13 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
February 17, 2022
E. Administrative Services Director
Director Revillar said that we are about to embark on budget preparation. Our IT services contract with Redwood City expires June 30, 2022, and they are unable to extend the contract. We will have an IT contractor to bridge the gap while we assess IT staffing level and technology needs.
F. Public Works Director
Director Antillon reported that we now have three electric vehicles in Town. Staff also completed the Byrne Preserve path and have received positive feedback. We did some updates to the Matadero Creek path and we are working with the Regional Water Quality Board on the Matadero Creek erosion project.
9. COUNCIL INITIATED ITEMS
A. Discussion and Possible Action to Regulate Gas Powered Leaf Blowers in Los Altos Hills by Establishing Hours of Operation, Noise Limit, and set a Deadline to Eliminate Gas Powered Leaf Blowers Altogether (Councilmember Tankha) Councilmember Tankha presented the item. She suggested sending this to the Environmental Initiatives Committee for a “deeper dive.” Council discussion ensued.
MOTION MADE AND SECONDED: Vice Mayor Swan moved to continue the meeting past 10:00 p.m. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Schmidt.
MOTION PASSED 5-0:
AYES: Tyson, Swan, Mok, Schmidt, Tankha
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
RECUSE: None
ABSENT: None
Public Comment
Anand Ranganathan, Los Altos Hills, said the Environmental Initiatives Committee will be discussing this next month.
DIRECTION: There was consensus to bring this item to the Environmental Initiatives Committee for further review.
14 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
February 17, 2022
B. Discussion on Criminal Activity and Recent Burglaries in Town (Councilmember Tankha)
Councilmember Tankha presented the item and asked if we are doing everything we need to be doing to keep our residents safe and said we should explore what else we can do.
Council discussion ensued.
DIRECTION: The City Manager will work directly with the Council subcommittee, which is reviewing the upcoming sheriff’s contract, to explore additional options to help keep our town as safe as possible. Additionally, the sheriff’s office will be invited to a future City Council meeting to provide an update on the current service levels in town.
C. Discussion and Possible Action to Support the Initiative to Overturn SB 9 (CA Cities for Local Control) (Councilmember Swan) – Removed from the agenda and not considered.
D. Discussion and Possible Action to Review the Sewer Rates being Charged to Los Altos Hills Residents by the City Palo Alto (Councilmember Swan) – Removed from the agenda and not considered.
10. ADJOURN
The meeting adjourned at 10:04 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Deborah L. Padovan
Deborah Padovan
City Clerk
The minutes of the February, 2022, regular City Council meeting were approved as presented at the March 17, 2022, regular City Council meeting.
ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVES COMMITTEE
Regular Meeting Minutes
Date: April 28, 2022
1. Attendees:
a. Committee: Vrinda, Sasha, Anand, Steve, Pat, April & Stan b. Others: PeterP, Cris Scheibold, Daniel Liang(staff)
2. Approval of minutes:Anand moved & seconded by Pat, approved as written unanimously
3. Agenda review: Sasha Moved & seconded by Pat as is; unanimous
4. Addition of new EV chargers
a. Peter described his options: With panel upgrades there is capacity to add 2 more EV chargers. Two alternatives: ChargePoint chargers ( about $12K already budgeted for) with one system, one provider, or donation of two chargers by town resident, as long as he gets the tax exemptions and carbon credits. b. Sasha: Might be more resilient to have different types. c. Vrinda: Too complicated later on to accept the donated ones. d. Recommended to go with Peter's suggestion with 2 Chargepoint.
5. Gas powered Leaf Blower Ordinance by Cris Schiebold (refer to Appendix 1 below) a. No leaf blower ordinance today in LAH. Adjacent towns have some kind of ordinance, some have banned gas powered, others have limited the sound levels. Compliance is improving. Manufacturers have adopted that standard of 65dB.Most achieve this by using mufflers.
b. Peter: Can the town do aits work with electric. Later this year, our staff will check. c. Cris The technology is there but are expensive, battery lasts for 3-4 hours. Don’t want to ban gas powered ones but looking for an ordinance that will regulate noise levels and hours of usage
d. April, Anand, Sasha : maintain the time schedule by cross referencing the construction noise ordinance
e. Peter: In Palo Alto, enforcement was an issue. In LAH staffing is an issue. This would be a Priority 3 issue–public nuisance– for Sheriffs when the town hall is closed with response time of 20-30mins, with mi\unicipal code issue–likely to get a warning. During office hours it will be addressed by code enforcement officers–give citations to the gardners (not the owners) and charge according to a fee schedule for the violation. The violation will have to be witnessed by the officer, with a dB meter.
f. Anand: Should not be criminalized, Stan: Against use of law enforcement-for budgetary reasons and for ethical reasons. Gardeners work very hard in difficult conditions for not much pay.
g. April: Town sends courtesy letter for violation
Attachment 5
h. Anand believes town agreed "no mandates". If mandates cannot be imposed on residents then why on gardeners.It is unfair and immoral. Concerned that it is a hardship we are imposing on garners without any incentives. i. Cris: The hours of operation have to be different for leaf blowers and construction equipment.
j. Steve moved and April seconded to recommend to council Cris' recommended proposal as written with two amendments:
i. Enforcement will be light handed, done only by city staff when a code enforcement officer is at hand. EIC does not recommend the police be involved for enforcement.
ii. EIC recommends, but suggests the council debate the pros and cons of the ban on gas devices starting January 2024.
k. Vote: 5 (Aileen, April, Pat, Steve, Vrinda in favor) 2 opposed. Motion passed. l. Stan will decide to take it to the council
6. Petition to Mayor to sign the Mayor’s Pledge to Electrify a. Discussion of how it aligns with our CAP and our town's actions. b. Petition introduced by Rewiring America–Menlo Park, HMB, San Jose, Palo Alto have already pledged.
c. Sasha: What is the purpose? To show growing support for electrification nationwide.
d. Steve moved, Pat seconded. Unanimous support. Motion passed.
7. Methane Monitoring Program from Rob Jackson (Refer to Appendix 2) a. Steve summarized. No regs on gas companies to declare what is the composition of the gas delivered. Funding required for establishing a national network. There are no permissions required, Aski. community volunteer testing sites to test and approval to publish the findings
ii. Little bit of funding $1200 a quarter or $3600 for the year b. Vrinda: Any Liability? RJ does not know
c. Anand: Good research, but why should we pay for this? d. Stan: We have to pay for it, and probably pay more than others. e. Sasha: Great idea, but what is the benefit of regular monitoring? (Steve didn't know but trusts Rob that it's important.)
f. Steve made a motion to recommend the description (below) to council for approval, with the amendment that we recommend paying for monthly measurements ($3600).
g. Sasha & Pat seconded. 5 in favor, 1 opposed. Motion passed.
8. Update on CAP: Vrinda
a. EIC was at the Erth Day celebrations, could not get much response to the Air Travel survey since it was not well attended by the residents of LAH. b. Sofia working on RFQ for Electrification Assessments c. Town has assigned contractor to work on streamlining permit process.
9. Topics of Interest:
a. Anand:PG&E is taking sign up for trying out Induction stoves for two weeks.
Sasha: You can also borrow infrared camera from PG&E
b. April asked for volunteers for picnic June 5th. All committees invited. Expecting 1500 (down from 2000) due to COVID.
c. April will request canopy for EIC.
d. Discussion about EIC activity will be on the next meeting agenda
10. Next EIC meeting May 26th at 6:30pm. Stan may be late; we will hold any critical items for him.
11. Adjourned at 8:15pm Sasha moves to adjourn, Anand seconded __________________________________________
Appendix 1
Recommended Leaf Blower Ordinance “Asks”:
Hours of Operation:
8:30 to 5:30 Weekdays, 9:00 to 5:00 Saturdays, operation of leaf blowers not allowed on Sundays and holidays.
Noise Limit:
Leaf blowers (both gas and electric) must not exceed 65 dB as specified by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard B175 for leaf blowers. Leaf blowers must carry the manufacturer's sticker certifying 65 dB compliance or be approved and stamped by the city. No modification to the muffler or the manufacturer's noise suppression system is allowed after certification.
Gas Leaf Blowers:
Use of all gas leaf blowers will be banned starting on January 1, 2024, coinciding with the California state ban on the sale of gas leaf blowers. ______________________________________
Appendix 2
Request for EIC consideration:
● Approve a petition to the Town Council to participate in a new community-based network to sample the chemical composition of natural gas delivered to LAH homes.
● The study will help determine any health issues associated with natural gas use. ● Funding request is $3,600 for the first year for monthly gas sampling (preferred), or $1,200 for quarterly.
Background:
Professor Rob Jackson runs the Jackson Lab at Stanford. Rob has studied leaks in our natural gas system in Boston streets and New Mexico oil fields, and leaks and health impacts of gas appliances in CA homes.
The lab is now developing a community-based network to sample the chemical composition of natural gas in homes and buildings across the United States. Leaks from oil and gas infrastructure outdoors have raised concerns about the chemicals found in gas, such as benzene detected at the Aliso Canyon blowout, but we have no publicly available information on the chemical constituents in natural gas leaking into our homes and buildings. Therefore, we’d like to establish a national network by collecting monthly or quarterly unburned gas samples from home stoves in as many cities as possible. We’ll have them analyzed at certified
laboratories using the EPA’s TO-15A method for measuring the concentrations of volatile organic carbon compounds (VOCs), including benzene, butadiene, ethylbenzene, and toluene.
An important part of the network will be to make all of the national data we find available to the public.
For gas sampling, ideally we’d collect monthly or quarterly from one home in each city (could be the same home). There’s no reason to expect PG&E gas to differ across houses in LAH. We hope the city would pay for the canister analysis (either ~$300x4 for quarterly or $300x12 for monthly). We just sampled our first home in Menlo Park.
The "ask" would be for the city council to support the concept of disclosure for what’s in the natural gas supplied to LAH residents and support the costs of the chemical analyses to determine the chemical constituents. We would request funding for one year and then revisit for continued testing.
Additional Q&A from Rob:
1. Is there any risk or downside to the city for allowing you to publish your findings? No, I can’t imagine any possible downside. The city is not liable for the chemical composition of the gas.
2. Why couldn't you just get approval from individual PG&E customers instead? We could. We don’t need city or utility approval or permission to do this. However, our goal is to start a national network of sites, and we can’t pay for sampling all of them.
City endorsements are also helpful to say, “We think this information is important.” Porter Ranch is an example of where such information would have been helpful, had it been available.
3. Is a permit required to hook up a new gas device (e.g. your test canister) within a home?
No permit is required. It’s a one-minute job and we don’t remove or alter any infrastructure to or on the existing gas appliance.
4. Could the gas utility claim the gas mixture is proprietary? Trade secrets and privacy issues shouldn’t impede our network, so long as the sampled gas comes from inside a home or building “post-meter”.
By analogy, it’s illegal to break into a Coca Cola plant to discover its ingredients, but you can buy a can of coke at the store and analyze its ingredients to your heart’s content, no permission needed. The same is true of natural gas in our homes.
1 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 16, 2022
This meeting was conducted virtually pursuant to the provisions of Assembly Bill 361 and Government Code Section 54953(e) related to conducting public meetings during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mayor Tyson called the hybrid Regular City Council Regular Meeting to order at 6:05 p.m.
Present: Mayor George Tyson, Vice Mayor Linda Swan, Councilmember Stanley Q.
Mok, Councilmember Lisa Schmidt, Councilmember Kavita Tankha
Absent: None
Staff: City Manager Peter Pirnejad, City Attorney Steve Mattas, Planning Director Sofia Mangalam, Public Works Director Oscar Antillon, Administrative Services Director Sarina Revillar, Management Analyst II Cody Einfalt, Assistant Planner Areli Perez, City Clerk Deborah Padovan CALL TO ORDER (6:00 P.M.)
Mayor Tyson called the meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. with a roll call and pledge of allegiance.
1. AGENDA REVIEW
There were no changes to the agenda. Mayor Tyson recognized the Parks and Recreation Committee for a successful 20th annual Pathways Run and the Community Relations Committee for a successful 2022 Town Picnic. He also recognized Sarah Robustelli for her work with the committees to make both events a success.
2. PRESENTATIONS AND APPOINTMENTS
A. Appointment to the Los Altos Hills Environmental Initiatives Committee City Clerk Deborah Padovan presented the application of Mike Salameh.
Mr. Salameh was not present.
MOTION MADE AND SECONDED: Councilmember Tankha moved to appoint Mike Salameh to the Environmental Initiatives Committee for a four-year term. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Schmidt.
MOTION PASSED 5-0:
AYES: Tyson, Swan, Mok, Schmidt, Tankha
NOES: None
Town of Los Altos Hills
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
Wednesday, June 16, 2022 – 6:00 p.m.
Council Chambers, 26379 Fremont Road, Los Altos Hills, California Attachment 6
2 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 16, 2022
ABSTAIN: None
RECUSE: None
ABSENT: None
B. Appointment to the Los Altos Hills Environmental Design and Protection Committee City Clerk Padovan presented the application of Grace Tsang.
Grace Tsang, Los Altos Hills, introduced herself to the City Council and expressed her interest in serving on the EDPC.
MOTION MADE AND SECONDED: Vice Mayor Swan moved to appoint Grace Tsang to the EDPC for a four-year term. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Tankha.
MOTION PASSED 5-0:
AYES: Tyson, Swan, Mok, Schmidt, Tankha
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
RECUSE: None
ABSENT: None
C. Appointment to the Los Altos Hills Parks and Recreation Committee City Clerk Padovan presented the application of Jennifer Lauren Kan Bardsley to the Parks and Recreation Committee.
Jennifer Lauren Kan Bardsley, Los Altos Hills, introduced herself and expressed her interest in serving on the committee.
MOTION MADE AND SECONDED: Councilmember Schmidt moved to appoint Jennifer Lauren Kan Bardsley to the Parks and Recreation Committee for a fouryear term. The motion was seconded by Mayor Tyson.
MOTION PASSED 5-0:
AYES: Tyson, Swan, Mok, Schmidt, Tankha
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
RECUSE: None
ABSENT: None
D. Appointment to the Valley Transportation Authority Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (Los Altos Hills Representative)
City Clerk Padovan presented the application of Edward Munyak.
3 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 16, 2022
Edward Munyak, Los Altos Hills, introduced himself to the City Council and expressed an interest in serving on the VTA BPAC.
MOTION MADE AND SECONDED: Councilmember Schmidt moved to appoint Edward Munyak to the VTA BPAC for a two-year term. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Mok.
MOTION PASSED 5-0:
AYES: Tyson, Swan, Mok, Schmidt, Tankha
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
RECUSE: None
ABSENT: None
E. Appointment to the Los Altos Hills Pathways Committee City Clerk Padovan presented the two applications.
Cindy Wenig, Los Altos Hills, introduced herself and expressed an interest in serving on the Pathways Committee.
Rajesh Shakkawar, Los Altos Hills, introduced himself and expressed an interest in serving on the Pathways Committee.
Council discussion ensued.
City Clerk Padovan distributed and then collected the ballots and stated that Rajesh Shakkawar had received the majority vote. The results were as follows:
Mayor Tyson voted for: Rajesh Shakkawar
Vice Mayor Swan voted for: Rajesh Shakkawar
Councilmember Mok voted for: Rajesh Shakkawar
Councilmember Schmidt voted for: Rajesh Shakkawar
Councilmember Tankha voted for: Rajesh Shakkawar
MOTION MADE AND SECONDED: Mayor Tyson moved to appoint Rajesh Shakkawar to the Pathways Committee for a four-year term. The motion was seconded by Vice Mayor Swan.
MOTION PASSED 5-0:
AYES: Tyson, Swan, Mok, Schmidt, Tankha
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
RECUSE: None
ABSENT: None
4 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 16, 2022
F. Appointments to the Emergency Preparedness and Response Committee City Clerk Padovan presented the applications for the ERPC.
Amita Sachdeva, Los Altos Hills, introduced herself and expressed an interest in serving on the Emergency Preparedness and Response Committee.
Dave Stewart, Los Altos Hills, introduced himself and expressed an interest in serving on the Emergency Preparedness and Response Committee.
Jim Basiji, Los Altos Hills, introduced himself and expressed an interest in serving on the Emergency Preparedness and Response Committee.
Council discussion ensued.
MOTION MADE AND SECONDED: Councilmember Tankha moved to appoint Sam Wood, Terry Kearney, Jim Basiji, Benjamin Gikis, Amita Sachdeva, and Dave Stewart to the Emergency Preparedness and Response Committee. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Swan.
MOTION PASSED 5-0:
AYES: Tyson, Swan, Mok, Schmidt, Tankha
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
RECUSE: None
ABSENT: None
G. Appointments to the Los Altos Hills Planning Commission City Clerk Padovan presented the applications.
Alisa Bredo, Los Altos Hills, introduced herself and expressed an interest in serving on the Planning Commission.
Rajiv Patel, Los Altos Hills, introduced himself and expressed an interest in serving on the Planning Commission.
Bernardo Ferrari, Los Altos Hills, introduced himself and expressed an interest in serving on the Planning Commission.
Ed Smith, Los Altos Hills, introduced himself and expressed an interest in serving on the Planning Commission.
City Clerk Padovan distributed and then collected the ballots and stated that Rajiv Patel and Alisa Bredo had received the majority of votes. The results were as follows:
Mayor Tyson voted for: Alisa Bredo and Rajiv Patel
5 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 16, 2022
Vice Mayor Swan voted for: Alisa Bredo and Rajiv Patel
Councilmember Mok voted for: Alisa Bredo and Rajiv Patel Councilmember Schmidt voted for: Alisa Bredo and Rajiv Patel Councilmember Tankha voted for: Alisa Bredo and Rajiv Patel MOTION MADE AND SECONDED: Councilmember Schmidt moved to appoint Alisa Bredo and Rajiv Patel to the Planning Commission for four-year terms. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Mok.
MOTION PASSED 5-0:
AYES: Tyson, Swan, Mok, Schmidt, Tankha
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
RECUSE: None
ABSENT: None
H. Presentation by City Attorney Providing Information on Brown Act Requirements, Options, and Limitations Related to Ad Hoc and Standing Committees City Attorney Steve Mattas presented Brown Act information regarding ad hoc committees.
No action was taken.
3. PRESENTATIONS FROM THE FLOOR
Martha Bowden, Los Altos Hills, said the town’s building process fails to protect neighbors from home construction and remodeling. The renovation of a home near her property started 20 years ago and the house has been abandoned.
Dru Anderson, Los Altos Hills, said she lives on the same street as Martha Bowden. She expressed concerns about the unfinished house on Saddle Court that has been under construction 20 years. She asked the Council to form a study and review on why these house projects can go on for decades.
Nick Hughes, Los Altos Hills, said this house has been abandoned for 20 years; or onethird of his life. He expressed concerns about fire occurring in the house due to vandalism.
Michael Grady, Los Altos Hills, expressed concerns about this same house. He would like the town to consider beefing up its enforcement policies.
4. CONSENT CALENDAR
Public Comment
6 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 16, 2022
There were no public comments.
MOTION MADE AND SECONDED: Councilmember Tankha moved to approve the Consent Calendar. The motion was seconded by Vice Mayor Swan.
MOTION PASSED 5-0:
AYES: Tyson, Swan, Mok, Schmidt, Tankha
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
RECUSE: None
ABSENT: None
A. Approval of City Council Special Meeting Minutes: May 25, 2022 B. Approval of City Council Special Meeting Minutes: May 26, 2022 C. Review of Disbursements: May 1-31, 2022 $1,702,881.44 D. Motion to Re-Authorize Remote Teleconference Meetings of the Town of Los Altos Hills, Including the Planning Commission and Committees, due to the Imminent Risks to the Health and Safety of Attendees and Making Related Findings Pursuant to AB 361 (Staff: S. Mattas)
E. Adoption of Ordinance 601 (Second Reading) Designating the Westwind Barn as a Historical Landmark (Staff: S. Mangalam) (Motion to Waive Reading and Adopt the Ordinance)
F. Proclamation Accepting the Internet Digital Bill of Rights (Staff: D. Padovan) G. Proclamation Recognizing the 50th Anniversary of the Passage of Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Staff: D. Padovan)
H. Resolution 60-22 Modifying an Existing Open Space Easement to Accommodate an ADU at 13480 Wildcrest Drive with no reduction in the amount of Easement Area (Staff: S. Padovan)
I. Resolution 61-22 Authorizing the City Manager to Enter into an Agreement with Government Technology Group, LLC for Broadband Consulting Services and Appropriating $95,000 from the Unreserved General Fund for FY 2022-23 (Staff: C.
Einfalt)
J. Resolution 62-22 Approving the Annual 2022-23 Project List to be Submitted to the California Transportation Commission for SB1 Compliance (Staff: O. Antillon) K. Resolution 63-22 to Adopt Supplemental Findings for Resolution No. 48-22 Denying an Appeal of the Planning Commission Imposed Conditions of Approval for a Zoning
7 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 16, 2022
Permit for New Fencing at 28001 Elena Road and Motion Approving Reconsideration (Staff: S Mattas and J. Loh)
L. Approval for City Manager to Attend the 2022 ICMA Conference in Cleveland, Ohio September 18-21, 2022 (Staff: P. Pirnejad)
5. ONGOING BUSINESS
A. Report on Methods and Provide Direction on the Community Facilities Needs Assessment and Community Survey (Staff: S. Robustelli)
Community Services Supervisor Sarah Robustelli presented the staff report.
Ryan Mottau, MIG, Inc., Berkeley, presented the community’s perspectives obtained from the surveys.
Kevin Lyons, Chief Scientist, Governance Sciences Group, provided information and the scientific panel methodology used in FlashVote.
Council discussion ensued.
DIRECTION: Staff and consultants to return with the raw data and recommendations and provide additional information about the Town Hall addition and community space efforts. Informally, the City Council will reach out to their constituents, and staff will continue to do outreach and committee interviews.
Recess: 8:10 p.m.
Reconvene to Open Session: 8:20 p.m.
6. PUBLIC HEARINGS
► City Council Ex Parte Contacts Policy Disclosure
A. Resolution 64-22 of the City Council of the Town of Los Altos Hills Requesting that the Santa Clara County Tax Collector Collect Delinquent Sewer Charges, the 2022- 2023 Sewer Service Charges, and Contractual Assessment District Charges for Both the Palo Alto and Los Altos Sewer Basins (Staff: O. Antillon) Ex Parte Contacts:
Vice Mayor Swan and Councilmember Mok both talked to Allan Epstein on Item
6.A and to Nick Sutardja on Item 6.C.
Councilmember Tankha spoke to Nick Sutardja on Item 6.C.
8 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 16, 2022
No contact disclosures for Councilmember Schmidt or Mayor Tyson.
Public Works Director Oscar Antillon presented the staff report.
Mayor Tyson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one wishing to speak, Mayor Tyson closed the Public Hearing.
MOTION MADE AND SECONDED: Councilmember Schmidt moved to adopt Resolution 64-22 of the City Council of the Town of Los Altos Hills Requesting that the Santa Clara County Tax Collector Collect Delinquent Sewer Charges, the 2022- 2023 Sewer Service Charges, and Contractual Assessment District Charges for Both the Palo Alto and Los Altos Sewer Basins. The motion was seconded by Mok.
MOTION PASSED 5-0:
AYES: Tyson, Swan, Mok, Schmidt, Tankha
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
RECUSE: None
ABSENT: None
B. Resolution 65-22 Adopting the Proposed FY 2022-23 Operating Budget and FY 2023-27 Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan Budget and Gann Limit for the Town of Los Altos Hills; and Resolution 66-22 Approving the FY 2022-23 Salary Schedule (Staff: S. Revillar)
Administrative Service Director Sarina Revillar presented the staff report.
Council discussion ensued.
Mayor Tyson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one wishing to speak, Mayor Tyson closed the Public Hearing.
MOTION MADE AND SECONDED: Vice Mayor Swan moved to adopt Resolution 65-22 Adopting the Proposed FY 2022-23 Operating Budget and FY 2023-27 Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan Budget and Gann Limit for the Town of Los Altos Hills; and Resolution 66-22 Approving the FY 2022-23 Salary Schedule. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Tankha.
MOTION PASSED 5-0:
AYES: Tyson, Swan, Mok, Schmidt, Tankha
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
RECUSE: None
9 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 16, 2022
ABSENT: None
C. Appeal of the Planning Commission Imposed Conditions of Approval for a Site Development Permit for Landscape Screening at 12869 La Cresta Drive – File #SD21-0079 (Resolution #TBD) (Staff: S. Mangalam)
Assistant Planner Areli Perez presented the staff report.
Council discussion ensued.
Mayor Tyson opened the Public Hearing.
Matt Francois, Attorney, respectfully asking the Council to grant the appeal to allow for the fence for their pets and growing family. He presented his case and introduced his clients Nick and Heidi Sutardja, who spoke on their behalf.
Birgitta Indaco, Los Altos Hills, said this house was an abandoned site and they restored the land in 2018 and the photos they are showing are a good 10 to 20 feet below the back of the house. You have to step down 10 feet down to get to the dining area. The views from the house are not impeded by this open space easement.
Kit Gordon, Los Altos Hills, said she requested that the Open Space Committee review the design of the fence being proposed. It is unusual to have a fence in the easement.
Carol Gottlieb, Los Altos Hills, commented that the house being constructed has a slope the same configuration that has been required on this. They are not asking for anything different than is being approved on other properties.
Mayor Tyson close the Public Hearing.
Council discussion ensued.
MOTION MADE AND SECONDED: Mayor Tyson moved to grant the appeal and direct staff to accept the compromise solution having to do with the new fence design as well as the location and the no-build covenant and at the same time direct staff to proceed with developing an improved fence ordinance. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Mok.
City Attorney Mattas read revised conditions into the record. The revised conditions included the following additions:
1. Prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the house, the property owner shall record against the property a 30-foot no-build covenant, in a form acceptable to the City Attorney and that is enforceable in perpetuity by the Town, commencing from the eastern property line parallel to La Cresta Drive. No structures, grading, or fill shall
10 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 16, 2022
be permitted within this no-build covenant area with the exception of a portion of the driveway, underground and above-ground utilities and a mailbox, which as applicable, are shown in the Project Plans. Only native vegetation may be planted within the nobuild covenant area; however, no irrigation or sprinkler systems are permitted in the no-build covenant area. Prior to recording the covenant against the property, the property owner shall prepare and provide the draft covenant, legal description and plat exhibits as prepared by a licensed land surveyor for review and approval by the Planning Director.
2. Fencing location as shown on the plans dated July 19, 2022 is approved with final design. The applicant shall submit a revised site plan showing the fencing located outside the slope easement and the no-build covenant area. The revised site plan shall be subject to approval by the Planning Director.
3. The proposed fence shall provide openings sufficient to accommodate the free passage of wildlife through the no-build covenant area.
MOTION AND SECOND AMENDED: Mayor Tyson amended his motion to include the revised conditions. Councilmember Mok amended his second.
MOTION PASSED 5-0:
AYES: Tyson, Swan, Mok, Schmidt, Tankha
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
RECUSE: None
ABSENT: None
7. STAFF REPORTS
Item 7.B was heard first:
B. City Attorney
City Attorney Mattas announced that there was no reportable action as a result of the Closed Session at 5:30 p.m. on June 16, 2022.
He reported that on April 21, 2022, the City Council by a 5-0 vote approved a settlement agreement with Roberto Martinez Sandoval.
The Council received correspondence on regulation of firearms. For the record, the Council did adopt a firearm safety storage ordinance in 2021.
C. City Clerk
City Clerk Padovan reported that the Notice of Election will be in the July 6th Town Crier and the nomination period to run for Council begins on July 18 and runs through August 12.
11 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 16, 2022
D. Planning Director
Planning Director Mangalam reported that there will be a June 20, 2022, Special Joint City Council/Planning Commission meeting to discuss the Housing Element.
She invited the community to attend and provide input.
E. Administrative Services Director
Administrative Services Director Revillar reported that they have two great candidates for accounting technician who are moving forward to the second round of interviews. Interns have started. She provided an update regarding the IT strategic plan and that the consultant will be reporting to the City Council at a future meeting.
F. Public Works Director
Public Works Director Antillon said our maintenance crew has done a good job with the Robleda/La Paloma path. It will be done soon.
Regarding Summerhill, they have great proposals to complete the path and that should be coming to the City Council for approval soon.
The E. Sunset widening project is moving along.
A. City Manager
City Manager Pirnejad reported the following items:
o A vegetation fire on Elena Road on Sunday, June 12, 2022. The Cause/Origin: Accidental
o Reminder to be vigilant with water savings due to the current drought. o Hazard Mitigation Grant Program
o Neighborhood Watch Program
o Art Sculpture at Town Hall
o Engaging with KMVT to investigate the possibility of broadcasting City Council meetings and Planning Commission meetings over the television network. o Emergency Operations. In the past couple of weeks, staff has been holding meeting with the town’s new consultant Emergency Manager to discuss how to best prepare the town for the upcoming fire season, as well as any other emergency response situations that would need the involvement of staff and the community.
o Victoria Dye Equestrian Contract Renegotiation as the contract expires April 1, 2023. Staff met with VDE to review and discuss next steps in contract negotiation.
o Town Picnic Metrics
o 4th of July Parade
o TEDx is scheduled for January 2023.
8. REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES, SUB-COMMITTEES, AND
COUNCILMEMBERS ON OUTSIDE AGENCIES
12 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 16, 2022
A. Report by the Undergrounding Subcommittee (Mayor Tyson) Mayor Tyson reported that PG&E said the service book has been received and they are about to identify a project manager.
No action was taken.
B. Report from the Council Ad Hoc Committee on Community Surveys (Mayor Tyson/Councilmember Schmidt)
Councilmember Schmidt emphasized that they are doing work to get information from people, but we need to bring that to a close in September. We need to move forward and decide what we want to do to keep this process moving along.
No action was taken.
C. Report from the Council Town Hall Ad Hoc Committee (Mayor Tyson/Councilmember Schmidt)
Councilmember Schmidt said that the committee is receiving community input.
No action was taken.
D. Report from the Council Ad Hoc Committee Focusing on Broadband (Councilmembers Mok and Tankha)
Councilmember Mok reported that we want to correct the issue with towers in town. Based on the Ad Hoc Broadband Committee discussion, Council would like staff to study and suggest possible text amendments to the “Wireless Telecommunications Facilities” ordinance to include provisions for internet-only providers.
City Manager Pirnejad said that it may take a bit longer, but staff will work with the ad hoc committee. This item will be added to agenda later in the year.
No action was taken.
E. Status Reports from All Councilmembers on Subcommittee and Outside Agencies Activities
Councilmember Mok talked about the leaf blower ordinance and requested that it be agendized for the August City Council Meeting. He would like to have the City Manager provide some testimony from town staff on how it would impact their ability to perform landscape maintenance. The “anti-leaf blower” side should also be allowed to present.
13 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 16, 2022
Additionally, there is concern that we may have more natural gas leakage and we may want to hire someone to review. He would like to see a presentation regarding that.
The Our Town newsletter is currently produced four times a year. He suggested that we form an ad hoc committee to weigh the value of the newsletter and make recommendations to the council on the cost, value, and benefit to the town. Will come back to the Council by November. He suggested that an ad hoc committee be made up of Councilmembers Schmidt and Mok.
MOTION MADE AND SECONDED: Councilmember Schmidt moved that an ad hoc committee consisting of herself and Councilmember Mok be created to review the newsletter and make recommendations to the town. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Mok.
MOTION PASSED 5-0:
AYES: Tyson, Swan, Mok, Schmidt, Tankha
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
RECUSE: None
ABSENT: None
Mayor Tyson reported on the activities on Silicon Valley Clean Energy, Community Health Awareness Council (CHAC), the Finance and Investment Committee. He further stated that the Los Altos Hills County Fire District (LAHCFD) just passed a budget, and they will be funding station 8.
MOTION MADE AND SECONDED: Vice Mayor Swan moved to extend the meeting past 10:00 p.m. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Mok.
MOTION PASSED 5-0:
AYES: Tyson, Swan, Mok, Schmidt, Tankha
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
RECUSE: None
ABSENT: None
9. COUNCIL INITIATED ITEMS
A. Request and Possible Action to Direct Staff Pursue a California State Landmark Designation for Westwind Community Barn (Vice Mayor Swan) Vice Mayor Swan presented her request.
Director Mangalam provided information on the process of the historic registration.
There was Council consensus to add this item to the 2023 priority setting session.
14 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 16, 2022
10. ADJOURN
The meeting adjourned at 10:23 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Deborah L. Padovan
Deborah Padovan
City Clerk
The minutes of the June 16, 2022, regular City Council meeting were approved as presented at the August 18, 2022, regular City Council meeting.
2022 Council Priorities
End of Year Update
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
DECEMBER 15, 2022
AGENDA ITEM #9.A
Distributed & Posted 12/12/22
PROGRESS REPORT ON 2022 COUNCIL PRIORITIES
• In January 2022, the City Council set 4 value/priority areas to focus on for the calendar year:
• Quality of Life and Community Character
• Public Safety
• Effective Service Delivery and Governance
• Infrastructure
23 Projects/Initiatives and 56 Milestones were identified. Below is the legend identifying each project’s current status as of December 15th LEGEND
✓ Complete
P In progress
S Scheduled
Ø Project yet to be started
QUALITY OF LIFE AND COMMUNITY CHARACTER
✓ Complete P In progress Ø Project yet to be started
KEY PROJECTS/INITIATIVES MILESTONES FOR 2022 QUARTER OF
COMPLETION STATUS
Increase Civic Leadership Capacity Create Internship program Q4 ✓ Conduct Community Events Host the Volunteer Dinner Q3 ✓ Put on the Town Picnic Q2 ✓
Update Housing Element Conduct two (2) Community workshops and draft element for public comment
Q2 ✓
Planning Commisison and City Council - Joint Session Q1 ✓ Housing Element Screencheck Q2 ✓
CEQA Q3 ✓
Have discussion with Foothill College regarding RHNA Q2 ✓ Obtain a legal opinion on ballot initiative and green sheets Q2 ✓ Planning Commission public hearing Q3 ✓
Monitor SB 9 Conduct Study Sessions Q1, Q2 ✓
Planning Commission public hearing on permanent Ordinance - PC making recommendation to the City Council
Q4 2023
Ø
City Council adoption Q3 2023 Ø
Implement Climate Action Plan Complete the battery back-up energy storage system Q4 2023 P Convert Town Fleet to Green Vehicles Q2 ✓
Simplify city permitting processes and reduce permit fee for electrification conversions
Q3 ✓
Establish Legacy Giving Ad Hoc Committee Establish AdHoc Committee Q1 ✓
PUBLIC SAFETY
KEY PROJECTS/INITIATIVES MILESTONES FOR 2022 QUARTER OF
COMPLETION STATUS
Install Automatic License Plate readers Complete Install of 40 cameras Q1 ✓ Conduct 60 Day review of Cameras Q2 ✓
Begin Sheriff's Contract Review Analyze Contract Options Q2 2023 P Adopt new contract Q1 2024 Ø
Continue Emergency Prep Conduct an emergency drill Q4 ✓ Conduct FEMA training for staff Q4 ✓
Consolidate Committees on public safety Q4 ✓
Hire a consultant emergency manager Q2 ✓
Participate in Fire Service Review Participate in county/LAFCO review Q4 ✓ Update Safety Element Draft Safety Element and consultation with Cal Fire; Planning Commission Public Hearing
Q4 2023
P
Final Safety Element adoption by the City Council Q4 2023 Ø ✓ Complete P In progress Ø Project yet to be started
EFFECTIVE SERVICE DELIVERY AND GOVERNANCE
KEY PROJECTS/INITIATIVES MILESTONES FOR 2022 QUARTER OF
COMPLETION STATUS
Improve Financial Transparency Develop Financial policy Q3 2023 P Approve FY 22/23 Budget Q2 ✓
Conduct FY 22/23 Interim/Audit Q1 & Q4 ✓
Improve Communication - staff, council, community Improve City Manager Weekly Update Template Q1 ✓ Produce Post Council Meeting Review Q1 ✓
Complete Community Survey Complete Survey Q4 ✓
Improve Employee Retention Send Employees to Santa Clara County Leadership Prog. Q4 ✓ Adopt Employee Enhancements based on Comp Study Q1 ✓
Update employee handbook Q3 2023 P
Promote Emerging Technologies Create an esignature Policy Q3 ✓ Secure a new IT services model Q3 ✓
Update Technology in Conference Rooms Q2 ✓
Adopt an IT retention policy Q3 2023 S
Prepare IT Master Plan Q3 ✓
Improve Contract Management Conduct GreenWaste Negotiations Q1 ✓ Award contract for sewer service maintenance (west Bay) Q2 ✓ Review Westwind barn Agreement Q1 2024 P
Increase Effective Use of Committees Standardize meeting & Create Committee Norms Q2 2023 P Hold an annual Committee Roundtable Q3 ✓
Hold an annual City Council meeting with Committees Q1 ✓ Relocate Non-Digital Records for Safety/Security Move non-digital historical documents into safe storage Q4 2023 P ✓ Complete P In progress Ø Project yet to be started
INFRASTRUCTURE
KEY PROJECTS/INITIATIVES MILESTONES FOR 2022 QUARTER OF
COMPLETION STATUS
Consider Improvements to Town Facilities Reorganize workspace Q2 ✓ Upgrade Corp Yard Facilities Q4 ✓
Establish a Town Hall Committee to evaluate 10-year plan on facilities needs, staffing and Parks and Recreation programs and space
Q2
✓
Continue work on Undergrounding Utilities Progress the 20A project (icebreaker) TBD S
Provide undergrounding study TBD
Ø
Formalize 10 Pathway Segments Monitor / Report on progress and hire contractors needed Q4 ✓
Review & Update Sewer Fees Conduct a sewer rate study Q4 ✓ ✓ Complete P In progress Ø Project yet to be started
WORKPLAN SUMMARY OVERVIEW
• 23 Projects/Initiatives
• 56 Milestones for 2022
• As of December 15, 2022
• The projects yet to be started:
• Work on SB9 - Study sessions, public hearings, and a
council adopted ordinance
• Writing a new contract for law enforcement
• Council adoption of the Safety Element
• Utility undergrounding study
LEGEND Total
✓ Complete 40 milestones
P In progress 8 Milestones
S Scheduled 2 Milestones
Ø Project yet to be started 5 Milestones
SUMMARY OF CARRY OVER ITEMS FROM 2022
KEY PROJECTS/INITIATIVES MILESTONES FOR 2022 QUARTER OF
COMPLETION STATUS
Monitor SB 9 Planning Commission public hearing on permanent Ordinance - PC making recommendation to the City Council
Q4 2023
Ø
City Council adoption Q3 2023 Ø
Implement Climate Action Plan Complete the battery back-up energy storage system Q4 2023 P Begin Sheriff's Contract Review Analyze Contract Options Q2 2023 P Adopt new contract Q1 2024 Ø
Update Safety Element Draft Safety Element and consultation with Cal Fire; Planning Commission Public Hearing
Q4 2023 P
Final Safety Element adoption by the City Council Q4 2023 Ø Improve Financial Transparency Develop Financial policy Q3 2023 P Improve Employee Retention Update employee handbook Q3 2023 P Promote Emerging Technologies Adopt an IT retention policy Q3 2023 S Improve Contract Management Review Westwind barn Agreement Q1 2024 P Increase Effective Use of Committees Standardize meeting & Create Committee Norms Q2 2023 P Relocate Non-Digital Records for Safety/Security Move non-digital historical documents into safe storage Q4 2023 P Continue work on Undergrounding Utilities Progress the 20A project (icebreaker) TBD S Provide undergrounding study TBD Ø
✓ Complete P In progress Ø Project yet to be started
PROGRESS ON COUNCIL ADDED TO THE 2022
PRIORITY WORKPLAN
Projects Department QUARTER OF
COMPLETION STATUS
Broadband Ad Hoc Committee & Feasibility Study City Manager Q2 2023 P Art Sculpture Installation City Manager Q4 ✓
Operational Excellence & Cultural Reset Work with Dr. Benest City Manager Q3 ✓ Flag Raising Policy for Town City Manager Q4 ✓
Adding three additional ALPR cameras City Manager Q2 ✓
Bovo-Tighe Staff Assessment City Manager Q1 ✓
Brown Act Training related to Committees City Manager Q2 ✓ Hosting Community Roundtable Meetings with the Sheriff City Manager Q2 ✓ Research AB 361 Hybrid Meetings for Committees City Clerk Q2 ✓ Conduct License & Permit Audit and issue potential refunds Admin Services Q2 2023 P Tree Removal & Notification Protocol Public Works Engineering Q2 ✓ Leaf Blower Ordinance Public Works Engineering Q4 ✓
Westwind Community Barn (Historic Landmark Designation) Planning Building Q4 ✓ Temporary Construction Lighting Planning Building Q4 ✓
Reach Codes Planning Building Q4 ✓
Fence Ordinance Planning Building TBD P
Fire Code Amendment Planning Building Q4 ✓
Tabling Policy Community Services Q1 2023 P
Launched a Manure Pilot Program Community Services Q1 ✓ Designed and Installed Byrne Preserve Open Space Permanent signage Community Services Q2 ✓ TEDxLosAltosHills Community Services Q1 2023 P
✓ Complete P In progress Ø Project yet to be started
MAJOR INITIATIVES OF DAY-TO-DAY OPERATIONS
Projects Department QUARTER OF
COMPLETION STATUS
KMVT Proposal City Manager Q1 2023 P
Updating Job Descriptions Admin Services Q3 ✓
La Paloma Robleda Trail & Altamont Plung Public Works Engineering Q4 ✓ Complete Equipment Auction Public Works Engineering Q1 ✓ Implement new work management system (iWorQ) Public Works Engineering Q3 ✓ Install EV Chargers at Town Hall and Purissima Park Public Works Engineering Q4 ✓ Online Payments for Permitting Planning Building Q3 ✓
Site Dev/Fast track video recordings and conditions posted online Planning Building Q3 ✓
Digital stamps for Planning Approvals Planning Building Q2 ✓ Ordinance and checklist for streamlining permitting for EV charging stations Planning Building Q4
✓
Re-Launch Annual Picnic after 2-year hiatus Community Services Q4 ✓ ✓ Complete P In progress Ø Project yet to be started
CARRY OVER OF ADDITIONAL PROJECTS
Projects Department QUARTER OF
COMPLETION STATUS
Broadband Ad Hoc Committee & Feasibility Study City Manager Q2 2023 P Conduct License & Permit Study Admin Services Q2 2023 P Fence Ordinance Planning Building TBD P
Tabling Policy Community Services Q1 2023 P
TEDxLosAltosHills Community Services Q1 2023 P
KMVT Proposal City Manager Q1 2023 P
✓ Complete P In progress Ø Project yet to be started
CARRY OVER PROJECTS FROM 2022 COUNCIL AND STAFF PRIORITIES KEY PROJECTS/INITIATIVES MILESTONES FOR 2022 QUARTER OF
COMPLETION STATUS
Monitor SB 9 Planning Commission public hearing on permanent Ordinance - PC making recommendation to the City Council
Q4 2023 Ø
City Council adoption Q3 2023 Ø
Implement Climate Action Plan Complete the battery back-up energy storage system Q4 2023 P Begin Sheriff's Contract Review Analyze Contract Options Q2 2023 P Adopt new contract Q1 2024 Ø
Update Safety Element Draft Safety Element and consultation with Cal Fire; Planning Commission Public Hearing
Q4 2023 P
Final Safety Element adoption by the City Council Q4 2023 Ø Improve Financial Transparency Develop Financial policy Q3 2023 P Improve Employee Retention Update employee handbook Q3 2023 P Promote Emerging Technologies Adopt an IT retention policy Q3 2023 S Improve Contract Management Review Westwind barn Agreement Q1 2024 P Increase Effective Use of Committees Standardize meeting & Create Committee Norms Q2 2023 P Relocate Non-Digital Records for Safety/Security Move non-digital historical documents into safe storage Q4 2023 P Continue work on Undergrounding Utilities Progress the 20A project (icebreaker) TBD S Provide undergrounding study TBD Ø
Projects Department QUARTER OF
COMPLETION STATUS
Broadband Ad Hoc Committee & Feasibility Study City Manager Q2 2023 P Conduct License & Permit Study Admin Services Q2 2023 P Fence Ordinance Planning Building TBD P
Tabling Policy Community Services Q1 2023 P
TEDxLosAltosHills Community Services Q1 2023 P
KMVT Proposal City Manager Q1 2023 P
✓ Complete P In progress Ø Project yet to be started
• Sept-Nov – City Manager met with all committees
• Oct-Dec – City Council goal setting interviews
• Oct-Dec - Committees discuss goals for 2023
• November 29, 2022 – Management staff Goal Setting Session #1 • December 15, 2022 – Deadline for Committees to submit their goals to staff for 2023 • December 20, 2022 – Management Staff Goal Setting Session #2 • January 11, 2023 – City Council meeting for Committees to present their goals for 2023 • January 25, 2023 – 2023 City Council Priority Setting Session • February 16 – Proposed adoption of 2023 Goals
• June – Adopt 23/24 Budget reflecting 2023 Goals
TIMELINE FOR 2023 GOAL SETTING
QUESTIONS FROM THE COUNCIL
TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS December 15, 2022
Staff Report to the City Council
SUBJECT: ADOPTION (SECOND READING) OF ORDINANCE 607 AMENDING CHAPTERS 1.2 (RESIDENTIAL CODE) AND 1.8 (FIRE CODE) OF
TITLE 8 (BUILDING REGULATIONS) OF THE LOS ALTOS HILLS
MUNICIPAL CODE AND ADOPTING BY REFERENCE
AMENDMENTS TO THE 2022 CALIFORNIA BUILDING
STANDARDS CODE AND LOCAL MODIFICATIONS; CEQA
REVIEW: CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION PER SECTION 15061(B)(3)
FROM: Sofia Mangalam, Planning Director
APPROVED: Peter Pirnejad, City Manager
RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council:
Open the public hearing, receive public comment, waive second reading and adopt the Ordinance 607 (Attachment 1):
1. To amend Chapters 1.2 and 1.8 of Title 8 of the Los Altos Hills Municipal Code; and
2. Adopt by reference the amendments to the California Building Standards Code with local modifications including Santa Clara County Fire District (SCCFD) and staff recommended amendments to the Fire Code.
BACKGROUND
On November 17, 2022, the Town introduced an Ordinance and proposes to adopt on December 15, 2022, an ordinance amending Chapters 1.2 (Residential Code) and 1.8 (Fire Code) of Title VIII of the Los Altos Hills Municipal Code and adopting by reference amendments to the 2022 California Building Standards Code and local code amendments to reflect the triennial update. The proposed ordinance includes the requirements of the California Building Standards Code under Title 24 of the Code of Regulations including the Fire Code and Residential Code and other regulations codified thereunder. The proposed amendments include requirements related to address identification, Fire Apparatus Access Roads, fire sprinklers, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), battery storage, as well as other provisions (see Attachment 2 for November 17, 2022 staff report). The Ordinance includes specified exceptions to a 20-foot-wide Fire Apparatus Access Road requirement for attached and detached ADUs, as further explained in the Nov. 17, 2022 staff report to City Council, Attachment 2.
The proposed ordinance includes additional findings pursuant to Sections 18941.5 and 17958 of the State of California Health and Safety Code determining that additional amendments to the 2022 Edition of the Building Standards Code are needed and are reasonably necessary because of the Town's unique climatic, topographic and geologic AGENDA ITEM #10.A
City Council Staff Report Page 2
Adoption of Ordinance 607 – Fire Codes
December 15, 2022
2 conditions, and would adopt those additional amendments provided in the proposed ordinance.
On November 17, 2022, the City Council voted 4-0-1 (one absent) to waive first reading and introduce Ordinance 607 including 2022 Residential and Fire Code amendments (See agenda item #7.A for meeting minutes).
At this meeting, staff recommends that City Council open the public hearing and receive public comments, waive further reading and adopt Ordinance 607 for Fire Code adoption and amendments. The Ordinance would become effective 30 days from December 15, 2022.
NOTICING/PUBLIC OUTREACH
The public was advised of this Public Hearing in the following ways:
• Newspaper Ad – December 1, 2022
• Public Posting Places – December 1, 2022
• Town Website: www.losaltoshills.ca.gov – December 9, 2022
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The proposed ordinance amendments are exempt from California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to "general exemptions" described in Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines, since the ordinance amendments would not have any significant effects on the environment.
2022 CITY COUNCIL STRATEGIC PRIORITIES
This request was not part of the Council’s priorities for 2022. However, the proposed amendments resonate with City Council’s value/priority area, “Promote Public Safety”.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There are sufficient funds in the FY2022-23 Operating Budget to cover the contract with Pyroanalysis, staff and City Attorney's time and no additional funds need to be appropriated.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Draft Ordinance 607
2. November 17, 2022, Staff Report to the City Council (no attachments)
Ordinance Page 1
ORDINANCE 607
AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS AMENDING
CHAPTERS 1.2 (RESIDENTIAL CODE) AND 1.8 (FIRE CODE) OF TITLE VIII
OF THE LOS ALTOS HILLS MUNICIPAL CODE AND ADOPTING BY
REFERENCE AMENDMENTS TO THE 2022 CALIFORNIA BUILDING
STANDARDS CODE AND LOCAL CODE AMENDMENTS
WHEREAS, the 2022 Edition of the California Building Standards Code, has been amended and adopted by the California Building Standards Commission; and WHEREAS, the Town of Los Altos Hills (“Town”) has adopted the 2022 Edition of the California Building Standards Code with amendments; and WHEREAS, Government Code § 50022.2 authorizes cities to enact ordinances adopting any code by reference; and
WHEREAS, because of the Town's unique climatic, topographic and geologic conditions, the Town desires to make amendments and additions to the 2022 California Residential Code and California Fire Code, as set forth herein; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to California Health and Safety Code sections 18941.5 and 17958, the City Council of the Town of Los Altos Hills hereby finds that the amendments adopted herein are reasonably necessary because of the following local climatic, topographic and geologic conditions:
1. The Town of Los Altos Hills experiences low humidity, high winds and warm temperatures during the summer months creating conditions which are particularly conducive to the ignition and spread of grass, brush and structure fires.
2. The remoteness and steepness of hillside areas in the Town significantly impacts the ability of emergency responders to extinguish or control wildland or structure fires.
These factors cumulatively mandate special provisions for Fire Department access, fire protection water supplies, automatic fire sprinklers, fire retardant roof coverings and ignition-resistant exterior materials.
3. The Town of Los Altos Hills is geographically situated adjacent to active earthquake faults capable of producing substantial seismic events. Since the Town is divided by a freeway and other major traffic corridors, the occurrence of a major earthquake would significantly impact the ability of fire crews to respond to emergencies should one or more bridges collapse or be substantially damaged.
4. Fire suppression capabilities will be severely limited should the water system be extensively damaged during the seismic event.
Attachment 1
Ordinance Page 2
5. Roofs and exterior materials that are not ignition-resistant contribute to the spread of fires, and therefore pose a risk to the safety of the Town’s citizens and their property.
WHEREAS, prior to the effective date of this ordinance, the City Clerk shall file a copy of the ordinance, with the California Building Standards Commission; and WHEREAS, in accordance with Health and Safety Code section 17958.7, the City Council hereby finds that each of the above findings is applicable to each of the modifications to the 2022 Edition of the California Building Standards Code described in this ordinance; and WHEREAS, the City Council of the Town of Los Altos Hills finds that this project is exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”), pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines, because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the ordinance will have a significant effect on the environment.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the Town of Los Altos Hills does hereby ORDAIN as follows:
1. Title 8, Chapter 1.2 “California Residential Code” is hereby amended to read as follows:
Chapter 1.2 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE
8-1.2.02 Amended sections of adopted codes.
Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 8-1.2.01, the Residential Code is hereby amended to read as follows:
A. Section R313.2 is amended to read:
R313.2 One- and two-family dwellings automatic sprinkler systems.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in all new one- and two-family dwellings and existing one- and two-family dwellings when additions are made that increase the fire area to more than 3,600 square feet.
Exceptions:
1. Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit, provided that all of the following are met:
1.1. The unit meets the definition of an Accessory Dwelling Unit as defined in the Government Code Section 65852.2.
1.2. The existing primary residence does not have automatic fire sprinklers.
1.3. The accessory detached dwelling unit does not exceed 1,200 square feet in size.
1.4. The unit is on the same lot as the primary residence.
1.5. The unit meets all apparatus access and water supply requirements of Chapter 5 and Appendix B of the 2022 California Fire Code, as amended.
Ordinance Page 3
2. When additions are made to existing structures, causing the fire area to exceed 3,600 square feet, and all of the following are met:
2.1. Building addition does not exceed 500 square feet.
2.2. The resultant structure meets all water supply requirements of Chapter 5 and Appendix B of the 2022 California Fire Code, as amended.
B. Section R328.7 is amended to read:
R328.7 Fire detection. Rooms and areas within dwelling units, basements and attached garages in which ESS are installed shall be protected by smoke alarms in accordance with Section R314. A heat detector, listed and interconnected to the smoke alarms, shall be installed in locations within dwelling units and attached garages where smoke alarms cannot be installed based on their listing. [SFM] ESS installed in Group R-3 and townhomes shall comply with the following:
1. Rooms and areas within dwelling units, sleeping units, basements and attached garages in which ESS are installed shall be protected by smoke alarms in accordance with Section R314.
2. A listed heat alarm interconnected to the smoke alarms shall be installed in locations within dwelling units, sleeping units and attached garages where smoke alarms cannot be installed based on their listing.
Exceptions:
1. A listed heat detector may be used in place of a heat alarm, so long as it is interconnected with devices that provide an audible alarm at all sleeping areas.
2. A fire sprinkler associated with an approved automatic sprinkler system that triggers an audible alarm upon activation of the waterflow switch, may be used in place of a heat alarm.
C. Section R337 Materials and Construction Methods for Exterior Wildfire Exposure is hereby adopted in its entirety.
2. Title 8, Chapter 1.8 “California Fire Code” is hereby amended to read as follows:
Chapter 1.8 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
8-1.8.01 Adoption of 2022 California Fire Code
Ordinance Page 4
(a) The 2022 California Fire Code, Part 9, Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, a portion of the California Building Standards Code, as defined in the California State Health and Safety Code Section 18901 et seq., and also the 2021 International Fire Code, published by the International Code Council, including Appendix B-Fire Flow Requirements, Appendix C-Fire Hydrant Locations and Appendix O-Temporary Haunted Houses (hereafter referred to as the Fire Code or CFC) and any rules and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto are hereby adopted and incorporated by reference herein.
(b) One copy of the Fire Code shall be kept on file at the Town of Los Altos Hills. 8-1.8.02 Amended sections of adopted code.
Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 8-1.8.01, the following sections of Fire Code are amended as follows:
A. Section 105.6.52 is added to read as follows:
105.6.52 Day care facility. An operational permit is required to operate a business as a day care facility for more than 6 people.
B. Section 105.6.53 is added to read as follows:
105.6.53 Institutional. A permit is required to operate, maintain, or use any institutional type occupancy. For the purpose of this Section, an institution shall be, but is not limited to: hospitals, children’s home, home or institution for insane or mentally retarded persons, home or institution for the care of aged or senile persons, sanitarium, nursing or convalescent home, certified family care homes, residential care homes for the elderly, out of home placement facilities, halfway house, and day care nurseries or similar facility of any capacity.
C. Section 202 – General Definitions is amended by adding or amending the following definitions:
CORROSIVE LIQUID. Corrosive liquid is:
1) any liquid which, when in contact with living tissue, will cause destruction or irreversible alteration of such tissue by chemical action; or
2) any liquid having a pH of 2 or less or 12.5 or more; or 3) any liquid classified as corrosive by the U.S. Department of Transportation; or 4) any material exhibiting the characteristics of corrosivity in accordance with Title 22, California Code of Regulations §66261.22.
Ordinance Page 5
LARGE-SCALE FIRE TESTING. Testing a representative energy storage system that induces a significant fire into the device under test and evaluates whether the fire will spread to adjacent energy storage system units, surrounding equipment, or through an adjacent fire-resistance-rated barrier.
MODERATELY TOXIC GAS. A chemical or substance that has a median lethal concentration (LC50) in air more than 2000 parts per million but not more than 5000 parts per million by volume of gas or vapor, when administered by continuous inhalation for an hour, or less if death occurs within one hour, to albino rats weighing between 200 and 300 grams each.
HEALTH HAZARD – OTHER. A hazardous material which affects target organs of the body, including but not limited to, those materials which produce liver damage, kidney damage, damage to the nervous system, act on the blood to decrease hemoglobin function, deprive the body tissue of oxygen or affect reproductive capabilities, including mutations (chromosomal damage), sensitizers or teratogens (effect on fetuses).
SPILL CONTROL. That level of containment that is external to and separate from the primary containment and is capable of safely and securely containing the contents of the largest container and prevents the materials from spreading to other parts of the room.
D. Chapter 2 of the 2021 International Fire Code is adopted with the following amendments:
Section 202 - General Definitions is amended by adding or amending the following definitions:
SECONDARY CONTAINMENT. Secondary containment is that level of containment that is external to and separate from primary containment and is capable of safely and securely containing the material, without discharge, for a period of time reasonably necessary to ensure detection and remedy of the primary containment failure.
WORKSTATION. A defined space or an independent principal piece of equipment using flammable or unstable (Class 3 or 4 as ranked by NFPA 704) hazardous materials where a specific function, laboratory procedure or research activity occurs. Approved or listed hazardous materials storage cabinets, flammable liquid storage cabinets or gas cabinets serving a workstation are included as part of the workstation. A workstation is allowed to contain ventilation equipment, fire protection devices, detection devices, electrical devices and other processing and scientific equipment.
E. Chapter 5 of the 2021 International Fire Code is adopted with the following amendments:
Section 503.1 is amended to read as follows:
Ordinance Page 6
503.1 Where required. Fire apparatus access roads shall be provided and maintained in accordance with Sections 503.1.1 through 503.1.3 and in accordance with the fire departments access standards.
Section 503.1.1 is amended to read as follows:
503.1.1 Buildings and facilities. Approved fire apparatus access roads shall be provided for every facility, building or portion of a building hereafter constructed or moved into or within the jurisdiction. The fire apparatus access road shall comply with the requirements for this section and shall extend to within 150 feet (45, 720 mm) of all portions of the facility and all portions of the exterior walls of the first story of the building as measured by an approved route around the exterior of the building or facility.
Exceptions:
1. In other than R-3 or U occupancies, when the building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system, installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 the dimension may be increased to a maximum of 300 feet when approved by the fire code official.
2. When there are not more than two Group R-3 or accessory Group U occupancies, the dimension may be increased to a maximum of 200 feet.
3. When apparatus roads cannot be installed because of topography, waterways, nonnegotiable grades or other similar conditions, an approved alternative means of fire protection shall be provided.
Section 503.2.1 is amended to read as follows:
503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm) for engines, and 26 feet (7925 mm) for aerial fire apparatus exclusive of shoulders, except for approved gates or barricades in accordance with Sections 503.5.1 and 503.6 The unobstructed vertical clearance shall be a minimum of 13 feet 6 inches (4115 mm), or as determined by the fire code official.
Exceptions:
1. When there are not more than two residential parcels, having only Group R, Division 3, or Group U occupancy structures, the access road width may be modified by the fire code official.
2. Detached Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) designed and constructed in accordance with California Building Code (CBC) Chapter 7A and California Residential Code (CRC) R337, equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system, in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 and local standards may have an unobstructed access road width of not less than 16 feet. Access roads
Ordinance Page 7
having less than 16 feet unobstructed width shall be mitigated via an approved application for alternative materials, design and method of construction and equipment, in accordance with CFC 104.10.
3. Attached Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) when both the existing residential structure and ADU are equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system, in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 and local standards may have an unobstructed access road width of not less than 16 feet. Access roads having less than 16 feet unobstructed width shall be mitigated via an approved application for alternative materials, design and method of construction and equipment, in accordance with CFC 104.10.
Section 503.2.4 is amended to read as follows:
503.2.4 Turning radius. The required turning radius of a fire apparatus access road shall be a minimum of 30 feet (9144 mm) inside, and a minimum of 50 feet (15240 mm) outside.
Section 503.2.7 is amended to read as follows:
503.2.7 Grade. The maximum grade of a fire department apparatus access road shall not exceed 15-percent, unless approved by the fire code official.
Section 503.5 is amended to read as follows:
503.5 Required gates or barricades. The fire code official is authorized to require the installation and maintenance of gates or other approved barricades across fire apparatus access roads, trails, or other accessways, not including the public streets, alleys, or highways. The minimum width for commercial applications is 20 feet (6096 mm), and 12 feet (4268 mm) for single-family dwellings. Electric gate operators, where provided shall be listed in accordance with UL 325. Gates intended for automatic operation shall be designed, constructed, and installed to comply with the requirements of ASTM F2200.
Section 503.6 is amended to read as follows:
503.6 Security gates. The installation of security gates across a fire apparatus access road shall be approved by the fire code official. Where security gates are installed, they shall have an approved means of emergency operation. The security gates and the emergency operation shall be maintained operational at all times. Electric gate operators, where provided, shall be listed in accordance with UL 325. Gates intended for automatic operation shall be designed, constructed and installed to comply with the requirements of ASTM F2200. The minimum width for commercial applications is 20 feet (6096 mm), and 12 feet (4268 mm) for single-family dwellings.
F. Section 504.5 is added to read as follows:
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504.5 Access Control Devices. When access control devices including bars, grates, gates, electric or magnetic locks or similar devices, which would inhibit rapid fire department emergency access to within and throughout the building, are installed, such devices shall be approved by the fire code official. All electrically powered access control devices shall be provided with an approved means for deactivation or unlocking from a single location or otherwise approved by the fire code official . Access control devices must also comply with Chapter 10.
G. Section 505.1 is amended to read as follows:
505.1 Address identification. New and existing buildings shall be provided with approved address identification. The address identification shall be legible and placed in a position that is visible from the street or road fronting the property. Address identification characters shall contrast with their background. Address numbers shall be Arabic numbers or alphabetical letters. Numbers shall not be spelled out. Each character shall be not less than 6 inches (153 mm) high with a minimum stroke width of 1/2 inch (12.7 mm). Where required by the fire code official, address identification shall be provided in additional approved locations to facilitate emergency response. Where access is by means of a private road and the building cannot be viewed from the public way, a monument, pole or other sign or means shall be used to identify the structure. Address identification shall be maintained.
The following is a guideline for adequate address number dimensions:
i. The number posted up to 49 feet from the public street shall be of one solid color which is contrasting to the background and be at least six (6) inches high with a half (½) inch stroke.
ii. The number posted from 50 to 100 feet from the public street shall be of one solid color which is contrasting to the background and be at least six (6) inches high with a one (1) inch stroke.
iii. The number posted over 100 to 199 feet from the public street shall be of one solid color which is contrasting to the background and be at least ten (10) inches high with a one and a half (1½) inch stroke.
iv. The number posted over 200 to 299 feet from the public street shall be of one solid color which is contrasting to the background and be at least ten (18) inches high with a one and a half (2) inch stroke.
v. The number posted over 300 to 400 feet from the public street shall be of one solid color which is contrasting to the background and be at least ten (24) inches high with a one and a half (2½) inch stroke.
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G. Section 510.1 is amended to read as follows:
510.1 Emergency responder communication coverage in new buildings. Approved radio coverage for emergency responders shall be provided within all buildings meeting any one of the following conditions:
a) There are more than 3 stories above grade plane (as defined by the Building Code Section 202);
b) The total building area is 30,000 square feet or more; c) The total basement area is 5,000 square feet or more; d) Where required by the fire code official and radio coverage signal strength levels are not consistent with the minimum levels set forth in Section 510.4.1 Exceptions:
1. Where approved by the fire code official, a wired communication system in accordance with Section 907.2.12.2 shall be permitted to be installed or maintained in lieu of an approved radio coverage system.
2. Where it is determined by the fire code official that the radio coverage system is not needed.
3. In facilities where emergency responder radio coverage is required and such systems, components or equipment required could have a negative impact on the normal operations of that facility, the fire code official shall have the authority to accept an automatically activated emergency responder radio coverage system.
4. Buildings and areas of buildings that have minimum radio coverage signal strength levels of the Silicon Valley Regional Interoperability Authority (SVRIA) P25 Phase 2 700 MHz Digital Trunked Radio System within the building in accordance with Section 510.4.1 without the use of an indoor radio coverage system.
The radio coverage system shall be installed and maintained in accordance with Sections 510.4 through 510.6.4 of this code and with the applicable provisions of NFPA 1221, Standard for the Installation, Maintenance and Use of Emergency Services Communications Systems.
The coverage shall be based upon the existing coverage levels of the public safety communication systems of the jurisdiction at the exterior of the building. This section shall not require improvement of the existing public safety communication systems.
Section 510.1.1 is added to read as follows:
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510.1.1 Obstruction by new buildings. No obstruction of the public safety system backhaul shall be allowed without an approved mitigating plan.
H. Section 510.3 is amended to read as follows:
510.3 Permit required. A construction permit, for the installation of, or modification of, emergency responder radio coverage systems and related equipment is required as specified in Section 105.6.4. Maintenance performed in accordance with this code is not considered a modification and does not require a permit. A frequency change made to an existing system is considered to be new construction and will require a construction permit.
I. Section 510.4 is amended to read as follows:
510.4 Technical requirements. Equipment required to provide in-building, two-way emergency responder communication coverage shall be listed in accordance with UL 2524. Systems, components and equipment required to provide the emergency responder radio coverage system shall comply with Sections 510.4.1 through 510.4.2.8 and the current Emergency Responders Radio Coverage Systems Standard Details & Specification enforced by the Santa Clara County Fire Department.
J. Section 510.4.1.1 is amended to read as follows:
510.4.1.1 Minimum signal strength into the building. The minimum inbound signal strength shall be sufficient to provide usable voice communications throughout the coverage area as specified by the fire code official. The inbound signal level shall be sufficient to provide not less than a Delivered Audio Quality (DAQ) of 3.0 for analog communications and DAQ of 3.4 for digital communications systems or an equivalent Signal-to-Interference-Plus-Noise Ratio (SINR) applicable to the technology.
K. Section 510.4.1.2 is amended to read as follows:
510.4.1.2 Minimum signal strength out of the building. The minimum outbound signal strength shall be sufficient to provide usable voice communications throughout the coverage area as specified by the fire code official. The outbound signal level shall be sufficient to provide not less than a DAQ of 3.0 for analog communications and DAQ of
3.4 for digital communications systems or an equivalent SINR applicable to the technology.
L. Section 510.5 is amended to read as follows:
510.5 Installation requirement. The installation of the emergency responder radio coverage system shall be in accordance with NFPA 1221 and the current Emergency
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Responder Radio Coverage Systems Standard Details & Specification enforced by the Santa Clara County Fire Department.
M. Section 510.5.2 is amended to read as follows:
510.5.2 Approval prior to installation. Amplification systems capable of operating on frequencies licensed to any public safety agency by the FCC or other radio licensing authority shall not be installed without prior coordination and approval of the fire code official and the agency FCC license holder or systems administrator.
N. Section 510.5.4 is amended to read as follows:
510.5.4 Acceptance test procedure. Where an emergency responder radio coverage system is required, and upon completion of installation, the building owner shall have the radio system tested to verify that two-way coverage on each floor of the building is not less than 95 percent. Final system acceptance will require ERRCS power level and DAQ testing with agency FCC license holder, systems administrators, or designee.
O. Chapter 6 of the 2022 California Fire Code is adopted with the following amendments:
Section 603.11 is added to read as follows:
603.11 Immersion Heaters. All electrical immersion heaters used in dip tanks, sinks, vats and similar operations shall be provided with approved over-temperature controls and low liquid level electrical disconnects. Manual reset of required protection devices shall be provided.
Section 605.5 is amended to read as follows:
605.5 Portable unvented heaters. Portable unvented fuel-fired heating equipment shall be prohibited in occupancies in Groups A, B, E, I, R-1, R-2, R2.1, R2.2, R-3, R3.1 and R4 and ambulatory care facilities.
Exceptions:
1. Portable unvented fuel-fired heaters listed in accordance with UL 647 are permitted to be used in one and two-family dwellings, where operated and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances in accordance with Section 605.5.2.
Section 605.5.2.1.1 is amended to read as follows:
605.5.2.1.1 Prohibited locations. The storage or use of portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances is prohibited in any of the following locations:
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1. Inside of any occupancy where connected to the fuel gas container.
2. Inside of tents, canopies and membrane structures.
3. On exterior balconies, and rooftops.
P. Chapter 7 of the 2022 California Fire Code is adopted with the following amendments:
Section 703.3 is added to read as follows:
703.3 Fire-resistant penetrations and joints. In high-rise buildings, in buildings assigned to Risk Category III or IV, or in fire areas containing Group R occupancies with an occupant load greater than 100, and other occupancies as determined necessary special inspections for through-penetrations, membrane penetration firestops, fire resistant joint systems and perimeter fire containment systems that are tested and listed in accordance with CBC Sections 714.4.1.2, 714.5.1.2, 715.3.1 and 715.4 shall be in accordance with Section 1705.18.1 or 1705.18.2.
Q. Chapter 9 of the 2021 International Fire Code is adopted with the following amendments:
Section 901.6.2 is amended to read as follows:
901.6.2 Integrated testing. Where two or more fire protection or life safety systems are interconnected, the intended response of subordinate fire protection and life safety systems shall be verified when required testing of the initiating system is conducted. In addition, integrated testing shall be performed in accordance with Sections 901.6.2.1 and 901.6.2.2.
901.6.2.1 High-rise buildings. For high-rise buildings, integrated testing shall comply with NFPA 4, with an integrated test performed prior to issuance of the certificate of occupancy and at intervals not exceeding 10 years, unless otherwise specified by an integrated system test plan prepared in accordance with NFPA 4. If an equipment failure is detected during integrated testing, a repeat of the integrated test shall not be required, except as necessary to verify operation of fire protection or life safety functions that are initiated by equipment that was repaired or replaced. For existing buildings, the testing timeframe shall be specified by the integrated systems test plan prepared in accordance with NFPA 4 as approved by the fire code official.
901.6.2.2 Smoke control systems. Where a fire alarm system is integrated with a smoke control system as outlined in Section 909, integrated testing shall comply with NFPA 4, with an integrated test performed prior to issuance of the certificate of occupancy and at intervals not exceeding 10 years, unless otherwise specified by an integrated system test
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plan prepared in accordance with NFPA 4. If an equipment failure is detected during integrated testing, a repeat of the integrated test shall not be required, except as necessary to verify operation of fire protection or life safety functions that are initiated by equipment that was repaired or replaced. For existing buildings, the testing timeframe shall be specified by the integrated systems test plan prepared in accordance with NFPA 4 as approved by the fire code official.
Section 901.6.3 is amended to read as follows:
901.6.3 Records Information. Records of all system inspections, tests and maintenance required by the referenced standard shall be maintained on the premises for a minimum of five years. See 907.7 & 907.8 for fire alarm system inspection, testing and maintenance documentation requirements.
Section 903.2 is amended to read as follows:
903.2 Where required. Approved automatic sprinkler systems in new and existing buildings and structures shall be provided in the locations described in this Section or in Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.12 whichever is the more restrictive and Sections 903.2.14 through 903.2.21.
For the purposes of this section, firewalls and fire barriers used to separate building areas shall be constructed in accordance with the California Building Code and shall be without openings or penetrations.
1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all new buildings and structures, other than Group R occupancies, except as follows:
a. Buildings and structures not located in any Wildland-Urban Interface and not exceeding 1,200 square feet of fire area.
b. Buildings and structures located in any Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area and not exceeding 500 square feet of fire area.
c. Group S-2 or U occupancies, including photovoltaic support structures, used exclusively for vehicle parking which meet all of the following:
i. Noncombustible construction.
ii. Maximum 5,000 square feet in building area.
iii. Structure is open on not less than three (3) sides nor 75% of structure perimeter.
iv. Minimum of 10 feet separation from existing buildings, or similar structures, unless area is separated by fire walls complying with California Building Code 706.
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d.Canopies, constructed in accordance with CBC 406.7.2, used exclusively for weather protection of vehicle fueling pads per CBC 406.7.1 and not exceeding 5,000 square feet of fire area.
2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all new buildings with a Group R fire area.
Exception: Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit, provided that all of the following are met:
a. The unit meets the definition of an Accessory Dwelling Unit as defined in the Government Code Section 65852.2.
b. The existing primary residence does not have automatic fire sprinklers.
c. The accessory detached dwelling unit does not exceed 1,200 square feet in size.
d. The unit is on the same lot as the primary residence. e. The unit meets all apparatus access and water supply requirements of Chapter 5 and Appendix B of the 2022
California Fire Code, as amended.
3. An approved automatic fire sprinkler system shall be installed in new manufactured homes (as defined in California Health and Safety Code Sections 18007 and 18009) and multifamily manufactured homes with two dwelling units (as defined in California Health and Safety Code Section 18008.7) in accordance with Title 25 of the California Code of Regulations.
4. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout existing buildings with a Group R fire area when additions are made causing the fire area to exceed 3,600 square feet.
Exception: Additions where all of the following are met:
a. Building addition does not exceed 500 square feet.
b. The resultant structure meets all water supply requirements of Chapter 5 and Appendix B of the 2022 California Fire Code.
5. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout existing Group A, B, E, F, L, M, S and U buildings and structures, when additions are made that increase the fire area to more than 3,600 square feet or that create conditions described in Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.18.
6. Any change in the character of occupancy or in use of any building with a fire area equal to or greater than 3,600 square feet which, in the opinion of the fire code official or building official, would place the building into a more hazardous division of the same occupancy group or into a different group of occupancies
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and constitutes a greater degree of life safety1 or increased fire risk2, shall require the installation of an approved fire automatic fire sprinkler system. 1 Life Safety – Shall include, but not limited to: Increased occupant load, public assembly areas, public meeting areas, churches, indoor amusement attractions, buildings with complex exiting systems due to increased occupant loads, large schools/day-care facilities, large residential care facilities housing non-ambulatory clients.
2 Fire Risks – Shall include, but not limited to: High-piled combustible storage, woodworking operations, hazardous operations using hazardous materials, increased fuel loads (storage of moderate to highly combustible materials), increased sources of ignition (welding, automotive repair with the use of flammable liquids and open flames).
R. Section 903.2.11.7 is added to read as follows:
903.2.11.7 Chemical Fume Hood Fire Protection.
Approved automatic fire extinguishing systems shall be provided in chemical fume hoods in the following cases:
1. Existing hoods having interiors with a flame spread index greater than 25 in which flammable liquids are handled.
2. If a hazard assessment determines that an automatic extinguishing system is required for the chemical fume hood, then the applicable automatic fire protection system standard shall be followed.
S. Section 907.8 is amended to read as follows:
907.8 Inspection, testing and maintenance. The maintenance and testing schedules and procedures for fire alarm and fire detection systems shall be in accordance with Sections 907.8.1 through 907.8.4 and NFPA 72. Records of inspection, testing and maintenance shall be documented using NFPA 72 record of inspection and testing forms.
T. Section 909.22.1 is amended to read as follows:
909.22.1 Schedule. A routine maintenance and operational testing program shall be initiated immediately after the smoke control system has passed the acceptance tests. A written schedule for routine maintenance and operational testing shall be established and operational testing must occur at least annually.
U. Section 1202.1 is amended to read as follows:
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1202.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2:
BATTERY SYSTEM, STATIONARY STORAGE.
BATTERY TYPES.
CAPACITOR ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM.
CRITICAL CIRCUIT.
EMERGENCY POWER SYSTEM.
ENERGY STORAGE MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS.
ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM (ESS).
ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM, ELECTROCHEMICAL.
ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM, MOBILE.
ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM, WALK-IN UNIT.
ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM CABINET.
ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM COMMISSIONING.
ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM DECOMMISSIONING.
FUEL CELL POWER SYSTEM, STATIONARY.
LARGE-SCALE FIRE TESTING
PORTABLE GENERATOR.
STANDBY POWER SYSTEM.
V. Section 1207.1.5 is amended to read as follows:
1207.1.5 Large-scale fire test. Where required elsewhere in Section 1207, large-scale fire testing shall be conducted in accordance with NFPA 855, and UL 9540A. The testing shall be conducted or witnessed and reported by an approved testing laboratory and show that a fire involving one ESS will not propagate to an adjacent ESS, and where installed within buildings, enclosed areas and walk-in units will be contained within the room, enclosed area or walk-in unit for a duration equal to the fire-resistance rating of the room separation specified in Section 1207.7.4. The test report shall be provided to the fire code official for review and approval in accordance with Section 104.8.2.
W. Section 1207.2.2.1 is amended to read as follows:
1207.2.2.1 Ongoing inspection and testing. Systems that monitor and protect the ESS installation shall be inspected and tested in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and the operation and maintenance manual. Inspection and testing records shall be maintained in the operation and maintenance manual and made available to the fire code official upon request.
X. Section 1207.5.2 is amended to read as follows:
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1207.5.2 Maximum allowable quantities. Fire areas within rooms, areas and walk-in units containing electrochemical ESS shall not exceed the maximum allowable quantities in Table 1207.5. The allowable number of fire areas, maximum allowable quantity, and fire-resistance rating of fire-barriers shall comply with Table 1207.5.1.
Exceptions:
Where approved by the fire code official, rooms, areas and walk-in units containing electrochemical ESS that exceed the amounts in Table 1207.5 shall be permitted based on a hazardous mitigation analysis in accordance with Section 1207.1.4 and large-scale fire testing complying with Section 1207.1.5.
1. Lead-acid and nickel-cadmium battery systems installed in facilities under the exclusive control of communications utilities and operating at less than 50 VAC and 60 VDC in accordance with NFPA 76.
2. Dedicated-use buildings in compliance with Section 1207.7.1.
TABLE 1207.5.1
DESIGN AND NUMBER OF ESS FIRE AREAS
STORY PERCENTAGE
OF
MAXIMUM
ALLOWABLE
QUANTITY
PER FIRE
AREA
NUMBER
OF FIRE
AREAS
PER
STORY
FIRERESISTANCE
RATING FOR
FIRE
BARRIERS IN
HOURS
Above grade plan Higher than 9
7-9
6 5
4 3
2 25
50 50
50 75
100
100
1 2
2 2
4 6
6 3
2 2
2 2
2 2
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1 100 6 2
Below grade plan 1
2 Lower than 2
100
50 Not Allowed
4 2
Not Allowed
3 3
Not Allowed
Y. Section 1207.5.5 is amended to read as follows:
1207.5.5 Fire suppression systems. Rooms and areas within buildings and walk-in units containing electrochemical ESS shall be protected by an automatic fire suppression system designed and installed in accordance with one of the following:
1. An automatic sprinkler system designed and installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 with a minimum density of 0.3 gpm/ft2 (1.14 L/min) based on the fire area or 2,500 square-foot (232 m2) design area, whichever is larger.
2. Where approved, an automatic sprinkler system designed and installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 with a sprinkler hazard classification based on large-scale fire testing complying with Section 1207.1.5.
3. The following alternative automatic fire-extinguishing systems designed and installed in accordance with Section 904, provided that the installation is approved by the fire code official based on large-scale fire testing complying with Section 1207.1.5:
3.1. NFPA 12, Standard on Carbon Dioxide Extinguishing Systems.
3.2. NFPA 15, Standard for Water Spray Fixed Systems for Fire Protection.
3.3. NFPA 750, Standard on Water Mist Fire Protection Systems.
3.4. NFPA 2001, Standard on Clean Agent Fire-Extinguishing Systems.
3.5. NFPA 2010, Standard for Fixed Aerosol Fire-Extinguishing Systems.
Exception: Fire suppression systems for lead-acid and nickel-cadmium battery systems at facilities under the exclusive control of communications utilities that operate at less than 50 VAC and 60 VDC shall be provided where required by NFPA 76.
Z. Section 1207.11.3 is amended to read as follows:
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1207.11.3 Location. ESS shall be installed only in the following locations:
1. Detached garages and detached accessory structures.
2. Attached garages separated from the dwelling unit living space and sleeping units in accordance with Section R302.6.
3. Outdoors or on the exterior side of the exterior walls not less than 3 feet (914 mm) from doors and windows directly entering the dwelling unit and not below or above any emergency escape and rescue openings.
4. Enclosed utility closets, basements, storage or utility spaces within dwelling units with finished or noncombustible walls and ceilings. Walls and ceilings of unfinished wood-framed construction shall be provided with not less than 5/8- inch (15.9 mm) Type X gypsum wallboard.
5. ESS shall not be installed in sleeping rooms, closets, spaces opening directly into sleeping rooms or in habitable spaces of dwelling units.
AA. Section 1207.11.6 is amended to read as follows:
1207.11.6 Fire detection. ESS installed in Group R-3 and R-4 occupancies shall comply with the following:
1. Rooms and areas within dwellings units, sleeping units, basements and attached garages in which ESS are installed shall be protected by smoke alarms in accordance with Section 907.2.11.
2. A listed heat alarm interconnected to the smoke alarms shall be installed in locations within dwelling units, sleeping units and attached garages where smoke alarms cannot be installed based on their listing.
Exceptions:
1. A listed heat detector may be used in place of a heat alarm, so long as it is interconnected with devices that provide an audible alarm at all sleeping areas.
2. A fire sprinkler associated with an approved automatic sprinkler system that triggers an audible alarm upon activation of the waterflow switch, may be used in place of a heat alarm.
BB. Section 3305.5 is amended to read as follows:
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3305.5 Fire watch. Where required by the fire code official or the site safety plan established in accordance with Section 3303.1, a fire watch shall be provided for building demolition and for building construction. Fire watch is not intended to facilitate occupancy during ongoing construction in a new building.
CC. Section 3305.10 is amended to read as follows:
3305.10 Fire Walls. When firewalls are required in combustible construction, the wall construction shall be completed (with all openings protected) immediately after the building is sufficiently weather-protected at the location of the wall(s).
DD. Section 3311.1 is amended to read as follows:
3311.1 Required access. Approved vehicle access for firefighting shall be provided to all construction or demolition sites. Vehicle access shall be provided to within 100 feet (30 480 mm) of temporary or permanent fire department connections. Vehicle access shall be provided by either temporary or permanent roads, capable of supporting vehicle loading under all weather conditions. Vehicle access shall be maintained until permanent fire apparatus access roads are available.
EE. Section 3311.1.1 is added to read as follows:
3311.1.1 Fire Department Access Roadways: All construction sites shall be accessible by fire department apparatus by means of roadways having an all-weather driving service of not less than 20ft. of unobstructed width, except as provided for ADUs in section 503.2.1. The roads shall have the ability to withstand the live loads of fire apparatus, and have a minimum 13ft. 6 in. of vertical clearance. Dead end fire access roads in excess of 150 ft. in length shall be provided with approved turnarounds.
When approved by the Fire Code Official, temporary access roadways may be utilized until such time that the permanent roadways are installed. As a minimum, the roadway shall consist of a compacted sub base and six (6) inches of road base material (Class 2 aggregate base rock) both compacted to a minimum 95% and sealed. The perimeter edges of the roadway shall be contained and delineated by curb and gutter or other approved method. The use of geotextile reinforcing fabric underlayment or soils lime-treatment may be required if so determined by the project civil engineer. Provisions for surface drainage shall also be provided where necessary. The integrity of the roadway shall be maintained at all times.
FF. Section 3312.1 is amended to read as follows:
3312.1 Stairways Required. Each level above the first story in multi-story buildings that require two exit stairways shall be provided with at least two usable exit stairways after the
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floor decking is installed. The stairways shall be continuous and discharge to grade level.
Stairways serving more than two floor levels shall be enclosed (with openings adequately protected) after exterior walls/windows are in place. Exit stairs in new and in existing, occupied buildings shall be lighted and maintained clear of debris and construction materials at all times.
Exception: For multi-story buildings, one of the required exit stairs may be obstructed on not more than two contiguous floor levels for the purposes of stairway construction (i.e., installation of gypsum board, painting, flooring, etc.).
GG. Section 3312.4 is amended to read as follows:
Section 3312.4 Required Means of Egress. All buildings under construction shall have at least one unobstructed means of egress. All means of egress shall be identified in the written fire safety plan as required by Section 3303.1.
HH. Section 3315.1 is amended to read as follows:
3315.1 Completion before occupancy. In buildings where an automatic sprinkler system is required by this code or the California Building Code, it shall be unlawful to occupy any portion of a building or structure until the automatic sprinkler system installation has been tested and approved.
In new buildings of combustible construction where, automatic fire sprinkler systems are required to be installed, the system shall be placed in service as soon as possible.
Immediately upon the completion of sprinkler pipe installation on each floor level, the piping shall be hydrostatically tested and inspected. After inspection approval from the Fire department, each floor level of sprinkler piping shall be connected to the system supply riser and placed into service with all sprinkler heads uncovered. Protective caps may be installed on the active sprinklers during the installation of drywall, texturing and painting, but shall be removed immediately after this work is completed. For system activation notification, an exterior audible waterflow alarm shall be installed and connected to the sprinkler waterflow device prior to installation of the monitoring system.
For buildings equipped with fire sprinkler systems that are undergoing alterations, the sprinkler system(s) shall remain in service at all times except when system modifications are necessary. Fire sprinkler systems undergoing modifications shall be returned to service at the end of each workday unless otherwise approved by the fire department. The
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General contractor or his/her designee shall check the sprinkler control valve(s) at the end of each workday to confirm that the system has been restored to service.
II. Chapter 50 of the 2021 International Fire Code is adopted with the following amendments:
Section 5001.2.2.2 is amended to read as follows:
5001.2.2.2 Health Hazards The material categories listed in this section are classified as health hazards. A material with a primary classification as a health hazard can also pose a physical hazard.
1. Highly toxic and toxic materials.
2. Corrosive materials.
3. Moderately toxic gas.
4. Health hazards - Other.
Section 5002.1 is amended to read:
5002.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2:
BOILING POINT.
CEILING LIMIT.
CHEMICAL.
CHEMICAL NAME.
CLOSED CONTAINER.
CONTAINER.
CONTROL AREA.
CYLINDER.
DAY BOX.
DEFLAGRATION.
DESIGN PRESSURE.
DETACHED BUILDING.
DISPENSING.
EXCESS FLOW CONTROL.
EXHAUSTED ENCLOSURE.
EXPLOSION.
FLAMMABLE VAPORS OR FUMES.
GAS CABINET.
GAS ROOM.
HANDLING.
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS.
HEALTH HAZARD.
HEALTH HAZARD – OTHER.
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IMMEDIATELY DANGEROUS TO LIFE AND
HEALTH (IDLH).
INCOMPATIBLE MATERIALS.
LIQUID.
LOWER EXPLOSIVE LIMIT (LEL).
LOWER FLAMMABLE LIMIT (LFL).
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE QUANTITY PER CONTROL AREA.
MODERATELY TOXIC GAS.
NORMAL TEMPERATURE AND PRESSURE (NTP).
OUTDOOR CONTROL AREA.
PERMISSIBLE EXPOSURE LIMIT (PEL).
PESTICIDE.
PHYSICAL HAZARD.
PRESSURE VESSEL.
SAFETY CAN.
SAFETY DATA SHEET (SDS).
SECONDARY CONTAINMENT.
SEGREGATED.
SOLID.
SPILL CONTROL.
STORAGE, HAZARDOUS MATERIALS.
SYSTEM.
TANK, ATMOSPHERIC.
TANK, PORTABLE.
TANK, STATIONARY.
TANK VEHICLE.
UNAUTHORIZED DISCHARGE.
USE (MATERIAL).
VAPOR PRESSURE.
JJ. Section 5003.1.3.1 is added to read as follows:
5003.1.3.1 Toxic, Highly Toxic, Moderately Toxic Gases and Similarly Used or Handled Materials. The storage, use and handling of toxic, highly toxic and moderately toxic gases in amounts exceeding Table 6004.2.1.4 shall be in accordance with this chapter and Chapter 60. Any toxic, highly toxic or moderately toxic material that is used or handled as a gas or vapor shall be in accordance with the requirements for toxic, highly toxic or moderately toxic gases.
KK. Section 5003.1.5 is added to read as follows:
5003.1.5 Health Hazards - Other. The storage, use and handling of materials classified as other health hazards including carcinogens, irritants and sensitizers in amounts exceeding 810 cubic feet for gases, 55 gallons for liquids and 5,000 pounds for solids shall be in accordance with Section 5003.
Ordinance Page 24
LL. Section 5003.1.6 is added to read as follows:
5003.1.6 Additional Spill Control and Secondary Containment Requirements. In addition to the requirements set forth in Section 5004.2. An approved containment system is required for any quantity of hazardous materials that are liquids or solids at normal temperature, and pressure (NTP) where a spill is determined to be a plausible event and where such an event would endanger people, property or the environment. The approved containment system may be required to include a combination of spill control and secondary containment meeting the design and construction requirements set forth in Section 5004.2.
MM. Sec. 5003.2.2.1 is amended to read as follows:
5003.2.2.1 Design and Construction. Piping, tubing, valves, fittings and related components used for hazardous materials shall be in accordance with the following:
1. Piping, tubing, valves, fittings and related components shall be designed and fabricated from materials that are compatible with the material to be contained and shall be of adequate strength and durability to withstand the pressure, structural and seismic stress, and exposure to which they are subject.
2. Piping and tubing shall be identified in accordance with ASME A13.1 and the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs Marking Requirements and Guidelines for Hazardous Materials and Hazardous Waste to indicate the material conveyed.
3. Manual valves or automatic remotely activated fail-safe emergency shutoff valves shall be installed on supply piping and tubing and provided with ready access at the following locations:
3.1. The point of use.
3.2. The tank, cylinder or bulk source.
4. Manual emergency shutoff valves and controls for remotely activated emergency shutoff valves shall be clearly visible, provided with ready access and identified in an approved manner.
5. Backflow prevention or check valves shall be provided where the backflow of hazardous materials could create a hazardous condition or cause the unauthorized discharge of hazardous materials.
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6. Where gases or liquids having a hazard ranking of:
Health hazard Class 3 or 4
Flammability Class 4
Reactivity Class 4
in accordance with NFPA 704 are carried in pressurized piping above 15 pounds per square inch gauge (psig)(103 Kpa), an approved means of leak detection, emergency shutoff or excess flow control shall be provided. Where the piping originates from within a hazardous material storage room or area, the excess flow control shall be located within the storage room or area. Where the piping originates from a bulk source, the excess flow control shall be located as close to the bulk source as practical.
Exceptions:
1. Piping for inlet connections designed to prevent backflow.
2. Piping for pressure relief devices.
7. Secondary containment or equivalent protection from spills or leaks shall be provided for piping for liquid hazardous materials and for highly toxic and toxic corrosive gases above threshold quantities listed in Table 6004.2.1.4.
Secondary containment includes, but is not limited to double-walled piping.
Exceptions:
1. Secondary containment is not required for toxic corrosive gases if the piping is constructed of inert materials.
2. Piping under sub-atmospheric conditions if the piping is equipped with an alarm and fail-safe-to-close valve activated by a loss of vacuum.
8. Expansion chambers shall be provided between valves whenever the regulated gas may be subjected to thermal expansion. Chambers shall be sized to provide protection for piping and instrumentation and to accommodate the expansion of regulated materials.
NN. Section 5003.2.2.2 is amended to read as follows:
5003.2.2.2 Additional Regulation for Supply Piping for Health Hazard Materials.
Supply piping and tubing for gases and liquids having a health hazard ranking of 3 or 4 shall be in accordance with ASME B31.3 and the following:
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1. Piping and tubing utilized for the transmission of highly toxic, toxic, or highly volatile corrosive liquids and gases shall have welded or brazed connections throughout except for connections within an exhausted enclosure if the material is a gas, or an approved method of drainage or containment is provided for connections if the material is a liquid.
2. Piping and tubing shall not be located within corridors, within any portion of a means of egress required to be enclosed in fire-resistance-rated construction or in concealed spaces in areas not classified as Group H Occupancies.
3. All primary piping for toxic, highly toxic and moderately toxic gases shall pass a helium leak test of 1x10-9 cubic centimeters/second where practical, or shall pass testing in accordance with an approved, nationally recognized standard. Tests shall be conducted by a qualified "third party" not involved with the construction of the piping and control systems.
EXCEPTION:
Piping and tubing within the space defined by the walls of corridors and the floor or roof above or in concealed spaces above other occupancies where installed in accordance with Section 415.11.7.4 of the California Building Code for Group H-5 occupancies.
OO. Sec. 5003.5.2 is added to read as follows:
5003.5.2 Ventilation Ducting. Ducts venting hazardous materials operations shall be labeled with the hazard class of the material being vented and the direction of flow.
PP. Sec. 5003.5.3 is added to read as follows:
5003.5.3 “H" Occupancies. In "H" occupancies, all piping and tubing may be required to be identified when there is any possibility of confusion with hazardous materials transport tubing or piping. Flow direction indicators are required.
QQ. Section 5003.10.4 is added to read as follows:
5003.10.4 Elevators utilized to transport hazardous materials. 5003.10.4.1 When transporting hazardous materials, elevators shall have no other passengers other than the individual(s) handling the chemical transport cart. 5003.10.4.1.1 When transporting cryogenic or liquefied compressed gases, there shall be no occupants in the elevator.
5003.10.4.2 Hazardous materials liquid containers shall have a maximum capacity of 20 liters (5.28 gal).
5003.10.4.3 Toxic, moderately toxic, and highly-toxic gases shall be limited to a container of a maximum water capacity of 1 pound.
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5003.10.4.4 When transporting cryogenic or liquefied compressed gases, means shall be provided to prevent the elevator from being summoned to other floors.
RR. Section 5004.2.1 is amended to read as follows:
5004.2.1 Spill Control for Hazardous Material Liquids. Rooms, buildings or areas used for storage of hazardous material liquids shall be provided with spill control to prevent the flow of liquids to adjoining areas. Floors in indoor locations and similar surfaces in outdoor locations shall be constructed to contain a spill from the largest single vessel by one of the following methods:
1. Liquid-tight sloped or recessed floors in indoor locations or similar areas in outdoor locations.
2. Liquid-tight floors in indoor and outdoor locations or similar areas provided with liquid-tight raised or recessed sills or dikes.
3. Sumps and collection systems
4. Other approved engineered systems.
Except for surfacing, the floors, sills, dikes, sumps and collection systems shall be constructed of noncombustible material, and the liquid-tight seal shall be compatible with the material stored. When liquid-tight sills or dikes are provided, they are not required at perimeter openings having an open-grate trench across the opening that connects to an approved collection system.
SS. Section 5004.2.2.2 is amended to read as follows:
5004.2.2.2 Incompatible Materials. Incompatible materials shall be separated from each other in independent secondary containment systems.
TT. Chapter 54 of the 2022 California Fire Code is adopted with the following amendments:
Section 5402.1 is amended to read as follows:
5402.1 Definition. The following term is defined in Chapter 2:
CORROSIVE.
CORROSIVE LIQUIDS.
Ordinance Page 28
UU. Section 5601.1.3 is amended to read as follows:
5601.1.3 Fireworks. The possession, manufacture, storage, sale, handling, and use of fireworks, including those fireworks classified as Safe and Sane by the California State Fire Marshal, are prohibited.
Exceptions: The use of fireworks for firework displays as allowed in Section 5608.
VV. Section 5704.2.7.5.8 is amended to read as follows:
Section 5704.2.7.5.8 Overfill Prevention. An approved means or method in accordance with Section 5704.2.9.7.5. shall be provided to prevent the overfill of all Class I, II and IIIA liquid storage tanks. Storage tanks in refineries, bulk plants or terminals regulated by Sections 5706.4 or 5706.7 shall have overfill protection in accordance with API 2350.
Exception: Outside aboveground tanks with a capacity of 1320 gallons (5000 L) or less need only comply with Section 5704.2.9.7.5 (Item 1, Sub-item 1.1).
An approved means or method in accordance with Section 5704.2.9.7.5 shall be provided to prevent the overfilling of Class IIIB liquid storage tanks connected to fuel-burning equipment inside buildings.
Exception: Outside aboveground tanks with a capacity of 1320 gallons (5000 L) or less need only comply with Section 5704.2.9.7.5 (Item 1, Sub-item 1.1).
WW. Section 5704.2.7.5.9 is added to read as follows:
Section 5704.2.7.5.9 Automatic Filling of Tanks. Systems that automatically fill flammable or combustible liquid tanks shall be equipped with overfill protection, approved by the fire code official, that sends an alarm signal to a constantly attended location and immediately stops the filling of the tank. The alarm signal and automatic shutoff shall be tested on an annual basis and records of such testing shall be maintained on-site for a period of five (5) years.
XX. Section 5707 is amended to read as follows
5707.3.3 Site plan.
A site plan shall be developed for each location or area at which mobile fueling occurs.
The site plan shall be in sufficient detail to indicate the following:
Ordinance Page 29
1. All buildings and structures.
2. Lot lines or property lines.
3. Electric car chargers.
4. Solar photovoltaic parking lot canopies.
5. Appurtenances on-site and their use or function.
6. All uses adjacent to the lot lines of the site.
7. Fueling locations.
8. Locations of all storm drain openings and adjacent waterways or wetlands.
9. Information regarding slope, natural drainage, curbing and impounding.
10. How a spill will be kept on the site property.
11. Scale of the site plan.
YY. Chapter 58 of the 2022 California Fire Code is adopted with the following amendment:
Section 5809.3.4 is amended to read as follows:
5809.3.4 Site plan.
For other than emergency roadside service, a site plan shall be developed for each location at which mobile gaseous hydrogen fueling occurs. The site plan shall be in sufficient detail to indicate: all buildings, structures, lot lines, property lines and appurtenances on site and their use and function, and the scale of the site plan.
ZZ. Chapter 60 of the 2022 California Fire Code is adopted with the following amendments:
Amend Section 6001.1 is amended to read as follows:
6001.1 Scope.
The storage and use of highly toxic, toxic and moderately toxic materials shall comply with this chapter. Compressed gases shall also comply with Chapter 53.
Exceptions:
1. Display and storage in Group M and storage in Group S occupancies complying with Section 5003.11.
2. Conditions involving pesticides or agricultural products as follows:
2.1 Application and release of pesticide, agricultural products and materials intended for use in weed abatement, erosion control, soil amendment or similar applications when applied in accordance with the manufacturer’s instruction and label directions.
2.2 Transportation of pesticides in compliance with the Federal Hazardous Materials Transportation Act and regulations thereunder.
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2.3 Storage in dwellings or private garages of pesticides registered by the US Environmental Protection Agency to be utilized in and around the home, garden, pool, spa and patio.
Section 6004.1 is amended to read as follows:
6004.1 General.
The storage and use of highly toxic, toxic, and moderately toxic compressed gases shall comply with this section.
6004.1.1 Special limitations for indoor storage and use by occupancy. The indoor storage and use of highly toxic, toxic, and moderately toxic compressed gases in certain occupancies shall be subject to the limitations contained in Sections 6004.1.1.1 through 6004.1.1.3.
6004.1.1.1 Group A, E, I or U occupancies. Moderately toxic, toxic and highly toxic compressed gases shall not be stored or used within Group A, E, I or U occupancies.
Exception: Cylinders not exceeding 20 cubic feet (0.566 m3) at normal temperature and pressure (NTP) are allowed within gas cabinets or fume hoods.
6004.1.1.2 Group R occupancies. Moderately toxic, toxic, and highly toxic compressed gases shall not be stored or used in Group R occupancies. 6004.1.1.3 Offices, retail sales and classrooms. Moderately toxic, toxic and highly toxic compressed gases shall not be stored or used in offices, retail sales or classroom portions of Group B, F, M or S occupancies.
Exception: In classrooms of Group B occupancies, cylinders with a capacity not exceeding 20 cubic feet (0.566 m3) at NTP are allowed in gas cabinets or fume hoods.
Section 6004.2 is added and amended to read as follows:
6004.2 Indoor storage and use.
The indoor storage and use of highly toxic, toxic, and moderately toxic compressed gases shall be in accordance with Sections 6004.2.1 through 6004.2.2.10.3.
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6004.2.1 Applicability. The applicability of regulations governing the indoor storage and use of highly toxic, toxic, and moderately toxic compressed gases shall be as set forth in Sections 6004.2.1.1 through 6004.2.1.4.
6004.2.1.4 Quantities exceeding the minimum threshold quantities but not exceeding the maximum allowable quantities per control area. The indoor storage or use of highly toxic, toxic, and moderately toxic gases in amounts exceeding the minimum threshold quantities per control area set forth in Table 6004.2.1.4 but not exceeding maximum allowable quantity per control area set forth in Table 5003.1.1(2) shall be in accordance with Sections 5001, 5003, 6001, 6004.1, and 6004.4
Table 6004.2.1.4 is added to read:
Minimum Threshold Quantities for Highly Toxic, Toxic and Moderately Toxic Gases for Indoor Storage and Use
Highly Toxic 20
Toxic 405 cubic feet
Moderately Toxic 405 cubic feet
Section 6004.4 is added to read as follows:
6004.4. General indoor requirements. The general requirements applicable to the indoor storage and use of highly toxic, toxic, and moderately toxic compressed gases shall be in accordance with Sections 6004.4 through 6004.4.8.2 6004.4.1 Cylinder and tank location. Cylinders shall be located within gas cabinets, exhausted enclosures or gas rooms. Portable and stationary tanks shall be located within gas rooms or exhausted enclosures.
Exceptions:
1. Where a gas detection system is provided in accordance with 6004.4.8 6004.4.2. Ventilated areas. The room or area in which gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures are located shall be provided with exhaust ventilation. Gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures shall not be used as the sole means of exhaust for any room or area.
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6004.4.3. Piping and controls. In addition to the requirements of Section 5003.2.2, piping and controls on stationary tanks, portable tanks, and cylinders shall comply with the following requirements:
1. Stationary tanks, portable tanks, and cylinders in use shall be provided with a means of excess flow control on all tank and cylinder inlet or outlet connections.
Exceptions:
1. Inlet connections designed to prevent backflow.
2. Pressure relief devices.
6004.4.4 Gas rooms. Gas rooms shall comply with Section 5003.8.4 and both of the following requirements:
1. The exhaust ventilation from gas rooms shall be directed to an exhaust system.
2. Gas rooms shall be equipped with an approved automatic sprinkler system. Alternative fire- extinguishing systems shall not be used. 6004.4.5 Treatment systems. The exhaust ventilation from gas cabinets, exhausted enclosures and gas rooms, required in Section 6004.4.1 shall be directed to a treatment system. The treatment system shall be utilized to handle the accidental release of gas and to process exhaust ventilation. The treatment system shall be designed in accordance with Sections 6004.2.2.7.1 through 6004.2.2.7.5 and Chapter 5 of the California Mechanical Code.
Exceptions:
1. Highly toxic, toxic, and moderately toxic gases—storage. A treatment system is not required for cylinders, containers and tanks in storage where all of the following controls are provided:
1.1 Valve outlets are equipped with gas- tight outlet plugs or caps.
1.2 Hand wheel-operated valves have handles secured to prevent movement.
1.3 Approved containment vessels or containment systems are provided in accordance with Section 6004.2.2.3.
2. Highly toxic, toxic, and moderately toxic gases —use. Treatment systems are not required for highly toxic, toxic, and moderately toxic gases supplied by stationary tanks, portable tanks, or cylinders where a gas detection system complying with Section 6004.4.8 and listed or approved automatic-closing fail- safe valves are
Ordinance Page 33
provided. The gas detection system shall have a sensing interval not exceeding 5 minutes. Automatic-closing fail- safe valves shall be located immediately adjacent to cylinder valves and shall close when gas is detected at the permissible exposure limit (PEL) by a gas sensor monitoring the exhaust system at the point of discharge from the gas cabinet, exhausted enclosure, ventilated enclosure or gas room.
6004.4.5.1. Design. Treatment systems shall be capable of diluting, adsorbing, absorbing, containing, neutralizing, burning or otherwise processing the contents of the largest single vessel of compressed gas. Where a total containment system is used, the system shall be designed to handle the maximum anticipated pressure of release to the system when it reaches equilibrium.
6004.4.5.2. Performance. Treatment systems shall be designed to reduce the maximum allowable dis- charge concentrations of the gas to one-half immediate by dangerous to life and health (IDLH) at the point of discharge to the atmosphere.
Where more than one gas is emitted to the treatment system, the treatment system shall be designed to handle the worst-case release based on the release rate, the quantity and the IDLH for all compressed gases stored or used. 6004.4.5.3. Sizing. Treatment systems shall be sized to process the maximum worstcase release of gas based on the maximum flow rate of release from the largest vessel utilized. The entire contents of the largest compressed gas vessel shall be considered. 6004.4.5.4 Stationary tanks. Stationary tanks shall be labeled with the maximum rate of release for the compressed gas contained based on valves or fittings that are inserted directly into the tank. Where multiple valves or fittings are provided, the maximum flow rate of release for valves or fittings with the highest flow rate shall be indicated. Where liquefied compressed gases are in contact with valves or fittings, the liquid flow rate shall be utilized for computation purposes. Flow rates indicated on the label shall be converted to cubic feet per minute (cfm/min) (m3/s) of gas at normal temperature and pressure (NTP).
6004.4.5.5 Portable tanks and cylinders. The maximum flow rate of release for portable tanks and cylinders shall be calculated based on the total release from the cylinder or tank within the time specified in Table 6004.2.2.7.5. Where portable tanks or cylinders are equipped with approved excess flow or reduced flow valves, the worst-case release shall be determined by the maximum achievable flow from the valve as determined by the valve manufacturer or compressed gas supplier. Reduced flow and excess flow valves shall be permanently marked by the valve manufacturer
Ordinance Page 34
to indicate the maximum design flow rate. Such markings shall indicate the flow rate for air under normal temperature and pressure.
6004.4.6. Emergency power. Emergency power shall be provided for the following systems in accordance with Section 604:
1. Exhaust ventilation system.
2. Treatment system.
3. Gas detection system.
4. Smoke detection system.
6004.4.6.1. Fail-safe systems. Emergency power shall not be required for mechanical exhaust ventilation and treatment systems where approved fail-safe systems are installed and designed to stop gas flow.
6004.4.7. Automatic fire detection system. An approved automatic fire detection system shall be installed in rooms or areas where highly toxic, toxic, and moderately toxic compressed gases are stored or used. Activation of the detection system shall sound a local alarm. The fire detection system shall comply with Section 907. 6004.4.8. Gas detection system. A gas detection system complying with Section 916 shall be provided to detect the presence of gas at or below the PEL or ceiling limit of the gas for which detection is provided.
Exceptions:
1. A gas detection system is not required for toxic and moderately toxic gases when the physiological warning threshold level for the gas is at a level below the accepted PEL for the gas.
2. A gas detection system is not required for highly toxic, toxic, and moderately toxic gases where cylinders, portable tanks, and all non-continuously welded connects are within a gas cabinet or exhausted enclosures. 6004.4.8.1. Alarms. The gas detection system shall initiate a local alarm and transmit a signal to an approved location.
6004.4.8.2. Shut off of gas supply. The gas detection system shall automatically close the shut off valve at the source on gas supply piping and tubing related to the system being monitored for whichever gas is detected.
Exception: Automatic shutdown is not required for highly toxic, toxic, and moderately toxic compressed gas systems where all of the following controls are provided:
Ordinance Page 35
1. Constantly attended / supervised.
2. Provided with emergency shutoff valves that have ready access.
AAA. Chapter 64 of the 2022 California Fire Code is adopted with the following amendments:
Section 6405.3.1 is added to read as follows:
6405.3.1 Silane distribution systems automatic shutdown.
Silane distribution systems shall automatically shut down at the source upon activation of the gas detection system at levels above the alarm level and/or failure of the ventilation system for the silane distribution system.
BBB. The following reference standards are added to Chapter 80 of the 2022 California Fire Code to read as follows:
855 – 20: Standard for the Installation of Stationary Energy Storage Systems CCC. Appendix B of the 2021 International Fire Code is adopted and Section B105.2 is added to Appendix B to read as follows:
B105.2 Buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings, Group R-3 and R-4 buildings and townhouses. The minimum fire-flow and flow duration for buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings, Group R-3 and R-4 buildings and townhouses shall be as specified in Tables B105.1(2) and B105.2.
Exceptions: [SFM] Group B, S-2 and U occupancies having a floor area not exceeding 1,000 square feet, primarily constructed of noncombustible exterior walls with wood or steel roof framing, having a Class A roof assembly, with uses limited to the following or similar uses:
1. California State Parks buildings of an accessory nature (restrooms).
2. Safety roadside rest areas (SRRA), public restrooms.
3. Truck inspection facilities (TIF), CHP office space and vehicle inspection bays.
4. Sand/salt storage buildings, storage of sand and salt.
Ordinance Page 36
The maximum fire flow reduction for all commercial buildings greater than 30,000 square feet and residential podium buildings shall not exceed 25 percent of the fire flow specified in Table B105.1(2). The maximum fire flow reduction for all other buildings shall not exceed 50 percent of the fire flow specified in Table B105.1(2).
DDD. Appendix C of the 2021 International Fire Code is adopted and Section C102.1 is amended to read as follows:
C102.1 Minimum number of fire hydrants for a building. The number of fire hydrants available to a building shall be not less than the minimum specified in Table C102.1, utilizing the base fire flow without fire sprinkler reduction.
EEE. Appendix D of the 2021 International Fire Code is adopted and amended as follows:
Section D103.1 is deleted in its entirety.
Section D103.2 is amended to read as follows:
D103.2 Grade. The maximum grade of a fire department apparatus access road shall not exceed 15-percent, unless approved by the fire code official.
Section D103.3 is amended to read as follows:
D103.3 Turning radius. The required turning radius of a fire apparatus access roads shall be a minimum of 30 feet inside, and a minimum of 50 outside.
Section D103.4 is amended to read as follows:
D103.4 Dead ends. Dead-end fire apparatus access roads and/or driveways in excess of 150 feet (45 720 mm) shall be provided with turnaround provisions in accordance with Santa Clara County Fire Department apparatus access and turnaround standards. Figure D103.1, as approved by the fire code official.
Section D103.4 is amended to read as follows:
D103.6 Signs. Where required by the Fire Code Official, fire apparatus access roads shall be designated and marked as a fire lane as set forth in Section 22500.1 of the California Vehicle Code and the Santa Clara County Fire Department A-6 Standard.
Signs shall have a minimum dimension of 12 inches (305 mm) wide by 18 inches (457 mm) high and have red letters on a white reflective background. Signs shall be posted on one or both sides of the fire apparatus road as required by Section D103.6.1 or D103.6.2.
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NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the Town of Los Altos Hills does hereby further ORDAIN as follows:
1. Severability. If any provision of this ordinance or the application thereof to any person or circumstance is held invalid or unconstitutional, the remainder of this ordinance, including the application of such part or provision to other persons or circumstances shall not be affected thereby and shall continue in full force and effect. To this end, provisions of this ordinance are severable.
The City Council of the Town of Los Altos Hills hereby declares that it would have passed each section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause, or phrase hereof irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, subdivisions, paragraphs, sentences, clauses, or phrases be held unconstitutional, invalid, or unenforceable.
2. Effective Date; Publication. This ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after adoption. Within fifteen days after the passage of this ordinance the City Clerk shall cause this ordinance or a summary thereof to be published once, with the names of those City Councilmembers voting for or against it in a newspaper of general circulation in the Town of Los Altos Hills, as required by law.
INTRODUCED:
PASSED:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTENTIONS:
ABSENT:
BY: _________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
_________________________
City Attorney
5238474.1
TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS November 17, 2022
Staff Report to the City Council
SUBJECT: WAIVE READING AND INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTERS 1.2 (RESIDENTIAL CODE) AND 1.8 (FIRE CODE) OF TITLE 8 (BUILDING REGULATIONS) OF THE LOS ALTOS HILLS MUNICIPAL CODE AND ADOPTING BY REFERENCE AMENDMENTS TO THE 2022
CALIFORNIA BUILDING STANDARDS CODE AND LOCAL CODE
AMENDMENTS; CEQA REVIEW: CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION PER
SECTION 15061(B)(3)
FROM: Sofia Mangalam, Planning Director
APPROVED: Peter Pirnejad, City Manager
RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council:
Waive reading and introduce the Ordinance (Attachment 1):
1. To amend Chapters 1.2 and 1.8 of Title 8 of the Los Altos Hills Municipal Code; and
2. Adopt by reference the amendments to the California Building Standards Code with local modifications including Santa Clara County Fire District (SCCFD) and staff recommended amendments to the Fire Code.
BACKGROUND
Every three (3) years, the California Building Standards Commission adopts updates to the building construction codes as part of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations. The latest California Building Standards Code edition (referred to as the 2022 CBC) becomes effective statewide on January 1, 2023. Local jurisdictions have the option of adopting more stringent amendments to the code based upon local climatic, topographic or geologic conditions. On October 20, 2022, the Town introduced two (2) ordinances for adopting Reach Codes and amending Chapters 1 through 1.11 to adopt by reference the 2022 California Building Standards Code.
Fire protection and fire code enforcement services are provided to the Town through the Los Altos Hills County Fire District by the Santa Clara County Central Fire Protection District (Santa Clara County Fire Department) per a Fire and Emergency Medical Services agreement between Los Altos Hills County Fire District (LAHCFD), the agency having responsibility for services, and the Santa Clara County Central Fire Protection District (SCCCFD).
SCCFD prepared a larger list of recommended Fire Code amendments that address site access, fire sprinklers, accessory dwelling units, and battery storage and provided them to Town staff.
Attachment 2
S.M.
P.P.
Staff Report to the City Council
Residential and Fire Code Amendments
November 17, 2022
In order to understand the proposed amendments by SCCFD, staff engaged the services of Shane Lauderdale of PyroAnalysis, a fire code consulting group with over 30 years of fire and fire code experience in Northern California and the Bay Area. The Town in consultation with PyroAnalysis met with SCCFD on three (3) separate occasions, including, October 21, November 2 and November 15, to discuss options for further amendments to the proposed fire code to facilitate development of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) that could include junior accessory dwelling units (JADUs), as well as promoting fire life safety to residents and our first responders in the event of a fire.
The Town is working on updating its Housing Element to meet Regional Housing Allocation Needs (RHNA) allocated by the State, and ADUs are a major component of meeting the Town’s allocation. Town staff expressed concerns to SCCFD regarding requirements of Section 503, including fire apparatus access requirements, as it greatly affects the production of ADUs to existing homes. After extensive discussion, SCCFD and Town staff agreed on additions of two (2) exceptions pertaining to fire apparatus access requirements for ADUs.
DISCUSSION
Every three (3) years, to facilitate the adoption of Fire Code, SCCFD prepares amendments and provides to the Town for adoption. SCCFD has made the following recommendations (revisions/edits) regarding adoptions and amendments of the Fire Code, as are included in the Ordinance, including but not limited to the following:
Residential Sprinkler Code Amendments
An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed for existing one and two-family dwellings that have additions that increase the total size of the dwelling to more than 3,600 square feet.
Fire Apparatus Access Road
• Adds an exception to the dimension requirement for fire apparatus access roads to have an unobstructed width of not less than 20 feet for engines, and 26 feet (7925 mm) for aerial fire apparatus and unobstructed vertical clearance of minimum of 13 feet 6 inches for every facility, building or portion of a building with an exception that when there are not more than two residential parcels, the width may be modified by fire code official. • Removes the exception that provided the fire code official the authority to require modifications to the access width and vertical clearance requirements to meet safety objectives of the jurisdiction.
• The minimum required turning radius is 30 feet inside and 50 feet outside. • Requires a maximum grade of 15 percent.
• Fire code official can require installation of gates, across trails, accessways etc. For singlefamily homes, the minimum width of the gate is 12 feet. • Security gates across a fire apparatus access road requires approval from fire code official.
Staff Report to the City Council
Residential and Fire Code Amendments
November 17, 2022
Exceptions to 20-foot-wide Fire Apparatus Road requirements:
• When there are not more than two residential parcels, having only Group R, Division 3, or Group U occupancy structures, the access road width may be modified by the fire code official.
• Detached ADUs equipped with an approved fire sprinkler system, may have an unobstructed access road width of not less than 16 feet. Access roads less than 16 feet shall go through an application for Alternate materials, design and method of construction and equipment through SCCFD.
• Attached ADUs when both the existing residential and ADU are equipped with an approved fire sprinkler system, may have an unobstructed access road width of not less than 16 feet. Access roads less than 16 feet shall go through an application for Alternate materials, design and method of construction and equipment through SCCFD.
Address Identification Requirements
• Numbers shall not be spelled out.
• Each character shall be not less than 6 inches amongst other requirements.
Added and Amended Provisions
• Chapter 6 of 2022 California Fire Code – Building Service and Systems • Chapter 7 of 2022 California Fire Code – Fire and Smoke Protection Features • Chapter 9 of 2021 International Fire Code – Fire Protection Systems • Chapter 12 – Energy Systems (ESS)
o ESS can only be installed in detached garages and accessory structures; attached garages separate from the main house; exterior walls not less than 3 feet away from doors and windows; enclosed utility closets, basements, storage or utility spaces. o If installed in rooms with dwelling units, attached garages, basements – shall be protected by smoke alarm and heat alarm.
• Chapter 33 – Fire Safety during construction and demolition o All construction sites shall be accessible by fire department apparatus of not less than 20ft. of unobstructed width, unless an exception applies related to Section 503 regarding width requirements. Dead end fire access roads in excess of 150 ft. in length shall be provided with approved turnarounds. Temporary access roadways may be utilized until such time that the permanent roadways are installed. • Chapter 50 of 2021 International Fire Code
• Chapter 54 of the 2022 California Fire Code – Corrosive Materials • Chapter 58 of the 2022 California Fire Code – Flammable Gases and Flammable Cryogenic Fluids
• Chapter 60 of the 2022 California Fire Code - Highly Toxic and Toxic Materials • Chapter 64 of the 2022 California Fire Code - Pyrophoric Materials • Chapter 80 Reference Standard
Staff Report to the City Council
Residential and Fire Code Amendments
November 17, 2022
• Appendix B - Fire-Flow Requirements for Buildings
• Appendix C - Fire Hydrant Locations and Distribution
• Appendix D - Fire Apparatus Access Roads
CONCLUSION
The 2022 Residential and Fire Code amendments proposed by SCCFD, with a few added exceptions for ADUs as it relates to access roadway requirements, are designed to improve the safety of building occupants, reduce property damage and improve the Town’s overall preparedness and resilience in the event of a wildfire. Staff has prepared findings that the local amendments are necessary due to local climatic, topographic, or geologic conditions and these findings are included in the draft ordinance (Attachment 1).
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The proposed ordinance amendments are exempt from California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to "general exemptions" described in Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines, since the ordinance amendments would not have any significant effects on the environment.
2022 CITY COUNCIL STRATEGIC PRIORITIES
This request was not part of the Council’s priorities for 2022. However, the proposed amendments resonate with City Council’s value/priority area, “Promote Public Safety”.
FISCAL IMPACT
There are sufficient funds in the FY2022-23 Operating Budget to cover the contract with Pyroanalysis, staff and City Attorney's time and no additional funds need to be appropriated.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Draft Ordinance of Amendments to the Municipal Code