CITY OF SANTA CLARITA
CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
6:00 PM
City Council Chambers
23920 Valencia Blvd.
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
AGENDA
Joint Meeting with
Board of Library Trustees
How to Address the City Council
Pursuant to Government Code section 54954.3 members of the public are afforded the opportunities to address the City Council. You may address the Council once per meeting during Public Participation on any matter within the Council's jurisdiction that is not listed on the agenda. Public Participation speaker's cards must be submitted to the City Clerk BEFORE this portion of the meeting begins. To address the Council regarding an item on the agenda, please fill out a speaker's card and submit it to the City Clerk BEFORE the Mayor announces the item.
Each person addressing the Council is given three minutes to speak (with double the time allotted to non-English speakers using a translator) indicated by a colored light system on the Council dais. If you wish to provide information to the Council, please present the City Clerk with 10 copies. Otherwise, your materials will simply be added to the official record. Please note use of City Council Chamber technology equipment to present electronic material during meetings is not allowed.
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In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Clerk's Office, (661) 255-4391. Notification 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. (28CFR 35.102-35.104 ADA Title II)
Pursuant to Government Code 54957.5 any writings or documents distributed to a majority of the members of the City Council regarding any open session item on this agenda will be made available for public inspection in the City Clerk’s Office located at 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Suite 120, during normal business hours. View public meeting agendas here, inclusive of all attachments and reading file material.
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INVOCATION
McLean
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
FLAG SALUTE
EXECUTIVE MEETING
This time has been set aside for Councilmembers to review the agenda and obtain any further information that may be needed. Council will also discuss each individual item during the course of the meeting with the exception of the Consent Calendar, which may be approved in its entirety by one motion, unless there is a request to pull an item for discussion. No action will be taken on public agenda items during the Executive Meeting.
AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS
National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month Proclamation
PRESENTATIONS
Annual Update of the Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
This time has been set aside for the public to address the City Council on items NOT listed on the agenda. The City Council will not act upon these items at this meeting other than to review and/or provide direction to staff. All speakers must submit a speaker’s card to the City Clerk PRIOR to the beginning of this portion of the meeting. Thirty minutes are allotted for public input at this time. The FIRST TEN people to submit a speaker card prior to the beginning of Public Participation will be heard.
STAFF COMMENTS
COMMITTEE REPORTS/COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS
CONSENT CALENDAR
All matters listed under the Consent Calendar are considered routine and will be enacted by one motion by the City Council. The items are not individually discussed by the City Council unless a request is made by a member of the public or the Council, in which case, the item(s) will be removed from the Consent Calendar and will be considered separately.
1. APPROVAL OF SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES – The minutes of the City Council are submitted for approval.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
City Council approve the minutes of the February 25, 2025 Special Meeting.
2. APPROVAL OF REGULAR MEETING MINUTES – The minutes of the City Council are submitted for approval.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
City Council approve the minutes of the February 25, 2025 Regular Meeting.
3. CHECK REGISTER NO. 05 - Check Register No. 05 for Period 01/24/25 through 02/06/25 and 02/13/25. Electronic Funds Transfers for the Period 01/27/25 through 02/07/25.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
City Council approve and ratify for payment the demands presented in Check Register No. 05.
4. MODEL 1 BUS SALES PURCHASE AND DELIVERY OF FIVE DIAL-A-RIDE VEHICLES CONTRACT - City Council consideration of awarding a contract to Model 1 Bus Sales for the purchase and delivery of five Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Dial- A-Ride vehicles.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Authorize the City Manager or designee to negotiate and execute a contract with Model 1 Bus Sales for the purchase of five Compressed Natural Gas cutaway vehicles, tools, training, and spare parts for an amount not to exceed $1,220,576, or modify the award in the event issues of impossibility of performance arise, subject to City Attorney approval.
5. BELCARO AT SAND CANYON PROJECT (MASTER CASE 24-093)
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT CONTRACT - City Council consideration of a contract for SWCA Environmental Consultants to prepare an Environmental Impact Report associated with Master Case 24-093, the Belcaro at Sand Canyon Project.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
1. Award a contract to SWCA Environmental Consultants for the preparation of the Belcaro at Sand Canyon project Environmental Impact Report (Master Case 24-093) in the amount of $321,360, and authorize a contingency in the amount of $48,204, for a total contract amount not to exceed $369,564.
2. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all documents, subject to City Attorney approval.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
This time has been set aside for any speakers that have turned in speaker cards and were not heard in the first thirty minutes allotted to address the City Council on items that are NOT on the agenda. Speaker cards may not be submitted relating to any items listed on the agenda.
STAFF COMMENTS
FUTURE MEETINGS
The next regular meeting of the City Council will be held March 25, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers, 1st floor of City Hall, 23920 Valencia Blvd., Santa Clarita, CA.
CERTIFICATION
On March 6, 2025, I, Mary Cusick, do hereby certify that I am the duly appointed and qualified City Clerk for the City of Santa Clarita and that the foregoing agenda was posted at City Hall.
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Mary Cusick
City Clerk
Santa Clarita, California
PROCLAMATION
National Developmental
Disabilities Awareness Month
March 2025
WHEREAS, March is recognized as National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a time to raise public awareness, promote inclusion, and foster understanding of the diverse contributions individuals with developmental disabilities bring to our community; and
WHEREAS, developmental disabilities are a natural part of the human experience and affect millions of individuals in the United States, enriching the tapestry of our society with unique talents, perspectives, and contributions; and
WHEREAS, inclusion and respect for individuals with developmental disabilities strengthen the fabric of our community, and it is essential to promote equal opportunities in education, employment, housing, and public life; and
WHEREAS, service providers, advocacy organizations, families, caregivers, and individuals with developmental disabilities work tirelessly to ensure access to resources and services that empower individuals to live fulfilling and independent lives; and
WHEREAS, by increasing awareness and fostering understanding we can eliminate barriers, combat stigma, and celebrate the achievements and contributions of people with developmental disabilities in every aspect of community life.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City of Santa Clarita does hereby proclaim March 2025, as National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, and urge residents to recognize the invaluable contributions of those with developmental disabilities, to promote inclusion and accessibility, and reaffirm our commitment to creating a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Signed this 11th day of March, 2025.
William A. Miranda, Mayor
Santa Clarita, California
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Attachment: National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month Proclamation 2025 (National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month Proclamation)
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA
City Council
Special Meeting
~Minutes~
Tuesday, February 25, 2025 5:15 PM City Council Chambers
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Miranda called the Special Meeting of the City Council to order at 5:16 p.m.
ROLL CALL
All Councilmembers were present.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION FOR AGENDIZED ITEMS
Addressing the Council was Douglas Fraser regarding the Anticipated Litigation matters.
CLOSED SESSION
Joseph Montes, City Attorney, indicated that none of the matters related to manufactured housing and advised of the need to conduct a Closed Session for the purpose of holding a:
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION
Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)
Name of case: City of Santa Clarita v. Canyon View Limited et al.
Case No. PC058773, Appellate Court Case No. B320230
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED LITIGATION
Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2) - 1 matter
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED LITIGATION
Initiation of litigation pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(4) - 1 matter
RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION - TO BE HELD IN THE CARL BOYER ROOM Mayor Miranda recessed the meeting to Closed Session at 5:18 p.m.
RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION
Mayor Miranda reconvened the meeting to Open Session at 6:01 p.m.
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Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Feb 25, 2025 5:15 PM (Consent Calendar)
CITY ATTORNEY ANNOUNCEMENT
City Attorney Joseph Montes announced that no action was taken in Closed Session that was required to be reported.
ADJOURN
Mayor Miranda adjourned the Special Meeting at 6:02 p.m.
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MAYOR
ATTEST:
______________________________________
CITY CLERK
1 Packet Pg. 7
Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Feb 25, 2025 5:15 PM (Consent Calendar)
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA
City Council
Regular Meeting
Joint Meeting with
Board of Library Trustees
Hereinafter the titles Mayor, Mayor Pro Tem, Councilmember, City Manager, City Attorney, and City Clerk may be used also to indicate Mayor/Chair/President, Mayor Pro Tem/Vice-Chair/Vice President, City Manager/Executive Director, City Attorney/Counsel, and City Clerk/Secretary ~Minutes~
Tuesday, February 25, 2025 6:00 PM City Council Chambers
INVOCATION
Councilmember Ayala delivered the invocation.
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Miranda called to order the Joint Regular Meeting of the City Council and Board of Library Trustees at 6:04 p.m.
ROLL CALL
All Councilmembers were present.
FLAG SALUTE
Councilmember Gibbs led the flag salute.
EXECUTIVE MEETING
This time has been set aside for Councilmembers to review the agenda and obtain any further information that may be needed. Council will also discuss each individual item during the course of the meeting with the exception of the Consent Calendar, which may be approved in its entirety by one motion, unless there is a request to pull an item for discussion. No action will be taken on public agenda items during the Executive Meeting.
AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS
Councilmember Ayala recognized women's achievements worldwide, announced that the City proclaims March 8, 2025 as International Women's Day, and invited members of the Zonta Club of Santa Clarita Valley to the dais to accept the proclamation and take a photo.
Councilmember Gibbs remarked on the tireless dedication first responders showed during the recent California wildfires and recognized the community’s gratitude to the men and women of the Los Angeles County Fire Department, the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station, and the California Highway Patrol. Councilmember Gibbs invited Assistant Fire Chief Pat Sprengel, 2 Packet Pg. 8
Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Feb 25, 2025 6:00 PM (Consent Calendar)
Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Captain Justin Diez, California Highway Patrol Captain Ed Krusey, and members of their teams to the dais to accept their recognitions and share a few words.
Mayor Miranda shared that many first responders worked up to 10 days without rest and expressed his gratitude for their service.
Mayor Pro Tem Weste recognized the Hart Softball 8U Diamond Girls Team Championship achievement and invited coaches and team members to the dais to take a photo and accept their certificates.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Addressing the City Council were Mitchell Landau regarding The Master’s University; Alan Ferdman regarding fire safety; Cher Gilmore, representing Santa Clarita Valley ECO Alliance, regarding a film festival; Jose Estrada, representing California Nurses Association (CNA), regarding nurses of Henry Mayo; Amber Richardson, representing CNA, regarding nurses of Henry Mayo; Sandra Chavez, representing CNA, regarding nurses of Henry Mayo; Clarissa Vela, representing CNA, regarding nurses of Henry Mayo; Sheri Stanton regarding parking at Vintage at Bouquet Canyon Senior Apartments; and Debra McKay regarding parking at Vintage at Bouquet Canyon Senior Apartments.
STAFF COMMENTS
City Manager Ken Striplin commented that City staff would be reaching out to address the speakers' parking concerns.
COMMITTEE REPORTS/COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS
Councilmember Ayala commented on the grand opening of the new playground at Northbridge Park.
Mayor Pro Tem Weste commented on the $1.4 million awarded to the City in competitive grant funding from Los Angeles County to continue the City's open space acquisition and invited Director of Neighborhood Services, Jerrid McKenna, up to the dais to take a photo.
Councilmember Gibbs commented on the 20th anniversary of International Holocaust Remembrance Day, recognized as January 27.
Councilwoman McLean commented on the plaque dedication at the Veterans Historical Plaza to honor the 250th anniversary of the Daughters of the American Revolution, her attendance at the Bridge to Home Soup for the Soul event, and the summer job opportunities available with the City.
Mayor Miranda shared that he received President and CEO of Southern California Edison Steven D. Powell’s reply to the January 28 letter from the City Council regarding the community’s 2 Packet Pg. 9
Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Feb 25, 2025 6:00 PM (Consent Calendar)
concerns over the recent power safety shutoffs and read it aloud to audience members. Mayor Miranda also commented on the Big I Do event that took place on Valentine's Day.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
ITEM 1
RESULTS OF THE 2025-26 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY FOR THE
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM
A needs assessment process is conducted annually as part of the Community Development Block Grant program.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
City Council conduct a public hearing and receive information regarding the results of the annual Community Needs Assessment Survey conducted as part of the Community Development Block Grant Program.
Mayor Miranda opened the Public Hearing.
City Clerk Mary Cusick reported all notices required by law have been provided.
Community Preservation Manager Tracy Sullivan provided the presentation.
Mayor Miranda closed the Public Hearing.
Mayor Pro Tem Weste commented on the need for senior housing.
Councilmember Ayala commented on the need for low income housing and suggested that funds from the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) help fill in gaps in services like homelessness prevention, mental health support, and job training, if and where possible.
RESULT: NO ACTION TAKEN
CONSENT CALENDAR
All items approved except Item 6, which was pulled for a separate vote.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Laurene Weste, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: Marsha McLean, Councilmember
AYES: Ayala, Miranda, Gibbs, McLean, Weste
ITEM 2
APPROVAL OF SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES – The minutes are submitted for approval.
RECOMMENDED ACTION: City Council approve the minutes of the February 11, 2025, Special Meeting
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Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Feb 25, 2025 6:00 PM (Consent Calendar)
ITEM 3
APPROVAL OF REGULAR MEETING MINUTES – The minutes are submitted for approval.
RECOMMENDED ACTION: City Council approve the minutes of the February 11, 2025, Regular Meeting
ITEM 4
CHECK REGISTER NO. 04
Check Register No. 04 for Period 01/10/25 through 01/23/25 and 01/30/25. Electronic Funds Transfers for the Period 01/13/25 through 01/24/25.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
City Council approve and ratify for payment the demands presented in Check Register No. 04.
ITEM 5
APPOINTMENTS TO THE BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES
City Council consideration of appointments and reappointments to the Santa Clarita Board of Library Trustees.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
1. City Council adopt a resolution appointing Councilmember Patsy Ayala to the Santa Clarita Board of Library Trustees for the remainder of the unexpired term ending on June 30, 2025.
2. City Council adopt a resolution reappointing Mayor Bill Miranda and Councilmember Patsy Ayala to the Santa Clarita Board of Library Trustees for the subsequent term beginning July 1, 2025, and expiring June 30, 2028.
Adopted Resolution No. 25-8 and 25-9
ITEM 6 WAS MOVED TO ITEMS PULLED FOR A SEPARATE VOTE
ITEM 7
NEWHALL FAMILY THEATRE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS AGREEMENT City Council review of the agreement between the City of Santa Clarita and the Newhall School District regarding the Newhall Family Theatre for the Performing Arts at Newhall Elementary School.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
City Council approve and authorize the City Manager or designee to execute a three-year agreement with the Newhall School District for an amount not to exceed $75,000 per year for the Newhall Family Theatre for the Performing Arts, from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2028, subject to City Attorney approval.
Addressing the City Council was Tom Lund in support of the item.
Mayor Miranda asked about theater reservations and promotion strategies, to which Mr. Lund responded that reservations were reviewed by him and secured through an application process 2 Packet Pg. 11
Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Feb 25, 2025 6:00 PM (Consent Calendar)
before being assigned a date, and that promotion was through social media, press releases, and the Seasons Magazine.
Mayor Miranda then suggested Mr. Lund email Councilmembers with the theater's schedule in the future to help promotion of events.
ITEM 8
SAND CANYON TRAIL, PHASE IV, PROJECT T3024 - SUMMARY VACATION OF AN
OFFER OF DEDICATION FOR FUTURE STREET PURPOSES ALONG SULTUS STREET
AND SAND CANYON ROAD AND ACCEPTANCE OF AN EASEMENT FOR TRAIL
PURPOSES
This item considers adopting a resolution for the summary vacation of an offer of dedication for future street purposes along Sultus Street and Sand Canyon Road and accepts an easement for trail purposes.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
City Council:
1. Adopt a resolution for the summary vacation of an offer of dedication for future street purposes along Sultus Street and Sand Canyon Road, as described and shown on Exhibit “A” Legal Description and Exhibit “B” Exhibit Map of the attached resolution.
2. Authorize the City Clerk to record the certified original resolution in the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder’s office.
3. Authorize the City Manager, or designee, to accept the dedication and grant of easement for public use and trail purposes along Sultus Street.
4. Authorize the City Manager, or designee, to execute all documents, subject to City Attorney approval.
Adopted Resolution No. 25-10
ITEM 9
CENTRAL PARK BUILDOUT, PROJECT P4019 - PROJECT CLOSEOUT This item considers transferring funds into the Central Park Buildout project to pay for the final negotiated change order.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
City Council appropriate $245,175 from the Site Improvements Fee Fund (Fund 431) to Central Park Buildout Project expenditure account P4019431-516101.
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Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Feb 25, 2025 6:00 PM (Consent Calendar)
ITEM 10
RENEWAL OF INDUSTRIAL WASTE SERVICE AGREEMENT
The item considers the renewal of the Industrial Waste Service Agreement between the City of Santa Clarita and the County of Los Angeles, Department of Public Works, for the enforcement of the City’s Wastewater Ordinance.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
City Council approve and authorize the City Manager or designee to execute a five-year renewal of the Industrial Waste Service Agreement between the City of Santa Clarita and the County of Los Angeles, Department of Public Works, for an amount not to exceed $650,000 per year for the enforcement of the City’s Wastewater Ordinance, from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2030, subject to City Attorney approval.
ITEMS PULLED FOR A SEPARATE VOTE
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Jason Gibbs, Councilmember
SECONDER: Laurene Weste, Mayor Pro Tem
AYES: Ayala, Miranda, Gibbs, McLean, Weste
ITEM 6
SANTA CLARITA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER AT COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS
AGREEMENT
City Council review of the agreement between the City of Santa Clarita and the Santa Clarita Community College District regarding the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center at College of the Canyons.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
City Council approve and authorize the City Manager or designee to execute a three-year agreement with the Santa Clarita Community College District for an amount not to exceed $80,000 per year for the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center at College of the Canyons, from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2028, subject to City Attorney approval.
Councilwoman McLean inquired if a survey had been performed to assess the community's satisfaction with booking the College of the Canyons Performing Arts Center (PAC) to which Arts and Events Manager Phil Lantis responded that a formal survey had not been conducted; Councilwoman McLean followed up her comments with suggesting that the funds provided by the City offset the community groups’ costs, rather than be discretionary as written into the contract; and approving a one-year contract, returning to Council with a multi-year contract once the language can be changed.
Councilmember Ayala asked about the attendance at the PAC and about the City's financial contribution. Mr. Lantis responded that attendance is consistent, and that the City's contribution was very small and used for staffing and operational costs of the programming. City Manager Ken Striplin then clarified that the City's contribution pays for the PAC managing director salary, maintenance, and equipment replacement.
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Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Feb 25, 2025 6:00 PM (Consent Calendar)
Mayor Miranda commented on the costs of productions at the theater, and Councilmember Weste commented upon the resources available to the smaller performing groups such as the use of the Newhall Family Theatre and the availability of City grant funding.
Councilmember Gibbs agreed with Councilwoman McLean regarding the language change and made a motion to keep the City's agreement with the PAC to three years, but remove the language regarding discretion.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION II
No additional requests to speak were received.
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Miranda adjourned the Regular Meeting at 7:30 p.m.
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MAYOR
ATTEST:
______________________________________
CITY CLERK
2 Packet Pg. 14
Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Feb 25, 2025 6:00 PM (Consent Calendar)
Agenda Item: 3
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA
AGENDA REPORT
CONSENT CALENDAR
CITY MANAGER APPROVAL:
DATE: March 11, 2025
SUBJECT: CHECK REGISTER NO. 05
DEPARTMENT: Administrative Services
PRESENTER: Brittany Houston
RECOMMENDED ACTION
City Council approve and ratify for payment the demands presented in Check Register No. 05.
BACKGROUND
Check Register No. 05 for the Period 01/24/25 through 02/06/25 and 02/13/25 in the aggregate amount of $7,281,246.92 inclusive of Electronic Funds Transfers for the Period 01/27/25 through 02/07/25 in the aggregate amount of $1,454,597.56.
FISCAL IMPACT
Adequate funds are available in the budgeted expenditure accounts to support the Check Register payments.
ATTACHMENTS
Memo - Check Register No. 05
Check Register No. 05 (available in the City Clerk's Reading File) 3 Packet Pg. 15
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Attachment: Memo - Check Register No. 05 (Check Register No. 05)
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Attachment: Memo - Check Register No. 05 (Check Register No. 05)
3.a
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Attachment: Memo - Check Register No. 05 (Check Register No. 05)
Agenda Item: 4
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA
AGENDA REPORT
CONSENT CALENDAR
CITY MANAGER APPROVAL:
DATE: March 11, 2025
SUBJECT: MODEL 1 BUS SALES PURCHASE AND DELIVERY OF FIVE
DIAL-A-RIDE VEHICLES CONTRACT
DEPARTMENT: Economic Development
PRESENTER: Adrian Aguilar
RECOMMENDED ACTION
Authorize the City Manager or designee to negotiate and execute a contract with Model 1 Bus Sales for the purchase of five Compressed Natural Gas cutaway vehicles, tools, training, and spare parts for an amount not to exceed $1,220,576, or modify the award in the event issues of impossibility of performance arise, subject to City Attorney approval.
BACKGROUND
Santa Clarita Transit has a fleet replacement program that meets the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) seven-year life cycle for Dial-A-Ride vehicles. Five of the City of Santa Clarita's (City) Dial-A-Ride vehicles have reached the end of their useful life and are scheduled to be replaced.
The City intends to purchase five new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles through the CalACT/Morongo Basin Transit Authority vehicle purchasing cooperative, of which the City is a member. Purchasing buses through this method expedites the purchasing process and ensures competitive pricing. Under this cooperative agreement, product specifications were identified and prices negotiated based on the total projected participation of the cooperative members, rather than just the vehicles scheduled to be purchased by the City.
As an added measure, staff conducted a price analysis to ensure the proposed pricing is within industry standards and is the most advantageous to the City. The use of purchasing cooperatives is common within the transit industry and is a practice accepted by the FTA.
If this action is approved by the City Council, the City will be able to reduce the average age of its Dial-A-Ride fleet and take advantage of recent developments in vehicle and engine technology.
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ALTERNATIVE ACTION
1. Direct staff to issue a Request for Proposal for the procurement of CNG-powered Dial-A- Ride vehicles.
2. Other action as determined by the City Council.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact on the General Fund as a result of this procurement. The City has programmed Federal 5307 transit grant funds to cover 80 percent of the total contractual cost of the buses. The remaining 20 percent will be funded using Municipal Operator Service Improvement Program (MOSIP) funds. Adequate funds to implement the recommended action are contained within the City of Santa Clarita's adopted Fiscal Year 2024-25 budget, expenditure account 7003702-520103 (Transit Capital/Automotive Equipment).
ATTACHMENTS
Combined Model 1 Contract (available in the City Clerk's Reading File) 4 Packet Pg. 20
Agenda Item: 5
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA
AGENDA REPORT
CONSENT CALENDAR
CITY MANAGER APPROVAL:
DATE: March 11, 2025
SUBJECT: BELCARO AT SAND CANYON PROJECT (MASTER CASE 24-093)
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT CONTRACT
DEPARTMENT: Community Development
PRESENTER: Andy Olson
RECOMMENDED ACTION
1. Award a contract to SWCA Environmental Consultants for the preparation of the Belcaro at Sand Canyon project Environmental Impact Report (Master Case 24-093) in the amount of $321,360, and authorize a contingency in the amount of $48,204, for a total contract amount not to exceed $369,564.
2. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all documents, subject to City Attorney approval.
BACKGROUND
The Belcaro at Sand Canyon Project (Project) (Master Case 24-093) is a request by New Urban West, Inc. (Applicant) to develop an approximately 194-acre site located on vacant land (Project site). The Project site is located east of Sand Canyon Road and the existing terminus of Lost Canyon Road. To the north of the Project site is the Santa Clara River and State Route 14 freeway; to the east is vacant, residentially-zoned land; to the south is the Sand Canyon Country Club; and to the west is existing residential development. The subject property is in the Sand Canyon community of Canyon Country and is within the Urban Residential 1 and Non-Urban 5 zones.
The Applicant has submitted entitlements for an age-restricted, 55+ community that would include 341 single-family homes, an approximately three-acre private recreation center, 2.6 miles of publicly accessible trails, and approximately 107 acres of open space, including undeveloped open space and Homeowner Association-maintained amenities and slopes. The Applicant has indicated that they are interested in exploring the creation of a community facilities district (CFD) for improvements associated with the development of the project.
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The development would be accessed from the west via the extension of Lost Canyon Road and a new railroad undercrossing. Secondary access would be provided from the south via “J” Street from the existing Robinson Ranch Road. The Project includes two crossings of Oak Springs Canyon Creek, east of the existing terminus of Lost Canyon Road and south of the Project site, as part of “J” Street. The Applicant has requested a 20 percent density bonus for providing age- restricted housing, per Government Code Section 65915. The properties are located within the Sand Canyon Special Standards District. The entire site is within a Significant Ecological Area overlay zone and Fire Zone, and portions of the property are located within a Flood Zone and Liquefaction Hazard Zone. An aerial-view site map and a detailed Project description are attached.
The Project requires approval of the following entitlements:
• Tentative Tract Map (TTM) 24-001: A TTM is required to subdivide the existing parcels into the 400 proposed lots.
• Oak Tree Permit (OTP) (Class IV) 24-001: A Class IV OTP is required for the removal of four or more oak trees.
• Hillside Development Review (HDR) (Class IV) 24-002: A Class IV HDR is required for development on a property with an average cross slope above 15 percent. • Minor Use Permit (MUP) 24-012: An MUP is required for dirt hauling between 10,000 and 100,000 cubic yards.
• Architectural Design Review (ADR) 24-011: An ADR is required for all new development projects.
• Conditional Use Permit (CUP) 24-008: A CUP is required for gating more than five single-family residences.
• Development Review (DR) 24-006: A DR is required for all new development projects. • Environmental Impact Report (EIR) 24-001: An EIR is required under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) to analyze project impacts that have the potential for significant environmental impacts.
The application is currently under review with the Development Review Committee and requires environmental review under CEQA. Based on anticipated impacts associated with the Project, the appropriate CEQA document required for the Project is an EIR. Because the City of Santa Clarita (City) does not have the in-house expertise or resources available to complete an EIR, an outside environmental consulting firm is required to complete this task.
The City conducted a Request for Proposal (RFP) to solicit proposals from qualified consulting firms to prepare an EIR for the Project. The RFP was published via BidNet, on January 2, 2025, resulting in proposals submitted by twelve firms. Each company’s ability to meet the specific needs of the City was evaluated by a panel of three City staff members, and the proposals were scored based on the following selection criteria:
• Contractor qualifications, plan of study/scope of work, program management; • Experience on similar projects; and
• Thoroughness of proposal, approach to providing sound services, and ability to provide services to meet objectives and standards.
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The scoring results are shown below:
RANK FIRM LOCATION SCORE
1 SWCA Environmental Consultants Pasadena, CA 98
2 Michael Baker International, Inc. Long Beach, CA 91.67 3 HELIX Environmental Planning, Inc. La Mesa, CA 86
4 Psomas Pasadena, CA 78
5 Impact Sciences Los Angeles, CA 74
6 Kimley-Horn Santa Clarita, CA 65.33
7 De Novo Planning Group Tustin, CA 64
8 CAJA Environmental Services, LLC Chatsworth, CA 56
9 Meridian Consultants Westlake Village, CA 54
10 Interwest Consulting Group Irvine, CA 48
11 Precision Civil Engineering, Inc. Fresno, CA 42
12 Kaleidoscope Consulting, IMPACT LLC Albuquerque, NM 22.67
Based on the quality of SWCA Environmental Consultants’ (SWCA) comprehensive proposal and related project experiences, City staff recommends SWCA as the firm most qualified to complete the preparation of the EIR for the Belcaro at Sand Canyon project.
The total cost of the SWCA proposal is $321,360. The Scope of Work includes preparation of the Project description, peer review of technical studies, coordination of the Notice of Preparation and Scoping Meeting, preparation of the Draft EIR, responses to comments, preparation of the Final EIR and Mitigation Monitoring Reporting Plan, and attendance at public hearings. SWCA Environmental Consultants anticipates a 12-month schedule to prepare the EIR.
Given the complexities of the Project and its surroundings, City staff has included a 15 percent contingency in the amount of $48,204, for a total contract amount not to exceed $369,564. The contingency will allow for additional analysis for unexpected issues that may be identified during the EIR process. The Applicant is responsible for the cost of the preparation of the EIR and its associated contract. Upon award of the contract, the Applicant will deposit funds into a trust account to be maintained by the City.
ALTERNATIVE ACTION
Other action as determined by the City Council.
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5 Packet Pg. 23
FISCAL IMPACT
All costs associated with the preparation of the Environmental Impact Report will be the responsibility of the Applicant for the Belcaro at Sand Canyon Project. There will be no fiscal impact to the General Fund associated with this item.
ATTACHMENTS
Site Aerial and Zoning Map
Project Description
SWCA Proposal (available in the City Clerk's Reading File) 5 Packet Pg. 24
Site Plan
Sand Canyon Road
Oak Springs Canyon Road
5.a
Packet Pg. 25
Attachment: Site Aerial and Zoning Map (Belcaro at Sand Canyon Project EIR Contract) Zoning
Sand Canyon Road
Oak Springs Canyon Road
5.a
Packet Pg. 26
Attachment: Site Aerial and Zoning Map (Belcaro at Sand Canyon Project EIR Contract)
BELCARO AT SAND CANYON PROJECT
MASTER CASE 24-093
PROJECT SUMMARY
Project Location
The project site is located east of Sand Canyon Road and the existing terminus of Lost Canyon Road. To the north is the Santa Clara River and State Route 14 freeway; to the east is vacant, residentially-zoned land; to the south of the project site is the Sand Canyon Country Club; and to the west is existing residential development. The subject property is in the community of Canyon Country and is within the Urban Residential 1 (UR1) and Non-Urban 5 (NU5) zones and includes Assessor’s Parcel Numbers (APNs) 2840-001-118, 2840-015-025, 031-035, 045, and 047.
Project Site – Existing Condition
The project site is approximately 193.8 acres in size, and is comprised of undeveloped, residentially-zoned parcels in a rural setting. The project site is bisected by the existing railroad tracks and a gas pipeline easement. While generally undeveloped, the project site is partially disturbed with various dirt roads and trails. The project site has varied topography, including hills to the north of the railroad tracks, relatively flat land south of the railroad tracks, and a General Plan-mapped significant ridgeline in the southeast corner of the project site. Oak Springs Canyon Creek runs through the southwest corner of the project site as well as across the proposed Lost Canyon Road extension in the northwest corner of the site. The northern portion of the project site is partially within the Santa Clara River. The project site is also mapped as a Significant Ecological Area Protected oak trees are present throughout the project site. The project site is partially located in the flood hazard zone and is within the high fire hazard zone.
Summarized Project Description
The applicant has submitted entitlements for an age-restricted, 55+ community that would include 341 single-family homes, an approximately three-acre private recreation center, 2.6 miles of publicly accessible trails, and approximately 107 acres of open space, including undeveloped open space and HOA-maintained amenities and slopes. The development would be accessed from the west via the extension of Lost Canyon Road and a new railroad undercrossing.
Secondary access would be provided from the south via “J” Street from the existing Robinson Ranch Road. The project includes two crossings of Oak Springs Canyon Creek, east of the existing terminus of Lost Canyon Road and south of the project site, as part of “J” Street. The applicant has requested a 20 percent density bonus for providing age-restricted housing, per Government Code Section 65915. The properties are located within the Sand Canyon Special Standards District. The entire site is within a Significant Ecological Area (SEA) overlay zone and Fire Zone, and portions of the property are located within a Flood Zone and Liquefaction Hazard Zone.
5.b
Packet Pg. 27
Attachment: Project Description (Belcaro at Sand Canyon Project EIR Contract)