Santa Clarita City Council
August 25, 2026

CITY OF SANTA CLARITA

CITY COUNCIL

REGULAR MEETING

Tuesday, August 25, 2026
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.
______________________________________________________________________________ To access the meeting remotely use this URL: https://santaclarita.zoomgov.com/j/1610783536.

To request to speak, on an item or public participation when it is called by the City Clerk, use the “raise hand” function in Zoom. To join by phone: Dial 1-669-254 5252 (English) or +1 415 449 4000 (Spanish). To provide public comment, Press *9 and wait to be recognized by the City Clerk. Webinar ID: 161 078 3536 | Passcode: 526177

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.
______________________________________________________________________________

INVOCATION
Ayala

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
1000 Books Before Kindergarten Recognition
Tom and Alice Renolds Recognition
Gilchrist Farms 10 Year Anniversary Recognition
SoCalGas Company - Honor Rancho Compressor Recognition

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. 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

PUBLIC HEARINGS

1. MULTIFAMILY AND MIXED-USE RESIDENTIAL OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS (MASTER CASE 26-038) - FIRST READING - City Council consideration of objective design standards and related Santa Clarita Municipal Code amendments, as required by state law, to review multifamily and mixed-use housing projects with measurable and verifiable criteria.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council:

1. Conduct the public hearing.

2. Find the Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Standards project and Santa Clarita Municipal Code amendments exempt from review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), the common-sense exemption.

3. Approve a resolution entitled: “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF

THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING CITY-WIDE

OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS (ODS) FOR QUALIFIED MULTIFAMILY

AND MIXED-USE RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS, IN
ACCORDANCE WITH CALIFORNIA LAW.”

4. Introduce an ordinance entitled: “AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF

THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING SANTA
CLARITA MUNICIPAL CODE SECTIONS 17.06.130, 17.11.020, 17.23.100, AND

17.37.030 TO IMPLEMENT REGULATIONS GOVERNING OBJECTIVE
DESIGN STANDARDS,” and pass to second reading.

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.

2. APPROVAL OF SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES – The minutes of the City Council are submitted for approval.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council approve the minutes of the July 14, 2026 Special Meeting.

3. APPROVAL OF REGULAR MEETING MINUTES – The minutes of the City Council are submitted for approval.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council approve the minutes of the July 14, 2026 Regular Meeting.

4. CHECK REGISTER NOS. 15, 16, AND 17 - Check Register No. 15 for the Period 06/12/26 through 06/25/26 and 07/02/26. Electronic Funds Transfers for the Period 06/15/26 through 06/26/26. Check Register No. 16 for the Period 06/26/26 through 07/09/26 and 07/16/26. Electronic Funds Transfers for the Period 06/29/26 through 07/10/26. Check Register No. 17 for the Period 07/10/26 through 07/23/26 and 07/30/26.

Electronic Funds Transfers for the Period 07/13/26 through 07/24/26.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council approve and ratify for payment the demands presented in Check Register Nos. 15,16 & 17.

5. LOS ANGELES COUNTY EDUCATIONAL CAMPAIGN GRANT - City Council consider acceptance of grant funds from Los Angeles County to fund an educational campaign regarding the dangers of fentanyl.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council:

1. Appropriate $29,943.58 in grant funds to the Drug Free Youth-Promotion and Publicity Expenditure Account (1005316-516105) and increase DFY County Grant Revenue Account (100-421109) by the same amount.

2. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all contracts and associated documents, subject to City Attorney review.

6. ESTABLISH A LOADING/UNLOADING ZONE AND A NO-PARKING ZONE

ON SCHOOL DAYS ONLY ALONG THE EAST SIDE OF CATALA AVENUE - This item considers adopting a resolution to establish a 270-foot Loading/Unloading zone and a 330-foot No Parking zone between 7:00 and 8:00 a.m. and between 12:00 and 3:00 p.m. on school days only along the east side of Catala Avenue, south of Onlee Avenue.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council:

1. Adopt a resolution to establish a 270-foot Loading/Unloading zone and a 330-foot No Parking zone between 7:00 and 8:00 a.m. and between 12:00 and 3:00 p.m. on school days only along the east side of Catala Avenue, south of Onlee Avenue.

2. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all documents, subject to City Attorney review.

7. 2025-26 BRIDGE PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE PROGRAM, PROJECT M0162 - DESIGN CONTRACT - This item considers awarding a design contract to provide professional engineering services for the 2025-26 Bridge Preventative Maintenance Program. Improvements include the preparation of plans, specifications, and cost estimates for bridge maintenance, permitting, and bid assistance.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council:

1. Award the design contract to Tetra Tech, Inc., for the 2025-26 Bridge Preventative Maintenance Program, Project M0162, in the amount of $178,155 and authorize a contingency in the amount of $17,816, for a total contract amount not to exceed $195,971.

2. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all contracts and associated documents, subject to City Attorney review.

8. NEWHALL PARK IMPROVEMENTS, PROJECT P2017 - DESIGN
CONTRACTS - This item considers awarding design services contracts for the Newhall Park Improvements project. The project includes the restoration and enhancement of existing park amenities, incorporation of new park amenities, and the installation of a regional stormwater infiltration facility.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council:

1. Award the design contract to Pacific Coast Land Design, Inc., for the park improvements for the Newhall Park Improvements, Project P2017, in the amount of $1,843,133 and authorize a contingency in the amount of $184,313, for a total contract amount not to exceed $2,027,446.

2. Award the design contract to Pacific Advanced Civil Engineering, Inc., for the regional stormwater infiltration facility for the Newhall Park Improvements, Project P2017, in the amount of $428,780 and authorize a contingency in the amount of $42,878, for a total contract amount not to exceed $471,658.

3. Appropriate one-time funds in the amount of $2,672,000 to the Newhall Park Improvements, Project P2017, from the following funds:

• $1,071,103 from Measure W Safe Clean Water Regional Fund (Fund 274) to expenditure account P2017274-516101;
• $1,025,897 from Facilities Fund (Fund 723) to expenditure account P2017723- 516101;
• $450,000 from Stormwater Utility Fund (Fund 356) to expenditure account P2017356-516101;
• $125,000 from TDA Article 8 (Fund 233) to expenditure account P2017233- 516101.

4. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all contracts and associated documents, subject to City Attorney review.

9. PURCHASE OF MINI EXCAVATOR FOR OPEN SPACE MAINTENANCE AND SKID STEER LOADER FOR STREET MAINTENANCE - This item considers approving the purchase of one new mini excavator to support Open Space Maintenance operations and one replacement skid steer loader to support Street Maintenance operations.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council:

1. Approve the “piggyback” purchase of one mini excavator using Sourcewell contract number 020223-CAT with Quinn Company for a total amount not to exceed $83,755.

2. Approve the “piggyback” purchase of one skid steer loader using Sourcewell contract number 020223-CAT with Quinn Company for a total amount not to exceed $108,305.

3. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all contracts and associated documents, subject to City Attorney review.

10. APPLICATION AND RECEIPT OF STATE TRANSIT ASSISTANCE FUNDS - City Council consideration to adopt a resolution to submit an annual claim to the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority for State Transit Assistance funds.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council adopt a resolution allowing the City Manager or designee to submit an annual claim to the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority for State Transit Assistance funds.

11. USE TAX INCENTIVE PROGRAM WITH AEROSPACE DYNAMICS
INTERNATIONAL - City Council consideration to approve Use Tax Incentive reimbursement to Aerospace Dynamics International pursuant to the City of Santa Clarita's Use Tax Incentive Agreement.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council approve reimbursement of $80,857 to Aerospace Dynamics International (ADI) per the Use Tax Incentive Program agreement entered into between the City of Santa Clarita and ADI on June 10, 2010.

12. TRANSFER OF COMMUTER BUSES - City Council consideration to enter into an agreement with the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System to assume three Compressed Natural Gas-powered buses.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council:

1. Waive the City of Santa Clarita’s competitive procurement requirements for the

transfer of three buses from the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System and the associated contracts with Complete Coach Works and Connexionz, pursuant to Santa Clarita Municipal Code Section 3.12.270(F).

2. Authorize the City Manager or designee to negotiate a transfer and reimbursement agreement with the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System for three Motor Coach Industries (MCI) Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses, for a not-to-exceed amount of $300,000, subject to Federal Transit Administration approval.

3. Authorize staff to negotiate and enter into a contract with Complete Coach Works to remove the existing paint scheme and prepare and paint the three buses in the Santa Clarita Transit livery, in an amount not-to-exceed $119,928, and authorize a contingency in the amount of $10,000, for a total contract amount of $129,928.

4. Authorize staff to negotiate and enter into a contract with Connexionz for the purchase and installation of automatic vehicle locating systems for the three buses, for a not-to-exceed amount of $56,627.

5. Appropriate funds in the amount of $486,555 to the Transit Administration Automotive Equipment Expenditure Account (7003700-520103), and increase the Municipal Operator Service Improvement Program Revenue Account (700-442207) by $386,555.

6. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all contracts and associated documents, subject to City Attorney review.

13. BOUQUET CANYON PARK PARKING LOT REFURBISHMENT PROJECT P0032, PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS, AND CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT - This item considers awarding a construction contract for the Bouquet Canyon Park Parking Lot Refurbishment Project, P0032. Improvements include repairs to root-damaged asphalt and concrete, ADA enhancements of the parking stalls and adjacent walkways, asphalt overlay, all associated striping and signage for the parking lot.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council:

1. Approve the plans and specifications for the Bouquet Canyon Park Parking Lot Refurbishment Project P0032.

2. Find the Bouquet Canyon Park Parking Lot Refurbishment Project P0032 exempt from review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations, Article 19, Section 15301.

3. Award a construction contract to E&M Constructors, Inc., for $303,145 and authorize a contingency in the amount of $30,315, for a total contract amount not to exceed $333,460.

4. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all contracts and associated documents, subject to City Attorney review.

14. BELCARO AT SAND CANYON PROJECT (MASTER CASE 24-093) ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT CONTRACT - City Council to consider authorizing an increased expenditure authority to the City's contract with SWCA Environmental Consultants for the preparation of the Belcaro at Sand Canyon project Environmental Impact Report (Master Case 24-093).

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council:

1. Authorize an amendment to the existing contract with SWCA Environmental Consultants for the preparation of the Belcaro at Sand Canyon Project Environmental Impact Report (Master Case 24-093), and increase expenditure authority by $54,286, including a contingency of $7,081, for a total contract amount not to exceed $423,850.

2. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all contract and associated documents, subject to City Attorney review.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
This time has been set aside for any speakers that have turned in speaker cards and were not heard in the public participation portion 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

ADJOURNMENT
In memory of Rose Koscielny

FUTURE MEETINGS
The next regular meeting of the City Council will be held September 8, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers, 1st floor of City Hall, 23920 Valencia Blvd., Santa Clarita, CA.

CERTIFICATION
On August 20, 2026, I, Melody Bartlette, 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.

_____________________________
Melody Bartlette
City Clerk
Santa Clarita, California

Agenda Item: 1

CITY OF SANTA CLARITA

AGENDA REPORT

PUBLIC HEARINGS
CITY MANAGER APPROVAL:

DATE: August 25, 2026
SUBJECT: MULTIFAMILY AND MIXED-USE RESIDENTIAL OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS (MASTER CASE 26-038) - FIRST READING
DEPARTMENT: Community Development
PRESENTER: Zarui Chaparyan

RECOMMENDED ACTION

City Council:

1. Conduct the public hearing.

2. Find the Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Standards project and Santa Clarita Municipal Code amendments exempt from review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), the common-sense exemption.

3. Approve a resolution entitled: “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY

OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING CITY-WIDE OBJECTIVE

DESIGN STANDARDS (ODS) FOR QUALIFIED MULTIFAMILY AND MIXED-USE

RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS, IN ACCORDANCE WITH CALIFORNIA LAW.”

4. Introduce an ordinance entitled: “AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE

CITY OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING SANTA CLARITA MUNICIPAL CODE SECTIONS 17.06.130, 17.11.020, 17.23.100, AND 17.37.030 TO IMPLEMENT REGULATIONS GOVERNING OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS,” and pass to second reading.

BACKGROUND

Recent State of California (State) housing laws, including Senate Bill (SB) 330, SB 35 and Assembly Bill 2011, limit the City of Santa Clarita’s (City) ability to enforce subjective 1 Packet Pg. 9

standards on proposed housing developments. Therefore, the City needs to adopt Objective Design Standards (ODS or standards), to ensure that new multifamily and mixed-use residential projects are reviewed under measurable and verifiable criteria, allowing the City to continue to enforce architectural and site planning standards within the City. The State’s intent is to streamline the approval process, in order to increase development of multifamily and mixed-use housing types.

To comply with State law and the City’s Housing Element (HE), the City proposes changes to the Community Character and Design Guidelines (CCDG or guidelines) adopted by the City Council in 2009, to develop citywide multifamily and mixed-use ODS, and changes to the Santa Clarita Municipal Code (SCMC), that addresses administrative procedures to implement these standards.

These standards will provide the City with as much flexibility as possible during the review process, ensure quality architecture and site design in projects, all while removing subjectivity from the review process. To the extent feasible, the ODS will:

1. Continue to produce development projects that meet the City’s high standards for architecture;

2. Be consistent with the community character previously established by the City Council;

3. Provide a streamlined review process for applicants;

4. Be consistent with the City’s HE of the General Plan; and

5. Meet the requirements of the State housing law.

City’s 6th Cycle Housing Element

The City’s certified HE identifies programs to help the City reach its Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) of 10,031 new units. Specific to ODS and the proposed municipal code, amendments are:
• HP-2.1: Zoning Code Changes for Consistency with State Law. To support the City in reaching its RHNA allocation, this program includes adoption of ODS for multifamily and mixed-use projects.
• HP-2.2: Updates to Administrative Procedures. These changes would be implemented through amendments to the SCMC, to remove the City’s discretionary findings requirement for site suitability for multifamily and mixed-use housing projects.

Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) Regional Early Action Planning (REAP) Grant

The City used a $250,000 SCAG REAP grant, that was authorized by the City Council on October 8, 2024. RRM Design Group (RRM) was selected through a competitive bid process and funds were appropriated by the City Council on May 13, 2025, to allow preparation of the ODS.

There is no impact to the general fund.

1 Packet Pg. 10

Stakeholder and Development Committee Meetings

Similar to other projects, the City held two stakeholder meetings in January 2026, with members of the local development community to introduce the intent of ODS and obtain feedback for the creation of a practical and implementable document. Additionally, on May 1, 2026, the City held a Development Committee meeting to discuss the proposed ODS and associated code amendments.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The proposed ODS for multifamily and mixed-use development will help the City maintain local control over project design, while preserving the established community characteristics. The 2009 City Council adopted CCDG establishes the architectural character for the communities of Valencia, Saugus, Canyon Country, and Newhall. With RRM, City staff has identified key design guidelines of the CCDG and proposes to standardize 63 of the guidelines to ODS.

The modifications also require that architectural and design elements and styles included in each of the City’s communities must be incorporated into multifamily and mixed-use projects. The proposed ODS are limited to policy and regulatory guidance and will not result in any physical development or construction. Design guidelines for commercial, industrial, and single-family development projects were not changed, and ODS does not apply to them. However, existing guidelines remain in place and will be applied as current practice.

The 99 remaining non-objective guidelines for multifamily and mixed-use housing will allow design flexibility and creativity, but cannot be mandated on such housing projects. Objective design standards are minimum thresholds, and are proposed to:

1. Create objectivity by removing terms like “shall” or “should” and adding “must” and “required” to the guidelines to mandate the standard.

2. Provide a menu of options for applicants to choose from to comply with a standard.

3. Provide standalone, clear, measurable objectives that must be achieved.

After publication of the Planning Commission Agenda Report, staff identified a couple minor modifications to the ODS as noted in Figure 1 below. These changes were recommended to be made as a part of the Planning Commission action on the project and include the following strikethrough and underlined text.

1 Packet Pg. 11

Figure 1: Proposed ODS Examples
Objective Design Standard CCDG Existing Guideline
Roof lines must not extend horizontally more
than 40 55 feet in length without a two-foot
variation in height.

Roof lines should be varied in height, and long
horizontal roof lines should be broken up.

Facades of commercial uses on the ground
floor facing either the street, public area (plaza
or courtyard, or primary entrance oriented
towards a parking area must be a minimum 75
percent transparent through the use of
windows, doors, and storefronts.

The vertical plane of the building façade
should be broken up with a high level of
articulation (e.g., projecting entry or window
features, recessed elements, transparent
storefronts, identifiable retail spaces, and
awning and entrance canopies), especially at
ground level.

The final version of the ODS are attached to this report.

Review Process and Opt-Out Provision

Projects that meet all of the ODS will be limited to an Architectural Design Review (ADR) and Development Review (DR) to ensure consistency with the City’s architectural and site planning requirements. Objective design standards only apply to the architectural review and the City cannot deny a housing project based on architecture if all the ODS are met. Land use approvals that require discretionary processes will still require a discretionary review, and environmental concerns will be addressed as appropriate, pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).

Applicants who do not or cannot meet all ODS will have the opportunity to opt-out of the proposed ODS for architectural review and would be able to utilize a discretionary Administrative Permit (AP) and ADR process. In this scenario, projects can be reviewed using the existing subjective design guidelines and current review process. With this, the potential exists for the project to be appealed to the Planning Commission, where the Housing Crisis Act of 2019 (HCA) (Government Code § 65905.5) may apply. For qualified projects, opting out of the ODS requirements does not change the HCA five meeting limit for a decision on a project.

Summary of Proposed SCMC Changes

The proposed SCMC amendments to implement Program HP-2.2 include:
• SCMC § 17.06.130 - Update to Findings and Decisions, such that multifamily and mixed- use housing projects do not need to comply with the subjective site suitability finding; • SCMC § 17.11.020 - Addition of ODS definition;
• SCMC § 17.23.100 - Administrative Permit requirement for ODS opt-out projects; and • SCMC § 17.37.030 - Requirement for housing projects in specific plans to comply with the ODS.

Copies of the municipal code changes in both clean and redline formats are provided.

1 Packet Pg. 12

PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION
On July 7, 2026, the City’s Planning Commission held a public hearing for the proposed ODS and SCMC amendments, at its regularly scheduled meeting. Commissioner Burkhart inquired whether an opt-out of the proposed ODS would potentially result in housing projects still requiring a five-hearing limits. As discussed above, opting out of the ODS does not change the HCA five-meeting limit. One member of the public also went on record requesting that ODS not impose additional costs for developers.

The Planning Commission voted 5-0 to adopt Resolution No. 26-04, with the changes discussed above, recommending that the City Council adopt a resolution approving the proposed multifamily and mixed-use ODS, and adopt an ordinance to codify the proposed Municipal Code amendments. A copy of the Planning Commission’s staff report is available in the City Clerk’s reading file.

ENVIRONMENTAL

A draft Notice of Exemption was prepared for the proposed project. The project is exempt from additional environmental review pursuant to CEQA Guidelines (14 Cal. Code of Regs. § 15000, et seq.) § 15061(b)(3), the common-sense exemption. The activity is covered by the general rule that CEQA applies only to projects that have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. Where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA.

NOTICING

All notices required by law were completed, which consisted of a one-eighth page legal advertisement in The Signal newspaper on August 4, 2026. As of the writing of this staff report, City staff has received no correspondence from the community on this item.

CONCLUSION

As described above, the proposed multifamily and mixed-use housing ODS and SCMC amendments are necessary in accordance with current state housing law, as well as to implement Programs HP-2.1 and HP-2.2 of the City’s HE. City Council action is required to approve the ODS and amendments to the SCMC.

ALTERNATIVE ACTION
Other action as determined by the City Council.

FISCAL IMPACT

There is no fiscal impact.

1 Packet Pg. 13

ATTACHMENTS
Public Notice
Resolution
Ordinance MC26-038
Proposed SCMC Amendments - Clean
Housing Element Programs HP2.1 and 2.2
MC26-038 CEQA Notice of Exemption
Proposed Objective Design Standards - Redline (available in the City Clerk's Reading File) 2026-07-07 Planning Commission - Agenda 1 (available in the City Clerk's Reading File) 1 Packet Pg. 14

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

APPLICATION: Master Case 26-038: Unified Development Code Amendment 26-002

PROJECT LOCATION: Citywide

PROJECT APPLICANT: City of Santa Clarita (City)

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The City of Santa Clarita is requesting adoption of multifamily residential and mixed-use housing Objective Design Standards (ODS) and amendments to Title 17 of the Santa Clarita Municipal Code, commonly referred to as the Unified Development Code (UDC), to address state housing legislation. The proposed UDC amendments include amendments to project findings, administrative permit procedures, and specific plans to implement Housing Element Policy HP-2.2.

PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: On July 7, 2026, the Planning Commission voted 5-0 to recommend that the City Council approve the proposed amendments and ODS. The City Council will conduct a public hearing on this matter on the following date:

DATE: Tuesday, August 25, 2026
TIME: At or after 6:00 p.m.

LOCATION: City Hall, Council Chambers
23920 Valencia Blvd., First Floor
Santa Clarita, CA 91355

A NOTICE OF EXEMPTION was prepared for the proposed project. The project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under Article 5 Section 15061(b)(3), the common-sense exemption. The activity is covered by the general rule that CEQA applies only to projects that have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. Where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA.

If you wish to challenge the action taken on this matter in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearings described in this notice, or written correspondence delivered to the City at, or prior to, the public hearings. If you wish to have written comments included in the materials that the City Council receives prior to the public hearing, those comments must be submitted to the Community Development Department by Friday, August 14, 2026.

For further information regarding this proposal, you may contact the project planner at the City Permit Center, 23920 Valenci a Blvd., Suite 140, Santa Clarita, CA 91355. Telephone: (661) 255 -4330. Website:
www.santaclarita.gov/planning. Send written correspondence to: 23920 Valencia Blvd., Suite 302, Santa Clarita, CA 91355. Project Planner: Zarui Chaparyan, [email protected].

Melody Bartlette
City Clerk

Published: The Signal, August 4, 2026

1.a
Packet Pg. 15
Attachment: Public Notice (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Standards)

RESOLUTION NO. 26-__

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA,

CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING CITY-WIDE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS (ODS)

FOR QUALIFIED MULTIFAMILY AND MIXED-USE RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT

PROJECTS, IN ACCORDANCE WITH CALIFORNIA LAW

WHEREAS, the City of Santa Clarita (City) periodically prepares updates to the Santa Clarita Municipal Code (SCMC), including the subdivision regulations (Title 16) and zoning regulations (Title 17), as well as amendments to various City Council-approved guidelines and policies; and

WHEREAS, the City Council adopted the Community Character and Design Guidelines (CCDG) in 2002 and updated them in 2009 to provide direction for site planning and building design for new developments; and

WHEREAS, the City Council adopted the 6th Cycle Housing Element on June 27, 2023, and the Department of Housing and Community Development certified the Housing Element on August 22, 2023. The Housing Element included Program HP-2.1: Zoning Code Changes for Consistency with state Law and Program HP-2.2: Updates to Administrative Procedures; and

WHEREAS, various California legislation, including Senate Bill (SB) 330, SB 35, and Assembly Bill (AB) 2011, prevents the City from enforcing subjective design guidelines on qualifying multifamily and mixed-use housing projects; and

WHEREAS, to implement the Housing Element’s Program HP-2.1, the City seeks to amend the CCDG to convert multifamily and mixed-use design guidelines to Objective Design Standards (ODS) (Project); and

WHEREAS, to accommodate changes to the CCDG and design process, as well as to implement HE Program HP-2.2, SCMC §§ 17.06.130, 17.11.020, 17.23.100, and 17.37.030 must be amended; and

WHEREAS, the Project was duly noticed in accordance with the public hearing noticing requirements of the SCMC, and a one-eighth page advertisement was placed in The Signal Newspaper on May 26, 2026; and

WHEREAS, the City reviewed the Project’s environmental impacts pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) (Public Resources Code §§ 21000, et seq.) and the CEQA Guidelines (14 California Code of Regulations §§15000, et seq.; collectively, “CEQA”); and

WHEREAS, the Planning Commission meeting on June 16, 2026 was cancelled due to a lack of Quorum; and

1.b
Packet Pg. 16
Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Standards)

WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing on the Project commencing on July 7, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., or later, at City Hall, 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Santa Clarita, California; and

WHEREAS, at the public hearing, the Planning Commission considered the entire administrative record, including, without limitation, the staff presentation, staff report, and public testimony. This resolution, and its findings, are made based upon the evidence presented to the Commission at its July 7, 2026 hearing, including, without limitation, the staff report submitted by the Community Development Director; and

WHEREAS, the Project was duly noticed in accordance with the public hearing noticing requirements of the SCMC, and a one-eighth page advertisement was placed in The Signal Newspaper on August 4, 2026; and

WHEREAS, the City Council held a duly noticed hearing on Master Case 26-038 on August 25, 2026. This resolution, and its findings, are made based upon the evidence presented to the City Council at its August 25, 2026, hearing including, without limitation, the staff report submitted by the Community Development Director.

NOW THEREFORE THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA, DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1: Purpose. This r esolution is intended to implement California law and the Santa Clarita Municipal Code ( SCMC), as amended by Ordinance No. 26 -___, by establishing Objective Design Standards (ODS) for qualified multifamily and mixed- use residential development projects throughout the City of Santa Clarita (City).

SECTION 2: Definitions. Unless the contrary is stated or clearly appears from the context, the definitions in the SCMC, as amended, and within the ODS govern the construction of the words and phrases used in this resolution.

SECTION 3: Environmental Assessment. Based upon the foregoing facts and findings, the City Council finds, that the project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under CEQA Guidelines § 15061(b)(3), the common-sense exemption. The activity is covered by the general rule that CEQA applies only to projects that have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. Where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA. A Notice of Exemption for this project was prepared in compliance with the CEQA.

SECTION 4: The ODS attached as Exhibit “A,” and incorporated by reference, are established as the ODS for the City. They may be amended by subsequent City Council resolution.

SECTION 5: Delegation of Authority; Ratification of Previous Actions. The City Manager, or designee, is authorized to promulgate administrative policies and procedures (AP&P) that implement this resolution and Ordinance No. 26-__. Nothing in such AP&P can

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substantively alter this resolution; the AP&P must be reconciled with the intent of Ordinance No. 26-___ and this resolution. All previous actions exercised by the City Manager, or designee, to implement the ODS as set forth in this resolution are ratified by the City Council.

SECTION 6: Severability. If any part of this resolution or its application is deemed invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, the City Council intends that such invalidity will not affect the effectiveness of the remaining provision or application, and, to this end, the provisions of this resolution are severable.

SECTION 7: The Mayor, or presiding officer, is authorized to sign this resolution signifying its adoption by the City Council of the City of Santa Clarita and the City Clerk, or her duly appointed deputy, may attest thereto.

SECTION 8: This resolution will become effective immediately upon adoption and will remain effective unless repealed or superseded.

SECTION 9. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this resolution.

PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this __ day of ________ 2026.

______________________________
MAYOR

ATTEST:

_______________________________

CITY CLERK

DATE:__________________________

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STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss.

CITY OF SANTA CLARITA )

I, Melody Bartlette, City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution No. 26-__ was duly adopted by the City Council of the City of Santa Clarita at a regular meeting thereof, held on the __ day of ________ 2026, by the following vote:

AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:

NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:

ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS:

______________________________

CITY CLERK

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Chapter 1 Introduction

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
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CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

1. PURPOSE
The purpose of this Santa Clarita Community Character and Design Guidelines document is to guide the creation of new residential, commercial, mixed-use, and industrial developments and give clear direction for the renovation and redevelopment of built areas. This document supersedes the Santa Clarita Architectural Design Guidelines (adopted in 2002) and includes up-to-date planning trends and guidelines written to promote the high quality standards that the City and the community value. The intent of these guidelines is to retain and encourage architectural variety, promote quality development, and ensure that both existing and new development:
• Is compatible in size, scale, and appearance with the character of Santa Clarita.
• Is attractive and an asset to the community.
• Preserves and enhances natural features of a site.
• Incorporates quality articulation, community character features, multiple building forms, desirable building details, and other elements that display excellence in design.
• Provides pedestrian-oriented design to enrich the pedestrian experience. • Includes pedestrian friendly amenities such as pedestrian connections, plazas, seating, bike racks, fountains, and other similar features, for the enjoyment of the community and visitors.
• Promotes the use of high quality materials.
1 - PURPOSE

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• Promotes well-landscaped parking lots with efficient pedestrian and vehicular circulation.
• Provides suggestions for ways to improve the environmental performance of projects through the strategic incorporation of green building components.

The guidelines have been written to make it easy for a property owner, architect, developer, City staff, and members of the Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Commission, Planning Commission, and City Council to use. The guidelines describe the design review process, citywide goals and objectives, site planning concepts, and architectural design guidelines for residential, commercial, industrial, and mixed-use projects. Specific guidelines have been drafted to ensure that architectural quality and character is preserved within each of the four communities of the City - Canyon Country, Newhall, Saugus, and Valencia. In essence, the purpose of this document is to provide clear and concise direction through a user-friendly document that is easy to administer.

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2. GOALS
The overarching objective of this Community Character and Design Guidelines document is the desire to establish communities that possess unique qualities that make them special and memorable. How the distinct communities are integrated within the overall fabric of the City is essential to each community’s success. The following goals guided the development of the design guidelines in this document.

A. Sense of Timelessness
A sense of timelessness is a feeling that the design and quality of development in the community will neither be frozen in time nor look like it was built yesterday. The community should have characteristics that suggest long-term value. The physical fabric of a community should reflect cultural, aesthetic, and historic character and yet be adaptive to functional changes.

B. Sense of Ownership
Each sector of the community must have a sense of ownership and a belief that they will benefit from the economic health and quality of life within the community. There should be a feeling that the attributes of the community command an economic premium. Whether or not there is individual property ownership, there must be a sense that everyone has a stake in the overall well being of the community. 2 - GOALS

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C. Sense of Place and Identity
The built and natural environment must be interwoven and should express a special sense of place. The community character should create a feeling of an original, and not duplicated, place. There should be a perception that the community has a unique identity and attributes that differentiate it from other urban neighborhoods.

D. Sense of Community
A sense of community is a belief that each individual has a responsibility and obligation to work toward the well being of the community. An acknowledgment of that community is the interconnectedness within the neighborhood and with other sectors of the community and linkage to surrounding neighborhoods.

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3. GUIDELINE USERS
The guidelines are designed for a variety of user groups. A description of how each type of user can benefit from the guidelines is described below.

A. Property Owners:

The guidelines provide property owners with a clear and simple design review process. This document works in conjunction with the General Plan, Unified Development Code, and Uniform Building Code for the City of Santa Clarita and provides a clear set of expectations and responsibilities for property owners. This document broadens the scope of the design process beyond basic code requirements and takes the attention to detail, quality, and character to the next level.

B. Design Professionals and Developers:

The guidelines provide a clear and graphic direction for renovation and new construction. The guidelines serve as an information tool that can provide a link between the property owner and the designer or developer and will clarify the aspects of quality design.

C. City Staff:

City staff uses the guidelines in assisting applicants and their representatives with all aspects of project development including site planning, building orientation, building massing and articulation, architectural themes, and other amenities that work together to create a sense of place. The guidelines serve as the basis for evaluating proposals for quality of design. City staff will also use these guidelines when working with the Planning Commission and the City Council.

D. Review Bodies:

The guidelines provide the Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Commission, Planning Commission, City Council, and other reviewing agencies with a basis for evaluating proposals for quality of design. 3 - GUIDELINE USERS

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4 - CONTENTS AND ORGANIZATION

4. CONTENTS AND ORGANIZATION
No single architectural theme is being promoted, but rather the emphasis is to promote variety. With exception of those styles provided in Chapter 2, many of the styles and patterns shown in the following pictures and graphic illustrations represent a concept of recommended building elements and details as opposed to thematic images. Caution should be exercised when considering architectural styles that have recently become popular (i.e. “trendy”) but have not yet stood the test of time. In addition, historic styles that cannot be faithfully replicated should be avoided.

Sustainable planning and design concepts were used as a foundation from which the guidelines in this document were drafted. The core principles of Smart Growth and New Urbanism as well the key components of LEED™ (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), which are defined in Chapter 2, were integrated throughout this document to ensure that proposed developments are planned and designed to reduce impacts on the surrounding environment. Conventional design and construction methods can produce buildings that contribute to excessive resource consumption, that generate waste, and that are expensive to operate. Sustainable principles that can improve the environmental performance of a project without forcing excessive costs on builders or developers have been marked with a white bar throughout the document.

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4 - CONTENTS AND ORGANIZATION
This document is organized as follows:

Chapter 5 (Multi-Family Residential and Mixed-Use) this chapter, unlike any of the other chapters, contains both design guidelines and objective design standards for multi-family residential and mixed-use commercial developments.

Objective Design Standards are required by the State of California and are defined by California Government Code, Section 65913.4; objective design standards are required to be clear and measurable. These are complimented by the design guidelines which promote community character and design continuity. The design guidelines maintain neighborhood character and scale while providing design direction and promoting quality design. All new multifamily and mixed- use projects in the City must comply with the objective standards set forth in Chapter 5 and must be consistent with the style, material and color guidelines outlined in Chapter 3.

Chapter 6 (Commercial) includes design guidelines for commercial development to ensure commercial components such as on-site parking, loading and service areas, trash enclosures, lighting, and signage are properly designed. Special design considerations are also addressed.

Chapter 7 (Industrial & Business Park) includes design guidelines for industrial development. If not designed properly, industrial facilities can diminish the visual quality of the surrounding areas and can become undesirable land uses. These guidelines address visual and functional aspects of industrial and business park developments and provide guidance to reduce environmental impacts.

Chapter 1 (Introduction) contains the purpose and goals of this document and sets the framework for the design review process.

Chapter 2 (Design Trends and Community Setting) reviews the latest and most influential trends in planning and design that promote efficient sustainable development practices and provide a foundation for the design principles and guidelines contained in this document.

Chapter 3 (Community Character) identifies the architectural details that define the architectural character prescribed for each one of the four communities of the City. Multifamily and mixed-use development must be consistent with the style, material and color guidelines outlined in this Chapter and must comply with the objective standards set forth in Chapter 5.

Chapter 4 (Single-Family Residential) depicts the specific site planning and design and building design guidelines that pertain to single- family neighborhood development. The focus here is the creation of a neighborhood that offers public spaces, lush landscaping and a close- knit neighborhood feel, rather than a sterile housing tract lacking variety and personality.
1 2
3 4
5 6
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5 - RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER PLANNING DOCUMENTS

5. RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER PLANNING

DOCUMENTS
A. Consistency with the Unified Development Code and
General Plan:

This document is a tool for the implementation of the City of Santa Clarita’s Unified Development Code (UDC) and the General Plan. While the guidelines contained herein are not standards intended to supersede the requirements of the UDC, the guidelines should be considered “recommended practices” that both the Planning Commission and Planning Division consider important to the design of projects within the City.

B. Santa Clarita Beautification Master Plan:

The Community Character and Design Guidelines work hand in hand with the Santa Clarita Beautification Master Plan. The Beautification Master Plan focuses on improvements within the public rights-of-way.

These improvements include streetscape and landscape enhancements, fencing, gateways, monuments, and signage both on a regional and community scale. The Design Guidelines focus on private property improvements outside the public rights-of-way. Both documents contain design guidelines that help guide improvements and aid the City of Santa Clarita in accomplishing their long-term goal of city-wide beautification. The documents strive to maintain the identity of the individual communities, while at the same time unifying the City of Santa Clarita.

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
5 - RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER PLANNING DOCUMENTS
C. Old T own Newhall Specific Plan (Adopted 2005, Updated 2022):

The quality and character of the architecture depicted in this Community Character and Design Guidelines document guides development throughout the entire City, which includes the community of Newhall. The Old Town Newhall Specific Plan, adopted in December of 2005, contains specific standards and guidelines for development within the 271-acre downtown area. The Old Town Newhall Specific Plan depicts specific zones and a variety of architectural types. The building form is further defined by a set of development standards. Therefore, the Old Town Newhall Specific Plan takes the architectural theme and character defined in this document a step further to fit the specific requirements in each of the zones in the downtown area as defined by that document.

D. 2026 Update to 2009 Community Character and Design
Guidelines:

This version of the Community Character and Design Guidelines document modernized the original document adopted in 2009 with updated imagery, graphics, and text.

Specific updates to individual chapters include:
• Chapter 1 - Introduction had moderate changes made to the text to explain the updated processes in relation to the newly added objective standards. • Chapter 2 - Design Trends and Urban Form had select imagery updated but otherwise remains unchanged.
• Chapter 3 - Community Character was revised to provide better visual examples of desired community character.
• Chapter 4 - Single Family Residential Design Guidelines had select imagery updated but otherwise remains unchanged.
• Chapter 5 - Multi-Family and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Standards and Design Guidelines have been revised and reorganized. Multi-family and mixed-use content have been combined into Chapter 5, accompanied by newly developed objective design standards and graphics.
• Chapter 6 - Commercial Design Guidelines had select imagery updated but otherwise remains unchanged.
• Chapter 7 - Industrial and Business Park Design Guidelines had select imagery updated but otherwise remains unchanged.
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6 - APPLICATION PROCESS

6. APPLICATION PROCESS
All applications for development reviews, minor use permits, variances, conditional use permits, tentative tract maps, grading permits, or other entitlements that include physical alteration or construction, shall be reviewed to ensure consistency with these guidelines. The Director of Community Development and/or the Planning Commission or City Council will decide if a proposed project is consistent with the overall intent of this document.

The adjacent diagram depicts the application and approval process. • PLANNING
• FINAL
• INSPECTION • CONSTRUCTION
• PERMIT
• BUILDING
• PLANS
• SUBMIT
• check
• plan
• revisions • CONSTRUCTION
• PREPARE
• DOCUMENTS • REVIEW
• DESIGN
• approval
• approval
• revisions
• revisions
• /PREPARE
• SUBMIT
• PLANS
• REVIEW
• DEVELOPMENT
• COMMITTEE
• INITIAL
• ONESTOP
• PUBLIC
• MEETINGS

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6 - APPLICATION PROCESS
A. Initial Meeting
The purpose of the initial meeting is to advise the project applicant of applicable design guidelines (such as this document), design review policies, and other specific design criteria that may affect the project’s design. During the initial meeting, the City will provide the applicant with all of the application information, including the following:

1. Entitlement application.

2. Application requirement checklists for all necessary entitlements.

3. Copies of the relevant sections of the Community Character and Design Guidelines document.

4. Design questionnaire – to help the developer demonstrate that the guidelines set forth in this document have been reviewed and incorporated into the project design.

5. Environmental questionnaire - to determine the environmental impacts of the project.
• PLANS

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B. One Stop
In many instances, an applicant may want to obtain more detailed information regarding the feasibility of a potential development without committing the required application fees. In order to provide preliminary comments without the financial commitment required by a formal application submittal, the City has developed a preliminary One Stop review process. The One Stop process described below is encouraged as an initial review of a project to ensure all the required components of a development package are provided by the applicant before continuing on with the formal review process.

In order to ensure a proper review of a project during the One Stop process, the applicant should provide at minimum the following material:

1. Conceptual Site Plan.

2. Elevations (color with material callouts).

3. Conceptual Floor Plan.

4. Aerial Photograph of the Site (depicting the project site and surrounding uses).

5. Photographs (of the project site and surrounding uses).

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6 - APPLICATION PROCESS
In addition to the materials previously listed, the applicant should also demonstrate how the proposed project will relate to the surrounding environment and how the landscape design is to be incorporated as an integral part of the project. An analysis of the existing site conditions should include a review of a site’s physical properties, amenities, special issues, and neighboring environment. Specific design considerations that should be examined include the following:

1. Existing Conditions Analysis
a. Basic Site Data: Boundaries and dimensions; location of adjacent streets, sidewalks, and rights-of-way; location of setback lines and easements; existing structures and built improvements.
b. Existing Natural Features: Location, size, and species of mature trees; topography; patterns of surface drainage; and other important natural features that are either amenities or potential hazards in development.
c. Neighboring Environment: Analysis of the site and project impacts; land use, the site design, form, character, age and important site details on neighboring properties.
d. Locale: Available services and facilities including local parks, shopping centers, bus stops, bike lanes, and parking.

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C. Site Design Objectives

1. Develop compatible relationships among the topography, building placement, and existing open spaces.

2. Provide a transition from existing to new development by careful placement and massing of buildings, well-designed and strategically located landscaping, and other appropriate methods.

3. A conceptual landscape plan, prepared by a licensed landscape architect, should be submitted with the One Stop pre-application package to demonstrate that the site plan includes plantings that are effectively integrated with the surrounding topography, site design, and architectural design of the project. The conceptual plan should have a preliminary plant list with plant genuses, species, and common names. Plantings should be complementary to the characteristics of the project’s surrounding area and suitable for the environmental conditions of Santa Clarita.

D. Application Submittal
Upon submittal of a One Stop application, the various City departments that are part of the Development Review Committee provide preliminary comments regarding the submittal requirements and comments regarding the potential development. If the developer decides to formally submit a project after going through the One Stop process, the applicant will receive a credit for the cost of the One Stop toward the required processing fees.

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6 - APPLICATION PROCESS
Following the initial meeting or One Stop, plans are produced and submitted as part of the application process to the City. Specific submittal requirements vary by project type and should be obtained from the City during the Initial Meeting. All applicants must complete a Design Questionnaire as part of the formal submittal. In addition to the required application materials, developers are encouraged to provide before and after photo simulations and renderings in order to demonstrate that the design of the project meets the requirements of these guidelines. Design review is implemented by City staff and the City’s architectural consultant.

Depending upon the level of permit, a project may be approved by staff, the Planning Commission, the Redevelopment Agency, or the City Council. If a public hearing is necessary, the project goes to the Planning Commission and/or to City Council for approval.

E. Design Questionnaire
In an effort to ensure that projects conform to adopted design and architectural guidelines, the City has created a form that will be used in the development review process. The applicant is required to fill out this form completely and submit it as part of the application process. Refer to the City’s website for the Design Questionnaire Form.

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
CHAPTER 3

COMMUNITY CHARACTER

INTRODUCTION
The City of Santa Clarita is the third largest city in Los Angeles County and encompasses approximately 73 square miles. The City contains four main communities: Canyon Country, Newhall, Saugus, and Valencia, as well as several smaller communities such as Sand Canyon and Placerita Canyon. Each one of these individual communities has its own identity and character. While it is important to create a “citywide” identity, it is equally important to preserve and enhance the individual community identities. Although specific architectural character exists within each community, it is important to recognize that quality design satisfies basic guiding design principles regardless of the building’s architectural style.

For example, mechanical equipment should be screened, buildings should be well proportioned, and massing should be modulated regardless of whether the architectural style is Mission Revival or Victorian. Thus, general design guidelines have been provided in Chapter 4 - Chapter 7 to guide design, while this chapter supplements the other chapters by providing direction for architectural style and character for projects within each community. In addition to the guidelines provided here, special standards are located in the UDC for Sand Canyon and Placerita Canyon.

In contrast to the other chapters, Chapter 5 provides both objective standards and design guidelines for multifamily and mixed-use development. Unlike the design guidelines in Chapters 4 - 7, the objective standards in Chapter 5 are mandatory rather than advisory. All new multifamily and mixed-use projects in the City must comply with the objective standards set forth in Chapter 5 and must be consistent with the style, material and color guidelines outlined in Chapter 3.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
This chapter focuses primarily on Canyon Country, Newhall, Saugus, and Valencia and integrates input obtained from the public by participating in a Visual Preference Survey, stakeholder interviews, and several public workshops conducted during the Santa Clarita Beautification Master Plan process.

Recommendations from the Citywide Design Committee, the City’s General Plan, and the existing Santa Clarita Architectural Design Guidelines have also been incorporated. This chapter contains maps defining community boundaries as well as examples of building styles and desired materials specific to each community.

Excerpts from the Community Design Element and Land Use Element of the General Plan have been included to describe past and present design characteristics and architectural styles for each community. It is the intent of the Community Design Element and this document to provide design flexibility for urban design and architectural concepts in order to avoid architectural monotony and lack of design innovation.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
1 - CANYON COUNTRY

1. CANYON COUNTRY
A. Community Identity
Canyon Country has the largest population of any community in the City and comprises the eastern portion of the City. It contains a wide range of housing types, including large-lot single-family custom homes, single-family tract homes, multi-family development, and mobile home parks. Commercial and manufacturing activities have historically been concentrated along both sides of Soledad Canyon Road and along the northern portion of Sierra Highway. However, recent development has been focused in close proximity to Golden Valley Road, the eastern section of the City’s Cross Valley Connector. The Canyon Country area is home to the Centre Pointe Business Park, which includes a large retail development and the City’s Sports Complex and an industrial hub in the Honby area. The College of the Canyons has developed a second campus on the northern section of Sierra Highway to serve the continued growth of the Canyon Country area.

The landscape and terrain in this area is arid and rugged. The architectural style tends to reflect the rural character and desert atmosphere. The commercial and industrial developments incorporate a wide variety of architectural styles and uses. For example, along one section of Soledad Canyon Road there is an existing older mobile home park with a high density Cape Cod style condominium complex located directly to the south. Other new development includes medium-sized California ranch style homes, Santa Fe and Mediterranean style houses, and Contemporary styled townhomes, multifamily buildings, and commercial shopping center.

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
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1 - CANYON COUNTRY
Homes along the northern section of Sierra Highway are generally rural and of very low density. Many of the homes are on custom lots with a variety of architectural styles; however, near the Sierra Highway and Soledad Canyon intersection are multi-family developments.

Mediterranean and contemporary architectural styles are present. Some development has also encroached onto the hillsides and ridgelines.

The Santa Clara River is a prevalent feature in Canyon Country as it parallels large reaches of Soledad Canyon Road. The riverbed provides natural open space and presents a major opportunity for enhancement of the area and the ability to create a greenbelt connecting the community with other areas of the Valley.

The Sand Canyon Special Standards District, a sub-community of Canyon Country, is located in the southeastern part of Canyon Country and is comprised of predominantly low-density single-family residential and equestrian uses. The area is rural with extensive stands of oaks and is characterized by large, upscale single-family homes and lots. The community is accessible via Sand Canyon Road and Placerita Canyon Road and is bordered on the south and east by the Angeles National Forest.
3-4

1.b
Packet Pg. 39
Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
1 - CANYON COUNTRY
Canyon Country is a place full of community pride and rural character.

Surrounded by a series of mountains and canyons that also penetrate the community, the location contributes to community members’ appreciation for the natural environment. In addition to natural sensitivity, Canyon Country is a community that encourages economic and cultural diversity.

The following characteristics were used to describe Canyon Country during a public workshop.
• Family-oriented
• Rural
• Rustic
• Equestrian
• Country
• Mountainous
• River trails
• Outdoor-oriented
• Natural
• Best kept secret
• Small town feel
• Community involvement
• Friendly
3-5

1.b
Packet Pg. 40
Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
1 - CANYON COUNTRY
B. Architectural Character & Specific
Community Needs
The desired architectural character for Canyon Country is a rustic, natural, and timeless style. Heavy timber and river rock or natural stone are materials that are strongly encouraged within the community. Residents would like to see projects that incorporate water features, trellises, special paving, and plaza spaces.

C. Exterior Building Materials
These guidelines are intended to complement the general guidelines provided in Chapter 4 - Chapter 7. The basic recommendations for color and material selection in the subsequent chapters must be reviewed in conjunction with this section when building in Canyon Country.

The following listings of appropriate and inappropriate materials were developed for the Canyon Country community. The materials listed as “appropriate” have generally stood the test of time as having desirable aesthetic qualities, while the materials listed as “inappropriate” have failed to withstand the test of time. Certain materials have been omitted because the success or failure of these materials has traditionally had more to do with the overall design than the materials selected.

These listings of materials are intended to provide general guidance and are not intended to be exhaustive; designers should not feel that they must limit their material palette to the following selections. New materials and refined fabrication methods are continually being introduced and Santa Clarita encourages designers to take advantage of these innovations. 3-6

1.b
Packet Pg. 41
Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
1 - CANYON COUNTRY

1. Appropriate primary wall surfaces include, but are not limited to:
a. Native stone veneer.
b. Cement plaster stucco.
c. Smooth and hand-troweled stucco.
d. Tile.
e. Rough, split-face masonry.
f. Wood siding (vertical rough sawn board and batten siding and/or horizontal rough sawn lap siding) or wood shingles.
g. Cement/fiber siding (6-inch, 8-inch, or 12-inch horizontal siding). h. Brick.

2. Inappropriate primary wall surfaces include, but are not limited to:
a. Simulated materials such as cement brick.
b. T-111 siding (4-foot by 8-foot plywood with vertical grooves at 8-inch to 12-inch increments).
c. Metal siding.
d. Slump stone.
e. Precision block.
f. Highly polished materials.
g. Spray on “Spanish lace” or knock down stucco.
h. Mirror glass and heavily tinted glass.
i. Corrugated fiberglass.
3-7

1.b
Packet Pg. 42
Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
1 - CANYON COUNTRY

3. Appropriate wall articulation and accents include, but are not limited to:
a. Accent tile.
b. Stucco corbels, lintels, and sills.
c. Timber lintels, sills, corbels, and trusses.
d. Heavy wood beams.
e. Exposed timber rafter tails.
f. Clay tile vents.
g. Wood vents.
h. Recessed niches.
i. Arches.
j. Colonnades.
k. Deep overhangs.
l. Wrought iron.
m. Wood trellises/shading devices.
n. Decorative knee bracing.
o. Wood casement or fixed windows (multi-lite).
p. Wood doors with wood trim.

4. Inappropriate wall articulation and accents include, but are not limited to:
a. Chrome.
b. Plastic.
c. Aluminum windows.
d. Highly polished materials.
3-8

1.b
Packet Pg. 43
Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
1 - CANYON COUNTRY

5. Appropriate roofing materials include, but are not limited to:
a. Clay tiles.
b. Cement tiles.
c. Dimensional asphalt/composite shingles.
d. Standing seam/metal roofing.
e. “Cool roof” built-up roofing.
f. Traditional tapered barrel tiles.

6. Inappropriate roofing materials include, but are not limited to:
a. Simulated clay or concrete roofing tiles.
b. Wood shingles/shakes.
c. Corrugated metal/ fiberglass panels.
d. S-tiles.
3-9

1.b
Packet Pg. 44
Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
1 - CANYON COUNTRY
D. Colors
The following guidelines are intended to promote well-coordinated color palettes that integrate with the other exterior features of a building.

1. Light, subtle earth tones such as tan, beige, sand, and cream, used in conjunction with bold, rich complementary accents, are appropriate color choices for Canyon Country.

2. Simple color schemes involving a maximum of three colors are rec- ommended.

3. Bright colored and stark white walls are discouraged.

4. Certain materials, such as stone and brick, have distinct coloring in their natural state and should be thought of as an element of the color palette used. These materials should not be painted.

5. Brighter colors should be used as accents.
3-10

1.b
Packet Pg. 45
Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
1 - CANYON COUNTRY
E. Design Considerations
Many existing shopping centers within the community are in need of renovation. Facade and character upgrades can make a dramatic difference in the attractiveness and desirability of a retail property. Simple cosmetic changes such as painting, incorporating appropriate signage and lighting, and installing shading devices can significantly improve the appearance of a building. The removal of unsafe and unsightly building components, such as deteriorated stucco and other materials, will also greatly enhance the aesthetics of the entire community. 3-11

1.b
Packet Pg. 46
Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
2 - NEWHALL

2. NEWHALL
A. Community Identity
Newhall was the earliest permanent settlement in the Valley, established in 1876 in conjunction with the construction of the Southern Pacific Railroad. This area was a typical western town of oil, mining, and railroad workers. Many residents were first attracted to Newhall because of its rural environment and open space. Early rural ranch style homes built on large lots located south of Lyons Avenue reflect the community’s sporadic and independent growth. The architecture of the Newhall homes reflects a diversity of architectural styles. The newer homes, on smaller lots, reflect popular design styles from the 1950s to the present.

Much of the early commercial development in the downtown Newhall area occupies single-story older buildings and serves neighborhoods along Newhall Avenue. Commercial development along Lyons Avenue, with some exceptions, follows the common style of the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s and includes numerous small and mid-sized wood and stucco strip centers. Recent attempts have been made to improve the aesthetics of the commercial area by building community shopping centers that incorporate historic elements of the area. Examples of building styles include Spanish buildings with terra cotta tile roofs, a Victorian-style shopping center, and western-theme buildings.

WHITTAKER

BERMITE
?ßE!"^$

STEVENSON
RANCH
PKWY
MAIN
ST

MCBEAN PKWY
MCBEAN
PKWY

NEWHALL R ANCH RD

LYONS AV
SAND
CANYO
NRD
THEO
LD
RD

RAILROAD
AV

PICO CANYON RD

NEWHALL AV

MAGIC MOUNTAIN PKWY

THEOLDRD

SOLEDAD CANYON RD
THE
OLDRD

VALENCIA BLV D

SIERRAHWY

BOUQUET
CANYO
NRD
NORTH

VALENCIA
SAND
CANYON

FRIENDLY
VALLEY

PLACERITA
CANYON

NORTHBRIDGE

NEWHALL
Q:\PROJECTS\CD\080705k1\mxd\newhall.mxd
The City of Santa Clarita does not warrant
the accuracy of the data and assumes no
liability for any errors or omissions.
´
0 0.5 1
Miles
City of Santa Clarita
Newhall
3-12

1.b
Packet Pg. 47
Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
2 - NEWHALL
Along the southern end of Newhall Avenue are several small, one-story, older neighborhood commercial uses. Further to the north, along Newhall Avenue adjoining the railroad tracks, are older industrial developments. Many of the industrial and commercial land uses along this strip of road are surrounded by vacant lots.

Newhall has developed very much on its own, without regard to any particular architectural style, street development standards, or consistent streetscapes.

Large stands of oak trees are scattered throughout the community. Prior to the completion of the interstate system, Newhall Avenue, formerly known as San Fernando Road, was a principal link in the historic circulation system between the San Joaquin Valley and the Los Angeles Basin. The roadway still serves as one of the key traffic arteries within the City.

The Old Town Newhall Specific Plan, adopted in December of 2005 and revised in May of 2022, sets design parameters for sub-areas throughout the downtown area that complement the following Newhall-wide design guidelines. The Old Town Newhall Specific Plan document goes into greater detail by identifying specific forms and details that fit the architectural types that are prescribed for the downtown area. The quality of architecture, however, must meet the directives of this Community Character and Design Guidelines document.
3-13

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Packet Pg. 48
Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
2 - NEWHALL
Placerita Canyon Special Standards District, a subcommunity of Newhall, is a rural and oak-studded residential area northeast of downtown Newhall.

Equestrian-oriented residential areas placed among oak woodlands typify most of the development in the area. A substantial amount of new home construction has occurred in recent years. Historically, the area contained scattered ranches, some of which remain today. Newer homes include Tudor, Ranch, French Country, Victorian, and other styles on larger lots of one-half acre or greater. Oil fields are located in the eastern portion of the canyon, west of SR-14. East of the freeway, Placerita Canyon Special Standards District is predominantly undeveloped, with much of the land as part of the Angeles National Forest. The Placerita Canyon Special Standards District is also home to the Master’s University and Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studio.

Newhall is a community rich in history. Evolving from an Indian trading center to an important destination in the quests for gold and then oil, it soon became a railroad flag stop of general stores, saloons, and churches. As the film industry grew, Newhall became the home of early western silent screen movies.
3-14

1.b
Packet Pg. 49
Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
2 - NEWHALL
These strong roots are still very important to the residents of Newhall. The passion for history and love of the old film stars help to identify the essence of Newhall.

The following characteristics were used to describe Newhall during public workshops.
• Western movies
• William S. Hart
• Passion for history
• Cowboys
• Melody Ranch – filming
• Rich cultural heritage
• Oak of the Golden Dream
• Oil fields (Mentryville)
• Community involvement
3-15

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Packet Pg. 50
Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
2 - NEWHALL
B. Old T own Newhall
The Old Town Newhall Specific Plan regulates the downtown area and establishes a direction for architectural styles and character in the area.

Any project within the Old Town Newhall Specific Plan area will be required to comply with the Old Town Newhall Specific Plan in-lieu of these guidelines.

C. Architectural Character & Specific Community
Needs
Newhall’s downtown core possesses a historic feel consisting primarily of Victorian, Western, and Mission Revival architecture. Outside of the downtown core the architecture takes on a variety of styles, but the historic flavor influences new development. Residents feel that outside of the district, quality materials and good site and building design are more important than theme architecture. Developers should be encouraged to capture the essence of Newhall without being tied to a specific architectural style.
3-16

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Packet Pg. 51
Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
2 - NEWHALL
D. Exterior Building Materials
These guidelines are intended to complement the general guidelines provided in Chapter 4 - Chapter 7. The basic recommendations for color and material selection in the subsequent chapters must be reviewed in conjunction with this section when building in Newhall.

The following listings of appropriate and inappropriate materials were developed for the Newhall community. The materials listed as “appropriate” have generally stood the test of time as having desirable aesthetic qualities, while those listed as “inappropriate” have failed to withstand the test of time. Certain materials have been omitted because the success or failure of these materials has traditionally had more to do with the overall design, rather than the materials selected.

These listings are intended to provide general guidance and are not intended to be exhaustive; designers should not feel that they must limit their material palette to the following selections. New materials and refined fabrication methods are continually being introduced, and Santa Clarita encourages designers to take advantage of these innovations. 3-17

1.b
Packet Pg. 52
Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
2 - NEWHALL

1. Appropriate primary wall surfaces include, but are not limited to:
a. Native stone veneer.
b. Cement plaster stucco.
c. Smooth and hand-troweled stucco.
d. Tile.
e. Horizontal siding of wood or fiber cement board (6-inch, 8-inch, or 12-inch exposures).
f. Cement/fiber siding (6-inch, 8-inch, 12-inch horizontal siding).

2. Inappropriate primary wall surfaces include, but are not limited to:
a. T-111 siding (4-foot by 8-foot plywood with vertical grooves at 8-inch to 12-inch increments).
b. Highly polished materials.
c. Mirror glass and heavily tinted glass.
d. Corrugated metal/fiberglass panels.
e. Metal siding.
f. Spray-on or knock-down stucco.
g. Exposed steel framing.
3-18

1.b
Packet Pg. 53
Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
2 - NEWHALL

3. Appropriate wall articulation and accents include, but are not limited to:
a. Accent tile.
b. Stucco corbels, lintels, sills.
c. Timber lintels, sills, corbels.
d. Clay tile vents.
e. Wood vents.
f. Recessed niches.
g. Arches.
h. Colonnades.
i. Wrought iron.
j. Canvas awnings, wood porches, and balconies/shading devices.

4. Inappropriate wall articulation and accents include, but are not limited to:
a. Plastic.
b. Chrome.
c. Aluminum windows.
d. Highly polished materials.
3-19

1.b
Packet Pg. 54
Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
2 - NEWHALL

5. Appropriate roofing materials include, but are not limited to:
a. Clay tiles.
b. Cement tiles.
c. Dimensional asphalt/composite shingles.
d. Metal roofing.
e. “Cool roof” built-up roofing.
f. Traditional tapered barrel tiles.

6. Inappropriate roofing materials and colors include, but are not limited to:
a. Maxitile (simulated clay or concrete roofing tiles). b. Corrugated metal/ fiberglass panels.
c. Bright or dark-colored roofing.
d. S-tiles.
3-20

1.b
Packet Pg. 55
Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
2 - NEWHALL
E. Colors
The following guidelines are intended to promote well-coordinated color palettes that integrate with the other exterior features of a building.

1. Given the Victorian architectural influence, a broader spectrum of colors is desirable in Newhall.

2. Muted shades of virtually any color is appropriate.

3. Certain materials, such as stone and brick, have distinct coloring in their natural state and should be thought of as an element of the color palette used. These materials should not be painted.

4. Brighter colors should be used as accents.

F. Design Considerations
Although a variation in architectural style is encouraged throughout the community, San Fernando Road warrants special consideration. The Santa Clarita Beautification Master Plan identifies it as a primary corridor within the community and, consequently, projects should be designed to prominently address the street edge. Projects should incorporate a landscaped parkway and, where possible, a split rail fence. Buildings should be placed at the street edge with parking located behind. 3-21

1.b
Packet Pg. 56
Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
3 - SAUGUS

3. SAUGUS
A. Community Identity
Established in 1887, Saugus is named for the Massachusetts birthplace of founder Henry Mayo Newhall and owes its existence to the Southern Pacific Railroad.

Similar to Newhall in its early development, Saugus began as a rural community with large residential lots and open spaces. The residential areas of Saugus are located in Seco Canyon and Bouquet Canyon, with townhouses located on the heights above the junction of the two canyons. Much of the development in Saugus has moved into the canyon and hill areas in a series of suburban tracts. Many of the older homes are California ranch style. Strip commercial centers, prevalent in Saugus along Soledad Canyon Road and Bouquet Canyon Road, consist primarily of stucco, wood, and Spanish styles with terra cotta tile roofs.

The natural areas remaining in the center of the City known as the Whittaker-Bermite property present a major opportunity for enhancement of the area and the ability to create a greenbelt connecting the community with other areas of the Valley. The northern part of Saugus is hilly, the streets are tree-lined, and much of this area is covered with natural vegetation. The Saugus area is home to Central Park, the City’s largest park and outdoor recreation facility, which includes numerous multi-purpose fields and amenities.

WHITTAKER

BERMITE
?ßE!"^$

STEVENSON
RANCH
PKWY
MAIN
ST

MCBEAN PKWY
MCBEAN
PKWY

NEWHALL R ANCH RD

LYONS AV
SAND
CANYO
NRD
THEO
LD
RD

RAILROAD
AV

PICO CANYON RD

NEWHALL AV

MAGIC MOUNTAIN PKWY

THEOLDRD

SOLEDAD CANYON RD
THE
OLDRD

VALENCIA BLV D

SIERRAHWY

BOUQUET
CANYO
NRD
NORTH

VALENCIA
SAND
CANYON

FRIENDLY
VALLEY

PLACERITA
CANYON

NORTHBRIDGE
SAUGUS
Q:\PROJECTS\CD\080705k1\mxd\saugus.mxd
The City of Santa Clarita does not warrant
the accuracy of the data and assumes no
liability for any errors or omissions.
´
0 0.5 1
Miles
City of Santa Clarita
Saugus
3-22

1.b
Packet Pg. 57
Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
3 - SAUGUS
Residents of Saugus think of themselves as a family-oriented, rural community.

They value the surrounding canyons, the abundance of cottonwoods, and the rustic and ranch character of the community. Local residences used the following characteristics to describe Saugus during a public workshop. • Old mining community
• Ranching community
• Community of homes
• Family-oriented
• Hillside community
• Open space
• Canyons
• Middle of the valley
• Small business
• Cottonwoods
• Natural wildlife
• Gateway to natural forest
• Large lots
• Rustic
• Home to the road runner
• Sycamore and oak trees
• Soft natural green look rather than clipped manicured look 3-23

1.b
Packet Pg. 58
Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
3 - SAUGUS
B. Architectural Character & Specific Community
Needs
Saugus is one of the oldest communities within the City and for the most part is completely built-out. For this reason, the majority of the future projects within this community will be commercial building and shopping center rehabilitation. Members of the Saugus community have expressed a desire to see the existing stark white commercial architecture that lacks detail and overhangs updated in order to create aesthetically pleasing and well designed shopping areas. Renovation and/or expansion raises property values, reinforces or improves the character of the community, and inspires other property owners and designers to make improvements to their properties, which in turn enhances the entire community. 3-24

1.b
Packet Pg. 59
Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
3 - SAUGUS
C. Exterior Building Materials
These guidelines are intended to complement the general guidelines provided in Chapter 4 - Chapter 7. The basic recommendations for color and material selection in the subsequent chapters must be reviewed in conjunction with this section when building in Saugus.

The following listings of appropriate and inappropriate materials were developed for the Saugus community. The materials listed as “appropriate” have generally stood the test of time as having desirable aesthetic qualities, while those listed as “inappropriate” have failed to withstand the test of time. Certain materials have been omitted because success or failure of these materials has traditionally had more to do with the overall design than the materials selected.

These listings are intended to provide general guidance, and are not intended to be exhaustive; designers should not feel that they must limit their material palette to the following selections. New materials and refined fabrication methods are continually being introduced, and Santa Clarita encourages designers to take advantage of these innovations. 3-25

1.b
Packet Pg. 60
Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
3 - SAUGUS

1. Appropriate primary wall surfaces include, but are not limited to:
a. Natural stone veneer.
b. Float finished stucco.
c. Tile.
d. Flash fired brick.
e. Precast concrete.
f. Concrete.
g. Wood shingles/shakes.
h. Smooth sand finished hand troweled stucco.
i. Hand troweled plaster surfaces.

2. Inappropriate primary wall surfaces include, but are not limited to:
a. Simulated materials such as cement brick.
b. T-111 siding (4-foot by 8-foot plywood with vertical grooves at 8-inch to 12-inch increments).
c. Metal siding.
d. Slump stone.
e. Precision block.
f. Highly polished materials.
g. Spray on “Spanish lace” or knock down stucco.
h. Mirror glass and heavily tinted glass.
i. Corrugated fiberglass.
3-26

1.b
Packet Pg. 61
Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
3 - SAUGUS

3. Appropriate wall articulation and accents include, but are not limited to:
a. Ornamental tile for accent.
b. Build up stucco relief.
c. Prefabricated molding forms.
d. Inlaid tile.
e. Painted wainscoting.
f. Natural stone.
g. Wrought iron.
h. Clay tile vents.
i. Wood attic vents.
j. Timber lintels.
k. Recessed niches.

4. Inappropriate wall articulation and accents include, but are not limited to:
a. Plastic.
b. Chrome.
c. Aluminum windows.
d. Highly polished materials.
3-27

1.b
Packet Pg. 62
Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
3 - SAUGUS

5. Appropriate roofing materials include, but are not limited to:
a. Clay tiles.
b. Concrete roof tiles.
c. Dimensional asphalt/composite shingles.
d. Traditional tapered barrel tiles.

6. Inappropriate roofing materials include, but are not limited to:
a. Simulated clay or concrete roofing tiles.
b. Wood shingles/shakes.
c. Built-up flat roofing.
d. Fiber cement units that imitate slate, wood shakes, or mission tile. e. S-tiles.
3-28

1.b
Packet Pg. 63
Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
3 - SAUGUS
D. Colors
The following guidelines are intended to promote well-coordinated color palettes that integrate with the other exterior features of a building.

1. Light, subtle, earth tones such as tan, beige, sand, and cream, used in conjunction with bold, rich complementary accents, are appropri- ate color choices for Saugus.

2. Simple color schemes involving a maximum of three colors are rec- ommended.

3. Certain materials, such as stone and brick, have distinct coloring in their natural state and should be thought of as an element of the color palette used. These materials should not be painted.

4. Dark blue and brightly colored roofing is expressly discouraged, as are vibrantly colored and stark white walls.

E. Design Considerations
Existing parking lots lack shade trees, landscaping, and pedestrian amenities. Community members feel that the addition of these site features would improve the shopping experience and encourage shoppers to stay within the community to make their purchases. 3-29

1.b
Packet Pg. 64
Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
4 - VALENCIA

4. VALENCIA
A. Community Identity
The community of Valencia is part of the original 37,500 acre Newhall Ranch. Named after a city in Spain, Valencia was dedicated in 1965 and developed as a planned community. Residential, commercial, and industrial developments form the basic community structure and are supported by additional shopping centers, recreational facilities, schools, colleges, a hospital, golf courses, professional offices, and other support services that are connected by a system of walkways called “paseos” . The community is home to the local Los Angeles County Civic Center, College of the Canyons, and California Institute of the Arts.

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
4 - VALENCIA
The southern section of Valencia was first developed in the late 1960s and reflects the architectural style of that period. These neighborhoods include the areas along Orchard Village Road, Wiley Canyon Road, and McBean Parkway, which feature relatively homogeneous suburban tract housing. The homes are on medium-sized landscaped lots. The streets were designed and planned for residential uses and landscaped to create a community atmosphere.

Recent residential development has occurred in the hilly section of Valencia north of Newhall Ranch Road. These homes reflect several different modern architectural styles. The neighborhoods are planned with paseos, parks, and other amenities.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
4 - VALENCIA
Commercial uses in Valencia were planned and located in centers such as the regional mall, Town Center Drive, auto row, and smaller neighborhood centers. These centers incorporate a Spanish and Mediterranean architectural style.

Industrial land use in the area is located in a business and industrial center in the northern section of the area near Rye Canyon Road. The area contains wide streets with generous landscaped setbacks and one to three-story buildings.

Although it is probably the most urban community in Santa Clarita, Valencia still has a touch of rural character. It is the combination of lush landscaping, urban architecture, and sophistication in a suburban setting that defines Valencia’s character. The following characteristics were used to describe Valencia during a public workshop.
• Family
• High quality of life
• Cleanliness
• Paseo system
• Safe and secure
• Lush landscaping
• Pedestrian friendly
• Well lit
• Tight knit community
• Stability of real estate values
• Community pride
• Pristine marketing corridor
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
4 - VALENCIA
B. Architectural Character & Specific Community
Needs
Much of the desired architectural character for Valencia is established by the currently existing buildings. The mixture of bright colors, natural materials, and contemporary design create a favorable array of architectural style within the community. The area with the most potential for new development is the industrial center. Architects are encouraged to provide innovative designs with unique forms and articulation on all sides of the building. Careful planning for employee break areas and outdoor seating is also a concern. These spaces should be designed, not just created within left over areas, and should include special paving and furnishings.

C. Exterior Building Materials
These guidelines are intended to complement the general guidelines provided in Chapter 4 - Chapter 7. The basic recommendations for color and material selection in the subsequent chapters must be reviewed in conjunction with this section when building in Valencia.

The following listings of appropriate and inappropriate materials were developed for the Valencia community. The materials listed as “appropriate” have generally stood the test of time as having desirable aesthetic qualities, while the materials listed as “inappropriate” have failed to withstand the test of time. Certain materials have been omitted because the success or failure of these materials has traditionally had more to do with the overall design than the materials selected.

These listings are intended to provide general guidance, and are not intended to be exhaustive; designers should not feel that they must limit their material palette to the following selections. New materials and refined fabrication methods are continually being introduced, and Santa Clarita encourages designers to take advantage of these innovations. 3-33

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
4 - VALENCIA

1. Appropriate primary wall surfaces include, but are not limited to:
a. Native stone veneer.
b. Cement plaster stucco.
c. Smooth and hand-troweled stucco.
d. Tile.
e. Wood siding/shingles.
f. Cement/fiber siding (6-inch, 8-inch, or 12-inch horizontal siding).

2. Inappropriate primary wall surfaces include, but are not limited to:
a. T-111 siding (4-foot by 8-foot plywood with vertical grooves at 8-inch to 12-inch increments).
b. Highly polished materials.
c. Mirror or heavily tinted glazing.
d. Corrugated metal/ fiberglass panels.
e. Metal siding.
f. Spray-on or knock-down stucco.
g. Exposed steel framing.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
4 - VALENCIA

3. Appropriate wall articulation and accents include, but are not limited to:
a. Accent tile.
b. Stucco corbels, lintels, sills.
c. Timber lintels, sills, corbels.
d. Clay tile vents.
e. Wood vents.
f. Recessed niches.
g. Arches.
h. Colonnades.
i. Wrought iron.
j. Wood trellises/shading devices.

4. Inappropriate wall articulation and accents include, but are not limited to:
a. Plastic.
b. Chrome.
c. Aluminum windows.
d. Highly polished materials.
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March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
4 - VALENCIA

5. Appropriate roofing materials include, but are not limited to:
a. Clay tiles.
b. Cement tiles.
c. Dimensional asphalt/ composite shingles.
d. Metal roofing.
e. “Cool roof” built-up roofing.
f. Traditional tapered barrel tiles.

6. Inappropriate roofing materials include, but are not limited to:
a. Simulated clay or concrete roofing tiles.
b. Wood shingles/shakes.
c. Corrugated metal/ fiberglass panels.
d. S-tiles.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
4 - VALENCIA
D. Colors
The following guidelines are intended to promote well-coordinated color palettes that integrate with the other exterior features of a building.

1. Bold, rich colors such as rust, ocher, and olive greens are appropriate in Valencia.

2. Simple color schemes involving a maximum of three colors are rec- ommended.

3. Stark white walls are discouraged unless used where authentically appropriate, such as on a Mission style building.

4. Certain materials, such as stone and brick, have distinct coloring in their natural state and should be thought of as an element of the color palette used. These materials should not be painted.

E. Design Considerations
Valencia has become a community that supports progressive thinking and creativity through the built form. In addition to showcasing successful contemporary architecture, Valencia has become a street-side gallery for public art. To continue the infusion of art throughout the community, each project should consider what is appropriate to their location and scale and design an integrated place to exhibit public artwork. The public art for each project, regardless of size or visual impact, will, in time, significantly contribute to the richness of Valencia.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
CHAPTER 5

MULTIFAMILY RESIDENTIAL & MIXED-USE

OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS & GUIDELINES

INTRODUCTION
Multifamily developments are higher density residential buildings such as apartments, condominiums, and townhomes. Similarly, mixed-use developments combine two or more different uses, such as residential, commercial, or office, within a single building or connected series of buildings. These types of development are typically comprised of attached units with common facilities such as parking, open space, and recreation areas. This chapter provides general standards and guidelines for the design of multi-family and mixed-use development in all areas of the City. The standards are mandatory and written to be objective and measurable. In contrast, the guidelines are not objective, and applicants are encouraged to incorporate applicable guidelines where feasible to achieve higher-quality outcomes. The design guidelines and objective standards apply to any addition, remodeling, relocation, or construction requiring a building permit within the City. Additionally, multifamily and mixed-use housing projects must also include community specific exterior building materials, colors and design considerations of Chapter 3. If a new project falls within either the Canyon Country, Newhall, Saugus, or Valencia neighborhood, the exterior building materials, colors, and design considerations of Chapter 3 must be applied in addition to the standards and guidelines listed in this chapter. The following text in Section 1 (Site Planning and Design), Section 2 (Building Design), and Section 3 (Utilitarian Aspects) of this chapter apply to all projects. Standards provided in Section 4 (Mixed Use) are strictly for mixed-use projects. The following topics are addressed:

1. Site Planning and Design

2. Building Design

3. Utilitarian Aspects

4. Mixed Use
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026

PROCESS
Applicants may opt-out of using one or more of the following objective design standards (ODS) via an Administrative Permit. In these instances, projects will proceed under the City’s standard Architectural Design Review Permit process.

In an opt-out scenario, the Applicant must:
• Apply for an Administrative Permit for staff level review at no fee. Included in the application, the Applicant must state in writing their intent to not satisfy the City’s ODS requirements;
• Apply for an Architectural Design Review Permit.
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Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN

1. SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
A. Site Layout
The primary project objective must be constructing a high-quality residential environment. Multifamily residential and mixed-use developments surrounded by high walls, parking lots, and rows of carports and/or garages along public streets should be avoided while pedestrian circulation, appropriate landscaping, and functional public and private common areas should be prioritized.

1. Objective Standards
a. Projects along Collector or Local streets as defined in the City of Santa Clarita General Plan and adjacent to pedestrian oriented development, must be located adjacent to the primary street.

Parking lots must be located in the rear of the site, away from the primary street frontage. Where the lot configuration does not permit rear access due to the absence of a rear or side alley, easement, or secondary street providing vehicular access, vehicular access and parking lots must be located to the side of the primary structure, provided parking lots are set back a minimum of 10 feet from the primary street property line and adequately screened in alignment with Parking Lot Area Screening Objective Standards.
b. Multifamily and mixed-use projects must not feature street facing building frontages that extend horizontally along a public sidewalk for more than 100 feet without incorporating at least one (1) of the following design methods in order to provide natural ventilation and usable outdoor space:
i. Outdoor courtyards adjacent to the public right-of-way which provide ventilation and outdoor space.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
09 ii. Arcades a minimum of six (6) feet deep.
iii. Separation of buildings into two individual buildings with an incorporated courtyard/entrance providing access to
internal uses such as residential dwellings, commercial uses, or private open space areas.

2. Design Guidelines
a. The design of multifamily and mixed-use developments should consider compatibility with the surrounding neighborhood. b. Intensified landscaping, increased setbacks, and building orientation should be utilized as a means of providing adequate separation between such land uses.
c. Multifamily and mixed-use structures should be clustered.

Clustering creates plazas or pedestrian malls and prevents long “barrack-like” or continuous rows of structures.
d. Natural amenities such as views, mature trees, creeks, riparian corridors, and similar features unique to the site should be preserved.
e. Building placement should not limit solar access by shading adjacent rooftops.
f. Orient buildings on an east/west axis to maximize the use of natural daylighting.
g. Narrow floor plan depths should be used to maximize daylight, exterior views, and natural ventilation. Use a courtyard atria to bring light and air into interior spaces.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
B. Vehicular Access, Circulation and Parking Lot
Areas
Site plans should balance the need to provide adequate vehicular access with the need to eliminate unnecessary driveway entrances and should provide access points that are coordinated with other properties.

1. Objective Standards
a. Projects requiring more than 100 parking spaces must break up parking areas into a series of smaller connected parking areas of no more than 75 parking spaces.
b. Projects of over 20,000 square feet or more must include a primary vehicular access into the project incorporating at least two of the following accent features:
i. Brick, pavers, colored, patterned, textured, and/or permeable paving treatments a minimum of 12 feet deep from back of sidewalk.
ii. Landscaping on both sides of the project entry consisting of a minimum of two trees (minimum 24-inch box), four shrubs (minimum 5-gallon), and ground cover plantings, within a landscaped area a minimum of 10 feet wide by 10 feet deep. iii. Landscaped medians (minimum width of at least seven (7) feet.
iv. Where permissible, architectural monument signs.
v. Masonry or wrought iron walls or gates, a minimum of 36 inches in height.

2. Design Guidelines
a. Project entry features should reflect the overall architectural identity or character of the development.
b. Projects that include more than one vehicular drive access should feature at least one decorative entry drive. 5-5 See Objective Standard B(1)(b)(i.).

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
C. Parking Lot Area Screening
Screening should be provided at the edge of all parking areas.

1. Objective Standards
a. A 36-inch to 42-inch tall berm, hedge, or masonry wall must be used to screen any parking at the street periphery. Breaks must be provided to allow pedestrian circulation at least every 100 feet or as required by the California Building Code. If the parking lot elevation is 36-inches or more below the adjacent street, then no berm, hedge, or masonry is required.
b. Both sides of all perimeter walls or fences must include at least one (1) of the following treatments:
i. Application of a cap or ledge at the top of the wall, projecting a minimum of two inches.
ii. A pattern of reveals, recesses, or pilasters at intervals of no more than 15 feet. Long expanses of fence or wall surfaces must be offset a minimum of 18 inches at least every 50 feet.

2. Design Guidelines
a. Where topography allows, parking lots could also be located above or below the adjacent street grade to effectively screen parking without the addition of substantial screen walls or landscaping. b. Landscaped buffer area provided between parking areas and public rights-of-way should not be included in the minimum five percent landscaping within the parking lot interior calculation required by the UDC. This buffer should be designed to provide stormwater retention through swales, sumps, etc.
c. Transitioning between walls, berms, and landscape materials is highly recommended in locations where parking lot screening is required.
d. Fences and walls placed adjacent to parking lot areas should feature styles that are complementary to the primary structure. 5-6 See Design Guideline C(1)(b).

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
D. Pedestrian Access
Adequate pedestrian circulation should be provided to all pedestrians for safe passage throughout the internal site.

1. Objective Standards
a. Dedicated pedestrian access must be provided to each building primary entrance, vehicle parking area, private open space area, trash and recycling enclosure, and adjacent residential, recreational, and commercial uses. Such pedestrian access must include:
i. A minimum of one (1) directional sign at each primary pedestrian decision point;
ii. A change in paving material, paving color, or paving pattern from the adjacent vehicular circulation surface (e.g. use of brick, stamped concrete, or painted/striped surfaces where the vehicular surface is standard asphalt or broom-finished concrete). The on-site pedestrian circulation system must be directly connected to off-site public sidewalks..
b. Enhanced paving treatment, such as brick, textured/colored concrete, or asphalt, or clearly delineated crosswalks, such as painted or striped crosswalks, must be used where primary pedestrian paths cross vehicular drive aisles.

2. Design Guidelines
a. Meandering paths are generally preferred over long straight path alignments.
b. Paths made from permeable materials, such as decomposed granite, should be limited to private open space areas to create a more park-like setting and allow for stormwater percolation. c. Projects should provide internal and/or public pedestrian connections that are direct, convenient, and pleasant and that have appropriate amenities such as decorative paving treatments or benches. 5-7

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
d. Pedestrian connections and/or plazas should be provided with adequate weather protection (awnings or canopies) and appropriate pedestrian amenities, such as street tree grates, outdoor seating, bus waiting areas, trash cans, mail boxes, sidewalk displays, public art.

E. Paving Treatment
Specialty paving should be provided adjacent to building entries or facades, in plazas and courtyards or seating areas, at intersections, at mid-block between buildings, and adjacent to parks.

1. Objective Standards
a. Building entrances must be clearly indicated through the use of patterns and colors. At least one (1) of the following must be installed at each building entrance onsite: tile, brick, textured or colored concrete, in order to provide clear identification of access points into buildings.
b. At least one (1) of the following permeable pavement materials must comprise a minimum of 50% of the hardscape materials used in common amenity spaces of multi-family and mixed use projects:
i. Porous asphalt.
ii. Paver blocks.
iii. Lattice blocks.

2. Design Guidelines
a. Reuse of materials such as brick and flagstone is encouraged where possible.
b. Light colored paving should be incorporated near buildings to reduce the amount of heat radiating onto buildings and people. 5-8

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
F. Garages and Accessory Structures
Garages, carports, and other accessory structures should be designed as integral parts of the development.

1. Objective Standards
a. Garages must not be placed along the primary street unless the site lacks any alternative driveway access for residential parking. b. Garage doors must be recessed at least four (4) inches from the exterior wall.
c. Detached garages and accessory structures must incorporate at least two of the same exterior cladding materials used on the primary structure (e.g., if the primary structure uses stucco and stone veneer, the detached garage must use stucco and stone veneer) and must use at least one (1) exterior color found on the primary structure.

2. Design Guidelines
a. Garages should be located to have the least amount of visual impact on the street.
b. When viewed from the street, garages should be subordinate to the main living area. Where possible, the garage should be recessed behind the dwelling unit and not located between the main living area and the street.
c. Garages should be located along alleys and/or secondary streets when available.
d. Flat roofs are discouraged on detached garages and accessory structures.
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Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
G. Public Space, Common Amenities, Park Land
and Trails
Public or private common amenity space designated for onsite residents, as well as pedestrian connections to such spaces, should be provided to enhance the living environment and contribute to a walkable neighborhood character.

1. Objective Standards
a. Pedestrian pathways must connect to any onsite private parks and any adjacent offsite or connecting jogging or hiking trails, bicycle pathways, equestrian trails, or parkways. In the event the site is adjacent to public parks or neighborhood parks included within the community-wide park system, pedestrian pathways must be provided to connect to adjacent public parks.
b. Any common amenity space greater than 600 square feet dedicated to public and/or private use must contain shading provided through umbrellas, awnings, or trees and a trash and recycling receptacle, as well as incorporate at least two (2) of the following features:
i. Outdoor seating with at least two (2) benches or tables. ii. Dog relief area with a dog waste station.
iii. One (1) prominently located art feature.
iv. One (1) children play structure or tot lot.
v. Picnic area with at least two (2) tables and one (1) barbeque grill with shading provided.
vi. Gardening area with at least four (4) beds or raised vegetable boxes.
vii. One (1) improved outdoor game area such as bocce, shuffle board, or similar amenity.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN

2. Design Guidelines
a. Private outdoor space should focus on areas that are usable to the residents and not remainder parcels with marginal utility. b. A transition area should be provided between new development and adjacent open space to preserve the rural feel of the Valley. c. A river-oriented recreational greenbelt and trails system should be constructed along the Santa Clara River to tie together the communities of Santa Clarita.
d. Bicycle and pedestrian pathways should access a project at visually pleasing locations rather than service areas.
e. Buildings, parking areas, and open space should be arranged to minimize the use of sound walls next to freeway, arterial, and/or collector streets.
f. Public spaces should be clearly recognizable as “public” (e.g., a plaza within view of a street or other public space) and publicly accessible (i.e., a pedestrian accessible), and the space should be able to be occupied by people (i.e., a person can stand or sit in the area).
g. Public rooftop gardens, or viewing areas, should have street level signage directing access.
h. Where possible, larger public spaces should be located near the main pedestrian access to the development.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
H. Planting Design
Plants should be used to define building entrances, parking lots, and the edges of various land uses. Plants should also be used to buffer and screen neighboring properties and to enhance the quality and functional aspects of landscaping. Consider safety, environmental impacts, and accent elements when selecting and locating landscaping features..

1. Objective Standards
a. Landscaping and irrigation must comply with applicable Landscaping and Irrigation Standards within SCMC Section

17.51.030.
b. Landscaping must not obstruct solar access to adjacent solar collectors for water heating, space heating or cooling, or electricity generation.
c. The ultimate width of a trees canopy must be located no closer than ten feet to street lights.
d. Artificial or synthetic plants, except for turf, are prohibited.

The use of artificial and synthetic turf may count towards required landscaping but may not exceed 50% of the required landscaping and is not permitted in front or street side setbacks.

The installation of artificial and synthetic turf must meet the requirements of SCMC Section 17.51.030.C.3.
e. Irrigation plans must be provided for all onsite plants. Irrigation systems must incorporate water efficient technologies such as drip emitters, sub-grade capillary action irrigation for turf areas, evapotranspiration controllers, and moisture sensors. The use of recycled water must be used for irrigation when available. 5-12

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
f. Long-term soil stabilization must be considered when developing a landscape plan on sloped sites or projects with cut and fill slopes. See SCMC Section 17.51.020.C.4.a. Water runoff should be retained to reduce the risk of flooding. Stabilization must be achieved by methods such as planting native erosion control vegetation, including a mix of trees, shrubs, vines and/ or other ground covers with stabilizing mulch to naturalize the hillsides.
i. Cut and fill slopes less than five feet in height must be planted to cover the slopes completely within six months of planting.
ii. Cut and fill slopes exceeding five feet in vertical height must be planted in accordance of SCMC Section 17.51.030.C.2. g. Deciduous species, perennials, and grasses or grass-like plants must not be used for privacy screening.
h. Dense, evergreen trees, shrubs, and/or vines must be used to screen the following areas from public view: trash and recycling enclosures, surface parking areas, storage areas, loading areas, public utility equipment, and mechanical equipment. Screening plantings must be of a species and size sufficient to achieve a minimum 80% visual opacity within three years of planting, as demonstrated on the approved landscape plan.
i. All landscaping in areas designated as a very high fire hazard severity zone must be subject to the requirements of the Los Angeles County Fire Department. Additional landscape design requirements may be required by the Fire Department for any project that is located within a fire sensitive area. The applicant, architect, and/or landscape architect are encouraged to consult with the Fire Marshall for “Interface Zone” requirements. j. Trees and shrubs must be placed to not interfere with vehicular sight lines located at driveways, parking lot entrances, vehicular intersections, etc.
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March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN

2. Design Guidelines
a. Landscape areas should contain a mix of plant sizes and materials to ensure variety.
b. 36-inch box trees or larger are strongly encouraged in front and side yard setback areas.
c. At least one mature specimen tree (I.e., 48-inch box or 60-inch box) should be prominently located at main focal areas and/or be visible from project frontages.
d. The clustering of trees is encouraged and trees should be used to shade streets, sidewalks, and parking areas and create an intimate scale, enclosure spaces, and frame views. However, tree placement should respect the long-range views and solar access of surrounding neighbors and prevent damage to adjoining property.
e. Seasonal shading from trees and shrubs on southern and western facades should be used when developing planting schemes for courtyards and streetscapes. Deciduous trees provide solar control during summer and winter while providing fall color, seasonal flower, and other desired effects. f. Accent planting should be used to emphasize primary building and site entries, key activity hubs, and main focal areas. In addition, the incorporation of decorative focal elements are encouraged to accentuate views (i.e. recirculating water elements and public art).
g. Vines and potted plants should be used to provide wall, column, and post texture and color, as well as to accentuate entryways, courtyards, and sidewalks.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
h. Nuisance trees that drop flowers and fruit should not be located within the ultimate width of the canopy extending over pedestrian walkways, pools and play equipment areas, parking areas, public sidewalks.
i. Lawn areas should be planted to serve a functional purpose and not be located in areas that are difficult to irrigate or maintain.

Sod should be used for turf installation. Special permission should be obtained from the City to install lawns by seeding. j. Lineal root barriers should be installed at each tree trunk located within six feet of the curb or walk or building foundation and should not extend six feet to each side of the trunk of the tree.

Root barriers on the curb side should be 24 inches deep and root barriers on the walkway side should be 18 inches deep.
k. Plant materials should be primarily drought-tolerant and/or California native plant materials, and not include invasive plants listed by the California Invasive Plant Council, or other plants determined to be invasive by a qualified botanist or biologist.

Drought tolerant turf or warm season turf should be used for lawn areas where possible.
l. Drip irrigation systems should be used in all areas except for turf irrigation and small ornamental plantings. The irrigation systems should be designed to apply water slowly allowing plants to be deep watered.
m. Each street tree should be watered by two deep watering bubblers separate from all other irrigation.
n. Explore opportunities to reuse rainwater and/or grey water for irrigation.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
o. Plants located directly below the eaves or at a rain gutter outlet should be sturdy and have a subsurface matrix of roots to tolerate heavy sheet flow and periodic saturation consistent with the Standard Urban Stormwater Mitigation Plan. Urban runoff can be greatly reduced by diverting stormwater from impervious areas, such as concrete surfaces, to planted areas. Infiltration basins where water can seep into the ground should be used. p. Due to challenging soil conditions found throughout the Valley, extra care should be given to prepare and apply soil amendments prior to planting. “Structural soil” should be considered for tree planting in areas that might be subject to compaction, such as street edges, narrow medians, and parking lots.
q. Short lived plants, plants susceptible to disease, and large expanses of single plant varieties should be avoided due to an unchanging appearance and the potential for complete loss of landscaping if struck with disease.
r. Landscape screening should be located to obscure direct sight lines from communal areas such as parking areas, common mailboxes, and pedestrian walkways into dwelling units and private recreational space. Strategically located landscaping may be used in combination with walls, fencing, berms, and/ or trellises to provide screening.
s. Important natural resources on the project site should be retained when feasible (i.e. landmark, specimen or native trees).

Oak tree removals are subject to SCMC Section 17.51.040. 5-16

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Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
I. Parking Lot Area Planting
Provide well-planted parking areas. Plants should create a functional and attractive parking environment.

1. Objective Standards
a. Parking spaces may overhang into a planted area a maximum of two (2) feet. However, the two feet encroachment and the required protective curb area must be counted only as a part of the length of the parking stall and must not be calculated as planted area or setback.
b. All planted areas must be bordered by a concrete curb adjacent to the parking surface that is a minimum of six (6) inches high.

2. Design Guidelines
a. Evergreen shade trees should be planted within parking lots to reduce the heat island effect. Parking lot trees with 30 to 40-foot canopies should be planted to shade parked cars and create a more attractive environment.
b. Consideration of plant materials adjacent to parking spaces should be a priority. Thorns, stickers, and shaper leaves should be avoided.
c. Parking lot area planting should comply with all local/ state Standard Urban Storm Water Mitigation Plan (SUSMP) requirements.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
2 - BUILDING DESIGN

2. BUILDING DESIGN
Building forms and facades influence cohesiveness, comfort, and aesthetic pride and can generate pedestrian activity and increase a sense of security. Any good design should take into consideration fundamental design principles including continuity, mass, scale, rhythm, and proportion. All new buildings and remodels should incorporate 360-degree architecture, which is the full articulation of all building facades, including variation in massing, roof forms, wall planes, and surface articulation.

The following standards and guidelines are intended to provide a general framework for design, and do not mandate specific architectural styles, themes, or details. Chapter 3 of this document should be consulted prior to developing building design drawings to ensure that the appropriate community character is incorporated into the building design. The City will be open to considering innovative, alternative design concepts that were not envisioned at the time that these guidelines were written; however an attempt should be made to comply with the general intent of the guidelines provided.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
2 - BUILDING DESIGN
A. Building Massing and Articulation
Mass is defined as a three-dimensional form, such as a cube, box, cylinder, pyramid, or cone. The way the forms are sized directly relates to the way building elements are emphasized or de-emphasized. Voids or open spaces in the forms can change the form’s appearance and make the building more interesting and less imposing. Articulation refers to the way architectural design divides uniform building forms into smaller, visually distinct elements. Through transitions in materials, colors, textures, and the use of setbacks or projections, articulation clarifies how a building’s components relate to one another. When done correctly, articulation establishes human scale and adds visual richness. Building designers should incorporate 360-degree architecture in all buildings, which is the full articulation of all building facades, including variation in massing, roof forms, wall planes, and surface articulation. Acknowledging sensitivity to a budget, it is expected that the highest level of articulation will occur on the front facade and facades visible from public streets.

1. Objective Standards
a. Buildings with a footprint greater than 4,000 square feet and two (2) stories or taller, must include massing elements at each story (for example a three-story building would have at least one (1) massing element on the first story, (1) massing element on the second story, and one (1) massing element on the third story). b. Building facades on all sides of the building must not extend more than 55 feet in length without the inclusion of one of the following:
i. A change in wall plane depth of at least two (2) feet (projected or recessed elements).
ii. A change in roof height of at least two (2) feet.
iii. Projecting or recessed building entrances or porches. iv. Balconies for each residential unit.
5-19
See Objective Standard A(1)(a).

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
2 - BUILDING DESIGN
v. Architectural detailing consisting of columns (minimum eight (8) inches in width and projecting a minimum of four (4) inches from the wall surface) or arcades (minimum six (6) feet of walking space between facade and arcade, and eight (8) feet in height at the lowest point). Use of columns and/ or arcades must be consistent with Chapter 3 - Community Character.
vi. Use of moldings, trim bands, or a change in exterior material at least once every 20 horizontal feet and at each floor transition.
c. Building facades must not include blank wall space (defined as an uninterrupted area of a single material with no windows, doors, projections, recesses, trim, or material changes) that is larger than 10 feet by 10 feet in size.
d. Buildings must be designed to differentiate uniformly between a defined base; a middle or body; and a top, cornice, or parapet cap through the use of contrasting materials, colors, or textures change.
e. Lower walls of buildings adjacent to a pedestrian-oriented street, from finished grade to a height of 12 feet, must incorporate at least one of the following design elements:
i. Arches;
ii. Trellises;
iii. Awnings (refer to Objective Standard C(1)(e) for awning dimensions).
iv. Recessed entries.
v. Display windows.
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See Objective Standard A(1)(b).

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
2 - BUILDING DESIGN
f. Multifamily and mixed-use projects on corner lots must include at least one (1) or more of the following features on both street- facing facades within 25 feet of the intersection:
i. Vertical elements such as towers that extend a minimum of 3 feet above adjacent roof elements.
ii. A different roof style than the adjacent facades of the building.

Flat roofs are not permitted; slopes must be between 2:12 and 6:12.
iii. Building entrances on the ground floor within 25 feet of the street corner must include a massing break of at least 24 inches in depth by eight (8) feet in height.
iv. A variation of material, color, or fenestration pattern of windows and doors from the rest of the façade.

2. Design Guidelines
a. Several smaller, compact building footprints, rather than one large building, should be used to provide an intimate scale and a more efficient envelope for optimizing daylighting and passive solar heating and cooling functions. To accomplish this, large projects, such as twelve or more residential units, should be broken into smaller buildings with several different building heights proposed. b. Combination of one, one and one half, and two story units should be used to create visual interest and variation in the massing and building height.
c. Structures with greater height should include additional setbacks and steps within the massing to create a transition in heights from adjacent properties and to avoid dominating the character of the neighborhood.
d. Surface detailing should not serve as a substitute for well- integrated and distinctive massing.
e. Building elements and details should be consistent with the chosen architectural style. 5-21
See Objective Standard A(1)(f ).

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
2 - BUILDING DESIGN
B. Roof Forms
Roof forms should be in alignment with the selected architectural style through roof pitch and material selection.

1. Objective Standards
a. Roof lines must not extend horizontally more than 55 feet in length without a two (2) foot variation in height.
b. Where roofs exceed 60 linear feet, cross gables or accent roofs must equal a minimum of 30% of the roof façade.
c. Flat roofs must provide parapets around the perimeter of the roof with parapets extending at least six (6) inches above all rooftop equipment. Parapet design must comply with all County of Los Angeles Fire Department Fire Code Standards.
d. Rooftop equipment must not be visible to pedestrians and be located at least ten (10) feet away from the roof edge. e. Parapets must be adorned with precast treatment, banding, cornice or dentil details, or similar edge treatment (for example, parapet with a minimum of four (4) inches in height and a minimum of two (2) inch extrusion from the wall.
f. Eaves and rakes must include at least one (1) of the following:
i. Minimum 18 inch overhang.
ii. Corbel end beams or rafter tails at three (3) feet maximum spacing.
iii. Cornices with a minimum projection of at least four (4) inches.
iv. Scalloped stucco transition to roof tile edges.

2. Design Guidelines
a. Roofs covering the entire building, such as hips and gables should be used instead of mansard roofs. 5-22
See Objective Standard B(1)(a).

See Objective Standard B(1)(b).

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
2 - BUILDING DESIGN
C. Windows, Doors and Awnings
Windows and doors help to define the architectural style of a building while providing daylight to interior spaces and visual interest to building facades.

These features are sometimes accented through the use of awnings.

1. Objective Standards
a. Window and door type, material, and shape must be consistent on each elevation (with allowance for features or accent windows) and consistent with Chapter 3 - Community Character. Up to 20% of the total window area on any elevation may deviate from the primary window type(s) as feature or accent windows, provided such accent windows are identified on the submitted building elevations. b. Windows must be articulated with at least two (2) of the following:
i. Decorative lintels applied to all windows.
ii. Window trim on all windows, a minimum of three and a half (3.5) inches.
iii. One (1) feature window per façade (bay window, bow window, arched window, dormer window, or angled window).
iv. Shutters or awnings on 30% of windows.
v. Recessed from the outer wall plane a minimum of three (3) inches. vi. Non-white vinyl, or non-vinyl frame material on all windows. vii. Window sills projecting a minimum of one and a half (1.5) inches beyond the wall surface.
c. Unless offset by more than five (5) feet horizontally, to enhance privacy, windows for residential units on side elevations within 10 feet of adjacent structures, or private outdoor spaces serving adjacent units, must be designed with at least one (1) of the following:
i. Non-transparent glazing;
ii. Frosted/patterned glass; 5-23

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
2 - BUILDING DESIGN
iii. Permanent architectural screens or affixed louvers at windows;
iv. Or utilization of high or transom windows.
d. Awnings, weather protection coverings, or recessed doorways must be incorporated on multifamily and mixed-use primary building entries to clearly define the entrance and orient pedestrians.
e. Awnings must be made of metal, must feature a minimum depth of three (3) feet, and must be at least seven (7) feet off of the ground to accommodate pedestrian traffic.

2. Design Guidelines
a. Window distribution should assist in improving building scale. b. Maximize daylighting and views through window placement and design. Passive solar design can be used to reduce heating requirements by 30 percent to 50 percent, thus saving money and energy. For organization of the facade, primary upper and lower windows should stack vertically whenever possible. c. EPA “Energy Star” labeled windows with low-e coatings are encouraged.
d. Awnings should be used to add color, form, and relief to the building and enhance building articulation.
e. Awnings should not be wrapped around buildings in continuous bands. Awnings should only be placed on top of doors, windows, and other openings such as paseo entrances.
f. Consideration should be given to placing awnings and canopies on south-facing facades to provide aesthetic enhancement while assisting in cooling the building during the summer months. g. Any shutters should be proportionate to the adjacent windows to create the appearance of real and functional shutters. 5-24
See Objective Standard C(1)(e).

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
2 - BUILDING DESIGN
D. Residential Dwelling Unit Access and Building
Entrances
All entrances should be clearly identifiable and emphasized using lighting, landscaping, and architecture.

1. Objective Standards
a. Individual residential dwelling unit entrances located on the ground floor must be emphasized and clearly defined with at least two (2) of the following:
i. Porch or stoop that is at least six (6) feet wide and four (4) feet deep.
ii. Patio.
iii. Terrace.
iv. Weather protection covering in the form of an awning or recessed doorway. Recessed doorways must be a minimum
depth of two (2) feet.
v. Architectural detailing such as lighting features or decorative address lettering.
vi. Transition in color or material.
b. Building entrances must be oriented towards adjacent public sidewalks.

2. Design Guidelines
a. Access points to units should be clustered in groups of four or less. Long, monotonous access balconies and corridors that provide access to five or more units should be avoided. b. Every building should have at least one entrance that does not require passage through a parking lot or garage to gain access. 5-25
See Objective Standard D(1)(a).

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
2 - BUILDING DESIGN
E. Materials and Colors
The selection and placement of building materials should provide visual interest at the pedestrian level. Heavier materials should be used to form the building base and as accents on upper stories and walls. Materials and colors should be used to enhance buildings and adjacent pedestrian spaces by adding color, shadows, and interesting forms. Materials and color selection must also align with the corresponding community identity found in the Community Character guidelines established in Chapter 3.

1. Objective Standards
a. Projects must include at least two (2) of the following materials:
i. Wood.
ii. Stone.
iii. Brick.
iv. Stucco.
v. Wood composite siding (for example Hardie siding).
vi. Stone veneer.
vii. Vertical board siding.
viii. Tile.
b. Projects must include at least one (1) primary color and at least one (1) accent color.
c. Accent materials or colors must make up at least 10% of facades facing the primary street.
d. Material changes on building facades must occur at a change in wall plane of at least two (2) inches in depth (projection or recess) or at an inside corner where two wall planes meet.

Material changes on a single, flat wall plane without a change in plane or inside corner are prohibited.5-26
See Objective Standard E(1)(d).

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
2 - BUILDING DESIGN
e. Natural materials, such as brick, stone, copper, wood, must be left the natural color.
f. Stairways must be constructed of smooth stucco, plaster, or wood and be consistent with the approved materials of the corresponding neighborhood as defined in Chapter 3 - Community Character . Open metal, prefabricated stairs will not be allowed.

2. Design Guidelines
a. Materials selected for multifamily and mixed-use projects should be aesthetically pleasing but very durable and should require low maintenance.
b. Materials should be utilized that reduce the transfer of heat into and/or out of the building.
c. Recycled content materials, such as wood substitutes, recycled concrete, and asphalt, as well as non-toxic materials, should be used wherever possible.
d. The entire development should utilize a consistent architectural style and materials. However; if the intent is to differentiate between uses, some architectural details should vary slightly. 5-27

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
3 - UTILITARIAN ASPECTS

3. UTILITARIAN ASPECTS
A. Utilitarian Equipment
All utilitarian equipment and features should be integrated into the site plan and should either be aesthetically screened from view or designed to complement the architectural style of the project. Utility service areas should be part of the early site design process, rather than an afterthought at the construction document phase.

1. Objective Standards
a. Any outdoor equipment, whether on a roof, side of a structure, or the ground must be fully screened from view (landscaping may be used to screen ground mounted equipment). The material or elements used for screening of outdoor equipment must be as tall or taller than the equipment in which it is screening and adequate space for maintenance must be provided.
b. Utility service areas, such as electrical panels, must be placed within enclosures constructed of at least one exterior cladding material used on the primary building facade, and painted or finished in a color matching the adjacent building wall.

Enclosures must be a minimum of six (6) inches taller than the enclosed equipment on all sides (ensure manufacture recommendations are met).
c. Utility enclosures, excluding entrances for maintenance access, must be screened by at least one of the following:
i. Solid masonry walls.
ii. Berms.
iii. Landscaping.
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Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
3 - UTILITARIAN ASPECTS
d. Common box mailbox enclosures must incorporate at least one (1) of the following:
i. A material or color identical to a material or color used on the primary building façade.
ii. A roof form (e.g., gable, hip, or flat with parapet) matching the roof form of the primary structure.

2. Design Guidelines
a. Where screen walls are used, the walls should be designed to blend with the site’s architecture.
b. Transformers required to be installed adjacent to the street should be placed underground.
c. Guardrails should complement the architectural style of the building.
d. Ramps should be integrated into the site design and can be used to create functional or unique spaces.
e. Gutters and downspouts on the exterior of the building should be decorative or designed to integrate with the building facade. 5-29

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Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
3 - UTILITARIAN ASPECTS
B. Trash and Recycling Enclosures
Trash and recycling enclosures should be carefully designed, located, and integrated into the site plan.

1. Objective Standards
a. Trash and recycling enclosures must be screened with a solid masonry wall constructed of at least one (1) exterior material used on the primary building facade and must include
landscaping consisting of a minimum of one (1) 5-gallon shrub for every three (3) linear feet of enclosure perimeter. Enclosure walls must be a minimum of six (6) feet in height.

2. Design Guidelines
a. A pedestrian entrance to the trash and recycling enclosure should be provided so that the large access gates do not have to be opened as often.
b. Trash and recycling bins should be conveniently accessible for collection and maintenance and should not block access drives during loading operations.
c. Drainage from adjoining roof and pavement should be diverted around the trash and recycling area.
d. Architecturally designed roof structures on trash and recycling enclosures should be used to create a finished looking structure. 5-30

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
3 - UTILITARIAN ASPECTS
C. Lighting
Effective lighting provides safety and direction for vehicles and pedestrians while enhancing architectural building and landscape details. These guidelines apply to on-site lighting for parking areas and lights associated with the building in private development projects.

Light types may include pole lights, spotlighting, wall-mounted sconces, parking lighting, and landscape lighting.

1. Objective Standards
a. Lighting must comply with applicable Outdoor Lighting Standards within SCMC Section 17.51.050.
b. Outdoor lighting fixtures must match the primary building’s architectural style by using colors, materials, and design features that are commonly associated with that style, including but not limited to finish type, fixture form, and detailing.

2. Design Guidelines
a. Light fixtures should be designed or selected to be
architecturally compatible with the main structure or theme of the development.
b. The intensity of light, level of light as measured in footcandles, and the type of bulb or source should be carefully addressed.

Lighting levels should not be so intense as to draw attention to the glow or glare of the light source.
c. Spotlighting or glare from any site lighting should be shielded from adjacent properties and directed at a specific object or target area.
d. Exposed bulbs should not be used. Cut-off lighting is preferred. 5-31

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March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
3 - UTILITARIAN ASPECTS
e. Uplighting of building elements and trees should use the lowest wattage possible to minimize impacts to the night sky. Light sources for wall washing and tree lighting should be hidden. f. Where landscaping is lit, low-voltage lighting should be used whenever possible to conserve energy. Energy efficient lamps and ballasts, controlled by photoelectric methods or timers, should be incorporated.
g. The height of a light pole should be appropriate in scale for the building or the complex and the surrounding area.
h. Accent lighting should be used to illuminate walkways, entries, seating areas, and/or specimen plants and trees.
i. Walkways and paseos should be lit to an average of one and one half to two footcandles in intensity to ensure safe nighttime conditions.
j. Use renewable energy sources for lighting, such as solar microturbine.
k. Recreational amenities and courtyards should be well lit to enhance the pedestrian experience and create a safe
environment.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
4 - MIXED USE

4. MIXED-USE
Mixed-use development is designed to integrate residential, commercial, and public and private spaces all within the same cohesive area. New development should emphasize the pedestrian experience rather than automobile dependence and foster more connected neighborhoods. Typically comprised of ground floor commercial uses, upper -story residential dwelling units, and thoughtfully designed transitions between uses to create a vibrant streetscape and a strong sense of place.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
4 - MIXED USE
A. Site Planning and Design

1. Objective Standards
a. Sidewalks and/or plazas on mixed-use projects must include at least one (1) weather protection or covering in the form of an awning, canopy, umbrella, etc., for each individual internal space to ensure some form of weather coverage is available throughout the entire project.
b. In instances where the building frontage of a mixed-use buildings is not built to the back of sidewalk, the space between back of sidewalk and building frontage must be occupied by one of the following:
i. Plaza.
ii. Outdoor dining area.
iii. Pedestrian amenities (for example seating areas, children play areas, or BBQ stations).

2. Design Guidelines
a. Both vertical or horizontal integration of uses should be allowed in mixed-use development, with an emphasis on tying the uses together with appropriate pedestrian linkages.
b. Mixed-use projects should be designed to create a pedestrian- scale environment through appropriate street and sidewalk widths, block lengths, relationships of buildings to streets, and use of public spaces.
c. Consideration should be given to the location and placement of commercial and residential uses on mixed-use projects to reduce odor, noise, light and glare, visual and other conflicts between uses.
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Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
4 - MIXED USE
d. In new mixed-use projects, public space should satisfy the following criteria:
i. Provide areas for informal meetings and social interaction with other people or areas for passive and active uses as appropriate.
ii. Provide a strong image and sense of place.
iii. Be a part of the pedestrian linkage throughout the development and adjacent land uses.
iv. Provide an overall theme and visual connection between spaces and uses within the development.
v. Include areas of various shapes, sizes, and configurations throughout the development.
vi. At least one (1) awning, weather covering, canopy should be provided in public outdoor spaces to ensure public space is usable year-round.
vii. Create a pleasant pedestrian environment.
viii. Create an interconnected open space system.
ix. Energize commercial retail activity.
e. Public spaces should be clearly recognizable as “public” (such as plazas) and publicly accessible, and the space should be able to be occupied by people (a person can stand or sit in the area). f. In mixed-use projects, public spaces should be located adjacent to the commercial component of the development that can be converted for joint use with outdoor dining and pedestrian access. However, when used in conjunction with an outdoor dining area, the areas should be designed in such a manner that pedestrian access is not being impeded or hindered. The minimum vertical dimension for clear pedestrian access should be eight (8) feet.
5-35

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Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
4 - MIXED USE
B. Building Design

1. Objective Standards
a. Ground floor commercial uses on mixed-use projects must include storefront entrances oriented on the façade fronting the primary street.
b. Mixed-use projects must include at least one (1) entrance for each proposed use (offices with more than one (1) suite are not required to satisfy this standard). In addition, at least one (1) building entrance must be provided for each ground floor individual commercial tenant. Commercial uses provided on upper floors must be allowed to share a ground floor entrance. c. Mixed-use buildings with more than one ground level
commercial tenant must clearly differentiate and articulate individual commercial tenant spaces through the addition of at least two of the following:
i. Recessed entries a minimum of two (2) feet.
ii. Awning and/or entrance canopies.
iii. Color and material transition.

2. Design Guidelines
a. The architectural design of mixed-use projects should demonstrate a cohesive approach between the residential and commercial portions in terms of style, colors and materials, and overall character.
b. Mixed-use development should utilize a consistent architectural style and materials. However; if the intent is to differentiate between uses, some architectural details should vary slightly. 5-36

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Attachment: Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design 1 ORDINANCE NO. 26-__

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING SANTA CLARITA MUNICIPAL CODE SECTIONS 17.06.130,

17.11.020, 17.23.100, AND 17.37.030 TO IMPLEMENT REGULATIONS GOVERNING

OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS

THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1. ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT. This ordinance is a part of the project contemplated by Resolution No. P26-04. Accordingly, Section 2 of Resolution No. P26- 04 is incorporated by reference regarding the California Environmental Quality Act. The Community Development Director, or designee, is authorized to include this ordinance as part of the Notice of Exemption for the project.

SECTION 2. GENERAL FINDINGS FOR MASTER CASE 26-038. The Findings and Conclusions set forth in Sections 3 and 4 of Resolution No. P26-04 are incorporated by reference. Accordingly, this ordinance is found to be consistent with the Santa Clarita General Plan.

SECTION 3. AMENDMENTS TO THE SANTA CLARITA MUNICIPAL CODE. The Santa Clarita Municipal Code (SCMC) is amended as set forth in Exhibit “A,” which is incorporated by reference. New language is underlined; deleted language is identified by strikethrough; unchanged language is plain text; ellipses changes within a SCMC section are identified by “* * *.”
SECTION 6: RELIANCE ON RECORD. Each and every one of the findings and determinations in this ordinance is based on the competent and substantial evidence, both oral and written, contained in the entire record relating to the project. The findings and determinations constitute the independent findings and determinations of the City Council in all respects and are fully and completely supported by substantial evidence in the record as a whole.

SECTION 7: SUMMARIES OF INFORMATION. All summaries of information in the findings, which precede this section, are based on the substantial evidence in the record. The absence of any particular fact from any such summary is not an indication that a particular finding is not based in part on that fact.

SECTION 8. This ordinance becomes effective 30 days after its passage and adoption.

SECTION 9. The City Clerk will certify to the passage of this ordinance and cause it to be published as required by law.

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Attachment: Ordinance MC26-038 (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Standards) 2 PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this ___
th day of ______, 2026.

______________________________
MAYOR
ATTEST:

CITY CLERK

DATE:________________________

STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss.

CITY OF SANTA CLARITA )

I, Melody Bartlette, City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance No. 26- ___was regularly introduced and placed upon its first reading at a regular meeting of the City Council on the __
th day of _______ 2026. That thereafter, said
ordinance was duly passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council on the __th day of _____2026, by the following vote, to wit:

AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:

NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:

ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS:

AND I FURTHER CERTIFY that the foregoing is the original of Ordinance No. 26-__ and was published in The Signal newspaper in accordance with State Law (G.C. 40806).

______________________________

CITY CLERK

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Attachment: Ordinance MC26-038 (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Standards) Exhibit A

17.06.130 Findings and Decision.

* * *

B. Required Findings. The review authority may approve the application only after the applicant substantiates the following required findings:

1. The proposal is consistent with the General Plan;

2. The proposal is allowed within the applicable underlying zone and complies with all other applicable provisions of this code;

3. The proposal will not endanger, jeopardize, or otherwise constitute a hazard to the public convenience, health, interest, safety, or general welfare, or be materially detrimental or injurious to the improvements, persons, property, or uses in the vicinity and zone in which the property is located; and

4. The proposal is physically suitable for the site. The factors related to the proposal’s physical suitability for the site include, without limitation, the following:

a. For projects that are not multi-family or mixed-use housing, the design, location, shape, size, and operating characteristics are suitable for the proposed use.

i. Multi‑family and mixed‑use housing projects must comply with Objective Design Standards;

b. The highways or streets that provide access to the site are of sufficient width and are improved as necessary to carry the kind and quantity of traffic such proposal would generate;

c. Public protection services (e.g., Fire protection, Sheriff protection) are readily available; and

d. Providing utilities (e.g., potable water, schools, solid waste collection and disposal, storm drainage, wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal) is adequate to serve the site.

* * *

§ 17.11.020 Definitions.

* * *

“Objective Design Standards” are zoning, subdivision, and design review standards that regulate the location, form, site layout, and appearance of multifamily and mixed-use residential development that are verifiable by reference to a uniform benchmark.

Objective design standards may be contained in this code, specific plans, overlay

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Attachment: Ordinance MC26-038 (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Standards) zones, subdivision and landscaping requirements, or other applicable land development regulations adopted by the City Council, and apply only to the extent they are stated with sufficient clarity that compliance can be determined in a purely ministerial manner.

* * *

17.23.100 Administrative Permit.

* * *
B. Applicability.

1. To safeguard and enhance the appearance and quality of development in the City, administrative permit approval is required before the building official issues any building permit for new single-family homes, additions, and activities or construction of improvements which are permitted at the discretion of the Director. An administrative permit shall be filed as a Class II application, subject to this chapter.

2. An administrative permit is required for any multi-family or mixed-use housing project that does not fully comply with the Objective Design Standards.

3. Requests for an administrative permit are filed as a Class II application, subject to this chapter.

* * *

17.37.030 Specific Plan (SP) Zone.

The specific plan zoning designation identifies lands in the planning area that are governed by an adopted specific plan. Specific allowable uses, maximum intensity standards, and development standards are determined by the adopted specific plan.

Development within a specific plan that includes multi-family or mixed-use housing must comply with the Objective Design Standards. Where a specific plan established design requirements more restrictive than the Objective Design Standards, the more restrictive standards apply.

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Attachment: Ordinance MC26-038 (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Standards) Proposed SCMC Amendments – Clean Version

17.06.130 Findings and Decision.

* * *

B. Required Findings. The review authority may approve the application only after the applicant substantiates the following required findings:

1. The proposal is consistent with the General Plan;

2. The proposal is allowed within the applicable underlying zone and complies with all other applicable provisions of this code;

3. The proposal will not endanger, jeopardize, or otherwise constitute a hazard to the public convenience, health, interest, safety, or general welfare, or be materially detrimental or injurious to the improvements, persons, property, or uses in the vicinity and zone in which the property is located; and

4. The proposal is physically suitable for the site. The factors related to the proposal’s physical suitability for the site include, without limitation, the following:

a. For projects that are not multi-family or mixed-use housing, the design, location, shape, size, and operating characteristics are suitable for the proposed use.

i. Multi‑family and mixed‑use housing projects must comply with Objective Design Standards;

b. The highways or streets that provide access to the site are of sufficient width and are improved as necessary to carry the kind and quantity of traffic such proposal would generate;

c. Public protection services (e.g., Fire protection, Sheriff protection) are readily available; and

d. Providing utilities (e.g., potable water, schools, solid waste collection and disposal, storm drainage, wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal) is adequate to serve the site.

* * *

§ 17.11.020 Definitions.

* * *

“Objective Design Standards” are zoning, subdivision, and design review standards that regulate the location, form, site layout, and appearance of multifamily and mixed-use residential development that are verifiable by reference to a uniform benchmark.

Objective design standards may be contained in this code, specific plans, overlay

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Attachment: Proposed SCMC Amendments - Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Standards) zones, subdivision and landscaping requirements, or other applicable land development regulations adopted by the City Council, and apply only to the extent they are stated with sufficient clarity that compliance can be determined in a purely ministerial manner.

* * *

17.23.100 Administrative Permit.

* * *
B. Applicability.

1. To safeguard and enhance the appearance and quality of development in the City, administrative permit approval is required before the building official issues any building permit for new single-family homes, additions, and activities or construction of improvements which are permitted at the discretion of the Director. An administrative permit shall be filed as a Class II application, subject to this chapter.

2. An administrative permit is required for any multi-family or mixed-use housing project that does not fully comply with the Objective Design Standards.

3. Requests for an administrative permit are filed as a Class II application, subject to this chapter.

* * *

17.37.030 Specific Plan (SP) Zone.

The specific plan zoning designation identifies lands in the planning area that are governed by an adopted specific plan. Specific allowable uses, maximum intensity standards, and development standards are determined by the adopted specific plan.

Development within a specific plan that includes multi-family or mixed-use housing must comply with the Objective Design Standards. Where a specific plan established design requirements more restrictive than the Objective Design Standards, the more restrictive standards apply.

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Attachment: Proposed SCMC Amendments - Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Standards)

Housing Element
Programs HP-2.1
and HP-2.2

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Attachment: Housing Element Programs HP2.1 and 2.2 (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Santa Clarita – Housing Element June 2023

49 Program HP- 1.14: Sites Identified in Multiple Planning Periods:

Government Code § 65583 requires analysis and justification of the sites included in the sites inventory of the City’ s Housing Element. The Housing Element may only count non -vacant sites included in one previous Housing Element inventory and vacant sites included in two previous Housing Elements if the sites are subject to a program that allows affordable housing by rig ht. Some sites within this Housing Element were used in previous cycles, and this program is included to address the by-right approval requirement. Per Government Code § 65583, the use by -right of these sites during the planning period is restricted to developments in which at least 20 percent of the units in the development are affordable to lower income households. This provision is valid on the condition that these sites have sufficient water, sewer, and other dry utilities available and accessible, or that they are included in an existing General Plan program or other mandatory program or plan to secure sufficient water, sewer, dry utilities supply to support housing development.

Prior to the end of 2022, Community Development Department staff will provide a pop-up “Notice” in Accela for each inventoried parcel subject to these requirements.

The Notice will prompt staff to not require a Conditional Use Permit application for a residential development project on that site if at least 20% of the units are provided as affordable. A training session will be held to ensure that all staff are aware of the by-right allowances for projects providing at least 20% of units as affordable on these specific sites. The Unified Development Code will be amended concurrent with the Housing Element to ensure compliance with Government Code § 65583.2(c).

Timeline: Adopt code amendment with Housing Element. Set up Notice in Accela prior to the end of 2022. Within the first three years of the planning period, ensure staff receives training.

Ongoing.

Responsibility: Community Development Department
Funding: Departmental Budget

Program HP-2.1: Zoning Code Changes for Consistency with State Law City staff will bring forward Municipal Code amendments to address recent changes to state law. Specific Code amendments to ensure compliance include but are not limited to the following:
• Transitional Housing: Allow transitional and supportive housing in all zone districts that allow residential uses, subject to only those restrictions that apply to other residential dwellings of the same type in the same zone. (SB 2, 2007)
• Supportive Housing: Supportive housing, as defined in Government Code Section 65650, to be a by-right use in all zones where multifamily and mixed-uses are permitted. (AB 2162)

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Attachment: Housing Element Programs HP2.1 and 2.2 (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Santa Clarita – Housing Element June 2023

50 • Emergency Shelters: Review development standards for emergency shelters, particularly Standard D, and revise to be objective (SB 2, 2007) • Low Barrier Navigation Centers: to be a use by-right in zones where multifamily and mixed-uses are permitted, including the nonresidential zones where multifamily is permitted. (GC 65660)
• Employee and Agricultural Worker Housing: employee housing for six or fewer employees is to be treated as a single-family structure and permitted in the same manner as other dwellings of the same type in the same zone.

Employee housing consisting of not more than 12 units or 36 beds are to be considered an agricultural use and permitted in the same manner as other agricultural uses in the same zone (AB 1783)
• ADUs: Update Accessory Dwelling Unit Ordinance pursuant to HCD’s ADU Guidebook, including allowing such units by-right in all residential zones and reduction of side and rear setbacks as well as to reflect changes in these laws made by AB 3182, AB 68, and SB 13.
• Group Homes: Allow group homes for seven or more residents as a permitted use in residential zones. Review current code requirements for all housing types serving people with disabilities for consistency with fair housing laws and make amendments as necessary, including ensuring the number of parking spaces for residential care facilities do not exceed those of other non-group home uses of the same form in the same zone.
• Design Review: Develop Objective Design and Development Standards for multi-family and mixed-use projects, and integrate the standard conditions of approval currently applied through the Development Review process into the objective design and development standards for development projects with residential components.
• Parking: Adopt the parking requirements for multifamily affordable housing from Government Code Section 65915 into the Code to provide clear standards and expectations for potential developers to use the reduced parking requirements without the need to make a separate request.

Additionally, undertake a parking study and consult with not less than four developers with local experience to identify the most appropriate parking ratio and identify any constraints posed by the City’s current parking requirements for market rate multifamily development, especially as it relates to 1 bedroom unit and studios. Based upon the outcome of this study, amend the ordinance to mitigate any identified constraints by July 2025.

Timeline: Review by June 2023; Make necessary amendments to address transitional housing, supportive housing, emergency shelter standards, low barrier navigation centers, employee and agricultural worker housing, ADUs, group homes, and parking requirements for multifamily affordable housing by the end of 2023 Develop Objective Design and Development Standards by 2024 Undertake parking study and amend ordinance by July 2025 Responsibility: Community Development Department

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Attachment: Housing Element Programs HP2.1 and 2.2 (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Santa Clarita – Housing Element June 2023

51 Funding: Departmental Budget
Objective: Facilitate special needs housing, including transitional, supportive, senior, group home, and affordable housing, for 700 households by the end of the planning period.

Program HP-2.2: Updates to Administrative Procedures
Prior to the dates specified in each sub -program below, City staff will update the following administrative procedures and materials:
• SB 35: The City will develop an SB 35 application process, including the pre- application and the procedure that will be used to provide a streamlined ministerial approval process to qualified residential and mixed-use development projects. The written procedures and checklists shall be developed and made available on the City’s website no later than January 1, 2023.
• Development Fees and Transparency Requirements: The City will meet the new transparency and development fees requirements of AB 602 and SB 319 by 1) posting all required information about development standards and fees to an easily accessed location on the City’s website by January 1, 2023; and 2) ensuring that new development impact fee studies and resulting fees comply with the new AB 602 requirements for fee studies prior to initiation of the next fees study in 2024.
• Fee Deferrals: The City will defer fee collection for residential developments until final building inspection or issuance of the certificate of occupancy, whichever occurs first, unless the requirements of Government Code 66007(b) have been met.
• Expedited Processing for Affordable Housing Projects: The City will continue to expedite processing for affordable housing projects, including one-stop preliminary review, concurrent application review, designation of a primary contact, and fast-tracking of construction and grading plan review, permitting and inspection. Promotion of the Expedited Processing program will occur as a part of Program HP-2.10, the Proactive Outreach Program, to be initiated in 2023 and provided as ongoing throughout the 6th planning cycle. • Parking handout: The City will create and publish explanatory documents to delineate between the different parking requirements for different types of multifamily housing projects and mixed-use projects as updated by AB 2345, including those providing affordable units and those located close to transit. • Design Review: The City will review and amend its design review requirements to remove discretionary findings related to site suitability, including Finding 4.

Timeline: SB 35 Procedures: July 1, 2023;
Fee Transparency: July 1, 2023;

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Attachment: Housing Element Programs HP2.1 and 2.2 (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Santa Clarita – Housing Element June 2023

52 Fee Deferrals: Begin implementing July 1, 2023
AB 602 Requirements (Development Fees): 2024;
Parking Handout: July 30, 2023;
Amend Design Review findings: end of 2024
Responsibility: Community Development Department
Funding: Departmental Budget

Program HP-2.3: Specific Plan Code Review
The City will review its Specific Plans to determine if changes are needed to comply with State laws related to transitional housing, supportive housing, group homes (community care facilities) and Low Barrier Navigation Centers. The review will be completed by the end of 2022, with any needed Specific Plan amendments occurring by the end of 2023.

Timeline: Review by end of 2023; amend by end of 2024
Responsibility: Community Development Department
Funding: Departmental Budget

Program HP-2.4: Continuing Affordability
Ensure that the City’s lending guidelines require long-term affordability of at least 55 years for affordable rental units and through a shared equity or other similar affordability mechanism for affordable ownership units.

Timeline: Review funding guidelines in 2022; then ongoing Responsibility: Community Development Department
Funding: HOME, CDBG, Bonds, PDA/TOD funds

Program HP-2.5: Collaboration with Non-Profit Affordable Housing Developers The City continues to partner with non-profit affordable housing developers for the creation of new affordable housing developments and will continue to be responsive to the proposals of housing developers. The City is committed to supporting proposed projects that show promise to provide affordable housing to meet the City’s identified housing needs, including for seniors, disabled, and families, especially those who are extremely low-income. Currently, affordable housing developers approach the City informally with projects in various stages of development, making it difficult to bring projects to fruition. A formal Request for Qualifications/Proposals (RFP/RFQ) will streamline and clarify this process. The RFP/RFQ will include information on the affordable housing goals of the City, i ncluding the provision of housing for large households and extremely low-income households. The RFP/RFQ for this program will be posted by Summer 2023 and will include at least one outreach meeting/event to gauge housing developers’ interest. The RFP/RFQ process, once posted, will be made

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Attachment: Housing Element Programs HP2.1 and 2.2 (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design

NOTICE OF EXEMPTION

TO: FROM:

[X] County Clerk City of Santa Clarita
County of Los Angeles Community Development
12400 E. Imperial Hwy., Rm. 2001 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Suite #302 Norwalk, CA 90650 Santa Clarita, CA 91355

[ ] Office of Planning and Research
1400 Tenth Street
Sacramento, CA 95814

DATE: [Date]

PROJECT NAME: Santa Clarita Mult ifamily and Mixed -Use Residential Architectural Objective Design Standards and UDC Updates

PROJECT APPLICANT: City of Santa Clarita, Department of Co mmunity Development (Contact: Zarui Chaparyan; 661.255.4916)

PROJECT LOCATION: Citywide

PROJECT DESCRI PTION: The City of Santa Clarita (City) is preparing City-wide multifamily and mixed-use Objective Design Standards and updat ing the Santa Clarita Municipal Code (SCMC) to address administrative procedures for Objective Design Standards to implement the City’s Housing Element Programs HP-2.1 and HP-2.2.

This is to advise that the [ ] Director of Community Dev elopment [ ] Planning Commission [ X] Ci ty Council of the City of Santa Clarita has approved the above project on [DATE]. Review of the project by the Department of Community Development found that the project is exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).

EXEMPT STATUS: A Notice of Exemption was prepared for the proposed project. The project is exempt from additional environmental review pursuant to CEQA Guidelines (14 Cal. Code of Regs. § 15000, et seq.) Section 15061(b)(3), the common sense exemption. The activit y is covered by the general rule that CEQA applies only to projects that have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment.

Where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that t he activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA.

Person or agency carrying out the project: City of Santa Clarita, Department of Community Development.

This is to certify that the Notice of Exemption with comments/responses and record of project approval is available for public review at:

City of Santa Clarita
Community Development Department
23920 Valencia Boulevard, Suite 302
Santa Clarita, California 91355
(661) 255-4330

Contact Person/Title: Zarui Chaparyan, Associate Planner

Signature:

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Attachment: MC26-038 CEQA Notice of Exemption (MC26-038 Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Standards)

CITY OF SANTA CLARITA
City Council
Special Meeting
~Minutes~
Tuesday, July 14, 2026 5:30 PM City Council Chambers

CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Weste called to order the Special Meeting of the City Council at 5:32 p.m.

ROLL CALL
All Councilmembers were present.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION FOR AGENDIZED ITEMS
Addressing the City Council were Len Unckless and Cindy Russo regarding the real property negotiation matter.

CLOSED SESSION
Joseph Montes, City Attorney, advised of the need to conduct a Closed Session for the purpose of holding a:

CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED LITIGATION
Initiation of litigation pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(4) - one matter

CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS
Government Code Section 54956.8
Property Location: 27177 Seco Canyon Road
Negotiating Parties: Saugus Union School District
City’s Authorized Negotiator: City Manager
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment

RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION - TO BE HELD IN THE CARL BOYER ROOM Mayor Weste recessed the meeting to Closed Session at 5:38 p.m.

RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION
Mayor Weste reconvened the meeting to Open Session at 6:18 p.m.

CITY ATTORNEY ANNOUNCEMENT
City Attorney Joseph Montes announced that no action was taken in Closed Session that was required to be reported.
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ADJOURN
Mayor Weste adjourned the Special Meeting at 6:19 p.m.
______________________________________
MAYOR
ATTEST:
______________________________________

CITY CLERK
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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, July 14, 2026 6:00 PM City Council Chambers

INVOCATION
Councilmember Miranda delivered the invocation.

CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Weste called to order the Joint Regular Meeting of the City Council and Board of Library Trustees at 6:20 p.m.

ROLL CALL
All Councilmembers were present.

FLAG SALUTE
Golden Valley High School Junior ROTC provided a Presentation of Colors and 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
Mayor Pro Tem Ayala recognized the Golden Valley High School Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps Unit CA-20063 for earning a perfect score on its annual unit assessment and the highest possible rating of "Exceeds Standards." Mayor Pro Tem congratulated cadets from Golden Valley, Hart, and Canyon High Schools, along with instructors Lieutenant Colonel Juan Gherardy and Master Sergeant Winston Cagadas, on their achievement; and invited them to the dais to receive the recognition and take a photo.
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Golden Valley High School Air Force Junior ROTC Recognition

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Addressing the Council were Ralph Steger, regarding fireworks; Len Unckless, regarding fireworks and housing concerns; Frank Smathers, regarding Santa Clarita Elementary School; Dietra Clayton, regarding Bridge to Home; and Kim Rice Augdin, regarding Santa Clarita Elementary School and school capacity.

STAFF COMMENTS
City Manager Ken Striplin responded to comments regarding the Santa Clarita Elementary School property, stating that the City does not own or operate schools and that the City is in discussions with the Saugus Union School District regarding the potential acquisition of the site.

He noted that updates will be provided as discussions progress. City Manager Ken Striplin responded to comments regarding fireworks, noting that illegal fireworks are an ongoing Fourth of July issue addressed through education and enforcement, and welcomed additional ideas from the public.

COMMITTEE REPORTS/COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS
Councilwoman McLean commented on attending the Soroptimist International of Greater Santa Clarita Valley Board Installation, the Southern California Association of Governments Transportation Policy Committee meeting, and a meeting of the Regional Council, where commuter benefits were discussed. She reflected on the Fourth of July Parade, commended staff for a safe and successful event; commented on a recent meeting of the North County Transportation Coalition; and highlighted the Public Library's summer reading program, "Unearth a Story."
Councilmember Gibbs commented on the successful Fourth of July Parade, commended staff, and highlighted the City's Animal Care Grant Program.

Mayor Pro Tem Ayala commented on Fire Safety Day at Towsley Canyon, thanked the Los Angeles County Fire Department and event participants, thanked Commissioner Nathan Keith and Commissioner Hugo Cherre for attending the Fourth of July parade on her behalf. Mayor Pro Tem Ayala highlighted Concerts in the Park and Make A Difference Day, and requested that staff analyze the use of drones for future Fourth of July celebrations.

Councilmember Miranda commented on the unveiling of the new Rink Sports Pavilion logo during the Fourth of July Parade and noted the facility remains on track for an October opening.

Mayor Weste commented on the success of the Fourth of July Parade, thanked staff and volunteers, and recognized the Outlaw Jeep Ladies of Southern California for receiving the Best Decorated award, Freedom's Way Baptist Church for receiving the Best Theme award, and the Daughters of the American Revolution for receiving the Grand Sweepstakes award. She highlighted Fire Safety Day, congratulated Matthew Stone on his retirement from the Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency, commented on attending the Old Road Improvement Project groundbreaking with Supervisor Kathryn Barger, including the upcoming trail system expansion.

Mayor Weste announced adjournments in memory of Veronica Lebecki and Jack C. Stewart, and 3 Packet Pg. 124
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discussed ongoing efforts to support businesses affected by the Bouquet Canyon Road closure, including collaboration with the Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce.

PUBLIC HEARINGS
ITEM 1
ANNEXATION TO AND MODIFICATION OF CFD NO. 2020-1 (COOPER STREET

PARKING STRUCTURE) AND TRANSFER OF PARKING STRUCTURE OPERATION

AND MAINTENANCE TO THE CITY
City Council conduct a public hearing, adopt a resolution, declare election results, and approve agreements related to the proposed annexation and modifications to the City of Santa Clarita Community Facilities District No. 2020-1 (Cooper Street Parking Structure), which would transfer parking structure operations and maintenance to the City.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council:

Conduct a public hearing on the proposed annexation and modifications to the City of Santa Clarita Community Facilities District No. 2020-1 (Cooper Street Parking Structure) (the “Maintenance CFD”), including the annexation of certain parcels, the removal of the existing parcel and modifications to the rate and method of apportionment.

Adopt a resolution determining the validity of prior proceedings relating to the annexation of property into the Maintenance CFD, and considering certain modifications to the Maintenance CFD and calling a special election.

Open and review ballots, and declare results.

If the proposition passes with a two-thirds vote:
(a) adopt a resolution canvassing the results of the election held; and (b) adopt a resolution approving certain modifications, annexing property authorizing the levy of a special tax within the Maintenance CFD, and approving certain agreements relating to the transfer of the operation and maintenance of the Cooper Street Parking Structure to the City.

City Council approve and authorize the City Manager or designee to execute a Termination of Parking Management Services Agreement and Settlement Agreement, Amendment and Restatement to Parking Spaces Easement Agreement, and Termination of Easement Agreement for Solar Facilities and Community Identification Signage, associated with the annexation and modification of the Maintenance CFD, subject to City Attorney review.

Mayor Weste opened the Public Hearing.

Deputy City Clerk Angelica Aguirre reported all notices required by law have been provided. 3 Packet Pg. 125
Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Jul 14, 2026 6:00 PM (Consent Calendar)

Finance Manager Brittany Houston provided the staff report.

No in person or remote requests to speak were received.

Mayor Weste closed the public comment period.

Councilwoman McLean made a motion to adopt the resolution determining the validity of the prior proceedings relating to the annexation of property into the Cooper Street CFD.

Adopted Resolution No. 26-39
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Marsha McLean, Councilwoman
SECONDER: Jason Gibbs, Councilmember
AYES: Weste, Ayala, Gibbs, McLean, Miranda
City Council proceeded to Agenda Item 2 while the ballots were tabulated in the Carl Boyer Room and continued with this item once Agenda Item 2 was concluded and the ballots were tabulated.

Deputy City Clerk Angelica Aguirre announced that 100 percent of the ballots are in favor and 0 percent are opposed. Therefore, there is no majority protest.

Mayor Pro Tem Ayala made a motion to adopt the remaining resolutions and approve the agreements relating to the transfer of the operation and maintenance of the Cooper Street parking structure to the City.

Adopted Resolution Nos. 26-40, and 26-41
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Patsy Ayala, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: Marsha McLean, Councilwoman
AYES: Weste, Ayala, Gibbs, McLean, Miranda
ITEM 2

ADJUST CONSOLIDATED FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT DEVELOPER FEES Public Hearing regarding the Consolidated Fire Protection District developer fees pay for the cost of fire stations, related fire protection improvements, and fire apparatuses. The resolution would adjust developer fees by $0.0891 per square foot for fire protection facilities in keeping with the latest Los Angeles County Development Fee Schedule adopted by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors and required under the Developer Fee Detailed Fire Station Plan.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council:
3 Packet Pg. 126
Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Jul 14, 2026 6:00 PM (Consent Calendar)

1. Conduct a public hearing.

2. Adopt a resolution to adjust the Consolidated Fire Protection District developer fee from $1.6710 per square foot to $1.7601 per square foot in accordance with the Developer Fee Agreement between the City of Santa Clarita and the Consolidated Fire Protection District of Los Angeles County.

Mayor Weste opened the Public Hearing.

Deputy City Clerk Angelica Aguirre reported all notices required by law have been provided.

Assistant Fire Chief Patrick Sprengel provided the staff report.

No in person or remote requests to speak were received.

Mayor Weste closed the public comment period.

Mayor Pro Tem Ayala asked questions regarding the development impact fee, including whether it is a General Fund revenue source and how much funding has been collected and used locally.

City Manager Ken Striplin clarified that the fee is collected through developer projects and is used to fund infrastructure improvements.

Adopted Resolution No. 26-42
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Jason Gibbs, Councilmember
SECONDER: Patsy Ayala, Mayor Pro Tem
AYES: Weste, Ayala, Gibbs, McLean, Miranda

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
ITEM 3
ARTS MASTER PLAN 2035: VISION AND ACTION
City Council review and consider adoption of the Arts Master Plan 2035: Vision and Action.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council receive report and adopt the Arts Master Plan 2035: Vision and Action.

Interim Assistant to the City Manager Tracy Sullivan provided the staff report.

Addressing the Council were Alan Reinstein, Robert Dunlap, TimBen Boydston, J.R. Hills, David Stears, Jeremy (last name not provided), and Tim Hart.

City Manager Ken Striplin thanked the Arts Commission for its work in revising the Arts Master Plan and stated that Olive Branch Theatricals would be added as a community arts asset. 3 Packet Pg. 127
Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Jul 14, 2026 6:00 PM (Consent Calendar)

Councilmember Gibbs requested clarification regarding revisions to the plan and the inclusion of coffee houses as arts venues. Ms. Sullivan explained the revisions and the role of coffee houses as potential arts and cultural venues.

Councilmember Miranda commented on the importance of arts organizations, performance venues, rehearsal spaces, and cultural opportunities in fostering a strong community.

Mayor Pro Tem Ayala inquired about the first-year implementation priorities and whether future funding requests would return to the City Council. Tracy Sullivan stated that implementation priorities would be presented at a future study session, and City Manager Ken Striplin explained that funding requests would be considered through the annual budget process. Mayor Pro Tem Ayala commented that arts and culture are an important community investment.

Mayor Weste asked whether grant funding had been adjusted to account for inflation and increased material costs.

Councilwoman McLean commented on the value of the Arts Commission and arts programs and requested an amendment to the plan to include language ensuring future venues are compatible with surrounding neighborhoods.

Councilwoman McLean made a motion to approve the Arts Master Plan 2035 as amended above and Councilmember Miranda seconded the motion.

RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Marsha McLean, Councilwoman
SECONDER: Bill Miranda, Councilmember
AYES: Weste, Ayala, Gibbs, McLean, Miranda

CONSENT CALENDAR
Item 6 was pulled for a separate vote.

RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Jason Gibbs, Councilmember
SECONDER: Patsy Ayala, Mayor Pro Tem
AYES: Weste, Ayala, Gibbs, McLean, Miranda
ITEM 4
APPROVAL OF REGULAR MEETING MINUTES – The minutes are submitted for approval.

RECOMMENDED ACTION: City Council approve the minutes of the June 23, 2026, Regular Meeting.
3 Packet Pg. 128
Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Jul 14, 2026 6:00 PM (Consent Calendar)

ITEM 5
CHECK REGISTER NO. 14
Check Register No. 14 for Period 05/29/26 through 06/11/26 and 06/18/26. Electronic Funds Transfers for the Period 06/01/26 through 06/12/26.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council approve and ratify for payment the demands presented in Check Register No. 14.

ITEM 6 WAS MOVED TO ITEMS PULLED FOR A SEPARATE VOTE
ITEM 7

SANTA CLARITA PUBLIC TELEVISION AUTHORITY PUBLIC TELEVISION

MANAGEMENT SERVICES AGREEMENT
City Council consideration to authorize funding for a two-year Public Television Management Services Agreement with SCVTV.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council:

1. Authorize funding for a two-year Public Television Management Services Agreement with SCVTV for the ongoing management and programming of Charter Communications Operating, LLC, and AT&T for playback, programming, and production studio operations from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028, in the amount not to exceed $355,422 for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27 and authorize a Consumer Price Index adjustment to the General Fund- funded portion of the amount for FY 2027-28.

2. Appropriate ongoing funds in the amount of $6,422 in FY 2026-27 from the General Fund (Fund 100) to Expenditure Account 1001501-701008 (Public Television-Other Financing Uses) and one-time funds in the amount of $30,000 for FY 2026-27 and FY 2027-28 from the Citrus Facility Fund (Fund 130) to Expenditure Account 1309008-701008 (Citrus Facility-Other Financing Uses).

3. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all contracts and associated documents, contingent upon the appropriation of funds by the City Council in the annual budget for such fiscal year and execute all documents subject to City Attorney review.

ITEM 8

STREETLIGHT MAINTENANCE CONTRACT FOR THE PURCHASE OF LED LIGHTING

KITS FOR THE GOLDEN VALLEY BRIDGE
This item considers awarding a contract for the purchase of LED Conversion Kits for specific lights on the Golden Valley Bridge.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council:

1. Award the purchase of 80 King Luminaire LED Conversion Kits for the Golden Valley Bridge to StressCrete Group in an amount not to exceed $113,701. 3 Packet Pg. 129
Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Jul 14, 2026 6:00 PM (Consent Calendar)

2. Authorize a one-time appropriation of $113,701 from the Santa Clarita Streetlight Maintenance District Fund Balance (Fund 359) to expenditure account 3592403-516101 for the purchase of King Luminaire LED Conversion Kits to support the lighting replacement on the Golden Valley Bridge.

3. Authorize a one-time appropriation of $15,481 from the Santa Clarita Streetlight Maintenance District fund balance (Fund 359) to expenditure account 3592403-516101 to support the installation of the LED conversion kits on the Golden Valley Bridge.

4. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all contracts and associated documents, subject to City Attorney review.

ITEM 9

CONSULTATION SERVICES FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN AFFORDABLE

HOUSING STRATEGY PLAN AND GRANT PROGRAM
This item considers the award of a contract for the development of an affordable housing strategy plan and grant program.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council:

1. Award a one-year contract to HR&A Advisors, Inc., for the development of an Affordable Housing Strategy Plan, Developer Grant Program, and related technical assistance services in the amount of $129,200.

2. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute up to two additional, one-year renewal options beginning in year two.

3. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all documents, subject to City Attorney review.

ITEM 10

OPERATION OF TRANSIT SERVICES IN THE UNINCORPORATED SANTA CLARITA VALLEY FOR FISCAL YEAR 2026-27 THROUGH FISCAL YEAR 2028-29 AGREEMENT City Council consideration of entering into an agreement with the County of Los Angeles to Operate Transit Services in the Unincorporated Santa Clarita Valley RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council approve an agreement with the County of Los Angeles for the City of Santa Clarita to provide public transportation services in unincorporated areas, beginning July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2029, and authorize the City Manager or designee to execute the agreement, or modify the award in the event that issues of impossibility of performance arise, subject to City Attorney review.
3 Packet Pg. 130
Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Jul 14, 2026 6:00 PM (Consent Calendar)

ITEM 11

MANUFACTURING AND DELIVERY OF TWO CNG BUSES CONTRACT
City Council consideration to award a contract to Gillig Corporation for the manufacturing and delivery of two CNG buses.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council:

1. Approve the “piggyback” purchase of two 29-foot Compressed Natural Gas buses using California Association of Coordinated Transportation contract number 23-01, and award a contract to Gillig Corporation for a total contract amount not to exceed $1,882,000.

2. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all contracts and associated documents, and modify the awardees in the event of project withdrawal or abandonment, subject to City Attorney review.

ITEM 12

CITYWIDE STREET SWEEPING CONTRACT
Consideration of a contract for Citywide street sweeping services.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council:

1. Award a two-year contract to CMAX Commercial Maintenance Inc. for Citywide Street Sweeping in the amount of $1,247,285 annually and authorize an annual contingency of $124,729, for a total contract amount not to exceed $2,744,028.

2. Appropriate an ongoing budget increase, beginning in Fiscal Year 2026-27, from the Stormwater Utility Fund (Fund 356) balance in the amount of $112,013 to expenditure account 3567220-514103.

3. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute up to three additional, one-year renewal options beginning in year three, not to exceed the annual contract amount, plus an adjustment consistent with the appropriate Consumer Price Index, upon request of the contractor, and contingent upon the appropriation of funds by the City Council in the annual budget for such fiscal year.

4. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all contracts and associated documents, subject to City Attorney review.
3 Packet Pg. 131
Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Jul 14, 2026 6:00 PM (Consent Calendar)

ITEM 13

AMENDMENT TO THE AIDLIN HILLS OPEN SPACE IRREVOCABLE OFFER OF DEDICATION OF REAL PROPERTY (AIDLIN HILLS DEVELOPMENT) OF 147 +/-

ACRES IN UNINCORPORATED LOS ANGELES COUNTY
Amend the Irrevocable Offer of Dedication Agreement for Aidlin Hills Open Space to adjust the land dedication boundaries resulting in a dedication of 147 +/- acres of real property in Unincorporated Los Angeles County at the west end of Pico Canyon Road, adjacent to Santa Clarita Woodlands and Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy open space to contribute to the City of Santa Clarita’s preserved open space.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council:

1. Approve the amended Irrevocable Offer of Dedication (IOD) with Lennar Homes of California, LLC, including the acceptance of approximately 147 +/- acres, in a form reviewed by the City Attorney and substantially similar to the draft attached as Exhibit A.

2. Authorize the City Manager, or designee, to execute all documents, subject to final language approval by the City Manager and City Attorney review.

3. Find this acquisition exempt from review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Article 19, Section 15313 (Class 13); Section 15317 (Class 17); and Section 15325 (Class 25).

ITEM 14

HASKELL CANYON OPEN SPACE SHARED ACCESS IMPROVEMENTS - PHASE I, PROJECT M4016 - PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS, AND CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT This item considers awarding a construction contract for Phase I and a professional services contract for the design of Phase II of the Haskell Canyon Open Space Shared Access Improvements project. The improvements include improving the access to the Santa Clarita Archery Range and Haskell Canyon Bike Park located within Los Angeles Department of Water and Power property.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council:

1. Approve the plans and specifications for the Haskell Canyon Open Space Shared Access Improvements – Phase I, Project M4016.

2. Find the Haskell Canyon Open Space Shared Access Improvements Project Mitigated Negative Declaration Addendum complies with the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Title 14 of the California Code of Regulation Article 11 sections 15162 and 15164, for changes to the original project (Revised Project).

3. Award the construction contract for Phase I to R.C. Becker, Inc., in the amount of $925,983 and authorize a contingency in the amount of $231,496, for a total contract amount not to exceed $1,157,479.
3 Packet Pg. 132
Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Jul 14, 2026 6:00 PM (Consent Calendar)

4. Award the professional services contract to Psomas, to provide design services for Phase II in the amount of $67,000 and authorize a contingency in the amount of $6,700, for a total contract amount not to exceed $73,700.

5. Appropriate one-time funds in the amount of $1,560,000 from the Facilities Fund (Fund 723) to the Haskell Canyon Open Space Shared Access Improvements, Project M4016, expenditure account M4016723-516101.

6. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all contracts and associated documents, subject to City Attorney review.

ITEM 15
PIONEER OIL REFINERY RESTORATION, PROJECT P2018 - DESIGN/BUILD

CONTRACT
This item will award a contract for rehabilitation, reinstallation, and repair of historic structures and equipment at Pioneer Oil Refinery site.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council:

1. Award a design-build contract to Spectra Company to design and build the phased rehabilitation, reinstallation, and repair of the Pioneer Oil Refinery buildings and structures, in the amount of $1,285,159, and authorize a contingency in the amount of $192,774, for a total contract amount not to exceed $1,477,933.

2. Appropriate one-time funds in the amount of $1,340,000 from the Developer Fee Fund (Fund 306) and $234,000 from the Facilities Fund (Fund 723) to the Pioneer Oil Refinery expenditure accounts P2018306-516101 and P2018723-516101, respectively, for a total appropriation of $1,574,000 for the restoration of the Pioneer Oil Refinery site.

3. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all contracts and associated documents, subject to City Attorney review.

ITEMS PULLED FOR SEPARATE VOTE
ITEM 6

HISTORIC SAUGUS TRAIN STATION REROOFING PROJECT FUNDING This item is to award funding to the Santa Clarita Valley Historical Society for the reroofing of the historic Saugus Train Station at Heritage Junction in William S. Hart Park, using funds that were collected by the City as a condition of approval for Master Case 21-205 (Riverview Project).

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

City Council:

1. Approve the remittance of funds received by the City of Santa Clarita pursuant to Master 3 Packet Pg. 133
Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Jul 14, 2026 6:00 PM (Consent Calendar)

Case 21-205 (Riverview Project), to the Santa Clarita Valley Historical Society for reroofing of the historic Saugus Train Station, in an amount not to exceed $150,000 and any accrued interest.

2. Appropriate $150,000 and any accrued interest from the Site Improvements Facility Fee Fund 431 to Expenditure Account 4319000-516101.

3. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all documents, subject to City Attorney review.

Mayor Weste recused herself from voting on this item due to her position as a Historical Society Boardmember.

RESULT: APPROVED [4 TO 0]
MOVER: Marsha McLean, Councilwoman
SECONDER: Jason Gibbs, Councilmember
AYES: Patsy Ayala, Jason Gibbs, Marsha McLean, Bill Miranda RECUSED: Laurene Weste

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION II
No additional requests to speak were received.

ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Weste adjourned the Regular Meeting in memory of Veronica Lebecki and John C. "Jack" Stewart at 8:12 p.m.
______________________________________
MAYOR
ATTEST:
______________________________________

CITY CLERK
3 Packet Pg. 134
Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Jul 14, 2026 6:00 PM (Consent Calendar)

Agenda Item: 4

CITY OF SANTA CLARITA

AGENDA REPORT

CONSENT CALENDAR
CITY MANAGER APPROVAL:

DATE: August 25, 2026
SUBJECT: CHECK REGISTER NOS. 15, 16, and 17
DEPARTMENT: Administrative Services
PRESENTER: Mary Ann Ruprecht

RECOMMENDED ACTION

City Council approve and ratify for payment the demands presented in Check Register Nos. 15,16 & 17.

BACKGROUND

Check Register No. 15 for the Period 06/12/26 through 06/25/26 and 07/02/26 in the aggregate amount of $14,899,788.29 inclusive of Electronic Funds Transfers for the Period 06/15/26 through 06/26/26 in the aggregate amount of $1,313,659.19.

Check Register No. 16 for the Period 06/26/26 through 07/09/26 and 07/16/26 in the aggregate amount of $9,331,641.74 inclusive of Electronic Funds Transfers for the Period 06/29/26 through 07/10/26 in the aggregate amount of $5,146,180.77.

Check Register No. 17 for the Period 07/10/26 through 07/23/26 and 07/30/26 in the aggregate amount of $13,086,058.70 inclusive of Electronic Funds Transfers for the Period 07/13/26 through 07/24/26 in the aggregate amount of $660,271.64.

FISCAL IMPACT

Adequate funds are available in the budgeted expenditure accounts to support the Check Register payments.

ATTACHMENTS
Memo - Check Register No. 15
Memo - Check Register No. 16
4 Packet Pg. 135

Memo - Check Register No. 17
Check Register No. 15 (available in the City Clerk's Reading File) Check Register No. 16 (available in the City Clerk's Reading File) Check Register No. 17 (available in the City Clerk's Reading File) 4 Packet Pg. 136

4.a
Packet Pg. 137
Attachment: Memo - Check Register No. 15 (Check Register Nos.15,16, & 17)

4.a
Packet Pg. 138
Attachment: Memo - Check Register No. 15 (Check Register Nos.15,16, & 17)

4.a
Packet Pg. 139
Attachment: Memo - Check Register No. 15 (Check Register Nos.15,16, & 17)

4.b
Packet Pg. 140
Attachment: Memo - Check Register No. 16 (Check Register Nos.15,16, & 17)

4.b
Packet Pg. 141
Attachment: Memo - Check Register No. 16 (Check Register Nos.15,16, & 17)

4.b
Packet Pg. 142
Attachment: Memo - Check Register No. 16 (Check Register Nos.15,16, & 17)

4.c
Packet Pg. 143
Attachment: Memo - Check Register No. 17 (Check Register Nos.15,16, & 17)

4.c
Packet Pg. 144
Attachment: Memo - Check Register No. 17 (Check Register Nos.15,16, & 17)

4.c
Packet Pg. 145
Attachment: Memo - Check Register No. 17 (Check Register Nos.15,16, & 17)

Agenda Item: 5

CITY OF SANTA CLARITA

AGENDA REPORT

CONSENT CALENDAR
CITY MANAGER APPROVAL:

DATE: August 25, 2026
SUBJECT: LOS ANGELES COUNTY EDUCATIONAL CAMPAIGN GRANT
DEPARTMENT: City Manager's Office
PRESENTER: Carrie Lujan

RECOMMENDED ACTION

City Council:

1. Appropriate $29,943.58 in grant funds to the Drug Free Youth-Promotion and Publicity Expenditure Account (1005316-516105) and increase DFY County Grant Revenue Account (100-421109) by the same amount.

2. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all contracts and associated documents, subject to City Attorney review.

BACKGROUND

The City of Santa Clarita (City) works with Los Angeles County (County) to increase resident awareness of resources to prevent substance abuse and adolescent substance use. In 2012, the City partnered with the County and local school districts to launch the Drug Free Youth in Santa Clarita Valley (DFY in SCV) campaign. DFY in SCV works to educate students on the dangers of drug use and promotes wellness for healthier, drug-free lives.

In June 2026, Supervisor Kathryn Barger's office awarded $29,943.58 in additional grant funds to the City to prepare a community-wide educational campaign regarding the dangers of fentanyl. The City's educational campaign will include print and digital advertising and a digital scavenger hunt to educate participants on identifying and avoiding fentanyl. Participants will be able to enter a raffle for prizes. The County will prepare a grant agreement for the City to enter into prior to disbursement of funds.

ALTERNATIVE ACTION
Other action as determined by the City Council.
5 Packet Pg. 146

FISCAL IMPACT

Upon approval of the recommended actions, budget for the Drug Free Youth-Promotion and Publicity Expenditure Account (1005316-516105) will increase by $29,943.58 and DFY County Grant Revenue Account (100-421109) will increase by $29,943.58. 5 Packet Pg. 147

Agenda Item: 6

CITY OF SANTA CLARITA

AGENDA REPORT

CONSENT CALENDAR
CITY MANAGER APPROVAL:

DATE: August 25, 2026
SUBJECT: ESTABLISH A LOADING/UNLOADING ZONE AND A NO-

PARKING ZONE ON SCHOOL DAYS ONLY ALONG THE EAST

SIDE OF CATALA AVENUE
DEPARTMENT: Public Works
PRESENTER: Joel Bareng

RECOMMENDED ACTION

City Council:

1. Adopt a resolution to establish a 270-foot Loading/Unloading zone and a 330-foot No Parking zone between 7:00 and 8:00 a.m. and between 12:00 and 3:00 p.m. on school days only along the east side of Catala Avenue, south of Onlee Avenue.

2. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all documents, subject to City Attorney review.

BACKGROUND

The City of Santa Clarita (City) received a request to address pedestrian safety on Catala Avenue during peak arrival and dismissal periods at Highlands Elementary School. The request includes evaluating potential improvements to the student pick-up and drop-off area and assessing traffic conditions around the school during these periods.

In June 2026, City staff met with representatives from Highlands Elementary School and the Saugus Union School District to assess existing traffic conditions, the student pick-up and drop- off area, and student access points to the school. Staff reviewed the existing Loading/Unloading zone and determined that it could be expanded to better accommodate school-related pick-up and drop-off activity, as shown on the attached Location Map and Exhibit A.

Staff recommends adopting the attached resolution to establish loading/unloading and no parking restrictions on Catala Avenue during school peak hours. The proposed restrictions would direct parents to queue along the easterly side of Catala Avenue, south of Empino Lane, and utilize the 6 Packet Pg. 148

designated loading/unloading zone north of Empino Lane. This approach will help maintain traffic flow within the surrounding neighborhood, enhance access to the school-monitored student entrance gate, and improve pedestrian safety.

Representatives from Highlands Elementary School and the Saugus Union School District are in support of the proposed restrictions.

ALTERNATIVE ACTION
Other action as determined by the City Council.

FISCAL IMPACT

Adequate funds are available in Street Maintenance Traffic Signs and Markings Expenditure Account (2304504-514108) to support the recommended action.

ATTACHMENTS
Resolution
Location Map
Exhibit A
6 Packet Pg. 149

RESOLUTION NO. 26-__

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA, TO ESTABLISH A 270-FOOT LOADING/UNLOADING ZONE ON SCHOOL DAYS ONLY AND A 330-FOOT NO PARKING ZONE ON SCHOOL DAYS

ONLY, ALONG THE EAST SIDE OF CATALA AVENUE, SOUTH OF ONLEE AVENUE

WHEREAS, Section 22507 of the California Vehicle Code of the State of California provides for local authorities to prohibit stopping, standing, or parking of vehicles on certain streets or highways, or portions thereof during certain or all hours of the day; and

WHEREAS, a Loading/Unloading zone between 7:00 and 8:00 a.m. and between 12:00 and 3:00 p.m. on school days only along the east side of Catala Avenue, starting at 190 feet north of Empino Lane and extending 270 feet to Onlee Avenue, will improve traffic circulation and enhance pedestrian safety during student arrival and dismissal hours; and

WHEREAS, a No Parking zone between 7:00 and 8:00 a.m. and between 12:00 and 3:00 p.m. on school days only along the east side of Catala Avenue, starting at 30 feet south of Empino Lane, extending 330 feet to the south, will improve traffic circulation and enhance pedestrian safety during student arrival and dismissal hours; and

WHEREAS, it is consistent with normal traffic engineering practices to establish a 270- foot Loading/Unloading zone between 7:00 and 8:00 a.m. and between 12:00 and 3:00 p.m. on school days only on the east side of Catala Avenue, starting at 190 feet north of Empino Lane and extending 270 feet to Onlee Avenue; and

WHEREAS, it is consistent with normal traffic engineering practices to establish a 330- foot No Parking zone between 7:00 and 8:00 a.m. and between 12:00 and 3:00 p.m. on school days only on the east side of Catala Avenue, starting at 30 feet south of Empino Lane, extending 330 feet to the south.

NOW THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA, DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1. That a 270-foot Loading/Unloading zone between 7:00 and 8:00 a.m. and between 12:00 and 3:00 p.m. on school days only along the east side of Catala Avenue, starting at 190 feet north of Empino Lane and extending 270 feet to Onlee Avenue, shall be established.

SECTION 2. That a 330-foot No Parking zone between 7:00 and 8:00 a.m. and between 12:00 and 3:00 p.m. on school days only along the east side of Catala Avenue, starting at 30 feet south of Empino lane, extending 330 feet to the south, shall be established.

SECTION 3. That a 270-foot Loading/Unloading zone shall apply when appropriate signs giving adequate notice thereof have been placed as described in Section 1.

6.a
Packet Pg. 150
Attachment: Resolution (ESTABLISH A LOADING/UNLOADING ZONE AND NO-PARKING ZONE ON SCHOOL DAYS ONLY ON CATALA

SECTION 4. That a 330-foot No Parking zone shall apply when appropriate signs giving adequate notice thereof have been placed as described in section 2.

SECTION 5. That staff shall install the necessary signs to effect this resolution.

SECTION 6. That the City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this resolution.

PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this __ day of ________ 2026.

______________________________
MAYOR

ATTEST:

_______________________________

CITY CLERK

DATE:__________________________

STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss.

CITY OF SANTA CLARITA )

I, Melody Bartlette, City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution No. 26-__ was duly adopted by the City Council of the City of Santa Clarita at a regular meeting thereof, held on the __ day of ________ 2026, by the following vote:

AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:

NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:

ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS:

______________________________

CITY CLERK

6.a
Packet Pg. 151
Attachment: Resolution (ESTABLISH A LOADING/UNLOADING ZONE AND NO-PARKING ZONE ON SCHOOL DAYS ONLY ON CATALA

6.b
Packet Pg. 152
Attachment: Location Map (ESTABLISH A LOADING/UNLOADING ZONE AND NO-PARKING ZONE ON Existing 30' Red Curb
Existing Loading/Unloading
Zone (160')
Proposed No Parking Zone (330')

EXHIBIT A
PROPOSED "NO PARKING SPECIFIC HOURS" AND
"LOADING/UNLOADING SPECIFIC HOURS" ZONES ON CATALA AVENUE - EXISTING LOADING/UNLOADING ZONE
- PROPOSED NO PARKING ZONE AND LOADING/UNLOADING ZONE
N
Proposed Loading/Unloading
Zone (270')
School Property Line
PASSENGERUNLOADINGONLYLOADING &AM7-8&1-3PMSCHOOL DAYS ONLY Existing 30' Red Curb
LEGEND
- EXISTING RED CURB (NO STOPPING ZONE)

CATALA AVE

EMPINO LN

ONLEE AVE
270'

HIGHLANDS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

SCHOOL DAYS ONLY
PASSENGERUNLOADINGONLYLOADING &AM7-8&12-3PM

PASSENGERUNLOADINGONLYLOADING &
SCHOOL DAYS ONLYAM7-8&12-3PM

PASSENGERUNLOADINGONLYLOADING &
SCHOOL DAYS ONLYAM7-8&12-3PM

PASSENGERUNLOADINGONLYLOADING &
SCHOOL DAYS ONLYAM7-8&12-3PM

6.c
Packet Pg. 153
Attachment: Exhibit A (ESTABLISH A LOADING/UNLOADING ZONE AND NO-PARKING ZONE ON SCHOOL DAYS ONLY ON CATALA AVENUE)

Agenda Item: 7

CITY OF SANTA CLARITA

AGENDA REPORT

CONSENT CALENDAR
CITY MANAGER APPROVAL:

DATE: August 25, 2026
SUBJECT: 2025-26 BRIDGE PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE PROGRAM, PROJECT M0162 - DESIGN CONTRACT
DEPARTMENT: Public Works
PRESENTER: Carla Callahan

RECOMMENDED ACTION

City Council:

1. Award the design contract to Tetra Tech, Inc., for the 2025-26 Bridge Preventative Maintenance Program, Project M0162, in the amount of $178,155 and authorize a contingency in the amount of $17,816, for a total contract amount not to exceed $195,971.

2. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all contracts and associated documents, subject to City Attorney review.

BACKGROUND

The Bridge Preventative Maintenance Program (BPMP) is an annual program that maintains and preserves vehicular bridges in the City of Santa Clarita (City). The BPMP prioritizes bridges for maintenance each year by evaluating their condition and serviceability to identify the repairs that will extend the service life of each structure, minimizing costs and helping to avoid more costly rehabilitation, reconstruction, or replacement of the City's bridges. The BPMP works in association with the Federal Highway Administration's Highway Bridge Program to utilize federal grants for bridge rehabilitation projects.

The 2025-26 Bridge Preventative Maintenance Program includes bridge maintenance improvements at ten bridge locations throughout the City, as shown on the attached Location Map. This project supports the Sustainable Public Infrastructure theme of the City’s strategic plan, Santa Clarita Pathway Forward.

The scope of work for this design contract includes preparation of plans, specifications, and engineer's estimates as well as coordination and permitting with regulatory agencies. Bid 7 Packet Pg. 154

assistance will also be provided to support the solicitation for a construction contract.

The City conducted a Request for Proposal (RFP) to solicit proposals from qualified consulting firms to provide design services for the 2025-26 Bridge Preventative Maintenance Program. The RFP was published and circulated via the City’s e-procurement system, BidNet, on June 26, 2026. The City transmitted the solicitation to 3,532 vendors on BidNet, of which 75 vendors downloaded the RFP. A total of three companies provided proposals for consideration.

These proposals were reviewed and evaluated based on each company’s ability to meet the specific needs of the City. An evaluation panel, comprised of staff from the Public Works department, scored the responses using the following categories of weighted criteria:

• Qualifications and relevant experience (30 points)
• Project understanding and technical approach (25 points) • Project management and staffing (20 points)
• Schedule and availability (15 points)
• References (10 points)

The evaluation panel scored the responses based on a 100-point scale, with the results outlined below:

Rank Company Location Score
1 Tetra Tech, Inc. Irvine, CA 96
2 BKF Engineers Newport Beach, CA 92
3 KPFF, Inc. Los Angeles, CA 91

In reviewing proposals, the evaluation panel awarded the highest score to Tetra Tech, Inc. (Tetra Tech). The evaluation panel determined that Tetra Tech’s proposal offered the best overall value to meet the design needs.

Tetra Tech demonstrated an in-depth understanding of the project needs and provided a detailed scope of work and approach to the project. They analyzed the project locations and identified key design factors that will need to be addressed in the design. Based on their design experience with similar projects, and the completeness of their proposal for this project, staff recommends awarding the design contract to Tetra Tech. The proposal is available in the City Clerk’s Reading File.

California Government Code 4526 prescribes the selection of architectural and engineering services to be based on demonstrated competence and professional qualifications necessary for the satisfactory performance of the services required and does not authorize the selection of professional architect and engineering services based on cost. City staff was able to reach an agreement with Tetra Tech at a fair and reasonable price.

The requested contingency will cover the cost of unforeseen design constraints and account for potential design modifications requested by the City and other permitting agencies during the design of the project. This includes potential adjustments to the engineered plans, specifications, and cost estimates, permits, and change orders for additional work requested by the City.
7 Packet Pg. 155

The City Council appropriated $576,765 for this project upon adoption of the Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget. Of this amount, $245,971 is budgeted for design, representing $195,971 for design services and $50,000 for project administration costs. Project administrative costs include staff time, project management, public works inspections, interagency coordination, permitting fees, and labor compliance monitoring. Staff anticipates receiving additional grant funding for construction on the recommended improvements in Fiscal Year 2028-29. Any unspent design funds, currently estimated at $330,794, will be returned to the fund balance and considered for reappropriation when the construction contract is presented for City Council consideration.

ALTERNATIVE ACTION
Other action as determined by the City Council.

FISCAL IMPACT

The amount of $576,765 is available in project expenditure accounts M0162229-516101 (Miscellaneous Federal Grants) and M0162233-516101 (TDA Article 8) to support the recommended action and associated project costs.

ATTACHMENTS
Location Map
Proposal for Tetra Tech, Inc. (available in the City Clerk's Reading File) 7 Packet Pg. 156

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PLACERITA CANYON RD
Location Map for
2025-26 Bridge Preventative
Maintenance Program,
Project M0162
Street centerlines developed & maintained
by City of Santa Clarita GIS
The City of Santa Clarita does not warrant
the accuracy of the data and assumes no
liability for any errors or omissions.

Map prepared by: City of Santa Clarita
GIS Division
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Newhall Ranch Road over Bouquet Canyon Channel
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7 Orchard Village Road over South Fork Santa Clara River 8 Whites Canyon Road over Santa Clara River
9 Sand Canyon Road over Iron Canyon Creek
Placerita Canyon Road over Sand Canyon Wash
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Q:\PROJECTS\PW\260729g1\79393\25-26 Bridge Preventative Maintenance Program M0162 Location Map.aprx 1 Copper Hill Drive over San Francisquito Creek
Magic Mountain Parkway over South Fork Santa Clara River 10 7.a
Packet Pg. 157
Attachment: Location Map (2025-26 BRIDGE PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE PROGRAM - DESIGN

Agenda Item: 8

CITY OF SANTA CLARITA

AGENDA REPORT

CONSENT CALENDAR
CITY MANAGER APPROVAL:

DATE: August 25, 2026
SUBJECT: NEWHALL PARK IMPROVEMENTS, PROJECT P2017 - DESIGN

CONTRACTS
DEPARTMENT: Public Works
PRESENTER: Carla Callahan

RECOMMENDED ACTION

City Council:

1. Award the design contract to Pacific Coast Land Design, Inc., for the park improvements for the Newhall Park Improvements, Project P2017, in the amount of $1,843,133 and authorize a contingency in the amount of $184,313, for a total contract amount not to exceed $2,027,446.

2. Award the design contract to Pacific Advanced Civil Engineering, Inc., for the regional stormwater infiltration facility for the Newhall Park Improvements, Project P2017, in the amount of $428,780 and authorize a contingency in the amount of $42,878, for a total contract amount not to exceed $471,658.

3. Appropriate one-time funds in the amount of $2,672,000 to the Newhall Park Improvements, Project P2017, from the following funds:

• $1,071,103 from Measure W Safe Clean Water Regional Fund (Fund 274) to expenditure account P2017274-516101;
• $1,025,897 from Facilities Fund (Fund 723) to expenditure account P2017723- 516101;
• $450,000 from Stormwater Utility Fund (Fund 356) to expenditure account P2017356- 516101;
• $125,000 from TDA Article 8 (Fund 233) to expenditure account P2017233-516101.

4. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all contracts and associated documents, subject to City Attorney review.

X
8 Packet Pg. 158

BACKGROUND

Newhall Park was constructed in 1950 and was operated by the County of Los Angeles (County) until the City of Santa Clarita (City) was incorporated in 1987. The 14.3-acre community park currently features two basketball courts, a softball field, a playground, soccer fields, picnic areas with a barbeque, public restrooms, and a public pool, making it a versatile location for families, students, and visitors to enjoy outdoor activities and events. The site also features a multi- purpose room and a Boys and Girls Club of Santa Clarita Valley facility. Newhall Park is located at the corner of Dalbey Drive and Newhall Avenue, as shown on the attached Location Map.

This project will finalize construction documents for the installation of the regional stormwater infiltration facility and park improvements at Newhall Park. Based on community feedback and the completed concept design, the proposed improvements at Newhall Park include a new subterranean regional stormwater infiltration facility, a re-circulating splash pad, two new basketball courts, a full size multi-purpose field, an inclusive playground with shade structures, a new futsal court, a nature play area, new shaded picnic pavilions with picnic tables and barbecues, new field lighting, pool improvements, new perimeter walking path, additional parking with EV chargers, energy efficient building improvements, new restroom building, new trees, new turf, and landscaping and irrigation improvements. This project supports the Sustainable Public Infrastructure theme of the City’s strategic plan, Santa Clarita Pathway Forward.

The scope of work for the design contracts includes civil engineering design and landscape design services and preparation of final construction documents. These documents will consist of complete plans, specifications, and engineer’s estimates for construction and operational manuals for post-construction maintenance.

Park Improvements Design Contract
The City conducted a Request for Proposal (RFP) to solicit proposals from qualified firms to provide design services for the Newhall Park Improvements project. The RFP was published and circulated via the City’s e-procurement system, BidNet, on February 24, 2025. Firms were evaluated based on the entire scope of services outlined in the RFP. The City Council awarded a design contract for concept design services for a total amount not to exceed $659,508 to Pacific Coast Land Design, Inc. (PCLD) at the July 8, 2025, City Council meeting. This scope of work included community outreach meetings and architectural, survey, engineering, and landscape design services required to complete conceptual layouts for the park improvements.

Since PCLD was originally evaluated and selected based on its qualifications to perform the entire scope of services outlined in the RFP, it is recommended that PCLD be awarded a contract for a total of $2,027,446, including contingency, to provide appropriate civil engineering design and landscape design services and complete the design of the park improvements. The proposal is available in the City Clerk’s Reading File.

8 Packet Pg. 159

Regional Stormwater Infiltration Facility Design Contract On July 9, 2013, the City Council entered into an agreement with the County to develop the Upper Santa Clara River Enhanced Watershed Management Program (EWMP) in compliance with state and federal requirements under the Storm Water Permit (Permit) issued by the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board. The EWMP identifies projects, actions, and milestones necessary to meet the Permit’s pollutant reduction requirements. As part of the EWMP, the City is required to provide stormwater infiltration capacity through regional infiltration facilities.

The City conducted an RFP to solicit proposals from qualified firms to provide civil engineering and design services for the EWMP Regional Storm Water Best Management Practices Preliminary Design Investigation project covering four different project sites. The RFP was published and circulated via the City’s former e-procurement system, PlanetBids, on January 10, 2018. Firms were evaluated based on the entire scope of services outlined in the RFP. The City Council awarded a design contract for preliminary design investigation and design services for a total amount not to exceed $851,987 to Pacific Advanced Civil Engineering, Inc. (PACE) at the April 10, 2018, City Council meeting. After the design investigation and feasibility study was completed, the City identified Newhall Park as an adequate site for a regional stormwater infiltration facility. PACE is the Engineer of Record for the EWMP Regional Stormwater Best Management Practices, project R3008, and subsequently the Newhall Park Improvements, project P2017.

Since PACE was originally evaluated and selected based on its qualifications to perform the entire scope of services outlined in the RFP, it is recommended PACE be awarded a contract for a total of $471,658, including contingency, to provide civil engineering design services and complete the design for the regional stormwater infiltration facility. The proposal is available in the City Clerk’s Reading File.

California Government Code 4526 prescribes the selection of architectural and engineering services to be based on demonstrated competence and professional qualifications necessary for the satisfactory performance of the services required and does not authorize the selection of professional architect and engineering services based on cost. City staff was able to reach an agreement with PCLD and PACE at a fair and reasonable price.

The requested contingencies will cover the costs of unforeseen design constraints and account for potential design modifications requested by the City and other permitting agencies during the design of the project. This includes potential adjustments to the civil engineering and landscape drawings and change orders for additional work requested by the City.

On January 26, 2021, the City Council approved a transfer agreement for Measure W Safe Clean Water Regional Funds from the County to support the design and construction of regional infiltration projects. The requested budget appropriation of $2,672,000 allocates a portion of these funds to this project, bringing the total project budget to $2,778,000 representing $2,499,104 in design contract costs and $278,896 in project administrative costs. Project administrative costs include staff time, project management, inspection fees, plan check fees, 8 Packet Pg. 160

utility design fees, and permit fees.

ALTERNATIVE ACTION
Other action as determined by the City Council.

FISCAL IMPACT

Upon approval of the recommended action, $2,778,000 will be available in expenditure accounts P2017274-516101 (Measure W Regional Fund), P2017356-516101 (Stormwater Utility Fund), P2017233-516101 (TDA Art 8), and P2017723-516101 (Facilities Fund) to support the recommended contracts and project administrative costs.

ATTACHMENTS
Location Map
Proposal for Pacific Coast Land Design, Inc. (available in the City Clerk's Reading File) Proposal for Pacific Advanced Civil Engineering, Inc. (available in the City Clerk's Reading File)
8 Packet Pg. 161

8.a
Packet Pg. 162
Attachment: Location Map (NEWHALL PARK IMPROVEMENTS - DESIGN CONTRACTS)

Agenda Item: 9

CITY OF SANTA CLARITA

AGENDA REPORT

CONSENT CALENDAR
CITY MANAGER APPROVAL:

DATE: August 25, 2026
SUBJECT: PURCHASE OF MINI EXCAVATOR FOR OPEN SPACE

MAINTENANCE AND SKID STEER LOADER FOR STREET

MAINTENANCE
DEPARTMENT: Public Works
PRESENTER: Cruz Caldera

RECOMMENDED ACTION

City Council:

1. Approve the “piggyback” purchase of one mini excavator using Sourcewell contract number 020223-CAT with Quinn Company for a total amount not to exceed $83,755.

2. Approve the “piggyback” purchase of one skid steer loader using Sourcewell contract number 020223-CAT with Quinn Company for a total amount not to exceed $108,305.

3. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all contracts and associated documents, subject to City Attorney review.

BACKGROUND

The City of Santa Clarita (City) maintains a fleet of more than 380 vehicles and pieces of equipment that support the maintenance of public infrastructure. To ensure the continued reliability and safety of these assets, the City implements a proactive equipment replacement program that replaces vehicles and equipment at the end of their useful service life or when continued maintenance is no longer cost-effective.

As part of the Fiscal Year 2026-27 Annual Budget, the City Council authorized the purchase of one new mini excavator for the Parks Planning and Open Space Division and the replacement of one skid steer loader for the General Services Division. The mini excavator will be used to maintain the City’s expanding open space system, including the 380-acre Haskell Canyon Bike Park and more than 100 miles of multi-use trails. The skid steer loader will be used for asphalt and pothole repairs, street maintenance, storm cleanup, and debris removal following rain events. 9 Packet Pg. 163

These purchases support the Sustainable Public Infrastructure theme of the City’s strategic plan, Santa Clarita Pathway Forward.

After conducting extensive research to find the most competitive pricing and the highest quality equipment, staff recommends using the City’s “piggyback” purchasing option for these procurements.

The use of “piggyback” purchasing allows the City to place orders against a competitively awarded public agency contract. The City is using the cooperative purchasing contract with Sourcewell, which allows the City to take advantage of an existing competitive process. This contract, which was executed on May 24, 2023, was solicited through a competitive bid process and is valid through April 17, 2027.

After performing a cost analysis and reviewing pricing for comparable equipment from other sources, it has been determined that the Sourcewell cooperative purchasing contract with Quinn Company provides competitive pricing, quality equipment, and the best value to the City.

Additionally, there are no local vendors that provide these types of equipment on a cooperative purchasing contract. Using the Sourcewell cooperative purchasing contract results in a total sale amount of $192,060 for the mini excavator and skid steer loader, inclusive of tax and delivery.

The quotes for the mini excavator and skid steer loader are available in the City Clerk’s Reading File.

ALTERNATIVE ACTION
Other action as determined by the City Council.

FISCAL IMPACT

Adequate funds are available in Open Space Maintenance Expenditure Account 3067507-520102 and Street Maintenance Expenditure Account 2304504-520102 to support the recommended actions.

ATTACHMENTS
Quote for Mini Excavator (available in the City Clerk's Reading File) Quote for Skid Steer Loader (available in the City Clerk's Reading File) 9 Packet Pg. 164

Agenda Item: 10

CITY OF SANTA CLARITA

AGENDA REPORT

CONSENT CALENDAR
CITY MANAGER APPROVAL:

DATE: August 25, 2026
SUBJECT: APPLICATION AND RECEIPT OF STATE TRANSIT ASSISTANCE FUNDS
DEPARTMENT: Economic Development
PRESENTER: Adrian Aguilar

RECOMMENDED ACTION

City Council adopt a resolution allowing the City Manager or designee to submit an annual claim to the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority for State Transit Assistance funds.

BACKGROUND

The City of Santa Clarita (City) is eligible to receive State Transit Assistance funds through the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) for transit operating assistance. These funds are derived from the statewide sales tax on diesel fuel and are appropriated by the California State Legislature to the State Controller’s Office (SCO). The SCO allocates the tax revenue, by formula, to selected agencies. For reference, the Fiscal Year 2026- 27 funding allocation is $496,995.

To receive the revenue, the City must submit an annual claim form to Metro, along with a resolution adopted by the City Council, authorizing the City Manager or designee to submit the annual claim package to Metro.

ALTERNATIVE ACTION

Other action as determined by the City Council.

FISCAL IMPACT

The resources required to implement the recommended action are contained within the City of Santa Clarita's adopted Fiscal Year 2026-27 budget.

10 Packet Pg. 165

ATTACHMENTS
Resolution
10 Packet Pg. 166

RESOLUTION NO. 26-____

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA,

CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING THE FILING OF THE ANNUAL CLAIM WITH THE

LOS ANGELES METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY FOR STATE

TRANSPORTATION ASSISTANCE FUNDS

WHEREAS, the State Transportation Development Act (TDA), as amended by the Mills- Alquist-Deddeh Act (Public Utilities Code Section 99200 et seq.), provides for the allocation of State Transit Assistance funds (STA), derived from the statewide sales tax on diesel fuel; and

WHEREAS, these funds are available for use by eligible claimants for various transportation purposes; and

WHEREAS, pursuant to the provisions of the TDA, as amended, and pursuant to the applicable rules and regulations thereunder (Cal Code of Regulations, Title 21, Sections 6600 et seq.), a prospective claimant wishing to receive an allocation from the STA shall file its annual claim with its county transportation authority; and

WHEREAS, the City of Santa Clarita is an eligible claimant and desires to file a claim for STA with the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro).

NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Santa Clarita, California, does hereby resolve as follows:

SECTION 1. The City Council is hereby authorized and directed to apply and submit the annual claim for STA funds.

SECTION 2: The City Manager or designee is hereby authorized to execute and file an appropriate claim with Metro pursuant to the terms of the STA, as amended, and pursuant to the applicable rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, together with all necessary supporting documents, for annual allocation of STA funds.

SECTION 3: A copy of this resolution shall be transmitted to Metro in conjunction with the filing of the annual claim; and that Metro be requested to grant the allocation of funds to the City of Santa Clarita.

SECTION 4: The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of resolution.

10.a
Packet Pg. 167
Attachment: Resolution (RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING APPLICATION FOR AND RECEIPT OF STATE TRANSIT ASSISTANCE FUNDS)

PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this 25th day of August 2026.

______________________________
MAYOR

ATTEST:

_______________________________

CITY CLERK

DATE:__________________________

STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss.

CITY OF SANTA CLARITA )

I, Melody Bartlette, City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution No. 26-__ was duly adopted by the City Council of the City of Santa Clarita at a regular meeting thereof, held on the 25th day of August 2026, by the following vote:

AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:

NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:

ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS:

______________________________

CITY CLERK

10.a
Packet Pg. 168
Attachment: Resolution (RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING APPLICATION FOR AND RECEIPT OF STATE TRANSIT ASSISTANCE FUNDS)

Agenda Item: 11

CITY OF SANTA CLARITA

AGENDA REPORT

CONSENT CALENDAR
CITY MANAGER APPROVAL:

DATE: August 25, 2026
SUBJECT: USE TAX INCENTIVE PROGRAM WITH AEROSPACE DYNAMICS

INTERNATIONAL
DEPARTMENT: Economic Development
PRESENTER: Tyler Pledger

RECOMMENDED ACTION

City Council approve reimbursement of $80,857 to Aerospace Dynamics International (ADI) per the Use Tax Incentive Program agreement entered into between the City of Santa Clarita and ADI on June 10, 2010.

BACKGROUND

The City of Santa Clarita's (City) Use Tax Incentive Program was established to strengthen partnerships between the City and local businesses by incentivizing business expansion and investment within the community. The program is designed to generate additional use tax revenue for the City by allowing a portion of qualified use tax payments remitted to the City to be reimbursed to participating businesses.

Under the standard Use Tax State allocation, the City would receive 3 percent of the 1 percent of use tax paid by a business. Through the Use Tax Incentive Program, qualifying businesses can apply for a Direct Pay Permit that allows the full 1 percent of use tax paid by a business to be directed to the City, generating additional revenue for the City. To qualify for a Direct Pay Permit, a business must incur at least $500,000 in use tax purchases in the prior year. Once a Direct Pay Permit is secured, the business is able to execute a contract with the City to qualify for the Use Tax Incentive Program.

Aerospace Dynamics International (ADI) is a local aerospace manufacturing company that completed a significant expansion of its operations in Santa Clarita over ten years ago, with estimated construction costs exceeding $14,700,000. As part of the expansion, ADI entered into a Use Tax Incentive Agreement with the City on June 10, 2010.

Under this agreement, there are two options for the incentives generated by ADI to be 11 Packet Pg. 169

reimbursed:

Cash Rebate: A cash rebate equal to 30 percent of the net new use tax generated as a result of participation in the program.

Business Expansion Credit: A rebate equal to 50 percent of the net new use tax generated as a result of the participation in the program. Business Expansion Credits may be used for any permit or development fees for an approved project located within the City.

To date under this agreement, ADI has generated $1,193,801 in use tax payments to the City as a result of their participation in the Use Tax Incentive Program. Through the program, the City has retained $614,807 in use tax revenue, compared to an estimated $35,814 it would have received without the program.

ADI has earned $578,993 in Business Expansion Credits and received $444,232 in Business Expansion Credit payments, approved by the City Council in March 2011 and January 2014.

ADI has a remaining credit balance of $134,762 and has requested a Cash Rebate in the amount of $80,857.

The agreement requires that if the amount of disbursement exceeds $50,000 in a fiscal year, the disbursement of funds must be brought to City Council for approval.

ALTERNATIVE ACTION
Other action as determined by Council.

FISCAL IMPACT

The resources required to implement the recommended action are contained within the City of Santa Clarita's adopted FY 2026-27 budget: $80,857 is available for disbursement to Aerospace Dynamics International (ADI) in Sales and Use Tax Revenue Account (100-401001). 11 Packet Pg. 170

Agenda Item: 12

CITY OF SANTA CLARITA

AGENDA REPORT

CONSENT CALENDAR
CITY MANAGER APPROVAL:

DATE: August 25, 2026
SUBJECT: TRANSFER OF COMMUTER BUSES
DEPARTMENT: Economic Development
PRESENTER: Adrian Aguilar

RECOMMENDED ACTION

City Council:

1. Waive the City of Santa Clarita’s competitive procurement requirements for the transfer of three buses from the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System and the associated contracts with Complete Coach Works and Connexionz, pursuant to Santa Clarita Municipal Code Section 3.12.270(F).

2. Authorize the City Manager or designee to negotiate a transfer and reimbursement agreement with the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System for three Motor Coach Industries (MCI) Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses, for a not-to-exceed amount of $300,000, subject to Federal Transit Administration approval.

3. Authorize staff to negotiate and enter into a contract with Complete Coach Works to remove the existing paint scheme and prepare and paint the three buses in the Santa Clarita Transit livery, in an amount not-to-exceed $119,928, and authorize a contingency in the amount of $10,000, for a total contract amount of $129,928.

4. Authorize staff to negotiate and enter into a contract with Connexionz for the purchase and installation of automatic vehicle locating systems for the three buses, for a not-to-exceed amount of $56,627.

5. Appropriate funds in the amount of $486,555 to the Transit Administration Automotive Equipment Expenditure Account (7003700-520103), and increase the Municipal Operator Service Improvement Program Revenue Account (700-442207) by $386,555.

6. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all contracts and associated documents, subject to City Attorney review.
12 Packet Pg. 171

BACKGROUND

Santa Clarita Transit (Transit) has a fleet replacement program that meets the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) 12-year life cycle for commuter buses. Three of the City of Santa Clarita's (City) commuter buses have reached the end of their useful life and are scheduled to be replaced over the next 12 months.

The City's commuter fleet is composed of diesel and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered buses as required by the Air Quality Management District (AQMD). The AQMD regulations prohibit the City from purchasing new diesel-powered buses and require public agencies to procure low- or zero-emission buses.

Federal Buy America regulations require that any bus purchased with federal funds have a minimum of 70 percent of its components manufactured in the United States. In late 2023, Motor Coach Industries (MCI), the only manufacturer of CNG-powered commuter buses that meet Buy America requirements, announced it would no longer manufacture CNG-powered buses to shift their resources to designing and manufacturing battery-electric commuter buses.

As part of the City’s Zero Emission Transition Plan, the City evaluated the use of battery-electric buses for its commuter service and determined that multiple factors such as vehicle cost, range, reliability, and charging infrastructure requirements did not make battery-electric commuter buses a viable option.

In early June 2026, the City was contacted by the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) inquiring if the City would like to assume federally-funded CNG commuter buses. MTS has three 2021 CNG-powered MCI commuter buses with fewer than 100,000 miles that are no longer needed due to reductions in MTS’s commuter service.

The FTA’s regulations allow FTA grant recipients to transfer federally funded assets, such as buses, to other FTA grantees as long as they assume all grant and reporting responsibilities.

In exchange, MTS has requested that the City reimburse them for the depreciated portion of the bus funded with local dollars. This is $100,000 per vehicle.

By assuming responsibility for the federally-funded portion and reimbursing MTS for the depreciated locally-funded cost of the vehicles, the City will be able to replace older diesel buses that have reached the end of their useful life. This transfer also creates a significant savings for the City as the cost of a new battery-electric commuter bus is well over $1,000,000 and the fair market value of the buses is approximately $400,000 each. Staff inspected the three buses and determined they have been adequately maintained and have an additional seven years and 400,000 miles of useful life before they would be scheduled for retirement.

As part of this transfer, MTS has requested that the City remove the MTS logos and paint scheme from the buses immediately upon delivery. In addition, the City would have to paint the vehicles in Transit’s livery and procure and install City-specific electronics such as the vehicle tracking, camera, and fare-collection systems.
12 Packet Pg. 172

Staff requested a quote from Complete Coach Works (CCW) located in Riverside, California, to have the existing paint stripped and the buses repainted in the Transit livery. The City has contracted with CCW in the past to do similar work, and the quote provided for this project is within industry standards. Ensuring minimal delays in adding these buses to the City’s transit fleet, CCW can begin the work immediately. The requested contingency is to address unknown bus body issues such as rust or salt corrosion.

City staff also requested a quote from Connexionz for the purchase and installation of the vehicle-tracking hardware. The quote provided was in line with the cost of having the equipment installed by the bus manufacturer and is within industry standards.

Prior to being approached by MTS, City staff was considering issuing a Request for Proposal to refurbish the three buses scheduled to be retired, since replacement CNG commuter buses are no longer produced and electric commuter buses do not meet the City’s service needs. This refurbishment would include the installation of a new engine and transmission, replacement of safety components such as brakes, tires, suspension, new paint, and electronics. The initial estimate for the refurbishment was $450,000 per vehicle.

Given the unique opportunity to acquire these buses, the need to place them into service promptly, and the specialized work required to integrate them into the City’s existing transit fleet, staff recommends that the City Council find that it is in the public interest and necessity to proceed with the transfer from MTS and the associated outfitting contracts with CCW and Connexionz without competitive solicitation, and waive the applicable competitive procurement requirements pursuant to Santa Clarita Municipal Code Section 3.12.270(F).

If approved, this vehicle transfer would allow the City to retire buses that have reached the end of their useful life and eliminate the need to refurbish buses at this time.

ALTERNATIVE ACTION

Other action as determined by the City Council.

FISCAL IMPACT

Upon approval of the recommended actions, sufficient funding will be available in the Transit Administration Automotive Equipment Expenditure Account (7003700-520103) and Municipal Operator Service Improvement Program Revenue Account (700-442207). 12 Packet Pg. 173

Agenda Item: 13

CITY OF SANTA CLARITA

AGENDA REPORT

CONSENT CALENDAR
CITY MANAGER APPROVAL:

DATE: August 25, 2026
SUBJECT: BOUQUET CANYON PARK PARKING LOT REFURBISHMENT
PROJECT P0032, PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS, AND

CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT
DEPARTMENT: Neighborhood Services
PRESENTER: Susan Nelson

RECOMMENDED ACTION

City Council:

1. Approve the plans and specifications for the Bouquet Canyon Park Parking Lot Refurbishment Project P0032.

2. Find the Bouquet Canyon Park Parking Lot Refurbishment Project P0032 exempt from review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations, Article 19, Section 15301.

3. Award a construction contract to E&M Constructors, Inc., for $303,145 and authorize a contingency in the amount of $30,315, for a total contract amount not to exceed $333,460.

4. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all contracts and associated documents, subject to City Attorney review.

BACKGROUND

The parking lot at Bouquet Canyon Park is in need of refurbishment due to extensive cracking, root intrusion and aged asphalt. Due to the extensiveness of the cracking, the parking lot requires grading work, curb and gutter replacement, and new asphalt. Replacement of asphalt and curb and gutters in the parking lot will address drainage and surface irregularities, and improve parking lot and sidewalk connectivity. The improvements include repairs to the root damaged curb and gutter, replacement of alligator cracked asphalt, overlay of structurally sound asphalt, ADA enhancements along with new striping and signage. Refurbishment will necessitate removal of two pine trees and closure of the parking lot in its entirety for approximately three 13 Packet Pg. 174

weeks.

In an effort to minimize disruptions to park usage, the pickleball court resurfacing project funded through the Fiscal Year 2026-27 Capital Improvement Project process will also be scheduled during the three week-closure. The bid process for the parking lot refurbishment included resurfacing of the pickleball courts as a bid-alternate item for the purposes of streamlining this effort and minimizing the impact to the park users and pickleball community.

An invitation to bid was published and circulated via the City of Santa Clarita (City) e-procurement system, BidNet, on May 19, 2026. The City transmitted the solicitation to 1,723 vendors on BidNet, of which 61 vendors downloaded materials. A total of eight bids were submitted and opened on June 23, 2026. The results of the bids are shown below:

Company Location Bid Amount
E&M Constructors, Inc. San Fernando, CA $ 303,145
R.C. Becker, Inc. Santa Clarita, CA $ 373,889
Tyner Paving Company Alhambra, CA $ 387,664
Alcotana Construction Inc. Ventura, CA $ 425,249
Toro Enterprises, Inc. Oxnard, CA $ 440,416
BSN Construction, Inc. Ventura, CA $ 446,378
Angeles Contractor, Inc. City of Industry, CA $ 548,494 Paveco Construction, Inc. Baldwin Park, CA $ 569,901

Staff recommends the project be awarded to E&M Constructors, Inc., the lowest responsive and responsible bidder. This contractor possesses a valid contractor’s license and is in good standing with the Contractors State License Board. The contractor’s bid was reviewed for accuracy and conformance to the contract documents and was found to be complete. The bid proposal adheres to the project's plans and specifications and is available in the City Clerk’s Reading File.

While the City maintains a Support for Local Business policy that can be utilized by the City Council when warranted, the City is governed by the California Public Contract Code with regard to public works project procurement. In this type of procurement, the California Public Contract Code does not permit a city to utilize a Support of Local Businesses policy and instead requires the contract be awarded to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder.

The requested contingency will cover the cost of unforeseen site conditions such as potential utility conflicts and fees, abandoned utilities not shown in record drawings, field adjustments, and additional work requested by the City. If approved by the City Council, work is tentatively scheduled to begin on October 5, 2026, and last approximately three weeks.

ALTERNATIVE ACTION

Other action as determined by the City Council.

X

13 Packet Pg. 175

FISCAL IMPACT

Adequate funds are available in expenditure accounts P0032601-516101 (Parking Lot Refurbishment) and P0035601-516101 (2026-27 Sport Court Resurfacing) to support the recommended contract and related administrative and miscellaneous costs for this project.

ATTACHMENTS
Parking Lot Photos
Bid Proposal for E&M Constructors Inc. (available in the City Clerk's Reading File) 13 Packet Pg. 176

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Attachment: Parking Lot Photos (BOUQUET CANYON PARK PARKING LOT

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Attachment: Parking Lot Photos (BOUQUET CANYON PARK PARKING LOT REFURBISHMENT P0032)

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Attachment: Parking Lot Photos (BOUQUET CANYON PARK PARKING LOT REFURBISHMENT P0032)

Agenda Item: 14

CITY OF SANTA CLARITA

AGENDA REPORT

CONSENT CALENDAR
CITY MANAGER APPROVAL:

DATE: August 25, 2026
SUBJECT: BELCARO AT SAND CANYON PROJECT (MASTER CASE 24-093)

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT CONTRACT
DEPARTMENT: Community Development
PRESENTER: Andy Olson

RECOMMENDED ACTION

City Council:

1. Authorize an amendment to the existing contract with SWCA Environmental Consultants for the preparation of the Belcaro at Sand Canyon Project Environmental Impact Report (Master Case 24-093), and increase expenditure authority by $54,286, including a contingency of $7,081, for a total contract amount not to exceed $423,850.

2. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all contract and associated documents, subject to City Attorney review.

BACKGROUND

On March 11, 2025, the City Council awarded the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) contract for the Belcaro at Sand Canyon Project (Project) to SWCA Environmental Consultants (SWCA) for a total contract amount not to exceed $369,564, including a contingency amount of $48,204.

The 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 east of Sand Canyon Road and the existing terminus of Lost Canyon Road, within the Sand Canyon community.

The Project includes a community of 341 single-family, age-restricted (55+) homes; an approximately three-acre private recreation center; 2.5 miles of publicly accessible trails; and approximately 105 acres of open space, including undeveloped open space and Homeowner Association-maintained amenities and slopes. The Project includes a 20 percent density bonus for providing age-restricted housing under state Density Bonus Law.

14 Packet Pg. 180

The Project requires approval of a Vesting Tentative Map, Conditional Use Permit, Oak Tree Permit (Class IV), Hillside Development Review (Class IV), Architectural Design Review, Development Review, and EIR entitlements.

Based on the anticipated impacts associated with the Project, it was determined that the appropriate California Environmental Quality Act 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, in January 2025, the City completed a competitive bid process to select an outside environmental consulting firm. SWCA Environmental Consultants was selected to complete this task and was awarded the contract by the City Council.

Draft EIR

SWCA Environmental Consultants has prepared the Draft EIR for the Project, which was circulated for public review on July 7, 2026. The public review period closes on August 21, 2026. At the August 18, 2026, Planning Commission hearing, the Planning Commission continued the public hearing to a date uncertain to provide time to prepare responses to comments on the Draft EIR and to prepare a resolution for a decision on the Project.

During preparation of the Draft EIR, additional consultant services were necessary to complete the environmental analysis. The original contract scope of work assumed a single round of peer review for the Project’s biological technical report, traffic study, fire protection plan, and evacuation analysis. However, an additional round of peer review was necessary for these technical studies, along with additional consultant support to City staff in the areas of wildfire, biological monitoring and conservation, and traffic. To facilitate the timely release of the Draft EIR, City staff authorized the use of the previously approved contract contingency on April 3, 2026, to complete this additional work.

Contract Amendment

With the Draft EIR now released for public review, completion of the EIR process will require SWCA to respond to comments received during the public review period and prepare the Final EIR. Based on the level of review required for the Draft EIR, SWCA anticipates that a comparable level of review and coordination, beyond the assumptions included in the original contract, will be necessary to complete the Final EIR. This work cannot be completed within the remaining funds previously authorized by the City Council.

An amendment to the contract in the amount of $47,205 is required to complete the remaining work associated with the EIR, including drafting responses to all comments received during the public review period. Given the potential for the number and complexity of comments received during the Draft EIR public review period to exceed the original contract assumptions, a 15 percent contingency in the amount of $7,081 is also recommended. The proposed amendment, including the contingency, totals $54,286, increasing the existing contract amount from $369,564 to a total contract amount not to exceed $423,850.

The Final EIR, including responses to all comments received on the Draft EIR, will be considered by the Planning Commission at a future hearing. 14 Packet Pg. 181

The Applicant is responsible for all costs associated with the preparation of the EIR, including the additional costs associated with this proposed amendment. The Applicant will deposit the additional funds into a trust account maintained by the City. Any unspent funds will be returned to the Applicant.

ALTERNATIVE ACTION

Other action as determined by the City Council.

FISCAL IMPACT

All costs associated with the preparation of the EIR will be the responsibility of the Applicant for the Project. There will be no fiscal impact to the General Fund associated with this item.

ATTACHMENTS
Amendment Proposal
Original SWCA Proposal (available in the City Clerk's Reading File) 14 Packet Pg. 182

July 27, 2026
City of Santa Clarita
Andy Olson, Associate Planner
Community Development Department
23920 Valencia Boulevard, Suite 295
Santa Clarita, California 91355-2196
Submitted via email: [email protected]
Re: Contract Amendment Proposal – Belcaro at Sand Canyon / SWCA Project No. 95619 Dear Andy Olson:

SWCA Environmental Consultants (SWCA) appreciates the opportunity to provide you with our scope of work and cost proposal for additional services required to complete the Belcaro at Sand Canyon project. As discussed in our July 15, 2026, weekly management call, an expansion of SWCA's services is necessary to complete the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the Belcaro at Sand Canyon Project (Master Case 24-093). Additional SWCA services included additional peer reviews of technical studies; expanded revisions to the Draft EIR sections; additional Draft EIR review cycles; as well as anticipated Final DEIR review cycles.

The cost to complete the additional tasks described in the attached scope of work is $47,205. The original contract amount for the Belcaro at Sand Canyon project was $321,360. On March 23, 2026, the City approved the first contract amendment in the amount of $47,979. Since approval of that amendment, additional services beyond both the original scope and the first amendment have been necessary to support continued revisions to applicant-prepared technical studies, expanded City review, and completion of the Draft EIR. This second amendment would increase the contract to a total not-to-exceed amount of $416,544. As described in further detail in the attached change order request, this amendment addresses the level of effort that was necessary to complete the Draft EIR for publication and seeks to replenish funding in order to complete preparation of the Final EIR. The current contract includes responses to up to 300 individual comments. Should the volume or complexity of comments received during the 45- day public review period exceed these assumptions, SWCA will notify the City and, if necessary, submit a separate contract amendment to complete the remaining work.

The attached scope of work summarizes the remaining effort necessary to complete the environmental review process in accordance with the City's project schedule. Thank you for providing us with the opportunity to work with you. Please contact me at (608) 239-5271 or at [email protected] if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Jessica Cleavenger Bobbette Biddulph
Project Manager Project Director

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SCOPE OF WORK
On April 3, 2025, the City of Santa Clarita (City) approved and executed a final contract with SWCA, Incorporated, dba SWCA Environmental Consultants (SWCA), for preparation of an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the proposed Belcaro at Sand Canyon Project (project). An amendment was approved for the contract on March 23, 2026. Since approval of the first contract amendment, additional services have been requested by the City and have been completed by SWCA.

As agreed upon by the City and SWCA, and in order to maintain the City's project schedule, SWCA accelerated completion of the technical study peer reviews and Draft EIR revisions despite the additional review cycles and document revisions that extended beyond the original scope of work. To meet the accelerated schedule, SWCA advanced work associated with later project phases by utilizing budget originally allocated for preparation of the Responses to Comments and Final EIR. As a result, the remaining budget for those tasks has been depleted and must be replenished to support completion of the environmental review process.

Now that the Draft EIR has been released for public review in accordance with the City’s schedule, the Final EIR funds that were utilized to continue work on the Draft EIR must be replenished to allow SWCA to complete the Final EIR and associated tasks. Accordingly, SWCA proposes this contract amendment to compensate for additional services already performed between May and early July 2026 and to restore funding needed to complete the project.

This amendment addresses the level of effort that was necessary to complete the Draft EIR through publication and the anticipated preparation of the Final EIR. Under SWCA's original contract, the scope of work includes preparation of responses to up to 300 individual, bracketed public and agency comments. Because the number, scope, and technical complexity of comments received during the 45-day Draft EIR public review period cannot be reasonably predicted in advance, SWCA will evaluate the level of effort required following the close of the public review period. If the comments received on the Draft EIR exceed the assumptions established under the current contract, SWCA will promptly notify the City and, if necessary, submit a separate contract amendment to address the additional work required to prepare responses to comments, revise the EIR, and complete the Final EIR.

I. ADDITIONAL PEER REVIEWS OF APPLICANT PROCURED TECHNICAL

STUDIES
A. ADDITIONAL PEER REVIEWS OF THE BIOLOGICAL TECHNICAL REPORT This task included additional senior-level peer reviews of revised Biological Technical Reports to verify the adequacy of the technical analyses and ensure consistency with the Draft EIR. The original scope of work assumed that the biological technical reports provided for preparation of the Administrative Draft EIR would require only a single round of peer review and limited revisions prior to incorporation into the environmental document. The first amendment to the original agreement included a scope and cost to review two additional Biological Technical Reports for a total of four reviews. After the approval of the first amendment, a fifth Biological Report was submitted that required review by senior-level staff.

These multiple reviews occurred during the Draft EIR preparation process, requiring SWCA to compare revisions against previous versions, evaluate the adequacy of updated analyses and mitigation measures, prepare detailed technical comments and discrepancy summaries for the City and project team, and verify that comments from prior review cycles had been adequately addressed. Additional peer review effort was also necessary to evaluate revisions made in response to City review comments and confirm that the technical report adequately supported the environmental analysis and mitigation measures presented in the Draft EIR. These repeated peer review

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cycles and associated technical coordination exceeded the level of effort anticipated under the original scope of work and prior contract amendment.

Cost: $3,494
B. ADDITIONAL PEER REVIEWS OF THE TRANSPORTATION REPORT This task included additional senior-level peer reviews of multiple revised Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) documents to verify the adequacy of the technical analyses and ensure the transportation analysis remained technically accurate. The original scope of work assumed that the technical reports provided for preparation of the Administrative Draft EIR would require only a single round of peer review and limited revisions prior to incorporation into the environmental document. The first amendment to the original agreement included a scope and cost to review two additional Transportation Technical Reports for a total of four reviews. After the approval of the first amendment, a fifth report was submitted that required review by senior-level staff.

The revised TIAs were submitted in response to City Engineering comments, requiring SWCA to conduct additional peer reviews of each revised document. These reviews included detailed comparisons of the revised TIAs against previous versions, evaluation of changes to traffic volumes, trip generation, future-year analyses, roadway improvement assumptions, and technical conclusions, and verification that previous review comments had been adequately addressed. SWCA also prepared additional technical comments and coordinated with the City to resolve outstanding technical issues. These repeated peer review cycles and associated technical coordination exceeded the level of effort anticipated under the original scope of work and the first contract amendment.

Cost: $3,073
C. ADDITIONAL PEER REVIEWS OF THE FI RE PROTECTION PLAN AND EVACUATION

ANALYSIS
This task included additional senior-level peer reviews of multiple revised Fire Projection Plan and Evacuation Analysis documents to verify the adequacy of the technical analysis and ensure that the report accurately addressed City comments and supported the conclusions of the Draft EIR. The original scope of work anticipated a single round of peer review of the Fire Protection Plan and Evacuation Analysis, with subsequent revisions provided in a format that clearly identified changes for efficient evaluation. The first amendment to the original agreement included a scope and cost to review one additional report for a total of three reviews. After the approval of the first amendment, a fourth report was submitted that required review by senior-level staff.

The final revised version of the Evacuation Analysis did not include tracked changes or other documentation identifying revisions from previous versions. Consequently, SWCA was required to perform detailed version-to- version comparisons to identify substantive changes before conducting each technical review, evaluate the adequacy of the revised analyses, verify that previous review comments had been satisfactorily addressed, and prepare additional technical comments and recommendations for the City and project team. These repeated peer review cycles and associated quality assurance efforts substantially exceeded the level of effort anticipated under the original scope of work.

Cost: $2,884

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II. PROJECT DESCRIPTION, SCREENCHECK DRAFT EIR AND PUBLIC DRAFT EIR
A. EXPANDED REVISIONS TO THE AIR QU ALITY, GHG, ENERGY, AND NOISE EIR

SECTIONS
This task included comprehensive revisions to the Screencheck Draft EIR and Public Review Draft EIR to incorporate updated environmental modeling and associated technical memoranda. The original scope of work anticipated only minor revisions to the Air Quality, Greenhouse Gas (GHG), and Noise sections based on a brief memorandum confirming that the revised construction schedule would not affect the environmental analyses or conclusions presented in the Draft EIR. Instead, updated technical memoranda were prepared that incorporated revised environmental modeling based on updated existing (2025) and future (2032) traffic conditions, as well as an increase in average daily project trips from 1,470 to 1,596. These revised modeling assumptions required SWCA to prepare substantial revisions to the Screencheck Draft EIR and Public Review Draft EIR, including updates to impact analyses, significance conclusions, tables, calculations, and supporting narrative text. Because the revised modeling affected multiple environmental resource sections and required corresponding updates throughout the document to maintain technical consistency and internal accuracy, the level of document revision exceeded that anticipated under the original scope of work and previously authorized contract amendments.

Cost: $3,858
B. EXPANDED REVISIONS TO THE B IOLOGICAL RESOURCES EIR SECTION This task included comprehensive revisions to the Screencheck Draft EIR and Public Review Draft EIR to incorporate successive revisions to the Biological Technical Report. The original scope of work anticipated incorporation of a final Biological Technical Report into the Administrative Draft EIR followed by a limited round of revisions during document review. Instead, the Biological Technical Report underwent multiple revisions throughout the Draft EIR preparation process, requiring SWCA to repeatedly update the Biological Resources section of the EIR to reflect revised impact analyses, mitigation measures, survey results, and supporting technical information. The revised technical information also required corresponding updates to the Executive Summary, Project Description, impact discussions, mitigation measures, tables, figures, appendices, and internal cross-references throughout the Screencheck Draft EIR and Public Review Draft EIR to maintain technical consistency and document accuracy. Additional revisions were also necessary to address City review comments requiring expanded analysis and clarification beyond the information contained in earlier versions of the Biological Technical Report. Because the revised biological analyses affected multiple sections of the environmental document and required repeated document-wide updates, the level of effort associated with revising the Draft EIR exceeded that anticipated under the original scope of work and the first amendment.

Cost: $6,687
C. EXPANDED REVISIONS TO TH E TRANSPORTATION EIR SECTION This task included comprehensive revisions to the Screencheck Draft EIR and Public Review Draft EIR to incorporate successive revisions to the Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA). The original scope of work anticipated incorporation of a final TIA into the Administrative Draft EIR followed by a limited round of revisions during document review. Instead, the TIA underwent multiple revisions throughout the Draft EIR preparation process in response to City Engineering comments, requiring SWCA to repeatedly update the Transportation section of the EIR to reflect revised traffic volumes, trip generation, future-year analyses, roadway improvement assumptions, and transportation impact conclusions. The revised technical information also required corresponding updates to

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the Executive Summary, Project Description, impact discussions, mitigation measures, appendices, and internal cross-references throughout the Screencheck Draft EIR and Public Review Draft EIR to maintain technical consistency and document accuracy. Additional revisions were necessary to incorporate changes to project conditions, including roadway improvements such as lane striping and a roundabout, which were incorporated as project-specific conditions rather than general City-proposed improvements. Because the revised transportation analyses affected multiple sections of the environmental document and required repeated document-wide updates, the level of effort associated with revising the Draft EIR substantially exceeded that anticipated under the original scope of work and the first contract amendment.

Cost: $4,224
D. EXPANDED REVISIONS TO THE WILDFIRE EIR SECTION
This task included comprehensive revisions to the Screencheck Draft EIR and Public Review Draft EIR to incorporate successive revisions to the Fire Protection Plan (FPP), Evacuation Analysis, and expanded wildfire analysis requested through City review comments. The original scope of work anticipated incorporation of final wildfire technical documents into the Administrative Draft EIR followed by a limited round of revisions during document review. Instead, both the FPP and Evacuation Analysis underwent multiple revisions throughout the Draft EIR preparation process, requiring SWCA to repeatedly update the Wildfire section and other affected portions of the EIR to reflect revised evacuation modeling, fire protection measures, project design features, technical assumptions, and environmental conclusions. In addition, City review comments required SWCA to expand the wildfire analysis beyond the information contained in the technical reports by incorporating additional technical discussion, preparing new graphics not included in the original scope, conducting supplemental research related to the proposed HeloPod, updating references to applicable City of Santa Clarita Municipal Code provisions, distinguishing between City and County regulatory requirements, and reconciling inconsistencies identified within successive versions of the FPP. Compounding this effort, revised Evacuation Analysis documents were provided without tracked changes or other documentation identifying revisions from previous versions, requiring SWCA to perform detailed version-to-version comparisons to identify substantive changes before corresponding revisions could be incorporated into the EIR. The revised technical information also required corresponding updates to the Executive Summary, Project Description, impact discussions, mitigation measures, appendices, tables, figures, and internal cross-references throughout the Screencheck Draft EIR and Public Review Draft EIR to maintain technical consistency and document accuracy. Because the wildfire technical documents underwent multiple revisions and City review comments required expanded analysis beyond that anticipated under the original scope of work, the level of effort associated with revising the Draft EIR substantially exceeded that anticipated under the original agreement and the first contract amendment.

Cost: $5,122
III. ADDITIONAL DOCUMENT REVIEW CYCLES
This task includes comprehensive document coordination, revisions, and quality assurance associated with an expanded multi-stage Draft EIR review process. SWCA's contract assumed preparation of one Administrative Draft EIR followed by one Screencheck Draft EIR, with a single consolidated set of City review comments provided for each review milestone. Similarly, the original scope assumed preparation of one Response to Comments document and one Preliminary Final EIR followed by a single consolidated City review prior to publication of the Final EIR. Instead, the Draft EIR review processes evolved into four separate document iterations, consisting of (1) an initial Administrative Draft, (2) a second Administrative Draft, (3) a Management Review Draft, and (4) a Screencheck Draft. Each review cycle required document management, coordination

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among the project team, evaluation and incorporation of comments, tracking of revisions across multiple document versions, and comprehensive quality assurance to maintain consistency throughout the Draft EIR.

Cost: $9,893
IV. ADDITIONAL FINAL EIR DOCUMENT REVIEW CYCLES
Based on the City's established review process and the level of coordination required to produce the Draft EIR, SWCA anticipates that preparation of the Response to Comments document, Preliminary Final EIR, and publication-ready Final EIR will similarly require additional document revisions, coordination, and quality assurance beyond the review assumptions included in the original contract. This amendment provides additional budget to support the anticipated level of effort necessary to complete the remaining phases of the CEQA process under the City's expanded review process. Should the number or complexity of review cycles of the Response to Comments document, Preliminary Final EIR, and publication-ready Final EIR exceed the review cycles discussed in Section III (Additional Document Review Cycles) of this amendment, SWCA will notify the City and, if necessary, prepare a subsequent contract amendment to address the additional level of effort required.

Estimated Cost: $7,970

GENERAL ASSUMPTIONS
 SWCA assumes no additional changes to the project plans or technical analyses will occur throughout the duration of the EIR drafting and approval process. For example, if additional off-site transportation improvements are required by the City, SWCA may need to request additional funding to incorporate the project changes into the Project Description and, depending on their location and extent, into the environmental analysis.
 SWCA assumes the project schedule will remain co nsistent and will not be extended. Additional schedule extensions would require additional funding.
 SWCA assumes no more than 300 individual public and agency comments will be received during the 45-day public review period. If the comments received exceed the assumptions established under the current contract, SWCA will promptly notify the City and, if necessary, submit a separate contract amendment to address the additional work required to prepare responses to comments, revise the EIR, and complete the Final EIR.
 This scope of work does not include subcontractor expenses to attend and/or participate in Planning Commission or City Council meetings to discuss the project.  SWCA assumes project coordination m eetings with City staff will continue on a bi-weekly basis until the week of November 17, 2026. Meetings beyond this date would require additional funding.

COST PROPOSAL AND ASSUMPTIONS
Based on thoughtful consideration of the project requirements, SWCA proposes a time-and-materials budget for the proposed amendment of $47,205.00 to complete the project as presented in the table below.

To accommodate project changes and scheduling, it is assumed that SWCA will be able to use the overall project funding and will not be held to phase and task limits so long as the overall budget is not exceeded.

This cost proposal is valid for ninety (90) days from the date of the proposal.

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Table 1. Cost Estimate
PHASE/TASK TOTAL $
I. ADDITIONAL PEER REVIEWS OF APPLICANT PROCURED TECHNICAL STUDIES A. Additional Peer Reviews of the Biological Technical Report $3,494.00 B. Additional Peer Reviews of the Transportation Report $3,073.00 C. Additional Peer Reviews of the FPP and Evacuation Analysis $2,884.00 II. PROJECT DESCRIPTION, SCREENCHECK DRAFT EIR AND PUBLIC DRAFT EIR A. Expanded Revisions to the AQ, GHG, Energy, and Noise EIR Sections $3,858.00 B. Expanded Revisions to the Biological Resources EIR Section $6,687.00 C. Expanded Revisions to the Transportation EIR Section $4,224.00 D. Expanded Revisions to the Wildfire EIR Section $5,122.00 III. ADDITIONAL DOCUMENT REVIEW CYCLES $9,893.00
IV. ADDITIONAL FINAL EIR DOCUMENT REVIEW CYCLES $7,970.00 PROJECT TOTAL $47,205.00

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Attachment: Amendment Proposal (Belcaro EIR Contract Adjustment)