INTRODUCTION
This report summarizes the key Citywide actions in the calendar year 2024 that relate to the City of Santa Cruz 2030 General Plan (GP), including specific tasks undertaken by City departments, the Planning Commission, and City Council. This report is not intended to be a comprehensive audit of all the City’s General Plan implementation programs but includes the priorities and opportunities important to the community.
The General Plan Annual Progress Report meets the State requirements for reporting the City’s progress toward meeting General Plan goals and objectives. Topics recommended by the California Office of Planning and Research (OPR) are briefly discussed below. In addition, staff has highlighted Council Initiatives as well as several key City projects and programs undertaken in 2024 that support the goals and objectives identified in the 2030 General Plan.
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OPR RECOMMENDED TOPICS
2024 General Plan Updates
The City did not make any updates to the General Plan in 2024. 2024 Ordinance Amendments and Policy Updates
Several Zoning Ordinance Amendments and other ordinance and policy updates related to development and General Plan implementation were approved or took effect in 2024, as follows:
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): In October 2024, City Council adopted an ordinance amending the City’s accessory dwelling unit regulations. This amendment ensured the local regulations are consistent with state law, improved the clarity of ADU development standards, and resolved a few minor policy questions. Due to additional changes in state law and direction from City Council to bring back proposed amendments regarding owner-occupancy requirements and separate sale of ADUs that City Council had initially denied, staff prepared a follow-up ordinance to further amend the ADU regulations and presented this ordinance to City Council in December 2024. Both ordinance packages included some amendments to zoning ordinance sections within the City’s Local Coastal Program and will require approval by the Coastal Commission before they are in effect within the coastal zone. The City will submit these amendments to the Coastal Commission in 2025 and anticipates Coastal Commission approval in 2025. Energy Reach Code for Existing Single Family Homes: In December 2024, City Council adopted local amendments to the California Code of Regulations (California Energy Code) implementing an energy reach code for substantial additions or renovations to single family homes
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Planning and Community Development
with an intent to provide owners with a range of options that will also meet goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with fossil fuel use citywide.
Private Property Outdoor Seating: In August 2024, City Council approved an ordinance amendment to the City’s regulations for outdoor seating areas on private property associated with eating and drinking establishments. The new regulations removed use permit and design permit requirements for these spaces when they meet a new set of use and design standards. The amendments also eliminated replacement vehicle parking requirements when creation of an outdoor seating area eliminates required parking spaces. The Ordinance was approved by the Coastal Commission in December 2024, making the ordinance in also effect within the Coastal Zone. Objective Standards and Mixed-Use Zoning: Various State housing bills limit City review of housing projects to “objective standards” contained in the city’s Zoning Ordinance and General Plan. The 2030 General Plan established Mixed-Use districts along the City’s main transportation corridors and these parcels had not yet been rezoned to reflect the General Plan direction. City Council approved the amendments to the Zoning Ordinance establishing objective development standards for the various zoning districts in December 2022. In addition, new descriptions for mixed-use zoning districts were added and the Zoning Map updated to reflect the Mixed-Use General Plan Districts. These revisions and amendments provide greater clarity for developers and the public and assist the City by providing objective standards for building and site design, making it easier to comply with State housing development laws. In March 2024, the Coastal Commission adopted these standards within the Coastal Zone. 2024 Major Development Applications & Status Updates
Multiple significant development applications were processed and received building permits as shown in the Selected 2024 Key Projects and Programs table below.
Promotion of Infill Development
The list of 2024 Key Projects demonstrates that the City is committed to encouraging well-planned infill development. The City’s established greenbelt ensures that compact and focused development will continue to be a high priority, and virtually all development within the City is considered infill. The majority of the projects listed above are in the downtown area or along the major transportation corridors.
Intergovernmental Coordination
The City regularly coordinates with a variety of agencies and jurisdictions, including the County of Santa Cruz; the Cities of Scotts Valley, Capitola and Watsonville; Association of Monterey Bay Area Governments (AMBAG); California Coastal Commission (CCC); Santa Cruz Metropolitan Transit District (METRO); Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission (SCCRTC); University of California Santa Cruz (UCSC); the Soquel Creek
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Water District (SCWD); the Scotts Valley Water District; the Santa Cruz Mid-County and Santa Margarita Groundwater Agencies (MGA and SMGWA, respectively); the Monterey Bay Community Power Board (MBCP); the Monterey Bay Air Resource District (MBARD); the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO); the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA); the State Housing and Community Development Department (HCD); the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW); and the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC). Highlights from 2024 include:
Continuum of Care and County Collaboration. During 2024, the City assisted the County in transitioning the County’s former Continuum of Care, the Housing Action Partnership, to the new Housing for Health Partnership (HHP). Through the HHP and through regular, weekly coordination the County, the City worked on a wide range of homeless services and homelessness response efforts. Collaboration regularly occurred on provision of shelter services, on establishing clear roles and responsibilities across jurisdictions, on applying for grants, on awarding grant monies, and on a variety of other items. The City, County, and HHP also coordinated closely with non-profit partners who deliver homeless services.
The City worked closely with Housing Matters and the County of Santa Cruz in working toward implementing the Coral Street Vision Report and providing more housing and services in the Coral Street area. The City submitted a grant application that, if awarded, would facilitate the construction of residential substance abuse and mental health treatment center at 125 Coral Street. The property is owned by the City, and the City coordinated closely with County and non-profit partners in preparing the grant.
The City worked with AMBAG on developing the Regional Growth Forecast and updates to the Traffic Analysis Zones.
In working on amendments to the City’s ADU regulations in 2024, the City worked closely with HCD to ensure conformance State law.
The City Water Department worked with the Scotts Valley Water District in 2024 to complete the planning phase and prepare for construction on the City of Santa Cruz – Scotts valley Intertie Project. The Intertie Project will link the treated water systems of the City of Santa Cruz and Scotts Valley Water District. This critical regional project will enable the two agencies to better coordinate and maximize the use of surface and groundwater supplies, and ensure active and passive recharge in the Santa Margarita Groundwater Basin. The intertie will also improve fire protection through increased fire-response flows, and will enable agencies to share water as available during water shortages.
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The SCPD and select council members participated in expressing support for the Proposition 36 ballot measure, known as the Drug and Theft Crime Penalties and Treatment Mandated Felonies Initiative, which allows felony charges and increases sentences for certain drug and theft crimes. This California ballot proposition and legislative statute passed by a landslide (68.42%) in the 2024 general election and went into effect in December 2024.
The City of Santa Cruz, UC Santa Cruz, County of Santa Cruz, City of Capitola, Cabrillo College and City of Watsonville have partnered to bring an electric Bike Share system to Santa Cruz County providing a convenient, fun and affordable way for community members and visitors to travel countywide. The bike share system now serves the City of Santa Cruz, UCSC campus, Capitola, and the unincorporated County. The system is expected to expand to Cabrillo College and Watsonville in 2025. The system experiences over 20,000 trips per month.
CITY COUNCIL INITIATIVES
In 2024, a Council subcommittee worked with staff and coordinated with external partners, like the Downtown Association, on policy initiatives and other supportive efforts to promote Downtown vibrancy and the filling of vacant storefronts. The Council is expected to receive the policy recommendations in late winter or early spring of 2025.
Homelessness continues to be another important initiative. In June 2024, City Council adopted the 2024-2027 Homelessness Response Strategic plan that continued to support the safe parking program, safe tent program, working toward implementing the vision for Coral Street, and provision of other homelessness services.
Another Council initiative was creating development parameters for the Downtown Plan Expansion area. Council provided direction to staff early in 2024 to consider these parameters as much as possible in the planning of the expansion area, and the Council provided direction related to the City’s draft Downtown Density Bonus in October 2024. The Council direction will be incorporated into the Downtown Plan Expansion work, expected to be before the Council in 2025.
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Selected 2024 Key Projects and Programs
PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
1 PACIFIC STATION NORTH
REDEVELOPMENT (902-920 PACIFIC AVE AND
423-433 FRONT ST)
The City entitled modifications to a previously
approved seven-story mixed use building to add
square footage to the 7th story, revise the unit mix,
increase the number of units in the building from 94
units to 127 units, and revise the area of the
commercial spaces in a permitted mixed-use, 100%
affordable building located on a parcel in the CBD/CZO/FP-O district and in the Pacific Ave Retail District of the Downtown Plan. The project is currently under
construction.
Status: Building Permit Issued, Modifications
Entitled
GP Chapter 3: Community Design
GP Chapter 4: Land Use
GP Chapter 5: Mobility
GP Chapter 6: Economic Development
CD4.2 Ensure that new development and
right-of-way improvements enhance the
visual quality of streetscapes.
CD5.2 Require new development to include
elements that relate to the pedestrian scale.
CD5.2.1 Encourage buildings to be oriented
towards sidewalks, public plazas, walkways, or
rivers and to include features such as public
benches and natural seating areas.
LU1.1 Relate residential, commercial, and
industrial land use intensities to the capability
and location of the land while ensuring
optimum utilization of infill parcels.
LU3.7 Encourage higher-intensity residential
uses and maximum densities in accordance
with the General Plan Land Use designations.
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LU4.1.1 Support compact mixed-use
development Downtown, along primary
transportation corridors, and in employment
centers.
M1.1 Reduce automobile dependence by
encouraging appropriate neighborhood and
activity center development.
M4.1.6: Enhance the pedestrian orientation of
the Downtown Central Business District.
ED5.5.4 Create a distinctive and active
pedestrian environment downtown.
ED5.5.6 Require continuity of active groundlevel uses (retail, restaurant, cultural, etc.) along Pacific Avenue.
ED5.5.6 Revitalize the Lower Pacific area
(Pacific Avenue south of Cathcart Street).
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PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
2 PEACE VILLAGE HOUSING (900 HIGH ST)
The City approved entitlements to divide a lot into
two lots and construct a 40 unit , four story apartment building within 20 feet of a 30 percent slope and to
remove 14 heritage trees on a site with an existing
church in the R-1-10 (Single Family Residence) zone
district.
Status: Entitled
GP Housing Element (HE)
GP Chapter 4: Land Use
HE 2.2 Facilitate the development of affordable
housing through the provision of regulatory
concessions, financial incentives and
assistance, density bonuses, and other means.
HE 2.7 Encourage more fully integrated
neighborhoods through the development of
mixed income and affordable infill housing and
through the placement of other affordable
housing projects in neighborhoods that do not
already have high levels of low income housing.
HE 4.8 Support the development of a variety of
housing types, specifically smaller units and
single-room occupancy units that address the
needs of extremely low income households.
HE 5.3 Ensure that the character and design of
both infill development and
remodel/rehabilitation projects promote the
vitality of existing neighborhoods.
LU1.1 Relate residential, commercial, and
industrial land use intensities to the capability
and location of the land while ensuring
optimum utilization of infill parcels.
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PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
3 1130 MISSION ST
The City approved entitlements to construct a fivestory mixed-use building consisting of 2,627 square feet of ground floor commercial space and 59 single
room occupancy (SRO) residential units including 6
restricted affordable Very Low Income units per the
base density of 40 units above. The project also
includes density bonus waivers to exceed building
height, setbacks, and FAR, as well as proposes to
utilize AB2097 to reduce on-site parking. The parcels
are located in the MU-M (Mixed-Use Medium
Density) zone district and the Mission Street Overlay
Zone.
Status: Entitled
GP Chapter 3: Community Design
GP Chapter 4: Land Use
GP Chapter 5: Mobility
GP Chapter 6: Economic Development
CD3.3 Encourage the assembly of
small parcels along transit corridors to
achieve pedestrian-oriented
development compatible with
neighborhoods.
CD4.1.1 Support compact mixed-use
development Downtown, along
primary transportation corridors, and
in employment centers.
CD4.1.1 Where possible, site buildings
at the street frontage and place
parking areas away from street
corners and to the rear of buildings.
CD4.1.3 On major corridors,
encourage mixed-use development,
especially projects with priority for
commercial uses that can provide
services to the adjacent community.
LU3.3.1 Discourage strip commercial
development in favor of clustered
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commercial and mixed-use
development along transit corridors.
LU3.7 Encourage higher-intensity
residential uses and maximum
densities in accordance with the
General Plan Land Use designations.
LU3.7.1 Allow and encourage
development that meets the high end
of the General Plan Land Use
designation density unless constraints
associated with site characteristics
and zoning development standards
require a lower density.
LU3.8 Allow the following residential
uses to exceed the maximum densities
in this chapter: Density bonus units.
M1.1 Reduce automobile dependence
by encouraging appropriate
neighborhood and activity center
development.
M1.3 Create pedestrian-friendly
frontage and streetscapes and
attractive pedestrian-oriented areas.
MM3.2.11 Improve traffic flow and
safety and reduce impacts on arterial
streets by limiting driveways, midblock access points, and intersections; removing on-street parking; clustering
facilities around interconnected
parking areas; providing access from
side streets; and other similar
measures.
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ED 1.1.3 Encourage the development
of year-round businesses and visitor
activities, resources, and destinations
that can also attract and engage local
residents.
ED 5.2 Provide for residents’ daily
shopping needs in local-serving
neighborhood commercial centers.
ED 5.2.1 - Encourage neighborhood
shopping in nodes of commercial
development that serve residential
areas and have adequate transit,
pedestrian, and bicycle access.
ED 5.2.2 - Support the development of
neighborhood gathering places in
conjunction with local-serving
neighborhood commercial.
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PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
4 136 RIVER STREET
The City entitled a six-story mixed-use building
consisting of a 51-unit, 100% affordable apartment
complex with one 1,970 square foot commercial
tenant space in the C-C (Community Commercial)
zone district.
Status: Entitled
GP Chapter 2: Historic Preservation, Arts, and
Culture
GP Chapter 4: Land Use
GP Chapter 5: Mobility
HA1.2.2 Require preparation of
archaeological investigations on sites
proposed for development within areas
identified as “Highly Sensitive” or “Sensitive”
on the “Areas of Historical Archaeological
Sensitivity” map, except for exempt uses
within “Sensitive” areas as described below,
prior to approval of development permits. The
investigation shall include archival research,
site surveys and necessary supplemental
testing as may be required, conducted by a
qualified archaeologist. The significance of
identified resources shall be ascertained in
accordance with CEQA definitions and
impacts and mitigation measures outlined if
significant impacts are identified, including,
but not limited to recovery options and onsite
monitoring by an archaeologist during
excavation activities. A written report
describing the archeological findings of the
research or survey shall be provided to the
City.
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LU1.1 Relate residential, commercial, and
industrial land use intensities to the capability
and location of the land while ensuring
optimum utilization of infill parcels.
LU3.7 Encourage higher-intensity residential
uses and maximum densities in accordance
with the General Plan Land Use designations.
M3.1.1 Seek ways to reduce vehicle trip
demand and reduce the number of peak hour
vehicle trips.
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PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
5 850 ALMAR AVE
The City entitled a three-story residential building
consisting of a 38-unit, 100% affordable apartment
building located in the R-L/CZ-O (Multiple
Residence-Low Density District/Coastal Zone
Overlay) zone districts.
Status: Entitled
GP Chapter 4: Land Use
GP Chapter 5: Mobility
GP Housing Element
LU1.1 Relate residential, commercial, and
industrial land use intensities to the capability
and location of the land while ensuring
optimum utilization of infill parcels.
LU3.7.1 Allow and encourage development
that meets the high end of the General Plan
Land Use designation density unless
constraints associated with site
characteristics and zoning development
standards require a lower density.
M1.3 Create pedestrian-friendly frontage and
streetscapes and attractive pedestrianoriented areas. Cf. CD4.2, 4.2.1, 4.3.1, 5.2.
M2.1.2 Encourage use of alternative modes of
transportation.
M2.3.1 Design for and accommodate multiple
transportation modes.
M4.4 Assure a high level of bicycle user
amenities. Cf. PR1.6.4.
Housing Element Policy 2.1 Encourage the
production of affordable rental and
ownership housing through inclusionary
requirements.
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Housing Element Policy 2.2 Facilitate the
development of affordable housing through
the provision of regulatory concessions,
financial incentives and assistance, density
bonuses, and other means.
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PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
6 300 INGALLS ALLEY
The City approved the building permits to construct
a mixed-use development to include 161 units,
7,475 square feet of commercial space, and
underground parking on a parcel located in Phase
II of the Delaware Addition PD and in the IG/PER-2
(General Industrial/Performance Overlay) Zone
District.
Status: Building Permit Issued
GP Chapter 3: Community Design
GP Chapter 4: Land Use
GP Chapter 5: Mobility
CD5.2 Require new development to include
elements that relate to the pedestrian scale.
CD5.2.1 Encourage buildings to be oriented
towards sidewalks, public plazas, walkways,
or rivers and to include features such as public
benches and natural seating areas.
LU1.1 Relate residential, commercial, and
industrial land use intensities to the capability
and location of the land while ensuring
optimum utilization of infill parcels.
LU3.7 Encourage higher-intensity residential
uses and maximum densities in accordance
with the General Plan Land Use designations.
M1.1 Reduce automobile dependence by
encouraging appropriate neighborhood and
activity center development.
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PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
7 119 CORAL STREET
The City issued a building permit to construct 120
studio units to be used as permanent supportive
housing and one manager's unit with a ground floor
recuperative care center, behavioral health clinic,
and a residential lobby with shared residential
space and service provision space in the CC
(Community Commercial) Zone District.
Status: Building Permit Issued
GP Chapter 4: Land Use
GP Chapter 6: Economic Development
GP Chapter 7: Civic and Community Facilities
GP Housing Element
LU 3.7 - Encourage higher-intensity
residential uses and maximum
densities in accordance with the
General Plan Land Use designations.
LU 3.8 - Allow the following residential
uses to exceed the maximum
densities in this chapter: Density
bonus units.
ED 1.1.2 - Support the development
and expansion of businesses that
make a balanced contribution to the
cultural, environmental, and
economic health of the city.
CC 9.2.1 - Work with cooperating
agencies to provide shelters and
services for those in need.
Housing Element Policy 2.2 - Facilitate
the development of affordable
housing through the provision of
regulatory concessions, financial
incentives and assistance, density
bonuses, and other means.
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Housing Element Policy 2.3 -
Collaborate with nonprofit
organizations, private developers,
employers, special needs groups,
state and federal agencies, and other
interested parties to develop
affordable housing.
Housing Element Policy 3.7 -
Encourage the provision of supportive
services for persons with special
needs to further the greatest level of
independence and equal housing
opportunities.
Housing Element Policy 4.1 - Support
the provision of permanent and
emergency rental assistance for very
low and low income renters.
Housing Element Policy 4.5 - Support
the provision of child care services,
employment training, rental
assistance, and other supportive
services to enable households to be
self-sufficient.
Housing Element Policy 4.6 - Seek and
support collaborative partnerships of
nonprofit organizations and the
development community to aid in the
provision of affordable housing.
Housing Element Policy 4.8 - Support
the development of a variety of
housing types, specifically smaller
units and single-room occupancy
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units, that address the needs of
extremely low income households.
Housing Element Policy 6.7 - Promote
transit-oriented, mixed-use
residential developments that are
close to services, reduce dependence
on automobile use, and are of high
quality.
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PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
8 415 NATURAL BRIDGES
The City issued a temporary certificate of occupancy
for the 20 unit, 100-percent affordable housing
development with 20 Single Room Occupancy (SRO)
units constructed within a three-story building on a
vacant lot located at 415 Natural Bridges Drive. The
application was submitted by The Housing Authority
of the County of Santa Cruz.
The proposal dedicates 100% of the units for very
low-income households, and required a Planned
Development Permit to allow the use on the parcel
outside the zones where SROs are typically
permitted.
Status: Temporary Certificate of Occupancy
Issued, leasing expected in 2025
GP Chapter 4: Land Use
GP Chapter 5: Mobility
LU3.7 Encourage higher-intensity residential
uses and maximum densities in accordance
with General Plan Land Use designations.
LU3.8 Allow the following residential uses to
exceed the maximum densities in this chapter:
Single-room occupancy (SRO) units;
Small ownership units (SOU);
Small studio and one-bedroom units;
Accessory dwelling units (ADU);
Density bonus units;
Residential units within areas
designated High-Density Overlay
District.
M1.3 Create pedestrian-friendly frontage and
streetscapes and attractive pedestrianoriented areas.
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PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
9 525 CEDAR ST/532 CENTER ST
The City approved final occupancy for the mixeduse supportive housing development consisting of 2,210 square feet of commercial retail space, 65
residential units, and construction of a public paseo
at the parking lot adjacent to the Calvary Church
between Cedar and Center Streets.
The project was the first in the City to take
advantage of recent state laws that allow the City
to permit supportive housing applications in certain
locations without a public hearing. The abbreviated
public review process allowed this development
proposal to move quickly from concept to
construction.
Status: Final Occupancy, Leased Up
GP Chapter 3: Community Design
GP Chapter 4: Land Use
GP Chapter 5: Mobility
CD4.2 Ensure that new development and
right-of-way improvements enhance the
visual quality of streetscapes.
CD5.2 Require new development to include
elements that relate to the pedestrian scale.
CD5.2.1 Encourage buildings to be oriented
towards sidewalks, public plazas, walkways,
or rivers and to include features such as public
benches and natural seating areas.
LU1.1 Relate residential, commercial, and
industrial land use intensities to the capability
and location of the land while ensuring
optimum utilization of infill parcels.
LU3.7 Encourage higher-intensity residential
uses and maximum densities in accordance
with the General Plan Land Use designations.
LU4.1.1 Support compact mixed-use
development Downtown, along primary
transportation corridors, and in employment
centers.
LU3.8 Allow the following residential uses to
exceed the maximum densities in this
chapter:
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Single-room occupancy (SRO) units;
Small ownership units (SOU);
Small studio and one-bedroom units;
Accessory dwelling units (ADU);
Density bonus units;
Residential units within areas
designated High-Density Overlay
District.
M1.1 Reduce automobile dependence by
encouraging appropriate neighborhood and
activity center development.
M4.1.6: Enhance the pedestrian orientation
of the Downtown Central Business District.
ED5.5.4: Create a distinctive and active
pedestrian environment downtown.
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Planning and Community Development
PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
10 PACIFIC STATION SOUTH
The City issued a temporary certificate of occupancy,
allowing the leasing a seven-story, mixed-use building
with 70 affordable residential apartments, 15,228
square feet of ground floor commercial and
residential amenity space, and 15,665 feet of medical
office space on the second floor, on a property
located within the Pacific Avenue Retail District and
Front Street/Riverfront Corridor subareas of the
Downtown Plan.
The building will provide a new location for Santa Cruz Community Health Clinic to operate on Pacific
Avenue, directly adjacent to an upgraded Metro
Center. The developer, For the Future Housing, and
the City’s Economic Development Department were
successful in funding applications that have allowed
the project to move from entitlement to construction
within a short time frame. Construction is anticipated
to be completed and the building occupied by early
2024.
This site also incorporates build-out of a paseo
connecting Pacific Avenue and Front Street,
ultimately leading up to the riverwalk and to overlook
the San Lorenzo River.
Status: Temporary Certificate of Occupancy,
Leased Up
GP Chapter 3: Community Design
GP Chapter 4: Land Use
GP Chapter 5: Mobility
GP Chapter 6: Economic Development
GP Chapter 7: Civic and Community Facilities
CD4.2.1 Where possible, site buildings at the
street frontage and place parking areas away
from street corners and to the rear of buildings.
CD 5.1 Create a well connected street and
pedestrian network.
CD5.2 Require new development to include
elements that relate to the pedestrian scale.
CD5.2.1 Encourage buildings to be oriented
towards sidewalks, public plazas, walkways, or
rivers and to include features such as public
benches and natural seating areas.
LU3.7 Encourage higher-intensity residential
uses and maximum densities in accordance
with the General Plan Land Use designations.
LU4.1.1 Support compact mixed-use
development Downtown, along primary
transportation corridors, and in employment
centers.
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M1.1 Reduce automobile dependence by
encouraging appropriate neighborhood and
activity center development.
M2.4: Support and promote efficient use of
transit.
M4.1.6: Enhance the pedestrian orientation of
the Downtown Central Business District.
M1.5: Reduce the need for parking and
promote parking efficiency.
ED5.5.4: Create a distinctive and active
pedestrian environment downtown.
ED5.5.6: Require continuity of active groundlevel uses (retail, restaurant, cultural, etc.) along Pacific Avenue.
ED5.5.6: Revitalize the Lower Pacific area
(Pacific Avenue south of Cathcart Street).
CC2.1.4: Locate community facilities within
easy walking distance of residential areas or in
areas well-served by transit.
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Planning and Community Development
PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
THE GENERAL PLAN 2030
11 DOWNTOWN PLAN EXPANSION
The City of Santa Cruz is embarking on a planning
study to consider future redevelopment of the area
south of Laurel Street. Objectives include:
1. Providing additional affordable and marketrate housing in the downtown,
2. Creating public amenities like parks, public
plazas, or better pedestrian infrastructure,
3. Improving the connection to the San Lorenzo
River and beach areas
4. Creating new economic opportunities for
local businesses and workers, and
5. Planning for a new Santa Cruz Warriors arena
site.
This planning work began in 2021 and is anticipated
to conclude in 2025. Significant community outreach,
stakeholder input, and direction from decisionmakers is being received throughout the process.
Status: Underway. In 2024, the project team
worked on the analysis for the Environmental
Impact report and a draft of amendments to
the Downtown Plan.
GP Chapter 3: Community Design
GP Chapter 4: Land Use
GP Chapter 5: Mobility
GP Chapter 6: Economic Development
CD4.1 Make the city’s major gateways
defining, attractive, and welcoming.
CD4.2 Ensure that new development and rightof-way improvements enhance the visual quality of streetscapes.
LU1.1 Relate residential, commercial, and
industrial land use intensities to the capability
and location of the land while ensuring
optimum utilization of infill parcels.
LU3.1 Foster land use patterns that balance
economic, housing, community, and
environmental needs, and promote social
diversity.
LU4.1.2 Amend the Zoning Ordinance to
ensure that infill and intensified development
is sensitive to existing neighborhood and
business districts.
LU4.2 Encourage land use changes that reduce
the need for autos.
17.76 CALENDAR YEAR 2024
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MARCH 25, 2025
Planning and Community Development
M1.3 Create pedestrian-friendly frontage and
streetscapes and attractive pedestrianoriented uses.
M1.5.2 Encourage innovative solutions that
provide adequate parking while maximizing
living and working space.
M3.3.5 Require new development to be
designed to discourage through traffic in
adjacent neighborhoods and to encourage
bicycle or pedestrian connections.
M4.1.7 Require that site and building design
facilitate pedestrian activity.
ED5.1 Nurture activity centers and districts
that serve neighborhoods and businesses,
provide jobs, and meet local and regional
needs.
ED5.1.1 Provide for the development of
supporting land uses adjacent to retail
shopping areas, while assuring protection of
existing residential neighborhoods.
17.77 CALENDAR YEAR 2024
GENERAL PLAN ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT
MARCH 25, 2025
Planning and Community Development
PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
12 6TH CYCLE HOUSING ELEMENT
The City adopted its 6th Cycle Housing Element on
December 12, 2023, and the implementation period
runs through 2031. The Housing Element is one of the
10 State-mandated “elements” or chapters of a local
jurisdiction’s General Plan. The Housing Element
identifies policies and programs to meet existing and
projected housing needs for all segments of the
community, including various household types,
special needs populations, and all income levels of the jurisdiction.
To help meet its housing goals for this new cycle, the
Housing Element includes over 100 policy objectives
that the City seeks to achieve by 2031.
Status: Ongoing Implementation
GP Chapter 3: Community Design
GP Chapter 4: Land Use
CD2.2.2 Engage the public in long range
planning projects including Area Plans and
General Plan updates.
LU1.1 Relate residential, commercial, and
industrial land use intensities to the capability
and location of the land while ensuring
optimum utilization of infill parcels.
LU3.1 Foster land use patterns that balance
economic, housing, community, and
environmental needs, and promote social
diversity.
17.78 CALENDAR YEAR 2024
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MARCH 25, 2025
Planning and Community Development
13 PROHOUSING DESIGNATION
The City achieved the State’s Prohousing Designation
in 2023. The application assigned point totals to
various policies a City can implement to support the
construction and preservation of housing, and the
City far exceeded the threshold for the Designation.
This recognition grants the City priority consideration for various housing funding programs administered
by HCD and further bolsters the City's commitment to
addressing the City’s wide variety of housing needs.
Status: Certified, ongoing grant applications
GP Chapter 4: Land Use
LU1.1 Relate residential, commercial, and
industrial land use intensities to the capability
and location of the land while ensuring
optimum utilization of infill parcels.
LU3.1 Foster land use patterns that balance
economic, housing, community, and
environmental needs, and promote social
diversity.
17.79 CALENDAR YEAR 2024
GENERAL PLAN ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT
MARCH 25, 2025
Planning and Community Development
14 SAFE PARKING AND CAMPING PROGRAMS
The Long-term Safe Parking Program provides space
for oversized vehicles at the National Guard Armory.
This program provides 24/7 parking and participants
may stay up to six months. Case management,
housing navigation, health care, and hygiene services
are provided on-site. Space is limited for this program.
The Overnight Safe Parking Program provides space
for oversized vehicles in City-owned lots. This
program provides overnight parking and participants
can stay up to 30 days with the possibility of an
extension. Hygiene services and refuse disposal are
available on site.
The City Overlook Emergency Shelter is a managed
camp operated by the Salvation Army with capacity
for 135 tents. It is a 24/7 shelter where occupants
receive three meals a day, shower facilities, private
tent-space, and transportation to and from the site.
This site is low barrier — pets, possessions, and
partners are welcome.
The River Street Transition Camp features 27 tent
spots and is operated by the City. Participants have
access to basic services such as showers and cooking
facilities, with staff providing daily oversight and
support. Participants are required to meet with City
staff once a week, and work with them to complete
an Individual Service Plan. The Plan will help identify steps to move you toward stable, permanent and
affordable housing. This site is low barrier — pets,
possessions, and partners are welcome.
Status: Ongoing implementation
GP Chapter 7: Civic and Community Facilities
CC9.2 Provide adequate seasonal and
permanent shelters and services.
17.80 CALENDAR YEAR 2024
GENERAL PLAN ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT
MARCH 25, 2025
Planning and Community Development
PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
THE GENERAL PLAN 2030
15 ELECTRIC PREFERRED ORDINANCE
In November 2024, the City adopted local
amendments to the California Code of Regulations
(California Energy Code) implementing an energy
reach code for existing single family residences with
an intent to provide residents with a range of energy
efficient options that will also meet goals to reduce
greenhouse gas emissions associated with fossil fuel
use citywide.
Status: Ordinance Adopted
GP Chapter 10: Natural Resources and
Conservation
NRC4.1.3 Implement sections of the Climate
Action Plan that reduce vehicle emissions 30
percent by 2020, identify metrics for tracking
success, and address objectives not met.
NRC4.1.9 Promote efficiency upgrades and
renewable energy projects over the use of
carbon offsets to meet climate reduction
goals.
NRC7.1.3 Implement energy strategies to
increase the local use and production of
renewable energy.
NRC7.1.4 Require new development to
provide for passive and natural heating and
cooling opportunities, including beneficial site
orientation and dedication of solar
easements. Cf. ED6.2.2
NRC7.1.6 Increase local energy awareness.
17.81 CALENDAR YEAR 2024
GENERAL PLAN ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT
MARCH 25, 2025
Planning and Community Development
PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
THE GENERAL PLAN 2030
16 LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION AND CLIMATE
ADAPTATION PLAN In December 2024, the City submitted a draft Plan developed over the past 2 years to California Office of Emergency Services for approval before review by the
Federal Emergency Management Agency. The Plan is
anticipated to enable funding for priority projects to
address natural and climate hazards and will be
adopted in the spring of 2025.
Status: Draft plan completed, submitted to
state
GP Chapter 8: Hazards, Safety, and Noise
HZ6.1 Reduce erosion hazards.
HZ1.5.1 Reduce wildfire hazards.
HZ6.1.1 Minimize hazards posed by coastal
cliff retreat
HZ6.3 Reduce the potential for life loss, injury,
and property and economic damage from
earthquakes, liquefaction, and other seismic
hazards.
Z6.4 Avoid or reduce the potential for life loss,
injury, and property and economic damage
from flooding.
HZ6.6 Avoid or reduce the potential for life
loss, injury, and property and economic
damage to the city from tsunamis and dam
failure.
17.82 CALENDAR YEAR 2024
GENERAL PLAN ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT
MARCH 25, 2025
Planning and Community Development
PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
17 PARKS FACILITIES NEEDS ASSESSMENT
The City initiated a system-wide assessment of aging
facilities and deferred maintenance needs to inform
department priorities and funding strategies.
Status: Underway
GP Chapter 9: Parks, Recreation, and Open
Space
PR1.1.6 Fund and staff regularly scheduled
preventative maintenance.
17.83 CALENDAR YEAR 2024
GENERAL PLAN ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT
MARCH 25, 2025
Planning and Community Development
PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
18 MAIN BEACH RESTROOM REBUILD
The building was stripped down and completely rebuilt.
A local artist created tile mosaic wall murals for three sides of the building. New trash/recycling receptacles
and signage were added outside the building.
Status: Completed
GP Chapter 9: Parks, Recreation, and Open
Space
PR3.3 Protect, maintain, and enhance
publicly accessible coastal and open space
areas. Cf. CD1.4, LU3.11.
17.84 CALENDAR YEAR 2024
GENERAL PLAN ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT
MARCH 25, 2025
Planning and Community Development
PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
19 HARVEY WEST PARK DESIGN AND
PROGRAM ASSESSMENT The City initiated a study of the design and programs at Harvey West Park.
Status: Underway
GP Chapter 9: Parks, Recreation, and Open
Space
PR1.1.1 Update and modify the park system
and services to accommodate changes in the
population and its recreational needs
PR1.1.4 Plan parks and recreation facilities
adequate for the city’s recreational needs,
activities, and programs. Cf. HA2.1, 2.2 and
3.3; ED1.1.4 and 6.9.2; CC8.3.8; PR 2.1 and
2.2.4 17.85
CALENDAR YEAR 2024
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MARCH 25, 2025
Planning and Community Development
PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
20 ADULT RECREATION BASKETBALL
EXPANSION The City Expanded Adult Recreation Basketball by two leagues.
Status: Completed
GP Chapter 9: Parks, Recreation, and Open
Space
PR2.1 Design programs to meet the diverse
and changing recreational and educational
needs of Santa Cruz residents and visitors. Cf.
HA2.1, HA2.2, HA3.3, ED1.1.4, ED6.9.2;
CC8.3.8, PR1.1.4, PR2.2.4.
17.86 CALENDAR YEAR 2024
GENERAL PLAN ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT
MARCH 25, 2025
Planning and Community Development
PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
21 AARP AGE-FRIENDLY DESIGNATION
The City applied for and received an AARP age-friendly
designation for the City, launched the city wide Aging
Committee, and collaborated with Santa Cruz County
on outreach for Master Plan on Aging Survey.
Status: Completed
GP Chapter 9: Parks, Recreation, and Open
Space
PR2.1 Design programs to meet the diverse
and changing recreational and educational
needs of Santa Cruz residents and visitors. Cf.
HA2.1, HA2.2, HA3.3, ED1.1.4, ED6.9.2;
CC8.3.8, PR1.1.4, PR2.2.4. PR2.1.1 Solicit
public input to determine community
interests and needs.
17.87 CALENDAR YEAR 2024
GENERAL PLAN ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT
MARCH 25, 2025
Planning and Community Development
PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
22 HARVEY WEST POOL OPERATION
The City Secured an operator to run Harvey West Pool
for the 2025 summer season, and the pool is
anticipated to reopen in 2025.
Status: Completed
GP Chapter 9: Parks, Recreation, and Open
Space
GP Implementation: PR1.1 Provide and
manage a system of parks and recreationrelated facilities that serve the needs of residents and visitors.
17.88 CALENDAR YEAR 2024
GENERAL PLAN ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT
MARCH 25, 2025
Planning and Community Development
PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
23 DOWNTOWN SITE FURNISHINGS UPDATE
In collaboration with City partners, implemented
Downtown Site Furnishing Standards with new paint,
benches, wayfinding lettering, and waste and recycling
receptacles on Pacific Avenue.
Status: Completed
GP Chapter 6: Economic Development
ED5.5 Promote Downtown as the primary
local and regional retail, entertainment, and
cultural center. ED5.5.4 Create a distinctive
and active pedestrian environment
Downtown. PR2.1.1 Solicit public input to
determine community interests and needs.
17.89 CALENDAR YEAR 2024
GENERAL PLAN ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT
MARCH 25, 2025
Planning and Community Development
PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
24 SYCAMORE GROVE NATURE LOOP
The City Opened Sycamore Grove Nature Loop,
bringing community use back to a beautiful area along
the San Lorenzo River.
Status: Completed
GP Chapter 9: Parks, Recreation, and Open
Space
PR4.2 Provide and maintain trails within
parks and appropriate open space areas. Cf.
NRC1.1.2.
17.90 CALENDAR YEAR 2024
GENERAL PLAN ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT
MARCH 25, 2025
Planning and Community Development
PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
25 SGT. DERBY PARK PLAYGROUND UPDATE
The City renovated the playground at Sgt. Derby Park. Status: Completed GP Chapter 9: Parks, Recreation, and Open
Space
PR1.1.1 Update and modify the park system
and services to accommodate changes in the
population and its recreational needs.
PR2.1.1 Solicit public input to determine
community interests and needs.
17.91 CALENDAR YEAR 2024
GENERAL PLAN ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT
MARCH 25, 2025
Planning and Community Development
PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
26 JUNIOR GUARD PROGRAM PILOT
EXPANSION The City piloted expansion of the Junior Guard program by accepting 200 waitlisted children into
summer sessions, hosting the first Winter minicompetition, and enrolling 30 youth in a new Beginner’s Prone Paddleboarding class.
Status: Completed
GP Chapter 9: Parks, Recreation, and Open
Space
PR2.1 Design programs to meet the diverse
and changing recreational and educational
needs of Santa Cruz residents and visitors. Cf.
HA2.1, HA2.2, HA3.3, ED1.1.4, ED6.9.2;
CC8.3.8, PR1.1.4, PR2.2.4.
17.92 CALENDAR YEAR 2024
GENERAL PLAN ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT
MARCH 25, 2025
Planning and Community Development
PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
27 OVERSIZED VEHICLE ORDINANCE
Police and parking enforcement actively enforce this
ordinance. Anyone who parks their oversized vehicle on
the street overnight in the City of Santa Cruz between
midnight and 5:00 a.m. will be required to purchase a
permit, and those who live in their oversized vehicles
may enroll in an off-street safe parking program. An
oversized vehicle is defined as: (a) more than 20’ in
length, or (b) more than 8’ tall and more than 7’ wide.
Status: Ongoing
GP Chapter 7: Civic and Community Facilities
CC7.2.4 Respond to community service and
special assistance calls; aid those who cannot
care for themselves.
CC2.1 Provide community services and
facilities in keeping with the needs of a
growing and diverse population. Cf. CD5.3,
LU4.3.
17.93 CALENDAR YEAR 2024
GENERAL PLAN ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT
MARCH 25, 2025
Planning and Community Development
PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
28 UNMANNED AERIAL SYSTEM (UAS) AND
AUTOMATED LICENSE PLATE READER
PROGRAM
The Santa Cruz Police Department invested in drones
(unmanned aerial system, or UAS) and Automated
License Plate Readers (ALPRs) to enhance public safety
by improving response times and increasing efficiency
in crime prevention. Drones provide real-time aerial
surveillance, allowing officers to assess situations from a safe distance before engaging, reducing risks to both law enforcement and the public. ALPRs enable rapid
identification of stolen or suspicious vehicles, aiding criminal investigations and enhancing overall
situational awareness. By integrating these
technologies, the department aims to address crime
more effectively while prioritizing officer and
community safety.
Status: Ongoing
GP Chapter 7: Civic and Community Facilities
CC7.2.4 Respond to community service and
special assistance calls; aid those who cannot
care for themselves.
17.94 CALENDAR YEAR 2024
GENERAL PLAN ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT
MARCH 25, 2025
Planning and Community Development
PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
29 MOBILE CRISIS RESPONSE TEAM
This newly implemented program provides response to
urgent behavioral health emergencies to help stabilize
youth, support families, and provide linkages to
additional services. The program helps remove barriers
to access by meeting individuals where they are,
whether that’s a park, school, or other safe site like a faith-based location. Prior to this program, mental
health workers were available during the day only, but
this program helps fill in service gaps allowing for
coverage 24 hours per day, 365 days per year. The
program is run by the County in partnership with Family Service Agency of the Central Coast and is funded by a
number of grants -
Status: Ongoing
GP Chapter 7: Civic and Community Facilities
CC7.2.4 Respond to community service and
special assistance calls; aid those who cannot
care for themselves.
17.95 CALENDAR YEAR 2024
GENERAL PLAN ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT
MARCH 25, 2025
Planning and Community Development
PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
30 TOBACCO GRANT
The California Healthcare, Research and Prevention
Tobacco Tax Act of 2016 (Proposition 56) funding helps
promote a healthier California by reducing illegal retail sales and marketing of cigarettes and tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, to minors. SCPD has funding to
enforce tobacco-related state laws or local ordinances
related to retail tobacco sales and marketing. The SCPD received the grant in Q4 of 2023 and started
enforcement in 2024. The program includes routine
inspections of all tobacco retail locations within the city limits and confiscation of illegal tobacco products,
community education and collaborative operations
with the County and State officials.
Status: Ongoing
GP Chapter 7: Civic and Community Facilities
CC7.3 Cooperate with other agencies in
ensuring public safety and emergency
preparedness.
CC7.1.6 Provide rapid and timely response to
all emergencies and services.
CC7.6.1 Participate in multi-jurisdictional
crime suppression units with emphasis on
career criminal apprehension and reducing
the number of victims.
CC7.2 Maintain Community Oriented
Policing.
17.96 CALENDAR YEAR 2024
GENERAL PLAN ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT
MARCH 25, 2025
Planning and Community Development
PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
31 BCycle bikeshare and county-wide system
The City of Santa Cruz, UC Santa Cruz, County of Santa
Cruz, City of Capitola, Cabrillo College and City of
Watsonville have partnered to bring an electric Bike
Share system to Santa Cruz County providing a
convenient, fun and affordable way for community
members and visitors to travel countywide.
The bike share system now serves the City of Santa
Cruz, UCSC campus, Capitola, and the unincorporated
County. The system is expected to expand to Cabrillo
College and Watsonville in 2025. The system
experiences over 20,000 trips per month.
Status: Ongoing
GP Chapter 5: Mobility
M1.1 Reduce automobile dependence by
encouraging appropriate neighborhood and
activity center development.
M1.1.3 Implement pedestrian and bicycle
improvements that support transit ridership.
M2.1 Provide leadership on sustainable
regional mobility.
M2.1.2 Encourage use of alternative modes of
transportation.
M2.3 Increase the efficiency of the multi-modal
transportation system. M2.3.1 Design for and
accommodate multiple transportation modes.
M2.5 Consider innovative transportation
solutions. M2.5.1 Promote the use of new
technologies for transportation and other
community services.
M4.2.3 Facilitate bicycling connections to all
travel modes.
M4.4 Assure a high level of bicycle user
amenities.
17.97 CALENDAR YEAR 2024
GENERAL PLAN ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT
MARCH 25, 2025
Planning and Community Development
PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
32 RAIL TRAIL SEGMENT 7 PHASE 2
The City of Santa Cruz continued work on construction
of Rail Trail Segment 7 Phase 2, a .8 mile segment that connects Bay/California to the Wharf roundabout.
Once complete, this project will be part of the 32-mile Coastal Rail Trail connecting Davenport to Pajaro.
Status: Environmental Clearance complete.
Project underway.
GP Chapter 5: Mobility
M1.1.3 Implement pedestrian and bicycle
improvements that support transit ridership.
M2.1 Provide leadership on sustainable
regional mobility.
M2.1.2 Encourage use of alternative modes of
transportation.
M2.3 Increase the efficiency of the multimodal transportation system. M2.3.1 Design for and accommodate multiple transportation
modes.
M2.5 Consider innovative transportation
solutions. M2.5.1 Promote the use of new
technologies for transportation and other
community services.
M4.2.3 Facilitate bicycling connections to all
travel modes.
M4.4 Assure a high level of bicycle user
amenities.
17.98 CALENDAR YEAR 2024
GENERAL PLAN ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT
MARCH 25, 2025
Planning and Community Development
PROJECT NAME DESCRIPTION HOW THIS PROJECT IMPLEMENTS
GENERAL PLAN 2030
33 OCEAN STREET PAVING
Completed rehabilitation of Ocean Street from Felker
to Water. This project included multimodal
improvements for bike, pedestrian, and transit users,
including accessible curb ramps, enhanced bicycle
facilities, and improved transit stops. Project benefits include system preservation and maintenance, safety,
accessibility, and enhanced multimodal options.
Status: Environmental Clearance complete.
Project underway.
GP Chapter 5: Mobility
M1.1.3 Implement pedestrian and bicycle
improvements that support transit ridership.
M2.1 Provide leadership on sustainable
regional mobility.
M2.1.2 Encourage use of alternative modes of
transportation.
M2.3 Increase the efficiency of the multimodal transportation system. M2.3.1 Design for and accommodate multiple transportation
modes.
M2.5 Consider innovative transportation
solutions. M2.5.1 Promote the use of new
technologies for transportation and other
community services.
M4.2.3 Facilitate bicycling connections to all
travel modes.
M4.4 Assure a high level of bicycle user
amenities.
17.99 City Council
AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 03/05/2025
AGENDA OF: 03/25/2025
DEPARTMENT: Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: Museum of Natural History Building Permit and Application Fee Waivers (PR)
LOCATION: District 2
RECOMMENDATION: Motion to approve fee waivers related to application fees and building permits fees for the Museum of Natural History building improvement projects.
BACKGROUND: The City of Santa Cruz (City) owns and leases the building located at 1305 E. Cliff Dr. to the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History (Museum). The front portion of the building (e.g. closest to E. Cliff Dr.) is the historic Carnegie library portion of the facility. Two additions were added on the north side of the historic portion of the building in the 1960s to make up the current facility. The Museum is an independent 501c3 non-profit organization with a mission oriented toward “Connecting people with nature and science to inspire stewardship of the natural world.” Historically, the museum was a City-run institution, and the first Museum in Santa Cruz, dating back to 1904 with the founding collection of Santa Cruz lighthouse keeper and naturalist, Laura Hecox. Today the Museum features educational, hands-on exhibits for children, families and adults who are curious about the world they live in and the natural history of one of the most scenic locations on the California coast. The facility houses historic and scientifically relevant collections, acts as a hub for its many school field trips, and provides public education programs in nature, and outreach across the community. Many locals know the Museum by the life-size gray whale statue, created in 1982, that rests near its entrance, between Tyrrell Park and Seabright State Beach.
The Museum has resided in the building since 1954. When the Museum became an independently run non-profit in 2009, it leased the building from the City. The Museum is an outstanding partner of the City and an impactful and well-respected community organization serving Santa Cruz and beyond. The City owns and maintains Tyrrell Park adjacent to and surrounding the Museum building, which the Museum stewards through an Adopt A Park agreement.
In early 2024, Museum leadership approached the City to discuss its future and current facility needs. The building is aging, and requires maintenance for a leaking foundation, insufficient HVAC/ mechanical systems, and deteriorating historic façade. The Museum has also identified needed improvements to address substandard storage and archives space and conditions, exhibits
18.1 area, office space, and lack of dedicated education space. The Museum reached out to the Parks and Recreation Department and proposed initiating a public process to engage neighbors and other key stakeholders with the goal of developing concepts for improvements to the existing building.
The long-term goal for both Parks and Recreation and the Museum is to improve accessibility, protect the collections and archives, and invest in the preservation of the historic Museum building. Concurrently, this improvement project offers an opportunity to enhance accessibility and landscaping throughout Tyrrell Park and its amphitheater. While the City owns the building, the Museum has taken the leadership role to fundraise and financially support a process to engage the community and ultimately design and implement the building and park improvements.
In May 2024, City Council approved a partnership agreement between Parks and Recreation and the Museum to initiate a public process to design, engage with the community, and work toward implementation of the building improvement projects (see attached Museum of Natural History Partnership Agreement). An information report was provided to City Council in October with updates on the process (see attached Museum of Natural History Building Improvement Project Update FYI – October 22nd Meeting). Since that time, Parks and Recreation and the Museum have facilitated outreach and engagement opportunities and are working toward final design concepts. Prior to beginning any construction, the improvement project will be subject to reviews and approvals through CEQA, Coastal Commission, the Parks and Recreation Commission, the Historic Preservation Commission, and the City Council. Staff will bring a draft construction agreement to the City Council for consideration and approval prior to initiating construction.
Parks and Recreation and the Museum may return to the City Council to update the existing lease as needed.
DISCUSSION: The Museum improvement project will be funded largely by donor support and partially by the City’s Parks and Recreation Department. This project provides a uniquely impactful and opportunity for the City to see more than $20 million invested into a City-owned building and park through a long-term partnership with the Museum of Natural History. Because the building is City-owned and serves the general public through programs and services, Parks and Recreation staff are seeking the City Council’s consideration and approval of specific fee waivers. This action will reduce overall project costs, demonstrate a good faith effort of City support, and will complement the Museum’s tremendous fundraising efforts to invest in a longstanding community resource.
Parks and Recreation is seeking approval by the City Council to waive land use application fees charged through the City Planning Department in the amount of $17,140 and waive associated building permits fees at a not-to-exceed amount of $120,000 without additional Council approval. Currently, the estimated building permit fees are $110,700.
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION: The consideration of fee waivers is not subject to CEQA. Future design and construction work on the Museum will be subject to CEQA review.
HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): The Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History is a partner of the City of Santa Cruz and the Parks and Recreation Department, and is aligned with both the mission of Parks and Recreation and the City’s Health in All Policies with respect to
18.2 health/wellness, sustainability, and equity. The Museum embodies these elements through its mission, programs, and strategic plans. The proposed improvements of the Museum’s building would allow for sustainability, accessibility, and the long-term viability of a key community partner housed in a City park.
FISCAL IMPACT:
1. The recommendation in this report impacts the General Fund: Yes
2. This recommendation requires a budget adjustment: No
3. The recommendation creates an on-going expenditure commitment: No FISCAL IMPACT DESCRIPTION: The Museum of Natural History's investment of over $20 million in capital improvements at the city-owned facility at 1305 E. Cliff Dr. represents a significant and positive fiscal impact for the City. While the requested fee waivers, totaling $137,400 (comprising $17,140 in application fees and up to $120,000 in building permit fees), will result in a short-term reduction in General Fund revenue, the long-term benefits far outweigh this loss.
Prepared and Submitted By:
Tony Elliot
Director of Parks and
Recreation
Approved By:
Matt Huffaker
City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:
1. MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT.PDF
2. MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY BUILDING IMPROVEMENT PROJECT UPDATE FYI - OCTOBER 22ND MEETING.PDF
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SCMNH/City Planning and Coordination Agreement
PLANNING AND COORDINATION AGREEMENT
BY AND BETWEEN
THE CITY OF SANTA CRUZ
AND THE
SANTA CRUZ MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY
This Planning and Coordination Agreement (“Agreement”) is entered into on __________ 2024, by and between the City of Santa Cruz, a municipal corporation (“City”), and the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History, a California non-profit public benefit corporation (“Museum”). City and Museum may also be referred individually as a “Party” and collectively, as the “Parties”.
RECITALS
WHEREAS, the City of Santa Cruz owns the historic former Carnegie Library building (“Building”) and surrounding property, including Tyrrell Park, at 1305 East Cliff Drive; and WHEREAS, the Museum is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and leases the Building from the City for the purposes of operating a museum of natural history. Additionally, Museum maintains parts of the surrounding property under an Adopt-a-Park agreement; and WHEREAS, the Museum has operated at the Building since 1954. The Museum took over operations from the City in 2009 as an independent non-profit organization, and currently offers important resources to the City, its residents and its visitors, including providing educational curriculum; care and oversight of the Building; family-friendly programs and events; stewardship of important local natural history and scientific collections; and a destination for tourism; and
WHEREAS, the Building is in need of upgrades and improvements in order to support its continued utility, improve accessibility, protect the Museum’s priceless natural history collections, and support the Museum’s continued use as a public and educational institution; and WHEREAS, the Museum and the City intend to work collaboratively to develop a project description for a building improvement project (“the Project”) to support the use and health of the Building and potentially surrounding property, improve accessibility, protect and preserve the Museum’s collections, and improve the Building for continued use by the Museum.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the above recitals, the Parties hereto agree, as follows:
1. Purpose of this Agreement. The Parties enter into this Agreement to describe the Parties’ respective goals and responsibilities related to planning, coordination, and developing the scope of the Project.
2. Term. This Agreement will commence upon execution by both Parties and will terminate upon completing and acceptance of the work related to this Project. This Agreement may also be terminated upon a 30-day written notice by either Party to the
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other if adequate funding cannot be procured for the Project, or if either Party has made a determination that the Project is infeasible or undesirable. This Agreement may be extended or terminated by mutual written agreement of the Parties.
3. The Project.
a. The Parties desire to pursue the Project, intended to include upgrades and improvements to the former Carnegie Library building located at 1305 East Cliff Drive. These improvements may include, but are not limited to:
structural improvements to Building to address drainage and other structural concerns; addition(s) to Building’s footprint for a classroom and additional restroom(s); upgraded HVAC and environmental control systems; improvements to accessibility, such as Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) entrance and elevator; and interior improvements to exhibit halls, office and collections spaces. In addition, the scope of the Project may include minor modifications to Tyrrell Park, including but not limited to improvements to pathways to support ADA access within the Park and the amphitheater, as well as safety, educational, and rehabilitative upgrades and improvements to the grey whale sculpture, the learning garden, and surrounding area. The Parties acknowledge that this anticipated scope is preliminary and is likely to change as a result of anticipated technical studies and information currently unknown to the Parties.
b. The Parties intend to have the final project scope memorialized in a later agreement related to the Project’s construction to be negotiated and approved by the Parties. The final Project scope, including the Project plans and specifications, must be approved by the City Council before the Museum proceeds with construction activities. The Parties further acknowledge that it is possible that the Project could be executed in phases and therefore may require more than one zoning permit and/or building permit. The Parties also acknowledge that this Agreement does not require or commit the Museum to commence or perform any improvements to the Building or Tyrrell Park, or to complete any specific improvements described in this Agreement.
4. Communication and Coordination. The Museum and the City will each designate a Representative, or primary “point of contact,” to be responsible for communications, coordination, oversight, and management of planning activities related to the Project, as set out below:
Museum Representative:
Felicia Van Stolk
Executive Director, Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History 831-420-6115, ext. 11; [email protected]
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City Representative:
Tony Elliot
Director of Parks and Recreation
831-420-5270; [email protected]
The Representatives will meet and work together on a regular basis to further the goals of the Project. The Representatives will participate in meetings with design professionals, consultants, and contractors. City’s Representative shall have the option, but not the obligation, to participate in such meetings. The Representatives may appoint one or more designees to perform tasks related to the Project. In the event that either Party wishes to change the Representative designated in this Agreement, that Party will notify the other Party.
5. Museum’s Responsibilities.
a. Project Management. The Museum intends to hire one or more Project Managers to assist the Museum with planning, coordination, outreach, and management related to the planning of the Project. The Project Manager(s) will be contracted by the Museum and will take direction from Museum staff.
The Museum will notify the City if it hires or replaces a Project Manager. b. Donations and Funding. The Museum intends to fund the Project using donations and grants from private and public sources. The Museum certifies that it follows best accounting practices. This Agreement does not commit the City to using public funds for the Project, but does not preclude City from contributing funds or participating in grant funding.
c. Technical Studies. The Museum will be responsible for procuring or providing all technical studies and related documents that will be required for planning or permit approval purposes, including biological resources, cultural resources, historical resources, and traffic and transportation studies. d. Design. The Museum will be responsible for creating and funding the interior and exterior designs, architectural plans, and construction drawings for the Project, subject to City approval.
e. Landscaping. Museum will prepare a proposed landscape plan for Tyrrell Park that enhances accessibility, drainage, and current uses of the park, including educational, recreational, and passive community use. This does not preclude the City from contributing funds or participating in grant funding for preparation of the proposed landscape plan. The proposed landscape plan will include improvements to the pathways throughout the park, and may also include improvements and rehabilitation to the existing amphitheater and the grey whale sculpture. These improvements may be executed as part of the initial improvement project or through subsequent project phases. The Museum and the City may also elect to execute only a portion of, or none of, the improvements. The proposed landscape plan will be subject to City
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approval. The City and the Museum intend to collaborate with each other to try to secure funding for any improvements to Tyrrell Park. f. Consultants and Contractors. Museum will select the
consultants/contractors for technical studies, architectural design, public outreach, engineering, and other related services for the Project. Museum will ensure that all contracts entered into by Museum in furtherance of the Project are consistent with the terms and conditions of this Agreement. Museum will provide copies of any contract related to the conceptual phase of project to the City for review and approval, upon the request of City. The Museum will provide any proposed contracts related to the preparation of construction drawings, landscape designs, engineering plans, structural engineering plans, and similar trades that go beyond the conceptual phase to the City for review and approval, without the City having to request copies of the contract. The City will not be a party to any contract with any selected contractor for the Project, unless necessary as the Landlord of the Premises Museum will oversee any selected consultant’s or contractor’s work on the Project, and will review and approve, in writing, all payment requests from the consultant(s)/contractor(s) on the Project. Museum is responsible for making all appropriate payments for any selected consultant’s or contractor’s work on the Project.
As further specified in this Agreement, before Museum hires the construction contractor(s), the Parties will enter into a construction contract, setting forth the Parties’ and the construction contractors’ construction-related responsibilities in greater detail.
g. Permits and Approvals. The Museum will be responsible at its sole cost and expense for obtaining all necessary permits and approvals related to the Project, including zoning entitlements, building permits and construction related approvals. This does not preclude the City from potentially providing waivers, if legally permissible, or support for grant applications for these expenses. The Museum will respond to any permitting authority’s permitting questions and requests for documents or information.
h. Outreach and Communication. The Museum and the City will meet with each other to develop a shared understanding for how the Parties will address inquiries and outreach related to the Project. The Museum will be the lead party in charge of outreach and communication regarding the Project, in close consultation and cooperation with the City. The Museum will have primary responsibility for holding public information meetings and responding to public inquiries regarding the Project. City is responsible for holding any permit-related public hearings, to the extent required by law.
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i. Cooperation. The Museum will regularly communicate with the City on matters relating to the Project, including design, permitting, funding, grants, public communications, and outreach. The Museum will work to keep the City informed on Project progress and actual or anticipated complications.
6. City’s Responsibilities.
a. Lease. Assuming Museum has not breached or defaulted in its existing lease, and assuming the Parties can mutually agree to renewal terms, the City intends to renew the Museum’s existing lease for the Premises at a substantially similar rent base as that of the existing lease at or before the time the Parties enter into the separate construction contract. The City understands that the Museum requires a long-term lease in exchange for its investment in improving and preserving the Building and surrounding areas. The Parties will work to develop an updated lease outlining the City and Museum obligations for a 30-50 year period, which may take the form of a 30 year lease with an option to renew, subject to City approval.
b. Park. The City will collaborate with the Museum to plan for any upgrades, improvements, and/or changes to Tyrrell Park, including improvement or replacement of the grey whale sculpture, amphitheater, pathways, lighting, and landscaping.
c. Funding and Grants. The City has not committed any City funds to the Project; however, this Agreement does not preclude the City from exercising an option to commit its funds to the Project. The City will keep the Museum informed of potential grant opportunities that may support the Project, and will act as co-applicant on grants if appropriate and agreed to by both Parties. d. Permits and Approvals. The City will be responsible for conducting required public hearing processes to consider zoning entitlements, and issuing zoning and building permits for the Project, in accordance with local, state, and Federal laws and regulations. To the extent applicable, the City will be responsible for completing any CEQA review for the Project in accordance with its standard policies and procedures.
e. Cooperation. The City will communicate with the Museum on matters relating to the Project, including design, permitting, funding, grants, public communications, outreach, and construction. To the extent that it has information to share, the City will work to keep the Museum informed on project progress, public communications, and actual or anticipated complications. To the extent practicable or feasible, the City will coordinate with the Museum to identify possible locations, including City-owned and operated spaces, for storage of collections items as well as for temporary Museum operations during construction operations.
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7. Construction
a. After the Project description is finalized, the Parties intend to enter into a separate construction agreement, which will set forth the Parties’ agreement on matters such as the work schedule, construction contractor indemnity and insurance requirements, warranties, bonds/security, site access, change orders, and environmental covenants, among other construction-specific items. b. While the Parties intend to enter into a later detailed construction agreement, the Parties now agree that:
i. Museum will be responsible for funding and overseeing construction activities, including grading, paving, foundations, framing, and interior and exterior buildout for the primary building phase of the Project, with potential to oversee some park improvements, if identified in the landscape plan and agreed to by the Parties.
ii. The City will assist the Museum with locating and securing areas for construction staging, including possible staging areas within Tyrrell Park and on surrounding streets.
iii.Museum and any contractor performing Project-related work shall conform to the prevailing wage requirements and federal labor standard wage provisions applicable to Project-related work. Museum (and its contractors) shall adhere to the prevailing wage determinations made by the Director of Industrial Relations pursuant to California Labor Code Part 7, Chapter 1, Article 2, applicable to Project-related work. The Parties acknowledge that all workers employed in the execution of a public works contract (as such term is defined California Labor Code Section 1720 et seq. and Section 1782(d)(1)) must be paid not less than the specified prevailing wage rates for the type of work performed. Reference: California Labor Code Sections 1720, 1774 and 1782.
iv. Museum agrees to indemnify, defend and hold harmless City, officials, officers, directors, employees, and agents from and against any and all claims, liabilities, losses, costs, expenses, attorney’s fees, damages, expenses, fines, financial consequences, interest, and penalties, of any kind or nature, arising from or relating to any failure (or alleged failure) of the Museum and its contractor(s) to pay prevailing wages or to otherwise comply with the requirements of prevailing wage law relating to a public work, to the extent those requirements apply to Project-related work.
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8. Indemnification Between Museum and City. The obligations under this Section of the Agreement shall survive expiration or termination of this Agreement to the fullest extent permitted by law.
a. To the fullest extent permitted by law, Museum agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless City of Santa Cruz, its officials, officers, employees and volunteers (“Indemnitees”) from and against any and all claims, demands, actions, liabilities, damages, or expenses, (including attorneys’ fees and costs) (“Losses”) arising from the acts or omissions of Museum, Museum’s employees or agents in any way related to this Agreement, except where caused by the sole negligence, or willful misconduct of the City. The City does not, and shall not, waive any rights, against Museum or any of its contractors, which City may have pursuant to this Agreement, because of City’s acceptance of work related to the Project. The obligation to defend by Museum shall arise regardless of any claim or assertion that Indemnitees caused or contributed to the Losses
b. The City agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Museum, its respective officials, officers, employees and agents from any and all claims, demands, actions, liabilities, damages, or expenses (including attorneys’ fees and costs), which Museum may sustain or incur or which may be imposed upon it, but only in proportion to and to the extent such Losses result from, arise out of, or in any manner are caused by the City’s negligent or intentional acts or omissions relating to this Agreement.
9. Consultant Insurance Requirements. Unless otherwise agreed to in writing by the Parties, Museum shall require that all consultant agreements related to the Project (including but not limited to agreements with architects, engineers, landscape architects, and design professionals) obligate Museum’s consultants performing work on this Project to maintain the type and amount of insurance coverage, as specified in Exhibit A to this Agreement. Any additional insurance or indemnity benefits that any consultant contract grants to the Museum will likewise be given to the City.
10. Consultant Indemnity Requirements. Unless otherwise agreed to in writing by the Parties, Museum shall require any consultant performing Project-related work to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the City and its related parties. Unless otherwise agreed to in writing by the Parties, Museum’s contracts with consultants shall include the following indemnity provision:
“Consultant agrees, to the fullest extent permitted by law, to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the City, its officials, officers, employees, agents, and volunteers (collectively, “Indemnitees”) from and against any and all liability, claim, action, loss, injury, damage, judgment, or expense, including attorneys’
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fees and costs (“Losses”) caused by or resulting from the negligence, recklessness, or willful misconduct of Consultant, Consultant’s officers, employees, agents, or subcontractors in any way related to this Agreement.
Consultant’s duty to indemnify and hold harmless Indemnitees shall not apply to the extent such Losses are caused by the sole or active negligence or willful misconduct of Indemnitees. Consultant’s obligation to defend shall arise regardless of any claim or assertion that Indemnitees caused or contributed to the Losses. In the event this Agreement involves the performance of design professional services by Consultant, Consultant’s officers, employees, agents, or subcontractors, Consultant’s costs to defend Indemnitees shall not exceed the Consultant’s proportionate percentage of fault per Civil Code § This indemnification clause shall survive termination of this Agreement.” a. Consultant Verification. Unless otherwise agreed to in writing by the Parties, Museum must require its Consultant to execute the Consultant Indemnification & Insurance Agreement, attached hereto as Exhibit B, to verify its Consultant’s compliance with these indemnification and insurance requirements.
11. Museum Insurance Requirements. To support its obligations under this Agreement, Museum shall maintain the type and amount of insurance coverage, as specified in Exhibit C to this Agreement.
12. Conflicts of Interest. No member, official, officer, employee, agent, representative, or consultant of the Parties will have any personal interest, direct or indirect, in this Agreement nor will any such member, official, officer, agent, representative, or employee participate in any decision relating to this Agreement which affects his or her personal interests or the interests of any corporation, partnership, or association in which he or she has a direct or indirect interest. Each Party warrants that it has not paid or given, and will not pay or give, any such member, official, officer, employee, agent, representative, or consultant of the other Party any money or other consideration for obtaining this Agreement.
13. Relationship of Parties. This Agreement does not create any joint venture, partnership, or agent relationship between any of the Parties.
14. Cooperation. The Parties acknowledge that this Agreement does not describe all of the actions, documents and approvals necessary for the Project; and each Party agrees to cooperate with the other Parties as may be necessary to achieve the purposes of this Agreement.
15. Contract Interpretation. Each party acknowledges that it has reviewed this Agreement. The Parties agree that the rule of construction that any ambiguities are to be resolved against the drafting party will not be employed in the interpretation of this Agreement.
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16. Museum’s Records. To the extent required by law, Museum will maintain accurate accounting records and other written documentation pertaining to the costs incurred relating to this Agreement for examination and audit by the City, State, or federal government, as applicable, during the period of this Agreement, and for a period of at least five years from the date of Project completion.
17. Force Majeure. Neither Party will be considered in default in the performance of its obligations described in this Agreement to the extent that the performance of any such obligation is prevented or delayed by an act of God, natural disaster, pandemic, acts of terrorism, war, a strike, lockout or other labor difficulty, or other peril, which is beyond the reasonable control of the affected Party and without the negligence of the respective Parties. Each Party will give notice promptly to the other of the nature and extent of any Force Majeure claimed to delay, hinder or prevent performance of the services under this Agreement. Each Party will, however, make all reasonable efforts to remove or eliminate such a cause of delay or default and will, upon the cessation of the cause, diligently pursue performance of its obligations in this Agreement.
18. Dispute Resolution. The Parties agree to attempt in good faith to resolve through negotiation any dispute, claim or controversy arising out of or relating to this Agreement.
Either party may initiate negotiations by providing written notice in letter form to the other Party, setting forth the subject of the dispute and the relief requested. Promptly upon such notification, the Parties will meet at a mutually agreeable time and place in order to exchange relevant information and perspective, and to attempt to resolve the dispute. In the event that no resolution is achieved, and if, but only if, the Parties mutually agree, then prior to pursuing formal legal action, the Parties shall make a good faith effort to resolve the dispute by non-binding mediation or negotiations between representatives with decision-making power, who, to the extent possible, shall not have had substantive involvement in the matters of the dispute. To the extent that the Project involves or qualifies as a public works project, the Parties agree to comply with Public Contract Code sections 9204(e) and 20104-20104.6, but without waiving the requirements of the California Tort Claims Act, Gov’t Code section 800 et seq. unless otherwise agreed to by the Parties.
19. Notices. If either Party desires or is required to give notice to the other, such notice shall be given in writing, via email, and concurrently delivered by: (a) personal delivery, in which case notice is effective upon delivery; or (b) overnight courier (i.e., Federal Express) with charges prepaid or charged to the sender’s account, in which case notice is effective when delivered; or (c) priority U.S. Mail, in which case notice shall be deemed delivered on the second business day after the deposit thereof with the U.S.
Postal Service. Notices should be addressed to recipient as follows:
If to City: City of Santa Cruz
Parks & Recreation Department
323 Church St.
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Attn: Tony Elliot, Parks & Rec Director
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Email: [email protected]
If to Museum: Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History
1305 E Cliff Dr.
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Attn: Felicia Van Stolk, Executive Director
Email: [email protected]
The Parties agree to provide notification of any changes to the above information in writing at least ten (10) business days before the change is effective.
20. Non-discrimination. Museum and its officers, agents, employees, contractors and subcontractors, if any, may not discriminate against any participant, employee or applicant for employment to be employed in the performance of this Agreement or the Project, with respect to hire, tenure, terms, conditions, or privileges of employment, or any matter directly or indirectly related to employment, because of race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, or United States military service veteran status.
21. Successors and Assigns. Each Party binds itself and its partners, successors, executors, administrators and assigns to the other Party of this Agreement and to the partners, successors, executors, administrators and assigns of such other party, in respect to all covenants of this Agreement; except as otherwise provided herein, Museum may not assign, sublet or transfer its interest in this Agreement without the written consent of the City. Such consent will not be unreasonably withheld or delayed.
22. Entire Agreement. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the Parties with respect to the Planning and Coordination of the Project and supersedes all prior agreements, written or verbal, between the City and Museum. No statements, promises or agreements whatsoever, in writing or verbal, in conflict with the terms of the Agreement have been made by the Parties which in any way modify, vary, alter, enlarge or invalidate any of the provisions and obligations herein stated. This Agreement may be amended and modified only in writing signed by both Parties.
23. Severability. The unenforceability, invalidity or illegality of any provision(s) of this Agreement will not render the other provisions unenforceable, invalid or illegal.
24. Governing Law. This Agreement is governed, construed, and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of California.
25. Counterparts. The Parties may execute this Agreement in two or more counterparts, which will, in the aggregate, be deemed an original but all of which, together, will constitute one and the same instrument. A .pdf/electronic of a duly executed copy of this Agreement or of any document signed pursuant to this Agreement will be deemed for all purposes as receipt of an originally signed document, and any such copy bearing a .pdf/electronic signature will be binding upon, and enforceable against either Party.
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26. Warranty of Authority. The signatories to this Agreement warrant and represent that each is authorized to execute this Agreement and that their respective signatures serve to legally obligate their respective corporate entity, representatives, agents, successors, and assigns to comply with the provisions of this Agreement.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have executed this Agreement as of the date written above.
CITY:
CITY OF SANTA CRUZ
By:______________________________
Name: Matt Huffaker
Its: City Manager
Approved as to form:
_______________________________
Office of the City Attorney
MUSEUM:
SANTA CRUZ MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY
a California Non-Profit Public Benefit Corporation
By:____________________________________
Name:_________________________________
Title:____________________________________
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EXHIBIT A
CONSULTANT INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS
Consultant shall procure and maintain insurance against claims for injuries to persons or damages to property and otherwise which may arise from or in connection with the performance of the work under this Agreement and the results of that work by Consultant, its agents, representatives, employees, contractors, or subcontractors.
A. CERTIFICATE REQUIREMENTS
The City will be issued a Certificate of Insurance (a Memorandum of Understanding will not be accepted) with the following minimum requirements:
● Certificate(s) will show current policy number(s) and effective dates, ● Coverage and policy limits will meet, or exceed, requirements below, o The Certificate Holder will be City of Santa Cruz, Risk Management, 1200 Pacific Avenue, Suite 290, Santa Cruz, CA 95060,
o Certificate will be signed by an authorized representative, o An endorsement, if required below, will be provided to show the City, its officers, officials, employees, and volunteers as additional insureds, and o Coverages must be maintained during the term of the Agreement with the City, unless a longer duration is required as specified below.
B. MINIMUM SCOPE AND LIMITS OF INSURANCE
Consultant acknowledges that the insurance coverage and policy limits set forth in this section constitute the minimum amount of coverage required. If Consultant maintains broader insurance coverage and/or higher limits than the minimums shown below, the City of Santa Cruz requires and shall be entitled to the broader insurance coverage and/or higher limits maintained by Consultant. Any available insurance proceeds in excess of the specified minimum limits of insurance and coverage shall be available to the City of Santa Cruz.
Coverage will be at least as broad as:
● COMMERCIAL GENERAL LIABILITY (CGL): $2,000,000 PER OCCURRENCE; $2,000,000
AGGREGATE
Proof of coverage for $2 Million per occurrence including products and completed operations, property damage, bodily injury, personal and advertising injury will be provided on Insurance Services Office (ISO) Form CG 00 01 covering CGL. ● PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY (ERRORS AND OMISSIONS): $2,000,000 PER OCCURRENCE OR CLAIM, $2,000,000 AGGREGATE.
Consultant will maintain insurance appropriate to Consultant’s profession; with limit no less than $2,000,000 per occurrence or claim, $2,000,000 aggregate. Insurance must be maintained, and evidence of insurance must be provided for at least five (5) years after date of completion of the services under this Agreement. If coverage is canceled or nonrenewed and not replaced with another claims-made policy form with a Retroactive Date prior to the contract effective date or start of work date, Consultant must purchase “extended reporting” coverage for a minimum of five (5) years after completion of contract work.
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● AUTOMOBILE LIABILITY:
Proof of coverage for $1,000,000 provided on ISO Form Number CA 00 01 covering any auto (Code 1), or if Consultant has no owned autos, hired, (Code 8) and non-owned autos (Code 9), per accident for bodily injury and property damage. ● WORKERS’ COMPENSATION AS REQUIRED BY THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA, WITH STATUTORY LIMITS, AND EMPLOYER’S LIABILITY INSURANCE: $1,000,000 per accident for bodily injury or disease.
The Worker’s Compensation policy must be endorsed with a waiver of subrogation in favor of the City for all work performed by the Consultant and its employees. (Not required if Consultant provides written verification it has no employees) - If Consultant has no employees, Consultant shall complete and sign a Workers’ Compensation Exemption Declaration and Release of Liability.
C. OTHER INSURANCE PROVISIONS
The insurance policies are to comply with the following provisions:
● ADDITIONAL INSURED STATUS
The City, its officers, officials, employees, and volunteers are to be covered as additional insureds on the CGL, professional liability, and automobile insurance policies with respect to liability arising out of work or operations performed by or on behalf of Consultant including materials, parts, or equipment furnished in connection with such work or operations. General liability coverage will be provided in the form of an endorsement to Consultant’s insurance at least as broad as ISO Form CG 20 10 11 85, or if not available, through the addition of both CG 20 10 CG 20 26, CG 20 33, or CG 20 38; and CG 20 37 (if a later edition is used).
● PRIMARY COVERAGE
For any claims related to this Agreement, Consultant’s insurance coverage will be primary insurance as respects the City, its officers, officials, employees, agents, and volunteers.
Any insurance or self-insurance maintained by the City, its officers, officials, employees, agents, or volunteers will be excess of Consultant’s insurance and will not contribute with it.
● NOTICE OF CANCELLATION
Each insurance policy required above shall state that the coverage shall not be canceled, except with notice to the City.
● WAIVER OF SUBROGATION
Consultant hereby grants to the City a waiver of any right to subrogation, except as otherwise not applicable, which any insurer of said Consultant may acquire against the City by virtue of the payment of any loss, including attorney’s fees under such insurance.
Consultant agrees to obtain any endorsement that may be necessary to effectuate this waiver of subrogation, but this provision applies regardless of whether or not the City has received a waiver of subrogation endorsement from the insurer. ● EXCESS LIABILITY/UMBRELLA INSURANCE POLICIES
Consultant may use excess liability/umbrella policies to meet the required liability limits on the condition that they provide all of the insurance coverages required herein,
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including, but not limited to, primary and non-contributory, additional insured, SelfInsured Retentions (SIRs), indemnity, and defense requirements. The excess liability/umbrella insurance policies shall be provided on a true “following form” or broader coverage basis, with coverage at least as broad as provided on the underlying CGL insurance. No insurance policies maintained by the additional insureds, whether primary or excess, and which also apply to a loss covered hereunder, shall be called upon to contribute to a loss until the Consultant’s primary and excess liability policies are exhausted.
● SELF-INSURED RETENTIONS
Self-insured retentions must be declared to and approved by the City. City may require Consultant to purchase coverage with a lower retention or provide proof of ability to pay losses and related expenses. The policy language shall provide, or be endorsed to provide, that the self-insured retention may be satisfied by either the named insured or City. ● ACCEPTABILITY OF INSURERS
Insurance is to be placed with insurers with a current A.M. Best’s rating of no less than A- :VII, unless otherwise acceptable to the City.
● CLAIMS MADE POLICIES
If any of the required policies provide coverage on a claims-made basis:
1. The Retroactive Date must be shown and must be before the date of the contract or the beginning of contract work.
2. Insurance must be maintained, and evidence of insurance must be provided for at least five (5) years after completion of the contract of work.
3. If coverage is canceled or non-renewed, and not replaced with another claims-made policy form with a Retroactive Date prior to the contract effective date, the Consultant must purchase “extended reporting” coverage for a minimum of five (5) years after completion of contract work.
● VERIFICATION OF COVERAGE
Consultant will furnish the City with original Certificates of Insurance including all required amendatory endorsements (or copies of the applicable policy language effecting coverage required by this clause) and a copy of the Declarations and Endorsement Page of the CGL, CPL, and automobile Policies listing all policy endorsements to be approved by the City before work commences. However, failure to obtain the required documents prior to the work beginning will not waive the Consultant’s obligation to provide them. The City reserves the right to require complete, certified copies of all required insurance policies, including endorsements required by these specifications, at any time.
D. CONTRACTORS/SUBCONTRACTORS
Consultant shall require and verify that all contractors and subcontractors maintain insurance meeting all the requirements stated herein, and Consultant shall ensure that City is an additional insured on insurance required from subcontractors.
E. SPECIAL RISKS/CIRCUMSTANCES
City reserves the right to modify these requirements, including limits, based on the nature of the risk, prior experience, insurer, coverage, or other special circumstances and provide notice to Consultant.
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EXHIBIT B
CONSULTANT INDEMNIFICATION & INSURANCE AGREEMENT
This Consultant Indemnification & Insurance Agreement (“Consultant Indemnification Agreement”) is entered into this day of , 20__, by ________________ (“Consultant”) and the City of Santa Cruz (the “City”). Each are individually referred to as a “Party” or collectively as the “Parties”.
RECITALS
WHEREAS, Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History (“Museum”) entered into the Planning and Coordination Agreement (“Agreement”) with the City related to an improvement project (“Project”) to improve the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History for continued use by the Museum (“Project”) and for Museum to take steps to implement the Project (“Work”) in the attached Agreement, which is incorporated as Exhibit A hereto; WHEREAS, Consultant has entered into a separate agreement with Museum to perform the Work for the Project; and
WHEREAS, as required by the Agreement, Consultant is required to agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the City in the same manner as Museum, and also provide insurance for claims arising from the Consultant’s work in performing any portion of the Project described in the Agreement;
NOW, THEREFORE, the Parties agree to incorporate the above Recitals and further agree as follows:
1. Indemnification. Consultant agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the City, its officials, officers, employees, and agents in the same manner as the Museum, as described in Section 10 of the Agreement as follows:
a. The City, its officials, officers, employees, and agents (collectively, “Indemnitees”) shall not be liable for any injury to persons or property arising out of, pertaining to or relating to the acts or omissions of the Museum or its agents, officers, employees, consultants, contractors and subcontractors, or others under Museum’s control or authority in the performance of the Work or Agreement, unless such damages are caused by the gross negligence or willful misconduct of Indemnitees. b. To the fullest extent permitted by law, Consultant hereby agrees to, and shall indemnify, defend, and hold harmless City, its officials, officers, employees, and agents (collectively, “Indemnitees”), from any liability or damage or claims for damage for personal injury, including death, as well as from claims for property damage or any other type of claims, liabilities, actions, losses, damages, fines, penalties, judgments, costs, and expenses, including attorneys’ fees and costs (“Losses”) which may arise directly or indirectly from the acts or omissions of
18.19 17
SCMNH/City Planning and Coordination Agreement
Consultant or its subcontractors, agents, employees, or others acting under Consultant authority or control in connection with the Work under this Agreement. Consultant’s duty to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Indemnitees shall not apply to the extent such Losses are caused by the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the Indemnitees.
c. The obligation to defend by Consultant shall arise regardless of any claim or assertion that Indemnitees caused or contributed to the Losses.
d. In the event this Agreement involves the performance of design professional services by Consultant, Consultant’s officers, employees, agents, or subcontractors, Consultant’s costs to defend Indemnitees shall not exceed the Consultant’s proportionate percentage of fault per Civil Code §2782.8. This section shall survive the termination or expiration of this Agreement.
e. The obligations under this section shall survive expiration or termination of this Contractor Indemnification Agreement to the fullest extent permitted by law.
2. Insurance. Consultant agrees to provide the insurance as required in Section 9 of the underlying Agreement.
3. Miscellaneous.
a. Each party acknowledges that it has reviewed this Consultant Indemnification Agreement and that the normal rule of construction to the effect that any ambiguities are to be resolved against the drafting party shall not be employed in the interpretation of this Contractor Indemnification Agreement. b. The unenforceability, invalidity or illegality of any provision(s) of this Consultant Indemnification Agreement shall not render the other provisions unenforceable, invalid or illegal.
c. The Parties may execute this Consultant Indemnification Agreement in two or more counterparts, which shall, in the aggregate, be deemed an original but all of which, together, shall constitute one and the same instrument. A scanned, electronic, facsimile or other copy of a party’s signature shall be accepted and valid as an original. d. The signatories to this Consultant Indemnification Agreement warrant and represent that each is authorized to execute this Consultant Indemnification Agreement and that their respective signatures serve to legally obligate their respective representatives, agents, successors and assigns to comply with the provisions of this Agreement.
18.20 18
SCMNH/City Planning and Coordination Agreement
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have executed this Consultant Indemnification Agreement the date and year first above written.
CITY OF SANTA CRUZ
By:___________________________
Name:_________________________
Its:____________________________
CONSULTANT
By:___________________________ By:______________________________ Name:_________________________ Name:___________________________ Its:____________________________ Its:______________________________
Signature Requirements for Business Entity:
a. Corporation – 2 officer signatures required (one from each group, unless person signing holds officer positions in both Group 1 and 2):
Group 1: Chief Executive Officer, Chairman of the Board, President, or Vice President Group 2: Secretary, Assistant Secretary, Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer, Assistant Treasurer b. Partnership - Signature of General Partner, or signature of partner who is authorized to execute documents per the Certificate of Partnership. If authorized partner is a corporation, follow Corporation signature requirement.
c. LLC- For a member-managed LLC, signature of any member. For a manager-managed LLC, signature of the manager. If the LLC has corporate officer designations, follow Corporation signature requirement.
18.21 19
SCMNH/City Planning and Coordination Agreement
EXHIBIT C
MUSEUM INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS
Museum shall procure and maintain insurance against claims for injuries to persons or damages to property and otherwise which may arise from or in connection with the performance of the work under this Agreement and the results of that work by Museum, its agents, representatives, employees, contractors, or subcontractors.
A. CERTIFICATE REQUIREMENTS
The City will be issued a Certificate of Insurance (a Memorandum of Understanding will not be accepted) with the following minimum requirements:
● Certificate(s) will show current policy number(s) and effective dates, ● Coverage and policy limits will meet, or exceed, requirements below, o The Certificate Holder will be City of Santa Cruz, Risk Management, 1200 Pacific Avenue, Suite 290, Santa Cruz, CA 95060,
o Certificate will be signed by an authorized representative, o An endorsement, if required below, will be provided to show the City, its officers, officials, employees, and volunteers as additional insureds, and o Coverages must be maintained during the term of the Agreement with the City, unless a longer duration is required as specified below.
B. MINIMUM SCOPE AND LIMITS OF INSURANCE
Museum acknowledges that the insurance coverage and policy limits set forth in this section constitute the minimum amount of coverage required. If Museum maintains broader insurance coverage and/or higher limits than the minimums shown below, the City of Santa Cruz requires and shall be entitled to the broader insurance coverage and/or higher limits maintained by Museum. Any available insurance proceeds in excess of the specified minimum limits of insurance and coverage shall be available to the City of Santa Cruz.
Coverage will be at least as broad as:
● COMMERCIAL GENERAL LIABILITY (CGL): $1,000,000 PER OCCURRENCE; $2,000,000
AGGREGATE
Proof of coverage for $1 Million per occurrence including products and completed operations, property damage, bodily injury, personal and advertising injury will be provided on Insurance Services Office (ISO) Form CG 00 01 covering CGL. ● WORKERS’ COMPENSATION AS REQUIRED BY THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA, WITH STATUTORY LIMITS, AND EMPLOYER’S LIABILITY INSURANCE: $1,000,000 per accident for bodily injury or disease.
The Worker’s Compensation policy must be endorsed with a waiver of subrogation in favor of the City for all work performed by the Museum and its employees. (Not required if Museum provides written verification it has no employees) - If Museum has no employees, Museum shall complete and sign a Workers’ Compensation Exemption Declaration and Release of Liability.
C. OTHER INSURANCE PROVISIONS
The insurance policies are to comply with the following provisions:
18.22 20
SCMNH/City Planning and Coordination Agreement
● ADDITIONAL INSURED STATUS
The City, its officers, officials, employees, and volunteers are to be covered as additional insureds on the CGL policy with respect to liability arising out of work or operations performed by or on behalf of Museum including materials, parts, or equipment furnished in connection with such work or operations. General liability coverage will be provided in the form of an endorsement to Museum’s insurance at least as broad as ISO Form CG 20 10 11 85, or if not available, through the addition of both CG 20 10 CG 20 26, CG 20 33, or CG 20 38; and CG 20 37 (if a later edition is used). ● PRIMARY COVERAGE
For any claims related to this Agreement, Museum’s insurance coverage will be primary insurance as respects the City, its officers, officials, employees, agents, and volunteers.
Any insurance or self-insurance maintained by the City, its officers, officials, employees, agents, or volunteers will be excess of Museum’s insurance and will not contribute with it. ● NOTICE OF CANCELLATION
Each insurance policy required above shall state that the coverage shall not be canceled, except with notice to the City.
● WAIVER OF SUBROGATION
Museum hereby grants to the City a waiver of any right to subrogation, except as otherwise not applicable, which any insurer of said Museum may acquire against the City by virtue of the payment of any loss, including attorney’s fees under such insurance. Museum agrees to obtain any endorsement that may be necessary to effectuate this waiver of subrogation, but this provision applies regardless of whether or not the City has received a waiver of subrogation endorsement from the insurer.
● EXCESS LIABILITY/UMBRELLA INSURANCE POLICIES
Museum may use excess liability/umbrella policies to meet the required liability limits on the condition that they provide all of the insurance coverages required herein, including, but not limited to, primary and non-contributory, additional insured, Self-Insured Retentions (SIRs), indemnity, and defense requirements. The excess liability/umbrella insurance policies shall be provided on a true “following form” or broader coverage basis, with coverage at least as broad as provided on the underlying CGL insurance. No insurance policies maintained by the additional insureds, whether primary or excess, and which also apply to a loss covered hereunder, shall be called upon to contribute to a loss until the Museum’s primary and excess liability policies are exhausted. ● SELF-INSURED RETENTIONS
Self-insured retentions must be declared to and approved by the City. City may require Museum to purchase coverage with a lower retention or provide proof of ability to pay losses and related expenses. The policy language shall provide, or be endorsed to provide, that the self-insured retention may be satisfied by either the named insured or City. ● ACCEPTABILITY OF INSURERS
Insurance is to be placed with insurers with a current A.M. Best’s rating of no less than A- :VII, unless otherwise acceptable to the City.
● CLAIMS MADE POLICIES
If any of the required policies provide coverage on a claims-made basis:
4. The Retroactive Date must be shown and must be before the date of the contract or the beginning of contract work.
18.23 21
SCMNH/City Planning and Coordination Agreement
5. Insurance must be maintained, and evidence of insurance must be provided for at least five (5) years after completion of the contract of work.
6. If coverage is canceled or non-renewed, and not replaced with another claims-made policy form with a Retroactive Date prior to the contract effective date, the Museum must purchase “extended reporting” coverage for a minimum of five (5) years after completion of contract work.
● VERIFICATION OF COVERAGE
Museum will furnish the City with original Certificates of Insurance including all required amendatory endorsements (or copies of the applicable policy language effecting coverage required by this clause) and a copy of the Declarations and Endorsement Page of the CGL, CPL, and automobile Policies listing all policy endorsements to be approved by the City before work commences. However, failure to obtain the required documents prior to the work beginning will not waive the Museum’s obligation to provide them. The City reserves the right to require complete, certified copies of all required insurance policies, including endorsements required by these specifications, at any time.
D. SPECIAL RISKS/CIRCUMSTANCES
City reserves the right to modify these requirements, including limits, based on the nature of the risk, prior experience, insurer, coverage, or other special circumstances and provide notice to Museum.
18.24 18.25
18.26 City Council
AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 03/06/2025
AGENDA OF: 03/25/2025
DEPARTMENT: Public Works
SUBJECT: Downtown Intersection Improvements Plan Revisions, Environmental Determination: Statutory Exemption PRC 21080.25(b)(1-4) and Metro Transit Station Improvements Agreement (PW)
LOCATION: District 4
RECOMMENDATION: Motion to:
1) Approve the revised concept striping plan for the Downtown Intersection Improvements (c401903) project along Front Street between Laurel Street and Soquel Avenue; 2) Authorize the City Manager to enter into the Metro Transit Station Improvements Agreement with Metro and Downtown Santa Cruz Developer, LLC, including any amendments and related documents in accordance with the City building permit(s) in a form to be approved by City Attorney; and
3) Approve the CEQA Determination that the Downtown Intersection Plan improvements qualify for a Statutory Exemption under PRC 21080.25(b)(1-4).
BACKGROUND: In 2017 the City adopted the Downtown Plan Amendment which increased development potential downtown and identified associated traffic mitigations. Since that time, several new developments have been permitted along both sides of the Front Street Corridor, from Soquel Avenue to Laurel Street, and additional redevelopment in the area is in various stages of planning. To ensure that transportation improvements along the Front Street corridor effectively and efficiently serve multiple modes of transportation, the Downtown Intersections Project was initiated.
Public Works and Economic Development and Housing are collaborating on the Downtown Intersection Improvements Project (DTIIP) (c401903) to provide a transportation improvement project for Front Street. The team is working closely with various stakeholders to balance diverse transportation needs within the public right-of-way with the logistical and operational challenges raised by the developments along the corridor. The developments include 852 new housing units (29% deed restricted below market affordable housing), mixed commercial retail/office, a hotel, connections to the riverwalk, and a new transit center.
19.1 On November 15, 2022 City Council approved a conceptual striping plan for Front Street between Laurel Street and Soquel Avenue. That plan included a two-way center turn lane, contiguous bike lanes and pickup/drop-off off at the proposed Santa Cruz Hotel along Front Street. On Soquel, east of Front Street, the plan added dual westbound left turns, a buffered bike lane, and removed the westbound right slip-lane.
Since the approval of the 2022 striping plan along Front Street, the Santa Cruz Metropolitan Transit District (METRO) has substantially increased service. In 2023, METRO began the Rapid Corridors Study which identified transit facility enhancements to accelerate travel times and customer satisfaction. The study found that the intercity routes between Santa Cruz and Watsonville (Routes 1 and 2) experienced 30 minutes of travel-time delay, resulting in transit trips taking twice the time of private automobile trips. The study recommended a series of strategies to improve transit trips, including installation of dedicated transit lanes on Front Street.
The transit lane recommendation prompted the City to re-evaluate the striping plan, and undertake a traffic analysis to determine the feasibility of the METRO recommendation. The City returned to the Transportation and Public Works Commission (TPWC) on May 20, 2024 to share the findings of the transit lane traffic analysis. The TPWC supported the addition of the transit lane, however requested that staff further evaluate bicycle connections across and along the corridor, as the transit lane replaced bicycle lanes along Front Street. Those comments have been evaluated and incorporated into the current 35% design.
Concurrent to the Public Works effort along Front Street, Economic Development is coordinating the development of Pacific Station North (Pac North). In 2020, the City signed a Memorandum of Understanding with METRO for the residential development and, later in February 2024, the City, Metro, and Downtown Santa Cruz Developer, LLC entered into a Multi-Party Agreement relating to the parties’ respective obligations on the overall Pac North Project. That agreement left the development of the transit center for a future agreement.
In May 2021 the City Council authorized staff to apply for the Infill Infrastructure Grant (IIG) to partially fund the public-private partnership. The grant application resulted in $20.9 million of IIG funding awarded for Pac North housing, the METRO, related traffic improvements, paseo improvements and sewer improvements. That grant is a primary funding source for this project.
DISCUSSION: Downtown Intersections Plan:
The major changes from the initial plan are focused on the lane configurations at the Soquel/Front intersection. To optimize the signal phasing, all left turns are moved to dedicated lanes and the northbound left from Front to Soquel is eliminated. Additionally, the westbound left from Soquel onto Front will have two dedicated left turn lanes to better accommodate transit service from Soquel. These modifications create space for a northbound transit queue jump lane, an improved alignment westbound, a reduction in crossing distance, and a shorter traffic signal cycle length which reduces the time pedestrians wait to cross the street. The previous design attempted to use multiple lane configurations to meet the volume demands, while this design focuses on signal optimization to reduce the number of lanes required.
At the intersection of Cathcart/Front, a southbound transit lane will be initiated on the far side of the intersection all the way to the southern entrance into the transit center. At the transit center, buses will only enter at the southern entrance and circulate clockwise in order to maximize
19.2 transit berths within the center. Between the transit center and Laurel Street, the plan will largely stay the same.
Throughout the corridor access points to the developments were also reconsidered to promote safe access and efficient travel along Front Street. At 418 Front and 100 Laural (Pacific-Front Development), the driveways will be restricted to right-in/right-out access from full access. The prohibition of left turns will improve safety and ensure that queued vehicles don’t block traffic along Front Street.
At the intersections with paseos, the signal timing was reconsidered from existing conditions to enhance connectivity. The intersection will use an exclusive pedestrian phase or “barnyard dance” to allow pedestrians (and bikes) to cross anywhere in the intersection during an exclusive phase of the signal. That treatment will reduce conflicts with turning vehicles and enhance connectivity with the paseo designs. The concept design will be further developed when each section is implemented and will return to City Council for final approval before construction.
Project Phasing:
The DTII project will be constructed in multiple phases to manage costs and constructability.
The first phase of work, subject to the attached agreement, will include improvements between the north side of the Cathcart Street Intersection to the south side of the southern Metro Center driveway. The intersection improvements at Soquel and Laurel will be constructed in future phases with adjacent development or as stand-alone projects.
The first phase of work is anticipated to cost just over $5 million dollars, with much of costs anticipated for the new traffic signals at the two intersections for the new transit center. These new intersections are critical for access to the new metro center and need to be constructed concurrently with the Transit Center to make it useable.
The full DTII project from Soquel to Laurel is expected to cost $10,700,000 in 2027 dollars. The available funding from IIG, developers, and traffic impact fee are not sufficient to cover that cost at this time. To help fill the funding shortfall for the project, the City recently supported a grant application by the Santa Cruz Regional Transportation Commission and METRO to partially fund the improvements at the Soquel Intersection. Results of the grant are expected in June 2025.
Staff anticipates returning to council in August for approval of the final design, to provide and updated funding plan, and seek approval to construct the project.
Metro Station Improvements Agreement:
The current agreement for the development of Pac North references that the parties will enter into a separate agreement to construct the new Metro Station. That agreement of the construction includes the bus terminal, landscaping solar canopies, and pedestrian, bicycle, vehicular improvements along Front Street that serve the transit center.
Draft Metro Transit Station Improvements Agreement can be found on the City Website:
https://www.cityofsantacruz.com/home/showpublisheddocument/103264 CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION: The Downtown Intersection Plan improvements qualify for a Statutory Exemption under Public Resource Code 21080.25(b)(1-4) because the project creates:
19.3 1. Pedestrian and bicycle facilities that improve safety, access, or mobility, including new facilities, within the public right-of-way.
2. Projects that improve customer information and wayfinding for transit riders, bicyclists, or pedestrians within the public right-of-way.
3. Transit prioritization projects.
4. A project for the designation and conversion of general purpose lanes to highoccupancy vehicle lanes or bus-only lanes, or highway shoulders to part-time transit lanes, for use either during peak congestion hours or all day on highways with existing public transit service or where a public transit agency will be implementing public transit service as identified in a short range transit plan.
HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): This project promotes the following Health in All Policies Conditions: Heathy Environments and Stable, Affordable Housing and Shelter by building new affordable housing and improving public transit service to the new housing.
FISCAL IMPACT:
1. The recommendation in this report impacts the General Fund: No
2. This recommendation requires a budget adjustment: No
3. The recommendation creates an on-going expenditure commitment: No FISCAL IMPACT DESCRIPTION: The project is funded by Gas Tax, Traffic Impact Fee, Developer Contributions, and Infill Infrastructure Grant. The project will build new traffic signals and add new pavement markings to the roadway. Those features are consistent with current maintenance efforts undertaken by the city but do create additional operational costs.
Prepared By:
Matt Starkey
P.E., Transportation Manager
Jessica De Wit
Housing & Community
Development Manager
Submitted By:
Nathan Nguyen
P.E., Director of Public Works
Bonnie Lipscomb
Director of Economic
Development and Housing
Approved By:
Matt Huffaker
City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:
1. A1- DOWNTOWN INTERSECTIONS IMPROVEMENT PLAN_35PCT.PDF
19.4 DRIVEWAY DRIVEWAY DRIVEWAY DRIVEWAY DRIVEWAY
SOQUEL AVE
FRONT ST
SOQUEL AVE
NOT FOR
CONSTRUCTION
35% SUBMITTAL - NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION
NORTH
NORTH
19.5 DRIVEWAY
BENCH T BENCH BENCH T BENCH BENCH BENCH
FRONT ST
CATHCART AVE
T BENCH BENCH T BENCH BENCH BENCH T BENCH
FRONT ST
NOT FOR
CONSTRUCTION
35% SUBMITTAL - NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION
NORTH
NORTH
19.6 LAUREL ST
FRONT ST
LAUREL ST
NOT FOR
CONSTRUCTION
35% SUBMITTAL - NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION
NORTH
NORTH
19.7 Brittany Inclan
From: [email protected]
Sent: Monday, March 24, 2025 10:23 AM
To: City Council
Cc: Nathan Nguyen
Subject: Council meeting 3/25/25 Item #19 Downtown Intersection Improvements Dear Councilmembers:
If you see fit to approve the Front Street restriping plan, I recommend doing so:
1. conceptually, to allow for staff to make further adjustments that can beƩer serve bicyclists (see my specific comments below).
2. recognizing that it represents a further erosion of Downtown bicycle infrastructure: several years ago the westbound bike lane on Soquel between Front and Pacific was removed, bike lanes near the Pacific/Center roundabout were removed, the two ridable ramps connecƟng the Levee pathway and Front Street between Soquel Avenue and Laurel Street are being eliminated, the Front Street bike lane between Soquel and River Street has become a bus travel and loading lane (to be shared with bikes), this plan will convert addiƟon bike lane on Front Street to priority bus use, and the proposed South of Laurel circulaƟon plan removes on-street bike lanes in favor of mixing bikes and pedestrians on raised pathways.
Bicycle travel Downtown is being further compromised by all of the new construcƟon that fences off bike lanes. And, once the new buildings are occupied, there will be a great increase in maintenance, delivery, and ride-hailing services whose vehicles oŌen block bike lanes. Yet, a raƟonale for high density Downtown is that new residents will favor cycling (and walking and bus riding) instead of driving. Unfortunately, this might not hold true if the bicycle infrastructure is diminished. The City is embarking on a revision to its AcƟve TransportaƟon Plan. Thus, you might wish to direct the planners to incorporate a safe, convenient, and conƟnuous bikeway network to, through and within Downtown.
Thanks for your conƟnued support of safe and comfortable bicycling.
Rick Hyman
Coulson Ave.
SPECIFIC COMMENTS ON RESTRIPING PLAN
On sheet 1: northbound Front through Soquel intersecƟon: Before the intersecƟon cyclists have to share the lane with both buses and right turning vehicles (which in itself is less than ideal). Thus, to try to stay as safe as possible, northbound cyclists need to posiƟon themselves in the center (or even to the leŌ of center) of the lane. Thus, the dashed green lane across the intersecƟon needs to begin from the center of the travel lane, not from the extreme right as shown on the plans.
Then beyond the intersecƟon, it is unclear where cyclists are supposed to travel as the dashed green lane ends into a Bus Only lane.
Also, on Sheet 1 southbound on Soquel from River to Front cyclists are routed to the right of a bus stop. It is unclear where the bus riders are supposed to wait and where they go to board and depart the bus. Since, over 90% of the Ɵme, there will be no bus, cyclists would and should just ride in that lane with the bus turnout. Approaching Front Street, cyclists are no longer directed toward a traffic signal island and the free right turn lane is removed, both of which are posiƟve. However, cyclists are directed to the right of the island (or some other separaƟon). This puts cyclists in a dangerous posiƟon; they should be adjacent to the travel lane (the island should be moved to the right of the bike lane).
It would also be helpful if cyclists had a leading green signal because not only do they have to confront right turning motorists, they have to veer leŌ to stay in the travel lane. The dashed green marking across Front Street is shown ending to the right of through travel lane; it should end into the center of the through travel lane, because there is no bike lane on that porƟon of Soquel. There used to be one, and it should be restored.
19.8 Also, there is no bike box for cyclists to turn leŌ onto Front Street, which would be possible to paint if that island is relocated as discussed above.
On sheet 3: Westbound Laurel toward Front: There is no bike lane marking shown. Is this just an omission? Assuming the bike lane stays where it is now (to the leŌ of the right turn only lane), a conflict point remains for cyclists exiƟng the River levee path, having to cross the free right turn lane to get into the bike lane.
Also, on Sheet 3 there are three small bike boxes shown within the Laurel/Front intersecƟon. I surmise that these are locaƟons for cyclists to wait who are making a two-step leŌ turn, but will either cyclists or motorists know what these boxes convey? They seem out of place and are not used elsewhere in the City.
Finally on sheet 3: northbound Front approaching Laurel: Please be aware that the proposed South of Laurel circulaƟon plan shows bicycles on a raised bikeway adjacent to the sidewalk. While this is an inconvenient treatment inviƟng bike and pedestrian conflicts that I do not support, if bike travel is adjusted in this or another way, then these restriping plans in this locaƟon won’t work.
19.9 AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 03/06/2025
AGENDA OF: 03/25/2025
DEPARTMENT: Public Works
SUBJECT: Rail Trail Segments 8 and 9 Budget Adjustment (PW) LOCATION: Districts 2 and 4
RECOMMENDATION: Motion to adopt a resolution amending the FY 2025 budget to appropriate funds in the amount of $750,000 from Measure D to the Monterey Bay Sanctuary Scenic Trail (Rail Trail) Segments 8 and 9 (c401804).
BACKGROUND: The Monterey Bay Sanctuary Scenic Trail is a countywide effort to build 32 miles of rail trail withing the Santa Cruz Branch Rail Line right-of-way owned by the Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Comision (SCCRTC). The trail network passes within 1 mile of half of the County’s population, 44 schools, and 92 parks, and will provide new transportation and recreational options countywide. To date, 18 miles of the trail are under development or constructed. The City is the lead agency for Rail Trail Segments, 7, 8, and 9 which span 4.2 miles from Natural Bridges Avenue on the western end of the City to 17th Avenue in the County.
Rail Trail Segments 8 and 9 span 2.2 miles from the Wharf roundabout to 17th Avenue in the County. On May 12, 2020 the City Council authorized staff to procure design, permitting, and environmental services for the project. The City awarded RRM Design Group (RRM) an initial contract for $3,978,397 to evaluate a design of the trail next to the rail (later called “Ultimate Trail”) and authorized the Director of Public Works to approve contract amendments within the approved project budget.
In an effort to complete the environmental documents and preliminary design, the Director of Public Works approved Contract Amendment No.1 with RRM in the amount of $370,053 for additional schematic plan sets and environmental analysis for the Interim Trail (Trail on the Rail Line) and Contract Amendment No. 2 in the amount of $166,025 for track relocation design and supplemental CEQA alternative analysis and geotechnical investigation. On May 10, 2022 the City Council adopted the environmental documents and directed staff to complete design for the Ultimate Trail (trail next to the rail).
The schematic design for the Ultimate Trail was completed and accepted by the City in July 2023. In December 2023 the SCCRTC began the Zero Emission Passenger Rail and Trail Project (ZEPRT) which has since identified new requirements for the clearances between the Trail and Rail. Additionally, the SCCRTC, County, and City completed a value engineering effort in
20.1 August 2024 and identified potential cost savings for the collective trail projects. In December 2024 the City, County, and SCCRTC agreed on how to incorporate the ZEPRT and VA study into the design effort underway.
As part of the ZEPRT project the SCCRTC evaluated the conditions of the railway bridges along the corridor and identified that additional seismic analysis was required for the bridge over the Harbor (Woods Lagoon Bridge). The schematic design assumes that a trail bridge will be attached and cantilevered off the existing railway bridge without substantial improvement to the existing structure. Additional structural analysis is being undertaken to re-evaluate that design based on the new bridge information.
The Director of Public Works authorized Contract Amendment No. 4 for $326,676 and Contract Amendment No. 5 for $48,036 to complete the additional efforts described above. Contract Amendment No. 3 was previously completed to adjust contract language to comply with Caltrans grant requirements at no cost.
The efforts described above to complete environmental work, and subsequent design refinements have depleted the budget available for design in the project. The project is primarily funded by two Active Transportation Program grants which allocate funds to specific phases of project development and are not advantageous to move between phases. Local funding is required to complete the design effort and is the reason for the budget request.
DISCUSSION: Rail Trail Segments 8 and 9 are currently in between the schematic design and construction document design phases. The budget adjustment will allow the design team to continue refining the design to meet changing conditions which include evolving ZEPRT requirements. The project anticipates completing revised schematic plans and new cost estimates in the Spring of 2025, then work towards 60% construction documents in Fall 2025. If construction funding materializes, the project could begin construction as early as 2027. While this budget has City Measure D funds going towards design, the SCCRTC has acknowledged that the design changes are required for the ZEPRT project and they will work with the City to identify additional design funding in Fall 2025.
The City, County, and SCCRTC are working together to identify additional construction funding for the project. The SCCRTC was recently awarded a Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant for $19.5 million for Rail Trail Segments 8-12.
Approximately $2.8 million is dedicated to Segments 8 and 9 and the additional funding may allow the SCCRTC to redistribute other regional dollars to the project. The effort to secure construction funding is underway, but it's critical that the design is advanced to determine a new construction cost estimate inclusive of the new design changes. This budget adjustment will allow the project to do that in a timely manner.
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION: The project completed CEQA in March 2023.
HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP):
This project promotes the following Health in All Policies Conditions:
Health and Wellness, and Heathy Environments as it will create a high-quality active transportation corridor through the community. Furthermore, the project is supported by the General Plan and Active Transportation Plan.
20.2 FISCAL IMPACT:
1. The recommendation in this report impacts the General Fund: No
2. This recommendation requires a budget adjustment: Yes
3. The recommendation creates an on-going expenditure commitment: No FISCAL IMPACT DESCRIPTION: The budget adjustment comes from City Measure D funds. There is no impact to the general fund.
Prepared By:
Matt Starkey, P.E.
Transportation Manager
Submitted By:
Nathan Nguyen, P.E.
Director of Public Works
Approved By:
Matt Huffaker
City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:
1. BUDGET ADJUSTMENT.PDF
20.3 City of Santa Cruz
BUDGET ADJUSTMENT REQUEST
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CITYMANAGER
APPROVAL
5HVR
352-(&7
352-(&7
$02817
$02817
&RXQFLO$SSURYDO
TOTAL EXPENDITURE
TOTALREVENUE
'DWH
1VSQPTF
3FWJTFE/PWFNCFS
Clear Form
2025
02/06/2025
To add additional design funding based on updated alignments and conditions 311-00-00-0000-49169 c401804 990-0-0 From Transportation Measure D 750,000 MB Sanc Seg 8 & 9
750,000
311-40-64-9330-57307 c401804 100-2020-0 Pedestrian/bike systems 750,000 MB Sanc Seg 8 & 9
224-00-00-0000-59103 To General CIP 750,000
1,500,000
-750,000
Shelley
Horrow
Digitally signed by
Shelley Horrow
Date: 2025.02.25
12:04:58 -08'00'
Nathan N.
Nguyen
Digitally signed by
Nathan N. Nguyen
Date: 2025.03.06
08:36:04 -08'00'
Emily
Burton
Digitally signed
by Emily Burton
Date: 2025.03.06
14:09:11 -08'00'
Elizabet
h Cabell
Digitally signed by
Elizabeth Cabell
Date: 2025.03.07
14:42:58 -08'00' 20.4
City Council
AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 03/06/2025
AGENDA OF: 03/25/2025
DEPARTMENT: Public Works
SUBJECT: Award Contract for Bergkamp Patching Truck – Budget Adjustment (PW) LOCATION: Citywide
RECOMMENDATION: Motion to:
1) Award a contract for purchase of a Bergkamp FP5 Flameless Patcher from Bergkamp Pavement Management Solutions (Salina, KS) in the amount of $217,305; and 2) Adopt a resolution amending the FY 2025 budget to appropriate funds budgeted in Fund 101 in the amount of $17,305 to the Street Maintenance & Rehabilitation Fund, Fund 317.
BACKGROUND: The Public Works Street Maintenance Division maintains all city streets and pathways. Currently, staff are using asset #604, a 2008 International 4400 patch truck, which was purchased by the City of Santa Cruz (City) in 2008 for $133,795. This truck is used to store, haul, and discharge asphalt. There is also a jackhammer on board for breaking up asphalt and the truck is used to transport small piles. In 2024, approximately 100 tons of asphalt was poured by Street Maintenance staff.
The current patch truck has proven to be costly to repair and increasingly difficult to maintain.
To date, lifetime maintenance costs have reached over $206,000. If the current truck is to remain in the fleet, it is expected that all hydraulic and tar lines will need replacement soon due to ongoing maintenance challenges. Additionally, in the current model, the asphalt is heated with an open flame. Due to the age of the machine, and the propane powered motor, this method poses additional operational risk.
The Street Maintenance Division has researched manufacturers for a new patch truck that does not pose the safety risks associated with operating an open flame. Currently, there is not an electric vehicle (EV) patch truck available on the market. The patcher requires being mounted on a diesel or gas chassis framework due to the power take-offs (PTO) requirements to power the equipment. There are patcher manufacturers that still utilize the propane tank to heat the material, but the additional fuel source requires staff to fill the propane tank and incurs additional time for preparing the patch truck for use, as well as waiting for the material to properly heat.
21.1 In February 2025, Fleet and Street Maintenance staff were able to attend a demonstration for the Bergkamp F5 Flameless patch truck at the City’s Corporation Yard. This model used a flameless patcher that runs off an electric heating system as opposed to propane, which reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and the flameless electric heater keeps the material in the hopper at a consistent temperature for working and nonworking hours. The patcher has no auxiliary engine, resulting in further emissions reductions. Bergkamp is the only company with this technology on the market.
Another benefit of the Bergkamp truck is that the hydraulic lines are cleared with air instead of solvent, reducing clogs and lowering maintenance costs. The truck runs on a Cummins motor, which is a common asset in Citywide fleet, and Fleet Maintenance staff are experienced in repairing and already license Cummins software.
Additionally, the demonstration model contained several optional items/tools such as a platform, a swing augur, 360-degree cameras to improve driver visibility, backup camera, LED strobe lights and arrow board, and a pavement breaker. Another valuable optional tool shown was InPave telematics, which allows staff to pull reports showing the amount of materials used and staff time to pour, which is not available to staff now.
DISCUSSION: Section 3.08.150 of the Purchasing Ordinance allows the Purchasing Manager to award a contract without competition when there is only one source for the required item/service.
The original HGACBuy quote for a new Bergkamp FP Flameless Patcher mounted on a 2024 International cab and chassis was $351,213 with fully loaded options: $125,992 for the International cab and chassis, $107,300 for the FP5 Flameless All-In-One Pothole Patcher, and $86,720 in additional equipment options. After a successful demonstration, Bergkamp offered to sell the demo/showcase model to the City for a purchase price of $217,305.00. The demo model does not qualify for HGACBuy cooperative pricing since it is considered a used equipment purchase. The model is a well-maintained FP Flameless Patcher mounted onto a 2019 Kenworth cab and chassis, which are CARB compliant, and the unit is fully loaded with equipment options valued at $86,720.
The truck has 62,000 miles of highway use and the patcher has very limited paving use since it has only been a demonstration/showcase truck. The purchase comes with a one-year warranty on the patching machine, delivery of the patch truck on a trailer, and comprehensive training to both Fleet and Street Maintenance staff provided by Bergkamp. Additionally, the purchase of the used demonstration model with the installed optional items/tools provides significant cost savings of $133,908.
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION: This is not a project under CEQA.
HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): This project aligns with the following Health in All Policies Conditions: Healthy Environments (Natural and Built Infrastructure) in that it addresses and safely maintains the quality of city roads and pathways. The project supports the Climate Action Plan in that the replacement vehicle is CARB compliant and will not be using propane fuel to heat the asphalt material. The project also conflicts with the Climate Action Plan in that there is not a feasible electric vehicle alternative available to operate the FP5 Flameless Patcher equipment.
21.2 FISCAL IMPACT:
1. The recommendation in this report impacts the General Fund: No
2. This recommendation requires a budget adjustment: Yes
3. The recommendation creates an on-going expenditure commitment: No FISCAL IMPACT DESCRIPTION: The purchase price of $217,305 for the patch truck will be mostly funded from Fund 317 (CIP-Street Maintenance & Rehabilitation Fund). These funds are used for repairing city streets, which was approved by voters in 2006 through Measure H:
$200,000 of FY 2025 budget in this fund will support this purchase. The remaining $17,305 will be funded by a transfer from a Fund 101 project, m400028 for Public Works Streets Maintenance.
Prepared By:
Jenna Wilson
Management Analyst
Submitted By:
Nathan Nguyen, P.E.
Director of Public Works
Approved By:
Matt Huffaker
City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:
1. SINGLE SOURCE MEMO WITH QUOTES.PDF
21.3 City of Santa Cruz
BUDGET ADJUSTMENT REQUEST
$GPLQLVWUDWLYH$SSURYDO
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ACCOUNT 352-(&71$0(
LIDSSOLFDEOH
255(9(18($&&28177,7/(
ACCOUNT 352-(&71$0(
LIDSSOLFDEOH
25EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT TITLE
NET: $
REQUESTED BY DEPARTMENT HEAD
APPROVAL
BUDGET/ACCOUNTING
5(9,(:('
FINANCE DIRECTOR
APPROVAL
CITYMANAGER
APPROVAL
5HVR
352-(&7
352-(&7
$02817
$02817
&RXQFLO$SSURYDO
TOTAL EXPENDITURE
TOTALREVENUE
'DWH
1VSQPTF
3FWJTFE/PWFNCFS
Clear Form
FY25
03/07/2025
Move funds from PW-Streets Maintenance Flood Control into PW Streets Maintenance c400810, for the purchase of a Bergkamp F5 Flameless Patch Truck.
317-00-00-0000-49101 c400810-912-0-0 From General Fund 17,305 17,305
101-40-61-4210-54311 m400028-100-2020-0 PW Streets Maintenance - Flood Control -17,305 317-40-64-9311-57304 c400810-100-2020-0 City Residential & Collector 217,305 101-00-00-0000-59123 To CIP- Street Maint & Rehab Fund 17,305 317-40-61-9311-57405 Heavy Equipment -200,000
17,305
0 Jenna
Wilson
Digitally signed
by Jenna Wilson
Date: 2025.03.07
07:23:30 -08'00'
Nathan N.
Nguyen
Digitally signed by
Nathan N. Nguyen
Date: 2025.03.07
09:21:56 -08'00'
Emily
Burton
Digitally signed
by Emily Burton
Date: 2025.03.07
13:30:13 -08'00'
Elizabet
h Cabell
Digitally signed by
Elizabeth Cabell
Date: 2025.03.07
14:40:42 -08'00' 21.4
MEMORANDUM City of Santa Cruz
Public Works | Operations
1125 River Street
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
DATE: March 3, 2025
TO: Elizabeth Millwee, Purchasing Manager
FROM: Filipina Warren, Public Works Operations Manager
SUBJECT: Berkamp FP5 Flameless Patcher mounted on a 2019 Kenworth T370 The Public Works Street Maintenance division is responsible for maintaining the city streets. The division currently has a propane heated Thermo-lay patcher mounted on a 2008 International 4400 diesel truck for permanent asphalt repair. The use of propane heating is old technology, and there is a risk of fire and injury to staff operating the equipment. Vehicle 604 patch truck was put into service in 2009, and over the life of the vehicle, the total cost to operate has been $235,799, which includes $206,515.70 in repair costs. The patch truck is a vital piece of equipment in the Streets division’s daily operation to repair potholes and maintain City streets, and the additional downtime for repairs and increased cost for parts and labor requires for the patch truck to be removed from Fleet’s inventory.
In October 2024, Fleet and Streets discussed the need for a replacement patch truck.
Currently, there is not an electric vehicle (EV) patch truck available on the market. The patcher requires being mounted on a diesel or gas chassis due to the power take-offs (PTO) requirements to power the equipment. There are patcher manufacturers that still utilize the propane tank to heat the material, but the additional fuel source requires staff to fill the propane tank and incurs additional time for preparing the patch truck for use, as well as, waiting for the material to properly heat. Staff researched patch trucks that would decrease the amount of staff preparation time and increase operational safety.
Staff contacted Bergkamp (Salina, KS) regarding the FP5 flameless electric pothole patcher after Fleet and Streets staff reviewed the specifications and agreed that a demo should be scheduled. In February 2025, staff were able to view the demo patch truck with fully-loaded options mounted on the 2019 Kenworth T370. Fleet confirmed and approved the patch truck specifications. The Bergkamp FP5 utilizes electric versus propane heating which reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and the flameless electric heater keeps the material in the hopper at a consistent temperature for working and nonworking hours.
The patcher has no auxiliary engine so there are further reduced emissions. The unit also has a number of safety features, such as a platform, a swing augur, 360-degree camera, back up camera and LED strobe lights and arrow board.
The cost for a newly built FP5 Flameless Patcher, including all the optional features, mounted on a 2024 International cab and chassis is $351,213 through the HGACBuy cooperative purchasing contract. The cost for the demo and showcase FP5 Flameless Patcher on the Kenworth T370 truck is $217,305 and doesn’t qualify for the HGACBuy
21.5 MEMORANDUM City of Santa Cruz
Public Works | Operations
1125 River Street
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
cooperative purchase because it’s considered a used purchase. There is a savings of $133,908 to the City with the purchase of the demo model. The 2019 truck is CARB compliant with 62,000 miles on the odometer; it has been well-maintained by demonstration specialists, and the FP5 Flameless Patcher has all the optional features included in the cost.
Staff have reviewed the cost benefit of replacing the current Thermo-lay patcher mounted on the 2008 International 4400 diesel truck with the Bergkamp FP5 Flameless Patcher mounted on the 2019 Kenworth T370. The $133,908 savings in purchasing the demo model with new patcher equipment is a positive cost benefit due to expected increases to vehicle and equipment purchases from impending inflation and tariffs, and the new equipment will increase the service level of the Streets division.
Please feel free to contact me with any questions.
cc: Nathan Nguyen, Director of Public Works
Jenna Wilson, Management Analyst
Attachments:
2/27/25 proposal for FP5 Flameless Patcher on 2019 Kenworth T370 10/12/23 proposal for FP5 Flameless Patcher on 2024 International
21.6 2/27/25
City of Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz, CA
Attention: Ms. Filipina Warren
Ms. Warren:
I am pleased to present this offer to you:
One Bergkamp FP5 Flameless Patcher mounted onto a 2019 Kenworth T370 Included in this price are the following features:
Hydraulically driven Auger with dual motors
Agitator with hydraulic motor
Spoils bins side and rear
All material tanks on Service Platform, ladder, climb assist handles Hydraulically operated hopper doors
Compressed Air/Tack System for proper cleaning/tacking of repair area Back up alarm
Oversized Lockable storage
Conspicuity Marking around unit
Paint Color Omaha orange
Twin Cleaning Fluid Wands (platform and rear for cleaning tools) One Year Warranty (Extended warranty options are available) Professional Mounting, wet spline pto, pressure compensated variable Volume pump
Propane Heating Torch
LED lighting on machine (Side/Rear 3 light bar) box mount Plus these options:
In Pave Telematics System
Able 2 – 10 Light LED Arrow Board
Single LED strobe lights and rear dual
Dual Rear Flashers
Wacker Packer Vibratory Plate Compactor
Stanley Model BR67 pavement breaker loaded onto hydraulic platform Includes hose reel mounted under curbside fender
Cone Holder, Tool Holder on rear spoils bin
360 degree camera with night vision and recording
Back up camera
Swing Auger Option
Pivot Tack System
Delivery by trailer to City of Santa Cruz and onsite training $198,000.00 Plus CA sales [email protected]% $ 19,305.00
Total $217,305.00
Please note that Kenworth cab and chassis has 62,000 miles on odometer Machine has been well maintained by our demonstration specialists Machine is covered by a one year warranty
21.7
Offer for City of Santa Cruz
Please note that FP5 pricing shall remain in effect until April 30,2025.
Payment terms are net 30 days from date of shipment to the City.
Delivery shall be made within 45- 60 days of receipt of purchase order Please let me know if you need more information or if I can answer any questions.
We appreciate this opportunity to present our equipment and would be honored to serve your City in the future.
Respectfully submitted,
Jennifer A Straus
Jennifer A Straus
Sales Project Manager
Waco Office 254-717-3664 (cell)
21.8 Equipment Quote
10/12/2023
BERGKAMP INC.
3040 EMULSION DR
SALINA, KS 67401
I am proud to represent Bergkamp Inc. and our effort to provide the best equipment for your Pavement Preservation dollars. Thank you for the opportunity to quote your equipment needs.
Quoted Equipment with Selected Upgrades and Options:
Bergkamp Purchased Patcher Chassis 125,992.00
2024 International cab & chassis with 9L engine Click or tap here to enter text.
FP5 Flameless All-In-One Pothole Patcher $107,300.00
Standard Mounting for FP $7,795.00
80 Gallon Heated Tack Tank $11,100.00
Swing Auger $15,250.00
Plate Compactor $7,045.00
67 lb Pavement Breaker $8,585.00
Pivot Tack System $4,810.00
Propane Torch $1,050.00
Generator with Enclosure $1,650.00
InPave System $10,885.00
Flush LED Lighting (Exterior) $1,885.00
Able 2 10 Light LED Arrowboard $1,980.00
Single Front Mounted LED Strobe Light $1,085.00
Dual Rear Mounted LED Strobe Lights $1,185.00
Dual Rear LED Flashers $805.00
Single Cone Holder - Curbside Mount $310.00
360° Camera System $11,015.00
Tool Holder - Rear Spoils Bin $285.00
Equipment SubTotal $194,020.00
Total $320,012.00
Terms & Conditions:
• Terms: Net 30 days from receipt of Equipment. All prices quoted are in US Dollars (USD). .
21.9 • Customer is solely responsible for insuring units are configured and loaded in order to comply with all manufacturer’s guidelines and local, state and national laws. Bergkamp Inc. assumes no responsibility or liability associated with compliance with these regulations.
Thank you again for the opportunity, and I look forward to working with you. This proposal shall remain in force until (12/31/2024). If you have further questions, please call me at 254-717-3664 or at [email protected]
Sincerely,
Jennifer Straus
Sales Project Manager
21.10 City Council
AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 03/05/2025
AGENDA OF: 03/25/2025
DEPARTMENT: Water
SUBJECT: City of Santa Cruz and Soquel Creek Water District Intertie Mutual Aid Agreement (WT)
LOCATION: Citywide
RECOMMENDATION: Motion to:
1) Authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement between the City of Santa Cruz and the Soquel Creek Water District, providing emergency water services between the two parties, upon the terms and conditions as set forth in the said agreement; and 2) Approve the CEQA Determination.
BACKGROUND: The City of Santa Cruz Water Department (City) and the Soquel Creek Water District (District) own and operate adjacent municipal water systems. The City and District rely on distinct raw water sources that are impacted differently by weather patterns and natural conditions: the City relies predominately on surface water and the District relies entirely on groundwater. As a result, there are times when one agency may have a more reliable or abundant supply than the other. Establishing a mutual aid agreement for reciprocal water service, enhancing regional water reliability, emergency preparedness, and long-term sustainability for both parties.
DISCUSSION: In 1976, the City and District established a similar agreement for reciprocal water service, recognizing the mutual benefits of being able to transfer water between their systems. That agreement was exercised on a number of occasions, most recently during the severe winter storms in 2017 that significantly impacted the City’s raw water sources and infrastructure, leading to a water supply emergency, while the District remained largely unaffected.
In 2016, the two agencies entered into a cooperative water transfer pilot project to assess the feasibility of ongoing transfers, outside of emergency situations. Between 2019 and 2020, the City successfully transferred approximately 80 million gallons to the District. Since then, intermittent transfers from the District to the City have occurred during winter storms and periods when the City’s production was temporarily reduced due to capital improvement projects.
22.1 This type of operational agreement supports the Securing Our Water Future policy (Council Policy 34.7) and the potential for ongoing transfers between the City and District. Additional agreements may be put in place to facilitate more routine use of our varied water resources.
The District will consider this agreement at a Board of Directors meeting in April.
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION:
Approval of the agreement is not a project under CEQA because it does not have the potential to cause physical change in the environment directly or indirectly. In the alternative, if the action is considered a project, the common-sense exception applies because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility the approval of the agreement itself will have a significant effect on the environment. (14 Cal. Code Regs 15061(b)(3).) Furthermore, the following exemptions would be applicable for the City:
• Statutory exemption for emergency projects (Public Resources Code 21080(b)(2)-(4)); • Class 1 exemption for operation, repair, maintenance, permitting, leasing, licensing, or minor alteration of existing structures and facilities with negligible or no expansion of use (14 Cal. Code Regs 15301);
• Class 2 exemption for replacement or reconstruction of existing structures or facilities (14 Cal. Code Regs 15302);
• Class 3 exemption for new construction, installation, or conversion of small structures, facilities or equipment (14 Cal. Code Regs 15303).
HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): By improving infrastructure integrity and enhancing water supply reliability, this project supports the public health pillar of the City’s HiAP initiative through ensuring healthy built environments, which is one of eight core conditions for health and well-being. It also enables the City to implement and sustain actions that reduce vulnerabilities and risks from hazards, as well as mitigate their effects on people and property.
FISCAL IMPACT:
1. The recommendation in this report impacts the General Fund: No
2. This recommendation requires a budget adjustment: No
3. The recommendation creates an on-going expenditure commitment: No FISCAL IMPACT DESCRIPTION: The proposed action has no fiscal impact.
Prepared By:
Evanda Goad
Management Analyst
Submitted By:
Heidi Luckenbach
Water Director
Approved By:
Matt Huffaker
City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:
1. MUTUAL AID AGREEMENT BETWEEN CITY OF SANTA CRUZ AND SOQUEL CREEK WATER DISTRICT.DOCX
22.2 MUTUAL AID AGREEMENT BETWEEN
CITY OF SANTA CRUZ AND
SOQUEL CREEK WATER DISTRICT
1. PARTIES AND DATE.
This Agreement is made and entered into this ____ day of ____________, 2025 by and between the City of Santa Cruz (the “City”) and Soquel Creek Water District (the “District”). City and District are at times referred to individually as “Party” and collectively as “Parties” herein.
2. RECITALS.
2.1 City is a California municipal corporation, and District is a county water district organized pursuant to California Water Code Section 30000, et seq.
2.2 The Parties currently provide water service in their respective jurisdictions and operate a number of interties.
2.3 The Parties desire to have a mutual aid agreement in place for the provisions of mutual aid services by either Party to the other Party.
2.4 The Parties acknowledge and agree that each Party’s response to a request for assistance may be delayed or denied pending an existing emergency or other demand on its equipment or staffing within its jurisdiction.
2.5 The Parties are authorized to enter into cooperative and mutual aid agreements pursuant to California law.
3. TERMS.
It is agreed as follows:
3.1 Mutual Aid Response. Either Party may request the other Party’s assistance in responding to an incident affecting their water service and system. The Party receiving the request shall endeavor to provide the requested services subject to the limitations of Section 3.2. In any event, the Party shall notify the requesting Party whether it will be able to provide services as soon as practicable and any conditions or limitations on the Party’s ability to provide such services. The Parties agree not to invoice the other Party for water provided when responding to a mutual aid response situation.
3.2 Limitations on Response. Each Party’s obligation to provide mutual aid to the other Party is expressly contingent upon the conditions within its jurisdiction, its staffing and equipment availability, as well as existing resources, as determined by the responding Party in its sole and absolute discretion.
3.3 Projects. To assist in the provision of mutual aid services or in the transfer of water from the City to the District or District to the City, the Parties may authorize improvements to their systems to facilitate mutual aid. Projects may be proposed by either Party and the Parties shall
22.3 identify a sponsoring Party. Such sponsoring Party shall procure the materials, services, and contractors for the Project subject to any project-specific cost sharing agreed to by the other Party in advance and in writing. Each Party agrees to bear full responsibility for all other costs. The sponsoring Party shall comply with all applicable procurement laws and shall add insurance and indemnity language to protect the non-sponsoring Party, subject to the non-sponsoring Party’s reasonable and advance written approval.
3.4 Intertie Transfers. In the event of an incident affecting either Party’s water service and system, the Parties may transfer water to the other Party through any existing or added intertie connection. Each Party to this Agreement shall operate its pipelines in such a manner that any water which the City or District delivers pursuant to this Agreement shall not be diminished in quality as a result of being delivered. The Parties acknowledge, however, that water delivered by one Party through any interconnection will be commingled with the water of the other Party and that the water delivered may not be of the same quality as that present before passing through the interconnection. Water being provided through any intertie may also be at a different pressure.
The Parties will maintain an accounting of water provided under this Agreement, and a Party receiving water shall provide an equivalent amount of water to the other Party within two years of receipt of water unless otherwise agreed to in writing by the Parties.
3.5 Independent Contractor Status. The Parties shall pay all wages, salaries, and other amounts due to their own personnel in connection with any and all services under this Agreement and as required by law. Each Party shall be responsible for all reports and obligations respecting their own personnel, including, but not limited to, social security taxes, income tax withholding, unemployment insurance, and workers’ compensation insurance. Employees or agents of one Party shall not be deemed employees of the other for any purpose.
3.6 Indemnification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, each Party (“Indemnitor”) agrees to defend, indemnify, and hold the other Party, its elected officials, officers, employees, contractors, authorized volunteers, and agents (collectively, “Indemnitees”) harmless from any and all claims, demands, causes of action, costs, expenses, losses, damages, injuries or liabilities, including attorney’s fees and expert witness fees (collectively, “Claims”), which any Indemnitees may sustain or incur or which may be imposed upon it, but only in proportion to and to the extent such Claims result from, arise out of, or in any manner are caused by the negligent or intentional acts or omissions of Indemnitor, Indemnitor’s officials, officers, employees, contractors, authorized volunteers, and/or agents relating to this Agreement.
Indemnitor further agrees to waive any rights of subrogation against Indemnitee.
3.7 Site Access/Use. District agrees to grant a non-exclusive license to the City for the Term of this Agreement as reasonably required by City and its employees, contractors, authorized volunteers, and agents to access the District’s O’Neill facility, located at 4125 Soquel Dr., Soquel, California/Assessor’s Parcel Number 030-341-12 (the “Facility”), for the sole purpose of installing and maintaining an orthophosphate feed system skid at the Facility (the “License”). The activities undertaken pursuant to this License will be scheduled in advance between the Parties at least five (5) days prior to the start date of the activities. City shall provide notice of the start area to the District. In the case of an emergency, the City or its agent may enter the Facility at any time without
22.4 first securing the District’s prior permission. The City agrees to maintain and keep the License in good condition during the City’s use as set forth herein and to comply with all applicable Federal, State, and local laws while utilizing the Facility. The City agrees to notify the District in advance of any alterations, improvements, additions, or utility installations related to the License. The District agrees to provide access to the License throughout the duration of the Term. In consideration of City fully performing its obligations under this License, the District agrees not to charge a License Fee or any monthly utility fee.
3.8 Term. This Agreement shall be effective as of the date that this Agreement is executed by the Parties, or if the Agreement is executed by the Parties on different dates, than on the date of the final signature, and shall continue until terminated by either Party by giving sixty (60) days’ notice, in writing, to the other Party (the “Term”). The Parties should meet and confer regarding any potential amendments or updates to this Agreement at least once every five years.
3.9 Notices. Any notices required to be given under this Agreement shall be deemed to have been properly delivered, served, or given for all purposes when personally delivered to the Party to whom it is directed to, or in lieu of such personal service, when mailed, postage prepaid, or emailed to the following addresses:
If to City: City of Santa Cruz
809 Center Street, Room 10
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Attn: Water Director
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 831-320-5200
If to District: Soquel Creek Water District
5180 Soquel Drive
Soquel, CA 95073
Attn: General Manager
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (831)475-8500
Any Party may change its address for the purposes of this paragraph by giving written notice of such change in the manner prescribed by this paragraph.
3.10 Third Party Rights. The Parties agree that the provisions of this Agreement are not intended to create or clarify any rights in third parties not a party to this Agreement. In addition, no third party shall have any right of action hereunder. This Agreement shall not be enforceable by any parties other than City or District.
3.11 Privileges and Immunities. All privileges and immunities of City and District provided by state or federal law shall remain in full force and effect.
3.12 Compliance with Laws. All activities of the Parties, their employees, and/or agents will be carried out in compliance with all applicable Federal, State, and local laws and regulations.
22.5 3.13 Entire Agreement. This Agreement contains the entire Agreement of the Parties with respect to the subject matter hereof, and supersedes all prior negotiations, understandings or agreements. This Agreement may only be modified by a written agreement signed by both Parties.
This Agreement expressly supersedes any other existing emergency intertie or mutual aid agreements between the Parties, including the Agreement (Reciprocal Water Service) dated July 21, 1976. This Agreement does not affect or modify any existing or future water transfer agreements that contemplate water transfers in a non-emergency basis.
3.14 Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of California. Venue shall be in Santa Cruz County.
3.15 Successors and Assigns. This Agreement shall be binding on the successors and assigns of the Parties, and shall not be assigned by either Party without the prior written consent of the other.
3.16 Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, each of which shall constitute an original. A scanned, electronic, facsimile, or other copy of a party’s signature shall be accepted and valid as an original.
3.17 Severability. In the event that any one or more phrases, sentences, clauses, paragraphs, or sections contained in this Agreement shall be declared invalid or unenforceable by a valid judgment or decree of a court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity or unenforceability shall not affect any of the remaining phrases, sentences, clauses, paragraphs, or sections of this Agreement which are hereby declared as severable and shall be interpreted to carry out the intent of the Parties hereunder.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties hereto have caused this instrument to be signed and executed on the date first hereinabove written.
CITY OF SANTA CRUZ SOQUEL CREEK WATER DISTRICT
By: _____________________________ By: ___________________________ Matt Huffaker Melanie Mow Schumacher
City Manager General Manager
Approved as to form: Approved as to form:
By: _____________________________ By: ___________________________ Office of the City Attorney Office of the District Attorney
3/12/25
22.6 City Council
AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 02/18/2025
AGENDA OF: 03/11/2025
DEPARTMENT: Water
SUBJECT: Modifications to City Council Forest Management Policies for Water Department Watershed Lands (WT)
LOCATION: Citywide
RECOMMENDATION: Motion to adopt a resolution repealing City Council Policy 11.3 - Timber Harvests in Watershed Area and Preservation of Old Growth Trees, and replacing with City Council Policy 11.3 – Forest Management of Water Department Watershed Lands, which includes a) additional old growth tree characteristics that will facilitate their protection and b) the ability to commercialize forest products in alignment with c) the requirement to reinvest revenue from such commercialization into other Water Department watershed restoration work.
BACKGROUND: The City of Santa Cruz Water Department (Water Department) manages nearly 4,000 acres of property in the San Lorenzo River and Laguna Creek watersheds for the purposes of drinking water source protection. Forest management is of the utmost importance in the Water Department’s efforts to protect its drinking water supplies.
During the early twentieth century, most of the City’s watershed properties were clearcut by previous owners, resulting in regrowth of vegetation that is significantly denser and more prone to catastrophic wildfire. Since the City began acquiring these properties—an effort largely initiated in the 1950s—the Water Department has applied several strategies to manage forest health, including conifer and hardwood thinning, dead and dying tree removal, invasive/exotic weed removal, ladder fuel removal along key fire breaks and access routes, and coordination with fire agencies on training, access, and infrastructure needs.
City Council Policy 11.3 -Timber Harvests in Watershed Area and Preservation of Old Growth Trees (1998), provides criteria for identifying and protecting old growth trees. However, these criteria no longer align with contemporary forest health standards. For example, second and third growth trees would be mischaracterized as old growth solely based on their large trunk diameter.
As a result, the historic approach presents a fundamental challenge to forest management and overall forest health because large, but not necessarily old growth trees, cannot be cut even if forest health goals would benefit from it. Recognizing this, Water Department staff embarked on studies to determine if more widely accepted characteristics of old growth trees, reflected in contemporary forest health standards, should be incorporated into the City’s forest management policy.
23.1 In 2019, the Water Department hired Sicular Environmental Consulting and Natural Lands Management (Sicular) to evaluate opportunities and constraints for improved forest management to ensure forest health on the City’s watershed lands.
In 2021, the Water Commission supported a staff recommendation, based on the report from Sicular, to explore the Integrated Production and Restoration forest management alternative. This alternative places more focus on fuel management and restoration with limited commercial timber harvest. More details can be found in the October 4, 2021 Water Commission Watershed Lands Forest Management Update:
https://www.cityofsantacruz.com/home/showpublisheddocument/86410/637686001735000000 Following the October 2021 Water Commission meeting, the Department contracted with Auten Resource Consulting (ARC) to operationalize the broad recommendations of the Integrated Production and Restoration alternative. ARC recently provided its final report, Newell Creek Watershed Forest Stewardship Recommendations (Auten Resource Consulting 2024), available at:
https://www.cityofsantacruz.com/home/showpublisheddocument/102183. The recommendations include a range of forest management activities such as forest density reduction/large tree restoration, and forest health fuels reduction. Staff returned to the Water Commission in November of 2024 and February of 2025 to present these recommendations for discussion. The Commission supported the changes and requested staff report back during the budget process with details on how any revenue generated from this work would be allocated.
DISCUSSION: Forest health and drinking water source protection have always been the primary motivating factors for the management of Water Department watershed properties.
However, to carry out the recommendations contained in the Sicular and ARC studies, staff recommend that Council Policy 11.3 be amended to align with modern forest practices.
Proposed modifications to Council Policy 11.3 will create the policy language needed to perform the forest management work as described in the Integrated Production and Restoration alternative and ensure that any revenue generated is reinvested back into the watershed properties.
Below is the existing and proposed policy language.
Existing language:
Council Policy 11.3
Timber Harvests in Watershed Area and Preservation of Old Growth Trees Policy Timber Harvests
City staff will notify the Council of any requests for timber harvest permits, which would have the potential to cause negative impact in the City's watershed area.
23.2 Preservation of Old Growth Trees
The City Council of the City of Santa Cruz hereby declares it to be its policy that old growth trees and specimen trees on City-owned forest lands are to be preserved unless safety factors dictate their removal, or if the Council makes a specific exception.
Further, it is the policy of the City Council that residual trees will be harvested only in cases where silvicultural guidelines indicate their harvest would benefit the health and vigor of the stand, or if safety or extraneous factors dictate their removal.
For the purposes of this policy, the following definitions will apply:
“Old Growth Tree” means a tree which is at least 40 inches in diameter at breast height and/or is over 200 years old.
“Residual Tree” means a tree which was alive during the initial harvesting of the old growth forest, but either was a younger (smaller) tree at that time or was a suppressed tree in that forest.” Proposed new language:
Council Policy 11.3
Forest Management of Water Department Watershed Lands
Timber Harvests
Commercial Timber harvesting shall be allowed where it is consistent with the primary goals of maintaining forest health and drinking water source protection. Revenue generated from commercial harvest will be directed into dedicated accounts to be utilized for the purposes of furthering forest health, ecosystem resilience to fire and climate change, drinking water source protection, or other related Water Department ecosystem management goals. All commercial timber harvest plans shall be reviewed by the Water Commission and City Council prior to implementation.
Preservation of Old Growth Trees
The City Council of the City of Santa Cruz hereby declares it to be its policy that old growth and residual trees on City-owned lands are to be preserved unless safety factors or critical infrastructure needs dictate their removal, or if the Council makes a specific exception.
For the purposes of this policy, the following definitions will apply:
“Old Growth Tree” means a tree that is greater than 300 years old and has one or more of the following characteristics:
• Outline of the live crown is irregular
• Broken-off or spike top is present
• Epicormic branching or reiterations are present
• Large horizontal branches (>8") are present in the upper half of the tree • Cavities (goosepens), broken limbs or other "defect" present • Burn scars are visible on the trunk
23.3 “Residual” tree means a tree that was alive during the initial harvesting of the old growth forest but was small and not harvested during those harvests.” While these policy changes are unique to Water Department’s forest management on watershed lands, they are related to the citywide wildfire resiliency planning (WRP) effort recently reviewed by City Council. Whereas WRP focuses on maintaining defensible space and access, as well as infrastructure hardening, the proposed policy changes will enable healthier, more fireresilient forest conditions around infrastructure, reducing the risk of catastrophic wildfire events.
Additionally, the proposed policy changes will help clarify old growth tree standards so that large but non-old growth trees adjacent to critical water infrastructure can be managed more efficiently and cost-effectively.
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION: The proposed policy changes are exempt from CEQA review. Other than routine maintenance, all future forest management projects affected by these policy changes will go through CEQA review. While most projects will qualify for exemptions, timber harvests will require Timber Harvest Plans under the California Forest Practice Rules. This process is considered the functional equivalent of CEQA.
HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): These policy changes align well with the City’s HiAP pillars of public health and sustainability by supporting environmental and public health, increasing resilience to climate change, improving water supply reliability, potentially reducing water treatment costs, and providing other benefits to both City operations and stakeholders in our drinking water source watersheds. Furthermore, these changes support the HiAP equity pillar by enabling revenue from forest products to fund other forest health, restoration, and drinking water source protection goals that might otherwise require financial support from water rates paid for by ratepayers. Additionally, future forest health-related work is expected to involve significant stakeholder engagement. Finally, these policy changes institutionalize a more nuanced understanding of forest health needs, ultimately supporting the Water Department’s long-term management of watershed lands and drinking water source protection and overall protection of environmental and public health.
FISCAL IMPACT:
1. The recommendation in this report impacts the General Fund: No
2. This recommendation requires a budget adjustment: No
3. The recommendation creates an on-going expenditure commitment: No FISCAL IMPACT DESCRIPTION: The Watershed Section budget has sufficient funds in the Fiscal Year 2025 budget to initiate implementation of these policy changes.
Prepared By:
Chris Berry
Watershed Compliance
Manager
Submitted By:
Heidi Luckenbach
Water Director
Approved By:
Matt Huffaker
City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:
1. RESOLUTION.DOCX
2. DRAFT COUNCIL POLICY 11.3 FOREST MANAGEMENT OF WATER DEPARTMENT WATERSHED LANDS.DOC
23.4 RESOLUTION NO. NS-XX,XXX
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CRUZ REPEALING AND REPLACING COUNCIL POLICY 11.3
WHEREAS, THE City endeavors to supply water to customers in the most efficient, cost effective, and environmentally sustainable manner possible; and WHEREAS, the Water Department maintains nearly 4,000 acres of open space acreage for the purposes of drinking water source protection; and
WHEREAS, this open space requires management in order to ensure forest health; and WHEREAS, forest health contributes significantly to drinking water source protection goals; and
WHEREAS, the City staff modified the language of Council Policy 11.3 including renaming to reflect its true focus, Forest Management of Water Department Watershed Lands to clarify standards for performing forest health - related management work; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Santa Cruz that Council Policy 11.3 - Timber Harvests in Watershed Area and Preservation of Old Growth Trees is hereby repealed and replaced with Council Policy 11.3 - Forest Management of Water Department Watershed Lands, which shall take effect immediately.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this 11h day of March, 2025 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
DISQUALIFIED:
APPROVED: ______________________________
Fred Keeley, Mayor
ATTEST: _________________________________
Bonnie Bush, City Clerk Administrator
23.5 COUNCIL POLICY 11.3
POLICY TITLE FOREST MANAGEMENT OF WATER
DEPARTMENT WATERSHED LANDS
POLICY STATEMENT:
Timber Harvests
Commercial Timber harvesting shall be allowed where it is consistent with the primary goals of maintaining forest health and drinking water source protection. Revenue generated from commercial harvest will be directed into dedicated accounts to be utilized for the purposes of furthering forest health, ecosystem resilience to fire and climate change, drinking water source protection, or other related Water Department ecosystem management goals. All commercial timber harvest plans shall be reviewed by the Water Commission and City Council prior to implementation.
Preservation of Old Growth Trees
The City Council of the City of Santa Cruz hereby declares it to be its policy that old growth and residual trees on City-owned lands are to be preserved unless safety factors or critical infrastructure needs dictate their removal, or if the Council makes a specific exception.
For the purposes of this policy, the following definitions will apply:
“Old Growth Tree” means a tree that is greater than 300 years old and has one or more of the following characteristics:
Outline of the live crown is irregular
Broken-off or spike top is present
Epicormic branching or reiterations are present
Large horizontal branches (>8") are present in the upper half of the tree Cavities (goosepens), broken limbs or other "defect" present Burn scars are visible on the trunk
“Residual” tree means a tree that was alive during the initial harvesting of the old growth forest but was small and not harvested during those harvests.
23.6 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-06
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SANTA CRUZ AMENDING SANTA CRUZ MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 5.82 RELATED TO SIDEWALK VENDING REGULATIONS WHEREAS, in 2019, California Senate Bill ("SB") 946 (Sidewalk Vendors) became law, decriminalizing commercial sidewalk vending and limiting local governments' ability to restrict sidewalk vending;
WHEREAS, on April 12, 2022, the City passed Ordinance No. 2022-03, which created the Santa Cruz Municipal Code Chapter 5.82, “Sidewalk Vending;” to promote public health, safety, and welfare, through a comprehensive City-wide dedicated sidewalk vending permitting and regulation scheme that both complies with state law and is effective at regulating sidewalk vending in public spaces;
WHEREAS, on February 12, 2023, the City amended the Ordinance in Ordinance No. 2023-04;
WHEREAS, the intent of this ordinance is to update the current sidewalk vending permitting and regulation scheme to effectively regulate sidewalk vending in a way that: (a) complies with state law; (b) addresses objective public health, safety, and welfare concerns; (c) promotes the public's use and enjoyment of natural resources and recreational opportunities; and (d) prevents an undue concentration of commercial activity that unreasonably interferes with the scenic and natural character of City parks and open spaces.
WHEREAS, this has no impact on the natural environment, because it does not create any physical change to the environment. Therefore, it is not considered a project under CEQA.
However, if it were considered a project, it would be exempt from review under the CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) (known as the “Common Sense” exemption) in that it would not reasonably be seen to create a significant impact on the environment. It would also be exempt under Section 15306 (Information Collection) of the CEQA Guidelines in that it relates to analysis and provision of information to the Council.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED By the City of Santa Cruz as follows:
Section 1. Santa Cruz Municipal Code Section 5.82.020 “Definitions” is hereby amended as follows:
5.82.020 DEFINITIONS.
For the purpose of this chapter, the following words and phrases are defined as follows:
a) “City-demarcated vending and display zones” means those areas specifically set aside for sidewalk vending, operating vending display devices, operating other display devices, and/or
24.1 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-06
2 conducting First Amendment activities. The city-demarcated vending and display zones on Pacific Avenue are marked on the sidewalk, and an up-to-date, accurate copy of the map of Pacific Avenue city-demarcated vending and display zones shall be posted on the city’s website. The city-demarcated vending and display zones on Pacific Avenue must permit a reasonable amount of sidewalk vending on Pacific Avenue, but also must limit vending on Pacific Avenue solely based on objective health, safety, or welfare concerns. b) “Director” means the director of the planning and community development department or their designee.
c) “Farmers’ market” or “certified farmers’ market” means a location operated in accordance with Chapter 10.5 (commencing with Section 47000) of Division 17 of the Food and Agricultural Code and any regulations adopted pursuant to that chapter. d) “Food” means raw, cooked, or processed edible substance, ice, beverage, an ingredient used or intended for use or for sale in whole or in part for human consumption, chewing gum and/or any other items defined as food by the California Retail Food Code. e) “Food sidewalk vendor” means any type of sidewalk vendor offering products defined as food.
f) “Mobile vendor” means any person in charge of or driving any motorized mobile vending vehicle requiring a state driver’s license to operate, either as an agent, employee, or otherwise under the direction of the owner.
g) “No vending or limited vending zone” means an area where sidewalk vending is prohibited or limited due to objective public health, safety, or welfare concerns. The city council may establish no vending or limited vending zones by resolution, as set forth in Section
5.82.080(c).
h) “Roaming sidewalk vendor” means a sidewalk vendor who moves from place to place and stops only to complete a transaction.
i) “Sidewalk vending” means to sell, offer for sale, expose or display for sale, solicit offers to purchase, or to barter food, goods, or merchandise on any public sidewalk, pedestrian path, park, or other public property, with or without the assistance of a vending display device, or to require someone to pay a fee or to set, negotiate, or establish a fee before providing any such food, goods, or merchandise, even if characterized by the sidewalk vendor as a donation. j) “Sidewalk vending permit” means a permit or card issued by the city to a sidewalk vendor pursuant to Section 5.82.040.
k) “Sidewalk vendor” means a person who sells food or merchandise from a vending display device or from one’s person, upon a public sidewalk, pedestrian path, park, or other public property. This term is inclusive of both roaming and stationary sidewalk vendors.
24.2 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-06
3 l) “Stationary sidewalk vendor” means a sidewalk vendor who vends from a fixed location. m) “Swap meet” means a location operated in accordance with Article 6 (commencing with Section 21660) of Chapter 9 of Division 8 of the Business and Professions Code and any regulations adopted pursuant to that article.
n) “Temporary special permit” is any permit issued by the city for the temporary use of, or encroachment on, the sidewalk or other public area, including, but not limited to, an encroachment permit pursuant to Chapter 15.34, a major public special event permit pursuant to Chapter 10.64, or any other type of city-issued temporary event permit, for purposes including, but not limited to, filming, parades, or outdoor concerts. o) “Vending display device” means a pushcart, stand, display, pedal-driven cart, wagon, showcase, rack, nonmotorized conveyance (including trailers), freestanding table, rack, chair, box, stand, or any container, structure, or other object used or capable of being used for holding, selling, advertising, or displaying tangible things, together with any associated seating facilities. “Vending display device” does not include any street furniture such as benches or planters, any other structure permanently installed by the city of Santa Cruz or with the consent of the city of Santa Cruz, or news racks placed in conformity with the provisions of this code regulating news racks.
p) “Enforcement Official” means any person designated by the City Manager to enforce this chapter and includes, but is not limited to: planning and community development department or parks and recreation department staff tasked with code enforcement or compliance, all Santa Cruz police department sworn personnel and community service officers, any person designated to issue citations under 4.02.021, and/or any city-contracted code enforcement officer or specialist.
Section 2. Santa Cruz Municipal Code Section 5.82.050 “Sidewalk Vending Permit Approval, Conditions, Denial, or Revocation” is hereby amended as follows:
5.82.050 SIDEWALK VENDING PERMIT APPROVAL, CONDITIONS, DENIAL, OR REVOCATION.
a) The director or their designee shall approve the issuance of the sidewalk vending permit unless they determine that:
1) Information contained in the application, or supplemental information requested from the applicant, is false in any material detail; or
2) The proposed operations contained in the application are contrary to the provisions of this chapter, or are contrary to any regulations promulgated pursuant to Section
5.82.030(b); or
3) The applicant has failed to provide a complete application, after having been notified of the requirement to produce additional information or documents; or
24.3 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-06
4 4) The applicant has failed to demonstrate an ability to conform to the operating standards set forth in this chapter or any standards set forth in regulations promulgated pursuant to Section 5.82.030(b); or
5) The applicant has failed to pay or otherwise resolve any previous administrative citations associated with a previous violation of this chapter; or 6) The location of the proposed vending operations has already been approved for another use (including potentially other vending operations) at the time the applicant proposes to vend at the subject location; or
7) The proposed vending operations are illegal, and/or the city’s approval of a sidewalk vending permit would be contrary to legal requirements applicable to the city. b) If the permit is denied, written notice of such denial and the reasons therefore shall be provided to the applicant.
c) The director or their designee may add reasonable sidewalk vending permit conditions, regulating the time, place, and manner of sidewalk vending. Such conditions must be (1) consistent with this chapter and any regulations promulgated pursuant to Section 5.82.030(b), and (2) directly related to objective public health, safety, or welfare concerns, or directly related to legal requirements applicable to the city. A violation of the sidewalk vending permit conditions is considered a violation of this chapter.
d) Use of a shade structure may be requested in a sidewalk vending permit application and park’s vending permit application, and such request will be granted if: (1) there is adequate space for the shade structure at the proposed vending location (including any space needed for pedestrians (including disabled pedestrians), vehicles, and bicyclists); (2) use of the shade structure at the proposed location would not adversely impact or put at risk public health, safety, or welfare; and (3) use of the shade structure at the proposed location would not be contrary to legal requirements applicable to the city.
e) Use of a generator may be requested in a sidewalk vending permit application, and such request will be granted if the proposed generator use: (1) will not create unreasonable noise, trip and fall hazards, or other adverse risks or impacts to public health, safety, or welfare; (2) is not otherwise illegal or contrary to legal requirements applicable to the city; and (3) is approved by all appropriate regulating entities, such as the Monterey Bay Air Resources District (MBARD), if those appropriate regulating entities require generator use approval. f) The director or their designee may revoke a sidewalk vending permit for a fourth or subsequent violation of this chapter within a twenty-four-month period. A sidewalk vendor whose permit is revoked may apply for a new sidewalk vending permit upon the expiration of the term of the rescinded permit.
24.4 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-06
5 g) Any person whose application for a sidewalk vending permit is denied, revoked, or conditioned in a way that the applicant believes is not in accordance with applicable legal requirements may appeal such decision to the city manager by filing a written notice of appeal with the city manager or their designee within ten calendar days after receipt of the notice of denial, conditions, or revocation. The appeal hearing shall be conducted pursuant to the administrative enforcement hearing procedure contained in Title 4. If the appeal is successful, the hearing officer will order the city to return the fee paid for appeal.
Section 3. Santa Cruz Municipal Code Section 5.82.080 “Restricted Vending Times and Locations” is hereby amended as follows:
5.82.080 RESTRICTED VENDING TIMES AND LOCATIONS.
a) Unless specifically permitted by another provision of this municipal code, to ensure rapid access by first responder and emergency personnel; to improve sidewalk accessibility for persons with disabilities; to facilitate ingress into and egress from vehicles, rights-of-way, buildings, and public spaces; to maximize use and promote maintenance of public rights-ofway, parks, the beach, and other public spaces; to help preserve and protect sensitive habitats, community landmarks, natural and scenic areas and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary; and to reduce the city’s exposure to civil liability, stationary sidewalk vending is not permitted in the following limited areas:
1) Year round, in areas on Pacific Avenue that are outside of the city-demarcated vending and display zones;
2) From November 1st through March 31st, on the streets and sidewalks of Beach Street between the Municipal Wharf and Third Street that are outside of the city-demarcated vending and display zones;
3) Year round, in any city park or beach where the City has entered into an agreement for concessions that exclusively permits the sale of food or merchandise by the concessionaire;
4) Year round, in areas that are zoned exclusively residential, including within residentially zoned parks; and
5) Year round, within the city’s open space, natural, and scenic areas, which includes Arana Gulch, Pogonip, Moore Creek, the San Lorenzo Riverwalk, and the West Cliff Drive pedestrian/bike path.
b) For the same reasons identified in subsection (a), both stationary and roaming sidewalk vending shall not be permitted in the following limited areas:
1) From April 1st through October 31st, on the streets and sidewalks of Beach Street between the Municipal Wharf and Third Street;
24.5 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-06
6 2) Year round, on the vehicle and pedestrian thoroughfares of the Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf;
3) Year round, on that portion of Main Beach over which the city has an easement for recreation and beach purposes only pursuant to a 1933 superior court judgment quieting title to the Seaside Company, which mandates “that no peddling, soliciting or bartering shall be permitted thereon”;
4) Year round, on the Beach Street Promenade Deck;
5) Year round, on a bike path, a street (including within on-street parking spaces), within a driveway, or in a public parking lot; and
6) Within five hundred feet of a permitted certified farmer’s market, a swap meet, or an area designated for a temporary special permit. This prohibition shall be limited to the operating hours of the farmer’s market or swap meet, or the limited duration of the temporary special permit.
c) The city council, by resolution, may from time to time designate no vending or limited vending zones due to objective health, safety, or welfare concerns. In designating a no vending or limited vending zone, the city council shall first determine that vending without limitation in the area would impede or interfere with public health, safety, or welfare. d) This section shall not be construed as prohibiting events that are conducted pursuant to, and in accordance with, Chapters 10.64, Major Public Special Events, and 10.65, Public Gathering and Expression Events.
Section 4. Santa Cruz Municipal Code Section 5.82.090 “Vending in City Beaches and Parks” is hereby amended as follows:
5.82.090 VENDING IN CITY BEACHES AND PARKS.
a) An additional parks and recreation vending permit is required for sidewalk vendors who wish to operate in a city park, beach, or other facility within the jurisdiction of the parks and recreation department, including that portion of the Beach Street sidewalk operated by the parks and recreation department, between the Municipal Wharf and Third Street. No person may vend in a city park, city beach, or facility within the jurisdiction of the parks and recreation department without first obtaining a parks vending permit. b) The director of parks and recreation, or their designee, may refuse to grant a parks vending permit if:
1) The sidewalk vendor does not yet have a sidewalk vending permit; or 2) If granting the parks vending permit would negatively impact objective health, safety, or welfare concerns; or
24.6 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-06
7 3) If denial is necessary to ensure the public’s use and enjoyment of natural resources or recreational opportunities; or
4) If denial of the permit is necessary to prevent an undue concentration of commercial activity that unreasonably interferes with the scenic and natural character of the park or beach; or
5) If the location of the proposed vending operations has already been approved for another use (including potentially other vending operations) at the time the applicant proposes to vend at the subject location; or
6) If the vending operations are illegal, or the city’s approval of the permit would be contrary to legal requirements imposed on the city.
c) If the permit is denied, written notice of such denial and the reasons therefor shall be provided to the applicant.
d) The director of parks and recreation, or their designee, may attach conditions to a parks vending permit. All conditions must be: (1) directly related to objective health, safety, welfare concerns, or directly related to legal requirements imposed on the city; or (2) necessary to ensure the public’s use and enjoyment of natural resources and recreational opportunities; or (3) necessary to prevent an undue concentration of commercial activity that unreasonably interferes with the scenic and natural character of the park.
e) Any person aggrieved by a decision of the parks and recreation department to issue, deny issuance, condition, or rescind a parks vending permit may appeal the decision to the city manager or their designee within ten calendar days after receipt of the notice of denial, conditions, or revocation. The appeal hearing shall be conducted pursuant to the administrative enforcement hearing procedure contained in Title 4. If the appeal is successful, the hearing officer shall order the city to return the fee paid for appeal.
Section 5. Santa Cruz Municipal Code Section 5.82.120 “Impoundment” is hereby amended as follows:
5.82.120 IMPOUNDMENT.
a) The city may impound vending display devices, food, goods, and/or merchandise that:
1) Reasonably appear to be abandoned on public property; or 2) Are displayed, offered, or made available for rent or sale by a sidewalk vendor who (A) operates in violation of this chapter; and (B) refuses or fails to provide identification, as required by Section 5.82.110(f); and (C) refuses to remove their vending display device, food for sale, and/or goods/merchandise for sale after being instructed to do so by a city enforcement official; or
24.7 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-06
8 3) Are displayed, offered, or made available for rent or sale by a sidewalk vendor who (A) does not possess a valid applicable sidewalk vending permit (and/or, if applicable, a valid applicable parks vending permit); and (B) also refuses to remove their vending display device, food for sale, and/or goods/merchandise for sale after being instructed to do so by a city enforcement official; or
4) Is (A) creating an imminent and substantial safety or environmental hazard by the location of the vending display device or the nature of the goods being offered for sale, and (B) refuses to remove their vending display device, food for sale, and/or goods/merchandise for sale after being instructed to do so by a city enforcement official; or
5) Are displayed, offered, or made available for rent or sale by a sidewalk vendor who has, within a twenty-four-month period, been issued three or more administrative citations for violations of this chapter.
b) The city may immediately dispose of impounded materials that are perishable or cannot be safely stored.
c) An aggrieved vendor may, within ten days, appeal the impoundment of their property by requesting an administrative hearing before a hearing officer appointed by the city under Title 4, and if successful in their appeal, may have their property returned without paying an impound fee. The appeal hearing shall be conducted pursuant to the administrative enforcement hearing procedure contained in Title 4. Any appeal fee paid by the sidewalk vendor shall be returned to the sidewalk vendor if they are successful on appeal. d) An individual may recover impounded materials upon paying applicable impound fees and demonstrating proper proof of ownership.
e) The city council may by resolution adopt impound fees, which shall reflect the city’s enforcement, investigation, storage, and impound costs. f) Any unclaimed items will be considered abandoned and forfeited to the city after ninety days following impoundment.
Section 6. If any section or portion of this ordinance is found to be invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, such finding shall not affect the validity of the remainder of the ordinance, which shall continue in full force and effect.
Section 7. This ordinance shall take effect and be in full force thirty (30) days after final adoption.
24.8 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-06
9 PASSED FOR PUBLICATION this 11th day of March 2025, by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Trigueiro, Brunner, Newsome, Golder, O’Hara; Vice Mayor Kalantari-Johnson; Mayor Keeley.
NOES: None.
ABSENT: None.
DISQUALIFIED: None.
APPROVED: ______________________________
Fred Keeley, Mayor
ATTEST: _________________________________
Bonnie Bush, City Clerk Administrator
PASSED FOR FINAL ADOPTION this 25th day March 2025, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
DISQUALIFIED:
APPROVED: ______________________________
Fred Keeley, Mayor
ATTEST: _________________________________
Bonnie Bush, City Clerk Administrator
This is to certify that the above and
foregoing document is the original
of Ordinance No. 2025-06 and that
it has been published or posted in
accordance with the Charter of the
City of Santa Cruz.
________________________________
Bonnie Bush, City Clerk Administrator
24.9 Proof of Publication
(2015 C.C.P.)
I, the undersigned, declare:
That I caused the attached legal notice/advertisement to be published in the Santa Cruz Good Times, a weekly newspaper published and circulated in the County of Santa Cruz, and adjudged a newspaper of general circulation by the Superior Court of California in and for the County of Santa Cruz, under Proceeding No. 68833; and that the legal notice/advertisement was published in the above-named newspaper on the following date(s), to wit:
March 19, 2025
I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct to the best of my knowledge.
This 19th day of March, 2025, Santa Cruz, California
____________________________
Julia Wood
Deputy City Clerk Administrator
24.10 DECLARATION OF POSTING
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
) SS.
COUNTY OF SANTA CRUZ )
On the 17th day of March, 2025, I posted conspicuously in three public places within the City of Santa Cruz, Ordinance No. 2025-06, to wit:
1. City Hall: 809 Center Street: Bulletin Board outside Room 9/10
2. City Hall: Bulletin Board outside Council Chambers
3. The City of Santa Cruz website
The document, posted in its entirety, consists of pages 1—9.
I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Executed this 17th day of March, 2025, in Santa Cruz, California.
_______________________________
Julia Wood
Deputy City Clerk Administrator
24.11 City Council
AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 03/05/2025
AGENDA OF: 03/25/2025
DEPARTMENT: Economic Development and Housing
SUBJECT: Resolution of Intention to Form an Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District (EIFD); Establish the Santa Cruz EIFD Public Finance Authority; and Appointment of Members from the City Council to the EIFD Public Finance Authority – Budget Adjustment (EDH)
LOCATION: Citywide
RECOMMENDATION: Motion to:
1) Adopt a resolution declaring intention to establish the Santa Cruz Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District (EIFD) and establishing the Santa Cruz EIFD Public Financing Authority (PFA);
2) Appoint three members of the City Council to the Public Financing Authority Board, and appoint one member of the City Council as alternate Board member; 3) Authorize the City Manager, or designee, to execute a contract amendment with Kosmont & Associates, Inc. dba, Kosmont Companies, in an amount not to exceed $53,154, with the total contract amount not to exceed $150,000, for supporting the implementation phase of the EIFD; and
4) Adopt a resolution amending the Fiscal Year 2025 budget to appropriate funds in the amount of $54,000 for the implementation phase of the EIFD.
BACKGROUND: As a result of the elimination of redevelopment agencies in California, the City of Santa Cruz (City) lost a tax increment financing (TIF) tool to invest in public facilities supporting the sustainable development of communities. In 2014, Senate Bill (SB) 628 created a new tax increment financing tool called the Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District (EIFD).
The original legislation has been amended to modify the EIFD formation procedural requirements and requirements to issue bonds to finance infrastructure.
In May 2023, the Economic Development and Housing Department issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to conduct financial feasibility studies and analysis that included TIF analysis to determine how the City may finance related public infrastructure, affordable housing, and other community goals in the Downtown Plan Expansion Area, adjacent Riverwalk and the broader
25.1 downtown area. In September 2023, Kosmont & Associates, Inc. dba Kosmont Companies (Kosmont) was selected as the consultant to prepare the analysis and work with the City in determining next steps for implementation of the financial tools that would be most beneficial.
DISCUSSION: EIFDs aid cities in funding public facilities and other public investments to foster future development and increase property values. By capturing tax increment revenue generated within the district as new development occurs and property values increase over time, like a redevelopment project area, a portion of tax increment revenue is redirected from the taxing entity to the EIFD. Importantly, the establishment of EIFDs does not increase property taxes or any other taxes for landowners within or outside the EIFD boundaries.
The City has been evaluating the use of an EIFD to facilitate economic development in the Santa Cruz Downtown Expansion Area and other selected development opportunity sites via investment into critical infrastructure. To date, Economic Development and Housing staff and Kosmont have prepared detailed analysis and conducted meetings with relevant departments (e.g., Finance, Planning and Community Development, City Manager’s Office, Public Works), County of Santa Cruz, and certain affected property owners. Feedback from stakeholder outreach has been positive thus far.
ANALYSIS
Adoption of the City Council’s Resolution of Intention (ROI) (Attached) provides for the following:
1. Preliminary boundaries of the EIFD. The proposed EIFD boundaries are noted in color in Exhibit A of the ROI. Though the exact boundaries of the EIFD are subject to further review and refinement as the formation process continues, the current boundary is focused on the Downtown Plan Expansion Area, various mixed-use corridors within the City, and other development opportunity sites with planned or proposed future development consistent with the City’s General Plan. The land included in these boundaries totals approximately 543 acres (approx. 5% of the city).
2. The public facilities and development proposed to be financed by the EIFD. The activities listed under the ROI include all eligible activities under the EIFD legislation and are listed in Exhibit B to the ROI (more specific projects will be delineated in the required Infrastructure Financing Plan prior to district formation). Discussions at the staff level have identified the following examples of potential projects to be funded:
• Affordable housing
• Housing-supportive infrastructure Downtown (e.g., utility capacity enhancement) • Housing-supportive infrastructure along other key corridors within the City (e.g., Soquel, Mission, Ocean)
• Library improvements
• Infrastructure to support recreational and entertainment facilities Downtown • Recreational and entertainment infrastructure including sports facilities • Riverwalk improvements
• Roadway / sidewalk / streetscape improvements (e.g., street realignment) • Other public amenities (e.g., parks, public plazas, pedestrian infrastructure, parking infrastructure improvements)
• Climate resilience investments Citywide (e.g., sea-level rise, flood control).
25.2 3. Use of Incremental Tax Revenue. The ROI anticipates that a portion (not all) of the City’s future property tax increment revenue generated within the EIFD boundary will be allocated to the EIFD. The exact amounts will be determined in future resolutions adopted by the City Council.
4. Establishes a Public Financing Authority to serve as the governing board of the EIFD.
The Public Finance Authority (PFA) membership is comprised of three members of the City Council and two members of the public to be appointed by the City Council. An alternate PFA board member will also be appointed to represent the City Council in the absence of a regular member. The appointments of the alternate PFA board member and the at large members of the public can be made at a future City Council meeting.
5. Sets a time and place for the first public hearing on the EIFD to be conducted by the PFA. The first public hearing is tentatively scheduled for August 4, 2025, at 2:30 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, in the City Hall Council Chambers, 809 Center Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060.
Approval of the ROI and appointments to the PFA begin a series of activities that will take place over the next several months, primarily by the PFA Board. The following schedule outlines the various key tasks and milestones in the formation process with final City Council actions expected later in the calendar year.
Target Date Task
April 2025 -Initial meeting of PFA - PFA will review the EIFD, adopt bylaws, direct the preparation of the draft Infrastructure Financing Plan (IFP)
June 2025 -PFA meets to review draft IFP
August 2025 -City Council considers resolution approving the IFP and allocation of property tax increment
August/September 2025 -PFA holds Public Hearing #1 - Additional comments taken; PFA takes action to approve, modify, or reject IFP, based on City Council feedback in August 2025
October 2025 -PFA holds Public Hearing #2 and Protest Proceeding - If majority protest exists – takes action to terminate EIFD. If no majority protest, PFA can propose
adoption of the IFP and formation of the EIFD
November 2025 -Staff completes EIFD filing with State Board of Equalization (BOE)
The IFP referenced in the timeline above becomes the roadmap for the work to be accomplished by the EIFD. The IFP will analyze the tax increment anticipated to be generated by the properties in the EIFD boundary, review the cost of various infrastructure options to be considered for investment, evaluate the bonding capacity created by the tax increment generated, estimate general fund fiscal impacts, and provide a plan for how the EIFD will capture the tax increment to fund infrastructure investments.
Public information is an important part of the EIFD formation process. A webpage will be developed that will serve as a resource to interested stakeholders. Landowners and residents within the EIFD boundaries will also receive mailed notifications of public meetings and
25.3 hearings throughout the formation process, and public hearings will be advertised via a local newspaper. In the event of a majority protest by property owners or residents within the boundaries, the formation proceedings would be discontinued.
Based on analysis findings and positive feedback, staff recommend assistance from Kosmont for financing district formation with the following work plan:
Task 1: ROI and Establishment of the PFA: Kosmont will assist City staff and the City Attorney’s Office with the preparation of required documentation for the ROI to form the financing district, including appropriate designation of the governing PFA Board members.
Kosmont will assist with coordination and presentation at the required City Council meeting to adopt the ROI and will assist with required noticing of the ROI following the City Council action. Kosmont anticipates one in-person meeting as part of this Task.
Task 2: Infrastructure Financing Plan Preparation:
Kosmont will collaborate with City staff and appropriate third-party consultants (e.g., special counsel, engineering/surveying consultants) on the preparation of the required IFP and related appendices. The IFP must include a legal description of district boundaries, public improvements to be implemented, location, timing, and costs of development and financial assistance, finalized tax increment projections, intention to incur debt (e.g., bonds), district termination date, taxing entity fiscal impact analysis, and replacement housing obligations. Kosmont will assist City staff (e.g., City Clerk’s Office) in the required distribution of the IFP to property owners within the financing district and to affected taxing entities.
Regarding the required map and legal description, Kosmont is not a licensed surveyor, but will assist City staff with procurement of and coordination with a third-party surveyor as desired.
Task 3: IFP Approval and Financing District Formation Hearings:
Kosmont will assist in coordination, preparation, and presentation of required materials at the required City Council meeting and PFA meetings and hearings to approve the IFP and form the financing district. While Kosmont is not an attorney, Kosmont will provide draft content for required resolutions for review by the City Attorney and/or special counsel. Kosmont will additionally assist in drafting and coordinating the required noticing (e.g., website, mailing, newspaper notices) of the PFA meeting and hearings.
Kosmont anticipates up to two PFA public meetings, two PFA public hearings, and one City Council meeting as part of this task (in-person or virtual as deemed mutually appropriate by the City and Kosmont).
Following the establishment of the financing district at the final PFA public hearing, Kosmont will assist City staff in completing the required filings for Change of Jurisdictional Boundaries with the State Board of Equalization.
SCHEDULE: Kosmont is prepared to commence work upon receipt of an executed amendment.
Kosmont anticipates completion of the financing district formation process before December 1, 2025.
25.4 Estimated Cost:
The current purchase order for Kosmont is for a total amount not to exceed $96,846. Staff request an additional $53,154 to complete the implementation phase. The estimated cost to complete the above-described scope of work is $45,000.00 along with a 5% contingency budget of the total contract fee. The total contract value would not exceed $150,000.
Cost Breakdown
Task Estimated Budget
1) Resolution of Intention and Establishment of the Public Financing Authority $7,500 2) Infrastructure Financing Plan Preparation $15,000
3) IFP Approval and Financing District Formation Hearings $22,500 Estimated Total Professional Services (Hourly) Fees $45,000 Contingency (5% of Total Contract Fee) $8,154
Total Change Order Amount $53,154
Once the EIFD is formed, the PFA Board may consider these implementation costs, in the amount of $53,154, reimbursable to the City’s general fund from the district funding sources.
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION:
Adoption of the ROI and establishment of the PFA are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as they are actions solely related to the creation of a government funding mechanism and the administrative or organizational activities of the City.
Therefore, these actions do not constitute a “project” pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Sections 15378(b)(4) and 15378(b)(5). Neither of these actions could result in a physical change in the environment because the City has not committed itself to any specific project(s) that could be funded by the EIFD. As a separate and independent ground, these actions are exempt from the requirements of CEQA pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that they will have a significant effect on the environment. However, future actions (such as the approval of infrastructure improvements using funding from the EIFD) will be subject to environmental review in accordance with CEQA.
HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): HiAP is a collaborative approach to improving the health of all people by incorporating health considerations into decision-making across sectors and policy areas. HiAP is based on 3 pillars: equity, public health, and sustainability. The goal of HiAP is to ensure that all decision-makers are informed about the health, equity, and sustainability impacts of various policy options during the policy development process. In general, the formation and implementation of the EIFD provides the City of Santa Cruz with a tax increment financing tool to invest in public facilities supporting the sustainable development of communities and covers multiple HiAP goals.
The formation of the EIFD supports the pillar of equity by having an inclusive and robust public meeting and hearing process, including significant public noticing (via mail, newspaper, and website) to ensure community voices are heard. It also leverages a financial tool that derives from utilizing tax increment to benefit the community at large by funding public projects.
Furthermore, the public infrastructure improvements, depending on the projects, serve the greater needs of the community by improving pedestrian and bike connections in key areas of the City, and potentially providing other recreation improvements, increasing the overall vibrancy and
25.5 health of residents. The last pillar of sustainability is also key when forming a district. The EIFD aids in providing long term financial support for necessary City projects that also will allow the City to leverage grant funding opportunities to improve upon sustainable infrastructure that benefits the residents and visitors alike. These improvements can provide upgrades to existing infrastructure that take into consideration the health of the community, climate resiliency goals, and future growth of the Downtown.
FISCAL IMPACT:
1. The recommendation in this report impacts the General Fund: Yes
2. This recommendation requires a budget adjustment: Yes
3. The recommendation creates an on-going expenditure commitment: No FISCAL IMPACT DESCRIPTION: Beyond the contract amendment, there is no immediate fiscal impact for moving forward with the Resolution of Intention to establish the Santa Cruz EIFD or PFA. If established, the EIFD would create the opportunity to use tax increment financing to fund targeted infrastructure investments in the City. Further information regarding fiscal impact will be analyzed as part of the development of the IFP, which will be presented to the PFA and City Council as noted in the timeline above.
For the implementation phase of Kosmont’s scope of work, an additional $54,000 is requested from the General Fund, along with authorization to execute an Amendment to the Agreement with Kosmont, for a total not to exceed $150,000. These implementation costs can be further considered by the PFA Board members to be reimbursed back to the General Fund once the district has been formed.
Prepared By:
Brian W. Borguno
Development Manager
Submitted By:
Bonnie Lipscomb
Director of Economic
Development and Housing
Approved By:
Matt Huffaker
City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:
1. RESOLUTION OF INTENTION.DOCX
2. EXHIBIT A EIFD BOUNDARIES MAP.DOCX
3. EXHIBIT B SANTA CRUZ EIFD AUTHORIZED FACILITIES.DOCX
4. BUDGET ADJUSTMENT.PDF
25.6 RESOLUTION NO. NS-30,XXX
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CRUZ DECLARING
ITS INTENTION TO ESTABLISH THE SANTA CRUZ ENHANCED INFRASTRUCTURE
FINANCING DISTRICT TO FINANCE THE CONSTRUCTION, REPAIR, ACQUISITION,
AND/OR MAINTENANCE OF CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS AND FACILITIES,
INCLUDING THE ACQUISITION AND/OR REMEDIATION OF LAND FOR SUCH IMPROVEMENTS AND FACILITIES; ESTABLISHING A PUBLIC FINANCING AUTHORITY; AND AUTHORIZING CERTAIN OTHER ACTIONS RELATED THERETO WHEREAS, SB 628, effective as of January 1, 2015, allows a city or county to create a separate government entity known as an “Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District” (EIFD) within a defined area to finance certain infrastructure projects with community-wide benefits; and WHEREAS, pursuant to Chapter 2.99 of Part 1 of Division 2 of Title 5 of the California Government Code (commencing with Section 53398.50) (the "EIFD Law"), the City Council of the City of Santa Cruz ("Council") is authorized to initiate the process to establish an EIFD; and, WHEREAS, EIFDs are financed through tax increment generated from the growth in property taxes collected from within a designated district boundary. There are no new taxes or impacts to the property owner within an established EIFD; and, WHEREAS, EIFD tax increment may be used to pay for a variety of public facilities and other projects authorized by the EIFD Law within the established EIFD boundaries or outside of the established EIFD boundaries if there is a tangible connection to the work of the EIFD, including but not limited to infrastructure such as roads, utilities, streetscapes, parks and public recreation, or other community facilities. Funding may also be used to facilitate public-private activities by enticing development with infrastructure development and expansion, including new industrialmanufacturing facility construction and repair, and brownfields remediation. Affordable housing, including affordable senior housing, is also an eligible activity; and, WHEREAS, the City retained Kosmont & Associates, Inc. DBA Kosmont Companies as a consultant to prepare an evaluation of EIFD implementation feasibility; and, WHEREAS, the prerequisites set forth in Government Code Section 53398.54 have been complied with prior to the City initiating the creation of or participating in the governance of the EIFD, and the City will provide the required certification to the California Department of Finance (“DOF”) in accordance with the EIFD Law; and,
WHEREAS, the proposed boundaries of the Santa Cruz EIFD are identified on Exhibit A entitled "Proposed Santa Cruz EIFD Boundary", a copy which is on file in the office of the City Clerk; and,
WHEREAS, the EIFD will be governed by a Public Financing Authority ("PFA") board which will be responsible for implementing the Infrastructure Financing Plan for the EIFD ("IFP"), and the PFA is required to be established by the City Council at the same time that the City Council adopts its intention to form the proposed EIFD; and,
WHEREAS, this action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) as an action solely related to financing and is not in-and-of itself a “project” (pursuant
25.7 to CEQA Guidelines Section 15378) since it does not result in a physical change in the environment because the City has not committed itself to fund any specific projects through the EIFD. However, future actions (such as the funding and/or approval of infrastructure improvements using funding from the EIFD) will be subject to environmental review in accordance with CEQA.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CRUZ HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. The City Council of the City of Santa Cruz proposes and intends to cause the establishment of an EIFD under the provisions of the EIFD Law.
Section 2. The name proposed for the EIFD shall be the “Santa Cruz Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District.”
Section 3. The proposed boundaries of the EIFD are as shown on Exhibit A attached hereto, which are preliminarily approved and on file in the office of the City Clerk and incorporated herein by reference.
Section 4. The types of public facilities and development proposed to be financed or assisted by the EIFD pursuant to the EIFD Law are those listed on Exhibit B, attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference.
Section 5. The City Council hereby finds that the EIFD is necessary for the area within the boundaries of the EIFD and the City. The City Council's stated goals for the EIFD are to create a means by which to assist in the provision of public facilities or other specified projects of communitywide significance that provide significant benefits to promote economic development of, and enhance quality of life within, the boundaries of the EIFD or the surrounding community.
Section 6. The City Council hereby declares that, pursuant to the EIFD Law and if approved by resolution pursuant to Government Code Section 53398.68, incremental property tax revenue from the City of Santa Cruz and some or all other affected taxing entities within the EIFD may be used to finance the activities described in Section 4 and listed on Exhibit B. The incremental property tax financing will be described in an IFP to be prepared for approval by the PFA, the City Council, and the legislative bodies of all participating taxing entities under EIFD Law.
Section 7. The City or County of Santa Cruz may allocate tax revenues derived from local sales and use taxes imposed pursuant to the Bradley-Burns Uniform Local Sales and Use Tax Law (Part 1.5 (commencing with Section 7200) of Division 2 of the Revenue and Taxation Code) or transactions and use taxes imposed in accordance with the Transactions and Use Tax Law (Part 1.6 (commencing with Section 7251) of Division 2 of the Revenue and Taxation Code) to the EIFD pursuant to Government Code Section 53398.75.5, if applicable. The City Council does not intend to contribute sales and use taxes or transactions and use taxes to the EIFD.
Section 8. The City Council hereby establishes the “Public Financing Authority of the Santa Cruz Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District” to serve as the governing board of the EIFD:
25.8 A. The PFA membership shall be comprised initially of three members of the City Council appointed by the City Council and two public members selected by the City Council. Members shall serve at the pleasure of the City Council, as the case may be, and shall serve until their successor assumes office.
B. The City Council further declares that, pursuant to Government Code Section 53398.51.1, should another taxing entity agree to participate as a taxing entity, then the PFA membership shall be modified in accordance with Government Code Section 53398.51.1. For example, if the County of Santa Cruz (“County”) agrees to participate as a taxing entity and the participating taxing entities consist of the City and the County, then the PFA membership shall be modified to be two members of the City Council, one member of the County Board of Supervisors (“Board of Supervisors”), one member of the public appointed by the City Council, and one member of the public appointed by the Board of Supervisors.
Members shall serve at the pleasure of their respective appointing legislative bodies and shall serve until their successor assumes office.
C. The legislative body of each participating taxing entity may appoint one of its members to be an alternate member of the PFA board who may serve and vote in place of a member who is absent or disqualifies themselves from participating in a meeting of the PFA.
D. The members are subject to compliance with the EIFD Law and all applicable ethics laws, including Article 2.4 (commencing with Section 53234) of Chapter 2 of the Government Code.
E. The City Council, and the governing bodies of any other participating entities shall comply with Government Code Section 54974.
Section 8. The City Council hereby sets the time and place for a public hearing of the PFA, the proposed EIFD and IFP, to be held on August 4, 2025, at 2:30 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, at City Hall Council Chambers, 809 Center Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060.
Section 9. Pursuant to Government Code Section 53398.60, the City Clerk is hereby directed to mail a copy of this Resolution to the PFA and each owner of land (as defined in the EIFD Law), or alternatively with respect to the owners of land may mail a single-page notice of intention identified in Government Code Section 53398.60(b), within the EIFD and to each affected taxing entity (as defined in the EIFD Law). In addition, the City Clerk is hereby directed to cause notice of the public hearing to be published not less than once a week for four successive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation published in the City. The notice shall state that the EIFD will be used to finance public works, briefly describe the facilities, briefly describe the proposed financial arrangements, including the proposed commitment of incremental tax revenue, describe the boundaries of the proposed EIFD and state the day, hour, and place, when and where any persons having any objections to the proposed IFP, or the regularity of any of the prior proceedings,
25.9 may appear before the PFA and object to the adoption of the proposed IFP.
Section 10. The Successor Agency to the Redevelopment Agency of the City of Santa Cruz (Successor Agency) has received a finding of completion, as specified in California Health and Safety Code Section 34179.7.
Section 11. In accordance with Government Code Section 53398.54, the City certifies to the DOF and to the PFA that no former Redevelopment Agency of the City of Santa Cruz (Former RDA) assets that are the subject of litigation involving the State of California, where the City or the Successor Agency are a named plaintiff, have been or will be used to benefit any efforts of the EIFD unless the litigation and all possible appeals have been resolved in a court of law. The City Clerk is authorized and directed on behalf of the City to provide or make this certification to the DOF within 10 days after the City Council’s action to participate in the EIFD pursuant to Government Code Section 53398.68 or the City Council’s action to form the EIFD pursuant to Government Code Section 53398.69, by delivery of a copy of the appropriate Resolution or signing a separate certification, if and as required by the DOF.
Section 12. The State Controller has completed its review as specified in California Health and Safety Code Section 34167.5 of asset transfers between the Former RDA, the City or any other public agency. The Successor Agency and the City have complied with all of the State Controller's findings and orders stemming from such review.
Section 13. This Resolution in no way obligates the PFA to establish any EIFD.
Section 14. If any section, subsection, phrase or clause of this Resolution is for any reason found to be invalid, such section, subsection, phrase or clause shall be severed from, and shall not affect the validity of, all remaining portions of this Resolution that can be given effect without the severed portion.
Section 15. This Resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption.
Section 16. The City Manager, or designee, is hereby authorized and directed to take all actions necessary or advisable to give effect to the transactions contemplated by this Resolution.
Section 17. The City Clerk of the City of Santa Cruz shall certify as to the adoption of this Resolution.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this 25th day of March 2025 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
DISQUALIFIED:
25.10 APPROVED: ________________________________
Fred Keeley, Mayor
ATTEST: ________________________________
Bonnie Bush, City Clerk Administrator
25.11 EXHIBIT A
Proposed Santa Cruz Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District (EIFD) Boundaries Proposed EIFD parcels highlighted in red, yellow, blue, green, and purple (approx. 543 acres).
Santa Cruz City boundaries noted in black.
25.12 EXHIBIT B
CITY OF SANTA CRUZ
ENHANCED INFRASTRUCTURE FINANCING DISTRICT (EIFD)
LIST OF AUTHORIZED PUBLIC FACILITIES
The Santa Cruz EIFD may finance the purchase, construction, expansion, improvement, seismic retrofit, or rehabilitation of any real tangible property with an estimated useful life of 15 years or longer which are public capital facilities or other projects of community-wide significance that provide significant benefits to the EIFD or the surrounding community. The EIFD may also finance the ongoing or capitalized costs to maintain public capital facilities financed in whole or in part by the EIFD. Facilities funded may be located outside the boundaries of the EIFD, as long as they have a tangible connection to the work of the EIFD as detailed in the infrastructure financing plan.
The EIFD may also finance the planning and design work that is directly related to the purchase, construction, expansion, or rehabilitation of property. The EIFD may finance costs described in Government Code Sections [53398.52 [list of eligible improvements]] 53398.56 [replacement housing and relocation obligations if required by actions of EIFD] and 53398.57. Projects financed by the EIFD may include, but not be limited to, all of the following:
Highways, interchanges, and ramps;
Bridges;
Arterial streets;
Parking facilities;
Transit facilities;
Parks, recreational facilities, and open space;
Sewage treatment and water reclamation plants and interceptor pipes; Facilities for the collection and treatment of water for urban uses; Facilities for the transfer and disposal of solid waste, including transfer stations and vehicles;
Storm water conveyance and collection facilities;
Flood control levees and dams, retention basins, and drainage channels; Child care facilities;
Libraries;
Broadband and telecommunications infrastructure;
Sidewalks and streetscape improvements;
Bicycle lanes and paths;
Public art;
Corporation yards;
Police facilities;
Brownfield restoration and other environmental mitigation; Affordable housing as authorized under the EIFD Law;
Projects that implement a sustainable communities strategy and transit priority projects; Acquisition, construction, or repair of industrial structures for private use; Acquisition, construction, or repair of commercial structures by the small business occupant of such structures, if such acquisition, construction, or repair is for purposes of fostering economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and of ensuring the long-term economic sustainability of small businesses;
Projects that enable communities to adapt to the impacts of climate change, including, but not limited to, higher average temperatures, decreased air and water quality, the spread of infectious and vector-borne diseases, other public health impacts, extreme weather events, sea level rise, flooding, heat waves, wildfires, and drought;
25.13 EXHIBIT B
CITY OF SANTA CRUZ
ENHANCED INFRASTRUCTURE FINANCING DISTRICT (EIFD)
LIST OF AUTHORIZED PUBLIC FACILITIES
Facilities in which nonprofit community organizations provide health, youth, homeless, and social services.
Other Expenses
In addition to the direct costs of the above facilities, other incidental expenses as authorized by the EIFD Law, including, but not limited to, the cost of environmental evaluation and environmental remediation; engineering and surveying; construction staking; utility relocation and demolition costs incidental to the construction of the facilities; costs of project/construction management; costs (including the costs of legal services) associated with the creation of the EIFD; costs of issuance of bonds or other debt of the EIFD, of a community facilities district of the City, or of any other public agency for authorized facilities and payment of debt service thereon; financing costs of improvements incurred by developers until reimbursement from the EIFD; costs incurred by the County or the EIFD in connection with the division of taxes pursuant to Government Code Section 53398.75; or costs otherwise incurred in order to carry out the authorized purposes of the EIFD; reimbursements to other areas for facilities serving the EIFD; and any other expenses incidental to the formation and implementation of the EIFD and to the construction, completion, inspection and acquisition of the authorized facilities.
25.14 City of Santa Cruz
BUDGET ADJUSTMENT REQUEST
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03/25/2025
Appropriate new funds for the implementation phase of the Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District (EIFD). 0 101-51-80-5401-52140 N/A Planning Services 54,000
54,000
-54,000
Jennifer
Shelton
Digitally signed by
Jennifer Shelton
Date: 2025.03.03
09:47:14 -08'00'
Bonnie
Lipscomb
Digitally signed by
Bonnie Lipscomb
Date: 2025.03.06
18:24:33 -08'00'
Emily
Burton
Digitally signed
by Emily Burton
Date: 2025.03.07
14:36:03 -08'00'
Elizabet
h Cabell
Digitally signed by
Elizabeth Cabell
Date: 2025.03.07
14:42:24 -08'00' 25.15
Brittany Inclan
From: Judi Grunstra <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, March 22, 2025 1:40 PM
To: City Council
Subject: Agenda Item 25 - EIFD
Dear Mayor and Council:
I attended the Zoom presentation about EIFDs and also did a little research into other cities that are contemplating use of this financing (Santa Rosa, Sebastopol). There is a lot to "digest" here.
The list of potential uses is extremely broad. I would like to see a list of which projects would likely receive priority (Arena or infrastructure to support that?) while other well-deserving needs (Harvey West and San Lorenzo Parks, among others) be lower on the list of priorities? I also have concerns about the make-up of the Public Financing Authority, proposed to be 3 council members and two "at large" community members. I wonder if perhaps there should be 4 community members, to provide an opportunity for involvement/representation for those beyond the usual "stakeholders."
Can you please answer these questions: Where might one view the detailed analysis referred to below? Have all council members read the analysis? Does it estimate the amount of funds that could be generated? Were there minutes of the meetings referred to? Who were the "affected property owners"?
"DISCUSSION: EIFDs aid cities in funding public facilities and other public investments to foster future development and increase property values. By capturing tax increment revenue generated within the district as new development occurs and property values increase over time, like a redevelopment project area, a portion of tax increment revenue is redirected from the taxing entity to the EIFD. Importantly, the establishment of EIFDs does not increase property taxes or any other taxes for landowners within or outside the EIFD boundaries. The City has been evaluating the use of an EIFD to facilitate economic development in the Santa Cruz Downtown Expansion Area and other selected development opportunity sites via investment into critical infrastructure. To date, Economic Development and Housing staff and Kosmont have prepared detailed analysis and conducted meetings with relevant departments (e.g., Finance, Planning and Community Development, City Manager’s Office, Public Works), County of Santa Cruz, and certain affected property owners. Feedback from stakeholder outreach has been positive thus far." I also have questions about these items included in Exhibit B:
"Acquisition, construction, or repair of industrial structures for private use;
25.16 Acquisition, construction, or repair of commercial structures by the small business occupant of such structures, if such acquisition, construction, or repair is for purposes of fostering economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and of ensuring the long-term economic sustainability of small businesses;" How much longer will we use "economic recovery from Covid-19" as a rationale? Which small businesses will be the beneficiaries of EIFD funds? (how can fairness be assured?) It seems Council members may wish to further educate themselves about equitable use of the monies generated by setting up an EIFD that encompasses so many potential uses and so much of the city. I have concerns about the future impact on the General Fund as well. Let's see some numbers.
Thank you.
Judi Grunstra
25.17 Brittany Inclan
From: Susan Cavalieri <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, March 23, 2025 9:48 AM
To: City Council
Subject: Item 25, City Council Agenda
Dear City Councilmembers,
As a retired resident of the City of Santa Cruz I am very disappointed that the City is proposing a tax to support “recreational and entertainment infrastructure, including sports facilities”. As we face accelerating environmental destruction, potential recession, loss of healthcare and a need for affordable housing, this plan is unconscionable. According th Victus Advisors income from cost of building the permanent arena would not be covered by the income from the events at this facility.
This City must listen to advisors and support all its residents, especially in this time of extreme wealth inequality and oligarchy.
Please support the City’s general fund, not an arena.
Thank you,
Susan Cavalieri
25.18 Brittany Inclan
From: Ron Pomerantz <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 24, 2025 4:27 PM
To: City Council
Subject: EIFD Council item #25 3/25/25
Good day Mayor and Council members.
I find this proposal outrageous for the Council to take money from the General Fund. Especially when you continuously cry the blues how broke the City is. A sales tax increase, soda tax increase, and now collecting signatures for two affordable housing taxes in the last two years.
Residents will pay twice for the EIFD. Once for the cost of supporting massive new developments along with the loss of parking, additional traffic and noise, impacted neighborhoods, and loss of viewsheds. Then we’ll pay again as property taxes that should go to the general fund to improve the quality of life for our residents that will go to subsidize a wealthy sports team and infrastructure for real estate interests and big developers. EIFD is quite a proposal to rob Peter to pay Paul. This scheme should be put before voters and not go forward merely by Council action.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Ron Pomerantz
Sent from my Magic phone
25.19 Enhanced Infrastructure Financing
District (EIFD)
Presentation Overview:
• Introduction of Kosmont Companies
• EIFD Background
• Santa Cruz, Boundary Map & Analysis
• Key Takeaways & Next Steps
PRESENTATION | CITY OF SANTA CRUZ
Resolution of Intention to Form an
March 25th, 2025
25.20 Kosmont Companies
Joseph Dieguez – Senior Vice President
• Kosmont companies is an industry leader in economic development and real estate advisory services.
• City of Santa Cruz Economic Development & Housing Department contracted with Kosmont to assist with financial analysis.
PRESENTATION | CITY OF SANTA CRUZ
Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District (EIFD)
25.21 Prepared by:
Kosmont Companies
Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District
(EIFD) Analysis Summary
Consideration of EIFD Resolution of Intention
March 25, 2025
25.22 Background
4 • The City of Santa Cruz Economic Development Department has evaluated the use of financing districts such as an Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District (EIFD) to capture value from potential new development (e.g., Downtown Plan Expansion) to fund critical infrastructure and community investment priorities without increasing taxes • Detailed analysis and outreach to date supports the viability of an EIFD to spur private sector investment and deliver positive “return on investment” for the City • The first action to initiate formation of an EIFD is Council consideration of a non-binding Resolution of Intention (ROI)
• Potential next steps include preparation of an Infrastructure Financing Plan (IFP) and required public notices, meetings, and hearings, including future City Council approval
25.23 5
$0M
$100M
$200M
$300M
$400M
$500M
$600M
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55
Baseline Property Value
Property taxes continue to flow to City / County / Schools / Other Taxing Entities as normal New Property Value from
New Development / Rehabilitation
Available to TIF District
Years from District Formation
Assessed
Property Value
within TIF
District
Boundaries
New Total
Value After
TIF District
Benefits all
Taxing Entities
Period of New
Development
Note: Illustrative.
What is Tax Increment Financing (TIF) – Not a New Tax
25.24 EIFD Fundamentals
Communicating in a Digital World
6 45 years from first bond issuance Long Term
Districts
Public Financing Authority (PFA) implements Infrastructure Financing Plan (IFP) Governance
Approvals Mandatory public hearings for formation with protest opportunity
25.25 Types of Projects EIFD Can Fund
Partial List
7 Roadway / Parking / Transit
Brownfield Remediation
Storm / Flood / Public Facilities Parks / Open Space / Recreation Libraries & Childcare Facilities Affordable Housing
Broadband Small Business /
Nonprofit Facilities
Wildfire Prevention / Other
Climate Change Response
25.26 Why are Public Agencies Authorizing Financing Districts? Communicating in a Digital World
8 1. Return on Investment: Private sector investment induced by district commitment accelerates growth of net fiscal revenues, job creation, housing production, essential infrastructure improvements
2. Ability to attract additional funds / other public money (“OPM”) – tax increment from other entities (county, special districts), federal / state grants / loans (e.g., for transit-oriented development, water, housing, parks, remediation)
25.27 TIF Districts in Progress
Statewide
(Partial List)
Fully Formed In Formation Process Under Evaluation
Jurisdiction Purpose
Apple Valley Industrial and housing supportive infrastructure Banning Downtown revitalization, industrial infrastructure Barstow Industrial and housing supportive infrastructure Brentwood Housing, employment, and transit-supportive infrastructure Buena Park Mall reimagination, housing-supportive infrastructure Carson + L.A. County Remediation, affordable housing, recreation Citrus Heights Mall reimagination
Covina Downtown housing and blended use supportive infrastructure Fairfield Downtown, housing, and transit-supportive infrastructure Fresno Downtown, housing and transit-supportive infrastructure Fresno County Industrial and commercial supportive infrastructure Humboldt County Coastal mixed-use and energy supportive infrastructure Indian Wells Housing and tourism-supportive infrastructure Imperial County Industrial, renewable energy, and housing and infrastructure La Verne + L.A. County Housing and transit-supportive infrastructure Long Beach Economic empowerment and affordable housing
Los Angeles (Downtown, San Pedro, other) Affordable housing and transit-supportive infrastructure Los Angeles County Uninc. West Carson Housing / bio-science / tech infrastructure Madera County (3 Districts) Water, sewer, roads and other housing infrastructure Modesto + Stanislaus County Downtown, housing, and recreation infrastructure Mount Shasta Rural brownfield mixed-use infrastructure
Napa Downtown, housing, tourism supportive infrastructure Oakland Affordable housing and infrastructure
Ontario Industrial and housing infrastructure
Palmdale + L.A. County Housing and commercial infrastructure Pittsburg Housing, commercial, and tech park infrastructure Placentia + Orange County Housing and TOD infrastructure Rancho Cucamonga Blended use and connectivity infrastructure Redlands Education related and blended use infrastructure Redondo Beach + L.A. County Parks / open space, recreation infrastructure Riverside Affordable housing and infrastructure
Sacramento County (Unincorporated) Industrial / commercial supportive infrastructure San Jose Affordable housing and TOD infrastructure
Sanger Housing and commercial supportive infrastructure Santa Cruz Downtown and blended use infrastructure
Santa Fe Springs Blended use infrastructure
Selma Water, sewer, and other housing supportive infrastructure Vacaville Housing and business park infrastructure
Yucaipa Housing and commercial infrastructure 25.28
Potential Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District (EIFD) Boundary Downtown + Mixed-Use Corridors + County-owned Opportunity Sites 10 All six subareas
proposed for
inclusion
• Approx. 543 acres
(~5% of City-wide acreage)
• Approx. $1.9B in existing
assessed value (~15% of
City-wide A/V)
Source: City of Santa Cruz; Santa Cruz County
Auditor-Controller (2025)
25.29 11
a) Affordable housing
b) Housing-supportive infrastructure Downtown (e.g., utility capacity enhancement) c) Housing-supportive infrastructure along other key corridors within the City (e.g., Soquel, Mission, Ocean)
d) Library improvements
e) Recreational and entertainment infrastructure and facilities f) Infrastructure to support recreational and entertainment facilities Downtown g) Riverwalk improvements
h) Roadway / sidewalk / streetscape improvements (e.g., street realignment) i) Other public amenities (e.g., parks, public plazas, pedestrian infrastructure) j) Climate resilience investments Citywide (e.g., sea-level rise, flood control) Example Potential Community Investments
to Receive EIFD Funding
25.30 12 City allocation includes allocation from both AB8 + MVLF in-lieu. * Bonding capacity assumes Year 5 is first bond issuance for EIFD. “Year 5 means fifth year of revenue following district formation. Net proceeds shown. Bondable revenue assumes $25,000 admin charge, 150% debt service coverage. 6.5% interest rate; 30-year term. Proceeds net of 2% underwriter's discount, estimated reserve fund (maximum annual debt service), costs of issuance estimated at $350,000.Source: Kosmont Financial Services (KFS), registered municipal advisor.
EIFD Revenue and Bonding Capacity Scenarios
EIFD Revenue
Allocation Scenario
Year 5
Accumulated
Revenue +
Bonding
Capacity*
Year 10
Accumulated
Revenue +
Bonding
Capacity*
50-Year
Present-Value
@ 3%
Discount Rate
50-Year
Nominal
Total
A) City 25% $6,306,000 $16,295,000 $44,684,000 $108,424,000 B) City 50% $13,256,000 $33,234,000 $89,367,000 $216,847,000 C) City 75% $20,206,000 $50,174,000 $134,051,000 $325,271,000
25.31 Public Agency and Community Return on Investment
Net of Public Agency Financing District Participation
13 * Construction job-years, where one job-year is defined as one year of employment for one individual • Housing: 3,100+ units, including 600+ affordable units • Revitalized Downtown Plan Expansion Area, connectivity between neighborhoods, public realm amenities, quality of life
• Job creation, wages:
20,400+ temporary construction-related jobs* in City and County, ~$1.5B related new wage income Approx. 779 permanent jobs in the City and County, related ~$41M in new annual wage income • Acceleration of development and related fiscal revenues:
$54 million in present value fiscal benefit for CITY general fund over 50 years, net of tax increment contribution to TIF district and net of estimated fiscal expenditures (50% City TIF allocation scenario) $18 million in present value new sales tax funding for Metropolitan Transit District $9 million in present value new sales tax funding for Santa Cruz Public Libraries • Attract other funding
25.32 Fiscal Return on Investment for City of Santa Cruz Net Fiscal Impact – EIFD (50% Scenario) vs. “Do-Nothing” Scenario 14 $0
$2,000,000
$4,000,000
$6,000,000
$8,000,000
$10,000,000
$12,000,000
$14,000,000
$16,000,000
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55
w/ EIFD enabled
investment
Annual NET New Fiscal Revenue to City General Fund (EIFD Parcels) w/o EIFD – delayed,
muted investment
EIFD terminates in Year 50
and 100% property tax
flows to General Fund
• $54M in cumulative net fiscal benefit to City over 50 years (present-value discounted at 3%), further improves drastically after year 50 25.33
15 Potential EIFD Formation Schedule
Target Date Task
Q3 2024 – Q1 2025 a) Discussion among City staff and Council, County staff and Board of Supervisors, other stakeholders b) Determination of boundaries, projects, governing Public Financing Authority (PFA) Board makeup March 2025 c) City Council considers Resolution of Intention (ROI) to form EIFD and establish PFA Board April 2025 d) PFA directs the preparation of draft Infrastructure Financing Plan (IFP) May 2025 e) Distribute draft IFP to property owners, affected taxing entities, City Council, planning commission June 2025 f) PFA holds an initial public meeting to present the draft IFP to the public and property owners August 2025 g) City Council considers resolution approving IFP and tax increment revenue allocation Aug / Sept 2025 h) PFA holds first public hearing to hear additional comments and take action to modify or reject IFP October 2025 i) PFA holds second public hearing to consider oral and written protests and take action to terminate proceedings or adopt IFP and form the district by resolution
25.34 16
Key Takeaways
• Not a new tax
• EIFD revenue comes from new development and growth of property values • Revenues must be used for public improvements and community amenities • EIFD formation requires a transparent, public process
25.35 17
Next Steps
• Address questions and receive feedback from City Council • City Council consideration of non-binding Resolution of Intention (ROI) • Appoint EIFD Public Financing Authority (PFA) members • Staff and consultants to prepare draft Infrastructure Financing Plan (IFP) for future City Council and public consideration
25.36 18
THANK YOU
Questions?
Kosmont Companies
1601 N. Sepulveda Blvd. #382 Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Ph: (424) 297-1070 | Fax: (424) 286-4632
www.kosmont.com
25.37 PRESENTATION | CITY OF SANTA CRUZ
Staff Recommendation:
1) Adopt a resolution declaring intention to establish the Santa Cruz Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District (EIFD) and establishing the Santa Cruz EIFD Public Financing Authority (PFA);
2) Appoint three members of the City Council to the Public Financing Authority Board, and appoint one member of the City Council as alternate Board member;
3) Authorize the City Manager, or designee, to execute a contract amendment with Kosmont & Associates, Inc. dba, Kosmont Companies, in an amount not to exceed $53,154, with the total contract amount not to exceed $150,000, for supporting the implementation phase of the EIFD; and 4) Adopt a resolution amending the Fiscal Year 2025 budget to appropriate funds in the amount of $54,000 for the implementation phase of the EIFD.
25.38 City Council
AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 03/06/2025
AGENDA OF: 03/25/2025
DEPARTMENT: Economic Development and Housing
SUBJECT: Santa Cruz Community Farmers’ Market Interim Location and Initial Direction on Future Concept Plans for the Re-Use of the Existing Library Site – Budget Adjustment (EDH)
LOCATION: District 4
RECOMMENDATION: Motion to:
1) Adopt a resolution appropriating $250,000 from the Economic Development Trust Fund to fund site furnishings to activate Lot 16 for the Farmers’ Market and $150,000 from the Infill and Infrastructure Grant approved budget to fund needed site infrastructure; and 2) Select a preferred option for further development of the permanent site concept for re-use of the existing library site and provide further direction regarding density and height of housing, if applicable.
BACKGROUND: In mid-2020, the City Council voted to move forward with the Downtown Library and Affordable Housing Project and directed staff to conduct a re-use visioning process for the existing library site that could be implemented once the library relocates to its new location. The purpose of the visioning process was to create an implementable, communityoriented vision for the existing Downtown Library site based on an extensive public and stakeholder engagement process that considers the context of the broader site and needs of the community. Project for Public Spaces and Group 4 Architecture were selected through a competitive bidding process to conduct the visioning process. On June 22, 2021, staff copresented the results of the visioning process with three recommended options for re-use of the existing library site based on community engagement.
The three options included a mixed-use housing concept with an extended civic plaza that could be a permanent home for the Downtown Farmers’ Market, a civic plaza with parking and housing, and a repurposed library structure with parking. A copy of the 2021 report is attached to this report. The final recommended option based on community engagement was the mixed-use housing concept with an extended civic plaza. City Council accepted the report and recommendations and directed staff to continue working with the Downtown Farmers’ Market to refine both the interim and permanent locations for future consideration, including the existing library site as one of the preferred locations for both interim and permanent use.
26.1 In January 2024 and June 2024, staff provided updates to City Council on the progress of the relocation planning for the future interim and permanent home for the Downtown Farmers’ Market. The Farmers’ Market Board selected Lot 16 (the parking lot adjacent to the existing Library site) as the interim location for the Downtown Farmers’ market while the new Downtown Library is under construction. At its June 2024 meeting, City Council directed staff to further refine the project elements, costs and market layout with the Farmers’ Market participation.
DISCUSSION: Since June 2024, staff from both the City and the Farmers’ Market have been working together with Group 4 Architecture and Project for Public Spaces to further refine the interim market location, layout and proposed uses. The market layout currently includes full utilization of Lot 16 on Farmers’ Market Wednesday afternoons and a portion of Cedar Street between Walnut Avenue and Church Street and a portion of Church Street adjacent to Lot 16.
Additionally, staff have been working with Group 4 Architecture and Project for Public Spaces on further refining the recommended concept for permanent re-use of the existing library site which includes a potential future permanent home for the Downtown Farmers’ Market. Building on the visioning and community outreach process and subsequent work with the Farmers’ Market and Project for Public Spaces and Group 4 Architecture, the discussion and presentation today will be focused both on interim and permanent use of the existing library site and adjacent parking lot.
INTERIM FARMERS’ MARKET CONCEPT AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The proposed Farmers' Market layout fully activates Lot 16 on Wednesday afternoons and allows for further event activation on non-market days including limited public and potential employee parking along one side of the existing parking lot adjacent to the library. Consideration of both interim use of approximately 3-4 years and the potential for transitioning to permanent use were prioritized to cost efficiently leverage existing resources. As a result, the proposed layout centers the restrooms, utilities and plumbing needed to support site activation by both the Farmers’ Market and other contemplated uses to be concentrated along the eastside of the lot which provides the greatest flexibility for incorporating these improvements into the permanent layout and design of the entire site once the downtown library relocates to their new home.
State grant funding through the Infill and Infrastructure Grant (IIG) awarded to Pacific Station North has been approved for the infrastructure and site improvements in Lot 16 to accommodate the Farmers’ Market and other site activation. Additional funding is needed to purchase the 4- unit all-gender portable restrooms and a multi-purpose stage to fully activate the site. It is envisioned that the Farmers’ Market and other users will rent the portable restrooms and stage and the City will recoup partial or full cost of the initial investment over time. Portable furnishings have been identified to provide the most flexibility in site design and to allow for reuse and relocation, if needed, to accommodate the final site layout for the permanent project on the site. Funding is available in the Economic Development Trust Fund in the amount of $250,000 to purchase site furnishings not eligible for grant funds. A budget adjustment is included to reflect the IIG budget transfer to the Project and to reflect the recommended expenditure from the Economic Development Trust Fund.
26.2 PERMANENT MIXED-USE CONCEPTS FOR THE EXISTING LIBRARY SITE Based on the recommended outcomes of the visioning process and further Council direction, staff has been working since June 2024 on further refining permanent concept plans for re-use of the existing Library site which include housing with ground floor commercial/ City office use and a multi-purpose public plaza which provides both a permanent home for the Downtown Farmers’ Market and a public community gathering place adjacent to City Hall that can be utilized for a variety of community events and public uses. Staff is seeking direction today to move forward on one of three options and is requesting additional feedback on housing density and project height. The three options below (and attached) will be presented in more detail during the Council meeting on March 25th.
It is important to note that all three options provide for the full 84-vendor summer Farmers’ Market layout and additionally provide between 8-15,000 square feet (SF) of covered Farmers’ Market space on the ground floor of the mixed-use building with the proposed market space facing the public plaza. Additionally, all three options include office space for City employees.
The need for expanded office space on campus has been a growing need over the last 10 years.
Currently, the City leases commercial office space for City staff in the greater downtown area.
Development of roughly 10,000-15,000 SF of office space adjacent to the main City Hall campus will enable all of our administrative staff to be consolidated on-site and allows for additional efficiencies across departments within the existing campus.
The first two options include 4 levels of housing over a commercial/office ground floor which is appropriate for the current zoning and the surrounding building context. The housing unit count could be increased in either Option 1 or Option 2 by adding additional floors. It is envisioned that the project would include affordable housing and would be eligible for up to an additional three levels of housing if Council provides direction to focus on maximum housing density on site. Additional information on all three options is provided below.
Option 1: L-shaped building footprint with maximum housing and commercial/office space and smaller public plaza.
Number of Housing Units: ~154+
Commercial/Office: 31,200 SF
Plaza Size: .6 acre
Farmers’ Market Stalls: 84
Pros: Maximizes housing footprint on site while maintaining sufficient outdoor/plaza market space for current Farmers’ Market. Provides maximum SF of office space for City Hall office needs and includes a larger covered indoor market space for future Farmers’ Market expansion.
Cons: Does not provide for future outdoor Farmers’ Market expansion beyond the current 84- stall layout. L-Shaped design configuration and proposed orientation on site is the most efficient for the irregular site geometry but does not integrate as well with the existing City Hall Campus and potential public space flow.
Option 2: Reduced rectangular building footprint with proportional housing and commercial/office space and a larger public plaza.
26.3 Number of Housing Units: ~102+
Commercial/Office: 19,300 SF
Plaza Size: .8 acre
Farmers’ Market Stalls: 84
Pros: Most efficient and adaptable layout that allows for full integration with the existing City Hall public plaza and has the best layout for multi-purpose use while accommodating both the City Hall current and future office needs as well as the needs of the Farmers’ Market and any desired potential expansion on site. Housing is the most efficient layout and could be increased by adding additional floors, if desired.
Cons: Smaller building footprint provides less commercial/office space overall.
Option 3: No Housing, single-level commercial/office space with a larger public plaza.
Number of Housing Units: 0
Commercial/Office: 20,600 SF
Plaza Size: .8 acre
Farmers’ Market Stalls: 84
Pros: Most flexible architecture and design for single level building with an emphasis on Farmers’ Market use. City Hall office space would remain roughly the same as in Option 2.
Cons: No housing. Funding for construction would be largely dependent on the Farmers’ Market.
Further analysis needs to be conducted on whether this is a viable option for the City to consider given the City’s strong preference and need for housing creation and current state laws which govern the development use of publicly owned land for non-governmental uses without first offering the site for affordable housing development.
Based on the above considerations, staff recommends Option 2 for further development. Staff requests direction from Council on the preferred option for further development and further requests feedback and direction on project components including housing density and height.
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION:
CEQA provides several “categorical exemptions” which are applicable to categories of projects and activities that the Lead Agency has determined generally do not pose a risk of significant impacts on the environment. The project consists of applying primer, restriping a portion of the lot and applying up to two coats of paint in Parking Lot 16. The project potentially includes installing bollards in the street to safely accommodate the Farmers’ Market activation and negligible installation of plumbing and utilities in Lot 16 to accommodate active use by the Farmers’ Market and others during the interim period while the new Library is under construction.
The project is exempt from CEQA under Section 15301, Existing Facilities (Class 1 Exemption); Section 15302, Replacement or Reconstruction (Class 2 Exemption); Section 15303, New Construction or Conversion of New Structures (Class 3 Exemption); and Section 15304, Minor Alterations of Land (Class 4 Exemption). The project involves the repair and maintenance of an existing facility and would involve a negligible expansion of use beyond what currently exists.
Any other actions beyond the description of activities above will require further evaluation and
26.4 separate approval from the City Council. The requisite CEQA clearances will be included as part of future actions directing specific improvements.
HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): Relocation and expansion of the downtown Farmers’ Market to Lot 16 and partial activation of Church and Cedar Streets align directly with the City's commitment to HiAP. By creating inviting, communal spaces and promoting the establishment of pop-up businesses and an expanded Farmers’ Market where the public can purchase locally grown fresh fruit and vegetables, the City will enhance the quality of life for residents. This not only contributes to economic growth and prosperity but also fosters health equity and sustainability in the community. Moreover, the engagement of community members in the decision-making process ensures that their needs and perspectives are considered, leading to a more inclusive and healthier urban environment.
FISCAL IMPACT:
1. The recommendation in this report impacts the General Fund: No
2. This recommendation requires a budget adjustment: Yes
3. The recommendation creates an on-going expenditure commitment: No FISCAL IMPACT DESCRIPTION: No impact on the General Fund. The appropriation for the Farmers’ Market project will be increased by $400,000. Of this total, $250,000 is a new appropriation from the Economic Development Trust Fund and $150,000 is a new allocation from the approved IIG budget.
Prepared and Submitted By:
Bonnie Lipscomb
Director of Economic
Development and Housing
Approved By:
Matt Huffaker
City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:
1. BUDGET ADJUSTMENT.PDF
2. PERMANENT MIXED USE CONCEPTS PARAMETERS MATRIX.PDF
3. LIBRARY SITE REUSE VISIONING PROCESS FINAL REPORT.PDF
26.5 City of Santa Cruz
BUDGET ADJUSTMENT REQUEST
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NET: $
REQUESTED BY DEPARTMENT HEAD
APPROVAL
BUDGET/ACCOUNTING
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FINANCE DIRECTOR
APPROVAL
CITYMANAGER
APPROVAL
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03/25/2025
To fund improvements to Lot 16 so that it may be used as a temporary site for the downtown Farmers' Market. Improvements will include repaving the lot, purchase and installation of a portable kitchen/bar, restrooms, and stage. 311-51-81-5212-43290 c511901 216 1057 0 State Grants Other - IIG Infrastructure 150,000 311-00-00-0000-49158 C511901 946 0 0 From Economic Development Trust Fund 250,000 311-51-81-5212-43290 c51242 216 1057 0 ED IIG Parks and Paseos - State Grants Other - IIG Infrastructure -150,000 250,000
311-51-80-9990-57390 C511901 100 2020 0 Farmers' Market-Other infrastructure 400,000 136-00-00-0000-59103 ED Trust Fund - To General Capital Improvement Fund 250,000 311-51-80-9990-57390 c51242 100 2020 0 ED IIG Parks and Paseos - Other Infrastructure -150,000 500,000
-250,000
Bonnie
Lipscomb
Digitally signed by
Bonnie Lipscomb
Date: 2025.03.06
18:26:24 -08'00'
Emily
Burton
Digitally signed
by Emily Burton
Date: 2025.03.07
14:37:02 -08'00'
Elizabet
h Cabell
Digitally signed by
Elizabeth Cabell
Date: 2025.03.07
14:41:23 -08'00' 26.6
16 SC PERMANENT MIXED-USE STUDY CITY COUNCIL SESSION 03/25/2025
MIXED USE CONCEPTS PARAMETERS MATRIX
CONCEPT A CONCEPT B CONCEPT C
No. of Housing UnitsGround Floor (Commercial/ Office)Plaza SizeMarket Stalls ~154 Units
31,200 SF
0.6 Acre
84 Vendors
~102 Units
19,300 SF
0.8 Acre
84 Vendors
0 Units
20,600 SF
0.8 Acre
84 Vendors
26.7 City of Santa Cruz
Library Site Re-Use Visioning Process
FINAL DRAFT | 2021 June 14
26.8 21559-01
26.9 i SANTA CRUZ LIBRARY SITE RE-USE VISIONING PROCESS FINAL DRAFT 2021-06-14
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CONTENTS
1. Introduction 1
1.1 Project Introduction....................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Project Context.............................................................................................................. 1
2. Process 2
2.1 Schedule......................................................................................................................... 2
2.2 Participation................................................................................................................... 2
2.1.1 Stakeholder Participation ............................................................................................ 2
2.1.2 Public Outreach and Input .......................................................................................... 4
3. Project Components 6
3.1 Plaza............................................................................................................................... 6
3.2 Park ................................................................................................................................ 6
3.3 Farmers’ Market ............................................................................................................ 6
3.4 Housing.......................................................................................................................... 7
3.5 Streetscape.................................................................................................................... 7
3.6 Culture, Art and Identity................................................................................................ 7
3.7 Parking........................................................................................................................... 7
26.10 ii SANTA CRUZ LIBRARY SITE RE-USE VISIONING PROCESS FINAL DRAFT 2021-06-14
TABLE OF CONTENTS
4. Summary of Community and Stakeholder Feedback 8
4.1 Round 1: Summary of Input from Stakeholder and Community Workshops................ 8
4.2 Round 2: Summary of findings from Community Survey .............................................. 9
4.2.1 Uses ............................................................................................................................... 9
4.2.2 Vision Alternatives...................................................................................................... 11
5. Site Re-use Vision Recommendation 15
6. Next Steps 15
7. Appendices 17
7.1 stakeholder meetings .................................................................................................. 17
7.1.1 Stakeholder Meeting Slide Deck .............................................................................. 17
7.1.2 Stakeholder Meeting Summary ................................................................................ 26
7.3 Neighborhood Stakeholder Meeting Summary.......................................................... 27
7.4 Community Workshops 1 & 2 slides............................................................................ 28
7.5 Community Workshop 1 recap.................................................................................... 48
7.5.1 Vision + Site Principles............................................................................................... 48
7.5.2 Breakout group discussions ...................................................................................... 49
7.5.3 exit survey .................................................................................................................. 51
7.6 Community Workshop 2 Summary.............................................................................. 53
7.6.1 Vision + Site Principles............................................................................................... 53
7.6.2 Breakout group discussions ...................................................................................... 54
7.6.3 exit survey ................................................................................................................... 56
7.7 Community Survey ...................................................................................................... 58
7.7.1 Community Survey Questionnaire ........................................................................... 58
7.7.2 Community Survey Responses.................................................................................. 61
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1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 PROJECT INTRODUCTION
On June 23rd, 2020, the Santa Cruz City Council voted to move forward with the Library Mixed Use project, which will re-locate the Downtown Library to the intersection of Cedar and Lincoln Streets as part of a mixed-use and affordable housing development.
The purpose of the Santa Cruz Library Site Re-Use Visioning process is to create an implementable, community-oriented vision for the existing Downtown Library site once the Library has moved to its new location. The recommended vision in the report is based on an extensive public and stakeholder engagement process, as well as a thorough understanding of the site and the community.
Several potential public uses and components were considered and discussed for this site, including parks, plazas, the farmers’ market, parking, and mixed-use and affordable housing. At this time, there is no funding identified for the implementation of the preferred vision.
1.2 PROJECT CONTEXT
The current downtown library site is in the heart of downtown Santa Cruz, located across from City Hall and in close proximity to the Civic Auditorium. The approximately 59,000 square foot site is bounded by Locust Street and Church Street to its North and South, and Cedar Street and Center Street on the East and West respectively. The site includes the existing downtown Library, and two associated public parking lots – Lot 14 and Lot 16, which have a total of 59 parking spaces.
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2. PROCESS
2. PROCESS
2.1 SCHEDULE
The Santa Cruz Library Site Re-Use Visioning process began in March 2021 and concluded in June 2021 with the submission of this report and a City Council study session.
2.2 PARTICIPATION
2.1.1 STAKEHOLDER PARTICIPATION
Project Management Team
▪ Bonnie Lipscomb, Economic Development Director, Economic Development Department ▪ Amanda Rotella, Principal Management Analyst, Economic Development Department ▪ Rachel Kauffman, Recreation Superintendent, Parks & Recreation Department City Staff
▪ Jessi Bond, Supervisor of the Civic Auditorium, Parks and Recreation Department ▪ Lee Butler, Planning Director, Planning and Community Development ▪ Jadon Hajduk, Chief, Fire Department
▪ Rob Young, Operations Chief, Fire Department
▪ Tiffany Wise-West, Sustainability and Climate Action Manager, City Manager’s Office ▪ Brian Borguno, Traffic Engineering Parking Program Manager, Public Works
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2. PROCESS
Planning Consultants Team
Group 4 Architecture Research + Planning
▪ David Schnee, Principal-in-charge
▪ Daniel LaRossa , Architect, Associate
▪ Neha Diggikar, Planner
Project for Public Spaces
▪ Elena Madison, Director of Programs & Projects
▪ Shaylee Zaugg, Project Manager
Community Stakeholders
Three stakeholder meetings were conducted with local
organizations:
▪ Affordable Housing Now
▪ Downtown Association
▪ Downtown Commons Advocates
▪ Downtown Forward
▪ Downtown Management Corporation
▪ Friends of the Civic
▪ Housing Santa Cruz County
▪ Santa Cruz Farmers Markets (SCCFM)
▪ Smart Solutions to Homelessness
Neighborhood Stakeholders Meeting
▪ Birichino Winery Tasting room
▪ Cruzio Internet
▪ Prophet Elias Greek Orthodox Church
▪ Ecology Action
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2. PROCESS
2.1.2 PUBLIC OUTREACH AND INPUT
The first round of public outreach included two identical online workshops, one held on a weekday evening and another on a weekend afternoon. This outreach and engagement was developed within Project for Public Space’s “Placemaking” framework, which focused on creating a discussion about potential uses and characteristics of the site based on the following principles:
▪ Mixture of Uses: Create a dynamic, mixed-use civic center in downtown Santa Cruz that offers a new type of destination. Incorporate housing and also feature a mixture of community, civic, and market amenities. ▪ Inviting and Intergenerational: Have the space be inviting to everyone in Santa Cruz, not just residents.
Include age-friendly attractions and opportunities to draw-in visitors for arts, culture, markets, and community experiences.
▪ Flexible Design: Design the public space with an openness and flexibility that can accommodate programming and activities that can change with the time of day, week, and year. ▪ Pedestrian and Transit Connectivity: Provide pedestrian and transit friendly street features that allow people to access the other great destinations in downtown Santa Cruz safely and with ease.
Potential project components, described in section 3, were also presented and ideas and themes for potential uses for this site were discussed. Participants gathered in small break out groups to maximize opportunity for everyone to share their thoughts. Participant comments were jotted down on a shared screen. Participants were encouraged to share additional comments on Zoom chat or on the City’s project web page. Comments received during this period are included in the appendix. See Appendix for the presentation.
Input gathered from the community workshops was used to shape the community survey for the second round of public input. This survey was available in English and Spanish. It was published online and was also administered in-person at four locations across the City. These locations included the Pacific Avenue Retail Corridor, the Midtown Market, the Beach Flats and Nueva Vista Community Center. In addition to the City’s publishing efforts, the online survey was also shared by local organizations with community members. These organizations include:
April 25, 2021 Community Workshop: What is your favorite public space in Downtown Santa Cruz and what 3 words would you choose to describe it?
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2. PROCESS
▪ Business Council
▪ Chamber of Commerce
▪ City of Santa Cruz Social Media
▪ City of Santa Cruz Economic Development Social Media
▪ Downtown Associations
▪ Downtown Forward
▪ Santa Cruz Library
▪ Santa Cruz Neighbors
▪ Santa Cruz Works
The community survey remained open from May 13th to June 8th, received 720 responses.
Outreach at Pacific Ave, May 13 2021
Outreach at Beach Flat Park, June 1 2021 Outreach in Lower Ocean at Nueva Vista Community Center, June 9 2021
Outreach at Midtown Market, May 21 2021
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3. PROJECT COMPONENTS
3 . P R O J E C T
COMPONENTS
The options presented to the community
for consideration included various
components and uses that could
potentially be included on this site.
3.1 PLAZA
Plazas are vibrant features of many
downtowns, serving as outdoor
gathering spaces that support a great
variety of activities. A plaza can support
community members and businesses,
while complementing the City Hall and
Auditorium. From an expanded corner
or a widened street edge to a larger
programmable space, this site can
support a plaza of any size.
3.2 PARK
Parks can have a variety of landscape and
hardscape features, interactive spaces
and activities. With new residential and
commercial developments downtown,
a park could support individuals and
families that live and work downtown.
3.3 FARMERS’ MARKET
The Santa Cruz Farmers’ Market,
currently operating on Parking Lot 4,
takes place once a week on Wednesdays
and anticipates operating two times
a week in the future. The City is aiding
the Market’s effort to find a p ermanent
space and it was discussed as a potential
component for this site. The Farmers’
Market is not only a source of produce,
but also acts as an important incubator
for local businesses. The Farmers’
Market could be integrated with a park
and plaza.
Santana Row, San Jose
Pearl Brewery District, San Antonio
Santa Cruz Farmers’ Market, Lot 4, Santa Cruz
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3. PROJECT COMPONENTS
3.4 HOUSING
Affordable Housing is a priority for
Downtown Santa Cruz. A significant
amount of housing is currently being
developed downtown, but only a limited
amount of it is affordable. The City’s
Housing blueprint encourages staff to
maximize affordability in downtown
housing units and analyze parcels that
are best suited for affordable housing
development, with particular attention
to existing surface parking lots. The site
could support a variety of housing types,
from townhomes to apartments, and can
go up to three stories or higher with the
Council’s approval.
3.5 STREETSCAPE
As opportunities on the site were being
considered, the important role adjacent
sidewalks and streets play in creating a
vibrant public space was also discussed.
3 . 6 C U L T U R E , A R T A N D
IDENTITY
Located within the Cedar Street Village
Corridor, which strives to preserve and
enhance the informal village qualities of
Cedar Street, the site has the potential
to reflect Santa Cruz’s unique culture,
artwork and identity. Murals or sculptural
elements could be incorporated into the
site to reflect community expression,
complementing the civic character of
City Hall and the Civic Auditorium.
3.7 PARKING
This visioning process aims to reconfigure
and retain the existing number of parking
spaces on this site.
George W. Davis Bayview Senior Center, San Francisco
Santana Row, San Jose
Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History, Santa Cruz
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4. SUMMARY OF COMMUNITY + STAKEHOLDER
FEEDBACK
4. SUMMARY OF COMMUNITY AND STAKEHOLDER FEEDBACK
4 . 1 R O U N D 1 : S U M M A R Y O F I N P U T F R O M S T A K E H O L D E R A N D C O M M U N I T Y
WORKSHOPS
A few key themes emerged from stakeholder, staff and community workshops. ▪ Flexible design and a mixture of uses were the priorities for this site. ▪ Housing advocates and employees that work downtown see an important opportunity to dedicate a significant portion of this site to affordable, low-income, and rent restricted housing. Workforce housing was also a preferred option.
▪ The Santa Cruz Farmers’ Market expressed interest in moving to this site, and community members expressed support for their presence.
▪ To retain the character of the site community members also saw the potential to adaptively re-use the existing library structure for community or retail uses such as food halls, museums, community centers etc.
▪ Downtown residents, shoppers, business owners and associated local organizations brought to light the need for more flexible open spaces that are family friendly. Places to eat, picnic and gather, and spaces for children to play were among some of the popular themes that emerged for open spaces. Participants in these workshops expressed a strong desire to see more spaces like Abbott Square in Downtown Santa Cruz. However, there were also concerns about the safety and management of open spaces on this site. ▪ Participants expressed the desire to retain the scale and character of downtown Santa Cruz, with pedestrian friendly spaces. The Church Street festival and the Greek Festival were cited as successful examples of using adjacent streets as public spaces. Based on access needs of neighboring properties,
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4. SUMMARY OF COMMUNITY + STAKEHOLDER
FEEDBACK
and emergency access requirements of the Fire Department, partial closure of the western half of Church Street for use by the Farmers’ Market is feasible.
▪ Users and advocates of the Civic Auditorium saw the opportunity to use open space on this site for performance-related activities such as rehearsals and large events. ▪ Advocates of the downtown Library expressed their desire to keep the library on site.
4.2 ROUND 2: SUMMARY OF FINDINGS FROM COMMUNITY SURVEY
Input from stakeholder and community workshops was synthesized into a community survey that could further narrow down the possibilities and help build consensus for a joint vision for the site. The survey was divided into two parts. The first section of the survey was aimed at understanding the community’s priorities through indication of the level of preference between various pairs of individual uses and characteristics of the site. The second section of the survey showed three possible vision alternatives with different scales of potential uses on the site.
4.2.1 USES
Park + Plaza (Farmers’ Market) vs. Housing + Mixed Use
A slim preference for more open space was seen when participants were given the opportunity to indicate their preference for more housing versus more park or plaza space on this site. Throughout this survey, no distinction was made between park and plaza spaces. Almost 40% respondents indicated a preference for more housing on the site while almost 50% indicated a preference for more park and/ or plaza space on this site, which would include the Farmers’ Market. Approximately 11% indicated that they would prefer a balance of housing and open space on the site.
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4. SUMMARY OF COMMUNITY + STAKEHOLDER
FEEDBACK
Park + Plaza (Farmers’ Market) vs. Parking
The preference for more park and/or plaza space was significant when compared with parking. Only 12% preferred more parking over more park and plaza space. An additional 13% indicated that they would prefer a balance of parking and park and/or plaza space. Almost 75% indicated that they would like to see more park and/or plaza space, including the farmers’ market, over parking space.
Ground Floor Community Uses vs. Ground Floor Retail + Commercial Spaces.
A preference for ground floor community uses over ground floor retail uses was apparent, with over 52% respondents supporting the preference.
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4. SUMMARY OF COMMUNITY + STAKEHOLDER
FEEDBACK
Regional Destination + Large Events vs. Downtown + Daily Uses Echoing input during in Round 1 of stakeholder and community workshops, a significantly larger number of respondents, approximately 66% indicated a preference for a vision that was more focused on downtown and daily uses, such as parks and playgrounds, versus a vision that was more focused toward regional use and large events. Only 20% indicated a preference for a regional destination and large event space.
4.2.2 VISION ALTERNATIVES
Part 2 of the survey asked participants to rank in order of preference three different alternative site use concepts. Each had a simple title, a short description and a site plan illustration. As quantitative site capacity or technical feasibility of options was beyond the scope of this visioning study, the sketch site illustrations were kept purposely loose and were prepared just as a communication aide. These are outlined on the following pages.
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4. SUMMARY OF COMMUNITY + STAKEHOLDER
FEEDBACK
Plaza + Park with Housing
This option would have a significant plaza and/or park incorporating activities and amenities including the Santa Cruz Farmers’ Market with affordable housing along Locust St.
Mixed-Use Housing with Civic Plaza
This option would have a significant affordable housing component over ground floor community or commercial space, as well as a plaza that could potentially include the Santa Cruz Farmers’ Market.
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4. SUMMARY OF COMMUNITY + STAKEHOLDER
FEEDBACK
Library Structure Re-purpposed with Parking
This option would adaptively re-use the existing building frame for community or commercial space with an adjacent, reconfigured mid-block parking lot.
Rank Order of Preference. Approximately 550 participants ranked the options which provided very clear preferences. The “Mixed-Use Housing with Civic Plaza”, which had a significant housing component with a smaller park and plaza space received the highest score, with the greatest number of respondents ranking it first. The “Plaza + Park” with housing received the greatest number of 2nd choice responses, giving it the second rank. The “Library Structure Re-purposed with Parking” option, which proposes to adaptively re-use the library structure for community or commercial uses, received the lowest score, and ranked lowest amongst the three options.
*The scoring is based on the ranked question above. The question had 3 choices, so when an item was ranked number one, it got a score of 3, second position got a score of 2, and the third position gets the lowest score of 1. The total score of each choice was calculated based on these weighted values, for however many times it was ranked. 3rd Preference 2nd preference 1st preference
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4. SUMMARY OF COMMUNITY + STAKEHOLDER
FEEDBACK
Interest in keeping the library on the site. As Council specifically requested this vision process to address how the site be repurposed after the library is relocated, the survey did not include questions about the relocated library project.
Nevertheless, we created space in all of the engagements and at the end of the survey for people to share whatever was on their minds. Amongst a wide range of comments that are included in the appendix, approximately 17% of respondents expressed their desire to have the library remain on site. At the in-person kiosk it was interesting to see different members of a couple or family consider these questions in each their own way, and prioritize or comment differently. A word cloud of the topics addressed in the comments with font size reflecting frequency of use of that word within the comments given is shown below.
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5. SITE RE-USE VISION RECOMMENDATION
5. SITE RE-USE VISION
R E C O M M E N D A T I O N
Site reuse processes often take many years of consideration and analysis. While this was the City’s first structured dialogue regarding the existing Library site, there was a high level of community interest and engagement with the visioning process.
Based on the responses received, there is a strong preference for a significant portion of the site to incorporate affordable housing. Complementing this community goal, there is strong interest in downtown-focused open space that could include a combination of plaza and park spaces supporting the Farmers’ Market. Ground floor uses in a potential multi-story housing component should also be focused on community needs, as opposed to commercial development.
6. NEXT STEPS
Typically, a site feasibility study will follow the visioning process, and include a greater level of detail regarding site reuse, capacity, and economics. This particular site’s reuse would benefit from a feasibility study that provides more information on the following questions:
Affordable Housing Analysis:
▪ Within the context of downtown and specifically this site, what is the right type of affordable housing? Family, senior, workforce, etc.
▪ What are the appropriate affordability targets?
▪ What are the development economics and what
opportunities are there for needed funding?
▪ What types of housing structure(s) provide for the preferred (townhouse, multi-story wood frame, podium, etc.)? How
many stories? ,
Park and Plaza
▪ What uses are most desired?
▪ What hardscape and landscape and site furniture features are most desired
▪ What are the costs of construction, maintenance, and
programming, and how will they be funded?
▪ What Further analysis of partial/temporary street closures to facilitate farmers market?
“I would love more options for
downtown to feel like a destination
for families, where you can bring
children. A cute playground. A park
with a nice grassy patch. This way
you can shop, eat and find a spot
to hang out with your kids. It would
also be great to have nicer public
restroom options for this same
reason.”
-Community Survey Respondent
“Affordable Housing is a priority
for our community. I believe it can
be done in a mixed-use format
with an acknowledgement of place,
respect and voice of the people
served, housing elements guidelines,
creative and cultural appropriate
design and environmental
sustainability.”
-Community Survey Respondent
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6. NEXT STEPS
Parking
▪ How much surface parking should be provided on site?
▪ How much parking, if any, should be provided for any of the proposed new housing or other uses?
Planning, Entitlement, and Development Considerations
▪ What planning reviews and approval may be needed for a proposed project?
▪ What is the timing of a proposed project and will there need to be interim uses of the exiting site or building considered? City, community, stakeholder, and partner engagement
▪ Additional input from elected, and appointed bodies as well as from staff will be necessary to help guide the project and fit it into other City goals, and projects.
▪ Robust community input on the next level of programming and in design will make the project more responsive to, and relevant for, the community at large.
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7. APPENDIX
7. APPENDICES
7.1 STAKEHOLDER MEETINGS
7.1.1 STAKEHOLDER MEETING SLIDE DECK
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7. APPENDIX
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7. APPENDIX
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7. APPENDIX
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7. APPENDIX
7.1.2 STAKEHOLDER MEETING SUMMARY
Complete recaps of the Stakeholder Meetings are available for viewing on the City of Santa Cruz website at https://www.cityofsantacruz.com/government/city-council-subcommittees/downtown-library/stakeholdermeetings Highlights from the Stakeholder Meetings:
▪ The Santa Cruz Farmers Market leadership would like to have a permanent space - a space that is architecturally and aesthetically comfortable, and expands programming/offerings (cold storage, interior space, etc.). They have worked with the City to explore options on Lot 7 on Front Street and are particularly interested in this location. There is a possibility of the farmers market happening more than once a week in the future. A larger market in summer and smaller one in winter. They would also like to have a covered area
▪ The Church St fair and Greek festival were popular examples in discussions with stakeholders of events or markets temporarily using streets
▪ Given the assumption that the Library is moving, affordable housing is the best use for this site. There are very few lots left in Downtown Santa Cruz and Housing is a critical need there. This site would be good for low-income, rent-restricted, housing.
▪ The site could complement and augment the civic auditorium – events, pre-function gathering, rehearsals, lectures and more.
▪ The Farmers Market and the Civic both are regional draws and recognize the need for parking for their patrons.
▪ Further discussion will be needed about the operation, maintenance and management of parks and plazas on this site.
▪ Advocates believe that the library is still the best use for this site.
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7. APPENDIX
Downtown Library Site Re-Use Visioning Process
May 4th – Meeting with Church Street Businesses
Attendees: Representatives from Birichino, Cruzio, Ecology Action, & Prophet Elias Greek Orthodox Church.
Feedback:
• Access is important for Cruzio work trucks and Ecology Action bike program trucks with trailers into the Cruzio parking lot
• Keep in mind line of sight for infrastructure on roof of Cruzio building • Need to maintain street parking in front of businesses for loading and customer access • Keep in mind Church services schedule – important to retain parking for church users • Excited about potential event space that could be used by nearby businesses/organizations • Like the idea of a North/South Street closure that would leave the East side of the street open to vehicular traffic.
7.2 CITY STAFF MEETING SUMMARY
7.3 NEIGHBORHOOD STAKEHOLDER MEETING SUMMARY
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7. APPENDIX
7.4 COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS 1 & 2 SLIDES
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7. APPENDIX
7.5 COMMUNITY WORKSHOP 1 RECAP
7.5.1 VISION + SITE PRINCIPLES
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7. APPENDIX
Amanda
What are the uses and activities you feel are needed or desirable for downtown Santa Cruz? (broadening area of discussion) Space that is green
Green Space +
Trees
Look at examples from
SLO
Santa Barbara
-Affordable Housing
-Workforce Housing
-Market rate
-Studios for singles or
couples
-space for delivery
vehicles (Amazon &
Fedex)
Santa Cruz Style Mixed
Use
Space to meet Ground floors uses:
City offices, nonprofits, retail,
commercial uses
Open space
Library on existing site +
+ + +
Partilly covered /
partially open air
Space for children
Birds crashing into
windows of large
buildings.
Host events like
Farmers Market,
Antique Faire
Flexible space to
accommodate lots of
uses
Sustainable – solar
powered
Finding Appropriate place
for families to be housed –
need backyard outdoor
space. Space that isn't too
loud or disruptive to sleep.
Ability to have fresh air and
window's open
David
Social services center –
health/food service
(county health svs is
remote)
Public Space – plants +,
seating+ , sunshine+,
trees+ , fresh air
Housing – affordable++
+ Family housing not
just 1BRs
Parking capacity – park
once and continue foot
concept in District
Farmer’s Market
activates this site –
Permanent Home
More Park space
(impact of new
housing – new projects
have private space –
need shared
+ Low income housing,
+ very low income
Center / Church street
corridor limits closures
Site is transitional –
think of impact to
design and uses
Playground for children
– support families
Workforce housing too
Seniors
Walkability/bicycles
Occasional street
closures –
Cabrillo/Greek/
Pre-event space for
Civic – outdoor
performance venue –
local muciians
Library
What are the uses and activities you feel are needed or desirable for this area of downtown Santa Cruz? ? Changing demographics – who will be downtown in future Finances of affordable housing / subsidy – viability?
Keep intensity of use - City impact to budget – maintenance?? Daniel
More open than closed,
flexible…
Oxbow Market, Napa,
open-air. Potential for
a boutique hotel
w/ground floor
market?
Open space, low,
flexible…public space is
valuable
How to balance open
space
Re-use existing bldg as
an extension of
London-Nelson, bring
in SC residents, not
tourists
Better bike parking,
bike lockers, meeting
spaces…connect from
rail and trail,
comfortable, safe
accessible
More housing, city is
leasing land back, not
selling, city should
collect revenue and
increase tax base,
grow revenue base
Like the idea of a plaza, flexibility,
programmable, park space,
stage/venue for cabrillo/civic
combined w/retail, California
mission feel…city hall, 915, etc.,
what is appropriate size? Great
daylight
Mixed revenue
generating hotel to
offset cost of public
spaces…and
potentially low income
housing…
What are the uses and activities you feel are needed or desirable for this area of downtown Santa Cruz? Street closures created
informal plaza, “heart
of community” “this is
real Santa Cruz” Civic
expanded plaza vision.
7.5.2 BREAKOUT GROUP DISCUSSIONS
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7. APPENDIX
Neha
Retain the humanist
character of Santa
Cruz- Pedestrian
atmosphere.
Reuse the library
building for County
History Museum/
genealogy + + +
Ability to maintain and
manage the site
Plazas and outdoor
spaces
Mixed-use building/s -
Support downtown
Housing – most
appropriate use. +
City/ public offices
combined on this site +
Housing and events
may / may not be a
good idea
Nothing too tall – retain
character/ scale of
space
Flexible uses- Eating
Senior housing (may
need lesser parking) Keeping the carbon
footprint low
Programmed and
managed outdoor
spaces- Fire pits
Plaza may be
underutilized –CH
already has a plaza
Library on site+
Library combined with
housing and/ or public
offices
What are the uses and activities you feel are needed or desirable for this area of downtown Santa Cruz? Uses that relate to city
hall, civic auditorium +
+
Focus on supporting
commercial uses in
Downtown
Community center,
maker space +
Elena
Large Central Gathering
Point
Large Pleasant Clean
Public Restroom –
Saucalito style
Concern – don't create
a campsite for people.
Little corner park, with a
little stage, people could
be having dinner before a
concert.
Senstivity to the
residential
neighborhood.
Avoid overprogramming.
Consider synergy with city
hall plaza, temporary street
closures.
Covered farmers
market – how will the
space be used when no
market?
City has office space
needs for mixed uses.
Consider a contingency
that the library would
remain.
Should not spend dollars on
parking, we need to work on
a world that is not
dominated by cars.
We need to create a
climate resilient city,
and every dollar
counts.
tree cover is an
important feature to
this site and helps
transition from more
built out parts of
downtown to nearby
residential areas
Explore other adaptive
reuse options for the
library building.
What are the uses and activities you feel are needed or desirable for this area of downtown Santa Cruz?
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7. APPENDIX
Public Forum Survey for Santa Cruz Library Site Re-Use Visioning Process: What creative ideas from today were the most memorable to you?
affordable housing, farmers market, city offices
Thanks for participating
Southern sunlight, low buildings
Civic connectivity with nearby uses, building off resources and needs for City hall/Civic Auditorium, and bringing new residents/energy in
Mixed-use development with pre-event space for the Civic. 1) Strong support for rebuilding the existing library on the site. 2) Keep it Santa Civic Center architecture 3) Importance of open space.
strength of support for continuing use of library at current site Mixed use plaza with retail
Repurposing the existing library building as a mixed use facility to include a county history museum The great ideas about flexible public spaces from the presentation would be far more easily and less expensively accomplished on Lot 4,
include civic services (extend of city, county & civic center) Keeping the existing library where it is
Some type of housing, civic offices and community meeting space Adaptive reuse of building for community uses, rather than demolition The extent of the opposition to the site itself was very strong housing plus services
I agree with the people who supported re-use of the existing library building as a community center, combined with an open space for festiva
Public Forum Survey for Santa Cruz Library Site Re-Use Visioning Process: What considerations do you believe are most important to the project overall? incorporate surrounding steetscape into the design. consider opportunity of City Hall plaza Open space in an increasingly dense downtown
Combining active built uses with public space to minimize undesirable activity. Making the site feel open, accessible, safe, and clean.
Resilience, housing, and flexible public space.
Strong support from many of today's participants for keeping the library where it is. Concern for use by residents over tourists.
Inclusiveness of entire populations needs
Remembering that green space is flexible and earth friendly Economic feasibility to create and manage.
Most of the community has clearly & repeatedly expressed its preference for renovating the library at this site. The city hasn't listened
ensuring green spaces, low car traffic (walk/bike) & workforce housing Keeping a low carbon footprint for all aspects. Reuse Repurpose and Recycle Do not impact the neighborhood, recognize the challenge of managing public uses and concentrate public activities on Pacific Avenue and Abb
Re-examine what could be accomplished by building new library where it is, with some housing on top, even if that means extending the 8 year
That City Council reframe your work to include the eventual overturn of the decision to use that site for a community space
moving away from car dominance
This valuable community resource should NOT be used for a tourist attraction. It should be for the people of Santa Cruz.
7.5.3 EXIT SURVEY
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7. APPENDIX
Public Forum Survey for Santa Cruz Library Site Re-Use Visioning Process: Is there anything you would like the project team to know that was not said during the meeting? Thanks for the opportunity to participate
Open public space is the most needed and it is for all people I feel the site should feel more permeable and and accessible from multiple angles than current.
Buildings and public spaces should flow
Desire to preserve the historic culture of the downtown Civic Center.
Realizing that demand for housing is endless and yet green flexible open spaces downtown are few Avoid creating a project that would detract from the Pacific Avenue Mall economic sustainability into the I'd like to see a height step-down as we move from Pacific Avenue to the residential neighborhood that begins in earnest at Center Street.
On the list of project components being considered for this site, Library should be at the top of the list.
I'm OK with the new library loc. Opponents, move on, stop complaining There didn't seem to be diversity in the participation pool.
A comprehensive Downtown plan should be developed looking at all existing and proposed uses before going ahead with any new plans
If the library was open today it’s entrance gives a real example of managing public spaces in Santa Community should be allowed to vote on the proposed mixed use library Its' not your fault or mandate. I strong object to the narrow directive from the City Council whose determination for that site is rigid
Possible shelter at the end of Church St, on Chestnut
This land is far too valuable to the entire community to be used as housing, either market rate or
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7. APPENDIX
7.6 COMMUNITY WORKSHOP 2 SUMMARY
7.6.1 VISION + SITE PRINCIPLES
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7. APPENDIX
Amanda
Public Gathering Places
Outside of Commercial Setting.
Where people can join
together
Chess boards, performance
plazas, Seating Areas,
Green Areas.
Space you can be without
feeling like you have to buy
something to use the space
Membership not
required
Seating & Reading Area
Tree, Grass, Natural
Environment, Shade
Ex - San Jose Park – big
trees
Community Garden –
Partnership Homeless
Garden Project
complementary
Businesses (Flower sales,
Book sales)
Garden – outdoor
classroom
Educational /
entrepreneurial hub;
workforce training,
childcare facility,
affordable grocer/bulk
refilleries, services for
residents/community
Truly Affordable Housing.
What is really affordable?
Seating for Farmer's Market
(Portland FM – seating, grass,
places for people to sit, lots of
space, not crowded, lots of
shade from Trees)
Principles applied to Lot 4
Space for children to play
Playgrounds
Especially when kids live in
a City Environment in DT
Childcare
Reading area for children Solar – powers lighting
Need a large Plaza space for
performance and Farmer's
Market
Park w/ hardscape Library remain on
existing Site
Culture of the Library
Covered Parking
Lighting
Aestetically Appealing
Public Art – Like the
Tannery area
What are the uses and activities you feel are needed or desirable for this area of downtown Santa Cruz? Event Space for local
Muciscans
Permanent Spaces with sun
shade, lighting.
Spaces for festivals (Tacos &
Tequila)
Ampiteater
Orgs to Connect with:
• Friends of the Library – way to bring
Library programs outside
• Boys & Girls Project
• Scools -Gardening classes &
outdoor classrooms Adult play too
David
Farmers market +
Year round – nice to
have near other public
uses
Open space – outdoor
activities -
Senior housing as an
option – not restricted
to…+
Balance scale – not
more than 4-5 stories +
Housing yes, but not
focus
Community center w/
housing – redundant to
Loudon-Nelson?
Event space – Greek,
Cabrillo festivals –++
integrate w Civic
(portion)
Workforce and
affordable + Pride Festival – other
untapped events
Tandy/Beal
Reuse existing building
for city offices – not $
for renting +
Abbott square requires
purchaces – private a
glimpse of what we can
have
First floor as office or
commercial – café,
Maintenance – who will
pay and schedule?
Re-orient space
towards city hall – nice
solar access
Performances –
entertainment
eduaction
Connection to city hall
Library should remain –
appealing site
What are the uses and activities you feel are needed or desirable for this area of downtown Santa Cruz? Front Street is a good site for reuse –
During Covid – did city have to stop taking requests for outdoor events?
Daniel
hello hello hello hello
hello hello hello hello
hello hello hello hello
Housing is most
critical need in
community, region,
city, already publicly
owned increases
feasibility, could be
compatible w/ a
farmers market or
civic space
Affordable housing,
community commons,
farmers market
People in County would
need parking amenities
Outdoor plaza,
community place,
gathering place
Walkable, accessible,
outdoor library
activities. Farmers
market, central park!
Plaza, playground,
meeting, café, and
green space
(Dog park! – said the
dog.) concern- how
much can this site truly
support? What can be
planned for downtown
overall? Downtown
park/plaza, open, don’t
design a camel…
Useable, highest and
best use, don’t
necessarily prioritize
temporary uses such
as FM, housing with
openness, inviting
public space. Holistic
view of downtown
Housing, more lowincome housing,
diversify downtown,
senior housing above
w/balconies, engage
with the life of
downtown, farmers
market below
What are the uses and activities you feel are needed or desirable for this area of downtown Santa Cruz?
7.6.2 BREAKOUT GROUP DISCUSSIONS
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7. APPENDIX
Neha
Outdoor area where
people can meet –
activities, functions
Park Places to picnic, sunny
space, green (Santana
Row) – smaller scale + +
Mixed uses, affordable
housing
Affordable housing + Make existing parks
usable
Management and
safety concerns +
maintain (Center and
Church)
Mix of uses +
Food
Smart Streets –
concern, keep streets
simple – not mix and
match on a daily basis
Water features in
parks, mini-golf,
seating for families –
rotating features Small park + lowincome housing – could they be maintained?
Some one-way streets?
Different traffic
patterns? Safety, reusing streets
Another park may add
to safety concerns
Green - shade
Noise concerns for
housing – proximity to
Fire station a concern
What are the uses and activities you feel are needed or desirable for this area of downtown Santa Cruz? Park
Church St festival –
Temporary street
closures with barriers,
with limited access for
other uses -successful
Fencing, other physical
barriers, personnel to
restrict access at
certain times?
May not be a concern
because fire station is
conscious of noise in
the area?
Many parks in the
vicinity
Affordable housing, workforce
housing – ground floor
compatible with civic center + + +
Elena
Need to keep city
services there, nearby,
multi-purpose with city
services ++
Affordable housing ++ Maximize community
space and service
Add to the civic center,
auditorium, festival
Have an environment to
dine outside
Low impact activities
downtown, pop-up
festivals, food, art,
things that change
Keep the library ++
There is a civic core, if
the library has to
move, the area should
be a civic center
Current (COVID)
terraces are allowed
until the end of
September
Park environment to be
able to enjoy outdoor
dining.
Community festivals
and uses
Festivals can have
more support with
activities that happen
through infrastructure Need outside space
that is not
commercial, that is
flexible, that allows
people to enjoy
without buying
anything
Need a publicly held
space that is open to
everybody.
Need place for people
to take food and eat
outdoors
Streets downtown are
defensive at the
moment. City has
armed itself against
people, removed
benches to
What are the uses and activities you feel are needed or desirable for this area of downtown Santa Cruz? It's a challenge for
downtown to provide a
good downtown public
space
We have spaces that
are underutilized but
they are further away.
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7. APPENDIX
Public Forum Survey for Santa Cruz Library Site Re-Use Visioning Process: What creative ideas from today were the most memorable to you?
Dog park.
The suggestions from the presentation are much better suited for Lot 4. Best use for the library site is the library.
Keep the library where it is. Need for non-commercial open space. Need for restrooms that are available for all (including homeless).
Given the weakened state of the US economy, the most courageous and creative idea is to keep the library in place with affordable upgrades.
I think the City needs a broader planning process. It's more than just this site. Lot 7 can accommodate far more affordable housing.
Workforce housing
Truly public space
Combine city services with housing
creating an inviting public space where gathering is encouraged without spending money.
Commerce-free spaces came up a lot. A pleasant place to sit and eat a burrito. A public music stage that can be booked for free.
Affordable Housing with mixed use ground floor with a truly free open space to gather; Dynamic space! Terraced Lawn! Public Restrooms!
Affordable housing/workforce housing and open space
The idea that affordable housing could be combined with another use.
Public Restrooms are very important
Much discussion on "why move the library?"
Meeting, community space that does not require a purchase, with trees, grass, shade, seating, solar lights
Public Forum Survey for Santa Cruz Library Site Re-Use Visioning Process: What creative ideas from today were the most memorable to you?
Dog park.
The suggestions from the presentation are much better suited for Lot 4. Best use for the library site is the library.
Keep the library where it is. Need for non-commercial open space. Need for restrooms that are available for all (including homeless).
Given the weakened state of the US economy, the most courageous and creative idea is to keep the library in place with affordable upgrades.
I think the City needs a broader planning process. It's more than just this site. Lot 7 can accommodate far more affordable housing.
Workforce housing
Truly public space
Combine city services with housing
creating an inviting public space where gathering is encouraged without spending money.
Commerce-free spaces came up a lot. A pleasant place to sit and eat a burrito. A public music stage that can be booked for free.
Affordable Housing with mixed use ground floor with a truly free open space to gather; Dynamic space! Terraced Lawn! Public Restrooms!
Affordable housing/workforce housing and open space
The idea that affordable housing could be combined with another use.
Public Restrooms are very important
Much discussion on "why move the library?"
Meeting, community space that does not require a purchase, with trees, grass, shade, seating, solar lights
Public Forum Survey for Santa Cruz Library Site Re-Use Visioning Process: What considerations do you believe are most important to the project overall? Not designing a camel (not trying to serve every purpose within a limited space).
To consider community input. We've said we want the library renovated at its historic location in the Keep the library where it is.
Under the circumstances, economic considerations are crucial. We can't afford garage parking spaces that can never be amortized.
Ecological consideration of keeping the Library where it is.
How to maintain a park safe and clean
Maintaining the attractiveness of the space for the maximum number of people/constant positive High value use of public land
Highest and best use for the most people
promoting a culture of community, the value of commons.
Deciding between a mixed used development or a plaza/park. I believe it is most effective to focus on just one of these ideas.
Housing needs and management of public space - security, maintenance so it can be successful and inviting; Public Restrooms!
Safety
There is such division over whether or not to move the library; we need a county survey on this question before considering how to use Site
Most people in Santa Cruz would like the library to stay where it is The site is unique. Keep the existing library there.
Collaboration with existing entities like Homeless Garden Project, Boys and Girls Club & affordable
7.6.3 EXIT SURVEY
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7. APPENDIX
Public Forum Survey for Santa Cruz Library Site Re-Use Visioning Process: Is there anything you would like the project team to know that was not said during the meeting? Not all of the comments and opinions expressed were being written down or reported by facilitators. My comments did not appear at all.
Keep the library where it is. Thanks!
Question: What's the capital cost of one parking space in a multi-story garage? What percentage of locals could afford a car at that cost?
There is substantial public opposition to the mixed-use project proposed for Lot 4,; many people oppose moving market, cutting down trees.
The farmers market has smart people leading it who are well equipped to advocate for their needs.
Don't let a vocal minority make you think this there is significant opposition to the Library moving forward as planned
Do not fall prey to the notions that affordable housing trumps all other needs, or that downtown business needs more parking.
I would love a space where people can run a stand and sell food/goods without paying the festival/farmers market/landlord.
Not at this time
I am involved with the Homeless but I think any consideration of creating open space has to be tempered by the possibility of homeless use.
Please lead the city in a downtown strategic plan - we should have one Many people live away from the downtown area. We might drive to this site but would not want to pay $2.25/hr to park as the City is now co
How does our unhoused community fit into the process?
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7. APPENDIX
7 . 7 C O M M U N I T Y S U R V E Y
7.7.1 COMMUNITY SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE
Santa Cruz Library Site Re-Use Visioning Survey
Santa Cruz Downtown Library Site Re-Use Visioning Survey On June 23rd 2020 the Santa Cruz City Council voted to move forward with the Library Mixed Use project, which will re-locate the Downtown library to Cedar St and Lincoln St as part of a mixed-use and affordable housing development. The existing library site & adjacent parking lots will become an opportunity for re-development. Per Council direction, a public process has been initiated to consider reuse options that could include housing, a town commons, and/or other public uses. Informed by the first round of community and stakeholder engagement, which was carried out during March and April 2021, this survey aims to gather input on the community's priorities for this site.
For more information about the project please visit: https://www.cityofsantacruz.com/government/city-council-subcommittees/downtownlibrary-site-re-use
1. About You:
What is your name? What is your ZIP Code?
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