Exhibit A
Non-Functional Turf Loan Program
The loan program would be available to property owners of non-residential properties within the City limits that have a commercial or industrial business operating on the property with Non-Functional Turf (greater than 500 square feet).
Property owners may apply for the following loans:
1. Loan to construct the non-potable water service connection to their on-site irrigation system. a. A property owner that has a non-potable water main line located in the public right of way in front of their property may receive a loan to construct the non-potable water service connection.
b. The property owner must obtain a no cost encroachment permit and hire a licensed and bonded contractor to perform the work in accordance with the City of Ripon standards and specifications.
2. Loan to replace the Non-Functional Turf with water efficient landscaping a. A property owner who would like to replace Non-Functional Turf with landscaping that complies with the State of California Mandatory Water Efficiency Landscaping Ordinance requirements may receive a loan to install these improvements. b. The property owner must submit a landscaping plan showing the proposed landscape improvements.
The property owner will need to fill out an application, including providing plans or a description of the work to be performed along with a cost estimate. City staff will determine whether the plans or description of the work is consistent with the Mandatory Water Efficiency Landscaping Ordinance.
Once the application is approved, the property owner will enter into a loan agreement with the City of Ripon. The terms of the loan agreement, including remedies for non-compliance, shall be prepared by the City Attorney, and shall include, at a minimum the following terms of the agreement:
Reimbursement of Expenses
Once the work has been completed, the property owner will be reimbursed for the expense with loan proceeds.
Terms of the Loan
The loan will be for the actual cost of the improvements with a maximum of $30,000.
The term of the loan will be 5 years.
Interest rate of the amount borrowed will be 2 percent.
Payments are to be made to the City every month.
If the property is sold during the term of the loan, the outstanding balance will be due prior to the sale of the property.
If a borrower is 30 days past due on the monthly payment, they will pay a penalty as permitted by California law.
If a borrower is 90 days past due, this would be considered a default on the loan and the City will take the steps necessary to collect the outstanding balance, including the recording of a Notice of Default and/or lien against the property.