Order, State law and regulations, and applicable Regional Water Board Orders;
 Ensure that appropriate staff and contractors implement the Spill Emergency Response Plan and are appropriately trained;
 Address emergency system operations, traffic control, and other necessary response activities;
 Contain a spill and prevent/minimize discharge to waters of the State or any drainage conveyance system;
 Minimize and remediate public health impacts and adverse impacts on beneficial uses of waters of the State;
 Remove sewage from the drainage conveyance system;

21  Clean the spill area and drainage conveyance system in a manner that does not inadvertently impact beneficial uses in the receiving waters;  Implement technologies, practices, equipment, and interagency coordination to expedite spill containment and recovery;
 Implement pre-planned coordination and collaboration with storm drain agencies and other utility agencies/departments before, during, and after a spill event;  The City requires all contractors performing work on the sanitary sewer system to follow the SERP and to coordinate with City staff during any spill event  Conduct post-spill assessments of spill response activities;  Document and report spill events as required in this General Order; and  Annually, the SERP is reviewed, revised if necessary, and certified by the LRO, with documentation uploaded to CIWQS.

6.2 Sewage Spill Notification and Response
Upon receiving notice of a potential sewage spill from the public, City staff, or automated alarms, the City of La Mesa immediately dispatches trained personnel to assess and respond to the situation. The City maintains a 24-hour call center and emergency response capacity to ensure rapid mobilization.

Field personnel follow the procedures outlined in the City’s SERP, including:
 Conducting an initial assessment to verify and categorize the spill in accordance with Attachment E.1 of Order WQ 2022-0103-DWQ (Category 1, 2, 3, or 4)  Identifying and containing the source of the spill using appropriate control measures
 Reviewing sewer and storm drain maps to evaluate potential pathways to surface water
 Using vacuum trucks, sandbags, plugs, and absorbents to recover and contain wastewater
 Cleaning and disinfecting affected areas following recovery  Posting warning signs and barricades in areas impacted by overflows or where public access may pose a health risk
City sewage spill response crews are trained in traffic control, confined space entry, spill volume estimation, and hazard mitigation. Response teams escalate to bypass pumping and interdepartmental coordination if needed, as described in Chapter 2 of the SERP.

Coordination with the Stormwater Division and water quality sampling may be initiated if the spill reaches or threatens receiving waters.

Upon receiving notice of a potential sewage spill from the public, City staff, or automated alarms, the City immediately dispatches trained personnel to assess and respond to the situation. The City maintains a 24-hour call center and emergency response capacity.

On-site response includes:
 Identifying and containing the source of the spill
 Using vacuum equipment and absorbents to recover spilled wastewater

22  Cleaning and disinfecting affected areas
 Posting warning signs if a spill reaches public areas or waterbodies  Sewage spill response crews are trained in traffic control, confined space entry, and environmental hazard mitigation.

6.3 Reporting and Recordkeeping
The City complies with all electronic sewage spill reporting requirements through CIWQS.

Reporting protocols are detailed in Chapter 4 of the City’s Spill Emergency Response Plan and follow these regulatory timelines:
 2-hour notification to Cal OES for Category 1 sewage spills reaching surface waters or surface water tributaries
 Initial sewage spill report in CIWQS within three business days of becoming aware of the sewage spill
 Certified final sewage spill report in CIWQS within 15 calendar days of response conclusion
 Technical report within 45 calendar days for any spill ≥50,000 gallons  Monthly no-spill certification filed within 30 calendar days of the month’s end In addition to these reports, the City maintains internal documentation that supports regulatory compliance and informs annual review of the Spill Emergency Response Plan.

Documentation includes:
 Incident response logs and crew activity records
 Photographs, field sketches, and system maps
 CCTV inspection footage (if applicable)
 Volume estimation calculations and justification
 Sampling data, laboratory results, and chain of custody forms All sewage spill records are retained for a minimum of five years in accordance with Order R9-2007-0005, Provision D.6(d), and are available to the San Diego Regional Water Board upon request.

6.4 Annual Review and Certification
As required by Order WQ 2022-0103-DWQ, the City conducts an annual review and update of its SERP. This review ensures that contact information, response procedures, available equipment, interagency coordination protocols, and reporting processes remain current and effective.

The City’s LRO certifies the SERP annually in CIWQS. Any revisions made as part of the annual review are documented in a revision log, retained for audit purposes, and used to inform updates to the City’s SSMP and spill response training. The most recent certified version is maintained on file and made available to the Regional Water Board upon request.

The review process includes analyzing spill trends, average response time, root causes, and containment effectiveness. This performance evaluation informs procedural changes,

23 equipment needs, and targeted staff training updates. Lessons learned from actual sewage spills, or spill simulations, are also incorporated into the updated SERP.

6.5 Staff Training and Preparedness
City personnel responsible for sewage spill response are trained in accordance with the procedures described in Chapter 5 of the City’s SERP. Training is conducted quarterly and on an as-needed basis for field-based work.

Training topics include:
 Field response procedures and safety protocols (e.g., confined space entry, HAZMAT awareness)
 Spill containment, recovery, and decontamination methods  Use of sewer and storm drain system maps to assess downstream risk  Estimating spill volume using field indicators and standard formulas  CIWQS reporting procedures, documentation expectations, and required timeframes
 Interdepartmental coordination and communication with emergency services and the Regional Water Board
Attendance is documented through sign-in logs and training materials (see Appendix D for a typical training agenda), which are retained for audit purposes. Training effectiveness is evaluated through field exercises, post-incident reviews, and staff feedback. Training plans are updated based on lessons learned, changes to the SERP, or regulatory updates.

Contractors performing work on or around the wastewater collection system are required to review relevant SERP protocols and coordinate with City staff in the event of a spill.

24 7 Sewer Pipe Blockage Control Program

7.1 Regulatory Framework and Objectives
The Statewide WDR (Order WQ 2022-0103-DWQ, Attachment D, Section 7) and the San Diego Regional Water Board’s Order R9-2007-0005 (Provision D.7) require the City to implement a Sewer Pipe Blockage Control Program to prevent blockages and minimize the occurrence of sewage spills.

The Blockage Control Program must address all significant sources of blockages, including fats, oils, and grease (FOG), root intrusion, rags, and debris, and must include public education, inspections, enforcement, and ongoing program evaluation.

The City of La Mesa’s program is designed to:
 Prevent sewage spills caused by FOG, roots, rags, and debris  Identify and mitigate high-risk areas using system data and field observations  Promote proper operation and maintenance of sewer appurtenances, including private laterals and FSEs
 Implement a targeted maintenance, inspection, and enforcement strategy  Evaluate program performance annually and revise as necessary

7.2 Identification of Blockage-Prone Areas
The City uses multiple data sources to identify areas vulnerable to blockages, including:
 Sewage spill history and OpenGov/Cartegraph OMS records  CCTV condition assessments
 Field observations by maintenance staff
 Root treatment and high-frequency cleaning logs
Blockage-prone locations, also referred to as “hot spots,” are logged in OpenGov/Cartegraph OMS and scheduled for enhanced maintenance. Each hot spot is assigned an initial cleaning frequency, which is adjusted over time based on observed conditions and maintenance effectiveness. Areas with chronic blockages caused by FOG, roots, or debris may also be targeted for structural rehabilitation.

7.3 Root Intrusion and Debris Control
In addition to FOG control, the City actively manages blockages caused by root intrusion, rags, and debris. These measures include:
 Routine hydro-jetting in easements and older neighborhoods with mature tree cover
 As-needed root foaming based on CCTV observations
 Immediate response and removal of rags and non-dispersibles during sewage spills
 Evaluation of repeat problem areas for capital upgrades or enforcement

25 Root-intruded segments are flagged through the City’s CCTV inspection program.

Identified sections are grouped geographically and scheduled for root foaming or prioritized cleaning. The City evaluates new technologies and condition rating systems (e.g., NASSCO) to standardize assessments and improve prioritization.

7.4 Food Service Establishments Requirements and FOG
Control
Food Service Establishments (FSEs) are required to install, operate, and maintain grease control devices per the City’s Municipal Code and adopted engineering standards. These measures are intended to prevent the discharge of fats, oils, and grease (FOG) into the City’s wastewater collection system.

The City’s has a well developed FOG Program which started in 2009. All FSEs now have Grease Interception Devices installed, except a few with waivers due to major engineering constraints. The City permits and inspects all FSEs annually.

City inspectors conduct routine and risk-based inspections of FSEs to verify compliance with the following standards:
 Proper sizing and installation of approved grease interceptors or grease traps  Routine maintenance and cleaning, with documentation logs retained on-site  Physical accessibility of grease control devices for inspection and servicing  Employee awareness and training in proper grease disposal practices Inspection results are recorded in the City’s FOG inspection tracking system. FSEs that are out of compliance are required to take corrective actions within a specified timeframe.

Repeat non-compliance may result in enforcement per section 7.6 below.

7.5 Public Education and Outreach
The City engages in public education to reduce sewer pipe blockages. Messaging covers grease disposal, root-safe landscaping, and responsible flushing habits (“no wipes in pipes”). Outreach efforts target both residents and businesses, particularly Food Service Establishments (FSEs), and include:
 Distributing educational brochures during FOG inspections  Providing grease disposal guidance during permit issuance, plan checks, and site inspections for FSEs
 Posting best management practices (BMPs), compliance requirements, and resources on the City’s website
 Including educational inserts in utility bills and digital newsletters The City tracks outreach activities annually, including the number and type of materials distributed, the number of FSEs reached, and the frequency of engagement. Where possible, the effectiveness of outreach is assessed through inspection outcomes, feedback from businesses, and analysis of grease-related sewage spills.

26 Educational strategies are updated based on inspection trends, observed public behaviors, or new regulatory requirements. Materials are periodically revised to ensure accuracy and continued engagement with the community.

7.6 Inspection, Maintenance, and Enforcement
The City maintains an enhanced inspection and cleaning schedule for “hot spots” identified through maintenance history, sewage spills, and CCTV inspection. These areas are cleaned using hydro-jetting and periodically reinspected using CCTV to confirm effectiveness. Cleaning crews document each event in OpenGov/Cartegraph OMS, including condition observations, grease root, and debris accumulation levels.

The City tracks repeat cleaning events at the same location to identify patterns of recurring sewer pipe blockages. When repeated maintenance is required, staff evaluate whether additional enforcement, targeted outreach, or infrastructure improvements are needed.

Enforcement of the Sewer Pipe Blockage Control Program includes escalating actions for non-compliant dischargers:
 Issuance of Notices of Violation for failure to maintain grease control devices  Re-inspection fees and cost recovery for repeated cleaning due to upstream discharges
 Administrative citations for continued non-compliance  Suspension or termination of sewer service for chronic or willful violations All enforcement actions are documented and retained in the City’s records. Enforcement trends and problem locations are reviewed regularly to inform updates to cleaning schedules, inspection frequency, and public outreach strategies.

7.7 Program Review and Updates
The City reviews the Blockage Control Program annually to evaluate its effectiveness in reducing sewage spills. The review is conducted by supervisory staff in coordination with the LRO and includes:
 Trends in pipe blockage sewage spills, and system maintenance  FSE inspection results and compliance history
 Hot spot cleaning frequencies and field observations
 Outreach efforts and public engagement metrics
 Applicable regulatory updates
Based on this evaluation, the City modifies inspection frequencies, maintenance schedules, outreach materials, and enforcement focus as necessary. All program changes are documented and incorporated into the SSMP during the annual audit.

27 8 System Evaluation, Capacity Assurance and
Capital Improvements
The WDRs require the City’s SSMP to include procedures and activities for regular evaluation and assessment of system conditions, capacity assessment and design criteria, prioritization of corrective actions, and a capital improvement plan (CIP).

8.1 System Evaluation and Condition Assessment

8.1.1 Overview
The City of La Mesa maintains a System Evaluation and Capacity Assurance Plan (SECAP) per State Water Resources Control Board Order WQ 2022-0103-DWQ, Attachment D, Section 8. The Plan was developed by PBS&J Engineering and is included in the City’s Wastewater master plan.

The SECAP is designed to ensure sufficient hydraulic capacity in the City’s wastewater collection system to convey existing and future peak dry and wet weather flows. It supports the prevention of capacity-related sewage spills and informs long-range capital planning.

The following are evaluation methods used to inform the City’s assessments and adaptive management planning.

8.1.2 Condition Assessment Procedures
The City evaluates the condition of its sanitary sewer system using closed-circuit television (CCTV) inspections, manhole inspections, and visual surface reviews. The City’s goal is to conduct using NASSCO PACP standards, however turnover in staff has historically led to training gaps related to person specific NAASCO certification. In-field observations of pipe defects, surcharging, inflow and infiltration (I&I), and structural damage are recorded in the City’s OpenGov/Cartegraph OMS and GIS databases.

8.1.3 Annual Assessment Goals
The City has set a goal to assess about 10 percent of its gravity sewer system each year, enabling a complete system review every ten years. This approach aligns with industry best practices and is seen as a reasonable trade-off between system coverage, staffing, financial resources, and the typical lifespan of wastewater infrastructure. A ten-year cycle also offers enough frequency to catch emerging defects before they lead to critical failures, especially when combined with risk-based prioritization to focus on high-risk areas. This 10% annual goal is supported by guidance from the U.S. EPA and Water Environment Federation, which recommend a full system assessment every 5–10 years based on risk, resources, and system size. It reflects proactive, risk-informed asset management strategies that scale with system size and available resources.

8.1.4 Prioritization Criteria
Priority is given to areas with high environmental or public health risk, including pipelines near surface waters, steep terrain, high groundwater, environmentally sensitive areas, and

28 waters listed on the Clean Water Act Section 303(d) List. Historical SSOs, chronic maintenance, and high I&I zones may also be prioritization criteria.

8.1.5 Inspection and Monitoring Methods
Field crews evaluate signs of potential failure, such as root intrusion, fractures, offset joints, and surcharge evidence. Inspections incorporate flow monitoring, rainfall correlation, and historical spill data to guide risk-based planning. All inspections are documented with logs, photographs, and reports, and stored in the OpenGov/Cartegraph OMS and GIS. Records are maintained for at least five years and made available to SWRCB or SDRWQCB upon request.

CCTV Sewer Videos are kept in GraniteNET software for web based viewing.

8.1.6 Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment
System components vulnerability:
 Sea level rise- Not a Concern
 Flooding – Inflow and Infiltration/Flooding is a major concern due to increased intensity of rain events due to Climate Change.
 Erosion- Low Concern, infrastructure depth is generally adequate.  Wildfire aftermath- Not a Concern
 Power outages. Low Concern, system is all gravity expect for one privately maintained small lift station.

To fulfill the capacity assessment and design criteria requirements of the 2022 Statewide Waste Discharge Requirements (Order WQ 2022-0103-DWQ, Attachment D, Section

8.2), the City of La Mesa relies on methodologies established in its Wastewater Master Plan, completed in October 2008. That plan included flow monitoring, hydraulic modeling, and evaluation of peak dry and wet weather flows under existing and build-out conditions.

These methods are consistent with current regulatory expectations and are adopted here as the City’s ongoing framework for capacity planning. They continue to guide future system evaluations and updates to the City’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP).

The Master Plan developed detailed hydraulic models of the wastewater collection system, primarily for pipes 12 inches and larger. These models were calibrated using dry weather meter data and used to simulate wet weather flow conditions. Build-out projections were based on SANDAG Series 7 population forecasts and land use assumptions, including full development of vacant parcels under existing zoning.

Capacity evaluations used standard hydraulic design criteria and applied a depth-todiameter (d/D) threshold of 0.75 to identify potential improvement segments. Pipe reaches exceeding this threshold were considered capacity-constrained and prioritized for further evaluation. In most cases, these reaches were resolved through iterative modeling that tested upsizing alternatives to provide adequate capacity for projected flows. The assessment concluded that very few sewer segments were capacity-limited.  City’s robust CIP Program has upsized and replaced areas of concern, particularly main truck sections.

29 Design flow assumptions were based on the City’s updated hydraulic criteria and unit generation rates, as summarized in Table 8-1. These rates were developed using City land use data and SANDAG growth projections, calibrated against measured flows at key Metro metering locations.

Table 8-1
Recommended Unit Wastewater Generation Rate
Land Use / Population Recommended Unit Generation Rate
Land Use
Single-Family Residential 270 gpd/DU
Multi-Family Residential 180 gpd/DU
Commercial 500 gpd/AC
Industrial 500 gpd/AC
Institutional 500 gpd/AC
Population
Single-Family Residential 90 gpdc
Multi-Family Residential 15 pdc
AC = acre
DU = dwelling unit
gpd = gallons per day
gpdc = gallons per day per capita
City growth rates were projected based on SANDAG residential and employment population estimates and projections, and the recommended unit generation rates were applied to these population estimates.

As part of the master plan, an evaluation of the available capacity in the City’s existing wastewater collection system was completed to identify sewer reaches that may be undersized to accommodate existing and/or future wastewater flows. Based on the evaluation's findings, phased facility improvements were identified to reduce the potential for sanitary sewer overflows and allow for projected growth within the City’s service area.

CIP projects are prioritized based on a risk-based framework that accounts for hydraulic deficiency severity, sewer spill history, proximity to sensitive areas, and opportunities to coordinate with other infrastructure efforts. The Engineering Division maintains a rolling five-year CIP, updated annually with input from Operations staff. Scopes, schedules, and budgets are reviewed based on field observations, system performance, funding availability, and interagency coordination needs.

30 This integrated planning approach ensures the City can proactively address deficiencies, support planned growth, and maintain a resilient, compliant wastewater system in alignment with the 2022 WDR.

8.2 Capacity Assessment and Design Criteria

8.2.1 System Components Contributing to Spills
The City’s Engineering Staff monitors the functionality of the system on an ongoing basis using:
 Approximately 40 SmartCovers installed City Wide
 ADS Metering
 Feedback from Maintenance Staff
 Analysis of causation of Dry Weather Spills (Roots, FOG, Capacity, etc)  Wet weather and Wet Weather Spill analysis of basin dynamics using ADS Metering and Smart Covers
The City has both an internal and external study in progress related to Inflow and Infiltration during Wet Weather.
 The Internal Study is being conducted by the City’s Engineering Department in the Alvarado Basin using approximately 25 new SmartCovers.
 The External Study is being conducted by Metro Wastewater JPA and will be using ADS Echo Meters. This study has yet to begin 2026.

Key System components can be monitored using ADS flow metering data for each sewer basin. The City’s Engineering Staff monitors the functionality of the system on an ongoing basis
Major sources that contribute to peak flow associated with sewer spills include:
 Inflow and Infiltration during wet weather. The City has several strategies and program to address this. Including, Ongoing CIP Program, and I&I Studies.

8.2.2 Capacity Assessment Components
The City’s Capacity Assessment is included in the City’s Sewer Master Plan. The document is included as a reference to this plan. The City does not have issues due to erosive forces, or dry weather peak flow. The City does not operate any sewer pumps.

Inflow and Infiltration work is multi-faceted, has been updated and is an ongoing process.

The City conducts I&I work via its CIP program, basin studies, and elsewhere. Capacity of flood prone systems are included in the Capacity Analysis, however data, inspections, audits and spill history is updated continuously.

31 8.3 Prioritization of Corrective Action
The City’s assessments are used to prioritize actions. The following information is used to prioritize.
 Spills. ACLs.
 Inflow and Infiltration Studies
 Dry Weather Capacity issues
 Infrastructure Condition

8.4 Capital Improvement Plan
The City has an ongoing CIP Plan which is updated bi-annually. Below is a list of major CIP projects and completion timelines.
 Alvarado 2 Truck Sewer SRF Funded- Completed $6M
 Alvarado 3 Truck Sewer SRF Funded- Completed $6M
 Phase 6 Sewer Improvements- (2025/2026) $9M
 Phase 7 Sewer Improvements (2027) $8M
 AJ Basin Sewer Improvements (2030+) $12M+
 Annual Sewer Improvements (Yearly) <$500,000
The City has a very robust and comprehensive Sewer CIP program for a City its size. The City utilizes SRF funding primarily and uses Pay-Go primarily for smaller projects under $500,000.

32 9 Monitoring, Measurement, and Program
Modifications

9.1 Regulatory Framework
This section fulfills the requirements of State Water Resources Control Board Order WQ 2022-0103-DWQ, Attachment D, Section 9, and Attachment E.1, Sections 3.7 and 3.8.

These provisions require the City to monitor and evaluate SSMP implementation, assess program effectiveness, and adjust elements based on performance trends. Specifically, the SSMP must:

1. Maintain data to support SSMP prioritization and audit tracking

2. Track the implementation and effectiveness of SSMP elements

3. Evaluate the success of preventive O&M activities

4. Modify SSMP elements based on monitoring results

5. Analyze trends in sewage spill frequency, location, volume, and cause

9.2 Monitoring and Measurement Program

9.2.1 SSMP Activity Documentation
The City uses OpenGov/Cartegraph OMS, GIS, and internal spreadsheets to document key program activities, including preventive and corrective maintenance, CCTV inspections, sewage spills, and capital projects. These records support SSMP audits, performance reviews, and data-driven program improvements.

9.2.2 Performance Metrics and Effectiveness Review
The City tracks key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate the effectiveness of each SSMP element. Metrics are reviewed during routine internal meetings and triennial audits to identify trends and guide program modifications. Indicators include:
 Total number and volume of sewage spills
 Sewage spill causes and root cause trends (e.g., FOG, roots, structural defects)  Percentage of system cleaned and CCTV inspected
 Time to respond to sewage spills and service calls
 Work order backlog and completion rates
 Preventive maintenance frequency vs. plan
 Frequency of FOG inspections and enforcement
 O&M cost per linear mile
 Percent of system rehabilitated or replaced annually
 Operations staffing per 100 miles of pipe

9.2.3 Preventive Maintenance Program Evaluation
The effectiveness of the City’s preventive maintenance program is evaluated at least once every three years. The evaluation includes:
 Review of cleaning cycles and recurring “hot spots”

33  Analysis of trends from CCTV condition assessments  Evaluation of equipment adequacy and available staffing  Correlation of maintenance data with historical sewage spill patterns Results are used to adjust cleaning schedules, prioritize rehabilitation, inform staffing needs, and plan future capital projects.

9.2.4 Program Updates and Adaptive Management
The SSMP is revised based on monitoring results, audit findings, staffing changes, infrastructure improvements, and regulatory updates. While updates may occur at any time, the entire SSMP must be reviewed, revised as necessary, and certified by the LRO at least once every six years. All revisions are documented and retained for audit purposes.

To support adaptive management, the City evaluates system performance annually using data from CIWQS sewage spill reports, preventive maintenance logs, inspection records, and internal work orders. This data is analyzed to:
 Identify recurring problem areas or failure modes
 Assess the effectiveness of current PM schedules
 Adjust SOPs and training based on root cause patterns  Prioritize assets in the CIP based on risk and condition Results of this analysis are reviewed and incorporated into future SSMP updates, cleaning schedules, asset rehabilitation planning, and resource allocation. This ensures that program improvements are evidence-based and aligned with actual system performance.

9.2.5 Sewage Spill Trend Analysis and 10-Year Graphs
In accordance with Attachment E.1, Section 3.8, the City maintains and submits 10-year graphical summaries of sewage spills by number and volume with its CIWQS Annual Report. Supporting actions include:
 Maintaining records of sewage spill cause, location, volume, and response  Generating graphs to show sewage spill trends by year  Identifying recurring causes and locations
 Using trends to adjust inspection frequency, maintenance scheduling, public outreach, and capital improvement priorities

9.3 SSMP Modifications and Recertification
The SSMP is reviewed and revised when KPIs indicate performance gaps, new infrastructure is added, or regulatory requirements change. All modifications are certified by the LRO and submitted via CIWQS. Audit results are central to identifying needed updates. The City applies adaptive management principles to support continuous improvement across all SSMP elements.

34 10 Internal Audits

10.1 Audit Procedures and Frequency
Per State Water Resources Control Board Order WQ 2022-0103-DWQ, Attachment D, Section 10, the City of La Mesa conducts an audit of its SSMP at least once every three years. The audit aims to evaluate whether each SSMP element is being effectively implemented and whether modifications are needed to improve performance.

The audit process includes:
 Reviewing the implementation status of each SSMP element  Assessing performance using key performance indicators (see Section 9.2.2)  Verifying compliance with applicable WDR provisions
 Examining records of field activities, inspections, training, and maintenance  Interviewing staff from operations, engineering, and management teams  Reviewing changes in staffing, organizational structure, procedures, or infrastructure
 Documenting corrective actions taken since the last audit A written audit report is prepared within six months of the end of the audit period. The report includes findings, recommended actions, responsible parties, and timelines for implementation. The LRO certifies the audit and uploads it to CIWQS. Audit documentation is retained for at least five years and made available to the State or Regional Water Boards upon request.

10.2 Continuous Improvement and Documentation
Audit findings are used to drive continuous improvement of the SSMP. Based on audit results, the City may:
 Identify outdated or underperforming program components  Recommend updates to procedures, staffing, training, or documentation  Adjust maintenance strategies, inspection frequencies, or capital project priorities  Track implementation of corrective actions and verify closure of past audit recommendations
Each audit report includes:
 A summary of each SSMP element’s implementation status  Evaluation of program effectiveness and regulatory compliance  Identified deficiencies and root causes
 Description of corrective actions completed since the previous audit  Recommended updates and assigned responsibilities
 Timelines for implementing changes
Audit outcomes are incorporated into the next SSMP update or recertification effort as required by the WDR.

35 11 Communication Program

11.1 Purpose and Regulatory Requirements
This section addresses State Water Resources Control Board Order WQ 2022-0103- DWQ, Attachment D, Section 11, which requires a communication program that:
 Engages the public and stakeholders in SSMP development and implementation  Ensures the SSMP is available and accessible to the public  Communicates SSMP performance, updates, and goals to City leadership and staff

11.2 Public Education and Outreach
The City of La Mesa maintains an ongoing public education and outreach program to promote proper sewer use, reduce inflow and infiltration (I&I), and prevent sewage spills.

This program targets residents, businesses, and Food Service Establishments (FSEs) and includes:
 Distribution of educational brochures and newsletters  Participation in public events such as Earth Day and Public Works Week  Posting content on the City’s website and social media platforms  Partnerships with schools and civic groups for environmental awareness  Targeted FOG education and mailings to FSEs on grease control practices  Soliciting public input during major SSMP updates or program changes

11.3 Internal Communication and Implementation Coordination The City facilitates coordination across departments responsible for SSMP implementation, including Public Works Operations, Engineering, Environmental Compliance, and the City Manager’s Office. Internal communication mechanisms include:
 Regular interdepartmental meetings for planning and compliance tracking  Shared access to GIS, OpenGov/Cartegraph OMS, and sewage spill records for unified decision-making
 Emergency communication protocols for after-hours sewage spill response  Distribution of updated SOPs and SSMP revisions
Staff are informed of roles and responsibilities through:
 Safety tailgate meetings
 Quarterly training sessions
 Post-audit briefings and results
 Internal memos from program leads

11.4 Communication with Governing Body and Stakeholders The City provides updates on SSMP implementation and performance to its governing body, including the City Council, through:

36 Council staff reports submitted during SSMP certification or updates Presentations at public meetings during adoption or recertification Budget workshops and agenda items addressing SSMP-related infrastructure and staffing

11.5 SSMP Availability and Transparency
The City ensures that the SSMP is publicly available and transparent. Measures include:
 Posting the most current SSMP on the City’s website
 Providing a hard copy at City Hall during normal business hours  Uploading the SSMP to the CIWQS database upon recertification The City responds to public inquiries about sewer operations, sewage spills, and infrastructure planning. Feedback is recorded and considered during SSMP updates to improve program effectiveness and public trust.

Appendix A
Municipal Code Sections

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(Supp. No. 24, Update 1)

7.18.040 Illegal discharges.

A. Compliance with this Chapter. Any discharge that is not in compliance with this chapter is an illegal discharge. The city maintains legal authority to control the contributions of pollutants in discharges of runoff into the city's MS4 associated with industrial, commercial, construction, and residential activities.

B. Discharge of Non-Storm Water Prohibited. No person shall discharge non-storm water directly or indirectly into the storm water conveyance system or receiving waters. Prohibited are illegal discharges or illegal connections that include but are not limited to:

1. Sewage;

2. Discharge of wash water resulting from the hosing or cleaning of gas stations, auto repair garages, or other types of automotive service facilities;

3. Discharges resulting from the cleaning, repair, or maintenance of any type of equipment, machinery, or facility including motor vehicles, cement-related equipment, and port-a-potty servicing, etc.;

4. Discharges of wash water from mobile operations such as mobile automobile washing, steam cleaning, power washing, and carpet cleaning, etc.;

5. Discharge of wash water from the cleaning or hosing of impervious surfaces in municipal, industrial, commercial, and residential areas including parking lots, streets, sidewalks, driveways, patios, plazas, work yards and outdoor eating or drinking areas, etc.;

6. Discharges of runoff from material storage areas containing chemicals, fuels, grease, oil, or other hazardous materials;

7. Discharge of pool or fountain water containing chlorine, algaecides, biocides, or other chemicals; discharges of pool or fountain filter backwash water;

8. Discharges of saline swimming pool water unless such discharge can be discharged via a pipe or concrete channel directly to a naturally saline water body (e.g., Pacific Ocean);

9. Discharges of sediment, pet waste, vegetation clippings, or other landscape or construction related wastes;

10. Discharges of food related wastes (e.g. grease, fish processing, and restaurant kitchen mat and trash bin wash water, etc.).

C. Conditionally Allowed Non-Storm Water Discharges.

1. Storm water discharges regulated under a valid facility-specific NPDES permit or facility specific RWQCB waste discharge requirements permit are exempt from discharge prohibitions established by this chapter, provided compliance with all relevant permit conditions is maintained to the satisfaction of the RWQCB and the city engineer. Facilities and activities whose storm water discharges are regulated under a general permit, including the state industrial general storm water permit, state construction general storm water permit and the state general dewatering permit, are not exempted from this chapter.

2. Non-storm water discharges to the MS4 from the following categories of non-storm water discharges are allowed if the discharger obtains coverage under NPDES Permit No. CAG919001 (RWQCB Order No.

R9-2007-0043, or subsequent order) for discharges to San Diego Bay, or NPDES Permit No. CAG919002 (RWQCB Order No. R9-2008-0002, or subsequent order) for discharges to surface waters other than San Diego Bay, and the discharger is in compliance with all requirements of the applicable NPDES permits and all other applicable laws and regulations; or the RWQCB determines in writing that

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(Supp. No. 24, Update 1)

coverage under NPDES Permit Nos. CAG919001 or CAG919002 is not required. Otherwise, non-storm water discharges from the following categories are illicit discharges:
a. Discharges from uncontaminated pumped groundwater;
b. Discharges from foundation drains when the system is designed to be located at or below the groundwater table to actively or passively extract groundwater during any part of the year; c. Discharges from crawl space pumps;
d. Discharges from footing drains when the system is designed to be located at or below the groundwater table to actively or passively extract groundwater during any part of the year.

3. Non-storm water discharges to the MS4 from water line flushing and water main breaks are allowed if the discharges have coverage under NPDES Permit No. CAG679001 (Regional Water Quality Control Board Order No. R9-2010-0003, or subsequent order), and the discharger is in compliance with all requirements of that NPDES permit and other applicable laws and regulations. This category includes water line flushing and water main break discharges from water purveyors issued a water supply permit by the California Department of Public Health or federal military installations. Discharges from recycled or reclaimed water lines to the MS4 are allowed if the discharges have coverage under an NPDES permit, and the discharger is in compliance with the applicable NPDES permit and other applicable laws and regulations. Otherwise, discharges from water lines are illicit discharges.

4. Non-storm water discharges to the MS4 from the following categories are allowed, unless the enforcement official or the regional water quality control board identifies the discharge as a source of pollutants to receiving waters, in which case the discharge is considered an illicit discharge:
a. Discharges from diverted stream flows;
b. Discharges from rising groundwater;
c. Discharges from uncontaminated groundwater infiltration to the MS4; d. Discharges from springs;
e. Discharges from riparian habitats and wetlands;
f. Discharges from potable water sources, except as set forth in La Mesa Municipal Code Section

7.18.040.3;
g. Discharges from foundation drains when the system is designed to be located above the groundwater table at all times of the year, and the system is only expected to produce non-storm water discharges under unusual circumstances; and
h. Discharges from footing drains when the system is designed to be located above the groundwater table at all times of the year, and the system is only expected to produce non-storm water discharges under unusual circumstances.

5. Non-storm water discharges from the following categories are allowed if they are addressed with BMPs. Otherwise, non-storm water discharges from the following categories are illicit discharges:
a. Air conditioning condensation;
b. Individual residential vehicle washing
c. Flows from non-emergency firefighting activities; and d. Flows from emergency firefighting activities.

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(Supp. No. 24, Update 1)

6. Public Health and Safety Exemptions. Discharges determined by the city engineer to be necessary to protect public health and safety are allowed, provided any conditions on such discharges imposed by the city engineer are satisfied and the city engineer makes written findings supporting the exemption.

7. On-Site Wastewater Systems. Discharges to the subsurface from properly functioning permitted site waste water systems are not prohibited by this chapter.

8. Exemptions Not Absolute. Any conditionally allowed discharge described above which the city engineer determines is a significant source of pollutants to receiving waters or the city's storm water conveyance system, shall be prohibited unless the discharger complies with additional BMPs imposed by the city engineer to reduce pollutants in the discharge to the maximum extent practicable and the BMPs are effective. Such prohibitions shall take effect after written notice to the discharger by the city engineer containing a schedule for compliance based on the necessity to protect public health and safety or the environment.
(Ord. 2008-2787 § 1 (part); February 12, 2008: Ord. 2010-2806, § 1; February 23, 2010: Ord. 2015-2840, § 1; May 12, 2015)

17.08.020 Sewer lateral fees.

In addition to the fees for a sewer connection permit established in Chapter 27.04 of this code, the owner or applicant for such connection shall pay to said city for construction and laying of laterals fees as established by city council resolution.

The fees are for installation under normal conditions. Under abnormal conditions, such as difficult or unusual excavations, additional appropriate charges may be negotiated at the discretion of the city manager.

Any additional charges for unusual circumstances in a sewer lateral installation shall be remitted to the city immediately. Final acceptance of the building being served will not be made until these charges are received by the city.

In case a connection is made to a sewer where it crosses private property, the plumber shall install the pipe to the main sewer and shall uncover the main sewer so that a connection can be properly made and the department of public works shall make such connection.

In case a connection can be made to a normal, shallow sewer main or to a special deep sewer main, the property owner may connect to the special deep sewer main by paying the connection charges to be negotiated by the city manager.

In all cases in which a lateral has been installed to serve a particular lot or parcel of land and the street is subsequently paved, that lateral must be used unless an exception is made by the department of public works. (Ord. 2316; July 1, 1983: Ord. 2459 § 28; August 11, 1987)

17.12.070 Payment of sewer service charges.

A. All sewer service charges imposed under these provisions of the code shall be computed upon a monthly basis and shall be payable upon the billing of such charges to the owner or his agent.

B. Sewer service charges may be collected either through the tax roll of the county of San Diego, or by any method authorized by state law, including by direct payment or billing by the city or combined with other utility bills and separately designated.

C. If the sewer service charge is not paid before the close of business or postmarked before midnight of the final date for payment, a penalty shall be added thereto; provided, however, that when the final day for

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(Supp. No. 24, Update 1)

payment falls on Saturday, Sunday or a legal holiday, payment may be made without penalty on the next regular business day. The late payment penalty shall be established by city council resolution.

D. Sewer service charges to be imposed on property where the parcels have been created or the use thereof changed subsequent to July 1st through August 10th of each year shall be separately collected through direct billing by the city.

E. This chapter shall be enforced pursuant to applicable law, including specifically California Health and Safety Code Sections 5473.1 through 5473.10.
(Ord. 2021 § 1; May 27, 1975: Ord. 2616 § 1; January 26, 1993: Ord. 2012-2823, § 1; June 26, 2012)

17.20.439 Industrial wastewater.
(a) Waste Disposal — Permit Required. Any person, municipality, sanitation district, or governmental agency desiring to discharge industrial waste into a public sewer shall obtain a permit to discharge said wastes into said system from the city manager known as a permit for industrial wastewater discharge. (b) Permit for Industrial Wastewater Discharge. The permit for industrial wastewater discharge may require pretreatment of industrial wastewaters before discharge, restriction of peak flow discharges, discharge of certain wastewaters only to specified sewers of the city, relocation of point of discharge, prohibition of discharge of certain wastewater components, restriction of discharge to certain hours of the day, payment of additional charges to defray increased costs of the city created by the wastewater discharge and such other conditions as may be required to effectuate the purpose of this section.

No person shall discharge industrial wastewaters in excess of the quantity or quality limitations set by the permit for industrial wastewater discharge. Any person desiring to discharge wastewaters or use facilities which are not in conformance with the industrial wastewater permit should apply to the city manager for an amended permit.
(c) Discharge Reports. The city may require that any person discharging or proposing to discharge wastewater into a public sewer file a periodic discharge report. The discharge report may include, but not be limited to, nature of process, volume, rates of flow, mass emission rate, production quantities, hours of operation, or other information which relates to the generation of waste, including wastewater constituents and characteristics in the wastewater discharge. Such reports may also include the chemical constituents and quantity of liquid or gaseous materials stored on site even though they may not normally be discharged. In addition to discharge reports, the city may require information in the form of industrial wastewater discharge permit applications and self-monitoring reports. (d) Permit Application. Persons seeking an industrial wastewater discharge permit shall complete and file with the city manager, an application in the form prescribed by the city manager, and accompanied by the applicable fees. The applicant may be required to submit, in units and terms appropriate for evaluation, the following information:
(1) Name, address and Standard Industrial Classification number of applicant; (2) Volume of wastewater to be discharged;
(3) Wastewater constituents and characteristics including but not necessarily limited to those mentioned in paragraph (m) as determined by a laboratory approved by the city; (4) Time and duration of discharge;
(5) Average and thirty minute peak wastewater flow rates, including daily, monthly and seasonal variations if any;

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(Supp. No. 24, Update 1)

(6) Description of activities, facilities and plant process on the premises including all materials, processes and types of material which are or could be discharged; (7) Any other information as may be deemed by the city manager to be necessary to evaluate the permit application.

The city manager will evaluate the data furnished by the applicant and may require additional information. After evaluation and acceptance of the data furnished, an on-site inspection of the waste discharge system, treatment systems, or other systems relating to the waste discharge may be required. The city manager may then issue an industrial wastewater discharge permit subject to terms and conditions provided herein.
(e) Permit Conditions. Industrial wastewater discharge permits shall be subject to all provisions of this section and all other regulations, user charges and fees established from time to time by resolution of the city council. The conditions of industrial wastewater discharge permits shall be uniformly enforced by the city manager in accordance with this section, and applicable local, state and federal regulations. (f) Duration of Industrial Wastewater Discharge Permits. Permits shall be issued for a specified time period, not to exceed five years. A permit may be issued for a period less than a year or may be stated to expire on a specific date. If the permittee is not notified by the city thirty days prior to the expiration of the permit, the permit shall be extended one additional year. The terms and conditions of the permit may be subject to modification and change by the city during the life of the permit as limitations or requirements as identified in paragraph (m) are modified and changed. The permittee shall be informed of any proposed changes in his permit at least thirty days prior to the effective date of change. Any changes or new conditions in the permit shall include a reasonable time schedule for compliance. (g) Transfer of Any Industrial Wastewater Discharge Permit or Changed Use. Industrial wastewater discharge permits shall be issued only for specific use for a specific operation. Any sale, lease, transfer or assignment of the premises or operation for which the permit was issued shall require a new permit to be issued. Any new or changed conditions of operation shall require a new permit to be issued. (h) Revocation of Industrial Wastewater Discharge Permit. The city manager may revoke the permit of any permittee who is found to be in violation of this section or applicable local, state or federal regulations or who:
(1) Fails to factually report the wastewater constituents and characteristics of its discharge; (2) Fails to report significant changes in operations, or wastewater constituents and characteristics; (3) Refuses reasonable access to the permittee's premises for the purpose of inspection or monitoring; or (4) Violates conditions of the permit.
(i) Industrial Wastewater Discharge Permit Fee. An industrial wastewater discharge permit fee will be collected annually from all permittees. The permit fee shall be established from time to time by a resolution of the city council; provided, however, that prior to considering implementation of the permit fee or any change in said permit fee by resolution as aforesaid, a notice of the proposed implementation and/or change shall be posted by the city clerk at least ten days prior to consideration of such a resolution by the city council. (j) Sampling, Self-Monitoring and Flows. The city manager shall require the permittee to provide results of periodic measurements of its discharge which is to include chemical analysis and flow. The city manager may require a monitoring facility to be furnished and operated at permittee's expense. All permittees making periodic measurements shall furnish and install at an appropriate location, a calibrated flume, weir, flow meter or similar device suitable to measure flow rate and total volume approved by the city manager. In lieu of wastewater flow measurement, the city manager may accept records of water usage and adjust the flow volume by suitable factors to determine peak and average flow rates for the specific industrial wastewater discharge. The monitoring facility should be situated normally on the permittee's premises, but the city

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(Supp. No. 24, Update 1)

manager may, when such a location would be impractical or cause undue hardship on the user, allow the facility to be constructed in the public street or sidewalk area and located so that it will not be obstructed by landscaping or parked vehicles. Whether constructed on public or private property, the sampling and monitoring facilities shall be provided in accordance with the city manager's requirements and shall be completed within ninety days following written notification by the city manager, unless a time extension is granted by the city manager. Those permittees required by the city manager to make periodic measurements of industrial wastewater flows and constituents shall annually make the minimum number of such measurements as required in the permit. When required by the city manager, permittees shall install and maintain in proper order automatic flow-proportional sampling equipment and/or automatic analysis and recording equipment. Permittees shall allow the city or its representative ready access at all reasonable times to all parts of the premises for purposes of sampling or in the performance of any of their duties. The city manager shall have the right to set up on the permittee's property such devices as are necessary to conduct sampling or metering operations. Where a permittee has security measures in force, the permittee shall make the necessary arrangements with their security guards so that upon presentation of suitable identification, personnel of the city shall be permitted to enter without delay.

All sampling, analysis and flow measurement procedures, equipment, results and records shall be subject at any time to inspection by the city manager.
(k) Pretreatment. Permittees shall make wastewater acceptable under the limitation established herein before discharging to any public sewer. Any facilities required to pretreat wastewater to a level acceptable to the city manager shall be provided and maintained at the permittee's sole expense. Detailed plans, compliance schedule, and operating procedures shall be submitted to the city manager for review and shall be approved by the city manager before construction of the facility. The review of such plans and operating procedures will in no way relieve the permittee from the responsibility of modifying the facility as necessary to produce an effluent acceptable to the city manager under the provisions of this section. Any subsequent changes in the pretreatment facilities or method of operation shall be reported to and be approved by the city manager.

No permittee shall increase the use of process water or, in any way, attempt to dilute a discharge as a partial or complete substitute for adequate treatment to achieve compliance with any local, state, or federal discharge standard.
(l) Protection from Accidental Discharge.
(1) Each permittee shall provide protection from other substances regulated by this section. Facilities to prevent accidental discharge of prohibited materials shall be provided and maintained at the permittee's own cost and expense.
(2) In the case of an accidental discharge, it is the responsibility of the permittee to immediately notify the city manager of the incident. The notification shall include location of discharge, type of waste, concentration and volume and corrective actions. Within five days following an accidental discharge, the permittee shall submit to the city manager a detailed written report describing the cause of the discharge and the measures to be taken by the permittee to prevent similar future occurrences. Such notification shall not relieve the permittee of any expense, loss, damages, or other liability which may be incurred as a result of damage to the wastewater systems, fish kills, or any other damage to persons or property; nor shall such notification relieve the permittee of any fines, civil penalties, or other liability which may be imposed by this section or other applicable law. A notice shall be permanently posted on the permittee's bulletin board or other prominent place advising employees who to call in the event of an accidental discharge. Permittees shall insure that all employees who may cause, allow or observe such an accidental discharge to occur are advised of the emergency notification procedures. (m) Prohibited Discharges. In most cases, the concentration or amount of any particular constituent which will be judged to be excessive or unreasonable cannot be foreseen but will depend on the results of technical determinations and the actions of regulatory agencies. The list of constituents which may be regulated provides specific limits only where they are now reasonably well established. The other constituents on the

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(Supp. No. 24, Update 1)

list are presented with the objective of enumerating the types of wastes which will be regulated from time to time. Unless approval has been obtained from the city manager, no person shall discharge or cause to be discharged to a public sewer, which directly or indirectly connects to the city's wastewater system, the following:
(1) Any gasoline, benzene, naphtha, solvent, fuel oil or any liquid, solid or gas that would cause or tend to cause flammable or explosive conditions to result in the wastewater system. (2) Any matter containing toxic or poisonous solids, liquids or gases in such quantities that, alone or in combination with other substances, may create a health hazard for humans, animals or the local environment, interfere detrimentally with wastewater treatment processes, cause a public nuisance, or cause any hazardous condition to occur in the wastewater system. (3) Any matter having a pH lower than five (5.0) or having any corrosive or detrimental characteristic that may cause injury to wastewater treatment or maintenance personnel or may cause damage to structures, equipment or other physical facilities of the wastewater system. (4) Any solids or viscous substances or other matter of such quality, size or quantity that they may cause obstruction to flow in the sewer or be detrimental to proper wastewater treatment plant operations.

These objectionable substances include, but are not limited to, asphalt, dead animals, offal, ashes, sand, mud, straw, industrial process shavings, metal, glass, rags, feathers, tar, wood, whole blood, paunch manure, bones, hair and fleshings, entrails, paper dishes, paper cups, milk containers, or other similar paper products, either whole or ground.
(5) Any rainwater, storm water, groundwater, street drainage, subsurface drainage, roof drainage, yard drainage, water from yard fountains, ponds or lawn sprays or any other uncontaminated water. (6) Any matter having a temperature higher than one hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit (sixty-five degrees Celsius).
(7) Any matter containing more than five hundred mg/l of oil or grease. (8) Any strongly odorous matter or matter tending to create odors. (9) Any matter containing over one mg/l of dissolved sulfides. (10) Any matter with a pH high enough to cause alkaline incrustations on sewer walls. (11) Any matter promoting or causing the promotion of toxic gases. (12) Any matter requiring an excessive quantity of chlorine or other chemical compound used for disinfection purposes.
(13) Any excessive amounts of deionized water, steam condensate, distilled water, or single pass cooling water.
(14) Any radioactive matter except:
a. When the person is authorized to use radioactive materials by the state department of health or other governmental agency empowered to regulate the use of radioactive materials, and b. When the matter is discharged in strict conformity with current California Radiation Control Regulations (California Administrative Code, Title 17), and the nuclear regulatory commission regulations for safe disposal, and
c. When the person is in compliance with all rules and regulations of all other applicable regulatory agencies.
(15) Any matter producing excessive discoloration of the wastewater treatment plant effluent.

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(16) Any toxic materials including, but not limited to, all heavy metals, cyanide, phenols, chlorinated hydrocarbons, and other organic compounds unless limited to that concentration which complies with all local, state and federal discharge limitation, and which does not interfere with the operation of the wastewater facilities.
(n) Limitations on the Use of Garbage Grinders. Matter from garbage grinders shall not be discharged into a public sewer except matter generated in preparation of food normally consumed on the premises, or where the permittee has obtained a permit for that specific use from the city manager, and agrees to undertake whatever self-monitoring is required by the city manager. Such grinders must shred the waste to a degree that all particles will be carried freely under normal flow conditions prevailing in the public sewer. Garbage grinders shall not be used for grinding plastic, paper products, inert materials, or garden refuse. (o) Limitations on Point of Discharge. No person shall discharge any substances directly into a manhole or other opening in a public sewer other than through an approved sewer connection unless upon written application and payment of the applicable charges and fees, the city manager issues a permit for such direct discharges. (p) Availability of the City's Wastewater Facilities. If wastewater facilities capacity is not available, the city manager may require the industrial waste discharger to restrict his discharge until sufficient capacity can be made available. When requested, the city manager will advise persons desiring to locate new facilities as to the areas where industrial wastewater of their proposed quantity can be received by available wastewater facilities. The city manager may refuse service to persons locating facilities in areas where their proposed quantity or quality of industrial wastewater is unacceptable in the available treatment facility. (q) Discrepancies Between Actual and Reported Industrial Wastewater Discharge Permit Quantities. Should measurements or other investigations reveal that the permittee is discharging a flow rate, or a quantity of flow, chemical oxygen demand or suspended solids significantly in excess of that stated on the permit or in excess of the quantities reported to the city manager by the permittee, the permittee shall apply for an amended permit and shall be assessed for all delinquent charges together with penalty and interest. Before these charges shall be assessed at least two additional twenty-four hour samples and flow measurements shall be obtained by the city manager with all costs of sampling and analyses to be paid by the permittee.

A permittee who violates this section shall, in the absence of other evidence, be presumed to have been discharging at the determined parameter values over the preceding three years or since the city manager's previous verification of quantity parameters, whichever period is shorter. (r) Records Retention. All permittees subject to this section shall retain and preserve for not less than three years, any records, books, documents, memoranda, reports, correspondence and any and all summaries thereof, relating to monitoring, sampling and chemical analyses made by or on behalf of a permittee in connection with its discharge. All records which pertain to matters which are the subject of administrative action or any other enforcement or litigation activities brought by the city shall be retained and preserved by the permittee until all enforcement activities have concluded and all periods of limitation with respect to any and all appeals have expired.
(Ord. 2360, § 1; June 12, 1984)

17.20.530 Enforcing agency.

The San Diego County health department is hereby designated as the inspecting and enforcing agency of this chapter.
(San Diego County Ord. 1158 NS (part), as adopted by Ord. 784; March 12, 1957)

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17.20.550 Additional charges allowed.

In addition to other penalties, fees and charges stated in this chapter any excessive sewer or sewerage maintenance expenses or reconstruction costs including administrative costs caused by any stoppage or breakage, any toxic, hazardous or odorous condition, or any damage or deterioration of the public sewer, and attributable thereto, shall be charged to the discharger causing or contributing to such conditions. (Ord. No. 2009-2795, § 3; April 14, 2009)
Chapter 17.24 FATS, OILS AND GREASE CONTROL
Sections:

17.24.010 Title and effective date.

This chapter shall be known as "City of La Mesa Fats, Oils and Grease Control" and shall become effective as of July 1, 2009.
(Ord. No. 2009-2794, § 1; April 14, 2009)

17.24.020 Purpose and intent.

The purpose of this chapter is to:
(a) prevent blockages and sanitary sewer overflows of sewer lines caused by the discharge of fats, oils and grease;
(b) reduce the adverse affects on sewage treatment operations resulting from discharges of fats, oils and grease into the system;
(c) specify appropriate fats, oils and grease discharge requirements for grease producing facilities discharging into the city's wastewater collection system; and (d) protect public health and the environment by minimizing public exposure to unsanitary conditions.

The intent of this chapter is to use the police power of the city to regulate the direct and indirect discharge of waste containing fats, oils and grease into the city's wastewater collection system in a manner that complies with all applicable laws, including the federal Clean Water Act, California Water Code and applicable waste discharge requirements.
(Ord. No. 2009-2794, § 1; April 14, 2009)

12.24.030 Definitions.

For the purposes of this chapter certain terms are defined as follows:
(a) CITY ENGINEER means and refers to the director of public works/city engineer or his/her designee. (b) COMPLIANCE SCHEDULE AGREEMENT means and refers to an agreement executed between the city engineer and a FSE found to be in violation with the requirements of this chapter. The agreement shall specify requirements for the FSE to attain compliance.

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(c) FATS OILS AND GREASE (FOG) means any vegetable or animal product that is used in or is a by product of the cooking or food preparation process, and that turns or may turn viscous or solidifies with a change in temperature or other conditions.
(d) FATS, OILS AND GREASE CONTROL PROGRAM refers to a document adopted by a resolution of the city council providing procedural guidelines to implement the purpose and intent of this chapter. (e) FOOD SERVICE ESTABLISHMENT (FSE) means a place where food is prepared and served and/or sold for consumption by the public and includes commercial and non-commercial establishments. (f) GREASE PRETREATMENT DEVICE means any device that reduces excessive amounts of fats, oils and grease prior to discharge into the wastewater collection system. (g) NOTICE OF VIOLATION (NOV) means and refers to a notice to the FSE owner or operator, provided by the city engineer, that identifies a violation of the requirements of this chapter, a request to schedule an additional inspection or a request to provide information. (h) SEWAGE means any liquid waste and water borne solid waste resulting from residential, commercial, industrial or institutional activities or uses.
(i) HARDSHIP WAIVER refers to waiving of certain conditions imposed pursuant to the issuance of a FOG permit which are deemed impractical by the city manager. (j) WASTEWATER means any volume of untreated or partially treated sewage ultimately discharged into the public sewer.
(k) WASTEWATER COLLECTION SYSTEM means any system of pipes, pump stations, sewer lines or similar devices on appurtenances used to collect and convey sewage to a treatment plant. (Ord. No. 2009-2794, § 1; April 14, 2009)

17.24.040 Adoption of the FOG control program.

The city council may periodically adopt or amend by resolution the City of La Mesa FOG Control Program for regulating the discharges of fats, oils, and grease into the wastewater collection system within the city. Said document shall be available in the office of the city clerk for examination and use by the public. (Ord. No. 2009-2794, § 1; April 14, 2009)

17.24.050 FOG discharge—Permit required.

Any FSE desiring to discharge wastewater into a public sewer shall obtain a permit from the city engineer which shall be referred to as a FOG discharge permit. The FOG discharge permit may require pretreatment of wastewater prior to discharge, restriction of peak flow discharges, discharge of certain wastewater only to specified sewers of the city, relocation of point of discharge, prohibition of discharge to certain wastewater components, restrictions of discharge to certain hours of the day, payment of additional charges to defray increase costs of the city created by the wastewater discharge, and other conditions as may be required to effectuate the purpose and intent of this chapter. No person shall discharge wastewater in excess of the quantity or quality limitations set by any FOG discharge permit and any other applicable requirements pursuant to federal, state or local law.
(Ord. No. 2009-2794, § 1; April 14, 2009)

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17.24.060 Permit application.
(a) Persons seeking a FOG discharge permit shall complete and file with the city engineer an application in the form prescribed by the city engineer and accompanied by the applicable fees. The applicant shall be required to submit the following information:
(1) name and address of applicant;
(2) volume of wastewater to be discharged;
(3) time of daily food preparation operations;
(4) description of food preparation, type, number of meals served, cleanup procedures, dining room capacity, number of employees and size of kitchen; and
(5) any other information as may be deemed necessary by the city engineer to evaluate the permit application.
(b) The city engineer shall review the application within ten calendar days and may require additional information and an on-site inspection of the waste discharge system, treatment systems or other system relating to the waste discharge. Within thirty days of the submission of an application deemed complete by the city engineer, the city shall either issue subject to certain terms and conditions or deny a FOG discharge permit. A denial of any FOG discharge permit shall be without prejudice. (Ord. No. 2009-2794, § 1; April 14, 2009)

17.24.070 Duration of permit.

A FOG discharge permit shall be issued for a specified time period not to exceed five years. The terms and conditions of the permit may be subject to modification by the city during the term of the permit as deemed necessary by the city engineer. The FSE shall be informed of any proposed changes in the permit at least thirty days prior to the effective date of change. Any changes or new conditions in the permit shall include a reasonable time schedule for compliance.
(Ord. No. 2009-2794, § 1; April 14, 2009)

17.24.080 Permit non-transferable.

FOG discharge permits shall be issued only for specific use for a specific operation. Any sale, lease, transfer or assignment of the use or operation for which the permit issued shall require a new permit. Any new or changed conditions of use or operation may l also require a new permit. (Ord. No. 2009-2794, § 1; April 14, 2009)

17.24.090 Revocation of permit.

The city engineer may revoke the FOG discharge permit issued to any FSE found to be in violation of the requirements of this chapter or if the same does any of the following:
(a) fails to comply with the conditions of the FOG discharge permit; (b) fails to install required grease pretreatment devices as required by the FOG discharge permit;

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(c) fails to comply with the reporting and/or pretreatment requirements or pretreatment device maintenance as required by the FOG discharge permit;
(d) fails to comply with a NOV or a compliance schedule agreement or any other provision of this Code; (e) knowingly provides a false FOG discharge permit application or makes false representations or submits false documents, reports or logs to the city engineer;
(f) refuses to allow inspections during normal business hours or after hours if emergency conditions exist such as an overflow or suspected overflow;
(g) interferes with an FSE inspection or the sampling of an FSE discharge; or (h) causes or contributes to sewer blockages or sewer overflows within the public sewer or fails to address the conditions leading to more than one overflow event from a private system within a twelve-month period.
(Ord. No. 2009-2794, § 1; April 14, 2009)

17.24.100 Fees.
(a) General. Fees identified in this chapter shall be established from time to time by resolution of the city council.
(b) FOG discharge permit fee. FOG discharge permit fees shall be collected in conjunction with the issuance of the permit.
(c) Inspection fee. A fee based on the specified frequency of inspection as outlined in the FOG control program shall be collected at the time of FOG discharge permit issuance. (d) Re-Inspection fee. A re-inspection fee may be collected for additional inspections required to determine whether specified corrective actions for noted violations of this chapter have been implemented and if additional improvements are required.
(e) NOV fee. A NOV fee may be collected from parties receiving a NOV of the FOG discharge permit. (f) Grease disposal mitigation fee. A grease disposal mitigation fee shall be collected from parties who obtain a hardship waiver according to the requirements of this chapter. (Ord. No. 2009-2794, § 1; April 14, 2009)

17.24.110 Maintenance reports.

The city engineer shall require the FSE to maintain records of grease pretreatment device cleaning, maintenance and grease removal and to report on such maintenance to the city as requested. The city engineer may require the FSE to provide results of periodic measurements of its discharge which may include chemical analysis of oil and grease content. The FSE shall allow the city engineer ready access at all reasonable times to all areas of the use or operation for purposes of sampling and inspections. (Ord. No. 2009-2794, § 1; April 14, 2009)

17.24.120 Hardship waiver.

The city manager may waive certain conditions imposed pursuant to the issuance of a FOG discharge permit upon making a determination that said conditions are impractical. If the city manager makes the determination

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that a hardship exists then the applicant will be subject to a grease disposal mitigation fee as defined in Section

17.24.110(f). In considering the application of the said waiver, the following factors shall be considered:
(a) installation of a grease pretreatment device would conflict with other applicable laws or standards. (b) installation of a grease pretreatment device is impractical due to existing conditions. (Ord. No. 2009-2794, § 1; April 14, 2009)

17.24.130 Enforcement and penalty for violation.
(a) Wastewater discharge violation. Whenever a discharge of wastewater in any manner is in violation of this Code or of any order issued by the city engineer pursuant to this Code and declared a public nuisance, the discharge shall be corrected or abated as directed by the city engineer. Any person responsible for such a public nuisance shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
(b) Falsifying of information. Any person who knowingly makes any false statement, representation, record, report, plan or other document filed with the city engineer or who falsifies, tampers with or knowingly renders inaccurate any monitoring device or method required pursuant to this chapter shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
(c) NOV. The city engineer may issue an NOV to a FSE for any violation of this chapter. The NOV may require that corrective action be taken by a specified date. Failure to comply with a NOV may result in the issuance of a compliance schedule agreement. Failure by the FSE to implement any element of a compliance schedule agreement shall be a violation of this chapter.
(d) Termination of service. The city engineer may revoke any FOG discharge permit issued or terminate any wastewater service to any use or operation if a violation of any provision of this chapter exists or if a discharge of wastewater causes or threatens to cause a condition of contamination, pollution or nuisance. If such conditions exist, the city engineer may act immediately to suspend the use or operation of the FSE. (Ord. No. 2009-2794, § 1; April 14, 2009)

17.24.140 Notice, correction of NOV and appeal.
(a) Any notice issuance pursuant to this chapter shall be in writing and served in person or by mail. If served by mail, the notice shall be sent to the last address known to the city engineer. Where the address is unknown, service may be made upon the owner of the use or operation involved. (b) Violations and enforcement actions may be appealed to the city manager. Appeals shall be made in writing setting forth the following information:

1. the name and mailing address of the person making the request or appeal;

2. the determination involved; and

3. the error claimed to have been made and all reasons in support of the request.

Appeals from the determination of the city engineer shall be filed with the city manager's office. Appeals from decisions of the city manager may be appealed to the city council and shall be filed with the city clerk. The required fee shall be paid with the filing. All requests shall be filed within ten days following the date of the final determination to be appealed."
(Ord. No. 2009-2794, § 1; April 14, 2009)

Appendix B
Spill Emergency Response Plan
(SERP)

City of La Mesa
Spill Emergency Response Plan
Updated July 2025
City of La Mesa
8130 Allison Avenue
La Mesa, CA 91941
With support from
MOE
731 S Hwy 101, Suite 16

i
1 Introduction ............................................................................................................. 1

1.1 Wastewater Collection System Overview .................................................................. 1

1.2 Purpose and Goals ....................................................................................................... 1

1.3 Organization of SERP Document ................................................................................ 1

1.4 Regulatory Requirements ............................................................................................ 2

1.5 Definition of Terms ....................................................................................................... 3 2 Sewage Spill Response Procedures ..................................................................... 5

2.1 Receiving Information about a Possible Sewage Spill ............................................. 5

2.2 First Responder Responsibilities ............................................................................... 6

2.3 Dispatch of Crew(s) to Sewage Spill Location........................................................... 7

2.4 Requesting Additional Resources .............................................................................. 8

2.5 Overflow Containment, Correction, and Clean-up .................................................... 8

2.6 Traffic and Crowd Control ......................................................................................... 10

2.7 Preliminary Assessment of Damage to Private and Public Property .................... 10

2.8 Notification Requirements ......................................................................................... 11

2.9 Regulatory Agency Notification Plan ....................................................................... 11

2.10 Monitoring and Mitigation ...................................................................................... 12

2.11 Sewage Spill Documentation ................................................................................. 13 3 Public Advisory of Sewage Contamination Procedures ................................... 14 4 Sewage Spill Monitoring and Reporting Requirements .................................... 15

4.1 Sewage Spill Identification, Tracking, and Logging ................................................ 15

4.2 Sewage Spill Category Classification ....................................................................... 15

4.3 Online Reporting Requirements ............................................................................... 15

4.4 Record Keeping and Document Retention............................................................... 19

4.5 Water Quality Monitoring Plan for Major Spills ....................................................... 20 5 Training ................................................................................................................. 21 6 Updating this SERP .............................................................................................. 22

6.1 SERP Availability ........................................................................................................ 22

6.2 Review and Update of the SERP ............................................................................... 22

ii

ATTACHMENTS
A Sewage Spill Field Report Form and Flow Chart
B Sewage Spill On-Call Response Personnel and Notification List C Approved Contractors and Equipment Rental Vendors
D Damage Report for Private Property
E Possible Methods for Estimating Spill Volume
F Warning Sign Samples

iii
Abbreviations
BMP Best Management Practices
CCTV Closed Circuit Television
CIP Capital Improvement Program
CIWQS California Integrated Water Quality System
EPA Environmental Protection Agency
FOG Fats, Oils, and Grease
FSE Food Service Establishment
GIS Geographic Information System
I&I Inflow and Infiltration
LRO Legally Responsible Officer
MRP Monitoring and Reporting Program
NASSCO National Association of Sewer Service Companies
NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
OES Office of Emergency Services
SDRWQCB San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board
SERP Spill Emergency Response Plan
SOP Standard Operating Procedures
SSMP Sewer System Management Plan
SWRCB State Water Resources Control Board
WDRs Waste Discharge Requirements

1 1 Introduction
Because sewage spills of various sizes happen occasionally despite targeted prevention efforts, the City of La Mesa (City) has created this Spill Emergency Response Plan (SERP). Sewage spills can occur due to blocked sewers, pipe failures, mechanical issues, and other natural or human causes. City crews remain alert and are prepared to respond quickly once notified and confirmed of a sewage spill.

This SERP establishes the formal procedures for City staff to respond to, contain, correct, and clean up sewage spills. It is intended to minimize the effects of sewage spills on the environment while protecting the public’s health and safety. Chapter 1 provides an overview of the City’s wastewater collection system, the purpose and goals of the SERP, the regulatory authority requiring this plan, an overview of this document’s organization, and definitions of terms contained in this document.

1.1 Wastewater Collection System Overview
The City owns, operates, and maintains approximately 150 miles of sewer main and several interagency connection facilities in the County of San Diego. The City also owns, operates, and maintains approximately 4,192 manholes. The sewer mains convey wastewater flows generated within four (4) major drainage basins to connections to sewerage facilities located along Interstate 8 to the north and Highway 94 to the south. Flows are ultimately conveyed to transmission and treatment facilities operated by the City of San Diego’s Metropolitan Wastewater Department (MWWD).

1.2 Purpose and Goals
The City recognizes the importance of protecting the health and safety of the public and the environment by preventing sewer flows from reaching surface waters and waters of the United States. The City also understands the necessity to implement procedures to comply with the requirements of state regulations. The primary goal in establishing a SERP is to ensure that City staff respond appropriately and efficiently to all known sewage spills immediately.

The objectives of the SERP can be summarized as:
 Protect public health and safety, and the environment;  Minimize the effects of sewage spills;
 Satisfy regulatory and discharge permit conditions;
 Protect private and public property;
 Protect City personnel; and
 Protect all City-owned assets.

This SERP supplements and is consistent with the city's existing emergency plans and standard operating procedures. The plan will facilitate the coordinated and efficient mobilization of necessary facilities and personnel when responding to a sewage spill.

1.3 Organization of SERP Document
This document provides the guidelines for City staff to respond to a sewage spill event. This SERP contains the following elements:

2  Introduction
 Sewage Spill Response Procedures
 Public Advisory of Sewage Contamination Procedures
 Sewage Spill Monitoring and Reporting Requirements
 Training Requirements
 SERP Updating Requirements
 Various Attachments

1.4 Regulatory Requirements
The following regulatory requirements establish the impetus for the City to develop and follow procedures to minimize sewage spills.

California Water Code Section 13271, California Code of Regulations: Section 13271 of the California Water Code, Title 23 of the California Code of Regulations, prohibits the discharge of sewage and hazardous material into the waters of the State and requires the proper notification of authorized agencies in the event of an sewage spill. Entities which do not properly follow the requirements of this section may be found guilty of a misdemeanor and punished by fine, imprisonment, or both.

California Waste Discharge Requirements: On December 6, 2022 the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) approved Order 2022-0103-DWQ. The WDR prescribes requirements for Sanitary Sewer Systems and became effective on June 5, 2023.

Clean Water Act, Section 1251 of Chapter 33 of the United States Code: In 1972, the federal Congress enacted the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, commonly known as the Clean Water Act (CWA). The CWA prohibits the discharge of pollutants, including sewage, into public waters of the United States. The federal government has the authority to enforce compliance with the CWA via specific permits, such as National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits, and court action, such as administrative orders and consent decrees. The City of La Mesa is not currently subject to an NPDES permit or any legal action initiated by the federal government.

Waste Discharge Requirements for Sewage Collection Agencies in the San Diego Region:

The General Waste Discharge Requirements for Sanitary Sewer Systems, adopted by the State Board on May 2, 2006, establishes minimum requirements for publicly owned/operated sanitary sewer system and allows each regional board to issue more stringent or more prescriptive WDRs for sanitary systems within their respective jurisdiction. On February 14, 2007, the San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board (SDRWQCB) adopted Order R9-2007-0005. The Order includes additional reporting requirements for wastewater collection agencies within Region 9, including notification of all private lateral sewage discharges for which the agencies become aware of, to the SDRWQCB. The City of La Mesa is located within Region 9.

Amendment Monitoring and Reporting Program for Statewide General Waste Discharge Requirements for Sanitary Sewer Systems: The Monitoring and Reporting Program (MRP) for Order 2022-0103-DWQ, which became effective June 5, 2023, establishes monitoring, recordkeeping, reporting, and public notification requirements for all enrollees under the current WDR.

3 1.5 Definition of Terms
Category 1 Sanitary Sewer Overflow: All discharges of untreated or partially treated wastewater of any volume resulting from an enrollee’s sanitary sewer system failure or flow condition that:
 Reach surface water and/or drainage channel tributary to a surface water; or  Reach a Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) and are not fully captured and returned to the sanitary sewer system or not otherwise captured and disposed of properly.

Any volume of wastewater not recovered from the MS4 is considered to have reached surface water unless the storm drain system discharges to a dedicated storm water or ground water infiltration basin (e.g., infiltration pit, percolation pond).

Category 2 Sanitary Sewer Overflow: Discharges of untreated or partially treated wastewater of 1,000 gallons or greater resulting from an enrollee’s sanitary sewer system failure or flow condition that do not reach surface water, a drainage channel, or a MS4 unless the entire sewage spill discharged to the storm drain system is fully recovered and disposed properly.

Category 3 Sanitary Sewer Overflow: All other discharges of untreated or partially treated wastewater resulting from an enrollee’s sanitary sewer system failure or flow condition over 50 gallons under 1000 gallons.

Category 4 Sanitary Sewer Overflow: All other discharges of untreated or partially treated wastewater resulting from an enrollee’s sanitary sewer system failure or flow condition under 50 gallons.

Private Lateral Sewage Discharge (PLSD): Discharges of untreated or partially treated wastewater resulting from blockages or other problems within a privately owned sewer lateral connected to the enrollee’s sanitary sewer system or from other private sewer assets. PLSDs that the enrollee becomes aware of may be voluntarily reported to the California Integrated Water Quality System (CIWQS) Online Database.

First Responder: The City Operations Division staff person who is initially notified of a possible sewage spill and/or arrives first at the reported location of the possible sewage spill.

Public Waters: Any body of water, such as the ocean, bay, lake, pond, river, stream, or creek, with the potential for human contact as defined by the County Department of Environmental Health Quality.

Sewage: Any liquid waste and waterborne solid waste resulting from residential, commercial, industrial, or institutional activities or uses.

Sewage Spill: A sewage spill is any overflow, spill, release, discharge, or sewage diversion from a wastewater collection system. Sewage spills include:
 Release of untreated or partially treated sewage that reaches waters of the United States;  Release of untreated or partially treated sewage that does not reach waters of the United States; and
 Sewage backups into buildings and private property that are caused by blockages or flow conditions in a wastewater collection system, other than a building lateral. Sewage backups into buildings caused by a blockage or other malfunction of a building lateral that is privately owned is a sewage spill when sewage is discharged off private property into streets, storm drains, or waters of the State.

4 Surface Waters: All permanent and intermittent drainage ways, lakes, and reservoirs, either public or private, which are not man-made for the treatment of municipal, agricultural, or industrial waste, and wholly or partially within the boundaries of the City of La Mesa. Sewage spills to storm drains tributary to surface waters shall be reported as discharges to surface waters.

Wastewater: Any volume of untreated or partially treated sewage discharged from the wastewater collection system upstream of a wastewater treatment plant.

Wastewater Collection System: Any system of pipes, pump stations, sewer lines, etc., used to collect and convey sewage to a treatment plant. Temporary storage and conveyance facilities (such as vaults, temporary piping, construction trenches, wet wells, impoundments, tanks, highlines, etc.) are considered to be part of the sanitary sewer system, and discharges of sewage to these facilities are not sewage spills.

Waters of the State: Any surface water or groundwater (including saline waters) within the boundaries of the state.

Waters of the United States: All waters of the United States as defined in the Code of Federal Regulations, Volume 40, Section 122.2 (40 CFR 122.2) such as navigable waters, rivers, streams, lakes, natural ponds, wetlands, etc., including tributaries to traditional navigable waters.

5 2 Sewage Spill Response Procedures
Sewage spills are caused by a blockage or a restriction in the wastewater collection system, pipe failures, flows exceeding the system's capacity, and other natural or man-made causes. In the event of a sewage spill, the City’s wastewater staff must respond and be prepared to:
 Contain the sewage spill;
 Control the spill;
 Mitigate and clean up the contaminated area; and
 Notify the appropriate authorities.

This chapter presents a strategy for the City Operations Division to mobilize labor, materials, tools, and equipment to contain, mitigate, and clean up residuals from a sewage spill and correct or repair any condition that may cause or contribute to an unpermitted sewage discharge. This plan applies to a wide range of potential system failures that could create a sewage spill.

2.1 Receiving Information about a Possible Sewage Spill City employees or the public may detect a sewage spill. Suspicious circumstances, such as foul odors, backed-up plumbing, unusual flooding, and so on, may also indicate the possibility of an actual or impending sewage spill. This section describes how the City’s Operations Division staff is notified of possible sewage spills.

Telephone Notifications of Possible Sewage Spills
All telephone calls or complaints for actual or possible sewage spills are routed to the Wastewater Maintenance Supervisor from the City’s Public Works office or the La Mesa Police Dispatch Center. The designated back-up person is notified if the Wastewater Maintenance Supervisor is unavailable or non-responsive.

Figure 1 illustrates that notification of a potential sewage spill will be routed directly to the Wastewater Maintenance Supervisor in the City’s Operations Division during regular business hours. During non-business hours, weekends, and designated City holidays, calls will be received by the City of La Mesa Police Dispatch Center and forwarded to the Wastewater Maintenance Supervisor or the designated back-up in the City’s Operations Division.

Upon receipt of a notification of a potential sewage spill, the Wastewater Maintenance Supervisor or the designated back-up will obtain as much information as possible from the reporting entity.

The relevant information that should be collected includes:
 Time and date the call/sewage spill report was received;  Specific location (address, cross streets, etc.);
 Description of problem;
 Time the possible sewage spill was noticed by the caller;  Caller’s name and telephone number;
 Observations of the caller (e.g., odor, duration, back or front of property, etc.); and  Other relevant information that will enable the responding City staff personnel and crews, if required, to quickly locate, assess, contain, and relieve the sewage spill.